UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549
FORM N-CSR
CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED
MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES
Investment Company Act file number 811-07883
ICON Funds
(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)
5299 DTC Blvd. Suite 1200 Greenwood Village, CO 80111
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)
Brian Harding
5299 DTC Blvd. Suite 1200 Greenwood Village, CO 80111
(Name and address of agent for service)
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: 303-790-1600
Date of fiscal year end: September 30, 2018
Date of reporting period: September 30, 2018
Item 1. |
Reports to Stockholders. |
 |
ANNUAL REPORT |
| September 30, 2018 |
Diversified Funds
ICON Equity Income Fund (IOEZX, IOECX, IEQAX)
ICON Flexible Bond Fund (IOBZX, IOBCX, IOBAX)
ICON Fund (ICNZX, ICNCX, ICNAX)
ICON Long/Short Fund (IOLZX, IOLCX, ISTAX)
ICON Opportunities Fund (ICONX)
ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund (IOCZX, IOCCX, IOCAX)
You can now sign up for electronic delivery of ICON Fund shareholder reports, including prospectuses, annual reports, semiannual reports and proxy statements.
When these materials are available, you will receive an email from ICON with instructions on how to view the documents. Statements, transaction confirmations and other documents that are not available online will continue to be sent to you by U.S. mail.
Visit ICON’s website at www.iconfunds.com to learn more and sign up.
You may change or cancel your participation in eDelivery by visiting www.iconfunds.com, or you can request a hard copy of any of the materials free of charge by calling ICON Funds at 1-800-764-0442.
| 1-800-764-0442 • www.iconfunds.com |
| TABLE OF CONTENTS |
ICON Diversified Funds |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
Historical Returns
All total returns mentioned in this Report account for the change in a Fund’s per-share price and the reinvestment of any dividends, capital gain distributions and adjustments for financial statement purposes. If your account is set up to receive Fund distributions in cash rather than to reinvest them, your actual return may differ from these figures. The Funds’ performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. The Adviser may have reimbursed certain fees or expenses of some of the Funds. If not for these reimbursements, performance would have been lower. Fund results shown, unless otherwise indicated, are at net asset value. If a sales charge (maximum 5.75%) had been deducted, results would have been lower.
Past performance does not guarantee 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. Performance results represent past performance, and current performance may be higher or lower. Please call 1-800-764-0442 or visit www.iconfunds.com for performance results current to the most recent month-end.
Portfolio Data
This Report reflects ICON’s portfolio holdings as of September 30, 2018, the end of the reporting period. The information is not a complete analysis of every aspect of any sector, industry, security or the Funds.
There are risks associated with mutual fund investing, including the loss of principal. The likelihood of loss may be greater if you invest for a shorter period of time. There is no assurance that the investment process will consistently lead to successful results.
There are risks associated with selling short, including the risk that the ICON Long/Short Fund may have to cover its short position at a higher price than the short price, resulting in a loss. The ICON Long/Short Fund’s loss on a short sale is potentially unlimited as a loss occurs when the value of a security sold short increases. Call options involve certain risks, such as limited gains and lack of liquidity in the underlying securities, and are not suitable for all investors.
Investing in fixed income securities such as bonds involves interest rate risk. When interest rates rise, the value of fixed income securities generally decreases. The ICON Equity Income Fund and ICON Flexible Bond Fund may invest up to 25% and 35% of its assets in high-yield bonds that are below investment grade, respectively. ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund may invest up to 10% of its assets in high-yield bonds that are below investment grade. High-yield bonds involve a greater risk of default and price volatility than U.S. Government and other higher-quality bonds.
An investment concentrated in sectors and industries may involve greater risk and volatility than a more diversified investment.
Investments in foreign securities may entail unique risks, including political, market, and currency risks. Financial statements of foreign companies are governed by different accounting, auditing, and financial standards than U.S. companies and may be less transparent and uniform than in the United States. Many corporate governance standards, which help ensure the integrity of public information in the United States, do not exist in foreign countries. In general, there may be less governmental supervision of foreign stock exchanges and securities brokers and issuers. The ICON system relies on the integrity of the financial statements released to the market as part of our analysis.
Investments in other mutual fund companies may entail certain risks. For example, the Fund’s performance depends on the underlying funds in which it invests, and it is subject to the risks of the underlying funds. Additionally, an investment by the Fund or underlying fund in exchange-traded funds generally presents the same primary risks as an investment in a mutual fund.
The prospectus and statement of additional information contain this and other information about the Funds and are available by visiting www.iconfunds.com or calling 1-800-764-0442. Please read the prospectus and statement of additional information carefully.
Financial Intermediary
If you purchase the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services. These payments may influence the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary’s website for more information.
| 2 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Equity Income Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Q. How did the Fund perform relative to its benchmarks?
A. The ICON Equity Income Fund (the Fund) Class S shares returned 5.19% for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018, lagging its benchmark, the S&P Composite 1500 Index, which returned 17.69% during the fiscal year. Total returns for other periods and additional Class shares as of September 30, 2018, appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview.
Q. What primary factors were behind the Fund’s relative performance?
A. As the fiscal year began, our valuation methodology calculated an overall average value-to-price (V/P) ratio for the equity market of 1.00, meaning we believed the equity market as a whole was trading at fair value. While we anticipated flat performance, the market exceeded our expectations with the S&P 1500 returning in excess of 17%. However, stocks with higher dividend yields (that is, yields greater than 3%), did not do particularly well over this 12-month period. During fiscal year 2018, S&P 1500 stocks with dividend yields between 0% and 3% returned approximately 20%, while stocks with a dividend yield greater than 3% returned roughly 6%. This performance difference reflects, in part, the improvement in treasury yield over the course of the year. For example, the yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury Note increased throughout the year -- from 2.33% on September 30, 2017 to 3.06% on September 30, 2018. As fixed income yields improved, the demand for high dividend yielding stocks as an alternative to fixed income investments in a low interest rate environment decreased. With the Fund’s tilt toward stocks with higher dividend yields, the Fund lagged its broad benchmark. The Fund’s fixed income positions during the fiscal year likewise adversely affected relative performance. As interest rates increased, the value of these fixed income positions decreased, creating an additional headwind compared to its equity only index.
Q. How did the Fund’s composition affect performance?
A. The Fund’s stock selection within the Consumer Discretionary sector was the largest detractor to Fund performance. The Fund’s Consumer Discretionary holdings returned approximately -14.7% while the Consumer Discretionary Sector benchmark enjoyed a 30.55% return during fiscal year 2018. In total this sector accounted for more than one third of the Fund’s underperformance. The Fund’s performance was adversely impacted by its lack of exposure to the internet & direct marketing retail industry and, specifically, the Fund’s lack of a position in Amazon. Amazon shares more than doubled in price over the course of the fiscal year, and its absence in the Fund accounts for nearly 10% of the Fund’s underperformance. An additional headwind came from the Fund’s overweight position in the Financials sector. The S&P 1500 Financials Index returned 8.56% over the year, well below the 17.68% return for the broader market. Because we calculated a V/P of 1.13 for the Financials sector as fiscal year 2018 began (well above our estimated V/P of 1.00 for the overall market), we believed the Fund’s Financials holdings would perform better than they did.
Similarly, the Fund’s fixed income allocation dragged on performance. We watched as the overall market V/P at times fell below 1.00 during the fiscal year. Because this suggested to us the market was overvalued, we increased our fixed income holdings and defensive index put options. As interest rates increased, however, the value of our fixed income positions decreased. Furthermore, as the market moved higher during the year, the defensive put options lost value and negatively impacted the Fund.
Q. What is the outlook for the ICON Equity Income Fund?
A. As of September 30, 2018, we believe the market has an overall average V/P of 1.02, meaning stocks are generally priced only slightly below their fair value under our system. Accordingly, we do not anticipate the same strong returns in the equity market in fiscal year 2019 as we saw in the last two fiscal years. Fifteen percent of the Fund is allocated to fixed income holdings, with the remaining 85% comprised of equities. We nonetheless still see sector opportunities based on our valuation readings. The Financials sector has a V/P of 1.19, for example and, as fiscal year 2018 ends, the Fund is invested in an effort to take advantage of potential sector gains. We will continue to monitor the equity market to find the best combination of value and dividend for our investors.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 3 |
| ICON Equity Income Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
Inception Date |
1 Year |
5 Years |
10 Years |
Since Inception |
Gross
Expense Ratio* |
Net Expense Ratio* | |
| ICON Equity Income Fund - Class S | 5/10/04 | 5.19% | 9.08% | 8.33% | 7.24% | 1.26% | 1.10% |
| ICON Equity Income Fund - Class C | 11/8/02 | 4.21% | 8.00% | 7.26% | 7.25% | 2.31% | 2.10% |
| ICON Equity Income Fund - Class A | 5/31/06 | 4.98% | 8.80% | 8.06% | 6.19% | 1.56% | 1.35% |
| ICON Equity Income Fund - Class A | |||||||
| (including maximum sales charge of 5.75%) | 5/31/06 | -1.05% | 7.52% | 7.42% | 5.68% | 1.56% | 1.35% |
| S&P Composite 1500 Index | 17.69% | 13.77% | 12.04% | 9.54% | N/A | N/A |
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Adviser has agreed to limit certain Fund expenses; without these limitations, returns would have been lower. The limitation provisions may be terminated in the future.
| * | Please see the most recent prospectus for details. |
Class C total returns exclude applicable sales charges. If sales charges were included returns would be lower.
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the Equity Income Fund’s Class S shares on the Class’ inception date of 5/10/04 to a $10,000 investment made in an unmanaged securities index on that date. Performance for the Equity Income Fund’s other share classes will vary due to differences in charges and expenses. The Equity Income Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
| 4 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Equity Income Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Corporate Bonds (7.03%) | ||||||||
| Communication Services (0.33%) | ||||||||
| Lee Enterprises, Inc. | ||||||||
| 9.50%, 03/15/22(a)(b) | $ | 250,000 | $ | 260,313 | ||||
| Consumer Discretionary (1.98%) | ||||||||
| Foot Locker, Inc. | ||||||||
| 8.50%, 01/15/22 | 300,000 | 338,250 | ||||||
| M/I Homes, Inc. | ||||||||
| 6.75%, 01/15/21 | 200,000 | 203,990 | ||||||
| Reliance Intermediate Holdings LP | ||||||||
| 6.50%, 04/01/23(a) | 650,000 | 675,187 | ||||||
| William Lyon Homes, Inc. | ||||||||
| 7.00%, 08/15/22 | 350,000 | 356,563 | ||||||
| 1,573,990 | ||||||||
| Consumer Staples (1.10%) | ||||||||
| Central Garden & Pet Co. | ||||||||
| 6.13%, 11/15/23 | 600,000 | 618,750 | ||||||
| Kraft Heinz Foods Co. | ||||||||
| 4.88%, 02/15/25(a) | 250,000 | 254,032 | ||||||
| 872,782 | ||||||||
| Energy (0.64%) | ||||||||
| MPLX LP | ||||||||
| 5.50%, 02/15/23 | 500,000 | 510,066 | ||||||
| Financial (0.33%) | ||||||||
| Enova International, Inc. | ||||||||
| 9.75%, 06/01/21 | 250,000 | 262,187 | ||||||
| Health Care (0.26%) | ||||||||
| Molina Healthcare, Inc. | ||||||||
| 5.38%, 11/15/22 | 200,000 | 203,250 | ||||||
| Industrials (0.80%) | ||||||||
| RR Donnelley & Sons Co. | ||||||||
| 7.88%, 03/15/21 | 500,000 | 530,625 | ||||||
| USG Corp. | ||||||||
| 5.50%, 03/01/25(a) | 100,000 | 102,000 | ||||||
| 632,625 | ||||||||
| Information Technology (0.32%) | ||||||||
| NXP BV / NXP Funding LLC | ||||||||
| 4.63%, 06/01/23(a) | 250,000 | 253,800 | ||||||
| Materials (0.73%) | ||||||||
| Freeport-McMoRan, Inc. | ||||||||
| 6.88%, 02/15/23 | 244,000 | 259,860 | ||||||
| Teck Resources, Ltd. | ||||||||
| 8.50%, 06/01/24(a) | 292,000 | 319,229 | ||||||
| 579,089 | ||||||||
| Real Estate (0.12%) | ||||||||
| Iron Mountain, Inc. | ||||||||
| 5.75%, 08/15/24(b) | 100,000 | 98,950 | ||||||
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Telecommunication Services (0.26%) | ||||||||
| Level 3 Parent LLC | ||||||||
| 5.75%, 12/01/22 | $ | 200,000 | $ | 202,290 | ||||
| Utilities (0.16%) | ||||||||
| DPL, Inc. | ||||||||
| 6.75%, 10/01/19 | 124,000 | 127,100 | ||||||
| Total Corporate Bonds | ||||||||
| (Cost $5,641,572) | 5,576,442 | |||||||
| Common Stocks (82.57%) | ||||||||
| Aerospace & Defense (1.92%) | ||||||||
| Boeing Co. | 4,100 | 1,524,790 | ||||||
| Auto Parts & Equipment (3.04%) | ||||||||
| Autoliv, Inc.(b) | 13,400 | 1,161,512 | ||||||
| Magna International, Inc. | 23,800 | 1,250,214 | ||||||
| 2,411,726 | ||||||||
| Automobile Manufacturers (1.79%) | ||||||||
| Nissan Motor Co., Ltd., Sponsored ADR(b) | 76,000 | 1,421,580 | ||||||
| Biotechnology (1.08%) | ||||||||
| AbbVie, Inc. | 9,100 | 860,678 | ||||||
| Building Products (1.87%) | ||||||||
| Johnson Controls International PLC | 42,400 | 1,484,000 | ||||||
| Construction Machinery & Heavy Trucks (1.79%) | ||||||||
| Cummins, Inc. | 9,700 | 1,416,879 | ||||||
| Diversified Banks (5.95%) | ||||||||
| Bank of America Corp. | 65,500 | 1,929,630 | ||||||
| JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 18,000 | 2,031,120 | ||||||
| US Bancorp | 14,400 | 760,464 | ||||||
| 4,721,214 | ||||||||
| Diversified Chemicals (3.12%) | ||||||||
| Eastman Chemical Co. | 14,100 | 1,349,652 | ||||||
| Huntsman Corp. | 41,400 | 1,127,322 | ||||||
| 2,476,974 | ||||||||
| Electric Utilities (3.21%) | ||||||||
| Avangrid, Inc. | 26,900 | 1,289,317 | ||||||
| PPL Corp. | 42,800 | 1,252,328 | ||||||
| 2,541,645 | ||||||||
| Homebuilding (3.23%) | ||||||||
| MDC Holdings, Inc. | 48,100 | 1,422,798 | ||||||
| PulteGroup, Inc. | 46,100 | 1,141,897 | ||||||
| 2,564,695 | ||||||||
| Hotels, Resorts & Cruise Lines (1.33%) | ||||||||
| Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. | 8,100 | 1,052,514 | ||||||
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 5 |
| ICON Equity Income Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Integrated Oil & Gas (2.35%) | ||||||||
| TOTAL SA, Sponsored ADR | 28,900 | $ | 1,860,871 | |||||
| Integrated Telecommunication Services (4.35%) | ||||||||
| AT&T, Inc. | 61,500 | 2,065,170 | ||||||
| Verizon Communications, Inc. | 26,000 | 1,388,140 | ||||||
| 3,453,310 | ||||||||
| Investment Banking & Brokerage (3.51%) | ||||||||
| BGC Partners, Inc., Class A | 92,000 | 1,087,440 | ||||||
| Morgan Stanley | 36,400 | 1,695,148 | ||||||
| 2,782,588 | ||||||||
| IT Consulting & Other Services (3.29%) | ||||||||
| Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corp. | 29,800 | 1,478,974 | ||||||
| International Business Machines Corp. | 7,500 | 1,134,075 | ||||||
| 2,613,049 | ||||||||
| Life & Health Insurance (5.38%) | ||||||||
| CNO Financial Group, Inc. | 65,100 | 1,381,422 | ||||||
| Principal Financial Group, Inc. | 25,600 | 1,499,904 | ||||||
| Prudential Financial, Inc. | 13,700 | 1,388,084 | ||||||
| 4,269,410 | ||||||||
| Multi-Utilities (3.79%) | ||||||||
| CenterPoint Energy, Inc. | 58,200 | 1,609,230 | ||||||
| DTE Energy Co. | 12,800 | 1,396,864 | ||||||
| 3,006,094 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production (3.00%) | ||||||||
| Cimarex Energy Co. | 8,900 | 827,166 | ||||||
| Diamondback Energy, Inc.(b) | 11,500 | 1,554,685 | ||||||
| 2,381,851 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing (3.48%) | ||||||||
| Marathon Petroleum Corp. | 19,800 | 1,583,406 | ||||||
| Phillips 66 | 10,400 | 1,172,288 | ||||||
| 2,755,694 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Storage & Transportation (1.69%) | ||||||||
| TransCanada Corp. | 33,200 | 1,343,272 | ||||||
| Paper Packaging (2.63%) | ||||||||
| International Paper Co. | 18,400 | 904,360 | ||||||
| Packaging Corp. of America | 10,800 | 1,184,652 | ||||||
| 2,089,012 | ||||||||
| Pharmaceuticals (1.06%) | ||||||||
| Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. | 13,500 | 838,080 | ||||||
| Regional Banks (5.06%) | ||||||||
| Fifth Third Bancorp | 58,400 | 1,630,528 | ||||||
| KeyCorp | 38,300 | 761,787 | ||||||
| Valley National Bancorp | 67,600 | 760,500 | ||||||
| Webster Financial Corp. | 14,600 | 860,816 | ||||||
| 4,013,631 | ||||||||
| Restaurants (1.37%) | ||||||||
| Dine Brands Global, Inc.(b) | 13,400 | 1,089,554 | ||||||
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Semiconductors (3.64%) | ||||||||
| Broadcom, Inc. | 5,851 | $ | 1,443,617 | |||||
| Intel Corp. | 30,600 | 1,447,074 | ||||||
| 2,890,691 | ||||||||
| Soft Drinks (2.09%) | ||||||||
| Coca-Cola Co. | 35,900 | 1,658,221 | ||||||
| Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals (3.59%) | ||||||||
| Apple, Inc. | 12,600 | 2,844,324 | ||||||
| Tobacco (3.96%) | ||||||||
| Altria Group, Inc. | 29,700 | 1,791,207 | ||||||
| Philip Morris International, Inc. | 16,500 | 1,345,410 | ||||||
| 3,136,617 | ||||||||
| Total Common Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $60,954,995) | 65,502,964 | |||||||
| Preferred Stocks (3.73%) | ||||||||
| Financial Services (0.34%) | ||||||||
| Cabco Series 2004-101 Trust Goldman Sachs Capital I, Series GS 3M US L + 0.85%, 02/15/34(c) | 12,107 | 267,928 | ||||||
| Industrial REITs (1.92%) | ||||||||
| Gramercy Property Trust, Series A 7.13%(d)(e) | ||||||||
| 60,923 | 1,521,857 | |||||||
| Property & Casualty Insurance (1.47%) | ||||||||
| Argo Group US, Inc. | ||||||||
| 6.50%, 09/15/42 | 46,594 | 1,171,839 | ||||||
| Total Preferred Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $3,028,566) | 2,961,624 | |||||||
| Convertible Preferred Stocks (1.92%) | ||||||||
| Diversified Banks (0.81%) | ||||||||
| Wells Fargo & Co., Series L 7.50%(b)(d) | ||||||||
| 500 | 645,440 | |||||||
| Office REITs (1.11%) | ||||||||
| Equity Commonwealth, Series D 6.50%(d) | ||||||||
| 33,473 | 876,993 | |||||||
| Total Convertible Preferred Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $1,458,671) | 1,522,433 | |||||||
| Closed-End Mutual Funds (3.10%) | ||||||||
| BlackRock Income Trust, Inc. | 82,681 | 472,935 | ||||||
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
| 6 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Equity Income Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Closed-End Mutual Funds (continued) | ||||||||
| Deutsche Multi-Market Income Trust | 122,811 | $ | 1,102,843 | |||||
| Deutsche Strategic Income Trust | 9,700 | 122,220 | ||||||
| Duff & Phelps Utility and Corporate Bond Trust, Inc. | 13,791 | 115,706 | ||||||
| Eaton Vance High Income 2021 Target Term Trust | 7,791 | 75,573 | ||||||
| Nuveen Build America Bond Fund | 26,879 | 537,580 | ||||||
| Nuveen Build America Bond Opportunity Fund | 1,301 | 28,323 | ||||||
| Total Closed-End Mutual Funds | ||||||||
| (Cost $2,412,056) | 2,455,180 | |||||||
| Underlying Security/Expiration | ||||||||
| Date/Exercise Price/ Notional Amount | Contracts | Value | ||||||
| Purchased Put Options (0.02%) | ||||||||
| S&P 500 Index | ||||||||
| 10/19/18, 2,660, $23,311,840 | 80 | 19,200 | ||||||
| Total Purchased Put Options | ||||||||
| (Cost $162,115) | 19,200 | |||||||
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Collateral for Securities on Loan (1.73%) | ||||||||
| State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio, 7-Day Yield 2.19% | 1,373,225 | 1,373,225 | ||||||
| Total Collateral for Securities on Loan | ||||||||
| (Cost $1,373,225) | 1,373,225 | |||||||
| Total Investments (100.10%) | ||||||||
| (Cost $75,031,200) | $ | 79,411,068 | ||||||
| Liabilities Less Other Assets (-0.10%) | (80,903 | ) | ||||||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 79,330,165 | ||||||
Investment Abbreviations:
ADR - American Depositary Receipt
LIBOR - London Interbank Offered Rate
REIT - Real Estate Investment Trust
LIBOR Rates:
3M US L - 3 Month LIBOR as of September 30, 2018 was 2.40%
| (a) | Security was purchased pursuant to Rule 144A or Section 4(a)(2) under the Securities Act of 1933 and may be resold in transactions exempt from registration only to qualified institutional buyers. As of September 30, 2018, these securities had a total aggregate market value of $1,864,561. |
| (b) | All or a portion of the security was on loan as of September 30, 2018. |
| (c) | Floating or variable rate security. The reference rate is described above. The rate in effect as of September 30, 2018 is based on the reference rate plus the displayed spread as of the security’s last reset date. |
| (d) | This security has no contractual maturity date, is not redeemable and contractually pays an indefinite stream of interest. |
| (e) | These securities are considered, by management, to be illiquid. The aggregate value of these securities at September 30, 2018 was $1,521,857, which represent 1.92% of the Fund’s net assets. |
| Sector Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Financials | 22.85 | % | ||
| Consumer Discretionary | 12.74 | % | ||
| Energy | 11.16 | % | ||
| Information Technology | 10.84 | % | ||
| Utilities | 7.16 | % | ||
| Consumer Staples | 7.15 | % | ||
| Materials | 6.48 | % | ||
| Industrials | 6.38 | % | ||
| Communication Services | 4.68 | % | ||
| Real Estate | 3.15 | % | ||
| Health Care | 2.40 | % | ||
| Telecommunication Services | 0.26 | % | ||
| 95.25 | % |
Percentages are based upon corporate bonds, common stocks, preferred stocks and convertible preferred stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 7 |
| ICON Equity Income Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Industry Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Diversified Banks | 6.76 | % | ||
| Life & Health Insurance | 5.38 | % | ||
| Regional Banks | 5.06 | % | ||
| Integrated Telecommunication Services | 4.35 | % | ||
| Tobacco | 3.96 | % | ||
| Semiconductors | 3.96 | % | ||
| Multi-Utilities | 3.79 | % | ||
| Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals | 3.59 | % | ||
| Investment Banking & Brokerage | 3.51 | % | ||
| Homebuilding | 3.49 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing | 3.48 | % | ||
| IT Consulting & Other Services | 3.29 | % | ||
| Electric Utilities | 3.21 | % | ||
| Diversified Chemicals | 3.12 | % | ||
| Auto Parts & Equipment | 3.04 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production | 3.00 | % | ||
| Paper Packaging | 2.63 | % | ||
| Integrated Oil & Gas | 2.35 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Storage & Transportation | 2.33 | % | ||
| Soft Drinks | 2.09 | % | ||
| Building Products | 2.00 | % | ||
| Aerospace & Defense | 1.92 | % | ||
| Industrial REITs | 1.92 | % | ||
| Construction Machinery & Heavy Trucks | 1.79 | % | ||
| Automobile Manufacturers | 1.79 | % | ||
| Property & Casualty Insurance | 1.47 | % | ||
| Restaurants | 1.37 | % | ||
| Hotels, Resorts & Cruise Lines | 1.33 | % | ||
| Office REITs | 1.11 | % | ||
| Biotechnology | 1.08 | % | ||
| Pharmaceuticals | 1.06 | % | ||
| Other Industries (each less than 1%) | 6.02 | % | ||
| 95.25 | % |
Percentages are based upon corporate bonds, common stocks, preferred stocks and convertible preferred stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
| 8 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Q. How did the Fund perform relative to its benchmark?
A. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, the ICON Flexible Bond Fund (the Fund) Class S shares outperformed its benchmark, the Barclays Capital U.S. Universal Index (ex-MBS). The Fund returned 1.89% while the Barclays Capital U.S. Universal Index (ex-MBS) returned -1.03%. Total returns for other periods and additional Class shares as of September 30, 2018, appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview.
Q. What primary factors were behind the Fund’s relative performance?
A. Rising interest rates made fiscal year 2018 difficult for fixed income investors. As interest rates rose over the course of the year, bond prices generally declined, resulting in negative total returns for many bond funds.
Still, the ICON Flexible Bond Fund fared relatively well during this decline in bond values. The Fund’s shorter overall duration, corporate credit orientation and special situation/event-driven focus capitalized on opportunities that others may have missed, and partially offset some of the declining bond values that might have otherwise been the consequence of an interest rate increase.
Q. How did the Fund’s composition affect performance?
A. As stated above, the Fund outperformed its benchmark during the fiscal year. The outperformance largely stemmed from the Fund’s positions in corporate credit and the preferred share segment of the market, both of which produced strong relative returns during the 12-month period. Closed-end fund (CEF) positions also produced strong returns relative to the benchmark, contributing positively to the Fund’s performance.
The Fund looks to purchase CEFs at discounts to their net asset value (NAV). In particular, we look for CEFs that we believe may be converted to an open-end fund or which may liquidate and capitalize upon the discount. Our efforts to find these opportunities led to purchases in which one of the Fund’s CEF holdings liquidated at NAV and another open-ended. As a result, we were able to capture the original discount to net asset value at which each CEF had been acquired.
The Fund benefitted also from our high coupon yield to call purchases, which helped offset some of the Fund’s interest rate sensitivity due to the holdings’ short duration and attractive yields.
Finally, we increased our allocation to preferred stocks after interest rates had risen. We believed preferred stocks experienced more severe price declines than were warranted and several of the Fund’s preferred holdings resulted in attractive yields.
Q. What is your investment outlook for the bond market?
A. At the end of fiscal year 2018, investment-grade and high yield corporate bond spreads continue to trade at levels we regard as excessively tight and overvalued. With spreads at these levels, we have been focused on positions in defensively structured fixed income and are utilizing our bottom up approach to find this type of issue-specific opportunity. While we do not anticipate a substantial upward movement in interest rates over the course of the next 12 months, the Fund is positioned in the lower portion of its duration range as we move into fiscal year 2019. We continue to evaluate CEF opportunities. While future bond market volatility remains a possibility, we believe our bottom up investment methodology will help the Fund navigate the changing market.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 9 |
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
| Inception Date | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | Since Inception | Gross Expense Ratio* | Net Expense Ratio* | ||||||||
| ICON Bond Fund - Class S | 5/6/04 | 1.89% | 3.56% | 5.03% | 4.33% | 1.08% | 0.92% | |||||||
| ICON Bond Fund - Class C | 10/21/02 | 0.92% | 2.67% | 4.14% | 3.79% | 2.30% | 1.77% | |||||||
| ICON Bond Fund - Class A | 9/30/10 | 1.55% | 3.28% | N/A | 3.08% | 1.58% | 1.17% | |||||||
| ICON
Bond Fund - Class A (including maximum sales charge of 4.75%) | 9/30/10 | -3.29% | 2.29% | N/A | 2.45% | 1.58% | 1.17% | |||||||
| Barclays Capital U.S. Universal Index | -1.00% | 2.53% | 4.22% | 4.27% | N/A | N/A | ||||||||
| Barclays
Capital U.S. Universal Index (ex-MBS) | -1.03% | 2.69% | 4.55% | 4.34% | N/A | N/A |
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Adviser has agreed to limit certain Fund expenses; without these limitations, returns would have been lower. The limitation provisions may be terminated in the future.
| * | Please see the most recent prospectus for details. |
Class C total returns exclude applicable sales charges. If sales charges were included returns would be lower.
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the Bond Fund’s Class S shares on the Class’ inception date of 5/6/04 to a $10,000 investment made in an unmanaged securities index on that date. Performance for the Bond Fund’s other share classes will vary due to differences in charges and expenses. The Bond Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
| 10 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Corporate Bonds (59.50%) | ||||||||
| Communication Services (1.65%) | ||||||||
| Lee Enterprises, Inc. | ||||||||
| 9.50%, 03/15/22(a)(b) | $ | 1,650,000 | $ | 1,718,062 | ||||
| Consumer Discretionary (13.24%) | ||||||||
| Brookfield Residential Properties, Inc. | ||||||||
| 6.50%, 12/15/20(a) | 100,000 | 100,375 | ||||||
| Foot Locker, Inc. | ||||||||
| 8.50%, 01/15/22 | 2,950,000 | 3,326,125 | ||||||
| Lear Corp. | ||||||||
| 5.38%, 03/15/24 | 1,500,000 | 1,541,965 | ||||||
| M/I Homes, Inc. | ||||||||
| 6.75%, 01/15/21 | 1,316,000 | 1,342,254 | ||||||
| Nexteer Automotive Group, Ltd. | ||||||||
| 5.88%, 11/15/21(a) | 200,000 | 204,583 | ||||||
| Reliance Intermediate Holdings LP | ||||||||
| 6.50%, 04/01/23(a) | 4,150,000 | 4,310,812 | ||||||
| Silversea Cruise Finance, Ltd. | ||||||||
| 7.25%, 02/01/25(a) | 350,000 | 380,748 | ||||||
| William Lyon Homes, Inc. | ||||||||
| 7.00%, 08/15/22 | 2,550,000 | 2,597,813 | ||||||
| 13,804,675 | ||||||||
| Consumer Staples (6.77%) | ||||||||
| Central Garden & Pet Co. | ||||||||
| 6.13%, 11/15/23 | 2,550,000 | 2,629,687 | ||||||
| Darling Ingredients, Inc. | ||||||||
| 5.38%, 01/15/22 | 1,369,000 | 1,382,690 | ||||||
| Kraft Heinz Foods Co. | ||||||||
| 4.88%, 02/15/25(a) | 3,000,000 | 3,048,383 | ||||||
| 7,060,760 | ||||||||
| Energy (10.74%) | ||||||||
| Andeavor Logistics LP / Tesoro Logistics Finance Corp. | ||||||||
| 6.25%, 10/15/22 | 2,522,000 | 2,591,355 | ||||||
| 6.38%, 05/01/24 | 1,645,000 | 1,743,700 | ||||||
| Continental Resources, Inc. | ||||||||
| 5.00%, 09/15/22 | 4,300,000 | 4,362,350 | ||||||
| MPLX LP | ||||||||
| 5.50%, 02/15/23 | 2,450,000 | 2,499,325 | ||||||
| 11,196,730 | ||||||||
| Financial (7.29%) | ||||||||
| Catlin Insurance Co., Ltd. | ||||||||
| 3M US L + 2.975%(a)(c)(d) | 850,000 | 841,500 | ||||||
| Delphi Financial Group, Inc. | ||||||||
| 7.88%, 01/31/20 | 800,000 | 844,731 | ||||||
| Enova International, Inc. | ||||||||
| 9.75%, 06/01/21 | 500,000 | 524,375 | ||||||
| International Lease Finance Corp. | ||||||||
| 8.25%, 12/15/20 | 1,113,000 | 1,216,203 | ||||||
| Jefferies Finance LLC / JFIN Co.- Issuer Corp. | ||||||||
| 7.38%, 04/01/20(a) | 350,000 | 355,687 | ||||||
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Financial (continued) | ||||||||
| Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co. | ||||||||
| 7.88%, 04/01/33(a) | $ | 1,000,000 | $ | 1,321,670 | ||||
| NewBridge Bancorp, Series AI | ||||||||
| 7.25%, 03/14/24(a)(e) | 500,000 | 504,095 | ||||||
| Prudential Financial, Inc. | ||||||||
| 3M US L + 4.175%, 09/15/42(c) | 1,100,000 | 1,163,250 | ||||||
| Willis North America, Inc. | ||||||||
| 7.00%, 09/29/19 | 800,000 | 827,376 | ||||||
| 7,598,887 | ||||||||
| Health Care (3.59%) | ||||||||
| Catholic Health Initiatives | ||||||||
| 2.95%, 11/01/22 | 1,000,000 | 964,330 | ||||||
| Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc. | ||||||||
| 5.75%, 09/01/23(a) | 1,200,000 | 1,230,000 | ||||||
| Horizon Pharma, Inc. / Horizon Pharma USA, Inc. | ||||||||
| 8.75%, 11/01/24(a) | 500,000 | 533,750 | ||||||
| Molina Healthcare, Inc. | ||||||||
| 5.38%, 11/15/22 | 1,000,000 | 1,016,250 | ||||||
| 3,744,330 | ||||||||
| Industrials (4.99%) | ||||||||
| Air Canada | ||||||||
| 7.75%, 04/15/21(a) | 100,000 | 108,500 | ||||||
| Covanta Holding Corp. | ||||||||
| 6.38%, 10/01/22 | 1,747,000 | 1,784,124 | ||||||
| EnPro Industries, Inc. | ||||||||
| 5.88%, 09/15/22 | 722,000 | 735,537 | ||||||
| RR Donnelley & Sons Co. | ||||||||
| 7.88%, 03/15/21 | 1,000,000 | 1,061,250 | ||||||
| USG Corp. | ||||||||
| 5.50%, 03/01/25(a) | 800,000 | 816,000 | ||||||
| XPO Logistics, Inc. | ||||||||
| 6.50%, 06/15/22(a) | 675,000 | 696,938 | ||||||
| 5,202,349 | ||||||||
| Information Technology (5.58%) | ||||||||
| Amkor Technology, Inc. | ||||||||
| 6.38%, 10/01/22 | 1,280,000 | 1,304,154 | ||||||
| Dell International LLC / EMC Corp. | ||||||||
| 7.13%, 06/15/24(a) | 852,000 | 915,133 | ||||||
| Nielsen Co. Luxembourg SARL | ||||||||
| 5.50%, 10/01/21(a) | 500,000 | 502,875 | ||||||
| NXP BV / NXP Funding LLC | ||||||||
| 4.63%, 06/01/23(a) | 3,050,000 | 3,096,360 | ||||||
| 5,818,522 | ||||||||
| Materials (2.69%) | ||||||||
| Hecla Mining Co. | ||||||||
| 6.88%, 05/01/21 | 500,000 | 501,250 | ||||||
| Teck Resources, Ltd. | ||||||||
| 8.50%, 06/01/24(a) | 2,105,000 | 2,301,291 | ||||||
| 2,802,541 | ||||||||
| Utilities (2.96%) | ||||||||
| DPL, Inc. | ||||||||
| 6.75%, 10/01/19 | 619,000 | 634,475 | ||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 11 |
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Utilities (continued) | ||||||||
| Vistra Energy Corp. | ||||||||
| 7.38%, 11/01/22 | $ | 750,000 | $ | 780,135 | ||||
| 7.63%, 11/01/24 | 1,560,000 | 1,678,950 | ||||||
| 3,093,560 | ||||||||
| Total
Corporate Bonds (Cost $62,987,018) | 62,040,416 | |||||||
| Asset-Backed Securities (3.22%) | ||||||||
| SMB Private Education Loan Trust 2014-A | ||||||||
| Series 2014-A, Class C | ||||||||
| 4.50%, 11/15/25(a)(e) | 3,500,000 | 3,357,602 | ||||||
| Total
Asset-Backed Securities (Cost $3,378,658) | 3,357,602 | |||||||
| U.S. Treasury Obligations (8.03%) | ||||||||
| U.S. Treasury Bond | ||||||||
| 2.88%, 08/15/28 | 8,500,000 | 8,371,172 | ||||||
| Total
U.S. Treasury Obligations (Cost $8,424,759) | 8,371,172 | |||||||
| Common Stocks (3.14%) | ||||||||
| Industrial REITs (3.14%) | ||||||||
| Gramercy Property Trust(b) | 119,294 | 3,273,427 | ||||||
| Total
Common Stocks (Cost $3,266,371) | 3,273,427 | |||||||
| Preferred Stocks (12.23%) | ||||||||
| Diversified Banks (0.25%) | ||||||||
| Wells Fargo & Co., Series L 7.50%(b)(d) | 200 | 258,176 | ||||||
| Financial Services (2.01%) | ||||||||
| Cabco Series 2004-101 Trust Goldman Sachs Capital I, Series GS | ||||||||
| 3M US L + 0.85%, 02/15/34(c) | 94,496 | 2,091,196 | ||||||
| Industrial REITs (4.16%) | ||||||||
| Gramercy Property Trust, Series A 7.13%(d)(e) | 173,861 | 4,343,048 | ||||||
| Life & Health Insurance (0.74%) | ||||||||
| Prudential Financial, Inc.(b) | ||||||||
| 5.75%, 12/15/52 | 30,696 | 768,014 | ||||||
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Property & Casualty Insurance (5.07%) | ||||||||
| Argo Group US, Inc.(b) | ||||||||
| 6.50%, 09/15/42 | 210,258 | $ | 5,287,989 | |||||
| Total
Preferred Stocks (Cost $12,917,497) | 12,748,423 | |||||||
| Convertible Preferred Stocks (2.72%) | ||||||||
| Office REITs (2.72%) | ||||||||
| Equity Commonwealth, Series D 6.50%(d) | 108,118 | 2,832,692 | ||||||
| Total
Convertible Preferred Stocks (Cost $2,722,510) | 2,832,692 | |||||||
| Closed-End Mutual Funds (9.87%) | ||||||||
| BlackRock Income Trust, Inc.(b) | 134,663 | 770,272 | ||||||
| Deutsche Multi-Market Income Trust | 299,859 | 2,692,734 | ||||||
| Deutsche Strategic Income Trust | 43,770 | 551,502 | ||||||
| Duff & Phelps Utility and Corporate Bond Trust, Inc.(b) | 48,797 | 409,407 | ||||||
| High Income Securities Fund | 110,616 | 1,048,640 | ||||||
| Nuveen Build America Bond Fund | 147,666 | 2,953,320 | ||||||
| Nuveen Build America Bond Opportunity Fund | 85,558 | 1,862,597 | ||||||
| Total
Closed-End Mutual Funds (Cost $10,323,218) | 10,288,472 | |||||||
| Collateral for Securities on Loan (2.40%) | ||||||||
| State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio, 7-Day Yield 2.19% | 2,503,136 | 2,503,136 | ||||||
| Total
Collateral for Securities on Loan (Cost $2,503,136) | 2,503,136 | |||||||
| Total
Investments (101.11%) (Cost $106,523,167) | $ | 105,415,340 | ||||||
| Liabilities Less Other Assets (-1.11%) | (1,154,990 | ) | ||||||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 104,260,350 | ||||||
Investment Abbreviations:
LIBOR - London Interbank Offered Rate
REIT - Real Estate Investment Trust
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 12 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
LIBOR Rates:
3M US L - 3 Month LIBOR as of September 30, 2018 was 2.40%
| (a) | Security was purchased pursuant to Rule 144A or Section 4(a)(2) under the Securities Act of 1933 and may be resold in transactions exempt from registration only to qualified institutional buyers. As of September 30, 2018, these securities had a total aggregate market value of $26,344,364. |
| (b) | All or a portion of the security was on loan as of September 30, 2018. |
| (c) | Floating or variable rate security. The reference rate is described above. The rate in effect as of September 30, 2018 is based on the reference rate plus the displayed spread as of the security’s last reset date. |
| (d) | This security has no contractual maturity date, is not redeemable and contractually pays an indefinite stream of interest. |
| (e) | These securities are considered, by management, to be illiquid. The aggregate value of these securities at September 30, 2018 was $8,204,745, which represent 7.87% of the Fund’s net assets. |
| Credit Diversification (September 30, 2018) | |||
| Ba2 | 12.38 | % | |
| B1 | 9.07 | % | |
| Ba1 | 8.52 | % | |
| Baa3 | 8.25 | % | |
| Aaa | 8.03 | % | |
| Ba3 | 4.97 | % | |
| B2 | 4.51 | % | |
| Baa2 | 4.04 | % | |
| NR* | 3.69 | % | |
| B3 | 3.48 | % | |
| A3 | 1.27 | % | |
| Baa1 | 0.92 | % | |
| BBB | 0.81 | % | |
| BBB+ | 0.81 | % | |
| Total: | 70.75 | % |
Percentages are based upon corporate bond, asset-backed securities and U.S. Treasury obligations investments as a percentage of net assets. Ratings based on Moody’s Investors Service, Inc where available, otherwise on Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC.
| * | NR - Not Rated |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 13 |
| ICON Fund | Management Overview |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
Q. How did the Fund perform relative to its benchmark?
A. The ICON Fund (the Fund) Class S returned 6.53% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, while its benchmark, the S&P Composite 1500 Index, returned 17.69%. Total returns for other periods and additional Class shares as of September 30, 2018, appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview.
Q. What primary factors were behind the Fund’s relative performance?
A. Much of the Fund’s underperformance relative to the S&P Composite 1500 Index occurred between late June and September 30, 2018. The market experienced a sector theme change during the fourth fiscal quarter. The Fund’s large weightings in the Financials, Consumer Discretionary and Information Technology sectors were a drag on performance in the last months of the fiscal year, while lesser weighted sectors like Communication Services, Utilities and Consumer Staples were among the leaders.
Q. How did the Fund’s composition affect performance?
A. The five biggest contributors to Fund performance were Adobe Inc., SVB Financial Group, Bank of America Corp., Home Depot Inc. and Total Systems Services Inc. Bank of America and SVB Financial Group are in the Financials sector and repeated as top five contributors from the previous fiscal year. Adobe and Total Systems are in the Information Technology sector while Home Depot is categorized as a home improvement retail industry which is included in the Consumer Discretionary sector. All five remained in the portfolio as of September 30, 2018.
The five stocks that detracted the most from Fund performance were Celgene Corp., Whirlpool Corp., Applied Materials Inc., Skyworks Solutions Inc. and Martin Marietta Materials Inc. Whirlpool and Applied Materials were sold during fiscal year 2018. The other three remain in the Fund.
Q. What is your investment outlook for the overall market?
A. As of September 30, 2018, ICON’s valuation model shows a value-to-price (V/P) ratio of 1.02 for the overall market. In other words, we believe stock prices, on average, are slightly below our estimate of fair value. We are not seeing overpricing and other indications or behaviors typical of market peaks. In terms of upside potential we do not expect the excess returns available when the broad market is priced at a discount to fair value.
| 14 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Fund | Management Overview |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
| Since | Gross Expense | Net Expense | |||||
| Inception Date | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | Inception | Ratio* | Ratio* | |
| ICON Fund - Class S | 5/6/04 | 6.53% | 7.29% | 6.10% | 5.11% | 1.10% | 1.10% |
| ICON Fund - Class C | 11/28/00 | 5.32% | 6.07% | 5.21% | 4.14% | 2.31% | 2.25% |
| ICON Fund - Class A | 5/31/06 | 6.08% | 6.87% | 5.65% | 2.82% | 1.66% | 1.50% |
| ICON Fund - Class A (including maximum sales charge of 5.75%) | 5/31/06 | 0.00% | 5.61% | 5.02% | 2.33% | 1.66% | 1.50% |
| S&P Composite 1500 Index | 17.69% | 13.77% | 12.04% | 9.34% | N/A | N/A |
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Since Inception performance results for Class C shares include returns for certain time periods that were restarted as of June 8, 2004.
| * | Please see the most recent prospectus for details. |
Class C total returns exclude applicable sales charges. If sales charges were included returns would be lower.
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the ICON Fund’s Class S shares on the Class’ inception date of 5/6/04 to a $10,000 investment made in an unmanaged securities index on that date. Performance for the ICON Fund’s other share classes will vary due to differences in charges and expenses. The ICON Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 15 |
| ICON Fund | Schedule of Investments |
September 30, 2018
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Common Stocks (99.95%) | ||||||||
| Application Software (7.10%) | ||||||||
| Adobe Systems, Inc.(a) | 13,000 | $ | 3,509,350 | |||||
| Auto Parts & Equipment (2.36%) | ||||||||
| Magna International, Inc. | 22,200 | 1,166,166 | ||||||
| Biotechnology (6.70%) | ||||||||
| Celgene Corp.(a) | 18,500 | 1,655,565 | ||||||
| Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a) | 8,600 | 1,657,564 | ||||||
| 3,313,129 | ||||||||
| Building Products (2.89%) | ||||||||
| Masco Corp. | 39,000 | 1,427,400 | ||||||
| Construction Materials (4.61%) | ||||||||
| Eagle Materials, Inc. | 7,700 | 656,348 | ||||||
| Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. | 8,900 | 1,619,355 | ||||||
| 2,275,703 | ||||||||
| Data Processing & Outsourced Services (4.05%) | ||||||||
| Total System Services, Inc. | 20,300 | 2,004,422 | ||||||
| Diversified Banks (13.62%) | ||||||||
| Bank of America Corp. | 182,000 | 5,361,720 | ||||||
| JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 12,200 | 1,376,648 | ||||||
| 6,738,368 | ||||||||
| General Merchandise Stores (2.86%) | ||||||||
| Dollar General Corp. | 4,800 | 524,640 | ||||||
| Dollar Tree, Inc.(a) | 10,900 | 888,895 | ||||||
| 1,413,535 | ||||||||
| Health Care Equipment (1.51%) | ||||||||
| Teleflex, Inc. | 2,800 | 745,052 | ||||||
| Health Care Services (1.51%) | ||||||||
| DaVita, Inc.(a) | 10,400 | 744,952 | ||||||
| Home Improvement Retail (3.73%) | ||||||||
| Home Depot, Inc. | 8,900 | 1,843,635 | ||||||
| Homebuilding (3.71%) | ||||||||
| PulteGroup, Inc. | 74,100 | 1,835,457 | ||||||
| Hotels, Resorts & Cruise Lines (3.02%) | ||||||||
| Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. | 11,500 | 1,494,310 | ||||||
| Interactive Media & Services (2.03%) | ||||||||
| Facebook, Inc., Class A(a) | 6,100 | 1,003,206 | ||||||
| Leisure Products (1.78%) | ||||||||
| Polaris Industries, Inc.(b) | 8,700 | 878,265 | ||||||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production (6.88%) | ||||||||
| Cabot Oil & Gas Corp. | 37,000 | 833,240 | ||||||
| Diamondback Energy, Inc.(b) | 8,600 | 1,162,634 | ||||||
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production (continued) | ||||||||
| Parsley Energy, Inc., Class A(a) | 48,100 | $ | 1,406,925 | |||||
| 3,402,799 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing (2.81%) | ||||||||
| Marathon Petroleum Corp. | 17,400 | 1,391,478 | ||||||
| Pharmaceuticals (3.43%) | ||||||||
| Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC(a) | 10,100 | 1,698,113 | ||||||
| Regional Banks (14.14%) | ||||||||
| KeyCorp | 58,000 | 1,153,620 | ||||||
| PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. | 8,300 | 1,130,377 | ||||||
| Signature Bank | 16,600 | 1,906,344 | ||||||
| SVB Financial Group(a) | 9,000 | 2,797,470 | ||||||
| 6,987,811 | ||||||||
| Semiconductor Equipment (1.74%) | ||||||||
| Applied Materials, Inc. | 22,300 | 861,895 | ||||||
| Semiconductors (9.47%) | ||||||||
| Broadcom, Inc. | 1,800 | 444,114 | ||||||
| Qorvo, Inc.(a) | 20,300 | 1,560,867 | ||||||
| Skyworks Solutions, Inc. | 29,500 | 2,675,945 | ||||||
| 4,680,926 | ||||||||
| Total Common Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $36,233,307) | 49,415,972 | |||||||
| Total Investments (99.95%) | ||||||||
| (Cost $36,233,307) | $ | 49,415,972 | ||||||
| Other Assets Less Liabilities (0.05%) | 22,484 | |||||||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 49,438,456 | ||||||
| (a) | Non-income producing security. |
| (b) | All or a portion of the security was on loan as of September 30, 2018. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 16 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Fund | Schedule of Investments |
September 30, 2018
| Sector Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Financials | 27.76 | % | ||
| Information Technology | 22.36 | % | ||
| Consumer Discretionary | 17.46 | % | ||
| Health Care | 13.15 | % | ||
| Energy | 9.69 | % | ||
| Materials | 4.61 | % | ||
| Industrials | 2.89 | % | ||
| Communication Services | 2.03 | % | ||
| 99.95 | % |
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| Industry Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Regional Banks | 14.14 | % | ||
| Diversified Banks | 13.62 | % | ||
| Semiconductors | 9.47 | % | ||
| Application Software | 7.10 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production | 6.88 | % | ||
| Biotechnology | 6.70 | % | ||
| Construction Materials | 4.61 | % | ||
| Data Processing & Outsourced Services | 4.05 | % | ||
| Home Improvement Retail | 3.73 | % | ||
| Homebuilding | 3.71 | % | ||
| Pharmaceuticals | 3.43 | % | ||
| Hotels, Resorts & Cruise Lines | 3.02 | % | ||
| Building Products | 2.89 | % | ||
| General Merchandise Stores | 2.86 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing | 2.81 | % | ||
| Auto Parts & Equipment | 2.36 | % | ||
| Interactive Media & Services | 2.03 | % | ||
| Leisure Products | 1.78 | % | ||
| Semiconductor Equipment | 1.74 | % | ||
| Health Care Services | 1.51 | % | ||
| Health Care Equipment | 1.51 | % | ||
| 99.95 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 17 |
Management Overview |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
Q. How did the Fund perform relative to its benchmark?
| A. | The ICON Long-Short Fund (the Fund) Class S returned 7.88% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, while its benchmark, the S&P Composite 1500 Index, returned 17.69%. Total returns for other periods and additional Class shares as of September 30, 2018, appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview. |
Q. What primary factors were behind the Fund’s relative performance?
| A. | The Fund’s underperformance relative to the S&P 1500 Index occurred between late June and September 30, 2018. The market experienced a sector theme change during the fourth fiscal quarter. The Fund’s large weightings in the Financials, Consumer Discretionary and Information Technology sectors were a drag on performance in the last months of the fiscal year, while lesser weighted sectors like Communication Services, Utilities and Consumer Staples were among the market leaders. |
Q. How did the Fund’s composition affect performance?
| A. | The five biggest contributors to Fund performance were MasterCard Inc., SVB Financial Group, Adobe Inc., Bank of America Corp. and CSX Corp. Bank of America and SVB Financial Group are in the Financials sector and repeated as two of the top five contributors from the previous fiscal year. Master Card and Adobe are in the Information Technology sector while CSX, a railroad, is in the Industrials sector. All five remained in the portfolio as of September 30, 2018. |
| The five stocks that detracted the most from Fund performance were Celgene Corp., Installed Building Products Inc., SINA Corp., Applied Materials Inc., and Whirlpool Corp. The Fund sold its positions in Whirlpool, SINA and Applied Materials during the fiscal year. The other two companies remain in the Fund. |
Q. What is your investment outlook for the overall market?
| A. | As of September 30, 2018, ICON’s valuation model shows a value-to-price (V/P) ratio of 1.02 for the overall market. In other words, we believe stock prices, on average, are slightly below our estimate of fair value. We are not seeing overpricing and other indications or behaviors typical of market peaks. In terms of upside potential we do not expect the excess returns available when the broad market is priced at a discount to fair value. |
| 18 | www.iconfunds.com |
ICON Long/Short Fund |
Management Overview |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
| Inception Date | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | Since Inception | Gross Expense Ratio* | Net Expense Ratio* | ||||||||||||
| ICON Long/Short Fund - Class S | 5/6/04 | 7.88 | % | 9.16 | % | 7.47 | % | 5.78 | % | 1.50% | 1.25% | |||||||
| ICON Long/Short Fund - Class C | 10/17/02 | 6.78 | % | 8.02 | % | 6.34 | % | 6.08 | % | 2.74% | 2.30% | |||||||
| ICON Long/Short Fund - Class A | 5/31/06 | 7.52 | % | 8.83 | % | 7.14 | % | 4.25 | % | 1.93% | 1.55% | |||||||
| ICON Long/Short Fund - Class A | ||||||||||||||||||
| (including maximum sales charge of 5.75%) | 5/31/06 | 1.39 | % | 7.55 | % | 6.51 | % | 3.75 | % | 1.93% | 1.55% | |||||||
| S&P Composite 1500 Index | 17.69 | % | 13.77 | % | 12.04 | % | 9.34 | % | N/A | N/A | ||||||||
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Adviser has agreed to limit certain Fund expenses; without these limitations, returns would have been lower. The limitation provisions may be terminated in the future.
| * | Please see the most recent prospectus for details. |
Class C total returns exclude applicable sales charges. If sales charges were included returns would be lower.
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the Long/Short Fund’s Class S shares on the Class’ inception date of 5/6/04 to a $10,000 investment made in an unmanaged securities index on that date. Performance for the Long/Short Fund’s other share classes will vary due to differences in charges and expenses. The Long/Short Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 19 |
ICON Long/Short Fund |
Schedule of Investments |
September 30, 2018
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Common Stocks (99.39%) | ||||||||
| Air Freight & Logistics (3.41%) | ||||||||
| FedEx Corp. | 4,100 | $ | 987,239 | |||||
| Application Software (2.24%) | ||||||||
| Adobe Systems, Inc.(a) | 2,400 | 647,880 | ||||||
| Auto Parts & Equipment (1.36%) | ||||||||
| Magna International, Inc. | 7,500 | 393,975 | ||||||
| Biotechnology (9.18%) | ||||||||
| Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a) | 7,200 | 1,000,872 | ||||||
| Celgene Corp.(a) | 9,500 | 850,155 | ||||||
| Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a) | 4,200 | 809,508 | ||||||
| 2,660,535 | ||||||||
| Building Products (2.67%) | ||||||||
| Masco Corp. | 21,100 | 772,260 | ||||||
| Construction Materials (3.48%) | ||||||||
| Eagle Materials, Inc. | 6,700 | 571,108 | ||||||
| Martin Marietta Materials, Inc. | 2,400 | 436,680 | ||||||
| 1,007,788 | ||||||||
| Data Processing & Outsourced Services (6.15%) | ||||||||
| Mastercard, Inc., Class A | 8,000 | 1,780,880 | ||||||
| Diversified Banks (9.06%) | ||||||||
| Bank of America Corp. | 70,700 | 2,082,822 | ||||||
| JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 4,800 | 541,632 | ||||||
| 2,624,454 | ||||||||
| General Merchandise Stores (4.53%) | ||||||||
| Dollar General Corp. | 5,500 | 601,150 | ||||||
| Dollar Tree, Inc.(a) | 8,700 | 709,485 | ||||||
| 1,310,635 | ||||||||
| Health Care Equipment (1.56%) | ||||||||
| Teleflex, Inc. | 1,700 | 452,353 | ||||||
| Health Care Facilities (1.54%) | ||||||||
| Universal Health Services, Inc., Class B | 3,500 | 447,440 | ||||||
| Health Care Services (1.61%) | ||||||||
| DaVita, Inc.(a) | 6,500 | 465,595 | ||||||
| Home Improvement Retail (2.29%) | ||||||||
| Home Depot, Inc. | 3,200 | 662,880 | ||||||
| Homebuilding (4.68%) | ||||||||
| Installed Building Products, Inc.(a) | 10,300 | 401,700 | ||||||
| PulteGroup, Inc. | 38,500 | 953,645 | ||||||
| 1,355,345 | ||||||||
| Hotels, Resorts & Cruise Lines (3.18%) | ||||||||
| Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. | 7,100 | 922,574 | ||||||
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Insurance Brokers (3.01%) | ||||||||
| Arthur J Gallagher & Co. | 11,700 | $ | 870,948 | |||||
| Leisure Products (2.33%) | ||||||||
| Polaris Industries, Inc. | 6,700 | 676,365 | ||||||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production (4.95%) | ||||||||
| Cabot Oil & Gas Corp. | 17,500 | 394,100 | ||||||
| Diamondback Energy, Inc.(b) | 2,400 | 324,456 | ||||||
| Parsley Energy, Inc., Class A(a) | 24,500 | 716,625 | ||||||
| 1,435,181 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing (2.93%) | ||||||||
| Marathon Petroleum Corp. | 10,600 | 847,682 | ||||||
| Pharmaceuticals (2.84%) | ||||||||
| Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC(a) | 4,900 | 823,837 | ||||||
| Railroads (5.52%) | ||||||||
| CSX Corp. | 12,700 | 940,435 | ||||||
| Kansas City Southern | 5,800 | 657,024 | ||||||
| 1,597,459 | ||||||||
| Regional Banks (11.67%) | ||||||||
| KeyCorp | 28,500 | 566,865 | ||||||
| PNC Financial Services Group, Inc. | 4,000 | 544,760 | ||||||
| Signature Bank | 9,200 | 1,056,528 | ||||||
| SVB Financial Group(a) | 3,900 | 1,212,237 | ||||||
| 3,380,390 | ||||||||
| Semiconductor Equipment (1.61%) | ||||||||
| Applied Materials, Inc. | 12,100 | 467,665 | ||||||
| Semiconductors (7.59%) | ||||||||
| Cypress Semiconductor Corp.(b) | 48,800 | 707,112 | ||||||
| Qorvo, Inc.(a) | 6,300 | 484,407 | ||||||
| Skyworks Solutions, Inc. | 11,100 | 1,006,881 | ||||||
| 2,198,400 | ||||||||
| Total Common Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $23,154,065) | 28,789,760 | |||||||
| Total Investments (99.39%) | ||||||||
| (Cost $23,154,065) | $ | 28,789,760 | ||||||
| Other Assets Less Liabilities (0.61%) | 177,413 | |||||||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 28,967,173 | ||||||
| (a) | Non-income producing security. |
| (b) | All or a portion of the security was on loan as of September 30, 2018. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
| 20 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Long/Short Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Sector Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Financials | 23.74 | % | ||
| Consumer Discretionary | 18.37 | % | ||
| Information Technology | 17.59 | % | ||
| Health Care | 16.73 | % | ||
| Industrials | 11.60 | % | ||
| Energy | 7.88 | % | ||
| Materials | 3.48 | % | ||
| 99.39 | % |
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| Industry Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Regional Banks | 11.67 | % | ||
| Biotechnology | 9.18 | % | ||
| Diversified Banks | 9.06 | % | ||
| Semiconductors | 7.59 | % | ||
| Data Processing & Outsourced Services | 6.15 | % | ||
| Railroads | 5.52 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production | 4.95 | % | ||
| Homebuilding | 4.68 | % | ||
| General Merchandise Stores | 4.53 | % | ||
| Construction Materials | 3.48 | % | ||
| Air Freight & Logistics | 3.41 | % | ||
| Hotels, Resorts & Cruise Lines | 3.18 | % | ||
| Insurance Brokers | 3.01 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing | 2.93 | % | ||
| Pharmaceuticals | 2.84 | % | ||
| Building Products | 2.67 | % | ||
| Leisure Products | 2.33 | % | ||
| Home Improvement Retail | 2.29 | % | ||
| Application Software | 2.24 | % | ||
| Health Care Services | 1.61 | % | ||
| Semiconductor Equipment | 1.61 | % | ||
| Health Care Equipment | 1.56 | % | ||
| Health Care Facilities | 1.54 | % | ||
| Auto Parts & Equipment | 1.36 | % | ||
| 99.39 | % |
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 21 |
Management Overview |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
| Q. | How did the Fund perform relative to its benchmark? |
| A. | The ICON Opportunities Fund (the Fund) returned 4.88% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, while its benchmark, the S&P Small-Cap 600 Total Return Index, returned 19.08%. Total returns for other periods as of September 2018, appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview. |
| Q. | What primary factors were behind the Fund’s relative performance? |
| A. | An attribution analysis suggests stock selection in the Consumer Discretionary and Information Technology sectors is responsible for most of the Fund’s underperformance. Rather than reflecting value, it appears prices were event-driven, with stocks responding to trade tariffs and Federal Reserve behavior, among other things. Although stocks in both sectors posted impressive gains, the event-driven market proved a challenge to the ICON system. As a result, many stocks we believed were underpriced failed to meet our estimation of value, while other stocks we thought were overpriced continued moving higher. |
| Q. | How did the Fund’s composition affect performance? |
| A. | The five stocks contributing the most to returns were Ligand Pharmaceuticals Inc., PGT Innovations Inc., Five Below Inc., Nanometrics Inc. and NuVasive Inc. Ligand and NuVasive are in the Healthcare sector. PGT Innovations, Five Below and Nanometrics are in the Industrials, Consumer Discretionary and Information Technology sectors respectively. |
The following stocks with negative returns detracted the most from Fund performance: Extreme Networks Inc., Nutrisystem Inc., MACOM Technology Solutions Inc., LGI Homes Inc. and Coherent Inc. Extreme Networks, MACOM Technology Solutions and Coherent are in the Information Technology sector while Nutrisystem and LGI Homes are in Consumer Discretionary. The Fund liquidated its positions in Nutrisystem and MACOM during the fiscal year. We continue to hold Extreme Networks, LGI Homes and Coherent in the portfolio.
| Q. | What is your investment outlook for the overall market? |
| A. | As of September 30, 2018, ICON’s valuation model shows a value-to-price (V/P) ratio of 1.02 for the overall market. In other words, we believe stock prices, on average, are about 2% below our estimate of fair value. We are not seeing overpricing and other indications or behaviors typical of market peaks. In terms of upside potential, however, we do not expect the excess returns available when the broad market is priced at a discount to fair value. |
| 22 | www.iconfunds.com |
ICON Opportunities Fund |
Management Overview |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
|
||||||
| Inception Date | 1 Year | 5 Year | Since Inception | Gross Expense Ratio* | Net Expense Ratio* | |
| ICON Opportunities Fund | 9/28/12 | 4.88% | 9.83% | 12.98% | 1.47% | 1.30% |
| S&P Small Cap Total Return Index | 19.08% | 13.32% | 16.15% | N/A | N/A | |
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Adviser has agreed to limit certain Fund expenses; without these limitations, returns would have been lower. The limitation provisions may be terminated in the future.
| * | Please see the most recent prospectus for details. |
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the Opportunities Fund on the inception date of 9/28/12 to a $10,000 investment made in an unmanaged securities index on that date. The Opportunities Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 23 |
ICON Opportunities Fund |
Schedule of Investments |
September 30, 2018
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Common Stocks (99.86%) | ||||||||
| Air Freight & Logistics (2.41%) | ||||||||
| Forward Air Corp. | 7,100 | $ | 509,070 | |||||
| Biotechnology (0.98%) | ||||||||
| Ligand Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a) | 751 | 206,142 | ||||||
| Building Products (11.38%) | ||||||||
| Armstrong World Industries, Inc.(a) | 9,600 | 668,160 | ||||||
| Continental Building Products, Inc.(a) | 18,400 | 690,920 | ||||||
| Patrick Industries, Inc.(a) | 9,200 | 544,640 | ||||||
| PGT Innovations, Inc.(a) | 22,900 | 494,640 | ||||||
| 2,398,360 | ||||||||
| Communications Equipment (1.23%) | ||||||||
| Extreme Networks, Inc.(a) | 47,300 | 259,204 | ||||||
| Construction Machinery & Heavy Trucks (2.95%) | ||||||||
| Terex Corp. | 15,600 | 622,596 | ||||||
| Electronic Equipment & Instruments (3.72%) | ||||||||
| Coherent, Inc.(a)(b) | 4,562 | 785,531 | ||||||
| Electronic Manufacturing Services (3.33%) | ||||||||
| Methode Electronics, Inc. | 19,400 | 702,280 | ||||||
| Health Care Equipment (2.52%) | ||||||||
| NuVasive, Inc.(a) | 7,500 | 532,350 | ||||||
| Health Care Services (2.69%) | ||||||||
| LHC Group, Inc.(a) | 5,500 | 566,445 | ||||||
| Homebuilding (7.54%) | ||||||||
| KB Home | 21,100 | 504,501 | ||||||
| LGI Homes, Inc.(a)(b) | 14,300 | 678,392 | ||||||
| M/I Homes, Inc.(a) | 17,000 | 406,810 | ||||||
| 1,589,703 | ||||||||
| Homefurnishing Retail (2.38%) | ||||||||
| Aaron’s, Inc. | 9,200 | 501,032 | ||||||
| Leisure Products (4.10%) | ||||||||
| Brunswick Corp. | 12,900 | 864,558 | ||||||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production (5.51%) | ||||||||
| Matador Resources Co.(a) | 10,800 | 356,940 | ||||||
| Ring Energy, Inc.(a) | 24,400 | 241,804 | ||||||
| SM Energy Co. | 8,200 | 258,546 | ||||||
| SRC Energy, Inc.(a) | 34,189 | 303,940 | ||||||
| 1,161,230 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing (1.81%) | ||||||||
| CVR Energy, Inc. | 9,500 | 382,090 | ||||||
| Pharmaceuticals (9.12%) | ||||||||
| Amneal Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a) | 32,500 | 721,175 | ||||||
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Pharmaceuticals (continued) | ||||||||
| Corcept Therapeutics, Inc.(a)(b) | 39,700 | $ | 556,594 | |||||
| Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a) | 12,800 | 644,480 | ||||||
| 1,922,249 | ||||||||
| Property & Casualty Insurance (2.81%) | ||||||||
| United Insurance Holdings Corp. | 26,500 | 593,070 | ||||||
| Regional Banks (9.49%) | ||||||||
| Bank OZK | 19,200 | 728,832 | ||||||
| First Commonwealth Financial Corp. | 13,100 | 211,434 | ||||||
| First Midwest Bancorp, Inc. | 24,327 | 646,855 | ||||||
| Webster Financial Corp. | 7,000 | 412,720 | ||||||
| 1,999,841 | ||||||||
| Semiconductor Equipment (4.97%) | ||||||||
| Nanometrics, Inc.(a) | 5,323 | 199,719 | ||||||
| Teradyne, Inc. | 22,909 | 847,175 | ||||||
| 1,046,894 | ||||||||
| Semiconductors (8.55%) | ||||||||
| Cypress Semiconductor Corp.(b) | 33,600 | 486,864 | ||||||
| Diodes, Inc.(a) | 18,813 | 626,284 | ||||||
| Mellanox Technologies, Ltd.(a) | 9,400 | 690,430 | ||||||
| 1,803,578 | ||||||||
| Specialty Stores (4.32%) | ||||||||
| Five Below, Inc.(a) | 7,000 | 910,420 | ||||||
| Thrifts & Mortgage Finance (8.05%) | ||||||||
| Axos Financial, Inc.(a) | 22,600 | 777,214 | ||||||
| Essent Group, Ltd.(a) | 20,800 | 920,400 | ||||||
| 1,697,614 | ||||||||
| Total Common Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $18,306,287) | 21,054,257 | |||||||
| Collateral for Securities on Loan (2.86%) | ||||||||
| State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio, 7-Day Yield 2.19% | 603,900 | 603,900 | ||||||
| Total Collateral for Securities on Loan | ||||||||
| (Cost $603,900) | 603,900 | |||||||
| Total Investments (102.72%) | ||||||||
| (Cost $18,910,187) | $ | 21,658,157 | ||||||
| Liabilities Less Other Assets (-2.72%) | (573,748 | ) | ||||||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 21,084,409 | ||||||
| (a) | Non-income producing security. |
| (b) | All or a portion of the security was on loan as of September 30, 2018. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 24 | www.iconfunds.com |
ICON Opportunities Fund |
Schedule of Investments |
September 30, 2018
Sector Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Information Technology | 21.80 | % | ||
| Financials | 20.35 | % | ||
| Consumer Discretionary | 18.34 | % | ||
| Industrials | 16.74 | % | ||
| Health Care | 15.31 | % | ||
| Energy | 7.32 | % | ||
| 99.86 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
Industry Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Building Products | 11.38 | % | ||
| Regional Banks | 9.49 | % | ||
| Pharmaceuticals | 9.12 | % | ||
| Semiconductors | 8.55 | % | ||
| Thrifts & Mortgage Finance | 8.05 | % | ||
| Homebuilding | 7.54 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production | 5.51 | % | ||
| Semiconductor Equipment | 4.97 | % | ||
| Specialty Stores | 4.32 | % | ||
| Leisure Products | 4.10 | % | ||
| Electronic Equipment & Instruments | 3.72 | % | ||
| Electronic Manufacturing Services | 3.33 | % | ||
| Construction Machinery & Heavy Trucks | 2.95 | % | ||
| Property & Casualty Insurance | 2.81 | % | ||
| Health Care Services | 2.69 | % | ||
| Health Care Equipment | 2.52 | % | ||
| Air Freight & Logistics | 2.41 | % | ||
| Homefurnishing Retail | 2.38 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing | 1.81 | % | ||
| Communications Equipment | 1.23 | % | ||
| Biotechnology | 0.98 | % | ||
| 99.86 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 25 |
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Q. How did the Fund perform relative to its benchmarks?
A. The Risk-Managed Balanced Fund (the Fund) Class S shares returned 4.64% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018. The S&P Composite 1500 Index returned 17.69% and the Balanced Blended Benchmark returned 9.95%. The Balanced Blended Benchmark is based on a weighting of 60% S&P Composite 1500 Index and 40% Barclays Capital U.S. Universal Index, rebalanced monthly. Total returns for other periods and additional Class shares as of September 30, 2018, appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview.
Q. What primary factors influenced the Fund’s relative performance during the period?
A. The equities held by the Fund returned approximately 9.29%, underperforming both the S&P 1500 and the Balanced Blended Benchmark, and accounting for much of the difference between the Fund’s overall performance and its benchmarks. In addition, some of the Fund’s underperformance can be explained by its underweight position in equities during the last quarter of 2017. Although the Balanced Benchmark is based on a weighting of 60% equities, the Fund averaged only 49.49% during this 3-month period. We increased the percentage of equities in the Fund over the course of the fiscal year, but we nonetheless continued to underperform. The Fund faced additional headwinds when the market experienced a dramatic sector theme change during the fourth fiscal quarter. The Fund’s large weightings in the Financials, Consumer Discretionary and Information Technology sectors were a drag on performance in the last months of the fiscal year, while lesser weighted sectors like Communication Services, Utilities and Consumer Staples were among the leaders.
The Fund’s fixed income holdings performed well relative to the benchmark as interest rates rose. We continued our focus on credit spread risk with a particular focus on shorter duration. Our fixed income volatility remains relatively low and this contributed favorably to the Fund’s risk adjusted returns. Our use of closed-end fund (CEF) arbitrage continued to be rewarded, as a number of these positions converted to open-end funds or liquidated. As a result, we were able to capture the original discount to net asset value at which the CEF had been acquired. This tactic has been a consistent contributor to alpha generation. Given our positioning, we generally expect underperformance when rates fall aggressively and relative outperformance when rates rise.
Q. How did the Fund’s composition affect performance?
A. At the end of the first month of fiscal year 2018, the Fund was composed of approximately only 47.3% equities, with positions in all 11 S&P Composite 1500 sectors, 57 of the 157 S&P industries and 93 individual stocks. In late 2017 and early 2018 we increased the equity allocation and the Fund became more concentrated. In fact, we increased the Fund’s allocation and concentration over the course of the fiscal year, from 54.9% equities, 9 sectors, 43 industries and 62 stocks at the end of the first quarter, to 59.1% equities, 7 sectors, 37 industries and 55 stocks at the end of the second quarter, to 65.3% equities, 7 sectors, 34 industries and 54 stocks at the end of the third quarter. The increase in equity exposure and sector concentration generally helped the Fund, although certain individual stock selections dragged on overall performance.
The stocks contributing most to Fund performance included Mastercard Inc., Adobe Inc., SVB Financial Group, Visa Inc., and Ligand Pharmaceuticals Inc. The stocks which detracted most from performance included Thor Industries Inc., Celgene Corp., PulteGroup Inc., Eagle Materials Inc., and Polaris Industries Inc.
Focusing on the fixed income portion of the Fund, we maintained a lower overall duration relative to the Fund’s fixed income benchmark, the Barclays Capital U.S. Universal Index. This duration helped performance over the course of the fiscal year as yields rose. Additionally, the Fund’s strong bottom-up bond selections and allocations towards both the preferred and closed-end fund segments of the market helped relative performance.
The hedge structure of the Fund, owning put options to reduce volatility, helped buffer the Fund from the sharp stock market drop the last week in January and the first week in February. Still, these puts may have ultimately detracted from the Fund’s relative performance as the stock market moved higher over the course of the fiscal year.
Q. What is your investment outlook?
A. At fiscal year-end, ICON’s value-to-price (V/P) ratio for the overall market was 1.02. Under our methodology, this 1.02 V/P suggests stocks are priced, on average, slightly below our estimate of fair value. This is not the kind of overpricing we often see at market peaks. Entering fiscal year 2019, common stock accounts for approximately 67% of the Fund. This composition reflects our expectation that the stock market can move modestly higher over the next year.
| 26 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
| Inception Date | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | Since Inception | Gross Expense Ratio* | Net Expense Ratio* | ||||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund - Class S | 5/6/04 | 4.64% | 5.34% | 4.93% | 4.44% | 1.50% | 1.34% | |||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund - Class C | 11/21/02 | 3.61% | 4.31% | 3.88% | 4.38% | 2.44% | 2.34% | |||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund - Class A | 5/31/06 | 4.40% | 5.11% | 4.68% | 3.91% | 1.78% | 1.59% | |||||||
| ICON
Risk-Managed Balanced Fund - Class A (including maximum sales charge of 5.75%) | 5/31/06 | -1.62% | 3.87% | 4.06% | 3.41% | 1.78% | 1.59% | |||||||
| S&P Composite 1500 Index | 17.69% | 13.77% | 12.04% | 9.34% | N/A | N/A |
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Adviser has agreed to limit certain Fund expenses; without these limitations, returns would have been lower. The limitation provisions may be terminated in the future.
| * | Please see the most recent prospectus for details. |
Class C total returns exclude applicable sales charges. If sales charges were included returns would be lower.
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the Risk-Managed Balanced Fund’s Class S shares on the Class’ inception date of 5/6/04 to a $10,000 investment made in an unmanaged securities index on that date. Performance for the Risk-Managed Balanced Fund’s other share classes will vary due to differences in charges and expenses. The Risk-Managed Balanced Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 27 |
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Corporate Bonds (17.61%) | ||||||||
| Communication Services (0.65%) | ||||||||
| Lee Enterprises, Inc. | ||||||||
| 9.50%, 03/15/22(a)(b) | $ | 200,000 | $ | 208,250 | ||||
| Consumer Discretionary (2.81%) | ||||||||
| Foot Locker, Inc. | ||||||||
| 8.50%, 01/15/22 | 200,000 | 225,500 | ||||||
| Reliance Intermediate Holdings LP | ||||||||
| 6.50%, 04/01/23(a) | 400,000 | 415,500 | ||||||
| William Lyon Homes, Inc. | ||||||||
| 7.00%, 08/15/22 | 250,000 | 254,687 | ||||||
| 895,687 | ||||||||
| Consumer Staples (1.79%) | ||||||||
| Central Garden & Pet Co. | ||||||||
| 6.13%, 11/15/23 | 260,000 | 268,125 | ||||||
| Darling Ingredients, Inc. | ||||||||
| 5.38%, 01/15/22 | 100,000 | 101,000 | ||||||
| Kraft Heinz Foods Co. | ||||||||
| 4.88%, 02/15/25(a) | 200,000 | 203,226 | ||||||
| 572,351 | ||||||||
| Energy (2.22%) | ||||||||
| Andeavor Logistics LP / Tesoro Logistics Finance Corp. | ||||||||
| 6.25%, 10/15/22 | 314,000 | 322,635 | ||||||
| Continental Resources, Inc. | ||||||||
| 5.00%, 09/15/22 | 180,000 | 182,610 | ||||||
| MPLX LP | ||||||||
| 5.50%, 02/15/23 | 200,000 | 204,027 | ||||||
| 709,272 | ||||||||
| Financial (5.03%) | ||||||||
| Catlin Insurance Co., Ltd. | ||||||||
| 3M US L + 2.975%(a)(c)(d) | 150,000 | 148,500 | ||||||
| Jefferies Finance LLC / JFIN Co.-Issuer Corp. | ||||||||
| 7.38%, 04/01/20(a) | 150,000 | 152,438 | ||||||
| Nationwide Mutual Insurance Co. | ||||||||
| 7.88%, 04/01/33(a) | 253,000 | 334,382 | ||||||
| RBC USA Holdco Corp. | ||||||||
| 5.25%, 09/15/20 | 378,000 | 391,123 | ||||||
| SAFG Retirement Services, Inc. | ||||||||
| 8.13%, 04/28/23 | 326,000 | 373,002 | ||||||
| Willis North America, Inc. | ||||||||
| 7.00%, 09/29/19 | 200,000 | 206,844 | ||||||
| 1,606,289 | ||||||||
| Health Care (0.64%) | ||||||||
| Hill-Rom Holdings, Inc. | ||||||||
| 5.75%, 09/01/23(a) | 100,000 | 102,500 | ||||||
| Molina Healthcare, Inc. | ||||||||
| 5.38%, 11/15/22 | 100,000 | 101,625 | ||||||
| 204,125 | ||||||||
| Industrials (1.16%) | ||||||||
| Covanta Holding Corp. | ||||||||
| 6.38%, 10/01/22 | 189,000 | 193,016 | ||||||
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Industrials (continued) | ||||||||
| USG Corp. | ||||||||
| 5.50%, 03/01/25(a) | $ | 175,000 | $ | 178,500 | ||||
| 371,516 | ||||||||
| Information Technology (1.27%) | ||||||||
| Amkor Technology, Inc. | ||||||||
| 6.38%, 10/01/22 | 100,000 | 101,887 | ||||||
| NXP BV / NXP Funding LLC | ||||||||
| 4.63%, 06/01/23(a) | 300,000 | 304,560 | ||||||
| 406,447 | ||||||||
| Materials (0.86%) | ||||||||
| Teck Resources, Ltd. | ||||||||
| 8.50%, 06/01/24(a) | 250,000 | 273,313 | ||||||
| Real Estate (0.45%) | ||||||||
| Select Income REIT | ||||||||
| 4.50%, 02/01/25 | 150,000 | 143,783 | ||||||
| Utilities (0.73%) | ||||||||
| DPL, Inc. | ||||||||
| 6.75%, 10/01/19 | 124,000 | 127,100 | ||||||
| Vistra Energy Corp. | ||||||||
| 7.63%, 11/01/24 | 98,000 | 105,472 | ||||||
| 232,572 | ||||||||
| Total
Corporate Bonds (Cost $5,741,993) | 5,623,605 | |||||||
| Asset-Backed Securities (0.75%) | ||||||||
| SMB Private Education Loan Trust 2014-A | ||||||||
| Series 2014-A, Class C | ||||||||
| 4.50%, 11/15/25(a)(e) | 250,000 | 239,829 | ||||||
| Total
Asset-Backed Securities (Cost $241,333) | 239,829 | |||||||
| U.S. Treasury Obligations (3.08%) | ||||||||
| U.S. Treasury Bond | ||||||||
| 2.88%, 08/15/28 | 1,000,000 | 984,844 | ||||||
| Total
U.S. Treasury Obligations (Cost $984,967) | 984,844 | |||||||
| Common Stocks (67.57%) | ||||||||
| Application Software (4.91%) | ||||||||
| Adobe Systems, Inc.(f) | 2,840 | 766,658 | ||||||
| CDK Global, Inc. | 7,569 | 473,517 | ||||||
| LogMeIn, Inc. | 3,690 | 328,779 | ||||||
| 1,568,954 | ||||||||
| Automotive Retail (1.00%) | ||||||||
| AutoZone, Inc.(f) | 412 | 319,588 | ||||||
| Biotechnology (4.23%) | ||||||||
| AbbVie, Inc. | 4,561 | 431,379 | ||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 28 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Biotechnology (continued) | ||||||||
| Celgene Corp.(f) | 5,018 | $ | 449,061 | |||||
| Ligand Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(f) | 1,713 | 470,201 | ||||||
| 1,350,641 | ||||||||
| Building Products (1.47%) | ||||||||
| Masco Corp. | 12,846 | 470,164 | ||||||
| Construction Materials (1.15%) | ||||||||
| Eagle Materials, Inc. | 4,318 | 368,066 | ||||||
| Data Processing & Outsourced Services (4.75%) | ||||||||
| Mastercard, Inc., Class A | 3,729 | 830,113 | ||||||
| Visa, Inc., Class A | 4,567 | 685,461 | ||||||
| 1,515,574 | ||||||||
| Diversified Banks (4.39%) | ||||||||
| Bank of America Corp. | 23,362 | 688,244 | ||||||
| JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 6,353 | 716,873 | ||||||
| 1,405,117 | ||||||||
| Health Care Equipment (1.16%) | ||||||||
| Teleflex, Inc. | 1,388 | 369,333 | ||||||
| Health Care Facilities (1.09%) | ||||||||
| HCA Healthcare, Inc. | 2,500 | 347,800 | ||||||
| Home Improvement Retail (2.07%) | ||||||||
| Lowe’s Cos., Inc. | 5,754 | 660,674 | ||||||
| Homebuilding (2.68%) | ||||||||
| DR Horton, Inc. | 10,994 | 463,727 | ||||||
| PulteGroup, Inc. | 15,803 | 391,440 | ||||||
| 855,167 | ||||||||
| Hotels, Resorts & Cruise Lines (1.81%) | ||||||||
| Royal Caribbean Cruises, Ltd. | 4,438 | 576,674 | ||||||
| Interactive Home Entertainment (0.79%) | ||||||||
| Electronic Arts, Inc.(f) | 2,098 | 252,788 | ||||||
| Interactive Media & Services (2.15%) | ||||||||
| Alphabet, Inc., Class C(f) | 254 | 303,141 | ||||||
| Facebook, Inc., Class A(f) | 2,323 | 382,041 | ||||||
| 685,182 | ||||||||
| IT Consulting & Other Services (1.45%) | ||||||||
| Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., Class A | 5,983 | 461,588 | ||||||
| Leisure Products (3.17%) | ||||||||
| Brunswick Corp. | 7,657 | 513,172 | ||||||
| Polaris Industries, Inc.(b) | 4,946 | 499,299 | ||||||
| 1,012,471 | ||||||||
| Life & Health Insurance (0.85%) | ||||||||
| Lincoln National Corp. | 4,000 | 270,640 | ||||||
| Life Sciences Tools & Services (5.16%) | ||||||||
| PerkinElmer, Inc. | 5,812 | 565,333 | ||||||
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Life Sciences Tools & Services (continued) | ||||||||
| PRA Health Sciences, Inc.(f) | 4,600 | $ | 506,874 | |||||
| Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. | 2,354 | 574,564 | ||||||
| 1,646,771 | ||||||||
| Managed Health Care (1.47%) | ||||||||
| Cigna Corp. | 2,253 | 469,187 | ||||||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production (4.42%) | ||||||||
| Cimarex Energy Co. | 3,100 | 288,114 | ||||||
| Diamondback Energy, Inc.(b) | 3,023 | 408,679 | ||||||
| Parsley Energy, Inc., Class A(f) | 11,739 | 343,366 | ||||||
| SRC Energy, Inc.(f) | 42,030 | 373,647 | ||||||
| 1,413,806 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing (1.29%) | ||||||||
| Marathon Petroleum Corp. | 5,146 | 411,526 | ||||||
| Paper Packaging (1.13%) | ||||||||
| Graphic Packaging Holding Co. | 25,667 | 359,595 | ||||||
| Pharmaceuticals (1.48%) | ||||||||
| Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC(f) | 2,810 | 472,445 | ||||||
| Railroads (2.93%) | ||||||||
| Canadian Pacific Railway, Ltd. | 2,000 | 423,880 | ||||||
| Union Pacific Corp. | 3,129 | 509,495 | ||||||
| 933,375 | ||||||||
| Regional Banks (5.21%) | ||||||||
| KeyCorp | 21,031 | 418,307 | ||||||
| Signature Bank | 4,102 | 471,074 | ||||||
| SVB Financial Group(f) | 2,500 | 777,075 | ||||||
| 1,666,456 | ||||||||
| Semiconductors (2.91%) | ||||||||
| Monolithic Power Systems, Inc. | 3,419 | 429,187 | ||||||
| Skyworks Solutions, Inc. | 5,515 | 500,266 | ||||||
| 929,453 | ||||||||
| Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals (1.09%) | ||||||||
| Logitech International SA | 7,800 | 348,816 | ||||||
| Trading Companies & Distributors (1.36%) | ||||||||
| Air Lease Corp. | 9,485 | 435,172 | ||||||
| Total Common Stocks (Cost $18,673,022) | 21,577,023 | |||||||
| Preferred Stocks (2.26%) | ||||||||
| Financial Services (0.46%) | ||||||||
| Cabco Series 2004-101 Trust Goldman Sachs Capital I, Series GS | ||||||||
| 3M US L + 0.85%, 02/15/34(c) | 6,581 | 145,638 | ||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 29 |
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Industrial REITs (0.87%) | ||||||||
| Gramercy Property Trust, Series A 7.13%(d)(e) | ||||||||
| 11,175 | $ | 279,151 | ||||||
| Property & Casualty Insurance (0.93%) | ||||||||
| Argo Group US, Inc. | ||||||||
| 6.50%, 09/15/42 | 11,816 | 297,172 | ||||||
| Total Preferred Stocks (Cost $737,263) | 721,961 | |||||||
| Convertible Preferred Stocks (0.43%) | ||||||||
| Office REITs (0.43%) | ||||||||
| Equity Commonwealth, Series D 6.50%(d) | 5,277 | 138,257 | ||||||
| Total Convertible Preferred Stocks (Cost $133,003) | 138,257 | |||||||
| Closed-End Mutual Funds (6.44%) | ||||||||
| Asia Pacific Fund, Inc. | 2,922 | 39,447 | ||||||
| BlackRock Enhanced Government Fund, Inc. | 19,554 | 255,766 | ||||||
| BlackRock Income Trust, Inc. | 44,792 | 256,210 | ||||||
| Deutsche Multi-Market Income Trust | 57,955 | 520,436 | ||||||
| Deutsche Strategic Income Trust | 6,387 | 80,476 | ||||||
| Duff & Phelps Utility and Corporate Bond Trust, Inc. | 5,858 | 49,149 | ||||||
| Eaton Vance High Income 2021 Target Term Trust | 4,967 | 48,180 | ||||||
| High Income Securities Fund | 33,863 | 321,021 | ||||||
| Nuveen Build America Bond Fund | 12,575 | 251,500 | ||||||
| Nuveen Build America Bond Opportunity Fund | 10,711 | 233,179 | ||||||
| Total Closed-End Mutual Funds (Cost $2,024,016) | 2,055,364 | |||||||
| Underlying Security/Expiration Date/Exercise Price/ Notional Amount | Contracts | Value | ||||||
| Purchased Put Options (0.01%) | ||||||||
| S&P 500 Index | ||||||||
| 11/16/18, 2,670, $1,165,592 | 4 | 3,312 | ||||||
| Total Purchased Put Options (Cost $11,971) | 3,312 | |||||||
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Collateral for Securities on Loan (0.66%) | ||||||||
| State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio, 7-Day Yield 2.19% | 212,000 | $ | 212,000 | |||||
| Total Collateral for Securities on Loan (Cost $212,000) | 212,000 | |||||||
| Total Investments (98.81%) (Cost $28,759,568) | $ | 31,556,195 | ||||||
| Other Assets Less Liabilities (1.19%) | 377,725 | |||||||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 31,933,920 | ||||||
Investment Abbreviations:
LIBOR - London Interbank Offered Rate
REIT - Real Estate Investment Trust
LIBOR Rates:
3M US L - 3 Month LIBOR as of September 30, 2018 was 2.40%
| (a) | Security was purchased pursuant to Rule 144A or Section 4(a)(2) under the Securities Act of 1933 and may be resold in transactions exempt from registration only to qualified institutional buyers. As of September 30, 2018, these securities had a total aggregate market value of $2,560,997. |
| (b) | All or a portion of the security was on loan as of September 30, 2018. |
| (c) | Floating or variable rate security. The reference rate is described above. The rate in effect as of September 30, 2018 is based on the reference rate plus the displayed spread as of the security’s last reset date. |
| (d) | This security has no contractual maturity date, is not redeemable and contractually pays an indefinite stream of interest. |
| (e) | These securities are considered, by management, to be illiquid. The aggregate value of these securities at September 30, 2018 was $518,980, which represent 1.63% of the Fund’s net assets. |
| (f) | Non-income producing security. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 30 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Sector Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||
| Financials | 16.87% | |
| Information Technology | 16.38% | |
| Health Care | 15.23% | |
| Consumer Discretionary | 13.54% | |
| Energy | 7.93% | |
| Industrials | 6.92% | |
| Communication Services | 3.59% | |
| Materials | 3.14% | |
| Government | 3.08% | |
| Consumer Staples | 1.79% | |
| Real Estate | 1.75% | |
| Utilities | 0.73% | |
| 90.95% |
Percentages are based upon corporate bonds, U.S. Treasury obligations, common stocks, preferred stocks and convertible preferred stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| Industry Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||
| Regional Banks | 6.43% | |
| Life Sciences Tools & Services | 5.16% | |
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production | 4.99% | |
| Application Software | 4.91% | |
| Data Processing & Outsourced Services | 4.75% | |
| Diversified Banks | 4.39% | |
| Biotechnology | 4.23% | |
| Semiconductors | 3.86% | |
| Leisure Products | 3.17% | |
| Property & Casualty Insurance | 3.09% | |
| Sovereigns | 3.08% | |
| Railroads | 2.93% | |
| Homebuilding | 2.68% | |
| Interactive Media & Services | 2.15% | |
| Home Improvement Retail | 2.07% | |
| Building Products | 2.03% | |
| Hotels, Resorts & Cruise Lines | 1.81% | |
| Managed Health Care | 1.79% | |
| Financial Services | 1.63% | |
| Pharmaceuticals | 1.48% | |
| Health Care Equipment | 1.48% | |
| IT Consulting & Other Services | 1.45% | |
| Trading Companies & Distributors | 1.36% | |
| Retail - Consumer Discretionary | 1.30% | |
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing | 1.29% | |
| Construction Materials | 1.15% | |
| Paper Packaging | 1.13% | |
| Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals | 1.09% | |
| Health Care Facilities | 1.09% | |
| Pipeline | 1.01% | |
| Automotive Retail | 1.00% | |
| Other Industries (each less than 1%) | 10.97% | |
| 90.95% |
Percentages are based upon corporate bonds, U.S. Treasury obligations, common stocks, preferred stocks and convertible preferred stocks as a percentage of net assets.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 31 |
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Credit Diversification (September 30, 2018) | ||
| Aaa | 3.08% | |
| Ba1 | 2.92% | |
| Baa3 | 2.60% | |
| Ba2 | 2.58% | |
| A3 | 2.27% | |
| B1 | 2.24% | |
| B2 | 1.45% | |
| Baa1 | 1.17% | |
| Ba3 | 0.97% | |
| NR* | 0.75% | |
| Baa2 | 0.63% | |
| BBB+ | 0.47% | |
| B3 | 0.31% | |
| Total: | 21.44% |
Percentages are based upon corporate bond, U.S. Treasury obligations and asset-backed securities investments as a percentage of net assets. Ratings based on Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. where available, otherwise on Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC.
| * | NR - Not Rated |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 32 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Statements of Assets and Liabilities |
September 30, 2018
| ICON Equity Income Fund | ICON Flexible Bond Fund | ICON Fund | ||||||||||
| Assets | ||||||||||||
| Investments, at cost | $ | 75,031,200 | $ | 106,523,167 | $ | 36,233,307 | ||||||
| Investments, at value(a) | 79,411,068 | 105,415,340 | 49,415,972 | |||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | 1,074,034 | 202,256 | — | |||||||||
| Foreign currency, at value (Cost $10,597, $– and $–, respectively) | 10,597 | — | — | |||||||||
| Receivables: | ||||||||||||
| Investments sold | 1,110,128 | 87,471 | 1,615,657 | |||||||||
| Fund shares sold | 56,912 | 122,173 | 3,723 | |||||||||
| Expense reimbursements due from Adviser | 45,668 | 64,281 | 2,601 | |||||||||
| Interest | 87,295 | 1,080,476 | 15 | |||||||||
| Dividends | 318,663 | 123,692 | 17,664 | |||||||||
| Foreign tax reclaims | 10,764 | — | — | |||||||||
| Other assets | 29,793 | 31,664 | 22,979 | |||||||||
| Total assets | 82,154,922 | 107,127,353 | 51,078,611 | |||||||||
| Liabilities | ||||||||||||
| Payables: | ||||||||||||
| Payable for collateral received on securities loaned | 1,373,225 | 2,503,136 | — | |||||||||
| Payable due to custodian | — | — | 28,363 | |||||||||
| Loan payable, at value (Cost $–, $– and $34,594) | — | — | 34,594 | |||||||||
| Investments purchased | 1,230,714 | 84,854 | 1,491,834 | |||||||||
| Fund shares redeemed | 53,894 | 136,840 | 889 | |||||||||
| Distributions due to shareholders | 34,664 | 24,848 | — | |||||||||
| Advisory fees | 49,715 | 51,031 | 31,060 | |||||||||
| Transfer agent fees | 23,255 | 16,339 | 11,698 | |||||||||
| Fund accounting fees | 4,876 | 6,547 | 2,562 | |||||||||
| Accrued distribution fees | 17,047 | 3,042 | 10,740 | |||||||||
| Trustee fees and expenses | 2,110 | 2,617 | 1,344 | |||||||||
| Administration fees | 3,315 | 4,252 | 2,072 | |||||||||
| Accrued expenses | 31,942 | 33,497 | 24,999 | |||||||||
| Total liabilities | 2,824,757 | 2,867,003 | 1,640,155 | |||||||||
| Net Assets - all share classes | $ | 79,330,165 | $ | 104,260,350 | $ | 49,438,456 | ||||||
| Net Assets - Class S | $ | 51,184,821 | $ | 97,302,950 | $ | 32,582,872 | ||||||
| Net Assets - Class C | $ | 17,459,944 | $ | 3,272,231 | $ | 11,451,628 | ||||||
| Net Assets - Class A | $ | 10,685,400 | $ | 3,685,169 | $ | 5,403,956 | ||||||
| Net Assets Consists of | ||||||||||||
| Paid-in capital | $ | 74,719,944 | $ | 108,259,871 | $ | 36,421,127 | ||||||
| Total distributable earnings | 4,610,221 | (3,999,521 | ) | 13,017,329 | ||||||||
| Net Assets | $ | 79,330,165 | $ | 104,260,350 | $ | 49,438,456 | ||||||
| Shares outstanding (unlimited shares authorized, no par value) | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 2,849,190 | 10,507,629 | 1,637,726 | |||||||||
| Class C | 963,136 | 352,176 | 665,406 | |||||||||
| Class A | 596,196 | 399,913 | 289,438 | |||||||||
| Net asset value (offering and redemption price per share) | ||||||||||||
| Class S | $ | 17.96 | $ | 9.26 | $ | 19.90 | ||||||
| Class C | $ | 18.13 | $ | 9.29 | $ | 17.21 | ||||||
| Class A | $ | 17.92 | $ | 9.21 | $ | 18.67 | ||||||
| Class A maximum offering price (100%/ (100%-maximum sales charge)) of net asset value adjusted to the nearest cent per share | $ | 19.02 | $ | 9.67 | $ | 19.81 | ||||||
| (a) Includes securities on loan of | $ | 5,254,419 | $ | 2,454,147 | $ | 1,825,573 | ||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 33 |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Statements of Assets and Liabilities |
September 30, 2018
| ICON Long/Short Fund | ICON Opportunities Fund | ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | ||||||||||
| Assets | ||||||||||||
| Investments, at cost | $ | 23,154,065 | $ | 18,910,187 | $ | 28,759,568 | ||||||
| Investments, at value(a) | 28,789,760 | 21,658,157 | 31,556,195 | |||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | 122,727 | 45,118 | 592,512 | |||||||||
| Receivables: | ||||||||||||
| Investments sold | 921,266 | 737,859 | 27,759 | |||||||||
| Fund shares sold | 79,122 | 1,047 | 21,485 | |||||||||
| Expense reimbursements due from Adviser | 20,154 | 11,238 | 6,738 | |||||||||
| Interest | 1,079 | 45 | 105,871 | |||||||||
| Dividends | 17,871 | 5,790 | 16,177 | |||||||||
| Foreign tax reclaims | — | — | 1,062 | |||||||||
| Other assets | 24,925 | 10,881 | 25,226 | |||||||||
| Total assets | 29,976,904 | 22,470,135 | 32,353,025 | |||||||||
| Liabilities | ||||||||||||
| Payables: | ||||||||||||
| Payable for collateral received on securities loaned | — | 603,900 | 212,000 | |||||||||
| Investments purchased | 919,080 | 734,777 | 100,443 | |||||||||
| Fund shares redeemed | 27,308 | 430 | 28,698 | |||||||||
| Distributions due to shareholders | — | — | 1,285 | |||||||||
| Advisory fees | 20,444 | 13,462 | 19,722 | |||||||||
| Transfer agent fees | 9,702 | 7,500 | 8,929 | |||||||||
| Fund accounting fees | 1,941 | 1,964 | 4,442 | |||||||||
| Accrued distribution fees | 5,571 | — | 14,630 | |||||||||
| Trustee fees and expenses | 736 | 581 | 818 | |||||||||
| Administration fees | 1,203 | 897 | 1,315 | |||||||||
| Accrued expenses | 23,746 | 22,215 | 26,823 | |||||||||
| Total liabilities | 1,009,731 | 1,385,726 | 419,105 | |||||||||
| Net Assets - all share classes | $ | 28,967,173 | $ | 21,084,409 | $ | 31,933,920 | ||||||
| Net Assets - Class S | $ | 18,579,865 | $ | — | $ | 10,676,383 | ||||||
| Net Assets - Class C | $ | 5,036,113 | $ | — | $ | 16,408,561 | ||||||
| Net Assets - Class A | $ | 5,351,195 | $ | — | $ | 4,848,976 | ||||||
| Net Assets Consists of | ||||||||||||
| Paid-in capital | $ | 23,485,451 | $ | 14,978,528 | $ | 29,120,638 | ||||||
| Total distributable earnings | 5,481,722 | 6,105,881 | 2,813,282 | |||||||||
| Net Assets | $ | 28,967,173 | $ | 21,084,409 | $ | 31,933,920 | ||||||
| Shares outstanding (unlimited shares authorized, no par value) | 1,080,891 | |||||||||||
| Class S | 685,468 | — | 654,035 | |||||||||
| Class C | 213,144 | — | 1,099,735 | |||||||||
| Class A | 204,518 | — | 304,451 | |||||||||
| Net asset value (offering and redemption price per share) | $ | 19.51 | ||||||||||
| Class S | $ | 27.11 | $ | — | $ | 16.32 | ||||||
| Class C | $ | 23.63 | $ | — | $ | 14.92 | ||||||
| Class A | $ | 26.16 | $ | — | $ | 15.93 | ||||||
| Class A maximum offering price (100%/ (100%-maximum sales charge)) of net asset value adjusted to the nearest cent per share | $ | 27.76 | $ | — | $ | 16.90 | ||||||
| (a) Includes securities on loan of | $ | 1,031,568 | $ | 2,195,718 | $ | 1,116,164 | ||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 34 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Statements of Operations |
Year Ended September 30, 2018
| ICON Equity Income Fund | ICON Flexible Bond Fund | ICON Fund | ||||||||||
| Investment Income | ||||||||||||
| Interest | $ | 226,612 | $ | 3,167,113 | $ | 117 | ||||||
| Dividends | 3,091,856 | 1,066,700 | 522,944 | |||||||||
| Foreign taxes withheld | (89,887 | ) | — | (4,516 | ) | |||||||
| Income from securities lending, net | 35,740 | 17,256 | 180 | |||||||||
| Other income | 1,684 | 6,914 | — | |||||||||
| Total investment income | 3,266,005 | 4,257,983 | 518,725 | |||||||||
| Expenses | ||||||||||||
| Advisory fees | 622,381 | 558,166 | 391,034 | |||||||||
| Administration fees | 41,496 | 46,501 | 26,062 | |||||||||
| Transfer agent fees | 119,740 | 81,123 | 65,271 | |||||||||
| Distribution fees: | ||||||||||||
| Class C | 166,583 | 28,939 | 126,309 | |||||||||
| Class A | 34,329 | 8,997 | 13,516 | |||||||||
| Registration fees | 43,264 | 40,420 | 39,650 | |||||||||
| Audit and tax service expense | 18,000 | 18,000 | 16,000 | |||||||||
| Fund accounting fees | 38,335 | 43,652 | 22,792 | |||||||||
| Trustee fees and expenses | 19,349 | 21,719 | 12,176 | |||||||||
| Insurance expense | 8,570 | 8,669 | 4,964 | |||||||||
| Custody fees | 7,546 | 12,651 | 3,680 | |||||||||
| Printing fees | 16,723 | 15,787 | 9,577 | |||||||||
| Interest expense | 2,128 | — | 1,127 | |||||||||
| Recoupment of previously reimbursed expenses | — | — | 2,052 | |||||||||
| Other expenses | 32,831 | 35,812 | 21,127 | |||||||||
| Total expenses before expense reimbursement | 1,171,275 | 920,436 | 755,337 | |||||||||
| Expense reimbursement by Adviser due to expense limitation agreement | (146,948 | ) | (184,480 | ) | (9,658 | ) | ||||||
| Net Expenses | 1,024,327 | 735,956 | 745,679 | |||||||||
| Net Investment Income/(Loss) | 2,241,678 | 3,522,027 | (226,954 | ) | ||||||||
| Realized and Unrealized Gain/(Loss) | ||||||||||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) on: | ||||||||||||
| Investments and foreign currency translations | 3,050,654 | (877,234 | ) | 3,356,674 | ||||||||
| 3,050,654 | (877,234 | ) | 3,356,674 | |||||||||
| Change in unrealized net appreciation/(depreciation) on: | ||||||||||||
| Investments and foreign currency | (979,199 | ) | (931,423 | ) | 32,995 | |||||||
| (979,199 | ) | (931,423 | ) | 32,995 | ||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) | 2,071,455 | (1,808,657 | ) | 3,389,669 | ||||||||
| Net Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting From Operations | $ | 4,313,133 | $ | 1,713,370 | $ | 3,162,715 | ||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 35 |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Statements of Operations |
Year Ended September 30, 2018
| ICON Long/Short Fund | ICON Opportunities Fund | ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | ||||||||||
| Investment Income | ||||||||||||
| Interest | $ | 1,366 | $ | 639 | $ | 378,852 | ||||||
| Dividends | 281,863 | 115,093 | 366,466 | |||||||||
| Foreign taxes withheld | (1,936 | ) | — | (2,540 | ) | |||||||
| Income from securities lending, net | 61 | 6,902 | 3,501 | |||||||||
| Other income | — | — | 1,443 | |||||||||
| Total investment income | 281,354 | 122,634 | 747,722 | |||||||||
| Expenses | ||||||||||||
| Advisory fees | 229,620 | 166,464 | 255,354 | |||||||||
| Administration fees | 13,501 | 11,097 | 17,030 | |||||||||
| Transfer agent fees | 55,289 | 41,480 | 57,981 | |||||||||
| Distribution fees: | ||||||||||||
| Class C | 50,833 | — | 163,545 | |||||||||
| Class A | 17,977 | — | 16,110 | |||||||||
| Registration fees | 38,033 | 17,845 | 39,284 | |||||||||
| Audit and tax service expense | 17,500 | 16,000 | 19,500 | |||||||||
| Fund accounting fees | 13,040 | 11,924 | 21,357 | |||||||||
| Trustee fees and expenses | 6,278 | 5,199 | 7,900 | |||||||||
| Insurance expense | 2,306 | 1,778 | 3,720 | |||||||||
| Custody fees | 3,162 | 3,405 | 6,117 | |||||||||
| Printing fees | 7,244 | 5,918 | 8,206 | |||||||||
| Interest expense | 543 | 761 | 47 | |||||||||
| Recoupment of previously reimbursed expenses | — | 8,899 | 563 | |||||||||
| Other expenses | 12,419 | 9,844 | 16,510 | |||||||||
| Total expenses before expense reimbursement | 467,745 | 300,614 | 633,224 | |||||||||
| Expense reimbursement by Adviser due to expense limitation agreement | (54,396 | ) | (11,238 | ) | (45,213 | ) | ||||||
| Net Expenses | 413,349 | 289,376 | 588,011 | |||||||||
| Net Investment Income/(Loss) | (131,995 | ) | (166,742 | ) | 159,711 | |||||||
| Realized and Unrealized Gain/(Loss) | ||||||||||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) on: | ||||||||||||
| Investments and foreign currency translations | 1,840,083 | 3,637,781 | 783,256 | |||||||||
| 1,840,083 | 3,637,781 | 783,256 | ||||||||||
| Change in unrealized net appreciation/(depreciation) on: | ||||||||||||
| Investments and foreign currency | 61,132 | (2,599,824 | ) | 440,875 | ||||||||
| 61,132 | (2,599,824 | ) | 440,875 | |||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) | 1,901,215 | 1,037,957 | 1,224,131 | |||||||||
| Net Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting From Operations | $ | 1,769,220 | $ | 871,215 | $ | 1,383,842 | ||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 36 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Statements of Changes in Net Assets |
| ICON Equity Income Fund | ICON Flexible Bond Fund | |||||||||||||||
| Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2018 (a) | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | |||||||||||||
| Operations | ||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss) | $ | 2,241,678 | $ | 2,681,634 | $ | 3,522,028 | $ | 3,209,047 | ||||||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) | 3,050,654 | 4,311,704 | (877,235 | ) | (397,218 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) on long-term capital gain distributions from other investment companies | — | 880,899 | — | 701,891 | ||||||||||||
| Change in net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) | (979,199 | ) | 3,717,072 | (931,423 | ) | (1,372,818 | ) | |||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 4,313,133 | 11,591,309 | 1,713,370 | 2,140,902 | ||||||||||||
| Total Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders(b) | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (1,607,191 | ) | (1,775,156 | ) | (3,164,850 | ) | (2,969,591 | ) | ||||||||
| Class C | (342,652 | ) | (329,600 | ) | (100,341 | ) | (127,097 | ) | ||||||||
| Class A | (365,825 | ) | (437,435 | ) | (125,245 | ) | (194,557 | ) | ||||||||
| Net decrease from dividends and distributions | (2,315,668 | ) | (2,542,191 | ) | (3,390,436 | ) | (3,291,245 | ) | ||||||||
| Fund Share Transactions | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 14,018,260 | 29,442,641 | 36,821,738 | 30,021,531 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | 3,350,835 | 6,193,719 | 585,449 | 852,689 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 2,012,996 | 3,883,597 | 993,823 | 1,653,201 | ||||||||||||
| Reinvested dividends and distributions | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 1,536,440 | 1,707,580 | 2,912,727 | 2,665,363 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | 310,512 | 284,548 | 85,079 | 106,129 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 310,987 | 372,453 | 115,309 | 125,313 | ||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (22,765,862 | ) | (17,771,448 | ) | (21,361,079 | ) | (27,853,530 | ) | ||||||||
| Class C | (2,388,940 | ) | (2,642,506 | ) | (1,067,548 | ) | (1,757,578 | ) | ||||||||
| Class A | (6,198,082 | ) | (8,549,319 | ) | (1,212,911 | ) | (3,943,785 | ) | ||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) from fund share transactions | (9,812,854 | ) | 12,921,265 | 17,872,587 | 1,869,333 | |||||||||||
| Total net increase/(decrease) in net assets | (7,815,389 | ) | 21,970,383 | 16,195,521 | 718,990 | |||||||||||
| Net Assets | ||||||||||||||||
| Beginning of year | 87,145,554 | 65,175,171 | 88,064,829 | 87,345,839 | ||||||||||||
| End of year | $ | 79,330,165 | $ | 87,145,554 | $ | 104,260,350 | $ | 88,064,829 | ||||||||
| Transactions in Fund Shares | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 771,961 | 1,767,858 | 3,961,759 | 3,177,562 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | 183,047 | 366,818 | 62,589 | 90,115 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 111,347 | 232,232 | 107,547 | 176,894 | ||||||||||||
| Issued to shareholders in reinvestment of distributions | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 85,666 | 100,137 | 313,069 | 282,927 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | 17,162 | 16,505 | 9,103 | 11,215 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 17,383 | 21,926 | 12,448 | 13,352 | ||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (1,249,425 | ) | (1,052,089 | ) | (2,296,036 | ) | (2,956,814 | ) | ||||||||
| Class C | (130,988 | ) | (157,844 | ) | (114,075 | ) | (185,691 | ) | ||||||||
| Class A | (341,407 | ) | (522,274 | ) | (130,931 | ) | (420,853 | ) | ||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) | (535,254 | ) | 773,269 | 1,925,473 | 188,707 | |||||||||||
| Shares outstanding, beginning of year | 4,943,776 | 4,170,507 | 9,334,245 | 9,145,538 | ||||||||||||
| Shares outstanding, end of year | 4,408,522 | 4,943,776 | 11,259,718 | 9,334,245 | ||||||||||||
| (a) | Prior to January 23, 2018, the ICON Flexible Bond Fund was known as the ICON Bond Fund. |
| (b) | The Securities and Exchange Commission adopted amendments to certain financial statement disclosure requirements which eliminated the disclosure of the characteristic of dividends and distributions to shareholders. The prior year ended September 30, 2017 dividends and distributions for the ICON Equity Income Fund consisted of Net Investment Income of $2,542,191, and Net Realized Gains of $–. The prior year ended September 30, 2017 dividends and distributions for the ICON Flexible Bond Fund consisted of Net Investment Income of $3,291,245, and Net Realized Gains of $–. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 37 |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Statements of Changes in Net Assets |
| ICON Fund | ICON Long/Short Fund | |||||||||||||||
| Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | |||||||||||||
| Operations | ||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss) | $ | (226,954 | ) | $ | (181,146 | ) | $ | (131,995 | ) | $ | (102,810 | ) | ||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) | 3,356,674 | 1,912,935 | 1,840,083 | 558,053 | ||||||||||||
| Change in net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) | 32,995 | 11,527,848 | 61,132 | 5,059,321 | ||||||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 3,162,715 | 13,259,637 | 1,769,220 | 5,514,564 | ||||||||||||
| Fund Share Transactions | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 3,873,962 | 8,371,228 | 10,816,178 | 4,418,722 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | 547,780 | 737,337 | 761,410 | 231,078 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 1,140,529 | 726,755 | 2,733,365 | 2,993,488 | ||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (6,326,048 | ) | (12,871,498 | ) | (4,397,179 | ) | (2,770,776 | ) | ||||||||
| Class C | (2,476,705 | ) | (2,880,211 | ) | (711,148 | ) | (1,023,107 | ) | ||||||||
| Class A | (1,186,452 | ) | (2,547,491 | ) | (4,937,947 | ) | (3,071,503 | ) | ||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) from fund share transactions | (4,426,934 | ) | (8,463,880 | ) | 4,264,679 | 777,902 | ||||||||||
| Total net increase/(decrease) in net assets | (1,264,219 | ) | 4,795,757 | 6,033,899 | 6,292,466 | |||||||||||
| Net Assets | ||||||||||||||||
| Beginning of year | 50,702,675 | 45,906,918 | 22,933,274 | 16,640,808 | ||||||||||||
| End of year | $ | 49,438,456 | $ | 50,702,675 | $ | 28,967,173 | $ | 22,933,274 | ||||||||
| Transactions in Fund Shares | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 192,622 | 507,732 | 399,467 | 192,376 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | 31,789 | 48,906 | 32,406 | 11,293 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 59,973 | 45,694 | 103,610 | 138,114 | ||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (315,297 | ) | (800,369 | ) | (162,050 | ) | (124,649 | ) | ||||||||
| Class C | (141,244 | ) | (198,758 | ) | (30,287 | ) | (53,192 | ) | ||||||||
| Class A | (63,542 | ) | (165,063 | ) | (186,954 | ) | (142,928 | ) | ||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) | (235,699 | ) | (561,858 | ) | 156,192 | 21,014 | ||||||||||
| Shares outstanding, beginning of year | 2,828,269 | 3,390,127 | 946,938 | 925,924 | ||||||||||||
| Shares outstanding, end of year | 2,592,570 | 2,828,269 | 1,103,130 | 946,938 | ||||||||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 38 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Statements of Changes in Net Assets |
| ICON Opportunities Fund | ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | |||||||||||||||
| Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | |||||||||||||
| Operations | ||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss) | $ | (166,742 | ) | $ | (133,644 | ) | $ | 159,711 | $ | 376,709 | ||||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) | 3,637,781 | 255,312 | 783,256 | 1,047,257 | ||||||||||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) on long-term capital gain distributions from other investment companies | — | — | — | 192,193 | ||||||||||||
| Change in net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) | (2,599,824 | ) | 4,385,735 | 440,875 | 1,967,456 | |||||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 871,215 | 4,507,403 | 1,383,842 | 3,583,615 | ||||||||||||
| Total Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders(a) | ||||||||||||||||
| Dividends and distributions | (307,810 | ) | (221,532 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Class S | — | — | (101,832 | ) | (228,027 | ) | ||||||||||
| Class C | — | — | (23,510 | ) | (107,326 | ) | ||||||||||
| Class A | — | — | (41,068 | ) | (98,195 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net decrease from dividends and distributions | (307,810 | ) | (221,532 | ) | (166,410 | ) | (433,548 | ) | ||||||||
| Fund Share Transactions | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | 8,215,056 | 2,342,771 | ||||||||||||||
| Class S | — | — | 3,005,177 | 5,789,710 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | — | — | 3,137,593 | 4,874,335 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | — | — | 1,309,983 | 742,396 | ||||||||||||
| Reinvested dividends and distributions | 305,435 | 221,332 | ||||||||||||||
| Class S | — | — | 94,076 | 209,620 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | — | — | 21,452 | 94,575 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | — | — | 38,578 | 90,299 | ||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | (7,368,889 | ) | (3,539,469 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Class S | — | — | (8,100,020 | ) | (12,045,261 | ) | ||||||||||
| Class C | — | — | (3,902,945 | ) | (4,806,459 | ) | ||||||||||
| Class A | — | — | (3,826,965 | ) | (3,493,476 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) from fund share transactions | 1,151,602 | (975,366 | ) | (8,223,071 | ) | (8,544,261 | ) | |||||||||
| Total net increase/(decrease) in net assets | 1,715,007 | 3,310,505 | (7,005,639 | ) | (5,394,194 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net Assets | ||||||||||||||||
| Beginning of year | 19,369,402 | 16,058,897 | 38,939,559 | 44,333,753 | ||||||||||||
| End of year | $ | 21,084,409 | $ | 19,369,402 | $ | 31,933,920 | $ | 38,939,559 | ||||||||
| Transactions in Fund Shares | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | 417,657 | 139,548 | ||||||||||||||
| Class S | — | — | 185,151 | 386,228 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | — | — | 214,005 | 350,409 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | — | — | 83,430 | 50,434 | ||||||||||||
| Issued to shareholders in reinvestment of distributions | 15,481 | 13,488 | ||||||||||||||
| Class S | — | — | 5,890 | 13,840 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | — | — | 1,468 | 6,868 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | — | — | 2,482 | 6,124 | ||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | (377,941 | ) | (216,490 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Class S | — | — | (507,106 | ) | (819,237 | ) | ||||||||||
| Class C | — | — | (265,702 | ) | (349,264 | ) | ||||||||||
| Class A | — | — | (242,735 | ) | (239,935 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) | 55,197 | (63,454 | ) | (523,117 | ) | (594,533 | ) | |||||||||
| Shares outstanding, beginning of year | 1,025,694 | 1,089,148 | 2,581,338 | 3,175,871 | ||||||||||||
| Shares outstanding, end of year | 1,080,891 | 1,025,694 | 2,058,221 | 2,581,338 | ||||||||||||
| (a) | The Securities and Exchange Commission adopted amendments to certain financial statement disclosure requirements which eliminated the disclosure of the characteristic of dividends and distributions to shareholders. The prior year ended September 30, 2017 dividends and distributions for the ICON Opportunities Fund consisted of Net Investment Income of $–, and Net Realized Gains of $221,532. The prior year ended September 30, 2017 dividends and distributions for the ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund consisted of Net Investment Income of $433,548, and Net Realized Gains of $–. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 39 |
| ICON Equity Income Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented
| Class S | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 17.61 | $ | 15.62 | $ | 14.36 | $ | 14.87 | $ | 13.80 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | 0.53 | 0.61 | 0.60 | 0.56 | 0.52 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.38 | 1.95 | 1.27 | (0.56 | ) | 1.04 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.91 | 2.56 | 1.87 | (0.00 | )(b) | 1.56 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.56 | ) | (0.57 | ) | (0.61 | ) | (0.51 | ) | (0.49 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.56 | ) | (0.57 | ) | (0.61 | ) | (0.51 | ) | (0.49 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 17.96 | $ | 17.61 | $ | 15.62 | $ | 14.36 | $ | 14.87 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return | 5.19 | % | 16.53 | % | 13.30 | % | (0.17 | )% | 11.36 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 51,185 | $ | 57,062 | $ | 37,868 | $ | 22,779 | $ | 8,022 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.16 | % | 1.15 | % | 1.24 | % | 1.25 | % | 1.38 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 0.99 | % | 1.05 | %(d) | 1.20 | % | 1.20 | % | 1.20 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.76 | % | 3.50 | % | 3.91 | % | 3.52 | % | 3.36 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 2.93 | % | 3.60 | % | 3.95 | % | 3.57 | % | 3.54 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 171 | % | 206 | % | 145 | % | 174 | % | 148 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | Amount less than $(0.005). |
| (c) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| (d) | Effective January 26, 2017, the annual expense limitation rate changed from 1.20% to 0.99%. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 40 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Equity Income Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented
| Class C | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 17.76 | $ | 15.76 | $ | 14.45 | $ | 14.96 | $ | 13.88 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | 0.36 | 0.45 | 0.45 | 0.40 | 0.36 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.38 | 1.95 | 1.28 | (0.56 | ) | 1.06 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.74 | 2.40 | 1.73 | (0.16 | ) | 1.42 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.37 | ) | (0.40 | ) | (0.42 | ) | (0.35 | ) | (0.34 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.37 | ) | (0.40 | ) | (0.42 | ) | (0.35 | ) | (0.34 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 18.13 | $ | 17.76 | $ | 15.76 | $ | 14.45 | $ | 14.96 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return(b) | 4.21 | % | 15.34 | % | 12.15 | % | (1.16 | )% | 10.26 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 17,460 | $ | 15,878 | $ | 10,532 | $ | 6,825 | $ | 5,481 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.17 | % | 2.20 | % | 2.34 | % | 2.34 | % | 2.45 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 1.99 | % | 2.05 | %(d) | 2.20 | % | 2.20 | % | 2.20 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.81 | % | 2.49 | % | 2.80 | % | 2.40 | % | 2.21 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 1.99 | % | 2.64 | % | 2.94 | % | 2.54 | % | 2.46 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 171 | % | 206 | % | 145 | % | 174 | % | 148 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (c) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| (d) | Effective January 26, 2017, the annual expense limitation rate changed from 2.20% to 1.99%. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 41 |
| ICON Equity Income Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented
| Class A | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 17.56 | $ | 15.58 | $ | 14.29 | $ | 14.79 | $ | 13.73 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | 0.49 | 0.54 | 0.56 | 0.50 | 0.47 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.38 | 1.96 | 1.26 | (0.53 | ) | 1.04 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.87 | 2.50 | 1.82 | (0.03 | ) | 1.51 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.51 | ) | (0.52 | ) | (0.53 | ) | (0.47 | ) | (0.45 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.51 | ) | (0.52 | ) | (0.53 | ) | (0.47 | ) | (0.45 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 17.92 | $ | 17.56 | $ | 15.58 | $ | 14.29 | $ | 14.79 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return(b) | 4.98 | % | 16.20 | % | 12.97 | % | (0.38 | )% | 11.07 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 10,685 | $ | 14,206 | $ | 16,775 | $ | 13,039 | $ | 13,847 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.45 | % | 1.45 | % | 1.54 | % | 1.52 | % | 1.59 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 1.24 | % | 1.31 | %(d) | 1.45 | % | 1.45 | % | 1.45 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.48 | % | 3.06 | % | 3.64 | % | 3.14 | % | 3.08 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 2.69 | % | 3.20 | % | 3.73 | % | 3.21 | % | 3.22 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 171 | % | 206 | % | 145 | % | 174 | % | 148 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (c) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| (d) | Effective January 26, 2017, the annual expense limitation rate changed from 1.45% to 1.24%. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 42 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented
| Class S | Year Ended September 30, 2018(a) | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 9.43 | $ | 9.55 | $ | 9.20 | $ | 9.90 | $ | 9.89 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(b) | 0.36 | 0.37 | 0.34 | 0.41 | 0.43 | (c) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | (0.19 | ) | (0.11 | ) | 0.34 | (0.44 | ) | 0.15 | |||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.17 | 0.26 | 0.68 | (0.03 | ) | 0.58 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.34 | ) | (0.38 | ) | (0.33 | ) | (0.51 | ) | (0.44 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | — | — | — | (0.13 | ) | (0.13 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Return of capital | — | — | — | (0.03 | ) | — | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.34 | ) | (0.38 | ) | (0.33 | ) | (0.67 | ) | (0.57 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 9.26 | $ | 9.43 | $ | 9.55 | $ | 9.20 | $ | 9.90 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return | 1.89 | % | 2.82 | % | 7.54 | % | (0.28 | )% | 6.01 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 97,303 | $ | 80,467 | $ | 76,656 | $ | 73,152 | $ | 87,675 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 0.92 | % | 0.91 | % | 0.93 | % | 0.91 | % | 0.86 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 0.75 | % | 0.75 | % | 0.75 | % | 0.75 | % | 0.75 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 3.65 | % | 3.80 | % | 3.43 | % | 4.10 | % | 4.22 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 3.82 | % | 3.96 | % | 3.61 | % | 4.26 | % | 4.33 | %(c) | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 153 | % | 169 | % | 141 | % | 153 | % | 176 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Prior to January 23, 2018, the ICON Flexible Bond Fund was known as the ICON Bond Fund. |
| (b) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (c) | Investment income per share of Class S reflects a large, non-recurring dividend which amounted to $0.07 per share. Excluding this non-recurring dividend, the ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets would have been 3.59% for Class S. |
| (d) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 43 |
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented
| Class C | Year Ended September 30, 2018(a) | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 9.48 | $ | 9.58 | $ | 9.24 | $ | 9.94 | $ | 9.93 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(b) | 0.28 | 0.29 | 0.26 | 0.32 | 0.34 | (c) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | (0.19 | ) | (0.10 | ) | 0.34 | (0.43 | ) | 0.15 | |||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.09 | 0.19 | 0.60 | (0.11 | ) | 0.49 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.28 | ) | (0.29 | ) | (0.26 | ) | (0.43 | ) | (0.35 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | — | — | — | (0.13 | ) | (0.13 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Return of capital | — | — | — | (0.03 | ) | — | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.28 | ) | (0.29 | ) | (0.26 | ) | (0.59 | ) | (0.48 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 9.29 | $ | 9.48 | $ | 9.58 | $ | 9.24 | $ | 9.94 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return(d) | 0.92 | % | 2.05 | % | 6.59 | % | (1.10 | )% | 5.10 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 3,272 | $ | 3,739 | $ | 4,590 | $ | 4,142 | $ | 2,879 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.20 | % | 2.13 | % | 2.10 | % | 2.19 | % | 2.27 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(e) | 1.60 | % | 1.60 | % | 1.60 | % | 1.60 | % | 1.60 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.36 | % | 2.58 | % | 2.28 | % | 2.76 | % | 2.75 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(e) | 2.96 | % | 3.11 | % | 2.78 | % | 3.35 | % | 3.42 | %(c) | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 153 | % | 169 | % | 141 | % | 153 | % | 176 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Prior to January 23, 2018, the ICON Flexible Bond Fund was known as the ICON Bond Fund. |
| (b) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (c) | Investment income per share of Class C reflects a large, non-recurring dividend which amounted to $0.06 per share. Excluding this non-recurring dividend, the ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets would have been 2.84% for Class C. |
| (d) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (e) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 44 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented
| Class A | Year Ended September 30, 2018(a) | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 9.39 | $ | 9.51 | $ | 9.17 | $ | 9.86 | $ | 9.89 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(b) | 0.33 | 0.33 | 0.31 | 0.36 | 0.43 | (c) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | (0.19 | ) | (0.10 | ) | 0.34 | (0.41 | ) | 0.12 | |||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.14 | 0.23 | 0.65 | (0.05 | ) | 0.55 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.32 | ) | (0.35 | ) | (0.31 | ) | (0.48 | ) | (0.45 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | — | — | — | (0.13 | ) | (0.13 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Return of capital | — | — | — | (0.03 | ) | — | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.32 | ) | (0.35 | ) | (0.31 | ) | (0.64 | ) | (0.58 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 9.21 | $ | 9.39 | $ | 9.51 | $ | 9.17 | $ | 9.86 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return(d) | 1.55 | % | 2.48 | % | 7.25 | % | (0.44 | )% | 5.77 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 3,685 | $ | 3,859 | $ | 6,100 | $ | 7,838 | $ | 4,278 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.45 | % | 1.41 | % | 1.38 | % | 1.36 | % | 1.44 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(e) | 1.00 | % | 1.00 | % | 1.00 | % | 1.00 | % | 1.00 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 3.13 | % | 3.13 | % | 2.98 | % | 3.50 | % | 3.84 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(e) | 3.58 | % | 3.54 | % | 3.36 | % | 3.86 | % | 4.28 | %(c) | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 153 | % | 169 | % | 141 | % | 153 | % | 176 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Prior to January 23, 2018, the ICON Flexible Bond Fund was known as the ICON Bond Fund. |
| (b) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (c) | Investment income per share of Class A reflects a large, non-recurring dividend which amounted to $0.08 per share. Excluding this non-recurring dividend, the ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets would have been 3.55% for Class A. |
| (d) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (e) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 45 |
| ICON Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented
| Class S | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 18.68 | $ | 14.08 | $ | 13.83 | $ | 14.52 | $ | 14.00 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | (0.02 | ) | (0.01 | ) | 0.05 | (0.02 | ) | 0.00 | (b) | ||||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 1.24 | 4.61 | 0.20 | (0.67 | ) | 0.52 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 1.22 | 4.60 | 0.25 | (0.69 | ) | 0.52 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 19.90 | $ | 18.68 | $ | 14.08 | $ | 13.83 | $ | 14.52 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return | 6.53 | % | 32.67 | % | 1.81 | % | (4.75 | )% | 3.71 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 32,583 | $ | 32,883 | $ | 28,897 | $ | 33,695 | $ | 41,577 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.11 | % | 1.10 | % | 1.12 | % | 1.09 | % | 1.10 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 1.11 | % | 1.10 | % | 1.12 | % | 1.09 | % | 1.10 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (0.12 | )% | (0.04 | )% | 0.39 | % | (0.11 | )% | 0.02 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | (0.12 | )% | (0.04 | )% | 0.39 | % | (0.11 | )% | 0.02 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 25 | % | 15 | % | 31 | % | 54 | % | 65 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | Amount less than $0.005. |
| (c) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 46 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented
| Class C | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 16.34 | $ | 12.46 | $ | 12.38 | $ | 13.15 | $ | 12.82 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | (0.22 | ) | (0.17 | ) | (0.09 | ) | (0.18 | ) | (0.14 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 1.09 | 4.05 | 0.17 | (0.59 | ) | 0.47 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.87 | 3.88 | 0.08 | (0.77 | ) | 0.33 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 17.21 | $ | 16.34 | $ | 12.46 | $ | 12.38 | $ | 13.15 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return(b) | 5.32 | % | 31.14 | % | 0.65 | % | (5.86 | )% | 2.57 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 11,452 | $ | 12,663 | $ | 11,520 | $ | 13,745 | $ | 17,050 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.27 | % | 2.31 | % | 2.41 | % | 2.27 | % | 2.26 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 2.25 | % | 2.25 | % | 2.26 | % | 2.25 | % | 2.25 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (1.28 | )% | (1.25 | )% | (0.90 | )% | (1.29 | )% | (1.09 | )% | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | (1.26 | )% | (1.19 | )% | (0.75 | )% | (1.27 | )% | (1.08 | )% | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 25 | % | 15 | % | 31 | % | 54 | % | 65 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (c) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 47 |
| ICON Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented |
| Class A | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 17.60 | $ | 13.31 | $ | 13.13 | $ | 13.84 | $ | 13.39 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | (0.10 | ) | (0.07 | ) | 0.00 | (b) | (0.08 | ) | (0.05 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 1.17 | 4.36 | 0.18 | (0.63 | ) | 0.50 | ||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 1.07 | 4.29 | 0.18 | (0.71 | ) | 0.45 | ||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 18.67 | $ | 17.60 | $ | 13.31 | $ | 13.13 | $ | 13.84 | ||||||||||
| Total Return(c) | 6.08 | % | 32.23 | % | 1.37 | % | (5.13 | )% | 3.36 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 5,404 | $ | 5,156 | $ | 5,490 | $ | 6,994 | $ | 8,076 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.63 | % | 1.66 | % | 1.67 | % | 1.55 | % | 1.56 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 1.50 | % | 1.50 | % | 1.51 | % | 1.50 | % | 1.50 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (0.64 | )% | (0.60 | )% | (0.16 | )% | (0.57 | )% | (0.38 | )% | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | (0.51 | )% | (0.44 | )% | 0.00 | %(e) | (0.52 | )% | (0.32 | )% | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 25 | % | 15 | % | 31 | % | 54 | % | 65 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | Amount less than $0.005. |
| (c) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (d) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| (e) | Less than 0.005% of average net assets. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. |
| 48 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Long/Short Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented |
| Class S | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 25.13 | $ | 18.70 | $ | 18.39 | $ | 18.41 | $ | 17.48 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | (0.06 | ) | (0.04 | ) | 0.04 | (0.09 | ) | (0.06 | ) | |||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 2.04 | 6.47 | 0.27 | 0.07 | 0.99 | |||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 1.98 | 6.43 | 0.31 | (0.02 | ) | 0.93 | ||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 27.11 | $ | 25.13 | $ | 18.70 | $ | 18.39 | $ | 18.41 | ||||||||||
| Total Return | 7.88 | % | 34.39 | % | 1.69 | % | (0.11 | )% | 5.32 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 18,580 | $ | 11,259 | $ | 7,114 | $ | 17,196 | $ | 16,465 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.38 | % | 1.50 | % | 1.63 | % | 1.37 | % | 1.45 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(b) | 1.25 | % | 1.25 | % | 1.28 | % | 1.28 | % | 1.32 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (0.33 | )% | (0.43 | )% | (0.11 | )% | (0.52 | )% | (0.47 | )% | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(b) | (0.20 | )% | (0.18 | )% | 0.24 | % | (0.43 | )% | (0.34 | )% | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 36 | % | 24 | % | 20 | % | 74 | % | 65 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense or dividends on short positions, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense and dividends on short positions, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 49 |
| ICON Long/Short Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented |
| Class C | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 22.13 | $ | 16.65 | $ | 16.54 | $ | 16.74 | $ | 16.05 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | (0.30 | ) | (0.25 | ) | (0.13 | ) | (0.27 | ) | (0.24 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 1.80 | 5.73 | 0.24 | 0.07 | 0.93 | |||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 1.50 | 5.48 | 0.11 | (0.20 | ) | 0.69 | ||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 23.63 | $ | 22.13 | $ | 16.65 | $ | 16.54 | $ | 16.74 | ||||||||||
| Total Return(b) | 6.78 | % | 32.91 | % | 0.67 | % | (1.19 | )% | 4.30 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 5,036 | $ | 4,671 | $ | 4,211 | $ | 6,300 | $ | 6,932 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.60 | % | 2.75 | % | 2.76 | % | 2.53 | % | 2.57 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 2.30 | % | 2.30 | % | 2.33 | % | 2.33 | % | 2.38 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (1.57 | )% | (1.69 | )% | (1.21 | )% | (1.68 | )% | (1.58 | )% | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | (1.27 | )% | (1.24 | )% | (0.78 | )% | (1.48 | )% | (1.39 | )% | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 36 | % | 24 | % | 20 | % | 74 | % | 65 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (c) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense or dividends on short positions, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense and dividends on short positions, when applicable. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. |
| 50 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Long/Short Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented |
| Class A | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 24.33 | $ | 18.16 | $ | 17.91 | $ | 17.99 | $ | 17.13 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | (0.14 | ) | (0.11 | ) | (0.01 | ) | (0.15 | ) | (0.12 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 1.97 | 6.28 | 0.26 | 0.07 | 0.98 | |||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 1.83 | 6.17 | 0.25 | (0.08 | ) | 0.86 | ||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 26.16 | $ | 24.33 | $ | 18.16 | $ | 17.91 | $ | 17.99 | ||||||||||
| Total Return(b) | 7.52 | % | 33.98 | % | 1.40 | % | (0.44 | )% | 5.02 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 5,351 | $ | 7,003 | $ | 5,316 | $ | 9,186 | $ | 11,160 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.83 | % | 1.93 | % | 1.95 | % | 1.73 | % | 1.81 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 1.55 | % | 1.55 | % | 1.58 | % | 1.58 | % | 1.63 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (0.80 | )% | (0.87 | )% | (0.40 | )% | (0.89 | )% | (0.82 | )% | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | (0.52 | )% | (0.49 | )% | (0.03 | )% | (0.74 | )% | (0.64 | )% | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 36 | % | 24 | % | 20 | % | 74 | % | 65 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (c) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense or dividends on short positions, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense and dividends on short positions, when applicable. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 51 |
| ICON Opportunities Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented |
| Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 18.88 | $ | 14.74 | $ | 13.32 | $ | 13.04 | $ | 13.02 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | (0.15 | ) | (0.13 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (0.09 | ) | (0.12 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 1.07 | 4.48 | 1.46 | 0.58 | 0.41 | |||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.92 | 4.35 | 1.43 | 0.49 | 0.29 | |||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | (0.29 | ) | (0.21 | ) | (0.01 | ) | (0.21 | ) | (0.27 | ) | ||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.29 | ) | (0.21 | ) | (0.01 | ) | (0.21 | ) | (0.27 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 19.51 | $ | 18.88 | $ | 14.74 | $ | 13.32 | $ | 13.04 | ||||||||||
| Total Return | 4.88 | % | 29.75 | % | 10.76 | % | 3.75 | % | 2.19 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 21,084 | $ | 19,369 | $ | 16,059 | $ | 11,047 | $ | 12,133 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.35 | % | 1.47 | % | 1.53 | % | 1.58 | % | 2.44 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(b) | 1.30 | % | 1.45 | %(c) | 1.51 | % | 1.50 | % | 1.50 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (0.80 | )% | (0.80 | )% | (0.27 | )% | (0.72 | )% | (1.81 | )% | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(b) | (0.75 | )% | (0.78 | )% | (0.25 | )% | (0.65 | )% | (0.87 | )% | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 87 | % | 26 | % | 95 | % | 76 | % | 46 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| (c) | Effective June 30, 2017, the annual expense limitation rate changed from 1.50% to 1.30%. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. |
| 52 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented |
| Class S | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 15.74 | $ | 14.46 | $ | 14.02 | $ | 13.98 | $ | 13.40 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | 0.16 | 0.21 | 0.19 | 0.18 | 0.24 | |||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.57 | 1.30 | 0.42 | 0.01 | 0.56 | |||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.73 | 1.51 | 0.61 | 0.19 | 0.80 | |||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.15 | ) | (0.23 | ) | (0.17 | ) | (0.15 | ) | (0.22 | ) | ||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.15 | ) | (0.23 | ) | (0.17 | ) | (0.15 | ) | (0.22 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 16.32 | $ | 15.74 | $ | 14.46 | $ | 14.02 | $ | 13.98 | ||||||||||
| Total Return | 4.64 | % | 10.53 | % | 4.39 | % | 1.35 | % | 6.02 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 10,676 | $ | 15,272 | $ | 20,087 | $ | 26,677 | $ | 20,071 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.38 | % | 1.36 | % | 1.27 | % | 1.34 | % | 1.22 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(b) | 1.20 | % | 1.20 | % | 1.20 | % | 1.20 | % | 1.20 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 0.82 | % | 1.26 | % | 1.27 | % | 1.09 | % | 1.72 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(b) | 1.00 | % | 1.42 | % | 1.34 | % | 1.23 | % | 1.74 | % | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 87 | % | 83 | % | 109 | % | 119 | % | 137 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 53 |
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented |
| Class C | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 14.42 | $ | 13.27 | $ | 12.89 | $ | 12.90 | $ | 12.39 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | (0.00 | )(b) | 0.06 | 0.04 | 0.03 | 0.09 | ||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.52 | 1.19 | 0.39 | 0.01 | 0.54 | |||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.52 | 1.25 | 0.43 | 0.04 | 0.63 | |||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.02 | ) | (0.10 | ) | (0.05 | ) | (0.05 | ) | (0.12 | ) | ||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.02 | ) | (0.10 | ) | (0.05 | ) | (0.05 | ) | (0.12 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 14.92 | $ | 14.42 | $ | 13.27 | $ | 12.89 | $ | 12.90 | ||||||||||
| Total Return(c) | 3.61 | % | 9.44 | % | 3.35 | % | 0.31 | % | 5.06 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 16,409 | $ | 16,583 | $ | 15,151 | $ | 13,061 | $ | 9,469 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.28 | % | 2.30 | % | 2.29 | % | 2.38 | % | 2.33 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 2.20 | % | 2.20 | % | 2.20 | % | 2.20 | % | 2.20 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (0.08 | )% | 0.35 | % | 0.24 | % | 0.06 | % | 0.61 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 0.00 | %(e) | 0.45 | % | 0.33 | % | 0.24 | % | 0.74 | % | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 87 | % | 83 | % | 109 | % | 119 | % | 137 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | Amount less than $(0.005). |
| (c) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (d) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| (e) | Less than 0.005% of average net assets. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. |
| 54 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented |
| Class A | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 15.36 | $ | 14.11 | $ | 13.68 | $ | 13.69 | $ | 13.12 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | 0.12 | 0.17 | 0.15 | 0.14 | 0.20 | |||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.55 | 1.27 | 0.42 | 0.00 | 0.57 | |||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.67 | 1.44 | 0.57 | 0.14 | 0.77 | |||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.10 | ) | (0.19 | ) | (0.14 | ) | (0.15 | ) | (0.20 | ) | ||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.10 | ) | (0.19 | ) | (0.14 | ) | (0.15 | ) | (0.20 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 15.93 | $ | 15.36 | $ | 14.11 | $ | 13.68 | $ | 13.69 | ||||||||||
| Total Return(b) | 4.40 | % | 10.29 | % | 4.18 | % | 1.00 | % | 5.88 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 4,849 | $ | 7,084 | $ | 9,095 | $ | 8,446 | $ | 7,014 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.64 | % | 1.64 | % | 1.60 | % | 1.70 | % | 1.65 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 1.45 | % | 1.45 | % | 1.45 | % | 1.45 | % | 1.45 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 0.56 | % | 0.98 | % | 0.93 | % | 0.71 | % | 1.29 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 0.75 | % | 1.17 | % | 1.08 | % | 0.96 | % | 1.49 | % | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 87 | % | 83 | % | 109 | % | 119 | % | 137 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (c) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 55 |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
1. ORGANIZATION
The ICON Equity Income Fund (“Equity Income Fund”), ICON Flexible Bond Fund (“Flexible Bond Fund”)(prior to January 23, 2018, known as the ICON Bond Fund), ICON Fund (“ICON Fund”), ICON Long/Short Fund (“Long/ Short Fund”), ICON Opportunities Fund (“Opportunities Fund”) and ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund (“Risk-Managed Balanced Fund”) are a series of funds (individually a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”). The Funds are part of the ICON Funds (the “Trust”), a Massachusetts business trust registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”) as an open-end investment management company. Each Fund, with the exception of the Opportunities Fund, offers three classes of shares: Class S, Class C and Class A. The Opportunities Fund is a single-class fund. All classes have equal rights as to earnings, assets and voting privileges except that each Class may bear different distribution fees, registration costs, legal costs, mailing and printing costs and shareholder servicing costs and each Class has exclusive voting rights with respect to its distribution plan. There are currently eleven other active Funds within the Trust. Those Funds are covered by separate prospectuses and shareholder reports.
Each Fund is authorized to issue an unlimited number of no par shares. The investment objective of the Equity Income Fund is modest capital appreciation and income. The investment objective of the Flexible Bond Fund is to maximize total return. The investment objective of the ICON Fund is capital appreciation with a secondary objective of capital preservation to provide long-term growth. The investment objective of the Opportunities Fund is to provide capital appreciation. The investment objective of the Long/Short Fund is to provide capital appreciation. The investment objective of the Risk-Managed Balanced Fund is modest capital appreciation and income.
The Funds, like all investments in securities, have elements of risk, including risk of loss of principal. There is no assurance that the Funds will achieve their investment objectives and may underperform funds with similar investment objectives. An investment concentrated in sectors and industries involves greater risk and volatility than a more diversified investment. Securities of small companies generally involve greater risks than investments in larger companies. Small company securities tend to be more volatile and less liquid than equity securities of larger companies. Investing in fixed income securities such as bonds involves interest rate risk. When interest rates rise, the value of fixed income securities generally decreases.
The Funds may invest in other investment companies. As with other investments, investments in other investment companies, including closed-end funds (which include business development companies (BDCs)), unit investment trusts, open-end investment companies, and exchange traded funds, are subject to many of the same risks as investing directly in the underlying instruments, including market risk and, for non-index strategies, selection risk. In addition, if a Fund acquires shares of investment companies, shareholders bear both their proportionate share of expenses in the Fund (including management and advisory fees) and, indirectly, the expenses of the investment companies (including management and advisory fees). If a Fund acquires shares of one or more underlying funds, shareholders bear both their proportionate share of expenses in the Fund (excluding management and advisory fees attributable to those assets of the Fund invested in the underlying funds) and, indirectly, the expenses of the underlying funds (including management and advisory fees). Further, the closed-end fund market is inefficient. Many closed-end funds (CEFs), including many in which the Funds invest, are small or microcap securities. There is little independent research published on CEFs and limited availability of data makes research difficult and time consuming. CEFs may trade unpredictably. The underlying assets may be unknown and their value not readily determinable. The Funds often purchase CEFs believing they are trading at a discount to NAV, and an ongoing corporate action will cause the discount to narrow or disappear. With little independent analysis of the CEFs’ individual assets, the Fund essentially makes a value based arbitrage strategy. The Fund will look to events like pending or proposed tender offers, liquidations, take-over plays etc. If the event is not preceded by an official announcement — and is, instead, “pending” or “anticipated” — this strategy can be very risky. If the event is announced, there is still the possibility that it will not happen. In sum, investing in CEFs in general, and CEF arbitrage plays in particular carry unique and arguably heightened risks.
The Equity Income Fund, Flexible Bond Fund and Risk-Managed Balanced Fund may invest in medium-and lower-quality debt securities. High-yield bonds, also known as “junk bonds” are speculative investments and involve a greater risk of default and price volatility than U.S. government and other high-quality bonds. Junk bonds are also less liquid (more difficult to sell) than equities and higher credit bonds. Reduced liquidity may adversely affect the market price of, and ability of a Fund to value and sell particular securities at certain times, thereby making it difficult to make specific valuation determinations.
The Equity Income Fund, Flexible Bond Fund and Risk-Managed Balanced Fund may invest in mortgage-related securities, which are interests in pools of mortgage loans made to residential home buyers, including mortgage loans made by savings and loan institutions, mortgage bankers, commercial banks and others. Pools of mortgage loans are assembled as securities for sale to investors by various governmental and government-related organizations. The Equity Income Fund, Flexible Bond Fund and Risk-Managed Balanced Fund also may invest in debt securities that are secured with collateral consisting of mortgage related securities (a Collateralized Mortgage Obligations or “CMO”), and in other types of mortgage-related or other asset-backed securities. CMOs are debt obligations of a legal entity that are collateralized by whole mortgage loans or private mortgage bonds and divided into classes. CMOs are typically structured into multiple classes, often referred to as “tranches,” with each class bearing a different stated maturity and entitled to a different schedule for payments of principal and interest, including prepayments. CMOs may be less liquid and may exhibit greater price volatility than other types of mortgage-related or asset-backed securities. Many of the risks of investing
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| ICON Diversified Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
in mortgage-related securities secured by commercial mortgage loans reflect the effects of local and other economic conditions on real estate markets, the ability of tenants to make lease payments, and the ability of a property to attract and retain tenants. These securities may be less liquid and may exhibit greater price volatility than other types of mortgage-related or other asset-backed securities. Other asset-backed securities are created from many types of assets, including auto loans, credit card receivables, home equity loans, and student loans. The ICON Fund and Long/Short Fund also may invest in such securities for temporary defensive purposes.
The Long/Short Fund may engage in short selling; there are risks associated with selling short, including the risk that the Long/Short Fund may have to cover its short position at a higher price than the short sale, resulting in a loss. The Long/Short Fund’s loss on a short sale is potentially unlimited as a loss occurs when the value of a security sold short increases.
The Risk-Managed Balanced Fund invests in call options; selling/writing call options involves certain risks, such as limiting gains and lack of liquidity of the underlying securities, and are not suitable for all investors.
Investments in foreign securities and currency transactions may involve certain considerations and risks not typically associated with those of U.S. dollar-denominated transactions as a result of, among other factors, the possibility of less government supervision and regulation of foreign securities markets and the possibility of political or economic instability. Financial statements of foreign companies are governed by different accounting, auditing, and financial standards than U.S. companies and may be less transparent and uniform than in the United States. Many corporate governance standards, which help ensure the integrity of public information in the United States, may not exist in some foreign countries. In general, there may be less governmental supervision of foreign stock exchanges and securities brokers and issuers. There are also risks associated with small- and mid-cap investing, including limited product lines, less liquidity and small market share.
The Equity Income Fund has a significant weighting in the Financials sector, the ICON Fund has a significant weighting in the Information Technology and Financials sectors, the Long/Short Fund has a significant weighting in the Financial sector, the Opportunities Fund has a significant weighting in the Information Technology and Financials sectors which may cause the Funds’ performance to be susceptible to the economic, business and/or other developments that may affect those sectors.
In the normal course of business, the Funds may enter into various agreements that provide for general indemnifications. Each Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as any potential exposure involving future claims that may be made against each Fund is unknown. However, based on experience, the Funds expect the risk of loss to be remote.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Funds in the preparation of their financial statements. The financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”), which requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from these estimates. Each Fund is considered an investment company under GAAP and follows the accounting and reporting guidance applicable to investment companies in the Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946.
Investment Valuation
The Funds’ securities and other assets, excluding options on securities indexes, are valued at the closing price as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) (normally 4 p.m. Eastern Standard Time) each day the NYSE is open, except that securities traded primarily on the NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) are normally valued by the Funds at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price provided by NASDAQ each business day. If the NYSE closes unexpectedly and there is active trading on other exchanges, the securities will be valued at the Valuation Time based off of those exchanges. Options on securities indexes are valued at the close of the Chicago Board Options Exchange (normally 4:15 p.m. Eastern Standard Time) on each day the NYSE is open for trading.
The Funds use pricing services to obtain the fair value of securities in their portfolios. If a pricing service is not able to provide a price, or the pricing service’s valuation is considered inaccurate or does not, in the Funds’ judgment, reflect the fair value of the security, prices may be obtained through market quotations from independent broker/dealers. If market quotations from these sources are not readily available, the Funds’ securities or other assets are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Funds’ Pricing Committee pursuant to procedures approved by the Funds’ Board of Trustees (the “Board”).
Lacking any sales that day, a security is valued at the current closing bid price (or yield equivalent thereof) or based on quotes obtained from dealers making a market for the security. Exchange traded options are valued at the composite price, using the National Best Bid and Offer quotes (“NBBO”). NBBO consists of the highest bid price and lowest ask price across any of the exchanges on which an option is quoted, thus providing a
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| ICON Diversified Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
view across the entire U.S. options marketplace. Debt securities with a remaining maturity of greater than 60 days are valued using the evaluated bid price supplied by the pricing service. The evaluated bid price supplied by the pricing service is based upon a matrix valuation system which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings. Short-term debt securities with remaining maturities of 60 days or less are generally valued at amortized cost or original cost plus accrued interest, which approximates fair value. Currency rates as of the close of the NYSE are used to convert foreign security values into U.S. dollars.
Mortgage-related and asset-backed securities are typically issued as separate tranches, or classes, of securities within each deal. These securities are also normally valued by pricing service providers that use broker-dealer quotations, reported trades or valuation estimates from their internal pricing models. The pricing models for these securities usually consider tranche level attributes, current market data, estimated cash flows and market based yield spreads for each tranche, and incorporate deal collateral performance, as available. Mortgage-related and asset-backed securities that use similar valuation techniques and inputs as described above are categorized as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
Securities of investment companies that trade on an exchange are valued at the last sales price or official closing price as of the close of the customary trading session on the exchange where the security is principally traded. Investments in shares of funds, including money market funds, that are not traded on an exchange are valued at the end of day net asset value (“NAV”) per share of such fund. Securities in the underlying funds, including restricted securities are valued in accordance with the valuation policy of such fund.
The Funds’ securities traded in countries outside of the Western Hemisphere are fair valued daily by utilizing the quotations of an independent pricing service, unless the Funds’ Pricing Committee determines that use of another valuation methodology is appropriate. The purpose of daily fair valuation is to avoid stale prices and to take into account, among other things, any significant events occurring after the close of foreign markets. The pricing service uses statistical analyses and quantitative models to adjust local market prices using factors such as subsequent movements and changes in the prices of indexes, securities and exchange rates in other markets to determine fair value as of the time a Fund calculates its NAV. The valuation assigned to fair-value securities for purposes of calculating each Fund’s NAV may differ from the security’s most recent closing market price and from the prices used by other mutual funds to calculate their NAVs.
Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Funds’ investments. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
| Level 1 — | quoted prices in active markets for identical securities. |
| Level 2 — | significant observable inputs other than Level 1 quoted prices (including, but not limited to, quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, and credit risk). |
| Level 3 — | significant unobservable inputs. |
Observable inputs are those based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Funds, and unobservable inputs reflect the Funds’ own assumptions based on the best information available. The input levels are not necessarily an indication of the risk or liquidity associated with investments at that level. For example, non-U.S. equity securities actively traded in foreign markets may be reflected in Level 2 despite the availability of closing prices, because the Funds evaluate and determine whether those closing prices reflect fair value at the close of the NYSE or require adjustment, as described above. The following table summarizes the Funds’ investments, based on the inputs used to determine their values on September 30, 2018:
| ICON Equity Income Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level 1 - Quoted and Unadjusted Prices | Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs | Level 3 - Significant Unobservable Inputs | Total | ||||||||||||
| Corporate Bonds | $ | — | $ | 5,576,442 | $ | — | $ | 5,576,442 | ||||||||
| Common Stocks | 65,502,964 | — | — | 65,502,964 | ||||||||||||
| Preferred Stocks | 2,961,624 | — | — | 2,961,624 | ||||||||||||
| Convertible Preferred Stocks | 1,522,433 | — | — | 1,522,433 | ||||||||||||
| Closed-End Mutual Funds | 2,455,180 | — | — | 2,455,180 | ||||||||||||
| Purchased Put Options | $ | 19,200 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 19,200 | ||||||||
| Collateral for Securities on Loan | — | 1,373,225 | — | 1,373,225 | ||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 72,461,401 | $ | 6,949,667 | $ | — | $ | 79,411,068 | ||||||||
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| ICON Diversified Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level 1 - Quoted and Unadjusted Prices | Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs | Level 3 - Significant Unobservable Inputs | Total | ||||||||||||
| Corporate Bonds | $ | — | $ | 62,040,416 | $ | — | $ | 62,040,416 | ||||||||
| Asset-Backed Securities | — | 3,357,602 | — | 3,357,602 | ||||||||||||
| U.S. Treasury Obligations | — | 8,371,172 | — | 8,371,172 | ||||||||||||
| Common Stocks | 3,273,427 | — | — | 3,273,427 | ||||||||||||
| Preferred Stocks | 12,748,423 | — | — | 12,748,423 | ||||||||||||
| Convertible Preferred Stocks | 2,832,692 | — | — | 2,832,692 | ||||||||||||
| Closed-End Mutual Funds | 10,288,472 | — | — | 10,288,472 | ||||||||||||
| Collateral for Securities on Loan | — | 2,503,136 | — | 2,503,136 | ||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 29,143,014 | $ | 76,272,326 | $ | — | $ | 105,415,340 | ||||||||
| ICON Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level 1 - Quoted and Unadjusted Prices | Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs | Level 3 - Significant Unobservable Inputs | Total | ||||||||||||
| Common Stocks | $ | 49,415,972 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 49,415,972 | ||||||||
| Total | $ | 49,415,972 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 49,415,972 | ||||||||
| ICON Long/Short Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level 1 - Quoted and Unadjusted Prices | Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs | Level 3 - Significant Unobservable Inputs | Total | ||||||||||||
| Common Stocks | $ | 28,789,760 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 28,789,760 | ||||||||
| Total | $ | 28,789,760 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 28,789,760 | ||||||||
| ICON Opportunities Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level 1 - Quoted and Unadjusted Prices | Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs | Level 3 - Significant Unobservable Inputs | Total | ||||||||||||
| Common Stocks | $ | 21,054,257 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 21,054,257 | ||||||||
| Collateral for Securities on Loan | — | 603,900 | — | 603,900 | ||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 21,054,257 | $ | 603,900 | $ | — | $ | 21,658,157 | ||||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level 1 - Quoted and Unadjusted Prices | Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs | Level 3 - Significant Unobservable Inputs | Total | ||||||||||||
| Corporate Bonds | $ | — | $ | 5,623,605 | $ | — | $ | 5,623,605 | ||||||||
| Asset-Backed Securities | — | 239,829 | — | 239,829 | ||||||||||||
| U.S. Treasury Obligations | — | 984,844 | — | 984,844 | ||||||||||||
| Common Stocks | 21,577,023 | — | — | 21,577,023 | ||||||||||||
| Preferred Stocks | 721,961 | — | — | 721,961 | ||||||||||||
| Convertible Preferred Stocks | 138,257 | — | — | 138,257 | ||||||||||||
| Closed-End Mutual Funds | 2,055,364 | — | — | 2,055,364 | ||||||||||||
| Purchased Put Options | $ | 3,312 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 3,312 | ||||||||
| Collateral for Securities on Loan | — | 212,000 | — | 212,000 | ||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 24,495,917 | $ | 7,060,278 | $ | — | $ | 31,556,195 | ||||||||
| * | Please refer to the Schedule of Investments and the Sector/Industry Classification and Credit Diversification tables for additional security details. |
There were no Level 3 securities held in any of the Funds at September 30, 2018.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 59 |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
Fund Share Valuation
Fund shares are sold and redeemed on a daily basis at the NAV. NAV per share is determined daily as of the close of trading on the NYSE on each day the NYSE is open for trading. The NAV is computed by dividing the total value of each Fund’s investments and other assets, less liabilities, by the number of Fund shares outstanding.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Idle cash may be swept into an overnight demand deposit account and is classified as cash and cash equivalents on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. The Funds maintain cash in bank deposit accounts which, at times, may exceed United States federally insured limits. Amounts swept overnight are available on the next business day.
Foreign Currency Translation
The accounting records of the Funds are maintained in U.S. dollars. Investment securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in a foreign currency are translated daily into U.S. dollars at the prevailing rates of exchange. Income and expenses are translated into U.S. dollars at the prevailing exchange rate on the respective dates of the transactions. Purchases and sales of securities are translated into U.S. dollars at the contractual currency exchange rates established at the time of each trade.
The Funds do not isolate that portion of the results of operations resulting from changes in foreign exchange rates on investments from the fluctuations arising from changes in market prices of securities held. Net unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments and foreign currency translations arise from changes in the value of assets and liabilities resulting from changes in the exchange rates and changes in market prices of securities held.
Options Transactions
The Funds’ use of derivatives for the year ended September 30, 2018 was limited to purchased options.
The Risk-Managed Balanced Fund’s primary investment strategy involves the use of options. Each of the other Funds may also purchase and/or write (sell) call and put options on any security in which it may invest. A Fund may use derivatives to hedge risks inherent in its portfolio, to enhance the potential return of its portfolio, to diversify its portfolio, as a substitute for taking a position in an underlying asset, to reduce transaction costs associated with managing a portfolio, or to implement an investment strategy through investments that may be more tax-efficient than a direct equity investment.
Option contracts involve market risk and liquidity risk and can be highly volatile. Should prices of securities or securities indexes move in an unexpected manner, the Funds may not achieve the desired benefits and may realize losses and thus be in a worse position than if such strategies had not been utilized.
When a Fund writes a put or call option, an amount equal to the premium received is included on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities as a liability. The amount of the liability is subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current fair value of the option. If an option expires on its stipulated expiration date or if the Fund enters into a closing purchase transaction, a gain or loss is realized. If a written call option on an individual security is exercised, a gain or loss is realized for the sale of the underlying security, and the proceeds from the sale are increased by the premium originally received. If a written call option on a securities index is exercised, a gain or loss is realized as determined by the premium originally received, the exercise price and the fair value of the index. If a written put option on an individual security is exercised, the cost of the security acquired is decreased by the premium originally received. As a writer of an option, a Fund bears the market risk of an unfavorable change in the price of the individual security or securities index underlying the written option. Additionally, written call options may involve the risk of limiting gains.
Each Fund may also purchase put and call options. When a Fund purchases a put or call option, an amount equal to the premium paid is included on the Fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an investment, and is subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current fair value of the option. If an option expires on the stipulated expiration date or if the Fund enters into a closing purchase or sale transaction, a gain or loss is realized. If the Fund exercises a call option on an individual security, the cost of the security acquired is increased by the premium paid for the call. If the Fund exercises a put option on an individual security, a gain or loss is realized from the sale of the underlying security, and the proceeds from such a sale are decreased by the premium originally paid. If the Fund exercises a put or a call option on a security index, a gain or loss is realized as determined by the premium originally paid, the exercise price and the fair value of the index. Written and purchased options are non-income producing securities.
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| ICON Diversified Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
For the year ended September 30, 2018, the Equity Income Fund and the Risk-Managed Balanced Fund engaged in purchased put option transactions. All open option contracts are included on each Fund’s Schedule of Investments.
The following is a summary of how these derivatives are treated in the financial statements and their impact on the Funds:
| ICON Equity Income Fund | Asset Derivatives | Liability Derivatives | ||||||||||
| Statements of Assets and | Statements of Assets and | |||||||||||
| Risk Exposure | Liabilities Location | Fair Value | Liabilities Location | Fair Value | ||||||||
| Equity Contracts (Purchased Options) | Investments, at value | $ | 19,200 | N/A | N/A | |||||||
| Total | $ | 19,200 | $ | — | ||||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | Asset Derivatives | Liability Derivatives | ||||||||||
| Statements of Assets and | Statements of Assets and | |||||||||||
| Risk Exposure | Liabilities Location | Fair Value | Liabilities Location | Fair Value | ||||||||
| Equity Contracts (Purchased Options) | Investments, at value | $ | 3,312 | N/A | N/A | |||||||
| Total | $ | 3,312 | $ | — | ||||||||
| Change in | ||||||||
| Realized | Unrealized Appreciation/ | |||||||
| Gain/(Loss) on | (Depreciation) | |||||||
| ICON Equity Income Fund | Derivatives | on Derivatives | ||||||
| Recognized | Recognized | |||||||
| Risk Exposure | Statements of Operations Location | in Income | in Income | |||||
| Equity Contracts (Purchased Options) | Net realized gain/(loss) on Investments and foreign currency translations/Change in unrealized net appreciation/(depreciation) on Investments, options, and foreign currency | $ | 4,070 | $ | (699) | |||
| Total | $ | 4,070 | $ | (699) | ||||
| Change in | ||||||||
| Realized | Unrealized Appreciation/ | |||||||
| Gain/(Loss) on | (Depreciation) | |||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | Derivatives | on Derivatives | ||||||
| Recognized | Recognized | |||||||
| Risk Exposure | Statements of Operations Location | in Income | in Income | |||||
| Equity Contracts (Purchased Options) | Net realized gain/(loss) on Investments and foreign currency translations/Change in unrealized net appreciation/(depreciation) on Investments, options, and foreign currency | $ | (117,194 | ) | $ | 31,517 | ||
| Total | $ | (117,194 | ) | $ | 31,517 | |||
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 61 |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
The average purchased option contracts during the year ended September 30, 2018, was as follows:
| ICON Equity Income Fund | |||
| Derivative Type | Unit of Measurement | Average Contracts+ | Days Held |
| Purchased Options | Contracts | 102 | 364 |
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | |||
| Derivative Type | Unit of Measurement | Average Contracts+ | Days Held |
| Purchased Options | Contracts | 11 | 365 |
| + | The average is calculated based on the actual number of days with outstanding derivatives. |
The Funds value derivatives at fair value, as described above, and recognize changes in fair value currently in the results of operations. Accordingly, the Funds do not follow hedge accounting, even for derivatives employed as economic hedges.
Short Sales
The Long/Short Fund may engage in short sales (selling securities it does not own) as part of its normal investment activities. The Long/Short Fund enters into short positions in equity securities identified as being overvalued in management’s opinion.
Short sales involve market risk. If a security sold short increases in price, the Long/Short Fund may have to cover its short position at a higher price than the short sale price, resulting in a loss. These short sales are collateralized by cash and/or securities held with the Fund’s prime broker and in a segregated account at the Funds’ prime broker. The collateral required is determined daily by reference to the fair value of the short positions. Such collateral for the Fund is restricted from use. The cash collateral that is restricted from use is included on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities as “Deposits for short sales.” The securities pledged as collateral that are restricted from use are included on the Schedule of Investments. Dividends received on short sales are treated as an expense on the Statements of Operations. Liabilities for securities sold short are closed out by purchasing the applicable securities for delivery to the Fund’s prime broker. As of and for the year ended September 30, 2018, the Long/Short Fund did not engage in short selling.
Securities Lending
Under procedures adopted by the Board, the Funds may lend securities to certain approved brokers, dealers and other financial institutions to earn additional income. Collateral is received in exchange for securities on loan in the amount of at least 102% of the value of U.S. securities loaned or at least 105% of the value of non-U.S. securities loaned, marked to market daily. The Funds retain certain benefits of owning the securities, including receipt of dividends or interest generated by the security, but give up other rights including the right to vote proxies. The Funds retain the ability to recall the loans at any time and could do so in order to vote proxies or to sell the loaned securities. Each loan is collateralized by assets that generally exceed the value of the securities on loan. Collateral may consist of cash or securities issued or guaranteed by the United States government or its agencies or instrumentalities. The fair value of the loaned securities is determined daily at the close of business of the Funds and any additional required collateral is delivered to each Fund on the next business day.
The following is a summary of the Funds’ securities lending positions and related cash and non-cash collateral received as of September 30, 2018:
| Market Value of Securities on Loan | Market Value of Cash Collateral Received | Market Value of Non-Cash Collateral Received | Total Collateral Received | Excess Collateral | ||||||||||||||||
| ICON Equity Income Fund | $ | 5,254,419 | $ | 1,373,225 | $ | 4,009,325 | $ | 5,382,550 | $ | 128,131 | ||||||||||
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | 2,454,147 | 2,503,136 | — | 2,503,136 | 48,989 | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Fund | 1,825,573 | — | 1,863,943 | 1,863,943 | 38,370 | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Long/Short Fund | 1,031,568 | — | 1,048,000 | 1,048,000 | 16,432 | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Opportunities Fund | 2,195,718 | 603,900 | 1,647,580 | 2,251,480 | 55,762 | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | 1,116,164 | 212,000 | 931,489 | 1,143,489 | 27,325 | |||||||||||||||
Generally, in the event of borrower default, the Funds have the right to use the collateral to offset any losses incurred. In the event the Funds are delayed or prevented from exercising their rights to dispose of the collateral, there may be a potential loss to the Funds. Some of these losses may be indemnified by the lending agent.
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| ICON Diversified Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
The Funds have elected to invest cash collateral received from lending in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio which is disclosed on the Schedules of Investments. The Funds bear the risk of loss with respect to the investment of cash collateral. The State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio is a Government Money Market Portfolio designed to provide continuous daily liquidity. Non-Cash collateral received consists of securities issued or guaranteed by the United States government or its agencies or instrumentalities with remaining maturities ranging from overnight to 30 years. Non-cash collateral is not disclosed on the Funds’ Schedules of Investments or their Statements of Assets and Liabilities as the Funds do not have the ability to re-hypothecate these securities. The net securities lending income earned by the Funds for the year ended September 30, 2018, is included in the Statements of Operations.
Security loans consist of equity and corporate fixed income securities and generally do not have a stated maturity date. The Funds may recall a loaned security at any time.
Income Taxes, Dividends, and Distributions
The Funds intend to continue to qualify as regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code and, accordingly, the Funds will generally not be subject to federal and state income taxes or federal excise taxes to the extent that they intend to make sufficient distributions of net investment income and net realized capital gains. As of and during the year ended September 30, 2018, the Funds did not have a liability for any unrecognized tax benefits in the accompanying financial statements. The Funds recognize the interest and penalties, if any, related to the unrecognized tax benefits as income tax expense in the Statements of Operations. During the period, the Funds did not incur any interest or penalties.
Dividends paid by the Funds from net investment income and distributions of net realized short-term gains are, for federal income tax purposes, taxable as ordinary income to shareholders.
Dividends and distributions to shareholders are recorded by the Funds on the ex-dividend/distribution date. The Flexible Bond Fund distributes net investment income, if any, to shareholders monthly. The Equity Income Fund and the Risk-Managed Balanced Fund intend to distribute net investment income, if any, to shareholders quarterly. The other Funds distribute income, if any, annually. The Funds distribute net realized capital gains, if any, to shareholders at least annually, if not offset by capital loss carryforwards. The Funds may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes. Income distributions and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.
Management has analyzed the Funds’ tax positions taken on federal income tax returns for all open tax periods and has concluded that no provision for federal income tax is required in the Funds’ financial statements.
The Funds file U.S. tax returns. While the statute of limitations remains open to examine the Funds’ U.S. tax returns filed for the past three years, no examinations are in progress or anticipated at this time. The Funds are not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Certain foreign countries impose a capital gains tax which is accrued by the Funds based on the unrealized appreciation, if any, on affected securities. Any accrual would reduce a Fund’s NAV. The tax is paid when the gain is realized and is included in capital gains tax in the Statements of Operations.
Investment Income
Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Non-cash dividends included in dividend income, if any, are recorded at the fair value of the securities received. Interest income is accrued as earned. Certain dividends from foreign securities are recorded as soon as the Funds are informed of the dividend if such information is obtained subsequent to the ex-dividend date. Discounts and premiums on fixed income securities purchased are accreted or amortized to income over the life of the respective securities based on the effective yield. Paydown gains and losses on mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities are recorded as components of interest income on the Statements of Operations.
Investment Transactions
Security transactions are accounted for no later than one business day after the trade date. However, for financial reporting purposes, security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Gains and losses on securities sold are determined on the basis of identified cost.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 63 |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
Withholding Tax
Withholding taxes on foreign dividends have been provided for in accordance with the Funds’ understanding of the applicable country’s tax rules and rates.
Other
The Funds hold certain investments which pay dividends to their shareholders based upon available funds from operations. It is possible for these dividends to exceed the underlying investments’ taxable earnings and profits resulting in the excess portion of such dividends being designated as a return of capital. Distributions received from investments in securities that represent a return of capital or capital gains are recorded as a reduction of the cost of investments or as a realized gain, respectively.
The ability of issuers of debt securities held by the Funds to meet their obligations may be affected by economic and political developments in a specific country or region.
Allocation of Expenses
Each class of a Fund’s shares bears expenses incurred specifically on its behalf and, in addition, each class bears a portion of general expenses, based upon relative net assets of each class or number of shareholder accounts. Expenses which cannot be directly attributed to a specific Fund in the Trust are apportioned between all Funds in the Trust based upon relative net assets or number of shareholder accounts. In calculating the net asset value per share of each class, investment income, realized and unrealized gains and losses and expenses other than class-specific expenses are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the proportion of net assets.
Below are additional class level expenses for the year ended September 30, 2018 that are included on the Statements of Operations:
| Fund | Printing Fees* | Transfer Agent Fees* | Registration Fees | |||||||||
| ICON Equity Income Fund | ||||||||||||
| Class S | $ | 5,680 | $ | 70,804 | $ | 17,953 | ||||||
| Class C | 1,373 | 16,800 | 12,666 | |||||||||
| Class A | 1,315 | 15,913 | 12,645 | |||||||||
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 5,045 | 61,956 | 20,393 | |||||||||
| Class C | 514 | 5,660 | 11,777 | |||||||||
| Class A | 329 | 4,969 | 8,250 | |||||||||
| ICON Fund | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 2,385 | 26,289 | 15,411 | |||||||||
| Class C | 843 | 20,532 | 12,699 | |||||||||
| Class A | 332 | 9,720 | 11,540 | |||||||||
| ICON Long/Short Fund | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 1,570 | 23,258 | 11,242 | |||||||||
| Class C | 513 | 10,028 | 12,572 | |||||||||
| Class A | 1,076 | 15,966 | 14,219 | |||||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 1,388 | 20,708 | 12,500 | |||||||||
| Class C | 1,473 | 19,803 | 14,400 | |||||||||
| Class A | 566 | 7,997 | 12,384 | |||||||||
| * | Printing and Transfer agent out of pocket fees are a Fund level expense. |
3. FEES AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
Investment Advisory Fees
ICON Advisers, Inc. (“ICON Advisers”) serves as investment adviser to the Funds and is responsible for managing the Funds’ portfolios of investments. ICON Advisers receives a monthly management fee that is computed daily at an annual rate of 0.60% of average daily net assets of the Flexible Bond Fund, 0.75% of average daily net assets of the Equity Income Fund, ICON Fund, Opportunities Fund and Risk-Managed Balanced Fund, and 0.85% of average daily net assets of the Long/Short Fund.
| 64 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
ICON Advisers has contractually agreed to limit the Funds’ expenses (exclusive of brokerage, interest, taxes, dividends on short sales, acquired fund fees and expenses and extraordinary expenses) to the extent necessary to ensure that the Funds’ expenses do not exceed the following amounts:
| Fund | Fund | Class S | Class C | Class A |
| ICON Equity Income Fund | — | 0.99% | 1.99% | 1.24% |
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | — | 0.75% | 1.60% | 1.00% |
| ICON Fund | — | 1.25% | 2.25% | 1.50% |
| ICON Long/Short Fund | — | 1.25% | 2.30% | 1.55% |
| ICON Opportunities Fund | 1.30% | — | — | — |
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | — | 1.20% | 2.20% | 1.45% |
The Funds’ expense limitations, excluding the Flexible Bond Fund Class A, all classes of the Equity Income Fund, all classes of the ICON Fund and the Opportunities Fund, will continue in effect until at least January 31, 2021. The expense limitations for the Flexible Bond Fund Class A, all classes of the Equity Income Fund, all classes of the ICON Fund and the Opportunities Fund, will continue in effect until at least January 31, 2019. To the extent ICON Advisers reimburses or absorbs fees and expenses, it may seek payment of such amounts for up to three years after the expenses were reimbursed or absorbed. A Fund will make no such payment, however, if the total Fund operating expenses exceed the expense limits in effect at the time these payments are proposed.
As of September 30, 2018, the following amounts were available for recoupment by ICON Advisers based upon their potential expiration dates:
| Expires | Expires | Expires | ||||||||||
| Fund | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | |||||||||
| ICON Equity Income Fund | $ | 35,317 | $ | 92,199 | $ | 146,948 | ||||||
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | 180,193 | 162,616 | 184,480 | |||||||||
| ICON Fund | 27,339 | 16,031 | 9,658 | |||||||||
| ICON Long/Short Fund | 80,331 | 66,063 | 54,396 | |||||||||
| ICON Opportunities Fund | 2,957 | 3,673 | 11,238 | |||||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | 44,072 | 53,919 | 45,213 | |||||||||
Accounting, Custody and Transfer Agent Fees
ALPS Fund Services, Inc. (“ALPS”) serves as the fund accounting agent for the Trust. For its services, the Trust pays ALPS a fee, that is calculated daily and paid monthly, which is the greater of an annual rate based on the aggregate average daily net assets of the Trust or a contractual minimum annual fee.
State Street is the custodian of the Trust’s investments. For its services, the Trust pays State Street asset-based fees that vary according to the number of positions and transactions, plus out-of-pocket expenses.
ALPS is the Trust’s transfer agent. For these services, the Trust pays an annual fee plus annual base fee per Fund, per account fees and out-of-pocket expenses.
Administrative Services
The Trust has entered into an administrative services agreement with ICON Advisers pursuant to which ICON Advisers oversees the administration of the Trust’s business and affairs. This agreement provides for an annual fee of 0.05% on the Trust’s first $1.5 billion of average daily net assets, 0.045% on the next $1.5 billion of average daily net assets, 0.040% on the next $2 billion of average daily net assets and 0.030% on average daily net assets over $5 billion. For the year ended September 30, 2018, each Fund’s payment for administrative services to ICON Advisers is included on the Statements of Operations. The administrative services agreement provides that ICON Advisers will not be liable for any error of judgment, mistake of law, or any loss suffered by the Trust in connection with matters to which the administrative services agreement relates, except for a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or negligence by ICON Advisers in the performance of its duties.
ICON Advisers has a sub-administration agreement, with ALPS, under which ALPS assists ICON Advisers with the administration and business affairs of the Trust. For its services, ICON Advisers pays ALPS a fee, that is calculated daily and paid monthly, which is the greater of an annual rate based on the aggregate average daily net assets of the Trust or a contractual minimum annual fee.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 65 |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
Distribution Fees
ICON Distributors, Inc. (“IDI” or “Distributor”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of ICON Management and Research and affiliate of ICON Advisers, Inc., serves the Trust as Distributor. The Trust has adopted a Distribution Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (“12b-1 Plan”) under which the Funds are authorized to compensate or reimburse the Distributor for the sale and distribution of shares and for other shareholder services. The Flexible Bond Fund Class C shareholders pay an annual distribution fee of 0.85% of average daily net assets and Class A shareholders pay an annual distribution fee of 0.25% of average daily net assets. The shareholders of the other Funds pay an annual distribution fee of 1.00% of average daily net assets for Class C shares and an annual distribution fee of 0.25% of average daily net assets for Class A shares. There is no annual distribution fee for Class S shares or the ICON Opportunities Fund. The total amount paid by each Fund under the 12b-1 Plan is shown on the Statements of Operations.
Class A Shares are subject to an initial sales charge and the public offering price of Class A shares equals net asset value plus the applicable sales charge, which is a maximum of 5.75% (4.75% for Class A shares of the ICON Flexible Bond Fund). For the year ended September 30, 2018, IDI collected sales charges on purchases of Class A Shares, the majority of which were paid out as concessions to financial intermediaries, as follows:
| Fund | Sales Charges Collected | |||
| ICON Equity Income Fund Class A | $ | 7,329 | ||
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund Class A | 5,274 | |||
| ICON Fund Class A | 3,728 | |||
| ICON Long/Short Fund Class A | 3,580 | |||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund Class A | 3,632 | |||
In addition, IDI receives a contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00% of the purchase price on redemptions of Class C shares made within one year following the date of purchase. A 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge may also apply to certain redemptions of Class A shares made within one year following the purchase of $1 million or more without an initial sales charge. For the year ended September 30, 2018, IDI collected the following contingent deferred sales charges:
| Contingent Deferred Sales | ||||
| Fund | Charges Collected | |||
| ICON Equity Income Fund Class C | $ | 1,133 | ||
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund Class C | 708 | |||
| ICON Fund Class C | 641 | |||
| ICON Long/Short Fund Class C | 51 | |||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund Class C | 1,246 | |||
Other Related Parties
Certain Officers and Directors of ICON Advisers are also Officers and Trustees of the Funds; however, such Officers and Trustees (with the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer, “CCO”) receive no compensation from the Funds. The Trust pays a portion of the CCO’s salary and the remaining portion, along with other employee related expenses, is paid by ICON Advisers. For the year ended September 30, 2018, the total related amounts paid by the Funds under this arrangement are included in Other Expenses on the Statements of Operations.
The Funds may reimburse ICON Advisers for legal work performed for the Funds by its attorneys outside of the advisory and administration contracts. The Board reviews and approves such reimbursements. For the year ended September 30, 2018, the total related amounts accrued by the Funds under this arrangement was $828 and is included in Other Expenses on the Statements of Operations.
The Flexible Bond Fund engaged in a cross trade with an investment portfolio that is sub-advised by ICON Advisers during the year ended September 30, 2018, pursuant to Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act. Generally, cross trading is the buying or selling of portfolio securities between funds or investment portfolios to which the Adviser serves as the investment adviser or sub-adviser. The Board previously adopted procedures that apply to transactions between the Funds and its affiliates pursuant to Rule 17a-7. At its regularly scheduled meetings, the Board reviews such transactions as of the most current calendar quarter for compliance with the requirements set forth by Rule 17a-7 and the Funds’ procedures. The procedures require that the transactions be a purchase or sale for no consideration other than cash payment against prompt delivery of a security for which market quotations are readily available, and be consistent with the investment policies of each Fund.
| 66 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
Transactions related to cross trades during the year ended September 30, 2018 were as follows:
| Execution | Realized | |||||
| Fund | Transaction | Date | Security | Shares | Price | Gain/(Loss) |
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | Purchase | August 28, 2018 | Argo Group Us Inc 6.5% 09/15/42 Pfd | 10,000.00 | $ 25.5100 | $ — |
4. BORROWINGS
The Trust has entered into an uncommitted, unsecured, revolving Line of Credit agreement/arrangement with State Street to provide temporary funding for redemption requests. The maximum borrowing limit is $50 million. Interest on domestic borrowings is charged at a rate quoted and determined by State Street. The interest rate as of September 30, 2018 was 3.51%. The Line of Credit agreement/arrangement expires on March 18, 2019.
As of September 30, 2018, the ICON Fund had an outstanding borrowing in the amount of $34,594.
For the year ended September 30, 2018, the average outstanding loan by Fund was as follows:
| Maximum Borrowing | Average Borrowing | Average Interest Rates | ||||||||||
| Fund | (10/01/17 - 09/30/18) | (10/01/17 - 09/30/18)^ | (10/01/17 - 09/30/18)^ | |||||||||
| ICON Equity Income Fund* | $ | 2,163,874 | $ | 749,004 | 3.03% | |||||||
| ICON Fund | 362,520 | 88,343 | 2.94% | |||||||||
| ICON Long/Short Fund* | 1,590,677 | 251,565 | 3.05% | |||||||||
| ICON Opportunities Fund* | 1,552,321 | 193,027 | 3.19% | |||||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund* | 498,101 | 348,552 | 2.66% | |||||||||
| * | There were no outstanding borrowings under this agreement/arrangement as of September 30, 2018. |
| ^ | The average is calculated based on the actual number of days with outstanding borrowings. |
5. PURCHASES AND SALES OF INVESTMENT SECURITIES
For the year ended September 30, 2018, the aggregate cost of purchases and proceeds from sales of investment securities (excluding securities sold short, short-term securities and written options contracts) was as follows:
| Purchases of Long | Proceeds from | |||||||||||||||
| Term U.S. | Sales of Long Term | |||||||||||||||
| Purchases of | Proceeds from | Government | U.S. Government | |||||||||||||
| Fund | Securities | Sales of Securities | Obligations | Obligations | ||||||||||||
| ICON Equity Income Fund | $ | 138,830,064 | $ | 148,927,358 | $ | — | $ | — | ||||||||
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | 124,891,270 | 110,953,309 | 29,700,357 | 24,282,112 | ||||||||||||
| ICON Fund | 12,880,083 | 17,288,768 | — | — | ||||||||||||
| ICON Long/Short Fund | 13,740,804 | 9,590,384 | — | — | ||||||||||||
| ICON Opportunities Fund | 19,741,979 | 19,014,586 | — | — | ||||||||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | 26,042,032 | 28,353,426 | 2,518,095 | 6,325,887 | ||||||||||||
6. FEDERAL INCOME TAX
The following information is presented on an income tax basis. Differences between GAAP and federal income tax purposes that are permanent in nature are reclassified within the capital accounts. Temporary differences do not require reclassification. Temporary and permanent differences do not impact the NAVs of the Funds. These differences are primarily due to differing treatments for items such as deferrals of wash sale losses, expiring capital losses, net investment losses, trust preferred securities, and mark to market of options held.
Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010 (the “Act”) capital losses generated by a Fund may be carried over indefinitely.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 67 |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
During the year ended September 30, 2018, the utilized/expired capital loss carryforwards were as follows:
| Fund | Expired Amount | Utilized Amount | ||||||
| ICON Equity Income Fund | $ | 12,597,872 | $ | 3,128,718 | ||||
| ICON Fund | 15,390,374 | 3,356,674 | ||||||
| ICON Long/Short Fund | 19,033,318 | 1,840,083 | ||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | 11,050,333 | 796,953 | ||||||
The following Funds elect to defer to the period ending September 30, 2019, late year ordinary losses:
| Fund | Ordinary Losses Deferred | ||||
| ICON Fund | $ | 165,336 | |||
| ICON Long/Short Fund | 153,973 | ||||
| ICON Opportunities Fund | 126,296 | ||||
The capital losses with no expiration were as follows:
| Fund | Short-Term | Long-Term | ||||||
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | $ | 1,399,638 | $ | 1,626,723 | ||||
For the year ended September 30, 2018, the following reclassifications were made, which had no impact on results of operations or net assets.
| Fund | Paid-in Capital | Total Distributable Earnings | ||||||
| ICON Equity Income Fund | $ | (12,597,873 | ) | $ | 12,597,873 | |||
| ICON Fund | (15,607,588 | ) | 15,607,588 | |||||
| ICON Long/Short Fund | (19,121,113 | ) | 19,121,113 | |||||
| ICON Opportunities Fund | (143,874 | ) | 143,874 | |||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | (11,058,642 | ) | 11,058,642 | |||||
For ICON Fund, Long/Short Fund and Opportunities Fund included in the amounts for reclassified were a net operating loss offset to paid in capital of $217,214, $87,795 and $143,874.
The tax characteristics of distributions paid to shareholders during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, were as follows:
| Fund | Ordinary Income | Long-Term Capital Gains | ||||||
| ICON Equity Income Fund | $ | 2,315,668 | $ | — | ||||
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | 3,390,436 | — | ||||||
| ICON Opportunities Fund | — | 307,810 | ||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | 166,410 | — | ||||||
The tax characteristics of distributions paid to shareholders during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017, were as follows:
| Fund | Ordinary Income | Long-Term Capital Gains | ||||||
| ICON Equity Income Fund | $ | 2,542,191 | $ | — | ||||
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | 3,291,245 | — | ||||||
| ICON Opportunities Fund | — | 221,532 | ||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | 433,548 | — | ||||||
| 68 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
As of September 30, 2018, the components of accumulated earnings/(deficit) on a tax basis were as follows:
| Fund | Undistributed Ordinary Income | Accumulated Capital Gains/(Losses) | Other Cumulative Effect of Timing Differences | Unrealized Appreciation/(Depreciation)* | Total Accumulated Earnings/(Deficit) | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Equity Income Fund | $ | 117,828 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 4,492,393 | $ | 4,610,221 | ||||||||||
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | 186,954 | (3,026,361 | ) | — | (1,160,114 | ) | (3,999,521 | ) | ||||||||||||
| ICON Fund | — | — | (165,336 | ) | 13,182,665 | 13,017,329 | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Long/Short Fund | — | — | (153,973 | ) | 5,635,695 | 5,481,722 | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Opportunities Fund | — | 3,484,207 | (126,296 | ) | 2,747,970 | 6,105,881 | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | 9,941 | — | — | 2,803,341 | 2,813,282 | |||||||||||||||
| * | Differences between the book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) are attributable primarily to tax treatment of tax deferral of losses on wash sales. |
As of September 30, 2018, cost on investments for federal income tax purposes and the amount of net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) were as follows:
| Fund | Gross Appreciation (excess of value over tax cost) | Gross Depreciation (excess of tax cost over value) | Net Appreciation/ (Depreciation) of Foreign Currency | Net Unrealized Appreciation/ (Depreciation)* | Cost of Investments for Income Tax Purposes | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Equity Income Fund | $ | 6,114,461 | $ | (1,622,326 | ) | $ | 258 | $ | 4,492,393 | $ | 74,918,933 | |||||||||
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | 199,483 | (1,359,597 | ) | — | (1,160,114 | ) | 106,575,454 | |||||||||||||
| ICON Fund | 13,959,507 | (776,842 | ) | — | 13,182,665 | 36,233,307 | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Long/Short Fund | 6,560,520 | (924,825 | ) | — | 5,635,695 | 23,154,065 | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Opportunities Fund | 3,885,073 | (1,137,103 | ) | — | 2,747,970 | 18,910,187 | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | 3,766,235 | (962,878 | ) | (16 | ) | 2,803,341 | 28,752,838 | |||||||||||||
| * | This balance includes appreciation/(depreciation) of foreign currency. |
| 7. | RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT |
In August 2018, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2018-13, which changes the fair value measurement disclosure requirements of FASB Accounting Standards Codification Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement. The update to Topic 820 includes new, eliminated, and modified disclosure requirements. ASU 2018-13 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods. Early adoption is permitted for any eliminated or modified disclosures. Management has eliminated and modified disclosures and is currently evaluating the impact of the remaining ASU.
| 8. | SUBSEQUENT EVENT |
Management has evaluated whether any events or transactions occurred subsequent to September 30, 2018 and through the date of issuance of the Funds’ financial statements and determined that there were no material events or transactions that would require recognition or disclosure in the Funds’ financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 69 |
| Report of Independent Registered | |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Public Accounting Firm |
To
the Shareholders and Board of Trustees of
ICON Funds
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities, including the schedules of investments, of ICON Equity Income Fund, ICON Flexible Bond Fund, ICON Fund, ICON Long/Short Fund, ICON Opportunities Fund, and ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund (the “Funds”), each a series of ICON Funds, as of September 30, 2018, and the related statements of operations for the year then ended, and the statements of changes for the each of the two years in the period then ended, and the financial highlights for the each of the three years in the period then ended (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds as of September 30, 2018, the results of their operations for the year then ended, the changes in their net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, and the financial highlights for each of the three years in the period then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
The Funds’ financial highlights for the year ended September 30, 2015 and prior, were audited by other auditors whose report dated November 18, 2015, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial highlights.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Funds’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Funds’ 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 Funds 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 the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of September 30, 2018, by correspondence with the custodian and brokers. 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 Funds’ auditor since 2016.
COHEN
& COMPANY, LTD.
Cleveland, Ohio
November 21, 2018
| 70 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Disclosure of Fund Expenses |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Example
As a shareholder of a Fund you may pay two types of fees: transaction fees and fund-related fees. Certain funds charge transaction fees, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments, reinvested dividends, or other distributions; redemption fees; and exchange fees. Funds also incur various ongoing expenses, including management fees, distribution and/or service fees, and other fund expenses, which are indirectly paid by shareholders.
This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the various ICON Funds and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. This Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period and held for the six-month period (04/01/18 – 09/30/18).
Actual Expenses
The first line in the table for each Fund provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. The Example includes, but is not limited to, management fees, 12b-1 fees, fund accounting, custody and transfer agent fees. However, the Example does not include client specific fees, such as the $15 fee charged to IRA accounts, or the $15 fee charged for wire redemptions. You may use this information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line for each Fund under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line in the table for each Fund 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. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and 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. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads), redemption fees, or exchange fees that may be charged by other funds. Therefore, this information is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
| Beginning Account Value April 1, 2018 | Ending Account Value September 30, 2018 | Expense Ratio(a) | Expenses Paid During period April 1, 2018 - September 30, 2018(b) | |||||||||||||
| ICON Equity Income Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,015.50 | 0.99 | % | $ | 5.00 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,020.10 | 0.99 | % | $ | 5.01 | ||||||||
| Class C | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,010.80 | 1.99 | % | $ | 10.03 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,015.09 | 1.99 | % | $ | 10.05 | ||||||||
| Class A | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,014.60 | 1.24 | % | $ | 6.26 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,018.85 | 1.24 | % | $ | 6.28 | ||||||||
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,016.70 | 0.75 | % | $ | 3.79 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,021.31 | 0.75 | % | $ | 3.80 | ||||||||
| Class C | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,011.80 | 1.60 | % | $ | 8.07 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,017.05 | 1.60 | % | $ | 8.09 | ||||||||
| Class A | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,014.50 | 1.00 | % | $ | 5.05 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,020.05 | 1.00 | % | $ | 5.06 | ||||||||
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 71 |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Disclosure of Fund Expenses |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| Beginning Account Value April 1, 2018 | Ending Account Value September 30, 2018 | Expense Ratio(a) | Expenses Paid During period April 1, 2018 - September 30, 2018(b) | |||||||||||||
| ICON Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,001.00 | 1.16 | % | $ | 5.82 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,019.25 | 1.16 | % | $ | 5.87 | ||||||||
| Class C | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 995.40 | 2.25 | % | $ | 11.25 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,013.79 | 2.25 | % | $ | 11.36 | ||||||||
| Class A | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 998.90 | 1.50 | % | $ | 7.52 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,017.55 | 1.50 | % | $ | 7.59 | ||||||||
| ICON Long/Short Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,009.70 | 1.25 | % | $ | 6.30 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,018.80 | 1.25 | % | $ | 6.33 | ||||||||
| Class C | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,004.20 | 2.30 | % | $ | 11.56 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,013.54 | 2.30 | % | $ | 11.61 | ||||||||
| Class A | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,008.10 | 1.55 | % | $ | 7.80 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,017.30 | 1.55 | % | $ | 7.84 | ||||||||
| ICON Opportunities Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,032.80 | 1.30 | % | $ | 6.62 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,018.55 | 1.30 | % | $ | 6.58 | ||||||||
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,041.50 | 1.20 | % | $ | 6.14 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,019.05 | 1.20 | % | $ | 6.07 | ||||||||
| Class C | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,036.10 | 2.20 | % | $ | 11.23 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,014.04 | 2.20 | % | $ | 11.11 | ||||||||
| Class A | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,040.20 | 1.45 | % | $ | 7.42 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,017.80 | 1.45 | % | $ | 7.33 | ||||||||
| (a) | The Fund’s expense ratios have been annualized based on the Fund’s most recent fiscal half-year expenses. |
| (b) | Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year 183/365 (to reflect the half-year period). |
Total returns exclude applicable sales charges. If sales charges were included (maximum 5.75%), returns would be lower.
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| ICON Diversified Funds | Board of Trustees and Officers |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
The ICON Funds Board of Trustees (the “Board”) consists of four Trustees who oversee the 17 ICON Funds (the “Funds”). The Board is responsible for general oversight of the Funds’ business and for assuring that the Funds are managed in the best interest of the Funds’ shareholders. The Trustees, and their ages, and principal occupations are set forth below. The address of the Trustees is 5299 DTC Blvd., Suite 1200, Greenwood Village, CO 80111. Trustees have no official term of office and generally serve until they resign or are not re-elected.
Interested Trustee
Craig T. Callahan, 67. Chairman of the Board. Dr. Callahan has been a Trustee of the Funds since their inception. Dr. Callahan also serves as President (2014 to present and 1998 to 2013) and Chairman of the Investment Committee (2005 to present) and served as the Chief Investment Officer (1991 to 2004) of ICON Advisers, Inc. Dr. Callahan is also Executive Vice President (2005 to present); Director (1991 to present); and was previously President (1998 to 2005) and Chief Compliance Officer (2005) of ICON Distributors, Inc. Dr. Callahan also serves as the President (1998 to present) and Chairman of the Board of Directors (1994 to present) of IM&R, the parent company of ICON Advisers, Inc. and ICON Distributors, Inc.
Independent Trustees
Glen F. Bergert, 68. Mr. Bergert has been a Trustee of the Funds since 1999. Mr. Bergert is President of Venture Capital Management LLC (1997 to present), General Partner of SOGNO Partners LP, a venture capital company (2001 to 2015), General Partner of Bergert Properties, LLP, a real estate holding company (1997 to present), General Partner of Pyramid Real Estate Partnership, a real estate development company (1998 to present), General Partner of Chamois Partners, LP, a venture capital company (2004 to present), and was previously a General Partner with KPMG Peat Marwick, LLP (1979 to 1997). Mr. Bergert is also a Director of Delta Dental of California (2013 to present and 2006 to 2012), Delta Dental of Pennsylvania (2010 to present and 1998 to 2009), Delta Reinsurance Corporation (2015 to present; 2011 to 2014 and 2000 to 2009) and Dentegra Group, Inc. (2017 to present; 2010 to 2014).
John C. Pomeroy, Jr., 71. Mr. Pomeroy has been a Trustee of the Funds since 2002. Mr. Pomeroy is Chief Investment Officer and Director of Investments, Pennsylvania State University (2001 to present) and was Portfolio Manager and Product Manager, Trinity Investment Management Corporation (1989 to 2001).
R. Michael Sentel, 70. Mr. Sentel has been a Trustee of the Funds since their inception. Mr. Sentel recently retired from his role as a Senior Attorney with the U.S. Department of Education (1996 to 2018) and was engaged in private practice of securities and corporate law (1981 to 2017). Mr. Sentel began his legal career with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Division of Enforcement and served as a Branch Chief (1980 to 1981). Later he served as the Section Chief for the Professional Liability Section of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. with responsibility for the Rocky Mountain Region (1991 to 1994).
Mark Manassee, 53. Mr. Manassee has been a Trustee of the Funds since 2017. Mr. Manassee is a Senior Advisor to McKinsey’s Wealth and Asset Management Practice, and Chairman of the Board of FundRock Partners, Ltd (UK). Mr. Manassee was Principal and President of Market Metrics, LLC, a subsidiary of FactSet Research Systems, Inc. (1998 to 2016). Mr. Manassee was also a Director of Matrix-Data, Ltd (UK) (2013 to 2016) and Rhetorik, Ltd (UK) (2013 to 2016).
The Officers of the Funds are:
Craig T. Callahan, 67. Chairman of the Board. Dr. Callahan has been a Trustee of the Funds since their inception. Dr. Callahan also serves as President (2014 to present and 1998 to 2013) and Chairman of the Investment Committee (2005 to present) and served as the Chief Investment Officer (1991 to 2004) of ICON Advisers, Inc. Dr. Callahan is also Executive Vice President (2005 to present); Director (1991 to present); and was previously President (1998 to 2005) and Chief Compliance Officer (2005) of ICON Distributors, Inc. Dr. Callahan also serves as the President (1998 to present) and Chairman of the Board of Directors (1994 to present) of IM&R, the parent company of ICON Advisers, Inc. and ICON Distributors, Inc.
Donald Salcito, 65. Mr. Salcito serves as Vice President and Secretary of the Funds (2006 to present). Mr. Salcito is also Executive Vice President and General Counsel (2005 to present) of ICON Advisers, Inc.; Director of IM&R (2005 to present); Executive Vice President, Secretary, General Counsel of ICON Distributors, Inc. (2005 to 2017). Previously, he was a Partner in various national law firms, practicing in the securities law area (1980 to 2005).
Brian D. Harding, 39. Mr. Harding serves as Principal Financial Officer and Treasurer of the Funds (2017 to present). Mr. Harding is also Chief Financial Officer of ICON Advisers, Inc. (2013 to present) and Director of IM&R (2013 to present). Previously he was Chief Compliance Officer and Anti-Money Laundering Officer of the Funds (2008 to 2013), Chief Compliance Officer of ICON Advisers, Inc. (2011 to 2013), and Manager at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (2001 to 2008).
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 73 |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Board of Trustees and Officers |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Jack M. Quillin, 46. Mr. Quillin serves as Assistant Treasurer of the Funds (2017 to present). Mr. Quillin is also a Compliance and Fund Accounting Associate of ICON Advisers, Inc. (2016 to present). Previously, he was a compliance analyst at Marsico Capital Management, LLC (2011 to 2015), an assistant vice president in the municipal derivatives finance department at Merrill Lynch (2004 to 2008), and a senior accountant in the Regulatory Reporting group at Wells Fargo & Company (1998 to 2003).
Christopher R. Ambruso, 38. Mr. Ambruso serves as Chief Compliance Officer and Anti-Money Laundering Officer (2017 to present) of the Funds. Mr. Ambruso is also Chief Compliance Officer of ICON Advisers, Inc. (2017 to present). Previously he served as Assistant Secretary (2016 to 2017 and 2008 to 2012) of the Funds and Associate Counsel (2013 to 2017); Associate Attorney (2008 to 2013); and Staff Attorney (2007 to 2008) of ICON Advisers, Inc.
Stephen E. Abrams, 55. Mr. Abrams serves as Assistant Secretary of the Funds (2017 to present). Mr. Abrams is also Associate General Counsel of ICON Advisers, Inc. (2005 to present); Executive Vice President and General Counsel (2017 to present) and Chief Compliance Officer (2007 to present) of ICON Distributors, Inc. Previously, he worked as an Associate Attorney before becoming a Partner at a national law firm, practicing general litigation and securities law (1994 to 2005).
| 74 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Additional Information |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Renewal of Investment Advisory Agreement
On September 7, 2018, the Board of Trustees, including all of the Trustees that are not “interested persons” of the Trust (the “Independent Trustees”), approved continuation of the Advisory Agreements (as defined below) with the Adviser for each Fund for an additional one-year term commencing October 1, 2018.
The Trustees considered the renewal of the investment advisory agreements between the Trust and the Adviser – the Trust’s Investment Advisory Agreement dated October 9, 1996, as amended (related to the Sector Funds, the International Funds and the ICON Fund) and the Trust’s Investment Advisory Agreement dated July 9, 2002 and effective October 1, 2002, as amended (related to the U.S. Diversified Funds — Flexible Bond, Risk-Managed Balanced, Equity Income, Opportunities and Long/Short Funds) (collectively, the “Advisory Agreements”). The Trustees agreed that consideration of the Advisory Agreements should also include consideration of other agreements between the Adviser and the Trust that impact provisions of the Advisory Agreements, including the expense limitation agreements.
The Trustees were provided with and reviewed data with respect to the Adviser, its personnel, and the services provided and to be provided to each Fund by the Adviser under the Trust’s Advisory Agreements, Administrative Services Agreement and Expense Limitation Agreement and the Distribution Agreement with ICON Distributors, Inc. (“IDI”). The data included information concerning advisory, distribution and administrative services provided to the Funds by ICON and its related companies; information concerning other businesses of those companies; and comparative data obtained from Broadridge related to Fund performance and Fund expenses (the “Broadridge Report”).
The Independent Trustees met separately with Broadridge on August 8, 2018 to discuss the Broadridge Report and the information contained within the Broadridge Report.
Also included in the 15(c) discussion was a briefing on factors affecting the ICON investment model; expenses and expense ratios of each Fund and other ICON managed products; relative performance of each Fund; status of expense reimbursements to the Funds by the Adviser; sales and marketing initiatives; specific business factors affecting IDI; the work load on ICON as adviser and administrator to the Funds; current profitability of ICON; staffing levels and staff morale.
The Independent Trustees were represented by independent legal counsel in the entire 15(c) process. In August, after participating in the meeting with Broadridge and management, the Independent Trustees met separately as a group in private sessions with their independent legal counsel to review and discuss a wide variety of qualitative and quantitative information, including information they had received throughout the year as part of their regular oversight of the Funds. Based on these discussions, independent legal counsel and/or the Lead Independent Trustee also contacted management to request additional information from Broadridge. The Board received materials from independent legal counsel discussing the legal standards applicable to their consideration of the ICON-Trust agreements.
In considering the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by the Adviser, the Board reviewed information relating to ICON’s operations and personnel. Among other things, the Adviser provided biographical information on its professional staff and descriptions of its organizational and management structure. In the course of their deliberations the Board evaluated among other things, information relating to the investment philosophy, strategies and techniques used in managing each Fund, the qualifications and experience of ICON’s investment personnel, ICON’s compliance programs, ICON’s brokerage practices, including the extent to which the Adviser obtains research through “soft dollar” arrangements with the Funds’ brokerage, compliance reports on the foregoing, and the financial and non-financial resources available to provide services required under the Advisory Agreement.
Management and the Trustees discussed the Broadridge Report and Management personnel showed performance for each Fund and discussed the factors affecting performance. During a lengthy and spirited discussion, the Trustees expressed their concerns regarding both the ICON Funds’ performance relative to similarly situated funds and the overall rate of redemptions relative to sales.
With regard to the ICON Funds’ performance, the Chief Investment Officer (“CIO”) stated that the current market is favoring growth rather than value-based systems or styles. The current market is challenging for the ICON system. The CIO reiterated his faith in the ICON system, noting its many past successes. The Trustees raised questions regarding the Funds’ lagging performance and what changes might help to increase the performance, while staying within the ICON system. The Trustees’ questions and the discussion with Management focused on Management’s working internally to identify ways to improve performance by implementing changes within the ICON system, without straying outside the ICON system of value investing.
From a sales perspective, Management has been challenged to penetrate and retain sales in the full-service wirehouse firms. Wirehouses, Management noted, are intent on capturing assets while moving from a transaction-based compensation model (e.g. paying per trade) to a fee-based compensation model (e.g. paying a fixed percentage for asset management). Wirehouses are culling their recommended lists and/or looking
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 75 |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Additional Information |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
to pare down the number of fund families with whom they do business. Management has seen most of the ICON Funds culled from wirehouses, in large part because of the size of the Funds.
In connection with reviewing data bearing upon the nature, quality, and extent of services furnished by ICON to each Fund, the Board assessed data concerning ICON’s staffing, systems and facilities. The Board also assessed ICON’s non-Trust business to see if there are any initiatives that would dilute service to the Trust. The Board concluded:
| A. | That the breadth and the quality of investment advisory and other services being provided to each Fund are satisfactory; |
| B. | That ICON has made significant expenditures in the past year and in prior years by way of expense reimbursements and the Adviser has the systems and trained personnel necessary for it to be able to continue to provide quality service to the Funds’ shareholders; |
| C. | That the Board is satisfied with the research, portfolio management, and trading services, among others, being provided by ICON to the Trust, and has determined that ICON is charging fair and reasonable fees; and |
| D. | The risks assumed by ICON in providing investment advisory services to each Fund including the capital commitments which have been made in the past and which continue to be made by ICON to ensure the continuation of the highest quality of service to the Trust is made with the recognition that the Trust’s advisory relationship with ICON can be terminated at any time and must be renewed on an annual basis. |
In considering the reasonableness of the fees paid to the Adviser for managing each Fund, the Board reviewed, among other things, data concerning other funds from the Broadridge Report, financial statements of the Adviser and an analysis of the profitability of the Adviser, and its affiliates, and their relationship with each Fund over various time periods. Such analysis identified all revenues and other benefits received by the Adviser and its affiliates from managing each Fund, the costs associated with providing such services and the resulting profitability to the Adviser and its affiliates and a comparison of similar data from reports filed by publicly traded firms.
The Board assessed actual (net) fees for advisory services and Fund expense ratios under the contractual relationship (the Advisory agreements, the Administration Agreement and the Expense Limitation Agreements) with the Adviser as opposed to the fees specified in the applicable Advisory Agreement and expense ratios without application of the expense limitations and the low cost of the Administration Agreement and concluded that the focus should be on actual expense ratios after application of the Expense Limitation Agreements.
The Board considered the current and anticipated asset levels of each Fund and the contractual commitments of the Adviser to waive fees and pay expenses of the Funds from time to time to limit the total expenses of the Funds. The Board also considered the Adviser’s contractual commitment regarding administration and the fact it would continue to lose money on administration. In this regard the Board discussed asset levels in each Fund covered by the Advisory Agreements. ICON’s ability to provide the services called for under the Advisory Agreements was assessed in light of current and projected asset levels. Fund expenses and expense ratios were also assessed in light of current and projected asset levels. The Board concluded that the Adviser has the resources necessary to provide the services called for under the Advisory Agreements; that profitability to the Adviser and its affiliates from their relationship with the Funds, and services provided to the Funds, is not excessive; and that the Adviser is not realizing benefits from economies of scale that would warrant adjustments to the fees for any Fund at this time. The Board of Trustees concluded that, in light of the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by the Adviser and the levels of profitability associated with providing these services, the fees charged by the Adviser under the Advisory Agreements to each Fund are reasonable.
In connection with assessing data bearing on the fairness of fee arrangements, the Board considered the Broadridge Report, and information that they had received throughout the year as part of their regular oversight of the Funds, including Morningstar and Lipper data on the peer groupings. Among other information discussed, it was noted that:
| A. | Upon review of the advisory fee structures of each Fund in comparison with other similar funds of similar size, the level of investment advisory fees paid by each Fund is competitive; |
| B. | The total expense ratio and contractual management fees at common asset levels of each Fund are generally competitive with their expense groups; |
| C. | ICON has contractually agreed to impose expense limitations on all Funds at a cost to ICON; |
| D. | That the advisory and other fees payable by the Funds to ICON are essentially fees which would be similar to those which would have resulted solely from “arm’s-length” bargaining; |
| 76 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Additional Information |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| E. | That the fees paid to ICON for managing other institutional accounts (such as individuals or sub-advised portfolios) are lower than the fees paid by similarly managed ICON funds, but the reason why they are lower is reasonably related to the cost for ICON to manage such accounts; |
| F. | The extent to which economies of scale could be realized as a Fund grows in assets and whether the Fund’s fees reflect these economies of scale for the benefit of Fund shareholders; and |
| G. | The costs borne by ICON in providing advisory services to each Fund and the profitability of ICON in light of the estimated profitability analysis which had been provided by ICON. |
The Board also considered the fees charged by the Adviser to other advisory clients as outlined in its Registration Application on Form ADV in connection with assessing data bearing on the fairness of fee arrangements. The Trustees and Management recognized that the Adviser is continuously evaluating Fund expense ratios and expense limits to assess the competitiveness of the Funds and whether any downward adjustments affect Fund sales.
The Board concluded that the Adviser is providing the Funds with professional management at a price that would have been arrived at in an arm’s length negotiation.
In connection with assessing the direct and indirect benefits to ICON from serving as the Funds’ adviser, the Board discussed services provided under the Distribution Agreement and the Administrative Services Agreement which are in addition to services under the Advisory Agreements. It was noted that:
| A. | ICON benefits from serving directly or through affiliates as the principal underwriter and administrative agent for the Funds; the services provided by ICON and its affiliates to the Funds are reasonably satisfactory, and whether the profits derived from providing the services are competitive and reasonable; |
| B. | ICON receives research assistance from the use of soft dollars generated from Fund portfolio transactions; the Trustees noted that such research is necessary to run the Funds and assists ICON in providing investment advisory services to the Funds as well as other accounts to which it provides advisory services. |
Based on all these considerations and other data as discussed above, the Board, including all of the Independent Trustees, concluded that: 1) the continuation of the Advisory Agreements was in the best interests of each Fund and its shareholders, 2) the services to be performed under the Advisory Agreements were required for the operation of the Funds, 3) the advisory services were satisfactory to the Funds in the past, and 4) the fees for the advisory services and other benefits from the relationship with the Trust received by ICON, and its affiliates, were within the range of what would have been negotiated at arm’s length in light of all the circumstances.
Supplemental Tax Info
Pursuant to Section 852(b)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code the following Funds designate the amounts listed below as long-term capital gain dividends:
| ICON Equity Income Fund | $0 |
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | $0 |
| ICON Fund | $0 |
| ICON Long/Short Fund | $0 |
| ICON Opportunities Fund | $307,810 |
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | $0 |
The following Funds designate the percentages listed below of the income dividends distributed in 2017 as qualified dividend income (QDI) as defined in Section 1(h)(11) of the Internal Revenue Code:
| ICON Equity Income Fund | 57.04 | % |
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | 00.80 | % |
| ICON Fund | 0.00 | % |
| ICON Long/Short Fund | 0.00 | % |
| ICON Opportunities Fund | 0.00 | % |
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | 59.59 | % |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 77 |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Additional Information |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
The following Funds designate the percentages listed below of the income dividends distributed in 2017 as qualifying for the corporate dividends received deduction (DRD) as defined in Section 854(b)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code:
| ICON Equity Income Fund | 51.24% |
| ICON Flexible Bond Fund | 1.41% |
| ICON Fund | 0.00% |
| ICON Long/Short Fund | 0.00% |
| ICON Opportunities Fund | 0.00% |
| ICON Risk-Managed Balanced Fund | 54.93% |
Portfolio Holdings
Information related to the 10 largest portfolio holdings of each Fund is made available at www.iconfunds.com within approximately 10 business days after month-end. Additionally, a complete list of each Fund’s holdings is made available approximately 30 days after month-end. Each ICON Fund also files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the first and third quarters of its fiscal year with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) on Form N-Q. The ICON Funds’ Forms N-Q are available at www.sec.gov or may be reviewed and copied at the Commission’s Public Reference Room in Washington, DC. Information about the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.
Proxy Voting
A summarized description of the policies and procedures the ICON Funds use to vote proxies is available free of charge at www.iconfunds.com or by calling 1-800-764-0442.
Information about how the ICON Funds voted proxies related to each Fund’s portfolio securities during the 12-month period ended June 30 is available free of charge at www.iconfunds.com or on the Commission’s website at www.sec.gov.
For More Information
This report is for the general information of the Funds’ shareholders and is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus. You may obtain a copy of the prospectus, which contains information about the investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and share classes of each ICON Fund, by visiting www.iconfunds.com or by calling 1-800-764-0442. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing.
ICON Distributors, Inc., Distributor.
| 78 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Privacy Policy |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| FACTS | WHAT DOES ICON DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION? |
| Why? | Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do. |
| What? | The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:
● Social Security number and account balances ● income and transaction history ● checking account information and wire transfer instructions
When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice. |
| How? | All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons ICON chooses to share; and whether you can limit this sharing. |
| Reasons we can share your personal information | Does ICON share? | Can you limit this sharing? |
| For our everyday business purposes — such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court orders and legal investigations, or report to credit bureaus | Yes |
No |
| For our marketing purposes — to offer our products and services to you | No |
We don’t share |
| For joint marketing with other financial companies | No | We don’t share |
| For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes — information about your transactions and experiences | No |
We don’t share |
| For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes — information about your creditworthiness | No |
We don’t share |
| For nonaffiliates to market to you | No | We don’t share |
| Questions? | Call 1-800-764-0442 for the ICON Funds and 1-800-828-4881 for ICON Advisers, Inc. and ICON Distributors, Inc. |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 79 |
| ICON Diversified Funds | Privacy Policy |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| Who We Are | |
| Who is providing this notice? | ICON Funds, ICON Advisers, Inc., and ICON Distributors, Inc. (collectively “ICON”) |
| What We Do | |
| How
does ICON protect my personal information? |
To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.
Contracts with our service providers require them to restrict access to your non-public personal information, and to maintain physical, electronic and procedural safeguards against unintended disclosure. |
| How does ICON collect my personal information? | We collect your personal information, for example, when you
● open an account or enter into an investment advisory contract ● provide account information or give us your contact information ● make a wire transfer
We also collect your personal information from others, such as credit bureaus, affiliates, or other companies. |
| Why can’t I limit all sharing? | Federal law gives you the right to limit only
● sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes — information about your creditworthiness ● affiliates from using your information to market to you ● sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you
State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing. |
| Definitions | |
| Affiliates | Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.
● Our affiliates include financial companies such as ICON Funds, ICON Advisers, Inc., and ICON Distributors, Inc. |
| Nonaffiliates | Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.
● Nonaffiliates we share with can include financial companies such as custodians, transfer agents, registered representatives, financial advisers and nonfinancial companies such as fulfillment, proxy voting, and class action service providers |
| Joint marketing | A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.
● ICON doesn’t jointly market |
| 80 | www.iconfunds.com |
| For more information about the ICON Funds, contact us: | |
| By Telephone | 1-800-764-0442 |
| By E-Mail | info@iconadvisers.com |
| By Mail | ICON Funds | P.O. Box 1920 | Denver, CO 80201 |
| In Person | ICON Funds | 5299 DTC Boulevard, 12th Floor Greenwood Village, CO 80111 |
| On the Internet | www.iconfunds.com |
ANNUAL REPORT
September 30, 2018
International Funds
ICON Emerging Markets Fund (ICARX, IPCAX)
ICON International Equity Fund (ICNEX, IIQCX, IIQAX)
You can now sign up for electronic delivery of ICON Fund shareholder reports, including prospectuses, annual reports, semiannual reports and proxy statements.
When these materials are available, you will receive an email from ICON with instructions on how to view the documents. Statements, transaction confirmations and other documents that are not available online will continue to be sent to you by U.S. mail.
Visit ICON’s website at www.iconfunds.com to learn more and sign up.
You may change or cancel your participation in eDelivery by visiting www.iconfunds.com, or you can request a hard copy of any of the materials free of charge by calling ICON Funds at 1-800-764-0442.
| 1-800-764-0442 | ● | www.iconfunds.com |
TABLE OF CONTENTS
| ICON International Funds | About This Report |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
Historical Returns
All total returns mentioned in this Report account for the change in a Fund’s per-share price and the reinvestment of any dividends, capital gain distributions and adjustments for financial statement purposes. If your account is set up to receive Fund distributions in cash rather than to reinvest them, your actual return may differ from these figures. The Funds’ performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. The Adviser may have reimbursed certain fees or expenses of some of the Funds. If not for these reimbursements, performance would have been lower. Fund results shown, unless otherwise indicated, are at net asset value. If a sales charge (maximum 5.75%) had been deducted, results would have been lower.
Past performance does not guarantee 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. Performance results represent past performance, and current performance may be higher or lower. Please call 1-800-764-0442 or visit www.iconfunds.com for performance results current to the most recent month-end.
Portfolio Data
This Report reflects ICON’s portfolio holdings as of September 30, 2018, the end of the reporting period. The information is not a complete analysis of every aspect of any sector, industry, security or the Funds.
There are risks associated with mutual fund investing, including the loss of principal. The likelihood of loss may be greater if you invest for a shorter period of time. There is no assurance that the investment process will consistently lead to successful results.
An investment in a region fund may involve greater risk and volatility than a diversified fund. An investment concentrated in sectors and industries may involve greater risk and volatility than a more diversified investment.
Investments in foreign securities may entail unique risks, including political, market, and currency risks. Financial statements of foreign companies are governed by different accounting, auditing, and financial standards than U.S. companies and may be less transparent and uniform than in the United States. Many corporate governance standards, which help ensure the integrity of public information in the United States, do not exist in foreign countries. In general, there may be less governmental supervision of foreign stock exchanges and securities brokers and issuers. The ICON system relies on the integrity of the financial statements released to the market as part of our analysis.
The prospectus and statement of additional information contain this and other information about the Funds and are available by visiting www.iconfunds.com or calling 1-800-764-0442. Please read the prospectus and statement of additional information carefully.
Financial Intermediary
If you purchase the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services. These payments may influence the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary’s website for more information.
| 2 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | Management Overview |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
| Q. | How did the Fund perform relative to its benchmark? |
| A. | The ICON Emerging Markets Fund (the Fund) Class S returned 2.21% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, while its benchmark, the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, returned -0.44%. Total returns for other periods and additional Class shares as of September 30, 2018, appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview. |
| Q. | What primary factors were behind the Fund’s relative performance? |
| A. | At the beginning of fiscal year 2018, our valuation model indicated the emerging markets universe had a value-to-price (V/P) ratio of 1.07, implying that, on average, our estimate of fair value for stocks was about 7% higher than where they were trading. As the fiscal year progressed into 2018, value began to deplete by mid-February. In conjunction, credit spreads began to widen and the positive earnings trend of the prior year began to reverse, conditions we regard as a higher risk environment for emerging markets securities. Accordingly, we started to tactically manage cash, by increasing the Fund’s position from 4% in February 2018 to 6.3% by the end of the fiscal year. Between February 28, 2018 and September 30, 2018, the MSCI Emerging Markets Index dropped roughly 10.4%, while the Fund declined approximately 7.84%. Thus, cash management was beneficial to relative returns during this period of weakness. |
From 2010 to 2017, the MSCI Emerging Markets Index was led by Information Technology, Financials and the Consumer Discretionary and Consumer Staples sectors, while performance from the Energy sector lagged. In fiscal year 2018, the Energy sector led the Index, fueled by rising energy commodity prices, positive earnings and a favorable credit environment for companies within the sector. Throughout the fiscal year, the ICON Emerging Markets Fund held a large overweight position in the Energy sector as well as an underweight position in the Information Technology, Consumer Discretionary and Consumer Staples sectors. In fiscal year 2018, the Energy sector holdings in the MSCI Emerging Markets Index returned nearly 27%, compared to a roughly 15% decline in the Consumer Discretionary sector, a 1.9% decline in the Consumer Staples sector and a 61 basis point decline for the Information Technology sector. The Fund benefited from its large overweight position in the Energy sector. The Fund was also overweight the Financials sector. While the sector performed well as a whole, the Fund suffered because the individual Financials stocks held by the Fund lagged many of the other Financials in the benchmark and dragged on performance.
| Q. | How did the Fund’s composition affect performance? |
| A. | The Fund’s performance benefitted from its holdings in the Energy and Consumer Discretionary sectors. Specifically, overweight positions in Energy’s integrated oil & gas and coal & consumable fuels industries, as well as a general underweight position in the Consumer Discretionary sector positively affected relative performance to the benchmark. Because we saw little value in the Consumer Discretionary sector, the Fund benefitted, having virtually no exposure to the sector over the course of the fiscal year. |
Conversely, the Fund’s Financials sector holdings detracted from performance, as the diversified banks industry hindered the Fund’s relative returns versus the benchmark. The Telecommunication Services sector was another source of relative underperformance, as the Fund’s holdings within the integrated telecommunication services and wireless telecommunication services industries ultimately hindered returns.
From a country perspective, China was the largest positive contributor to relative returns as overweight positions in Energy and underweight positions in Information Technology benefitted the Fund. The Fund’s Russian and Indonesian positions likewise benefitted performance, largely due to holdings in the Energy sector as well. Turkey was the largest country detractor versus the benchmark. Despite having only a 3.8% average country weight in the Fund over the year, the Fund’s Turkish holdings declined over 40%. Taiwan was also a detractor as investments within the Information Technology sector detracted from the Fund’s returns. Finally, our Energy exposure was supplemented with domestic positions in the oil & gas exploration & production industry. These stocks outperformed the index and were beneficial to the Fund’s relative performance.
| Q. | What is your investment outlook for emerging markets? |
| A. | At the end of fiscal year 2018, emerging markets had an overall average V/P of 1.02, implying that we believe the fair value for emerging markets stocks as a whole is approximately 2% higher than where the securities are now trading. This modest V/P, combined with unfavorable credit markets and a tepid earnings outlook suggest we should utilize capital and resources cautiously. As a result, we continue to tactically manage cash and will look for better earnings, a better credit backdrop or lower equity prices before deploying cash. |
During fiscal year 2018, Energy was a sector leader within emerging markets and our valuation system suggests this can continue in our favored industries of integrated oil & gas, oil & gas exploration & production, and oil & gas refining & marketing. We have taken a global approach to the sector, but with a focus on Europe and Asia. Our favored industries within the Energy sector of emerging markets not only have intrinsic value under our methodology, but also strong earnings coupled with a stable credit environment. The Fund remains underweight the Information Technology, Consumer Discretionary, Consumer Staples and Health Care sectors.
Regionally, according to our system, Europe in general and Russia specifically represent some of the best bargains within the emerging markets universe. Russia has at least two notable tailwinds: First, the underlying earnings outlook for Russian companies has seen broad
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 3 |
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | Management Overview |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
improvement. Second, Standard and Poor’s upgraded the country’s sovereign credit rating in February 2018 to Investment Grade status. Our primary allocation within Russia is to the Energy sector and more specifically to the integrated oil and gas industry. Within the Western Hemisphere, we find attractive opportunities in Brazil and Mexico. Additionally, the Philippines, South Korea and China are currently showing the most value in the Asia-Pacific region. The Fund’s largest country underweights are Taiwan and South Africa. Based on our disciplined, systematic and non-emotional approach to investing, we will continue deploying capital toward areas we believe have the most opportunity.
| 4 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | Management Overview |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
| Inception Date | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | Since Inception | Gross Expense Ratio* | Net Expense Ratio* | |
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund – Class S | 2/25/97 | 2.21% | 3.81% | 6.05% | 3.30% | 1.72% | 1.55% |
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund – Class A | 5/31/06 | 1.97% | 3.59% | 5.83% | 2.94% | 2.12% | 1.80% |
| ICON
Emerging Markets Fund – Class A (including maximum sales charge of 5.75%) |
5/31/06 | -3.88% | 2.37% | 5.21% | 2.44% | 2.16% | 1.80% |
| MSCI Emerging Markets Index | -0.44% | 3.99% | 5.76% | 6.16% | N/A | N/A |
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Fund’s name and investment strategy changed effective May 5, 2014. The Fund’s past performance would have been different if the current strategy had been in effect. The Adviser has agreed to limit certain Fund expenses; without these limitations, returns would have been lower. The limitation provisions may be terminated in the future.
| * | Please see the most recent prospectus for details. |
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the Emerging Markets Fund’s Class S shares on the Class’ inception date of 2/25/97 to a $10,000 investment made in an unmanaged securities index on that date. The Fund’s name and investment strategy changed effective May 5, 2014. The Fund’s past performance would have been different if the current strategy had been in effect. Performance for the Emerging Markets Fund’s other share classes will vary due to differences in charges and expenses. The Emerging Markets Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends, capital gain distributions and tax return of capital, but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 5 |
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | Schedule of Investments |
September 30, 2018
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Common Stocks (90.11%) | ||||||||
| Commodity Chemicals (3.93%) | ||||||||
| Cabot Corp. | 6,200 | $ | 388,864 | |||||
| Indorama Ventures PCL | 190,000 | 346,703 | ||||||
| Kumho Petrochemical Co., Ltd. | 3,000 | 266,361 | ||||||
| Mexichem SAB de CV | 262,246 | 897,836 | ||||||
| PTT Global Chemical PCL | 140,000 | 351,808 | ||||||
| 2,251,572 | ||||||||
| Construction Materials (3.21%) | ||||||||
| China Resources Cement Holdings, Ltd. | 454,000 | 527,970 | ||||||
| West China Cement, Ltd. | 7,000,000 | 1,313,943 | ||||||
| 1,841,913 | ||||||||
| Diversified Banks (22.37%) | ||||||||
| Agricultural Bank of China, Ltd., Class H | 3,364,000 | 1,649,777 | ||||||
| Akbank T.A.S. | 360,000 | 412,356 | ||||||
| Banco do Brasil SA | 41,000 | 298,372 | ||||||
| Bank Negara Indonesia Persero Tbk PT | 524,000 | 260,214 | ||||||
| Bank of China, Ltd., Class H | 3,462,000 | 1,529,660 | ||||||
| Bank Pan Indonesia Tbk PT(a) | 13,827,400 | 908,757 | ||||||
| China Construction Bank Corp., Class H | 1,750,000 | 1,529,676 | ||||||
| Grupo Financiero Banorte SAB de CV, Class O | 95,108 | 688,026 | ||||||
| Industrial & Commercial Bank of China, Ltd. | 1,052,000 | 768,059 | ||||||
| Industrial Bank of Korea | 52,000 | 714,634 | ||||||
| Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. | 563,179 | 698,632 | ||||||
| OTP Bank Nyrt | 18,000 | 667,055 | ||||||
| Sberbank of Russia PJSC, Sponsored ADR | 88,000 | 1,106,600 | ||||||
| Shinhan Financial Group Co., Ltd. | 28,000 | 1,131,438 | ||||||
| Turkiye Garanti Bankasi AS | 360,000 | 458,980 | ||||||
| 12,822,236 | ||||||||
| Electronic Equipment & Instruments (0.63%) | ||||||||
| SFA Engineering Corp. | 11,000 | 362,918 | ||||||
| Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders (1.89%) | ||||||||
| Aboitiz Power Corp. | 642,000 | 397,463 | ||||||
| Electricity Generating PCL | 94,000 | 685,326 | ||||||
| 1,082,789 | ||||||||
| Industrial Machinery (1.97%) | ||||||||
| China Conch Venture Holdings, Ltd. | 324,000 | 1,131,451 | ||||||
| Integrated Oil & Gas (13.85%) | ||||||||
| China Petroleum & Chemical Corp., Class H | 1,084,000 | 1,089,149 | ||||||
| Gazprom PJSC, Sponsored ADR | 346,000 | 1,726,551 | ||||||
| LUKOIL PJSC, Sponsored ADR | 20,000 | 1,528,800 | ||||||
| MOL Hungarian Oil & Gas PLC | 106,000 | 1,141,719 | ||||||
| Oil & Natural Gas Corp., Ltd. | 326,000 | 797,334 | ||||||
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Integrated Oil & Gas (continued) | ||||||||
| Rosneft Oil Co. PJSC, GDR | 222,000 | $ | 1,658,729 | |||||
| 7,942,282 | ||||||||
| Interactive Media & Services (3.32%) | ||||||||
| Momo, Inc., Sponsored ADR(a) | 14,000 | 613,200 | ||||||
| Tencent Holdings, Ltd. | 31,545 | 1,288,008 | ||||||
| 1,901,208 | ||||||||
| Internet & Direct Marketing Retail (1.26%) | ||||||||
| Alibaba Group Holding, Ltd., Sponsored ADR(a) | 4,400 | 724,944 | ||||||
| IT Consulting & Other Services (2.84%) | ||||||||
| HCL Technologies, Ltd. | 60,000 | 900,414 | ||||||
| Infosys, Ltd. | 72,488 | 728,202 | ||||||
| 1,628,616 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production (9.21%) | ||||||||
| CNOOC, Ltd. | 1,017,000 | 2,013,789 | ||||||
| Diamondback Energy, Inc.(b) | 4,075 | 550,899 | ||||||
| Energen Corp.(a) | 5,000 | 430,850 | ||||||
| EOG Resources, Inc. | 5,200 | 663,364 | ||||||
| Pioneer Natural Resources Co. | 4,700 | 818,693 | ||||||
| WildHorse Resource Development Corp.(a) | 34,000 | 803,760 | ||||||
| 5,281,355 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing (8.20%) | ||||||||
| Motor Oil Hellas Corinth Refineries SA | 28,000 | 731,462 | ||||||
| Petron Corp. | 6,350,000 | 1,021,312 | ||||||
| Reliance Industries, Ltd. | 70,000 | 1,215,131 | ||||||
| SK Innovation Co., Ltd. | 5,500 | 1,066,120 | ||||||
| Tupras Turkiye Petrol Rafinerileri AS | 30,000 | 666,107 | ||||||
| 4,700,132 | ||||||||
| Paper Packaging (0.59%) | ||||||||
| DS Smith PLC | 54,000 | 336,360 | ||||||
| Paper Products (4.50%) | ||||||||
| Lee & Man Paper Manufacturing, Ltd. | 1,387,000 | 1,284,311 | ||||||
| Mondi PLC | 26,000 | 711,874 | ||||||
| Nine Dragons Paper Holdings, Ltd. | 544,000 | 586,601 | ||||||
| 2,582,786 | ||||||||
| Regional Banks (4.93%) | ||||||||
| Bank Tabungan Negara Persero Tbk PT | 1,424,000 | 251,173 | ||||||
| DGB Financial Group, Inc. | 127,000 | 1,161,839 | ||||||
| Regional SAB de CV | 223,800 | 1,411,038 | ||||||
| 2,824,050 | ||||||||
| Renewable Electricity (1.58%) | ||||||||
| China Everbright Greentech, Ltd. | 1,004,792 | 856,775 | ||||||
| Energy Development Corp.(a) | 375,361 | 49,187 | ||||||
| 905,962 | ||||||||
| Semiconductors (1.25%) | ||||||||
| Nanya Technology Corp. | 152,000 | 290,258 | ||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 6 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | Schedule of Investments |
September 30, 2018
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Semiconductors (continued) | ||||||||
| Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd. | 50,000 | $ | 426,677 | |||||
| 716,935 | ||||||||
| Steel (1.94%) | ||||||||
| POSCO | 4,200 | 1,114,877 | ||||||
| Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals (0.55%) | ||||||||
| Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd. | 7,500 | 313,882 | ||||||
| Water Utilities (1.05%) | ||||||||
| TTW PCL | 1,599,400 | 603,361 | ||||||
| Wireless Telecommunication Services (1.04%) | ||||||||
| China Mobile, Ltd. | 39,000 | 383,442 | ||||||
| TIM Participacoes SA | 72,000 | 209,481 | ||||||
| 592,923 | ||||||||
| Total Common Stocks (Cost $49,221,356) | 51,662,552 | |||||||
| Preferred Stocks (3.83%) | ||||||||
| Diversified Banks (1.31%) | ||||||||
| Banco Bradesco SA | 77,000 | 544,913 | ||||||
| Banco do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul SA | 56,000 | 207,718 | ||||||
| 752,631 | ||||||||
| Integrated Oil & Gas (1.64%) | ||||||||
| Petroleo Brasileiro SA | 180,000 | 940,436 | ||||||
| Integrated Telecommunication Services (0.88%) | ||||||||
| Telefonica Brasil SA | 52,000 | 504,221 | ||||||
| Total Preferred Stocks (Cost $2,861,683) | 2,197,288 | |||||||
| Total Investments (93.94%) (Cost $52,083,039) | $ | 53,859,840 | ||||||
| Other Assets Less Liabilities (6.06%) | 3,472,980 | |||||||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 57,332,820 | ||||||
| (a) | Non-income producing security. |
| (b) | All or a portion of the security was on loan as of September 30, 2018. |
ADR - American Depositary Receipt
GDR - Global Depositary Receipt
| Country Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| China | 23.81 | % | ||
| South Korea | 10.69 | % | ||
| Russia | 10.50 | % | ||
| United States | 6.38 | % | ||
| India | 6.35 | % | ||
| Hong Kong | 6.34 | % | ||
| Mexico | 5.23 | % | ||
| Brazil | 4.72 | % | ||
| Philippines | 3.78 | % | ||
| Thailand | 3.47 | % | ||
| Hungary | 3.15 | % | ||
| Turkey | 2.68 | % | ||
| Indonesia | 2.48 | % | ||
| United Kingdom | 1.83 | % | ||
| Greece | 1.28 | % | ||
| Taiwan | 1.25 | % | ||
| 93.94 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common and preferred stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| Sector Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Energy | 32.90 | % | ||
| Financials | 28.61 | % | ||
| Materials | 14.17 | % | ||
| Information Technology | 5.27 | % | ||
| Communication Services | 5.24 | % | ||
| Utilities | 4.52 | % | ||
| Industrials | 1.97 | % | ||
| Consumer Discretionary | 1.26 | % | ||
| 93.94 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common and preferred stocks as a percentage of net assets.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 7 |
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | Schedule of Investments |
September 30, 2018
| Industry Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Diversified Banks | 23.68 | % | ||
| Integrated Oil & Gas | 15.49 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production | 9.21 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing | 8.20 | % | ||
| Regional Banks | 4.93 | % | ||
| Paper Products | 4.50 | % | ||
| Commodity Chemicals | 3.93 | % | ||
| Interactive Media & Services | 3.32 | % | ||
| Construction Materials | 3.21 | % | ||
| IT Consulting & Other Services | 2.84 | % | ||
| Industrial Machinery | 1.97 | % | ||
| Steel | 1.94 | % | ||
| Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders | 1.89 | % | ||
| Renewable Electricity | 1.58 | % | ||
| Internet & Direct Marketing Retail | 1.26 | % | ||
| Semiconductors | 1.25 | % | ||
| Water Utilities | 1.05 | % | ||
| Wireless Telecommunication Services | 1.04 | % | ||
| Other Industries (each less than 1%) | 2.65 | % | ||
| 93.94 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common and preferred stocks as a percentage of net assets.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 8 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON International Equity Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| Q. | How did the Fund perform relative to its benchmark? |
| A. | The ICON International Equity Fund (the Fund) Class S returned -2.13% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, while the MSCI All Country World Index ex-United States (ACWI ex-U.S.) returned 2.25%. Total returns for other periods and additional Class shares as of September 30, 2018, appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview. |
| Q. | What primary factors were behind the Fund’s relative performance? |
| A. | While we finished fiscal year 2018 with modest global stock market gains, a number of different regions and countries experienced volatility throughout the period. As a whole, global equities began the fiscal year with a continuation of 2017’s gains, and stocks peaked in January 2018. As U.S. interest rates rose, however, investors became nervous about the potential adverse impact of the changing landscape and rising interest rates. Those fears, combined with higher equity prices, sparked a global selloff in equities into May 2018. The selloff contributed to the international equity markets underperforming the United States, as the latter resumed a relatively steady grind higher and the former saw continued losses. |
The prevailing macroeconomic factors brought forth distinct reactions across different regions and countries throughout the year. Geopolitical and other tensions within emerging markets countries contributed to volatility and a decline in performance. Russia saw selling pressure as economic sanctions against it escalated, Turkey and Brazil were embroiled in political uncertainty which adversely impacted both countries’ monetary and fiscal policies, and China felt the effects of an intensifying trade war with the United States. Internationally, every country had to deal with a rising U.S. dollar and rising U.S. interest rates, both of which led to a selloff in equities and weaker foreign currencies for the second half of the year. The Fund was overweight emerging markets stocks compared to its benchmark, and this positioning proved detrimental to relative performance.
Developed markets likewise suffered the effects of a rising U.S. dollar and interest rates, but remained more resilient than their emerging markets peers. The United Kingdom continues to face unique uncertainties involving its exit from the European Union, while renewed political uncertainty in Spain and Italy created downward pressure on equity prices. The Fund maintained overweight exposures to these countries as our methodology suggested they held attractive valuations and this likewise dragged on performance.
A common thread throughout fiscal year 2018 was the persistent underperformance of stocks that looked most attractive to our valuation system. Over the 12-month period, the stocks our system suggested were the best bargains performed the worst. Conversely, the stocks our system indicated were overvalued performed the best. With value as our guide and core strategy, we were naturally positioned in those industries and stocks that presented as the best bargains, but our strategy underperformed. We see volatile markets when this disconnect can occur, but we do not believe it will persist indefinitely.
| Q. | How did the Fund’s composition affect performance? |
| A. | The Fund’s primary contributors to benchmark relative performance came from the Energy and Telecommunication Services sectors. Specifically, overweight positions in the integrated oil & gas and oil & gas exploration & production industries within the Energy sector, and the Fund’s stock selection in the wireless telecommunication services industry within the Telecommunication Services sector contributed to performance relative to the benchmark. |
Conversely, Financials was the largest detractor from a sector level, as the diversified banks industry hindered the Fund’s relative returns versus the benchmark. Our industry selection within the Information Technology sector similarly contributed to the Fund’s underperformance, with our holdings in the semiconductor equipment industry detracting from the Fund’s returns.
Returns varied across all regions during the period. Geographically, Asia-Pacific equities were responsible for the Fund’s highest returns, with much of that gain coming from Japanese stocks. The Fund’s Turkish holding were the largest country detractor versus the benchmark. Despite having only a 2% average country weight in the Fund during the year, the Fund’s Turkish holdings declined over 40%. In order to supplement exposure to the Energy Sector, the Fund held domestic equities, primarily through the oil & gas exploration & production sector. These stocks outperformed the index and were beneficial to the Fund’s relative performance.
| Q. | What is your investment outlook for the international equity market? |
| A. | International equity prices, on average, now remain slightly above our estimate of their intrinsic value. At the end of the period, international markets as a whole had an overall average value-to-price (V/P) ratio of 0.98, implying that, on average, our estimate of fair value for stocks is about 2% lower than where they are currently trading. Recently, international equity markets have experienced a combination of rising interest rates and declining earnings estimates, resulting in lower equity valuations in our system. We have taken a cautious outlook given these developments as there are fewer attractive investment opportunities across sectors, industries and countries than in recent years past. Cash balances have increased as we wait for better investment conditions. In order for the V/P ratio to increase, we would need to see either higher earnings and growth, lower interest rates, or lower equity prices. As always, we will continue to monitor the capital markets and their effect on our investment system. |
Annual Report | September 30, 2018 |
9 |
| ICON International Equity Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
As fiscal year 2018 ends, the Western Hemisphere represents the best opportunity from a regional perspective under our system, with Europe showing the least upside. Within the Western Hemisphere, we find attractive opportunities in Brazil and Mexico. Within Europe, the material decline in equity prices in Turkey, Spain, and Italy has made these countries look attractive to our system. Additionally, the Philippines, South Korea and China are currently showing the most value in the Asia-Pacific region. Emerging markets still look more attractive under our system than developed countries, warranting an overweight position within the Fund.
From a sector perspective, we are still tilted towards Financials, but going into fiscal year 2019 we are also heavily weighted in the Energy and Materials sectors. Last year’s leader, Information Technology, now shows the lowest V/P across our system. The Industrials and Consumer Discretionary sectors likewise have a low V/P and the Fund is thus underweight all three sectors relative to the benchmark.
At ICON we continue to seek out industries that our system identifies as trading at a discount to fair value. Guided by our disciplined, systematic and non-emotional approach to investing, we still see opportunities in these ever-changing markets. However, given our current valuations, we remain less than fully invested as valuations in international markets look less attractive as they have in years past. As market conditions dictate, we will adjust accordingly.
10 |
www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON International Equity Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
Inception Date |
1 Year |
5 Years |
10 Years |
Since Inception | Gross
Expense Ratio* |
Net
Expense Ratio* | |
| ICON International Equity Fund – Class S | 2/18/97 | -2.13% | 1.78% | 2.40% | 4.70% | 1.57% | 1.55% |
| ICON International Equity Fund – Class C | 2/19/04 | -3.09% | 0.71% | 1.28% | 2.16% | 3.35% | 2.55% |
| ICON International Equity Fund – Class A | 5/31/06 | -2.40% | 1.45% | 2.04% | 0.17% | 2.67% | 1.80% |
| ICON International Equity
Fund – Class A (including maximum sales charge of 5.75%) |
5/31/06 | -8.01% | 0.26% | 1.44% | -0.31% | 2.43% | 1.80% |
| MSCI ACWI ex-U.S. | 2.25% | 4.60% | 5.67% | 5.66% | N/A | N/A |
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Fund’s name and investment strategy changed effective January 29, 2004. The Fund’s past performance would have been different if the current strategy had been in effect. The Adviser has agreed to limit certain Fund expenses; without these limitations, returns would have been lower. The limitation provisions may be terminated in the future.
* Please see the most recent prospectus for details.
Class C total returns exclude applicable sales charges. If sales charges were included returns would be lower.
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the International Equity Fund’s Class S shares on the Class’ inception date of 2/18/97 to a $10,000 investment made in an unmanaged securities index on that date. The Fund’s name and investment strategy changed effective January 29, 2004. The Fund’s past performance would have been different if the current strategy had been in effect. Performance for the International Equity Fund’s other share classes will vary due to differences in charges and expenses. The International Equity Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends, capital gain distributions and tax return of capital, but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
Annual Report | September 30, 2018 |
11 |
| ICON International Equity Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Common Stocks (93.98%) | ||||||||
| Aerospace & Defense (1.01%) | ||||||||
| Airbus SE | 3,500 | $ | 439,400 | |||||
| Application Software (1.49%) | ||||||||
| Open Text Corp. | 17,000 | 646,886 | ||||||
| Asset Management & Custody Banks (0.41%) | ||||||||
| Amundi SA | 2,400 | 179,731 | ||||||
| Biotechnology (0.45%) | ||||||||
| Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a) | 1,400 | 194,614 | ||||||
| Building Products (0.94%) | ||||||||
| Tyman PLC | 90,264 | 410,976 | ||||||
| Commodity Chemicals (2.88%) | ||||||||
| Cabot Corp. | 2,600 | 163,072 | ||||||
| Indorama Ventures PCL | 100,000 | 182,475 | ||||||
| Kumho Petrochemical Co., Ltd. | 2,400 | 213,089 | ||||||
| Mexichem SAB de CV | 129,654 | 443,889 | ||||||
| PTT Global Chemical PCL | 100,000 | 251,291 | ||||||
| 1,253,816 | ||||||||
| Construction Materials (1.03%) | ||||||||
| West China Cement, Ltd. | 2,380,000 | 446,741 | ||||||
| Diversified Banks (16.82%) | ||||||||
| ABN AMRO Group NV | 7,200 | 196,086 | ||||||
| Agricultural Bank of China, Ltd., Class H | 500,000 | 245,211 | ||||||
| Akbank T.A.S. | 183,000 | 209,614 | ||||||
| Banco do Brasil SA | 24,800 | 180,479 | ||||||
| Banco Santander SA | 115,000 | 575,766 | ||||||
| Bank Negara Indonesia Persero Tbk PT | 300,000 | 148,978 | ||||||
| Bank of China, Ltd., Class H | 1,060,000 | 468,354 | ||||||
| BNP Paribas SA | 6,200 | 379,667 | ||||||
| Danske Bank A/S | 6,800 | 178,245 | ||||||
| DNB ASA | 7,700 | 162,043 | ||||||
| Grupo Financiero Banorte SAB de CV, Class O | 25,591 | 185,129 | ||||||
| HSBC Holdings PLC | 35,000 | 305,389 | ||||||
| ING Groep NV | 19,600 | 254,390 | ||||||
| KB Financial Group, Inc. | 8,200 | 399,373 | ||||||
| Lloyds Banking Group PLC | 286,000 | 219,959 | ||||||
| Metropolitan Bank & Trust Co. | 125,150 | 155,251 | ||||||
| OTP Bank Nyrt | 8,000 | 296,469 | ||||||
| Oversea-Chinese Banking Corp., Ltd. | 48,000 | 401,650 | ||||||
| Sberbank of Russia PJSC, Sponsored ADR | 42,000 | 528,150 | ||||||
| Shinhan Financial Group Co., Ltd. | 3,200 | 129,307 | ||||||
| Societe Generale SA | 4,400 | 188,938 | ||||||
| Swedbank AB, Class A | 13,500 | 333,884 | ||||||
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Diversified Banks (continued) | ||||||||
| Toronto-Dominion Bank | 6,100 | $ | 370,680 | |||||
| Turkiye Garanti Bankasi AS | 126,000 | 160,643 | ||||||
| UniCredit SpA | 43,584 | 653,965 | ||||||
| 7,327,620 | ||||||||
| Diversified Chemicals (2.55%) | ||||||||
| BASF SE | 5,000 | 443,666 | ||||||
| Mitsubishi Chemical Holdings Corp. | 36,000 | 344,541 | ||||||
| Sumitomo Chemical Co., Ltd. | 55,000 | 321,879 | ||||||
| 1,110,086 | ||||||||
| Electric Utilities (3.38%) | ||||||||
| CK Infrastructure Holdings, Ltd. | 54,000 | 427,354 | ||||||
| Enel SpA | 46,000 | 235,130 | ||||||
| Iberdrola SA | 110,000 | 807,934 | ||||||
| 1,470,418 | ||||||||
| Fertilizers & Agricultural Chemicals (1.73%) | ||||||||
| Nutrien, Ltd. | 13,000 | 750,621 | ||||||
| Home Improvement Retail (0.37%) | ||||||||
| Kingfisher PLC | 48,000 | 162,299 | ||||||
| Homebuilding (0.44%) | ||||||||
| Redrow PLC | 25,000 | 190,012 | ||||||
| Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders (2.06%) | ||||||||
| Aboitiz Power Corp. | 290,000 | 179,539 | ||||||
| Electric Power Development Co., Ltd. | 12,200 | 337,693 | ||||||
| Electricity Generating PCL | 52,000 | 379,116 | ||||||
| 896,348 | ||||||||
| Industrial Machinery (0.40%) | ||||||||
| China Conch Venture Holdings, Ltd. | 50,000 | 174,607 | ||||||
| Integrated Oil & Gas (11.54%) | ||||||||
| BP PLC | 65,000 | 498,209 | ||||||
| China Petroleum & Chemical Corp., Class H | 298,000 | 299,415 | ||||||
| Eni SpA | 21,000 | 395,841 | ||||||
| Gazprom PJSC, Sponsored ADR | 33,000 | 164,671 | ||||||
| LUKOIL PJSC, Sponsored ADR | 6,700 | 512,148 | ||||||
| MOL Hungarian Oil & Gas PLC | 31,600 | 340,361 | ||||||
| Oil & Natural Gas Corp., Ltd. | 85,000 | 207,894 | ||||||
| Repsol SA | 19,400 | 386,202 | ||||||
| Rosneft Oil Co. PJSC, GDR | 75,700 | 565,612 | ||||||
| Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class B | 27,000 | 945,178 | ||||||
| TOTAL SA(b) | 10,800 | 702,224 | ||||||
| 5,017,755 | ||||||||
| Interactive Media & Services (0.83%) | ||||||||
| Momo, Inc., Sponsored ADR(a) | 3,200 | 140,160 | ||||||
| Tencent Holdings, Ltd. | 5,400 | 220,486 | ||||||
| 360,646 | ||||||||
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
12 |
www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON International Equity Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Internet & Direct Marketing Retail (0.57%) | ||||||||
| Alibaba Group Holding, Ltd., Sponsored ADR(a) | 1,500 | $ | 247,140 | |||||
| Life & Health Insurance (1.82%) | ||||||||
| Legal & General Group PLC | 99,000 | 337,966 | ||||||
| NN Group NV | 5,986 | 267,170 | ||||||
| Prudential PLC | 8,200 | 188,010 | ||||||
| 793,146 | ||||||||
| Metal & Glass Containers (0.74%) | ||||||||
| RPC Group PLC | 31,000 | 321,033 | ||||||
| Multi-line Insurance (5.41%) | ||||||||
| Allianz SE | 4,500 | 1,001,551 | ||||||
| Assicurazioni Generali SpA | 28,300 | 487,322 | ||||||
| Aviva PLC | 77,000 | 491,297 | ||||||
| AXA SA | 14,000 | 375,140 | ||||||
| 2,355,310 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production (7.01%) | ||||||||
| CNOOC, Ltd. | 287,000 | 568,297 | ||||||
| Diamondback Energy, Inc.(b) | 3,428 | 463,431 | ||||||
| Encana Corp. | 35,100 | 460,065 | ||||||
| Energen Corp.(a) | 6,491 | 559,329 | ||||||
| Newfield Exploration Co.(a) | 14,200 | 409,386 | ||||||
| Parsley Energy, Inc., Class A(a) | 11,530 | 337,253 | ||||||
| Pioneer Natural Resources Co. | 1,400 | 243,866 | ||||||
| 3,041,627 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing (5.51%) | ||||||||
| JXTG Holdings, Inc. | 134,000 | 1,013,549 | ||||||
| Petron Corp. | 2,780,000 | 447,126 | ||||||
| Reliance Industries, Ltd. | 12,000 | 208,308 | ||||||
| SK Innovation Co., Ltd. | 2,400 | 465,216 | ||||||
| Tupras Turkiye Petrol Rafinerileri AS | 11,700 | 259,782 | ||||||
| 2,393,981 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Storage & Transportation (1.02%) | ||||||||
| Pembina Pipeline Corp. | 13,000 | 441,737 | ||||||
| Other Diversified Financial Services (0.97%) | ||||||||
| ORIX Corp. | 26,000 | 420,982 | ||||||
| Paper Packaging (2.76%) | ||||||||
| DS Smith PLC | 117,300 | 730,649 | ||||||
| Rengo Co., Ltd. | 55,000 | 468,999 | ||||||
| 1,199,648 | ||||||||
| Paper Products (5.90%) | ||||||||
| Lee & Man Paper Manufacturing, Ltd. | 410,000 | 379,645 | ||||||
| Mondi PLC | 38,000 | 1,040,431 | ||||||
| Nine Dragons Paper Holdings, Ltd. | 586,000 | 631,890 | ||||||
| Oji Holdings Corp. | 71,000 | 515,598 | ||||||
| 2,567,564 | ||||||||
| Pharmaceuticals (1.32%) | ||||||||
| GlaxoSmithKline PLC | 9,400 | 188,515 | ||||||
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Pharmaceuticals (continued) | ||||||||
| Roche Holding AG | 1,000 | $ | 241,815 | |||||
| Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.(b) | 3,400 | 145,377 | ||||||
| 575,707 | ||||||||
| Regional Banks (1.76%) | ||||||||
| DGB Financial Group, Inc. | 38,000 | 347,637 | ||||||
| Regional SAB de CV | 66,000 | 416,124 | ||||||
| 763,761 | ||||||||
| Renewable Electricity (0.66%) | ||||||||
| China Everbright Greentech, Ltd. | 335,009 | 285,658 | ||||||
| Semiconductor Equipment (0.70%) | ||||||||
| SUMCO Corp. | 20,800 | 303,007 | ||||||
| Specialty Chemicals (4.08%) | ||||||||
| Borregaard ASA | 39,128 | 400,965 | ||||||
| Covestro AG(c) | 4,500 | 364,263 | ||||||
| Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd. | 11,400 | 1,007,854 | ||||||
| 1,773,082 | ||||||||
| Steel (0.85%) | ||||||||
| POSCO | 1,400 | 371,626 | ||||||
| Tobacco (1.36%) | ||||||||
| British American Tobacco PLC | 12,700 | 592,081 | ||||||
| Trading Companies & Distributors (1.10%) | ||||||||
| Ashtead Group PLC | 15,100 | 479,097 | ||||||
| Wireless Telecommunication Services (2.11 %) | ||||||||
| SoftBank Group Corp. | 9,200 | 919,076 | ||||||
| Total Common Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $42,211,915) | 40,877,839 | |||||||
| Preferred Stocks (1.54%) | ||||||||
| Diversified Banks (0.94%) | ||||||||
| Banco Bradesco SA | 32,680 | 231,270 | ||||||
| Banco do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul SA | 48,000 | 178,044 | ||||||
| 409,314 | ||||||||
| Integrated Oil & Gas (0.60%) | ||||||||
| Petroleo Brasileiro SA | 50,000 | 261,232 | ||||||
| Total Preferred Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $877,493) | 670,546 | |||||||
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
Annual Report | September 30, 2018 |
13 |
| ICON International Equity Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares
or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Collateral for Securities on Loan (0.02%) | ||||||||
| State Street Navigator
Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio, 7-Day Yield 2.19% | 8,467 | $ | 8,467 | |||||
| Total Collateral for Securities on Loan | ||||||||
| (Cost $8,467) | 8,467 | |||||||
| Total Investments (95.54%) | ||||||||
| (Cost $43,097,875) | $ | 41,556,852 | ||||||
| Other Assets Less Liabilities (4.46%) | 1,939,330 | |||||||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 43,496,182 | ||||||
| (a) | Non-income producing security. |
| (b) | All or a portion of the security was on loan as of September 30, 2018. |
| (c) | Security was purchased pursuant to Rule 144A or Section 4(a)(2) under the Securities Act of 1933 and may be resold in transactions exempt from registration only to qualified institutional buyers. As of September 30, 2018, these securities had a total aggregate market value of $364,263. |
ADR
- American Depositary Receipt
GDR - Global Depositary Receipt
| Country Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| United Kingdom | 16.32 | % | ||
| Japan | 13.34 | % | ||
| China | 6.47 | % | ||
| Canada | 6.15 | % | ||
| United States | 5.46 | % | ||
| France | 5.19 | % | ||
| South Korea | 4.43 | % | ||
| Germany | 4.16 | % | ||
| Spain | 4.07 | % | ||
| Russia | 4.07 | % | ||
| Italy | 4.07 | % | ||
| Hong Kong | 3.96 | % | ||
| Mexico | 2.41 | % | ||
| Brazil | 1.95 | % | ||
| Thailand | 1.87 | % | ||
| Philippines | 1.80 | % | ||
| Netherlands | 1.64 | % | ||
| Hungary | 1.46 | % | ||
| Turkey | 1.45 | % | ||
| Norway | 1.29 | % | ||
| India | 0.96 | % | ||
| Singapore | 0.92 | % | ||
| Sweden | 0.77 | % | ||
| Switzerland | 0.56 | % | ||
| Denmark | 0.41 | % | ||
| Indonesia | 0.34 | % | ||
| 95.52 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common and preferred stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| Sector Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Financials | 28.13 | % | ||
| Energy | 25.68 | % | ||
| Materials | 22.52 | % | ||
| Utilities | 6.10 | % | ||
| Industrials | 3.45 | % | ||
| Communication Services | 2.94 | % | ||
| Information Technology | 2.19 | % | ||
| Health Care | 1.77 | % | ||
| Consumer Discretionary | 1.38 | % | ||
| Consumer Staples | 1.36 | % | ||
| 95.52 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common and preferred stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
14 |
www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON International Equity Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Industry Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Diversified Banks | 17.76 | % | ||
| Integrated Oil & Gas | 12.14 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production | 7.01 | % | ||
| Paper Products | 5.90 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing | 5.51 | % | ||
| Multi-line Insurance | 5.41 | % | ||
| Specialty Chemicals | 4.08 | % | ||
| Electric Utilities | 3.38 | % | ||
| Commodity Chemicals | 2.88 | % | ||
| Paper Packaging | 2.76 | % | ||
| Diversified Chemicals | 2.55 | % | ||
| Wireless Telecommunication Services | 2.11 | % | ||
| Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders | 2.06 | % | ||
| Life & Health Insurance | 1.82 | % | ||
| Regional Banks | 1.76 | % | ||
| Fertilizers & Agricultural Chemicals | 1.73 | % | ||
| Application Software | 1.49 | % | ||
| Tobacco | 1.36 | % | ||
| Pharmaceuticals | 1.32 | % | ||
| Trading Companies & Distributors | 1.10 | % | ||
| Construction Materials | 1.03 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Storage & Transportation | 1.02 | % | ||
| Aerospace & Defense | 1.01 | % | ||
| Other Industries (each less than 1%) | 8.33 | % | ||
| 95.52 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common and preferred stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
Annual Report | September 30, 2018 |
15 |
| ICON International Funds | Statements of Assets and Liabilities |
| September 30, 2018 |
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | ICON International Equity Fund | |||||||
| Assets | ||||||||
| Investments, at cost | $ | 52,083,039 | $ | 43,097,875 | ||||
| Investments, at value(a) | 53,859,840 | 41,556,852 | ||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | 3,391,972 | 2,049,328 | ||||||
| Foreign currency, at value (Cost $131,163 and $237,089, respectively) | 128,473 | 241,764 | ||||||
| Receivables: | ||||||||
| Investments sold | 34 | — | ||||||
| Fund shares sold | 111,813 | 4,810 | ||||||
| Expense reimbursements due from Adviser | 19,287 | 9,209 | ||||||
| Interest | 11,074 | 10,194 | ||||||
| Dividends | 98,723 | 105,307 | ||||||
| Foreign tax reclaims | — | 58,512 | ||||||
| Other assets | 15,776 | 14,400 | ||||||
| Total assets | 57,636,992 | 44,050,376 | ||||||
| Liabilities | ||||||||
| Payables: | ||||||||
| Payable for collateral received on securities loaned | — | 8,467 | ||||||
| Investments purchased | — | 425,305 | ||||||
| Capital gains tax | 106,096 | 10,312 | ||||||
| Fund shares redeemed | 69,707 | 10,238 | ||||||
| Advisory fees | 45,580 | 35,341 | ||||||
| Transfer agent fees | 28,576 | 9,647 | ||||||
| Fund accounting fees | 8,950 | 13,069 | ||||||
| Accrued distribution fees | 1,303 | 1,980 | ||||||
| Trustee fees and expenses | 1,496 | 1,139 | ||||||
| Administration fees | 2,279 | 1,769 | ||||||
| Accrued expenses | 40,185 | 36,927 | ||||||
| Total liabilities | 304,172 | 554,194 | ||||||
| Net Assets - all share classes | $ | 57,332,820 | $ | 43,496,182 | ||||
| Net Assets - Class S | $ | 50,896,583 | $ | 40,095,905 | ||||
| Net Assets - Class C | $ | — | $ | 1,934,477 | ||||
| Net Assets - Class A | $ | 6,436,237 | $ | 1,465,800 | ||||
| Net Assets Consists of | ||||||||
| Paid-in capital | $ | 54,254,336 | $ | 51,802,484 | ||||
| Total distributable earnings | 3,078,484 | (8,306,302 | ) | |||||
| Net Assets | $ | 57,332,820 | $ | 43,496,182 | ||||
| Shares outstanding (unlimited shares authorized, no par value) | ||||||||
| Class S | 3,137,494 | 3,109,529 | ||||||
| Class C | — | 171,497 | ||||||
| Class A | 400,271 | 116,081 | ||||||
| Net asset value (offering and redemption price per share) | ||||||||
| Class S | $ | 16.22 | $ | 12.89 | ||||
| Class C | $ | — | $ | 11.28 | ||||
| Class A | $ | 16.08 | $ | 12.63 | ||||
| Class A maximum offering price (100%/ (100%-maximum sales charge)) of net asset value adjusted to the nearest cent per share | $ | 17.06 | $ | 13.40 | ||||
| (a) Includes securities on loan of | $ | 550,899 | $ | 612,525 | ||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 16 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON International Funds | Statements of Operations |
| Year Ended September 30, 2018 |
| ICON Emerging | ICON International | |||||||
| Markets Fund | Equity Fund | |||||||
| Investment Income | ||||||||
| Interest | $ | 15,162 | $ | 13,869 | ||||
| Dividends | 2,450,522 | 1,649,335 | ||||||
| Foreign taxes withheld | (296,785 | ) | (168,512 | ) | ||||
| Income from securities lending, net | 520 | 10,059 | ||||||
| Total investment income | 2,169,419 | 1,504,751 | ||||||
| Expenses | ||||||||
| Advisory fees | 635,843 | 511,733 | ||||||
| Administration fees | 31,780 | 25,580 | ||||||
| Transfer agent fees | 149,627 | 53,541 | ||||||
| Distribution fees: | ||||||||
| Class C | — | 23,669 | ||||||
| Class A | 26,283 | 5,539 | ||||||
| Registration fees | 34,916 | 39,376 | ||||||
| Audit and tax service expense | 22,000 | 22,000 | ||||||
| Fund accounting fees | 45,078 | 54,894 | ||||||
| Trustee fees and expenses | 14,946 | 12,103 | ||||||
| Insurance expense | 6,337 | 4,867 | ||||||
| Custody fees | 37,591 | 24,753 | ||||||
| Printing fees | 17,770 | 10,065 | ||||||
| Interest expense | 2,098 | 164 | ||||||
| Recoupment of previously reimbursed expenses | 512 | 7,877 | ||||||
| Other expenses | 35,047 | 33,482 | ||||||
| Total expenses before expense reimbursement | 1,059,828 | 829,643 | ||||||
| Expense reimbursement by Adviser due to expense limitation agreement | (46,120 | ) | (34,771 | ) | ||||
| Net Expenses | 1,013,708 | 794,872 | ||||||
| Net Investment Income/(Loss) | 1,155,711 | 709,879 | ||||||
| Realized and Unrealized Gain/(Loss) | ||||||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) on: | ||||||||
| Investments, options, and foreign currency translations | 296,741 | 614,048 | ||||||
| Capital gains tax | (39,277 | ) | (21,862 | ) | ||||
| 257,464 | 592,186 | |||||||
| Change in unrealized net appreciation/(depreciation) on: | ||||||||
| Investments, options, and foreign currency | (40,537 | ) | (2,447,238 | ) | ||||
| Capital gains tax | (106,096 | ) | (8,738 | ) | ||||
| (146,633 | ) | (2,455,976 | ) | |||||
| Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) | 110,831 | (1,863,790 | ) | |||||
| Net Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting From Operations | $ | 1,266,542 | $ | (1,153,911 | ) | |||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 17 |
| ICON International Funds | Statements of Changes in Net Assets |
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | ICON International Equity Fund | |||||||||||||||
| Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | |||||||||||||
| Operations | ||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss) | $ | 1,155,711 | $ | 235,593 | $ | 709,879 | $ | 127,641 | ||||||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) | 257,464 | 4,069,531 | 592,186 | 2,500,826 | ||||||||||||
| Change in net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) | (146,633 | ) | 794,783 | (2,455,976 | ) | 1,846,476 | ||||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 1,266,542 | 5,099,907 | (1,153,911 | ) | 4,474,943 | |||||||||||
| Total Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders(a) | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (100,052 | ) | — | — | — | |||||||||||
| Class A | (478 | ) | — | — | — | |||||||||||
| Net decrease from dividends and distributions | (100,530 | ) | — | — | — | |||||||||||
| Fund Share Transactions | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 21,485,982 | 26,312,322 | 7,643,709 | 4,368,367 | ||||||||||||
| Class C(b) | — | 43,641 | 176,801 | 123,670 | ||||||||||||
| Class A(b) | 3,063,930 | 9,477,499 | 82,833 | 168,244 | ||||||||||||
| Reinvested dividends and distributions | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 95,422 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 424 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (23,337,380 | ) | (24,352,508 | ) | (11,643,496 | ) | (13,299,835 | ) | ||||||||
| Class C(b) | — | (995,637 | ) | (664,995 | ) | (784,395 | ) | |||||||||
| Class A(b) | (9,861,188 | ) | (6,735,963 | ) | (849,184 | ) | (921,210 | ) | ||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) from fund share transactions | (8,552,810 | ) | 3,749,354 | (5,254,332 | ) | (10,345,159 | ) | |||||||||
| Total net increase/(decrease) in net assets | (7,386,798 | ) | 8,849,261 | (6,408,243 | ) | (5,870,216 | ) | |||||||||
| Net Assets | ||||||||||||||||
| Beginning of year | 64,719,618 | 55,870,357 | 49,904,425 | 55,774,641 | ||||||||||||
| End of year | $ | 57,332,820 | $ | 64,719,618 | $ | 43,496,182 | $ | 49,904,425 | ||||||||
| Transactions in Fund Shares | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 1,282,140 | 1,779,885 | 564,142 | 350,531 | ||||||||||||
| Class C(b) | — | 3,312 | 15,057 | 11,284 | ||||||||||||
| Class A(b) | 184,221 | 652,238 | 6,230 | 13,905 | ||||||||||||
| Issued to shareholders in reinvestment of distributions | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 5,942 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 26 | — | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (1,410,257 | ) | (1,727,057 | ) | (882,846 | ) | (1,110,895 | ) | ||||||||
| Class C(b) | — | (78,688 | ) | (56,962 | ) | (73,749 | ) | |||||||||
| Class A(b) | (601,142 | ) | (474,151 | ) | (66,078 | ) | (78,612 | ) | ||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) | (539,070 | ) | 155,539 | (420,457 | ) | (887,536 | ) | |||||||||
| Shares outstanding, beginning of year | 4,076,835 | 3,921,296 | 3,817,564 | 4,705,100 | ||||||||||||
| Shares outstanding, end of year | 3,537,765 | 4,076,835 | 3,397,107 | 3,817,564 | ||||||||||||
| (a) | The Securities and Exchange Commission adopted amendments to certain financial statement disclosure requirements which eliminated the disclosure of the characteristic of dividends and distributions to shareholders. |
| (b) | Emerging Markets Fund Class C shares merged into Class A shares on January 10, 2017. The information presented includes the activity for Class C prior to the merger as well as Class C shares redeemed, 67,738 shares, and Class A shares issued, 63,928 shares, in connection with the merger of $853,918. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 18 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented | |
| Class S | Year Ended September 30, 2018 |
Year Ended September 30, 2017 |
Year Ended September 30, 2016 |
Year Ended September 30, 2015 |
Year Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 15.90 | $ | 14.28 | $ | 12.95 | $ | 13.72 | $ | 13.51 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | 0.31 | 0.07 | (0.00 | )(b) | (0.03 | ) | (0.03 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.04 | 1.55 | 1.33 | (0.74 | ) | 0.27 | ||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.35 | 1.62 | 1.33 | (0.77 | ) | 0.24 | ||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.03 | ) | — | — | — | (0.03 | ) | |||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.03 | ) | — | — | — | (0.03 | ) | |||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 16.22 | $ | 15.90 | $ | 14.28 | $ | 12.95 | $ | 13.72 | ||||||||||
| Total Return | 2.21 | % | 11.34 | % | 10.27 | % | (5.61 | )% | 1.78 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 50,897 | $ | 51,833 | $ | 45,786 | $ | 16,123 | $ | 8,942 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.61 | % | 1.72 | % | 1.85 | % | 2.44 | % | 2.11 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation | 1.55 | %(c) | 1.55 | %(c) | 1.55 | %(c) | 1.55 | %(c) | 1.88 | %(d) | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.83 | % | 0.29 | % | (0.32 | )% | (1.08 | )% | (0.42 | )% | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation | 1.89 | %(c) | 0.46 | %(c) | (0.02 | )%(c) | (0.19 | )%(c) | (0.19 | )%(d) | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 63 | % | 169 | % | 156 | % | 76 | % | 92 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | Amount less than $(0.005). |
| (c) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| (d) | Effective May 5, 2014, Class S’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, were contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3 of the 2014 Annual Report. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 19 |
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | Financial Highlights | ||
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented | |||
| Class A(a) | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 15.77 | $ | 14.20 | $ | 12.91 | $ | 13.71 | $ | 13.51 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(b) | 0.24 | 0.06 | (0.01 | ) | (0.07 | ) | (0.04 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.07 | 1.51 | 1.30 | (0.73 | ) | 0.27 | ||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.31 | 1.57 | 1.29 | (0.80 | ) | 0.23 | ||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.00 | )(c) | — | — | — | (0.03 | ) | |||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.00 | ) | — | — | — | (0.03 | ) | |||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 16.08 | $ | 15.77 | $ | 14.20 | $ | 12.91 | $ | 13.71 | ||||||||||
| Total Return(d) | 1.97 | % | 11.06 | % | 9.99 | % | (5.84 | )% | 1.68 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 6,436 | $ | 12,887 | $ | 9,072 | $ | 725 | $ | 305 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.96 | % | 2.12 | % | 2.16 | % | 4.75 | % | 4.32 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(e) | 1.80 | % | 1.80 | % | 1.80 | % | 1.80 | % | 1.95 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.32 | % | 0.08 | % | (0.43 | )% | (3.44 | )% | (2.65 | )% | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(e) | 1.48 | % | 0.40 | % | (0.07 | )% | (0.49 | )% | (0.28 | )% | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 63 | % | 169 | % | 156 | % | 76 | % | 92 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Class C shares were merged into Class A on January 10, 2017. The amounts presented represent the results of the Class A shares for the periods prior to the merger and the results of the combined share class for the period subsequent to the merger. |
| (b) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (c) | Amount less than $(0.005). |
| (d) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. | |
| (e) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 20 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON International Equity Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented | |
| Class S | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 13.17 | $ | 11.94 | $ | 11.37 | $ | 11.75 | $ | 11.81 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | 0.20 | 0.04 | 0.05 | 0.00 | (b) | 0.06 | ||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | (0.48 | ) | 1.19 | 0.52 | (0.37 | ) | (0.12 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | (0.28 | ) | 1.23 | 0.57 | (0.37 | ) | (0.06 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | — | — | — | (0.01 | ) | — | ||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | — | — | — | (0.01 | ) | — | ||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 12.89 | $ | 13.17 | $ | 11.94 | $ | 11.37 | $ | 11.75 | ||||||||||
| Total Return | (2.13 | )% | 10.30 | % | 5.01 | % | (3.15 | )% | (0.51 | )% | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 40,096 | $ | 45,144 | $ | 50,005 | $ | 67,201 | $ | 80,356 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.49 | % | 1.57 | % | 1.45 | % | 1.41 | % | 1.41 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 1.49 | % | 1.55 | % | 1.45 | % | 1.41 | % | 1.41 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.46 | % | 0.31 | % | 0.45 | % | 0.00 | %(d) | 0.44 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 1.46 | % | 0.33 | % | 0.45 | % | 0.00 | %(d) | 0.44 | % | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 92 | % | 209 | % | 198 | % | 204 | % | 193 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | Amount less than $0.005. |
| (c) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| (d) | Less than 0.005% of average net assets. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 21 |
| ICON International Equity Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented | |
| Class C | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 11.64 | $ | 10.66 | $ | 10.27 | $ | 10.72 | $ | 10.89 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | 0.04 | (0.07 | ) | (0.09 | ) | (0.12 | ) | (0.08 | ) | |||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | (0.40 | ) | 1.05 | 0.48 | (0.33 | ) | (0.09 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | (0.36 | ) | 0.98 | 0.39 | (0.45 | ) | (0.17 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 11.28 | $ | 11.64 | $ | 10.66 | $ | 10.27 | $ | 10.72 | ||||||||||
| Total Return(b) | (3.09 | )% | 9.19 | % | 3.80 | % | (4.20 | )% | (1.56 | )% | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 1,934 | $ | 2,484 | $ | 2,941 | $ | 3,299 | $ | 4,597 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 3.29 | % | 3.35 | % | 3.13 | % | 2.96 | % | 2.82 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 2.55 | % | 2.55 | % | 2.55 | % | 2.55 | % | 2.56 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (0.42 | )% | (1.48 | )% | (1.40 | )% | (1.56 | )% | (0.99 | )% | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 0.32 | % | (0.68 | )% | (0.82 | )% | (1.15 | )% | (0.73 | )% | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 92 | % | 209 | % | 198 | % | 204 | % | 193 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (c) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 22 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON International Equity Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Years Presented | |
| Class A | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2016 | Year Ended September 30, 2015 | Year Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 12.94 | $ | 11.76 | $ | 11.24 | $ | 11.65 | $ | 11.75 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | 0.14 | 0.01 | 0.05 | (0.04 | ) | 0.00 | (b) | |||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | (0.45 | ) | 1.17 | 0.47 | (0.37 | ) | (0.10 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | (0.31 | ) | 1.18 | 0.52 | (0.41 | ) | (0.10 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 12.63 | $ | 12.94 | $ | 11.76 | $ | 11.24 | $ | 11.65 | ||||||||||
| Total Return(c) | (2.40 | )% | 10.03 | % | 4.63 | % | (3.52 | )% | (0.85 | )% | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 1,466 | $ | 2,276 | $ | 2,829 | $ | 3,725 | $ | 4,089 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.59 | % | 2.67 | % | 2.43 | % | 2.25 | % | 2.12 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 1.80 | % | 1.80 | % | 1.80 | % | 1.80 | % | 1.81 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 0.28 | % | (0.80 | )% | (0.19 | )% | (0.77 | )% | (0.27 | )% | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 1.07 | % | 0.07 | % | 0.44 | % | (0.32 | )% | 0.04 | % | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 92 | % | 209 | % | 198 | % | 204 | % | 193 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | Amount less than $0.005. |
| (c) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (d) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 23 |
| ICON International Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
1. ORGANIZATION
The ICON Emerging Markets Fund (“Emerging Markets Fund”) and ICON International Equity Fund (“International Equity Fund”) are series funds (individually a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”). The Funds are part of the ICON Funds (the “Trust”), a Massachusetts business trust registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”) as an open-end investment management company. Each Fund offers two classes of shares: Class S and Class A. The International Equity Fund also offers Class C shares. All classes have equal rights as to earnings, assets and voting privileges except that each Class may bear different distribution fees, registration costs, legal costs, mailing and printing costs and shareholder servicing costs and each Class has exclusive voting rights with respect to its distribution plan. There are currently fifteen other active Funds within the Trust. Those Funds are covered by separate prospectuses and shareholder reports.
Each Fund is authorized to issue an unlimited number of no par shares. The Funds primarily invest in foreign securities; the Emerging Markets Fund primarily invests in securities of issuers whose principal activities are in emerging markets, or are economically tied to an emerging market country. The International Equity Fund primarily invests in foreign equity securities. Foreign equity securities refer to securities of issuers, wherever organized, whose securities are listed or traded principally on a recognized stock exchange or over-the-counter market outside the United States. The investment objective of each Fund is to provide long-term capital appreciation.
The Funds, like all investments in securities, have elements of risk, including risk of loss of principal. There is no assurance that the Funds will achieve their investment objectives and may underperform funds with similar investment objectives. An investment concentrated in sectors and industries involves greater risk and volatility than a more diversified investment. Investments in foreign securities and currency transactions may involve certain considerations and risks not typically associated with those of U.S. dollar-denominated transactions as a result of, among other factors, the possibility of less government supervision and regulation of foreign securities markets and the possibility of political or economic instability. Financial statements of foreign companies are governed by different accounting, auditing, and financial standards than U.S. companies and may be less transparent and uniform than in the United States. Many corporate governance standards, which help ensure the integrity of public information in the United States, may not exist in some foreign countries. In general, there may be less governmental supervision of foreign stock exchanges and securities brokers and issuers. Securities of emerging or developing market companies may be less liquid and more volatile than securities in countries with more mature markets. There are also risks associated with small-and mid-cap investing, including limited product lines, less liquidity, and small market share.
In the normal course of business, the Funds may enter into various agreements that provide for general indemnifications. Each Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as any potential exposure involving future claims that may be made against each Fund is unknown. However, based on experience, the Funds expect the risk of loss to be remote.
2. SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Funds in the preparation of their financial statements. The financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”), which requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from these estimates. Each Fund is considered an investment company under GAAP and follows the accounting and reporting guidance applicable to investment companies in the Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946.
Investment Valuation
The Funds’ securities and other assets, excluding options on securities indexes, are valued at the closing price as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) (normally 4 p.m. Eastern Standard Time) each day the NYSE is open, except that securities traded primarily on the NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) are normally valued by the Funds at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price provided by NASDAQ each business day. If the NYSE closes unexpectedly and there is active trading on other exchanges, the securities will be valued at the Valuation Time based off of those exchanges. Options on securities indexes are valued at the close of the Chicago Board Options Exchange (normally 4:15 p.m. Eastern Standard Time) on each day the NYSE is open for trading.
The Funds use pricing services to obtain the fair value of securities in their portfolios. If a pricing service is not able to provide a price, or the pricing service’s valuation is considered inaccurate or does not, in the Funds’ judgment, reflect the fair value of the security, prices may be obtained through market quotations from independent broker/dealers. If market quotations from these sources are not readily available, the Funds’ securities or other assets are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Funds’ Pricing Committee pursuant to procedures approved by the Funds’ Board of Trustees (the “Board”).
| 24 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON International Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
Lacking any sales that day, a security is valued at the current closing bid price (or yield equivalent thereof) or based on quotes obtained from dealers making a market for the security. Exchange traded options are valued at the composite price, using the National Best Bid and Offer quotes (“NBBO”). NBBO consists of the highest bid price and lowest ask price across any of the exchanges on which an option is quoted, thus providing a view across the entire U.S. options marketplace. Debt securities with a remaining maturity of greater than 60 days are valued using the evaluated bid price supplied by the pricing service. The evaluated bid price supplied by the pricing service is based upon a matrix valuation system which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings. Short-term debt securities with remaining maturities of 60 days or less are generally valued at amortized cost or original cost plus accrued interest, which approximates fair value. Currency rates as of the close of the NYSE are used to convert foreign security values into U.S. dollars.
Securities of investment companies that trade on an exchange are valued at the last sales price or official closing price as of the close of the customary trading session on the exchange where the security is principally traded. Investments in shares of funds, including money market funds, that are not traded on an exchange are valued at the end of day net asset value (“NAV”) per share of such fund. Securities in the underlying funds, including restricted securities are valued in accordance with the valuation policy of such fund.
The Funds’ securities traded in countries outside of the Western Hemisphere are fair valued daily by utilizing the quotations of an independent pricing service, unless the Funds’ Pricing Committee determines that use of another valuation methodology is appropriate. The purposes of daily fair valuation is to avoid stale prices and to take into account, among other things, any significant events occurring after the close of foreign markets. The pricing service uses statistical analyses and quantitative models to adjust local market prices using factors such as subsequent movements and changes in the prices of indexes, securities and exchange rates in other markets to determine fair value as of the time a Fund calculates its NAV. The valuation assigned to fair-value securities for purposes of calculating a Fund’s NAV may differ from the security’s most recent closing market price and from the prices used by other mutual funds to calculate their NAVs.
Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Funds’ investments. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
Level 1 — quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
Level 2 — significant observable inputs other than Level 1 quoted prices (including, but not limited to, quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, and credit risk).
Level 3 — significant unobservable inputs.
Observable inputs are those based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Funds, and unobservable inputs reflect the Funds’ own assumptions based on the best information available. The input levels are not necessarily an indication of the risk or liquidity associated with investments at that level. For example, non-U.S. equity securities actively traded in foreign markets may be reflected in Level 2 despite the availability of closing prices, because the Funds evaluate and determine whether those closing prices reflect fair value at the close of the NYSE or require adjustment, as described above. The following table summarizes the Funds’ investments, based on the inputs used to determine their values on September 30, 2018:
ICON Emerging Markets Fund
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level 1 - Quoted and Unadjusted Prices | Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs | Level 3 - Significant Unobservable Inputs | Total | ||||||||||||
| Common Stocks | ||||||||||||||||
| Commodity Chemicals | $ | 1,286,700 | $ | 964,872 | $ | — | $ | 2,251,572 | ||||||||
| Diversified Banks | 2,092,998 | 10,729,238 | — | 12,822,236 | ||||||||||||
| Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders | 397,463 | 685,326 | — | 1,082,789 | ||||||||||||
| Integrated Oil & Gas | 1,528,800 | 6,413,482 | — | 7,942,282 | ||||||||||||
| Interactive Media & Services | 613,200 | 1,288,008 | — | 1,901,208 | ||||||||||||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production | 3,267,566 | 2,013,789 | — | 5,281,355 | ||||||||||||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing | 1,752,774 | 2,947,358 | — | 4,700,132 | ||||||||||||
| Regional Banks | 1,411,038 | 1,413,012 | — | 2,824,050 | ||||||||||||
| Renewable Electricity | 49,187 | 856,775 | — | 905,962 | ||||||||||||
| Wireless Telecommunication Services | 209,481 | 383,442 | — | 592,923 | ||||||||||||
| Other | 1,328,305 | 10,029,738 | — | 11,358,043 | ||||||||||||
| Preferred Stocks | 2,197,288 | — | — | 2,197,288 | ||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 16,134,800 | $ | 37,725,040 | $ | — | $ | 53,859,840 | ||||||||
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 25 |
| ICON International Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
ICON International Equity Fund
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level 1 - Quoted and Unadjusted Prices | Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs | Level 3 - Significant Unobservable Inputs | Total | ||||||||||||
| Common Stocks | ||||||||||||||||
| Commodity Chemicals | $ | 606,961 | $ | 646,855 | $ | — | $ | 1,253,816 | ||||||||
| Diversified Banks | 1,264,438 | 6,063,182 | — | 7,327,620 | ||||||||||||
| Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders | 179,539 | 716,809 | — | 896,348 | ||||||||||||
| Integrated Oil & Gas | 512,148 | 4,505,607 | — | 5,017,755 | ||||||||||||
| Interactive Media & Services | 140,160 | 220,486 | — | 360,646 | ||||||||||||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production | 2,473,330 | 568,297 | — | 3,041,627 | ||||||||||||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing | 447,126 | 1,946,855 | — | 2,393,981 | ||||||||||||
| Regional Banks | 416,124 | 347,637 | — | 763,761 | ||||||||||||
| Other | 2,280,998 | 17,541,287 | — | 19,822,285 | ||||||||||||
| Preferred Stocks | 670,546 | — | — | 670,546 | ||||||||||||
| Collateral for Securities on Loan | — | 8,467 | — | 8,467 | ||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 8,991,370 | $ | 32,565,482 | $ | — | $ | 41,556,852 | ||||||||
| * | Please refer to the Schedule of Investments and the Sector/Industry Classification and Country Composition tables for additional security details. |
There were no Level 3 securities held in any of the Funds at September 30, 2018.
Fund Share Valuation
Fund shares are sold and redeemed on a daily basis at NAV. NAV per share is determined daily as of the close of trading on the NYSE on each day the NYSE is open for trading. The NAV is computed by dividing the total value of the Fund’s investments and other assets, less liabilities, by the number of Fund shares outstanding.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Idle cash may be swept into an overnight demand deposit account and is classified as cash and cash equivalents on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. The Funds maintain cash in bank deposit accounts which, at times, may exceed United States federally insured limits. Amounts swept overnight are available on the next business day.
Foreign Currency Translation
The accounting records of the Funds are maintained in U.S. dollars. Investment securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in a foreign currency are translated daily into U.S. dollars at the prevailing rates of exchange. Income and expenses are translated into U.S. dollars at the prevailing exchange rate on the respective dates of the transactions. Purchases and sales of securities are translated into U.S. dollars at the contractual currency exchange rates established at the time of each trade.
The Funds do not isolate that portion of the results of operations resulting from changes in foreign exchange rates on investments from the fluctuations arising from changes in market prices of securities held. Net unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments and foreign currency translations arise from changes in the value of assets and liabilities resulting from changes in the exchange rates and changes in market prices of securities held.
Forward Foreign Currency Contracts
The Funds may enter into short-term forward foreign currency contracts. A forward foreign currency contract is an agreement between contracting parties to exchange an amount of currency at some future time at an agreed upon rate. The Funds may use forward foreign currency contracts to manage foreign currency exposure with respect to transactional hedging, positional hedging, cross hedging and proxy hedging.
These contracts involve market risk and do not eliminate fluctuations in the prices of portfolio securities or prevent losses if the prices of those securities decline. The Funds could be exposed to risk if the value of the currency changes unfavorably. Additionally, the Funds could be exposed to counterparty risk if the counterparties are unable to meet the terms of the contracts.
| 26 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON International Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
These contracts are marked-to-market daily. Net realized gains and losses on foreign currency transactions represent disposition of foreign currencies, and the difference between the amount recorded at the time of the transaction and the U.S. dollar amount actually received. Any realized gain or loss incurred by the Funds due to foreign currency translation is included on the Statements of Operations. At September 30, 2018 and for the year then ended, the Emerging Markets Fund and International Equity Fund had no outstanding forward foreign currency contracts.
Securities Lending
Under procedures adopted by the Board, the Funds may lend securities to certain approved brokers, dealers and other financial institutions to earn additional income. Collateral is received in exchange for securities on loan in the amount of at least 102% of the value of U.S. securities loaned or at least 105% of the value of non-U.S. securities loaned, marked to market daily. The Funds retain certain benefits of owning the securities, including receipt of dividends or interest generated by the security, but give up other rights including the right to vote proxies. The Funds retain the ability to recall the loans at any time and could do so in order to vote proxies or to sell the loaned securities. Each loan is collateralized by assets that generally exceed the value of the securities on loan. Collateral may consist of cash or securities issued or guaranteed by the United States government or its agencies or instrumentalities. The fair value of the loaned securities is determined daily at the close of business of the Funds and any additional required collateral is delivered to each Fund on the next business day.
The following is a summary of the Funds’ securities lending positions and related cash and non-cash collateral received as of September 30, 2018:
| Market
Value of Securities on Loan | Market
Value of Cash Collateral Received | Market
Value of Non-Cash Collateral Received | Total
Collateral Received | Excess Collateral | ||||||||||||||||
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | $ | 550,899 | $ | — | $ | 557,256 | $ | 557,256 | $ | 6,357 | ||||||||||
| ICON International Equity Fund | 612,525 | 8,467 | 618,269 | 626,736 | 14,211 | |||||||||||||||
Generally, in the event of borrower default, the Funds have the right to use the collateral to offset any losses incurred. In the event the Funds are delayed or prevented from exercising their rights to dispose of the collateral, there may be a potential loss to the Funds. Some of these losses may be indemnified by the lending agent.
The Funds have elected to invest cash collateral received from lending in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio which is disclosed on the Schedules of Investments. The Funds bear the risk of loss with respect to the investment of cash collateral. The State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio is a Government Money Market Portfolio designed to provide continuous daily liquidity. Non-Cash collateral received consists of securities issued or guaranteed by the United States government or its agencies or instrumentalities with remaining maturities ranging from overnight to 30 years. Non-cash collateral is not disclosed on the Funds’ Schedules of Investments or their Statements of Assets and Liabilities as the Funds do not have the ability to re-hypothecate these securities. The net securities lending income earned by the Funds for the year ended September 30, 2018, is included in the Statements of Operations.
The value of the collateral could include collateral held for securities that were sold on or before September 30, 2018. It may also include collateral received from the pre-funding of security loans.
Security loans consist of equity securities and generally do not have a stated maturity date. The Funds may recall a loaned security at any time.
Income Taxes, Dividends, and Distributions
The Funds intend to continue to qualify as regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code and, accordingly, the Funds will generally not be subject to federal and state income taxes or federal excise taxes to the extent that they intend to make sufficient distributions of net investment income and net realized capital gains. As of and during the year ended September 30, 2018, the Funds did not have a liability for any unrecognized tax benefits in the accompanying financial statements. The Funds recognize the interest and penalties, if any, related to the unrecognized tax benefits as income tax expense in the Statements of Operations. During the period, the Funds did not incur any interest or penalties.
Dividends paid by the Funds from net investment income and distributions of net realized short-term gains are, for federal income tax purposes, taxable as ordinary income to shareholders.
Dividends and distributions to shareholders are recorded by the Funds on the ex-dividend/distribution date. The Funds distribute income and net realized capital gains, if any, to shareholders at least annually, if not offset by capital loss carryforward. The Funds may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes. Income distributions and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 27 |
| ICON International Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
Management has analyzed the Funds’ tax positions taken on federal income tax returns for all open tax years and has concluded that no provision for federal income tax is required in the Funds’ financial statements.
The Funds file U.S. tax returns. While the statute of limitations remains open to examine the Funds’ U.S. tax returns filed for the past three years, no examinations are in progress or anticipated at this time. The Funds are not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Certain foreign countries impose a capital gains tax which is accrued by the Funds based on the unrealized appreciation, if any, on affected securities. Any accrual would reduce a Fund’s NAV. The tax is paid when the gain is realized and is included in capital gains tax in the Statements of Operations.
Investment Income
Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Non-cash dividends included in dividend income, if any, are recorded at the fair value of the securities received. Interest income is accrued as earned. Certain dividends from foreign securities are recorded as soon as the Funds are informed of the dividend if such information is obtained subsequent to the ex-dividend date. Discounts and premiums on fixed income securities purchased are accreted or amortized to income over the life of the respective securities based on effective yield.
Investment Transactions
Security transactions are accounted for no later than one business day after the trade date. However, for financial reporting purposes, security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Gains and losses on securities sold are determined on the basis of identified cost.
Withholding Tax
Withholding taxes on foreign dividends have been provided for in accordance with the Funds’ understanding of the applicable country’s tax rules and rates.
The ability of issuers of debt securities held by the Funds to meet their obligations may be affected by economic and political developments in a specific country or region.
Other
The Funds hold certain investments which pay dividends to their shareholders based upon available funds from operations. It is possible for these dividends to exceed the underlying investments’ taxable earnings and profits resulting in the excess portion of such dividends being designated as a return of capital. Distributions received from investments in securities that represent a return of capital or capital gains are recorded as a reduction of the cost of investments or as a realized gain, respectively.
Allocation of Expenses
Each class of a Fund’s shares bears expenses incurred specifically on its behalf and, in addition, each class bears a portion of general expenses, based upon relative net assets of each class or number of shareholder accounts. Expenses which cannot be directly attributed to a specific Fund in the Trust are apportioned between all Funds in the Trust based upon relative net assets or number of shareholder accounts. In calculating the net asset value per share of each class, investment income, realized and unrealized gains and losses and expenses other than class-specific expenses are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the proportion of net assets.
| 28 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON International Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
Below are additional class level expenses for the year ended September 30, 2018 that are included on the Statements of Operations:
| Fund | Printing Fees* | Transfer Agent Fees* | Registration Fees | |||||||||
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | ||||||||||||
| Class S | $ | 8,255 | $ | 103,703 | $ | 21,662 | ||||||
| Class A | 1,588 | 21,837 | 13,254 | |||||||||
| ICON International Equity Fund | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 2,625 | 28,458 | 16,908 | |||||||||
| Class C | 424 | 9,800 | 11,295 | |||||||||
| Class A | 474 | 9,567 | 11,173 | |||||||||
| * | Printing and Transfer agent out of pocket fees are a Fund level expense. |
3. FEES AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
Investment Advisory Fees
ICON Advisers, Inc. (“ICON Advisers”) serves as investment adviser to the Funds and is responsible for managing the Funds’ portfolios of investments. ICON Advisers receives a monthly management fee that is computed daily at an annual rate of 1.00% of each Fund’s average daily net assets.
ICON Advisers has contractually agreed to limit the Funds’ operating expenses (exclusive of brokerage, interest, taxes, dividends on short sales, acquired fund fees and expenses and extraordinary expenses) to the extent necessary to ensure that the Funds’ expenses do not exceed the following amounts:
| Fund | Class S | Class C | Class A |
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | 1.55% | — | 1.80% |
| ICON International Equity Fund | 1.55% | 2.55% | 1.80% |
The Funds’ expense limitations will continue in effect until at least January 31, 2021 for the Emerging Markets Fund Class A and all classes of the International Equity Fund. The expense limitation for the Emerging Markets Fund Class S will continue in effect until at least January 31, 2019. To the extent ICON Advisers reimburses or absorbs fees and expenses, it may seek payment of such amounts for up to three years after the expenses were reimbursed or absorbed. A Fund will make no such payment, however, if the total Fund operating expenses exceed the expense limits in effect at the time these payments are proposed.
As of September 30, 2018, the following amounts were available for recoupment by ICON Advisers based upon their potential expiration dates:
| Expires | Expires | Expires | ||||||||||
| Fund | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | |||||||||
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | $ | 106,751 | $ | 106,329 | (a) | $ | 46,120 | |||||
| ICON International Equity Fund | 38,568 | 41,389 | 34,771 | |||||||||
| (a) | Emerging Markets Fund Class C shares merged into Class A shares on January 10, 2017. The Class C amount is not available for recoupment. |
Accounting, Custody and Transfer Agent Fees
ALPS Fund Services, Inc. (“ALPS”) serves as the fund accounting agent for the Trust. For its services, the Trust pays ALPS a fee that is calculated daily and paid monthly, which is greater of an annual rate based on the aggregate average daily net assets of the Trust or a contractual minimum annual fee.
State Street is the custodian of the Trust’s investments. For its services, the Trust pays State Street asset-based fees that vary according to the number of positions and transactions, plus out-of-pocket expenses.
ALPS is the Trust’s transfer agent. For these services, the Trust pays an annual fee plus annual base fee per Fund, per account fees and out-of-pocket expenses.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 29 |
| ICON International Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
Administrative Services
The Trust has entered into an administrative services agreement with ICON Advisers pursuant to which ICON Advisers oversees the administration of the Trust’s business and affairs. This agreement provides for an annual fee of 0.05% on the Trust’s first $1.5 billion of average daily net assets, 0.045% on the next $1.5 billion of average daily net assets, 0.040% on the next $2 billion of average daily net assets and 0.030% on average daily net assets over $5 billion. For the year ended September 30, 2018, each Fund’s payment for administrative services to ICON Advisers is included on the Statements of Operations. The administrative services agreement provides that ICON Advisers will not be liable for any error of judgment, mistake of law, or any loss suffered by the Trust in connection with matters to which the administrative services agreement relates, except for a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or negligence by ICON Advisers in the performance of its duties.
ICON Advisers has a sub-administration agreement, with ALPS, under which ALPS assists ICON Advisers with the administration and business affairs of the Trust. For its services, ICON Advisers pays ALPS a fee, that is calculated daily and paid monthly, which is the greater of an annual rate based on the aggregate average daily net assets of the Trust or a contractual minimum annual fee.
Distribution Fees
ICON Distributors, Inc. (“IDI” or “Distributor”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of ICON Management and Research and affiliate of ICON Advisers, Inc., serves the Trust as Distributor. The Trust has adopted a Distribution Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (“12b-1 Plan”) under which the Funds are authorized to compensate or reimburse the Distributor for the sale and distribution of shares and for other shareholder services. The shareholders of the ICON International Equity Fund Class C pay an annual distribution fee of 1.00% of average daily net assets. The shareholders of the Funds Class A shares pay an annual distribution fee of 0.25% of average daily net assets. There is no annual distribution fee for Class S shares. The total amount paid by each Fund under the 12b-1 Plan is shown on the Statements of Operations.
Class A Shares are subject to an initial sales charge and the public offering price of Class A shares equals net asset value plus the applicable sales charge, which is a maximum of 5.75%. For the year ended September 30, 2018, IDI collected sales charges on purchases of Class A Shares, the majority of which were paid out as concessions to financial intermediaries, as follows:
| Fund | Sales Charges Collected | |||
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund Class A | $ | 1,882 | ||
| ICON International Equity Fund Class A | 146 | |||
In addition, IDI receives a contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00% of the purchase price on redemptions of Class C shares made within one year following the date of purchase. A 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge may also apply to certain redemptions of Class A shares made within one year following the purchase of $1 million or more without an initial sales charge. For the year ended September 30, 2018, IDI collected the following contingent deferred sales charges:
| Contingent Deferred Sales | ||||
| Fund | Charges Collected | |||
| ICON International Equity Fund Class C | $ | 166 | ||
Other Related Parties
Certain Officers and Directors of ICON Advisers are also Officers and Trustees of the Funds; however, such Officers and Trustees (with the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer, “CCO”) receive no compensation from the Funds. The Trust pays a portion of the CCO’s salary and the remaining portion, along with other employee related expenses, is paid by ICON Advisers. For the year ended September 30, 2018, the total related amounts paid by the Funds under this arrangement are included in Other Expenses on the Statements of Operations.
The Funds may reimburse ICON Advisers for legal work performed for the Funds by its attorneys outside of the advisory and administration contracts. The Board of Trustees reviews and approves such reimbursements. For the year ended September 30, 2018, the total related amounts accrued by the Funds under this arrangement was $268 and is included in Other Expenses on the Statements of Operations.
The Funds did not engage in cross trades with each other, during the year ended September 30, 2018, pursuant to Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act. Generally, cross trading is the buying or selling of portfolio securities between funds to which the Adviser serves as the investment adviser. The Board previously adopted procedures that apply to transactions between the Funds and its affiliates pursuant to Rule 17a-7. At its regularly scheduled meetings, the Board reviews such transactions as of the most current calendar quarter for compliance with the requirements set forth by Rule 17a-7 and the Funds’ procedures. The procedures require that the transactions be a purchase or sale for no consideration other than cash payment against prompt delivery of a security for which market quotations are readily available, and be consistent with the investment policies of each Fund.
| 30 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON International Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
4. BORROWINGS
The Trust has entered into an uncommitted, unsecured, revolving Line of Credit agreement/arrangement with State Street to provide temporary funding for redemption requests. The maximum borrowing limit is $50 million. Interest on domestic borrowings is charged at a rate quoted and determined by State Street. The interest rate as of September 30, 2018 was 3.51%. The Line of Credit agreement/arrangement expires on March 18, 2019.
For the year ended September 30, 2018, the average outstanding loan by Fund was as follows:
| Maximum Borrowing | Average Borrowing | Average Interest Rates | ||||||||||
| Fund | (10/01/17 – 09/30/18) | (10/01/17 – 09/30/18)^ | (10/01/17 – 09/30/18)^ | |||||||||
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund* | $ | 1,130,391 | $ | 437,776 | 2.71% | |||||||
| ICON International Equity Fund* | 1,323,044 | 358,956 | 3.24% | |||||||||
| * | There were no outstanding borrowings under this agreement/arrangement as of September 30, 2018. |
| ^ | The average is calculated based on the actual number of days with outstanding borrowings. |
5. PURCHASES AND SALES OF INVESTMENT SECURITIES
For the year ended September 30, 2018, the aggregate cost of purchases and proceeds from sales of securities (excluding short-term securities) was as follows:
| Purchases of | Proceeds from Sales | |||||||
| Fund | Securities | of Securities | ||||||
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | $ | 38,787,590 | $ | 48,043,699 | ||||
| ICON International Equity Fund | 44,906,860 | 50,792,353 | ||||||
6. FEDERAL INCOME TAX
The following information is presented on an income tax basis. Differences between GAAP and federal income tax purposes that are permanent in nature are reclassified within the capital accounts. Temporary differences do not require reclassification. Temporary and permanent differences do not impact the NAVs of the Funds. These differences are due to differing treatments for items such as passive foreign investment companies, foreign currency transactions, foreign capital gain tax treatment and expiring capital loss carryforwards.
Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010 (the “Act”) capital losses generated by a Fund may be carried over indefinitely.
For International Equity Fund, the capital loss carryovers used during the year ended September 30, 2018 were, net of short-term and long-term, $299,186 and capital losses expired/unused were $27,012,993.
For International Equity Fund, the short-term and long-term capital losses with no expiration were $2,090,791 and $5,160,526, respectively.
For the year ended September 30, 2018, the following reclassification was made, which had no impact on results of operations or net assets.
| Fund | Paid-in Capital | Total Distributable Earnings | ||||||
| ICON International Equity Fund | $ | (27,012,993 | ) | $ | 27,012,993 | |||
The tax characteristics of distributions paid to shareholders during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, were as follows:
| Fund | Ordinary Income | |||
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | $ | 100,530 | ||
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 31 |
| ICON International Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
As of September 30, 2018, the components of accumulated earnings/(deficit) on a tax basis were as follows:
| Fund | Undistributed Ordinary Income | Accumulated Capital Gains/(Losses) | Other Cumulative Effect of Timing Differences | Unrealized Appreciation/(Depreciation) | Total Accumulated Earnings/(Deficit) | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | $ | 1,413,151 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 1,665,333 | $ | 3,078,484 | ||||||||||
| ICON International Equity Fund | 495,203 | (7,251,317 | ) | 1,854 | (1,552,042 | ) | (8,306,302 | ) | ||||||||||||
As of September 30, 2018, cost on investments for federal income tax purposes and the amount of net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) were as follows:
| Fund | Gross Appreciation (excess of value over tax cost) | Gross Depreciation (excess of tax cost over value) | Net Appreciation/ (Depreciation) of Foreign Currency | Net Unrealized Appreciation/ (Depreciation)* | Cost of Investments for Income Tax Purposes | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | $ | 6,795,800 | $ | (5,018,999 | ) | $ | (5,372 | ) | $ | 1,771,429 | $ | 52,083,039 | ||||||||
| ICON International Equity Fund | 3,100,729 | (4,641,752 | ) | (707 | ) | (1,541,730 | ) | 43,097,875 | ||||||||||||
| * | This balance includes appreciation/(depreciation) of foreign currency. |
7. RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT
In August 2018, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2018-13, which changes the fair value measurement disclosure requirements of FASB Accounting Standards Codification Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement. The update to Topic 820 includes new, eliminated, and modified disclosure requirements. ASU 2018-13 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods. Early adoption is permitted for any eliminated or modified disclosures. Management has eliminated and modified disclosures and is currently evaluating the impact of the remaining ASU.
8. SUBSEQUENT EVENT
Management has evaluated whether any events or transactions occurred subsequent to September 30, 2018 and through the date of issuance of the Funds’ financial statements and determined that there were no material events or transactions that would require recognition or disclosure in the Funds’ financial statements.
| 32 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON International Funds | Report
of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm |
To the Shareholders and Board of Trustees of ICON Funds
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities, including the schedules of investments, of the ICON Emerging Markets Fund and ICON International Equity Fund (the “Funds”), each a series of ICON Funds, as of September 30, 2018, and the related statements of operations for the year then ended, and the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, and the financial highlights for each of the three years in the period then ended (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds as of September 30, 2018, the results of their operations for the year then ended, the changes in their net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, and the financial highlights for each of the three years in the period then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
The Funds’ financial highlights for the year ended September 30, 2015 and prior, were audited by other auditors whose report dated November 18, 2015, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial highlights.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Funds’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Funds’ 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 Funds 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 the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of September 30, 2018, by correspondence with the custodian and brokers. 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 Funds’ auditor since 2016.
COHEN & COMPANY, LTD.
Cleveland, Ohio
November 21, 2018
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 33 |
| ICON International Funds | Disclosure of Fund Expenses |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Example
As a shareholder of a Fund you may pay two types of fees: transaction fees and fund-related fees. Certain funds charge transaction fees, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments, reinvested dividends, or other distributions; redemption fees; and exchange fees. Funds also incur various ongoing expenses, including management fees, distribution and/or service fees, and other fund expenses, which are indirectly paid by shareholders.
This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the various ICON Funds and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. This Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period and held for the six-month period (04/01/18 – 09/30/18).
Actual Expenses
The first line in the table for each Fund provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. The Example includes, but is not limited to, management fees, 12b-1 fees, fund accounting, custody and transfer agent fees. However, the Example does not include client specific fees, such as the $15 fee charged to IRA accounts, or the $15 fee charged for wire redemptions. You may use this information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line for each Fund under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line in the table for each Fund 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. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and 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. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads), redemption fees, or exchange fees that may be charged by other funds. Therefore, this information is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
| Beginning Account Value April 1, 2018 | Ending Account Value September 30, 2018 | Expense Ratio(a) | Expenses Paid During period April 1, 2018 - September 30, 2018(b) | |||||||||||||
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 929.00 | 1.55 | % | $ | 7.50 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,017.30 | 1.55 | % | $ | 7.84 | ||||||||
| Class A | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 927.90 | 1.80 | % | $ | 8.70 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,016.04 | 1.80 | % | $ | 9.10 | ||||||||
| ICON International Equity Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 932.70 | 1.48 | % | $ | 7.17 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,017.65 | 1.48 | % | $ | 7.49 | ||||||||
| Class C | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 927.60 | 2.55 | % | $ | 12.32 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,012.28 | 2.55 | % | $ | 12.86 | ||||||||
| Class A | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 931.40 | 1.80 | % | $ | 8.72 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,016.04 | 1.80 | % | $ | 9.10 | ||||||||
| (a) | The Fund’s expense ratios have been annualized based on the Fund’s most recent fiscal half-year expenses. |
| (b) | Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year 183/365 (to reflect the half-year period). |
Total returns exclude applicable sales charges. If sales charges were included (maximum 5.75%), returns would be lower.
| 34 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON International Funds | Board of Trustees and Fund Officers |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
The ICON Funds Board of Trustees (the “Board”) consists of four Trustees who oversee the 17 ICON Funds (the “Funds”). The Board is responsible for general oversight of the Funds’ business and for assuring that the Funds are managed in the best interest of the Funds’ shareholders. The Trustees, and their ages, and principal occupations are set forth below. The address of the Trustees is 5299 DTC Blvd., Suite 1200, Greenwood Village, CO 80111. Trustees have no official term of office and generally serve until they resign or are not re-elected.
Interested Trustee
Craig T. Callahan, 67. Chairman of the Board. Dr. Callahan has been a Trustee of the Funds since their inception. Dr. Callahan also serves as President (2014 to present and 1998 to 2013) and Chairman of the Investment Committee (2005 to present) and served as the Chief Investment Officer (1991 to 2004) of ICON Advisers, Inc. Dr. Callahan is also Executive Vice President (2005 to present); Director (1991 to present); and was previously President (1998 to 2005) and Chief Compliance Officer (2005) of ICON Distributors, Inc. Dr. Callahan also serves as the President (1998 to present) and Chairman of the Board of Directors (1994 to present) of IM&R, the parent company of ICON Advisers, Inc. and ICON Distributors, Inc.
Independent Trustees
Glen F. Bergert, 68. Mr. Bergert has been a Trustee of the Funds since 1999. Mr. Bergert is President of Venture Capital Management LLC (1997 to present), General Partner of SOGNO Partners LP, a venture capital company (2001 to 2015), General Partner of Bergert Properties, LLP, a real estate holding company (1997 to present), General Partner of Pyramid Real Estate Partnership, a real estate development company (1998 to present), General Partner of Chamois Partners, LP, a venture capital company (2004 to present), and was previously a General Partner with KPMG Peat Marwick, LLP (1979 to 1997). Mr. Bergert is also a Director of Delta Dental of California (2013 to present and 2006 to 2012), Delta Dental of Pennsylvania (2010 to present and 1998 to 2009), Delta Reinsurance Corporation (2015 to present; 2011 to 2014 and 2000 to 2009) and Dentegra Group, Inc. (2017 to present; 2010 to 2014).
John C. Pomeroy, Jr., 71. Mr. Pomeroy has been a Trustee of the Funds since 2002. Mr. Pomeroy is Chief Investment Officer and Director of Investments, Pennsylvania State University (2001 to present) and was Portfolio Manager and Product Manager, Trinity Investment Management Corporation (1989 to 2001).
R. Michael Sentel, 70. Mr. Sentel has been a Trustee of the Funds since their inception. Mr. Sentel recently retired from his role as a Senior Attorney with the U.S. Department of Education (1996 to 2018) and was engaged in private practice of securities and corporate law (1981 to 2017). Mr. Sentel began his legal career with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Division of Enforcement and served as a Branch Chief (1980 to 1981). Later he served as the Section Chief for the Professional Liability Section of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. with responsibility for the Rocky Mountain Region (1991 to 1994).
Mark Manassee, 53. Mr. Manassee has been a Trustee of the Funds since 2017. Mr. Manassee is a Senior Advisor to McKinsey’s Wealth and Asset Management Practice, and Chairman of the Board of FundRock Partners, Ltd (UK). Mr. Manassee was Principal and President of Market Metrics, LLC, a subsidiary of FactSet Research Systems, Inc. (1998 to 2016). Mr. Manassee was also a Director of Matrix-Data, Ltd (UK) (2013 to 2016) and Rhetorik, Ltd (UK) (2013 to 2016).
The Officers of the Funds are:
Craig T. Callahan, 67. Chairman of the Board. Dr. Callahan has been a Trustee of the Funds since their inception. Dr. Callahan also serves as President (2014 to present and 1998 to 2013) and Chairman of the Investment Committee (2005 to present) and served as the Chief Investment Officer (1991 to 2004) of ICON Advisers, Inc. Dr. Callahan is also Executive Vice President (2005 to present); Director (1991 to present); and was previously President (1998 to 2005) and Chief Compliance Officer (2005) of ICON Distributors, Inc. Dr. Callahan also serves as the President (1998 to present) and Chairman of the Board of Directors (1994 to present) of IM&R, the parent company of ICON Advisers, Inc. and ICON Distributors, Inc.
Donald Salcito, 65. Mr. Salcito serves as Vice President and Secretary of the Funds (2006 to present). Mr. Salcito is also Executive Vice President and General Counsel (2005 to present) of ICON Advisers, Inc.; Director of IM&R (2005 to present); Executive Vice President, Secretary, General Counsel of ICON Distributors, Inc. (2005 to 2017). Previously, he was a Partner in various national law firms, practicing in the securities law area (1980 to 2005).
Brian D. Harding, 39. Mr. Harding serves as Principal Financial Officer and Treasurer of the Funds (2017 to present). Mr. Harding is also Chief Financial Officer of ICON Advisers, Inc. (2013 to present) and Director of IM&R (2013 to present). Previously he was Chief Compliance Officer and Anti-Money Laundering Officer of the Funds (2008 to 2013), Chief Compliance Officer of ICON Advisers, Inc. (2011 to 2013), and Manager at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (2001 to 2008).
Jack M. Quillin, 46. Mr. Quillin serves as Assistant Treasurer of the Funds (2017 to present). Mr. Quillin is also a Compliance and Fund Accounting Associate of ICON Advisers, Inc. (2016 to present). Previously, he was a compliance analyst at Marsico Capital Management, LLC (2011 to 2015), an
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 35 |
| ICON International Funds | Board of Trustees and Fund Officers |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
assistant vice president in the municipal derivatives finance department at Merrill Lynch (2004 to 2008), and a senior accountant in the Regulatory Reporting group at Wells Fargo & Company (1998 to 2003).
Christopher R. Ambruso, 38. Mr. Ambruso serves as Chief Compliance Officer and Anti-Money Laundering Officer (2017 to present) of the Funds. Mr. Ambruso is also Chief Compliance Officer of ICON Advisers, Inc. (2017 to present). Previously he served as Assistant Secretary (2016 to 2017 and 2008 to 2012) of the Funds and Associate Counsel (2013 to 2017); Associate Attorney (2008 to 2013); and Staff Attorney (2007 to 2008) of ICON Advisers, Inc.
Stephen E. Abrams, 55. Mr. Abrams serves as Assistant Secretary of the Funds (2017 to present). Mr. Abrams is also Associate General Counsel of ICON Advisers, Inc. (2005 to present); Executive Vice President and General Counsel (2017 to present) and Chief Compliance Officer (2007 to present) of ICON Distributors, Inc. Previously, he worked as an Associate Attorney before becoming a Partner at a national law firm, practicing general litigation and securities law (1994 to 2005).
| 36 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON International Funds | Additional Information |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Renewal of Investment Advisory Agreement
On September 7, 2018, the Board of Trustees, including all of the Trustees that are not “interested persons” of the Trust (the “Independent Trustees”), approved continuation of the Advisory Agreements (as defined below) with the Adviser for each Fund for an additional one-year term commencing October 1, 2018.
The Trustees considered the renewal of the investment advisory agreements between the Trust and the Adviser – the Trust’s Investment Advisory Agreement dated October 9, 1996, as amended (related to the Sector Funds, the International Funds and the ICON Fund) and the Trust’s Investment Advisory Agreement dated July 9, 2002 and effective October 1, 2002, as amended (related to the U.S. Diversified Funds — Flexible Bond, Risk-Managed Balanced, Equity Income, Opportunities and Long/Short Funds) (collectively, the “Advisory Agreements”). The Trustees agreed that consideration of the Advisory Agreements should also include consideration of other agreements between the Adviser and the Trust that impact provisions of the Advisory Agreements, including the expense limitation agreements.
The Trustees were provided with and reviewed data with respect to the Adviser, its personnel, and the services provided and to be provided to each Fund by the Adviser under the Trust’s Advisory Agreements, Administrative Services Agreement and Expense Limitation Agreement and the Distribution Agreement with ICON Distributors, Inc. (“IDI”). The data included information concerning advisory, distribution and administrative services provided to the Funds by ICON and its related companies; information concerning other businesses of those companies; and comparative data obtained from Broadridge related to Fund performance and Fund expenses (the “Broadridge Report”).
The Independent Trustees met separately with Broadridge on August 8, 2018 to discuss the Broadridge Report and the information contained within the Broadridge Report.
Also included in the 15(c) discussion was a briefing on factors affecting the ICON investment model; expenses and expense ratios of each Fund and other ICON managed products; relative performance of each Fund; status of expense reimbursements to the Funds by the Adviser; sales and marketing initiatives; specific business factors affecting IDI; the work load on ICON as adviser and administrator to the Funds; current profitability of ICON; staffing levels and staff morale.
The Independent Trustees were represented by independent legal counsel in the entire 15(c) process. In August, after participating in the meeting with Broadridge and management, the Independent Trustees met separately as a group in private sessions with their independent legal counsel to review and discuss a wide variety of qualitative and quantitative information, including information they had received throughout the year as part of their regular oversight of the Funds. Based on these discussions, independent legal counsel and/or the Lead Independent Trustee also contacted management to request additional information from Broadridge. The Board received materials from independent legal counsel discussing the legal standards applicable to their consideration of the ICON-Trust agreements.
In considering the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by the Adviser, the Board reviewed information relating to ICON’s operations and personnel. Among other things, the Adviser provided biographical information on its professional staff and descriptions of its organizational and management structure. In the course of their deliberations the Board evaluated among other things, information relating to the investment philosophy, strategies and techniques used in managing each Fund, the qualifications and experience of ICON’s investment personnel, ICON’s compliance programs, ICON’s brokerage practices, including the extent to which the Adviser obtains research through “soft dollar” arrangements with the Funds’ brokerage, compliance reports on the foregoing, and the financial and non-financial resources available to provide services required under the Advisory Agreement.
Management and the Trustees discussed the Broadridge Report and Management personnel showed performance for each Fund and discussed the factors affecting performance. During a lengthy and spirited discussion, the Trustees expressed their concerns regarding both the ICON Funds’ performance relative to similarly situated funds and the overall rate of redemptions relative to sales.
With regard to the ICON Funds’ performance, the Chief Investment Officer (“CIO”) stated that the current market is favoring growth rather than value-based systems or styles. The current market is challenging for the ICON system. The CIO reiterated his faith in the ICON system, noting its many past successes. The Trustees raised questions regarding the Funds’ lagging performance and what changes might help to increase the performance, while staying within the ICON system. The Trustees’ questions and the discussion with Management focused on Management’s working internally to identify ways to improve performance by implementing changes within the ICON system, without straying outside the ICON system of value investing.
From a sales perspective, Management has been challenged to penetrate and retain sales in the full-service wirehouse firms. Wirehouses, Management noted, are intent on capturing assets while moving from a transaction-based compensation model (e.g. paying per trade) to a fee-based compensation model (e.g. paying a fixed percentage for asset management). Wirehouses are culling their recommended lists and/or looking to pare down the number of fund families with whom they do business. Management has seen most of the ICON Funds culled from wirehouses, in large part because of the size of the Funds.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 37 |
| ICON International Funds | Additional Information |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
In connection with reviewing data bearing upon the nature, quality, and extent of services furnished by ICON to each Fund, the Board assessed data concerning ICON’s staffing, systems and facilities. The Board also assessed ICON’s non-Trust business to see if there are any initiatives that would dilute service to the Trust. The Board concluded:
| A. | That the breadth and the quality of investment advisory and other services being provided to each Fund are satisfactory; |
| B. | That ICON has made significant expenditures in the past year and in prior years by way of expense reimbursements and the Adviser has the systems and trained personnel necessary for it to be able to continue to provide quality service to the Funds’ shareholders; |
| C. | That the Board is satisfied with the research, portfolio management, and trading services, among others, being provided by ICON to the Trust, and has determined that ICON is charging fair and reasonable fees; and |
| D. | The risks assumed by ICON in providing investment advisory services to each Fund including the capital commitments which have been made in the past and which continue to be made by ICON to ensure the continuation of the highest quality of service to the Trust is made with the recognition that the Trust’s advisory relationship with ICON can be terminated at any time and must be renewed on an annual basis. |
In considering the reasonableness of the fees paid to the Adviser for managing each Fund, the Board reviewed, among other things, data concerning other funds from the Broadridge Report, financial statements of the Adviser and an analysis of the profitability of the Adviser, and its affiliates, and their relationship with each Fund over various time periods. Such analysis identified all revenues and other benefits received by the Adviser and its affiliates from managing each Fund, the costs associated with providing such services and the resulting profitability to the Adviser and its affiliates and a comparison of similar data from reports filed by publicly traded firms.
The Board assessed actual (net) fees for advisory services and Fund expense ratios under the contractual relationship (the Advisory agreements, the Administration Agreement and the Expense Limitation Agreements) with the Adviser as opposed to the fees specified in the applicable Advisory Agreement and expense ratios without application of the expense limitations and the low cost of the Administration Agreement and concluded that the focus should be on actual expense ratios after application of the Expense Limitation Agreements.
The Board considered the current and anticipated asset levels of each Fund and the contractual commitments of the Adviser to waive fees and pay expenses of the Funds from time to time to limit the total expenses of the Funds. The Board also considered the Adviser’s contractual commitment regarding administration and the fact it would continue to lose money on administration. In this regard the Board discussed asset levels in each Fund covered by the Advisory Agreements. ICON’s ability to provide the services called for under the Advisory Agreements was assessed in light of current and projected asset levels. Fund expenses and expense ratios were also assessed in light of current and projected asset levels. The Board concluded that the Adviser has the resources necessary to provide the services called for under the Advisory Agreements; that profitability to the Adviser and its affiliates from their relationship with the Funds, and services provided to the Funds, is not excessive; and that the Adviser is not realizing benefits from economies of scale that would warrant adjustments to the fees for any Fund at this time. The Board of Trustees concluded that, in light of the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by the Adviser and the levels of profitability associated with providing these services, the fees charged by the Adviser under the Advisory Agreements to each Fund are reasonable.
In connection with assessing data bearing on the fairness of fee arrangements, the Board considered the Broadridge Report, and information that they had received throughout the year as part of their regular oversight of the Funds, including Morningstar and Lipper data on the peer groupings. Among other information discussed, it was noted that:
| A. | Upon review of the advisory fee structures of each Fund in comparison with other similar funds of similar size, the level of investment advisory fees paid by each Fund is competitive; |
| B. | The total expense ratio and contractual management fees at common asset levels of each Fund are generally competitive with their expense groups; |
| C. | ICON has contractually agreed to impose expense limitations on all Funds at a cost to ICON; |
| D. | That the advisory and other fees payable by the Funds to ICON are essentially fees which would be similar to those which would have resulted solely from “arm’s-length” bargaining; |
| E. | That the fees paid to ICON for managing other institutional accounts (such as individuals or sub-advised portfolios) are lower than the fees paid by similarly managed ICON funds, but the reason why they are lower is reasonably related to the cost for ICON to manage such accounts; |
| 38 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON International Funds | Additional Information |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| F. | The extent to which economies of scale could be realized as a Fund grows in assets and whether the Fund’s fees reflect these economies of scale for the benefit of Fund shareholders; and |
| G. | The costs borne by ICON in providing advisory services to each Fund and the profitability of ICON in light of the estimated profitability analysis which had been provided by ICON. |
The Board also considered the fees charged by the Adviser to other advisory clients as outlined in its Registration Application on Form ADV in connection with assessing data bearing on the fairness of fee arrangements. The Trustees and Management recognized that the Adviser is continuously evaluating Fund expense ratios and expense limits to assess the competitiveness of the Funds and whether any downward adjustments affect Fund sales.
The Board concluded that the Adviser is providing the Funds with professional management at a price that would have been arrived at in an arm’s length negotiation.
In connection with assessing the direct and indirect benefits to ICON from serving as the Funds’ adviser, the Board discussed services provided under the Distribution Agreement and the Administrative Services Agreement which are in addition to services under the Advisory Agreements. It was noted that:
| A. | ICON benefits from serving directly or through affiliates as the principal underwriter and administrative agent for the Funds; the services provided by ICON and its affiliates to the Funds are reasonably satisfactory, and whether the profits derived from providing the services are competitive and reasonable; |
| B. | ICON receives research assistance from the use of soft dollars generated from Fund portfolio transactions; the Trustees noted that such research is necessary to run the Funds and assists ICON in providing investment advisory services to the Funds as well as other accounts to which it provides advisory services. |
Based on all these considerations and other data as discussed above, the Board, including all of the Independent Trustees, concluded that: 1) the continuation of the Advisory Agreements was in the best interests of each Fund and its shareholders, 2) the services to be performed under the Advisory Agreements were required for the operation of the Funds, 3) the advisory services were satisfactory to the Funds in the past, and 4) the fees for the advisory services and other benefits from the relationship with the Trust received by ICON, and its affiliates, were within the range of what would have been negotiated at arm’s length in light of all the circumstances.
Supplemental Tax Information
Pursuant to Section 852(b)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code the following Funds designate the amounts listed below as long-term capital gain dividends:
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | $0 |
| ICON International Equity Fund | $0 |
The following Funds designate the percentages listed below of the income dividends distributed in 2017 as qualified dividend income (QDI) as defined in Section 1(h)(11) of the Internal Revenue Code:
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | 100.00% |
| ICON International Equity Fund | 0.00% |
The following Funds designate the percentages listed below of the income dividends distributed in 2017 as qualifying for the corporate dividends received deduction (DRD) as defined in Section 854(b)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code:
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | 6.33% |
| ICON International Equity Fund | 0.00% |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 39 |
| ICON International Funds | Additional Information |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Pursuant to §853 of the Internal Revenue Code, the ICON Emerging Markets Fund and ICON International Equity Fund designate the following amounts as foreign taxes paid for the current fiscal year. Foreign taxes paid for purposes of §853 may be less than actual foreign taxes paid for financial statement purposes.
| Creditable Foreign Taxes Paid | |
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | $276,733 |
| ICON International Equity Fund | $160,134 |
Portion of Ordinary Income Distribution derived from Foreign Sourced Income*
| ICON Emerging Markets Fund | 99.57% |
| ICON International Equity Fund | 98.74% |
| * | The Fund has not derived any income from ineligible foreign sources as defined under §901(j) of the Internal Revenue Code. |
Foreign taxes paid or withheld should be included in taxable income with an offsetting deduction from gross income or as a credit for taxes paid to foreign governments.
Above figures may differ from those cited elsewhere in this report due to differences in the calculation of income and gains under U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (book) purposes and Internal Revenue Service (tax) purposes.
Portfolio Holdings
Information related to the 10 largest portfolio holdings of each Fund is made available at www.iconfunds.com within approximately 10 business days after month-end. Additionally, a complete list of each Fund’s holdings is made available approximately 30 days after month-end. Each ICON Fund also files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the first and third quarters of its fiscal year with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) on Form N-Q. The ICON Funds’ Forms N-Q are available at www.sec.gov or may be reviewed and copied at the Commission’s Public Reference Room in Washington, DC. Information about the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.
Proxy Voting
A summarized description of the policies and procedures the ICON Funds use to vote proxies is available free of charge at www.iconfunds.com or by calling 1-800-764-0442.
Information about how the ICON Funds voted proxies related to each Fund’s portfolio securities during the 12-month period ended June 30 is available free of charge at www.iconfunds.com or on the Commission’s website at www.sec.gov.
For More Information
This report is for the general information of the Funds’ shareholders and is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus. You may obtain a copy of the prospectus, which contains information about the investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and share classes of each ICON Fund, by visiting www.iconfunds.com or by calling 1-800-764-0442. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing.
ICON Distributors, Inc., Distributor.
| 40 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON International Funds | Privacy Policy |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| WHAT DOES ICON DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION? | |
| Why? | Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do. |
| What? | The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:
● Social Security number and account balances ● income and transaction history ● checking account information and wire transfer instructions
When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice. |
| How? | All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons ICON chooses to share; and whether you can limit this sharing. |
| Reasons we can share your personal information | Does ICON share? | Can you limit this sharing? |
| For our everyday business purposes — such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court orders and legal investigations, or report to credit bureaus | Yes |
No |
| For our marketing purposes — to offer our products and services to you | No |
We don’t share |
| For joint marketing with other financial companies | No | We don’t share |
| For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes — information about your transactions and experiences | No |
We don’t share |
| For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes — information about your creditworthiness | No |
We don’t share |
| For nonaffiliates to market to you | No | We don’t share |
| Questions? | Call 1-800-764-0442 for the ICON Funds and 1-800-828-4881 for ICON Advisers, Inc. and ICON Distributors, Inc. |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 41 |
| ICON International Funds | Privacy Policy |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| Who We Are | |
| Who is providing this notice? | ICON Funds, ICON Advisers, Inc., and ICON Distributors, Inc. (collectively “ICON”) |
| What We Do | |
| How does ICON protect my personal information? | To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.
Contracts with our service providers require them to restrict access to your non-public personal information, and to maintain physical, electronic and procedural safeguards against unintended disclosure. |
| How does ICON collect my personal information? | We collect your personal information, for example, when you
● open an account or enter into an investment advisory contract ● provide account information or give us your contact information ● make a wire transfer
We also collect your personal information from others, such as credit bureaus, affiliates, or other companies. |
| Why can’t I limit all sharing? | Federal law gives you the right to limit only
● sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes — information about your creditworthiness ● affiliates from using your information to market to you ● sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you
State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing. |
| Definitions | |
| Affiliates | Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.
● Our affiliates include financial companies such as ICON Funds, ICON Advisers, Inc., and ICON Distributors, Inc. |
| Nonaffiliates | Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.
● Nonaffiliates we share with can include financial companies such as custodians, transfer agents, registered representatives, financial advisers and nonfinancial companies such as fulfillment, proxy voting, and class action service providers |
| Joint marketing | A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.
● ICON doesn’t jointly market |
| 42 | www.iconfunds.com |
Intentionally Left Blank
For more information about the ICON Funds, contact us:
| By Telephone | 1-800-764-0442 |
| By E-Mail | info@iconadvisers.com |
| By Mail | ICON Funds | P.O. Box 1920 | Denver, CO 80201 |
| In Person | ICON Funds | 5299 DTC Boulevard, 12th Floor |
| Greenwood Village, CO 80111 | |
| On the Internet | www.iconfunds.com |
 |
ANNUAL REPORT |
| September 30, 2018 |
Sector Funds
ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund (ICCCX, ICCAX)
ICON Consumer Staples Fund (ICLEX, ICRAX)
ICON Energy Fund (ICENX, ICEEX, ICEAX)
ICON Financial Fund (ICFSX, ICFAX)
ICON Healthcare Fund (ICHCX, ICHAX)
ICON Industrials Fund (ICTRX, ICIAX)
ICON Information Technology Fund (ICTEX, ICTTX)
ICON Natural Resources Fund (ICBMX, ICBCX, ICBAX)
ICON Utilities Fund (ICTUX, ICTVX)
You can now sign up for electronic delivery of ICON Fund shareholder reports, including prospectuses, annual reports, semiannual reports and proxy statements.
When these materials are available, you will receive an email from ICON with instructions on how to view the documents. Statements, transaction confirmations and other documents that are not available online will continue to be sent to you by U.S. mail.
Visit ICON’s website at www.iconfunds.com to learn more and sign up.
You may change or cancel your participation in eDelivery by visiting www.iconfunds.com, or you can request a hard copy of any of the materials free of charge by calling ICON Funds at 1-800-764-0442.
| 1-800-764-0442 • www.iconfunds.com |
| TABLE OF CONTENTS |
ICON Sector Funds |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
Historical Returns
All total returns mentioned in this Report account for the change in a Fund’s per-share price and the reinvestment of any dividends, capital gain distributions and adjustments for financial statement purposes. If your account is set up to receive Fund distributions in cash rather than to reinvest them, your actual return may differ from these figures. The Funds’ performance results do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. The Adviser may have reimbursed certain fees or expenses of some of the Funds. If not for these reimbursements, performance would have been lower. Fund results shown, unless otherwise indicated, are at net asset value. If a sales charge (maximum 5.75%) had been deducted, results would have been lower.
Past performance does not guarantee 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. Performance results represent past performance, and current performance may be higher or lower. Please call 1-800-764-0442 or visit www.iconfunds.com for performance results current to the most recent month-end.
Portfolio Data
This Report reflects ICON’s portfolio holdings as of September 30, 2018, the end of the reporting period. The information is not a complete analysis of every aspect of any sector, industry, security or the Funds.
There are risks associated with mutual fund investing, including the loss of principal. The likelihood of loss may be greater if you invest for a shorter period of time. There is no assurance that the investment process will consistently lead to successful results.
An investment concentrated in sectors and industries may involve greater risk and volatility than a more diversified investment. Investments in foreign securities may entail unique risks, including political, market, and currency risks. Financial statements of foreign companies are governed by different accounting, auditing, and financial standards than U.S. companies and may be less transparent and uniform than in the United States. Many corporate governance standards, which help ensure the integrity of public information in the United States, do not exist in foreign countries. In general, there may be less governmental supervision of foreign stock exchanges and securities brokers and issuers. The ICON system relies on the integrity of the financial statements released to the market as part of our analysis.
The prospectus and statement of additional information contain this and other information about the Funds and are available by visiting www.iconfunds.com or calling 1-800-764-0442. Please read the prospectus and statement of additional information carefully.
Financial Intermediary
If you purchase the Fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank), the Fund and its related companies may pay the intermediary for the sale of Fund shares and related services. These payments may influence the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary’s website for more information.
| 2 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| Q. | How did the Fund Perform relative to its benchmark? |
| A. | The ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund Class S (the Fund) returned 0.14% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, while the benchmark S&P Composite 1500 Consumer Discretionary Index rose 30.50%. The broad market S&P Composite 1500 Index returned 17.69%. Total returns for other periods and additional Class shares as of September 30, 2018 appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview. |
| Q. | What primary factors influenced the Fund’s relative performance during the period? |
| A. | The broad equity market began the past fiscal year with a continuation of the prior year as stocks rose steadily into January, 2018. As prices peaked, however, U.S. interest rates also rose as the Federal Reserve continued its slow path of normalizing monetary policy through rate increases. Stocks eventually experienced a sharp selloff as investors became nervous about the effect of higher rates on companies and the broad economy. As the world digested an increasingly uncertain trade and political environment, the United States equity markets were able to decouple from overseas weakness in part due to a lower tax environment, healthy corporate earnings, and strong economic growth. These economic factors were tailwinds to the U.S. consumer which resulted in a strong outperformance for the Consumer Discretionary sector over the year. Although online retail/e-commerce continued its strength, many traditional/brick-and-mortar retailers were able to adapt their business models and recover from periods of past weakness. While retail generally thrived, other industry groups did not share the same growth much of the Consumer Discretionary sector experienced. For example, automobiles & components saw general weakness as fears of slowing demand coincided with protectionist trade policies, while homebuilding-related industries suffered under investor concern regarding the effect of rising interest rates on the previously booming housing market. The sector was once again highlighted by the growth of Amazon and Netflix, which continued their dominance with strong equity returns. |
Unfortunately, the Fund was unable to keep pace with the benchmark during the fiscal year. Over the 12-month period, the stocks our system suggested were the best bargains performed the worst. Conversely, the stocks our system indicated were overvalued performed the best. With value as our guide and core strategy, we were naturally positioned in those industries and stocks that presented us with what we believed were the best bargains, but our strategy underperformed. This can happen periodically, but we do not believe it will persist indefinitely. However, this year the discrepancy between Fund and benchmark performance was exacerbated by the increased benchmark weight of (and the Fund’s lack of exposure to) stocks like Amazon and Netflix which we calculated were overpriced, but which ultimately outperformed.
| Q. | How did the Fund’s Composition affect performance? |
| A. | The Fund had no exposure to the automobile manufacturers industry in fiscal year 2018. As earnings growth slowed in this industry, it dragged on the benchmark, but the Fund’s absence of automobile manufacturers ultimately benefitted Fund performance. The apparel retail industry was another positive Fund contributor as overweight positions in discount retailers such as TJX Companies and Ross Stores outperformed the benchmark for the year. Our overweight positions in the homefurnishing retail and automotive retail industries (with the Fund’s stake in Aaron’s and O’Reilly Automotive, respectively) likewise contributed positively to relative performance with positive stock selection. |
The internet & direct marketing retail industry was the Fund’s largest detractor to relative performance as Amazon returned over 108% for the year. This name alone held an average benchmark weight of over 18% for the period, but our methodology neglected to find adequate value in the name or industry to warrant investment. Additionally, the Fund’s holdings of Nutrisystem suffered losses as quarterly earnings results were met with heavy selling pressure. The housewares & specialties industry also adversely impacted the Fund, as Newell Brands failed to perform as anticipated. Finally, homebuilding, one of last year’s leading industries, suffered losses for the second half of the year as rising interest rates ultimately weighed on investor sentiment for this industry.
| Q. | What is your investment outlook for the Consumer Discretionary sector? |
| A. | At the close of the fiscal year, our model indicates the Consumer Discretionary sector has a value-to-price (V/P) ratio of 1.06. In other words, we see fair value stocks in the Consumer Discretionary sector 6% higher than where they are currently trading. Drilling down to the industry level, we currently see bargains in the homebuilding and homefurnishing retail industries. As always, we look to value as our primary guide and will adjust our positioning as market conditions dictate. |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 3 |
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
|
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
|
|||||||
| Inception Date |
1 Year |
5 Years |
10 Years |
Since Inception |
Gross Expense Ratio* | Net Expense Ratio* | |
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund - Class S | 7/9/97 | 0.14% | 5.28% | 10.51% | 5.66% | 1.46% | 1.46% |
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund - Class A | 9/30/10 | -0.24% | 4.80% | N/A | 10.82% | 2.22% | 1.99% |
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund - Class A (including maximum sales charge of 5.75%) | 9/30/10 | -6.01% | 3.57% | N/A | 10.01% | 2.22% | 1.99% |
| S&P 1500 Consumer Discretionary Index | 30.50% | 15.25% | 16.98% | 9.85% | N/A | N/A | |
| S&P Composite 1500 Index | 17.69% | 13.77% | 12.04% | 7.98% | N/A | N/A | |
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The performance of the S&P 1500 Consumer Discretionary Index includes the reinvestment of the dividends and capital gain distributions beginning on January 1, 2002. Additional information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Adviser has agreed to limit certain Fund expenses; without these limitations, returns would have been lower. The limitation provisions may be terminated in the future.
| * | Please see the most recent prospectus for details. |
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the Fund’s Class S shares on the Class’ inception date of 7/9/97 to a $10,000 investment made in unmanaged securities indexes on that date. The Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
| 4 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Common Stocks (94.47%) | ||||||||
| Apparel Retail (7.41%) | ||||||||
| Burlington Stores, Inc.(a) | 7,800 | $ | 1,270,776 | |||||
| TJX Cos., Inc. | 4,701 | 526,606 | ||||||
| 1,797,382 | ||||||||
| Apparel, Accessories & Luxury Goods (9.16%) | ||||||||
| PVH Corp. | 2,400 | 346,560 | ||||||
| Tapestry, Inc. | 8,276 | 416,034 | ||||||
| VF Corp. | 15,600 | 1,457,820 | ||||||
| 2,220,414 | ||||||||
| Automotive Retail (1.60%) | ||||||||
| AutoZone, Inc.(a) | 500 | 387,850 | ||||||
| Broadcasting (8.04%)(b) | ||||||||
| CBS Corp., Class B | 28,000 | 1,608,600 | ||||||
| Gray Television, Inc.(a) | 19,600 | 343,000 | ||||||
| 1,951,600 | ||||||||
| Cable & Satellite (7.70%)(b) | ||||||||
| Comcast Corp., Class A | 52,700 | 1,866,107 | ||||||
| Casinos & Gaming (0.63%) | ||||||||
| Melco Resorts & Entertainment, Ltd., ADR | 7,200 | 152,280 | ||||||
| Distributors (0.44%) | ||||||||
| LKQ Corp.(a) | 3,400 | 107,678 | ||||||
| General Merchandise Stores (2.13%) | ||||||||
| Dollar General Corp. | 2,200 | 240,460 | ||||||
| Dollar Tree, Inc.(a) | 3,400 | 277,270 | ||||||
| 517,730 | ||||||||
| Home Furnishings (1.88%) | ||||||||
| Mohawk Industries, Inc.(a) | 2,600 | 455,910 | ||||||
| Home Improvement Retail (5.99%) | ||||||||
| Floor & Decor Holdings, Inc., Class A(a) | 4,000 | 120,680 | ||||||
| Home Depot, Inc. | 3,433 | 711,146 | ||||||
| Lowe’s Cos., Inc. | 5,400 | 620,028 | ||||||
| 1,451,854 | ||||||||
| Homebuilding (11.47%) | ||||||||
| DR Horton, Inc. | 22,032 | 929,310 | ||||||
| Installed Building Products, Inc.(a) | 4,887 | 190,593 | ||||||
| Lennar Corp., Class A | 12,900 | 602,301 | ||||||
| M/I Homes, Inc.(a) | 7,600 | 181,868 | ||||||
| PulteGroup, Inc. | 9,600 | 237,792 | ||||||
| Toll Brothers, Inc. | 9,500 | 313,785 | ||||||
| TopBuild Corp.(a) | 2,000 | 113,640 | ||||||
| William Lyon Homes, Class A(a) | 13,401 | 212,942 | ||||||
| 2,782,231 | ||||||||
| Homefurnishing Retail (4.37%) | ||||||||
| Aaron’s, Inc. | 17,700 | 963,942 | ||||||
| At Home Group, Inc.(a) | 3,000 | 94,590 | ||||||
| 1,058,532 | ||||||||
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Household Appliances (1.93%) | ||||||||
| Whirlpool Corp. | 3,947 | $ | 468,706 | |||||
| Integrated Telecommunication Services (4.10%) | ||||||||
| AT&T, Inc. | 29,621 | 994,673 | ||||||
| Internet & Direct Marketing Retail (3.27%) | ||||||||
| Booking Holdings, Inc.(a) | 400 | 793,600 | ||||||
| Movies & Entertainment (9.53%)(b) | ||||||||
| Viacom, Inc., Class B | 11,300 | 381,488 | ||||||
| Walt Disney Co. | 16,500 | 1,929,510 | ||||||
| 2,310,998 | ||||||||
| Restaurants (8.21%) | ||||||||
| Dine Brands Global, Inc.(c) | 7,800 | 634,218 | ||||||
| McDonald’s Corp. | 8,100 | 1,355,049 | ||||||
| 1,989,267 | ||||||||
| Specialized Consumer Services (2.58%) | ||||||||
| Weight Watchers International, Inc.(a)(c) | 8,700 | 626,313 | ||||||
| Specialty Stores (4.03%) | ||||||||
| Party City Holdco, Inc.(a)(c) | 36,601 | 495,944 | ||||||
| Ulta Beauty, Inc.(a) | 1,700 | 479,604 | ||||||
| 975,548 | ||||||||
| Total Common Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $22,557,452) | 22,908,673 | |||||||
| Collateral for Securities on Loan (2.08%) | ||||||||
| State Street Navigator Securities | ||||||||
| Lending Government Money | ||||||||
| Market Portfolio, | ||||||||
| 7-Day Yield 2.19% | 503,264 | 503,264 | ||||||
| Total Collateral for Securities on Loan | ||||||||
| (Cost $503,264) | 503,264 | |||||||
| Total Investments (96.55%) | ||||||||
| (Cost $23,060,716) | $ | 23,411,937 | ||||||
| Other Assets Less Liabilities (3.45%) | 837,518 | |||||||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 24,249,455 | ||||||
| (a) | Non-income producing security. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 5 |
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| (b) | Effective at the close of business on September 28, 2018 the Global Industry Classification Standards (“GICS”) Telecommunications Services Sector was broadened and renamed the Communications Services Sector. As a result of this change, the following Sub-Industries were moved from the Consumer Discretionary Sector into the new Communications Services Sector: Advertising, Broadcasting, Cable & Satellite, Movies & Entertainment, Publishing, and Interactive Media & Services. |
| (c) | All or a portion of the security was on loan as of September 30, 2018. |
ADR - American Depositary Receipt
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 6 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
Sector Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Consumer Discretionary | 65.10 | % | ||
| Communication Services(b) | 29.37 | % | ||
| 94.47 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
Industry Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Homebuilding | 11.47 | % | ||
| Movies & Entertainment | 9.53 | % | ||
| Apparel, Accessories & Luxury Goods | 9.16 | % | ||
| Restaurants | 8.21 | % | ||
| Broadcasting | 8.04 | % | ||
| Cable & Satellite | 7.70 | % | ||
| Apparel Retail | 7.41 | % | ||
| Home Improvement Retail | 5.99 | % | ||
| Homefurnishing Retail | 4.37 | % | ||
| Integrated Telecommunication Services | 4.10 | % | ||
| Specialty Stores | 4.03 | % | ||
| Internet & Direct Marketing Retail | 3.27 | % | ||
| Specialized Consumer Services | 2.58 | % | ||
| General Merchandise Stores | 2.13 | % | ||
| Household Appliances | 1.93 | % | ||
| Home Furnishings | 1.88 | % | ||
| Automotive Retail | 1.60 | % | ||
| Insurance Brokers | 1.07 | % | ||
| 94.47 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| (b) | Effective at the close of business on September 28, 2018 the Global Industry Classification Standards (“GICS”) Telecommunications Services Sector was broadened and renamed the Communications Services Sector. As a result of this change, the following Sub-Industries were moved from the Consumer Discretionary Sector into the new Communications Services Sector: Advertising, Broadcasting, Cable & Satellite, Movies & Entertainment, Publishing, and Interactive Media & Services. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 7 |
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | Management Overview |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
| Q. | How did the Fund perform relative to its benchmarks? |
| A. | The ICON Consumer Staples Fund (the Fund) Class S returned 0.50% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, while its sector-specific benchmark, the S&P Composite 1500 Consumer Staples Index, returned 3.21%, and the S&P Composite 1500 Index returned 17.69%. Total returns for other periods and additional Class shares as of September 30, 2018, appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview. |
| Q. | What primary factors were behind the Fund’s relative performance? |
| A. | In fiscal year 2018 the Fund was impacted by many of the same factors that affected Fund performance in fiscal year 2017 – with much the same result. The Consumer Staples sector underperformed the overall U.S. equity market by a wide margin. Commonly viewed as a defensive, recession-proof, lower growth, and higher dividend paying “bond proxy” sector by investors, the Consumer Staples sector found itself out of favor during this period. As economic and corporate earnings growth accelerated in the United States, so did interest rates, which reduced the appeal for Consumer Staples stocks. Investors favored higher growth companies in the Information Technology, Consumer Discretionary, and Health Care sectors over the typically more recession-proof alternative as the bull market continued. During fiscal year 2018, economic growth accelerated, unemployment fell to 20 year lows, and inflation remained subdued by historical standards. These factors could remain tailwinds for the U.S. consumer and should benefit companies and industries in this sector of the economy. |
A common factor that was evident throughout the year was the persistent underperformance of stocks that looked most attractive to our valuation system. Over the year, the stocks our methodology suggested were the greatest bargains performed the worst, and, conversely, the stocks our system regarded as most overpriced performed the best. With value as our guide and core strategy, we were naturally positioned in those industries and stocks that we thought represented the best bargains, but this strategy underperformed during fiscal year 2018. This can happen periodically, but we do not believe it will persist indefinitely.
| Q. | How did the Fund’s composition affect performance? |
| A. | Packaged foods & meats was the greatest contributor to the Fund’s performance on an industry level during fiscal year 2018. The Fund was able to outperform the benchmark in this industry with overweight positions in strong performing Post Holdings and Pinnacle Foods. The food distributors industry was another positive contributor as Sysco and US Foods were standout performers that contributed positively to the Fund. |
The hypermarkets & supercenters industry was the Fund’s largest detractor, as the Fund was underweight this strong performing industry due to low valuation readings in our system. Additionally, Newell Brands, a housewares & specialties company, was another large detractor, as the company failed to recover from its prior year’s poor performance and we ultimately sold our position. Finally, the household products industry detracted from relative performance as Central Garden & Pet Company suffered losses.
| Q. | What is your investment outlook for the Consumer Staples sector? |
| A. | At the close of the fiscal year, our model indicates the Consumer Staples sector has an overall value-to-price (V/P) ratio of 1.03. In other words, we believe the fair value for stocks in the Consumer Staples sector as a whole is approximately 3% higher than where the securities are now trading. We currently see bargains in the food distributors, brewers, soft drinks, and tobacco industries. As always, we look to value as our primary guide and will adjust our positioning as market conditions dictate. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 8 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | Management Overview |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
| Inception Date | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | Since Inception | Gross Expense Ratio* | Net Expense Ratio* | |
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund - Class S | 5/9/97 | 0.50% | 8.05% | 9.08% | 8.19% | 1.70% | 1.50% |
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund -Class A | 9/30/10 | 0.17% | 7.76% | N/A | 9.89% | 1.97% | 1.75% |
| ICON Consumer Staples
Fund - Class A (including maximum sales charge of 5.75%) |
9/30/10 | -5.57% | 6.49% | N/A | 9.09% | 1.97% | 1.75% |
| S&P 1500 Consumer Staples Index | 3.21% | 9.29% | 10.24% | 7.93% | N/A | N/A | |
| S&P Composite 1500 Index | 17.69% | 13.77% | 12.04% | 8.42% | N/A | N/A |
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The performance of the S&P 1500 Consumer Staples Index includes the reinvestment of the dividends and capital gain distributions beginning on January 1, 2002. Additional information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Adviser has agreed to limit certain Fund expenses; without these limitations, returns would have been lower. The limitation provisions may be terminated in the future.
| * | Please see the most recent prospectus for details. |
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the Fund’s Class S shares on the Class’ inception date of 5/9/97 to a $10,000 investment made in unmanaged securities indexes on that date. The Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 9 |
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | Schedule of Investments |
September 30, 2018
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Common Stocks (95.69%) | ||||||||
| Agricultural Products (2.00%) | ||||||||
| Archer-Daniels-Midland Co. | 2,794 | $ | 140,454 | |||||
| Brewers (3.00%) | ||||||||
| Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV, Sponsored ADR(a) | 2,400 | 210,168 | ||||||
| Distillers & Vintners (3.74%) | ||||||||
| Constellation Brands, Inc., Class A | 1,215 | 261,978 | ||||||
| Food Distributors (6.39%) | ||||||||
| Performance Food Group Co.(b) | 5,799 | 193,107 | ||||||
| Sysco Corp. | 1,100 | 80,575 | ||||||
| U.S. Foods Holding Corp.(b) | 4,400 | 135,608 | ||||||
| United Natural Foods, Inc.(b) | 1,300 | 38,935 | ||||||
| 448,225 | ||||||||
| Household Products (16.97%) | ||||||||
| Central Garden & Pet Co., Class A (b) | 4,300 | 142,502 | ||||||
| Colgate-Palmolive Co. | 7,200 | 482,040 | ||||||
| Procter & Gamble Co. | 6,800 | 565,964 | ||||||
| 1,190,506 | ||||||||
| Hypermarkets & Super Centers (6.65%) | ||||||||
| Walmart, Inc. | 4,964 | 466,169 | ||||||
| Managed Health Care (2.97%) | ||||||||
| Cigna Corp. | 1,000 | 208,250 | ||||||
| Packaged Foods & Meats (15.61%) | ||||||||
| Conagra Brands, Inc. | 9,538 | 324,006 | ||||||
| Kellogg Co. | 2,100 | 147,042 | ||||||
| Lamb Weston Holdings, Inc. | 2,179 | 145,122 | ||||||
| Mondelez International, Inc., Class A | 9,900 | 425,304 | ||||||
| Tyson Foods, Inc., Class A | 900 | 53,577 | ||||||
| 1,095,051 | ||||||||
| Pharmaceuticals (6.50%) | ||||||||
| Johnson & Johnson | 3,300 | 455,961 | ||||||
| Soft Drinks (16.45%) | ||||||||
| Coca-Cola Co. | 10,200 | 471,138 | ||||||
| PepsiCo, Inc. | 6,100 | 681,980 | ||||||
| 1,153,118 | ||||||||
| Tobacco (15.41%) | ||||||||
| Altria Group, Inc. | 9,000 | 542,790 | ||||||
| Philip Morris International, Inc. | 6,600 | 538,164 | ||||||
| 1,080,954 | ||||||||
| Total Common Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $6,738,281) | 6,710,834 | |||||||
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Collateral for Securities on Loan (1.16%) | ||||||||
| State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio, 7-Day Yield 2.19% | 81,000 | $ | 81,000 | |||||
| Total Collateral for Securities on Loan | ||||||||
| (Cost $81,000) | 81,000 | |||||||
| Total Investments (96.85%) | ||||||||
| (Cost $6,819,281) | $ | 6,791,834 | ||||||
| Other Assets Less Liabilities (3.15%) | 221,008 | |||||||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 7,012,842 | ||||||
| (a) | All or a portion of the security was on loan as of September 30, 2018. |
| (b) | Non-income producing security. |
ADR - American Depositary Receipt
| Sector Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Consumer Staples | 86.22 | % | ||
| Health Care | 9.47 | % | ||
| 95.69 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| Industry Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Household Products | 16.97 | % | ||
| Soft Drinks | 16.45 | % | ||
| Packaged Foods & Meats | 15.61 | % | ||
| Tobacco | 15.41 | % | ||
| Hypermarkets & Super Centers | 6.65 | % | ||
| Pharmaceuticals | 6.50 | % | ||
| Food Distributors | 6.39 | % | ||
| Distillers & Vintners | 3.74 | % | ||
| Brewers | 3.00 | % | ||
| Managed Health Care | 2.97 | % | ||
| Agricultural Products | 2.00 | % | ||
| 95.69 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 10 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Energy Fund | Management Overview |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
| Q. | How did the Fund perform relative to its benchmarks? |
| A. | For the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018, the ICON Energy Fund (the Fund) Class S returned 4.99%, underperforming its sector-specific benchmark, the S&P 1500 Energy Index, which returned 14.87%. The Fund also lagged the broad benchmark, the S&P Composite 1500 Index, which returned 17.69%. Total returns for other periods and additional Class shares as of September 30, 2018, appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview. |
| Q. | What primary factors were behind the Fund’s relative performance? |
| A. | The Energy sector underperformed relative to the broad market despite strong oil pricing during fiscal year 2018. Over the course of fiscal year 2018, 1 month oil futures contracts measured by West Texas Intermediate (WTI) crude, gained 41.8% to close at $73.25 per barrel. Increasing geopolitical concerns, production outage and U.S. production bottlenecks broke the $45 to $55 per barrel narrative that dominated oil pricing for most of 2017. While this price increase proved advantageous for most oil & gas exploration & production companies, it did little to impact the Fund’s oil & gas equipment & services and oil & gas drilling holdings, as more oil was produced domestically with fewer wells. The ICON system saw value in the oil & gas exploration & production industry, while recognizing overpricing in both oil & gas equipment & services and oil & gas drilling. Although our methodology steered us to the right industries, and the Fund was weighted accordingly at the start of the fiscal year, the Fund’s stock selection failed to capitalize on this strong performance. Flat pricing in natural gas likewise contributed to headwinds experienced by both the sector and the Fund. |
| Q. | How did the Fund’s composition affect performance? |
| A. | As previously indicated the Fund’s performance was hindered by its positions in the oil & gas exploration & production industry. Oil & gas exploration & production holdings within the S&P 1500 were up over 26% during the fiscal year, while the Fund’s industry positions remained flat. Our methodology saw value in certain oil & gas exploration and production securities that ultimately underperformed securities we believed were overvalued. In fact, the most expensive oil & gas exploration & production securities (the bottom 20% ranked according to ICON’s value-to-price (V/P) ratio) returned approximately 57% while the securities with the best value and ranked in the highest 20% of companies by V/P returned less than 7%. By way of example, the Fund’s position in Cimarex Energy Co. (XEC), which had a V/P of 1.26 at the start of the fiscal year and comprised about 4% of the Energy Fund over the year, was one of the single largest detractors to the Fund, falling about 18% during the fiscal year. |
The Fund benefitted from its overweight position in the oil & gas refining & marketing industry. While the industry made up 10.5% of the S&P 1500 Energy index, and returned 44.6%, the industry accounted for over 12% of the Fund’s holdings, returning over 50% and helped offset some of the losses from the Fund’s other holdings.
| Q. | What is your investment outlook for the Energy sector? |
| A. | At the end of the fiscal year, ICON’s V/P ratio for the Energy sector was 0.96, while our V/P for the overall market was 1.02. Notwithstanding these numbers, we still see opportunities at the industry level. Oil & gas refining & marketing, for example, has a V/P close to 1.18 while oil & gas exploration & production has a 1.10 V/P. Heading into fiscal year 2019, the ICON Energy Fund is overweight both industries. As always, and guided by value, we will continue to look for opportunities in the Energy sector. |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 11 |
| ICON Energy Fund | Management Overview |
September 30, 2018 (Unaudited)
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
| Inception Date | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | Since Inception | Gross Expense Ratio* | Net Expense Ratio* | |
| ICON Energy Fund - Class S | 11/5/97 | 4.99% | -4.93% | 0.88% | 7.86% | 1.41% | 1.41% |
| ICON Energy Fund - Class C | 9/30/10 | 3.87% | -5.93% | N/A | 0.27% | 2.47% | 2.47% |
| ICON Energy Fund - Class A | 9/30/10 | 4.71% | -5.20% | N/A | 1.04% | 1.72% | 1.72% |
| ICON Energy Fund - Class A (including maximum sales charge of 5.75%) |
9/30/10 | -1.32% | -6.32% | N/A | 0.30% | 1.72% | 1.72% |
| S&P 1500 Energy Index | 14.87% | 0.63% | 3.60% | 7.40% | N/A | N/A | |
| S&P Composite 1500 Index | 17.69% | 13.77% | 12.04% | 7.84% | N/A | N/A |
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Adviser has agreed to limit certain Fund expenses; without these limitations, returns would have been lower. The limitation provisions may be terminated in the future.
| * | Please see the most recent prospectus for details. |
Class C total returns exclude applicable sales charges. If sales charges were included returns would be lower.
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the Fund’s Class S shares on the Class’ inception date of 11/5/97 to a $10,000 investment made in unmanaged securities indexes on that date. The Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
| 12 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Energy Fund | Schedule of Investments |
September 30, 2018
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Common Stocks (97.23%) | ||||||||
| Integrated Oil & Gas (32.01%) | ||||||||
| Chevron Corp. | 139,100 | $ | 17,009,148 | |||||
| Exxon Mobil Corp. | 370,200 | 31,474,404 | ||||||
| TOTAL SA, Sponsored ADR | 146,700 | 9,446,013 | ||||||
| 57,929,565 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Equipment & Services (1.46%) | ||||||||
| ProPetro Holding Corp.(a)(b) | 160,700 | 2,649,943 | ||||||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production (48.80%) | ||||||||
| Cabot Oil & Gas Corp. | 186,400 | 4,197,728 | ||||||
| Callon Petroleum Co.(a) | 279,300 | 3,348,807 | ||||||
| Carrizo Oil & Gas, Inc.(a) | 190,300 | 4,795,560 | ||||||
| Centennial Resource Development, Inc., Class A(a)(b) | 208,500 | 4,555,725 | ||||||
| Cimarex Energy Co. | 41,700 | 3,875,598 | ||||||
| Diamondback Energy, Inc.(b) | 106,550 | 14,404,494 | ||||||
| Energen Corp.(a) | 51,400 | 4,429,138 | ||||||
| EOG Resources, Inc. | 93,200 | 11,889,524 | ||||||
| Gulfport Energy Corp.(a) | 319,900 | 3,330,159 | ||||||
| Laredo Petroleum, Inc.(a) | 533,150 | 4,355,836 | ||||||
| Matador Resources Co.(a) | 75,600 | 2,498,580 | ||||||
| Newfield Exploration Co.(a) | 259,900 | 7,492,917 | ||||||
| Parsley Energy, Inc., Class A(a) | 287,200 | 8,400,600 | ||||||
| Penn Virginia Corp.(a) | 29,000 | 2,335,660 | ||||||
| Pioneer Natural Resources Co. | 26,100 | 4,546,359 | ||||||
| WildHorse Resource Development Corp.(a) | 163,600 | 3,867,504 | ||||||
| 88,324,189 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing (14.96%) | ||||||||
| HollyFrontier Corp. | 29,700 | 2,076,030 | ||||||
| Marathon Petroleum Corp. | 113,100 | 9,044,607 | ||||||
| Phillips 66 | 75,200 | 8,476,544 | ||||||
| Valero Energy Corp. | 65,800 | 7,484,750 | ||||||
| 27,081,931 | ||||||||
| Total Common Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $158,320,169) | 175,985,628 | |||||||
| Underlying Security/Expiration Date/Exercise Price/ Notional Amount | Contracts | Value | ||||||
| Purchased Call Options (0.06%) | ||||||||
| SRC Energy, Inc. | ||||||||
| 03/15/19, 10, $711,200 | 800 | 100,000 | ||||||
| Total Purchased Call Options | ||||||||
| (Cost $91,033) | 100,000 | |||||||
| Value | ||||
| Total Investments (97.29%) | ||||
| (Cost $158,411,202) | $ | 176,085,628 | ||
| Other Assets Less Liabilities (2.71%) | 4,909,442 | |||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 180,995,070 | ||
| (a) | Non-income producing security. |
| (b) | All or a portion of the security was on loan as of September 30, 2018. |
ADR - American Depositary Receipt
| Sector Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Energy | 97.23 | % | ||
| 97.23 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| Industry Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production | 48.80 | % | ||
| Integrated Oil & Gas | 32.01 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing | 14.96 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Equipment & Services | 1.46 | % | ||
| 97.23 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) | 13 |
| ICON Financial Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| Q. | How did the Fund perform relative to its benchmarks? |
| A. | The ICON Financial Fund (the Fund) Class S returned 10.48% for the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018, outperforming its sector-specific benchmark, the S&P 1500 Financial Index, which returned 8.68%. The Fund underperformed its broad benchmark, the S&P Composite 1500 Index, which returned 17.69%. Total returns for other periods and additional Class shares as of September 30, 2018, appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview. |
| Q. | What primary factors were behind the Fund’s relative performance? |
| A. | The 2018 Tax Cuts and Jobs Act provided a stimulus for the Financials sector in general and banking stocks in particular during the fiscal year. Even before the most sweeping tax reform in the last 30 years went into effect, banks rallied. Between November 27, 2017 and December 4, 2017, for example, the KBW Nasdaq Bank Index, which tracks the performance of leading publicly traded domestic banks and thrifts, gained 8.24% in anticipation of the reform’s positive impact. Tax reform’s positive effect was reaffirmed as banks reported their 2018 quarterly earnings per share. However, these gains were offset by a flattening yield curve over the course of the fiscal year, suggesting investors were worried about the long term economic outlook. While the 30 year U.S. Treasury yield rose from 2.86% to 3.21%, the yield curve flattened as 1 year rates rose more aggressively from 1.29% to 2.57%. By September 30, 2018, the 1- to 30-year treasury spread constricted from .97% to .64%, negatively impacting the margin spread and adversely affecting bank profitability. |
| Q. | How did the Fund’s composition affect performance? |
| A. | The Fund benefitted from its holdings in the insurance brokers industry. Over the course of the fiscal year, Health Insurance Innovations, Inc. (HIIQ), a provider of web-based health insurance, returned approximately 188.4% within the Fund. Health Insurance Innovations reported strong earnings, benefitting from sales of Obamacare-exempt short-term health insurance coverage. This position was the single largest positive contributor to the Fund’s performance. Additional gains came from the Fund’s holdings in the property & casualty insurance industry. While the Fund was underweight this industry (it comprised just 3.7% of the Fund versus 6.4% of the S&P 1500 Financial Index), the Fund’s holdings in this industry returned 56.8%. By comparison, the property & casualty insurance industry holdings in the S&P 1500 Financials Index returned only 13.9%. |
The biggest detractor to Fund performance relative to the benchmark was the Fund’s lack of exposure to the multi-sector holdings industry. Although, the S&P 1500 Multi Sector Holdings Index gained almost 16.2% over the course of fiscal year 2018, we believed the industry was overvalued, avoided the securities that are part of that industry and did not participate in the rally.
| Q. | What is your investment outlook for the Financials sector? |
| A. | As of September 30, 2018, the Financials sector has a value-to-price (V/P) ratio of 1.19 under the ICON system, suggesting considerable upside potential. By contrast, we calculate an overall market V/P of 1.02. We see several bargains at the industry level. As we enter fiscal year 2019, for example, we are overweight the life & health insurance industry, which has a V/P of 1.29. As always, and guided by value, we will continue to look for opportunities in the Financials sector. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 14 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Financial Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
| Inception Date | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | Since Inception | Gross Expense Ratio* | Net Expense Ratio* | ||||||||||||||||||||
| ICON Financial Fund - Class S | 7/1/97 | 10.48 | % | 8.87 | % | 3.83 | % | 4.80 | % | 1.40 | % | 1.40 | % | |||||||||||||
| ICON Financial Fund - Class A | 9/30/10 | 10.04 | % | 8.58 | % | N/A | 9.33 | % | 2.05 | % | 1.75 | % | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Financial Fund - Class A | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (including maximum sales charge of 5.75%) | 9/30/10 | 3.81 | % | 7.30 | % | N/A | 8.52 | % | 2.05 | % | 1.75 | % | ||||||||||||||
| S&P 1500 Financials Index | 8.68 | % | 13.57 | % | 7.80 | % | 5.70 | % | N/A | N/A | ||||||||||||||||
| S&P Composite 1500 Index | 17.69 | % | 13.77 | % | 12.04 | % | 8.07 | % | N/A | N/A | ||||||||||||||||
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Adviser has agreed to limit certain Fund expenses; without these limitations, returns would have been lower. The limitation provisions may be terminated in the future.
* Please see the most recent prospectus for details.
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the Fund’s Class S shares on the Class’ inception date of 7/1/97 to a $10,000 investment made in unmanaged securities indexes on that date. The Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 15 |
| ICON Financial Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Common Stocks (99.62%) | ||||||||
| Asset Management & Custody Banks (4.19%) | ||||||||
| Ameriprise Financial, Inc. | 5,600 | $ | 826,896 | |||||
| State Street Corp. | 12,600 | 1,055,628 | ||||||
| 1,882,524 | ||||||||
| Consumer Finance (10.16%) | ||||||||
| Ally Financial, Inc. | 34,100 | 901,946 | ||||||
| American Express Co. | 15,400 | 1,639,946 | ||||||
| Discover Financial Services | 20,498 | 1,567,072 | ||||||
| Encore Capital Group, Inc.(a)(b) | 13,100 | 469,635 | ||||||
| 4,578,599 | ||||||||
| Diversified Banks (35.77%) | ||||||||
| Bank of America Corp. | 156,200 | 4,601,652 | ||||||
| Citigroup, Inc. | 46,300 | 3,321,562 | ||||||
| JPMorgan Chase & Co. | 43,300 | 4,885,972 | ||||||
| U.S. Bancorp | 38,100 | 2,012,061 | ||||||
| Wells Fargo & Co. | 24,300 | 1,277,208 | ||||||
| 16,098,455 | ||||||||
| Financial Exchanges & Data (2.33%) | ||||||||
| MSCI, Inc. | 5,900 | 1,046,719 | ||||||
| Insurance Brokers (0.58%) | ||||||||
| Aon PLC | 1,695 | 260,657 | ||||||
| Investment Banking & Brokerage (8.64%) | ||||||||
| BGC Partners, Inc., Class A | 42,600 | 503,532 | ||||||
| Evercore, Inc., Class A | 7,700 | 774,235 | ||||||
| Goldman Sachs Group, Inc. | 5,600 | 1,255,744 | ||||||
| Morgan Stanley | 29,100 | 1,355,187 | ||||||
| 3,888,698 | ||||||||
| Life & Health Insurance (11.09%) | ||||||||
| CNO Financial Group, Inc. | 55,200 | 1,171,344 | ||||||
| Lincoln National Corp. | 18,100 | 1,224,646 | ||||||
| MetLife, Inc. | 14,400 | 672,768 | ||||||
| Principal Financial Group, Inc. | 11,453 | 671,031 | ||||||
| Prudential Financial, Inc. | 12,400 | 1,256,368 | ||||||
| 4,996,157 | ||||||||
| Multi-line Insurance (2.10%) | ||||||||
| Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc. | 18,900 | 944,244 | ||||||
| Other Diversified Financial Services (2.55%) | ||||||||
| Voya Financial, Inc. | 23,100 | 1,147,377 | ||||||
| Property & Casualty Insurance (2.85%) | ||||||||
| Arch Capital Group, Ltd.(a) | 43,100 | 1,284,811 | ||||||
| Regional Banks (13.76%) | ||||||||
| Bank OZK | 17,500 | 664,300 | ||||||
| Citizens Financial Group, Inc. | 10,800 | 416,556 | ||||||
| East West Bancorp, Inc. | 6,800 | 410,516 | ||||||
| Fifth Third Bancorp | 40,000 | 1,116,800 | ||||||
| KeyCorp | 57,100 | 1,135,719 | ||||||
| Synovus Financial Corp. | 23,100 | 1,057,749 | ||||||
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Regional Banks (continued) | ||||||||
| Webster Financial Corp. | 23,600 | $ | 1,391,456 | |||||
| 6,193,096 | ||||||||
| Thrifts & Mortgage Finance (5.60%) | ||||||||
| Axos Financial, Inc.(a) | 13,400 | 460,826 | ||||||
| Essent Group, Ltd.(a) | 22,700 | 1,004,475 | ||||||
| Radian Group, Inc. | 51,100 | 1,056,237 | ||||||
| 2,521,538 | ||||||||
| Total Common Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $37,014,894) | 44,842,875 | |||||||
| Total Investments (99.62%) | ||||||||
| (Cost $37,014,894) | $ | 44,842,875 | ||||||
| Other Assets Less Liabilities (0.38%) | 169,141 | |||||||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 45,012,016 | ||||||
| (a) | Non-income producing security. |
| (b) | All or a portion of the security was on loan as of September 30, 2018 |
| Sector Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Financials | 99.62 | % | ||
| 99.62 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| Industry Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Diversified Banks | 35.77 | % | ||
| Regional Banks | 13.76 | % | ||
| Life & Health Insurance | 11.09 | % | ||
| Consumer Finance | 10.16 | % | ||
| Investment Banking & Brokerage | 8.64 | % | ||
| Thrifts & Mortgage Finance | 5.60 | % | ||
| Asset Management & Custody Banks | 4.19 | % | ||
| Property & Casualty Insurance | 2.85 | % | ||
| Other Diversified Financial Services | 2.55 | % | ||
| Financial Exchanges & Data | 2.33 | % | ||
| Multi-line Insurance | 2.10 | % | ||
| Insurance Brokers | 0.58 | % | ||
| 99.62 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 16 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Healthcare Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| Q. | How did the Fund perform relative to its benchmarks? |
| A. | The ICON Healthcare Fund Class S (the Fund) returned 19.84% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, roughly in line with its sector-specific benchmark, the S&P 1500 Health Care Index, which returned 19.95%, and outperforming its broad benchmark, the S&P Composite 1500 Index, which returned 17.69%. Total returns for other periods and additional Class shares as of September 30, 2018 appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview. |
| Q. | What primary factors were behind the Fund’s relative performance? |
| A. | The broad equity market began the past fiscal year with the continuation of upward momentum on strong economic growth and tax reform legislation. After a sharp drop in early February due to threats of a U.S. government shutdown and rising international trade tensions, the broad market continued its upward appreciation, ending the fiscal year at near all-time highs. The Federal Reserve continued its slow path of normalizing monetary policy by raising interest rates, yet a growing global economy and healthy corporate earnings growth ultimately drove the stock market higher. The Health Care sector seemed to break free from much of the uncertainty looming over it from the previous year’s shift in the political landscape, and ended the fiscal year as one of three sectors to outperform the broad index. The Fund’s holdings in the managed health care industry were a strong contributor to performance, as health insurers were among the performance leaders after the failed legislative attempt to repeal and replace the Affordable Care Act. Meanwhile, a rally in pharmaceutical stocks was a positive boost to the Fund. Pharmaceuticals rallied after concerns over stricter drug price regulation failed to materialize. A continuation of a strong wave of M&A activity, in part attributed to strong financial earnings reports and private equity interest, was reflective of a year of high investor sentiment and forecasted future growth within the Health Care sector. |
| Q. | How did the Fund’s composition affect performance? |
| A. | Managed health care and health care services were the greatest contributors to the Fund’s performance relative to the benchmark during the fiscal year, as performance was buoyed by individual stock selection within the industries. For the second year in a row, BioTelemetry, Inc., a health care services company fueled by strong earnings growth, contributed most to the Fund’s outperformance. Additionally, the Fund’s lack of exposure to the health care distributors industry positively impacted the Fund’s relative performance, as the industry was one of only two industries within the Health Care sector to finish with negative returns for the fiscal year. |
Biotechnology was the other Health Care industry to finish fiscal year 2018 with negative returns. The Fund held an overweight position in this industry and its biotechnology holdings proved to be the largest detractor to the Fund’s relative performance. Specifically, Celgene Corp. and Alexion Pharmaceuticals both produced significant negative returns after reports of failed drug trials and disappointing earnings growth, respectively.
| Q. | What is your investment outlook for the Health Care sector? |
| A. | After positive returns for most of the past fiscal year, the Health Care sector has an overall average value-to-price (V/P) ratio of 1.00 according to our valuation methodology. This indicates that the average stock within the sector is trading at fair value under our system, but the sector has not yet become overpriced. Within the sector, however, we still see several industries with V/P’s above 1.00. As always, we look to value as our primary guide and will adjust our positioning as market conditions dictate. Going forward into the new fiscal year, we see value in the pharmaceuticals and managed health care industries, and the Fund is positioned with strong weights in both. Healthy balance sheets and future growth forecasts indicate the potential for significant M&A activity and for valuations within the sector to strengthen as prices rise to meet value. |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 17 |
| ICON Healthcare Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
| Inception Date | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | Since Inception | Gross Expense Ratio* | Net Expense Ratio* | ||||||||||||||||||||
| ICON Healthcare Fund - Class S | 2/24/97 | 19.84 | % | 14.77 | % | 13.02 | % | 10.95 | % | 1.41 | % | 1.41 | % | |||||||||||||
| ICON Healthcare Fund - Class A | 9/30/10 | 19.43 | % | 14.39 | % | N/A | 16.72 | % | 1.86 | % | 1.75 | % | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Healthcare Fund - Class A | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (including maximum sales charge of 5.75%) | 9/30/10 | 12.59 | % | 13.04 | % | N/A | 15.86 | % | 1.86 | % | 1.75 | % | ||||||||||||||
| S&P 1500 Health Care Index | 19.95 | % | 15.89 | % | 14.66 | % | 10.14 | % | N/A | N/A | ||||||||||||||||
| S&P Composite 1500 Index | 17.69 | % | 13.77 | % | 12.04 | % | 8.43 | % | N/A | N/A | ||||||||||||||||
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Adviser has agreed to limit certain Fund expenses; without these limitations, returns would have been lower. The limitation provisions may be terminated in the future.
| * | Please see the most recent prospectus for details. |
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the Fund’s Class S shares on the Class’ inception date of 2/24/97 to a $10,000 investment made in unmanaged securities indexes on that date. The Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
| 18 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Healthcare Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Common Stocks (99.80%) | ||||||||
| Biotechnology (13.19%) | ||||||||
| AbbVie, Inc. | 21,600 | $ | 2,042,928 | |||||
| Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a) | 36,400 | 5,059,964 | ||||||
| Celgene Corp.(a) | 27,600 | 2,469,924 | ||||||
| Regeneron Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a) | 3,000 | 1,212,120 | ||||||
| 10,784,936 | ||||||||
| Health Care Equipment (11.98%) | ||||||||
| Abbott Laboratories | 54,374 | 3,988,877 | ||||||
| Becton Dickinson and Co. | 10,300 | 2,688,300 | ||||||
| Edwards Lifesciences Corp.(a) | 13,000 | 2,263,300 | ||||||
| Teleflex, Inc. | 3,200 | 851,488 | ||||||
| 9,791,965 | ||||||||
| Health Care Services (5.94%) | ||||||||
| DaVita, Inc.(a) | 19,700 | 1,411,111 | ||||||
| MEDNAX, Inc.(a) | 33,600 | 1,567,776 | ||||||
| Premier, Inc., Class A(a) | 41,132 | 1,883,023 | ||||||
| 4,861,910 | ||||||||
| Health Care Supplies (4.49%) | ||||||||
| Cooper Cos., Inc. | 7,800 | 2,161,770 | ||||||
| DENTSPLY SIRONA, Inc. | 40,200 | 1,517,148 | ||||||
| 3,678,918 | ||||||||
| Health Care Technology (2.44%) | ||||||||
| athenahealth, Inc.(a) | 9,400 | 1,255,840 | ||||||
| Medidata Solutions, Inc.(a) | 10,000 | 733,100 | ||||||
| 1,988,940 | ||||||||
| Life Sciences Tools & Services (10.61%) | ||||||||
| IQVIA Holdings, Inc.(a) | 17,238 | 2,236,458 | ||||||
| PRA Health Sciences, Inc.(a) | 28,800 | 3,173,472 | ||||||
| Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc. | 13,400 | 3,270,672 | ||||||
| 8,680,602 | ||||||||
| Managed Health Care (24.71%) | ||||||||
| Anthem, Inc. | 9,100 | 2,493,855 | ||||||
| Centene Corp.(a) | 22,411 | 3,244,665 | ||||||
| Cigna Corp. | 16,278 | 3,389,893 | ||||||
| Humana, Inc. | 6,000 | 2,031,120 | ||||||
| UnitedHealth Group, Inc. | 23,300 | 6,198,732 | ||||||
| WellCare Health Plans, Inc.(a) | 8,901 | 2,852,681 | ||||||
| 20,210,946 | ||||||||
| Pharmaceuticals (26.44%) | ||||||||
| Allergan PLC | 4,200 | 800,016 | ||||||
| Bristol-Myers Squibb Co. | 15,700 | 974,656 | ||||||
| Eli Lilly & Co. | 42,100 | 4,517,751 | ||||||
| Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC(a) | 19,962 | 3,356,211 | ||||||
| Merck & Co., Inc. | 74,800 | 5,306,312 | ||||||
| Mylan NV(a) | 14,000 | 512,400 | ||||||
| Prestige Consumer Healthcare, Inc.(a)(b) | 77,200 | 2,925,108 | ||||||
| Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a) | 64,200 | 3,232,470 | ||||||
| 21,624,924 | ||||||||
| Total Common Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $67,073,529) | 81,623,141 | |||||||
| ||||
| Value | ||||
| Total Investments (99.80%) | ||||
| (Cost $67,073,529) | $ | 81,623,141 | ||
| Other Assets Less Liabilities (0.20%) | 165,865 | |||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 81,789,006 | ||
| (a) | Non-income producing security. |
| (b) | All or a portion of the security was on loan as of September 30, 2018. |
| Sector Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Health Care | 99.80 | % | ||
| 99.80 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| Industry Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Pharmaceuticals | 26.44 | % | ||
| Managed Health Care | 24.71 | % | ||
| Biotechnology | 13.19 | % | ||
| Health Care Equipment | 11.98 | % | ||
| Life Sciences Tools & Services | 10.61 | % | ||
| Health Care Services | 5.94 | % | ||
| Health Care Supplies | 4.49 | % | ||
| Health Care Technology | 2.44 | % | ||
| 99.80 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 19 |
| ICON Industrials Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| Q. | How did the Fund perform relative to its benchmark? |
| A. | The ICON Industrials Fund (the Fund) Class S returned 3.54% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, while its sector-specific benchmark, the S&P 1500 Industrials Index, returned 11.98% and the S&P Composite 1500 Index returned 17.69%. Total returns for other periods and additional Class shares as of September 30, 2018, appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview. |
| Q. | What primary factors were behind the Fund’s relative performance? |
| A. | The Industrials sector had a strong fiscal first quarter on the prospect that tax reform would be beneficial to United States corporate earnings. During this period, the Fund underperformed the index largely due to the Fund’s stock selection within the airline industry, which was one of the top industry performers for the quarter. As prices peaked in late January 2018 and credit markets suggested a heightened level of risk, we witnessed a tug-of-war between tax cut optimism and potential trade war headwinds. Over the next several months, investors sought cover within the railroads and aerospace and defense industries. The Fund was overweight the railroad industry and therefore participated in its appreciation. Unfortunately, the ICON system saw little value in the aerospace and defense industry, and our lack of exposure to this industry, coupled with allocations to other underperforming industries, led to the Fund’s underperforming its benchmark. The final quarter of the fiscal year was strong for the sector as performance broadened to include construction machinery and heavy trucks, railroads and air freight & logistics. The Fund was overweight each of these industries, which allowed us to outperform the sector-specific benchmark in the last quarter of fiscal year 2018. |
Over this 12-month period, we saw a disconnect between our methodology and performance. That is, the stocks our system suggested were the best bargains performed the worst, while the stocks our system indicated were overvalued performed the best. With value as our guide and core strategy, we were naturally positioned in those industries and stocks that presented us with what we thought were the best bargains, but our strategy underperformed. This can happen periodically, but we do not believe it will persist indefinitely.
| Q. | How did the Fund’s composition affect performance? |
| A. | Three positive contributions to Fund performance during fiscal year 2018 included an underweight position in the industrial conglomerates industry, an overweight position within paper products (an industry which is not part of the Industrials sector), and an underweight position in construction and engineering. |
On the other hand, Fund performance was adversely impacted by an overweight position in building products, an overweight position in commercial printing and an underweight position in aerospace and defense.
| Q. | What is your investment outlook for Industrials? |
| A. | At the end of fiscal year 2018, the average value to price (V/P) ratio with the Industrials sector was 1.05, implying stocks within the sector were trading 5% below ICON’s estimate of their intrinsic value. Our primary focus within the Fund revolves around the transportation industries. More specifically, we are concentrated within the construction machinery & heavy trucks as well as the railroads segments of the market, which, at fiscal year-end, were trading at 9% and 13% below our estimate of their intrinsic value, respectively. Both industries have exhibited strong earnings optimism and credit has been stable within the group. |
To augment our industrials exposure, we have deployed capital to higher V/P industries within the Energy and Materials sectors. Our Energy focus is in the U.S. exploration and production segment of the market. We see value in the exploration and production industry based on earnings optimism and good corporate credit. We also see good value in the Materials sector, and the Fund holds a position in the diversified chemical and commodity chemical industries. As always, we look to value as our primary guide and will adjust our positioning as market conditions dictate.
| 20 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Industrials Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
| Inception Date | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | Since Inception | Gross Expense Ratio* | Net Expense Ratio* | ||||||||||||||||||||
| ICON Industrials Fund - Class S | 5/9/97 | 3.54 | % | 8.12 | % | 7.35 | % | 5.79 | % | 1.69 | % | 1.51 | % | |||||||||||||
| ICON Industrials Fund - Class A | 9/30/10 | 3.25 | % | 7.88 | % | N/A | 9.64 | % | 2.06 | % | 1.76 | % | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Industrials Fund - Class A | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (including maximum sales charge of 5.75%) | 9/30/10 | -2.68 | % | 6.61 | % | N/A | 8.82 | % | 2.06 | % | 1.76 | % | ||||||||||||||
| S&P 1500 Industrials Index | 11.98 | % | 12.89 | % | 12.03 | % | 8.70 | % | N/A | N/A | ||||||||||||||||
| S&P Composite 1500 Index | 17.69 | % | 13.77 | % | 12.04 | % | 8.42 | % | N/A | N/A | ||||||||||||||||
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Adviser has agreed to limit certain Fund expenses; without these limitations, returns would have been lower. The limitation provisions may be terminated in the future.
| * | Please see the most recent prospectus for details. |
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the Fund’s Class S shares on the Class’ inception date of 5/9/97 to a $10,000 investment made in unmanaged securities indexes on that date. The Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 21 |
| ICON Industrials Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Common Stocks (99.03%) | ||||||||
| Air Freight & Logistics (13.32%) | ||||||||
| FedEx Corp. | 2,700 | $ | 650,133 | |||||
| United Parcel Service, Inc., Class B | 9,000 | 1,050,750 | ||||||
| 1,700,883 | ||||||||
| Building Products (6.74%) | ||||||||
| Armstrong World Industries, Inc.(a) | 3,000 | 208,800 | ||||||
| Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc. | 5,900 | 308,924 | ||||||
| Masco Corp. | 9,400 | 344,040 | ||||||
| 861,764 | ||||||||
| Commodity Chemicals (3.44%) | ||||||||
| Cabot Corp. | 7,000 | 439,040 | ||||||
| Construction Machinery & Heavy Trucks (23.12%) | ||||||||
| Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. | 12,000 | 624,120 | ||||||
| Cummins, Inc. | 8,000 | 1,168,560 | ||||||
| PACCAR, Inc. | 17,000 | 1,159,230 | ||||||
| 2,951,910 | ||||||||
| Diversified Chemicals (3.41%) | ||||||||
| Huntsman Corp. | 16,000 | 435,680 | ||||||
| Industrial Machinery (6.97%) | ||||||||
| Ingersoll-Rand PLC | 6,000 | 613,800 | ||||||
| Snap-on, Inc. | 1,500 | 275,400 | ||||||
| 889,200 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production (8.56%) | ||||||||
| EOG Resources, Inc. | 2,500 | 318,925 | ||||||
| Pioneer Natural Resources Co. | 2,000 | 348,380 | ||||||
| WildHorse Resource Development Corp.(a) | 18,000 | 425,520 | ||||||
| 1,092,825 | ||||||||
| Railroads (22.68%) | ||||||||
| Canadian Pacific Railway, Ltd. | 3,400 | 720,596 | ||||||
| CSX Corp. | 10,000 | 740,500 | ||||||
| Kansas City Southern | 7,500 | 849,600 | ||||||
| Union Pacific Corp. | 3,600 | 586,188 | ||||||
| 2,896,884 | ||||||||
| Trading Companies & Distributors (6.74%) | ||||||||
| Air Lease Corp. | 12,000 | 550,560 | ||||||
| United Rentals, Inc.(a) | 1,900 | 310,840 | ||||||
| 861,400 | ||||||||
| Trucking (4.05%) | ||||||||
| Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings, Inc.(b) | 15,000 | 517,200 | ||||||
| Total Common Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $11,504,617) | 12,646,786 | |||||||
Value | ||||
| Total Investments (99.03%) | ||||
| (Cost $11,504,617) | $ | 12,646,786 | ||
| Other Assets Less Liabilities (0.97%) | 123,232 | |||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 12,770,018 | ||
| (a) | Non-income producing security. |
| (b) | All or a portion of the security was on loan as of September 30, 2018. |
| Sector Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Industrials | 83.62 | % | ||
| Energy | 8.56 | % | ||
| Materials | 6.85 | % | ||
| 99.03 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| Industry Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Construction Machinery & Heavy Trucks | 23.12 | % | ||
| Railroads | 22.68 | % | ||
| Air Freight & Logistics | 13.32 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production | 8.56 | % | ||
| Industrial Machinery | 6.97 | % | ||
| Trading Companies & Distributors | 6.74 | % | ||
| Building Products | 6.74 | % | ||
| Trucking | 4.05 | % | ||
| Commodity Chemicals | 3.44 | % | ||
| Diversified Chemicals | 3.41 | % | ||
| 99.03 | % |
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 22 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Information Technology Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| Q. | How did the Fund perform relative to its benchmarks? |
| A. | The ICON Information Technology Fund (the Fund) Class S returned 11.82% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, lagging its sector-specific benchmark, the S&P 1500 Information Technology Index, which returned 30.40%. The broad benchmark, the S&P Composite 1500 Index, returned 17.69%. Total returns for other periods and additional Class shares as of September 30, 2018, appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview. |
| Q. | What primary factors were behind the Fund’s relative performance? |
| A. | As fiscal year 2018 began, the Information Technology sector had a value-to-price (V/P) ratio of 1.09 under the ICON system, meaning we believed the sector’s fair value was approximately 9% higher than where prices were generally trading. As illustrated above, the sector outperformed even our upside expectations. With corporate cash levels near record highs, Bloomberg reported that company IT spending was strong over the course of the year. This spending, which included everything from data-center infrastructure, storage, and system networking, helped support the sector gains. However, an oversupply of memory components and modules led to lower memory pricing, resulting in negative earnings for some semiconductor and semiconductor equipment companies. |
| Q. | How did the Fund’s composition affect performance? |
| A. | Stock selection was the biggest detractor from the Fund’s relative performance to the S&P 1500 Information Technology Index. Breaking down the sector performance by V/P quintile, there was a material variance between the companies ICON designated with the lowest V/P and those assigned the highest V/P. Companies ICON ranked in the top 20% by V/P returned approximately 23% while those in the lowest 20% gained over 42% during the year. |
The Fund’s semiconductor equipment industry holdings dragged on performance. The Fund was overweight the semiconductor equipment industry, maintaining a 10% position compared to a 2% weighting in the S&P 1500 Information Technology Index. Stock selection within the semiconductor equipment industry likewise contributed to the Fund’s underperformance relative to its benchmark. The Fund’s holding in this industry lost close to 29.5% while the benchmark lost around 15.5%. The underperformance in this industry explains roughly 25% of the Fund’s underperformance relative to the benchmark.
| Q. | What is your investment outlook for the Information Technology sector? |
| A. | The end of 2018 marks some profound changes for the stock classifications in the Information Technology sector. With the start of the 2019 fiscal year, the Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS) that ICON uses to match companies to their industries and sectors, has created a new sector: the Communication Services sector. Several companies that were part of the Information Technology sector during the 2018 fiscal year (including companies responsible for the sector’s explosive growth – Netflix, Google and Facebook) have been reclassified and will be part of this new sector going forward. These companies were overvalued under our system and the Fund suffered for its lack of exposure to these and other companies in the internet software & services and home entertainment software industries. |
We are excited by the GICS changes and, as fiscal year 2018 comes to an end, we see value in discreet industries within the Information Technology sector. We continue to believe semiconductor and semiconductor equipment industries are undervalued and remain overweight those two industries relative to the benchmark. Guided by value, we will continue to look for opportunities in the Information Technology sector.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 23 |
| ICON Information Technology Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
| Inception Date | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | Since Inception | Gross Expense Ratio* | Net Expense Ratio* | ||||||||||||||||||||
| ICON Information Technology Fund - Class S | 2/19/97 | 11.82 | % | 17.84 | % | 12.77 | % | 9.79 | % | 1.42 | % | 1.42 | % | |||||||||||||
| ICON Information Technology Fund - Class A | 9/30/10 | 11.43 | % | 17.44 | % | N/A | 15.36 | % | 2.01 | % | 1.75 | % | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Information Technology Fund - Class A | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (including maximum sales charge of 5.75%) | 9/30/10 | 5.03 | % | 16.05 | % | N/A | 14.51 | % | 2.01 | % | 1.75 | % | ||||||||||||||
| S&P 1500 Information Technology Index | 30.40 | % | 21.80 | % | 16.91 | % | 9.72 | % | N/A | N/A | ||||||||||||||||
| NASDAQ Composite Index | 24.70 | % | 16.52 | % | 14.50 | % | 8.59 | % | N/A | N/A | ||||||||||||||||
| S&P Composite 1500 Index | 17.69 | % | 13.77 | % | 12.04 | % | 8.41 | % | N/A | N/A | ||||||||||||||||
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Adviser has agreed to limit certain Fund expenses; without these limitations, returns would have been lower. The limitation provisions may be terminated in the future.
| * | Please see the most recent prospectus for details. |
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the Fund’s Class S shares on the Class’ inception date of 2/19/97 to a $10,000 investment made in unmanaged securities indexes on that date. The Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
| 24 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Information Technology Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Common Stocks (97.04%) | ||||||||
| Application Software (4.41%) | ||||||||
| CDK Global, Inc. | 31,800 | $ | 1,989,408 | |||||
| LogMeIn, Inc. | 9,100 | 810,810 | ||||||
| 2,800,218 | ||||||||
| Data Processing & Outsourced Services (16.78%) | ||||||||
| Alliance Data Systems Corp. | 8,300 | 1,960,128 | ||||||
| Euronet Worldwide, Inc.(a) | 19,300 | 1,934,246 | ||||||
| Global Payments, Inc. | 12,000 | 1,528,800 | ||||||
| Mastercard, Inc., Class A | 7,400 | 1,647,314 | ||||||
| Visa, Inc., Class A | 23,980 | 3,599,158 | ||||||
| 10,669,646 | ||||||||
| Electronic Equipment & Instruments (2.10%) | ||||||||
| Electro Scientific Industries, Inc.(a) | 76,600 | 1,336,670 | ||||||
| Electronic Manufacturing Services (2.83%) | ||||||||
| Methode Electronics, Inc. | 49,700 | 1,799,140 | ||||||
| Financial Exchanges & Data (1.81%) | ||||||||
| MSCI, Inc. | 6,500 | 1,153,165 | ||||||
| Integrated Telecommunication Services (2.78%)(b) | ||||||||
| AT&T, Inc. | 52,600 | 1,766,308 | ||||||
| Interactive Home Entertainment (4.66%)(b) | ||||||||
| Activision Blizzard, Inc. | 12,900 | 1,073,151 | ||||||
| Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc.(a) | 13,700 | 1,890,463 | ||||||
| 2,963,614 | ||||||||
| Interactive Media & Services (7.26%)(b) | ||||||||
| Facebook, Inc., Class A(a) | 22,200 | 3,651,012 | ||||||
| Momo, Inc., Sponsored ADR(a) | 22,100 | 967,980 | ||||||
| 4,618,992 | ||||||||
| IT Consulting & Other Services (7.40%) | ||||||||
| Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corp. | 18,000 | 893,340 | ||||||
| Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., Class A | 25,200 | 1,944,180 | ||||||
| DXC Technology Co. | 19,900 | 1,861,048 | ||||||
| 4,698,568 | ||||||||
| Semiconductor Equipment (4.69%) | ||||||||
| Applied Materials, Inc. | 19,200 | 742,080 | ||||||
| Lam Research Corp. | 4,800 | 728,160 | ||||||
| MKS Instruments, Inc. | 10,900 | 873,635 | ||||||
| Rudolph Technologies, Inc.(a) | 26,000 | 635,700 | ||||||
| 2,979,575 | ||||||||
| Semiconductors (13.51%) | ||||||||
| Diodes, Inc.(a) | 36,000 | 1,198,440 | ||||||
| Intel Corp. | 61,700 | 2,917,793 | ||||||
| Micron Technology, Inc.(a) | 22,200 | 1,004,106 | ||||||
| Monolithic Power Systems, Inc. | 6,500 | 815,945 | ||||||
| NXP Semiconductors NV | 11,400 | 974,700 | ||||||
| Skyworks Solutions, Inc. | 18,500 | 1,678,135 | ||||||
| 8,589,119 | ||||||||
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Systems Software (1.11%) | ||||||||
| ServiceNow, Inc.(a) | 3,600 | $ | 704,268 | |||||
| Technology Distributors (7.72%) | ||||||||
| Arrow Electronics, Inc.(a) | 12,800 | 943,616 | ||||||
| CDW Corp. | 30,800 | 2,738,736 | ||||||
| ScanSource, Inc.(a) | 30,700 | 1,224,930 | ||||||
| 4,907,282 | ||||||||
| Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals (17.94%) | ||||||||
| Apple, Inc. | 44,900 | 10,135,726 | ||||||
| Super Micro Computer, Inc.(a) | 61,800 | 1,273,698 | ||||||
| 11,409,424 | ||||||||
| Wireless Telecommunication Services (2.04%) | ||||||||
| T-Mobile U.S., Inc.(a) | 18,500 | 1,298,330 | ||||||
| Total Common Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $50,037,295) | 61,694,319 | |||||||
| Total Investments (97.04%) | ||||||||
| (Cost $50,037,295) | $ | 61,694,319 | ||||||
| Other Assets Less Liabilities (2.96%) | 1,880,233 | |||||||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 63,574,552 | ||||||
| (a) | Non-income producing security. |
| (b) | Effective at the close of business on September 28, 2018 the Global Industry Classification Standards (“GICS”) Telecommunications Services Sector was broadened and renamed the Communications Services Sector. As a result of this change, the following Sub-Industries were moved from the Information Technology Sector into the new Communications Services Sector: Alternative Carriers, Integrated Telecommunication Services, Interactive Home Entertainment, and Interactive Media & Services. Internet & Direct Marketing Retail was also moved from the Information Technology Sector into the Consumer Discretionary Sector as a result of this change. |
ADR - American Depositary Receipt
| Sector Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Information Technology | 78.49 | % | ||
| Communication Services(b) | 16.74 | % | ||
| Financials | 1.81 | % | ||
| 97.04 | % | |||
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 25 |
| ICON Information Technology Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Industry Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals | 17.94 | % | ||
| Data Processing & Outsourced Services | 16.78 | % | ||
| Semiconductors | 13.51 | % | ||
| Technology Distributors | 7.72 | % | ||
| IT Consulting & Other Services | 7.40 | % | ||
| Interactive Media & Services | 7.26 | % | ||
| Semiconductor Equipment | 4.69 | % | ||
| Interactive Home Entertainment | 4.66 | % | ||
| Application Software | 4.41 | % | ||
| Electronic Manufacturing Services | 2.83 | % | ||
| Integrated Telecommunication Services | 2.78 | % | ||
| Electronic Equipment & Instruments | 2.10 | % | ||
| Wireless Telecommunication Services | 2.04 | % | ||
| Financial Exchanges & Data | 1.81 | % | ||
| Systems Software | 1.11 | % | ||
| 97.04 | % |
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 26 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| Q. | How did the Fund perform relative to its benchmark? |
| A. | The ICON Natural Resources Fund (the Fund) Class S returned 8.68% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, while its benchmark, the S&P Composite 1500, returned 17.69%. Total returns for other periods and additional Class shares as of September 30, 2018, appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview. |
| Q. | What primary factors were behind the Fund’s relative performance? |
| A. | During fiscal year 2018, the Information Technology, Consumer Discretionary and Healthcare sectors led the S&P 1500. By design, the Natural Resources Fund does not favor these sectors, focusing more on Energy and Materials, which helps explain some of the underperformance relative to the benchmark. Energy was the 4th best performing sector within the S&P 1500 while the Materials sector was the 3rd worst performer. Our allocation in the Natural Resource Fund was highly skewed to the Energy sector this year with an emphasis on global diversification. In fiscal year 2017, the Fund was tilted towards the Materials sector, which is where we saw the most value. As fiscal year 2018 began, we saw less value and more risk in the Materials sector. On the other hand, the Energy sector looked promising to us, buoyed by higher commodity prices and effective cost controls. In addition, the credit market for the Energy sector looked much stronger than the market in the Materials sector. Consequently, we transitioned in late January from Materials to a larger position in Energy, a move which benefitted Fund performance. |
While adding to its Energy holdings, the Fund’s increased exposure to emerging market companies contributed positively to performance. Over the last nine years, Energy companies within emerging markets have generally underperformed the asset class, but in fiscal year 2018, we saw value here due to the earnings and credit backdrops. Energy companies in emerging markets outperformed their developed domestic and international market peers, and the Fund participated accordingly.
| Q. | How did the Fund’s composition affect performance? |
| A. | As noted above, and in broad terms, the Fund benefited by overweighting the Energy sector and underweighting the Materials sector. In addition, the Fund’s Industrials holdings contributed positively to performance. By contrast, our Fund’s Utilities positions detracted from performance. |
The holdings that contributed positively to Fund performance during fiscal year 2018 included an underweight position in the integrated oil and gas industry, an overweight position in the oil and gas exploration industry and an overweight position in the paper packaging industry. Positions which adversely impacted the Fund over the 12-month period included an underweight position in the specialty chemicals industry, an overweight position in the steel industry and an underweight position in the industrial industry.
From a country perspective, the Fund benefited from an overweight position in both Russia and Ireland as well as an underweight position in Canada. Geographic detractors from Fund performance included overweight positions in China and Korea and an underweight position in the U.K.
| Q. | What is your investment outlook for Natural Resources? |
| A. | The ICON Natural Resources Fund is global, and we currently see the broadest value within the domestic Materials sector and companies within the emerging markets Energy sector (with specific focus on the integrated oil & gas, exploration & production and refining & marketing industries). Our favored industries within the Energy sector are seeing earnings optimism and credit strength, both of which suggest these industries will hold a leadership position. Regionally, Russia represents the Energy sector’s best bargains within emerging markets under our system. Russian Energy securities have benefited not only from improved earnings, but from an upgrade to Investment Grade status by Standard & Poor’s in February 2018. |
In addition to our emerging markets Energy allocation, we have core positions within developed international integrated oil and gas securities, as well as domestic exploration and production companies, all of which show value under our system. Guided by our disciplined, systematic and non-emotional approach to investing, we will continue deploying capital toward areas we believe show the most value and opportunity.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 27 |
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
| Inception Date | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | Since Inception | Gross Expense Ratio* | Net Expense Ratio* | ||||||||||||||||||||
| ICON Natural Resources Fund - Class S | 5/5/97 | 8.68 | % | 6.37 | % | 7.01 | % | 5.25 | % | 1.53 | % | 1.51 | % | |||||||||||||
| ICON Natural Resources Fund - Class C | 9/30/10 | 7.63 | % | 5.27 | % | N/A | 7.06 | % | 2.86 | % | 2.51 | % | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Natural Resources Fund - Class A | 9/30/10 | 8.43 | % | 6.08 | % | N/A | 7.86 | % | 1.92 | % | 1.76 | % | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Natural Resources Fund - Class A | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (including maximum sales charge of 5.75%) | 9/30/10 | 2.17 | % | 4.82 | % | N/A | 7.07 | % | 1.92 | % | 1.76 | % | ||||||||||||||
| S&P Composite 1500 Index | 17.69 | % | 13.77 | % | 12.04 | % | 8.38 | % | N/A | N/A | ||||||||||||||||
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Adviser has agreed to limit certain Fund expenses; without these limitations, returns would have been lower. The limitation provisions may be terminated in the future.
| * | Please see the most recent prospectus for details. |
Class C total returns exclude applicable sales charges. If sales charges were included returns would be lower.
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the Fund’s Class S shares on the Class’ inception date of 5/5/97 to a $10,000 investment made in unmanaged securities indexes on that date. The Fund’s name changed effective January 22, 2016 and the investment strategy changed effective August 18, 2016. The Fund’s past performance would have been different if the current strategy had been in effect. The Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
| 28 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Common Stocks (98.51%) | ||||||||
| Construction Machinery & Heavy Trucks (1.45%) | ||||||||
| Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc. | 23,000 | $ | 1,196,230 | |||||
| Diversified Chemicals (4.50%) | ||||||||
| BASF SE | 17,200 | 1,526,211 | ||||||
| Huntsman Corp. | 80,000 | 2,178,400 | ||||||
| 3,704,611 | ||||||||
| Integrated Oil & Gas (28.87%) | ||||||||
| Gazprom PJSC, Sponsored ADR | 890,000 | 4,441,128 | ||||||
| LUKOIL PJSC, Sponsored ADR | 60,000 | 4,586,400 | ||||||
| MOL Hungarian Oil & Gas PLC | 240,000 | 2,585,023 | ||||||
| Rosneft Oil Co. PJSC, GDR | 674,000 | 5,035,962 | ||||||
| Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class A, Sponsored ADR | 59,000 | 4,020,260 | ||||||
| TOTAL SA, Sponsored ADR | 48,000 | 3,090,720 | ||||||
| 23,759,493 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production (28.36%) | ||||||||
| Carrizo Oil & Gas, Inc.(a) | 72,000 | 1,814,400 | ||||||
| CNOOC, Ltd. | 1,976,000 | 3,912,731 | ||||||
| Diamondback Energy, Inc.(b) | 18,700 | 2,528,053 | ||||||
| EOG Resources, Inc. | 31,000 | 3,954,670 | ||||||
| Newfield Exploration Co.(a) | 50,000 | 1,441,500 | ||||||
| Parsley Energy, Inc., Class A(a) | 75,500 | 2,208,375 | ||||||
| Pioneer Natural Resources Co. | 22,000 | 3,832,180 | ||||||
| SRC Energy, Inc.(a) | 106,000 | 942,340 | ||||||
| WildHorse Resource Development Corp.(a) | 115,000 | 2,718,600 | ||||||
| 23,352,849 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing (14.63%) | ||||||||
| Marathon Petroleum Corp. | 31,000 | 2,479,070 | ||||||
| Motor Oil Hellas Corinth Refineries SA | 108,000 | 2,821,353 | ||||||
| Petron Corp. | 8,000,000 | 1,286,693 | ||||||
| Reliance Industries, Ltd., Sponsored GDR(c) | 80,000 | 2,752,716 | ||||||
| Tupras Turkiye Petrol Rafinerileri AS | 122,000 | 2,708,836 | ||||||
| 12,048,668 | ||||||||
| Paper Packaging (4.97%) | ||||||||
| DS Smith PLC | 262,000 | 1,631,970 | ||||||
| International Paper Co. | 50,000 | 2,457,500 | ||||||
| 4,089,470 | ||||||||
| Paper Products (11.56%) | ||||||||
| Lee & Man Paper Manufacturing, Ltd. | 3,430,000 | 3,176,053 | ||||||
| Mondi PLC | 150,000 | 4,106,964 | ||||||
| Nine Dragons Paper Holdings, Ltd. | 2,070,000 | 2,232,104 | ||||||
| 9,515,121 | ||||||||
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Steel (4.17%) | ||||||||
| POSCO, Sponsored ADR | 52,000 | $ | 3,432,000 | |||||
| Total Common Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $77,958,745) | 81,098,442 | |||||||
| Preferred Stocks (1.59%) | ||||||||
| Integrated Oil & Gas (1.59%) | ||||||||
| Petroleo Brasileiro SA | 250,000 | 1,306,162 | ||||||
| Total Preferred Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $1,310,715) | 1,306,162 | |||||||
| Total Investments (100.10%) | ||||||||
| (Cost $79,269,460) | $ | 82,404,604 | ||||||
| Liabilities Less Other Assets (-0.10%) | (81,480 | ) | ||||||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 82,323,124 | ||||||
| (a) | Non-income producing security. |
| (b) | All or a portion of the security was on loan as of September 30, 2018. |
| (c) | Security was purchased pursuant to Rule 144A or Section 4(a)(2) under the Securities Act of 1933 and may be resold in transactions exempt from registration only to qualified institutional buyers. As of September 30, 2018, these securities had a total aggregate market value of $2,752,716. |
ADR - American Depositary Receipt
GDR - Global Depositary Receipt
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 29 |
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Country Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| United States | 33.71 | % | ||
| Russia | 17.09 | % | ||
| United Kingdom | 6.97 | % | ||
| Hong Kong | 6.57 | % | ||
| Netherlands | 4.88 | % | ||
| China | 4.75 | % | ||
| South Korea | 4.17 | % | ||
| France | 3.76 | % | ||
| Greece | 3.43 | % | ||
| India | 3.34 | % | ||
| Turkey | 3.29 | % | ||
| Hungary | 3.14 | % | ||
| Germany | 1.85 | % | ||
| Brazil | 1.59 | % | ||
| Philippines | 1.56 | % | ||
| 100.10 | % |
Percentages are based upon common and preferred stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| Sector Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Energy | 73.45 | % | ||
| Materials | 25.20 | % | ||
| Industrials | 1.45 | % | ||
| 100.10 | % |
Percentages are based upon common and preferred stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| Industry Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Integrated Oil & Gas | 30.46 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production | 28.36 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing | 14.63 | % | ||
| Paper Products | 11.56 | % | ||
| Paper Packaging | 4.97 | % | ||
| Diversified Chemicals | 4.50 | % | ||
| Steel | 4.17 | % | ||
| Construction Machinery & Heavy Trucks | 1.45 | % | ||
| 100.10 | % |
Percentages are based upon common and preferred stocks as a percentage of net assets.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 30 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Utilities Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| Q. | How did the Fund perform relative to its benchmarks? |
| A. | The ICON Utilities Fund (the Fund) Class S returned 4.17% for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, beating its sector-specific benchmark, the S&P 1500 Utilities Index, which returned 3.93%. The broad benchmark, the S&P Composite 1500 Index, returned 17.69%. Total returns for other periods and additional Class shares as of September 30, 2018, appear in the subsequent pages of this Fund’s Management Overview. |
| Q. | What primary factors were behind the Fund’s relative performance? |
| A. | According to our valuation methodology, at the end of fiscal year 2017, the Utilities sector had a value-to-price (V/P) ratio of 1.07 while the average V/P for the overall equity market stood at 1.00. As our value estimates suggested it might, the Utilities sector had positive gains, although it lagged the broader market. Changes in fixed income yields explain part of the weakness in this sector. The yield on the 10-year U.S. Treasury Note increased throughout the year, from 2.33% on September 30, 2017 to 3.06% on September 30, 2018. The relative improvement in treasury yield reduced the demand for utility stocks as a yield alternative to fixed income investments. Additionally, the broader stock market returns were dominated by securities with a low V/P under the ICON system. Consequently, companies with higher V/Ps (which we believed were undervalued), like stocks in the Utilities sector, lagged during the fiscal year. |
| Q. | How did the Fund’s composition affect performance? |
| A. | Over the fiscal year the Fund held an average weight of about 85% in the Utilities sector. The Fund’s holdings within the Utilities sector generally performed in line with the S&P 1500 Utilities Index. The positive contributions to the Fund from its underweight position in the underperforming electric utilities industry were offset by the performance of the Fund’s gas utilities industry holdings. |
The Fund had an average exposure to stocks outside of the Utilities sector of about 13.5% over the fiscal year. In fact, much of the Fund’s outperformance can be attributed to its holdings outside of the Utilities sector. We believed the oil & gas exploration & production industry was particularly undervalued, for example, and the Fund’s holdings in this industry were among the top contributors to Fund performance.
| Q. | What is your investment outlook for the Utilities sector? |
| A. | As of September 30, 2018, according to our valuation methodology, the Utilities sector had a V/P ratio of 1.05. Given these V/P readings we generally have a positive outlook for the sector and remain optimistic for the year ahead. However, because the Utilities sector is seen by some investors as an alternative to fixed income in a low interest rate environment, an increase in interest rates could make Utilities less attractive to investors, creating a short term headwind for the sector. As always, we look to value as our primary guide and will adjust our positioning as market conditions dictate. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 31 |
| ICON Utilities Fund | Management Overview |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Average Annual Total Return (as of September 30, 2018)
| Inception Date | 1 Year | 5 Years | 10 Years | Since Inception | Gross Expense Ratio* | Net Expense Ratio* | ||||||||||||||||||||
| ICON Utilities Fund - Class S | 7/9/97 | 4.17 | % | 10.51 | % | 8.87 | % | 8.33 | % | 1.54 | % | 1.22 | % | |||||||||||||
| ICON Utilities Fund - Class A | 9/30/10 | 3.97 | % | 10.22 | % | N/A | 10.05 | % | 1.84 | % | 1.47 | % | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Utilities Fund - Class A | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||
| (including maximum sales charge of 5.75%) | 9/30/10 | -2.03 | % | 8.91 | % | N/A | 9.23 | % | 1.84 | % | 1.47 | % | ||||||||||||||
| S&P 1500 Utilities Index | 3.93 | % | 11.36 | % | 9.68 | % | 8.34 | % | N/A | N/A | ||||||||||||||||
| S&P Composite 1500 Index | 17.69 | % | 13.77 | % | 12.04 | % | 7.98 | % | N/A | N/A | ||||||||||||||||
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Information about these performance results and the comparative indexes can be found in the About This Report section. The Adviser has agreed to limit certain Fund expenses; without these limitations, returns would have been lower. The limitation provisions may be terminated in the future.
| * | Please see the most recent prospectus for details. |
Value of a $10,000 Investment (through September 30, 2018)
Past performance is not a guarantee of future results. The above graph compares a $10,000 investment made in the Fund’s Class S shares on the Class’ inception date of 7/9/97 to a $10,000 investment made in unmanaged securities indexes on that date. The Fund’s performance in this chart and the performance table assumes the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions but does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares.
| 32 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Utilities Fund | Schedule of Investments |
| September 30, 2018 |
| Shares or Principal Amount | Value | |||||||
| Common Stocks (98.18%) | ||||||||
| Electric Utilities (40.29%) | ||||||||
| American Electric Power Co., Inc. | 10,400 | $ | 737,152 | |||||
| Avangrid, Inc. | 30,100 | 1,442,693 | ||||||
| Duke Energy Corp. | 17,000 | 1,360,340 | ||||||
| Edison International | 36,600 | 2,477,088 | ||||||
| Evergy, Inc. | 22,200 | 1,219,224 | ||||||
| Eversource Energy | 13,300 | 817,152 | ||||||
| NextEra Energy, Inc. | 9,200 | 1,541,920 | ||||||
| OGE Energy Corp. | 40,000 | 1,452,800 | ||||||
| Pinnacle West Capital Corp. | 9,300 | 736,374 | ||||||
| PPL Corp. | 25,400 | 743,204 | ||||||
| Xcel Energy, Inc. | 45,500 | 2,148,055 | ||||||
| 14,676,002 | ||||||||
| Gas Utilities (4.21%) | ||||||||
| Atmos Energy Corp. | 7,800 | 732,498 | ||||||
| National Fuel Gas Co.(a) | 14,300 | 801,658 | ||||||
| 1,534,156 | ||||||||
| Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders (3.75%) | ||||||||
| AES Corp. | 97,600 | 1,366,400 | ||||||
| Integrated Oil & Gas (3.06%) | ||||||||
| TOTAL SA, Sponsored ADR | 17,300 | 1,113,947 | ||||||
| Integrated Telecommunication Services (5.19%) | ||||||||
| AT&T, Inc. | 40,000 | 1,343,200 | ||||||
| Verizon Communications, Inc. | 10,200 | 544,578 | ||||||
| 1,887,778 | ||||||||
| Multi-Utilities (29.02%) | ||||||||
| Ameren Corp. | 22,500 | 1,422,450 | ||||||
| CenterPoint Energy, Inc. | 80,300 | 2,220,295 | ||||||
| Dominion Energy, Inc. | 24,800 | 1,742,944 | ||||||
| DTE Energy Co. | 22,500 | 2,455,425 | ||||||
| MDU Resources Group, Inc. | 23,700 | 608,853 | ||||||
| NiSource, Inc. | 29,300 | 730,156 | ||||||
| Sempra Energy | 12,200 | 1,387,750 | ||||||
| 10,567,873 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production (5.17%) | ||||||||
| Cimarex Energy Co. | 5,300 | 492,582 | ||||||
| Diamondback Energy, Inc.(a) | 3,200 | 432,608 | ||||||
| Energen Corp.(b) | 6,100 | 525,637 | ||||||
| EOG Resources, Inc. | 3,400 | 433,738 | ||||||
| 1,884,565 | ||||||||
| Oil & Gas Storage & Transportation (1.71%) | ||||||||
| TransCanada Corp. | 15,400 | 623,084 | ||||||
| Water Utilities (5.78%) | ||||||||
| American Water Works Co., Inc. | 11,400 | 1,002,858 | ||||||
| Consolidated Water Co., Ltd. | 79,600 | 1,102,460 | ||||||
| 2,105,318 | ||||||||
| Total Common Stocks | ||||||||
| (Cost $34,015,068) | 35,759,123 | |||||||
Value | ||||
| Total Investments (98.18%) | ||||
| (Cost $34,015,068) | $ | 35,759,123 | ||
| Other Assets Less Liabilities (1.82%) | 664,112 | |||
| Net Assets (100.00%) | $ | 36,423,235 | ||
| (a) | All or a portion of the security was on loan as of September 30, 2018. |
| (b) | Non-income producing security. |
ADR - American Depositary Receipt
| Sector Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Utilities | 83.05 | % | ||
| Energy | 9.94 | % | ||
| Communication Services | 5.19 | % | ||
| 98.18 | % |
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
| Industry Composition (September 30, 2018) | ||||
| Electric Utilities | 40.29 | % | ||
| Multi-Utilities | 29.02 | % | ||
| Water Utilities | 5.78 | % | ||
| Integrated Telecommunication Services | 5.19 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production | 5.17 | % | ||
| Gas Utilities | 4.21 | % | ||
| Independent Power Producers & Energy Traders | 3.75 | % | ||
| Integrated Oil & Gas | 3.06 | % | ||
| Oil & Gas Storage & Transportation | 1.71 | % | ||
| 98.18 | % |
Percentages are based upon common stocks as a percentage of net assets.
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 33 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Statements of Assets and Liabilities |
September 30, 2018
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | ICON Consumer Staples Fund | ICON Energy Fund | ||||||||||
| Assets | ||||||||||||
| Investments, at cost | $ | 23,060,716 | $ | 6,819,281 | $ | 158,411,202 | ||||||
| Investments, at value(a) | 23,411,937 | 6,791,834 | 176,085,628 | |||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | 2,493,376 | 255,703 | 5,098,740 | |||||||||
| Receivables: | ||||||||||||
| Fund shares sold | 2,104 | 51,835 | 39,113 | |||||||||
| Expense reimbursements due from Adviser | 955 | 2,542 | — | |||||||||
| Interest | 722 | 336 | 11,959 | |||||||||
| Dividends | 16,132 | 21,276 | 96,973 | |||||||||
| Foreign tax reclaims | — | — | 24,280 | |||||||||
| Other assets | 7,197 | 5,178 | 29,270 | |||||||||
| Total assets | 25,932,423 | 7,128,704 | 181,385,963 | |||||||||
| Liabilities | ||||||||||||
| Payables: | ||||||||||||
| Payable for collateral received on securities loaned | 503,264 | 81,000 | — | |||||||||
| Investments purchased | 1,116,243 | — | — | |||||||||
| Fund shares redeemed | 7,352 | 792 | 59,642 | |||||||||
| Advisory fees | 20,006 | 5,819 | 150,292 | |||||||||
| Transfer agent fees | 9,740 | 6,299 | 106,423 | |||||||||
| Fund accounting fees | 1,966 | 1,246 | 7,128 | |||||||||
| Accrued distribution fees | 313 | 359 | 5,309 | |||||||||
| Trustee fees and expenses | 624 | 164 | 4,668 | |||||||||
| Administration fees | 999 | 291 | 7,331 | |||||||||
| Accrued expenses | 22,461 | 19,892 | 50,100 | |||||||||
| Total liabilities | 1,682,968 | 115,862 | 390,893 | |||||||||
| Net Assets - all share classes | $ | 24,249,455 | $ | 7,012,842 | $ | 180,995,070 | ||||||
| Net Assets - Class S | $ | 22,754,709 | $ | 5,274,710 | $ | 169,660,687 | ||||||
| Net Assets - Class C | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 4,940,812 | ||||||
| Net Assets - Class A | $ | 1,494,746 | $ | 1,738,132 | $ | 6,393,571 | ||||||
| Net Assets Consists of | ||||||||||||
| Paid-in capital | $ | 24,271,183 | $ | 7,517,307 | $ | 339,553,861 | ||||||
| Total distributable earnings | (21,728 | ) | (504,465 | ) | (158,558,791 | ) | ||||||
| Net Assets | $ | 24,249,455 | $ | 7,012,842 | $ | 180,995,070 | ||||||
| Shares outstanding (unlimited shares authorized, no par value) | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 1,684,182 | 791,992 | 13,105,704 | |||||||||
| Class C | — | — | 404,577 | |||||||||
| Class A | 116,300 | 262,911 | 498,154 | |||||||||
| Net asset value (offering and redemption price per share) | ||||||||||||
| Class S | $ | 13.51 | $ | 6.66 | $ | 12.95 | ||||||
| Class C | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 12.21 | ||||||
| Class A | $ | 12.85 | $ | 6.61 | $ | 12.83 | ||||||
| Class A maximum offering price (100%/ (100%-maximum sales charge)) of net asset value adjusted to the nearest cent per share | $ | 13.63 | $ | 7.01 | $ | 13.61 | ||||||
| (a) Includes securities on loan of | $ | 1,322,035 | $ | 210,168 | $ | 20,794,188 | ||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 34 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Sector Funds | Statements of Assets and Liabilities |
September 30, 2018
| ICON Financial Fund | ICON Healthcare Fund | ICON Industrials Fund | ||||||||||
| Assets | ||||||||||||
| Investments, at cost | $ | 37,014,894 | $ | 67,073,529 | $ | 11,504,617 | ||||||
| Investments, at value(a) | 44,842,875 | 81,623,141 | 12,646,786 | |||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | 205,431 | 213,900 | 138,238 | |||||||||
| Receivables: | ||||||||||||
| Fund shares sold | 4,000 | 125,029 | 724 | |||||||||
| Expense reimbursements due from Adviser | 2,056 | 1,046 | 15,999 | |||||||||
| Interest | 3,128 | 1,067 | 135 | |||||||||
| Dividends | 38,664 | 45,295 | 7,430 | |||||||||
| Foreign tax reclaims | — | 3,493 | — | |||||||||
| Other assets | 9,697 | 12,819 | 5,929 | |||||||||
| Total assets | 45,105,851 | 82,025,790 | 12,815,241 | |||||||||
| Liabilities | ||||||||||||
| Payables: | ||||||||||||
| Fund shares redeemed | 7,914 | 102,833 | 3,320 | |||||||||
| Advisory fees | 38,219 | 65,713 | 10,632 | |||||||||
| Transfer agent fees | 16,561 | 29,387 | 7,565 | |||||||||
| Fund accounting fees | 2,632 | 3,799 | 1,357 | |||||||||
| Accrued distribution fees | 494 | 573 | 239 | |||||||||
| Trustee fees and expenses | 1,229 | 2,029 | 323 | |||||||||
| Administration fees | 1,911 | 3,287 | 532 | |||||||||
| Accrued expenses | 24,875 | 29,163 | 21,255 | |||||||||
| Total liabilities | 93,835 | 236,784 | 45,223 | |||||||||
| Net Assets - all share classes | $ | 45,012,016 | $ | 81,789,006 | $ | 12,770,018 | ||||||
| Net Assets - Class S | $ | 43,499,613 | $ | 78,974,597 | $ | 11,614,018 | ||||||
| Net Assets - Class A | $ | 1,512,403 | $ | 2,814,409 | $ | 1,156,000 | ||||||
| Net Assets Consists of | ||||||||||||
| Paid-in capital | $ | 37,020,727 | $ | 62,441,862 | $ | 11,627,835 | ||||||
| Total distributable earnings | 7,991,289 | 19,347,144 | 1,142,183 | |||||||||
| Net Assets | $ | 45,012,016 | $ | 81,789,006 | $ | 12,770,018 | ||||||
| Shares outstanding (unlimited shares authorized, no par value) | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 3,965,881 | 3,982,960 | 749,122 | |||||||||
| Class A | 137,715 | 148,535 | 75,705 | |||||||||
| Net asset value (offering and redemption price per share) | ||||||||||||
| Class S | $ | 10.97 | $ | 19.83 | $ | 15.50 | ||||||
| Class A | $ | 10.98 | $ | 18.95 | $ | 15.27 | ||||||
| Class A maximum offering price (100%/ (100%-maximum sales charge)) of net asset value adjusted to the nearest cent per share | $ | 11.65 | $ | 20.11 | $ | 16.20 | ||||||
| (a) Includes securities on loan of | $ | 469,635 | $ | 1,129,160 | $ | 517,200 | ||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 35 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Statements of Assets and Liabilities |
September 30, 2018
| ICON Information Technology Fund | ICON Natural Resources Fund | ICON Utilities Fund | ||||||||||
| Assets | ||||||||||||
| Investments, at cost | $ | 50,037,295 | $ | 79,269,460 | $ | 34,015,068 | ||||||
| Investments, at value(a) | 61,694,319 | 82,404,604 | 35,759,123 | |||||||||
| Cash and cash equivalents | 1,974,370 | 278,576 | 1,169,813 | |||||||||
| Receivables: | ||||||||||||
| Investments sold | — | — | 709,791 | |||||||||
| Fund shares sold | 3,682 | 45,557 | 32,031 | |||||||||
| Expense reimbursements due from Adviser | 1,970 | 45,104 | 29,763 | |||||||||
| Interest | 4,262 | 2,790 | 535 | |||||||||
| Dividends | 8,154 | 102,035 | 210,446 | |||||||||
| Foreign tax reclaims | — | 15,938 | 3,047 | |||||||||
| Other assets | 12,313 | 17,154 | 9,721 | |||||||||
| Total assets | 63,699,070 | 82,911,758 | 37,924,270 | |||||||||
| Liabilities | ||||||||||||
| Payables: | ||||||||||||
| Distributions due to shareholders | — | — | 28,727 | |||||||||
| Investments purchased | — | — | 1,344,187 | |||||||||
| Fund shares redeemed | 15,400 | 427,751 | 50,421 | |||||||||
| Advisory fees | 52,964 | 65,986 | 30,361 | |||||||||
| Transfer agent fees | 20,811 | 44,715 | 15,945 | |||||||||
| Fund accounting fees | 3,467 | 6,789 | 2,176 | |||||||||
| Accrued distribution fees | 434 | 2,141 | 1,182 | |||||||||
| Trustee fees and expenses | 1,694 | 2,093 | 939 | |||||||||
| Administration fees | 2,647 | 3,301 | 1,519 | |||||||||
| Accrued expenses | 27,101 | 35,858 | 25,578 | |||||||||
| Total liabilities | 124,518 | 588,634 | 1,501,035 | |||||||||
| Net Assets - all share classes | $ | 63,574,552 | $ | 82,323,124 | $ | 36,423,235 | ||||||
| Net Assets - Class S | $ | 61,473,697 | $ | 76,916,067 | $ | 30,883,108 | ||||||
| Net Assets - Class C | $ | — | $ | 1,176,546 | $ | — | ||||||
| Net Assets - Class A | $ | 2,100,855 | $ | 4,230,511 | $ | 5,540,127 | ||||||
| Net Assets Consists of | ||||||||||||
| Paid-in capital | $ | 44,697,432 | $ | 68,248,813 | $ | 34,640,950 | ||||||
| Total distributable earnings | 18,877,120 | 14,074,311 | 1,782,285 | |||||||||
| Net Assets | $ | 63,574,552 | $ | 82,323,124 | $ | 36,423,235 | ||||||
| Shares outstanding (unlimited shares authorized, no par value) | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 3,576,260 | 4,674,334 | 3,489,344 | |||||||||
| Class C | — | 75,587 | — | |||||||||
| Class A | 126,972 | 260,380 | 637,096 | |||||||||
| Net asset value (offering and redemption price per share) | ||||||||||||
| Class S | $ | 17.19 | $ | 16.45 | $ | 8.85 | ||||||
| Class C | $ | — | $ | 15.57 | $ | — | ||||||
| Class A | $ | 16.55 | $ | 16.25 | $ | 8.70 | ||||||
| Class A maximum offering price (100%/ (100%-maximum sales charge)) of net asset value adjusted to the nearest cent per share | $ | 17.56 | $ | 17.24 | $ | 9.23 | ||||||
| (a) Includes securities on loan of | $ | — | $ | 2,528,053 | $ | 1,234,266 | ||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 36 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Sector Funds | Statements of Operations |
Year Ended September 30, 2018
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | ICON Consumer Staples Fund | ICON Energy Fund | ||||||||||
| Investment Income | ||||||||||||
| Interest | $ | 2,740 | $ | 739 | $ | 17,935 | ||||||
| Dividends | 272,766 | 270,373 | 3,424,326 | |||||||||
| Foreign taxes withheld | (13 | ) | (988 | ) | (64,438 | ) | ||||||
| Income from securities lending, net | 9,627 | 11,927 | 226,081 | |||||||||
| Total investment income | 285,120 | 282,051 | 3,603,904 | |||||||||
| Expenses | ||||||||||||
| Advisory fees | 245,970 | 113,808 | 2,022,471 | |||||||||
| Administration fees | 12,293 | 5,713 | 101,159 | |||||||||
| Transfer agent fees | 55,069 | 45,418 | 530,803 | |||||||||
| Distribution fees: | ||||||||||||
| Class C | — | — | 57,928 | |||||||||
| Class A | 3,104 | 7,190 | 18,674 | |||||||||
| Registration fees | 24,679 | 25,735 | 42,749 | |||||||||
| Audit and tax service expense | 16,000 | 16,000 | 52,504 | |||||||||
| Fund accounting fees | 12,748 | 6,860 | 82,491 | |||||||||
| Trustee fees and expenses | 5,683 | 2,437 | 47,233 | |||||||||
| Insurance expense | 2,590 | 2,737 | 21,687 | |||||||||
| Custody fees | 3,834 | 3,634 | 9,001 | |||||||||
| Printing fees | 8,408 | 4,378 | 43,769 | |||||||||
| Interest expense | 133 | 2,659 | 402 | |||||||||
| Recoupment of previously reimbursed expenses | — | 4,637 | — | |||||||||
| Other expenses | 12,532 | 8,196 | 76,838 | |||||||||
| Total expenses before expense reimbursement | 403,043 | 249,402 | 3,107,709 | |||||||||
| Expense reimbursement by Adviser due to expense limitation agreement | (3,577 | ) | (69,700 | ) | (3,104 | ) | ||||||
| Net Expenses | 399,466 | 179,702 | 3,104,605 | |||||||||
| Net Investment Income/(Loss) | (114,346 | ) | 102,349 | 499,299 | ||||||||
| Realized and Unrealized Gain/(Loss) | ||||||||||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) on: | ||||||||||||
| Investments, options, and foreign currency translations | (258,587 | ) | (206,426 | ) | (2,764,994 | ) | ||||||
| (258,587 | ) | (206,426 | ) | (2,764,994 | ) | |||||||
| Change in unrealized net appreciation/(depreciation) on: | ||||||||||||
| Investments, options, and foreign currency | 284,117 | 72,655 | 11,093,473 | |||||||||
| 284,117 | 72,655 | 11,093,473 | ||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) | 25,530 | (133,771 | ) | 8,328,479 | ||||||||
| Net Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting From Operations | $ | (88,816 | ) | $ | (31,422 | ) | $ | 8,827,778 | ||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 37 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Statements of Operations |
Year Ended September 30, 2018
| ICON Financial Fund | ICON Healthcare Fund | ICON Industrials Fund | ||||||||||
| Investment Income | ||||||||||||
| Interest | $ | 4,752 | $ | 3,887 | $ | 656 | ||||||
| Dividends | 837,722 | 623,610 | 236,304 | |||||||||
| Foreign taxes withheld | (4,102 | ) | (944 | ) | (1,126 | ) | ||||||
| Income from securities lending, net | 15,959 | 27,338 | 36 | |||||||||
| Total investment income | 854,331 | 653,891 | 235,870 | |||||||||
| Expenses | ||||||||||||
| Advisory fees | 459,881 | 772,440 | 156,899 | |||||||||
| Administration fees | 22,994 | 38,627 | 7,839 | |||||||||
| Transfer agent fees | 77,569 | 156,162 | 45,729 | |||||||||
| Distribution fees: | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 5,816 | 8,160 | 3,701 | |||||||||
| Registration fees | 24,591 | 28,319 | 24,787 | |||||||||
| Audit and tax service expense | 16,000 | 16,000 | 16,000 | |||||||||
| Fund accounting fees | 20,773 | 33,237 | 8,623 | |||||||||
| Trustee fees and expenses | 10,719 | 17,862 | 3,624 | |||||||||
| Insurance expense | 4,072 | 8,775 | 1,769 | |||||||||
| Custody fees | 3,520 | 4,553 | 3,056 | |||||||||
| Printing fees | 10,918 | 16,672 | 7,413 | |||||||||
| Interest expense | 66 | 484 | 518 | |||||||||
| Other expenses | 19,330 | 30,212 | 9,487 | |||||||||
| Total expenses before expense reimbursement | 676,249 | 1,131,503 | 289,445 | |||||||||
| Expense reimbursement by Adviser due to expense limitation agreement | (5,239 | ) | (3,569 | ) | (50,110 | ) | ||||||
| Net Expenses | 671,010 | 1,127,934 | 239,335 | |||||||||
| Net Investment Income/(Loss) | 183,321 | (474,043 | ) | (3,465 | ) | |||||||
| Realized and Unrealized Gain/(Loss) | ||||||||||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) on: | ||||||||||||
| Investments and foreign currency translations | 3,379,014 | 5,271,578 | 787,164 | |||||||||
| 3,379,014 | 5,271,578 | 787,164 | ||||||||||
| Change in unrealized net appreciation/(depreciation) on: | ||||||||||||
| Investments and foreign currency | 849,313 | 8,892,330 | (394,652 | ) | ||||||||
| 849,313 | 8,892,330 | (394,652 | ) | |||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) | 4,228,327 | 14,163,908 | 392,512 | |||||||||
| Net Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting From Operations | $ | 4,411,648 | $ | 13,689,865 | $ | 389,047 | ||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 38 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Sector Funds | Statements of Operations |
Year Ended September 30, 2018
| ICON Information Technology Fund | ICON Natural Resources Fund | ICON Utilities Fund | ||||||||||
| Investment Income | ||||||||||||
| Interest | $ | 7,634 | $ | 6,342 | $ | 1,394 | ||||||
| Dividends | 548,544 | 3,210,314 | 1,631,854 | |||||||||
| Foreign taxes withheld | (8,963 | ) | (317,414 | ) | (35,125 | ) | ||||||
| Income from securities lending, net | 3,430 | 5,159 | 2,790 | |||||||||
| Other income | — | — | 693 | |||||||||
| Total investment income | 550,645 | 2,904,401 | 1,601,606 | |||||||||
| Expenses | ||||||||||||
| Advisory fees | 675,452 | 842,605 | 363,606 | |||||||||
| Administration fees | 33,780 | 42,114 | 18,184 | |||||||||
| Transfer agent fees | 108,820 | 215,277 | 88,783 | |||||||||
| Distribution fees: | ||||||||||||
| Class C | — | 16,859 | — | |||||||||
| Class A | 5,944 | 13,997 | 16,898 | |||||||||
| Registration fees | 29,294 | 36,815 | 27,089 | |||||||||
| Audit and tax service expense | 16,000 | 16,000 | 16,000 | |||||||||
| Fund accounting fees | 30,082 | 45,392 | 16,673 | |||||||||
| Trustee fees and expenses | 15,685 | 19,722 | 8,394 | |||||||||
| Insurance expense | 6,958 | 7,115 | 4,550 | |||||||||
| Custody fees | 5,692 | 27,393 | 4,544 | |||||||||
| Printing fees | 13,595 | 23,083 | 8,729 | |||||||||
| Interest expense | 483 | 1,166 | 614 | |||||||||
| Recoupment of previously reimbursed expenses | — | 24,604 | — | |||||||||
| Other expenses | 26,591 | 33,058 | 16,787 | |||||||||
| Total expenses before expense reimbursement | 968,376 | 1,365,200 | 590,851 | |||||||||
| Expense reimbursement by Adviser due to expense limitation agreement | (5,978 | ) | (69,036 | ) | (130,032 | ) | ||||||
| Net Expenses | 962,398 | 1,296,164 | 460,819 | |||||||||
| Net Investment Income/(Loss) | (411,753 | ) | 1,608,237 | 1,140,787 | ||||||||
| Realized and Unrealized Gain/(Loss) | ||||||||||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) on: | ||||||||||||
| Investments and foreign currency translations | 8,085,910 | 9,330,986 | (63,162 | ) | ||||||||
| 8,085,910 | 9,330,986 | (63,162 | ) | |||||||||
| Change in unrealized net appreciation/(depreciation) on: | ||||||||||||
| Investments and foreign currency | 166,298 | (4,314,715 | ) | 149,787 | ||||||||
| 166,298 | (4,314,715 | ) | 149,787 | |||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) | 8,252,208 | 5,016,271 | 86,625 | |||||||||
| Net Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting From Operations | $ | 7,840,455 | $ | 6,624,508 | $ | 1,227,412 | ||||||
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 39 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Statements of Changes in Net Assets |
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | ICON Consumer Staples Fund | |||||||||||||||
| Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | |||||||||||||
| Operations | ||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss) | $ | (114,346 | ) | $ | (155,209 | ) | $ | 102,349 | $ | 57,811 | ||||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) | (258,587 | ) | 1,102,738 | (206,426 | ) | 1,494,029 | ||||||||||
| Change in net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) | 284,117 | 2,370,464 | 72,655 | (51,630 | ) | |||||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | (88,816 | ) | 3,317,993 | (31,422 | ) | 1,500,210 | ||||||||||
| Total Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders(a) | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (897,131 | ) | (2,138,950 | ) | (822,922 | ) | (3,292,131 | ) | ||||||||
| Class A | (49,825 | ) | (116,512 | ) | (332,699 | ) | (551,286 | ) | ||||||||
| Net decrease from dividends and distributions | (946,956 | ) | (2,255,462 | ) | (1,155,621 | ) | (3,843,417 | ) | ||||||||
| Fund Share Transactions | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 6,793,747 | 9,497,500 | 3,369,557 | 11,907,619 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 917,651 | 246,883 | 1,568,876 | 2,671,835 | ||||||||||||
| Reinvested dividends and distributions | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 890,044 | 2,120,009 | 813,554 | 3,170,250 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 45,382 | 100,528 | 281,512 | 405,750 | ||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (8,520,523 | ) | (25,345,622 | ) | (22,117,864 | ) | (20,882,818 | ) | ||||||||
| Class A | (880,930 | ) | (1,272,734 | ) | (3,258,317 | ) | (7,594,959 | ) | ||||||||
| Net decrease from fund share transactions | (754,629 | ) | (14,653,436 | ) | (19,342,682 | ) | (10,322,323 | ) | ||||||||
| Total net decrease in net assets | (1,790,401 | ) | (13,590,905 | ) | (20,529,725 | ) | (12,665,530 | ) | ||||||||
| Net Assets | ||||||||||||||||
| Beginning of year | 26,039,856 | 39,630,761 | 27,542,567 | 40,208,097 | ||||||||||||
| End of year | $ | 24,249,455 | $ | 26,039,856 | $ | 7,012,842 | $ | 27,542,567 | ||||||||
| Transactions in Fund Shares | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 507,945 | 681,550 | 473,310 | 1,568,687 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 72,430 | 18,527 | 239,901 | 359,812 | ||||||||||||
| Issued to shareholders in reinvestment of distributions | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 62,767 | 155,218 | 117,058 | 450,960 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 3,357 | 7,662 | 40,681 | 57,882 | ||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (645,396 | ) | (1,827,935 | ) | (3,036,610 | ) | (2,764,087 | ) | ||||||||
| Class A | (69,802 | ) | (97,189 | ) | (487,184 | ) | (1,004,810 | ) | ||||||||
| Net decrease | (68,699 | ) | (1,062,167 | ) | (2,652,844 | ) | (1,331,556 | ) | ||||||||
| Shares outstanding, beginning of year | 1,869,181 | 2,931,348 | 3,707,747 | 5,039,303 | ||||||||||||
| Shares outstanding, end of year | 1,800,482 | 1,869,181 | 1,054,903 | 3,707,747 | ||||||||||||
| (a) | The Securities and Exchange Commission adopted amendments to certain financial statement disclosure requirements which eliminated the disclosure of the characteristic of dividends and distributions to shareholders. The prior year ended September 30, 2017 dividends and distributions for the ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund consisted of Net Investment Income of $–, and Net Realized Gains of $2,255,462. The prior year ended September 30, 2017 dividends and distributions for the ICON Consumer Staples Fund consisted of Net Investment Income of $81,150, and Net Realized Gains of $3,762,267. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 40 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Sector Funds | Statements of Changes in Net Assets |
| ICON Energy Fund | ICON Financial Fund | |||||||||||||||
| Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | |||||||||||||
| Operations | ||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss) | $ | 499,299 | $ | 1,268,204 | $ | 183,321 | $ | 118,093 | ||||||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) | (2,764,994 | ) | (10,044,040 | ) | 3,379,014 | 4,547,025 | ||||||||||
| Change in net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) | 11,093,473 | 4,187,058 | 849,313 | 8,265,316 | ||||||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 8,827,778 | (4,588,778 | ) | 4,411,648 | 12,930,434 | |||||||||||
| Total Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders(a) | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (3,237,108 | ) | (1,879,265 | ) | (92,213 | ) | (509,224 | ) | ||||||||
| Class C | (89,725 | ) | (30,917 | ) | — | — | ||||||||||
| Class A | (119,376 | ) | (67,792 | ) | (2,629 | ) | (21,428 | ) | ||||||||
| Net decrease from dividends and distributions | (3,446,209 | ) | (1,977,974 | ) | (94,842 | ) | (530,652 | ) | ||||||||
| Fund Share Transactions | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 18,098,615 | 46,169,160 | 10,035,038 | 8,827,182 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | 241,401 | 443,280 | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 1,463,565 | 1,527,261 | 813,466 | 1,061,317 | ||||||||||||
| Reinvested dividends and distributions | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 3,129,585 | 1,809,660 | 90,005 | 500,838 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | 77,225 | 26,876 | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 82,657 | 51,520 | 2,397 | 18,938 | ||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased, net of redemption fees | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (79,304,224 | ) | (146,633,212 | ) | (9,788,249 | ) | (25,448,695 | ) | ||||||||
| Class C | (2,796,501 | ) | (3,069,723 | ) | — | — | ||||||||||
| Class A | (4,731,193 | ) | (6,674,244 | ) | (1,648,620 | ) | (2,063,563 | ) | ||||||||
| Net decrease from fund share transactions | (63,738,870 | ) | (106,349,422 | ) | (495,963 | ) | (17,103,983 | ) | ||||||||
| Total net increase/(decrease) in net assets | (58,357,301 | ) | (112,916,174 | ) | 3,820,843 | (4,704,201 | ) | |||||||||
| Net Assets | ||||||||||||||||
| Beginning of year | 239,352,371 | 352,268,545 | 41,191,173 | 45,895,374 | ||||||||||||
| End of year | $ | 180,995,070 | $ | 239,352,371 | $ | 45,012,016 | $ | 41,191,173 | ||||||||
| Transactions in Fund Shares | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 1,437,533 | 3,633,098 | 938,255 | 997,694 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | 20,373 | 35,320 | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 120,172 | 120,649 | 73,446 | 116,684 | ||||||||||||
| Issued to shareholders in reinvestment of distributions | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 251,574 | 137,774 | 8,357 | 54,796 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | 6,534 | 2,223 | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 6,692 | 3,966 | 222 | 2,061 | ||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (6,360,889 | ) | (11,866,130 | ) | (906,394 | ) | (2,780,941 | ) | ||||||||
| Class C | (237,781 | ) | (256,061 | ) | — | — | ||||||||||
| Class A | (377,099 | ) | (538,667 | ) | (148,209 | ) | (236,075 | ) | ||||||||
| Net decrease | (5,132,891 | ) | (8,727,828 | ) | (34,323 | ) | (1,845,781 | ) | ||||||||
| Shares outstanding, beginning of year | 19,141,326 | 27,869,154 | 4,137,919 | 5,983,700 | ||||||||||||
| Shares outstanding, end of year | 14,008,435 | 19,141,326 | 4,103,596 | 4,137,919 | ||||||||||||
| (a) | The Securities and Exchange Commission adopted amendments to certain financial statement disclosure requirements which eliminated the disclosure of the characteristic of dividends and distributions to shareholders. The prior year ended September 30, 2017 dividends and distributions for the ICON Energy Fund consisted of Net Investment Income of $1,977,974, and Net Realized Gains of $–. The prior year ended September 30, 2017 dividends and distributions for the ICON Financial Fund consisted of Net Investment Income of $530,652, and Net Realized Gains of $–. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 41 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Statements of Changes in Net Assets |
| ICON Healthcare Fund | ICON Industrials Fund | |||||||||||||||
| Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | |||||||||||||
| Operations | ||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss) | $ | (474,043 | ) | $ | (295,023 | ) | $ | (3,465 | ) | $ | (76,821 | ) | ||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) | 5,271,578 | 2,483,501 | 787,164 | 3,708,253 | ||||||||||||
| Change in net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) | 8,892,330 | 7,387,024 | (394,652 | ) | 196,291 | |||||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 13,689,865 | 9,575,502 | 389,047 | 3,827,723 | ||||||||||||
| Total Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders(a) | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (1,986,285 | ) | (1,138,922 | ) | — | — | ||||||||||
| Class A | (90,235 | ) | (76,949 | ) | — | — | ||||||||||
| Net decrease from dividends and distributions | (2,076,520 | ) | (1,215,871 | ) | — | — | ||||||||||
| Fund Share Transactions | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 8,386,003 | 22,175,488 | 4,277,404 | 15,170,976 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 246,905 | 1,114,090 | 166,793 | 3,385,400 | ||||||||||||
| Reinvested dividends and distributions | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 1,910,895 | 1,092,964 | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 81,620 | 69,063 | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (25,718,143 | ) | (24,240,347 | ) | (8,470,654 | ) | (27,048,093 | ) | ||||||||
| Class A | (1,954,040 | ) | (2,487,427 | ) | (1,480,104 | ) | (2,403,341 | ) | ||||||||
| Net decrease from fund share transactions | (17,046,760 | ) | (2,276,169 | ) | (5,506,561 | ) | (10,895,058 | ) | ||||||||
| Total net increase/(decrease) in net assets | (5,433,415 | ) | 6,083,462 | (5,117,514 | ) | (7,067,335 | ) | |||||||||
| Net Assets | ||||||||||||||||
| Beginning of year | 87,222,421 | 81,138,959 | 17,887,532 | 24,954,867 | ||||||||||||
| End of year | $ | 81,789,006 | $ | 87,222,421 | $ | 12,770,018 | $ | 17,887,532 | ||||||||
| Transactions in Fund Shares | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 473,772 | 1,440,106 | 281,772 | 1,120,214 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 14,777 | 74,903 | 11,365 | 250,786 | ||||||||||||
| Issued to shareholders in reinvestment of distributions | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 116,647 | 73,403 | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 5,202 | 4,823 | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (1,511,240 | ) | (1,557,432 | ) | (566,523 | ) | (2,039,881 | ) | ||||||||
| Class A | (116,334 | ) | (166,432 | ) | (98,337 | ) | (170,333 | ) | ||||||||
| Net decrease | (1,017,176 | ) | (130,629 | ) | (371,723 | ) | (839,214 | ) | ||||||||
| Shares outstanding, beginning of year | 5,148,671 | 5,279,300 | 1,196,550 | 2,035,764 | ||||||||||||
| Shares outstanding, end of year | 4,131,495 | 5,148,671 | 824,827 | 1,196,550 | ||||||||||||
| (a) | The Securities and Exchange Commission adopted amendments to certain financial statement disclosure requirements which eliminated the disclosure of the characteristic of dividends and distributions to shareholders. The prior year ended September 30, 2017 dividends and distributions for the ICON Healthcare Fund consisted of Net Investment Income of $–, and Net Realized Gains of $1,215,871. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 42 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Sector Funds | Statements of Changes in Net Assets |
| ICON Information Technology Fund | ICON Natural Resources Fund | |||||||||||||||
| Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | |||||||||||||
| Operations | ||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss) | $ | (411,753 | ) | $ | (348,460 | ) | $ | 1,608,237 | $ | 27,777 | ||||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) | 8,085,910 | 14,152,932 | 9,330,986 | 6,414,936 | ||||||||||||
| Change in net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) | 166,298 | 1,556,770 | (4,314,715 | ) | 7,243,434 | |||||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 7,840,455 | 15,361,242 | 6,624,508 | 13,686,147 | ||||||||||||
| Total Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders(a) | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (13,288,826 | ) | (8,893,473 | ) | (926,150 | ) | (388,278 | ) | ||||||||
| Class C | — | — | (20,983 | ) | (5,892 | ) | ||||||||||
| Class A | (488,662 | ) | (461,260 | ) | (64,170 | ) | (22,709 | ) | ||||||||
| Net decrease from dividends and distributions | (13,777,488 | ) | (9,354,733 | ) | (1,011,303 | ) | (416,879 | ) | ||||||||
| Fund Share Transactions | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 8,513,236 | 28,195,461 | 29,189,297 | 23,396,295 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | — | — | 358,860 | 537,226 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 471,172 | 801,128 | 2,692,213 | 3,523,369 | ||||||||||||
| Reinvested dividends and distributions | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 12,849,470 | 8,699,541 | 896,662 | 378,212 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | — | — | 19,514 | 5,266 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 431,663 | 403,556 | 54,020 | 19,756 | ||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (25,411,771 | ) | (20,398,791 | ) | (27,779,331 | ) | (32,337,540 | ) | ||||||||
| Class C | — | — | (1,053,050 | ) | (496,670 | ) | ||||||||||
| Class A | (1,426,575 | ) | (1,206,856 | ) | (4,497,790 | ) | (3,138,040 | ) | ||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) from fund share transactions | (4,572,805 | ) | 16,494,039 | (119,605 | ) | (8,112,126 | ) | |||||||||
| Total net increase/(decrease) in net assets | (10,509,838 | ) | 22,500,548 | 5,493,600 | 5,157,142 | |||||||||||
| Net Assets | ||||||||||||||||
| Beginning of year | 74,084,390 | 51,583,842 | 76,829,524 | 71,672,382 | ||||||||||||
| End of year | $ | 63,574,552 | $ | 74,084,390 | $ | 82,323,124 | $ | 76,829,524 | ||||||||
| Transactions in Fund Shares | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 490,644 | 1,640,887 | 1,826,509 | 1,669,498 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | — | — | 23,436 | 39,885 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 27,989 | 48,922 | 168,035 | 251,811 | ||||||||||||
| Issued to shareholders in reinvestment of distributions | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 798,104 | 574,606 | 57,149 | 27,073 | ||||||||||||
| Class C | — | — | 1,304 | 391 | ||||||||||||
| Class A | 27,778 | 27,453 | 3,481 | 1,425 | ||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (1,434,351 | ) | (1,219,807 | ) | (1,740,876 | ) | (2,294,834 | ) | ||||||||
| Class C | — | — | (69,003 | ) | (36,440 | ) | ||||||||||
| Class A | (81,689 | ) | (73,420 | ) | (282,127 | ) | (231,822 | ) | ||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) | (171,525 | ) | 998,641 | (12,092 | ) | (573,013 | ) | |||||||||
| Shares outstanding, beginning of year | 3,874,757 | 2,876,116 | 5,022,393 | 5,595,406 | ||||||||||||
| Shares outstanding, end of year | 3,703,232 | 3,874,757 | 5,010,301 | 5,022,393 | ||||||||||||
| (a) | The Securities and Exchange Commission adopted amendments to certain financial statement disclosure requirements which eliminated the disclosure of the characteristic of dividends and distributions to shareholders. The prior year ended September 30, 2017 dividends and distributions for the ICON Information Technology Fund consisted of Net Investment Income of $–, and Net Realized Gains of $9,354,733. The prior year ended September 30, 2017 dividends and distributions for the ICON Natural Resources Fund consisted of Net Investment Income of $416,879, and Net Realized Gains of $–. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 43 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Statements of Changes in Net Assets |
| ICON Utilities Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Year Ended September 30, 2018 | Year Ended September 30, 2017 | |||||||||||||||
| Operations | ||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss) | $ | 1,140,787 | $ | 1,419,409 | ||||||||||||
| Net realized gain/(loss) | (63,162 | ) | 2,393,910 | |||||||||||||
| Change in net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) | 149,787 | 556,216 | ||||||||||||||
| Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations | 1,227,412 | 4,369,535 | ||||||||||||||
| Total Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders(a) | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (2,743,816 | ) | (4,541,157 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Class A | (610,900 | ) | (1,136,887 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Net decrease from dividends and distributions | (3,354,716 | ) | (5,678,044 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Fund Share Transactions | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 9,480,817 | 17,370,144 | ||||||||||||||
| Class A | 482,608 | 2,115,878 | ||||||||||||||
| Reinvested dividends and distributions | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 2,667,776 | 4,286,520 | ||||||||||||||
| Class A | 332,205 | 729,618 | ||||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (15,345,698 | ) | (28,830,643 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Class A | (3,176,944 | ) | (9,984,766 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Net decrease from fund share transactions | (5,559,236 | ) | (14,313,249 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Total net decrease in net assets | (7,686,540 | ) | (15,621,758 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Net Assets | ||||||||||||||||
| Beginning of year | 44,109,775 | 59,731,533 | ||||||||||||||
| End of year | $ | 36,423,235 | $ | 44,109,775 | ||||||||||||
| Transactions in Fund Shares | ||||||||||||||||
| Shares sold | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 1,072,968 | 1,896,662 | ||||||||||||||
| Class A | 55,872 | 234,414 | ||||||||||||||
| Issued to shareholders in reinvestment of distributions | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | 305,598 | 482,202 | ||||||||||||||
| Class A | 38,729 | 83,540 | ||||||||||||||
| Shares repurchased | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | (1,744,614 | ) | (3,147,439 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Class A | (364,825 | ) | (1,107,673 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Net decrease | (636,272 | ) | (1,558,294 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Shares outstanding, beginning of year | 4,762,712 | 6,321,006 | ||||||||||||||
| Shares outstanding, end of year | 4,126,440 | 4,762,712 | ||||||||||||||
| (a) | The Securities and Exchange Commission adopted amendments to certain financial statement disclosure requirements which eliminated the disclosure of the characteristic of dividends and distributions to shareholders. The prior year ended September 30, 2017 dividends and distributions for the ICON Utilities Fund consisted of Net Investment Income of $1,409,610, and Net Realized Gains of $4,268,434. The prior year ended September 30, 2017 dividends and distributions for the ICON Utilities Fund consisted of Net Investment Income of $1,409,610, and Net Realized Gains of $4,268,434. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 44 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented
| Class S | Year Ended September 30, 2018 |
Year Ended September 30, 2017 |
Year Ended September 30, 2016 |
Year Ended September 30, 2015 |
Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 13.97 | $ | 13.55 | $ | 14.27 | $ | 15.55 | $ | 14.50 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | (0.06 | ) | (0.06 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (0.07 | ) | (0.07 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.10 | 1.25 | 0.65 | 1.03 | 1.12 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.04 | 1.19 | 0.62 | 0.96 | 1.05 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | (0.50 | ) | (0.77 | ) | (1.34 | ) | (2.24 | ) | — | ||||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.50 | ) | (0.77 | ) | (1.34 | ) | (2.24 | ) | — | ||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 13.51 | $ | 13.97 | $ | 13.55 | $ | 14.27 | $ | 15.55 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return | 0.14 | % | 8.93 | % | 4.49 | % | 5.80 | % | 7.24 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 22,755 | $ | 24,566 | $ | 37,263 | $ | 44,913 | $ | 55,476 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.60 | % | 1.46 | % | 1.42 | % | 1.43 | % | 1.46 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(b) | 1.60 | % | 1.46 | % | 1.42 | % | 1.43 | % | 1.46 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (0.44 | )% | (0.43 | )% | (0.22 | )% | (0.44 | )% | (0.47 | )% | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(b) | (0.44 | )% | (0.43 | )% | (0.22 | )% | (0.44 | )% | (0.47 | )% | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 137 | % | 152 | % | 158 | % | 201 | % | 202 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 45 |
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented
| Class A(a) | Year Ended September 30, 2018 |
Year Ended September 30, 2017 |
Year Ended September 30, 2016 |
Year Ended September 30, 2015 |
Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 13.36 | $ | 13.06 | $ | 13.88 | $ | 15.24 | $ | 14.25 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(b) | (0.11 | ) | (0.13 | ) | (0.10 | ) | (0.14 | ) | (0.12 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.10 | 1.20 | 0.62 | 1.02 | 1.11 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | (0.01 | ) | 1.07 | 0.52 | 0.88 | 0.99 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | (0.50 | ) | (0.77 | ) | (1.34 | ) | (2.24 | ) | — | ||||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.50 | ) | (0.77 | ) | (1.34 | ) | (2.24 | ) | — | ||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 12.85 | $ | 13.36 | $ | 13.06 | $ | 13.88 | $ | 15.24 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return(c) | (0.24 | )% | 8.32 | % | 3.86 | % | 5.34 | % | 6.95 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 1,495 | $ | 1,474 | $ | 2,368 | $ | 2,999 | $ | 2,492 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.28 | % | 2.22 | % | 2.13 | % | 1.91 | % | 1.76 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 1.99 | % | 1.99 | % | 1.99 | % | 1.91 | % | 1.76 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (1.14 | )% | (1.20 | )% | (0.92 | )% | (0.97 | )% | (0.80 | )% | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | (0.85 | )% | (0.97 | )% | (0.78 | )% | (0.97 | )% | (0.80 | )% | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 137 | % | 152 | % | 158 | % | 201 | % | 202 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Class C shares were merged into Class A on September 25, 2015. The amounts presented represent the results of the Class A shares for the periods prior to the merger and the results of the combined share class for the period subsequent to the merger. |
| (b) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (c) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (d) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 46 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented
| Class S | Year Ended September 30, 2018 |
Year Ended September 30, 2017 |
Year Ended September 30, 2016 |
Year Ended September 30, 2015 |
Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 7.43 | $ | 7.98 | $ | 9.20 | $ | 11.55 | $ | 11.18 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | 0.06 | 0.02 | 0.02 | 0.04 | 0.11 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.01 | (b) | 0.41 | 0.96 | 0.98 | 1.31 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.07 | 0.43 | 0.98 | 1.02 | 1.42 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.01 | ) | (0.02 | ) | (0.00 | )(c) | (0.22 | ) | (0.03 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | (0.83 | ) | (0.96 | ) | (2.20 | ) | (3.15 | ) | (1.02 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.84 | ) | (0.98 | ) | (2.20 | ) | (3.37 | ) | (1.05 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 6.66 | $ | 7.43 | $ | 7.98 | $ | 9.20 | $ | 11.55 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return | 0.50 | % | 6.15 | % | 12.09 | % | 8.66 | % | 13.32 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 5,275 | $ | 24,069 | $ | 31,799 | $ | 8,651 | $ | 25,731 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.17 | % | 1.70 | % | 1.74 | % | 1.87 | % | 1.45 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 1.51 | % | 1.50 | % | 1.51 | % | 1.51 | % | 1.45 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 0.28 | % | 0.04 | % | 0.00 | %(e) | (0.01 | )% | 0.94 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 0.94 | % | 0.24 | % | 0.23 | % | 0.35 | % | 0.94 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 58 | % | 118 | % | 125 | % | 16 | % | 52 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The per share amount does not correspond to activity reflected in the Statement of Operations due to timing of shareholder transactions during the period. |
| (c) | Amount less than $(0.005). |
| (d) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| (e) | Less than 0.005% of average net assets. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 47 |
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented
| Class A(a) | Year Ended September 30, 2018 |
Year Ended September 30, 2017 |
Year Ended September 30, 2016 |
Year Ended September 30, 2015 |
Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 7.40 | $ | 7.96 | $ | 9.19 | $ | 11.58 | $ | 11.23 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(b) | 0.06 | (0.01 | ) | (0.00 | )(c) | 0.02 | 0.07 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | (0.01 | ) | 0.42 | 0.97 | 0.97 | 1.32 | |||||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.05 | 0.41 | 0.97 | 0.99 | 1.39 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.01 | ) | (0.01 | ) | (0.00 | )(c) | (0.23 | ) | (0.02 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | (0.83 | ) | (0.96 | ) | (2.20 | ) | (3.15 | ) | (1.02 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.84 | ) | (0.97 | ) | (2.20 | ) | (3.38 | ) | (1.04 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 6.61 | $ | 7.40 | $ | 7.96 | $ | 9.19 | $ | 11.58 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return(d) | 0.17 | % | 5.91 | % | 11.93 | % | 8.32 | % | 12.99 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 1,738 | $ | 3,473 | $ | 8,409 | $ | 3,602 | $ | 2,740 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.29 | % | 1.97 | % | 1.97 | % | 2.12 | % | 2.04 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(e) | 1.77 | % | 1.75 | % | 1.76 | % | 1.76 | % | 1.75 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 0.31 | % | (0.30 | )% | (0.23 | )% | (0.15 | )% | 0.35 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(e) | 0.83 | % | (0.08 | )% | (0.02 | )% | 0.21 | % | 0.64 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 58 | % | 118 | % | 125 | % | 16 | % | 52 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Class C shares were merged into Class A on September 25, 2015. The amounts presented represent the results of the Class A shares for the periods prior to the merger and the results of the combined share class for the period subsequent to the merger. |
| (b) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (c) | Amount less than $(0.005). |
| (d) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (e) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 48 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Energy Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented
| Class S | Year Ended September 30, 2018 |
Year Ended September 30, 2017 |
Year Ended September 30, 2016 |
Year Ended September 30, 2015 |
Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 12.53 | $ | 12.66 | $ | 11.17 | $ | 22.30 | $ | 22.59 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | 0.04 | 0.06 | 0.24 | 0.11 | 0.11 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.58 | (0.11 | ) | 1.36 | (7.42 | ) | 0.33 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.62 | (0.05 | ) | 1.60 | (7.31 | ) | 0.44 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.20 | ) | (0.08 | ) | (0.11 | ) | (0.09 | ) | (0.06 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | – | – | – | (3.73 | ) | (0.67 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.20 | ) | (0.08 | ) | (0.11 | ) | (3.82 | ) | (0.73 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 12.95 | $ | 12.53 | $ | 12.66 | $ | 11.17 | $ | 22.30 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return | 4.99 | % | (0.44 | )% | 14.55 | % | (36.37 | )% | 1.92 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 169,661 | $ | 222,707 | $ | 327,497 | $ | 320,486 | $ | 615,541 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.50 | % | 1.41 | % | 1.44 | % | 1.42 | % | 1.28 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(b) | 1.50 | % | 1.41 | % | 1.44 | % | 1.42 | % | 1.28 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 0.28 | % | 0.46 | % | 2.04 | % | 0.74 | % | 0.46 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(b) | 0.28 | % | 0.46 | % | 2.04 | % | 0.74 | % | 0.46 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 69 | % | 74 | % | 99 | % | 154 | % | 97 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 49 |
| ICON Energy Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented
| Class C | Year Ended September 30, 2018 |
Year Ended September 30, 2017 |
Year Ended September 30, 2016 |
Year Ended September 30, 2015 |
Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 11.92 | $ | 12.14 | $ | 10.77 | $ | 21.74 | $ | 22.21 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a)(b) | (0.08 | ) | (0.07 | ) | 0.11 | (0.04 | ) | (0.15 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.54 | (0.11 | ) | 1.31 | (7.20 | ) | 0.35 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.46 | (0.18 | ) | 1.42 | (7.24 | ) | 0.20 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.17 | ) | (0.04 | ) | (0.05 | ) | – | – | |||||||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | – | – | – | (3.73 | ) | (0.67 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.17 | ) | (0.04 | ) | (0.05 | ) | (3.73 | ) | (0.67 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Redemption fees | 0.00 | (c) | – | – | – | – | |||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 12.21 | $ | 11.92 | $ | 12.14 | $ | 10.77 | $ | 21.74 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return(d) | 3.87 | % | (1.46 | )% | 13.31 | % | (36.99 | )% | 0.83 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 4,941 | $ | 7,333 | $ | 10,124 | $ | 9,972 | $ | 17,170 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.55 | % | 2.47 | % | 2.49 | % | 2.43 | % | 2.38 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(e) | 2.50 | % | 2.47 | % | 2.49 | % | 2.43 | % | 2.38 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (0.76 | )% | (0.61 | )% | 0.99 | % | (0.26 | )% | (0.65 | )% | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(e) | (0.71 | )% | (0.61 | )% | 0.99 | % | (0.26 | )% | (0.65 | )% | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 69 | % | 74 | % | 99 | % | 154 | % | 97 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The per share amount does not correspond to activity reflected in the Statement of Operations due to class specific expenses during the period. |
| (c) | Amount less than $0.005. |
| (d) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (e) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 50 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Energy Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented
| Class A | Year Ended September 30, 2018 |
Year Ended September 30, 2017 |
Year Ended September 30, 2016 |
Year Ended September 30, 2015 |
Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 12.44 | $ | 12.60 | $ | 11.11 | $ | 22.20 | $ | 22.50 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | 0.01 | 0.02 | 0.21 | 0.07 | 0.04 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.57 | (0.11 | ) | 1.35 | (7.39 | ) | 0.35 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.58 | (0.09 | ) | 1.56 | (7.32 | ) | 0.39 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.19 | ) | (0.07 | ) | (0.07 | ) | (0.04 | ) | (0.02 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | – | – | – | (3.73 | ) | (0.67 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.19 | ) | (0.07 | ) | (0.07 | ) | (3.77 | ) | (0.69 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 12.83 | $ | 12.44 | $ | 12.60 | $ | 11.11 | $ | 22.20 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return(b) | 4.71 | % | (0.76 | )% | 14.19 | % | (36.55 | )% | 1.67 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 6,394 | $ | 9,312 | $ | 14,648 | $ | 14,588 | $ | 26,695 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.75 | % | 1.72 | % | 1.73 | % | 1.66 | % | 1.55 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 1.75 | % | 1.72 | % | 1.73 | % | 1.66 | % | 1.55 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 0.06 | % | 0.15 | % | 1.77 | % | 0.50 | % | 0.19 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 0.06 | % | 0.15 | % | 1.77 | % | 0.50 | % | 0.19 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 69 | % | 74 | % | 99 | % | 154 | % | 97 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (c) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 51 |
| ICON Financial Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented
| Class S | Year Ended September 30, 2018 |
Year Ended September 30, 2017 |
Year Ended September 30, 2016 |
Year Ended September 30, 2015 |
Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 9.95 | $ | 7.67 | $ | 7.74 | $ | 7.83 | $ | 7.47 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | 0.05 | 0.03 | 0.08 | 0.04 | 0.00 | (b) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.99 | 2.34 | (0.15 | ) | (0.08 | ) | 0.54 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 1.04 | 2.37 | (0.07 | ) | (0.04 | ) | 0.54 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.02 | ) | (0.09 | ) | – | (0.05 | ) | (0.18 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.02 | ) | (0.09 | ) | – | (0.05 | ) | (0.18 | ) | ||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 10.97 | $ | 9.95 | $ | 7.67 | $ | 7.74 | $ | 7.83 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return | 10.48 | % | 30.96 | % | (0.90 | )% | (0.55 | )% | 7.27 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 43,500 | $ | 39,072 | $ | 43,354 | $ | 49,106 | $ | 32,286 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.44 | % | 1.40 | % | 1.40 | % | 1.49 | % | 1.64 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 1.44 | % | 1.40 | % | 1.40 | % | 1.49 | % | 1.50 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 0.41 | % | 0.28 | % | 1.00 | % | 0.52 | % | (0.20 | )% | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 0.41 | % | 0.28 | % | 1.00 | % | 0.52 | % | (0.06 | )% | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 44 | % | 68 | % | 49 | % | 51 | % | 79 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | Amount less than $0.005. |
| (c) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 52 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Financial Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented
| Class A(a) | Year Ended September 30, 2018 |
Year Ended September 30, 2017 |
Year Ended September 30, 2016 |
Year Ended September 30, 2015 |
Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 9.99 | $ | 7.71 | $ | 7.82 | $ | 7.89 | $ | 7.37 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(b) | 0.01 | (0.01 | ) | 0.05 | 0.02 | (0.02 | ) | ||||||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.99 | 2.37 | (0.16 | ) | (0.07 | ) | 0.54 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 1.00 | 2.36 | (0.11 | ) | (0.05 | ) | 0.52 | ||||||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.01 | ) | (0.08 | ) | – | (0.02 | ) | – | |||||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.01 | ) | (0.08 | ) | – | (0.02 | ) | – | |||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 10.98 | $ | 9.99 | $ | 7.71 | $ | 7.82 | $ | 7.89 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return(c) | 10.04 | % | 30.68 | % | (1.41 | )% | (0.69 | )% | 7.20 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 1,512 | $ | 2,119 | $ | 2,542 | $ | 1,974 | $ | 541 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.98 | % | 2.05 | % | 2.12 | % | 2.19 | % | 2.35 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (0.13 | )% | (0.37 | )% | 0.26 | % | (0.15 | )% | (0.86 | )% | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 0.10 | % | (0.07 | )% | 0.63 | % | 0.29 | % | (0.26 | )% | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 44 | % | 68 | % | 49 | % | 51 | % | 79 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Class C shares were merged into Class A on September 25, 2015. The amounts presented represent the results of the Class A shares for the periods prior to the merger and the results of the combined share class for the period subsequent to the merger. |
| (b) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (c) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (d) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 53 |
| ICON Healthcare Fund | Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented
| Class S | Year Ended September 30, 2018 |
Year Ended September 30, 2017 |
Year Ended September 30, 2016 |
Year Ended September 30, 2015 |
Year Ended September 30, 2014 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 16.97 | $ | 15.40 | $ | 17.83 | $ | 22.42 | $ | 22.17 | |||||||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | (0.10 | ) | (0.05 | ) | (0.04 | ) | (0.09 | ) | (0.11 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 3.38 | 1.86 | 1.54 | 1.02 | 6.18 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 3.28 | 1.81 | 1.50 | 0.93 | 6.07 | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | – | – | – | – | (0.03 | ) | |||||||||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | (0.42 | ) | (0.24 | ) | (3.93 | ) | (5.52 | ) | (5.79 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.42 | ) | (0.24 | ) | (3.93 | ) | (5.52 | ) | (5.82 | ) | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 19.83 | $ | 16.97 | $ | 15.40 | $ | 17.83 | $ | 22.42 | |||||||||||||||
| Total Return | 19.84 | % | 11.94 | % | 9.44 | % | 2.55 | % | 32.27 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 78,975 | $ | 83,234 | $ | 76,218 | $ | 95,109 | $ | 148,261 | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.45 | % | 1.41 | % | 1.44 | % | 1.36 | % | 1.36 | % | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(b) | 1.45 | % | 1.41 | % | 1.44 | % | 1.36 | % | 1.36 | % | |||||||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | |||||||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (0.60 | )% | (0.33 | )% | (0.26 | )% | (0.45 | )% | (0.53 | )% | |||||||||||||||
| After expense limitation(b) | (0.60 | )% | (0.33 | )% | (0.26 | )% | (0.45 | )% | (0.53 | )% | |||||||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 63 | % | 174 | % | 107 | % | 141 | % | 188 | % | |||||||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.
| 54 | www.iconfunds.com |
ICON Healthcare Fund |
Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented |
| Class A(a) | Year
Ended September 30, 2018 | Year
Ended September 30, 2017 | Year
Ended September 30, 2016 | Year
Ended September 30, 2015 | Year
Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 16.29 | $ | 14.84 | $ | 17.37 | $ | 22.01 | $ | 21.92 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income/(loss)(b) | (0.15) | (0.10) | (0.09) | (0.14) | (0.14) | |||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 3.23 | 1.79 | 1.49 | 1.02 | 6.03 | |||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 3.08 | 1.69 | 1.40 | 0.88 | 5.89 | |||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | — | — | — | — | (0.01) | |||||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | (0.42) | (0.24) | (3.93) | (5.52) | (5.79) | |||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.42) | (0.24) | (3.93) | (5.52) | (5.80) | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 18.95 | $ | 16.29 | $ | 14.84 | $ | 17.37 | $ | 22.01 | ||||||||||
| Total Return(c) | 19.43 | % | 11.58 | % | 9.03 | % | 2.33 | % | 31.72 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 2,814 | $ | 3,989 | $ | 4,921 | $ | 15,317 | $ | 10,878 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.86 | % | 1.86 | % | 1.79 | % | 1.62 | % | 1.62 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | 1.62 | % | 1.62 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (1.01) | % | (0.78) | % | (0.63) | % | (0.69) | % | (0.66) | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | (0.90) | % | (0.67) | % | (0.59) | % | (0.69) | % | (0.66) | % | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 63 | % | 174 | % | 107 | % | 141 | % | 188 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Class C shares were merged into Class A on September 25, 2015. The amounts presented represent the results of the Class A shares for the periods prior to the merger and the results of the combined share class for the period subsequent to the merger. |
| (b) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (c) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (d) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 55 |
ICON Industrials Fund |
Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented |
| Class S | Year
Ended September 30, 2018 | Year
Ended September 30, 2017 | Year
Ended September 30, 2016 | Year
Ended September 30, 2015 | Year
Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 14.97 | $ | 12.26 | $ | 10.94 | $ | 11.67 | $ | 10.56 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | 0.00 | (b) | (0.04) | (0.02) | 0.01 | 0.01 | ||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.53 | 2.75 | 1.34 | (0.73) | 1.16 | |||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.53 | 2.71 | 1.32 | (0.72) | 1.17 | |||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | — | — | — | (0.01) | (0.06) | |||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | — | — | — | (0.01) | (0.06) | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 15.50 | $ | 14.97 | $ | 12.26 | $ | 10.94 | $ | 11.67 | ||||||||||
| Total Return | 3.54 | % | 22.10 | % | 12.07 | % | (6.15) | % | 11.14 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 11,614 | $ | 15,482 | $ | 23,957 | $ | 14,251 | $ | 35,883 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.80 | % | 1.69 | % | 1.73 | % | 1.53 | % | 1.41 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 1.50 | % | 1.51 | % | 1.50 | % | 1.50 | % | 1.41 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (0.29) | % | (0.50) | % | (0.37) | % | 0.07 | % | 0.07 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 0.01 | % | (0.32) | % | (0.14) | % | 0.10 | % | 0.07 | % | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 87 | % | 75 | % | 87 | % | 23 | % | 30 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | Amount less than $0.005. |
| (c) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
| 56 | www.iconfunds.com |
ICON Industrials Fund |
Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented |
| Class A(a) | Year
Ended September 30, 2018 | Year
Ended September 30, 2017 | Year
Ended September 30, 2016 | Year
Ended September 30, 2015 | Year
Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 14.79 | $ | 12.14 | $ | 10.86 | $ | 11.58 | $ | 10.45 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(b) | (0.04) | (0.07) | (0.04) | (0.02) | (0.03) | |||||||||||||||
| Net
realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.52 | 2.72 | 1.32 | (0.70) | 1.16 | |||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.48 | 2.65 | 1.28 | (0.72) | 1.13 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 15.27 | $ | 14.79 | $ | 12.14 | $ | 10.86 | $ | 11.58 | ||||||||||
| Total Return(c) | 3.25 | % | 21.83 | % | 11.79 | % | (6.22) | % | 10.81 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 1,156 | $ | 2,406 | $ | 998 | $ | 596 | $ | 298 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.32 | % | 2.05 | % | 2.96 | % | 2.67 | % | 2.02 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 1.75 | % | 1.76 | % | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (0.85) | % | (0.79) | % | (1.59) | % | (1.11) | % | (0.56) | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | (0.28) | % | (0.50) | % | (0.38) | % | (0.19) | % | (0.29) | % | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 87 | % | 75 | % | 87 | % | 23 | % | 30 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Class C shares were merged into Class A on September 25, 2015. The amounts presented represent the results of the Class A shares for the periods prior to the merger and the results of the combined share class for the period subsequent to the merger. |
| (b) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (c) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (d) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 57 |
ICON Information Technology Fund |
Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented |
| Class S | Year
Ended September 30, 2018 | Year
Ended September 30, 2017 | Year
Ended September 30, 2016 | Year
Ended September 30, 2015 | Year
Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 19.14 | $ | 17.96 | $ | 14.95 | $ | 13.55 | $ | 11.44 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | (0.10) | (0.10) | (0.07) | (0.09) | (0.07) | |||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 2.09 | 4.53 | 3.08 | 1.49 | 2.18 | |||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 1.99 | 4.43 | 3.01 | 1.40 | 2.11 | |||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.08) | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | (3.86) | (3.25) | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (3.94) | (3.25) | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 17.19 | $ | 19.14 | $ | 17.96 | $ | 14.95 | $ | 13.55 | ||||||||||
| Total Return | 11.82 | % | 29.46 | % | 20.13 | % | 10.33 | % | 18.44 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 61,474 | $ | 71,249 | $ | 48,953 | $ | 45,343 | $ | 50,363 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.41 | % | 1.42 | % | 1.49 | % | 1.44 | % | 1.40 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(b) | 1.41 | % | 1.42 | % | 1.49 | % | 1.44 | % | 1.40 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (0.60) | % | (0.58) | % | (0.46) | % | (0.62) | % | (0.56) | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(b) | (0.60) | % | (0.58) | % | (0.46) | % | (0.62) | % | (0.56) | % | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 98 | % | 116 | % | 94 | % | 43 | % | 48 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
| 58 | www.iconfunds.com |
ICON Information Technology Fund |
Financial Highlights |
For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented |
| Class A(a) | Year
Ended September 30, 2018 | Year
Ended September 30, 2017 | Year
Ended September 30, 2016 | Year
Ended September 30, 2015 | Year
Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 18.55 | $ | 17.55 | $ | 14.65 | $ | 13.32 | $ | 11.30 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(b) | (0.16 | ) | (0.15) | (0.11) | (0.14) | (0.11) | ||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 2.02 | 4.40 | 3.01 | 1.47 | 2.13 | |||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 1.86 | 4.25 | 2.90 | 1.33 | 2.02 | |||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.00) | (c) | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | (3.86) | (3.25) | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (3.86) | (3.25) | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 16.55 | $ | 18.55 | $ | 17.55 | $ | 14.65 | $ | 13.32 | ||||||||||
| Total Return(d) | 11.43 | % | 29.08 | % | 19.80 | % | 9.99 | % | 17.88 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 2,101 | $ | 2,836 | $ | 2,631 | $ | 3,170 | $ | 455 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.00 | % | 2.01 | % | 2.17 | % | 1.90 | % | 1.94 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(e) | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | (1.20) | % | (1.16) | % | (1.12) | % | (1.07) | % | (1.10) | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(e) | (0.95) | % | (0.90) | % | (0.70) | % | (0.92) | % | (0.91) | % | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 98 | % | 116 | % | 94 | % | 43 | % | 48 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Class C shares were merged into Class A on September 25, 2015. The amounts presented represent the results of the Class A shares for the periods prior to the merger and the results of the combined share class for the period subsequent to the merger. |
| (b) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (c) | Amount less than $(0.005). |
| (d) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (e) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 59 |
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented |
| Class S | Year
Ended September 30, 2018 | Year
Ended September 30, 2017 | Year
Ended September 30, 2016 (a) | Year
Ended September 30, 2015 | Year
Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 15.32 | $ | 12.82 | $ | 11.86 | $ | 15.09 | $ | 13.43 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(b) | 0.31 | 0.01 | 0.10 | 0.04 | 0.04 | |||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 1.01 | 2.56 | 1.80 | (3.23 | ) | 1.68 | ||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 1.32 | 2.57 | 1.90 | (3.19 | ) | 1.72 | ||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | — | (0.07 | ) | (0.06 | ) | (0.04 | ) | (0.06 | ) | |||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | (0.19 | ) | — | (0.88 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.19 | ) | (0.07 | ) | (0.94 | ) | (0.04 | ) | (0.06 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 16.45 | $ | 15.32 | $ | 12.82 | $ | 11.86 | $ | 15.09 | ||||||||||
| Total Return | 8.68 | % | 20.13 | % | 17.24 | % | (21.22 | )% | 12.85 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 76,916 | $ | 69,444 | $ | 65,787 | $ | 60,404 | $ | 93,610 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.58 | % | 1.52 | % | 1.59 | % | 1.42 | % | 1.36 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 1.50 | % | 1.50 | % | 1.50 | % | 1.42 | % | 1.36 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.86 | % | 0.06 | % | 0.70 | % | 0.27 | % | 0.26 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(c) | 1.94 | % | 0.08 | % | 0.79 | % | 0.27 | % | 0.26 | % | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 117 | % | 68 | % | 81 | % | 48 | % | 33 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Prior to January 22, 2016, the ICON Natural Resources Fund was known as the ICON Materials Fund. |
| (b) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (c) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
| 60 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented |
| Class C | Year
Ended September 30, 2018 | Year
Ended September 30, 2017 | Year
Ended September 30, 2016 (a) | Year
Ended September 30, 2015 | Year
Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 14.65 | $ | 12.36 | $ | 11.51 | $ | 14.77 | $ | 13.24 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(b) | 0.14 | (0.13 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (0.11 | ) | (0.12 | ) | |||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.97 | 2.47 | 1.76 | (3.15 | ) | 1.65 | ||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 1.11 | 2.34 | 1.73 | (3.26 | ) | 1.53 | ||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | — | (0.05 | ) | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | (0.19 | ) | — | (0.88 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.19 | ) | (0.05 | ) | (0.88 | ) | — | — | ||||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 15.57 | $ | 14.65 | $ | 12.36 | $ | 11.51 | $ | 14.77 | ||||||||||
| Total Return(c) | 7.63 | % | 18.97 | % | 16.11 | % | (22.07 | )% | 11.56 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 1,177 | $ | 1,756 | $ | 1,435 | $ | 834 | $ | 675 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.79 | % | 2.85 | % | 3.01 | % | 2.94 | % | 4.17 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 2.50 | % | 2.50 | % | 2.51 | % | 2.50 | % | 2.50 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 0.64 | % | (1.27 | )% | (0.73 | )% | (1.22 | )% | (2.51 | )% | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 0.93 | % | (0.92 | )% | (0.23 | )% | (0.78 | )% | (0.84 | )% | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 117 | % | 68 | % | 81 | % | 48 | % | 33 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Prior to January 22, 2016, the ICON Natural Resources Fund was known as the ICON Materials Fund. |
| (b) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (c) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (d) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 61 |
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented |
| Class A | Year
Ended September 30, 2018 | Year
Ended September 30, 2017 | Year
Ended September 30, 2016 (a) | Year
Ended September 30, 2015 | Year
Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 15.17 | $ | 12.73 | $ | 11.75 | $ | 14.96 | $ | 13.36 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(b) | 0.29 | (0.03 | ) | 0.06 | (0.01 | ) | (0.01 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.98 | 2.54 | 1.81 | (3.20 | ) | 1.67 | ||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 1.27 | 2.51 | 1.87 | (3.21 | ) | 1.66 | ||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | — | (0.07 | ) | (0.01 | ) | — | (0.06 | ) | ||||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | (0.19 | ) | — | (0.88 | ) | — | — | |||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.19 | ) | (0.07 | ) | (0.89 | ) | — | (0.06 | ) | |||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 16.25 | $ | 15.17 | $ | 12.73 | $ | 11.75 | $ | 14.96 | ||||||||||
| Total Return(c) | 8.43 | % | 19.81 | % | 17.05 | % | (21.46 | )% | 12.47 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 4,231 | $ | 5,629 | $ | 4,451 | $ | 3,078 | $ | 8,229 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.86 | % | 1.91 | % | 2.02 | % | 1.76 | % | 1.72 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | 1.72 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.71 | % | (0.35 | )% | 0.24 | % | (0.06 | )% | (0.07 | )% | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 1.82 | % | (0.19 | )% | 0.51 | % | (0.05 | )% | (0.07 | )% | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 117 | % | 68 | % | 81 | % | 48 | % | 33 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Prior to January 22, 2016, the ICON Natural Resources Fund was known as the ICON Materials Fund. |
| (b) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (c) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (d) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
| 62 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Utilities Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented |
| Class S | Year
Ended September 30, 2018 | Year
Ended September 30, 2017 | Year
Ended September 30, 2016 | Year
Ended September 30, 2015 | Year
Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 9.29 | $ | 9.49 | $ | 8.03 | $ | 7.90 | $ | 7.22 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(a) | 0.28 | 0.27 | 0.30 | 0.28 | 0.22 | |||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.07 | 0.59 | 1.43 | 0.11 | 0.69 | |||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.35 | 0.86 | 1.73 | 0.39 | 0.91 | |||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.31 | ) | (0.27 | ) | (0.27 | ) | (0.26 | ) | (0.23 | ) | ||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | (0.48 | ) | (0.79 | ) | — | — | — | |||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.79 | ) | (1.06 | ) | (0.27 | ) | (0.26 | ) | (0.23 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 8.85 | $ | 9.29 | $ | 9.49 | $ | 8.03 | $ | 7.90 | ||||||||||
| Total Return | 4.17 | % | 9.88 | % | 21.74 | % | 4.93 | % | 12.69 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 30,883 | $ | 35,816 | $ | 43,864 | $ | 19,107 | $ | 17,920 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.60 | % | 1.54 | % | 1.59 | % | 1.70 | % | 1.52 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(b) | 1.22 | % | 1.44 | %(c) | 1.50 | % | 1.50 | % | 1.50 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.82 | % | 2.83 | % | 3.15 | % | 3.12 | % | 2.84 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(b) | 3.20 | % | 2.93 | % | 3.24 | % | 3.32 | % | 2.86 | % | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 156 | % | 160 | % | 168 | % | 243 | % | 107 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (b) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| (c) | Effective July 1, 2017, the annual expense limitation rate changed from 1.50% to 1.22%. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 63 |
| ICON Utilities Fund | Financial Highlights |
| For a Share Outstanding Throughout the Periods Presented |
| Class A(a) | Year
Ended September 30, 2018 | Year
Ended September 30, 2017 | Year
Ended September 30, 2016 | Year
Ended September 30, 2015 | Year
Ended September 30, 2014 | |||||||||||||||
| Net asset value, beginning of period | $ | 9.14 | $ | 9.35 | $ | 7.92 | $ | 7.81 | $ | 7.14 | ||||||||||
| Income/(loss) from investment operations: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net investment income/(loss)(b) | 0.25 | 0.24 | 0.28 | 0.26 | 0.21 | |||||||||||||||
| Net realized and unrealized gains/(losses) on investments | 0.08 | 0.59 | 1.40 | 0.11 | 0.68 | |||||||||||||||
| Total from investment operations | 0.33 | 0.83 | 1.68 | 0.37 | 0.89 | |||||||||||||||
| Less dividends and distributions: | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Dividends from net investment income | (0.29 | ) | (0.25 | ) | (0.25 | ) | (0.26 | ) | (0.22 | ) | ||||||||||
| Distributions from net realized gains | (0.48 | ) | (0.79 | ) | — | — | — | |||||||||||||
| Total dividends and distributions | (0.77 | ) | (1.04 | ) | (0.25 | ) | (0.26 | ) | (0.22 | ) | ||||||||||
| Net asset value, end of period | $ | 8.70 | $ | 9.14 | $ | 9.35 | $ | 7.92 | $ | 7.81 | ||||||||||
| Total Return(c) | 3.97 | % | 9.63 | % | 21.29 | % | 4.63 | % | 12.44 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratios and Supplemental Data | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Net assets, end of period (in 000s) | $ | 5,540 | $ | 8,293 | $ | 15,868 | $ | 5,679 | $ | 2,517 | ||||||||||
| Ratio of expenses to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 1.73 | % | 1.84 | % | 1.79 | % | 1.89 | % | 1.81 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 1.47 | % | 1.69 | %(e) | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | 1.75 | % | ||||||||||
| Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets | ||||||||||||||||||||
| Before expense limitation | 2.62 | % | 2.48 | % | 3.10 | % | 3.04 | % | 2.69 | % | ||||||||||
| After expense limitation(d) | 2.88 | % | 2.63 | % | 3.14 | % | 3.18 | % | 2.75 | % | ||||||||||
| Portfolio turnover rate | 156 | % | 160 | % | 168 | % | 243 | % | 107 | % | ||||||||||
| (a) | Class C shares were merged into Class A on September 25, 2015. The amounts presented represent the results of the Class A shares for the periods prior to the merger and the results of the combined share class for the period subsequent to the merger. |
| (b) | Calculated using the average shares method. |
| (c) | The total return calculation excludes any sales charges. |
| (d) | The Fund’s operating expenses, not including interest expense, are contractually limited to the amounts discussed in Note 3. The ratios in these financial highlights reflect the limitation, including the interest expense, when applicable. |
| (e) | Effective July 1, 2017, the annual expense limitation rate changed from 1.75% to 1.47%. |
| The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements. | |
| 64 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Sector Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
September 30, 2018
| 1. | ORGANIZATION |
The ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund (“Consumer Discretionary Fund”), ICON Consumer Staples Fund (“Consumer Staples Fund”), ICON Energy Fund (“Energy Fund”), ICON Financial Fund (“Financial Fund”), ICON Healthcare Fund (“Healthcare Fund”), ICON Industrials Fund (“Industrials Fund”), ICON Information Technology Fund (“Information Technology Fund”), ICON Natural Resources Fund (“Natural Resources Fund”) and ICON Utilities Fund (“Utilities Fund”) are series funds (individually a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”). The Funds are part of the ICON Funds (the “Trust”), a Massachusetts business trust registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”) as an open-end non-diversified investment management company. Each Fund offers two classes of shares: Class S and Class A. The Energy Fund and the Natural Resources Fund also offer a Class C share. All classes have equal rights as to earnings, assets, and voting privileges except that each Class may bear different distribution fees, registration costs, legal costs, mailing and printing costs and shareholder servicing costs and each Class has exclusive voting rights with respect to its distribution plan. There are currently eight other active Funds within the Trust. Those Funds are covered by separate prospectuses and shareholder reports.
Each Fund is authorized to issue an unlimited number of no par shares. The Funds invest primarily in securities of companies whose principal business activities fall within specific sectors and industries. The investment objective of each Fund is to provide long-term capital appreciation.
The Funds, like all investments in securities, have elements of risk, including risk of loss of principal. There is no assurance that the Funds will achieve their investment objectives and may underperform funds with similar investment objectives. An investment concentrated in sectors and industries involves greater risk and volatility than a more diversified investment. Investments in foreign securities and currency transactions may involve certain considerations and risks not typically associated with those of U.S. dollar-denominated transactions as a result of, among other factors, the possibility of lower government supervision and regulation of foreign securities markets and the possibility of political or economic instability. Financial statements of foreign companies are governed by different accounting, auditing, and financial standards than U.S. companies and may be less transparent and uniform than in the United States. Many corporate governance standards, which help ensure the integrity of public information in the United States, may not exist in some foreign countries. In general, there may be less governmental supervision of foreign stock exchanges and securities brokers and issuers. There are also risks associated with small-and mid-cap investing, including limited product lines, less liquidity and small market share.
The Energy Fund has a significant weighting in the Oil & Gas Exploration & Production industry and the Integrated Oil & Gas Industry, the Financial Fund has a significant weighting in the Diversified Banks industry, the Healthcare Fund has a significant weighting in the Pharmaceuticals industry and the Managed Health Care industry, the Industrials Fund has a significant weighting in the Construction Machinery & Heavy Trucks industry and the Railroads industry, the Natural Resources Fund has a significant weighting in the Integrated Oil & Gas industry and the Oil & Gas Exploration & Production industry and the Utilities Fund has a significant weighting in the Electric Utilities industry and the Multi-Utilities industry which may cause the Funds’ performance to be susceptible to the economic, business and/or other developments that may affect those industries.
In the normal course of business, the Funds may enter into various agreements that provide for general indemnifications. Each Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as any potential exposure involving future claims that may be made against each Fund is unknown. However, based on experience, the Funds expect the risk of loss to be remote.
| 2. | SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES |
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Funds in the preparation of their financial statements. The financial statements are prepared in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“GAAP”), which requires management to make certain estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of income and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results may differ from these estimates. Each Fund is considered an investment company under GAAP and follows the accounting and reporting guidance applicable to investment companies in the Financial Accounting Standards Board Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946.
Investment Valuation
The Funds’ securities and other assets, excluding options on securities indexes, are valued at the closing price as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (the “NYSE”) (normally 4 p.m. Eastern Standard Time) each day the NYSE is open, except that securities traded primarily on the NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) are normally valued by the Funds at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price provided by NASDAQ each business day. If the NYSE closes unexpectedly and there is active trading on other exchanges, the securities will be valued at the Valuation Time based off of those exchanges. Options on securities indexes are valued at the close of the Chicago Board Options Exchange (normally 4:15 p.m. Eastern Standard Time) on each day the NYSE is open for trading.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 65 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
September 30, 2018
The Funds use pricing services to obtain the fair value of securities in their portfolios. If a pricing service is not able to provide a price, or the pricing service’s valuation is considered inaccurate or does not, in the Funds’ judgment, reflect the fair value of the security, prices may be obtained through market quotations from independent broker/dealers. If market quotations from these sources are not readily available, the Funds’ securities or other assets are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Funds’ Pricing Committee pursuant to procedures approved by the Funds’ Board of Trustees (the “Board”).
Lacking any sales that day, a security is valued at the current closing bid price (or yield equivalent thereof) or based on quotes obtained from dealers making a market for the security. Exchange traded options are valued at the composite price, using the National Best Bid and Offer quotes (“NBBO”). NBBO consists of the highest bid price and lowest ask price across any of the exchanges on which an option is quoted, thus providing a view across the entire U.S. options marketplace. Debt securities with a remaining maturity of greater than 60 days are valued using the evaluated bid price supplied by the pricing service. The evaluated bid price supplied by the pricing service is based upon a matrix valuation system which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings. Short-term debt securities with remaining maturities of 60 days or less are generally valued at amortized cost or original cost plus accrued interest, which approximates fair value. Currency rates as of the close of the NYSE are used to convert foreign security values into U.S. dollars.
Securities of investment companies that trade on an exchange are valued at the last sales price or official closing price as of the close of the customary trading session on the exchange where the security is principally traded. Investments in shares of funds, including money market funds, that are not traded on an exchange are valued at the end of day net asset value (“NAV”) per share of such fund. Securities in the underlying funds, including restricted securities, are valued in accordance with the valuation policy of such fund.
The Funds’ securities traded in countries outside of the Western Hemisphere are fair valued daily by utilizing the quotations of an independent pricing service, unless the Funds’ Pricing Committee determines that use of another valuation methodology is appropriate. The purposes of daily fair valuation is to avoid stale prices and to take into account, among other things, any significant events occurring after the close of foreign markets. The pricing service uses statistical analyses and quantitative models to adjust local market prices using factors such as subsequent movements and changes in the prices of indexes, securities and exchange rates in other markets to determine fair value as of the time a Fund calculates its NAV. The valuation assigned to fair-value securities for purposes of calculating a Fund’s NAV may differ from the security’s most recent closing market price and from the prices used by other mutual funds to calculate their NAVs.
Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Funds’ investments. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
| Level 1 — | quoted prices in active markets for identical securities. |
| Level 2 — | significant observable inputs other than Level 1 quoted prices (including, but not limited to, quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, and credit risk). |
| Level 3 — | significant unobservable inputs. |
Observable inputs are those based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Funds, and unobservable inputs reflect the Funds’ own assumptions based on the best information available. The input levels are not necessarily an indication of the risk or liquidity associated with investments at that level. For example, non-U.S. equity securities actively traded in foreign markets may be reflected in Level 2 despite the availability of closing prices, because the Funds evaluate and determine whether those closing prices reflect fair value at the close of the NYSE or require adjustment, as described above. The following table summarizes the Funds’ investments based on the inputs used to determine their values on September 30, 2018:
ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level 1 - Quoted and Unadjusted Prices | Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs | Level
3 - Significant Unobservable | Total | ||||||||||||
| Common Stocks | $ | 22,908,673 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 22,908,673 | ||||||||
| Collateral for Securities on Loan | — | 503,264 | — | 503,264 | ||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 22,908,673 | $ | 503,264 | $ | — | $ | 23,411,937 | ||||||||
ICON Consumer Staples Fund
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level 1 - Quoted and Unadjusted Prices | Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs | Level
3 - Significant Unobservable | Total | ||||||||||||
| Common Stocks | $ | 6,710,834 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 6,710,834 | ||||||||
| Collateral for Securities on Loan | — | 81,000 | — | 81,000 | ||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 6,710,834 | $ | 81,000 | $ | — | $ | 6,791,834 | ||||||||
| 66 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Sector Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
September 30, 2018
ICON Energy Fund
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level
1 - Quoted | Level
2 - Other Significant | Level
3 - Significant Unobservable | Total | ||||||||||||
| Common Stocks | $ | 175,985,628 | $ | — | $ | – | $ | 175,985,628 | ||||||||
| Purchased Call Options | $ | 100,000 | $ | — | $ | — | $ | 100,000 | ||||||||
| Total | $ | 176,085,628 | $ | — | $ | – | $ | 176,085,628 | ||||||||
ICON Financial Fund
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level
1 - Quoted | Level
2 - Other Significant | Level
3 - Significant Unobservable | Total | ||||||||||||
| Common Stocks | $ | 44,842,875 | $ | — | $ | – | $ | 44,842,875 | ||||||||
| Total | $ | 44,842,875 | $ | — | $ | – | $ | 44,842,875 | ||||||||
ICON Healthcare Fund
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level
1 - Quoted | Level
2 - Other Significant | Level
3 - Significant Unobservable | Total | ||||||||||||
| Common Stocks | $ | 81,623,141 | $ | — | $ | – | $ | 81,623,141 | ||||||||
| Total | $ | 81,623,141 | $ | — | $ | – | $ | 81,623,141 | ||||||||
ICON Industrials Fund
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level
1 - Quoted | Level
2 - Other Significant | Level
3 - Significant Unobservable | Total | ||||||||||||
| Common Stocks | $ | 12,646,786 | $ | — | $ | – | $ | 12,646,786 | ||||||||
| Total | $ | 12,646,786 | $ | — | $ | – | $ | 12,646,786 | ||||||||
ICON Information Technology Fund
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level
1 - Quoted | Level
2 - Other Significant | Level
3 - Significant Unobservable | Total | ||||||||||||
| Common Stocks | $ | 61,694,319 | $ | — | $ | – | $ | 61,694,319 | ||||||||
| Total | $ | 61,694,319 | $ | — | $ | – | $ | 61,694,319 | ||||||||
ICON Natural Resources Fund
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level 1 - Quoted and Unadjusted Prices | Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs | Level 3 - Significant Unobservable Inputs | Total | ||||||||||||
| Common Stocks | ||||||||||||||||
| Diversified Chemicals | $ | 2,178,400 | $ | 1,526,211 | $ | — | $ | 3,704,611 | ||||||||
| Integrated Oil & Gas | 11,697,380 | 12,062,113 | — | 23,759,493 | ||||||||||||
| Oil & Gas Exploration & Production | 19,440,118 | 3,912,731 | — | 23,352,849 | ||||||||||||
| Oil & Gas Refining & Marketing | 6,587,116 | 5,461,552 | — | 12,048,668 | ||||||||||||
| Paper Packaging | 2,457,500 | 1,631,970 | — | 4,089,470 | ||||||||||||
| Other | 4,628,230 | 9,515,121 | — | 14,143,351 | ||||||||||||
| Preferred Stocks | 1,306,162 | — | — | 1,306,162 | ||||||||||||
| Total | $ | 48,294,906 | $ | 34,109,698 | $ | — | $ | 82,404,604 | ||||||||
ICON Utilities Fund
| Investments in Securities at Value* | Level
1 - Quoted | Level 2 - Other Significant Observable Inputs | Level
3 - Significant Unobservable | Total | ||||||||||||
| Common Stocks | $ | 35,759,123 | $ | — | $ | – | $ | 35,759,123 | ||||||||
| Total | $ | 35,759,123 | $ | — | $ | – | $ | 35,759,123 | ||||||||
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 67 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
September 30, 2018
| * | Please refer to the Schedule of Investments and the Sector/Industry Classification tables for additional security details. |
There were no Level 3 securities held in any of the Funds at September 30, 2018.
Fund Share Valuation
Fund shares are sold and redeemed on a daily basis at NAV. NAV per share is determined daily as of the close of trading on the NYSE on each day the NYSE is open for trading. The NAV is computed by dividing the total value of the Fund’s investments and other assets, less liabilities, by the number of Fund shares outstanding.
Cash and Cash Equivalents
Idle cash may be swept into an overnight demand deposit account and is classified as cash and cash equivalents on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. The Funds maintain cash in bank deposit accounts which, at times, may exceed United States federally insured limits. Amounts swept overnight are available on the next business day.
Foreign Currency Translation
The accounting records of the Funds are maintained in U.S. dollars. Investment securities and other assets and liabilities denominated in a foreign currency are translated daily into U.S. dollars at the prevailing rates of exchange. Income and expenses are translated into U.S. dollars at the prevailing exchange rate on the respective dates of the transactions. Purchases and sales of securities are translated into U.S. dollars at the contractual currency exchange rates established at the time of each trade.
The Funds do not isolate that portion of the results of operations resulting from changes in foreign exchange rates on investments from the fluctuations arising from changes in market prices of securities held. Net unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments and foreign currency translations arise from changes in the value of assets and liabilities resulting from changes in the exchange rates and changes in market prices of securities held.
Options Transactions
The Funds’ use of derivatives for the year ended September 30, 2018 was limited to purchased options.
The Funds may purchase and/or write (sell) call and put options on any security in which it may invest. The Funds utilize options to hedge against changes in market conditions or to provide market exposure while trying to reduce transaction costs.
Option contracts involve market risk and liquidity risk and can be highly volatile. Should prices of securities or securities indexes move in an unexpected manner, the Funds may not achieve the desired benefits and may realize losses and thus be in a worse position than if such strategies had not been utilized.
When a Fund writes a put or call option, an amount equal to the premium received is included on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities as a liability. The amount of the liability is subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current fair value of the option. If an option expires on its stipulated expiration date or if the Fund enters into a closing purchase transaction, a gain or loss is realized. If a written call option on an individual security is exercised, a gain or loss is realized for the sale of the underlying security, and the proceeds from the sale are increased by the premium originally received. If a written call option on a securities index is exercised, a gain or loss is realized as determined by the premium originally received, the exercise price and the fair value of the index. If a written put option on an individual security is exercised, the cost of the security acquired is decreased by the premium originally received. As a writer of an option, a Fund bears the market risk of an unfavorable change in the price of the individual security or securities index underlying the written option. Additionally, written call options may involve the risk of limiting gains.
Each Fund may also purchase put and call options. When a Fund purchases a put or call option, an amount equal to the premium paid is included on the Fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an investment, and is subsequently marked-to-market to reflect the current fair value of the option. If an option expires on the stipulated expiration date or if the Fund enters into a closing purchase or sale transaction, a gain or loss is realized. If the Fund exercises a call option on an individual security, the cost of the security acquired is increased by the premium paid for the call. If the Fund exercises a put option on an individual security, a gain or loss is realized from the sale of the underlying security, and the proceeds from such a sale are decreased by the premium originally paid. If the Fund exercises a put or a call option on a security index, a gain or loss is realized as determined by the premium originally paid, the exercise price and the fair value of the index. Written and purchased options are non-income producing securities.
| 68 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Sector Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
September 30, 2018
As of September 30, 2018, the Energy Fund engaged in purchased option transactions. All open option contracts are included on each Fund’s Schedule of Investments.
| ICON Energy Fund | Asset Derivatives | Liability Derivatives | ||||||||||
| Risk Exposure | Statements of Assets and Liabilities Location | Fair Value | Statements of Assets and Liabilities Location | Fair Value | ||||||||
| Equity Contracts (Purchased Options) | Investments, at value | $ | 100,000 | N/A | N/A | |||||||
| Total | $ | 100,000 | $ | — | ||||||||
The following is a summary of how these derivatives are treated in the financial statements and their impact on the Funds:
| ICON Energy Fund Risk Exposure | Statements of Operations Location | Realized Gain/(Loss) on Derivatives Recognized in Income | Change in Unrealized Appreciation/ (Depreciation) on Derivatives Recognized in Income | |||||||
| Equity Contracts (Purchased Options) | Net realized gain/(loss) on Investments, options, and foreign currency translations/ Change in unrealized net appreciation/(depreciation) on Investments, options, and foreign currency | $ | 568,338 | $ | 8,967 | |||||
| Total | $ | 568,338 | $ | 8,967 |
The average purchased option contracts during the year ended September 30, 2018, was as follows:
| ICON Energy Fund Derivative Type |
Unit of Measurement |
Average Contracts+ |
Days Held |
| Purchased Options | Contracts | 700 | 138 |
| + | The average is calculated based on the actual number of days with outstanding derivatives. |
The Funds value derivatives at fair value, as described above, and recognize changes in fair value currently in the results of operations. Accordingly the Funds do not follow hedge accounting, even for derivatives employed as economic hedges.
Securities Lending
Under procedures adopted by the Board, the Funds may lend securities to certain approved brokers, dealers and other financial institutions to earn additional income. Collateral is received in exchange for securities on loan in the amount of at least 102% of the value of U.S. securities loaned or at least 105% of the value of non-U.S. securities loaned, marked to market daily. The Funds retain certain benefits of owning the securities, including receipt of dividends or interest generated by the security, but give up other rights including the right to vote proxies. The Funds retain the ability to recall the loans at any time and could do so in order to vote proxies or to sell the loaned securities. Each loan is collateralized by assets that generally exceed the value of the securities on loan. Collateral may consist of cash or securities issued or guaranteed by the United States government or its agencies or instrumentalities. The fair value of the loaned securities is determined daily at the close of business of the Funds and any additional required collateral is delivered to each Fund on the next business day.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 69 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
September 30, 2018
The following is a summary of the Funds’ securities lending positions and related cash and non-cash collateral received as of September 30, 2018:
Market Value of Securities on Loan | Market Value of Cash Collateral Received | Market Value of Non-Cash Collateral Received | Total Collateral Received | Excess Collateral | ||||||||||||||||
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | $ | 1,322,035 | $ | 503,264 | $ | 834,017 | $ | 1,337,281 | $ | 15,246 | ||||||||||
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | 210,168 | 81,000 | 135,000 | 216,000 | 5,832 | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Energy Fund | 20,794,188 | — | 21,128,331 | 21,128,331 | 334,143 | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Financial Fund | 469,635 | — | 494,525 | 494,525 | 24,890 | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Healthcare Fund | 1,129,160 | — | 1,162,239 | 1,162,239 | 33,079 | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Industrials Fund | 517,200 | — | 536,250 | 536,250 | 19,050 | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | 2,528,053 | — | 2,557,225 | 2,557,225 | 29,172 | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Utilities Fund | 1,234,266 | — | 1,249,125 | 1,249,125 | 14,859 | |||||||||||||||
Generally, in the event of borrower default, the Funds have the right to use the collateral to offset any losses incurred. In the event the Funds are delayed or prevented from exercising their rights to dispose of the collateral, there may be a potential loss to the Funds. Some of these losses may be indemnified by the lending agent.
The Funds have elected to invest cash collateral received from lending in the State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio which is disclosed on the Schedules of Investments. The Funds bear the risk of loss with respect to the investment of cash collateral. The State Street Navigator Securities Lending Government Money Market Portfolio is a Government Money Market Portfolio designed to provide continuous daily liquidity. Non-Cash collateral received consists of securities issued or guaranteed by the United States government or its agencies or instrumentalities with remaining maturities ranging from overnight to 30 years. Non-cash collateral is not disclosed on the Funds’ Schedules of Investments or their Statements of Assets and Liabilities as the Funds do not have the ability to re-hypothecate these securities. The net securities lending income earned by the Funds for the year ended September 30, 2018, is included in the Statements of Operations.
Security loans consist of equity securities and generally do not have a stated maturity date. The Funds may recall a loaned security at any time.
Income Taxes, Dividends, and Distributions
The Funds intend to continue to qualify as regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code and, accordingly, the Funds will generally not be subject to federal and state income taxes or federal excise taxes to the extent that they intend to make sufficient distributions of net investment income and net realized capital gains. As of and during the year ended September 30, 2018, the Funds did not have a liability for any unrecognized tax benefits in the accompanying financial statements. The Funds recognize the interest and penalties, if any, related to the unrecognized tax benefits as income tax expense in the Statements of Operations. During the period, the Funds did not incur any interest or penalties.
Dividends paid by the Funds from net investment income and distributions of net realized short-term gains are, for federal income tax purposes, taxable as ordinary income to shareholders.
Dividends and distributions to shareholders are recorded by the Funds on the ex-dividend/distribution date. The Funds distribute income and net realized capital gains, if any, to shareholders at least annually, if not offset by capital loss carryforward. The Funds may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes. Income distributions and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.
Management has analyzed the Funds’ tax positions taken on federal income tax returns for all open tax periods and has concluded that no provision for federal income tax is required in the Funds’ financial statements.
The Funds file U.S. tax returns. While the statute of limitations remains open to examine the Funds’ U.S. tax returns filed for the past three years, no examinations are in progress or anticipated at this time. The Funds are not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.
Certain foreign countries impose a capital gains tax which is accrued by the Funds based on the unrealized appreciation, if any, on affected securities. Any accrual would reduce a Fund’s NAV. The tax is paid when the gain is realized and is included in capital gains tax in the Statements of Operations.
| 70 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Sector Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
September 30, 2018
Investment Income
Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Non-cash dividends included in dividend income, if any, are recorded at the fair value of the securities received. Interest income is accrued as earned. Certain dividends from foreign securities are recorded as soon as the Funds are informed of the dividend if such information is obtained subsequent to the ex-dividend date. Discounts and premiums on fixed income securities purchased are accreted or amortized to income over the life of the respective securities based on the effective yield.
Investment Transactions
Security transactions are accounted for no later than one business day after the trade date. However, for financial reporting purposes, security transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Gains and losses on securities sold are determined on the basis of identified cost.
Withholding Tax
Withholding taxes on foreign dividends have been provided for in accordance with the Funds’ understanding of the applicable country’s tax rules and rates.
Other
The Funds hold certain investments which pay dividends to their shareholders based upon available funds from operations. It is possible for these dividends to exceed the underlying investments’ taxable earnings and profits resulting in the excess portion of such dividends being designated as a return of capital. Distributions received from investments in securities that represent a return of capital or capital gains are recorded as a reduction of the cost of investments or as a realized gain, respectively.
The ability of issuers of debt securities held by the Funds to meet their obligations may be affected by economic and political developments in specific country or region.
Allocation of Expenses
Each class of a Fund’s shares bears expenses incurred specifically on its behalf and, in addition, each class bears a portion of general expenses, based upon relative net assets of each class or number of shareholder accounts. Expenses which cannot be directly attributed to a specific Fund in the Trust are apportioned between all Funds in the Trust based upon relative net assets or number of shareholder accounts. In calculating the net asset value per share of each class, investment income, realized and unrealized gains and losses and expenses other than class-specific expenses are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the proportion of net assets.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 71 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
September 30, 2018
Below are additional class level expenses for the year ended September 30, 2018 that are included on the Statements of Operations:
| Fund | Printing Fees* | Transfer Agent Fees* | Registration Fees | |||||||||
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | ||||||||||||
| Class S | $ | 4,396 | $ | 46,849 | $ | 19,052 | ||||||
| Class A | 104 | 3,285 | 5,627 | |||||||||
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 1,529 | 33,597 | 18,445 | |||||||||
Class A | 307 | 7,692 | 7,290 | |||||||||
| ICON Energy Fund | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 25,168 | 437,940 | 26,558 | |||||||||
| Class C | 620 | 8,976 | 8,549 | |||||||||
Class A | 607 | 11,016 | 7,642 | |||||||||
| ICON Financial Fund | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 4,935 | 66,609 | 18,462 | |||||||||
| Class A | 471 | 4,697 | 6,129 | |||||||||
| ICON Healthcare Fund | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 8,483 | 126,940 | 21,919 | |||||||||
| Class A | 345 | 5,455 | 6,400 | |||||||||
| ICON Industrials Fund | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 4,024 | 39,359 | 16,876 | |||||||||
| Class A | 89 | 2,375 | 7,911 | |||||||||
| ICON Information Technology Fund | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 6,301 | 90,384 | 21,240 | |||||||||
| Class A | 265 | 4,016 | 8,054 | |||||||||
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 12,974 | 179,572 | 22,354 | |||||||||
| Class C | 149 | 2,285 | 6,322 | |||||||||
Class A | 582 | 10,872 | 8,139 | |||||||||
| ICON Utilities Fund | ||||||||||||
| Class S | 4,130 | 72,946 | 18,408 | |||||||||
| Class A | — | 4,794 | 8,681 | |||||||||
| * | Printing and Transfer agent out of pocket fees are a Fund level expense. |
3. FEES AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
Investment Advisory Fees
ICON Advisers, Inc. (“ICON Advisers”) serves as investment adviser to the Funds and is responsible for managing the Funds’ portfolios of investments. ICON Advisers receives a monthly management fee that is computed daily at an annual rate of 1.00% on the first $500 million of average daily net assets, 0.95% on the next $250 million, 0.925% on the next $750 million, 0.90% on the next $3.5 billion, and 0.875% on average daily net assets over $5 billion.
ICON Advisers has contractually agreed to limit its Funds’ expenses (exclusive of brokerage, interest, taxes, dividends on short sales, acquired fund fees and expenses and extraordinary expenses) to the extent necessary to ensure that the Funds’ operating expenses do not exceed the following amounts:
| Fund | Class S | Class C | Class A |
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | 1.74% | — | 1.99% |
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | 1.50% | — | 1.75% |
| ICON Energy Fund | 1.50% | 2.50% | 1.75% |
| ICON Financial Fund | 1.50% | — | 1.75% |
| ICON Healthcare Fund | 1.50% | — | 1.75% |
| ICON Industrials Fund | 1.50% | — | 1.75% |
| ICON Information Technology Fund | 1.50% | — | 1.75% |
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | 1.50% | 2.50% | 1.75% |
| ICON Utilities Fund | 1.22% | — | 1.47% |
| 72 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Sector Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
September 30, 2018
The Funds’ expense limitations will continue in effect until at least January 31, 2019. To the extent ICON Advisers reimburses or absorbs fees and expenses, it may seek payment of such amounts for up to three years after the expenses were reimbursed or absorbed. A Fund will make no such payment, however, if the total Fund operating expenses exceed the expense limits in effect at the time these payments are proposed.
As of September 30, 2018, the following amounts were available for recoupment by ICON Advisers based upon their potential expiration dates:
| Expires | Expires | Expires | ||||||||||
| Fund | 2019 | 2020 | 2021 | |||||||||
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | $ | 3,370 | $ | 4,198 | $ | 3,577 | ||||||
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | 51,650 | 63,487 | 69,700 | |||||||||
| ICON Energy Fund | — | — | 3,104 | |||||||||
| ICON Financial Fund | 8,903 | 6,790 | 5,239 | |||||||||
| ICON Healthcare Fund | 1,898 | 4,986 | 3,569 | |||||||||
| ICON Industrials Fund | 44,625 | 44,703 | 50,110 | |||||||||
| ICON Information Technology Fund | 8,637 | 6,814 | 5,978 | |||||||||
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | 32,171 | 26,508 | 69,036 | |||||||||
| ICON Utilities Fund | 31,946 | 57,017 | 130,032 | |||||||||
| Accounting, Custody and Transfer Agent Fees | ||||||||||||
ALPS Fund Services (“ALPS”) serves as the fund accounting agent for the Trust. For its services, the Trust pays ALPS a fee that is calculated daily and paid monthly, which is the greater of an annual rate based on the aggregate average daily net assets of the Trust or a contractual minimum annual fee.
State Street is the custodian of the Trust’s investments. For its services, the Trust pays State Street asset-based fees that vary according to the number of positions and transactions, plus out-of-pocket expenses.
ALPS is the Trust’s transfer agent. For these services, the Trust pays an annual fee plus annual base fee per Fund, per account fees and out-of-pocket expenses.
Administrative Services
The Trust has entered into an administrative services agreement with ICON Advisers pursuant to which ICON Advisers oversees the administration of the Trust’s business and affairs. This agreement provides for an annual fee of 0.05% on the Trust’s first $1.5 billion of average daily net assets, 0.045% on the next $1.5 billion of average daily net assets, 0.040% on the next $2 billion of average daily net assets and 0.030% on average daily net assets over $5 billion. For the year ended September 30, 2018, each Fund’s payment for administrative services to ICON Advisers is included on the Statements of Operations. The administrative services agreement provides that ICON Advisers will not be liable for any error of judgment, mistake of law, or any loss suffered by the Trust in connection with matters to which the administrative services agreement relates, except for a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or negligence by ICON Advisers in the performance of its duties.
ICON Advisers has a sub-administration agreement, with ALPS, under which ALPS assists ICON Advisers with the administration and business affairs of the Trust. For its services, ICON Advisers pays ALPS a fee, that is calculated daily and paid monthly, which is the greater of an annual rate based on the aggregate average daily net assets of the Trust or a contractual minimum annual fee.
Distribution Fees
ICON Distributors, Inc. (“IDI” or “Distributor”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of ICON Management and Research and affiliate of ICON Advisers, Inc., serves the Trust as Distributor. The Trust has adopted a Distribution Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (“12b-1 Plan”) under which the Funds are authorized to compensate or reimburse the Distributor for the sale and distribution of shares and for other shareholder services. The shareholders of the Funds pay an annual distribution fee of 1.00% of average daily net assets for Class C shares and an annual distribution fee of 0.25% of average daily net assets for Class A shares. There is no annual distribution fee for Class S shares. The total amount paid by each Fund under the 12b-1 Plan is shown on the Statements of Operations.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 73 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
September 30, 2018
Class A Shares are subject to an initial sales charge and the public offering price of Class A shares equals net asset value plus the applicable sales charge, which is a maximum of 5.75%. For the year ended September 30, 2018, IDI collected sales charges on purchases of Class A Shares, the majority of which were paid out as concessions to financial intermediaries, as follows:
| Fund | Sales Charges Collected | ||||
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund Class A | $ | 571 | |||
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund Class A | 1,751 | ||||
| ICON Energy Fund Class A | 2,187 | ||||
| ICON Financial Fund Class A | 4,038 | ||||
| ICON Healthcare Fund Class A | 1,283 | ||||
| ICON Industrials Fund Class A | 192 | ||||
| ICON Information Technology Fund Class A | 2,295 | ||||
| ICON Natural Resources Fund Class A | 3,682 | ||||
| ICON Utilities Fund Class A | 1,590 | ||||
In addition, IDI receives a contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00% of the purchase price on redemptions of Class C shares made within one year following the date of purchase. A 1.00% contingent deferred sales charge may also apply to certain redemptions of Class A shares made within one year following the purchase of $1 million or more without an initial sales charge. For the year ended September 30, 2018, IDI collected the following contingent deferred sales charges:
| Fund | Contingent Deferred Sales Charges Collected | ||||
| ICON Energy Fund Class C | $ | 361 | |||
| ICON Natural Resources Fund Class C | 240 | ||||
Other Related Parties
Certain Officers and Directors of ICON Advisers are also Officers and Trustees of the Funds; however, such Officers and Trustees (with the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer, “CCO”) receive no compensation from the Funds. The Trust pays a portion of the CCO’s salary and the remaining portion, along with other employee related expenses, is paid by ICON Advisers. For the year ended September 30, 2018, the total related amounts paid by the Funds under this arrangement are included in Other Expenses on the Statements of Operations.
The Funds may reimburse ICON Advisers for legal work performed for the Funds by its attorneys outside of the advisory and administration contracts. The Board reviews and approves such reimbursements. For the year ended September 30, 2018, the total related amounts accrued by the Funds under this arrangement was $1,404 and is included in Other Expenses on the Statements of Operations.
The Funds did not engage in cross trades with each other, during the year ended September 30, 2018, pursuant to Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act. Generally, cross trading is the buying or selling of portfolio securities between funds to which the Adviser serves as the investment adviser. The Board previously adopted procedures that apply to transactions between the Funds and its affiliates pursuant to Rule 17a-7. At its regularly scheduled meetings, the Board reviews such transactions as of the most current calendar quarter for compliance with the requirements set forth by Rule 17a-7 and the Funds’ procedures. The procedures require that the transactions be a purchase or sale for no consideration other than cash payment against prompt delivery of a security for which market quotations are readily available, and be consistent with the investment policies of each Fund.
| 4. | BORROWINGS |
The Trust has entered into an uncommitted, unsecured, revolving Line of Credit agreement/arrangement with State Street to provide temporary funding for redemption requests. The maximum borrowing limit is $50 million. Interest on domestic borrowings is charged at a rate quoted and determined by State Street. The interest rate as of September 30, 2018 was 3.51%. The Line of Credit agreement/arrangement expires on March 18, 2019.
| 74 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Sector Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
For the year ended September 30, 2018, the average outstanding loan by Fund was as follows:
| Fund | Maximum
Borrowing (10/01/17 - 09/30/18) | Average
Borrowing (10/01/17 - 09/30/18)^ | Average
Interest Rates (10/01/17 - 09/30/18)^ | |||||||||
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund* | $ | 1,150,488 | $ | 217,738 | 3.29 | % | ||||||
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund* | 3,387,748 | 468,251 | 2.82 | % | ||||||||
| ICON Energy Fund* | 2,652,175 | 385,180 | 2.99 | % | ||||||||
| ICON Financial Fund* | 311,326 | 72,588 | 2.90 | % | ||||||||
| ICON Healthcare Fund* | 1,984,721 | 471,334 | 2.89 | % | ||||||||
| ICON Industrials Fund* | 1,502,820 | 309,322 | 3.06 | % | ||||||||
| ICON Information Technology Fund* | 937,636 | 482,240 | 2.77 | % | ||||||||
| ICON Natural Resources Fund* | 6,192,627 | 1,329,623 | 3.28 | % | ||||||||
| ICON Utilities Fund* | 764,525 | 191,665 | 2.78 | % | ||||||||
| * | There were no outstanding borrowings under this agreement/arrangement as of September 30, 2018. |
| ^ | The average is calculated based on the actual number of days with outstanding borrowings. |
| 5. PURCHASES AND SALES OF INVESTMENT SECURITIES |
For the year ended September 30, 2018, the aggregate cost of purchases and proceeds from sales of investment securities (excluding short-term securities) was as follows:
| Fund | Purchases
of Securities | Proceeds from Sales of Securities | ||||||
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | $ | 31,917,496 | $ | 33,306,390 | ||||
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | 6,775,306 | 27,008,181 | ||||||
| ICON Energy Fund | 138,094,039 | 204,069,187 | ||||||
| ICON Financial Fund | 19,728,703 | 19,745,068 | ||||||
| ICON Healthcare Fund | 47,679,300 | 64,140,609 | ||||||
| ICON Industrials Fund | 13,259,915 | 18,141,736 | ||||||
| ICON Information Technology Fund | 64,082,563 | 83,223,515 | ||||||
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | 101,641,101 | 96,050,588 | ||||||
| ICON Utilities Fund | 56,908,121 | 64,898,081 | ||||||
| 6. FEDERAL INCOME TAX |
The following information is presented on an income tax basis. Differences between GAAP and federal income tax purposes that are permanent in nature are reclassified within the capital accounts. Temporary differences do not require reclassification. Temporary and permanent differences do not impact the NAVs of the Funds. These differences are due to differing treatments for items such as deferrals of wash sale losses, foreign currency transactions, expiring capital losses, partnership adjustments, and net investment losses.
Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010 (the “Act”) capital losses generated by a Fund may be carried over indefinitely.
During the year ended September 30, 2018, the utilized/expired capital loss carryforwards were as follows:
| Fund | Expired Amount | Utilized Amount | ||||||
| ICON Financial Fund | $ | 40,830,438 | $ | 3,388,209 | ||||
| ICON Industrials Fund | 13,718,613 | 787,072 | ||||||
For Energy Fund, the short-term and long-term capital losses deferred were $78,442,382 and $87,999,358, respectively.
The Consumer Discretionary Fund elects to defer to the period ending September 30, 2019, capital losses recognized during the period November 1, 2017 to September 30, 2018 in the amount of $372,949.
The Consumer Staples Fund elects to defer to the period ending September 30, 2019, capital losses recognized during the period November 1, 2017 to September 30, 2018 in the amount of $579,354.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 75 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
The Energy Fund elects to defer to the period ending September 30, 2019, capital losses recognized during the period November 1, 2017 to September 30, 2018 in the amount of $8,056,667.
For the year ended September 30, 2018, the following reclassifications were made, which had no impact on results of operations or net assets.
| Fund | Paid-in Capital | Total
Distributable Earnings | ||||||
| ICON Energy Fund | $ | (892 | ) | $ | 892 | |||
| ICON Financial Fund | (40,830,438 | ) | 40,830,438 | |||||
| ICON Industrials Fund | (13,758,464 | ) | 13,758,464 | |||||
| ICON Utilities Fund | (13 | ) | 13 | |||||
For Industrials Fund, included in the amounts reclassified was a net operating loss offset to paid in capital of $39,851.
The tax characteristics of distributions paid to shareholders during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, were as follows:
| Fund | Ordinary Income | Long-Term Capital Gains | ||||||
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | $ | 946,956 | $ | — | ||||
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | 697,696 | 457,925 | ||||||
| ICON Energy Fund | 3,446,209 | — | ||||||
| ICON Financial Fund | 94,842 | — | ||||||
| ICON Healthcare Fund | 833,129 | 1,243,391 | ||||||
| ICON Information Technology Fund | 3,421,861 | 10,355,627 | ||||||
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | 1,011,303 | — | ||||||
| ICON Utilities Fund | 2,149,591 | 1,205,125 | ||||||
The tax characteristics of distributions paid to shareholders during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2017, were as followed:
| Fund | Ordinary Income | Long-Term Capital Gains | ||||||
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | $ | 585,099 | $ | 1,670,363 | ||||
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | 2,065,125 | 1,778,292 | ||||||
| ICON Energy Fund | 1,977,974 | — | ||||||
| ICON Financial Fund | 530,652 | — | ||||||
| ICON Healthcare Fund | — | 1,215,871 | ||||||
| ICON Information Technology Fund | 629,475 | 8,725,258 | ||||||
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | 416,879 | — | ||||||
| ICON Utilities Fund | 4,557,628 | 1,120,416 | ||||||
As of September 30, 2018, the components of accumulated earnings/(deficit) on a tax basis were as follows:
| Fund | Undistributed
Ordinary Income | Accumulated
Capital Gains/(Losses) | Other
Cumulative Effect of Timing Differences | Unrealized
Appreciation/(Depreciation)* | Total Accumulated Earnings/(Deficit) | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | $ | — | $ | (372,949 | ) | $ | — | $ | 351,221 | $ | (21,728 | ) | ||||||||
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | 102,336 | (579,354 | ) | — | (27,447 | ) | (504,465 | ) | ||||||||||||
| ICON Energy Fund | 356,208 | (174,498,407 | ) | — | 15,583,408 | (158,558,791 | ) | |||||||||||||
| ICON Financial Fund | 163,308 | — | — | 7,827,981 | 7,991,289 | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Healthcare Fund | 1,645,449 | 3,152,083 | — | 14,549,612 | 19,347,144 | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Industrials Fund | — | — | — | 1,142,183 | 1,142,183 | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Information Technology Fund | 5,119,639 | 2,164,116 | — | 11,593,365 | 18,877,120 | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | 5,186,341 | 5,752,876 | — | 3,135,094 | 14,074,311 | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Utilities Fund | 85,632 | 112,409 | — | 1,584,244 | 1,782,285 | |||||||||||||||
| * | Differences between the book-basis and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) are attributable primarily to tax treatment of tax deferral of losses on wash sales. |
| 76 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Sector Funds | Notes to Financial Statements |
| September 30, 2018 |
As of September 30, 2018, cost on investments for federal income tax purposes and the amount of net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) were as follows:
| Fund | Gross
Appreciation (excess of value over tax cost) | Gross
Depreciation (excess of tax cost over value) | Net
Appreciation/ (Depreciation) of Foreign Currency | Net
Unrealized Appreciation/ (Depreciation)* | Cost
of Investments for Income Tax Purposes | |||||||||||||||
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | $ | 1,558,274 | $ | (1,207,053 | ) | $ | — | $ | 351,221 | $ | 23,060,716 | |||||||||
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | 277,167 | (304,614 | ) | — | (27,447 | ) | 6,819,281 | |||||||||||||
| ICON Energy Fund | 21,049,216 | (5,465,808 | ) | — | 15,583,408 | 160,502,220 | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Financial Fund | 8,682,627 | (854,646 | ) | — | 7,827,981 | 37,014,894 | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Healthcare Fund | 16,047,900 | (1,498,288 | ) | — | 14,549,612 | 67,073,529 | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Industrials Fund | 1,518,850 | (376,681 | ) | 14 | 1,142,183 | 11,504,617 | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Information Technology Fund | 13,547,730 | (1,954,365 | ) | — | 11,593,365 | 50,100,954 | ||||||||||||||
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | 8,531,366 | (5,396,222 | ) | (50 | ) | 3,135,094 | 79,269,460 | |||||||||||||
| ICON Utilities Fund | 2,043,790 | (459,679 | ) | 133 | 1,584,244 | 34,175,012 | ||||||||||||||
| * | This balance includes appreciation/(depreciation) of foreign currency. |
| 7. RECENT ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENT |
In August 2018, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2018-13, which changes the fair value measurement disclosure requirements of FASB Accounting Standards Codification Topic 820, Fair Value Measurement. The update to Topic 820 includes new, eliminated, and modified disclosure requirements. ASU 2018-13 is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, including interim periods. Early adoption is permitted for any eliminated or modified disclosures. Management has eliminated and modified disclosures and is currently evaluating the impact of the remaining ASU.
| 8. SUBSEQUENT EVENT |
Management has evaluated whether any events or transactions occurred subsequent to September 30, 2018 and through the date of issuance of the Funds’ financial statements and determined that there were no material events or transactions that would require recognition or disclosure in the Funds’ financial statements.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 77 |
| Report of Independent Registered | |
| ICON Sector Funds | Public Accounting Firm |
To the Shareholders and Board of Trustees of ICON Funds
Opinion on the Financial Statements
We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities, including the schedules of investments, of ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund, ICON Consumer Staples Fund, ICON Energy Fund, ICON Financial Fund, ICON Healthcare Fund, ICON Industrials Fund, ICON Information Technology Fund, ICON Natural Resources Fund, and ICON Utilities Fund (the “Funds”), each a series of ICON Funds, as of September 30, 2018, and the related statements of operations for the year then ended, and the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, and the financial highlights for each of the three years in the period then ended (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds as of September 30, 2018, the results of their operations for the year then ended, the changes in their net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, and the financial highlights for each of the three years in the period then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.
The Funds’ financial highlights for the year ended September 30, 2015 and prior, were audited by other auditors whose report dated November 18, 2015, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial highlights.
Basis for Opinion
These financial statements are the responsibility of the Funds’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Funds’ 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 Funds 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 the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud.
Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures include examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of September 30, 2018, by correspondence with the custodian and brokers. 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 Funds’ auditor since 2016.
COHEN & COMPANY, LTD.
Cleveland, Ohio
November 21, 2018
| 78 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Sector Funds | Disclosure of Fund Expenses |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Example
As a shareholder of a Fund you may pay two types of fees: transaction fees and fund-related fees. Certain funds charge transaction fees, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments, reinvested dividends, or other distributions; redemption fees; and exchange fees. Funds also incur various ongoing expenses, including management fees, distribution and/or service fees, and other fund expenses, which are indirectly paid by shareholders.
This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the various ICON Funds and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. This Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period and held for the six-month period (04/01/18 – 09/30/18).
Actual Expenses
The first line in the table for each Fund provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. The Example includes, but is not limited to, management fees, 12b-1 fees, fund accounting, custody and transfer agent fees. However, the Example does not include client specific fees, such as the $15 fee charged to IRA accounts, or the $15 fee charged for wire redemptions. You may use this information, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line for each Fund under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line in the table for each Fund 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. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and 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. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads), redemption fees, or exchange fees that may be charged by other funds. Therefore, this information is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
| Beginning Account Value April 1, 2018 | Ending Account Value September 30, 2018 | Expense Ratio(a) | Expenses Paid During period April 1, 2018 - September 30, 2018(b) | |||||||||||||
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,077.40 | 1.70 | % | $ | 8.85 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,016.55 | 1.70 | % | $ | 8.59 | ||||||||
| Class A | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,076.20 | 1.99 | % | $ | 10.36 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,015.09 | 1.99 | % | $ | 10.05 | ||||||||
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,015.20 | 1.51 | % | $ | 7.63 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,017.50 | 1.51 | % | $ | 7.64 | ||||||||
| Class A | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,013.80 | 1.76 | % | $ | 8.88 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,016.24 | 1.76 | % | $ | 8.90 | ||||||||
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 79 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Disclosure of Fund Expenses |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| Beginning Account Value April 1, 2018 | Ending Account Value September 30, 2018 | Expense Ratio(a) | Expenses Paid During period April 1, 2018 - September 30, 2018(b) | |||||||||||||
| ICON Energy Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,132.00 | 1.50 | % | $ | 8.02 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,017.55 | 1.50 | % | $ | 7.59 | ||||||||
| Class C | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,125.30 | 2.50 | % | $ | 13.32 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,012.53 | 2.50 | % | $ | 12.61 | ||||||||
| Class A | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,129.40 | 1.74 | % | $ | 9.29 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,016.34 | 1.74 | % | $ | 8.80 | ||||||||
| ICON Financial Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,019.50 | 1.52 | % | $ | 7.70 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,017.45 | 1.52 | % | $ | 7.69 | ||||||||
| Class A | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,017.60 | 1.75 | % | $ | 8.85 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,016.29 | 1.75 | % | $ | 8.85 | ||||||||
| ICON Healthcare Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,234.70 | 1.47 | % | $ | 8.24 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,017.70 | 1.47 | % | $ | 7.44 | ||||||||
| Class A | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,232.90 | 1.75 | % | $ | 9.80 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,016.29 | 1.75 | % | $ | 8.85 | ||||||||
| ICON Industrials Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,045.90 | 1.51 | % | $ | 7.74 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,017.50 | 1.51 | % | $ | 7.64 | ||||||||
| Class A | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,045.20 | 1.76 | % | $ | 9.02 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,016.24 | 1.76 | % | $ | 8.90 | ||||||||
| ICON Information Technology Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,069.70 | 1.45 | % | $ | 7.52 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,017.80 | 1.45 | % | $ | 7.33 | ||||||||
| Class A | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,068.40 | 1.75 | % | $ | 9.07 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,016.29 | 1.75 | % | $ | 8.85 | ||||||||
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,032.60 | 1.50 | % | $ | 7.64 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,017.55 | 1.50 | % | $ | 7.59 | ||||||||
| Class C | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,028.40 | 2.50 | % | $ | 12.71 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,012.53 | 2.50 | % | $ | 12.61 | ||||||||
| Class A | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,031.70 | 1.75 | % | $ | 8.91 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,016.29 | 1.75 | % | $ | 8.85 | ||||||||
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| ICON Sector Funds | Disclosure of Fund Expenses |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| Beginning Account Value April 1, 2018 | Ending Account Value September 30, 2018 | Expense Ratio(a) | Expenses Paid During period April 1, 2018 - September 30, 2018(b) | |||||||||||||
| ICON Utilities Fund | ||||||||||||||||
| Class S | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,063.60 | 1.22 | % | $ | 6.31 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,018.95 | 1.22 | % | $ | 6.17 | ||||||||
| Class A | ||||||||||||||||
| Actual | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,063.30 | 1.47 | % | $ | 7.60 | ||||||||
| Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) | $ | 1,000.00 | $ | 1,017.70 | 1.47 | % | $ | 7.44 | ||||||||
| (a) | The Fund’s expense ratios have been annualized based on the Fund’s most recent fiscal half-year expenses. |
| (b) | Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year 183/365 (to reflect the half-year period). |
Total returns exclude applicable sales charges. If sales charges were included (maximum 5.75%), returns would be lower.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 81 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Board of Trustees and Fund Officers |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
The ICON Funds Board of Trustees (the “Board”) consists of four Trustees who oversee the 17 ICON Funds (the “Funds”). The Board is responsible for general oversight of the Funds’ business and for assuring that the Funds are managed in the best interest of the Funds’ shareholders. The Trustees, and their ages, and principal occupations are set forth below. The address of the Trustees is 5299 DTC Blvd., Suite 1200, Greenwood Village, CO 80111. Trustees have no official term of office and generally serve until they resign or are not re-elected.
Interested Trustee
Craig T. Callahan, 67. Chairman of the Board. Dr. Callahan has been a Trustee of the Funds since their inception. Dr. Callahan also serves as President (2014 to present and 1998 to 2013) and Chairman of the Investment Committee (2005 to present) and served as the Chief Investment Officer (1991 to 2004) of ICON Advisers, Inc. Dr. Callahan is also Executive Vice President (2005 to present); Director (1991 to present); and was previously President (1998 to 2005) and Chief Compliance Officer (2005) of ICON Distributors, Inc. Dr. Callahan also serves as the President (1998 to present) and Chairman of the Board of Directors (1994 to present) of IM&R, the parent company of ICON Advisers, Inc. and ICON Distributors, Inc.
Independent Trustees
Glen F. Bergert, 68. Mr. Bergert has been a Trustee of the Funds since 1999. Mr. Bergert is President of Venture Capital Management LLC (1997 to present), General Partner of SOGNO Partners LP, a venture capital company (2001 to 2015), General Partner of Bergert Properties, LLP, a real estate holding company (1997 to present), General Partner of Pyramid Real Estate Partnership, a real estate development company (1998 to present), General Partner of Chamois Partners, LP, a venture capital company (2004 to present), and was previously a General Partner with KPMG Peat Marwick, LLP (1979 to 1997). Mr. Bergert is also a Director of Delta Dental of California (2013 to present and 2006 to 2012), Delta Dental of Pennsylvania (2010 to present and 1998 to 2009), Delta Reinsurance Corporation (2015 to present; 2011 to 2014 and 2000 to 2009) and Dentegra Group, Inc. (2017 to present; 2010 to 2014).
John C. Pomeroy, Jr., 71. Mr. Pomeroy has been a Trustee of the Funds since 2002. Mr. Pomeroy is Chief Investment Officer and Director of Investments, Pennsylvania State University (2001 to present) and was Portfolio Manager and Product Manager, Trinity Investment Management Corporation (1989 to 2001).
R. Michael Sentel, 70. Mr. Sentel has been a Trustee of the Funds since their inception. Mr. Sentel recently retired from his role as a Senior Attorney with the U.S. Department of Education (1996 to 2018) and was engaged in private practice of securities and corporate law (1981 to 2017). Mr. Sentel began his legal career with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s Division of Enforcement and served as a Branch Chief (1980 to 1981). Later he served as the Section Chief for the Professional Liability Section of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corp. with responsibility for the Rocky Mountain Region (1991 to 1994).
Mark Manassee, 53. Mr. Manassee has been a Trustee of the Funds since 2017. Mr. Manassee is a Senior Advisor to McKinsey’s Wealth and Asset Management Practice, and Chairman of the Board of FundRock Partners, Ltd (UK). Mr. Manassee was Principal and President of Market Metrics, LLC, a subsidiary of FactSet Research Systems, Inc. (1998 to 2016). Mr. Manassee was also a Director of Matrix-Data, Ltd (UK) (2013 to 2016) and Rhetorik, Ltd (UK) (2013 to 2016).
The Officers of the Funds are:
Craig T. Callahan, 67. Chairman of the Board. Dr. Callahan has been a Trustee of the Funds since their inception. Dr. Callahan also serves as President (2014 to present and 1998 to 2013) and Chairman of the Investment Committee (2005 to present) and served as the Chief Investment Officer (1991 to 2004) of ICON Advisers, Inc. Dr. Callahan is also Executive Vice President (2005 to present); Director (1991 to present); and was previously President (1998 to 2005) and Chief Compliance Officer (2005) of ICON Distributors, Inc. Dr. Callahan also serves as the President (1998 to present) and Chairman of the Board of Directors (1994 to present) of IM&R, the parent company of ICON Advisers, Inc. and ICON Distributors, Inc.
Donald Salcito, 65. Mr. Salcito serves as Vice President and Secretary of the Funds (2006 to present). Mr. Salcito is also Executive Vice President and General Counsel (2005 to present) of ICON Advisers, Inc.; Director of IM&R (2005 to present); Executive Vice President, Secretary, General Counsel of ICON Distributors, Inc. (2005 to 2017). Previously, he was a Partner in various national law firms, practicing in the securities law area (1980 to 2005).
Brian D. Harding, 39. Mr. Harding serves as Principal Financial Officer and Treasurer of the Funds (2017 to present). Mr. Harding is also Chief Financial Officer of ICON Advisers, Inc. (2013 to present) and Director of IM&R (2013 to present). Previously he was Chief Compliance Officer and Anti-Money Laundering Officer of the Funds (2008 to 2013), Chief Compliance Officer of ICON Advisers, Inc. (2011 to 2013), and Manager at PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (2001 to 2008).
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| ICON Sector Funds | Board of Trustees and Fund Officers |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Jack M. Quillin, 46. Mr. Quillin serves as Assistant Treasurer of the Funds (2017 to present). Mr. Quillin is also a Compliance and Fund Accounting Associate of ICON Advisers, Inc. (2016 to present). Previously, he was a compliance analyst at Marsico Capital Management, LLC (2011 to 2015), an assistant vice president in the municipal derivatives finance department at Merrill Lynch (2004 to 2008), and a senior accountant in the Regulatory Reporting group at Wells Fargo & Company (1998 to 2003).
Christopher R. Ambruso, 38. Mr. Ambruso serves as Chief Compliance Officer and Anti-Money Laundering Officer (2017 to present) of the Funds. Mr. Ambruso is also Chief Compliance Officer of ICON Advisers, Inc. (2017 to present). Previously he served as Assistant Secretary (2016 to 2017 and 2008 to 2012) of the Funds and Associate Counsel (2013 to 2017); Associate Attorney (2008 to 2013); and Staff Attorney (2007 to 2008) of ICON Advisers, Inc.
Stephen E. Abrams, 55. Mr. Abrams serves as Assistant Secretary of the Funds (2017 to present). Mr. Abrams is also Associate General Counsel of ICON Advisers, Inc. (2005 to present); Executive Vice President and General Counsel (2017 to present) and Chief Compliance Officer (2007 to present) of ICON Distributors, Inc. Previously, he worked as an Associate Attorney before becoming a Partner at a national law firm, practicing general litigation and securities law (1994 to 2005).
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 83 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Additional Information |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Renewal of Investment Advisory Agreement
On September 7, 2018, the Board of Trustees, including all of the Trustees that are not “interested persons” of the Trust (the “Independent Trustees”), approved continuation of the Advisory Agreements (as defined below) with the Adviser for each Fund for an additional one-year term commencing October 1, 2018.
The Trustees considered the renewal of the investment advisory agreements between the Trust and the Adviser – the Trust’s Investment Advisory Agreement dated October 9, 1996, as amended (related to the Sector Funds, the International Funds and the ICON Fund) and the Trust’s Investment Advisory Agreement dated July 9, 2002 and effective October 1, 2002, as amended (related to the U.S. Diversified Funds — Flexible Bond, Risk-Managed Balanced, Equity Income, Opportunities and Long/Short Funds) (collectively, the “Advisory Agreements”). The Trustees agreed that consideration of the Advisory Agreements should also include consideration of other agreements between the Adviser and the Trust that impact provisions of the Advisory Agreements, including the expense limitation agreements.
The Trustees were provided with and reviewed data with respect to the Adviser, its personnel, and the services provided and to be provided to each Fund by the Adviser under the Trust’s Advisory Agreements, Administrative Services Agreement and Expense Limitation Agreement and the Distribution Agreement with ICON Distributors, Inc. (“IDI”). The data included information concerning advisory, distribution and administrative services provided to the Funds by ICON and its related companies; information concerning other businesses of those companies; and comparative data obtained from Broadridge related to Fund performance and Fund expenses (the “Broadridge Report”).
The Independent Trustees met separately with Broadridge on August 8, 2018 to discuss the Broadridge Report and the information contained within the Broadridge Report.
Also included in the 15(c) discussion was a briefing on factors affecting the ICON investment model; expenses and expense ratios of each Fund and other ICON managed products; relative performance of each Fund; status of expense reimbursements to the Funds by the Adviser; sales and marketing initiatives; specific business factors affecting IDI; the work load on ICON as adviser and administrator to the Funds; current profitability of ICON; staffing levels and staff morale.
The Independent Trustees were represented by independent legal counsel in the entire 15(c) process. In August, after participating in the meeting with Broadridge and management, the Independent Trustees met separately as a group in private sessions with their independent legal counsel to review and discuss a wide variety of qualitative and quantitative information, including information they had received throughout the year as part of their regular oversight of the Funds. Based on these discussions, independent legal counsel and/or the Lead Independent Trustee also contacted management to request additional information from Broadridge. The Board received materials from independent legal counsel discussing the legal standards applicable to their consideration of the ICON-Trust agreements.
In considering the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by the Adviser, the Board reviewed information relating to ICON’s operations and personnel. Among other things, the Adviser provided biographical information on its professional staff and descriptions of its organizational and management structure. In the course of their deliberations the Board evaluated among other things, information relating to the investment philosophy, strategies and techniques used in managing each Fund, the qualifications and experience of ICON’s investment personnel, ICON’s compliance programs, ICON’s brokerage practices, including the extent to which the Adviser obtains research through “soft dollar” arrangements with the Funds’ brokerage, compliance reports on the foregoing, and the financial and non-financial resources available to provide services required under the Advisory Agreement.
Management and the Trustees discussed the Broadridge Report and Management personnel showed performance for each Fund and discussed the factors affecting performance. During a lengthy and spirited discussion, the Trustees expressed their concerns regarding both the ICON Funds’ performance relative to similarly situated funds and the overall rate of redemptions relative to sales.
With regard to the ICON Funds’ performance, the Chief Investment Officer (“CIO”) stated that the current market is favoring growth rather than value-based systems or styles. The current market is challenging for the ICON system. The CIO reiterated his faith in the ICON system, noting its many past successes. The Trustees raised questions regarding the Funds’ lagging performance and what changes might help to increase the performance, while staying within the ICON system. The Trustees’ questions and the discussion with Management focused on Management’s working internally to identify ways to improve performance by implementing changes within the ICON system, without straying outside the ICON system of value investing.
From a sales perspective, Management has been challenged to penetrate and retain sales in the full-service wirehouse firms. Wirehouses, Management noted, are intent on capturing assets while moving from a transaction-based compensation model (e.g. paying per trade) to a fee-based compensation model (e.g. paying a fixed percentage for asset management). Wirehouses are culling their recommended lists and/or looking
| 84 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Sector Funds | Additional Information |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
to pare down the number of fund families with whom they do business. Management has seen most of the ICON Funds culled from wirehouses, in large part because of the size of the Funds.
In connection with reviewing data bearing upon the nature, quality, and extent of services furnished by ICON to each Fund, the Board assessed data concerning ICON’s staffing, systems and facilities. The Board also assessed ICON’s non-Trust business to see if there are any initiatives that would dilute service to the Trust. The Board concluded:
| A. | That the breadth and the quality of investment advisory and other services being provided to each Fund are satisfactory; |
| B. | That ICON has made significant expenditures in the past year and in prior years by way of expense reimbursements and the Adviser has the systems and trained personnel necessary for it to be able to continue to provide quality service to the Funds’ shareholders; |
| C. | That the Board is satisfied with the research, portfolio management, and trading services, among others, being provided by ICON to the Trust, and has determined that ICON is charging fair and reasonable fees; and |
| D. | The risks assumed by ICON in providing investment advisory services to each Fund including the capital commitments which have been made in the past and which continue to be made by ICON to ensure the continuation of the highest quality of service to the Trust is made with the recognition that the Trust’s advisory relationship with ICON can be terminated at any time and must be renewed on an annual basis. |
In considering the reasonableness of the fees paid to the Adviser for managing each Fund, the Board reviewed, among other things, data concerning other funds from the Broadridge Report, financial statements of the Adviser and an analysis of the profitability of the Adviser, and its affiliates, and their relationship with each Fund over various time periods. Such analysis identified all revenues and other benefits received by the Adviser and its affiliates from managing each Fund, the costs associated with providing such services and the resulting profitability to the Adviser and its affiliates and a comparison of similar data from reports filed by publicly traded firms.
The Board assessed actual (net) fees for advisory services and Fund expense ratios under the contractual relationship (the Advisory agreements, the Administration Agreement and the Expense Limitation Agreements) with the Adviser as opposed to the fees specified in the applicable Advisory Agreement and expense ratios without application of the expense limitations and the low cost of the Administration Agreement and concluded that the focus should be on actual expense ratios after application of the Expense Limitation Agreements.
The Board considered the current and anticipated asset levels of each Fund and the contractual commitments of the Adviser to waive fees and pay expenses of the Funds from time to time to limit the total expenses of the Funds. The Board also considered the Adviser’s contractual commitment regarding administration and the fact it would continue to lose money on administration. In this regard the Board discussed asset levels in each Fund covered by the Advisory Agreements. ICON’s ability to provide the services called for under the Advisory Agreements was assessed in light of current and projected asset levels. Fund expenses and expense ratios were also assessed in light of current and projected asset levels. The Board concluded that the Adviser has the resources necessary to provide the services called for under the Advisory Agreements; that profitability to the Adviser and its affiliates from their relationship with the Funds, and services provided to the Funds, is not excessive; and that the Adviser is not realizing benefits from economies of scale that would warrant adjustments to the fees for any Fund at this time. The Board of Trustees concluded that, in light of the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by the Adviser and the levels of profitability associated with providing these services, the fees charged by the Adviser under the Advisory Agreements to each Fund are reasonable.
In connection with assessing data bearing on the fairness of fee arrangements, the Board considered the Broadridge Report, and information that they had received throughout the year as part of their regular oversight of the Funds, including Morningstar and Lipper data on the peer groupings. Among other information discussed, it was noted that:
| A. | Upon review of the advisory fee structures of each Fund in comparison with other similar funds of similar size, the level of investment advisory fees paid by each Fund is competitive; |
| B. | The total expense ratio and contractual management fees at common asset levels of each Fund are generally competitive with their expense groups; |
| C. | ICON has contractually agreed to impose expense limitations on all Funds at a cost to ICON; |
| D. | That the advisory and other fees payable by the Funds to ICON are essentially fees which would be similar to those which would have resulted solely from “arm’s-length” bargaining; |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 85 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Additional Information |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| E. | That the fees paid to ICON for managing other institutional accounts (such as individuals or sub-advised portfolios) are lower than the fees paid by similarly managed ICON funds, but the reason why they are lower is reasonably related to the cost for ICON to manage such accounts; |
| F. | The extent to which economies of scale could be realized as a Fund grows in assets and whether the Fund’s fees reflect these economies of scale for the benefit of Fund shareholders; and |
| G. | The costs borne by ICON in providing advisory services to each Fund and the profitability of ICON in light of the estimated profitability analysis which had been provided by ICON. |
The Board also considered the fees charged by the Adviser to other advisory clients as outlined in its Registration Application on Form ADV in connection with assessing data bearing on the fairness of fee arrangements. The Trustees and Management recognized that the Adviser is continuously evaluating Fund expense ratios and expense limits to assess the competitiveness of the Funds and whether any downward adjustments affect Fund sales.
The Board concluded that the Adviser is providing the Funds with professional management at a price that would have been arrived at in an arm’s length negotiation.
In connection with assessing the direct and indirect benefits to ICON from serving as the Funds’ adviser, the Board discussed services provided under the Distribution Agreement and the Administrative Services Agreement which are in addition to services under the Advisory Agreements. It was noted that:
| A. | ICON benefits from serving directly or through affiliates as the principal underwriter and administrative agent for the Funds; the services provided by ICON and its affiliates to the Funds are reasonably satisfactory, and whether the profits derived from providing the services are competitive and reasonable; |
| B. | ICON receives research assistance from the use of soft dollars generated from Fund portfolio transactions; the Trustees noted that such research is necessary to run the Funds and assists ICON in providing investment advisory services to the Funds as well as other accounts to which it provides advisory services. |
Based on all these considerations and other data as discussed above, the Board, including all of the Independent Trustees, concluded that: 1) the continuation of the Advisory Agreements was in the best interests of each Fund and its shareholders, 2) the services to be performed under the Advisory Agreements were required for the operation of the Funds, 3) the advisory services were satisfactory to the Funds in the past, and 4) the fees for the advisory services and other benefits from the relationship with the Trust received by ICON, and its affiliates, were within the range of what would have been negotiated at arm’s length in light of all the circumstances.
| 86 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Sector Funds | Additional Information |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
Supplemental Tax Info
Pursuant to Section 852(b)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code the following Funds designate the amounts listed below as long-term capital gain dividends:
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | $0 |
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | $457,925 |
| ICON Energy Fund | $0 |
| ICON Financial Fund | $0 |
| ICON Healthcare Fund | $1,243,391 |
| ICON Industrials Fund | $0 |
| ICON Information Technology Fund | $10,355,627 |
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | $0 |
| ICON Utilities Fund | $1,205,125 |
The following Funds designate the percentages listed below of the income dividends distributed in 2017 as qualified dividend income (QDI) as defined in Section 1(h)(11) of the Internal Revenue Code:
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | 27.44% |
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | 59.54% |
| ICON Energy Fund | 82.79% |
| ICON Financial Fund | 100.00% |
| ICON Healthcare Fund | 94.32% |
| ICON Industrials Fund | 0.00% |
| ICON Information Technology Fund | 9.30% |
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | 91.98% |
| ICON Utilities Fund | 57.70% |
The following Funds designate the percentages listed below of the income dividends distributed in 2017 as qualifying for the corporate dividends received deduction (DRD) as defined in Section 854(b)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code:
| ICON Consumer Discretionary Fund | 27.92% |
| ICON Consumer Staples Fund | 58.88% |
| ICON Energy Fund | 77.35% |
| ICON Financial Fund | 100.00% |
| ICON Healthcare Fund | 82.63% |
| ICON Industrials Fund | 0.00% |
| ICON Information Technology Fund | 9.86% |
| ICON Natural Resources Fund | 64.25% |
| ICON Utilities Fund | 57.75% |
Portfolio Holdings
Information related to the 10 largest portfolio holdings of each Fund is made available at www.iconfunds.com within approximately 10 business days after month-end. Additionally, a complete list of each Fund’s holdings is made available approximately 30 days after month-end. Each ICON Fund also files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings for the first and third quarters of its fiscal year with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “Commission”) on Form N-Q. The ICON Funds’ Forms N-Q are available at www.sec.gov or may be reviewed and copied at the Commission’s Public Reference Room in Washington, DC. Information about the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-800-SEC-0330.
Proxy Voting
A summarized description of the policies and procedures the ICON Funds use to vote proxies is available free of charge at www.iconfunds.com or by calling 1-800-764-0442.
Information about how the ICON Funds voted proxies related to each Fund’s portfolio securities during the 12-month period ended June 30 is available free of charge at www.iconfunds.com or on the Commission’s website at www.sec.gov.
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 87 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Additional Information |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
For More Information
This report is for the general information of the Funds’ shareholders and is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus. You may obtain a copy of the prospectus, which contains information about the investment objectives, risks, charges, expenses, and share classes of each ICON Fund, by visiting www.iconfunds.com or by calling 1-800-764-0442. Please read the prospectus carefully before investing.
ICON Distributors, Inc., Distributor.
| 88 | www.iconfunds.com |
| ICON Sector Funds | Privacy Policy |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| WHAT DOES ICON DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION? | |
| Why? | Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do. |
| What? | The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:
● Social Security number and account balances ● income and transaction history ● checking account information and wire transfer instructions
When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice. |
| How? | All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons ICON chooses to share; and whether you can limit this sharing. |
| Reasons we can share your personal information | Does ICON share? | Can you limit this sharing? |
| For our everyday business purposes — such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court orders and legal investigations, or report to credit bureaus | Yes |
No |
| For our marketing purposes — to offer our products and services to you | No |
We don’t share |
| For joint marketing with other financial companies | No | We don’t share |
| For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes — information about your transactions and experiences | No |
We don’t share |
| For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes — information about your creditworthiness | No |
We don’t share |
| For nonaffiliates to market to you | No | We don’t share |
| Questions? | Call 1-800-764-0442 for the ICON Funds and 1-800-828-4881 for ICON Advisers, Inc. and ICON Distributors, Inc. |
| Annual Report | September 30, 2018 | 89 |
| ICON Sector Funds | Privacy Policy |
| September 30, 2018 (Unaudited) |
| Who We Are | |
| Who is providing this notice? | ICON Funds, ICON Advisers, Inc., and ICON Distributors, Inc. (collectively “ICON”) |
| What We Do | |
| How
does ICON protect my personal information? |
To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.
Contracts with our service providers require them to restrict access to your non-public personal information, and to maintain physical, electronic and procedural safeguards against unintended disclosure. |
| How does ICON collect my personal information? | We collect your personal information, for example, when you
● open an account or enter into an investment advisory contract ● provide account information or give us your contact information ● make a wire transfer
We also collect your personal information from others, such as credit bureaus, affiliates, or other companies. |
| Why can’t I limit all sharing? | Federal law gives you the right to limit only
● sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes — information about your creditworthiness ● affiliates from using your information to market to you ● sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you
State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing. |
| Definitions | |
| Affiliates | Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.
● Our affiliates include financial companies such as ICON Funds, ICON Advisers, Inc., and ICON Distributors, Inc. |
| Nonaffiliates | Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.
● Nonaffiliates we share with can include financial companies such as custodians, transfer agents, registered representatives, financial advisers and nonfinancial companies such as fulfillment, proxy voting, and class action service providers |
| Joint marketing | A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.
● ICON doesn’t jointly market |
| 90 | www.iconfunds.com |
Intentionally Left Blank
| For more information about the ICON Funds, contact us: | |
| By Telephone | 1-800-764-0442 |
| By E-Mail | info@iconadvisers.com |
| By Mail | ICON Funds | P.O. Box 1920 | Denver, CO 80201 |
| In Person | ICON Funds | 5299 DTC Boulevard, 12th Floor |
| Greenwood Village, CO 80111 | |
| On the Internet | www.iconfunds.com |
Item 2. |
Code of Ethics. |
(a) The registrant has adopted a code of ethics that applies to the registrant’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions. This code of ethics is included as an Exhibit.
(b) Not used.
(c) There were no amendments, during the period covered by this report, to a provision of the code of ethics that applies to the Registrant’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, regardless of whether these individuals are employed by the Registrant or a third party, and that relates to any element of the code of ethics description.
(d) The registrant has not granted any waivers, including an implicit waiver, from a provision of the code of ethics that applies to the Registrant’s principal executive officer, principal financial officer, principal accounting officer or controller, or persons performing similar functions, regardless of whether these individuals are employed by the Registrant or a third party, that relates to one or more of the items set forth in paragraph (b) of this item’s instructions.
(e) Not applicable.
(f) See the attached Exhibit.
Item 3. |
Audit Committee Financial Expert. |
3(a)(1) The Registrant’s Board of Trustees has determined that the registrant has at least one audit committee financial expert serving on its audit committee.
3(a)(2) The audit committee financial experts are Glen F. Bergert and R. Michael Sentel, who are “independent” for purposes of this Item 3 of Form N-CSR.
3(a)(3) Not applicable.
Item 4. |
Principal Accountant Fees and Services. |
| (a) | Audit Fees |
In each of the fiscal years ended September 30, 2018 and September 30, 2017, the aggregate Audit Fees billed (or to be billed) by Cohen & Company, LTD. (“Cohen”) for professional services rendered for the audits of the financial statements, or services that are normally provided in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements as well as reimbursable expenses are listed below. All of the below fees were paid by the Registrant.
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||
| $ | 216,000 | $ | 216,000 | |||
| (b) | Audit-Related Fees |
In each of the fiscal years ended September 30, 2018 and September 30, 2017, the aggregate Audit-Related Fees billed (or to be billed) by Cohen for services rendered for assurance and related services to each fund that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit or review of the fund’s financial statements, but not reported as Audit Fees, are shown in the table below.
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||
| $ | 0 | $ | 0 | |||
| (c) | Tax Fees |
In each of the fiscal years ended September 30, 2018 and September 30, 2017 the aggregate Tax Fees billed (or to be billed) by Cohen for professional services rendered for tax return preparation, tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning are shown in the table below. All of the below fees were paid by the Registrant.
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||
| $ | 86,000 | $ | 81,000 | |||
| (d) | All Other Fees |
In each of the fiscal years ended September 30, 2018 and September 30, 2017 the aggregate Other Fees billed (or to be billed) by Cohen for all other non-audit services rendered are shown in the table below. All of the below fees were paid by the Registrant.
| 2018 | 2017 | |||||
| $ | 0 | $ | 0 | |||
(e)(1) The audit committee of the Registrant’s Board of Trustees is required to pre-approve all services to be provided by the independent accountants to the Registrant or the Registrant’s investment adviser and to any entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with the investment adviser that provides on-going services to the Registrant to determine whether the services performed by the independent accountants impair their independence from the Registrant. The audit committee has delegated authority to the Chairman of the audit committee, subject to review and ratification by the full audit committee.
(e)(2) 100% of the fees were approved by the Registrant’s audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) if Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X.
(f) For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, the percentage of hours spent on the audit of the Registrant’s financial statements that were attributed to work performed by persons who are not full-time, permanent employees of Cohen was less than 50%.
(g) See Item 4(d) above.
(h) There were no non-audit services provided by Cohen in the fiscal year ending September 30, 2018 or September 30, 2017 to the investment adviser or to any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the investment adviser that provides on-going services to the Registrant.
| Item 5. | Audit Committee of Listed Registrants. |
Not applicable.
| Item 6. | Investments. |
(a) The schedule of investments in securities of unaffiliated issuers is included in Item 1.
(b) Not applicable.
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. |
Not applicable.
Item 11. |
Controls and Procedures. |
(a) The registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer have concluded, based on their evaluation of the Registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures as conducted within 90 days of the filing date of this report, that these disclosure controls and procedures are adequately designed and are operating effectively to ensure that information required to be disclosed by the registrant on Form N-CSR is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms.
(b) There were no changes in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting that occurred during the second fiscal quarter of the period covered by this 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) The code of ethics is attached.
(a)(2) Certifications pursuant to Rule 30a-2(a) are attached.
(a)(3) Not applicable.
(a)(4) Not applicable.
(b) Certifications pursuant to Rule 30a-2(b) are furnished herewith.
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) | ICON Funds |
| By (Signature and Title)* | /s/ Craig T. Callahan | |
| Craig T. Callahan, President (Principal Executive Officer) |
| Date | December 3, 2018 |
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 (Signature and Title)* | /s/ Craig T. Callahan | |
| Craig T. Callahan, President (Principal Executive Officer) |
| Date | December 3, 2018 |
| By (Signature and Title)* | /s/ Brian D. Harding | |
| Brian D. Harding, Treasurer (Principal Financial Officer) |
| Date | December 3, 2018 |
| * | Print the name and title of each signing officer under his or her signature. |