N-CSR/A 1 north-square_ncsra.htm N-CSR/A

UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM N-CSR

 

CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED

MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES

 

[The Registrant is amending this filing to revise the change in independent public accountant exhibit (EX-99.IND PUB ACCT) to include the letter from the prior independent public accountant.]

 

 

Investment Company Act file number :    811- 23373

 

 

NORTH SQUARE INVESTMENTS TRUST
(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)
 

 

200 West Madison Street, Suite 2610
Chicago, Illinois 60606
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)

 

 

Alan E. Molotsky, Esq.

North Square Investments Trust

200 West Madison Street, Suite 2610

Chicago, Illinois 60606

(Name and address of agent for service)

 

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (312) 857-2160  

 

 

Date of fiscal year end:   May 31

 

Date of reporting period:   May 31, 2023

 

 

Form N-CSR is to be used by management investment companies to file reports with the Commission not later than 10 days after the transmission to stockholders of any report that is required to be transmitted to stockholders under Rule 30e-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (17 CFR 270.30e-1). The Commission may use the information provided on Form N-CSR in its regulatory, disclosure review, inspection and policymaking roles.

 

A registrant is required to disclose the information specified by Form N-CSR, and the Commission will make this information public. A registrant is not required to respond to the collection of information contained in Form N-CSR unless the Form displays a currently valid Office of Management and Budget ("OMB") control number. Please direct comments concerning the accuracy of the information collection burden estimate and any suggestions for reducing the burden to Secretary, Securities and Exchange Commission, 450 Fifth Street, NW, Washington, DC 20549-0609. The OMB has reviewed this collection of information under the clearance requirements of 44 U.S.C. § 3507.

 

 

 

 

 
 

Item 1. Reports to Stockholders.

 

(a)

 (LOGO)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 
ANNUAL REPORT
 
NORTH SQUARE SPECTRUM ALPHA FUND
NORTH SQUARE DYNAMIC SMALL CAP FUND
NORTH SQUARE ADVISORY RESEARCH SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND
NORTH SQUARE MULTI STRATEGY FUND
NORTH SQUARE PREFERRED AND INCOME SECURITIES FUND
NORTH SQUARE TACTICAL GROWTH FUND
NORTH SQUARE TACTICAL DEFENSIVE FUND
NORTH SQUARE TRILOGY ALTERNATIVE RETURN FUND
MAY 31, 2023
 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(LOGO)  North Square Investments | www.northsquareinvest.com

 

 

North Square Funds

 

Table of Contents

 

Shareholder Letters 1
Fund Performance 17
Schedules of Investments 33
Statements of Assets and Liabilities 65
Statements of Operations 68
Statements of Changes in Net Assets 70
Financial Highlights 76
Notes to Financial Statements 93
Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm 108
Supplemental Information 109
Expense Examples 114

 

This report and the financial statements contained herein are provided for the general information of the shareholders of the North Square Funds. This report is not authorized for distribution to prospective investors in the Funds unless preceded or accompanied by an effective prospectus.

 

www.northsquareinvest.com

 

 

Discussion of Fund Performance    (LOGO)

 

A letter from David Appleby, Vice President - Risk, Quantitative Analysis and Portfolio Construction of NSI Retail Advisors, LLC and Portfolio Manager of the North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund.

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

The headline return of 9.7% for the S&P 500 in the leading 5 months of 2023 is not representative of the experience of the average stock in the US equity market. After a tumultuous year for both equity and fixed income in 2022, Big Tech and companies associated with the nascent AI movement have pushed the index higher while the S&P 500 equal weight index has declined. Though inflation has eased meaningfully with the CPI declining from a year over year rate of 9.1% in June 2022 to 4% in May 2023, it remains uncomfortably elevated and the ongoing message from the Federal Reserve is to expect higher interest rates for longer. As interest rates have risen in response to inflation and the post COVID rebound in economic growth has waned, companies have been forced to adapt to a new operating environment. Investment banks are suddenly dealing with a drop in M&A activity as the strategy of acquisition through low-cost debt becomes less tenable. Within an evolving investment landscape, compelling valuation and growth opportunities exist for the discerning investor. The small cap universe, while often more volatile than large cap indexes, offers the potential to differentiate as the market shifts away from a regime of low interest rates and accommodative policy through its diverse selection of companies.

 

The North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund is an allocation strategy designed to bring together experienced active managers that can provide distinctive approaches within the smaller capitalization equity marketplace. The strategy combines differentiated funds across style and smaller capitalizations seeking to improve alpha generating potential in an allocation with a similar risk profile to the Russell 2000. For the fiscal year ending May 31, 2023, the North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund (Class I Shares) returned -2.08%. By comparison, the Russell 2000 index returned -6.14%.

 

Recent equity market volatility from the rapid change in inflation and interest rates regime has allowed small cap managers to opportunistically invest across a much broader selection of companies and feel less encumbered by the need to hold a handful of specific index names. A near banking crisis from the collapse of specialty banks focused on the venture capital and cryptocurrency industries was particularly detrimental to small cap banks and drove significant underperformance in the small value index (Russell 2000 Value: -11.50%) relative to the core index. The North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Value Fund (Cl I: -8.00%) outperformed the small value index for the fiscal year, but was the largest detractor to the overall returns for the Spectrum Alpha Fund. The largest holding within the Fund, the North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund (Cl I: 0.76%), had positive returns for the year and was the largest contributor to the Fund’s outperformance for the year. Small caps in general underperformed the large cap indexes for the fiscal year, but the unique combination of managers within the Spectrum Alpha Fund allowed the Fund to not only outperform the Russell 2000 Index but also the S&P 500 equal weighted index (-4.31%).

 

Though the investment climate may continue to be difficult, the current selection of managers inspires confidence in our ability to navigate its impact on the small cap universe. North Square and NSI Retail Advisors continue to seek additional managers and strategies that would further enhance the portfolio’s opportunity set. We appreciate your confidence in North Square Investments.

 

Sincerely,

 

David Appleby 

Vice President – Risk, Quantitative Analysis and Portfolio Construction & Portfolio Manager 

1

 

* Call 855-551-5521 or visit northsquareinvest.com for the most recent month-end performance results. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. The performance data quoted represents past performance, which is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.

 

Principal Risks of Investing: Risk is inherent in all investing, including an investment in the Fund. An investment in the Fund involves risk, including the following principal risks, among others: Market Risk, Micro-Cap, Small, and Mid-Sized Company Risk, Foreign and Emerging Market Company Risk, Affiliated Underlying Funds Risk, Blend Style Risk, Derivatives Risk, and ETF and Mutual Funds Risk. Summary descriptions of these and other principal risks of investing in the Fund are set forth in the Fund’s prospectus. Before you decide whether to invest in the Fund, carefully consider these risk factors and special considerations associated with investing in the Fund, which may cause investors to lose money. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Please see the Fund’s prospectus for additional risk disclosures.

 

Effective January 11, 2022, the Russell 2000® Index has replaced the Russell 2000 Total Return Index as the Fund’s primary benchmark as the Russell 2000 Index is more closely aligned with the Fund’s principal investment strategies and portfolio holdings.

 

The Russell 2000 Index, the Fund’s benchmark, is a subset of the Russell 3000 Index representing approximately 10% of the total market capitalization of that index. It includes approximately 2000 of the smallest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership. The volatility (beta) of an account may be greater or less than its respective benchmark. It is not possible to invest directly in an index.

 

All indexes are shown for comparative purposes only. One cannot invest directly in an index. A market “drawdown” measures the percentage decline from a peak to a trough.

 

The views in this letter are those of the Fund’s direct advisor and were as of May 31, 2023 and may not necessarily reflect the same views on the date this letter is first published or any date thereafter. These views are intended to help shareholders in understanding the fund’s investment methodology and do not constitute investment advice.

 

Investment in equity securities involves substantial risks and may be subject to wide and sudden fluctuations in market value. Investing in small and mid-cap companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements and may have lower trading volumes or more erratic trading than securities of larger companies. International investments are subject to unique risks including currency fluctuations, social, economic and political uncertainties, which could increase volatility. In addition, changes in exchange rates and interest rates may adversely affect the value of the fund’s foreign investments. Please see the prospectus for a more complete discussion of the fund’s risks. 

2

 

Discussion of Fund Performance    (LOGO)

 

A letter from Peter Algert, Chief Investment Officer of Algert Global LLC and Portfolio Manager of the North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund.

 

Dear Shareholders,

 

U.S. small-cap stocks continued to exhibit a volatile return pattern over the 12-months ending May 31, 2023. Significant global inflationary pressures, the war in Ukraine and concerns regarding the viability of several U.S. regional banks were among factors contributing to the volatility. After posting poor returns for much of 2022, U.S. small cap stocks rebounded strongly at the beginning of the year however gave up much of their gains in the subsequent months. For the trailing 12-month period, the North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund (Class I Shares) returned 0.76%, outperforming its benchmark, Russell 2000 Total Return index, which returned -4.68%.

 

Stock Selection Designed to be the Primary Source of Benchmark Outperformance

 

For the trailing 12-month period, stock selection contributed positively to Fund performance. The Fund also benefitted from portfolio exposures to various risk factors (e.g. a company’s industry, leverage, liquidity and beta characteristics).

 

Catalyst

 

The Fund’s Catalyst-related insights were the primary positive contributor to performance for the year. Catalyst insights seek to gather sentiment from a variety of market participants including investors, company management and sell-side analysts. Given the rapid shift in sentiment during much of the 12-month period, Catalyst insights relatively short investment horizon were better positioned to navigate the volatile environment compared to other types of investment insights.

 

Quality

 

Quality-related insights also contributed positively to the performance of the Fund. Quality insights measure a variety of fundamental characteristics to assess a company’s resilience and ability to operate efficiently regardless of its external environment. These types of insights performed relatively well during the U.S. regional banking crisis in the early part of 2023, as investors risk appetite diminished.

 

Relative Value

 

Relative Value-related insights detracted modestly from the Fund’s performance over the trailing 12-month period despite exhibiting periods of strong performance. Relative Value insights were in and out of favor with investors as sentiment shifted in terms of potential for further tightening. Historically, valuation-oriented insights tend to perform better coming out of an economic slowdown than going into one. As a result, these types of insights have struggled to maintain a sustained period of outperformance as markets have been undecided on the direction of the economy.

 

Risk Factors

 

Active exposures to various risk factors contributed positively to performance over the trailing 12-month period driven primarily by the Fund’s industry positioning. Other risk factors including leverage, volatility and liquidity detracted from performance. While the Fund’s various risk exposures were beneficial over the measurement period, we expect them to have minimal impact on the Fund’s relative performance over a full market cycle.

 

Fund Positioning for the Future

 

The Fund aims to be diversified across its three main investment themes, Relative Value, Quality and Catalyst. While it appears that the pace of inflation is easing in the U.S., current levels are higher than stated targets and we believe elevated rates and inflation may persist. Given this economic backdrop we expect the Fund’s Quality-driven positioning will be beneficial for the portfolio and should be the dominant theme in the near term. We continue to favor Catalyst- driven positions relative to Value due in part to the expectation of outperformance of firms with attractive trends in underlying business fundamentals.

 

Sincerely,

 

Peter Algert 

Chief Investment Officer 

3

 

* Call 855-551-5521 or visit northsquareinvest.com for the most recent month-end performance results. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. The performance data quoted represents past performance, which is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.

 

Principal Risks of Investing: Risk is inherent in all investing, including an investment in the Fund. An investment in the Fund involves risk, including the following principal risks, among others: Equity Risk, ETF Risk, Foreign Investment Risk, IPO Risk, Liquidity Risk, Management and Strategy Risk, Market Risk, Portfolio Turnover Risk, Preferred Stock Risk, Real Estate Investment Trust (“REIT”) Risk, Reliance on Technology Risk, Small Cap Company Risk, and Value-Oriented Investment Strategies Risk. Summary descriptions of these and other principal risks of investing in the Fund are set forth in the prospectus. Before you decide whether to invest in the Fund, carefully consider these risk factors and special considerations associated with investing in the Fund, which may cause investors to lose money. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Please see the Fund’s prospectus for additional risk disclosures.

 

The Russell 2000 Index, the Fund’s benchmark, is a subset of the Russell 3000 Index representing approximately 10% of the total market capitalization of that index. It includes approximately 2000 of the smallest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership. The index is shown for comparative purposes only. One cannot invest directly in an index.

 

Cash flow is the amount of cash that comes in and goes out of a business. Companies take in money from sales as revenues and spend money on expenses. 

4

 

Discussion of Fund Performance    (LOGO)

 

A letter from Andrew Cupps, Managing Director of Advisory Research, Inc. and Portfolio Manager of the North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund.

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

The investment environment for the fiscal year ending May 31, 2023 was defined by a resilient economy that moved only very slowly past peak inflation such that the Fed remained committed to rate increases through the period and into the summer of 2023. Over the course of the 12 months there were three distinct market rallies as investors positioned for more optimistic scenarios on the inflation and interest rate front, but each rally reversed in investor frustration as the economy showed more strength and the Fed showed more resolve than expected. By the end of the back and forth volatility, the benchmark Russell 2000 Growth1 barely budged, but the economy did make important strides in returning to health as supply chains steadily recovered from the turmoil created by government COVID shutdowns, and excess demand created by aggressive government COVID spending finally wound down toward pre-COVID levels. The sideways movement by small cap growth stocks, commonly known as market consolidation, may ultimately prove to be constructive for investors as periods of consolidation often serve as a foundation for more durable advances.

 

For the period June 2022 through May 2023, the benchmark Russell 2000 Growth Total Return Index was up 2.68% while the North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund”) was down -1.74%. The group behavior of this period has been unusual. Most corrections have a cyclical orientation as rate increases choke off economic activity and reduce demand for discretionary goods and larger ticket financed products such as autos, housing and big industrial products. That pattern often results in poor performance by retail, housing, construction, and industrial companies as lower demand leads to lower earnings. This market cycle has been nearly the opposite as the industrial sector has been one of the strongest performers and the consumer discretionary group has been led higher by housing-related stocks that have been among the leading groups straight through the interest rate hikes that typically weigh on those stocks. One of the homebuilders that has delivered tremendous results even as rates have increased, and which generated strong results for the Fund, is GreenBrick Partners. The company focuses its development in strong housing markets including Dallas, Austin and Atlanta and has seen resilient demand as those areas benefit from migration from other states. Elsewhere, the technology sector was flat overall, but contained many winners and losers. Big technology contributors for the Fund included Impinj, the leader in RFID technology which retail companies use to track inventory, and Symbotics, a disruptor in the warehouse automation market, which has developed an integrated system of robots to manage inventory throughout a warehouse. Two detractors in the sector were hurt by the COVID supply chain disruptions. SiTime, an innovator in electronic components has developed an inexpensive silicon-based solution for the timing function in computers and handsets that has been rapidly taking market share against the more expensive traditional quartz solution, but missed revenue after customers accumulated too much inventory. Velo3D is a 3D printer with a unique ability to print complex shaped industrial parts in metal, especially for the rapidly growing space and aerospace industries. Like SiTime, Velo3D suffered from COVID supply chain disruptions that pressured its revenue. The COVID supply chain issues affected industrial companies too, and Titan International, which dominates the market for mining and agricultural tires and wheels and was a good performer for the fund last year, was a detractor this year as customers paused to right-size their inventory.

 

The year ahead features the known risk of inflation, which while falling, is still above acceptable levels, and the accompanying risk of the Fed navigating decisions around the timing and magnitude of hikes or cuts. Among positive harbingers for the small cap growth universe is the fact that larger growth stocks, which often move before smaller growth stocks, have rocketed to new highs mid-way through 2023. Additionally, the economy continues to show resiliency, perhaps as a function of “rolling recession” that has reset various sectors at different times rather than the more typical scenario in which the broader economy suffers simultaneously. Our team sees potential in a number of attractive company-specific opportunities, and we suspect that if inflation continues on its path lower, the Fed can end its hiking cycle and stocks will perform better, though if inflation proves to be sticky, returns will likely be more muted. 

 

 

1The Russell 2000 Growth Index measures the performance of the small-cap growth segment of the US equity universe. It includes those Russell 2000 companies with relatively higher price-to-book rations, higher I/B/E/S (Institutional Brokers’ Estimate System) forecast medium term (2 year) growth and higher sales per share historical growth (5 years).

5

 

On behalf of all the dedicated members of the Advisory Research team, I thank you for investing in the North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund.

 

Sincerely,

 

Andrew Cupps

Managing Director

 

* Call 855-551-5521 or visit northsquareinvest.com for the most recent month-end performance results. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. The performance data quoted represents past performance, which is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.

 

Principal Risks of Investing: Risk is inherent in all investing, including an investment in the Fund. An investment in the Fund involves risk, including the following principal risks, among others: Equity Risk, Sector Focus Risk, Portfolio Turnover Risk, Market Risk, Small-Cap Company Risk, Cybersecurity Risk, Preferred Securities Risk, Convertible Securities Risk, ETF Risk, Currency Risk, Emerging Market Risk, Growth-Style Investing Risk, Foreign Investment Risk, and Management and Strategy Risk. Summary descriptions of these and other principal risks of investing in the Fund are set forth in the Fund’s prospectus. Before you decide whether to invest in the Fund, carefully consider these risk factors and special considerations associated with investing in the Fund, which may cause investors to lose money. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Please see the Fund’s prospectus for additional risk disclosures.

 

The Russell 2000 Growth Index is unmanaged, its return assumes reinvestment of dividends and, unlike mutual funds returns, does not reflect any fees or expenses associated with a mutual fund. It is not possible to invest directly in an index. 

6

 

 

Discussion of Fund Performance    (LOGO)

 

A letter from David Appleby, Vice President - Risk, Quantitative Analysis and Portfolio Construction of NSI Retail Advisors, LLC and Portfolio Manager of the North Square Multi Strategy Fund.

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

Upon first glance at the headline 9.7% return for the S&P 500 equity index in the leading 5 months of 2023, one would expect to read about a positive economic outlook and improving conditions for financial markets. These results appear distantly removed from the reality of elevated levels of inflation and a near bank crisis that required swift government intervention. Closer examination of the drivers of performance for the period, however, shows that Big Tech made a strong recovery during the period while multiple sectors posted negative returns. Additionally, companies affiliated with the nascent artificial intelligence movement have captured an euphoria reminiscent of the hype ridden acceleration in late 2020/early 2021 related to technical companies. The advance in this select group of companies has propelled the S&P 500 (+2.92%) and most distinctly the Russell 1000 Growth (+9.55%) to recover from the broad market drawdowns in the second half of 2022 into positive returns for the fiscal year ending May 31, 2023. The Russell 1000 Value Total Return, on the other hand, experienced losses of 4.55% over the same period. This divergence between technology companies and more economically sensitive segments within the US equity market is symptomatic of the unresolved economic uncertainties caused by the exigent factors affecting the economy over the previous 3 years.

 

The collapse of specialty banks focused on the venture capital and cryptocurrency industries renewed concerns for the ramifications of elongated monetary accommodation followed but a dramatic shift in interest rates. These specialty banking institutions, however, rested on fault lines in the financial infrastructure built through an extended period of low interest rates. It is reasonable to presume that the greatest beneficiaries of the past decade+ would be the areas of greatest friction when the operating environment shifted. As lower rates continued over time, a paucity of safe return opportunities drove investors to tolerate greater levels of risk. Without disruption, the process mutes the ability to recognize the level of risk taken and the scale to which risk accumulates within the financial system as a whole. While the catalyst for the crisis was unrealized losses in the bank’s capital due to a rapid change in interest rates, the mechanism was continuously lending to businesses that rely on regular cash infusion and unsustainable asset price inflation to remain going concerns. While the specter of crisis appears contained at present, it should act as a warning that there are other opaque markets that expanded significantly with the aid of low-cost debt. Furthermore, the concern remains that the shock to the banking system could encourage further tightening in credit conditions due to higher risk aversion by regional banks, which intensifies the effect of higher interest rates on the economy. As the flow of debt is often the fuel for new economic growth, the probability that this rate hike cycle will end without an economic contraction declines.

 

The North Square Multi-Strategy Fund (Class I Shares) returned -0.38% for the fiscal year ending May 31, 2023. Comparatively, the Russell 3000 Total Return Index returned 2.03%, and the Bloomberg US Aggregate Bond Index declined by -2.14%. Growth equities have led the recovery in US equity markets from the lows in 2022. While overall valuations within growth equities did moderate in 2022, the lack of breadth in the current rally has encouraged patience in our core-value allocation across equities. Given the uncertain economic environment, equity markets remain sensitive to further drawdowns that could sharply impact the stocks that have seen the strongest gains in recent months. On the other hand, if the economy avoids further setbacks our equity allocation should benefit from a more broad-based recovery, particularly our selection of small cap equity holdings. While our overall allocation to small-cap detracted from performance for the fiscal year, we believe the lack of concentration risk and the valuation opportunity relative to larger capitalization stocks makes the small cap market uniquely poised for long term outperformance.

 

While the results for the aggregate bond index have not been positive during the fiscal year, the yield opportunity has improved appreciably since the onset of the Federal Reserve rate hike cycle. The effective Federal Funds Rate has risen from 0.05% on May 31st, 2020 to 5.06% as of May 31st, 2023, translating into higher yields across the US treasury yield curve. Furthermore, corporate spreads meaningfully expanded in 2022 and have since begun to taper as the market internalizes the shift in interest rate regime. Low quality, high yield corporate debt, however, remains the sharpest area of concern, particularly as a large volume of debt financed at exceptionally low rates during the COVID crisis mature over the next 2 years. This environment appears particularly favorable to our investments across fixed income and flexible income solutions. The North Square McKee Bond Fund (Cl I: -1.33%) focuses on high quality fixed income investments across Treasuries, government agencies and investment grade debt. Our largest income-focused holding, the North Square 

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Preferred & Income Securities Fund (CL I: 1.25%), invests primarily in a variety of preferred securities to enhance yield opportunity on a risk-adjusted basis. The combination of the two holdings allows us to capture the current yield opportunity through a variety of income producing securities while limiting our exposure to lower credit quality.

 

In general, we continue to believe this environment to be most conducive to flexible active managers with a focus on evaluating the relative merits of fundamental opportunities. The current holdings within the Multi Strategy Fund provide a diverse cross-section of investment strategies, and we believe the Multi Strategy Fund is well-equipped to meet a variety of market environments; nevertheless, North Square and NSI Retail Advisors continue to seek new managers and strategies that further enhance the portfolio’s opportunity set. We appreciate your continued confidence in North Square Investments.

 

Sincerely,

 

David Appleby

 

Vice President – Risk, Quantitative Analysis and Portfolio Construction & Portfolio Manager

 

*Call 855-551-5521 or visit northsquareinvest.com for the most recent month-end performance results. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. The performance data quoted represents past performance, which is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.

 

Principal Risks of Investing: Risk is inherent in all investing, including an investment in the Fund. An investment in the Fund involves risk, including the following principal risks, among others: Bank Loan Risk, Convertible Securities Risk, Credit Risk, Currency Risk, Emerging Market Risk, Equity Risk, ETF and Mutual Funds Risk, Fixed Income Securities Risk, Foreign Investment Risk, Government-Sponsored Entities Risk, Growth-Oriented Investment Strategies Risk, High Yield (“Junk”) Bond Risk, Inflation- Linked Securities Risk, Interest Rate Risk, IPO Risk, Large Cap Company Risk, Liquidity Risk, Management and Strategy Risk, Market Risk, Mortgage-Backed and Asset-Backed Securities Risk, Municipal Securities Risk, Preferred Stock Risk, Small and Mid Cap Company Risk, Value-Oriented Investment Strategies Risk, and Warrants and Rights Risk. Summary descriptions of these and other principal risks of investing in the Fund are set forth below. Before you decide whether to invest in the Fund, carefully consider these risk factors and special considerations associated with investing in the Fund, which may cause investors to lose money. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Please see the Fund’s prospectus for additional risk disclosures.

 

The S&P 500 Index is the Standard & Poor’s Composite Index of 500 stocks and is a widely recognized, unmanaged index of common stock prices.

 

The 10-year Treasury yield is the yield that the U.S. government pays investors that purchase the Treasury’s 10-year note. Purchase of the 10-year note is essentially a loan made to the U.S. government.

 

The Russell 3000® Index is a capitalization-weighted stock market index that seeks to be a benchmark of the entire U.S stock market.

 

The Bloomberg US Aggregate Bond Index is a broad base, market capitalization-weighted bond market index representing intermediate term investment grade bonds traded in the United States. The index is frequently used by investors as a “stand-in” for measuring the performance of the US bond market.

 

All indexes are shown for comparative purposes only. One cannot invest directly in an index.

 

The views in this letter are those of the Fund’s direct advisor and were as of May 31, 2023 and may not necessarily reflect the same views on the date this letter is first published or any date thereafter. These views are intended to help shareholders in understanding the fund’s investment methodology and do not constitute investment advice.

 

Investment in equity securities involves substantial risks and may be subject to wide and sudden fluctuations in market value. Investing in small and mid-cap companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements and may have lower trading volumes or more erratic trading than securities of larger companies. International investments are subject to unique risks including currency fluctuations, social, economic and political uncertainties, which could increase volatility. In addition, changes in exchange rates and interest rates may adversely affect the value of the fund’s foreign investments. Please see the prospectus for a more complete discussion of the fund’s risks. 

8

 

Discussion of Fund Performance    (LOGO)

 

A letter from John L. Cassady III, CFA, Chief Investment Officer, and Brandon Bajema CFA, CPA, Sr. Portfolio Manager, Portfolio Managers of the North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund.

 

Dear Shareholders,

 

The economic events during the North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund’s (the “Fund”) fiscal year ended May 31, 2023, have been truly extraordinary. The June 2022 U.S Consumer Price Index came in at 9.1% year over year, non-seasonally adjusted. Economic historians would need to look back to the year 1981 to see comparable inflation rates. For its part, the Federal Reserve (“Fed”) had just embarked on a rate hike cycle, but the upper bound of the Fed Funds target rate was still at 1.0%. Across the US Treasury yield curve, investors had to look to maturities beyond 10 years to find any yields above 3%. By the end of the fiscal year, the Fed had increased the Fed Funds rate to 5.25%, the yield curve was deeply inverted, and all U.S. Treasury maturities had yields above 3.5%. Additionally, the 6-month Treasury Bill yield stood at an eye-popping 5.42%.

 

Those events in themselves were certainly enough to keep fund managers pre-occupied, but during the month of March, the banking system and preferred securities experienced a spasm that reverberated across financial markets. In the United States, some banks experienced deposit flight as customers began to seek higher money market rates and began to question the safety of their deposits in certain financial institutions. In the capital markets, investors began to question which banks would be next to experience a bank run, insufficient capital requirements, or insolvency. Ultimately, regulators shut down Signature Bank, Silicon Valley Bank, and First Republic Bank.

 

Meanwhile, across the Atlantic, Credit Suisse (CS) had been facing capital shortfalls of its own after repeated attempts at restructuring the bank. When one of its flagship investors, the Saudi National Bank, announced that it had no intentions of providing fresh capital, its stock price and Additional Tier 1 (AT1) securities began to plummet. Ultimately, the Swiss regulators determined that CS had reached the point of non-viability and orchestrated a take over by UBS. The regulator also announced the CS AT1 securities would be completely written off, leaving its AT1 investors with nothing. These actions weighed heavily on the broader AT1 market as investors began to question the viability of the entire asset class.

 

The Fund provided investors with a total return of 1.25% for the fiscal year, while its benchmark (the ICE BofA Fixed Rate Preferred Securities Index) returned -1.38%. During the first part of the fiscal year, Red Cedar Investment Management (“RCIM”) sought out corporate hybrids of issuers that no longer needed rating agency credit for capital and would be calling their securities soon. As valuations of preferred securities continued to climb through December 2022, RCIM made the decision to position the fund more defensively with regard to higher credit quality and more conservative option structures. As the events of March 2023 unfolded, the Fund did not hold any preferreds of the failed bank issuers and had a rather small allocation to AT1s in general. After careful analysis, it was RCIM’s belief that the banking troubles were not a systemic problem but rather an idiosyncratic issue to a handful of banks. Because the preferred structure was now being called into question, prices of many issuers fell to deep discounts as market participants believed they would never be called. RCIM believed that most of these structures would ultimately be called and began adding aggressively to AT1s and US regional bank preferreds. As we ended the fiscal year, these investment decisions have been value added to the fund.

 

Throughout the market turmoil of FY 2023, Red Cedar believes it has added value for the Fund’s investors. The ability to move quickly and respond rapidly to changing conditions while actively managing the Fund’s risk and reward was a key tenant of the Fund’s performance. As always, we remain committed to this same vigilance moving forward as we strive to add value for the Fund’s investors.

 

Regards,

 

Brandon Bajema CFA, CPA 

Senior Portfolio Manager 

 

John L. Cassady III, CFA 

CIO

 

* Call 855-551-5521 or visit northsquareinvest.com for the most recent month-end performance results. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. The performance data quoted represents past performance, which is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. 

9

 

Principal Risks of Investing: Risk is inherent in all investing, including an in-vestment in the Fund. An investment in the Fund involves risk, including the following principal risks, among others: Credit and Subordination Risk, Preferred Securities Risk, Hybrid Security Risk, Additional Tier 1 Securities Risk, Optionality Risk, Foreign Investments Risk, Rule 144A and Regulation S Securities Risk, Currency Risk, Emerging Markets Risk, Derivatives and Hedging Transactions Risk, and LIBOR Risk. Summary descriptions of these and other principal risks of investing in the Fund are set forth in the Fund’s prospectus. Before you decide whether to invest in the Fund, carefully consider these risk factors and special considerations associated with investing in the Fund, which may cause investors to lose money. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Please see the Fund’s prospectus for additional risk disclosures.

 

The Consumer Price Index (CPI) is a measure of the average change over time in the prices paid by urban consumers for a market basket of consumer goods and services. Indexes are available for the U.S. and various geographic areas. Average price data for select utility, automotive fuel, and food items are also available.

 

A basis point (bp) is a standard measure for interest rates and other percentages in finance, representing one-one hundredth of one percent. 100 basis points = 1.0 percent.

 

AT1s, also known as contingent convertible securities, are debt or preferred securities with loss absorption characteristics that provide for an automatic write-down of the principal amount or value of securities or the mandatory conversion into common shares of the issuer under certain circumstances. A mandatory conversion might be automatically triggered, for instance, if a company fails to meet the capital minimum described in the security, the company’s regulator makes a determination that the security should convert, or the company receives specified levels of extraordinary public support. Since the common stock of the issuer may not pay a dividend, investors in these instruments could experience a reduced income rate, potentially to zero, and conversion would deepen the subordination of the investor (worsening the Fund’s standing in a bankruptcy). In addition, some AT1s provide for an automatic write- down of capital under such circumstances. 

10

 

Discussion of Fund Performance    (LOGO)

 

A letter from Paul Frank of NSI Retail Advisors, LLC and Portfolio Manager of the North Square Tactical Growth Fund.

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

The North Square Tactical Growth Fund follows a rules-based, disciplined, proprietary model that guides us in building a multi-asset class portfolio of Exchange Traded Funds (“ETFs”). We quantitatively rank all ETFs that pass our initial fundamental review for their ability to compensate for their risk. The Tactical Growth Fund will purchase and hold ETFs showing strength, and it will sell or not consider for purchase ETFs showing weakness. The Tactical Growth Fund’s objective is to produce long-term equity-like returns with less volatility than passive equity investments.

 

For the year ending May 31, 2023, the Tactical Growth Fund (Class I Shares) returned 1.33%. The Fund’s benchmark, the Morningstar Moderately Aggressive Target Risk Index, returned -1.26%. The S&P 500 Index returned 2.92% and the NASDAQ Composite Index gained 8.04%.

 

The Bloomberg U.S. Agg Total Return Index returned -2.14%.

 

The Fund started the fiscal year on June 1, 2022, with a slightly conservative portfolio. We had 60% of the Fund invested in equity ETFs, 8% in a fixed-income ETF, and 32% in cash.

 

The first five months of 2022 were very volatile, and our goal was to protect capital. The Fund moved to a more conservative stance later in the Spring when we sold the fixed-income and a core U.S. equity holding. A stock market rally failed in the summer and in the fall the markets were making new multi-year lows. The Fund stayed static during these months with a portfolio split evenly between U.S. equities and cash.

 

The market appears to have made a bottom in October 2022. Our Sharpe ratio process had us add equities and by October 31 we held 65% U.S. equity and 35% cash. In January we added two asset classes to the portfolio with additions in international equity and metals & mining. We added more international exposure in March and ended the quarter with 62% invested in U.S. equities, 10% international equities, and 28% cash. May saw us add positions in international fixed income while keeping our equity positions unchanged.

 

We ended the fiscal year on May 31, 2023, with multiple asset classes. Our ETFs represented U.S. equity (64%), International equity (10%), International fixed-income developed markets (5%) and emerging market fixed-income (5%), and cash (16%).

 

The Tactical Growth Fund followed its process during the year and our allocation changes helped limit losses and volatility. Our goal is to build a diversified multi-asset portfolio that compensates its investors for market risk.

 

Sincerely,

 

Paul Frank 

Portfolio Manager 

11

 

* Call 855-551-5521 or visit northsquareinvest.com for the most recent month-end performance results. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. The performance data quoted represents past performance, which is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.

 

Principal Risks of Investing: Risk is inherent in all investing including an investment in the Fund. An investment in the Fund involves risk, including, the following principal risks, among others: Management and Strategy Risk, ETF and Mutual Funds Risk, Derivatives Risk, Market Risk, Equity Risk, Fixed Income Securities Risk and Growth-Oriented Investment Strategies Risk. Summary descriptions of these and other principal risks of investing in the Fund are set forth below. Before you decide whether to invest in the Fund, carefully consider these risks associated with investing in the Fund, which may cause investors to lose money. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Please see the Fund’s prospectus for additional risk disclosures.

 

The Morningstar Target Risk Index family is designed to meet the needs of investors who would like to maintain a target level of equity exposure through a portfolio diversified across equities, bonds and inflation-hedged instruments. The Morningstar Moderately Aggressive Target Risk Index seeks approximately 77.5% global equity exposure.

 

The S&P 500 Index is the Standard & Poor’s Composite Index of 500 stocks and is a widely recognized, unmanaged index of common stock prices.

 

The NASDAQ Composite is a stock market index that includes almost all stocks listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange.

 

The Bloomberg US Aggregate Bond Index is a broad base, market capitalization-weighted bond market index representing intermediate term investment grade bonds traded in the United States. The index is frequently used by investors as a “stand-in” for measuring the performance of the US bond market.

 

All indexes are shown for comparative purposes only. One cannot invest directly in an index.

 

The views in this letter are those of the Fund’s direct advisor and were as of May 31, 2023 and may not necessarily reflect the same views on the date this letter is first published or any date thereafter. These views are intended to help shareholders in understanding the fund’s investment methodology and do not constitute investment advice.

 

Investment in equity securities involves substantial risks and may be subject to wide and sudden fluctuations in market value. Investing in small and mid-cap companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements and may have lower trading volumes or more erratic trading than securities of larger companies. International investments are subject to unique risks including currency fluctuations, social, economic and political uncertainties, which could increase volatility. In addition, changes in exchange rates and interest rates may adversely affect the value of the fund’s foreign investments. Please see the prospectus for a more complete discussion of the fund’s risks.

12

 

Discussion of Fund Performance    (LOGO)

 

A letter from Brad Thompson, Director - Multi Asset Class Solutions of NSI Retail Advisors, LLC and Portfolio Manager of the North Square Tactical Defensive Fund.

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

Over the past twelve months ending in May 2023, we have witnessed two distinct investment environments. From May 2022 through mid-October, equity markets experienced a significant downturn, with major US market indices plunging further into bear market territory. Between May 31st, 2022, and October 14th, 2022, the S&P 500 declined by -12.74%, the Bloomberg US Aggregate Bond index fell by -7.60%, and the Fund’s benchmark, the Morningstar Moderate Target Risk index, decreased by -12.17%. However, the Tactical Defensive Fund performed relatively well during this market weakness, with only a modest decline of -1.71%. During that period, the fund strategically allocated into cash instead of fixed income for its defensive positioning due to bond weakness and rising rates. Several geopolitical and economic events contributed to the market downturn, including the escalation of the conflict between Russia and Ukraine, record-high gasoline prices, surging oil prices, sanctions on Russia, halted wheat production in Ukraine, and COVID-19 lockdowns in China.

 

By November 2022, equity markets appeared to have reached a bottom and started to recover from the bear market. The Federal Reserve implemented tighter monetary policies with higher interest rates, and market sentiment reflected a slowdown in inflation. However, from November 15th, 2022, to March 15th, 2023, the S&P 500 traded sideways with substantial volatility, resulting in a decline of -1.89%. The US equity markets then experienced a rally from March to May 2023, primarily driven by a few large-cap technology companies. It is important to note that this rally exhibited weak market breadth, with only a handful of stocks leading the upward movement.

 

For the fiscal year ending on May 31, 2023, the North Square Tactical Defensive Fund (Class I Shares) delivered a return of -3.70%, compared to a decline of -1.54% for its benchmark, the Morningstar Moderate Target Risk Index. In contrast, the S&P 500 Total Return Index posted a positive return of 2.92%.

 

The Tactical Defensive Fund employs a strategy that attempts to balance safety and return by analyzing long and short-term market trends. The portfolio’s core allocation is governed by the longer-term Cyclical Trend (CT) measure, while the satellite allocation is influenced by the shorter-term Dynamic Trend (DT) measure, which prioritizes safety. During the reviewed period, the long-term measure remained fully defensive from May 2022 until January 23rd, 2023 when the long term measure called for full equity exposure. There were slight weakening signals on March 27th to April 17th and again from May 11th until the end of the period. The Dynamic Trend measure, on the other hand, switched on and off multiple times throughout the period. Although most of the trades were routine, an exception occurred during the banking crisis when Silicon Valley Bank failed. The model had signaled full equity exposure on March 6th, but the bank’s failure sent shockwaves through risk markets, resulting in a painful whipsaw trade that significantly impacted the fund’s negative return for the period. From then until the end of the fiscal year, which concluded on May 31, 2023, the fund maintained a moderate equity allocation of 50 to 75% coinciding with the ongoing debt ceiling debate in Washington DC.

 

There are several issues that have the potential to impact markets over the next 6 to 12 months. While markets are pricing in two Federal Reserve rate cuts by the end of the year, the Federal Reserve has indicated that it does not intend to reduce rates in 2023. If the Fed maintains its current stance, it could have implications for market pricing action. The probability of a recession remains high, and market valuations have reached concerning levels. Inflation continues to pose a risk, as current levels remain significantly higher than the Fed’s 2% target. Global inflationary pressures, the aftermath of the regional banking crisis, potential credit tightening, and the narrow leadership and weak market breadth of performing stocks in the first five months of 2023 are all causes for concern. It remains uncertain whether the narrow leadership will uplift other stocks or if corrective price action will ensue.

 

Given the economic outlook for the next six months, characterized by uncertainty, active management plays a vital role in an overall portfolio strategy. Our systematic approach allows us to make allocation decisions during periods of uncertainty. The Tactical Defensive Fund aims to deliver long-term returns comparable to equities while mitigating drawdowns and volatility compared to typical long-only passive strategies. This approach provides the necessary diversification to weather market turbulence.

 

Sincerely,

 

Brad Thompson 

Director – Multi Asset Class Solutions & Portfolio Manager 

13

 

* Call 855-551-5521 or visit northsquareinvest.com for the most recent month-end performance results. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. The performance data quoted represents past performance, which is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.

 

Principal Risks of Investing: Risk is inherent in all investing including an investment in the Fund. An investment in the Fund involves risk, including, the following principal risks, among others: Management and Strategy Risk, ETF and Mutual Funds Risk, Derivatives Risk, Fixed Income Securities Risk, Equity Risk, Market Risk, Currency Risk, Foreign Investment Risk, and Portfolio Turnover Risk. Summary descriptions of these and other principal risks of investing in the Fund are set forth below. Before you decide whether to invest in the Fund, carefully consider these risks associated with investing in the Fund, which may cause investors to lose money. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Please see the Fund’s prospectus for additional risk disclosures.

 

The Morningstar Target Risk Index family is designed to meet the needs of investors who would like to maintain a target level of equity exposure through a portfolio diversified across equities, bonds and inflation-hedged instruments. The Morningstar Moderate Target Risk Index, the Fund’s benchmark, seeks approximately 60% global equity exposure.

 

The S&P 500 Index is the Standard & Poor’s Composite Index of 500 stocks and is a widely recognized, unmanaged index of common stock prices.

 

The NASDAQ Composite is a stock market index that includes almost all stocks listed on the Nasdaq stock exchange.

 

The Bloomberg US Aggregate Bond Index is a broad base, market capitalization-weighted bond market index representing intermediate term investment grade bonds traded in the United States. The index is frequently used by investors as a “stand-in” for measuring the performance of the US bond market.

 

All indexes are shown for comparative purposes only. One cannot invest directly in an index.

 

The views in this letter are those of the Fund’s direct advisor and were as of May 31, 2023 and may not necessarily reflect the same views on the date this letter is first published or any date thereafter. These views are intended to help shareholders in understanding the fund’s investment methodology and do not constitute investment advice.

 

Investment in equity securities involves substantial risks and may be subject to wide and sudden fluctuations in market value. Investing in small and mid-cap companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements and may have lower trading volumes or more erratic trading than securities of larger companies. International investments are subject to unique risks including currency fluctuations, social, economic and political uncertainties, which could increase volatility. In addition, changes in exchange rates and interest rates may adversely affect the value of the fund’s foreign investments. Please see the prospectus for a more complete discussion of the fund’s risks. 

14

 

Discussion of Fund Performance    (LOGO)

 

A letter from Clayton Wilkin of NSI Retail Advisors, LLC and portfolio manager of the North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund.

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

2022 presented a difficult market landscape unlike any other in recent years: rampant inflation, stringent Federal Reserve monetary policy, global economic slowdowns, and geopolitical conflicts. Consequently, it led to a bear market throughout the year. However, the beginning of 2023 has witnessed a contrasting scenario. While the market still faces the same headline risks as in 2022, the prospect of the Federal Reserve nearing the end of its rate hikes has sparked a bull market in the NASDAQ Composite Index and S&P 500 Index. Nonetheless, numerous indicators continue to signal an impending recession. We cannot predict the timing, extent, or impact of a potential recession on the market, which is why we believe active management is imperative for your portfolio.

 

From May 31, 2022 until the end of June 2022, both equities and fixed income experienced negative performance. The Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index recorded a loss of -1.57%, while the S&P 500 Index declined by -8.25%. The enduring correlation between equities and fixed income persisted as Fixed Income failed to serve as the usual safe haven during periods of heightened volatility. The unfavorable performance in both asset classes significantly impacted our portfolio, particularly the Equity and Income Positions. Fortunately, the Trilogy Alternative Return Fund incorporates option strategies that provided downside protection, mitigating some of the negative performance. The Equity Position utilized an option collar, while the Market Movement position employed long-put spreads to provide this downside protection.

 

During the third quarter of 2022, the option strategies that safeguard against downward movements were the primary contributors to the Trilogy Alternative Return Fund’s performance. The inclusion of put options in the Hedged Equity and Market Movement segments buoyed the Fund’s performance, particularly in September, which marked the worst performing month since March 2020. Conversely, the Equity and Fixed Income holdings within the portfolio detracted the most from the Trilogy Alternative Return Fund’s performance in Q3. The positive correlation between risk assets (Equities) and Fixed Income persisted, with the S&P 500 Index declining by -4.88% compared to the Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index’s -4.75%. This absence of flight to safety in both asset classes negatively impacted the overall performance of the Trilogy Fund.

 

The Hedged Equity and Option Income buckets emerged as the primary contributors to the Trilogy Alternative Return Fund’s performance in the fourth quarter of 2022. It was a challenging year for Trilogy Alternative Return Fund as the persistent positive correlation between equities and fixed income adversely affected the Fund, resulting in negative returns for both asset classes. This correlation continued into the fourth quarter, with equities and fixed income delivering positive returns. Among the Hedged Equity holdings, Merck (+29.67%) and Aflac (+28.74%) were the best performing stocks during the quarter. Additionally, all six fixed income ETFs in the Option Income bucket yielded positive gains in Q4, with the iShares Broad USD High Yield Corporate Bond ETF (+4.87%) and the SPDR Portfolio Long Term Corporate Bond ETF (+4.83%) being the most significant contributors. Conversely, the option strategies in the Option Income and Market Movement buckets faced challenges in the fourth quarter due to subdued volatility, which had a detrimental effect on option premiums. Nevertheless, the Fund realized gains from long-dated put spreads that were positively influenced by the market drawdown of 2022. Despite being Trilogy Alternative Return Fund’s worst year since inception, the Fund’s design as an alternative to equity and fixed income markets, encompassing diversification in asset classes with equities, fixed income, and option strategies, enabled Trilogy Alternative Return Fund (-10.48%) to outperform both the S&P 500 Index (-18.11%) and the Bloomberg U.S. Aggregate Bond Index (-13.01%) in 2022.

 

The first quarter of 2023 witnessed the Hedged Equity strategy as the major contributor to the Trilogy Alternative Return Fund’s performance. Comprised of 25 stocks and equity ETFs fortified by an option collar strategy, the strategy achieved positive results with notable contributions from Apple (+27.11%), WW Grainger (24.16%), and Microsoft (20.52%). Equities as a whole performed well, with the S&P 500 Index concluding the quarter with a total return of +7.50%. The Option Income strategy also added value, with the best performing Fixed Income ETFs being the SPDR Portfolio Long Term Corporate Bond ETF (+6.04%), the VanEck Fallen Angel High Yield Bond ETF (+4.55%), and the iShares Broad USD High Yield Corporate Bond ETF (+4.24%). 

15

 

Between March 31, 2023 and May 31, 2023, equity markets rebounded primarily led by Mega cap technology names, albeit with narrow breadth. Unfortunately, our dividend-paying large-cap equity names underperformed the overall market due to the Trilogy Alternative Return Fund’s inclination towards value and dividend stocks. During these two months, market volatility remained relatively subdued, with the VIX Index witnessing only two instances of spikes above 20. Consequently, option premiums remained suppressed, limiting the income we could generate through the Option Income strategy.

 

For the fiscal year ending May 31, 2023, the North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund (Class I Shares) delivered a return of -5.56%, while the Bloomberg US Aggregate Bond Index experienced a loss of -2.14%, and the S&P 500 Index gained 2.92%.

 

As we navigate the ongoing uncertainties, we adhere to a systematic approach that facilitates decision-making. We are confident that the blend of equities, fixed income, and options in our portfolio will provide the necessary diversification for the Trilogy Alternative Return Fund and your portfolio, enabling us to weather a potential prevailing storm.

 

Sincerely,

 

Clayton Wilkin 

Portfolio Manager

 

* Call 855-551-5521 or visit northsquareinvest.com for the most recent month-end performance results. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. The performance data quoted represents past performance, which is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.

 

Principal Risks of Investing: Risk is inherent in all investing including an investment in the Fund. An investment in the Fund involves risk, including, the following principal risks, among others: Management and Strategy Risk, ETF and Mutual Funds Risk, Derivatives Risk, Fixed Income Securities Risk, Equity Risk, Market Risk, Currency Risk, Foreign Investment Risk and High Yield (“Junk”) Bond Risk. Summary descriptions of these and other principal risks of investing in the Fund are set forth below. Before you decide whether to invest in the Fund, carefully consider these risks associated with investing in the Fund, which may cause investors to lose money. There can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of the bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Please see the Fund’s prospectus for additional risk disclosures.

 

The S&P 500 Index is the Standard & Poor’s Composite Index of 500 stocks and is a widely recognized, unmanaged index of common stock prices. One cannot invest directly in an index.

 

The Bloomberg US Aggregate Bond Index is a broad base, market capitalization-weighted bond market index representing intermediate term investment grade bonds traded in the United States. The index is frequently used by investors as a “stand-in” for measuring the performance of the US bond market. This index is shown for comparative purposes only.

 

A market “drawdown” measures the percentage decline from a peak to a trough.

 

The views in this letter are those of the Fund’s direct advisor and were as of May 31, 2023 and may not necessarily reflect the same views on the date this letter is first published or any date thereafter. These views are intended to help shareholders in understanding the fund’s investment methodology and do not constitute investment advice.

 

Investment in equity securities involves substantial risks and may be subject to wide and sudden fluctuations in market value. Investing in small and mid-cap companies may be subject to more abrupt or erratic market movements and may have lower trading volumes or more erratic trading than securities of larger companies. International investments are subject to unique risks including currency fluctuations, social, economic and political uncertainties, which could increase volatility. In addition, changes in exchange rates and interest rates may adversely affect the value of the fund’s foreign investments. Please see the prospectus for a more complete discussion of the fund’s risks.

16

 

North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund
FUND PERFORMANCE at May 31, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

(LINE GRAPH)

 

This graph compares a hypothetical $1,000,000 investment in the Fund’s Class I shares with a similar investment in the Russell 2000 Index and the Russell 2000 Total Return Index. The performance graph above is shown for the Fund’s Class I shares; Class A shares performance may vary. Results include the reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains.

 

The Russell 2000 Index and the Russell 2000 Total Return Index are representative of a broader market and range of securities than is found in the Fund’s portfolio. Individuals cannot invest directly in an index; however, an individual may invest in exchange traded funds or other investment vehicles that attempt to track the performance of a benchmark index.

 

Average Annual Total Returns 

(for the periods ended May 31, 2023)

 

  1 Year 5 Year 10 Year
North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund - Class A      
Without Load -2.25% 2.41% 6.10%
With Load(a) -7.89% 1.20% 5.47%
North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund - Class I -2.08% 2.64% 6.40%
Russell 2000 Index -6.14% 1.38% 5.92%
Russell 2000 Total Return Index -4.68% 2.74% 7.36%

 

(a)Maximum sales charge for Class A shares is 5.75%. No initial sales charge applies on investments of $500,000 or more, but a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”) of 1.00% will be imposed on certain redemptions of such shares within 12 months of the date of purchase.

 

Returns reflect the reinvestment of distributions made by the Fund, if any. The graph and the performance table shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.

 

The Fund acquired all assets and assumed the liabilities of the Oak Ridge Small Cap Growth Fund (the “Predecessor Fund”) effective the close of business on May 10, 2019. As a result of the reorganization, the Fund is the accounting successor of the Predecessor Fund. Performance results shown in the table above for periods prior to the close of business on May 10, 2019 reflect the performance of the Predecessor Fund. Effective January 11, 2022, the Fund changed names to the North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund (formerly, North Square Oak Ridge Small Cap Growth Fund), changed investment strategy (Note 1), and changed Sub-Advisors to NSI Retail Advisors, LLC (formerly, Oak Ridge Investments, LLC). 

17

 

North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund
FUND PERFORMANCE at May 31, 2023 (Unaudited) – Continued

 

Gross and net expense ratios for Class A shares were 1.20% and 1.60%, for Class I shares were 0.97% and 1.35%, which were the amounts stated in the current prospectus dated May 1, 2023. The net expense ratio is higher than the gross as a result of fee recoupment. For the Fund’s current one year expense ratios, please refer to the Financial Highlights section of this report. The Fund’s advisor has contractually agreed to waive its fees and/or pay for operating expenses of the Fund to ensure that total annual fund operating expenses do not exceed 1.30% and 1.05% of the average daily net assets of the Fund’s Class A and Class I shares, respectively. This agreement is in effect until September 30, 2024, and it may be terminated before that date only by the Trust’s Board of Trustees. In the absence of such waivers, the Fund’s returns would have been lower.

 

The performance data quoted here represents past performance and past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance information quoted. The most recent month end performance may be obtained by calling 1-855-551-5521. 

18

 

North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund
FUND PERFORMANCE at May 31, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

(LINE GRAPH)

 

This graph compares a hypothetical $1,000,000 investment in the Fund’s Class I shares with a similar investment in the Russell 2000 Total Return Index. The performance graph above is shown for the Fund’s Class I shares; Class A shares performance may vary. Results include the reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains.

 

The Russell 2000 Total Return Index is representative of a broader market and range of securities than is found in the Fund’s portfolio. Individuals cannot invest directly in an index; however, an individual may invest in exchange traded funds or other investment vehicles that attempt to track the performance of a benchmark index.

 

Average Annual Total Returns

(for the periods ended May 31, 2023)

 

  1 Year 5 Year 10 Year

Since Inception 

(5/1/23)

North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund - Class A        
Without Load -0.98%
With Load(a) -6.69%
North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund - Class I 0.76% 5.97% 10.85%
Russell 2000 Total Return Index -4.68% 2.74% 7.36% -0.94%

 

(a)Maximum sales charge for Class A shares is 5.75%. No initial sales charge applies on investments of $500,000 or more, but a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”) of 1.00% will be imposed on certain redemptions of such shares within 12 months of the date of purchase.

 

Returns reflect the reinvestment of distributions made by the Fund, if any. The graph and the performance table shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Total returns for less than one year are not annualized.

 

The Fund acquired all assets and assumed the liabilities of the Oak Ridge Dynamic Small Cap Fund (the “Predecessor Fund”) effective the close of business on May 10, 2019. The Predecessor Fund commenced operations on September 30, 2015 after the conversion of the Algert Global U.S. Small Cap account (the “Predecessor Account”). As a result of each reorganization, the Fund is the accounting successor of each the Predecessor Fund and Predecessor Account. Performance results shown in the performance table above between May 10, 2019 and September 30, 2015 represent the performance of the Predecessor Fund, and performance results shown prior to September 30, 2015 represent the performance of the Predecessor Account. The Predecessor Account was not registered under the 

19

 

North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund
FUND PERFORMANCE at May 31, 2023 (Unaudited) – Continued

 

Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), and therefore was not subject to certain restrictions imposed by the 1940 Act on registered investment companies and by the Internal Revenue Code of 1986 on regulated investment companies. If the Predecessor Account had been registered under the 1940 Act, the Predecessor Account’s performance may have been adversely affected.

 

Gross and net expense ratios for Class A shares were 1.61% and 1.24%, for Class I shares were 1.36% and 0.99%, which were the amounts stated in the current prospectus dated May 1, 2023. For the Fund’s current one year expense ratios, please refer to the Financial Highlights section of this report. The Fund’s advisor has contractually agreed to waive its fees and/or pay for operating expenses of the Fund to ensure that total annual fund operating expenses do not exceed 1.24% and 0.99% of the average daily net assets of the Fund’s Class A and Class I shares, respectively. This agreement is in effect until September 30, 2024, and it may be terminated before that date only by the Trust’s Board of Trustees. In the absence of such waivers, the Fund’s returns would have been lower.

 

The performance data quoted here represents past performance and past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance information quoted. The most recent month end performance may be obtained by calling 1-855-551-5521. 

20

 

North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund
FUND PERFORMANCE at May 31, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

(LINE GRAPH)

 

This graph compares a hypothetical $1,000,000 investment in the Fund’s Class I shares with a similar investment in the Russell 2000 Growth Total Return Index. Results include the reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains.

 

The Russell 2000 Growth Total Return Index is representative of a broader market and range of securities than is found in the Fund’s portfolio. Individuals cannot invest directly in an index; however, an individual may invest in exchange traded funds or other investment vehicles that attempt to track the performance of a benchmark index.

 

Average Annual Total Returns 

(for the periods ended May 31, 2023)

 

      Since Inception
  1 Year 5 Year (7/29/16)
North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund - Class I -1.74% 7.67% 9.91%
Russell 2000 Growth Total Return Index 2.68% 2.74% 7.27%

 

Returns reflect the reinvestment of distributions made by the Fund, if any. The graph and the performance table shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.

 

The Fund acquired all assets and assumed the liabilities of the Oak Ridge Disciplined Growth Fund (the “Predecessor Fund”) effective the close of business on May 10, 2019. As a result of the reorganization, the Fund is the accounting successor of the Predecessor Fund. Performance results shown in the table above for periods prior to the close of business on May 10, 2019 reflect the performance of the Predecessor Fund. Effective January 11, 2022, the Fund changed names to the North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund (formerly, North Square Oak Ridge All Cap Growth Fund), changed investment strategy (Note 1), and changed Sub-Advisors to Advisory Research, Inc. (formerly, Oak Ridge Investments, LLC).

 

Gross and net expense ratios Class I shares were 1.36% and 0.94%, respectively, which were the amounts stated in the current prospectus dated May 1, 2023. For the Fund’s current one year expense ratios, please refer to the Financial Highlights section of this report. The Fund’s advisor has contractually agreed to waive its fees and/or pay for operating expenses of the Fund to ensure that total annual fund operating expenses do not exceed 0.94% of the average daily net assets of the Fund’s Class I shares. This agreement is in effect until September 30, 2024, and it may be terminated before that date only by the Trust’s Board of Trustees. In the absence of such waivers, the Fund’s returns would have been lower.

21

 

North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund
FUND PERFORMANCE at May 31, 2023 (Unaudited) – Continued

 

The performance data quoted here represents past performance and past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance information quoted. The most recent month end performance may be obtained by calling 1-855-551-5521. 

22

 

North Square Multi Strategy Fund
FUND PERFORMANCE at May 31, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

(LINE GRAPH)

 

This graph compares a hypothetical $1,000,000 investment in the Fund’s Class I shares with a similar investment in the Russell 3000 Total Return Index. The performance graph above is shown for the Fund’s Class A shares; Class I shares performance may vary. Results include the reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains.

 

The Russell 3000 Total Return Index is representative of a broader market and range of securities than is found in the Fund’s portfolio. Individuals cannot invest directly in an index; however, an individual may invest in exchange traded funds or other investment vehicles that attempt to track the performance of a benchmark index.

 

Average Annual Total Returns

(for the periods ended May 31, 2023)

 

  1 Year 5 Year 10 Year
North Square Multi Strategy Fund - Class A      
Without Load -0.57% 5.94% 9.07%
With Load(a) -6.30% 4.69% 8.43%
North Square Multi Strategy Fund - Class I -0.38% 6.39% 9.36%
Russell 3000 Total Return Index 2.03% 10.07% 11.45%

 

(a)Maximum sales charge for Class A shares is 5.75%. No initial sales charge applies on investments of $500,000 or more, but a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”) of 1.00% will be imposed on certain redemptions of such shares within 12 months of the date of purchase.

 

Returns reflect the reinvestment of distributions made by the Fund, if any. The graph and the performance table shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Total returns for less than one year are not annualized.

 

The Fund acquired all assets and assumed the liabilities of the Oak Ridge Multi Strategy Fund (the “Predecessor Fund”) effective the close of business on May 10, 2019. As a result of the reorganization, the Fund is the accounting successor of the Predecessor Fund. Performance results shown in the table above for periods prior to the close of business on May 10, 2019 reflect the performance of the Predecessor Fund. Effective September 30, 2021, the Fund changed Sub-Advisors to NSI Retail Advisors, LLC (formerly, Oak Ridge Investments, LLC). 

23

 

North Square Multi Strategy Fund
FUND PERFORMANCE at May 31, 2023 (Unaudited) – Continued

 

Gross expense ratio for Class A shares was 1.61% and for Class I shares was 1.36%, which were the amounts stated in the current prospectus dated May 1, 2023. For the Fund’s current one year expense ratios, please refer to the Financial Highlights section of this report. The Fund’s advisor has contractually agreed to waive its fees and/or pay for operating expenses of the Fund to ensure that total annual fund operating expenses do not exceed 1.20% and 1.17% of the average daily net assets of the Fund’s Class A and Class I shares, respectively. This agreement is in effect until September 30, 2024, and it may be terminated before that date only by the Trust’s Board of Trustees. In the absence of such waivers, the Fund’s returns would have been lower.

 

The performance data quoted here represents past performance and past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance information quoted. The most recent month end performance may be obtained by calling 1-855-551-5521. 

24

 

North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund
FUND PERFORMANCE at May 31, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

(LINE GRAPH)

 

This graph compares a hypothetical $1,000,000 investment in the Fund’s Class I shares with a similar investment in the ICE BofAML Fixed Rate Preferred Securities Index. Results include the reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains.

 

The ICE BofAML Fixed Rate Preferred Securities Index is representative of a broader market and range of securities than is found in the Fund’s portfolio. Individuals cannot invest directly in an index; however, an individual may invest in exchange traded funds or other investment vehicles that attempt to track the performance of a benchmark index.

 

Average Annual Total Returns

(for the periods ended May 31, 2023)

 

  1 Year 5 Year Since Inception
(6/28/13)
North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund - Class I 1.25% 9.84% 10.76%
ICE BofAML Fixed Rate Preferred Securities Index -1.38% 1.89% 3.95%

 

Returns reflect the reinvestment of distributions made by the Fund, if any. The graph and the performance table shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.

 

The Fund acquired all assets and assumed the liabilities of the Oak Ridge Dividend Growth Fund (the “Predecessor Fund”) effective the close of business on May 10, 2019. As a result of the reorganization, the Fund is the accounting successor of the Predecessor Fund. Performance results shown in the table above for periods prior to the close of business on May 10, 2019 reflect the performance of the Predecessor Fund. Effective January 11, 2022, the Fund changed names to the North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund (formerly, North Square Oak Ridge Dividend Growth Fund), changed investment strategy (Note 1), and changed Sub-Advisors to Red Cedar Investment Management, LLC (formerly, Oak Ridge Investments, LLC).

 

Gross and net expense ratios Class I shares were 1.27% and 0.97%, respectively, which were the amounts stated in the current prospectus dated May 1, 2023. For the Fund’s current one year expense ratios, please refer to the Financial Highlights section of this report. The Fund’s advisor has contractually agreed to waive its fees and/or pay for operating expenses of the Fund to ensure that total annual fund operating expenses do not exceed 0.97% of the average daily net assets of the Fund’s Class I shares. This agreement is in effect until September 30, 2024, and it may be terminated before that date only by the Trust’s Board of Trustees. In the absence of such waivers, the Fund’s returns would have been lower. 

25

 

North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund
FUND PERFORMANCE at May 31, 2023 (Unaudited) – Continued

 

The performance data quoted here represents past performance and past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance information quoted. The most recent month end performance may be obtained by calling 1-855-551-5521. 

26

 

North Square Tactical Growth Fund
FUND PERFORMANCE at May 31, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

(LINE GRAPH)

 

This graph compares a hypothetical $1,000,000 investment in the Fund’s Class I shares with a similar investment in the Morningstar Moderate Aggressive Target Risk Index. The performance graph above is shown for the Fund’s Class I shares; Class A shares and Class C performance may vary. Results include the reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains.

 

The Morningstar Moderate Aggressive Target Risk Index is representative of a broader market and range of securities than is found in the Fund’s portfolio. Individuals cannot invest directly in an index; however, an individual may invest in exchange traded funds or other investment vehicles that attempt to track the performance of a benchmark index.

 

Average Annual Total Returns 

(for the periods ended May 31, 2023)

 

  1 Year 5 Year 10 Year
North Square Tactical Growth Fund - Class A      
Without Load 1.04% 4.69% 6.28%
With Load(a) -4.78% 3.46% 5.65%
North Square Tactical Growth Fund - Class C      
Without Load 0.31% 3.90% 5.48%
With Load(b) -0.62% 3.90% 5.48%
North Square Tactical Growth Fund - Class I 1.33% 4.94% 6.54%
Morningstar Moderate Aggressive Target Risk -1.26% 5.38% 6.79%

 

(a)Maximum sales charge for Class A shares is 5.75%. No initial sales charge applies on investments of $500,000 or more, but a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”) of 1.00% will be imposed on certain redemptions of such shares within 12 months of the date of purchase.

 

(b)A CDSC of 1.00% will be charged on Class C Shares purchases that are redeemed in whole or in part within 12 months of the date of purchase.

 

Returns reflect the reinvestment of distributions made by the Fund, if any. The graph and the performance table shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.

 

The Fund acquired all assets and assumed the liabilities of the Stadion Tactical Growth Fund (the “Predecessor Fund”) effective the close of business on June 11, 2021. The Predecessor Fund commenced operations on March 23, 2013 after the conversion of the ETF Market Opportunity Fund (the “Acquired Fund”), a series of Aviemore Trust. As a result of each reorganization, the Fund is the accounting 

27

 

North Square Tactical Growth Fund
FUND PERFORMANCE at May 31, 2023 (Unaudited) – Continued

 

successor of each the Predecessor Fund and Acquired Fund. Performance results shown in the performance table above between June 11, 2021 and March 23, 2013 reflect the performance of the Predecessor Fund, and performance results shown prior to March 23, 2013 represent the performance of the Acquired Fund.

 

Gross expense ratios for Class A, C and I shares were 1.75%, 2.51% and 1.51%, respectively, and net expense ratios for Class A, C, and I shares were 1.69%, 2.44% and 1.44%, respectively, which were the amounts stated in the current prospectus dated May 1, 2023. Expense ratios reported for other periods in the Financial Highlights section of this report may differ. The Fund’s advisor has contractually agreed to waive its fees and/or pay for operating expenses of the Fund to ensure that total annual fund operating expenses (exclusive of any taxes, leverage interest, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on short sales, any acquired fund fees and expenses, expenses incurred in connection with any merger or reorganization, extraordinary expenses such as litigation expenses, and payments, if any, under Rule 12b-1 Distribution Plan) do not exceed 1.30% of the average daily net assets of the each class of the Fund. This agreement is in effect until September 30, 2024, and it may be terminated before that date only by the Trust’s Board of Trustees. In the absence of such waivers, the Fund’s returns would have been lower.

 

The performance data quoted here represents past performance and past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance information quoted. The most recent month end performance may be obtained by calling 1-855-551-5521. 

28

 

North Square Tactical Defensive Fund
FUND PERFORMANCE at May 31, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

(LINE GRAPH)

 

This graph compares a hypothetical $1,000,000 investment in the Fund’s Class I shares with a similar investment in the Morningstar Moderate Target Risk Index. The performance graph above is shown for the Fund’s Class I shares; Class A shares and Class C performance may vary. Results include the reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains.

 

The Morningstar Moderate Target Risk Index is representative of a broader market and range of securities than is found in the Fund’s portfolio. Individuals cannot invest directly in an index; however, an individual may invest in exchange traded funds or other investment vehicles that attempt to track the performance of a benchmark index.

 

Average Annual Total Returns 

(for the periods ended May 31, 2023)

 

  1 Year 5 Year 10 Year
North Square Tactical Defensive Fund - Class A      
Without Load -3.93% 3.15% 3.81%
With Load(a) -9.45% 1.93% 3.20%
North Square Tactical Defensive Fund - Class C      
Without Load -4.68% 2.36% 3.03%
With Load(b) -5.64% 2.36% 3.03%
North Square Tactical Defensive Fund - Class I -3.70% 3.36% 4.04%
Morningstar Moderate Target Risk Index -1.54% 4.47% 5.52%

 

(a)Maximum sales charge for Class A shares is 5.75%. No initial sales charge applies on investments of $500,000 or more, but a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”) of 1.00% will be imposed on certain redemptions of such shares within 12 months of the date of purchase.

 

(b)A CDSC of 1.00% will be charged on Class C Shares purchases that are redeemed in whole or in part within 12 months of the date of purchase.

 

Returns reflect the reinvestment of distributions made by the Fund, if any. The graph and the performance table shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. 

29

 

North Square Tactical Defensive Fund
FUND PERFORMANCE at May 31, 2023 (Unaudited) – Continued

 

The Fund acquired all assets and assumed the liabilities of the Stadion Tactical Defensive Fund (the “Predecessor Fund”) effective the close of business on June 11, 2021. As a result of the reorganization, the Fund is the accounting successor of the Predecessor Fund. Performance results shown in the table above for periods prior to the close of business on June 11, 2021 reflect the performance of the Predecessor Fund.

 

Gross expense ratios for Class A, C and I shares were 2.02%, 2.77% and 1.77%, respectively, which were the amounts stated in the current prospectus dated May 1, 2023. Expense ratios reported for other periods in the Financial Highlights section of this report may differ. The Fund’s advisor has contractually agreed to waive its fees and/or pay for operating expenses of the Fund to ensure that total annual fund operating expenses (exclusive of any taxes, leverage interest, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on short sales, any acquired fund fees and expenses, expenses incurred in connection with any merger or reorganization, extraordinary expenses such as litigation expenses, and payments, if any, under Rule 12b-1 Distribution Plan) do not exceed 1.70% of the average daily net assets of the each class of the Fund. This agreement is in effect until September 30, 2024, and it may be terminated before that date only by the Trust’s Board of Trustees. In the absence of such waivers, the Fund’s returns would have been lower.

 

The performance data quoted here represents past performance and past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance information quoted. The most recent month end performance may be obtained by calling 1-855-551-5521. 

30

 

North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund
FUND PERFORMANCE at May 31, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

(LINE GRAPH) 

 

This graph compares a hypothetical $1,000,000 investment in the Fund’s Class I shares with a similar investment in the HFRX Absolute Return Index and the Bloomberg US Aggregate Bond Index. The performance graph above is shown for the Fund’s Class I shares; Class A shares and Class C performance may vary. Results include the reinvestment of all dividends and capital gains.

 

The HFRX Absolute Return Index and Bloomberg US Aggregate Bond Index are representative of a broader market and range of securities than is found in the Fund’s portfolio. Individuals cannot invest directly in an index; however, an individual may invest in exchange traded funds or other investment vehicles that attempt to track the performance of a benchmark index.

 

Average Annual Total Returns 

(for the periods ended May 31, 2023)

 

  1 Year 5 Year 10 Year
North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund - Class A      
Without Load -5.72% -0.34% 0.66%
With Load(a) -11.13% -1.52% 0.06%
North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund - Class C      
Without Load -6.49% -1.08% -0.11%
With Load(b) -7.42% -1.08% -0.11%
North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund - Class I -5.56% -0.09% 0.89%
HFRX Absolute Return Index 0.30% 1.61% 1.80%
Bloomberg US Aggregate Bond Index -2.14% 0.81% 1.39%

 

(a)Maximum sales charge for Class A shares is 5.75%. No initial sales charge applies on investments of $500,000 or more, but a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”) of 1.00% will be imposed on certain redemptions of such shares within 12 months of the date of purchase.

 

(b)A CDSC of 1.00% will be charged on Class C Shares purchases that are redeemed in whole or in part within 12 months of the date of purchase.

 

Returns reflect the reinvestment of distributions made by the Fund, if any. The graph and the performance table shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. 

31

 

North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund
FUND PERFORMANCE at May 31, 2023 (Unaudited) – Continued

 

The Fund acquired all assets and assumed the liabilities of the Stadion Tactical Trilogy Alternative Return Fund (the “Predecessor Fund”) effective the close of business on June 11, 2021. As a result of the reorganization, the Fund is the accounting successor of the Predecessor Fund. Performance results shown in the table above for periods prior to the close of business on June 11, 2021 reflect the performance of the Predecessor Fund.

 

Gross expense ratios for Class A, C and I shares were 1.91%, 2.69% and 1.72%, respectively, and net expense ratios for Class A, C, and I shares were 1.68%, 2.43% and 1.43%, respectively, which were the amounts stated in the current prospectus dated May 1, 2023. Expense ratios reported for other periods in the Financial Highlights section of this report may differ. The Fund’s advisor has contractually agreed to waive its fees and/or pay for operating expenses of the Fund to ensure that total annual fund operating expenses (exclusive of any taxes, leverage interest, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on short sales, any acquired fund fees and expenses, expenses incurred in connection with any merger or reorganization, extraordinary expenses such as litigation expenses, and payments, if any, under Rule 12b-1 Distribution Plan) do not exceed 1.38% of the average daily net assets of the each class of the Fund. This agreement is in effect until September 30, 2024, and it may be terminated before that date only by the Trust’s Board of Trustees. In the absence of such waivers, the Fund’s returns would have been lower.

 

The performance data quoted here represents past performance and past performance is not a guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance information quoted. The most recent month end performance may be obtained by calling 1-855-551-5521.

32

 

North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS — 1.0%     
 4,400   iShares® Russell 2000 ETF  $764,588 
     TOTAL EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS (Cost $753,837)   764,588 
           
     MUTUAL FUNDS — 98.6%     
 744,105   North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund, Class I(a)   7,939,603 
 1,456,503   North Square Advisory Research Small Value Fund, Class I(a)   13,341,571 
 4,574,711   North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund, Class I(a)(b)   51,008,031 
     TOTAL MUTUAL FUNDS (Cost $87,130,154)   72,289,205 
           
     SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 0.5%     
 364,147   First American Treasury Obligations Fund, Class X, 5.01%(c)   364,147 
     TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $364,147)   364,147 
     TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 100.1% (Cost $88,248,138)  $73,417,940 
     Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (0.1)%   (95,845)
     NET ASSETS — 100.0%  $73,322,095 

 

(a)Affiliated Company. See Note 11.

 

(b)Represents an investment greater than 25% of the Fund’s net assets. Performance of the Fund may be adversely impacted by concentrated investments in securities. As of May 31, 2023, the percentage of net assets invested in North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund, Class I were 69.6% of the Fund.

 

(c)Rate disclosed is the seven day effective yield as of May 31, 2023.

 

ETF - Exchange-Traded Fund

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

33

 

North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund
SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS
As of May 31, 2023

 

   Percent of Total 
Security Type/Sector  Net Assets 
Exchange-Traded Funds   1.0%
Mutual Funds   98.6%
Short-Term Investments   0.5%
Total Investments   100.1%
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets   -0.1%
Total Net Assets   100.0%

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

34

 

North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     COMMON STOCKS — 97.0%     
     COMMUNICATIONS — 3.1%     
     CABLE & SATELLITE — 0.3%     
 26,290   WideOpenWest, Inc.(a)  $199,804 
           
     ENTERTAINMENT CONTENT — 0.3%     
 14,820   AMC Networks, Inc., Class A(a)   167,614 
 5,870   Inspired Entertainment, Inc.(a)   80,595 
         248,209 
     INTERNET MEDIA & SERVICES — 0.5%     
 7,680   Shutterstock, Inc.   382,234 
           
     PUBLISHING & BROADCASTING — 0.8%     
 17,430   New York Times Co. (The), Class A   617,371 
           
     TELECOMMUNICATIONS — 1.2%     
 2,490   Cogent Communications Holdings, Inc.   153,185 
 43,220   GOGO, Inc.(a)   650,460 
 2,400   IDT Corp., Class B(a)   72,936 
 6,830   Ooma, Inc.(a)   90,976 
         967,557 
     TOTAL COMMUNICATIONS   2,415,175 
           
     CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY — 13.7%     
     APPAREL & TEXTILE PRODUCTS — 1.5%     
 1,984   Deckers Outdoor Corp.(a)   942,400 
 9,880   On Holding AG(a)   271,206 
         1,213,606 
     AUTOMOTIVE — 0.4%     
 10,620   Harley-Davidson, Inc.   330,388 
           
     CONSUMER SERVICES — 0.1%     
 5,580   AirSculpt Technologies, Inc.   47,095 
           
     HOME CONSTRUCTION — 2.3%     
 7,747   Forestar Group, Inc.(a)   157,497 
 11,170   Green Brick Partners, Inc.(a)   534,708 
 2,710   Meritage Homes Corp.   312,544 
 10,500   Taylor Morrison Home Corp.(a)   445,515 
 11,980   TRI Pointe Group, Inc.(a)   349,936 
         1,800,200 
     LEISURE FACILITIES & SERVICES — 4.2%     
 5,420   Madison Square Garden Sports Corp.   957,443 
 26,650   Travel + Leisure Co.   971,926 
 5,500   Wingstop, Inc.   1,096,479 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

35

 

North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     COMMON STOCKS (Continued)     
     CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY (Continued)     
     LEISURE FACILITIES & SERVICES (Continued)     
 13,110   Xponential Fitness, Inc., Class A(a)  $347,284 
         3,373,132 
     RETAIL - DISCRETIONARY — 4.1%     
 28,460   Aaron’s Co., Inc. (The)   348,350 
 49,740   Aspen Aerogels, Inc.(a)   326,792 
 5,895   BlueLinx Holdings, Inc.(a)   484,687 
 10,340   Genesco, Inc.(a)   186,430 
 15,830   GMS, Inc.(a)   1,002,514 
 10,070   Rush Enterprises, Inc., Class A   526,359 
 18,790   Sleep Number Corp.(a)   340,851 
         3,215,983 
     WHOLESALE - DISCRETIONARY — 1.1%     
 11,480   ScanSource, Inc.(a)   330,165 
 4,741   Veritiv Corp.   500,602 
         830,767 
     TOTAL CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY   10,811,171 
           
     CONSUMER STAPLES — 7.3%     
     BEVERAGES — 1.3%     
 1,740   Celsius Holdings, Inc.(a)   218,422 
 3,540   National Beverage Corp.(a)   174,947 
 24,740   Vita Coco Co., Inc. (The)(a)   660,063 
         1,053,432 
     FOOD — 1.4%     
 10,050   Cal-Maine Foods, Inc.   477,877 
 2,630   John B. Sanfilippo & Son, Inc.   305,685 
 19,410   Vital Farms, Inc.(a)   281,251 
         1,064,813 
     HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS — 3.3%     
 15,043   e.l.f. Beauty, Inc.(a)   1,564,773 
 8,250   Inter Parfums, Inc.   1,036,200 
         2,600,973 
     TOBACCO & CANNABIS — 0.4%     
 13,750   Turning Point Brands, Inc.   287,925 
           
     WHOLESALE - CONSUMER STAPLES — 0.9%     
 27,070   United Natural Foods, Inc.(a)   723,040 
     TOTAL CONSUMER STAPLES   5,730,183 
           
     ENERGY — 5.3%     
     OIL & GAS PRODUCERS — 3.7%     
 4,500   Murphy USA, Inc.   1,243,890 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

36

 

North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     COMMON STOCKS (Continued)     
     ENERGY (Continued)     
     OIL & GAS PRODUCERS (Continued)     
 7,460   New Fortress Energy, Inc., Class A  $195,974 
 15,830   Ovintiv, Inc.   523,498 
 10,250   PBF Energy, Inc., Class A   377,303 
 25,260   Viper Energy Partners LP   651,203 
         2,991,868 
     OIL & GAS SERVICES & EQUIP — 0.3%     
 31,644   MRC Global, Inc.(a)   274,986 
           
     OIL & GAS SERVICES & EQUIPMENT — 1.3%     
 84,790   Liberty Oilfield Services, Inc., Class A   995,435 
     TOTAL ENERGY   4,262,289 
           
     FINANCIALS — 9.9%     
     ASSET MANAGEMENT — 0.5%     
 13,120   Assetmark Financial Holdings, Inc.(a)   368,410 
           
     BANKING — 5.5%     
 15,070   Amalgamated Bank   214,295 
 7,600   Axos Financial, Inc.(a)   287,432 
 23,954   Bancorp, Inc. (The)(a)   739,219 
 18,170   Bank of NT Butterfield & Son Ltd.(The)   455,522 
 7,370   BankUnited, Inc.   139,440 
 3,060   Central Pacific Financial Corp.   44,707 
 25,785   Customers Bancorp, Inc.(a)   593,571 
 9,850   East West Bancorp, Inc.   471,323 
 19,780   First BanCorp.   220,745 
 16,518   Hanmi Financial Corp.   237,859 
 27,320   Heritage Commerce Corp.   198,890 
 6,330   Midland States Bankcorp, Inc.   122,422 
 11,160   Synovus Financial Corp.   302,324 
 2,250   Unity Bancorp, Inc.   51,188 
 16,580   Veritex Holdings, Inc.   286,337 
         4,365,274 
     BANKS — 0.1%     
 2,650   Comerica, Inc.   95,665 
           
     INSTITUTIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES — 2.0%     
 96,530   BGC Partners, Inc., Class A   392,877 
 16,840   Perella Weinberg Partners   131,857 
 12,200   SEI Investments Co.   690,276 
 2,500   StoneX Group, Inc.(a)   200,725 
 10,140   Virtu Financial, Inc., Class A   178,363 
         1,594,098 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

37

 

North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     COMMON STOCKS (Continued)     
     FINANCIALS (Continued)     
     INSURANCE — 1.5%     
 2,450   Brighthouse Financial, Inc.(a)  $98,637 
 20,160   James River Group Holdings, Ltd.   385,863 
 18,370   Lincoln National Corp.   384,300 
 3,140   Palomar Holdings, Inc.(a)   171,632 
 14,980   SiriusPoint Ltd.(a)   139,464 
         1,179,896 
     SPECIALTY FINANCE — 0.3%     
 7,640   Bread Financial Holdings, Inc.   215,295 
     TOTAL FINANCIALS   7,818,638 
           
     HEALTH CARE — 15.2%     
     BIOTECH & PHARMA — 8.1%     
 8,490   89Bio, Inc.(a)   154,773 
 14,430   ACADIA Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)   339,105 
 22,840   Alkermes PLC(a)   660,762 
 85,430   Allakos, Inc.(a)   425,441 
 12,920   Arrowhead Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)   444,577 
 7,210   BioCryst Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)   59,627 
 9,310   Celldex  erapeutics, Inc.(a)   296,058 
 21,700   Chinook  erapeutics, Inc.(a)   524,923 
 34,250   Dyne  erapeutics, Inc.(a)   446,278 
 37,750   Fate  erapeutics, Inc.(a)   190,638 
 3,850   Intra-Cellular  erapies, Inc.(a)   228,613 
 31,570   Iovance Biotherapeutics, Inc.(a)   275,922 
 23,557   Kodiak Sciences, Inc.(a)   139,693 
 13,900   Kura Oncology, Inc.(a)   185,148 
 12,350   Mersana  erapeutics, Inc.(a)   92,872 
 12,210   Merus NV(a)   265,201 
 9,130   Mirati  erapeutics, Inc.(a)   339,271 
 8,260   Morphic Holding, Inc.(a)   474,950 
 25,091   PetIQ, Inc., Class A(a)   319,408 
 2,540   RAPT  erapeutics, Inc.(a)   50,876 
 7,420   Replimune Group, Inc.(a)   140,906 
 11,420   Syndax Pharmaceuticals(a)   228,057 
 11,780   Y-mAbs  erapeutics, Inc.(a)   95,771 
         6,378,870 
     HEALTH CARE FACILITIES & SERVICES — 3.3%     
 34,970   GoodRx Holdings, Inc., Class A(a)   189,887 
 6,122   Medpace Holdings, Inc.(a)   1,267,070 
 14,600   Pennant Group, Inc.(The)(a)   175,200 
 25,870   Progyny, Inc.(a)   963,658 
         2,595,815 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

38

 

North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     COMMON STOCKS (Continued)     
     HEALTH CARE (Continued)     
     MEDICAL EQUIPMENT & DEVICES — 3.8%     
 10,600   Adaptive Biotechnologies Corp.(a)  $73,776 
 16,070   AxoGen, Inc.(a)   136,595 
 7,330   Bruker Corp.   506,503 
 7,020   Lantheus Holdings, Inc.(a)   607,861 
 43,800   MaxCyte, Inc.(a)   178,704 
 20,590   NanoString Technologies, Inc.(a)   121,275 
 50,150   OraSure Technologies, Inc.(a)   252,255 
 800   ShockWave Medical, Inc.(a)   220,072 
 15,330   SI-BONE, Inc.(a)   386,009 
 22,730   Tactile Systems Technology, Inc.(a)   477,785 
         2,960,835 
     TOTAL HEALTH CARE   11,935,520 
           
     INDUSTRIALS — 13.7%     
     COMMERCIAL SUPPORT SERVICES — 5.9%     
 8,000   ASGN, Inc.(a)   523,440 
 1,070   Cimpress PLC(a)   51,125 
 4,597   CorVel Corp.(a)   898,438 
 72,050   Harsco Corp.(a)   609,543 
 13,360   ManpowerGroup, Inc.   937,471 
 24,460   Sovos Brands, Inc.(a)   464,495 
 12,770   TriNet Group, Inc.(a)   1,134,870 
         4,619,382 
     ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT — 2.1%     
 6,560   Alarm.com Holdings, Inc.(a)   329,443 
 9,430   Camtek Ltd.(a)   272,433 
 5,270   Napco Security Technologies, Inc.   195,991 
 13,610   Stoneridge, Inc.(a)   222,660 
 32,580   Vertiv Holdings Co., Class A   628,794 
         1,649,321 
     ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION — 1.8%     
 1,390   EMCOR Group, Inc.   229,128 
 1,390   Exponent, Inc.   126,935 
 34,680   frontdoor, Inc.(a)   1,069,184 
         1,425,247 
     INDUSTRIAL INTERMEDIATE PROD — 0.3%     
 24,670   Janus International Group, Inc., Class A(a)   217,836 
           
     INDUSTRIAL SUPPORT SERVICES — 0.8%     
 4,090   Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc.   502,906 
 5,840   Titan Machinery, Inc.(a)   147,460 
         650,366 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

39

 

North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     COMMON STOCKS (Continued)     
     INDUSTRIALS (Continued)     
     MACHINERY — 0.3%     
 21,210   CECO Environmental Corp.(a)  $228,220 
           
     TRANSPORTATION & LOGISTICS — 2.5%     
 26,440   Ardmore Shipping Corp.   309,612 
 13,110   DHT Holdings, Inc.   100,816 
 7,900   International Seaways, Inc.   284,795 
 66,670   Safe Builders, Inc.   211,344 
 6,850   Scorpio Tankers, Inc.   313,524 
 3,655   Spirit Airlines, Inc.   55,593 
 11,370   Sun Country Airlines Holdings Inc.(a)   213,756 
 11,850   Teekay Corp.(a)   66,479 
 12,250   Teekay Tankers Ltd., Class A   442,592 
         1,998,511 
     TOTAL INDUSTRIALS   10,788,883 
           
     MATERIALS — 5.6%     
     CHEMICALS — 1.3%     
 4,980   Innospec, Inc.   459,953 
 25,040   Orion Engineered Carbons SA   580,677 
         1,040,630 
     CONTAINERS & PACKAGING — 0.1%     
 8,150   Pactiv Evergreen, Inc.   57,213 
           
     FORESTRY, PAPER & WOOD PRODUCTS — 2.7%     
 14,460   Boise Cascade Co.   1,038,517 
 14,070   UFP Industries, Inc.   1,098,867 
         2,137,384 
     METALS & MINING — 1.5%     
 28,430   Coeur Mining, Inc.(a)   85,290 
 2,420   Constellium SE, Class A(a)   36,058 
 6,310   Encore Wire Corp.   1,032,758 
         1,154,106 
     TOTAL MATERIALS   4,389,333 
           
     REAL ESTATE — 3.1%     
     REAL ESTATE SERVICES — 0.5%     
 58,860   Anywhere Real Estate, Inc.(a)   357,280 
           
     REIT — 2.6%     
 23,688   American Assets Trust, Inc.   451,256 
 33,730   Brandywine Realty Trust   131,547 
 17,930   Chatham Lodging Trust   168,363 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

40

 

North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     COMMON STOCKS (Continued)     
     REAL ESTATE (Continued)     
     REIT (Continued)     
 5,490   National Storage Affiliates Trust  $200,989 
 1,230   NexPoint Residential Trust, Inc.   50,479 
 10,130   Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc.   929,225 
 15,210   Service Properties Trust   124,874 
         2,056,733 
     TOTAL REAL ESTATE   2,414,013 
           
     TECHNOLOGY — 18.9%     
     SEMICONDUCTORS — 2.1%     
 50,200   ACM Research, Inc., Class A(a)   507,522 
 29,270   Allegro MicroSystems, Inc.(a)   1,151,189 
         1,658,711 
     SOFTWARE — 8.7%     
 11,700   Agilysys, Inc.(a)   869,778 
 6,670   American Software, Inc., Class A   84,909 
 25,690   Avid Technology, Inc.(a)   616,560 
 7,610   Bandwidth, Inc., Class A(a)   90,559 
 16,270   Commvault Systems, Inc.(a)   1,133,856 
 17,770   Expensify, Inc., Class A(a)   122,968 
 7,570   IBEX Holdings Ltd.(a)   155,034 
 7,930   Manhattan Associates, Inc.(a)   1,438,661 
 11,860   PDF Solutions, Inc.(a)   501,085 
 4,110   Sapiens International Corp. NV   102,092 
 31,000   Sprinklr Inc, Class A(a)   412,300 
 24,380   Teradata Corp.(a)   1,142,447 
 9,250   Weave Communications, Inc.(a)   72,335 
         6,742,584 
     TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE — 5.3%     
 54,660   A10 Networks, Inc.   813,887 
 22,550   Avnet, Inc.   988,592 
 2,700   Dropbox, Inc., Class A(a)   62,154 
 22,980   Extreme Networks, Inc.(a)   473,388 
 8,805   Fabrinet(a)   996,903 
 16,130   Sanmina Corp.(a)   855,535 
         4,190,459 
     TECHNOLOGY SERVICES — 2.8%     
 5,190   ExlService Holdings, Inc.(a)   783,378 
 19,700   LiveRamp Holdings, Inc.(a)   479,497 
 780   MarketAxess Holdings, Inc.   212,480 
 12,780   Paysafe Ltd., Class A(a)   123,455 
 35,102   Repay Holdings Corp.(a)   222,196 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

41

 

North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     COMMON STOCKS (Continued)     
     TECHNOLOGY (Continued)     
     TECHNOLOGY SERVICES (Continued)     
 35,940   Western Union Co. (The)  $409,357 
         2,230,363 
     TOTAL TECHNOLOGY   14,822,117 
           
     UTILITIES — 1.2%     
     ELECTRIC UTILITIES — 1.2%     
 38,840   Vistra Energy Corp.   930,995 
     TOTAL UTILITIES   930,995 
           
     TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $73,910,889)   76,318,317 
           
     EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS — 0.0%(b)     
 11   iShares® Russell 2000 ETF   1,911 
     TOTAL EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS (Cost $1,912)   1,911 
           
     SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 3.6%     
 2,846,630   First American Treasury Obligations Fund, Class X, 5.01%(c)   2,846,630 
     TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $2,846,630)   2,846,630 
     TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 100.6% (Cost $76,759,431)  $79,166,858 
     Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (0.6)%   (444,245)
     NET ASSETS — 100.0%  $78,722,613 

 

(a)Non-income producing security.

 

(b)Percentage rounds to less than 0.1%.

 

(c)Rate disclosed is the seven day effective yield as of May 31, 2023.

 

 See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

42

 

North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund
SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS
As of May 31, 2023

 

   Percent of Total 
Security Type/Sector  Net Assets 
Common Stocks     
Communications   3.1%
Consumer Discretionary   13.7%
Consumer Staples   7.3%
Energy   5.3%
Financials   9.9%
Health Care   15.2%
Industrials   13.7%
Materials   5.6%
Real Estate   3.1%
Technology   18.8%
Utilities   1.2%
Total Common Stocks   97.0%
Exchange-Traded Funds   0.0%
Short-Term Investments   3.6%
Total Investments   100.6%
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets   -0.6%
Total Net Assets   100.0%

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

43

 

North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     COMMON STOCKS — 95.2%     
     COMMUNICATIONS — 1.4%     
     INTERNET MEDIA & SERVICES — 0.5%     
 3,156   Opera Ltd. - ADR  $49,675 
           
     PUBLISHING & BROADCASTING — 0.9%     
 3,517    ryv Holdings, Inc.(a)   81,946 
     TOTAL COMMUNICATIONS   131,621 
           
     CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY — 15.9%     
     APPAREL & TEXTILE PRODUCTS — 1.8%     
 6,202   On Holding AG(a)   170,245 
           
     AUTOMOTIVE — 1.5%     
 5,180   Modine Manufacturing Co.(a)   141,362 
           
     E-COMMERCE DISCRETIONARY — 0.2%     
 4,483   Farfetch Ltd., Class A(a)   22,101 
           
     HOME CONSTRUCTION — 4.1%     
 463   Cavco Industries, Inc.(a)   115,278 
 3,562   Green Brick Partners, Inc.(a)   170,512 
 2,620   Taylor Morrison Home Corp.(a)   111,167 
         396,957 
     LEISURE FACILITIES & SERVICES — 7.2%     
 12,315   Arcos Dorados Holdings, Inc., Class A   104,062 
 2,384   Kura Sushi USA, Inc.(a)   194,272 
 8,191   Life Time Group Holdings, Inc.(a)   155,711 
 8,670   Portillo’s, Inc.(a)   174,007 
 574   Texas Roadhouse, Inc.   61,935 
         689,987 
     RETAIL - DISCRETIONARY — 1.1%     
 1,212   Academy Sports & Outdoors, Inc.   59,339 
 745   Boot Barn Holdings, Inc.(a)   50,377 
         109,716 
     TOTAL CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY   1,530,368 
           
     CONSUMER STAPLES — 1.0%     
     BEVERAGES — 1.0%     
 738   Celsius Holdings, Inc.(a)   92,641 
     TOTAL CONSUMER STAPLES   92,641 
           
     ENERGY — 2.3%     
     OIL & GAS PRODUCERS — 1.7%     
 1,370   Denbury, Inc.(a)   123,533 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

44

 

North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     COMMON STOCKS (Continued)     
     ENERGY (Continued)     
     OIL & GAS PRODUCERS (Continued)     
 989   Matador Resources Co.  $43,486 
         167,019 
     OIL & GAS SERVICES & EQUIPMENT — 0.6%     
 1,490   Noble Corp PLC(a)   56,233 
     TOTAL ENERGY   223,252 
           
     FINANCIALS — 2.4%     
     ASSET MANAGEMENT — 2.4%     
 1,715   Assetmark Financial Holdings, Inc.(a)   48,157 
 5,050   Avantax, Inc.(a)   106,859 
 2,590   Victory Capital Holdings, Inc., Class A   80,212 
         235,228 
     TOTAL FINANCIALS   235,228 
           
     HEALTH CARE — 20.2%     
     BIOTECH & PHARMA — 14.0%     
 1,499   Arcellx, Inc.(a)   66,181 
 1,774   Avadel Pharmaceuticals Public Limited Co. - ADR(a)   24,570 
 7,506   CymaBay  erapeutics, Inc.(a)   67,404 
 36,464   Geron Corp.(a)   119,237 
 1,532   Immunocore Holdings PLC - ADR(a)   84,536 
 1,528   Intra-Cellular  erapies, Inc.(a)   90,733 
 351   Karuna  erapeutics, Inc.(a)   79,519 
 819   Krystal Biotech, Inc.(a)   96,519 
 1,457   Prothena Corp. PLC(a)   96,789 
 3,299   Recursion Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)   28,932 
 7,657   Roivant Sciences Ltd.(a)   69,602 
 4,309   TransMedics Group, Inc.(a)   313,092 
 1,990   Vaxcyte, Inc.(a)   98,545 
 2,697   Xenon Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)   103,915 
         1,339,574 
     HEALTH CARE FACILITIES & SERVICES — 1.2%     
 14,663   LifeStance Health Group, Inc.(a)   120,090 
           
     MEDICAL EQUIPMENT & DEVICES — 5.0%     
 7,851   Alphatec Holdings, Inc.(a)   119,021 
 1,719   Inmode Ltd.(a)   54,269 
 252   Inspire Medical Systems, Inc.(a)   73,707 
 3,049   Pacific Biosciences of California, Inc.(a)   37,747 
 445   ShockWave Medical, Inc.(a)   122,415 
 1,240   STAAR Surgical Co.(a)   71,945 
         479,104 
     TOTAL HEALTH CARE   1,938,768 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

45

 

North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     COMMON STOCKS (Continued)     
     INDUSTRIALS — 16.3%     
     COMMERCIAL SUPPORT SERVICES — 2.8%     
 2,716   Huron Consulting Group, Inc.(a)  $220,756 
 4,541   Legalzoom.com, Inc.(a)   50,814 
         271,570 
     ELECTRICAL EQUIPMENT — 5.3%     
 1,199   AAON, Inc.   103,845 
 4,144   BWX Technologies, Inc.   249,966 
 4,163   Napco Security Technologies, Inc.   154,822 
         508,633 
     ENGINEERING & CONSTRUCTION — 0.7%     
 551   MYR Group, Inc.(a)   70,253 
           
     INDUSTRIAL INTERMEDIATE PRODUCTS — 1.3%     
 1,718   Mueller Industries, Inc.   127,579 
           
     INDUSTRIAL SUPPORT SERVICES — 0.1%     
 1,043   Custom Truck One Source, Inc.(a)   6,717 
           
     MACHINERY — 6.1%     
 1,443   Albany International Corp., Class A   122,540 
 320   ESCO Technologies, Inc.   28,800 
 1,225   Standex International, Inc.   166,833 
 8,096   Symbotic, Inc.(a)   267,005 
         585,178 
     TOTAL INDUSTRIALS   1,569,930 
           
     MATERIALS — 6.1%     
     CONSTRUCTION MATERIALS — 2.2%     
 5,527   Tecnoglass, Inc.   211,132 
           
     CONTAINERS & PACKAGING — 1.8%     
 8,171   O-I Glass, Inc.(a)   169,303 
           
     METALS & MINING — 0.8%     
 451   Encore Wire Corp.   73,815 
           
     STEEL — 1.3%     
 3,740   Allegheny Technologies, Inc.(a)   129,329 
     TOTAL MATERIALS   583,579 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

46

 

North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     COMMON STOCKS (Continued)     
     TECHNOLOGY — 29.2%     
     SEMICONDUCTORS — 6.0%     
 3,837   Aehr Test Systems(a)  $126,698 
 1,007   Axcelis Technologies, Inc.(a)   158,653 
 2,497   Impinj, Inc.(a)   255,543 
 1,701   Veeco Instruments, Inc.(a)   41,521 
         582,415 
     SOFTWARE — 19.7%     
 2,078   Alkami Technology, Inc.(a)   31,170 
 2,922   Box, Inc., Class A(a)   82,313 
 3,357   C3.ai, Inc., Class A(a)   134,314 
 703   Digi International, Inc.(a)   25,273 
 1,277   Docebo, Inc.(a)   43,571 
 3,926   Donnelley Financial Solutions, Inc.(a)   174,118 
 674   Duolingo, Inc.(a)   100,810 
 9,638   Evolent Health, Inc., Class A(a)   280,851 
 897   Monday.com Ltd.(a)   161,639 
 17,161   Oscar Health, Inc.(a)   125,962 
 1,171   PDF Solutions, Inc.(a)   49,475 
 1,691   Perion Network Ltd.(a)   52,049 
 1,022   Privia Health Group, Inc.(a)   25,499 
 15,725   Samsara, Inc.(a)   302,705 
 5,897   Vertex, Inc., Class A(a)   129,616 
 1,896   Workiva, Inc., Class A(a)   183,647 
         1,903,012 
     TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE — 1.8%     
 5,310   PagerDuty, Inc.(a)   144,485 
 448   Vicor Corp.(a)   24,797 
         169,282 
     TECHNOLOGY SERVICES — 1.7%     
 8,904   Integral Ad Science Holding Corp.(a)   168,375 
     TOTAL TECHNOLOGY   2,823,084 
           
     UTILITIES — 0.4%     
     ELECTRIC UTILITIES — 0.4%     
 639   ALLETE, Inc.   38,065 
     TOTAL UTILITIES   38,065 
           
     TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $7,679,919)   9,166,536 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

47

 

North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 4.7%     
 450,466   First American Treasury Obligations Fund, Class X, 5.01%(b)  $450,466 
     TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $450,466)   450,466 
     TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 99.9% (Cost $8,130,385)  $9,617,002 
     Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities — 0.1%   6,821 
     NET ASSETS — 100.0%  $9,623,823 

 

(a)Non-income producing security.

 

(b)Rate disclosed is the seven day effective yield as of May 31, 2023.

 

ADR - American Depositary Receipt

 

LTD - Limited Company

 

PLC - Public Limited Company

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

48

 

North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund
SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS
As of May 31, 2023

 

   Percent of Total 
Security Type/Sector  Net Assets 
Common Stocks     
Commuications   1.4%
Consumer Discretionary   15.9%
Consumer Staples   1.0%
Energy   2.3%
Financials   2.4%
Health Care   20.2%
Industrials   16.3%
Materials   6.1%
Technology   29.2%
Utilities   0.4%
Total Common Stocks   95.2%
Short-Term Investments   4.7%
Total Investments   99.9%
Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities   0.1%
Total Net Assets   100.0%

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

49

 

North Square Multi Strategy Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS — 32.7%     
 16,000   Invesco S&P 500® GARP ETF  $1,356,800 
 10,060   iShares® Core S&P 500® ETF   4,219,466 
 17,500   Vanguard® Dividend Appreciation ETF   2,681,875 
 4,800   Vanguard® Growth ETF   1,272,288 
 23,585   Vanguard® Value ETF   3,178,550 
     TOTAL EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS (Cost $13,392,562)   12,708,979 
           
     MUTUAL FUNDS — 67.1%     
 146,206   North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund, Class I(b)   1,560,016 
 235,617   North Square Advisory Research Small Value Fund, Class I(b)   2,158,248 
 483,150   North Square Altrinsic International Equity Fund, Class I(b)   4,817,009 
 712,169   North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund, Class I(b)   7,940,687 
 223,690   North Square McKee Bond Fund, Class I(b)   1,964,001 
 385,323   North Square Preferred And Income Securities Fund, Class I(b)   6,881,865 
 90,934   North Square Strategic Income Fund, Class I(b)   782,035 
     TOTAL MUTUAL FUNDS (Cost $26,209,828)   26,103,861 
           
     SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 0.7%     
 268,529   First American Treasury Obligations Fund, Class X, 5.01%(c)   268,529 
     TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $268,529)   268,529 
     TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 100.5% (Cost $39,870,919)  $39,081,369 
     Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (0.5)%   (228,153)
     NET ASSETS — 100.0%  $38,853,216 

 

(a)Non-income producing security.

 

(b)Affiliated Company. See Note 11.

 

(c)Rate disclosed is the seven day effective yield as of May 31, 2023.

 

ETF - Exchange-Traded Fund

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

50

 

North Square Multi Strategy Fund
SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS
As of May 31, 2023

 

   Percent of Total 
Security Type/Sector  Net Assets 
Exchange-Traded Funds   32.7%
Mutuals Funds   67.1%
Short-Term Investments   0.7%
Total Investments   100.5%
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets   (0.05)%
Total Net Assets   100.0%

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

51

 

North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     PREFERRED STOCKS — 6.6%     
     BANKING — 2.5%     
 56,000   KeyCorp, Series E, 6.125%  $1,132,320 
 2,000   KeyCorp, Series H, 6.200%   39,320 
         1,171,640 
     ELECTRIC UTILITIES — 4.1%     
 2,000,000   CenterPoint Energy, Inc., Series A, 6.125%   1,906,144 
     TOTAL PREFERRED STOCKS (Cost $2,944,578)   3,077,784 
Principal        
Amount ($)        
     CORPORATE BONDS — 87.7%     
     ASSET MANAGEMENT — 4.5%     
$750,000   UBS Group AG, 7.000%, Perpetual   718,125 
 2,000,000   UBS Group AG, 4.375%, Perpetual   1,370,113 
         2,088,238 
     AUTOMOTIVE — 3.5%     
 2,000,000   General Motors Financial Co., Inc., 5.750%, Perpetual   1,620,560 
           
     BANKING — 56.8%     
 2,000,000   Barclays PLC, 8.000%, Perpetual   1,883,300 
 3,000,000   BNP Paribas SA, 4.625%, Perpetual   2,129,140 
 2,500,000   Citizens Financial Group, Inc., 5.650%, Perpetual   2,213,644 
 1,500,000   Credit Agricole SA, 6.875%, Perpetual   1,436,430 
 2,000,000   Fifth  ird Bancorp, 5.100% (3MO LIBOR + 303.30bps), Perpetual(a)   1,735,000 
 2,000,000   HSBC Holdings PLC, 4.700%, Perpetual   1,506,241 
 1,000,000   Huntington Bancshares, Inc., 4.450%, Perpetual   797,445 
 1,500,000   Huntington Bancshares, Inc., 8.142% (3MO SOFT + 314.16bps), Perpetual(a)   1,222,905 
 2,000,000   ING Groep NV, 3.875%, Perpetual   1,405,000 
 375,000   KeyCorp, 5.000%, Perpetual   262,313 
 2,000,000   Lloyds Banking Group PLC, 8.000%, Perpetual   1,843,236 
 2,542,000   M&T Bank Corp., 3.500%, Perpetual   1,656,974 
 1,500,000   NatWest Group PLC, 4.600%, Perpetual   1,058,007 
 1,200,000   Societe Generale SA, 4.750%, Perpetual   913,335 
 1,000,000   Societe Generale SA, 8.000%, Perpetual   935,625 
 2,500,000   Standard Chartered PLC, 4.300%, Perpetual   1,763,085 
 1,800,000   Svenska Handelsbanken AB, 4.750%, Perpetual   1,404,284 
 1,186,000   Truist Financial Corp., Series G, 7.968% (3MO LIBOR + 310.20bps), Perpetual(a)   1,138,560 
 1,250,000   Truist Financial Corp., 4.950%, Perpetual   1,162,500 
         26,467,024 
     INSURANCE — 4.0%     
 2,000,000   Corebridge Financial, Inc., 6.875%, Perpetual(b)   1,871,048 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

52

 

North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Principal        
Amount ($)      Fair Value 
     CORPORATE BONDS (Continued)     
     OIL & GAS PRODUCERS — 7.9%     
$1,500,000   Energy Transfer LP, 9.349% (3MO LIBOR + 402.80bps), Perpetual(a)  $1,340,625 
 700,000   Energy Transfer LP, 7.125%, Perpetual   590,124 
 2,000,000   Plains All American Pipeline LP, Series B, 9.431%, Perpetual   1,752,500 
         3,683,249 
     SPECIALTY FINANCE — 11.0%     
 3,000,000   Ally Financial, Inc., Series B, 4.700%, Perpetual   2,132,175 
 3,000,000   Capital One Financial Corp., 3.950%, Perpetual   2,237,611 
 1,000,000   Discover Financial Services, Series C, 5.500%, Perpetual   747,850 
         5,117,636 
     TOTAL CORPORATE BONDS (Cost $41,013,420)   40,847,755 

 

Shares        
     SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 2.0%     
 940,103   First American Treasury Obligations Fund, Class X, 5.01%(c)   940,103 
     TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $940,103)   940,103 
     TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 96.3% (Cost $44,898,101)  $44,865,642 
     Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities — 3.7%   1,711,182 
     NET ASSETS — 100.0%  $46,576,824 

 

(a)Variable rate security; the rate shown represents the rate on May 31, 2023.

 

(b)Security exempt from registration under Rule 144A or Section 4(2) of the Securities Act of 1933. e security may be resold in transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers. As of May 31, 2023 the total market value of 144A securities is 1,871,048 or 4.0% of net assets.

 

(c)Rate disclosed is the seven day effective yield as of May 31, 2023.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

53

 

North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund
SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS
As of May 31, 2023

 

   Percent of Total 
Security Type/Sector  Net Assets 
Preferred Stocks   6.6%
Corporate Bonds     
Asset Management   4.5%
Automotive   3.5%
Banking   56.8%
Insurance   4.0%
Oil & Gas Producers   7.9%
Speciality Finance   11.0%
Total Corporate Bonds   87.7%
Short-Term Investment   2.0%
Total Investments   96.3%
Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities   3.7%
Total Net Assets   100.0%

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

54

 

North Square Tactical Growth Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS — 83.7%     
 168,575   Invesco QQQ Trust, Series 1  $58,662,414 
 274,100   iShares® J.P. Morgan USD Emerging Markets Bond ETF   23,238,198 
 398,000   iShares® MSCI Mexico Capped ETF   23,820,300 
 215,300   iShares® U.S. Aerospace & Defense ETF   23,394,498 
 129,440   SPDR® S&P 500® ETF Trust   54,086,504 
 281,887   Vanguard® Growth ETF   74,716,968 
 481,500   Vanguard® Total International Bond ETF   23,569,425 
 666,298   Vanguard® Value ETF   89,796,982 
 390,400   Vanguard® FTSE Europe ETF   23,509,888 
     TOTAL EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS (Cost $292,480,154)   394,795,177 
           
     SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 16.3%     
 76,657,959   First American Treasury Obligations Fund, Class X, 5.01%(a)   76,657,959 
     TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $76,657,959)   76,657,959 
     TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 100.0% (Cost $369,138,113)  $471,453,136 
     Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — 0.0%   (10,608)
     NET ASSETS — 100.0%  $471,442,528 

 

(a)Rate disclosed is the seven day effective yield as of May 31, 2023.

 

ETF - Exchange-Traded Fund

 

MSCI - Morgan Stanley Capital International

 

SPDR - Standard & Poor’s Depositary Receipt

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

55

 

North Square Tactical Growth Fund
SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS
As of May 31, 2023

 

   Percent of Total 
Security Type/Sector  Net Assets 
ETFs   83.7%
Short Term Investments   16.3%
Total Investments   100.0%
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets   0.0%
Total Net Assets   100.0%

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

56

 

North Square Tactical Defensive Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS — 52.3%     
 292,600   SPDR® Portfolio Developed World EX-US ETF  $9,275,420 
 92,400   SPDR® Portfolio Emerging Markets ETF   3,067,680 
 355,500   SPDR® Portfolio S&P 500® ETF(a)   17,469,270 
 51,400   SPDR® Portfolio S&P 600 Small Cap ETF   1,855,026 
     TOTAL EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS (Cost $31,746,086)   31,667,396 
           
     SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 49.6%     
 30,036,367   First American Treasury Obligations Fund, Class X, 5.01%(a)(b)   30,036,367 
     TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $30,036,367)   30,036,367 
     TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 101.9% (Cost $61,782,453)  $61,703,763 
     Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (1.9)%   (1,148,646)
     NET ASSETS — 100.0%  $60,555,117 

 

(a)Represents an investment greater than 25% of the Fund’s net assets. Performance of the Fund may be adversely impacted by concentrated investments in securities. As of May 31, 2023, the percentage of net assets invested in SPDR Portfolio S&P 500 ETF and First American Treasury Obligations Fund, Class X were 28.8% and 49.6%, respectively, of the Fund. e financial statements and portfolio holdings for these securities can be found at www.sec.gov.

 

(b)Rate disclosed is the seven day effective yield as of May 31, 2023.

 

ETF - Exchange-Traded Fund

 

SPDR - Standard & Poor’s Depositary Receipt

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

57

 

North Square Tactical Defensive Fund
SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS
As of May 31, 2023

 

   Percent of Total 
Security Type/Sector  Net Assets 
ETFs   52.3%
Short Term Investments   49.6%
Total Investments   101.9%
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets   -1.9%
Total Net Assets   100.0%

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

58

 

North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     COMMON STOCKS – 35.8%     
     CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY – 3.5%     
     HOTELS, RESTAURANTS & LEISURE — 2.5%     
 2,303   McDonald’s Corp.  $656,609 
           
     SPECIALTY RETAIL — 1.0%     
 925   Home Depot, Inc. (The)   262,191 
     TOTAL CONSUMER DISCRETIONARY   918,800 
           
     CONSUMER STAPLES — 5.0%     
     FOOD — 1.0%     
 3,044   General Mills, Inc.   256,183 
           
     HOUSEHOLD PRODUCTS – 1.2%     
 2,298   Procter & Gamble Co. (The)   327,465 
           
     RETAIL - CONSUMER STAPLES — 1.9%     
 3,413   Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.   501,267 
           
     WHOLESALE - CONSUMER STAPLES — 0.9%     
 3,623   Sysco Corp.   253,429 
     TOTAL CONSUMER STAPLES   1,338,344 
           
     FINANCIALS – 2.9%     
     BANKS – 0.9%     
 8,191   Truist Financial Corp.   249,580 
           
     INSURANCE – 2.0%     
 8,247   Aflac, Inc.   529,540 
     TOTAL FINANCIALS   779,120 
           
     HEALTH CARE – 8.3%     
     BIOTECH & PHARMA – 7.4%     
 1,907   Eli Lilly & Co.   818,980 
 1,697   Johnson & Johnson   263,137 
 4,688   Merck & Co., Inc.   517,602 
 9,969   Pfizer, Inc.   379,021 
         1,978,740 
     MEDICAL EQUIPMENT & DEVICES – 0.9%     
 2,381   Abbott Laboratories   242,862 
     TOTAL HEALTH CARE   2,221,602 
           
     INDUSTRIALS – 5.8%     
     AEROSPACE & DEFENSE – 1.3%     
 1,910   L3 Harris Technologies, Inc.   336,007 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

59

 

North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     COMMON STOCKS (Continued)     
     INDUSTRIALS (Continued)     
     COMMERCIAL SUPPORT SERVICES – 2.4%     
 4,019   Waste Management, Inc.  $650,757 
           
     DIVERSIFIED INDUSTRIALS – 0.8%     
 933   Illinois Tool Works, Inc.   204,075 
           
     INDUSTRIAL SUPPORT SERVICES – 1.3%     
 556   W.W. Grainger, Inc.   360,855 
     TOTAL INDUSTRIALS   1,551,694 
           
     TECHNOLOGY – 7.2%     
     SOFTWARE – 3.4%     
 2,802   Microsoft Corp.   920,149 
           
     TECHNOLOGY HARDWARE – 3.8%     
 5,716   Apple, Inc.   1,013,161 
     TOTAL TECHNOLOGY   1,933,310 
           
     UTILITIES – 3.1%     
     ELECTRIC UTILITIES – 3.1%     
 2,211   Dominion Energy, Inc.   111,169 
 3,195   Eversource Energy   221,190 
 7,326   Southern Co. (The)   510,988 
         843,347 
     TOTAL UTILITIES   843,347 
           
     TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $3,561,316)   9,586,217 
           
     EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS – 57.8%     
 17,650   iShares® Broad USD High Yield Corporate Bond ETF(a)   615,279 
 21,120   iShares® Core Dividend Growth ETF   1,036,781 
 26,400   iShares® MBS ETF(a)   2,481,072 
 14,682   Schwab® U.S. Dividend Equity ETF   1,021,720 
 134,800   SPDR® Portfolio Intermediate Term Corporate Bond ETF(a)   4,344,604 
 54,200   SPDR® Portfolio Long-Term Corporate Bond ETF(a)   1,243,890 
 83,500   SPDR® Portfolio Short-Term Corporate Bond ETF(a)   2,464,920 
 45,500   VanEck Vectors Fallen Angel High Yield Bond ETF(a)   1,244,425 
 6,834   Vanguard® Dividend Appreciation ETF   1,047,311 
     TOTAL EXCHANGE-TRADED FUNDS (Cost $15,833,702)   15,500,002 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

60

 

North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

       Expiration  Exercise   Notional     
Contracts      Date  Price   Value   Fair Value 
     PURCHASED OPTIONS — 7.9%                  
     CALL OPTIONS — 5.1%                  
 10   S&P 500® Index  06/05/2023  $4,250   $4,179,830   $1,650 
 10   S&P 500® Index  06/12/2023   4,300    4,179,830    2,250 
 10   S&P 500® Index  06/16/2023   4,200    4,179,830    43,400 
 10   S&P 500® Index  06/20/2023   4,400    4,179,830    950 
 10   S&P 500® Index  06/26/2023   4,350    4,179,830    5,000 
 15   S&P 500® Index  12/15/2023   3,700    6,269,745    944,175 
 10   S&P 500® Index  12/15/2023   4,000    4,179,830    388,050 
                      1,385,475 
     PUT OPTIONS — 2.8%                  
 10   S&P 500® Index  06/05/2023  $3,900   $4,179,830   $450 
 10   S&P 500® Index  06/12/2023   3,950    4,179,830    3,250 
 10   S&P 500® Index  06/16/2023   3,500    4,179,830    2,125 
 20   S&P 500® Index  06/16/2023   3,975    8,359,660    21,200 
 10   S&P 500® Index  06/16/2023   4,000    4,179,830    12,400 
 10   S&P 500® Index  06/16/2023   4,025    4,179,830    14,650 
 10   S&P 500® Index  06/16/2023   4,175    4,179,830    44,750 
 10   S&P 500® Index  06/20/2023   4,050    4,179,830    17,400 
 10   S&P 500® Index  06/26/2023   4,000    4,179,830    18,100 
 5   S&P 500® Index  12/15/2023   3,300    2,089,915    19,050 
 5   S&P 500® Index  12/15/2023   3,450    2,089,915    24,200 
 5   S&P 500® Index  12/15/2023   3,525    2,089,915    27,400 
 5   S&P 500® Index  12/15/2023   3,825    2,089,915    45,975 
 5   S&P 500® Index  06/21/2024   3,450    2,089,915    47,100 
 5   S&P 500® Index  06/21/2024   3,525    2,089,915    52,025 
 5   S&P 500® Index  06/21/2024   3,550    2,089,915    53,775 
 5   S&P 500® Index  06/21/2024   3,650    2,089,915    61,300 
 5   S&P 500® Index  06/21/2024   3,725    2,089,915    67,500 
 5   S&P 500® Index  06/24/2024   3,775    2,089,915    72,050 
 50   SPDR® S&P 500® ETF Trust  06/16/2023   395    2,089,250    5,425 
 100   SPDR® S&P 500® ETF Trust  12/15/2023   405    4,178,500    142,700 
                      752,825 
     TOTAL PURCHASED OPTIONS                  
     (Cost - $4,903,652)                2,138,300 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

61

 

North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund
SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Shares      Fair Value 
     SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 1.9%     
 500,559   First American Treasury Obligations Fund, Class X, 5.01%(b)  $500,559 
     TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $500,559)   500,559 
     TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 103.4% (Cost $24,799,229)  $27,725,078 
     Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (3.4)%   (928,614)
     NET ASSETS — 100.0%  $26,796,464 

 

(a)Security held as collateral for written options.

 

(b)Rate disclosed is the seven day effective yield as of May 31, 2023.

 

ETF - Exchange-Traded Fund

 

SPDR - Standard & Poor’s Depositary Receipt

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

62

 

North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund
SCHEDULE OF OPTIONS WRITTEN
May 31, 2023

 

WRITTEN OPTIONS — (3.4)%            
             
       Expiration  Exercise   Notional     
Contracts      Date  Price   Value   Fair Value 
     CALL OPTIONS — (1.7)%                  
 (10)  S&P 500® Index  06/05/2023  $4,100   $(4,179,830)  $(84,500)
 (10)  S&P 500® Index  06/12/2023   4,150    (4,179,830)   (58,750)
 (10)  S&P 500® Index  06/12/2023   4,175    (4,179,830)   (41,900)
 (10)  S&P 500® Index  06/16/2023   4,175    (4,179,830)   (58,350)
 (10)  S&P 500® Index  06/20/2023   4,250    (4,179,830)   (20,600)
 (10)  S&P 500® Index  06/26/2023   4,200    (4,179,830)   (53,550)
 (5)  S&P 500® Index  12/20/2024   4,600    (2,089,250)   (130,125)
                      (447,775)
     PUT OPTIONS — (1.7)%                  
 (10)  S&P 500® Index  06/05/2023  $4,100   $(4,179,830)  $(2,600)
 (10)  S&P 500® Index  06/12/2023   4,150    (4,179,830)   (23,150)
 (10)  S&P 500® Index  06/16/2023   3,125    (8,359,660)   (950)
 (20)  S&P 500® Index  06/16/2023   3,525    (4,179,830)   (4,450)
 (10)  S&P 500® Index  06/16/2023   3,550    (4,179,830)   (2,375)
 (10)  S&P 500® Index  06/16/2023   3,575    (4,179,830)   (2,475)
 (10)  S&P 500® Index  06/16/2023   3,700    (4,179,830)   (3,350)
 (10)  S&P 500® Index  06/20/2023   4,250    (4,179,830)   (81,850)
 (10)  S&P 500® Index  06/26/2023   4,200    (4,179,830)   (61,550)
 (5)  S&P 500® Index  12/15/2023   2,925    (2,089,250)   (10,875)
 (5)  S&P 500® Index  12/15/2023   3,050    (2,089,250)   (13,000)
 (5)  S&P 500® Index  12/15/2023   3,125    (2,089,250)   (14,575)
 (5)  S&P 500® Index  12/15/2023   3,400    (2,089,250)   (22,300)
 (5)  S&P 500® Index  06/21/2024   3,075    (2,089,250)   (28,450)
 (5)  S&P 500® Index  06/21/2024   3,125    (2,089,250)   (30,425)
 (5)  S&P 500® Index  06/21/2024   3,150    (2,089,250)   (31,500)
 (5)  S&P 500® Index  06/21/2024   3,250    (2,089,250)   (36,025)
 (5)  S&P 500® Index  06/21/2024   3,300    (2,089,250)   (38,525)
 (5)  S&P 500® Index  06/24/2024   3,375    (2,089,250)   (42,375)
                      (450,800)
     TOTAL WRITTEN OPTIONS                  
     (Proceeds Received - $2,454,810)               $(898,575)

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

63

 

North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund
SUMMARY OF INVESTMENTS
As of May 31, 2023

 

   Percent of Total 
Security Type/Sector  Net Assets 
Common Stocks     
Consumer Discretionary   3.5%
Consumer Staples   5.0%
Financials   2.9%
Health Care   8.3%
Industrials   5.8%
Technology   7.2%
Utilities   3.1%
Total Common Stocks   35.8%
Exchange-Traded Funds   57.8%
Purchased Options     
Call Options   5.1%
Put Options   2.8%
Total Purchased Options   7.9%
Short Term Investments   1.9%
Total Investments   103.4%
Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities   -3.4%
Total Net Assets   100.0%

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

64

 

STATEMENTS OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
As of May 31, 2023

 

           North Square     
   North Square   North Square   Advisory Research   North Square 
   Spectrum   Dynamic Small   Small Cap   Multi Strategy 
   Alpha Fund   Cap Fund   Growth Fund   Fund 
Assets                    
Investments in unaffiliated issuers, at cost  $1,117,984   $76,759,431   $8,130,385   $13,661,091 
Investments in affiliated issuers, at cost   87,130,154            26,209,828 
Investments in unaffiliated issuers, at value  $1,128,735   $79,166,858   $9,617,002   $12,977,508 
Investments in affiliated issuers, at value   72,289,205            26,103,861 
Receivable for fund shares sold   5,386    1,878,700    375    194 
Receivable for investments sold       1,929,014    31,514     
Dividends and interest receivable   1,923    127,975    2,862    1,529 
Prepaid expenses   11,661    11,760    6,427    15,367 
Total Assets   73,436,910    83,114,307    9,658,180    39,098,459 
                     
Liabilities                    
Payable for fund shares redeemed   3,788    5,270        25,790 
Payable for investments purchased       4,321,819    24,526     
Due to Advisor (Note 3)   31,161    30,850    2,298    179,032 
Distribution fees (Note 7)   20,050    92        13,783 
Shareholder servicing fees (Note 6)   997    55         
Fund administration fees   11,263    7,943    1,421    3,896 
Fund accounting fees   1,484    1,117    233    801 
Transfer agent fees   16,523    7,855    3,770    9,134 
Compliance service fees   361             
Due to Trustees   6,887    5,220    1,056    3,291 
Other accrued expenses   22,301    11,473    1,053    9,516 
Total Liabilities   114,815    4,391,694    34,357    245,243 
                     
Net Assets  $73,322,095   $78,722,613   $9,623,823   $38,853,216 
                     
Net Assets consist of:                    
Paid-in capital (par value of $0.01 per share with an unlimited number of shares authorized)   90,778,959    89,327,041    11,521,436    39,195,972 
Accumulated earnings (deficits)   (17,456,864)   (10,604,428)   (1,897,613)   (342,756)
Net Assets  $73,322,095   $78,722,613   $9,623,823   $38,853,216 
                     
Class A Shares:                    
Net assets applicable to shares outstanding  $44,532,193   $2,142,506        $30,433,298 
Shares of beneficial interest issued and outstanding   7,579,325    192,197         2,148,210 
Net asset value, redemption and offering price per share  $5.88   $11.15        $14.17 
Maximum sales charge (5.75% of offering price)*   0.36    0.68         0.86 
Maximum offering price to public  $6.24   $11.83        $15.03 
Class I Shares:                    
Net assets applicable to shares outstanding  $28,789,902   $76,580,107   $9,623,823   $8,419,918 
Shares of beneficial interest issued and outstanding   3,747,225    6,870,733    902,011    545,593 
Net asset value, redemption and offering price per share  $7.68   $11.15   $10.67   $15.43 

 

*No sales charge applies on investments of $500,000 or more, but a Contingent Deferred Sales Charge (“CDSC”) of 1% will be imposed on certain redemptions of such shares within 12 months of the date of purchase.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

65

 

STATEMENTS OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES – Continued
As of May 31, 2023

 

   North Square           North Square 
   Preferred   North Square   North Square   Trilogy 
   and Income   Tactical Growth   Tactical   Alternative 
   Securities Fund   Fund   Defensive Fund   Return Fund 
Assets                    
Investments in unaffiliated issuers, at cost  $44,898,101   $369,138,113   $61,782,453   $24,799,229 
Investments in affiliated issuers, at cost                
Investments in unaffiliated issuers, at value  $44,865,642   $471,453,136   $61,703,763   $27,725,078 
Investments in affiliated issuers, at value                
Receivable for fund shares sold   53    894,675    386     
Receivable for investments sold   1,830,394             
Dividends and interest receivable   631,120    333,910    129,553    29,506 
Tax reclaims receivable   22,142             
Prepaid expenses   13,845    56,901    37,816    49,306 
Total Assets   47,363,196    472,738,622    61,871,518    27,803,890 
                     
Liabilities                    
Due to broker for written options               44,117 
Options written, at value (premium received $0, $0, $0 and $2,454,810)               898,575 
Payable for fund shares redeemed       480,885    1,190,541    26,177 
Payable for investments purchased   753,153             
Due to Advisor (Note 3)   16,569    301,029    56,221    10,225 
Distribution fees (Note 7)       162,714    19,484    5,674 
Shareholder servicing fees (Note 6)       60,812    2,701    1,866 
Fund administration fees   4,013    60,126    8,218    2,132 
Fund accounting fees   692    8,260    1,172    531 
Transfer agent fees   4,567    43,770    13,913    9,451 
Compliance service fees               112 
Due to Trustees   4,489    48,597    7,197    2,040 
Other accrued expenses   2,889    129,901    16,954    6,526 
Total Liabilities   786,372    1,296,094    1,316,401    1,007,426 
                     
Net Assets  $46,576,824   $471,442,528   $60,555,117   $26,796,464 
                     
Net Assets consist of:                    
Paid-in capital (par value of $0.01 per share with an unlimited number of shares authorized)   49,432,171    373,715,829    72,809,621    24,629,816 
Accumulated earnings (deficits)   (2,855,347)   97,726,699    (12,254,504)   2,166,648 
Net Assets  $46,576,824   $471,442,528   $60,555,117   $26,796,464 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

66

 

STATEMENTS OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES – Continued
As of May 31, 2023

 

   North Square           North Square 
   Preferred   North Square   North Square   Trilogy 
   and Income   Tactical Growth   Tactical   Alternative 
   Securities Fund   Fund   Defensive Fund   Return Fund 
Class A Shares:                    
Net assets applicable to shares outstanding       $85,244,273   $20,301,522   $1,351,293 
Shares of beneficial interest issued and outstanding        6,691,917    1,316,529    131,591 
Net asset value, redemption and offering price per share       $12.74   $15.42   $10.27 
Maximum sales charge (5.75% of offering price)*        0.78    0.94    0.63 
Maximum offering price to public       $13.52   $16.36   $10.90 
Class C Shares:                    
Net assets applicable to shares outstanding       $71,368,771   $4,005,008   $2,677,759 
Shares of beneficial interest issued and outstanding        6,048,312    289,311    269,868 
Net asset value, redemption and offering price per share       $11.80   $13.84   $9.92 
Class I Shares:                    
Net assets applicable to shares outstanding  $46,576,824   $314,829,484   $36,248,587   $22,767,412 
Shares of beneficial interest issued and outstanding   2,607,662    24,140,487    2,285,764    2,203,593 
Net asset value, redemption and offering price per share  $17.86   $13.04   $15.86   $10.33 

 

*No sales charge applies on investments of $500,000 or more, but a Contingent Deferred Sales Charge (“CDSC”) of 1% will be imposed on certain redemptions of such shares within 12 months of the date of purchase.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

67

 

STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS
For the Year Ended May 31, 2023

 

           North Square     
   North Square   North Square   Advisory Research   North Square 
   Spectrum   Dynamic Small   Small Cap   Multi Strategy 
   Alpha Fund   Cap Fund   Growth Fund   Fund 
Investment Income                    
Dividend income  $4,682   $784,321   $20,768   $306,161 
Dividend income from affiliated regulated investment companies   132,159            537,106 
Interest income   55,466    16,156    2,585    31,665 
Foreign dividend taxes withheld       (4,466)        
Total investment income   192,307    796,011    23,353    874,932 
                     
Expenses                    
Advisor fees (Note 3)   167,754    643,301    78,600    216,319 
Distribution fees - Class A (Note 7)   124,178    92(a)       84,635 
Shareholder servicing fees - Class I (Note 6)   44,932    77,302    8,894    6,794 
Shareholder servicing fees - Class A (Note 6)   40,369    55(a)       20,561 
Legal fees   79,336    29,793    6,747    37,042 
Fund administration fees   72,924    68,134    10,002    37,496 
Transfer agent fees and expenses   52,321    41,176    8,706    28,051 
Registration fees   38,116    21,717    22,197    32,191 
Trustees’ fees and expenses   23,840    12,520    934    10,965 
Audit fees   23,606    9,411        10,430 
Shareholder reporting fees   10,185    2,064    1,349    5,511 
Chief compliance officer fees (Note 3)   7,112    6,229    894    3,297 
Fund accounting fees   6,146    6,770    1,042    3,538 
Custody fees   5,558    20,595    11,539    4,784 
Insurance   4,678    2,117    547    2,119 
Other expenses   3,157    5,290    949    6,924 
Total expenses   704,212    946,566    152,400    510,657 
Affiliated fund fees waived (Note 3)               (134,487)
Fees contractually recouped (waived) by Advisor   300,627    (238,812)   (46,842)    
Net operating expenses   1,004,839    707,754    105,558    376,170 
Net investment income (loss)   (812,532)   88,257    (82,205)   498,762 
                     
Net Realized and Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments                    
Net realized gain (loss) on:                    
Investments   116,205    (8,373,513)   (2,744,623)   (1,271,940)
Affiliated issuers   (4,407,907)           387,505 
Net realized gain (loss)   (4,291,702)   (8,373,513)   (2,744,623)   (884,435)
Capital gain distributions from regulated investment companies:                    
Affiliated issuers   2,140,340            1,295,964 
Total capital gain distributions   2,140,340            1,295,964 
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:                    
Investments   10,751    8,604,728    2,602,464    912,563 
Affiliated issuers   931,530            (2,226,085)
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation   942,281    8,604,728    2,602,464    (1,313,522)
Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss) on investments   (1,209,081)   231,215    (142,159)   (901,993)
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations  $(2,021,613)  $319,472   $(224,364)  $(403,231)

 

(a)Class A of the North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund commenced operations on May 1, 2023.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

68

 

STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS – Continued
For the Year Ended May 31, 2023

 

   North Square           North Square 
   Preferred   North Square   North Square   Trilogy 
   and Income   Tactical Growth   Tactical   Alternative 
   Securities Fund   Fund   Defensive Fund   Return Fund 
Investment Income                    
Dividend income  $36,467   $4,413,480   $176,729   $803,875 
Interest income   2,584,414    5,155,317    1,354,436    15,260 
Foreign dividend taxes withheld               (539)
Total investment income   2,620,881    9,568,797    1,531,165    818,596 
                     
Expenses                    
Advisor fees (Note 3)   296,490    5,198,845    859,364    390,668 
Distribution fees - Class A (Note 7)       220,700    55,861    4,304 
Distribution fees - Class C (Note 7)       769,035    65,838    31,008 
Shareholder servicing fees - Class I (Note 6)   32,846    277,229    48,538    32,910 
Shareholder servicing fees - Class A (Note 6)       74,664    16,901    1,280 
Shareholder servicing fees - Class C (Note 6)       69,746    6,285    3,301 
Fund administration fees   34,522    436,085    62,741    27,099 
Registration fees   25,844    73,640    40,267    42,672 
Legal fees   24,537    397,461    56,048    26,623 
Transfer agent fees and expenses   21,347    261,300    44,950    23,935 
Audit fees   8,969    108,943    14,123    6,523 
Trustees’ fees and expenses   8,459    129,378    18,460    8,070 
Custody fees   8,239    11,696    3,201    4,515 
Fund accounting fees   3,425    42,681    6,196    2,881 
Chief compliance officer fees (Note 3)   3,350    29,283    6,181    3,359 
Shareholder reporting fees   3,214    22,724    4,773    3,109 
Insurance   1,433    28,260    3,991    2,102 
Other expenses   4,872    65,245    8,821    8,538 
Total expenses   477,547    8,216,915    1,322,539    622,897 
Fees contractually waived by Advisor   (94,057)   (952,355)   (36,128)   (156,673)
Net operating expenses   383,490    7,264,560    1,286,411    466,224 
Net investment income   2,237,391    2,304,237    244,754    352,372 
                     
Net Realized and Change in Unrealized Gain (Loss) on Investments                    
Net realized gain (loss) on:                    
Investments   (3,641,960)   (4,588,324)   (2,890,834)   2,312,794 
Written Options               1,960,973 
Purchased Options               (361,579)
Net realized gain (loss)   (3,641,960)   (4,588,324)   (2,890,834)   3,912,188 
Capital gain distributions from regulated investment companies:                    
Unaffiliated issuers                
Total capital gain distributions                
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on:                    
Investments   2,068,603    5,652,165    (78,690)   (3,143,652)
Written Options               649,499 
Purchased Options               (3,850,908)
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation   2,068,603    5,652,165    (78,690)   (6,345,061)
Net realized and change in unrealized gain (loss) on investments   (1,573,357)   1,063,841    (2,969,524)   (2,432,873)
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations  $664,034   $3,368,078   $(2,724,770)  $(2,080,501)

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

69

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

 

           North Square Dynamic 
   North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund   Small Cap Fund 
   For the   For the Year   For the   For the Year 
   Year Ended   Ended   Year Ended   Ended 
   May 31,   May 31,   May 31,   May 31, 
   2023   2022   2023   2022 
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets due to:                    
Operations                    
Net investment income (loss)  $(812,532)  $(1,582,984)  $88,257   $27,618 
Net realized gain (loss) on investments   (4,291,702)   47,887,713    (8,373,513)   (3,095,661)
Capital gain distributions from regulated investment companies   2,140,340             
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments   942,281    (69,437,287)   8,604,728    (8,772,335)
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations   (2,021,613)   (23,132,558)   319,472    (11,840,378)
                     
Distributions to Shareholders                    
Class A   (22,897,546)   (10,900,819)        
Class I   (14,332,424)   (6,492,617)   (144,105)   (6,613,665)
Total distributions   (37,229,970)   (17,393,436)   (144,105)   (6,613,665)
                     
Capital Transactions - Class A(a)                    
Proceeds from shares sold   7,053,370    1,901,148    2,171,921     
Reinvestment of distributions   22,246,331    10,558,384         
Amount paid for shares redeemed   (16,827,207)   (18,787,708)   (897)    
Total Class A   12,472,494    (6,328,176)   2,171,024     
Capital Transactions - Class I                    
Proceeds from shares sold   7,353,382    3,231,148    16,279,335    84,613,534 
Reinvestment of distributions   14,142,809    6,367,682    144,105    6,613,666 
Amount paid for shares redeemed   (17,022,072)   (15,529,593)   (19,030,524)   (14,158,858)
Total Class I   4,474,119    (5,930,763)   (2,607,084)   77,068,342 
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital transactions   16,946,613    (12,258,939)   (436,060)   77,068,342 
Total Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets   (22,304,970)   (52,784,933)   (260,693)   58,614,299 
                     
Net Assets                    
Beginning of year   95,627,065    148,411,998    78,983,306    20,369,007 
End of year  $73,322,095   $95,627,065   $78,722,613   $78,983,306 
                     
Share Transactions - Class A(a)                    
Shares sold   829,001    139,253    192,278     
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions   3,888,879    762,168         
Shares redeemed   (2,363,447)   (1,357,846)   (81)    
Total Class A   2,354,433    (456,425)   192,197     
                     
Share Transactions - Class I                    
Shares sold   645,904    206,097    1,459,087    6,563,426 
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions   1,892,698    393,592    13,486    508,517 
Shares redeemed   (1,910,295)   (956,296)   (1,725,420)   (1,063,069)
Total Class I   628,307    (356,637)   (252,847)   6,008,874 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding   2,982,740    (813,062)   (60,650)   6,008,874 

 

(a)Class A of the North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund commenced operations on May 1, 2023.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

70

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS – Continued

 

   North Square Advisory Research         
   Small Cap Growth Fund   North Square Multi Strategy Fund 
   For the   For the Year   For the   For the Year 
   Year Ended   Ended   Year Ended   Ended 
   May 31,   May 31,   May 31,   May 31, 
   2023   2022   2023   2022 
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets due to:                    
Operations                    
Net investment income (loss)  $(82,205)  $(79,862)  $498,762   $4,654,285 
Net realized gain (loss) on investments   (2,744,623)   3,662,768    (884,435)   5,372,296 
Capital gain distributions from regulated investment companies           1,295,964    5,325,315 
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments   2,602,464    (7,458,194)   (1,313,522)   (17,715,179)
Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations   (224,364)   (3,875,288)   (403,231)   (2,363,283)
                     
Distributions to Shareholders                    
Class A           (11,145,526)   (2,660,146)
Class I   (1,422,533)   (2,964,205)   (2,942,494)   (639,389)
Total distributions   (1,422,533)   (2,964,205)   (14,088,020)   (3,299,535)
                     
Capital Transactions - Class A                    
Proceeds from shares sold           738,888    1,320,863 
Reinvestment of distributions           10,547,243    2,511,713 
Amount paid for shares redeemed           (7,158,912)   (6,663,587)
Total Class A           4,127,219    (2,831,011)
Capital Transactions - Class I                    
Proceeds from shares sold   127,723    19,020,697    1,494,455    1,887,360 
Reinvestment of distributions   1,422,533    29,642,026    2,795,515    599,065 
Amount paid for shares redeemed   (2,948,517)   (14,939,435)   (2,971,391)   (1,826,257)
Total Class I   (1,398,261)   (14,939,435)   1,318,579    660,168 
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital transactions   (1,398,261)   7,045,468    5,445,798    (2,170,843)
Total Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets   (3,045,158)   205,975    (9,045,453)   (7,833,661)
                     
Net Assets                    
Beginning of year   12,668,981    12,463,006    47,898,669    55,732,330 
End of year  $9,623,823   $12,668,981   $38,853,216   $47,898,669 
                     
Share Transactions - Class A                    
Shares sold           43,885    55,109 
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions           768,923    105,099 
Shares redeemed           (453,934)   (285,863)
Total Class A           358,874    (125,655)
                     
Share Transactions - Class I                    
Shares sold   10,855    1,111,540    85,628    77,106 
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions   143,328    166,850    187,270    23,713 
Shares redeemed   (251,914)   (874,742)   (181,184)   (73,567)
Total Class I   (97,731)   403,648    91,714    27,252 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding   (97,731)   403,648    450,588    (98,403)

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

71

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS – Continued

 

   North Square Preferred and         
   Income Securities Fund   North Square Tactical Growth Fund 
   For the   For the Year   For the   For the Year 
   Year Ended   Ended   Year Ended   Ended 
   May 31,   May 31,   May 31,   May 31, 
   2023   2022   2023   2022 
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets due to:                    
Operations                    
Net investment income (loss)  $2,237,391   $354,013   $2,304,237   $(948,118)
Net realized gain (loss) on investments   (3,641,960)   6,667,671    (4,588,324)   37,101,813 
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments   2,068,603    (8,416,687)   5,652,165    (68,776,256)
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations   664,034    (1,395,003)   3,368,078    (32,622,561)
                     
Distributions to Shareholders                    
From Earnings                    
Class A           (6,201,137)   (4,656,629)
Class C           (5,450,763)   (4,934,549)
Class I   (6,332,839)   (1,467,649)   (21,970,764)   (18,313,294)
From Return of Capital                    
Class A                
Class C                
Class I   (702,036)            
Total distributions   (7,034,875)   (1,467,649)   (33,622,664)   (27,904,472)
                     
Capital Transactions - Class A                    
Proceeds from shares sold           13,490,738    19,301,112 
Reinvestment of distributions           5,538,750    4,483,664 
Amount paid for shares redeemed           (21,040,080)   (17,620,626)
Total Class A           (2,010,592)   6,164,150 
Capital Transactions - Class C                    
Proceeds from shares sold           3,482,649    4,869,429 
Reinvestment of distributions           5,253,219    4,752,313 
Amount paid for shares redeemed           (16,655,724)   (20,051,854)
Total Class C           (7,919,856)   (10,430,112)
Capital Transactions - Class I                    
Proceeds from shares sold   24,571,282    18,407,241    48,246,899    52,032,697 
Reinvestment of distributions   7,034,777    1,467,551    19,612,695    16,496,351 
Amount paid for shares redeemed   (4,451,656)   (7,405,206)   (78,595,128)   (76,807,346)
Total Class I   27,154,403    12,469,586    (10,735,534)   (8,278,298)
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from capital transactions   27,154,403    12,469,586    (20,665,982)   (12,544,260)
Total Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets   20,783,562    9,606,934    (50,920,568)   (73,071,293)
                     
Net Assets                    
Beginning of year   25,793,262    16,186,328    522,363,096    595,434,389 
End of year  $46,576,824   $25,793,262   $471,442,528   $522,363,096 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

72

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS – Continued

 

   North Square Preferred and         
   Income Securities Fund   North Square Tactical Growth Fund 
   For the   For the Year   For the   For the Year 
   Year Ended   Ended   Year Ended   Ended 
   May 31,   May 31,   May 31,   May 31, 
   2023   2022   2023   2022 
Share Transactions - Class A                    
Shares sold           1,049,522    1,291,538 
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions           463,009    299,943 
Shares redeemed           (1,654,486)   (1,172,728)
Total Class A           (141,955)   418,753 
                     
Share Transactions - Class C                    
Shares sold           290,329    344,419 
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions           472,518    339,204 
Shares redeemed           (1,401,591)   (1,428,204)
Total Class C           (638,744)   (744,581)
                     
Share Transactions - Class I                    
Shares sold   1,228,402    785,761    3,677,139    3,413,555 
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions   383,811    63,102    1,603,170    1,081,813 
Shares redeemed   (235,254)   (312,207)   (5,981,704)   (5,077,334)
Total Class I   1,376,959    536,656    (701,395)   (581,966)
                     
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding   1,376,959    536,656    (1,482,094)   (907,794)

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

73

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS – Continued

 

   North Square Tactical   North Square Trilogy 
   Defensive Fund   Alternative Return Fund 
   For the   For the Year   For the   For the Year 
   Year Ended   Ended   Year Ended   Ended 
   May 31,   May 31,   May 31,   May 31, 
   2023   2022   2023   2022 
Increase (Decrease) in Net Assets due to:                    
Operations                    
Net investment income (loss)  $244,754   $(467,783)  $352,372   $140,864 
Net realized gain (loss) on investments   (2,890,834)   12,794,769    3,912,188    (4,089,628)
Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments   (78,690)   (11,817,085)   (6,345,061)   1,529,182 
Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations   (2,724,770)   509,901    (2,080,501)   (2,419,582)
                     
Distributions to Shareholders                    
Class A           (14,948)   (4,131)
Class C           (11,435)    
Class I           (251,864)   (98,583)
Total distributions           (278,247)   (102,714)
                     
Capital Transactions - Class A                    
Proceeds from shares sold   1,747,369    5,801,710    246,217    563,694 
Reinvestment of distributions           14,041    3,063 
Amount paid for shares redeemed   (3,945,479)   (4,027,394)   (1,000,904)   (902,730)
Total Class A   (2,198,110)   1,774,316    (740,646)   (335,973)
Capital Transactions - Class C                    
Proceeds from shares sold   126,977    415,782    123,500    94,647 
Reinvestment of distributions           11,435     
Amount paid for shares redeemed   (3,072,893)   (4,913,215)   (963,079)   (894,810)
Total Class C   (2,945,916)   (4,497,433)   (828,144)   (800,163)
Capital Transactions - Class I                    
Proceeds from shares sold   6,910,086    6,484,387    1,549,213    7,040,756 
Reinvestment of distributions           251,841    98,507 
Amount paid for shares redeemed   (11,497,233)   (9,511,742)   (12,829,104)   (8,778,076)
Total Class I   (4,587,147)   (3,027,355)   (11,028,050)   (1,638,813)
Net decrease in net assets resulting from capital transactions   (9,731,173)   (5,750,472)   (12,596,840)   (2,774,949)
Total Decrease in Net Assets   (12,455,943)   (5,240,571)   (14,955,588)   (5,297,245)
                     
Net Assets                    
Beginning of year   73,011,060    78,251,631    41,752,052    47,049,297 
End of year  $60,555,117   $73,011,060   $26,796,464   $41,752,052 

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

74

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS – Continued

 

   North Square Tactical   North Square Trilogy 
   Defensive Fund   Alternative Return Fund 
   For the   For the Year   For the   For the Year 
   Year Ended   Ended   Year Ended   Ended 
   May 31,   May 31,   May 31,   May 31, 
   2023   2022   2023   2022 
Share Transactions - Class A                    
Shares sold   111,610    356,113    23,265    48,173 
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions           1,342    261 
Shares redeemed   (252,715)   (244,497)   (95,387)   (78,047)
Total Class A   (141,105)   111,616    (70,780)   (29,613)
                     
Share Transactions - Class C                    
Shares sold   8,785    27,992    12,068    8,645 
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions           1,128     
Shares redeemed   (219,884)   (330,222)   (94,484)   (78,447)
Total Class C   (211,099)   (302,230)   (81,288)   (69,802)
                     
Share Transactions - Class I                    
Shares sold   425,109    386,496    148,125    609,527 
Shares issued in reinvestment of distributions           23,956    8,365 
Shares redeemed   (711,637)   (560,120)   (1,208,523)   (754,599)
Total Class I   (286,528)   (173,624)   (1,036,442)   (136,707)
                     
Net decrease in shares outstanding   (638,732)   (364,238)   (1,188,510)   (236,122)

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

75

 

North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class A

 

(For a share outstanding during each year)

 

   For the Years Ended May 31, 
   2023   2022   2021   2020   2019 
Selected Per Share Data:                         
Net asset value, beginning of year  $10.78   $15.36   $12.07   $13.89   $16.85 
                          
Investment operations:                         
Net investment loss(a)   (0.09(b)   (0.19(b)   (0.17)   (0.15)   (0.16(b)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)   (0.28)   (2.26)   5.34    0.44    (0.34)
Total from investment operations   (0.37)   (2.45)   5.17    0.29    (0.50)
                          
Less distributions:                         
From net realized gains   (4.53)   (2.13)   (1.88)   (2.11)   (2.46)
Total distributions   (4.53)   (2.13)   (1.88)   (2.11)   (2.46)
                          
Net asset value, end of year  $5.88   $10.78   $15.36   $12.07   $13.89 
                          
Total Return(c)   (2.25)%   (19.05)%   43.47%   1.16%   (1.96)%
                          
Ratios and Supplemental Data:                         
Net assets, end of year (in thousands)  $44,532   $56,319   $87,291   $73,973   $109,749 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                         
Before fee waived and expenses recouped(d)   0.92%   1.34%   1.75%   2.06%   1.46%
After fees waived and expenses recouped(d)   1.30%   1.36(e)   1.39%   1.39%   1.38%
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets:                         
Before fees waived and expenses recouped(d)   (0.70)%   (1.29)%   (1.54)%   (1.78)%   (1.08)%
After fees waived and expenses recouped(d)   (1.07)%   (1.31)%   (1.18)%   (1.11)%   (1.00)%
Portfolio turnover rate(f)   7%   104%   33%   38%   31%

 

(a)Based on average shares outstanding for the year.

 

(b)Recognition of net investment income (loss) by the Fund is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(c)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Returns shown do not reflect sales load.

 

(d)Does not include expenses of the investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(e)Effective January 11, 2022, the expense cap decreased from 1.39% to 1.30%.

 

(f)Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis on the Fund as a whole without distinguishing among the classes of shares.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

76

 

North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class I

 

(For a share outstanding during each year)

 

   For the Years Ended May 31, 
   2023   2022   2021   2020   2019 
Selected Per Share Data:                         
Net asset value, beginning of year  $12.60   $17.59   $13.58   $15.35   $18.29 
                          
Investment operations:                         
Net investment loss(a)   (0.08(b)   (0.17(b)   (0.15)   (0.13)   (0.13(b)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)   (0.31)   (2.69)   6.04    0.47    (0.35)
Total from investment operations   (0.39)   (2.86)   5.89    0.34    (0.48)
                          
Less distributions:                         
From net realized gains   (4.53)   (2.13)   (1.88)   (2.11)   (2.46)
Total distributions   (4.53)   (2.13)   (1.88)   (2.11)   (2.46)
                          
Net asset value, end of year  $7.68   $12.60   $17.59   $13.58   $15.35 
                          
Total Return(c)   (2.08)%   (18.90)%   43.92%   1.41%   (1.67)%
                          
Ratios and Supplemental Data:                         
Net assets, end of year (in thousands)  $28,790   $39,308   $61,121   $40,165   $64,501 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                         
Before fee waived and expenses recouped(d)   0.72%   1.12%   1.51(e)   1.78%   1.22%
After fees waived and expenses recouped(d)   1.05%   1.11(f)   1.08%   1.14%   1.14%
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets:                         
Before fees waived and expenses recouped(d)   (0.48)%   (1.07)%   (1.31)% (e)   (1.50)%   (0.84)%
After fees waived and expenses recouped(d)   (0.81)%   (1.06)%   (0.87)%   (0.86)%   (0.75)%
Portfolio turnover rate(g)   7%   104%   33%   38%   31%

 

(a)Based on average shares outstanding for the year.

 

(b)Recognition of net investment income (loss) by the Fund is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(c)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.

 

(d)Does not include expenses of the investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(e)Ratios exclude the 12b-1 refund.

 

(f)Effective January 11, 2022, the expense cap decreased from 1.14% to 1.05%.

 

(g)Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis on the Fund as a whole without distinguishing among the classes of shares.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

77

 

North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class A

 

(For a share outstanding during the period)

 

   For the 
   Period Ended 
   May 31, 
   2023(a) 
Selected Per Share Data:     
Net asset value, beginning of period  $11.26 
      
Investment operations:     
Net investment income(b)   0.03 
Net realized and unrealized loss   (0.14(c)
Total from investment operations   (0.11)
      
Net asset value, end of period  $11.15 
      
Total Return(d)   (0.98)% (e)
      
Ratios and Supplemental Data:     
Net assets, end of period (in thousands)  $2,143 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:     
Before fee waived and expenses absorbed   1.54(f)
After fees waived and expenses absorbed   1.24(f)
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets:     
Before fees waived and expenses absorbed   2.99(f)
After fees waived and expenses absorbed   3.29(f)
Portfolio turnover rate(g)   188(e)

 

(a)For the period May 1, 2023 (commencement of operations) to May 31, 2023.

 

(b)Based on average shares outstanding for the period.

 

(c)The amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the year may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the year due to the timing of sales and redemptions of Fund shares in relation to income earned, class specific expense structure, and/or fluctuating market value of the investments of the Fund.

 

(d)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Returns shown do not reflect sales load.

 

(e)Not annualized.

 

(f)Annualized.

 

(g)Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis on the Fund as a whole without distinguishing among the classes of shares.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

78

 

North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class I

 

(For a share outstanding during each year)

 

   For the Years Ended May 31, 
   2023   2022   2021   2020   2019 
Selected Per Share Data:                         
Net asset value, beginning of year  $11.09   $18.27   $11.46   $11.54   $15.14 
                          
Investment operations:                         
Net investment income (loss)(a)   0.01    0.01    (0.04)   0.02    (0.01)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)   0.07    (1.00)   7.14    (0.07)   (1.31)
Total from investment operations   0.08    (0.99)   7.10    (0.05)   (1.32)
                          
Less distributions:                         
Net investment income   (0.02)       (0.01)   (0.03)    
From net realized gains       (6.19)   (0.28)       (2.28)
Total distributions   (0.02)   (6.19)   (0.29)   (0.03)   (2.28)
                          
Net asset value, end of year  $11.15   $11.09   $18.27   $11.46   $11.54 
                          
Total Return(b)   0.76%   (10.43)%   62.34%   (0.44)%   (8.42)%
                          
Ratios and Supplemental Data:                         
Net assets, end of year (in thousands)  $76,580   $78,983   $20,369   $15,500   $20,389 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                         
Before fee waived and expenses absorbed   1.33%   1.36%   1.67%   2.23%   2.02%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed   0.99%   1.00(c)   1.15%   1.15%   1.15%
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets:                         
Before fees waived and expenses absorbed   (0.21)%   (0.30)%   (0.82)%   (0.91)%   (0.91)%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed   0.12%   0.06%   (0.30)%   0.17%   (0.04)%
Portfolio turnover rate(d)   188%   177%   179%   170%   133%

 

(a)Based on average shares outstanding for the year.

 

(b)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.

 

(c)Effective July 1, 2021, the expense cap decreased from 1.15% to 0.99%.

 

(d)Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis on the Fund as a whole without distinguishing among the classes of shares.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

79

 

North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class I

 

(For a share outstanding during each year)

 

   For the Years Ended May 31, 
   2023   2022   2021   2020   2019 
Selected Per Share Data:                         
Net asset value, beginning of year  $12.67   $20.91   $16.24   $13.94   $13.16 
                          
Investment operations:                         
Net investment income (loss)(a)   (0.09)   (0.10)   (0.06)   0.03     (b)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)   (0.25)   (1.54)   5.82    3.00    0.88 
Total from investment operations   (0.34)   (1.64)   5.76    3.03    0.88 
                          
Less distributions:                         
Net investment income           (0.03)   (0.01)    
From net realized gains   (1.66)   (6.60)   (1.06)   (0.72)   (0.10)
Total distributions   (1.66)   (6.60)   (1.09)   (0.73)   (0.10)
                          
Net asset value, end of year  $10.67   $12.67   $20.91   $16.24   $13.94 
                          
Total Return(c)   (1.74)%   (16.88)%   35.93%   22.05%   6.80%
                          
Ratios and Supplemental Data:                         
Net assets, end of year (in thousands)  $9,624   $12,669   $12,463   $12,191   $13,823 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                         
Before fee waived and expenses absorbed   1.36%   1.37%   1.45%   1.88%   2.04%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed   0.94%   0.95(d)   0.95%   0.95%   0.95%
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets:                         
Before fees waived and expenses absorbed   (1.15)%   (1.00)%   (0.79)%   (0.74)%   (1.10)%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed   (0.73)%   (0.58)%   (0.29)%   0.19%   (0.01)%
Portfolio turnover rate   182%   230%   9%   18%   18%

 

(a)Based on average shares outstanding for the year.

 

(b)Rounds to less than $0.005 per share.

 

(c)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.

 

(d)Effective January 11, 2022, the expense cap decreased from 0.95% to 0.94%.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

80

 

North Square Multi Strategy Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class A

 

(For a share outstanding during each year)

 

   For the Years Ended May 31, 
   2023   2022   2021   2020   2019 
Selected Per Share Data:                         
Net asset value, beginning of year  $21.10   $23.57   $16.93   $16.92   $26.95 
                          
Investment operations:                         
Net investment income (loss)(a) (b)   0.19    1.98    (0.09)   (0.05)   (0.06)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)   (0.53)   (2.97)   6.73    1.25    (1.60)
Total from investment operations   (0.34)   (0.99)   6.64    1.20    (1.66)
                          
Less distributions:                         
Net investment income   (2.11)           (1.19)    
From net realized gains   (4.48)   (1.48)           (8.37)
Total distributions   (6.59)   (1.48)       (1.19)   (8.37)
                          
Net asset value, end of year  $14.17   $21.10   $23.57   $16.93   $16.92 
                          
Total Return(c)   (0.57)%   (4.94)%   39.20%   6.63%   (4.88)%
                          
Ratios and Supplemental Data:                         
Net assets, end of year (in thousands)  $30,433   $37,762   $45,140   $35,278   $33,287 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                         
Before fee waived and expenses absorbed(d)(e)   1.23%   0.79%   0.92%   1.34%   0.82%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(d)(e)   0.92%   0.79%   1.13%   1.20%   1.00%
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets:                         
Before fees waived and expenses absorbed(d)   0.79%   8.41%   (0.23)%   (0.40)%   (0.09)%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(d)   1.10%   8.41%   (0.44)%   (0.26)%   (0.27)%
Portfolio turnover rate(f)   13%   65%   15%   7%   17%

 

(a)Based on average shares outstanding for the year.

 

(b)Recognition of net investment income (loss) by the Fund is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(c)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Returns shown do not reflect sales load.

 

(d)Does not include expenses of the investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(e)The Advisor does not receive management fees for Fund assets invested in other series of the Trust advised by the Advisor (affiliated investments).

 

(f)Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis on the Fund as a whole without distinguishing among the classes of shares.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

81

 

North Square Multi Strategy Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class I

 

(For a share outstanding during each year)

 

   For the Years Ended May 31, 
   2023   2022   2021   2020   2019 
Selected Per Share Data:                         
Net asset value, beginning of year  $22.33   $24.83   $17.73   $17.59   $27.53 
                          
Investment operations:                         
Net investment income (loss)(a) (b)   0.25    2.22    0.06    (0.01)   0.02 
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)   (0.56)   (3.24)   7.04    1.36    (1.59)
Total from investment operations   (0.31)   (1.02)   7.10    1.35    (1.57)
                          
Less distributions:                         
Net investment income   (2.11)           (1.21)    
From net realized gains   (4.48)   (1.48)           (8.37)
Total distributions   (6.59)   (1.48)       (1.21)   (8.37)
                          
Net asset value, end of year  $15.43   $22.33   $24.83   $17.73   $17.59 
                          
Total Return(c)   (0.38)%   (4.79)%   40.07%   7.17%   (4.23)%
                          
Ratios and Supplemental Data:                         
Net assets, end of year (in thousands)  $8,420   $10,136   $10,592   $5,851   $12,919 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                         
Before fee waived and expenses absorbed(d)(e)   0.99%   0.54%   0.67% (f)   0.92%   0.44%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(d)(e)   0.68%   0.54%   0.43%   0.90%   0.62%
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets:                         
Before fees waived and expenses absorbed(d)   1.03%   8.92%   0.05% (f)   (0.10)%   0.29%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(d)   1.34%   8.92%   0.29%   (0.08)%   0.10%
Portfolio turnover rate(g)   13%   65%   15%   7%   17%

 

(a)Based on average shares outstanding for the year.

 

(b)Recognition of net investment income (loss) by the Fund is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(c)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.

 

(d)Does not include expenses of the investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(e)The Advisor does not receive management fees for Fund assets invested in other series of the Trust advised by the Advisor (affiliated investments).

 

(f)Ratios exclude the 12b-1 refund.

 

(g)Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis on the Fund as a whole without distinguishing among the classes of shares.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

82

 

North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class I

 

(For a share outstanding during each year)

 

   For the Years Ended May 31, 
   2023   2022   2021   2020   2019 
Selected Per Share Data:                         
Net asset value, beginning of year  $20.96   $23.32   $17.47   $16.25   $15.65 
                          
Investment operations:                         
Net investment income(a)   1.09    0.41    0.21    0.24    0.24 
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)   (0.89)   (0.55)   6.18    1.28    0.82 
Total from investment operations   0.20    (0.14)   6.39    1.52    1.06 
                          
Less distributions:                         
Net investment income   (0.65)   (0.38)   (0.18)   (0.25)   (0.24)
From net realized gains   (2.31)   (1.84)   (0.36)   (0.05)   (0.22)
From return of capital   (0.34)                
Total distributions   (3.30)   (2.22)   (0.54)   (0.30)   (0.46)
                          
Net asset value, end of year  $17.86   $20.96   $23.32   $17.47   $16.25 
                          
Total Return(b)   1.25%   (1.49)%   37.06%   9.35%   6.94%
                          
Ratios and Supplemental Data:                         
Net assets, end of year (in thousands)  $46,577   $25,793   $16,186   $11,146   $12,014 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                         
Before fee waived and expenses absorbed   1.20%   1.27%   1.44(c)   1.89%   2.38%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed   0.97%   0.99(d)   1.00%   1.00%   1.00%
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets:                         
Before fees waived and expenses absorbed   5.41%   1.50%   0.59(c)   0.47%   0.18%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed   5.64%   1.78%   1.03%   1.36%   1.56%
Portfolio turnover rate   260%   179%   28%   18%   15%

 

(a)Based on average shares outstanding for the year.

 

(b)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.

 

(c)Ratios exclude the 12b-1 refund.

 

(d)Effective January 11, 2022, the expense cap decreased from 1.00% to 0.97%.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

83

 

North Square Tactical Growth Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class A

 

(For a share outstanding during each year)

 

   For the Years Ended May 31, 
   2023   2022(a)   2021   2020   2019 
Selected Per Share Data:                         
Net asset value, beginning of year  $13.59   $15.15   $11.81   $11.62   $12.33 
                          
Investment operations:                         
Net investment income (loss)(b) (c)   0.06    (0.03)   (0.09)   0.05    (0.01)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)   0.02    (0.80)   3.43    0.72    (0.40)
Total from investment operations   0.08    (0.83)   3.34    0.77    (0.41)
                          
Less distributions:                         
Net investment income   (0.06)           (0.06)    
From net realized gains   (0.87)   (0.73)       (0.52)   (0.30)
Total distributions   (0.93)   (0.73)       (0.58)   (0.30)
                          
Net asset value, end of year  $12.74   $13.59   $15.15   $11.81   $11.62 
                          
Total Return(d)   1.04%   (5.93)%   28.28%   6.53%   (3.22)%
                          
Ratios and Supplemental Data:                         
Net assets, end of year (in thousands)  $85,244   $92,843   $97,180   $81,511   $85,250 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                         
Before fee waived and expenses absorbed(e)   1.74%   1.61%   1.55%   1.56%   1.57%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(e)   1.55%   1.55%   1.55%   1.55%   1.55%
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets:                         
Before fees waived and expenses absorbed(e)   0.24%   (0.27)%   (0.70)%   0.39%   (0.07)%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(e)   0.43%   (0.21)%   (0.70)%   0.40%   (0.05)%
Portfolio turnover rate(f)   96%   67%   79%   128%   120%

 

(a)Effective June 11, 2021 the Stadion Tactical Growth Fund Class A converted to the North Square Tactical Growth Fund Class A. See Note 1.

 

(b)Based on average shares outstanding for the year.

 

(c)Recognition of net investment income (loss) by the Fund is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(d)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Returns shown do not reflect sales load.

 

(e)Does not include expenses of the investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(f)Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis on the Fund as a whole without distinguishing among the classes of shares.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

84

 

North Square Tactical Growth Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class C

 

(For a share outstanding during each year)

 

   For the Years Ended May 31, 
   2023   2022(a)   2021   2020   2019 
Selected Per Share Data:                         
Net asset value, beginning of year  $12.69   $14.30   $11.24   $11.14   $11.92 
                          
Investment operations:                         
Net investment loss(b) (c)   (0.04(d)   (0.13)   (0.19)   (0.04(d)   (0.10(d)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)   0.03    (0.75)   3.25    0.69    (0.38)
Total from investment operations   (0.01)   (0.88)   3.06    0.65    (0.48)
                          
Less distributions:                         
Net investment income   (0.01)           (0.03)    
From net realized gains   (0.87)   (0.73)       (0.52)   (0.30)
Total distributions   (0.88)   (0.73)       (0.55)   (0.30)
                          
Net asset value, end of year  $11.80   $12.69   $14.30   $11.24   $11.14 
                          
Total Return(e)   0.31%   (6.61)%   27.22%   5.73%   (3.92)%
                          
Ratios and Supplemental Data:                         
Net assets, end of year (in thousands)  $71,369   $84,867   $106,291   $95,291   $104,812 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                         
Before fee waived and expenses absorbed(f)   2.50%   2.37%   2.31%   2.33%   2.32%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(f)   2.30%   2.30%   2.30%   2.30%   2.30%
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets:                         
Before fees waived and expenses absorbed(f)   (0.51)%   (1.02)%   (1.46)%   (0.36)%   (0.85)%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(f)   (0.31)%   (0.95)%   (1.45)%   (0.33)%   (0.83)%
Portfolio turnover rate(g)   96%   67%   79%   128%   120%

 

(a)Effective June 11, 2021 the Stadion Tactical Growth Fund Class C converted to the North Square Tactical Growth Fund Class C. See Note 1.

 

(b)Based on average shares outstanding for the year.

 

(c)Recognition of net investment loss by the Fund is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(d)The amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the year may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the year due to the timing of sales and redemptions of Fund shares in relation to income earned, class specific expense structure, and/or fluctuating market value of the investments of the Fund.

 

(e)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Returns shown do not reflect sales load.

 

(f)Does not include expenses of the investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(g)Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis on the Fund as a whole without distinguishing among the classes of shares.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

85

 

North Square Tactical Growth Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class I

 

(For a share outstanding during each year)

 

   For the Years Ended May 31, 
   2023   2022(a)   2021   2020   2019 
Selected Per Share Data:                         
Net asset value, beginning of year  $13.87   $15.42   $12.00   $11.77   $12.46 
                          
Investment operations:                         
Net investment income (loss)(b) (c)   0.09    0.01    (0.06)   0.08    0.02 (d)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)   0.03    (0.83)   3.48    0.74    (0.41)
Total from investment operations   0.12    (0.82)   3.42    0.82    (0.39)
                          
Less distributions:                         
Net investment income   (0.08)        (e)   (0.07)    
From net realized gains   (0.87)   (0.73)       (0.52)   (0.30)
Total distributions   (0.95)   (0.73)       (0.59)   (0.30)
                          
Net asset value, end of year  $13.04   $13.87   $15.42   $12.00   $11.77 
                          
Total Return(f)   1.33%   (5.71)%   28.53%   6.88%   (3.02)%
                          
Ratios and Supplemental Data:                         
Net assets, end of year (in thousands)  $314,829   $344,653   $391,964   $314,646   $337,265 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                         
Before fee waived and expenses absorbed(g)   1.50%   1.38%   1.33%   1.34%   1.33%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(g)   1.30%   1.30%   1.30%   1.30%   1.30%
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets:                         
Before fees waived and expenses absorbed(g)   0.48%   (0.03)%   (0.48)%   0.62%   0.13%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(g)   0.68%   0.05%   (0.45)%   0.66%   0.16%
Portfolio turnover rate(h)   96%   67%   79%   128%   120%

 

(a)Effective June 11, 2021 the Stadion Tactical Growth Fund Class I converted to the North Square Tactical Growth Fund Class I. See Note 1.

 

(b)Based on average shares outstanding for the year.

 

(c)Recognition of net investment income (loss) by the Fund is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(d)The amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the year may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the year due to the timing of sales and redemptions of Fund shares in relation to income earned, class specific expense structure, and/or fluctuating market value of the investments of the Fund.

 

(e)Rounds to less than $0.005 per share.

 

(f)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.

 

(g)Does not include expenses of the investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(h)Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis on the Fund as a whole without distinguishing among the classes of shares.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

86

 

North Square Tactical Defensive Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class A

 

(For a share outstanding during each year)

 

   For the Years Ended May 31, 
   2023   2022(a)   2021   2020   2019 
Selected Per Share Data:                         
Net asset value, beginning of year  $16.05   $16.00   $12.41   $13.52   $13.26 
                          
Investment operations:                         
Net investment income (loss)(b) (c)   0.05    (0.11)   (0.10)   0.07    0.03 
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)   (0.68)   0.16    3.69    (1.12)   0.23 
Total from investment operations   (0.63)   0.05    3.59    (1.05)   0.26 
                          
Less distributions:                         
Net investment income               (0.06)    
Total distributions               (0.06)    
                          
Net asset value, end of year  $15.42   $16.05   $16.00   $12.41   $13.52 
                          
Total Return(d)   (3.93)%   0.30%   28.93%   (7.85)%   1.96%
                          
Ratios and Supplemental Data:                         
Net assets, end of year (in thousands)  $20,302   $23,392   $21,542   $18,526   $24,231 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                         
Before fee waived and expenses absorbed(e)   1.97%   1.86%   1.87%   1.85%   1.84%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(e)   1.95%   1.86%   1.87%   1.85%   1.84%
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets:                         
Before fees waived and expenses absorbed(e)   0.25%   (0.65)%   (0.71)%   0.47%   0.26%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(e)   0.29%   (0.65)%   (0.71)%   0.47%   0.26%
Portfolio turnover rate(f)   677%   289%   350%   522%   396%

 

(a)Effective June 11, 2021 the Stadion Tactical Defensive Fund Class A converted to the North Square Tactical Defensive Fund Class A. See Note 1.

 

(b)Based on average shares outstanding for the year.

 

(c)Recognition of net investment income (loss) by the Fund is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(d)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Returns shown do not reflect sales load.

 

(e)Does not include expenses of the investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(f)Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis on the Fund as a whole without distinguishing among the classes of shares.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

87

 

North Square Tactical Defensive Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class C

 

(For a share outstanding during each year)

 

   For the Years Ended May 31, 
   2023   2022(a)   2021   2020   2019 
Selected Per Share Data:                         
Net asset value, beginning of year  $14.52   $14.59   $11.40   $12.51   $12.36 
                          
Investment operations:                         
Net investment loss(b) (c)   (0.07(d)   (0.21)   (0.19)   (0.03(d)   (0.08(d)
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)   (0.61)   0.14    3.38    (1.03)   0.23 
Total from investment operations   (0.68)   (0.07)   3.19    (1.06)   0.15 
                          
Less distributions:                         
Net investment income               (0.05)    
Total distributions               (0.05)    
                          
Net asset value, end of year  $13.84   $14.52   $14.59   $11.40   $12.51 
                          
Total Return(e)   (4.68)%   (0.49)%   27.98%   (8.54)%   1.21%
                          
Ratios and Supplemental Data:                         
Net assets, end of year (in thousands)  $4,005   $7,265   $11,711   $13,586   $19,151 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                         
Before fee waived and expenses absorbed(f)   2.74%   2.62%   2.62%   2.61%   2.59%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(f)   2.70%   2.62%   2.62%   2.61%   2.59%
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets:                         
Before fees waived and expenses absorbed(f)   (0.52)%   (1.37)%   (1.42)%   (0.24)%   (0.64)%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(f)   (0.48)%   (1.37)%   (1.42)%   (0.24)%   (0.64)%
Portfolio turnover rate(g)   677%   289%   350%   522%   396%

 

(a)Effective June 11, 2021 the Stadion Tactical Defensive Fund Class C converted to the North Square Tactical Defensive Fund Class C. See Note 1.

 

(b)Based on average shares outstanding for the year.

 

(c)Recognition of net investment income (loss) by the Fund is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(d)The amount shown for a share outstanding throughout the year may not correlate with the Statement of Operations for the year due to the timing of sales and redemptions of Fund shares in relation to income earned, class specific expense structure, and/or fluctuating market value of the investments of the Fund.

 

(e)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Returns shown do not reflect sales load.

 

(f)Does not include expenses of the investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(g)Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis on the Fund as a whole without distinguishing among the classes of shares.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

88

 

North Square Tactical Defensive Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class I

 

(For a share outstanding during each year)

 

   For the Years Ended May 31, 
   2023   2022(a)   2021   2020   2019 
Selected Per Share Data:                         
Net asset value, beginning of year  $16.47   $16.39   $12.69   $13.79   $13.50 
                          
Investment operations:                         
Net investment income (loss)(b) (c)   0.09    (0.07)   (0.07)   0.09    0.03 
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)   (0.70)   0.15    3.77    (1.13)   0.26 
Total from investment operations   (0.61)   0.08    3.70    (1.04)   0.29 
                          
Less distributions:                         
Net investment income               (0.06)    
Total distributions               (0.06)    
                          
Net asset value, end of year  $15.86   $16.47   $16.39   $12.69   $13.79 
                          
Total Return(d)   (3.70)%   0.46%   29.16%   (7.61)%   2.15%
                          
Ratios and Supplemental Data:                         
Net assets, end of year (in thousands)  $36,249   $42,354   $44,999   $46,311   $54,684 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                         
Before fee waived and expenses absorbed(e)   1.77%   1.66%   1.68%   1.66%   1.64%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(e)   1.70%   1.66%   1.68%   1.66%   1.64%
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets:                         
Before fees waived and expenses absorbed(e)   0.47%   (0.44)%   (0.50)%   0.65%   0.21%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(e)   0.53%   (0.44)%   (0.50)%   0.65%   0.21%
Portfolio turnover rate(f)   677%   289%   350%   522%   396%

 

(a)Effective June 11, 2021 the Stadion Tactical Defensive Fund Class I converted to the North Square Tactical Defensive Fund Class I. See Note 1.

 

(b)Based on average shares outstanding for the year.

 

(c)Recognition of net investment income (loss) by the Fund is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(d)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.

 

(e)Does not include expenses of the investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(f)Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis on the Fund as a whole without distinguishing among the classes of shares.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

89

 

North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class A

 

(For a share outstanding during each year)

 

   For the Years Ended May 31, 
   2023   2022(a)   2021   2020   2019 
Selected Per Share Data:                         
Net asset value, beginning of year  $10.99   $11.67   $10.72   $10.37   $10.94 
                          
Investment operations:                         
Net investment income(b) (c)   0.11    0.02    0.06    0.13    0.17 
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)   (0.74)   (0.68)   0.98    0.39    (0.62)
Total from investment operations   (0.63)   (0.66)   1.04    0.52    (0.45)
                          
Less distributions:                         
Net investment income   (0.09)   (0.02)   (0.08)   (0.17)   (0.12)
From net realized gains           (0.01)        
Total distributions   (0.09)   (0.02)   (0.09)   (0.17)   (0.12)
                          
Net asset value, end of year  $10.27   $10.99   $11.67   $10.72   $10.37 
                          
Total Return(d)   (5.72)%   (5.69)%   9.74%   5.04%   (4.13)%
                          
Ratios and Supplemental Data:                         
Net assets, end of year (in thousands)  $1,351   $2,224   $2,708   $2,659   $4,733 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                         
Before fee waived and expenses absorbed(e)   2.09%   1.87%   1.97%   1.89%   1.94%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(e)   1.63%   1.63%   1.63%   1.63%   1.63%
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets:                         
Before fees waived and expenses absorbed(e)   0.57%   (0.06)%   0.22%   0.95%   1.27%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(e)   1.02%   0.18%   0.56%   1.21%   1.58%
Portfolio turnover rate(f)   8%   16%   11%   21%   5%

 

(a)Effective June 11, 2021 the Stadion Trilogy Alternative Return Fund Class A converted to the North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund Class A. See Note 1.

 

(b)Based on average shares outstanding for the year.

 

(c)Recognition of net investment income (loss) by the Fund is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(d)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Returns shown do not reflect sales load.

 

(e)Does not include expenses of the investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(f)Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis on the Fund as a whole without distinguishing among the classes of shares.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

90

 

North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class C

 

(For a share outstanding during each year)

 

   For the Years Ended May 31, 
   2023   2022(a)   2021   2020   2019 
Selected Per Share Data:                         
Net asset value, beginning of year  $10.65   $11.38   $10.47   $10.14   $10.73 
                          
Investment operations:                         
Net investment income (loss)(b) (c)   0.03    (0.06)   (0.02)   0.04    0.07 
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)   (0.72)   (0.67)   0.96    0.40    (0.59)
Total from investment operations   (0.69)   (0.73)   0.94    0.44    (0.52)
                          
Less distributions:                         
Net investment income   (0.04)       (0.03)   (0.11)   (0.07)
From net realized gains            (d)        
Total distributions   (0.04)       (0.03)   (0.11)   (0.07)
                          
Net asset value, end of year  $9.92   $10.65   $11.38   $10.47   $10.14 
                          
Total Return(e)   (6.49)%   (6.41)%   8.97%   4.34%   (4.84)%
                          
Ratios and Supplemental Data:                         
Net assets, end of year (in thousands)  $2,678   $3,739   $4,789   $5,384   $7,460 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                         
Before fee waived and expenses absorbed(f)   2.87%   2.65%   2.73%   2.68%   2.63%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(f)   2.38%   2.38%   2.38%   2.38%   2.38%
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets:                         
Before fees waived and expenses absorbed(f)   (0.23)%   (0.84)%   (0.52)%   0.13%   0.43%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(f)   0.27%   (0.57)%   (0.17)%   0.43%   0.68%
Portfolio turnover rate(g)   8%   16%   11%   21%   5%

 

(a)Effective June 11, 2021 the Stadion Trilogy Alternative Return Fund Class C converted to the North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund Class C. See Note 1.

 

(b)Based on average shares outstanding for the year.

 

(c)Recognition of net investment income (loss) by the Fund is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(d)Rounds to less than $0.005 per share.

 

(e)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Returns shown do not reflect sales load.

 

(f)Does not include expenses of the investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(g)Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis on the Fund as a whole without distinguishing among the classes of shares.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

91

 

North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS
Class I

 

(For a share outstanding during each year)

 

   For the Years Ended May 31, 
   2023   2022(a)   2021   2020   2019 
Selected Per Share Data:                         
Net asset value, beginning of year  $11.05   $11.71   $10.76   $10.40   $10.97 
                          
Investment operations:                         
Net investment income(b) (c)   0.13    0.05    0.09    0.15    0.18 
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)   (0.74)   (0.68)   0.98    0.41    (0.60)
Total from investment operations   (0.61)   (0.63)   1.07    0.56    (0.42)
                          
Less distributions:                         
Net investment income   (0.11)   (0.03)   (0.11)   (0.20)   (0.15)
From net realized gains           (0.01)        
Total distributions   (0.11)   (0.03)   (0.12)   (0.20)   (0.15)
                          
Net asset value, end of year  $10.33   $11.05   $11.71   $10.76   $10.40 
                          
Total Return(d)   (5.56)%   (5.45)%   9.98%   5.39%   (3.90)%
                          
Ratios and Supplemental Data:                         
Net assets, end of year (in thousands)  $22,767   $35,788   $39,552   $42,622   $52,330 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:                         
Before fee waived and expenses absorbed(e)   1.89%   1.68%   1.79%   1.72%   1.65%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(e)   1.38%   1.38%   1.38%   1.38%   1.38%
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets:                         
Before fees waived and expenses absorbed(e)   0.73%   0.13%   0.43%   1.09%   1.39%
After fees waived and expenses absorbed(e)   1.24%   0.43%   0.84%   1.43%   1.66%
Portfolio turnover rate(f)   8%   16%   11%   21%   5%

 

(a)Effective June 11, 2021 the Stadion Trilogy Alternative Return Fund Class I converted to the North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund Class I. See Note 1.

 

(b)Based on average shares outstanding for the year.

 

(c)Recognition of net investment income (loss) by the Fund is affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by the underlying investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(d)Total returns would have been lower had expenses not been waived by the Advisor. Returns shown do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares.

 

(e)Does not include expenses of the investment companies in which the Fund invests.

 

(f)Portfolio turnover is calculated on the basis on the Fund as a whole without distinguishing among the classes of shares.

 

See accompanying Notes to Financial Statements.

92

 

North Square Funds
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
May 31, 2023

 

Note 1 – Organization

 

North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund (formerly, North Square Oak Ridge Small Cap Growth Fund) (“Spectrum Alpha” or “Spectrum Alpha Fund”), North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund (“Dynamic Small Cap” or “Dynamic Small Cap Fund”), North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund (formerly, North Square Oak Ridge All Cap Growth Fund) (“Small Cap Growth” or “Small Cap Growth Fund”), North Square Multi Strategy Fund (“Multi Strategy” or “Multi Strategy Fund”), North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund (formerly, North Square Oak Ridge Dividend Growth Fund) (“Preferred and Income Securities” or “Preferred and Income Securities Fund”), North Square Tactical Growth Fund (“Tactical Growth” or “Tactical Growth Fund”), North Square Tactical Defensive Fund (“Tactical Defensive” or “Tactical Defensive Fund”) and North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund (“Trilogy Alternative Return” or “Trilogy Alternative Return Fund”) are organized as a series of North Square Investments Trust, a Delaware statutory trust (the “Trust”) which is registered as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”). The Spectrum Alpha Fund, Dynamic Small Cap Fund, Small Cap Growth Fund, Multi Strategy Fund, Preferred and Income Securities Fund, Tactical Growth Fund, Tactical Defensive Fund, and Trilogy Alternative Return Fund are diversified Funds.

 

The Spectrum Alpha Fund’s primary investment objective is to provide capital appreciation. Effective January 11, 2022, the Fund made certain changes to its principal investment strategies, including the modification of the strategies to become a “fund of funds” that invests primarily in affiliated mutual funds. Prior to January 11, 2022, the Fund invested primarily in equity securities of small capitalization companies. Effective January 11, 2022, the Fund’s sub-adviser also changed. Please see the Fund’s Prospectus for additional information on Predecessor Funds.

 

The Dynamic Small Cap Fund’s primary investment objective is long-term capital appreciation. The Fund has adopted the historical performance of the Oak Ridge Dynamic Small Cap Fund (the “Predecessor Fund”) as a result of a reorganization consummated after the close of business on May 10, 2019, in which the Fund acquired all of the assets, subject to the liabilities, of the Predecessor Fund. Please see the Fund’s Prospectus for additional information on Predecessor Funds.

 

The Small Cap Growth Fund’s primary investment objective is long-term growth of capital. Effective January 11, 2022, the Fund made certain changes to its principal investment strategies, including the modification of the strategies to invest, under normal circumstances, primarily in equity securities of small capitalization companies. Prior to January 11, 2022, the Fund invested primarily in equity securities that had a record of paying dividends over at least a trailing one year period. Effective January 11, 2022, the Fund’s sub-adviser also changed. Please see the Fund’s Prospectus for additional information on Predecessor Funds.

 

The Multi Strategy Fund’s primary investment objective is to provide capital appreciation. The Fund has adopted the historical performance of the Oak Ridge Multi Strategy Fund (the “Predecessor Fund”) as a result of a reorganization consummated after the close of business on May 10, 2019, in which the Fund acquired all of the assets, subject to the liabilities, of the Predecessor Fund. Please see the Fund’s Prospectus for additional information on Predecessor Funds.

 

The Preferred and Income Securities Fund’s primary investment objective is to seek total return through current income and capital appreciation. Effective January 11, 2022, the Fund made certain changes to its investment objective and principal investment strategies, including the modification of the strategies to invest in a portfolio of preferred and debt securities issued by U.S. and non? U.S. companies. Prior to January 11, 2022, the Fund invested primarily in equity securities that had a record of paying dividends over at least a trailing one year period. Effective January 11, 2022, the Fund’s sub-adviser also changed. Please see the Fund’s Prospectus for additional information on Predecessor Funds.

 

The Tactical Growth Fund’s primary investment objective is to seek long-term capital appreciation. The Fund has adopted the historical performance of the Stadion Tactical Growth Fund (the “Predecessor Fund”), a former series of Stadion Investment Trust, as a result of a reorganization consummated after the close of business on June 11, 2021 (“Reorganization”), in which the Fund acquired all of the assets, subject to the liabilities, of the Predecessor Fund. Please see the Fund’s Prospectus for additional information on Predecessor Funds.

 

The Tactical Defensive Fund’s primary investment objective is to seek capital appreciation. The Fund has adopted the historical performance of the Stadion Tactical Defensive Fund (the “Predecessor Fund”), a former series of Stadion Investment Trust, as a result of a reorganization consummated after the close of business on June 11, 2021 (“Reorganization”), in which the Fund acquired all of the assets, subject to the liabilities, of the Predecessor Fund. Please see the Fund’s Prospectus for additional information on Predecessor Funds.

93

 

North Square Funds
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

The Trilogy Alternative Return Fund’s primary investment objective is total return, with an emphasis on lower risk and volatility than the U.S. equity markets. The Fund has adopted the historical performance of the Stadion Trilogy Alternative Return Fund (the “Predecessor Fund”), a former series of Stadion Investment Trust, as a result of a reorganization consummated after the close of business on June 11, 2021 (“Reorganization”), in which the Fund acquired all of the assets, subject to the liabilities, of the Predecessor Fund. Please see the Fund’s Prospectus for additional information on Predecessor Funds.

 

The shares of each class represent an interest in the same portfolio of investments of their respective Fund and have equal rights as to voting, redemptions, dividends and liquidation, subject to the approval of the Trustees. Income, expenses (other than expenses attributable to a specific class) and realized and unrealized gains and losses on investments are allocated to each class of shares in proportion to their relative shares outstanding. Shareholders of a class that bears distribution and service expenses under the terms of a distribution plan have exclusive voting rights to that distribution plan.

 

Each Fund is an investment company and accordingly follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies”.

 

Note 2 – Accounting Policies

 

The following is a summary of the significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Funds in the preparation of their financial statements. The preparation of financial statements in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America (“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 increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from these estimates.

 

(a) Valuation of Investments

 

Each Fund values equity securities at the last reported sale price on the principal exchange or in the principal over the counter (“OTC”) market in which such securities are traded, as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE on the day the securities are being valued or, if the last-quoted sales price is not readily available, the securities will be valued at the last bid or the mean between the last available bid and ask price. Securities traded on the NASDAQ are valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price (“NOCP”). Investments in open-end investment companies are valued at the daily closing net asset value of the respective investment company. Debt securities are valued by utilizing a price supplied by independent pricing service providers. The independent pricing service providers may use various valuation methodologies including matrix pricing and other analytical pricing models as well as market transactions and dealer quotations. These models generally consider such factors as yields or prices of bonds of comparable quality, type of issue, coupon, maturity, ratings and general market conditions. Exchange-traded options on securities and indices purchased or sold by the Funds generally will be valued at the mean of the last bid and ask prices. If a price is not readily available for a portfolio security, the security will be valued at fair value (the amount which the Fund might reasonably expect to receive for the security upon its current sale) as determined in good faith by the Fund’s advisor, as Valuation Designee, subject to review and approval by the Valuation Committee, pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board of Trustees. The actions of the Valuation Committee are subsequently reviewed by the Board at its next regularly scheduled board meeting. The Valuation Committee meets as needed.

 

Fair value pricing may be applied to foreign securities held by the Funds upon the occurrence of an event after the close of trading on non-U.S. markets but before the close of trading on the NYSE when each Fund’s NAV is determined. If the event may result in a material adjustment to the price of the Fund’s foreign securities once non-U.S. markets open on the following business day (such as, for example, a significant surge or decline in the U.S. market), the Fund may value such foreign securities at fair value, taking into account the effect of such event, in order to calculate the Fund’s NAV. Other types of portfolio securities that the Fund may fair value include, but are not limited to: (1) investments that are illiquid or traded infrequently, including “restricted” securities and private placements for which there is no public market; (2) investments for which, in the judgment of the advisor, the market price is stale; (3) securities of an issuer that has entered into a restructuring; (4) securities for which trading has been halted or suspended; and (5) fixed income securities for which there is not a current market value quotation.

 

The pricing service will use a statistical analyses and quantitative models to adjust local prices using factors such as subsequent movement and changes in the prices of indexes, securities and exchange rates in other markets in determining fair value as of the time the Fund calculates the NAVs. The Board receives a report on all securities that were fair valued by the Advisor during the quarter.

94

 

North Square Funds
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

In December 2020, the SEC adopted a new rule providing a framework for fund valuation practices (“Rule 2a-5”). Rule 2a-5 establishes requirements for determining fair value in good faith for purposes of the 1940 Act. Rule 2a-5 permits fund boards to designate certain parties to perform fair value determinations, subject to board oversight and certain other conditions. Rule 2a-5 also defines when market quotations are “readily available” for purposes of the 1940 Act and the threshold for determining whether a fund must fair value a security. In connection with Rule 2a-5, the SEC also adopted related recordkeeping requirements and rescinded previously issued guidance, including with respect to the role of a board in determining fair value and the accounting and auditing of fund investments. The Funds are in compliance with Rule 2a-5, which had a compliance date of September 8, 2022.

 

(b) Purchased/Written Option Contracts

 

The Fund may write or purchase option contracts to adjust risk and return of its overall investment positions. When the Fund writes or purchases an option, an amount equal to the premium received or paid by the Fund is recorded as a liability or an asset and is subsequently adjusted to the current market value of the option written or purchased. Premiums received or paid from writing or purchasing options that expire unexercised are treated by the Fund on the expiration date as realized gains or losses. The difference between the premium and the amount paid or received on affecting a closing purchase or sale transaction, including brokerage commissions, is also treated as a realized gain or loss. If an option is exercised, the premium paid or received is added to or subtracted from the cost of the purchase or proceeds from the sale in determining whether the Fund has realized a gain or loss on investment transactions. Investing in purchased and written options contracts exposes the Fund to equity price risk. At May 31, 2023, the North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund had an amount of $44,117 due to Interactive Brokers, LLC for option contracts which are presented on the Fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

(c) Investment Transactions, Investment Income and Expenses

 

Investment transactions are accounted for on the trade date. Realized gains and losses on investments are determined on the identified cost basis. Dividend income is recorded net of applicable withholding taxes on the ex-dividend date and interest income is recorded on an accrual basis. Withholding taxes on foreign dividends, if applicable, are paid (a portion of which may be reclaimable) or provided for in accordance with the applicable country’s tax rules and rates and are disclosed in the Statements of Operations. Withholding tax reclaims are filed in certain countries to recover a portion of the amounts previously withheld. The Funds record a reclaim receivable based on a number of factors, including a jurisdiction’s legal obligation to pay reclaims as well as payment history and market convention. Discounts or premiums on debt securities are accreted or amortized to interest income over the lives of the respective securities using the effective interest method. Income and expenses of the Funds are allocated on a pro rata basis to each class of shares. Expenses incurred by the Trust with respect to more than one fund are allocated in proportion to the net assets of each fund except where allocation of direct expenses to each fund or an alternative allocation method can be more appropriately made. Expenses such as distribution and service fees pursuant to Rule 12b-1, transfer agent fees and expenses with respect to the Funds, that are specific to individual share classes, are accrued directly to the respective share class.

 

(d) Federal Income Taxes

 

Each Fund intends to comply with the requirements of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code applicable to regulated investment companies and to distribute substantially all of its net investment income and any net realized gains to its shareholders. Therefore, no provision is made for federal income or excise taxes. Due to the timing of dividend distributions and the differences in accounting for income and realized gains and losses for financial statement and federal income tax purposes, the fiscal year in which amounts are distributed may differ from the year in which the income and realized gains and losses are recorded by the Funds.

 

Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes (the “Income Tax Statement”) requires an evaluation of tax positions taken (or expected to be taken) in the course of preparing a Fund’s tax returns to determine whether these positions meet a “more-likely-than-not” standard that, based on the technical merits, have a more than fifty percent likelihood of being sustained by a taxing authority upon examination. A tax position that meets the “more-likely-than-not” recognition threshold is measured to determine the amount of benefit to recognize in the financial statements. Each Fund recognizes interest and penalties, if any, related to unrecognized tax benefits as income tax expense in the Statement of Operations.

 

The Income Tax Statement requires management of the Funds to analyze tax positions taken in the prior three open tax years, if any, and tax positions expected to be taken in the Funds’ current tax year, as defined by the IRS statute of limitations for all major jurisdictions, including federal tax authorities and certain state tax authorities. As of and during the previous three tax year ends and the interim tax

95

 

North Square Funds
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

period since then, the Funds did not have a liability for any unrecognized tax benefits. The Funds have no examination in progress and are not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will significantly change in the next twelve months.

 

(e) Distributions to Shareholders

 

The Preferred and Income Securities Fund will make distributions of net investment income monthly. The Spectrum Alpha Fund, Dynamic Small Cap Fund, Small Cap Growth Fund, Multi Strategy Fund, Tactical Growth Fund, Tactical Defensive Fund, and Trilogy Alternative Return Fund will make distributions of net investment income, if any, at least annually. Each Fund makes distributions of its net capital gains, if any, at least annually. Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. The amount and timing of distributions are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from GAAP.

 

The character of distributions made during the year from net investment income or net realized gains may differ from the characterization for federal income tax purposes due to differences in the recognition of income, expense and gain (loss) items for financial statement and tax purposes.

 

(f) Line of Credit

 

U.S. Bank, N.A. has made available to the Funds an unsecured line of credit pursuant to a Loan Agreement for the Trust, expiring on June 12, 2024. The line of credit is intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The Trust may borrow up to the lesser of $50,000,000 or certain percentage amounts based on the net assets of the Funds, or 33.33% of unencumbered assets.

 

The interest rate paid by the Funds on outstanding borrowings is equal to the Prime Rate. As of May 31, 2023, the Prime Rate was 8.25%. During the year ended May 31, 2023, Dynamic Small Cap Fund had one draw on the line of credit for one day in the amount of $565,000 at 7.00%.

 

Note 3 – Investment Advisory and Other Agreements

 

The Trust, on behalf of the Funds, entered into an Investment Advisory Agreement (the “Agreement”) with North Square Investments, LLC (the “Advisor” or “NSI”). Under the terms of the Agreement, the Funds pay a monthly investment advisory fee to the Advisor based on each Fund’s average daily net assets. Fees paid to the Advisor for the year ended May 31, 2023 are reported on the Statements of Operations. The annual and tiered rates are listed by Fund in the below table:

 

   Investment
   Advisory Fees
Spectrum Alpha Fund  0.20%
Dynamic Small Cap Fund  0.90%
Small Cap Growth Fund  0.70%
Multi Strategy Fund  0.00%-0.50%(a)
Preferred and Income Securities Fund  0.75%
Tactical Growth Fund   
First $150 Million  1.25%
$150 million up to $500 million  1.00%
Thereafter  0.85%
Tactical Defensive Fund   
First $150 Million  1.25%
$150 Million up to $500 million  1.00%
Thereafter  0.85%
Trilogy Alternative return Fund   
First $150 million  1.25%
$150 million up to $500 million  1.00%
Thereafter  0.85%

 

(a)The annual advisory fee is calculated as follows: (i) 0.00% for Fund assets invested in other series of the Trust advised by the Advisor (“affiliated investments”) and (ii) 0.50% for Fund assets invested in non-affiliated investments. For the year ended May 31, 2023, the amount of advisory fees waived due to affiliated investments is reported under “Affiliated fund fee waived” on the Statements of Operations.

96

 

North Square Funds
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

The Advisor engages NSI Retail Advisors, LLC (“NSI Retail”) to manage the Spectrum Alpha Fund, Multi Strategy Fund, Tactical Growth Fund, Tactical Defensive Fund, and Trilogy Alternative Return Fund as sub-advisor, Algert Global LLC (“Algert Global”) to manage the Dynamic Small Cap Fund as sub-advisor, Advisory Research, Inc. (“ARI”) to manage the Small Cap Growth Fund, and Red Cedar Investment Management, LLC (“Red Cedar”) to manage the Preferred and Income Securities Fund.

 

The Advisor has contractually agreed to waive its fee and, if necessary, to absorb other operating expenses to ensure that total annual operating expenses (excluding taxes, leverage interest, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on short sales, acquired fund fees and expenses as determined in accordance with Form N-1A, expenses incurred in connection with any merger or reorganization, or extraordinary expenses such as litigation expenses) are limited. The agreements are effective until the dates listed below and may be terminated before those dates only by the Trust’s Board of Trustees. The table below contains the agreement expiration and expense cap by Fund and by Class:

 

      Total Limit on Annual Operating Expenses
      Class A  Class C  Class I
   Agreement Expires  Shares(a)  Shares(a)  Shares(a)
Spectrum Alpha Fund  September 30, 2025  1.30%    1.05%
Dynamic Small Cap Fund  September 30, 2029  1.24%    0.99%
Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund  September 30, 2029  1.19%(b)    0.94%
Multi Strategy Fund  September 30, 2029  1.20%    1.17%
Preferred and Income Securities Fund  September 30, 2029      0.97%
Tactical Growth Fund  September 30, 2025  1.30%(c)  1.30%(c)  1.30%(c)
Tactical Defensive Fund  September 30, 2025  1.70%(c)  1.70%(c)  1.70%(c)
Trilogy Alternative Return Fund  September 30, 2025  1.38%(c)  1.38%(c)  1.38%(c)

 

(a)The total limit on annual operating expenses is calculated based on each Fund’s average daily net assets.

 

(b)This class is currently not available for purchase.

 

(c)Exclusive of payments under a Rule 12b-1 Distribution Plan.

 

The Advisor is permitted to seek reimbursement from the Funds, subject to certain limitations, of fees waived or payments made to the Fund for a period ending thirty-six months after the date of the waiver or payment. This reimbursement may be requested from the Fund if the reimbursement will not cause the Fund’s annual expense ratio to exceed the lesser of (a) the expense limitation amount in effect at the time such fees were waived or payments made, or (b) the expense limitation amount in effect at the time of the reimbursement. For the year ended May 31, 2023, the Spectrum Alpha Fund recouped $187,813 and $112,814 in Class A and Class I, respectively.

 

The Advisor may recapture all or a portion of this amount no later than the dates stated below:

 

   Spectrum Alpha Fund 
   Class A   Class I   Total 
May 31, 2024  $312,918   $166,395   $479,313 
May 31, 2025  $128,144   $93,377   $221,521 
   $441,062   $259,772    700,834 
                
   Dynamic Small Cap Fund 
   Class A   Class I   Total 
May 31, 2024      $98,584   $98,584 
May 31, 2025      $162,452   $162,452 
May 31, 2026  $127   $238,685   $238,812 
   $127   $499,721   $499,848 

97

 

North Square Funds
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

           Advisory     
           Research Small   Preferred 
           Cap Growth   and Income 
           Fund   Securities Fund 
May 31, 2024            $68,724   $60,057 
May 31, 2025            $57,980   $56,691 
May 31, 2026            $46,842   $94,057 
             $173,546   $210,805 
                     
   Tactical Growth Fund 
   Class A   Class C   Class I   Total 
May 31, 2025  $64,123   $70,169   $300,815   $435,107 
May 31, 2026  $171,866   $153,546   $626,943   $952,355 
   $235,989   $223,715   $927,758   $1,387,462 
                     
   Tactical Defensive Fund 
   Class A   Class C   Class I   Total 
May 31, 2026  $7,574   $2,679   $25,875   $36,128 
                     
   Trilogy Alternative Return Fund 
   Class A   Class C   Class I   Total 
May 31, 2025  $5,635   $10,923   $108,017   $124,575 
May 31, 2026  $7,816   $15,224   $133,633   $156,673 
   $13,451   $26,147   $241,650   $281,248 

 

Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC (the “Administrator”) serves as the Funds’ fund accountant, transfer agent and administrator. Prior to May 8, 2023 U.S. Bank Global Fund Services provided administrative, transfer agent and fund accounting services to the Funds. The Funds’ allocated fees incurred for fund accounting, transfer agency and fund administration for the year ended May 31, 2023 are reported on the Statements of Operations.

 

Compass Distributors, LLC serves as the Funds’ distributor (the “Distributor”). The Distributor does not receive compensation from the Funds for its distribution services; the Advisor pays the Distributor a fee for its distribution-related services.

 

Northern Lights Compliance Services, LLC (“NLCS”), an affiliate of the Administrator, provides a Chief Compliance Officer to the Trust, as well as related compliance services pursuant to a consulting agreement between NLCS and the Trust. Prior to May 8, 2023, ACA Group provided Chief Compliance Officer services to the Trust. The Funds’ allocated fees incurred for compliance services for the year ended May 31, 2023, are reported on the Statements of Operations.

 

Each Independent Trustee receives from the Trust an annual retainer of $55,000, plus $5,000 for each regularly scheduled Board meeting attended, $5,000 for each special in-person meeting attended and $2,500 for each special telephonic meeting attended, plus reimbursement of related expenses. The Chairman of the Board receives an additional annual retainer of $10,000, and each of the Chairs of the Audit Committee and the Governance Committee receives an additional annual retainer of $5,000, respectively.

 

Certain officers and a Trustee of the Trust are also employees of the Administrator or NLCS and such persons are not paid by the Funds for serving in such capacities.

98

 

North Square Funds
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Note 4 - Federal Income Taxes

 

At May 31, 2023, gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of investments, based on cost for federal income tax purposes were as follows:

 

           Advisory         
           Research Small       Preferred and 
   Spectrum Alpha   Dynamic Small   Cap Growth   Multi Strategy   Income Securities 
   Fund   Cap Fund   Fund   Fund   Fund 
Tax cost of investments  $88,641,031   $77,838,280   $8,248,870   $39,922,887   $44,912,808 
Gross unrealized appreciation  $10,751   $6,546,737   $1,567,786   $1,387,608   $966,258 
Gross unrealized depreciation   (15,233,842)   (5,218,159)   (199,654)   (2,229,126)   (1,013,424)
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments  $(15,223,091)  $1,328,578   $1,368,132   $(841,518)  $(47,166)
                          
                   Trilogy 
           Tactical Growth   Tactical Defensive   Alternative 
           Fund   Fund   Return Fund 
Tax cost of investments   $369,138,113   $62,274,171   $21,431,878 
Gross unrealized appreciation   $103,362,270   $471,769   $8,665,481 
Gross unrealized depreciation    (1,047,247)   (1,042,177)   (3,260,856)
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments   $102,315,023   $(570,408)  $5,404,625 

 

The difference between cost amounts for financial statement and federal income tax purposes is due primarily to timing differences in recognizing certain gains and losses in security transactions.

 

GAAP requires that certain components of net assets be reclassified between financial and tax reporting. These reclassifications have no effect on net assets or net asset value per share. Reclassifications are caused primarily by the utilization of earnings and profits distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, net operating losses, return of capital, and taxable overdistributions. For the year ended May 31, 2023, permanent differences in book and tax accounting have been reclassified to paid in capital, accumulated net investment income/ loss and accumulated net realized gain/loss as follows:

 

       Accumulated Earnings 
   Paid-In Capital   (Deficit) 
Spectrum Alpha Fund  $(973,973)  $973,973 
Dynamic Small Cap Fund   (55,848)   55,848 
Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund   (99,486)   99,486 
Multi Strategy Fund   347,326    (347,326)
Preferred and Income Securities Fund   (64)   64 
Tactical Growth Fund   1,809,242    (1,809,242)
Tactical Defensive Fund   (216,126)   216,126 
Trilogy Alternative Return Fund   (6,910)   6,910 

 

As of May 31, 2023, the components of accumulated earnings (deficit) on a tax basis for the Funds were as follows:

 

           Advisory         
           Research Small       Preferred and 
   Spectrum Alpha   Dynamic Small   Cap Growth   Multi Strategy   Income Securities 
   Fund   Cap Fund   Fund   Fund   Fund 
Undistributed ordinary income  $   $   $   $498,762   $ 
Accumulated capital and other losses   (2,233,773)   (11,933,006)   (3,265,745)       (3,412,296)
Other temporary difference                   609,883 
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments    (15,223,091)   1,328,578    1,368,132    (841,518)   (52,934)
Total accumulated deficit  $(17,456,864)  $(10,604,428)  $(1,897,613)  $(342,756)  $(2,855,347)

99

 

North Square Funds
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

           Trilogy 
   Tactical Growth   Tactical Defensive   Alternative 
   Fund   Fund   Return Fund 
Undistributed ordinary income  $   $   $112,275 
Accumulated capital and other losses   (4,588,324)   (11,684,096)   (3,350,252)
Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments   102,315,023    (570,408)   5,404,625 
Total accumulated earnings (deficit)  $97,726,699   $(12,254,504)  $2,166,648 

 

The tax character of distributions paid for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2023 and May 31, 2022 were as follows:

 

       Dynamic   Advisory Research Small Cap 
   Spectrum Alpha Fund   Small Cap Fund   Growth Fund 
   2023   2022   2023   2022   2023   2022 
Distributions paid from:                              
Ordinary income  $   $2,234,423   $144,105   $5,391,208   $   $10,604 
Long-term capital gains   37,229,970    15,159,013        1,222,457    1,422,533    2,953,601 
Total distributions paid  $37,229,970   $17,393,436   $144,105   $6,613,665   $1,422,533   $2,964,205 
                               
   Multi Strategy Fund   Preferred and
Income Securities Fund
   Tactical Growth Fund 
   2023   2022   2023   2022   2023   2022 
Distributions paid from:                              
Ordinary income  $4,507,952   $   $1,411,731   $219,870   $2,380,891   $19,279,397 
Long-term capital gains   9,580,068    3,299,535    4,921,108    1,247,779    31,241,773    8,625,075 
Return of Capital           702,036             
Total distributions paid  $14,088,020   $3,299,535   $7,034,875   $1,467,649   $33,622,664   $27,904,472 
                               
   Tactical Defensive Fund   Trilogy Alternative Return Fund 
   2023   2022   2023   2022 
Distributions paid from:                    
Ordinary income  $   $   $278,247   $102,714 
Total distributions paid  $   $   $278,247   $102,714 

 

As of May 31, 2023, the following funds have nonexpiring capital loss carryforwards:

 

   Short-Term   Long-Term 
Spectrum Alpha Fund  $1,497,212   $367,937 
Dynamic Small Cap Fund   11,933,006     
Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund   3,236,067     
Multi Strategy Fund        
Preferred and Income Securities Fund   3,029,689    382,607 
Tactical Growth Fund   2,893,738    1,694,586 
Tactical Defensive Fund   11,684,096     
Trilogy Alternative Return Fund   3,350,252     

 

To the extent that a Fund may realize future net capital gains, those gains will be offset by any of its unused capital loss carryforward.

 

Future capital loss carryover utilization in any given year may be subject to Internal Revenue Code limitations.

100

 

North Square Funds
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

As of May 31, 2023, the Funds had the following qualified late-year ordinary losses and post-October losses which are deferred until fiscal year 2024 for tax purposes. Net late-year losses incurred after December 31, and within the taxable year are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year. Capital losses incurred after October 31 within that taxable year are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year.

 

   Late Year Losses   Post October Losses 
Spectrum Alpha Fund  $368,624   $ 
Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund   29,678     

 

Note 5 – Investment Transactions

 

For the year ended May 31, 2023, purchases and sales of investments were as follows:

 

   Purchases   Sales 
Spectrum Alpha Fund  $5,989,025   $24,753,894 
Dynamic Small Cap Fund   134,374,400    136,651,384 
Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund   20,324,282    23,661,087 
Multi Strategy Fund   5,683,535    12,376,691 
Preferred and Income Securities Fund   112,391,089    93,405,022 
Tactical Growth Fund   343,473,478    306,751,680 
Tactical Defensive Fund   203,260,709    168,623,790 
Trilogy Alternative Return Fund   2,519,021    13,929,874 

 

For the year ended May 31, 2023, the Preferred and Income Securities Fund had purchases and sales of long-term U.S. government obligations of $2,111,156 and $2,461,252, respectively.

 

Note 6 – Shareholder Servicing Plan

 

The Trust, on behalf of the Funds, has adopted a Shareholder Servicing Plan to pay a fee at an annual rate of up to 0.15% of each Fund’s average daily net assets of shares serviced by shareholder servicing agents who provide administrative and support services to their customers.

 

For the year ended May 31, 2023, shareholder servicing fees incurred are disclosed on the Statements of Operations.

 

Note 7 – Distribution Plan

 

The Trust, on behalf of each Fund, has adopted a Distribution Plan (the “Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act that allows each Fund to pay distribution fees for the sale and distribution of its Class A and Class C shares. The Plan provides for the payment of distribution fees at the annual rate of up to 0.25% of each Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class A shares and 1.00% of average daily net assets attributable to Class C shares.

 

For the year ended May 31, 2023, distribution fees incurred with respect to Class A and Class C shares are disclosed on the Statements of Operations.

 

Note 8 – Indemnifications

 

In the normal course of business, the Funds enter into contracts that contain a variety of representations which provide general indemnifications. The Funds’ maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown, as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Funds that have not yet occurred. However, the Funds expect the risk of loss to be remote.

101

 

North Square Funds
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Note 9 – Fair Value Measurements and Disclosure

 

Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures defines fair value, establishes a framework for measuring fair value in accordance with GAAP, and expands disclosure about fair value measurements. It also provides guidance on determining when there has been a significant decrease in the volume and level of activity for an asset or a liability, when a transaction is not orderly, and how that information must be incorporated into a fair value measurement.

 

Under Fair Value Measurements and Disclosures, various inputs are used in determining the value of the Funds’ investments. These inputs are summarized into three broad Levels as described below:

 

Level 1 – Unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities that the Fund has the ability to access.

 

Level 2 – Observable inputs other than quoted prices included in Level 1 that are observable for the asset or liability, either directly or indirectly. These inputs may include quoted prices for the identical instrument on an inactive market, prices for similar instruments, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, yield curves, default rates and similar data.

 

Level 3 – Unobservable inputs for the asset or liability, to the extent relevant observable inputs are not available, representing the Fund’s own assumptions about the assumptions a market participant would use in valuing the asset or liability, and would be based on the best information available.

 

The availability of observable inputs can vary from security to security and is affected by a wide variety of factors, including for example, the type of security, whether the security is new and not yet established in the marketplace, the liquidity of markets, and other characteristics particular to the security. 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. Accordingly, the degree of judgment exercised in determining fair value is greatest for instruments categorized in Level 3.

 

The inputs 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 falls in its entirety, is determined based on the lowest Level input that is significant to the fair value measurement in its entirety.

 

The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of May 31, 2023, in valuing the Funds’ assets carried at fair value:

 

North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund      Valuation Inputs         
Investments  Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
Exchange-Traded Funds  $764,588   $   $   $764,588 
Mutual Funds   72,289,205            72,289,205 
Short-Term Investment   364,147            364,147 
Total  $73,417,940   $   $   $73,417,940 
                     
North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund      Valuation Inputs         
Investments  Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
Common Stocks  $76,318,317   $   $   $76,318,317 
Exchange-Traded Funds   1,911            1,911 
Short-Term Investment   2,846,630            2,846,630 
Total  $79,166,858   $   $   $79,166,858 

102

 

North Square Funds
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

North Square Advisory Research 
Small Cap Growth Fund      Valuation Inputs         
Investments  Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
Common Stocks  $9,166,536   $   $   $9,166,536 
Short-Term Investment   450,466            450,466 
Total  $9,617,002   $   $   $9,617,002 
                     
North Square Multi Strategy Fund      Valuation Inputs         
Investments  Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
Exchange-Traded Funds  $12,708,979   $   $   $12,708,979 
Mutual Funds   26,103,861            26,103,861 
Short-Term Investments   268,529            268,529 
Total  $39,081,369   $   $   $39,081,369 
                     
North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund      Valuation Inputs         
Investments  Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
Preferred Stocks  $1,171,640   $1,906,144   $   $3,077,784 
Corporate Bonds       40,847,755        40,847,755 
Short-Term Investment   940,103            940,103 
Total  $2,111,743   $42,753,899   $   $44,865,642 
                     
North Square Tactical Growth Fund      Valuation Inputs         
Investments  Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
Exchange-Traded Funds  $394,795,177   $   $   $394,795,177 
Short-Term Investment   76,657,959            76,657,959 
Total  $471,453,136   $   $   $471,453,136 
                     
North Square Tactical Defensive Fund      Valuation Inputs         
Investments  Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
Exchange-Traded Funds  $31,667,396   $   $   $31,667,396 
Short-Term Investment   30,036,367            30,036,367 
Total  $61,703,763   $   $   $61,703,763 
                     
North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund      Valuation Inputs         
Investments  Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
Common Stocks  $9,586,217   $   $   $9,586,217 
Exchange-Traded Funds   15,500,002            15,500,002 
Purchased Options       2,138,300        2,138,300 
Short-Term Investment   500,559            500,559 
Total  $25,586,778   $2,138,300   $   $27,725,078 

103

 

North Square Funds
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund      Valuation Inputs         
Liabilities  Level 1   Level 2   Level 3   Total 
Written Options  $   $(898,575)  $   $(898,575)
Total  $   $(898,575)  $   $(898,575)

 

The Funds did not hold any assets at any time during the reporting period in which significant unobservable inputs were used in determining fair value; therefore, no reconciliation of Level 3 securities is included for this reporting period.

 

Note 10 – Investments in Affiliated Issuers

 

An affiliated issuer is an entity in which the Fund has ownership of at least 5% of the voting securities or any investment in a North Square Fund. Issuers that are affiliates of the Fund at period-end are noted in the Fund’s Schedule of Investments. Additional security purchases and the reduction of certain securities shares outstanding of existing portfolio holdings that were not considered affiliated in prior years may result in the Fund owning in excess of 5% of the outstanding shares at period-end. The table below reflects transactions during the period with entities that are affiliates as of May 31, 2023 and may include acquisitions of new investments, prior year holdings that became affiliated during the period and prior period affiliated holdings that are no longer affiliated as of period-end.

 

Spectrum Alpha Fund

 

                   Change in             
   Value               Unrealized             
   Beginning of       Sales   Net Realized   Appreciation /   Value End   Dividend   Capital Gain 
   Period   Purchases   Proceeds   Gain (Loss)   (Depreciation)   of Period   Income   Distributions 
North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund - Class I  $10,600,059   $1,176,156   $(2,475,000)  $(1,166,245)  $(195,367)  $7,939,603   $   $1,176,156 
North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Value Fund - Class I   17,370,495    981,267    (2,775,000)   (474,699)   (1,760,492)   13,341,571    17,085    964,184 
North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund -Class I   67,197,530    115,074    (16,425,000)   (2,766,963)   2,887,390    51,008,031    115,074     

 

   Shares             
   Beginning of           Shares End of 
   Period   Purchases   Sales   Period 
North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund - Class I   836,475    118,504    (210,874)   744,105 
North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Value Fund - Class I   1,630,496    104,666    (278,659)   1,456,503 
North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund - Class I   6,060,602    10,769    (1,496,660)   4,574,711 

104

 

North Square Funds
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

Multi Strategy Fund

 

                   Change in             
   Value               Unrealized             
   Beginning of       Sales   Net Realized   Appreciation /   Value End   Dividend   Capital Gain 
   Period   Purchases   Proceeds   Gain (Loss)   (Depreciation)   of Period   Income   Distributions 
North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund - Class I  $2,046,023   $233,976   $(450,000)  $15,162   $(285,145)  $1,560,016   $   $233,976 
North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Value Fund - Class I   2,559,638    156,982    (200,000)   (43,570)   (314,802)   2,158,248    2,733    154,248 
North Square Altrinsic International Equity Fund - Class I   3,775,913    1,054,852            (13,756)   4,817,009    54,852     
North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund -Class I   8,739,379    18,126    (900,000)   (70,182)   153,364    7,940,687    18,126     
North Square McKee Bond Fund - Class R6   1,389,777    761,169    (145,000)   (12,554)   (29,391)   1,964,001    41,169     
North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund - Class I   9,021,722    1,297,383    (2,250,000)   496,603    (1,683,843)   6,881,865    389,642    907,740 
North Square Strategic Income Fund - Class I   1,076,918    30,585    (275,000)   2,046    (52,514)   782,035    30,584     

 

   Shares             
   Beginning of           Shares End of 
   Period   Purchases   Sales   Period 
North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund - Class I   161,456    23,574    (38,824)   146,206 
North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Value Fund - Class I   240,263    16,744    (21,390)   235,617 
North Square Altrinsic International Equity Fund – Class I   379,744    103,406        483,150 
North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund - Class I   788,212    1,696    (77,739)   712,169 
North Square McKee Bond Fund – Class R6   152,154    87,345    (15,809)   223,690 
North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund – Class I   430,479    70,650    (115,806)   385,323 
North Square Strategic Income Fund – Class I   117,681    3,471    (30,218)   90,934 

 

Note 11 – Derivative and Other Financial Instruments

 

At May 31, 2023, the North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund held derivative and other financial instruments which are not subject to a master netting arrangement.

 

The following table presents the fair value of derivative instruments for the North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund as of May 31, 2023 as presented on the Fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities:

 

Location of Derivatives on Statement of Assets and Liabilities
Derivatives  Asset Derivatives  Liability Derivatives  Fair Value 
Equity Price Risk:           
Purchased Options  Investments, at value     $2,138,300 
Written Options     Options written, at value   (898,575)

105

 

North Square Funds
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

The following table presents the results of the derivative trading and information related to volume for the year ended May 31, 2023 for the North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund. The below captions of “Net Realized” and “Net Change in Unrealized” correspond to the captions in the Fund’s Statement of Operations.

 

          Change in Unrealized 
          Appreciation 
   Location of Gain (Loss) on Derivatives   Realized Gain (Loss) on   (Depreciation) on 
Derivatives  on Statement of Operations  Derivatives   Derivatives 
Equity Price Risk:             
Purchased Options  Net realized gain (loss) and change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on purchased options  $(361,579)  $(3,850,908)
Written Options  Net realized gain and change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on written options   1,960,973    649,499 

 

 

The average monthly notional amount is shown as an indicator of volume. The average monthly notional amounts held in the Trilogy Alternative Return Fund during the year ended May 31, 2023 were:

 

   Average Ending 
Derivatives  Monthly Notional 
Purchased Options  $4,886,588 
Written Options   (2,292,651)

 

Note 12 – Underlying Investment in Other Investment Companies

 

Each Fund may invest a significant portion of its assets in shares of one or more investment companies, including ETFs, open-end and closed-end mutual funds and money market mutual funds. Each Fund will incur additional indirect expenses (acquired fund fees and expenses) to the extent it invests in shares of other investment companies. As of May 31, 2023, the Spectrum Alpha Fund had 98.6% of the value of its net assets invested in open-end mutual funds. As of May 31, 2023, the Multi Strategy Fund had 32.7% and 67.1% of the value of its net assets invested in ETFs and open-end mutual funds, respectively. As of May 31, 2023, the Tactical Growth Fund had 83.7% of the value of its net assets invested in ETFs. As of May 31, 2023, the Tactical Defensive Fund had 52.3% and 49.6% of the value of its net assets invested in ETFs and money market mutual funds, respectively. As of May 31, 2023, the Trilogy Alternatives Return Fund had 57.8% of the value of its net assets invested in ETFs. The financial statements of these ETFs and money market mutual funds can be found at www.sec.gov and should be read in conjunction with the Funds’ financial statements.

 

Note 13 – Sector Risk

 

If a Fund has significant investments in the securities of issuers within a particular sector or industry, any development affecting that sector or industry will have a greater impact on the value of the net assets of the Fund than would be the case if the Fund did not have significant investments in that sector or industry. In addition, this may increase the risk of loss in the Fund and increase the volatility of the Fund’s NAV per share. For instance, economic or market factors, regulatory changes or other developments may negatively impact all companies in a particular sector or industry, and therefore the value of the Fund’s portfolio will be adversely affected. As of May 31, 2023, the Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund had 29.2% of the value of its net assets invested in securities within the Technology sector, and the Preferred and Income Securities Fund had 56.8% of the value of its net assets invested in securities within the Banking industry.

 

Note 14 – Regulatory Updates

 

In March 2020, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2020-04, Reference Rate Reform: Facilitation of the Effects of Reference Rate Reform on Financial Reporting (“ASU 2020-04”), in January 2021, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2021-01, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Scope (“ASU 2021-01”), and in December 2022, the FASB issued Accounting Standards Update ASU 2022-06, Reference Rate Reform (Topic 848): Deferral of the Sunset Date of Topic 848 (“ASU 2022-06”), which provides optional, temporary

106

 

North Square Funds
NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS – Continued
May 31, 2023

 

relief with respect to the financial reporting of contracts subject to certain types of modifications due to the planned discontinuation of the London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) and other interbank offered rates as of the end of 2021. The temporary relief provided by ASU 2020-04, ASU 2021-01, and ASU 2022-06 are effective for certain reference rate-related contract modifications that occur during the period from March 12, 2020 through December 31, 2024. Management is evaluating the impact of ASU 2020-04, ASU 2021-01, and ASU 2022-06 on the Funds’ investments, derivatives, debt, and other contracts that will undergo reference rate elated modifications as a result of the reference rate reform. Management is also currently actively working with other financial institutions and counterparties to modify contracts as required by applicable regulation and within the regulatory deadlines.

 

Note 15 – Events Subsequent to the Fiscal Period End

 

The Funds have adopted financial reporting rules regarding subsequent events which require an entity to recognize in the financial statements the effects of all subsequent events that provide additional evidence about conditions that existed at the date of the balance sheet. Management has evaluated the Funds’ related events and transactions that occurred through the date of issuance of the Funds’ financial statements.

107

 

(COHEN & CO LOGO)

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Shareholders and Board of Trustees of

North Square Investments Trust

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities, including the schedules of investments, of North Square Investments Trust comprising North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund, North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund, North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund, North Square Multi Strategy Fund, North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund, North Square Tactical Growth Fund, North Square Tactical Defensive Fund, and North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund (the “Funds”) as of May 31, 2023, and the related statements of operations and changes in net assets, the related notes, and the financial highlights for the year then ended (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds as of May 31, 2023, the results of their operations, and changes in net assets, and the financial highlights for the year then ended, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

The Funds’ financial statements and financial highlights for the years ended May 31, 2022, and prior, were audited by other auditors whose report dated July 29, 2022, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements and financial highlights.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Funds’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Funds’ financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Funds in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB.

 

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement whether due to error or fraud.

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of May 31, 2023, by correspondence with the custodian and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

We have served as the Funds’ auditor since 2023.

 

(-s- COHEN & COMPANY, LTD.)

 

COHEN & COMPANY, LTD.

Cleveland, Ohio

July 28, 2023

 

COHEN & COMPANY, LTD.

800.229.1099 | 866.818.4538 fax | cohencpa.com

 

Registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board

108

 

North Square Funds
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION (Unaudited)

 

Corporate Dividends Received Deduction

 

For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions qualifying for the corporate dividends received deduction for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2023 was as follows:

 

North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund  0.00%  North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund  0.10%
North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund  100.00%  North Square Tactical Growth Fund  100.00%
North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund  0.00%  North Square Tactical Defensive Fund  0.00%
North Square Multi Strategy Fund  0.00%  North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund  88.88%

 

Qualified Dividend Income

 

For the fiscal year ended May 31, 2023, certain dividends paid by the Funds may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 23.8%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was as follows:

 

North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund  0.00%  North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund  0.10%
North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund  100.00%  North Square Tactical Growth Fund  100.00%
North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund  0.00%  North Square Tactical Defensive Fund  0.00%
North Square Multi Strategy Fund  0.00%  North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund  100.00%

 

Long-Term Capital Gain Designation

 

For the fiscal year ended May 31, 2023, the Funds designate the following amounts as long-term capital gains distributions. The amounts designated may not agree with long-term capital gains in the tax character of distribution table due to utilization of earnings and profits distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares.

 

North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund  $37,229,963   North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund  $4,921,108 
North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund  $   North Square Tactical Growth Fund  $31,241,662 
North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund  $1,422,527   North Square Tactical Defensive Fund  $ 
North Square Multi Strategy Fund  $9,927,394   North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund  $ 

109

 


North Square Funds
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION (Unaudited)

 

Trustees and Officers Information

 

Additional information about the Trustees is included in each Fund’s Statement of Additional Information which is available, without charge, upon request by calling (855) 551-5521 or on the Funds’ website at www.northsquareinvest.com. The Trustees and officers of each Fund and their principal occupations during the past five years are as follows:

 

Name, Address(a),
Year of Birth
and Position(s)
with the Trust
Position with
the Trust
Term of Office
and Length
of Time(b)
Principal Occupations
During the Past
Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen(c)
Other Directorship/
Trusteeship Positions
held by Trustee During
the Past 5 Years
Independent Trustees
David B. Boon
(1960)
Trustee 08/2018 to present Chief Financial Officer and Managing Director, Eagle Capital Management, LLC (since 2018); Chief Financial Officer and Partner, Cedar Capital, LLC (2013 – 2018). 12 None
Donald J. Herrema
(1952)
Chairman of the Board and Trustee 08/2018 to present Vice Chair and Chief Investment Officer, Independent Life Insurance Company (since 2018); Financial Services Executive, Advisor and Founder of BlackSterling Partners, LLC (private investments and advisory firm) (since 2004. 12 Chairman and Director Emeritus, TD Funds USA (2009 - 2019); Director, Abel Noser Holdings, LLC (since 2016); Member, USC Marshall Business School Board (since 2010); Director, FEG Investment Advisors (since 2017); Director, Independent Life Insurance Company (since 2018).
Catherine A. Zaharis
(1960)
Trustee 08/2018 to present Professor of Practice (since 2019), Director, Professional/ Employer Development, Finance Department (2015 - 2019), Adjunct Lecturer (2010 – 2019), and Business Director, MBA Finance Career Academy (2008 – 2015), University of Iowa, Tippie College of Business; Chair (2013 – 2016), Director (1999 – 2016), and Investment Committee Member (1999 – 2013) and Chair (2003 – 2013), University of Iowa Foundation. 12 Director, The Vantagepoint Funds (2015 – 2016).

110

 


North Square Funds
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION (Unaudited) – Continued

 

Name, Address(a),
Year of Birth
and Position(s)
with the Trust
Position with
the Trust
Term of Office
and Length
of Time(b)
Principal Occupations
During the Past
Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen(c)
Other Directorship/
Trusteeship Positions
held by Trustee During
the Past 5 Years
Interested Trustee(d)
Ian Martin
(1968)
Trustee and President 05/2023 to present Executive Vice President, Chief Administrative Officer of Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC (2019 – present); Executive Vice President, U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (1992 – 2019). 12 None
Officers of the Trust
Zachary P. Richmond
(1980)
Treasurer 05/2023 to present Vice President, Director of Financial Administration of Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC (2015 – present). N/A N/A
Karen Jacoppo-Wood
(1966)
Secretary 05/2023 to present Senior Vice President and Associate General Counsel of Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC (2022 – present); Managing Director and Managing Counsel of State Street Bank and Trust Company (2019 – 2022) (Vice President and Managing Counsel from 2014 – 2019). N/A N/A
Martin R. Dean
(1963)
Chief Compliance Officer 05/2023 to present President of Northern Lights Compliance Services, LLC (January 2023 – present); Senior Vice President, Head of Fund Compliance (2020 – January 2023) of Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC (Vice President and Director of Fund Compliance from 2016 – 2020). N/A N/A

 

(a)The business address of each Trustee and officer is North Square Investments Trust, c/o Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC, 225 Pictoria Drive, Suite 450, Cincinnati, Ohio 45246.

 

(b)Trustees and officers serve until their successors are duly elected and qualified.

 

(c)The term “Fund Complex” applies to the nine portfolios that currently comprise the Trust, which consists of the five Funds, the North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Value Fund, and the North Square Strategic Income Fund, the North Square Altrinsic International Equity Fund, and the North Square McKee Bond Fund.

 

(d)Mr. Martin is considered to be an “interested person” of the Trust as that term is defined in the 1940 Act by virtue of his positions with the administrator, transfer agent and fund accountant.

111

 

North Square Funds
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION (Unaudited) – Continued

 

Liquidity Risk Management Program

 

In accordance with Rule 22e-4 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Liquidity Rule”), the North Square Investments Trust (the “Trust”) has adopted and implemented a liquidity risk management program (the “Program”) for the funds within the Trust (the “Funds”). The Program seeks to assess and manage each Funds’ liquidity risk. “Liquidity risk” is defined under the Liquidity Rule as the risk that each Fund is unable to meet redemption requests without significantly diluting remaining investors’ interests in the Fund. The Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”) has approved the designation of the Funds’ investment adviser as the administrator for the Program (the “Trust Program Administrator”).

 

At its meeting on December 7-8, 2022, the Board received and reviewed a written report (the “Report”) from the Trust’s Vice President, on behalf of the Trust Program Administrator, concerning the operation of the Program for the period of October 1, 2021 through September 30, 2022 (the “Period”). The Report noted that the Program complied with the key factors for consideration under the Liquidity Rule for assessing, managing and periodically reviewing a Fund’s liquidity risk, including the following: (1) the periodic assessment (no less frequently than annually) of certain factors that influence each Fund’s liquidity risk; (2) the periodic classification (no less frequently than monthly) of the Fund’s investments into one of four liquidity categories that reflect an estimate of their liquidity under current market conditions; (3) a 15% limit on the acquisition of “illiquid investments” (as defined under the Liquidity Rule); (4) to the extent a Fund does not invest primarily in “highly liquid investments” (as defined under the Liquidity Rule), the determination of a minimum percentage of the Fund’s assets that generally will be invested in highly liquid investments (an “HLIM”); (5) if a Fund has established an HLIM, the periodic review (no less frequently than annually) of the HLIM and the adoption of policies and procedures for responding to a shortfall of the Fund’s highly liquid investments below its HLIM; and (6) periodic reporting to the Board.

 

The Report summarized the operation of the Program and the information and factors considered by the Trust Program Administrator in assessing whether the Program has been adequately and effectively implemented with respect to the Funds. The Report considered each Fund’s liquidity risk under both normal and reasonably foreseeable stressed market conditions using certain factors required by the Rule and the Program, to the extent deemed appropriate by the Trust Program Administrator. The Report stated that the Funds have retained ICE Data Services, a third-party vendor, to provide a liquidity risk classification specified by the Rule. The Report also noted that each Fund primarily held investments that were classified as highly liquid during the review period and that each Fund’s portfolio is expected to continue to primarily hold highly liquid investments. Thus, the Trust Program Administrator concluded in the Report that each Fund is considered a “primarily highly liquid fund” (as defined in the Rule and Program) and each Fund can therefore rely on the exclusion in the Rule from the requirements to establish an HLIM and to adopt policies and procedures for responding to a HLIM shortfall. There were no material changes to the Program during the Period.

 

Based on its review, the Report of the Trust Program Administrator concluded that the Program is reasonably designed to assess and manage liquidity risk and has been and continues to be adequately and effectively implemented to monitor and, as applicable, respond to each Funds’ liquidity developments.

112

 

North Square Funds
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION (Unaudited) – Continued

 

Change in Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

On March 29, 2023, the Audit Committee of the Board of Trustees approved the engagement of Cohen and Company, Ltd. (“Cohen”) to serve as the independent registered public accounting firm for each Fund for the fiscal year ending May 31, 2023, in replacement of Tait Weller & Baker LLP (“Tait”) which served previously as the independent registered public accounting firm for the Funds. Having been notified of the Audit Committee’s intention to make this change, Tait resigned as the independent registered public accounting firm of the Funds.

 

The reports of Tait on the financial statements of the Funds as of and for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2021 and May 31, 2022 did not contain an adverse opinion or a disclaimer of opinion, and were not qualified or modified as to uncertainties, audit scope or accounting principles. During such fiscal years, and during the subsequent interim period ended March 29, 2023: (i) there were no disagreements between the Trust and Tait on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedure, which disagreements, if not resolved to the satisfaction of Tait, would have caused it to make reference to the subject matter of the disagreements in its report on the financial statements of the Fund for such years or interim period; and (ii) there were no “reportable events,” as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended.

 

During the fiscal years ended May 31, 2021 and May 31, 2022, and during the subsequent interim period ended March 29, 2023, neither the Trust, nor anyone acting on its behalf, consulted with Cohen on behalf of the Funds regarding the application of accounting principles to a specified transaction (either completed or proposed), the type of audit opinion that might be rendered on the Funds’ financial statements, or any matter that was either: (i) the subject of a “disagreement,” as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(iv) of Regulation S-K and the instructions thereto; or (ii) “reportable events,” as defined in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K.

113

 

North Square Funds
EXPENSE EXAMPLES
For the Six Months Ended May 31, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

Expense Examples

 

As a shareholder of the Funds, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments (Class A only); and redemption fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and/or service (12b-1) fees (Class A and C only); and other Fund expenses. The examples below are intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Funds and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

 

These examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire six month period from December 1, 2022 to May 31, 2023.

 

Actual Expenses

 

The information in the row titled “Actual Performance” of the table below provides actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in these columns, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the appropriate row for your share class, in the column titled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

 

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

 

The information in the row titled “Hypothetical (5% annual return before expenses)” of the table below provides hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on each Fund’s actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare these 5% hypothetical examples with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.

 

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transaction costs, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption fees. Therefore, the information in the row titled “Hypothetical (5% annual return before expenses)” is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

   Beginning  Ending      
   Account Value,  Account Value,  Expenses Paid  Annualized
   December 1, 2022  May 31, 2023  During Period(a)  Expense Ratio
Spectrum Alpha Fund - Class A            
Actual  $1,000.00  $966.70  $6.37  1.30%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,018.45  $6.54  1.30%
Spectrum Alpha Fund - Class I            
Actual  $1,000.00  $966.90  $5.15  1.05%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,019.70  $5.29  1.05%
Dynamic Small Cap Fund - Class A            
Actual(c)  $1,000.00  $990.20  $1.05  1.24%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,018.75  $6.24  1.24%
Dynamic Small Cap Fund - Class I            
Actual  $1,000.00  $980.20  $4.89  0.99%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,020.00  $4.99  0.99%
Small Cap Growth Fund - Class I            
Actual  $1,000.00  $1,011.30  $4.71  0.94%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,020.24  $4.73  0.94%

114

 

North Square Funds
EXPENSE EXAMPLES – Continued
For the Six Months Ended May 31, 2023 (Unaudited)

 

   Beginning  Ending      
   Account Value,  Account Value,  Expenses Paid  Annualized
   December 1, 2022  May 31, 2023  During Period(a)  Expense Ratio
Multi Strategy Fund - Class A            
Actual  $1,000.00  $994.80  $4.77  0.96%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,020.14  $4.84  0.96%
Multi Strategy Fund - Class I            
Actual  $1,000.00  $995.30  $3.63  0.73%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,021.29  $3.68  0.73%
Preferred and Income Securities Fund - Class I            
Actual  $1,000.00  $1,028.40  $4.91  0.97%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,020.09  $4.89  0.97%
Tactical Growth Fund - Class A            
Actual  $1,000.00  $1,017.90  $7.80  1.55%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,017.20  $7.80  1.55%
Tactical Growth Fund - Class C            
Actual  $1,000.00  $1,014.30  $11.55  2.30%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,013.46  $11.55  2.30%
Tactical Growth Fund - Class I            
Actual  $1,000.00  $1,019.20  $6.54  1.30%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,018.45  $6.54  1.30%
Tactical Defensive Fund - Class A            
Actual  $1,000.00  $960.10  $9.53  1.95%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,015.21  $9.80  1.95%
Tactical Defensive Fund - Class C            
Actual  $1,000.00  $956.50  $13.17  2.70%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,011.47  $13.54  2.70%
Tactical Defensive Fund - Class I            
Actual  $1,000.00  $961.20  $8.31  1.70%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,016.45  $8.55  1.70%
Trilogy Alternative Return Fund - Class A            
Actual  $1,000.00  $979.40  $8.04  1.63%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,016.80  $8.20  1.63%
Trilogy Alternative Return Fund - Class C            
Actual  $1,000.00  $975.40  $11.72  2.38%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,013.06  $11.94  2.38%
Trilogy Alternative Return Fund - Class I            
Actual  $1,000.00  $980.80  $6.82  1.38%
Hypothetical(b)  $1,000.00  $1,018.05  $6.94  1.38%

 

(a)Expenses are equal to the Funds’ annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by (182/365) (to reflect the one-half year period).

 

(b)Hypothetical assumes 5% annual return before expenses.

 

(c)Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by (31/365) (to reflect the since period of since inception of May 1, 2023 to May 31, 2023).

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North Square Funds
 
 
Advisor
North Square Investments, LLC
10 South LaSalle Street, Suite 1925
Chicago, Illinois 60603
 
 
Sub-Advisor Sub-Advisor
Algert Global LLC NSI Retail Advisors, LLC
101 California Street, Suite 4225 One Gateway Center
San Francisco, California 94111 Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania 15222
   
   
Sub-Advisor Sub-Advisor
Red Cedar Investment Management, LLC Advisor Research Inc.
333 Bridge Street NW, Suite 601 180 North Stetson Avenue, Suite 5500
Grand Rapids, Michigan 49504 Chicago, Illinois 60601
   
   
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Cohen & Company, Ltd.
1350 Euclid Avenue, Suite 800
Cleveland, Ohio 44115
 
 
Custodian
U.S. Bank, N.A.
1555 North RiverCenter Drive, Suite 300
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212
 
 
Fund Administrator, Transfer Agent and Fund Accountant
Ultimus Fund Solutions
225 Pictoria Drive, Suite 450
Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
 
 
Distributor
Compass Distributors LLC
Three Canal Plaza, Suite 100
Portland, Maine 04101
www.foreside.com

 

 

FUND INFORMATION
Fund Name     Ticker  CUSIP
North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund  Class A  ORIGX  66263L304
North Square Spectrum Alpha Fund  Class I  ORIYX  66263L858
North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund  Class A  ORSAX  66263L502
North Square Dynamic Small Cap Fund  Class I  ORSIX  66263L825
North Square Advisory Research Small Cap Growth Fund  Class I  ODGIX  66263L601
North Square Multi Strategy Fund  Class A  ORILX  66263L700
North Square Multi Strategy Fund  Class I  PORYX  66263L833
North Square Preferred and Income Securities Fund  Class I  ORDNX  66263L882
North Square Tactical Growth Fund  Class A  ETFAX  66263L734
North Square Tactical Growth Fund  Class C  ETFCX  66263L742
North Square Tactical Growth Fund  Class I  ETFOX  66263L726
North Square Tactical Defensive Fund  Class A  ETFRX  66263L718
North Square Tactical Defensive Fund  Class C  ETFZX  66263L692
North Square Tactical Defensive Fund  Class I  ETFWX  66263L684
North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund  Class A  STTGX  66263L650
North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund  Class C  STTCX  66263L668
North Square Trilogy Alternative Return Fund  Class I  STTIX  66263L676

 

Privacy Principles of the North Square Funds for Shareholders

 

The Funds are committed to maintaining the privacy of their shareholders and to safeguarding their non-public personal information. The following information is provided to help you understand what personal information the Funds collect, how we protect that information and why, in certain cases, we may share information with select other parties.

 

Generally, the Funds do not receive any non-public personal information relating to their shareholders, although certain non-public personal information of their shareholders may become available to the Funds. The Funds do not disclose any non-public personal information about their shareholders or former shareholders to anyone, except as permitted by law or as is necessary in order to service shareholder accounts (for example, to a transfer agent or third party administrator).

 

 

This report is sent to shareholders of the North Square Funds for their information. It is not a Prospectus, circular or representation intended for use in the purchase or sale of shares of the Funds or of any securities mentioned in this report.

 

Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures

 

A description of the Funds’ proxy voting policies and procedures related to portfolio securities is available without charge, upon request, by calling the Funds at (855) 551-5521 or on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) website at www.sec.gov.

 

Proxy Voting Record

 

Information regarding how the Funds voted proxies for portfolio securities, if applicable, during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30, is also available, without charge and upon request by calling (855) 551-5521 or by accessing the Funds’ Form N-PX on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.

 

Portfolio Holdings Disclosure

 

The Funds file a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q or Part F of Form N-PORT (beginning with filings after March 31, 2020). The Funds’ Forms N-Q or Part F of Form N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov and may be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800)  732-0330. The Funds’ Forms N-Q or Part F of Form N-PORT may also be obtained by calling toll-free (855) 551-5521 or by visiting the Funds’ website at www.northsquareinvest.com/fund-reports-holdings.

 

Householding

 

The Funds will mail only one copy of shareholder documents, including prospectuses, annual and semi-annual reports and proxy statements, to shareholders with multiple accounts at the same address. This practice is commonly called “householding” and is intended to reduce expenses and eliminate duplicate mailings of shareholder documents. Mailings of your shareholder documents may be householded indefinitely unless you instruct us otherwise. If you do not want the mailing of these documents to be combined with those for other members of your household, please call the Funds at (855) 551-5521.

 

North Square Funds
c/o Ultimus Fund Solutions, LLC
Cincinnati, Ohio 45246
1-855-551-5521

 

North Square - AR - 5/23

 

 

(b)Not applicable.

 

Item 2. Code of Ethics.

 

The Registrant has adopted a code of ethics that applies to the Registrant’s principal executive officer and principal financial officer.  The Registrant has not made any substantive amendments to its code of ethics during the period covered by this report.  The Registrant has not granted any waivers from any provisions of the code of ethics during the period covered by this report.

 

Item 3. Audit Committee Financial Expert.

 

The Registrant’s Board of Directors has determined that there is at least one audit committee financial expert serving on its audit committee.  David B. Boon is the “audit committee financial expert” and is considered to be “independent” as each term is defined in Item 3 of Form N-CSR.

 

Item 4. Principle Accountant Fees and Services.

 

(a) Audit Fees: The aggregate fees billed for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2023 and May 31, 2022 for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for the audit of the Registrant’s annual financial statements or services that are normally provided by the accountant in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements were $116,000 and $119,760, respectively.

 

(b) Audit-Related Fees: The aggregate fees billed for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2023 and May 31, 2022 for assurance and related services by the principal accountant that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit of the Registrant’s financial statements and are not reported above in Item 4(a) were $0 and $0, respectively.

 

(c) Tax Fees: The aggregate fees billed for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2023 and May 31, 2022 for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for tax compliance, tax advice and tax planning were $26,000 and $20,000, respectively.

 

(d) All Other Fees: The aggregate fees billed for the fiscal years ended May 31, 2023 and May 31, 2022 for products and services provided by the principal accountant, other than the services reported above in Items 4(a) through (c) were $0 and $0, respectively.

 

(e)(1) Pre-Approval Policies and Procedures. T The Audit Committee has adopted pre-approval policies and procedures that require the Audit Committee to pre-approve all audit and non-audit services of the Registrant, including services provided to any entity affiliated with the Registrant.

 

(e)(2) Percentage of Services Approved by Audit Committee: There were no services described in each of paragraphs (b) through (d) of this Item (including services required to be approved by Registrant’s audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(ii) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X) that were approved by Registrant’s audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X.

 

(f) Not applicable.

 

(g) Aggregate Non-Audit Services: The aggregate non-audit fees billed during the fiscal years ended May 31, 2023 and May 31, 2022 by the Registrant’s accountant for services rendered to the Registrant, and rendered to the Registrant’s investment adviser (not including any sub-adviser whose role is primarily portfolio management and is subcontracted with or overseen by another investment adviser), and any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the adviser that provides ongoing services to the Registrant were $26,000 and $20,000, respectively.

 

 
 

(h) Not applicable. The auditor performed no services for the registrant’s investment adviser or any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the investment adviser that provides ongoing services to the registrant.

 

(i) Not applicable.

 

(j) Not applicable.

 

Item 5. Audit Committee of Listed Companies.

 

Not applicable to Registrants who are not listed issuers (as defined in Rule 10A-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934).

 

Item 6. Schedule of Investments.

 

(a) Schedule of Investments is included as part of the report to shareholders filed under Item 1 of this Form.

 

(b) Not Applicable.

 

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

 

Not Applicable – applies to closed-end funds only

 

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

 

Not Applicable – applies to closed-end funds only

 

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

 

Not Applicable – applies to closed-end funds only

 

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

 

There have been no material changes to the procedures by which shareholders may recommend nominees to the Registrant’s board of trustees.

 

Item 11. Controls and Procedures.

 

(a)

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

 

(b) There were no changes in the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the Act (17 CFR 270.30a-3(d)) that occurred during the period covered by this report that have materially affected or are reasonably likely to materially affect, the registrant’s internal control over financial reporting.

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

 

Not Applicable – applies to closed-end funds only

 

Item 13. Exhibits.

 

  (a)(1) Code of Ethics is filed herewith.

 

 
 

 

  (a)(2) Certifications by the registrant's principal executive officer and principal financial officer, pursuant to Section 302 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 and required by Rule 30a-2under the Investment Company Act of 1940 are filed herewith.

 

  (a)(3) Not applicable to Registrant.
     
  (a)(4) Change in the registrant’s independent public accountant: Attached hereto

 

  (b) Certification pursuant to 18 U.S.C. Section 1350, as adopted pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 is filed herewith.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 
 

SIGNATURES

 

 

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

 

(Registrant) North Square Investments Trust

 

 

 

By (Signature and Title)  /s/ Ian Martin   

Ian Martin, President

 

 

Date 8/09/2023

 

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

 

 

By (Signature and Title) /s/ Ian Martin   

Ian Martin, President

 

 

Date 8/09/2023

 

 

By (Signature and Title) /s/ Zachary P. Richmond   

Zachary P. Richmond, Treasurer

 

 

Date  8/09/2023