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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies (Policies)
12 Months Ended
Dec. 31, 2016
Teucrium Commodity Trust - Combined [Member]  
Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared on a combined basis in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) as detailed in the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s Accounting Standards Codification and include the accounts of the Trust, CORN, CANE, SOYB, WEAT and TAGS. Refer to the accompanying separate financial statements for each Fund for more detailed information. For the periods represented by the financial statements herein the operations of the Trust contain the results of CORN, NAGS, CRUD, SOYB, CANE, WEAT, and TAGS except for eliminations for TAGS as explained below for the months during which each Fund was in operation. The financial statements of the Trust for the year ended December 31, 2014, include the operation of NAGS and CRUD through the termination of operations on December 21, 2014.

 

Given the investment objective of TAGS as described in Note 1 above, TAGS will buy, sell and hold, as part of its normal operations, shares of the four Underlying Funds. The Trust eliminates the shares of the other series of the Trust owned by the Teucrium Agricultural Fund from its combined statements of assets and liabilities. The Trust eliminates the net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on securities owned by the Teucrium Agricultural Fund from its combined statements of operations. The combined statements of changes in net assets and cash flows present a net presentation of the purchases and sales of the Underlying Funds of TAGS.

Reclassifications

Reclassifications

 

Certain amounts in prior periods have been reclassified to conform to current period presentation.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition

 

Commodity futures contracts are recorded on the trade date. All such transactions are recorded on the identified cost basis and marked to market daily. Unrealized appreciation or depreciation on commodity futures contracts are reflected in the statements of assets and liabilities as the difference between the original contract amount and the fair market value as of the last business day of the year or as of the last date of the financial statements. Changes in the appreciation or depreciation between periods are reflected in the statements of operations. Interest on cash equivalents and deposits with the Futures Commission Merchant are recognized on the accrual basis. The Funds earn interest on its assets denominated in U.S. dollars on deposit with the Futures Commission Merchant. In addition, the Funds earn interest on funds held at the custodian at prevailing market rates for such investments.

Brokerage Commissions

Brokerage Commissions

 

Brokerage commissions on all open commodity futures contracts are accrued on the trade date and on a full-turn basis.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

 

The Trust, as a Delaware statutory trust, is considered a trust for federal tax purposes and is, thus, a pass through entity. For tax purposes, the Funds will be treated as partnerships. Therefore, the Funds do not record a provision for income taxes because the shareholders report their share of a Fund’s income or loss on their income tax returns. The financial statements reflect the Funds’ transactions without adjustment, if any, required for income tax purposes.

 

The Funds are required to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by the applicable taxing authority, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Funds file income tax returns in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, and may file income tax returns in various U.S. states and foreign jurisdictions. For all tax years 2013 to 2016, the Funds remain subject to income tax examinations by major taxing authorities. The tax benefit recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that has a greater than fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. De-recognition of a tax benefit previously recognized results in the Funds recording a tax liability that reduces net assets. Based on their analysis, the Funds have determined that they have not incurred any liability for unrecognized tax benefits as of and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2013. However, the Funds’ conclusions regarding this policy may be subject to review and adjustment at a later date based on factors including, but not limited to, ongoing analysis of and changes to tax laws, regulations, and interpretations thereof.

 

The Funds recognize interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax fees payable, if assessed. No interest expense or penalties have been recognized as of and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

The Funds may be subject to potential examination by U.S. federal, U.S. state, or foreign jurisdictional authorities in the area of income taxes. These potential examinations may include questioning the timing and amount of deductions, the nexus of income among various tax jurisdictions, and compliance with U.S. federal, U.S. state and foreign tax laws. The Funds’ management does not expect that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits will materially change over the next twelve months.

Creations and Redemptions

Creations and Redemptions

 

Authorized Purchasers may purchase Creation Baskets from each Fund. The amount of the proceeds required to purchase a Creation Basket will be equal to the NAV of the shares in the Creation Basket determined as of 4:00 p.m. New York time on the day the order to create the basket is properly received.

 

Authorized Purchasers may redeem shares from each Fund only in blocks of shares called “Redemption Baskets.” The amount of the redemption proceeds for a Redemption Basket will be equal to the NAV of the shares in the Redemption Basket determined as of 4:00 p.m. New York time on the day the order to redeem the basket is properly received.

 

Each Fund receives or pays the proceeds from shares sold or redeemed within three business days after the trade date of the purchase or redemption. The amounts due from Authorized Purchasers are reflected in the statements of assets and liabilities as receivable for shares sold. Amounts payable to Authorized Purchasers upon redemption are reflected in the statements of assets and liabilities as payable for shares redeemed.

 

There are a minimum number of baskets and associated shares specified for each Fund in the Fund’s respective prospectus, as amended from time to time. Once the minimum number of baskets is reached, there can be no more redemptions until there has been a creation basket. These minimum levels are as follows:

 

CORN: 50,000 shares representing 2 baskets
SOYB: 50,000 shares representing 2 baskets
CANE: 50,000 shares representing 2 baskets
WEAT: 50,000 shares representing 2 baskets
TAGS: 50,000 shares representing 2 baskets (at minimum level as of December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014)

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

Cash equivalents are highly-liquid investments with maturity dates of 90 days or less when acquired. The Trust reported its cash equivalents in the combined statements of assets and liabilities at market value, or at carrying amounts that approximate fair value, because of their highly-liquid nature and short-term maturities. Each Fund that is a series of the Trust has the balance of its assets on deposit with banks. The Trust had a balance of $1,412,423 and $2,539,642 in money market funds at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively; these balances are included in cash and cash equivalents on the combined statements of assets and liabilities. Effective in the second quarter 2015, the Sponsor invested a portion of the available cash for the Funds in alternative demand-deposit savings accounts, which is classified as cash and not as cash equivalents. The Funds had a balance of $143,915,277 in demand-deposit savings accounts on December 31, 2016. This change resulted in a reduction in the balance held in money market funds. Assets deposited with the bank may, at times, exceed federally insured limits.

Restricted Cash

Restricted Cash

 

On August 17, 2015 (the “Conversion Date”), U.S. Bank N.A. replaced The Bank of New York Mellon as the Custodian for the Funds.  Per the amended agreement between the Sponsor and The Bank of New York Mellon dated August 14, 2015, certain cash amounts for each Fund, except in the case of TAGS, are to remain at The Bank of New York Mellon until amounts for services and early termination fees are paid.  The amended agreement allows for payments for such amounts owed to be made through December 31, 2017. Cash balances that are held in custody at The Bank of New York Mellon under this amended agreement are reflected on the combined statements of assets and liabilities of the Fund and the Trust as restricted cash.

Due from/to Broker

Due from/to Broker

 

The amount recorded by the Trust for the amount due from and to the clearing broker includes, but is not limited to, cash held by the broker, amounts payable to the clearing broker related to open transactions and payables for commodities futures accounts liquidating to an equity balance on the clearing broker’s records.

 

Margin is the minimum amount of funds that must be deposited by a commodity interest trader with the trader’s broker to initiate and maintain an open position in futures contracts. A margin deposit acts to assure the trader’s performance of the futures contracts purchased or sold. Futures contracts are customarily bought and sold on initial margin that represents a very small percentage of the aggregate purchase or sales price of the contract. Because of such low margin requirements, price fluctuations occurring in the futures markets may create profits and losses that, in relation to the amount invested, are greater than are customary in other forms of investment or speculation. As discussed below, adverse price changes in the futures contract may result in margin requirements that greatly exceed the initial margin. In addition, the amount of margin required in connection with a particular futures contract is set from time to time by the exchange on which the contract is traded and may be modified from time to time by the exchange during the term of the contract. Brokerage firms, such as the Funds’ clearing brokers, carrying accounts for traders in commodity interest contracts generally require higher amounts of margin as a matter of policy to further protect themselves. Over-the-counter trading generally involves the extension of credit between counterparties, so the counterparties may agree to require the posting of collateral by one or both parties to address credit exposure.

 

When a trader purchases an option, there is no margin requirement; however, the option premium must be paid in full. When a trader sells an option, on the other hand, he or she is required to deposit margin in an amount determined by the margin requirements established for the underlying interest and, in addition, an amount substantially equal to the current premium for the option. The margin requirements imposed on the selling of options, although adjusted to reflect the probability that out-of-the-money options will not be exercised, can in fact be higher than those imposed in dealing in the futures markets directly. Complicated margin requirements apply to spreads and conversions, which are complex trading strategies in which a trader acquires a mixture of options positions and positions in the underlying interest.

 

Ongoing or “maintenance” margin requirements are computed each day by a trader’s clearing broker. When the market value of a particular open futures contract changes to a point where the margin on deposit does not satisfy maintenance margin requirements, a margin call is made by the broker. If the margin call is not met within a reasonable time, the broker may close out the trader’s position. With respect to the Funds’ trading, the Funds (and not their shareholders personally) are subject to margin calls.

 

Finally, many major U.S. exchanges have passed certain cross margining arrangements involving procedures pursuant to which the futures and options positions held in an account would, in the case of some accounts, be aggregated, and margin requirements would be assessed on a portfolio basis, measuring the total risk of the combined positions. 

Payable/Receivable for Securities Purchased/Sold

Payable/Receivable for Securities Purchased/Sold

 

Due from/to broker for investments in securities are securities transactions pending settlement. The Trust and the Funds are subject to credit risk to the extent any broker with whom it conducts business is unable to fulfill contractual obligations on its behalf. The management of the Trust and the Funds monitors the financial condition of such brokers and does not anticipate any losses from these counterparties. Since the inception of the Fund, the principal broker through which the Trust and TAGS clear securities transactions for TAGS is the Bank of New York Mellon Capital Markets.

Sponsor Fee, Allocation of Expenses and Related Party Transactions

Sponsor Fee, Allocation of Expenses and Related Party Transactions

 

The Fund’s sponsor, Teucrium Trading, LLC (the “Sponsor”), is responsible for investing the assets of the Funds in accordance with the objectives and policies of each Fund. In addition, the Sponsor arranges for one or more third parties to provide administrative, custodial, accounting, transfer agency and other necessary services to the Trust and the Funds. In addition, the Sponsor elected not to outsource services directly attributable to the Trust and the Funds such as accounting, financial reporting, regulatory compliance and trading activities. In addition, the Funds, except for TAGS which has no such fee, are contractually obligated to pay a monthly management fee to the Sponsor, based on average daily net assets, at a rate equal to 1.00% per annum.

 

The Funds pay for all brokerage fees, taxes and other expenses, including licensing fees for the use of intellectual property, registration or other fees paid to the SEC, FINRA, formerly the National Association of Securities Dealers, or any other regulatory agency in connection with the offer and sale of subsequent Shares, after its initial registration, and all legal, accounting, printing and other expenses associated therewith. The Funds also pay the fees and expenses associated with the Trust’s tax accounting and reporting requirements. Certain aggregate expenses common to all Funds within the Trust are allocated by the Sponsor to the respective Fund based on activity drivers deemed most appropriate by the Sponsor for such expenses, including but not limited to relative assets under management and creation and redeem order activity.

 

These aggregate common expenses include, but are not limited to, legal, auditing, accounting and financial reporting, tax-preparation, regulatory compliance, trading activities, and insurance costs, as well as fees paid to the Distributor, which are included in the related line item in the combined statements of operations. A portion of these aggregate common expenses are related to the Sponsor or related parties of principals of the Sponsor; these are necessary services to the Trust and the Funds, which are primarily the cost of performing accounting and financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and trading activities that are directly attributable to the Trust and the Funds. For the years ended December 31, the Funds recognized $1,825,552 in 2016, $1,601,237 in 2015 and $1,365,214 in 2014, respectively, for these services, which are primarily recorded in distribution and marketing fees on the combined statements of operations, of these expenses, $457,658 in 2016, $138,262 in 2015 and $113,224 in 2014 were waived by the Sponsor. All asset-based fees and expenses for the Funds are calculated on the prior day’s net assets.

 

The Sponsor has the ability to elect to pay certain expenses on behalf of the Funds or waive the management fee. This election is subject to change by the Sponsor, at its discretion. Expenses paid by the Sponsor and Management fees waived by the Sponsor are, if applicable, presented as waived expenses in the statements of operations for each Fund.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2016, there were $838,015 of expenses that were on the combined statements of operations of the Trust as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. These were specifically: $442,333 for CORN, $68,914 for SOYB, $148,281 for CANE, $140,028 for WEAT, and $38,459 for TAGS. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015 there were $980,683 of expenses that were on the combined statements of operations of the Trust as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. These were specifically: $96,068 for CORN, $304,609 for SOYB, $256,227 for CANE, $130,716 for WEAT, and $193,063 for TAGS. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2014 there were $640,328 of expenses that were on the combined statements of operations of the Trust as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. These were specifically: $105,270 for CORN, $109,611 for NAGS, $131,324 for CRUD, $65,617 for SOYB, $119,696 for CANE, $31,697 for WEAT, and $77,113 for TAGS. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period.  

 

For the year ended December 31, 2013, there were $590,000 of expenses recorded in the financial statements of the Sponsor which were subject to reimbursement by the Funds in 2014. At that time, the Sponsor had determined that recovery of the expense amounts was not probable. For the year ended December 31, 2014, asset growth and other changes experienced by certain Funds enabled the Sponsor to claim reimbursement of $379,753 from those Funds, specifically, $308,312 from CORN, $25,139 from SOYB and $46,302 from WEAT. These amounts are reflected in the combined statements of operations for the year ended December 31, 2014 as a reimbursement of a previously waived expense for the Funds from which there was recovery in 2014. There was no recovery of amounts from the other Funds.

Use of Estimates

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of the revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Fair Value - Definition and Hierarchy

Fair Value - Definition and Hierarchy

 

In accordance with U.S. GAAP, fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e., the “exit price”) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.

 

In determining fair value, the Trust uses various valuation approaches. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, a fair value hierarchy for inputs is used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are those that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Trust. Unobservable inputs reflect the Trust’s assumptions about the inputs market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability developed based on the best information available in the circumstances. The fair value hierarchy is categorized into three levels based on the inputs as follows:

 

Level 1 - Valuations based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Trust has the ability to access. Valuation adjustments and block discounts are not applied to Level 1 futures contracts held by CORN, SOYB, CANE and WEAT, the securities of the Underlying Funds held by TAGS, and any other securities held by any Fund, together referenced throughout this filing as “financial instruments.” Since valuations are based on quoted prices that are readily and regularly available in an active market, valuation of these securities does not entail a significant degree of judgment.

 

Level 2 - Valuations based on quoted prices in markets that are not active or for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.

 

Level 3 - Valuations based on inputs that are unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement.

 

The availability of valuation techniques and observable inputs can vary from financial instrument to financial instrument and is affected by a wide variety of factors including, the type of financial instrument, whether the financial instrument is new and not yet established in the marketplace, and other characteristics particular to the transaction. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Those estimated values do not necessarily represent the amounts that may be ultimately realized due to the occurrence of future circumstances that cannot be reasonably determined. Because of the inherent uncertainty of valuation, those estimated values may be materially higher or lower than the values that would have been used had a ready market for the financial instruments existed. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised by the Fund in determining fair value is greatest for financial instruments categorized in Level 3. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the level in the fair value hierarchy, within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls, is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

 

Fair value is a market-based measure considered from the perspective of a market participant rather than an entity-specific measure. Therefore, even when market assumptions are not readily available, the Trust’s own assumptions are set to reflect those that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. The Trust uses prices and inputs that are current as of the measurement date, including periods of market dislocation. In periods of market dislocation, the observability of prices and inputs may be reduced for many financial instruments. This condition could cause a financial instrument to be reclassified to a lower level within the fair value hierarchy. For instance, when Corn Futures Contracts on the Chicago Board of Trade (“CBOT”) are not actively trading due to a “limit-up” or ‘limit-down” condition, meaning that the change in the Corn Futures Contracts has exceeded the limits established, the Trust and the Fund will revert to alternative verifiable sources of valuation of its assets. When such a situation exists on a quarter close, the Sponsor will calculate the NAV on a particular day using the Level 1 valuation, but will later recalculate the NAV for the impacted Fund based upon the valuation inputs from these alternative verifiable sources (Level 2 or Level 3) and will report such NAV in its applicable financial statements and reports.

 

On December 31, 2016 and 2015, in the opinion of the Trust, the reported value at the close of the market for each commodity contract fairly reflected the value of the futures and no alternative valuations were required. The determination is made as of the settlement of the futures contracts on the last day of trading for the reporting period. In making the determination of a Level 1 or Level 2 transfer, the Funds consider the average volume of the specific underlying futures contracts traded on the relevant exchange for the years being reported.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2016, the Funds did not have any significant transfers between any of the levels of the fair value hierarchy.

 

For the quarter ended June 30, 2015, Wheat Futures Contracts traded on the CBOT due to settle on December 14, 2016 (the “DEC16 Wheat Contracts”) did not, in the opinion of the Trust and WEAT, trade in an actively traded futures market as defined in the policy of the Trust and WEAT for the entire period during which they were held. Accordingly, the Trust and WEAT classified these as a Level 2 asset, The DEC16 Wheat Contracts were, in the opinion of the Trust and WEAT, fairly valued at settlement on June 30, 2015. The value of the contracts were $1,178,088, the balance transferred back to a Level 1 asset for the quarter ended September 30, 2015 as shown in Note 5.

 

The Funds and the Trust record their derivative activities at fair value. Gains and losses from derivative contracts are included in the statements of operations. Derivative contracts include futures contracts related to commodity prices. Futures, which are listed on a national securities exchange, such as the CBOT and the ICE, or reported on another national market, are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. OTC derivatives contracts (such as forward and swap contracts), which may be valued using models, depending on whether significant inputs are observable or unobservable, are categorized in Levels 2 or 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

 

Investments in the securities of the Underlying Funds are freely traded and listed on the NYSE Arca. These investments are valued at the NAV of the Underlying Fund as of the valuation date as calculated by the administrator based on the exchange-quoted prices of the commodity futures contracts held by the Underlying Fund.

Expenses

Expenses

 

Expenses are recorded using the accrual method of accounting.

New Accounting Pronouncements

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-19, “Technical Corrections and Improvements”. The amendments in this update represent changes to clarify, correct errors, or make minor improvements to the Accounting Standards Codification. The amendments make the Accounting Standards Codification easier to understand and easier to apply by eliminating inconsistencies and providing clarifications. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods with those fiscal years, for all entities beginning after December 15, 2016. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-18, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230)”. The amendments in this update require that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Therefore, amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. This update is not expected to have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds. The Sponsor believes there will be a change in presentation of restricted cash on the statements of cash flows.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-17, “Consolidation (Topic 810): Interests Held through Related Parties That are under Common Control”. The amendments in this update alters how a decision maker needs to consider indirect interests in a variable interest entity (VIE) held through an entity under common control. The new guidance amends ASU 2015-02, Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis, issued in February 2015. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-15, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments”. The amendments provide cash flow statement classification guidance. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. The Trust and the Funds are currently evaluating the impact on the financial statements and disclosures. The Trust and the Funds do not expect to adopt the guidance until the effective date.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2014-09 in May 2014, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606),” which replaces the revenue recognition requirements of “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605).” This ASU is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods and services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This ASU provides new and more detailed guidance on specific topics and expands and improves disclosures about revenue. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14 which defers the effective date of ASU 2014-09 by one year to fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. ASU 2015-14 also permits early adoption of ASU 2014-09, but not before the original effective date, which was for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016. The Trust and the Funds record income or loss from the recognition and measurement of futures contracts and from interest income under Subtopic 825-10.  Revenue from financial instruments which are valued under Subtopic 825 will not be subject to the application of ASU 2014-09 and 2015-14. Therefore, these standards will not apply or have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

  

The FASB issued ASU 2016-11, “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605) and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Rescission of SEC Guidance Because of Accounting Standards Updates 2014-09 and 2014-16 Pursuant to Staff Announcements at the March 3, 2016 EITF Meeting”. The amendments make targeted improvements to clarify the principal versus agent assessment and are intended to make the guidance more operable and lead to more consistent application. The Trust and the Funds record income or loss from the recognition and measurement of futures contracts and from interest income under Subtopic 825-10.  Revenue from financial instruments which are valued under Subtopic 825 will not be subject to the application of ASU 2016-11. Therefore, this standard will not apply or have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842).” The amendments in this update increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. This update is not expected to have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-01, “Financial Instruments-Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” The amendments in this update are intended to improve the recognitions measurement and disclosure of financial instruments. The amendments to this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. These amendments are required to be applied prospectively. The Trust and the Fund are currently evaluating the impact on the financial statements and disclosures; but based on our review to date we do not expect the update will have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-10, “Technical Corrections and Improvements.” The amendments in this update represent changes to clarify the Codification, correct unintended application of guidance, or make minor improvements to the Codification that are not expected to have a significant effect on current accounting practice or create a significant administrative cost to most entities. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-07, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosures for Investments in Certain Entities That Calculate Net Asset Value per Share (or Its Equivalent).” The ASU amends ASC 820 to create a practical expedient to measure the fair value of investments in certain entities that do not have a quoted market price but calculate net asset value per share or its equivalent. In addition, the amendments to ASC 820 provide guidance on classifying investments that are measured using the practical expedient in the fair value hierarchy and require specific disclosures for eligible investments, regardless of whether the practical expedient has been applied. The amendments in this Update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. These amendments are required to be applied retrospectively to all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-06, “Earnings per Share (Topic 260): Effects on Historical Earnings per Unit of Master Limited Partnership Dropdown Transactions.” The amendments specify how earnings (losses) of a transferred business before the date of a dropdown transaction should be allocated to the various interest holders in a master limited partnership for purposes of calculating earning per unit under the two-class method. The amendments to this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The amendments are required to be applied retrospectively for all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-02, “Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis.” The amendments are intended to improve targeted areas of consolidation guidance for legal entities such as limited partnerships, limited liability corporations, and securitization structures. The amendments to this update are effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2015. These amendments are required to be applied retrospectively for all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2014-08, “Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity.” The amendments in this update change the requirements for reporting discontinued operations in Subtopic 2015-20. A significant provision of ASU 2014-08 calls for reporting as discontinued operations only those disposals that represent a strategic shift or have a major impact on the entity’s financial results and operations. The Company elected to early adopt this ASU for the year ended December 31, 2014, the adoption did not have a significant impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Funds.

Teucrium Corn Fund [Member]  
Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) as detailed in the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s Accounting Standards Codification.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition

 

Commodity futures contracts are recorded on the trade date. All such transactions are recorded on the identified cost basis and marked to market daily. Unrealized appreciation or depreciation on commodity futures contracts are reflected in the statements of assets and liabilities as the difference between the original contract amount and the fair market value as of the last business day of the year or as of the last date of the financial statements. Changes in the appreciation or depreciation between periods are reflected in the statements of operations. Interest on cash equivalents and deposits with the Futures Commission Merchant are recognized on the accrual basis. The Fund earns interest on its assets denominated in U.S. dollars on deposit with the Futures Commission Merchant. In addition, the Fund earns interest on funds held at the custodian at prevailing market rates for such investments.

Brokerage Commissions

Brokerage Commissions

 

Brokerage commissions on all open commodity futures contracts are accrued on the trade date and on a full-turn basis.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

 

For tax purposes, the Fund will be treated as a partnership. The Fund does not record a provision for income taxes because the shareholders report their share of the Fund’s income or loss on their income tax returns. The financial statements reflect the Fund’s transactions without adjustment, if any, required for income tax purposes.

 

The Fund is required to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by the applicable taxing authority, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Fund files an income tax return in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, and may file income tax returns in various U.S. states and foreign jurisdictions. For all tax years 2013 to 2016, the Fund remains subject to income tax examinations by major taxing authorities. The tax benefit recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that has a greater than fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. De-recognition of a tax benefit previously recognized results in the Fund recording a tax liability that reduces net assets. Based on its analysis, the Fund has determined that it has not incurred any liability for unrecognized tax benefits as of and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2013. However, the Fund’s conclusions regarding this policy may be subject to review and adjustment at a later date based on factors including, but not limited to, ongoing analysis of and changes to tax laws, regulations, and interpretations thereof.

 

The Fund recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax fees payable, if assessed. No interest expense or penalties have been recognized as of and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

The Fund may be subject to potential examination by U.S. federal, U.S. state, or foreign jurisdictional authorities in the area of income taxes. These potential examinations may include questioning the timing and amount of deductions, the nexus of income among various tax jurisdictions, and compliance with U.S. federal, U.S. state and foreign tax laws. The Fund’s management does not expect that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits will materially change over the next twelve months.

Creations and Redemptions

Creations and Redemptions

 

Authorized Purchasers may purchase Creation Baskets consisting of 25,000 shares from CORN. The amount of the proceeds required to purchase a Creation Basket will be equal to the NAV of the shares in the Creation Basket determined as of 4:00 p.m. New York time on the day the order to create the basket is properly received.

 

Authorized Purchasers may redeem shares from the Fund only in blocks of 25,000 shares called “Redemption Baskets.” The amount of the redemption proceeds for a Redemption Basket will be equal to the NAV of the shares in the Redemption Basket determined as of 4:00 p.m. New York time on the day the order to redeem the basket is properly received.

 

The Fund receives or pays the proceeds from shares sold or redeemed within three business days after the trade date of the purchase or redemption. The amounts due from Authorized Purchasers are reflected in the Fund’s statements of assets and liabilities as receivable for shares sold. Amounts payable to Authorized Purchasers upon redemption are reflected in the Fund’s statements of assets and liabilities as payable for shares redeemed.

 

As outlined in the most recent Form S-1 filing, 50,000 shares represents two Redemption Baskets for the Fund and a minimum level of shares.

Allocation of Shareholder Income and Losses

Allocation of Shareholder Income and Losses

 

Profit or loss is allocated among the shareholders of the Fund in proportion to the number of shares each shareholder holds as of the close of each month.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

Cash equivalents are highly-liquid investments with maturity dates of 90 days or less when acquired. The Fund reported its cash equivalents in the statements of assets and liabilities at market value, or at carrying amounts that approximate fair value, because of their highly-liquid nature and short-term maturities. The Fund has these balances of its assets on deposit with banks. The Fund had a balance of $692,293 and $899,313 in money market funds at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively; these balances are included in cash and cash equivalents on the statements of assets and liabilities. Effective in the second quarter 2015, the Sponsor invested a portion of the available cash for the Fund in alternative demand-deposit savings accounts, which is classified as cash and not as a cash equivalent. The Fund had a balance of $68,382,027 in demand-deposit savings accounts on December 31, 2016. This change resulted in a reduction in the balance held in money market funds. Assets deposited with the bank may, at times, exceed federally insured limits.

Due from/to Broker

Due from/to Broker

 

The amount recorded by the Fund for the amount due from and to the clearing broker includes, but is not limited to, cash held by the broker, amounts payable to the clearing broker related to open transactions and payables for commodities futures accounts liquidating to an equity balance on the clearing broker’s records.

 

Margin is the minimum amount of funds that must be deposited by a commodity interest trader with the trader’s broker to initiate and maintain an open position in futures contracts. A margin deposit acts to assure the trader’s performance of the futures contracts purchased or sold. Futures contracts are customarily bought and sold on initial margin that represents a very small percentage of the aggregate purchase or sales price of the contract. Because of such low margin requirements, price fluctuations occurring in the futures markets may create profits and losses that, in relation to the amount invested, are greater than are customary in other forms of investment or speculation. As discussed below, adverse price changes in the futures contract may result in margin requirements that greatly exceed the initial margin. In addition, the amount of margin required in connection with a particular futures contract is set from time to time by the exchange on which the contract is traded and may be modified from time to time by the exchange during the term of the contract. Brokerage firms, such as the Fund’s clearing brokers, carrying accounts for traders in commodity interest contracts generally require higher amounts of margin as a matter of policy to further protect themselves. Over-the-counter trading generally involves the extension of credit between counterparties, so the counterparties may agree to require the posting of collateral by one or both parties to address credit exposure.

 

When a trader purchases an option, there is no margin requirement; however, the option premium must be paid in full. When a trader sells an option, on the other hand, he or she is required to deposit margin in an amount determined by the margin requirements established for the underlying interest and, in addition, an amount substantially equal to the current premium for the option. The margin requirements imposed on the selling of options, although adjusted to reflect the probability that out-of-the-money options will not be exercised, can in fact be higher than those imposed in dealing in the futures markets directly. Complicated margin requirements apply to spreads and conversions, which are complex trading strategies in which a trader acquires a mixture of options positions and positions in the underlying interest.

 

Ongoing or “maintenance” margin requirements are computed each day by a trader’s clearing broker. When the market value of a particular open futures contract changes to a point where the margin on deposit does not satisfy maintenance margin requirements, a margin call is made by the broker. If the margin call is not met within a reasonable time, the broker may close out the trader’s position. With respect to the Fund’s trading, the Fund (and not its shareholders personally) is subject to margin calls.

  

Finally, many major U.S. exchanges have passed certain cross margining arrangements involving procedures pursuant to which the futures and options positions held in an account would, in the case of some accounts, be aggregated and margin requirements would be assessed on a portfolio basis, measuring the total risk of the combined positions.

Calculation of Net Asset Value

Calculation of Net Asset Value

 

The Fund’s NAV is calculated by:

 

  Taking the current market value of its total assets and

 

  Subtracting any liabilities.

 

The administrator, USBFS, calculates the NAV of the Fund once each trading day. It calculates the NAV as of the earlier of the close of the NYSE or 4:00 p.m. New York time. The NAV for a particular trading day is released after 4:15 p.m. New York time.

 

In determining the value of Corn Futures Contracts, the administrator uses the CBOT closing price. The administrator determines the value of all other Fund investments as of the earlier of the close of the NYSE or 4:00 p.m. New York time. The value of over-the-counter corn interests is determined based on the value of the commodity or futures contract underlying such corn interest, except that a fair value may be determined if the Sponsor believes that the Fund is subject to significant credit risk relating to the counterparty to such corn interest. For purposes of financial statements and reports, the Sponsor will recalculate the NAV where necessary to reflect the “fair value” of a Futures Contract when the Futures Contract closes at its price fluctuation limit for the day. Treasury securities held by the Fund are valued by the administrator using values received from recognized third-party vendors and dealer quotes. NAV includes any unrealized profit or loss on open corn interests and any other income or expense accruing to the Fund but unpaid or not received by the Fund.

Sponsor Fee, Allocation of Expenses and Related Party Transactions

Sponsor Fee, Allocation of Expenses and Related Party Transactions

 

The Sponsor is responsible for investing the assets of the Fund in accordance with the objectives and policies of the Fund. In addition, the Sponsor arranges for one or more third parties to provide administrative, custodial, accounting, transfer agency and other necessary services to the Trust and the Funds. In addition, the Sponsor elected not to outsource services directly attributable to the Trust and the Funds such as accounting, financial reporting, regulatory compliance and trading activities. In addition, the Fund is contractually obligated to pay a monthly management fee to the Sponsor, based on average daily net assets, at a rate equal to 1.00% per annum. 

 

The Fund generally pays for all brokerage fees, taxes and other expenses, including licensing fees for the use of intellectual property, registration or other fees paid to the SEC, FINRA, formerly the National Association of Securities Dealers, or any other regulatory agency in connection with the offer and sale of subsequent Shares after its initial registration and all legal, accounting, printing and other expenses associated therewith. The Fund also pays its portion of the fees and expenses associated with the Trust’s tax accounting and reporting requirements. Certain aggregate expenses common to all Funds within the Trust are allocated by the Sponsor to the respective funds based on activity drivers deemed most appropriate by the Sponsor for such expenses, including but not limited to relative assets under management and creation and redeem order activity.

 

These aggregate common expenses include, but are not limited to, legal, auditing, accounting and financial reporting, tax-preparation, regulatory compliance, trading activities, and insurance costs, as well as fees paid to the Distributor, which are included in the related line item in the statements of operations. A portion of these aggregate common expenses are related to the Sponsor or related parties of principals of the Sponsor; these are necessary services to the Funds, which are primarily the cost of performing accounting and financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and trading activities that are directly attributable to the Fund. For the years ended December 31, the Fund recognized $936,695 in 2016, $1,034,163 in 2015 and $1,047,648 in 2014, respectively, for these expenses, which are primarily recorded in distribution and marketing fees on the statements of operations; of these amounts $275,884 in 2016, $20,000 in 2015 and $20,312 in 2014 were waived by the Sponsor. All asset-based fees and expenses for the Funds are calculated on the prior day’s net assets.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2016 there were $442,333 of expenses that were identified on the statements of operations of the Fund as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period. 

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015 there were $96,068 of expenses that were identified on the statements of operations of the Fund as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period. 

 

For the year ended December 31, 2014 there were $105,270 of expenses that were identified on the statements of operations of the Fund as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period. 

 

For the year ended December 31, 2013, there was $426,248 of expenses recorded in the financial statements of the Sponsor which were subject to reimbursement by CORN in 2014. At that time, the Sponsor had determined that recovery of the expense amounts was not probable. In 2014, asset growth and other changes experienced by CORN enabled the Sponsor to claim reimbursement of $308,312 from the Fund. This amount is reflected in the statements of operations as a reimbursement of previously waived expenses.

Use of Estimates

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of the revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Fair Value - Definition and Hierarchy

Fair Value - Definition and Hierarchy

 

In accordance with U.S. GAAP, fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e., the “exit price”) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.

 

In determining fair value, the Fund uses various valuation approaches. In accordance with GAAP, a fair value hierarchy for inputs is used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are those that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Fund. Unobservable inputs reflect the Fund’s assumptions about the inputs market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability developed based on the best information available in the circumstances. The fair value hierarchy is categorized into three levels based on the inputs as follows:

 

Level 1 - Valuations based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Fund has the ability to access. Valuation adjustments and block discounts are not applied to Level 1 financial instruments. Since valuations are based on quoted prices that are readily and regularly available in an active market, valuation of these financial instruments does not entail a significant degree of judgment.

 

Level 2 - Valuations based on quoted prices in markets that are not active or for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.

 

Level 3 - Valuations based on inputs that are unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement.

 

The availability of valuation techniques and observable inputs can vary from financial instrument to financial instrument and is affected by a wide variety of factors including, the type of financial instrument, whether the financial instrument is new and not yet established in the marketplace, and other characteristics particular to the transaction. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Those estimated values do not necessarily represent the amounts that may be ultimately realized due to the occurrence of future circumstances that cannot be reasonably determined. Because of the inherent uncertainty of valuation, those estimated values may be materially higher or lower than the values that would have been used had a ready market for the financial instruments existed. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised by the Fund in determining fair value is greatest for financial instruments categorized in Level 3. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the level in the fair value hierarchy, within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls, is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

 

Fair value is a market-based measure considered from the perspective of a market participant rather than an entity-specific measure. Therefore, even when market assumptions are not readily available, the Fund’s own assumptions are set to reflect those that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. The Fund uses prices and inputs that are current as of the measurement date, including during periods of market dislocation. In periods of market dislocation, the observability of prices and inputs may be reduced for many securities. This condition could cause a financial instrument to be reclassified to a lower level within the fair value hierarchy. For instance, when Corn Futures Contracts on the CBOT are not actively trading due to a “limit-up” or limit-down” condition, meaning that the change in the Corn Futures Contracts has exceeded the limits established, the Trust and the Fund will revert to alternative verifiable sources of valuation of its assets. When such a situation exists on a quarter close, the Sponsor will calculate the Net Asset Value (“NAV”) on a particular day using the Level 1 valuation, but will later recalculate the NAV for the impacted Fund based upon the valuation inputs from these alternative verifiable sources (Level 2 or Level 3) and will report such NAV in its applicable financial statements and reports.

 

On December 31, 2016 and 2015, in the opinion of the Trust and the Fund, the reported value of the Corn Futures Contracts traded on the CBOT fairly reflected the value of the Corn Futures Contracts held by the Fund, and no adjustments were necessary. The determination is made as of the settlement of the futures contracts on the last day of trading for the reporting period. In making the determination of a Level 1 or Level 2 transfer, the Fund considers the average volume of the specific underlying futures contracts traded on the relevant exchange for the years being reported.

 

For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Fund did not have any significant transfers between any of the levels of the fair value hierarchy.

 

The Fund records its derivative activities at fair value. Gains and losses from derivative contracts are included in the statements of operations. Derivative contracts include futures contracts related to commodity prices. Futures, which are listed on a national securities exchange, such as the CBOT and the ICE, or reported on another national market, are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. OTC derivatives contracts (such as forward and swap contracts) which may be valued using models, depending on whether significant inputs are observable or unobservable, are categorized in Levels 2 or 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Expenses

Expenses

 

Expenses are recorded using the accrual method of accounting.

Net Income (Loss) per Share

Net Income (Loss) per Share

 

Net income (loss) per Share is the difference between the NAV per unit at the beginning of each period and at the end of each period. The weighted average number of Shares outstanding was computed for purposes of disclosing net income (loss) per weighted average Share. The weighted average Shares are equal to the number of Shares outstanding at the end of the period, adjusted proportionately for Shares created or redeemed based on the amount of time the Shares were outstanding during such period.

New Accounting Pronouncements

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-19, “Technical Corrections and Improvements”. The amendments in this update represent changes to clarify, correct errors, or make minor improvements to the Accounting Standards Codification. The amendments make the Accounting Standards Codification easier to understand and easier to apply by eliminating inconsistencies and providing clarifications. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods with those fiscal years, for all entities beginning after December 15, 2016. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-18, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230)”. The amendments in this update require that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Therefore, amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. This update is not expected to have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund. The Sponsor believes there will be a change in presentation of restricted cash on the statements of cash flows.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-17, “Consolidation (Topic 810): Interests Held through Related Parties That are under Common Control”. The amendments in this update alters how a decision maker needs to consider indirect interests in a variable interest entity (VIE) held through an entity under common control. The new guidance amends ASU 2015-02, Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis, issued in February 2015. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-15, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments”. The amendments provide cash flow statement classification guidance. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. The Trust and the Fund are currently evaluating the impact on the financial statements and disclosures. The Trust and the Fund do not expect to adopt the guidance until the effective date.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2014-09 in May 2014, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606),” which replaces the revenue recognition requirements of “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605).” This ASU is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods and services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This ASU provides new and more detailed guidance on specific topics and expands and improves disclosures about revenue. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14 which defers the effective date of ASU 2014-09 by one year to fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. ASU 2015-14 also permits early adoption of ASU 2014-09, but not before the original effective date, which was for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016. The Trust and the Fund record income or loss from the recognition and measurement of futures contracts and from interest income under Subtopic 825-10. Revenue from financial instruments which are valued under Subtopic 825 will not be subject to the application of ASU 2014-09 and 2015-14. Therefore, these standards will not apply or have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-11, “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605) and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Rescission of SEC Guidance Because of Accounting Standards Updates 2014-09 and 2014-16 Pursuant to Staff Announcements at the March 3, 2016 EITF Meeting”. The amendments make targeted improvements to clarify the principal versus agent assessment and are intended to make the guidance more operable and lead to more consistent application. The Trust and the Fund record income or loss from the recognition and measurement of futures contracts and from interest income under Subtopic 825-10.  Revenue from financial instruments which are valued under Subtopic 825 will not be subject to the application of ASU 2016-11. Therefore, this standard will not apply or have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842).” The amendments in this update increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. This update is not expected to have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-01, “Financial Instruments-Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” The amendments in this update are intended to improve the recognitions measurement and disclosure of financial instruments. The amendments to this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. These amendments are required to be applied prospectively. The Trust and the Fund are currently evaluating the impact on the financial statements and disclosures; but based on our review to date we do not expect the update will have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-10, “Technical Corrections and Improvements.” The amendments in this update represent changes to clarify the Codification, correct unintended application of guidance, or make minor improvements to the Codification that are not expected to have a significant effect on current accounting practice or create a significant administrative cost to most entities. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-07, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosures for Investments in Certain Entities That Calculate Net Asset Value per Share (or Its Equivalent).” The ASU amends ASC 820 to create a practical expedient to measure the fair value of investments in certain entities that do not have a quoted market price but calculate net asset value per share or its equivalent. In addition, the amendments to ASC 820 provide guidance on classifying investments that are measured using the practical expedient in the fair value hierarchy and require specific disclosures for eligible investments, regardless of whether the practical expedient has been applied. The amendments in this Update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. These amendments are required to be applied retrospectively to all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-06, “Earnings per Share (Topic 260): Effects on Historical Earnings per Unit of Master Limited Partnership Dropdown Transactions.” The amendments specify how earnings (losses) of a transferred business before the date of a dropdown transaction should be allocated to the various interest holders in a master limited partnership for purposes of calculating earning per unit under the two-class method. The amendments to this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The amendments are required to be applied retrospectively for all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-02, “Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis.” The amendments are intended to improve targeted areas of consolidation guidance for legal entities such as limited partnerships, limited liability corporations, and securitization structures. The amendments to this update are effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2015. These amendments are required to be applied retrospectively for all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2014-08, “Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity.” The amendments in this update change the requirements for reporting discontinued operations in Subtopic 2015-20. A significant provision of ASU 2014-08 calls for reporting as discontinued operations only those disposals that represent a strategic shift or have a major impact on the entity’s financial results and operations. The Company elected to early adopt this ASU for the year ended December 31, 2014, the adoption did not have a significant impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Fund.

Teucrium Soybean Fund [Member]  
Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) as detailed in the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s Accounting Standards Codification.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition

 

Commodity futures contracts are recorded on the trade date. All such transactions are recorded on the identified cost basis and marked to market daily. Unrealized appreciation or depreciation on commodity futures contracts are reflected in the statements of assets and liabilities as the difference between the original contract amount and the fair market value as of the last business day of the year or as of the last date of the financial statements. Changes in the appreciation or depreciation between periods are reflected in the statements of operations. Interest on cash equivalents and deposits with the Futures Commission Merchant are recognized on the accrual basis. The Fund earns interest on its assets denominated in U.S. dollars on deposit with the Futures Commission Merchant. In addition, the Fund earns interest on funds held at the custodian at prevailing market rates for such investments.

Brokerage Commissions

Brokerage Commissions

 

Brokerage commissions on all open commodity futures contracts are accrued on the trade date and on a full-turn basis.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

 

For tax purposes, the Fund will be treated as a partnership. The Fund does not record a provision for income taxes because the shareholders report their share of the Fund’s income or loss on their income tax returns. The financial statements reflect the Fund’s transactions without adjustment, if any, required for income tax purposes.

 

The Fund is required to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by the applicable taxing authority, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Fund files an income tax return in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, and may file income tax returns in various U.S. states and foreign jurisdictions. For all tax years 2013 to 2016, the Fund remains subject to income tax examinations by major taxing authorities. The tax benefit recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that has a greater than fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. De-recognition of a tax benefit previously recognized results in the Fund recording a tax liability that reduces net assets. Based on its analysis, the Fund has determined that it has not incurred any liability for unrecognized tax benefits as of and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2013. However, the Fund’s conclusions regarding this policy may be subject to review and adjustment at a later date based on factors including, but not limited to, ongoing analysis of and changes to tax laws, regulations, and interpretations thereof.

 

The Fund recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax fees payable, if assessed. No interest expense or penalties have been recognized as of and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

The Fund may be subject to potential examination by U.S. federal, U.S. state, or foreign jurisdictional authorities in the area of income taxes. These potential examinations may include questioning the timing and amount of deductions, the nexus of income among various tax jurisdictions, and compliance with U.S. federal, U.S. state and foreign tax laws. The Fund’s management does not expect that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits will materially change over the next twelve months.

Creations and Redemptions

Creations and Redemptions

 

Authorized Purchasers may purchase Creation Baskets consisting of 25,000 shares from the Fund. The amount of the proceeds required to purchase a Creation Basket will be equal to the NAV of the shares in the Creation Basket determined as of 4:00 p.m. New York time on the day the order to create the basket is properly received.

 

Authorized Purchasers may redeem shares from the Fund only in blocks of 25,000 shares called “Redemption Baskets.” The amount of the redemption proceeds for a Redemption Basket will be equal to the NAV of the shares in the Redemption Basket determined as of 4:00 p.m. New York time on the day the order to redeem the basket is properly received.

 

The Fund receives or pays the proceeds from shares sold or redeemed within three business days after the trade date of the purchase or redemption. The amounts due from Authorized Purchasers are reflected in the Fund’s statements of assets and liabilities as receivable for shares sold. Amounts payable to Authorized Purchasers upon redemption are reflected in the Fund’s statements of assets and liabilities as payable for shares redeemed.

 

As outlined in the most recent Form S-1 filing, 50,000 shares represents two Redemption Baskets for the Fund and a minimum level of shares.

Allocation of Shareholder Income and Losses

Allocation of Shareholder Income and Losses

 

Profit or loss is allocated among the shareholders of the Fund in proportion to the number of shares each shareholder holds as of the close of each month.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

Cash equivalents are highly-liquid investments with maturity dates of 90 days or less when acquired. The Fund reported its cash equivalents in the statements of assets and liabilities at market value, or at carrying amounts that approximate fair value, because of their highly-liquid nature and short-term maturities. The Fund has these balances of its assets on deposit with banks. The Fund had a balance of $185,661 and $161,718 in money market funds at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively; these balances are included in cash and cash equivalents on the statements of assets and liabilities. Effective in the second quarter 2015, the Sponsor invested a portion of the available cash for the Fund in alternative demand-deposit savings accounts, which is classified as cash and not as a cash equivalent. The Fund had a balance of $12,115,082 in demand-deposit savings accounts as of December 31, 2016. This change resulted in a reduction in the balance held in money market funds. Assets deposited with the bank may, at times, exceed federally insured limits.

Restricted Cash

Restricted Cash

 

On August 17, 2015 (the “Conversion Date”), U.S. Bank N.A. replaced The Bank of New York Mellon as the Custodian for the Funds.  Per the amended agreement between the Sponsor and The Bank of New York Mellon dated August 14, 2015, certain cash amounts for each Fund, except in the case of TAGS, are to remain at The Bank of New York Mellon until amounts for services and early termination fees are paid.  The amended agreement allows for payments for such amounts owed to be made through December 31, 2017. Cash balances that are held in custody at The Bank of New York Mellon under this amended agreement are reflected on the statements of assets and liabilities of the Fund and the Trust as restricted cash.

Due from/to Broker

Due from/to Broker

 

The amount recorded by the Fund for the amount due from and to the clearing broker includes, but is not limited to, cash held by the broker, amounts payable to the clearing broker related to open transactions and payables for commodities futures accounts liquidating to an equity balance on the clearing broker’s records.

 

Margin is the minimum amount of funds that must be deposited by a commodity interest trader with the trader’s broker to initiate and maintain an open position in futures contracts. A margin deposit acts to assure the trader’s performance of the futures contracts purchased or sold. Futures contracts are customarily bought and sold on initial margin that represents a very small percentage of the aggregate purchase or sales price of the contract. Because of such low margin requirements, price fluctuations occurring in the futures markets may create profits and losses that, in relation to the amount invested, are greater than are customary in other forms of investment or speculation. As discussed below, adverse price changes in the futures contract may result in margin requirements that greatly exceed the initial margin. In addition, the amount of margin required in connection with a particular futures contract is set from time to time by the exchange on which the contract is traded and may be modified from time to time by the exchange during the term of the contract. Brokerage firms, such as the Fund’s clearing brokers, carrying accounts for traders in commodity interest contracts generally require higher amounts of margin as a matter of policy to further protect themselves. Over-the-counter trading generally involves the extension of credit between counterparties, so the counterparties may agree to require the posting of collateral by one or both parties to address credit exposure.

 

When a trader purchases an option, there is no margin requirement; however, the option premium must be paid in full. When a trader sells an option, on the other hand, he or she is required to deposit margin in an amount determined by the margin requirements established for the underlying interest and, in addition, an amount substantially equal to the current premium for the option. The margin requirements imposed on the selling of options, although adjusted to reflect the probability that out-of-the-money options will not be exercised, can in fact be higher than those imposed in dealing in the futures markets directly. Complicated margin requirements apply to spreads and conversions, which are complex trading strategies in which a trader acquires a mixture of options positions and positions in the underlying interest.

 

Ongoing or “maintenance” margin requirements are computed each day by a trader’s clearing broker. When the market value of a particular open futures contract changes to a point where the margin on deposit does not satisfy maintenance margin requirements, a margin call is made by the broker. If the margin call is not met within a reasonable time, the broker may close out the trader’s position. With respect to the Fund’s trading, the Fund (and not its shareholders personally) is subject to margin calls.

 

Finally, many major U.S. exchanges have passed certain cross margining arrangements involving procedures pursuant to which the futures and options positions held in an account would, in the case of some accounts, be aggregated and margin requirements would be assessed on a portfolio basis, measuring the total risk of the combined positions.

Calculation of Net Asset Value

Calculation of Net Asset Value

 

The Fund’s NAV is calculated by:

 

  Taking the current market value of its total assets and

 

  Subtracting any liabilities.

 

The administrator, USBFS, calculates the NAV of the Fund once each trading day. It calculates the NAV as of the earlier of the close of the NYSE or 4:00 p.m. New York time. The NAV for a particular trading day is released after 4:15 p.m. New York time.

 

In determining the value of Soybean Futures Contracts, the administrator uses the CBOT closing price. The administrator determines the value of all other Fund investments as of the earlier of the close of the NYSE or 4:00 p.m. New York time. The value of over-the-counter soybean interests is determined based on the value of the commodity or futures contract underlying such soybean interest, except that a fair value may be determined if the Sponsor believes that the Fund is subject to significant credit risk relating to the counterparty to such soybean interest. For purposes of financial statements and reports, the Sponsor will recalculate the NAV where necessary to reflect the “fair value” of a Futures Contract when the Futures Contract closes at its price fluctuation limit for the day. Treasury securities held by the Fund are valued by the administrator using values received from recognized third-party vendors and dealer quotes. NAV includes any unrealized profit or loss on open soybean interests and any other income or expense accruing to the Fund but unpaid or not received by the Fund.

Sponsor Fee, Allocation of Expenses and Related Party Transactions

Sponsor Fee, Allocation of Expenses and Related Party Transactions

 

The Sponsor is responsible for investing the assets of the Fund in accordance with the objectives and policies of the Fund. In addition, the Sponsor arranges for one or more third parties to provide administrative, custodial, accounting, transfer agency and other necessary services to the Trust and the Funds. In addition, the Sponsor elected not to outsource services directly attributable to the Trust and the Funds such as accounting, financial reporting, regulatory compliance and trading activities. In addition, the Fund is contractually obligated to pay a monthly management fee to the Sponsor, based on average daily net assets, at a rate equal to 1.00% per annum. 

 

The Fund generally pays for all brokerage fees, taxes and other expenses, including licensing fees for the use of intellectual property, registration or other fees paid to the SEC, FINRA, formerly the National Association of Securities Dealers, or any other regulatory agency in connection with the offer and sale of subsequent Shares after its initial registration and all legal, accounting, printing and other expenses associated therewith. The Fund also pays its portion of the fees and expenses associated with the Trust’s tax accounting and reporting requirements. Certain aggregate expenses common to all Funds within the Trust are allocated by the Sponsor to the respective funds based on activity drivers deemed most appropriate by the Sponsor for such expenses, including but not limited to relative assets under management and creation and redeem order activity.

 

These aggregate common expenses include, but are not limited to, legal, auditing, accounting and financial reporting, tax-preparation, regulatory compliance, trading activities, and insurance costs, as well as fees paid to the Distributor, which are included in the related line item in the statements of operations. A portion of these aggregate common expenses are related to the Sponsor or related parties of principals of the Sponsor; these are necessary services to the Funds, which are primarily the cost of performing accounting and financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and trading activities that are directly attributable to the Fund. For the years ended December 31, the Fund recognized $169,614 in 2016, $124,331 in 2015 and $49,492 in 2014, respectively, such expenses, which are primarily included as distribution and marketing fees on the statements of operations; of these amounts $10,720 in 2016, $49,086 in 2015 and $12,915 in 2014 were waived by the Sponsor. All asset-based fees and expenses for the Funds are calculated on the prior day’s net assets.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2016, there were $68,914 of expenses that were identified on the statements of operations of the Fund as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015, there were $304,609 of expenses that were identified on the statements of operations of the Fund as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2014, there were $65,617 of expenses that were identified on the statements of operations of the Fund as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2013, there were $68,857 of expenses recorded in the financial statements of the Sponsor which were subject to reimbursement by SOYB in 2014. At that time, the Sponsor had determined that recovery of the expense amounts was not probable. In 2014, asset growth and other changes experienced by SOYB enabled the Sponsor to claim reimbursement of $25,139 from the Fund. This amount is reflected in the statements of operations as a reimbursement of previously waived expenses.

Use of Estimates

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of the revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Fair Value - Definition and Hierarchy

Fair Value - Definition and Hierarchy

 

In accordance with U.S. GAAP, fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e., the “exit price”) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.

 

In determining fair value, the Fund uses various valuation approaches. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, a fair value hierarchy for inputs is used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are those that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Fund. Unobservable inputs reflect the Fund’s assumptions about the inputs market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability developed based on the best information available in the circumstances. The fair value hierarchy is categorized into three levels based on the inputs as follows:

 

Level 1 - Valuations based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Fund has the ability to access. Valuation adjustments and block discounts are not applied to Level 1 financial instruments. Since valuations are based on quoted prices that are readily and regularly available in an active market, valuation of these financial instruments does not entail a significant degree of judgment.

 

Level 2 - Valuations based on quoted prices in markets that are not active or for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.

 

Level 3 - Valuations based on inputs that are unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement.

 

The availability of valuation techniques and observable inputs can vary from financial instrument to financial instrument and is affected by a wide variety of factors including, the type of financial instrument, whether the financial instrument is new and not yet established in the marketplace, and other characteristics particular to the transaction. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Those estimated values do not necessarily represent the amounts that may be ultimately realized due to the occurrence of future circumstances that cannot be reasonably determined. Because of the inherent uncertainty of valuation, those estimated values may be materially higher or lower than the values that would have been used had a ready market for the financial instruments existed. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised by the Fund in determining fair value is greatest for financial instruments categorized in Level 3. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the level in the fair value hierarchy, within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls, is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

 

Fair value is a market-based measure considered from the perspective of a market participant rather than an entity-specific measure. Therefore, even when market assumptions are not readily available, the Fund’s own assumptions are set to reflect those that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. The Fund uses prices and inputs that are current as of the measurement date, including periods of market dislocation. In periods of market dislocation, the observability of prices and inputs may be reduced for many financial instruments. This condition could cause a financial instrument to be reclassified to a lower level within the fair value hierarchy. When such a situation exists on a quarter close, the Sponsor will calculate the NAV on a particular day using the Level 1 valuation, but will later recalculate the NAV for the impacted Fund based upon the valuation inputs from these alternative verifiable sources (Level 2 or Level 3) and will report such NAV in its applicable financial statements and reports.

 

On December 31, 2016 and 2015, in the opinion of the Trust and the Fund, the reported value of the Soybean Futures Contracts traded on the CBOT fairly reflected the value of the Soybean Futures Contracts held by the Fund, with no adjustments necessary. The determination is made as of the settlement of the futures contracts on the last day of trading for the reporting period. In making the determination of a Level 1 or Level 2 transfer, the Fund considers the average volume of the specific underlying futures contracts traded on the relevant exchange for the years being reported.

 

For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Fund did not have any significant transfers between any of the levels of the fair value hierarchy.

 

The Fund records its derivative activities at fair value. Gains and losses from derivative contracts are included in the statements of operations. Derivative contracts include futures contracts related to commodity prices. Futures, which are listed on a national securities exchange, such as the CBOT and the ICE, or reported on another national market, are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. OTC derivatives contracts (such as forward and swap contracts) which may be valued using models, depending on whether significant inputs are observable or unobservable, are categorized in Levels 2 or 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Expenses

Expenses

 

Expenses are recorded using the accrual method of accounting.

Net Income (Loss) per Share

Net Income (Loss) per Share

 

Net income (loss) per Share is the difference between the NAV per unit at the beginning of each period and at the end of each period. The weighted average number of Shares outstanding was computed for purposes of disclosing net income (loss) per weighted average Share. The weighted average Shares are equal to the number of Shares outstanding at the end of the period, adjusted proportionately for Shares created or redeemed based on the amount of time the Shares were outstanding during such period.

New Accounting Pronouncements

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-19, “Technical Corrections and Improvements”. The amendments in this update represent changes to clarify, correct errors, or make minor improvements to the Accounting Standards Codification. The amendments make the Accounting Standards Codification easier to understand and easier to apply by eliminating inconsistencies and providing clarifications. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods with those fiscal years, for all entities beginning after December 15, 2016. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-18, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230)”. The amendments in this update require that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Therefore, amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. This update is not expected to have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund. The Sponsor believes there will be a change in presentation of restricted cash on the statements of cash flows.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-17, “Consolidation (Topic 810): Interests Held through Related Parties That are under Common Control”. The amendments in this update alters how a decision maker needs to consider indirect interests in a variable interest entity (VIE) held through an entity under common control. The new guidance amends ASU 2015-02, Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis, issued in February 2015. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-15, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments”. The amendments provide cash flow statement classification guidance. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. The Trust and the Funds are currently evaluating the impact on the financial statements and disclosures. The Trust and the Fund do not expect to adopt the guidance until the effective date.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2014-09 in May 2014, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606),” which replaces the revenue recognition requirements of “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605).” This ASU is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods and services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This ASU provides new and more detailed guidance on specific topics and expands and improves disclosures about revenue. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14 which defers the effective date of ASU 2014-09 by one year to fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. ASU 2015-14 also permits early adoption of ASU 2014-09, but not before the original effective date, which was for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016. The Trust and the Fund record income or loss from the recognition and measurement of futures contracts and from interest income under Subtopic 825-10.  Revenue from financial instruments which are valued under Subtopic 825 will not be subject to the application of ASU 2014-09 and 2015-14. Therefore, these standards will not apply or have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-11, “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605) and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Rescission of SEC Guidance Because of Accounting Standards Updates 2014-09 and 2014-16 Pursuant to Staff Announcements at the March 3, 2016 EITF Meeting”. The amendments make targeted improvements to clarify the principal versus agent assessment and are intended to make the guidance more operable and lead to more consistent application. The Trust and the Fund record income or loss from the recognition and measurement of futures contracts and from interest income under Subtopic 825-10.  Revenue from financial instruments which are valued under Subtopic 825 will not be subject to the application of ASU 2016-11. Therefore, this standard will not apply or have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842).” The amendments in this update increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. This update is not expected to have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-01, “Financial Instruments-Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” The amendments in this update are intended to improve the recognitions measurement and disclosure of financial instruments. The amendments to this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. These amendments are required to be applied prospectively. The Trust and the Fund are currently evaluating the impact on the financial statements and disclosures; but based on our review to date we do not expect the update will have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-10, “Technical Corrections and Improvements.” The amendments in this update represent changes to clarify the Codification, correct unintended application of guidance, or make minor improvements to the Codification that are not expected to have a significant effect on current accounting practice or create a significant administrative cost to most entities. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-07, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosures for Investments in Certain Entities That Calculate Net Asset Value per Share (or Its Equivalent).” The ASU amends ASC 820 to create a practical expedient to measure the fair value of investments in certain entities that do not have a quoted market price but calculate net asset value per share or its equivalent. In addition, the amendments to ASC 820 provide guidance on classifying investments that are measured using the practical expedient in the fair value hierarchy and require specific disclosures for eligible investments, regardless of whether the practical expedient has been applied. The amendments in this Update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. These amendments are required to be applied retrospectively to all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-06, “Earnings per Share (Topic 260): Effects on Historical Earnings per Unit of Master Limited Partnership Dropdown Transactions.” The amendments specify how earnings (losses) of a transferred business before the date of a dropdown transaction should be allocated to the various interest holders in a master limited partnership for purposes of calculating earning per unit under the two-class method. The amendments to this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The amendments are required to be applied retrospectively for all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-02, “Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis.” The amendments are intended to improve targeted areas of consolidation guidance for legal entities such as limited partnerships, limited liability corporations, and securitization structures. The amendments to this update are effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2015. These amendments are required to be applied retrospectively for all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2014-08, “Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity.” The amendments in this update change the requirements for reporting discontinued operations in Subtopic 2015-20. A significant provision of ASU 2014-08 calls for reporting as discontinued operations only those disposals that represent a strategic shift or have a major impact on the entity’s financial results and operations. The Company elected to early adopt this ASU for the year ended December 31, 2014, the adoption did not have a significant impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Fund.

Teucrium Sugar Fund [Member]  
Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) as detailed in the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s Accounting Standards Codification.

Reclassifications

Revenue Recognition

 

Commodity futures contracts are recorded on the trade date. All such transactions are recorded on the identified cost basis and marked to market daily. Unrealized appreciation or depreciation on commodity futures contracts are reflected in the statements of assets and liabilities as the difference between the original contract amount and the fair market value as of the last business day of the year or as of the last date of the financial statements. Changes in the appreciation or depreciation between periods are reflected in the statements of operations. Interest on cash equivalents and deposits with the Futures Commission Merchant are recognized on the accrual basis. The Fund earns interest on its assets denominated in U.S. dollars on deposit with the Futures Commission Merchant. In addition, the Fund earns interest on funds held at the custodian at prevailing market rates for such investments.

Brokerage Commissions

Brokerage Commissions

 

Brokerage commissions on all open commodity futures contracts are accrued on the trade date and on a full-turn basis.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

 

For tax purposes, the Fund will be treated as a partnership. The Fund does not record a provision for income taxes because the shareholders report their share of the Fund’s income or loss on their income tax returns. The financial statements reflect the Fund’s transactions without adjustment, if any, required for income tax purposes.

 

The Fund is required to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by the applicable taxing authority, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Fund files an income tax return in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, and may file income tax returns in various U.S. states and foreign jurisdictions. For all tax years 2013 to 2016, the Fund remains subject to income tax examinations by major taxing authorities. The tax benefit recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that has a greater than fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. De-recognition of a tax benefit previously recognized results in the Fund recording a tax liability that reduces net assets. Based on its analysis, the Fund has determined that it has not incurred any liability for tax benefits as of and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2013. However, the Fund’s conclusions regarding this policy may be subject to review and adjustment at a later date based on factors including, but not limited to, ongoing analysis of and changes to tax laws, regulations, and interpretations thereof.

 

The Fund recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax fees payable, if assessed. No interest expense or penalties have been recognized as of and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

The Fund may be subject to potential examination by U.S. federal, U.S. state, or foreign jurisdictional authorities in the area of income taxes. These potential examinations may include questioning the timing and amount of deductions, the nexus of income among various tax jurisdictions, and compliance with U.S. federal, U.S. state and foreign tax laws. The Fund’s management does not expect that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits will materially change over the next twelve months.

Creations and Redemptions

Creations and Redemptions

 

Authorized Purchasers may purchase Creation Baskets consisting of 25,000 shares from the Fund. The amount of the proceeds required to purchase a Creation Basket will be equal to the NAV of the shares in the Creation Basket determined as of 4:00 p.m. New York time on the day the order to create the basket is properly received.

 

Authorized Purchasers may redeem shares from the Fund only in blocks of 25,000 shares called “Redemption Baskets.” The amount of the redemption proceeds for a Redemption Basket will be equal to the NAV of the shares in the Redemption Basket determined as of 4:00 p.m. New York time on the day the order to redeem the basket is properly received.

 

The Fund receives or pays the proceeds from shares sold or redeemed within three business days after the trade date of the purchase or redemption. The amounts due from Authorized Purchasers are reflected in the Fund’s statements of assets and liabilities as receivable for shares sold. Amounts payable to Authorized Purchasers upon redemption are reflected in the Fund’s statements of assets and liabilities as payable for shares redeemed.

 

As outlined in the most recent Form S-1 filing, 50,000 shares represents two Redemption Baskets for the Fund and a minimum level of shares.

Allocation of Shareholder Income and Losses

Allocation of Shareholder Income and Losses

 

Profit or loss is allocated among the shareholders of the Fund in proportion to the number of shares each shareholder holds as of the close of each month.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

Cash equivalents are highly-liquid investments with maturity dates of 90 days or less when acquired. The Fund reported its cash equivalents in the statements of assets and liabilities at market value, or at carrying amounts that approximate fair value, because of their highly-liquid nature and short-term maturities. The Fund has these balances of its assets on deposit with banks. The Fund had a balance of $125,182 and $297,460 in money market funds at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively; these balances are included in cash and cash equivalents on the statements of assets and liabilities. Effective in the second quarter 2015, the Sponsor invested a portion of the available cash for the Fund in alternative demand-deposit savings accounts, which is classified as cash and not as a cash equivalent. The Fund had a balance of $4,891,490 in a demand-deposit savings account on December 31, 2016. This change resulted in a reduction in the balance held in money market funds. Assets deposited with financial institutions, at times, exceed federally insured limits.

Restricted Cash

Restricted Cash

 

On August 17, 2015 (the “Conversion Date”), U.S. Bank N.A. replaced The Bank of New York Mellon as the Custodian for the Funds.  Per the amended agreement between the Sponsor and The Bank of New York Mellon dated August 14, 2015, certain cash amounts for each Fund, except in the case of TAGS, are to remain at The Bank of New York Mellon until amounts for services and early termination fees are paid.  The amended agreement allows for payments for such amounts owed to be made through December 31, 2017. Cash balances that are held in custody at The Bank of New York Mellon under this amended agreement are reflected on the statements of assets and liabilities of the Fund and the Trust as restricted cash.

Due from/to Broker

Due from/to Broker

 

The amount recorded by the Fund for the amount due from and to the clearing broker includes, but is not limited to, cash held by the broker, amounts payable to the clearing broker related to open transactions and payables for commodities futures accounts liquidating to an equity balance on the clearing broker’s records.

 

Margin is the minimum amount of funds that must be deposited by a commodity interest trader with the trader’s broker to initiate and maintain an open position in futures contracts. A margin deposit acts to assure the trader’s performance of the futures contracts purchased or sold. Futures contracts are customarily bought and sold on initial margin that represents a very small percentage of the aggregate purchase or sales price of the contract. Because of such low margin requirements, price fluctuations occurring in the futures markets may create profits and losses that, in relation to the amount invested, are greater than are customary in other forms of investment or speculation. As discussed below, adverse price changes in the futures contract may result in margin requirements that greatly exceed the initial margin. In addition, the amount of margin required in connection with a particular futures contract is set from time to time by the exchange on which the contract is traded and may be modified from time to time by the exchange during the term of the contract. Brokerage firms, such as the Fund’s clearing brokers, carrying accounts for traders in commodity interest contracts generally require higher amounts of margin as a matter of policy to further protect themselves. Over-the-counter trading generally involves the extension of credit between counterparties, so the counterparties may agree to require the posting of collateral by one or both parties to address credit exposure.

 

When a trader purchases an option, there is no margin requirement; however, the option premium must be paid in full. When a trader sells an option, on the other hand, he or she is required to deposit margin in an amount determined by the margin requirements established for the underlying interest and, in addition, an amount substantially equal to the current premium for the option. The margin requirements imposed on the selling of options, although adjusted to reflect the probability that out-of-the-money options will not be exercised, can in fact be higher than those imposed in dealing in the futures markets directly. Complicated margin requirements apply to spreads and conversions, which are complex trading strategies in which a trader acquires a mixture of options positions and positions in the underlying interest.

 

Ongoing or “maintenance” margin requirements are computed each day by a trader’s clearing broker. When the market value of a particular open futures contract changes to a point where the margin on deposit does not satisfy maintenance margin requirements, a margin call is made by the broker. If the margin call is not met within a reasonable time, the broker may close out the trader’s position. With respect to the Fund’s trading, the Fund (and not its shareholders personally) is subject to margin calls.

 

Finally, many major U.S. exchanges have passed certain cross margining arrangements involving procedures pursuant to which the futures and options positions held in an account would, in the case of some accounts, be aggregated and margin requirements would be assessed on a portfolio basis, measuring the total risk of the combined positions.

Calculation of Net Asset Value

Calculation of Net Asset Value

 

The Fund’s NAV is calculated by:

 

  Taking the current market value of its total assets and

 

  Subtracting any liabilities.

 

The administrator, USBFS, calculates the NAV of the Fund once each trading day. It calculates the NAV as of the earlier of the close of the NYSE or 4:00 p.m. New York time. The NAV for a particular trading day is released after 4:15 p.m. New York time.

 

In determining the value of Sugar Futures Contracts, the administrator uses the ICE closing price. The administrator determines the value of all other Fund investments as of the earlier of the close of the NYSE or 4:00 p.m. New York time. The value of over-the-counter sugar interests is determined based on the value of the commodity or futures contract underlying such sugar interest, except that a fair value may be determined if the Sponsor believes that the Fund is subject to significant credit risk relating to the counterparty to such sugar interest. For purposes of financial statements and reports, the Sponsor will recalculate the NAV where necessary to reflect the “fair value” of a Futures Contract when the Futures Contract closes at its price fluctuation limit for the day. Treasury securities held by the Fund are valued by the administrator using values received from recognized third-party vendors and dealer quotes. NAV includes any unrealized profit or loss on open sugar interests and any other income or expense accruing to the Fund but unpaid or not received by the Fund.

Sponsor Fee and Allocation of Expenses

Sponsor Fee, Allocation of Expenses and Related Party Transactions

 

The Sponsor is responsible for investing the assets of the Fund in accordance with the objectives and policies of the Fund. In addition, the Sponsor arranges for one or more third parties to provide administrative, custodial, accounting, transfer agency and other necessary services to the Trust and the Funds. In addition, the Sponsor elected not to outsource services directly attributable to the Trust and the Funds such as accounting, financial reporting, regulatory compliance and trading activities. In addition, the Fund is contractually obligated to pay a monthly management fee to the Sponsor, based on average daily net assets, at a rate equal to 1.00% per annum.

 

The Fund generally pays for all brokerage fees, taxes and other expenses, including licensing fees for the use of intellectual property, registration or other fees paid to the SEC, FINRA, formerly the National Association of Securities Dealers, or any other regulatory agency in connection with the offer and sale of subsequent Shares after its initial registration and all legal, accounting, printing and other expenses associated therewith. The Fund also pays its portion of the fees and expenses associated with the Trust’s tax accounting and reporting requirements. Certain aggregate expenses common to all Funds within the Trust are allocated by the Sponsor to the respective funds based on activity drivers deemed most appropriate by the Sponsor for such expenses, including but not limited to relative assets under management and creation and redeem order activity.

 

These aggregate common expenses include, but are not limited to, legal, auditing, accounting and financial reporting, tax-preparation, regulatory compliance, trading activities, and insurance costs, as well as fees paid to the Distributor, which are included in the related line item in the statements of operations. A portion of these aggregate common expenses are related to the Sponsor or related parties of principals of the Sponsor; these are necessary services to the Funds, which are primarily the cost of performing accounting and financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and trading activities that are directly attributable to the Fund. For the years ended December 31, the Fund recognized $102,601 in 2016, $47,236 in 2015 and $25,911 in 2014, respectively, such expenses, which are primarily included as distribution and marketing fees on the statements of operations; of these amounts, $71,311 in 2016, $33,483 in 2015 and $25,845 in 2014 were waived by the Sponsor. All asset-based fees and expenses for the Funds are calculated on the prior day’s net assets.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2016, there were $148,281 of expenses that were identified on the statements of operations of the Fund as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015, there were $256,227 of expenses that were identified on the statements of operations of the Fund as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2014, there were $119,696 of expenses that were identified on the statements of operations of the Fund as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period.

Use of Estimates

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of the revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Fair Value - Definition and Hierarchy

Fair Value - Definition and Hierarchy

 

In accordance with U.S. GAAP, fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e., the “exit price”) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.

 

In determining fair value, the Fund uses various valuation approaches. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, a fair value hierarchy for inputs is used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are those that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Fund. Unobservable inputs reflect the Fund’s assumptions about the inputs market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability developed based on the best information available in the circumstances. The fair value hierarchy is categorized into three levels based on the inputs as follows:

 

Level 1 - Valuations based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Fund has the ability to access. Valuation adjustments and block discounts are not applied to Level 1 financial instruments. Since valuations are based on quoted prices that are readily and regularly available in an active market, valuation of these financial instruments does not entail a significant degree of judgment.

 

Level 2 - Valuations based on quoted prices in markets that are not active or for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.

 

Level 3 - Valuations based on inputs that are unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement.

 

The availability of valuation techniques and observable inputs can vary from financial instrument to financial instrument and is affected by a wide variety of factors including, the type of financial instrument, whether the financial instrument is new and not yet established in the marketplace, and other characteristics particular to the transaction. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Those estimated values do not necessarily represent the amounts that may be ultimately realized due to the occurrence of future circumstances that cannot be reasonably determined. Because of the inherent uncertainty of valuation, those estimated values may be materially higher or lower than the values that would have been used had a ready market for the financial instruments existed. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised by the Fund in determining fair value is greatest for financial instruments categorized in Level 3. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the level in the fair value hierarchy, within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls, is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

 

Fair value is a market-based measure considered from the perspective of a market participant rather than an entity-specific measure. Therefore, even when market assumptions are not readily available, the Fund’s own assumptions are set to reflect those that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. The Fund uses prices and inputs that are current as of the measurement date, including periods of market dislocation. In periods of market dislocation, the observability of prices and inputs may be reduced for many financial instruments. This condition could cause a financial instrument to be reclassified to a lower level within the fair value hierarchy. When such a situation exists on a quarter close, the Sponsor will calculate the NAV on a particular day using the Level 1 valuation, but will later recalculate the NAV for the impacted Fund based upon the valuation inputs from these alternative verifiable sources (Level 2 or Level 3) and will report such NAV in its applicable financial statements and reports.

 

On December 31, 2016 and 2015, in the opinion of the Trust and the Fund, the reported value of the Sugar Futures Contracts traded on the ICE fairly reflected the value of the Sugar Futures Contracts held by the Fund, and no adjustments were necessary. The determination is made as of the settlement of the futures contracts on the last day of trading for the reporting period. In making the determination of a Level 1 or Level 2 transfer, the Fund considers the average volume of the specific underlying futures contracts traded on the relevant exchange for the years being reported.

 

For the years ended December 31, 2016 and 2015, the Fund did not have any significant transfers between any of the levels of the fair value hierarchy.

 

The Fund records its derivative activities at fair value. Gains and losses from derivative contracts are included in the statements of operations. Derivative contracts include futures contracts related to commodity prices. Futures, which are listed on a national securities exchange, such as the CBOT and the ICE, or reported on another national market, are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. OTC derivatives contracts (such as forward and swap contracts) which may be valued using models, depending on whether significant inputs are observable or unobservable, are categorized in Levels 2 or 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Expenses

Expenses

 

Expenses are recorded using the accrual method of accounting.

Net Income (Loss) per Share

Net Income (Loss) per Share

 

Net income (loss) per Share is the difference between the NAV per unit at the beginning of each period and at the end of each period. The weighted average number of Shares outstanding was computed for purposes of disclosing net income (loss) per weighted average Share. The weighted average Shares are equal to the number of Shares outstanding at the end of the period, adjusted proportionately for Shares created or redeemed based on the amount of time the Shares were outstanding during such period.

New Accounting Pronouncements

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-19, “Technical Corrections and Improvements”. The amendments in this update represent changes to clarify, correct errors, or make minor improvements to the Accounting Standards Codification. The amendments make the Accounting Standards Codification easier to understand and easier to apply by eliminating inconsistencies and providing clarifications. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods with those fiscal years, for all entities beginning after December 15, 2016. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-18, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230)”. The amendments in this update require that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Therefore, amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. This update is not expected to have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund. The Sponsor believes there will be a change in presentation of restricted cash on the statements of cash flows.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-17, “Consolidation (Topic 810): Interests Held through Related Parties That are under Common Control”. The amendments in this update alters how a decision maker needs to consider indirect interests in a variable interest entity (VIE) held through an entity under common control. The new guidance amends ASU 2015-02, Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis, issued in February 2015. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-15, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments”. The amendments provide cash flow statement classification guidance. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. The Trust and the Funds are currently evaluating the impact on the financial statements and disclosures. The Trust and the Fund do not expect to adopt the guidance until the effective date.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2014-09 in May 2014, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606),” which replaces the revenue recognition requirements of “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605).” This ASU is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods and services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This ASU provides new and more detailed guidance on specific topics and expands and improves disclosures about revenue. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14 which defers the effective date of ASU 2014-09 by one year to fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. ASU 2015-14 also permits early adoption of ASU 2014-09, but not before the original effective date, which was for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016. The Trust and the Fund record income or loss from the recognition and measurement of futures contracts and from interest income under Subtopic 825-10.  Revenue from financial instruments which are valued under Subtopic 825 will not be subject to the application of ASU 2014-09 and 2015-14. Therefore, these standards will not apply or have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-11, “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605) and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Rescission of SEC Guidance Because of Accounting Standards Updates 2014-09 and 2014-16 Pursuant to Staff Announcements at the March 3, 2016 EITF Meeting”. The amendments make targeted improvements to clarify the principal versus agent assessment and are intended to make the guidance more operable and lead to more consistent application. The Trust and the Fund record income or loss from the recognition and measurement of futures contracts and from interest income under Subtopic 825-10.  Revenue from financial instruments which are valued under Subtopic 825 will not be subject to the application of ASU 2016-11. Therefore, this standard will not apply or have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842).” The amendments in this update increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. This update is not expected to have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-01, “Financial Instruments-Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” The amendments in this update are intended to improve the recognitions measurement and disclosure of financial instruments. The amendments to this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. These amendments are required to be applied prospectively. The Trust and the Fund are currently evaluating the impact on the financial statements and disclosures; but based on our review to date we do not expect the update will have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-10, “Technical Corrections and Improvements.” The amendments in this update represent changes to clarify the Codification, correct unintended application of guidance, or make minor improvements to the Codification that are not expected to have a significant effect on current accounting practice or create a significant administrative cost to most entities. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-07, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosures for Investments in Certain Entities That Calculate Net Asset Value per Share (or Its Equivalent).” The ASU amends ASC 820 to create a practical expedient to measure the fair value of investments in certain entities that do not have a quoted market price but calculate net asset value per share or its equivalent. In addition, the amendments to ASC 820 provide guidance on classifying investments that are measured using the practical expedient in the fair value hierarchy and require specific disclosures for eligible investments, regardless of whether the practical expedient has been applied. The amendments in this Update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. These amendments are required to be applied retrospectively to all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-06, “Earnings per Share (Topic 260): Effects on Historical Earnings per Unit of Master Limited Partnership Dropdown Transactions.” The amendments specify how earnings (losses) of a transferred business before the date of a dropdown transaction should be allocated to the various interest holders in a master limited partnership for purposes of calculating earning per unit under the two-class method. The amendments to this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The amendments are required to be applied retrospectively for all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-02, “Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis.” The amendments are intended to improve targeted areas of consolidation guidance for legal entities such as limited partnerships, limited liability corporations, and securitization structures. The amendments to this update are effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2015. These amendments are required to be applied retrospectively for all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2014-08, “Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity.” The amendments in this update change the requirements for reporting discontinued operations in Subtopic 2015-20. A significant provision of ASU 2014-08 calls for reporting as discontinued operations only those disposals that represent a strategic shift or have a major impact on the entity’s financial results and operations. The Company elected to early adopt this ASU for the year ended December 31, 2014, the adoption did not have a significant impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Fund.

Teucrium Wheat Fund [Member]  
Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) as detailed in the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s Accounting Standards Codification.

Reclassifications

Revenue Recognition

 

Commodity futures contracts are recorded on the trade date. All such transactions are recorded on the identified cost basis and marked to market daily. Unrealized appreciation or depreciation on commodity futures contracts are reflected in the statements of assets and liabilities as the difference between the original contract amount and the fair market value as of the last business day of the year or as of the last date of the financial statements. Changes in the appreciation or depreciation between periods are reflected in the statements of operations. Interest on cash equivalents and deposits with the Futures Commission Merchant are recognized on the accrual basis. The Fund earns interest on its assets denominated in U.S. dollars on deposit with the Futures Commission Merchant. In addition, the Fund earns interest on funds held at the custodian at prevailing market rates for such investments.

Brokerage Commissions

Brokerage Commissions

 

Brokerage commissions on all open commodity futures contracts are accrued on the trade date and on a full-turn basis.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

 

For tax purposes, the Fund will be treated as a partnership. The Fund does not record a provision for income taxes because the shareholders report their share of the Fund’s income or loss on their income tax returns. The financial statements reflect the Fund’s transactions without adjustment, if any, required for income tax purposes.

 

The Fund is required to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by the applicable taxing authority, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Fund files an income tax return in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, and may file income tax returns in various U.S. states and foreign jurisdictions. For all tax years 2013 to 2016, the Fund remains subject to income tax examinations by major taxing authorities. The tax benefit recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that has a greater than fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. De-recognition of a tax benefit previously recognized results in the Fund recording a tax liability that reduces net assets. Based on its analysis, the Fund has determined that it has not incurred any liability for unrecognized tax benefits as of and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2013. However, the Fund’s conclusions regarding this policy may be subject to review and adjustment at a later date based on factors including, but not limited to, ongoing analysis of and changes to tax laws, regulations, and interpretations thereof.

 

The Fund recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax fees payable, if assessed. No interest expense or penalties have been recognized as of and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

The Fund may be subject to potential examination by U.S. federal, U.S. state, or foreign jurisdictional authorities in the area of income taxes. These potential examinations may include questioning the timing and amount of deductions, the nexus of income among various tax jurisdictions, and compliance with U.S. federal, U.S. state and foreign tax laws. The Fund’s management does not expect that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits will materially change over the next twelve months.

Creations and Redemptions

Creations and Redemptions

 

Authorized Purchasers may purchase Creation Baskets consisting of 25,000 shares from the Fund. The amount of the proceeds required to purchase a Creation Basket will be equal to the NAV of the shares in the Creation Basket determined as of 4:00 p.m. New York time on the day the order to create the basket is properly received.

 

Authorized Purchasers may redeem shares from the Fund only in blocks of 25,000 shares called “Redemption Baskets.” The amount of the redemption proceeds for a Redemption Basket will be equal to the NAV of the shares in the Redemption Basket determined as of 4:00 p.m. New York time on the day the order to redeem the basket is properly received.

 

The Fund receives or pays the proceeds from shares sold or redeemed within three business days after the trade date of the purchase or redemption. The amounts due from Authorized Purchasers are reflected in the Fund’s statements of assets and liabilities as receivable for shares sold. Amounts payable to Authorized Purchasers upon redemption are reflected in the Fund’s statements of assets and liabilities as payable for shares redeemed.

 

As outlined in the most recent Form S-1 filing, 50,000 shares represents two Redemption Baskets for the Fund and a minimum level of shares.

Allocation of Shareholder Income and Losses

Allocation of Shareholder Income and Losses

 

Profit or loss is allocated among the shareholders of the Fund in proportion to the number of shares each shareholder holds as of the close of each month.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

Cash equivalents are highly-liquid investments with maturity dates of 90 days or less when acquired. The Fund reported its cash equivalents in the statements of assets and liabilities at market value, or at carrying amounts that approximate fair value, because of their highly-liquid nature and short-term maturities. The Fund has these balances of its assets on deposit with banks. The Fund had a balance of $406,927 and $1,179,336 in money market funds at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively; these balances are included in cash and cash equivalents on the statements of assets and liabilities. Effective in the second quarter 2015, the Sponsor invested a portion of the available cash for the Fund in alternative demand-deposit savings accounts, which is classified as cash and not as a cash equivalent. The Fund had a balance of $58,526,678 in a demand-deposit savings account on December 31, 2016. This change resulted in a reduction in the balance held in money market funds. Assets deposited with financial institutions, at times, exceed federally insured limits.

Restricted Cash

Restricted Cash

 

On August 17, 2015 (the “Conversion Date”), U.S. Bank N.A. replaced The Bank of New York Mellon as the Custodian for the Funds.  Per the amended agreement between the Sponsor and The Bank of New York Mellon dated August 14, 2015, certain cash amounts for each Fund, except in the case of TAGS, are to remain at The Bank of New York Mellon until amounts for services and early termination fees are paid.  The amended agreement allows for payments for such amounts owed to be made through December 31, 2017. Cash balances that are held in custody at The Bank of New York Mellon under this amended agreement are reflected on the statements of assets and liabilities of the Fund and the Trust as restricted cash.

Due from/to Broker

Due from/to Broker

 

The amount recorded by the Fund for the amount due from and to the clearing broker includes, but is not limited to, cash held by the broker, amounts payable to the clearing broker related to open transactions and payables for commodities futures accounts liquidating to an equity balance on the clearing broker’s records.

 

Margin is the minimum amount of funds that must be deposited by a commodity interest trader with the trader’s broker to initiate and maintain an open position in futures contracts. A margin deposit acts to assure the trader’s performance of the futures contracts purchased or sold. Futures contracts are customarily bought and sold on initial margin that represents a very small percentage of the aggregate purchase or sales price of the contract. Because of such low margin requirements, price fluctuations occurring in the futures markets may create profits and losses that, in relation to the amount invested, are greater than are customary in other forms of investment or speculation. As discussed below, adverse price changes in the futures contract may result in margin requirements that greatly exceed the initial margin. In addition, the amount of margin required in connection with a particular futures contract is set from time to time by the exchange on which the contract is traded and may be modified from time to time by the exchange during the term of the contract. Brokerage firms, such as the Fund’s clearing brokers, carrying accounts for traders in commodity interest contracts generally require higher amounts of margin as a matter of policy to further protect themselves. Over-the-counter trading generally involves the extension of credit between counterparties, so the counterparties may agree to require the posting of collateral by one or both parties to address credit exposure.

 

When a trader purchases an option, there is no margin requirement; however, the option premium must be paid in full. When a trader sells an option, on the other hand, he or she is required to deposit margin in an amount determined by the margin requirements established for the underlying interest and, in addition, an amount substantially equal to the current premium for the option. The margin requirements imposed on the selling of options, although adjusted to reflect the probability that out-of-the-money options will not be exercised, can in fact be higher than those imposed in dealing in the futures markets directly. Complicated margin requirements apply to spreads and conversions, which are complex trading strategies in which a trader acquires a mixture of options positions and positions in the underlying interest.

 

Ongoing or “maintenance” margin requirements are computed each day by a trader’s clearing broker. When the market value of a particular open futures contract changes to a point where the margin on deposit does not satisfy maintenance margin requirements, a margin call is made by the broker. If the margin call is not met within a reasonable time, the broker may close out the trader’s position. With respect to the Fund’s trading, the Fund (and not its shareholders personally) is subject to margin calls.

 

Finally, many major U.S. exchanges have passed certain cross margining arrangements involving procedures pursuant to which the futures and options positions held in an account would, in the case of some accounts, be aggregated and margin requirements would be assessed on a portfolio basis, measuring the total risk of the combined positions.

Calculation of Net Asset Value

Calculation of Net Asset Value

 

The Fund’s NAV is calculated by:

 

  Taking the current market value of its total assets and

 

  Subtracting any liabilities.

 

The administrator, USBFS, calculates the NAV of the Fund once each trading day. It calculates the NAV as of the earlier of the close of the NYSE or 4:00 p.m. New York time. The NAV for a particular trading day is released after 4:15 p.m. New York time.

 

In determining the value of Wheat Futures Contracts, the administrator uses the CBOT closing price. The administrator determines the value of all other Fund investments as of the earlier of the close of the NYSE or 4:00 p.m. New York time. The value of over-the-counter wheat interests is determined based on the value of the commodity or futures contract underlying such wheat interest, except that a fair value may be determined if the Sponsor believes that the Fund is subject to significant credit risk relating to the counterparty to such wheat interest. For purposes of financial statements and reports, the Sponsor will recalculate the NAV where necessary to reflect the “fair value” of a Futures Contract when the Futures Contract closes at its price fluctuation limit for the day. Treasury securities held by the Fund are valued by the administrator using values received from recognized third-party vendors and dealer quotes. NAV includes any unrealized profit or loss on open wheat interests and any other income or expense accruing to the Fund but unpaid or not received by the Fund.

Sponsor Fee, Allocation of Expenses and Related Party Transactions

Sponsor Fee, Allocation of Expenses and Related Party Transactions

 

The Sponsor is responsible for investing the assets of the Fund in accordance with the objectives and policies of the Fund. In addition, the Sponsor arranges for one or more third parties to provide administrative, custodial, accounting, transfer agency and other necessary services to the Trust and the Funds. In addition, the Sponsor elected not to outsource services directly attributable to the Trust and the Funds such as accounting, financial reporting, regulatory compliance and trading activities. In addition, the Fund is contractually obligated to pay a monthly management fee to the Sponsor, based on average daily net assets, at a rate equal to 1.00% per annum. 

 

The Fund generally pays for all brokerage fees, taxes and other expenses, including licensing fees for the use of intellectual property, registration or other fees paid to the SEC, FINRA, formerly the National Association of Securities Dealers, or any other regulatory agency in connection with the offer and sale of subsequent Shares after its initial registration and all legal, accounting, printing and other expenses associated therewith. The Fund also pays its portion of the fees and expenses associated with the Trust’s tax accounting and reporting requirements. Certain aggregate expenses common to all Funds within the Trust are allocated by the Sponsor to the respective funds based on activity drivers deemed most appropriate by the Sponsor for such expenses, including but not limited to relative assets under management and creation and redeem order activity.

 

These aggregate common expenses include, but are not limited to, legal, auditing, accounting and financial reporting, tax-preparation, regulatory compliance, trading activities, and insurance costs, as well as fees paid to the Distributor, which are included in the related line item in the statements of operations. A portion of these aggregate common expenses are related to the Sponsor or related parties of principals of the Sponsor; these are necessary services to the Funds, which are primarily the cost of performing accounting and financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and trading activities that are directly attributable to the Fund. For the years ended December 31, the Fund recognized $602,637 in 2016, $382,178 in 2015 and $193,111 in 2014, respectively, such expenses, which are primarily recorded in distribution and marketing fees on the statements of operations; of these amounts $87,767 in 2016, $22,364 in 2015 and $5,100 in 2014 were waived by the Sponsor. All asset-based fees and expenses for the Funds are calculated on the prior day’s net assets.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2016, there were $140,028 of expenses that were identified on the statements of operations of the Fund as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period. 

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015 there were $130,716 of expenses that were identified on the statements of operations of the Fund as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period. 

 

For the year ended December 31, 2014, there were $31,697 of expenses that were identified on the statements of operations of the Fund as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period. 

 

For the year ended December 31, 2013, there were $69,416 of expenses recorded in the financial statements of the Sponsor which were subject to reimbursement by WEAT in 2014. At that time, the Sponsor had determined that recovery of the expense amounts was not probable. In 2014, asset growth and other changes experienced by WEAT enabled the Sponsor to claim reimbursement of $46,302 from the Fund. This amount is reflected in the statements of operations as a reimbursement of previously waived expenses.

Use of Estimates

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of the revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Fair Value - Definition and Hierarchy

Fair Value - Definition and Hierarchy

 

In accordance with U.S. GAAP, fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e., the “exit price”) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.

 

In determining fair value, the Fund uses various valuation approaches. In accordance with U.S. GAAP, a fair value hierarchy for inputs is used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are those that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Fund. Unobservable inputs reflect the Fund’s assumptions about the inputs market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability developed based on the best information available in the circumstances. The fair value hierarchy is categorized into three levels based on the inputs as follows:

 

Level 1 - Valuations based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Fund has the ability to access. Valuation adjustments and block discounts are not applied to Level 1 financial instruments. Since valuations are based on quoted prices that are readily and regularly available in an active market, valuation of these financial instruments does not entail a significant degree of judgment.

 

Level 2 - Valuations based on quoted prices in markets that are not active or for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.

 

Level 3 - Valuations based on inputs that are unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement.

 

The availability of valuation techniques and observable inputs can vary from financial instrument to financial instrument and is affected by a wide variety of factors including, the type of financial instrument, whether the financial instrument is new and not yet established in the marketplace, and other characteristics particular to the transaction. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Those estimated values do not necessarily represent the amounts that may be ultimately realized due to the occurrence of future circumstances that cannot be reasonably determined. Because of the inherent uncertainty of valuation, those estimated values may be materially higher or lower than the values that would have been used had a ready market for the financial instruments existed. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised by the Fund in determining fair value is greatest for financial instruments categorized in Level 3. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the level in the fair value hierarchy, within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls, is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

 

Fair value is a market-based measure considered from the perspective of a market participant rather than an entity-specific measure. Therefore, even when market assumptions are not readily available, the Fund’s own assumptions are set to reflect those that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. The Fund uses prices and inputs that are current as of the measurement date, including periods of market dislocation. In periods of market dislocation, the observability of prices and inputs may be reduced for many financial instruments. This condition could cause a financial instrument to be reclassified to a lower level within the fair value hierarchy. When such a situation exists on a quarter close, the Sponsor will calculate the NAV on a particular day using the Level 1 valuation, but will later recalculate the NAV for the impacted Fund based upon the valuation inputs from these alternative verifiable sources (Level 2 or Level 3) and will report such NAV in its applicable financial statements and reports.

 

The determination is made as of the settlement of the futures contracts on the last day of trading for the reporting period. In making the determination of a Level 1 or Level 2 transfer, the Fund considers the average volume of the specific underlying futures contracts traded on the relevant exchange for the years being reported.

 

On December 31, 2016 and 2015, in the opinion of the Trust and the Fund, the reported value of the Wheat Futures Contracts traded on the CBOT fairly reflected the value of the Wheat Futures Contracts held by the Fund, and no adjustments were necessary. The determination is made as of the settlement of the futures contracts on the last day of trading for the reporting period. In making the determination of a Level 1 or Level 2 transfer, the Fund considers the average volume of the specific underlying futures contracts traded on the relevant exchange for the years being reported.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2016, the Fund did not have any significant transfers between any of the levels of the fair value hierarchy.

 

For the quarter ended June 30, 2015, Wheat Futures Contracts traded on the CBOT due to settle on December 14, 2016 (the “DEC16 Wheat Contracts”) did not, in the opinion of the Trust and WEAT, trade in an actively traded futures market as defined in the policy of the Trust and WEAT for the entire period during which they were held. Accordingly, the Trust and WEAT classified these as a Level 2 asset, The DEC16 Wheat Contracts were, in the opinion of the Trust and WEAT, fairly valued at settlement on June 30, 2015. The value of the contracts were $1,178,088, the balance transferred back to a Level 1 asset for the quarter ended September 30, 2015.

 

The Fund records its derivative activities at fair value. Gains and losses from derivative contracts are included in the statements of operations. Derivative contracts include futures contracts related to commodity prices. Futures, which are listed on a national securities exchange, such as the CBOT and the ICE, or reported on another national market, are generally categorized in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. OTC derivatives contracts (such as forward and swap contracts) which may be valued using models, depending on whether significant inputs are observable or unobservable, are categorized in Levels 2 or 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Expenses

Expenses

 

Expenses are recorded using the accrual method of accounting.

Net Income (Loss) per Share

Net Income (Loss) per Share

 

Net income (loss) per Share is the difference between the NAV per unit at the beginning of each period and at the end of each period. The weighted average number of Shares outstanding was computed for purposes of disclosing net income (loss) per weighted average Share. The weighted average Shares are equal to the number of Shares outstanding at the end of the period, adjusted proportionately for Shares created or redeemed based on the amount of time the Shares were outstanding during such period.

New Accounting Pronouncements

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-19, “Technical Corrections and Improvements”. The amendments in this update represent changes to clarify, correct errors, or make minor improvements to the Accounting Standards Codification. The amendments make the Accounting Standards Codification easier to understand and easier to apply by eliminating inconsistencies and providing clarifications. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods with those fiscal years, for all entities beginning after December 15, 2016. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-18, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230)”. The amendments in this update require that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Therefore, amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. This update is not expected to have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund. The Sponsor believes there will be a change in presentation of restricted cash on the statements of cash flows.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-17, “Consolidation (Topic 810): Interests Held through Related Parties That are under Common Control”. The amendments in this update alters how a decision maker needs to consider indirect interests in a variable interest entity (VIE) held through an entity under common control. The new guidance amends ASU 2015-02, Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis, issued in February 2015. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-15, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments”. The amendments provide cash flow statement classification guidance. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. The Trust and the Fund are currently evaluating the impact on the financial statements and disclosures. The Trust and the Fund do not expect to adopt the guidance until the effective date.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2014-09 in May 2014, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606),” which replaces the revenue recognition requirements of “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605).” This ASU is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods and services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This ASU provides new and more detailed guidance on specific topics and expands and improves disclosures about revenue. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14 which defers the effective date of ASU 2014-09 by one year to fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. ASU 2015-14 also permits early adoption of ASU 2014-09, but not before the original effective date, which was for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016. The Trust and the Fund record income or loss from the recognition and measurement of futures contracts and from interest income under Subtopic 825-10.  Revenue from financial instruments which are valued under Subtopic 825 will not be subject to the application of ASU 2014-09 and 2015-14. Therefore, these standards will not apply or have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-11, “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605) and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Rescission of SEC Guidance Because of Accounting Standards Updates 2014-09 and 2014-16 Pursuant to Staff Announcements at the March 3, 2016 EITF Meeting”. The amendments make targeted improvements to clarify the principal versus agent assessment and are intended to make the guidance more operable and lead to more consistent application. The Trust and the Fund record income or loss from the recognition and measurement of futures contracts and from interest income under Subtopic 825-10.  Revenue from financial instruments which are valued under Subtopic 825 will not be subject to the application of ASU 2016-11. Therefore, this standard will not apply or have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842).” The amendments in this update increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. This update is not expected to have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-01, “Financial Instruments-Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” The amendments in this update are intended to improve the recognitions measurement and disclosure of financial instruments. The amendments to this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. These amendments are required to be applied prospectively. The Trust and the Fund are currently evaluating the impact on the financial statements and disclosures; but based on our review to date we do not expect the update will have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-10, “Technical Corrections and Improvements.” The amendments in this update represent changes to clarify the Codification, correct unintended application of guidance, or make minor improvements to the Codification that are not expected to have a significant effect on current accounting practice or create a significant administrative cost to most entities. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-07, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosures for Investments in Certain Entities That Calculate Net Asset Value per Share (or Its Equivalent).” The ASU amends ASC 820 to create a practical expedient to measure the fair value of investments in certain entities that do not have a quoted market price but calculate net asset value per share or its equivalent. In addition, the amendments to ASC 820 provide guidance on classifying investments that are measured using the practical expedient in the fair value hierarchy and require specific disclosures for eligible investments, regardless of whether the practical expedient has been applied. The amendments in this Update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. These amendments are required to be applied retrospectively to all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-06, “Earnings per Share (Topic 260): Effects on Historical Earnings per Unit of Master Limited Partnership Dropdown Transactions.” The amendments specify how earnings (losses) of a transferred business before the date of a dropdown transaction should be allocated to the various interest holders in a master limited partnership for purposes of calculating earning per unit under the two-class method. The amendments to this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The amendments are required to be applied retrospectively for all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-02, “Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis.” The amendments are intended to improve targeted areas of consolidation guidance for legal entities such as limited partnerships, limited liability corporations, and securitization structures. The amendments to this update are effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2015. These amendments are required to be applied retrospectively for all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2014-08, “Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity.” The amendments in this update change the requirements for reporting discontinued operations in Subtopic 2015-20. A significant provision of ASU 2014-08 calls for reporting as discontinued operations only those disposals that represent a strategic shift or have a major impact on the entity’s financial results and operations. The Company elected to early adopt this ASU for the year ended December 31, 2014, the adoption did not have a significant impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Fund.

Teucrium Agricultural Fund [Member]  
Basis of Presentation

Basis of Presentation

 

The accompanying financial statements have been prepared in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“U.S. GAAP”) as detailed in the Financial Accounting Standards Board’s Accounting Standards Codification.

Reclassifications

Reclassifications

 

Certain amounts in prior periods have been reclassified to conform to current period presentation.

Revenue Recognition

Revenue Recognition

 

Investment transactions are accounted for on a trade-date basis. All such transactions are recorded on the identified cost basis and marked to market daily. Unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments are reflected in the statements of assets and liabilities as the difference between the original amount and the fair market value as of the last business day of the year or as of the last date of the financial statements. Changes in the appreciation or depreciation between periods are reflected in the statements of operations.

Brokerage Commissions

Brokerage Commissions

 

Brokerage commissions are accrued on the trade date and on a full-turn basis.

Income Taxes

Income Taxes

 

The Fund will be treated as a partnership for United States federal income tax purposes. The Fund does not record a provision for income taxes because the shareholders report their share of the Fund’s income or loss on their income tax returns. The financial statements reflect the Fund’s transactions without adjustment, if any, required for income tax purposes.

 

The Fund is required to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination by the applicable taxing authority, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Fund files an income tax return in the U.S. federal jurisdiction, and may file income tax returns in various U.S. states and foreign jurisdictions. For all tax years 2013 to 2016, the Fund remains subject to income tax examinations by major taxing authorities. The tax benefit recognized is measured as the largest amount of benefit that has a greater than fifty percent likelihood of being realized upon ultimate settlement. De-recognition of a tax benefit previously recognized results in the Fund recording a tax liability that reduces net assets. This policy has been applied to all existing tax positions upon the Fund’s initial adoption. Based on its analysis, the Fund has determined that it has not incurred any liability for unrecognized tax benefits as of and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015, 2014 and 2013. However, the Fund’s conclusions regarding this policy may be subject to review and adjustment at a later date based on factors including, but not limited to, ongoing analysis of and changes to tax laws, regulations, and interpretations thereof.

 

The Fund recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits and penalties related to unrecognized tax benefits in income tax fees payable, if assessed. No interest expense or penalties have been recognized as of and for the years ended December 31, 2016, 2015 and 2014.

 

The Fund may be subject to potential examination by U.S. federal, U.S. state, or foreign jurisdictional authorities in the area of income taxes. These potential examinations may include questioning the timing and amount of deductions, the nexus of income among various tax jurisdictions, and compliance with U.S. federal, U.S. state and foreign tax laws. The Fund’s management does not expect that the total amount of unrecognized tax benefits will materially change over the next twelve months.

Creations and Redemptions

Creations and Redemptions

 

Authorized Purchasers may purchase Creation Baskets consisting of 25,000 shares from the Fund. The amount of the proceeds required to purchase a Creation Basket will be equal to the NAV of the shares in the Creation Basket determined as of 4:00 p.m. New York time on the day the order to create the basket is properly received.

 

Authorized Purchasers may redeem shares from the Fund only in blocks of 25,000 shares called “Redemption Baskets.” The amount of the redemption proceeds for a Redemption Basket will be equal to the NAV of the shares in the Redemption Basket determined as of 4:00 p.m. New York time on the day the order to redeem the basket is properly received.

 

The Fund will receive the proceeds from shares sold or will pay for redeemed shares within three business days after the trade date of the purchase or redemption, respectively. The amounts due from Authorized Purchasers will be reflected in the Fund’s statements of assets and liabilities as receivable for shares sold. Amounts payable to Authorized Purchasers upon redemption will be reflected in the Fund’s statements of assets and liabilities as payable for shares redeemed.

 

As outlined in the most recent Form S-1 filing, 50,000 shares represents two Redemption Baskets for the Fund and a minimum level of shares.

 

Effective August 2, 2012, the Fund was at 50,002 shares outstanding which represents a minimum number of shares and there can be no further redemptions until additional shares are created.

Allocation of Shareholder Income and Losses

Allocation of Shareholder Income and Losses

 

Profit or loss is allocated among the shareholders of the Fund in proportion to the number of shares each shareholder holds as of the close of each month.

Cash and Cash Equivalents

Cash Equivalents

 

Cash equivalents are highly-liquid investments with maturity dates of 90 days or less when acquired. The Fund reported its cash equivalents in the statements of assets and liabilities at market value, or at carrying amounts that approximate fair value, because of their highly-liquid nature and short-term maturities. The Fund has these balances of its assets on deposit with banks. Assets deposited with the bank may, at times, exceed federally insured limits. TAGS had a balance of $2,360 and $1,815 in money market funds at December 31, 2016 and December 31, 2015, respectively; these balances are included in cash equivalents on the statements of assets and liabilities.

Calculation of Net Asset Value

Calculation of Net Asset Value

 

The Fund’s NAV is calculated by:

 

  Taking the current market value of its total assets and

 

  Subtracting any liabilities.

 

The administrator, USBFS, will calculate the NAV of the Fund once each trading day. It will calculate the NAV as of the earlier of the close of the New York Stock Exchange or 4:00 p.m. New York time. The NAV for a particular trading day will be released after 4:15 p.m. New York time.

 

For purposes of the determining the Fund’s NAV, the Fund’s investments in the Underlying Funds will be valued based on the Underlying Funds’ NAVs. In turn, in determining the value of the Futures Contracts held by the Underlying Funds, the Administrator will use the closing price on the exchange on which they are traded. The Administrator will determine the value of all other Fund and Underlying Fund investments as of the earlier of the close of the New York Stock Exchange or 4:00 p.m. New York time, in accordance with the current Services Agreement between the Administrator and the Trust. The value of over-the-counter Commodity Interests will be determined based on the value of the commodity or Futures Contract underlying such Commodity Interest, except that a fair value may be determined if the Sponsor believes that the Underlying Fund is subject to significant credit risk relating to the counterparty to such Commodity Interest. For purposes of financial statements and reports, the Sponsor will recalculate the NAV of an Underlying Fund where necessary to reflect the “fair value” of a Futures Contract held by an Underlying Fund when a Futures Contract held by an Underlying Fund closes at its price fluctuation limit for the day. Treasury Securities held by the Fund or Underlying Funds will be valued by the Administrator using values received from recognized third-party vendors (such as Reuters) and dealer quotes. NAV will include any unrealized profit or loss on open Commodity Interests and any other credit or debit accruing to the Fund but unpaid or not received by the Fund.

Payable/Receivable for Securities Purchased/Sold

Payable/Receivable for Securities Purchased/Sold

 

Due from/to broker for investments in securities are securities transactions pending settlement. The Fund is subject to credit risk to the extent any broker with whom it conducts business is unable to fulfill contractual obligations on its behalf. The management of the Funds monitors the financial condition of such brokers and does not anticipate any losses from these counterparties.

Sponsor Fee, Allocation of Expenses and Related Party Transactions

Sponsor Fee, Allocation of Expenses and Related Party Transactions

 

The Fund pays no direct management fees to the Sponsor. The Underlying Funds are contractually obligated to pay a monthly management fee to the Sponsor, based on average daily net assets, at a rate equal to 1.00% per annum; these fees are recognized in the statements contained in this Form 10-K for each of the Underlying Funds. The Fund pays for all brokerage fees, taxes and other expenses, including licensing fees for the use of intellectual property, registration or other fees paid to the SEC, FINRA, formerly the National Association of Securities Dealers, or any other regulatory agency in connection with the offer and sale of subsequent Shares after its initial registration and all legal, accounting, printing and other expenses associated therewith. The Fund also pays its portion of the fees and expenses for services directly attributable to the Fund such as accounting, financial reporting, regulatory compliance and trading activities, which the Sponsor elected not to outsource. The Sponsor may, at its discretion waive the payment by the Fund of certain expenses. This election is subject to change by the Sponsor, at its discretion. Certain aggregate expenses common to all Funds within the Trust are allocated by the Sponsor to the respective funds based on activity drivers deemed most appropriate by the Sponsor for such expenses, including but not limited to relative assets under management and creation and redeem order activity.

 

These aggregate common expenses include, but are not limited to, legal, auditing, accounting and financial reporting, tax-preparation, regulatory compliance, trading activities, and insurance costs, as well as fees paid to the Distributor, which are included in the related line item in the statements of operations. A portion of these aggregate common expenses are related to the Sponsor or related parties of principals of the Sponsor; these are necessary services to the Funds, which are primarily the cost of performing accounting and financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and trading activities that are directly attributable to the Fund. The Sponsor has the ability to elect to pay certain expenses on behalf of the Fund. This election is subject to change by the Sponsor, at its discretion. For the years ended December 31, the Fund recognized $14,004 in 2016, $13,329 in 2015 and $16,234 in 2014, respectively, such expenses, which are primarily recorded in distribution and marketing fees on the statements of operations; of these amounts $11,975 in 2016, $13,329 in 2015 and $16,234 in 2014 were waived by the Sponsor. All asset-based fees and expenses for the Funds are calculated on the prior day’s net assets. The Sponsor can elect to adjust the daily expense accruals at its discretion.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2016, there were $38,459 of expenses that were identified on the statements of operations of the Fund as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2015, there were $193,063 of expenses that were identified on the statements of operations of the Fund as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period.

 

For the year ended December 31, 2014, there were $77,113 of expenses that were identified on the statements of operations of the Fund as expenses that were waived by the Sponsor. The Sponsor has determined that there would be no recovery sought for these amounts in any future period.

Use of Estimates

Use of Estimates

 

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amount of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements, and the reported amounts of the revenue and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.

Fair Value - Definition and Hierarchy

Fair Value - Definition and Hierarchy

 

In accordance with GAAP, fair value is defined as the price that would be received to sell an asset or paid to transfer a liability (i.e., the “exit price”) in an orderly transaction between market participants at the measurement date.

 

In determining fair value, the Fund uses various valuation approaches. In accordance with GAAP, a fair value hierarchy for inputs is used in measuring fair value that maximizes the use of observable inputs and minimizes the use of unobservable inputs by requiring that the most observable inputs be used when available. Observable inputs are those that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability based on market data obtained from sources independent of the Fund. Unobservable inputs reflect the Fund’s assumptions about the inputs market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability developed based on the best information available in the circumstances. The fair value hierarchy is categorized into three levels based on the inputs as follows:

 

Level 1 - Valuations based on unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Fund has the ability to access. Valuation adjustments and block discounts are not applied to Level 1 financial instruments of the Underlying Funds and securities of the Fund, together the “financial instruments”. Since valuations are based on quoted prices that are readily and regularly available in an active market, valuation of these financial instruments does not entail a significant degree of judgment.

 

Level 2 - Valuations based on quoted prices in markets that are not active or for which all significant inputs are observable, either directly or indirectly.

  

Level 3 - Valuations based on inputs that are unobservable and significant to the overall fair value measurement.

 

The availability of valuation techniques and observable inputs can vary from financial instrument to financial instrument and is affected by a wide variety of factors including, the type of financial instrument, whether the financial instrument is new and not yet established in the marketplace, and other characteristics particular to the transaction. To the extent that valuation is based on models or inputs that are less observable or unobservable in the market, the determination of fair value requires more judgment. Those estimated values do not necessarily represent the amounts that may be ultimately realized due to the occurrence of future circumstances that cannot be reasonably determined. Because of the inherent uncertainty of valuation, those estimated values may be materially higher or lower than the values that would have been used had a ready market for the financial instruments existed. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised by the Fund in determining fair value is greatest for financial instruments categorized in Level 3. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, for disclosure purposes, the level in the fair value hierarchy, within which the fair value measurement in its entirety falls, is determined based on the lowest level input that is significant to the fair value measurement.

 

Fair value is a market-based measure considered from the perspective of a market participant rather than an entity-specific measure. Therefore, even when market assumptions are not readily available, the Fund’s own assumptions are set to reflect those that market participants would use in pricing the asset or liability at the measurement date. The Fund uses prices and inputs that are current as of the measurement date, including periods of market dislocation. In periods of market dislocation, the observability of prices and inputs may be reduced for many financial instruments. This condition could cause a financial instrument to be reclassified to a lower level within the fair value hierarchy. When such a situation exists on a quarter close, the Sponsor will calculate the Net Asset Value (“NAV”) on a particular day using the Level 1 valuation, but will later recalculate the NAV for the impacted Fund based upon the valuation inputs from these alternative verifiable sources (Level 2 or Level 3) and will report such NAV in its applicable financial statements and reports.

 

The determination is made as of the settlement of the underlying futures contracts on the last day of trading for the reporting period. In making the determination of a Level 1 or Level 2 transfer, the Fund considers the average volume of the underlying futures contracts traded on the relevant exchange for the years being reported.

 

Investments in the financial instruments of the Underlying Funds are freely tradable and listed on the NYSE Arca. These investments are valued at the NAV of the Underlying Fund as of the valuation date as calculated by the administrator based on the exchange-quoted prices of the commodity futures contracts held by the Underlying Funds.

Expenses

Expenses

 

Expenses are recorded using the accrual method of accounting.

Net Income (Loss) per Share

Net Income (Loss) per Share

 

Net income (loss) per Share is the difference between the NAV per unit at the beginning of each period and at the end of each period. The weighted average number of Shares outstanding was computed for purposes of disclosing net income (loss) per weighted average Share. The weighted average Shares are equal to the number of Shares outstanding at the end of the period, adjusted proportionately for Shares created or redeemed based on the amount of time the Shares were outstanding during such period.

New Accounting Pronouncements

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2016-19, “Technical Corrections and Improvements”. The amendments in this update represent changes to clarify, correct errors, or make minor improvements to the Accounting Standards Codification. The amendments make the Accounting Standards Codification easier to understand and easier to apply by eliminating inconsistencies and providing clarifications. The amendments are effective for fiscal years, and interim periods with those fiscal years, for all entities beginning after December 15, 2016. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-18, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230)”. The amendments in this update require that a statement of cash flows explain the change during the period in the total of cash, cash equivalents, and amounts generally described as restricted cash or restricted cash equivalents. Therefore, amounts generally described as restricted cash and restricted cash equivalents should be included with cash and cash equivalents when reconciling the beginning-of-period and end-of-period total amounts shown on the statement of cash flows. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. This update is not expected to have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund. The Sponsor believes there will be a change in presentation of restricted cash on the statements of cash flows.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-17, “Consolidation (Topic 810): Interests Held through Related Parties That are under Common Control”. The amendments in this update alters how a decision maker needs to consider indirect interests in a variable interest entity (VIE) held through an entity under common control. The new guidance amends ASU 2015-02, Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis, issued in February 2015. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016, including interim periods within those fiscal years. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-15, “Statement of Cash Flows (Topic 230): Classification of Certain Cash Receipts and Cash Payments”. The amendments provide cash flow statement classification guidance. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. The Trust and the Funds are currently evaluating the impact on the financial statements and disclosures. The Trust and the Fund do not expect to adopt the guidance until the effective date.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2014-09 in May 2014, “Revenue from Contracts with Customers (Topic 606),” which replaces the revenue recognition requirements of “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605).” This ASU is based on the principle that revenue is recognized to depict the transfer of goods and services to customers in an amount that reflects the consideration to which the entity expects to be entitled in exchange for those goods or services. This ASU provides new and more detailed guidance on specific topics and expands and improves disclosures about revenue. In August 2015, the FASB issued ASU 2015-14 which defers the effective date of ASU 2014-09 by one year to fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017. ASU 2015-14 also permits early adoption of ASU 2014-09, but not before the original effective date, which was for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2016. The Fund records income or loss from the recognition and measurement based on the change in the shares held by the Underlying Funds and from interest income under Subtopic 825-10.  Revenue from financial instruments which are valued under Subtopic 825 will not be subject to the application of ASU 2014-09 and 2015-14. Therefore, these standards will not apply or have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-11, “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605) and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815): Rescission of SEC Guidance Because of Accounting Standards Updates 2014-09 and 2014-16 Pursuant to Staff Announcements at the March 3, 2016 EITF Meeting”. The amendments make targeted improvements to clarify the principal versus agent assessment and are intended to make the guidance more operable and lead to more consistent application. The Fund records income or loss from the recognition and measurement based on the change in the shares held by the Underlying Funds and from interest income under Subtopic 825-10.  Revenue from financial instruments which are valued under Subtopic 825 will not be subject to the application of ASU 2014-09 and 2015-14. Therefore, these standards will not apply or have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-02, “Leases (Topic 842).” The amendments in this update increase transparency and comparability among organizations by recognizing lease assets and lease liabilities on the balance sheet and disclosing key information about leasing arrangements. The amendments in this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. This update is not expected to have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2016-01, “Financial Instruments-Overall (Subtopic 825-10): Recognition and Measurement of Financial Assets and Financial Liabilities.” The amendments in this update are intended to improve the recognitions measurement and disclosure of financial instruments. The amendments to this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2017, and interim periods within those fiscal years. These amendments are required to be applied prospectively. The Trust and the Fund are currently evaluating the impact on the financial statements and disclosures; but based on our review to date we do not expect the update will have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-10, “Technical Corrections and Improvements.” The amendments in this update represent changes to clarify the Codification, correct unintended application of guidance, or make minor improvements to the Codification that are not expected to have a significant effect on current accounting practice or create a significant administrative cost to most entities. The amendments are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-07, “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosures for Investments in Certain Entities That Calculate Net Asset Value per Share (or Its Equivalent).” The ASU amends ASC 820 to create a practical expedient to measure the fair value of investments in certain entities that do not have a quoted market price but calculate net asset value per share or its equivalent. In addition, the amendments to ASC 820 provide guidance on classifying investments that are measured using the practical expedient in the fair value hierarchy and require specific disclosures for eligible investments, regardless of whether the practical expedient has been applied. The amendments in this Update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. These amendments are required to be applied retrospectively to all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-06, “Earnings per Share (Topic 260): Effects on Historical Earnings per Unit of Master Limited Partnership Dropdown Transactions.” The amendments specify how earnings (losses) of a transferred business before the date of a dropdown transaction should be allocated to the various interest holders in a master limited partnership for purposes of calculating earning per unit under the two-class method. The amendments to this update are effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2015, and interim periods within those fiscal years. The amendments are required to be applied retrospectively for all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2015-02, “Consolidation (Topic 810): Amendments to the Consolidation Analysis.” The amendments are intended to improve targeted areas of consolidation guidance for legal entities such as limited partnerships, limited liability corporations, and securitization structures. The amendments to this update are effective for periods beginning after December 15, 2015. These amendments are required to be applied retrospectively for all periods presented. The adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2014-08, “Presentation of Financial Statements (Topic 205) and Property, Plant, and Equipment (Topic 360): Reporting Discontinued Operations and Disclosures of Disposals of Components of an Entity.” The amendments in this update change the requirements for reporting discontinued operations in Subtopic 2015-20. A significant provision of ASU 2014-08 calls for reporting as discontinued operations only those disposals that represent a strategic shift or have a major impact on the entity’s financial results and operations. The Company elected to early adopt this ASU for the year ended December 31, 2014, the adoption did not have a significant impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Fund.