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Summary of Significant Accounting Policies
6 Months Ended
Jun. 30, 2022
Teucrium Commodity Trust - Combined [Member]  
Note 3 - Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies

Note 3 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

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. The periods represented by the financial statements herein contain the results of CORN, SOYB, CANE, WEAT, and TAGS for the months during which each Fund was in operation, except for eliminations for TAGS as explained below.

 

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 TAGS from its combined statements of assets and liabilities. The Trust eliminates the net change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on securities owned by TAGS 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 by TAGS.

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 combined statements of operations 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 combined statements of operations. Interest on cash equivalents with financial institutions are recognized on the accrual basis. The Funds earn interest on funds held at the custodian and other financial institutions at prevailing market rates for such investments.

 

The Sponsor invests a portion of cash in commercial paper, which is deemed a cash equivalent based on the rating and duration of contracts as described in the notes to the combined financial statements and reflected in cash and cash equivalents on the combined statements of assets and liabilities and on the combined statements of cash flows. Accretion on these investments is recognized using the effective interest method in U.S. dollars and included in interest income on the combined statements of operations.

 

The Sponsor invests a portion of the cash held by the broker in short term Treasury Bills as collateral for open futures contracts. Accretion on these investments is recognized using the effective interest method in U.S. dollars and included in interest income on the combined statements of operations.

 

Brokerage Commissions

 

Beginning on August 21, 2019, the Sponsor began recognizing the expense for brokerage commissions for futures contract trades on a per-trade basis. Prior to the change, brokerage commissions on all open commodity futures contracts were accrued on the trade date and on a full-turn basis. The below table shows the amounts included on the combined statements of operations as total brokerage commissions paid inclusive of unrealized loss for the three and six months ended  June 30, 2022.

 

 

 

CORN

 

 

SOYB

 

 

CANE

 

 

WEAT

 

 

TAGS

 

 

TRUST

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2022

 

$102,336

 

 

$8,686

 

 

$20,341

 

 

$198,392

 

 

$-

 

 

$329,755

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2021

 

$41,225

 

 

$6,543

 

 

$8,957

 

 

$11,048

 

 

$-

 

 

$67,773

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2022

 

$133,575

 

 

$15,206

 

 

$26,536

 

 

$279,543

 

 

$-

 

 

$454,860

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2021

 

$75,191

 

 

$21,735

 

 

$12,434

 

 

$22,523

 

 

$-

 

 

$131,883

 

 

Income Taxes

 

The Trust is organized and will be operated as a Delaware statutory trust. For federal income tax purposes, each Fund will be treated as a publicly traded partnership. A publicly traded partnership is generally treated as a corporation for federal income tax purposes unless 90% or more of the publicly traded partnership’s gross income for each taxable year of its existence consists of qualifying income as defined in section 7704(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Qualifying income is defined as generally including, in pertinent part, interest (other than from a financial business), dividends, and gains from the sale or disposition of capital assets held for the production of interest or dividends. In the case of a partnership of which a principal activity is the buying and selling of commodities, other than as inventory, or of futures, forwards and options with respect to commodities, qualifying income also includes income and gains from commodities and from futures, forwards, options with respect to commodities and, provided the partnership is a trader or investor with respect to such assets, swaps and other notional principal contracts with respect to commodities. Each Fund expects that at least 90% of the Fund’s gross income for each taxable year will consist of qualifying income and that the Fund will be taxed as a partnership for federal income tax purposes. 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 2019 to 2021, 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 June 30, 2022, and for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019. 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 three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021.

 

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.

 

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. (ET) time on the day the order to create the basket is received in good order.

 

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. (ET) on the day the order to redeem the basket is received in good order.

 

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 capital shares receivable. 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. If a Fund experienced redemptions that caused the number of Shares outstanding to decrease to the minimum level of Shares required to be outstanding, until the minimum number of Shares is again exceeded through the purchase of a new Creation Basket, there can be no more redemptions by an Authorized Purchaser. 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 4 baskets 

Cash and Cash Equivalents

 

Cash equivalents are highly liquid investments with original 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 cash equivalents on deposit with financial institutions. The Trust holds a balance in money market funds that is included in cash and cash equivalents on the combined statements of assets and liabilities. The Sponsor invests a portion of the available cash for the Funds in alternative demand deposit savings accounts, which are classified as cash and not as cash equivalents. Assets deposited with the bank may, at times, exceed federally insured limits. The Sponsor invests a portion of the available cash for the Funds in investment grade commercial paper with durations of 90 days or less, which is classified as a cash equivalent and is not FDIC insured. The Sponsor may invest a portion of the cash held by the broker in short term Treasury Bills as collateral for open futures contracts, which is classified as a cash equivalent and is not FDIC insured.

 

 

 

June 30, 2022

 

 

December 31, 2021

 

Money Market Funds

 

$330,439,866

 

 

$32,968,833

 

Demand Deposit Savings Accounts

 

 

119,427,675

 

 

 

99,262,744

 

Commercial Paper

 

 

348,918,907

 

 

 

119,980,366

 

Total cash and cash equivalents as presented on the combined Statement of Assets and Liabilities

 

$798,786,448

 

 

$252,211,943

 

 

Payable for Purchases of Commercial Paper

 

The amount recorded by the Trust for commercial paper transactions awaiting settlement represents the amount payable for contracts purchased but not yet settled as of the reporting date. The value of the contract is included in cash and cash equivalents, and the payable amount is included as a liability.

 

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, payables for commodities futures accounts liquidating to an equity balance on the clearing broker’s records, and amounts of brokerage commissions paid and recognized as unrealized losses.

 

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 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

 

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. From inception through September 11, 2019, the principal broker through which the Trust and TAGS can execute securities transaction for TAGS was the Bank of New York Mellon Capital Markets. Effective September 11, 2019, the principal broker through which the Trust and TAGS can execute securities transactions for TAGS is U.S. Bank N.A.

 

Sponsor Fee, Allocation of Expenses and Related Party Transactions

 

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 has elected not to outsource services directly attributable to the Trust and the Funds such as accounting, financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and trading activities, which the Sponsor performs itself. 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 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 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. Such expenses are primarily included as distribution and marketing fees in the financial statements of each Fund.

 

 

 

Three months ended June 30, 2022

 

 

Three months ended June 30, 2021

 

 

Six months ended June 30, 2022

 

 

Six months ended June 30, 2021

 

Recognized Related Party Transactions

 

$871,921

 

 

$657,508

 

 

$1,417,630

 

 

$1,183,727

 

Waived Related Party Transactions

 

$358,002

 

 

$331,101

 

 

$479,081

 

 

$450,842

 

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. The Sponsor has determined that there will be no recovery sought for the amounts below in any future period.

 

 

 

CORN

 

 

SOYB

 

 

CANE

 

 

WEAT

 

 

TAGS

 

 

TRUST

 

Three months ended June 30, 2022

 

$221,478

 

 

$38,146

 

 

$49,371

 

 

$339,308

 

 

$59,160

 

 

$707,463

 

Three months ended June 30, 2021

 

$321,515

 

 

$243,419

 

 

$31,549

 

 

$95,936

 

 

$21,459

 

 

$713,878

 

Six months ended June 30, 2022

 

$345,855

 

 

$89,562

 

 

$78,237

 

 

$425,164

 

 

$114,163

 

 

$1,052,981

 

Six months ended June 30, 2021

 

$441,781

 

 

$305,996

 

 

$58,039

 

 

$124,651

 

 

$35,595

 

 

$966,062

 

    

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 amounts 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

 

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 daily 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 June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, 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.

 

For the quarter ended March 31, 2021, Corn Futures Contracts for the JUL21 CBOT corn futures, SEP21 CBOT corn futures, DEC21 CBOT corn futures, JUL21 CBOT soybean futures, and the NOV21 CBOT soybean futures, settled in a “limit up” condition. Accordingly, the Trust, CORN, and SOYB classified these as Level 2 assets. The financial statements of these funds including TAGS, due to the NAV adjustment for each of these Underlying Funds, were adjusted accordingly. The adjustment resulted in an increase in the unrealized change in commodity futures contracts in excess of reported CBOT values of $3,371,513 for CORN and $279,750 for SOYB. The Soybean futures contracts transferred back to a Level 1 asset for the period ended June 30, 2021, and the SEP21 and DEC21 corn futures contracts remained a Level 2 asset as described below and transferred back to a Level 1 asset for the period ended September 30, 2021.

 

For the quarter ended June 30, 2021, Corn Futures Contracts for the SEP21 CBOT corn futures and the DEC21 CBOT corn futures, settled in a “limit up” condition. Accordingly, the Trust, CORN and TAGS classified these as level 2 assets. The financial statements of CORN including TAGS, due to the NAV adjustment for the Underlying CORN holdings, were adjusted accordingly. The adjustment resulted in an increase in the unrealized change in commodity futures contracts in excess of reported CBOT values of $711,275 for CORN. The Corn futures contracts transferred back to a Level 1 asset for the period ended September 30, 2021.

 

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 are recorded using the accrual method of accounting.

 

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2022-03, related to fair value measurement (Topic 820) of equity securities subject to contractual sale restrictions. Under the clarified guidance, contractual restrictions on the sale of an equity security are not considered part of the unit of account of the equity security and, therefore, are not considered in measuring fair value, however they do require disclosures. The amendment was early adopted for the quarter ended June 30, 2022; the early adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2021-05: “Leases (Topic 842).” Under the amended guidance, a lessor should classify and account for a lease with variable lease payments that don’t depend on an index or a rate as an operating lease if the lease would’ve been classified as a sales-type lease or a direct financing lease in accordance with the lease classification guidance in Topic 842 and the lessor would’ve otherwise recognized a day-one loss. The amendment was adopted early for the quarter ended September 30, 2021; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2020-10: “Codification Improvements.” The amendment improves the disclosure guidance in appropriate Disclosure Sections, without resulting in changes to current GAAP. The amendment was adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2021; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2020-02: “Financial Instruments Credit Losses (Topic 326) and Leases (Topic 842): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 119 and Update to SEC Section on Effective Date Related to Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). The amendment updates and adds language to ASU 2016-02. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2020-01: Investments Equity Securities (Topic 321), Investments Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815) Clarifying the Interactions between Topic 321, Topic 323, and Topic 815. The amendments clarify the treatment of transactions that require a company to apply or discontinue the equity method of accounting. The amendments were adopted early for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2019-01: "Leases (Topic 842): Codification Improvements. These amendments align the guidance for fair value of underlying assets by lessors that are not manufacturers or dealers in Topic 842 with that of existing guidance. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended September 30, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2018-13: “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement. These amendments modify public and private company fair value disclosure requirements. While some disclosures were removed or modified, others were added. The guidance is a result of the FASB’s test of the principals developed to improve the effectiveness of disclosures in the notes to the financial statements. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2017-13, “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605), Leases (Topic 840), and Leases (Topic 842): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to the Staff Announcement at the July 20, 2017 EITF Meeting and Rescission of Prior SEC Staff Announcements and Observer Comments”. The amendment amends the early adoption date option for certain companies related to adoption of ASU No. 2014-09 and ASU No. 2016-02. The SEC staff stated the SEC would not object to a public business entity that otherwise would not meet the definition of a public business entity except for a requirement to include or the inclusion of its financial statements or financial information in another entity’s filing with the SEC adopting ASC Topic 842 for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended September 30, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Funds.

Teucrium Soybean Fund [Member]  
Note 3 - Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies

Note 3 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

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

 

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 operations 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. The Fund seeks to earn interest on its assets denominated in U.S. dollars on deposits with the Futures Commission Merchant. In addition, the Fund seeks to earn interest on funds held at the custodian and other financial institutions at prevailing market rates for such investments.

 

The Sponsor invests a portion of cash in commercial paper, which is deemed a cash equivalent based on the rating and duration of contracts as described in the notes to the financial statements and reflected in cash and cash equivalents on the statements of assets and liabilities and on the statements of cash flows. Accretion on these investments is recognized using the effective interest method in U.S. dollars and included in interest income on the statements of operations.

 

The Sponsor invests a portion of the cash held by the broker in short term Treasury Bills as collateral for open futures contracts. Accretion on these investments is recognized using the effective interest method in U.S. dollars and included in interest income on the statements of operations.

 

Brokerage Commissions

 

Beginning on August 21, 2019, the Sponsor began recognizing the expense for brokerage commissions for futures contract trades on a per-trade basis. Prior to the change, brokerage commissions on all open commodity futures contracts were accrued on the trade date and on a full-turn basis. The below table shows the amounts included on the statements of operations as total brokerage commissions paid inclusive of unrealized loss for the three and six months ended  June 30, 2022.

 

 

 

SOYB

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2022

 

$8,686

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2021

 

$6,543

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2022

 

$15,206

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2021

 

$21,735

 

    

Income Taxes

 

For federal income tax purposes, each Fund will be treated as a publicly traded partnership. A publicly traded partnership is generally treated as a corporation for federal income tax purposes unless 90% or more of the publicly traded partnership’s gross income for each taxable year of its existence consists of qualifying income as defined in section 7704(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Qualifying income is defined as generally including, in pertinent part, interest (other than from a financial business), dividends, and gains from the sale or disposition of capital assets held for the production of interest or dividends. In the case of a partnership of which a principal activity is the buying and selling of commodities, other than as inventory, or of futures, forwards and options with respect to commodities, qualifying income also includes income and gains from commodities and from futures, forwards, options with respect to commodities and, provided the partnership is a trader or investor with respect to such assets, swaps and other notional principal contracts with respect to commodities. The Fund expects that at least 90% of the Fund’s gross income for each taxable year will consist of qualifying income and that the Fund will be taxed as a partnership for 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 2019 to 2021, 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 June 30, 2022 and for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019. 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 three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021.

 

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.

 

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. (ET) on the day the order to create the basket is received in good order.

 

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. (ET) on the day the order to redeem the basket is received in good order.

 

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 capital shares receivable. 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 represent two Redemption Baskets for the Fund and a minimum level of shares. If the Fund experienced redemptions that caused the number of Shares outstanding to decrease to the minimum level of Shares required to be outstanding, until the minimum number of Shares is again exceeded through the purchase of a new Creation Basket, there can be no more redemptions by an Authorized Purchaser.

 

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 are highly liquid investments with maturity dates of 90 days or less when acquired. The Trust 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. Each Fund that is a series of the Trust has the balance of its cash equivalents on deposit with financial institutions. The Fund holds a balance in money market funds that is included in cash and cash equivalents on the statements of assets and liabilities. The Sponsor invests 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. Assets deposited with the bank may, at times, exceed federally insured limits. The Sponsor invests a portion of the available cash for the Funds in investment grade commercial paper with durations of 90 days or less, which is classified as a cash equivalent and is not FDIC insured. The Sponsor may invest a portion of the cash held by the FCM in short term Treasury Bills as collateral for open futures contracts, which is classified as a cash equivalent and is not FDIC insured.

 

 

June 30, 2022

 

 

December 31, 2021

 

Money Market Funds

 

$25,535,591

 

 

$11,462,494

 

Demand Deposit Savings Accounts

 

 

13,075,626

 

 

 

10,059,937

 

Commercial Paper

 

 

39,440,235

 

 

 

21,497,453

 

Total cash and cash equivalents as presented on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities

 

$78,051,452

 

 

$43,019,884

 

    

Payable for Purchases of Commercial Paper

 

The amount recorded by the Fund for commercial paper transactions awaiting settlement, represents the amount payable for contracts purchased but not yet settled as of the reporting date. The value of the contract is included in cash and cash equivalents, and the payable amount is included as a liability.

 

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, payables for commodities futures accounts liquidating to an equity balance on the clearing broker’s records and amounts of brokerage commissions paid and recognized as unrealized losses.

 

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 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

 

The Fund’s NAV is calculated by:

 

 

Taking the current market value of its total assets and

 

Subtracting any liabilities.

 

The administrator, Global Fund Services, 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. (ET). The NAV for a particular trading day is released after 4:15 p.m. (ET).

 

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. (ET). 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. Short term 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

 

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 has elected not to outsource services directly attributable to the Trust and the Funds such as accounting, financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and trading activities, which the Sponsor performs itself. 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 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, 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 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 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. Such expenses are primarily recorded as distribution and marketing fees in the financial statements of each Fund.

 

 

Three months ended June 30, 2022

 

 

Three months ended June 30, 2021

 

 

Six months ended June 30, 2022

 

 

Six months ended June 30, 2021

 

Recognized Related Party Transactions

 

$74,713

 

 

$179,176

 

 

$152,146

 

 

$339,297

 

Waived Related Party Transactions

 

$7,089

 

 

$113,219

 

 

$32,056

 

 

$137,564

 

    

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. The Sponsor has determined that there will be no recovery sought for the amounts below in any future period:

 

 

 

SOYB

 

Three months ended June 30, 2022

 

$38,146

 

Three months ended June 30, 2021

 

$243,419

 

Six months ended June 30, 2022

 

$89,562

 

Six months ended June 30, 2021

 

$305,996

 

 

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

 

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 June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, in the opinion of the Trust and the Fund, 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 Fund considers the average volume of the specific underlying futures contracts traded on the relevant exchange for the periods being reported.

 

For the quarter ended March 31, 2021, Soybean Futures Contracts for JUL21 CBOT soybean futures, and the Nov21 CBOT soybean futures settled in a “limit up” condition. Accordingly, the Trust and SOYB classified these as Level 2 assets. The adjustment in SOYB resulted in a $279,750 increase in the unrealized change in commodity futures contracts in excess of reported CBOT values. These contracts transferred back to a Level 1 asset for the quarter ended June 30, 2021.

 

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 are recorded using the accrual method of accounting.

 

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

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2022-03, related to fair value measurement (Topic 820) of equity securities subject to contractual sale restrictions. Under the clarified guidance, contractual restrictions on the sale of an equity security are not considered part of the unit of account of the equity security and, therefore, are not considered in measuring fair value, however they do require disclosures. The amendment was early adopted for the quarter ended June 30, 2022; the early adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2021-05: “Leases (Topic 842).” Under the amended guidance, a lessor should classify and account for a lease with variable lease payments that don’t depend on an index or a rate as an operating lease if the lease would’ve been classified as a sales-type lease or a direct financing lease in accordance with the lease classification guidance in Topic 842 and the lessor would’ve otherwise recognized a day-one loss. The amendment was adopted early for the quarter ended September 30, 2021; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2020-10: “Codification Improvements.” The amendment improves the disclosure guidance in appropriate Disclosure Sections, without resulting in changes to current GAAP. The amendment is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2020. The amendment was adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2021; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued 2020-02: “Financial Instruments Credit Losses (Topic 326) and Leases (Topic 842): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 119 and Update to SEC Section on Effective Date Related to Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). The amendment updates and adds language to ASU 2016-02. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2020-01: Investments Equity Securities (Topic 321), Investments Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815) Clarifying the Interactions between Topic 321, Topic 323, and Topic 815. The amendments clarify the treatment of transactions that require a company to apply or discontinue the equity method of accounting. The amendments were adopted early for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2019-04: “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments.” The amendments clarify and improve areas of guidance related to the recently issued standards on credit losses, hedging, and recognition and measurement, specifically relating to ASU 201712. The amendments were early adopted for the quarter ended June 30, 2019; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2019-01: "Leases (Topic 842): Codification Improvements. These amendments align the guidance for fair value of underlying assets by lessors that are not manufacturers or dealers in Topic 842 with that of existing guidance. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended September 30, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2018-13: “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement. These amendments modify public and private company fair value disclosure requirements. While some disclosures were removed or modified, others were added. The guidance is a result of the FASB’s test of the principals developed to improve the effectiveness of disclosures in the notes to the financial statements. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2017-13, “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605), Leases (Topic 840), and Leases (Topic 842): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to the Staff Announcement at the July 20, 2017 EITF Meeting and Rescission of Prior SEC Staff Announcements and Observer Comments”. The amendment amends the early adoption date option for certain companies related to adoption of ASU No. 2014-09 and ASU No. 2016-02. The SEC staff stated the SEC would not object to a public business entity that otherwise would not meet the definition of a public business entity except for a requirement to include or the inclusion of its financial statements or financial information in another entity’s filing with the SEC adopting ASC Topic 842 for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended September 30, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

Teucrium Sugar Fund [Member]  
Note 3 - Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies

Note 3 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

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

 

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 operations 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 with financial institutions are recognized on the accrual basis. The Fund seeks to earn interest on funds held at the custodian and other financial institutions at prevailing market rates for such investments.

 

The Sponsor invests a portion of cash in commercial paper, which is deemed a cash equivalent based on the rating and duration of contracts as described in the notes to the financial statements and reflected in cash and cash equivalents on the statements of assets and liabilities and on the statements of cash flows. Accretion on these investments is recognized using the effective interest method in U.S. dollars and included in interest income on the statements of operations.

 

The Sponsor invests a portion of the cash held by the broker in short term Treasury Bills as collateral for open futures contracts. Accretion on these investments is recognized using the effective interest method in U.S. dollars and included in interest income on the statements of operations.

 

Brokerage Commissions

 

Beginning on August 21, 2019, the Sponsor began recognizing the expense for brokerage commissions for futures contract trades on a per-trade basis. Prior to the change, brokerage commissions on all open commodity futures contracts were accrued on the trade date and on a full-turn basis. The below table shows the amounts included on the statements of operations as total brokerage commissions paid inclusive of unrealized loss for the three and six months ended  June 30, 2022.

   

 

 

CANE

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2022

 

$20,341

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2021

 

$8,957

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2022

 

$26,536

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2021

 

$12,434

 

    

Income Taxes

 

For federal income tax purposes, the Fund will be treated as a publicly traded partnership. A publicly traded partnership is generally treated as a corporation for federal income tax purposes unless 90% or more of the publicly traded partnership’s gross income for each taxable year of its existence consists of qualifying income as defined in section 7704(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Qualifying income is defined as generally including, in pertinent part, interest (other than from a financial business), dividends, and gains from the sale or disposition of capital assets held for the production of interest or dividends. In the case of a partnership of which a principal activity is the buying and selling of commodities, other than as inventory, or of futures, forwards and options with respect to commodities, qualifying income also includes income and gains from commodities and from futures, forwards, options with respect to commodities and, provided the partnership is a trader or investor with respect to such assets, swaps and other notional principal contracts with respect to commodities. The Fund expects that at least 90% of the Fund’s gross income for each taxable year will consist of qualifying income and that the Fund will be taxed as a partnership for 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 2019 to 2021, 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 June 30, 2022 and for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019. 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 three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021.

 

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.

 

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. (ET) on the day the order to create the basket is received in good order.

 

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. (ET) on the day the order to redeem the basket is received in good order.

 

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 capital shares receivable. 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. If the Fund experienced redemptions that caused the number of Shares outstanding to decrease to the minimum level of Shares required to be outstanding, until the minimum number of Shares is again exceeded through the purchase of a new Creation Basket, there can be no more redemptions by an Authorized Purchaser.

 

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 are highly liquid investments with maturity dates of 90 days or less when acquired. The Trust 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. Each Fund that is a series of the Trust has the balance of its cash equivalents on deposit with financial institutions. The Fund holds a balance in money market funds that is included in cash and cash equivalents on the statements of assets and liabilities. The Sponsor invests 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. Assets deposited with the bank may, at times, exceed federally insured limits. The Sponsor invests a portion of the available cash for the Funds in investment grade commercial paper with durations of 90 days or less, which is classified as a cash equivalent and is not FDIC insured. The Sponsor may invest a portion of the cash held by the broker in short term Treasury Bills as collateral for open futures contracts, which is classified as a cash equivalent and is not FDIC insured.

 

 

June 30, 2022

 

 

December 31, 2021

 

Money Market Funds

 

$8,585,437

 

 

$4,816,883

 

Demand Deposit Savings Accounts

 

 

9,027,727

 

 

 

9,016,479

 

Commercial Paper

 

 

12,982,245

 

 

 

7,499,540

 

Total cash and cash equivalents as presented on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities

 

$30,595,409

 

 

$21,332,902

 

     

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, payables for commodities futures accounts liquidating to an equity balance on the clearing broker’s records, and amounts of brokerage commissions paid and recognized as unrealized losses.

 

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 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

 

The Fund’s NAV is calculated by:

 

 

Taking the current market value of its total assets and

 

Subtracting any liabilities.

 

The administrator, Global Fund Services, 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. (ET). The NAV for a particular trading day is released after 4:15 p.m. (ET).

 

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. (ET). 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. Short term 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, 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 has elected not to outsource services directly attributable to the Trust and the Funds such as accounting, financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and trading activities, which the Sponsor performs itself. 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, 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 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 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. Such expenses are primarily recorded as distribution and marketing fees in the financial statements of each Fund.

 

 

 

Three months ended June 30, 2022

 

 

Three months ended June 30, 2021

 

 

Six months ended June 30, 2022

 

 

Six months ended June 30, 2021

 

Recognized Related Party Transactions

 

$35,293

 

 

$27,519

 

 

$71,422

 

 

$47,769

 

Waived Related Party Transactions

 

$18,957

 

 

$10,388

 

 

$25,739

 

 

$19,198

 

 

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. The Sponsor has determined that there will be no recovery sought for the amounts below in any future period:

 

 

 

CANE

 

Three months ended June 30, 2022

 

$49,371

 

Three months ended June 30, 2021

 

$31,549

 

Six months ended June 30, 2022

 

$78,237

 

Six months ended June 30, 2021

 

$58,039

 

    

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

 

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 June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, 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 periods being reported.

 

For the three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and year ended December 31, 2021, 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 are recorded using the accrual method of accounting.

 

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 units outstanding was computed for purposes of disclosing net income (loss) per weighted average unit. The weighted average units are equal to the number of units outstanding at the end of the period, adjusted proportionately for units created or redeemed based on the amount of time the units were outstanding during such period.

 

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2022-03, related to fair value measurement (Topic 820) of equity securities subject to contractual sale restrictions. Under the clarified guidance, contractual restrictions on the sale of an equity security are not considered part of the unit of account of the equity security and, therefore, are not considered in measuring fair value, however they do require disclosures. The amendment was early adopted for the quarter ended June 30, 2022; the early adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2021-05: “Leases (Topic 842).” Under the amended guidance, a lessor should classify and account for a lease with variable lease payments that don’t depend on an index or a rate as an operating lease if the lease would’ve been classified as a sales-type lease or a direct financing lease in accordance with the lease classification guidance in Topic 842 and the lessor would’ve otherwise recognized a day-one loss. The amendment was adopted early for the quarter ended September 30, 2021; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2020-10: “Codification Improvements.” The amendment improves the disclosure guidance in appropriate Disclosure Sections, without resulting in changes to current GAAP. The amendment is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2020. The amendment was adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2021; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued 2020-02: “Financial Instruments Credit Losses (Topic 326) and Leases (Topic 842): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 119 and Update to SEC Section on Effective Date Related to Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). The amendment updates and adds language to ASU 2016-02. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2020-01: Investments Equity Securities (Topic 321), Investments Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815) Clarifying the Interactions between Topic 321, Topic 323, and Topic 815. The amendments clarify the treatment of transactions that require a company to apply or discontinue the equity method of accounting. The amendments were adopted early for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2019-04: “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments.” The amendments clarify and improve areas of guidance related to the recently issued standards on credit losses, hedging, and recognition and measurement, specifically relating to ASU 201712. The amendments were early adopted for the quarter ended June 30, 2019; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2019-01: "Leases (Topic 842): Codification Improvements. These amendments align the guidance for fair value of underlying assets by lessors that are not manufacturers or dealers in Topic 842 with that of existing guidance. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended September 30, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2018-13: “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement. These amendments modify public and private company fair value disclosure requirements. While some disclosures were removed or modified, others were added. The guidance is a result of the FASB’s test of the principals developed to improve the effectiveness of disclosures in the notes to the financial statements. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2017-13, “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605), Leases (Topic 840), and Leases (Topic 842): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to the Staff Announcement at the July 20, 2017 EITF Meeting and Rescission of Prior SEC Staff Announcements and Observer Comments”. The amendment amends the early adoption date option for certain companies related to adoption of ASU No. 2014-09 and ASU No. 2016-02. The SEC staff stated the SEC would not object to a public business entity that otherwise would not meet the definition of a public business entity except for a requirement to include or the inclusion of its financial statements or financial information in another entity’s filing with the SEC adopting ASC Topic 842 for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended September 30, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

Teucrium Wheat Fund [Member]  
Note 3 - Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies

Note 3 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

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

 

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 operations 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 with financial institutions are recognized on the accrual basis. The Fund seeks to earn interest on funds held at the custodian and other financial institutions at prevailing market rates for such investments.

 

The Sponsor invests a portion of cash in commercial paper, which is deemed a cash equivalent based on the rating and duration of contracts as described in the notes to the financial statements and reflected in cash and cash equivalents on the statements of assets and liabilities and on the statements of cash flows. Accretion on these investments is recognized using the effective interest method in U.S. dollars and included in interest income on the statements of operations.

The Sponsor invests a portion of the cash held by the broker in short term Treasury Bills as collateral for open futures contracts. Accretion on these investments is recognized using the effective interest method in U.S. dollars and included in interest income on the statements of operations.

 

Brokerage Commissions

 

Beginning on August 21, 2019, the Sponsor began recognizing the expense for brokerage commissions for futures contract trades on a per-trade basis. Prior to the change, brokerage commissions on all open commodity futures contracts were accrued on the trade date and on a full-turn basis. The below table shows the amounts included on the statements of operations as total brokerage commissions paid inclusive of unrealized loss for the three and six months ended  June 30, 2022.

 

 

 

WEAT

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2022

 

$198,392

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2021

 

$11,048

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2022

 

$279,543

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2021

 

$22,523

 

    

Income Taxes

 

For federal income tax purposes, the Fund will be treated as a publicly traded partnership. A publicly traded partnership is generally treated as a corporation for federal income tax purposes unless 90% or more of the publicly traded partnership’s gross income for each taxable year of its existence consists of qualifying income as defined in section 7704(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Qualifying income is defined as generally including, in pertinent part, interest (other than from a financial business), dividends, and gains from the sale or disposition of capital assets held for the production of interest or dividends. In the case of a partnership of which a principal activity is the buying and selling of commodities, other than as inventory, or of futures, forwards and options with respect to commodities, qualifying income also includes income and gains from commodities and from futures, forwards, options with respect to commodities and, provided the partnership is a trader or investor with respect to such assets, swaps and other notional principal contracts with respect to commodities. The Fund expects that at least 90% of the Fund’s gross income for each taxable year will consist of qualifying income and that the Fund will be taxed as a partnership for 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 2019 to 2021, 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 June 30, 2022 and for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019. 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 three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021.

 

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.

 

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.(ET) 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. (ET) 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 capital shares receivable. 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 represent two Redemption Baskets for the Fund and a minimum level of shares. If the Fund experienced redemptions that caused the number of Shares outstanding to decrease to the minimum level of Shares required to be outstanding, until the minimum number of Shares is again exceeded through the purchase of a new Creation Basket, there can be no more redemptions by an Authorized Purchaser.

 

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 are highly liquid investments with maturity dates of 90 days or less when acquired. The Trust 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. Each Fund that is a series of the Trust has the balance of its cash equivalents on deposit with financial institutions. The Fund holds a balance in money market funds that is included in cash and cash equivalents on the statements of assets and liabilities. The Sponsor invests 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. Assets deposited with the bank may, at times, exceed federally insured limits. The Sponsor invests a portion of the available cash for the Funds in investment grade commercial paper with durations of 90 days or less, which is classified as a cash equivalent and is not FDIC insured. The Sponsor may invest a portion of the cash held by the broker in short term Treasury Bills as collateral for open futures contracts, which is classified as a cash equivalent and is not FDIC insured.

 

 

June 30, 2022

 

 

December 31, 2021

 

Money Market Funds

 

$235,613,003

 

 

$5,284,993

 

Demand Deposit Savings Accounts

 

 

42,121,541

 

 

 

30,064,031

 

Commercial Paper

 

 

181,652,805

 

 

 

37,492,592

 

Total cash and cash equivalents as presented on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities

 

$459,387,349

 

 

$72,841,616

 

    

Payable for Purchases of Commercial Paper

 

The amount recorded by the Fund for commercial paper transactions awaiting settlement, represents the amount payable for contracts purchased but not yet settled as of the reporting date. The value of the contract is included in cash and cash equivalents, and the payable amount is included as a liability.

 

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, payables for commodities futures accounts liquidating to an equity balance on the clearing broker’s records and amounts of brokerage commissions paid and recognized as unrealized losses.

 

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 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

 

The Fund’s NAV is calculated by:

 

 

Taking the current market value of its total assets and

 

Subtracting any liabilities.

 

The administrator, Global Fund Services, 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. (ET). The NAV for a particular trading day is released after 4:15 p.m. (ET).

 

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. (ET). 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. Short term 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

 

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, which the Sponsor performs itself. 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, 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 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 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. Such expenses are primarily recorded as distribution and marketing fees in the financial statements of each Fund.

 

 

Three months ended June 30, 2022

 

 

Three months ended June 30, 2021

 

 

Six months ended June 30, 2022

 

 

Six months ended June 30, 2021

 

Recognized Related Party Transactions

 

$479,251

 

 

$125,598

 

 

$653,054

 

 

$226,469

 

Waived Related Party Transactions

 

$194,587

 

 

$49,160

 

 

$224,587

 

 

$63,859

 

    

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. The Sponsor has determined that there will be no recovery sought for the amounts below in any future period:

  

 

 

WEAT

 

Three months ended June 30, 2022

 

$339,308

 

Three months ended June 30, 2021

 

$95,936

 

Six months ended June 30, 2022

 

$425,164

 

Six months ended June 30, 2021

 

$124,651

 

   

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

 

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 June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, 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 periods being reported. 

 

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 are recorded using the accrual method of accounting.

 

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 units outstanding was computed for purposes of disclosing net income (loss) per weighted average unit. The weighted average units are equal to the number of units outstanding at the end of the period, adjusted proportionately for units created or redeemed based on the amount of time the units were outstanding during such period.

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2022-03, related to fair value measurement (Topic 820) of equity securities subject to contractual sale restrictions. Under the clarified guidance, contractual restrictions on the sale of an equity security are not considered part of the unit of account of the equity security and, therefore, are not considered in measuring fair value, however they do require disclosures. The amendment was early adopted for the quarter ended June 30, 2022; the early adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2021-05: “Leases (Topic 842).” Under the amended guidance, a lessor should classify and account for a lease with variable lease payments that don’t depend on an index or a rate as an operating lease if the lease would’ve been classified as a sales-type lease or a direct financing lease in accordance with the lease classification guidance in Topic 842 and the lessor would’ve otherwise recognized a day-one loss. The amendment was adopted early for the quarter ended September 30, 2021; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2020-10: “Codification Improvements.” The amendment improves the disclosure guidance in appropriate Disclosure Sections, without resulting in changes to current GAAP. The amendment is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2020. The amendment was adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2021; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued 2020-02: “Financial Instruments Credit Losses (Topic 326) and Leases (Topic 842): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 119 and Update to SEC Section on Effective Date Related to Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). The amendment updates and adds language to ASU 2016-02. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2020-01: Investments Equity Securities (Topic 321), Investments Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815) Clarifying the Interactions between Topic 321, Topic 323, and Topic 815. The amendments clarify the treatment of transactions that require a company to apply or discontinue the equity method of accounting. The amendments were adopted early for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2019-04: “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments.” The amendments clarify and improve areas of guidance related to the recently issued standards on credit losses, hedging, and recognition and measurement, specifically relating to ASU 201712. The amendments were early adopted for the quarter ended June 30, 2019; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2019-01: "Leases (Topic 842): Codification Improvements. These amendments align the guidance for fair value of underlying assets by lessors that are not manufacturers or dealers in Topic 842 with that of existing guidance. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended September 30, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2018-13: “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement. These amendments modify public and private company fair value disclosure requirements. While some disclosures were removed or modified, others were added. The guidance is a result of the FASB’s test of the principals developed to improve the effectiveness of disclosures in the notes to the financial statements. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2017-13, “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605), Leases (Topic 840), and Leases (Topic 842): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to the Staff Announcement at the July 20, 2017 EITF Meeting and Rescission of Prior SEC Staff Announcements and Observer Comments”. The amendment amends the early adoption date option for certain companies related to adoption of ASU No. 2014-09 and ASU No. 2016-02. The SEC staff stated the SEC would not object to a public business entity that otherwise would not meet the definition of a public business entity except for a requirement to include or the inclusion of its financial statements or financial information in another entity’s filing with the SEC adopting ASC Topic 842 for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended September 30, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

Teucrium Agricultural Fund [Member]  
Note 3 - Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies

Note 3 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

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

 

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

 

Income Taxes

 

For federal income tax purposes, the Fund will be treated as a publicly traded partnership. A publicly traded partnership is generally treated as a corporation for federal income tax purposes unless 90% or more of the publicly traded partnership’s gross income for each taxable year of its existence consists of qualifying income as defined in section 7704(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Qualifying income is defined as generally including, in pertinent part, interest (other than from a financial business), dividends, and gains from the sale or disposition of capital assets held for the production of interest or dividends. In the case of a partnership of which a principal activity is the buying and selling of commodities, other than as inventory, or of futures, forwards and options with respect to commodities, qualifying income also includes income and gains from commodities and from futures, forwards, options with respect to commodities and, provided the partnership is a trader or investor with respect to such assets, swaps and other notional principal contracts with respect to commodities. The Fund expects that at least 90% of the Fund’s gross income for each taxable year will consist of qualifying income and that the Fund will be taxed as a partnership for 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 2019 to 2021, 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 June 30, 2022 and for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020 and 2019. 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 three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021.

 

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.

 

Creations and Redemptions

 

Effective August 28, 2018, the Sponsor filed a prospectus supplement updating the Creation and Redemption Basket size to 12,500 shares. Prior to this prospectus supplement, the basket size for Creations and Redemptions was 25,000 shares.

 

Authorized Purchasers may purchase Creation Baskets consisting of 12,500 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. (ET) on the day the order to create the basket is received in good order.

 

Authorized Purchasers may redeem shares from the Fund only in blocks of 12,500 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. (ET) on the day the order to redeem the basket is received in good order.

 

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 capital shares receivable. 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 represent four Redemption Baskets for the Fund and a minimum level of shares. If the Fund experienced redemptions that caused the number of Shares outstanding to decrease to the minimum level of Shares required to be outstanding, until the minimum number of Shares is again exceeded through the purchase of a new Creation Basket, there can be no more redemptions by an Authorized Purchaser.

 

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 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 a financial institution may, at times, exceed federally insured limits. TAGS had a balance of $1,870 and $4,801 in money market funds at June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, respectively; these balances are included in cash equivalents on the statements of assets and liabilities.

 

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 Fund monitors the financial condition of such brokers and does not anticipate any losses from these counterparties.

 

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, Global Fund Services, 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. (ET). The NAV for a particular trading day will be released after 4:15 p.m. (ET).

 

For purposes of 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 Funds and Underlying Fund investments as of the earlier of the close of the New York Stock Exchange or 4:00 p.m. (ET), 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. Short term 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.

 

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. The Sponsor does not receive a management fee from the Fund. The Sponsor receives a management fee from each Underlying Fund at the annual rate of 1.00% of such Underlying Fund’s average daily net assets, payable monthly. The Sponsor can elect to waive the payment of this fee for any Underlying Fund in any amount at its sole discretion, at any time and from time to time, in order to reduce the Fund’s expenses or for any other purpose.

 

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 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. Such expenses are primarily recorded as distribution and marketing fees on the statement of operations. All asset-based fees and expenses for the Funds are calculated on the prior day’s net assets.

 

 

 

Three months ended June 30, 2022

 

 

Three months ended June 30, 2021

 

 

Six months ended June 30, 2022

 

 

Six months ended June 30, 2021

 

Recognized Related Party Transactions

 

$33,344

 

 

$11,217

 

 

$58,191

 

 

$15,107

 

Waived Related Party Transactions

 

$25,844

 

 

$9,060

 

 

$46,978

 

 

$11,053

 

      

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. The Sponsor has determined that there will be no recovery sought for the amounts below in any future period:

  

 

 

TAGS

 

Three months ended June 30, 2022

 

$59,160

 

Three months ended June 30, 2021

 

$21,459

 

Six months ended June 30, 2022

 

$114,163

 

Six months ended June 30, 2021

 

$35,595

 

 

Expenses

 

Expenses are recorded using the accrual method of accounting.

 

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.

 

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2022-03, related to fair value measurement (Topic 820) of equity securities subject to contractual sale restrictions. Under the clarified guidance, contractual restrictions on the sale of an equity security are not considered part of the unit of account of the equity security and, therefore, are not considered in measuring fair value, however they do require disclosures. The amendment was early adopted for the quarter ended June 30, 2022; the early adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2021-05: “Leases (Topic 842).” Under the amended guidance, a lessor should classify and account for a lease with variable lease payments that don’t depend on an index or a rate as an operating lease if the lease would’ve been classified as a sales-type lease or a direct financing lease in accordance with the lease classification guidance in Topic 842 and the lessor would’ve otherwise recognized a day-one loss. The amendment was adopted early for the quarter ended September 30, 2021; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2020-10: “Codification Improvements.” The amendment improves the disclosure guidance in appropriate Disclosure Sections, without resulting in changes to current GAAP. The amendment is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2020. The amendment was adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2021; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued 2020-02: “Financial Instruments Credit Losses (Topic 326) and Leases (Topic 842): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 119 and Update to SEC Section on Effective Date Related to Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). The amendment updates and adds language to ASU 2016-02. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2020-01: Investments Equity Securities (Topic 321), Investments Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815) Clarifying the Interactions between Topic 321, Topic 323, and Topic 815. The amendments clarify the treatment of transactions that require a company to apply or discontinue the equity method of accounting. The amendments were adopted early for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2019-04: “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments.” The amendments clarify and improve areas of guidance related to the recently issued standards on credit losses, hedging, and recognition and measurement, specifically relating to ASU 201712. The amendments were early adopted for the quarter ended June 30, 2019; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2019-01: "Leases (Topic 842): Codification Improvements. These amendments align the guidance for fair value of underlying assets by lessors that are not manufacturers or dealers in Topic 842 with that of existing guidance. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended September 30, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2018-13: “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement. These amendments modify public and private company fair value disclosure requirements. While some disclosures were removed or modified, others were added. The guidance is a result of the FASB’s test of the principals developed to improve the effectiveness of disclosures in the notes to the financial statements. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2017-13, “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605), Leases (Topic 840), and Leases (Topic 842): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to the Staff Announcement at the July 20, 2017 EITF Meeting and Rescission of Prior SEC Staff Announcements and Observer Comments”. The amendment amends the early adoption date option for certain companies related to adoption of ASU No. 2014-09 and ASU No. 2016-02. The SEC staff stated the SEC would not object to a public business entity that otherwise would not meet the definition of a public business entity except for a requirement to include or the inclusion of its financial statements or financial information in another entity’s filing with the SEC adopting ASC Topic 842 for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended September 30, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

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.

 

On June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, 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.

 

For the quarter ended March 31, 2021 Corn Futures Contracts for JUL21 CBOT corn futures, SEP21 CBOT corn futures, DEC21 CBOT corn futures, and Soybean Futures Contracts for JUL21 CBOT soybean futures, and the NOV21 CBOT soybean futures, settled in a “limit up” condition. Accordingly, the Trust, CORN, and SOYB classified these as Level 2 assets. The financial statements of these Funds including TAGS, due to the NAV adjustment for each of these Underlying Funds, were adjusted accordingly. The adjustment in CORN and SOYB resulted in a $30,191 increase in the investment in the Underlying Funds, which were classified as a Level 2 asset for the period ended March 31, 2021. For the period ended June 30, 2021, the SOYB shares were classified as a Level 1 asset.

 

For the quarter ended June 30, 2021, Corn Futures Contracts for the SEP21 and DEC21 CBOT corn futures contracts, settled in a “limit up” condition on June 30, 2021. Therefore, the Trust and CORN have used alternative verifiable sources to value these contracts on June 30, 2021, and the financial statements of these Funds including TAGS, due to the NAV adjustments for the Underlying Fund, were adjusted accordingly. The adjustment in CORN resulted in a $10,393 increase in the investment in the Underlying Funds which were classified as a Level 2 asset for the period ended June 30, 2021. For the period ended September 30, 2021, the CORN shares were classified as a Level 1 asset. 

 

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 units outstanding was computed for purposes of disclosing net income (loss) per weighted average unit. The weighted average units are equal to the number of units outstanding at the end of the period, adjusted proportionately for units created or redeemed based on the amount of time the units were outstanding during such period.

Teucrium Corn Fund [Member]  
Note 3 - Summary Of Significant Accounting Policies

Note 3 – Summary of Significant Accounting Policies

 

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

 

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 operations 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. The Fund seeks to earn interest on its assets denominated in U.S. dollars on deposits with the Futures Commission Merchant. In addition, the Fund earns interest on funds held at the custodian and at other financial institutions at prevailing market rates for such investments.

 

The Sponsor invests a portion of cash in commercial paper, which is deemed a cash equivalent based on the rating and duration of contracts as described in the notes to the financial statements and reflected in cash and cash equivalents on the statements of assets and liabilities and statements of cash flows. Accretion on these investments is recognized using the effective interest method in U.S. dollars and included in interest income on the statements of operations.

 

The Sponsor invests a portion of the cash held by the broker in short term Treasury Bills as collateral for open futures contracts. Accretion on these investments is recognized using the effective interest method in U.S. dollars and included in interest income on the statements of operations.

 

Brokerage Commissions

 

Beginning on August 21, 2019, the Sponsor began recognizing the expense for brokerage commissions for futures contract trades on a per-trade basis. Prior to the change, brokerage commissions on all open commodity futures contracts were accrued on the trade date and on a full-turn basis. The below table shows the amounts included on the statements of operations as total brokerage commissions paid inclusive of unrealized loss for the three and six months ended June 30, 2022.

 

 

 

CORN

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2022

 

$102,336

 

Three Months Ended June 30, 2021

 

$41,225

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2022

 

$133,575

 

Six Months Ended June 30, 2021

 

$75,191

 

  

Income Taxes

 

For federal income tax purposes, the Fund will be treated as a publicly traded partnership. A publicly traded partnership is generally treated as a corporation for federal income tax purposes unless 90% or more of the publicly traded partnership’s gross income for each taxable year of its existence consists of qualifying income as defined in section 7704(d) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. Qualifying income is defined as generally including, in pertinent part, interest (other than from a financial business), dividends, and gains from the sale or disposition of capital assets held for the production of interest or dividends. In the case of a partnership of which a principal activity is the buying and selling of commodities, other than as inventory, or of futures, forwards and options with respect to commodities, qualifying income also includes income and gains from commodities and from futures, forwards, options with respect to commodities and, provided the partnership is a trader or investor with respect to such assets, swaps and other notional principal contracts with respect to commodities. The Fund expects that at least 90% of the Fund’s gross income for each taxable year will consist of qualifying income and that the Fund will be taxed as a partnership for 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 2019 to 2021, 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 June 30, 2022 and for the years ended December 31, 2021, 2020, and 2019. 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 three and six months ended June 30, 2022 and 2021.

 

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.

 

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. (ET) on the day the order to create the basket is received in good order.

 

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. (ET) on the day the order to redeem the basket is received in good order.

 

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 capital shares receivable. 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 represent two Redemption Baskets for the Fund and a minimum level of shares. If the Fund experienced redemptions that caused the number of Shares outstanding to decrease to the minimum level of Shares required to be outstanding, until the minimum number of Shares is again exceeded through the purchase of a new Creation Basket, there can be no more redemptions by an Authorized Purchaser.

 

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 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. Each Fund that is a series of the Trust has the balance of its cash equivalents on deposit with financial institutions. The Fund holds a balance in money market funds that is included in cash and cash equivalents on the statements of assets and liabilities. The Sponsor invests 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. Assets deposited with the bank may, at times, exceed federally insured limits. The Sponsor invests a portion of the available cash for the Funds in investment grade commercial paper with durations of 90 days or less, which is classified as a cash equivalent and is not FDIC insured. The Sponsor may invest a portion of the cash held by the broker in short term Treasury Bills as collateral for open futures contracts, which is classified as a cash equivalent and is not FDIC insured.

 

 

 

June 30, 2022

 

 

December 31, 2021

 

Money Market Funds

 

$60,703,965

 

 

$11,399,662

 

Demand Deposit Savings Accounts

 

 

55,202,781

 

 

 

50,122,297

 

Commercial Paper

 

 

114,843,622

 

 

 

53,490,781

 

Total cash and cash equivalents as presented on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities

 

$230,750,368

 

 

$115,012,740

 

 

Payable for Purchases of Commercial Paper

 

The amount recorded by the Fund for commercial paper transactions awaiting settlement, represents the amount payable for contracts purchased but not yet settled as of the reporting date. The value of the contract is included in cash and cash equivalents, and the payable amount is included as a liability.

 

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, payables for commodities futures accounts liquidating to an equity balance on the clearing broker’s records and amounts of brokerage commissions paid and recognized as unrealized losses.

 

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 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

 

The Fund’s NAV is calculated by:

 

 

Taking the current market value of its total assets and

 

Subtracting any liabilities.

 

The administrator, Global Fund Services, 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. (ET). The NAV for a particular trading day is released after 4:15 p.m. (ET).

 

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. (ET). 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. Short term 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

 

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 has elected not to outsource services directly attributable to the Trust and the Funds such as accounting, financial reporting, regulatory compliance, and trading activities, which the Sponsor performs itself. 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, 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 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 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. Such expenses are primarily recorded as distribution and marketing fees in the financial statements of each Fund.

 

 

 

Three months ended June 30, 2022

 

 

Three months ended June 30, 2021

 

 

Six months ended June 30, 2022

 

 

Six months ended June 30, 2021

 

Recognized Related Party Transactions

 

$249,320

 

 

$313,998

 

 

$482,817

 

 

$555,085

 

Waived Related Party Transactions

 

$111,525

 

 

$149,274

 

 

$149,721

 

 

$219,168

 

 

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. The Sponsor has determined that there will be no recovery sought for the amounts below in any future period:

 

 

 

CORN

 

Three months ended June 30, 2022

 

$221,478

 

Three months ended June 30, 2021

 

$321,515

 

Six months ended June 30, 2022

 

$345,855

 

Six months ended June 30, 2021

 

$441,781

 

 

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

 

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 daily 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 June 30, 2022 and December 31, 2021, in the opinion of the Trust and the Fund, 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 Fund considers the average volume of the specific underlying futures contracts traded on the relevant exchange for the periods being reported.

 

For the quarter ended March 31, 2021, Corn Futures Contracts for the JUL21 CBOT corn futures, SEP21 CBOT corn futures, and DEC21 CBOT corn futures settled in a “limit up” condition. Accordingly, the Trust and CORN classified these as Level 2 assets. The financial statements of CORN were adjusted accordingly. The adjustment resulted in an increase in the unrealized change in commodity futures contracts in excess of reported CBOT values of $3,371,513. The JUL21 corn futures contracts transferred back to a Level 1 asset, and the SEP21 and DEC21 corn futures contracts remained a Level 2 asset as described below for the period ended June 30, 2021.

For the quarter ended June 30, 2021, Corn Futures Contracts for the SEP21 CBOT corn futures and the DEC21 CBOT corn futures, settled in a “limit up” condition. Accordingly, the Trust and CORN classified these as level 2 assets. The financial statements of CORN were adjusted accordingly. The adjustment resulted in an increase in the unrealized change in commodity futures contracts in excess of reported CBOT values of $711,275 for CORN. The Corn futures contracts transferred back to a Level 1 asset for the period ended September 30, 2021. 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 are recorded using the accrual method of accounting.

 

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 units outstanding was computed for purposes of disclosing net income (loss) per weighted average unit. The weighted average units are equal to the number of units outstanding at the end of the period, adjusted proportionately for units created or redeemed based on the amount of time the units were outstanding during such period.

 

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

The Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2022-03, related to fair value measurement (Topic 820) of equity securities subject to contractual sale restrictions. Under the clarified guidance, contractual restrictions on the sale of an equity security are not considered part of the unit of account of the equity security and, therefore, are not considered in measuring fair value, however they do require disclosures. The amendment was early adopted for the quarter ended June 30, 2022; the early adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2021-05: “Leases (Topic 842).” Under the amended guidance, a lessor should classify and account for a lease with variable lease payments that don’t depend on an index or a rate as an operating lease if the lease would’ve been classified as a sales-type lease or a direct financing lease in accordance with the lease classification guidance in Topic 842 and the lessor would’ve otherwise recognized a day-one loss. The amendment was adopted early for the quarter ended September 30, 2021; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2020-10: “Codification Improvements.” The amendment improves the disclosure guidance in appropriate Disclosure Sections, without resulting in changes to current GAAP. The amendment is effective for annual periods beginning after December 15, 2020. The amendment was adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2021; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued 2020-02: “Financial Instruments Credit Losses (Topic 326) and Leases (Topic 842): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to SEC Staff Accounting Bulletin No. 119 and Update to SEC Section on Effective Date Related to Accounting Standards Update No. 2016-02, Leases (Topic 842). The amendment updates and adds language to ASU 2016-02. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2020-01: Investments Equity Securities (Topic 321), Investments Equity Method and Joint Ventures (Topic 323), and Derivatives and Hedging (Topic 815) Clarifying the Interactions between Topic 321, Topic 323, and Topic 815. The amendments clarify the treatment of transactions that require a company to apply or discontinue the equity method of accounting. The amendments were adopted early for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2019-04: “Codification Improvements to Topic 326, Financial Instruments Credit Losses, Topic 815, Derivatives and hedging, and Topic 825, Financial Instruments.” The amendments clarify and improve areas of guidance related to the recently issued standards on credit losses, hedging, and recognition and measurement, specifically relating to ASU 201712. The amendments were early adopted for the quarter ended June 30, 2019; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2019-01: "Leases (Topic 842): Codification Improvements. These amendments align the guidance for fair value of underlying assets by lessors that are not manufacturers or dealers in Topic 842 with that of existing guidance. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended September 30, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2018-13: “Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement. These amendments modify public and private company fair value disclosure requirements. While some disclosures were removed or modified, others were added. The guidance is a result of the FASB’s test of the principals developed to improve the effectiveness of disclosures in the notes to the financial statements. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended March 31, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.

 

The FASB issued ASU 2017-13, “Revenue Recognition (Topic 605), Leases (Topic 840), and Leases (Topic 842): Amendments to SEC Paragraphs Pursuant to the Staff Announcement at the July 20, 2017 EITF Meeting and Rescission of Prior SEC Staff Announcements and Observer Comments”. The amendment amends the early adoption date option for certain companies related to adoption of ASU No. 2014-09 and ASU No. 2016-02. The SEC staff stated the SEC would not object to a public business entity that otherwise would not meet the definition of a public business entity except for a requirement to include or the inclusion of its financial statements or financial information in another entity’s filing with the SEC adopting ASC Topic 842 for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019, and interim periods within fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2020. The amendments were adopted for the quarter ended September 30, 2020; the adoption did not have a material impact on the financial statements and disclosures of the Trust or the Fund.