Registration No. 2-93177
File No. 811-04108
UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, DC 20549
FORM N-1A
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 [X]
Pre-Effective Amendment No. [ ]
Post-Effective Amendment No. 68 [X]
and/or
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940 [X]
Amendment No. 63
Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds
(Exact Name of Registrant as Specified in Charter)
6803 South Tucson Way, Centennial, Colorado 80112-3924
(Address of Principal Executive Offices) (Zip Code)
Registrant’s Telephone Number, including Area Code: (303) 768-3200
Arthur S. Gabinet, Esq.
OFI Global Asset Management, Inc.
Two World Financial Center, 225 Liberty Street, New York, New York 10281-1008
(Name and Address of Agent for Service)
It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box):
[ ] immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b)
[ ] on _____________pursuant to paragraph (b)
[ ] 60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
[ ] on _____________pursuant to paragraph (a)(1)
[X] 75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2)
[ ] on _______________ pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of Rule 485.
If appropriate, check the following box:
[ ] this post-effective amendment designates a new effective date for a previously filed post-effective amendment.
EXPLANATORY NOTE
This Post−Effective Amendment No. 68 to the Registration Statement of Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds (the “Trust” or the “Registrant”) on Form N−1A (File No. 2-93177) is being filed pursuant to Rule 485(a) under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, to register Non-Service Shares and Service Shares of a new series of the Trust, Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA. This Amendment does not affect the currently effective prospectuses and Statement of Additional Information for other series and classes of the
Trust’s shares.
Oppenheimer
OPPENHEIMER
Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA
A series of Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds
Preliminary Prospectus dated November __, 2013
Share Classes: |
Non-Service Shares |
Service Shares |
As with all mutual funds, the Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved the Fund's securities nor
has it determined that this prospectus is accurate or complete. It is a criminal offense to represent otherwise.
Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA is a mutual fund that seeks total return. It invests in alternative (or non-traditional)
asset classes.
Shares of the Fund are sold only as an underlying investment for variable life insurance policies, variable annuity contracts
and other insurance company separate accounts. A prospectus for the insurance product you have selected accompanies this prospectus
and explains how to select shares of the Fund as an investment under that insurance product, and which share class or classes
you are eligible to purchase.
THE INFORMATION IN THIS PROSPECTUS IS NOT COMPLETE AND MAY BE CHANGED.
SHARES OF THE FUND MAY NOT BE SOLD UNTIL THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION IS
EFFECTIVE. THIS PROSPECTUS IS NOT AN OFFER TO SELL THESE SECURITIES AND IS NOT SOLICITING AN OFFER TO BUY THESE SECURITIES
IN ANY STATE WHERE THE OFFER OR SALE IS NOT PERMITTED.
This prospectus contains important information about the Fund's objective, investment policies, strategies and risks. Please
read this prospectus (and your insurance product prospectus) carefully before you invest and keep them for future reference
about your account.
Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA
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Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries |
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To Summary Prospectus
Investment Objective. The Fund seeks total return.
Fees and Expenses of the Fund. This table describes the fees and expenses that you may pay if you buy and hold or redeem shares of the Fund. The accompanying prospectus of the participating insurance company provides information on initial or contingent deferred sales charges, exchange fees or redemption fees for that variable life insurance policy, variable annuity or other investment product. The fees and expenses of those products are not charged by the Fund and are not reflected in this table. Expenses would be higher if those fees were included.
Shareholder Fees (fees paid directly from your investment) |
|
|
Non-Service |
Service |
|
Maximum Sales Charge (Load) imposed on purchases (as % of offering price) |
None |
None |
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (Load) (as % of the lower of original offering price or redemption proceeds) |
None |
None |
Annual Fund Operating Expenses (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment) |
||
Non-Service |
Service |
|
Management Fees1 |
1.04% |
1.04% |
Distribution and/or Service (12b-1) Fees |
None |
0.25% |
Other Expenses2 |
0.35% |
0.35% |
Other Expenses of the Fund |
0.31% |
0.31% |
Other Expenses of the Fund Subsidiary3 |
0.04% |
0.04% |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses |
1.39% |
1.64% |
Fee Waiver and/or Expense Reimbursement4 |
(0.11%) |
(0.11%) |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver and/or Expense Reimbursement |
1.28% |
1.53% |
Example. The following Example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the Fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. The Example assumes that you invest $10,000 in a class of shares of the Fund for the time periods indicated. The Example also assumes that your investment has a 5% return each year and that the Fund's operating expenses remain the same. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions your expenses would be as follows, whether or not you redeemed your shares:
1 Year | 3 years | |||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Non-Service | $ | 131 | $ | 432 | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Service | $ | 157 | $ | 511 |
Portfolio Turnover. The Fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or "turns over" its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when Fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in the annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the Fund's performance.
Principal Investment Strategies. The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by investing in alternative (or non-traditional) asset classes and investment strategies, including but not limited to the following:
The Fund may invest in some or all of the asset classes listed above, but under normal market conditions will not invest
more than 50% of its total assets in any single asset class. The Fund's sub-adviser, OppenheimerFunds, Inc. ("OFI" or the
"Sub-Adviser"), will monitor the markets and allocate assets among the asset classes based on changing market or economic
conditions and investment opportunities. The Fund may change its emphasis on an asset class based on the Sub-Adviser and the
Sub-Sub-Advisers' evaluation of those market and economic factors and investment opportunities. In determining how much of
the Fund's assets to invest in a particular asset class, the Sub-Adviser looks for opportunities across the various asset
classes and attempt to allocate the Fund's assets in a manner that seeks to generally diversify the portfolio across those
asset classes. In response to changing market or economic conditions, the Sub-Adviser may change any or all of the Fund's
asset classes, including changing to asset classes not listed above, and the Fund's asset allocation ranges at any time, in
each case without prior approval from or notice to shareholders.
The Fund may invest in all types of equity securities, including common stock, preferred stock, convertible securities,
rights and warrants, and other securities or instruments whose prices are linked to the value of common stock. The Fund does
not limit its investments to issuers in a particular market capitalization range and at times may invest a substantial portion
of its assets in one or more particular market capitalization ranges.
The Fund may also invest in debt securities of any kind and of varying duration and maturities, including but not limited
to, securities that pay a fixed or fluctuating rate of interest, securities convertible into equity securities, securities
issued or guaranteed by the U.S. federal and state governments or by their agencies and instrumentalities, securities issued
or guaranteed by foreign governments, international agencies or supra-national entities, securities issued or guaranteed by
domestic or foreign private issuers.
The Fund can invest without limit in investment grade and below investment-grade, high-yield debt securities (commonly
referred to as "junk bonds"). "Investment grade" debt securities are rated in one of the top four rating categories by a nationally
recognized statistical rating organization such as Moody's Investors Service or Standard & Poor's. The Fund may also invest
in unrated securities, in which case the Sub-Adviser may internally assign ratings to certain of those securities, after assessing
their credit quality, in investment-grade or below-investment-grade categories similar to those of nationally recognized statistical
rating organizations. There can be no assurance, nor is it intended, that the Sub-Adviser's credit analysis is consistent
or comparable with the credit analysis process used by a nationally recognized statistical rating organization.
There is no maximum or minimum amount for investments in either equity or fixed-income securities, except as otherwise
indicated in this prospectus or the Fund's statement of additional information. There are generally no restrictions on where
the Fund may invest geographically or on the amount of the Fund's assets that can be invested in either U.S. or foreign securities,
including real estate securities and securities of issuers in developing and emerging markets. The Fund's investment in MLPs
is limited to no more than 25% of its total assets.
The Fund may use derivatives to seek income or capital gain, to hedge against the risks of other investments, or as
a substitute for direct investment in a particular asset class. Structured notes, options, futures, forward contracts, and
swaps are some of the types of derivatives the Fund can use.
In times of adverse or unstable market or economic conditions, such as reduced market liquidity or increased volatility,
the Fund may hold a portion of its assets in cash, money market securities or other similar, liquid investments, including
in shares of money market mutual funds in the Oppenheimer family of funds. This may also include shares of funds that provide
exposure to inflation-protected debt securities and short-term investment grade debt securities. This will generally occur
at times when there is an inability to immediately invest funds received from purchases of Fund shares or from redemptions
of other investments or to maintain liquidity.
The Fund has established a Cayman Islands exempted company that is wholly-owned and controlled by the Fund (the "Subsidiary").
The Fund may invest up to 25% of its total assets in the Subsidiary. The Subsidiary invests primarily in commodity-linked
derivatives (including commodity futures, financial futures, options and swap contracts) and exchange traded funds related
to gold or other special minerals ("Gold ETFs"). The Subsidiary may also invest in certain fixed-income securities and other
investments that may serve as margin or collateral for its derivatives positions. Investments in the Subsidiary are intended
to provide the Fund with exposure to commodities market returns within the limitations of the federal tax requirements that
apply to the Fund. The Fund applies its investment restrictions and compliance policies and procedures, on a look-through
basis, to the Subsidiary. The Fund's investment in the Subsidiary may vary based on the portfolio managers' use of different
types of commodity-linked derivatives, fixed-income securities, Gold ETFs, and other investments. Since the Fund may invest
a substantial portion of its assets in the Subsidiary, which may hold certain of the investments described in this prospectus,
the Fund may be considered to be investing indirectly in those investments through its Subsidiary. Therefore, references in
this prospectus to investments by the Fund also may be deemed to include the Fund's indirect investments through the Subsidiary.
Principal Risks. The price of the Fund's shares can go up and down substantially. The value of the Fund's investments may change because of broad changes in the markets in which the Fund invests or because of poor investment selection, which could cause the Fund to underperform other funds with similar investment objectives. There is no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. When you redeem your shares, they may be worth more or less than what you paid for them. These risks mean that you can lose money by investing in the Fund.
Asset Allocation Risk. Because the Fund typically invests in a combination of securities, the Fund's ability to achieve its investment objective depends largely upon the portfolio managers' skill in selecting the best mix of investments. There is the risk that the portfolio managers' evaluations and assumptions regarding prospects of the global financial markets may be incorrect and the Fund's performance may be adversely affected by their asset allocation decisions.
Market Risk. The value of the securities in which the Fund invests may be affected by changes in the securities markets. Securities markets may experience significant short-term volatility and may fall sharply at times. Different markets may behave differently from each other and U.S. markets may move in the opposite direction from one or more foreign markets.
Main Risks of Alternative Asset Classes. The Fund's investments in asset classes that the portfolio managers expect to perform differently from its equity and fixed-income investments may be volatile or illiquid, particularly during periods of market instability, and they may not provide the expected returns.
Main Risks of Investing in Equity Securities. Stocks and other equity securities fluctuate in price. The value of the Fund's portfolio may be affected by changes in the equity markets generally. Equity markets may experience significant short-term volatility and may fall sharply at times. Different markets may behave differently from each other and U.S. equity markets may move in the opposite direction from one or more foreign markets.
The prices of individual equity securities generally do not all move in the same direction at the same time and a variety of factors can affect the price of a particular company's securities. These factors may include: poor earnings reports, a loss of customers, litigation against the company, general unfavorable performance of the company's sector or industry, or changes in government regulations affecting the company or its industry.
Main Risks of Debt Securities. Debt securities may be subject to credit risk, interest rate risk, duration risk, prepayment risk, extension risk and event risk. Credit risk is the risk that the issuer of a security might not make interest and principal payments on the security as they become due. If an issuer fails to pay interest or repay principal, the Fund's income or share value might be reduced. Adverse news about an issuer or a downgrade in an issuer's credit rating, for any reason, can also reduce the market value of the issuer's securities. Interest rate risk is the risk that when prevailing interest rates fall, the values of already-issued debt securities generally rise; and when prevailing interest rates rise, the values of already-issued debt securities generally fall, and they may be worth less than the amount the Fund paid for them. When interest rates change, the values of longer-term debt securities usually change more than the values of shorter-term debt securities. When interest rates fall, debt securities may be repaid more quickly than expected and the Fund may be required to reinvest the proceeds at a lower interest rate. This is referred to as "prepayment risk." When interest rates rise, debt securities may be repaid more slowly than expected and the value of the Fund's holdings may fall sharply. This is referred to as "extension risk." Interest rate changes normally have different effects on variable or floating rate securities than they do on securities with fixed interest rates. Risks associated with rising interest rates are heightened given that interest rates in the U.S. are at, or near, historic lows. Duration risk is the risk that longer-duration debt securities will be more volatile and more likely to decline in price in a rising interest rate environment than shorter-duration debt securities. Event risk is the risk that an issuer could be subject to an event, such as a buyout or debt restructuring, that interferes with its ability to make timely interest and principal payments and cause the value of its debt securities to fall.
Fixed-Income Market Risks. Economic and other market developments can adversely affect fixed-income securities markets in the United States, Europe
and elsewhere. At times, participants in debt securities markets may develop concerns about the ability of certain issuers
of debt securities to make timely principal and interest payments, or they may develop concerns about the ability of financial
institutions that make markets in certain debt securities to facilitate an orderly market. Those concerns can cause increased
volatility in those debt securities or debt securities markets. Under some circumstances, as was the case during the latter
half of 2008 and early 2009, those concerns could cause reduced liquidity in certain debt securities markets. A lack of liquidity
or other adverse credit market conditions may hamper an Underlying Fund's ability to sell the debt securities in which it
invests or to find and purchase suitable debt instruments.
Special Risks of Below-Investment-Grade Securities. Below-investment-grade debt securities (also referred to as "junk" bonds), whether rated or unrated, may be subject to greater
price fluctuations than investment-grade securities, increased credit risk and face a greater risk that the issuer might not
be able to pay interest and principal when due, especially during times of weakening economic conditions or rising interest
rates. The market for below-investment-grade securities may be less liquid and therefore these securities may be harder to
value or sell, especially during times of market volatility or decline.
Main Risks of Inflation-Protected Debt Securities. Inflation-indexed bonds, including Treasury Inflation-Protected Securities (TIPS), are fixed income securities whose principal value is periodically adjusted according to an identified rate of inflation. Because of this inflation adjustment feature, inflation-protected bonds typically have lower yields than conventional fixed-rate bonds with similar maturities. If inflation declines, the principal amount or the interest rate of an inflation-indexed bond will be adjusted downward. This will result in reduced income and may result in a decline in the bond's price which could cause losses for the Fund. Interest payments on inflation-protected debt securities can be unpredictable and will vary as the principal or interest rate is adjusted for inflation. Inflation-indexed bonds normally will decline in price when real interest rates rise which could cause losses for the fund.
Main Risks of Investing in Real Estate Markets. The performance of the Fund's investments in real estate securities is closely linked to the performance of the real estate markets. Property values or revenues from real estate investments may fall due to many different factors, including market disruptions, declining rents, negative economic developments that affect businesses and indivuduals, increased operating costs, low market demand or oversupply, obsolescence, competition, uninsured casualty losses, condemnation losses, environmental liabilities, the failure of borrowers to repay loans in a timely manner, changes in prevailing interest rates or rates of inflation, lack of available credit or changes in federal or state taxation policies that affect real estate. The price of a real estate company's securities may also drop due to dividend reductions, lowered credit ratings, poor management, or other factors that generally affect companies. Real estate companies, including REITs, tend to be small- and mid-cap companies and their shares may be more volatile and less liquid. An industry downturn could adversely impact the Fund's performance.
Risks of Mining & Metal Industry Securities. Investments in mining and metal industry companies may be speculative and may be subject to greater price volatility than investments in other types of companies. The special risks of mining and metal industry investments include:
Main Risks of Derivative Investments. Derivatives may involve significant risks. Derivatives may be more volatile than other types of investments, require the payment of premiums, can increase portfolio turnover, may be illiquid, and may not perform as expected. Derivatives are subject to counterparty risk and the Fund may lose money on a derivative investment if the issuer or counterparty fails to pay the amount due. Some derivatives have the potential for unlimited loss, regardless of the size of the Fund's initial investment. As a result of these risks, the Fund could realize little or no income or lose money from its investment, or a hedge might be unsuccessful. In addition, under new rules enacted and currently being implemented under U.S. financial reform legislation, certain over-the-counter derivatives are (or soon will be) required to be executed on a regulated market and cleared through a central clearing house counterparty. It is unclear how these regulatory changes will affect counterparty risk, and entering into a derivative transaction with a central clearing house counterparty may entail further risks and costs.
Main Risks of Commodity-Linked Investments. Commodity-linked investments are considered speculative and have substantial risks, including the risk of loss of a significant portion of their principal value. Prices of commodities and commodity-linked investments may fluctuate significantly over short periods due to a variety of factors, including for example agricultural, economic and regulatory developments. These risks may make commodity-linked investments more volatile than other types of investments.
Main Risks of Master Limited Partnerships. Investments in securities of master limited partnerships ("MLPs") involve risks that differ from investments in common stock, including risks related to common unit holder's limited control and limited rights to vote on matters affecting the MLP, risks related to potential conflicts of interest between the MLP and the MLP's general partner, cash flow risks, dilution risks and risks related to the general partner's right to require unit holders to sell their common units at an undesirable time or price.
MLP common units, like other equity securities, can be affected by macro-economic and other factors affecting the stock market in general, expectations of interest rates, investor sentiment towards an issuer or certain market sector, changes in a particular issuer's financial condition, or poor performance of a particular issuer. Prices of an MLPs common units also can be affected by fundamentals unique to the partnership or company, including earnings power and coverage ratios. A holder of MLP common units typically would not be shielded to the same extent that a shareholder of a corporation would be. In certain circumstances, creditors of an MLP would have the right to seek return of capital distributed to a limited partner, which right would continue after an investor sold its investment in the MLP.
MLP debt securities, including bonds and debentures, have characteristics similar to the fixed income securities of other
issuers.
Main Risks of Energy Infrastructure and Energy Related Assets or Activities. Energy infrastructure are subject to risks specific to the energy and energy-related industries, including, but not limited to, fluctuations in commodity prices may impact the volume of energy commodities available for processing and distribution which could affect the profitability of an MLP; slowdowns in new construction and acquisitions can limit growth potential; reduced demand for oil, natural gas and petroleum products could adversely affect MLP revenues and cash flows; depletion of natural gas reserves or other commodities, if not replaced, could impact an MLP's ability to make distributions; changes in the regulatory environment could adversely affect the profitability of MLPs; extreme weather and environmental hazards could impact the value of MLP securities; rising interest rates could result in higher costs of capital and drive investors into other investment opportunities; and threats of attack by terrorists on energy assets could impact the market for MLPs.
Main Risks of Exchange Traded Notes. Exchange Traded Notes ("ETNs") are senior, unsecured, unsubordinated debt securities whose returns are linked to the performance of a particular market benchmark or strategy minus applicable fees. ETNs are traded on an exchange (e.g., the New York Stock Exchange "NYSE") during normal trading hours. ETNs are subject to credit risk, and the value of the ETN may drop due to a downgrade in the issuer's credit rating, despite the underlying market benchmark or strategy remaining unchanged. The value of an ETN may also be influenced by time to maturity, level of supply and demand for the ETN, volatility and lack of liquidity in underlying assets, changes in the applicable interest rates, changes in the issuer's credit rating and economic, legal, political or geographic events that affect the referenced underlying asset. When the Fund invests in ETNs, it will bear its proportionate share of any fees and expenses borne by the ETN.
Main Risks Of Investments In The Fund's Wholly-Owned Subsidiary. The Subsidiary is not registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 and is not subject to its investor protections (except as otherwise noted in this prospectus). As an investor in the Subsidiary, the Fund does not have all of the protections offered to investors by the Investment Company Act of 1940. However, the Subsidiary is wholly-owned and controlled by the Fund and managed by the Manager and the Sub-Adviser. Therefore, the Fund's ownership and control of the Subsidiary make it unlikely that the Subsidiary would take actions contrary to the interests of the Fund or its shareholders.
Changes in the laws of the Cayman Islands (where the Subsidiary is organized) could prevent the Subsidiary from operating as described in this prospectus and could negatively affect the Fund and its shareholders. For example, the Cayman Islands currently does not impose certain taxes on exempted companies like the Subsidiary, including income and capital gains tax, among others. If Cayman Islands laws were changed to require such entities to pay Cayman Islands taxes, the investment returns of the Fund would likely decrease.
Main Risks of Foreign Investing. Foreign securities are subject to special risks. Foreign issuers are usually not subject to the same accounting and disclosure requirements that U.S. companies are subject to, which may make it difficult for the Fund to evaluate a foreign company's operations or financial condition. A change in the value of a foreign currency against the U.S. dollar will result in a change in the U.S. dollar value of securities denominated in that foreign currency and in the value of any income or distributions the Fund may receive on those securities. The value of foreign investments may be affected by exchange control regulations, foreign taxes, higher transaction and other costs, delays in the settlement of transactions, changes in economic or monetary policy in the United States or abroad, expropriation or nationalization of a company's assets, or other political and economic factors. These risks may be greater for investments in developing or emerging market countries.
Special Risks of Developing and Emerging Markets. The economies of developing or emerging market countries may be more dependent on relatively few industries that may be highly
vulnerable to local and global changes. The governments of developing and emerging market countries may also be more unstable
than the governments of more developed countries. These countries generally have less developed securities markets or exchanges,
and less developed legal and accounting systems. Securities may be more difficult to sell at an acceptable price and may be
more volatile than securities in countries with more mature markets. The value of developing or emerging market currencies
may fluctuate more than the currencies of countries with more mature markets. Investments in developing or emerging market
countries may be subject to greater risks of government restrictions, including confiscatory taxation, expropriation or nationalization
of a company's assets, restrictions on foreign ownership of local companies and restrictions on withdrawing assets from the
country. Investments in securities of issuers in developing or emerging market countries may be considered speculative.
Foreign Currency Risk. Fluctuations in foreign currency values will result in fluctuations in the U.S. dollar value of securities denominated in
that foreign currency. If the U.S. dollar rises in value against a foreign currency, a security denominated in that currency
will be worth less in U.S. dollars and if the U.S. dollar decreases in value against a foreign currency, a security denominated
in that currency will be worth more in U.S. dollars. The dollar value of foreign investments may also be affected by exchange
controls.
The portfolio manager's selection of foreign currency denominated investments may not perform as expected. Currency derivative
investments may be particularly volatile and subject to greater risks than other types of foreign-currency denominated investments.
Main Risks of Event-Linked Securities. Event-linked securities are fixed income securities for which the return of principal and payment of interest is contingent on the non-occurrence of a trigger event, such as a hurricane, earthquake, or other event that leads to physical or economic loss. If the trigger event occurs prior to maturity, the Fund may lose all or a portion of its principal and additional interest. Event-linked securities may expose the Fund to certain other risks, including issuer default, adverse regulatory or jurisdictional interpretations, liquidity risk and adverse tax consequences.
Who Is the Fund Designed For? The Fund's shares are available only as an investment option under certain variable annuity contracts, variable life insurance policies and other investment plans offered through insurance company separate accounts of participating insurance companies. The Fund is designed primarily for investors seeking total return over the long-term from a variety of alternative asset classes and investment strategies through investment in domestic and foreign equity and debt securities, including government and lower-grade debt securities and derivative investments. Those investors should be willing to assume the greater risks of short-term share price fluctuations and the special credit risks that are typical for a fund that invests mainly in lower-grade fixed-income securities and foreign securities. The Fund is not designed for investors needing an assured level of current income. The Fund is not a complete investment program and may not be appropriate for all investors. You should carefully consider your own investment goals and risk tolerance before investing in the Fund.
An investment in the Fund is not a deposit of any bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. |
The Fund's Past Performance. Because the Fund had not commenced operations prior to the date of the prospectus, it has no prior performance information.
After the Fund begins investment operations, performance information showing the variability of the Fund's returns will be
available by calling the toll-free number on the back of the prospectus and on the Fund's website at:
https://www.oppenheimerfunds.com/fund/DiversifiedAlternativesFundsVA
Investment Advisers. OFI Global Asset Management, Inc. is the Fund's investment adviser ("Manager"). OppenheimerFunds, Inc. is the Fund's investment sub-adviser ("Sub-Adviser"). Cornerstone Real Estate Advisers LLC (a "Sub-Sub-Adviser" or "Cornerstone") and OFI SteelPath, Inc. (a "Sub-Sub-Adviser" or "OFI SteelPath") are the Fund's Sub-Sub-Advisers.
Portfolio Managers. Mark Hamilton has been lead portfolio manager of the Fund since its inception. David Wharmby, CFA, and Brian Watson have been portfolio managers of the Funds since its inception.
Purchase and Sale of Fund Shares. Shares of the Fund may be purchased only by separate investment accounts of participating insurance companies as an underlying investment for variable life insurance policies, variable annuity contracts or other investment products. Individual investors cannot buy shares of the Fund directly. You may only submit instructions for buying or selling shares of the Fund to your insurance company or its servicing agent, not directly to the Fund or its Transfer Agent. The accompanying prospectus of the participating insurance company provides information about how to select the Fund as an investment option.
Taxes. Because shares of the Fund may be purchased only through insurance company separate accounts for variable annuity contracts, variable life insurance policies or other investment products, any dividends and capital gains distributions will be taxable to the participating insurance company, if at all. However, those payments may affect the tax basis of certain types of distributions from those accounts. Special tax rules apply to life insurance companies, variable annuity contracts and variable life insurance contracts. For information on federal income taxation of a life insurance company with respect to its receipt of distributions from the Fund and federal income taxation of owners of variable annuity or variable life insurance contracts, see the accompanying prospectus for the applicable contract.
Payments to Broker-Dealers and Other Financial Intermediaries. The Fund, the Sub-Adviser, or their related companies may make payments to financial intermediaries, including to insurance companies that offer shares of the Fund as an investment option. These payments for the sale of Fund shares and related services may create a conflict of interest by influencing the intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the Fund over another investment. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary's website for more information.
The allocation of the Fund's portfolio among different types of investments will vary over time and the Fund's portfolio might not always include all of the different types of investments described below. The Statement of Additional Information contains additional information about the Fund's investment policies and risks.
The Fund's Principal Investment Strategies and Risks. The following strategies and types of investments are the ones that the Fund considers to be the most important in seeking to achieve its investment objective and the following risks are those the Fund expects its portfolio to be subject to as a whole.
Common Stock and Other Equity Investments. Equity securities include common stock, preferred stock, rights, warrants and certain debt securities that are convertible into common stock. Equity investments may be exchange-traded or over-the-counter securities. Common stock represents an ownership interest in a company. It ranks below preferred stock and debt securities in claims for dividends and in claims for assets of the issuer in a liquidation or bankruptcy.
Preferred stock has a set dividend rate and ranks ahead of common stocks and behind debt securities in claims for dividends and for assets of the issuer in a liquidation or bankruptcy. The dividends on preferred stock may be cumulative (they remain a liability of the company until paid) or non-cumulative. The fixed dividend rate of preferred stocks may cause their prices to behave more like those of debt securities. When interest rates rise, the value of preferred stock having a fixed dividend rate tends to fall.
Warrants basically are options to purchase equity securities at specific prices valid for a specific period of time. Their prices do not necessarily move parallel to the prices of the underlying securities. Rights are similar to warrants, but normally have a short duration and are distributed directly by the issuer to its shareholders. Rights and warrants have no voting rights, receive no dividends and have no rights with respect to the assets of the issuer.
A convertible security can be converted into or exchanged for a set amount of common stock of an issuer within a particular period of time at a specified price or according to a price formula. Convertible debt securities pay interest and convertible preferred stocks pay dividends until they mature or are converted, exchanged or redeemed. Some convertible debt securities may be considered "equity equivalents" because of the feature that makes them convertible into common stock. Convertible securities may offer the Fund the ability to participate in stock market movements while also seeking some current income. Convertible securities may provide more income than common stock but they generally provide less income than comparable non-convertible debt securities. Convertible securities are subject to credit and interest rate risk, however credit ratings of convertible securities generally have less impact on the value of the securities than they do for non-convertible debt securities.
Volatility of Alternative Asset Classes. Volatility is a measure of the magnitude of fluctuations in the value of a security, currency, index or other financial instrument over a specified period of time. A fund that primarily invests in a particular alternative asset class (such as commodities, currencies, gold, energy and infrastructure and real estate) will generally be more volatile than a fund that invests more broadly. These asset classes may be negatively impacted by variations, often rapid, in, among other things, their respective markets, the supply of and demand for specific products in their respective industries, economic conditions, environmental factors, governmental regulation and political developments. Changes affecting the particular alternative asset class in which the Fund primarily invests may have a significant impact on the Fund's performance. The Fund's performance will be linked to the performance of these highly volatile asset categories.
Liquidity Risk. In certain situations, it may be difficult or impossible to value or sell promptly an investment at an acceptable price. This risk can be ongoing for any security that has a limited trading market or does not trade in large volumes. In addition, it may be difficult for the Fund to buy and sell significant amounts of such securities without an unfavorable impact on prevailing market prices. As a result, these securities may be difficult to dispose of at a fair price at the times when it is desirable to sell. In unusual market conditions, even normally liquid securities may be affected by a degree of liquidity risk.
Risks of Small- and Mid-Sized Companies. Small- and mid-sized companies may be either established or newer companies, including "unseasoned" companies that have been in operation for less than three years. While smaller companies might offer greater opportunities for gain than larger companies, they also may involve greater risk of loss. They may be more sensitive to changes in a company's earnings expectations and may experience more abrupt and erratic price movements. Smaller companies' securities often trade in lower volumes and in many instances, are traded over-the-counter or on a regional securities exchange, where the frequency and volume of trading is substantially less than is typical for securities of larger companies traded on national securities exchanges. Therefore, the securities of smaller companies may be subject to wider price fluctuations and it might be harder for the Fund to dispose of its holdings at an acceptable price when it wants to sell them. Small- and mid-sized companies may not have established markets for their products or services and may have fewer customers and product lines. They may have more limited access to financial resources and may not have the financial strength to sustain them through business downturns or adverse market conditions. Since small- and mid-sized companies typically reinvest a high proportion of their earnings in their business, they may not pay dividends for some time, particularly if they are newer companies. Smaller companies may have unseasoned management or less depth in management skill than larger, more established companies. They may be more reliant on the efforts of particular members of their management team and management changes may pose a greater risk to the success of the business. Securities of small, unseasoned companies may be particularly volatile, especially in the short term, and may have very limited liquidity. It may take a substantial period of time to realize a gain on an investment in a small- or mid-sized company, if any gain is realized at all.
Debt Securities. The Fund may invest in debt securities, including securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government, or its agencies and instrumentalities, or foreign sovereigns, and foreign and domestic corporate bonds, notes and debentures. The Fund may select debt securities for their income possibilities or to help cushion fluctuations in the value of its portfolio. Debt securities may be subject to the following risks:
Risks of Below-Investment-Grade Securities. Below-investment-grade securities (also referred to as "junk bonds") generally have higher yields than securities rated in the higher rating categories but also have higher risk profiles. Below-investment-grade securities are considered to be speculative and entail greater risk with respect to the ability of the issuer to timely repay principal and pay interest or dividends in accordance with the terms of the obligation and may have more credit risk than investment-grade rated securities, especially during times of weakening economic conditions or rising interest rates. These additional risks mean that the Fund may not receive the anticipated level of income from these securities, and the Fund's net asset value may be affected by declines in the value of lower-grade securities. The major risks of below-investment-grade securities include:
Investing in Foreign Securities. The Fund can buy securities issued by foreign issuers and can be denominated in foreign currencies, especially currencies that are major US trading partners.
While foreign securities may offer special investment opportunities, they are also subject to special risks.
Foreign securities may trade on weekends or other days when the Fund does not price its shares. As a result, the value of the Fund's net assets may change on days when you will not be able to purchase or redeem the Fund's shares.
Special Risks of Developing and Emerging Markets. Developing or emerging market countries generally have less developed securities markets or exchanges. Securities of issuers
in developing or emerging market countries may be more difficult to sell at an acceptable price and their prices may be more
volatile than securities of issuers in countries with more mature markets. Settlements of trades may be subject to greater
delays so that the proceeds of a sale of a security may not be received on a timely basis. The economies of developing or
emerging market countries may be more dependent on relatively few industries that may be highly vulnerable to local and global
changes. Developing or emerging market countries may have less developed legal and accounting systems, and investments in
those countries may be subject to greater risks of government restrictions, including confiscatory taxation, expropriation
or nationalization of company assets, restrictions on foreign ownership of local companies and restrictions on withdrawing
assets from the country. Their governments may also be more unstable than the governments of more developed countries. The
value of the currency of a developing or emerging market country may fluctuate more than the currencies of countries with
more mature markets. Investments in securities of issuers in developing or emerging market countries may be considered speculative.
Eurozone Investment Risks. The European Union (EU) is an economic and political union of most western European countries and a growing number of eastern
European countries. One of the key mandates of the EU is the establishment and administration of a common single market, consisting
of, among other things, a single currency and a common trade policy. In order to pursue this goal, member states established
the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU), which sets out different stages and commitments that member states need to follow to
achieve greater economic and monetary policy coordination, including the adoption of a single currency, the euro. Many member
states have adopted the euro as their currency and, as a result, are subject to the monetary policies of the European Central
Bank (ECB).
The recent global economic crisis has caused severe financial difficulties for many EU countries, pushing some to the
brink of insolvency and causing others to experience recession, large public debt, restructuring of government debt, credit
rating downgrades and an overall weakening of banking and financial sectors. Some of those countries have depended on, and
may continue to be dependent on the assistance from others such as the ECB, the International Monetary Fund, or other governments
and institutions to address those issues. Failure by one or more EU countries to implement reforms or attain a certain performance
level imposed as a condition of assistance, or an insufficient level of assistance, could deepen or prolong the economic downturn
which could have a significant adverse effect on the value of investments in those and other European countries. By adopting
the euro as its currency, members of the EMU are subject to fiscal and monetary controls that could limit to some degree the
ability to implement their own economic policies. Additionally, EMU member countries could voluntarily abandon the euro or
involuntarily be forced out of the euro, including by way of a partial or complete dissolution of the monetary union. The
effects of such outcomes on the rest of the Eurozone and global markets as a whole are unpredictable, but are likely to be
negative, including adversely impacted market values of Eurozone and various other securities and currencies, redenomination
of certain securities into less valuable local currencies, and more volatile and illiquid markets. Under such circumstances,
investments denominated in euros or replacement currencies may be difficult to value, the ability to operate an investment
strategy in connection with euro-denominated securities may be significantly impaired and the value of euro-denominated investments
may decline significantly and unpredictably.
Derivative Investments. The Fund may at times invest in "derivative" instruments. A derivative is an instrument whose value depends on (or is derived from) the value of an underlying security, asset, interest rate, index or currency. Derivatives may allow the Fund to increase or decrease its exposure to certain markets or risks for hedging purposes or to seek investment return.
Options, futures, forward contracts, swaps and "structured" notes are some of the derivatives that the Fund may use. The Fund may also use other types of derivatives that are consistent with its investment strategies or for hedging purposes.
"Structured" Notes. "Structured" notes are specially-designed derivative debt instruments. The terms of the instrument may be determined or "structured" by the purchaser and the issuer of the note. Payments of principal or interest on these notes may be linked to the value of an index (such as a currency or securities index), one or more securities, a commodity or the financial performance of one or more obligors. The value of these notes will normally rise or fall in response to the changes in the performance of the underlying security, index, commodity or obligor.
Risks of Structured Notes. Structured notes are subject to interest rate risk. They are also subject to credit risk with respect both to the issuer and, if applicable, to the underlying security or obligor. If the underlying investment or index does not perform as anticipated, the structured note might pay less interest than the stated coupon payment or repay less principal upon maturity. The price of structured notes may be very volatile and they may have a limited trading market, making it difficult to value them or sell them at an acceptable price. In some cases, the Fund may enter into agreements with an issuer of structured notes to purchase a minimum amount of those notes over time.Put and Call Options. The Fund may buy and sell call and put options on futures contracts (including commodity futures contracts), commodity indices, financial indices, securities indices, currencies, financial futures, swaps and securities. A call option gives the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to purchase an underlying asset at a specified (strike) price. A put option gives the buyer the right, but not the obligation, to sell an underlying asset at a specified price. Options may be traded on a securities or futures exchange or over-the-counter. Options on commodity futures contracts are traded on the same exchange on which the underlying futures contract is listed. The Fund may purchase and sell options on commodity futures listed on U.S. and foreign futures exchanges.
The Fund may sell call options if they are "covered." That means that while the call option is outstanding, the Fund must either own the security subject to the call, or, for certain types of call options, identify liquid assets on its books that would enable it to fulfill its obligations if the option were exercised. The Fund has no limit on the amount of its total assets that may be subject to covered calls. The Fund may also sell put options. The Fund must identify liquid assets to cover any put options it sells.
Special Risks of Options. If the Fund sells a put option, there is a risk that the Fund may be required to buy the underlying investment at a disadvantageous
price. If the Fund sells a call option, there is a risk that the Fund may be required to sell the underlying investment at
a disadvantageous price. If the Fund sells a call option on an investment that the Fund owns (a "covered call") and the investment
has increased in value when the call option is exercised, the Fund will be required to sell the investment at the call price
and will not be able to realize any of the investment's value above the call price. Options may involve economic leverage,
which could result in greater price volatility than other investments.
Futures Contracts. The Fund can buy and sell futures contracts, including financial futures contracts, currency futures contracts and commodities futures contacts. Futures contracts are agreements in which one party agrees to buy an asset from the other party at a later date at a price and quantity agreed-upon when the contract is made. Futures contracts are traded on futures exchanges, which offer a central marketplace in which to originate futures contracts and clear trades in a secondary market. Futures exchanges also provide standardization of expiration dates and contract sizes. Buyers of futures contracts do not own the underlying asset or commodity unless they decide to accept delivery at the expiration of the contract. Delivery of the underlying commodity to satisfy a commodity futures contract rarely occurs and buyers typically close-out their positions before expiration. Financial futures contracts are standardized commitments to either purchase or sell designated financial instruments at a future date for a specified price, and may be settled in cash or through delivery of the underlying instrument. Generally, the Fund expects to satisfy or offset the delivery obligations under a futures contract by taking an equal but opposite position in the futures market in the same underlying instrument. The Fund's investments in futures contracts may involve substantial risks.
Forward Contracts. Forward contracts are foreign currency exchange contracts that are used to buy or sell foreign currency for future delivery at a fixed price. Although the Fund values its assets daily in terms of U.S. dollars, it does not intend to convert its holdings of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars on a daily basis. The Fund may use forward contracts to try to protect against declines in the U.S. dollar value of foreign securities that it owns and against increases in the dollar cost of foreign securities it anticipates buying. Although forward contracts may reduce the risk of loss from a decline in the value of the hedged currency, at the same time they limit any potential gain if the value of the hedged currency increases. Forward contracts are traded in the inter-bank market conducted directly among currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers.
Forward Contract Risks. The projection of short-term currency market movements is extremely difficult, and the successful execution of a short-term hedging strategy is highly uncertain. The precise matching of the amounts under forward contracts and the value of the securities involved generally will not be possible because the future value of securities denominated in foreign currencies will change as a consequence of market movements between the date the forward contract is entered into and the date it is sold. Investments in forward contracts involve the risk that anticipated currency movements will not be accurately predicted, causing the Fund to sustain losses on these contracts and to pay additional transaction costs.
Credit Default Swaps. A credit default swap enables an investor to buy or sell protection against a credit event with respect to an issuer, such as an issuer's failure to make timely payments of interest or principal on its debt obligations, bankruptcy or restructuring. A credit default swap may be embedded within a structured note or other derivative instrument.
Generally, if the Fund buys credit protection using a credit default swap, the Fund will make fixed payments to the counterparty and if a credit event occurs with respect to the applicable issuer, the Fund will deliver the issuer's defaulted bonds underlying the swap to the swap counterparty and the counterparty will pay the Fund par for the bonds. If the Fund sells credit protection using a credit default swap, generally the Fund will receive fixed payments from the counterparty and if a credit event occurs with respect to the applicable issuer, the Fund will pay the swap counterparty par for the issuer's defaulted bonds and the swap counterparty will deliver the bonds to the Fund. Alternatively, a credit default swap may be cash settled and the buyer of protection would receive the difference between the par value and the market value of the issuer's defaulted bonds from the seller of protection. If the credit default swap is on a basket of issuers, the notional value of the swap is reduced by the amount represented by that issuer, and the fixed payments are then made on the reduced notional value.
Risks of Credit Default Swaps. Credit default swaps are subject to credit risk of the underlying issuer and to counterparty credit risk. If the counterparty fails to meet its obligations, the Fund may lose money. Credit default swaps are also subject to the risk that the Fund will not properly assess the risk of the underlying issuer. If the Fund is selling credit protection, there is a risk that a credit event will occur and that the Fund will have to pay the counterparty. If the Fund is buying credit protection, there is a risk that no credit event will occur and the Fund will receive no benefit for the premium paid.
Total Return Swaps. In a total return swap transaction, one party agrees to pay the other party an amount equal to the total return on a defined underlying asset or a non-asset reference during a specified period of time. The underlying asset might be a security or asset or basket of securities or assets or a non-asset reference such as a securities or other type of index. In return, the other party would make periodic payments based on a fixed or variable interest rate or on the total return from a different underlying asset or non-asset reference.
Risks of Total Return Swaps. Total return swaps could result in losses if the underlying asset or reference does not perform as anticipated. Total return swaps can have the potential for unlimited losses. They are also subject to counterparty risk. If the counterparty fails to meet its obligations, the Fund may lose money.
Interest Rate Swaps. In an interest rate swap, the Fund and another party exchange their rights to receive interest payments. For example, they might swap the right to receive floating rate payments based on a reference interest rate for the right to receive fixed rate payments. An interest rate swap enables an investor to buy or sell protection against changes in an interest rate. An interest rate swap may be embedded within a structured note or other derivative instrument.
Risks of Interest Rate Swaps. Interest rate swaps are subject to interest rate risk and credit risk. An interest rate swap transaction could result in losses if the underlying asset or reference does not perform as anticipated. Interest rate swaps are also subject to counterparty risk. If the counterparty fails to meet its obligations, the Fund may lose money.
Risks of Swap Transactions. Under U.S. financial reform legislation enacted in 2010 and currently being implemented, certain types of swaps are (or soon will be) required to be executed on a regulated market and cleared through a central clearing house counterparty, which may affect counterparty risk and other risks faced by the Underlying Fund, and could result in increased margin requirements and costs for the Underlying Fund. Swap agreements are privately negotiated in the over-the-counter market and may be entered into as a bilateral contract or may be centrally cleared. In a centrally cleared swap, immediately following execution of the swap agreement, the swap agreement is submitted for clearing to a central clearing house counterparty, and the Underlying Fund faces the central clearing house counterparty by means of an account with a futures commission merchant that is a member of the clearing house. Because the regulations regarding centrally cleared swaps have not yet been fully implemented, the scope of potential risks, including risks relating to the use of central clearing house counterparties and futures commission merchants, is unclear.
Hedging. Hedging transactions are intended to reduce the risks of securities in the Fund's portfolio. If the Fund uses a hedging instrument at the wrong time or judges market conditions incorrectly, however, the hedge might be unsuccessful or could reduce the Fund's return or create a loss.
Risks of Derivative Investments. Derivatives may be volatile and may involve significant risks. The underlying security, obligor or other instrument on which a derivative is based, or the derivative itself, may not perform as expected. For some derivatives, it is possible to lose more than the amount invested in the derivative investment. In addition, some derivatives have the potential for unlimited loss, regardless of the size of the Fund's initial investment. Certain derivative investments held by the Fund may be illiquid, making it difficult to close out an unfavorable position. Derivative transactions may require the payment of premiums and can increase portfolio turnover. Derivatives are subject to credit risk, since the Fund may lose money on a derivative investment if the issuer or counterparty fails to pay the amount due. As a result of these risks, the Fund could realize little or no income or lose money from the investment, or the use of a derivative for hedging might be unsuccessful.
In addition, under U.S. financial reform legislation enacted in 2010 and currently being implemented, certain over-the-counter derivatives, including certain interest rate swaps and certain credit default swaps, are (or soon will be) required to be executed on a regulated market and cleared through a central clearing house counterparty, which may result in increased margin requirements and costs for a fund. It is unclear how these regulatory changes will affect counterparty risk, and entering into a derivative transaction with a central clearing house counterparty may entail further risks and costs, including the counterparty risk of the central clearing house counterparty and the futures commission merchant through which the fund accesses the clearing house.
Risks of Leverage. Certain derivatives and other investments of the Fund involve a degree of leverage. Generally, leverage may occur when, in
return for the potential to realize higher gain, an investment exposes the investor to a risk of loss that exceeds the amount
invested. The Fund's use of an economically leveraged derivative may provide the potential for investment gain or loss that
may be several times greater than the change in value of the underlying security, asset, interest rate, index or currency
upon which such derivative is based, which may result in a loss substantially greater than the amount invested in the derivative
itself. Certain derivatives have the potential for unlimited loss, regardless of the size of the initial investment. If the
Fund uses derivatives for leverage, its share price will tend to be more volatile, resulting in larger gains or losses in
response to the fluctuating prices of its investments.
The Fund is subject to legal requirements, applicable to all mutual funds, that are designed to reduce the effects of any
leverage created by the use of derivative instruments. Under these requirements, the Fund must identify liquid assets (sometimes
referred to as "asset segregation") or engage in other measures, with regard to its derivative instruments.
Commodity-Linked Derivatives. A commodity-linked derivative is a derivative instrument whose value is linked to the price movement of a commodity, commodity index, or commodity option or futures contract. The value of some commodity-linked derivatives may be based on a multiple of those price movements. The Fund is subject to legal requirements, applicable to all mutual funds, that are designed to reduce the effects of any leverage created by the use of derivative instruments.
Commodity-Linked Notes. A commodity-linked note is a derivative instrument that has characteristics of both a debt security and a commodity-linked
derivative. It typically makes interest payments like a debt security and at maturity the principal payment is linked to the
price movement of a commodity, commodity index, or commodity option or futures contract. Commodity-linked notes are typically
issued by a bank, other financial institution or a commodity producer, and the Fund negotiates with the issuer to obtain specific
terms and features that are tailored to the Fund's investment needs.
Commodity-linked notes may be principal-protected, partially-protected, or offer no principal protection. A principal-protected
commodity-linked note means that the issuer will pay, at a minimum, the par value of the note at maturity. With a partially-protected
or no-principal-protection commodity-linked note, the Fund may receive at maturity an amount less than the note's par value
if the commodity, index or other economic variable value to which the note is linked declines over the term of the note.
Risks of Commodity-Linked Investments. Investments linked to the prices of commodities are considered speculative. The commodity-linked instruments in which the Fund invests have substantial risks, including risk of loss of a significant portion of their principal value. Prices of commodities and commodity-linked investments may fluctuate significantly over short periods due to a variety of factors, including: changes in supply and demand relationships, weather, agriculture, fiscal and exchange control programs, disease, pestilence, and international economic, political, military and regulatory developments. These events might have less impact on the values of stocks and bonds and can make commodity-linked investments more volatile than other types of investments.
Commodity markets are also subject to temporary distortions and other disruptions due to lack of liquidity, the participation of speculators, and government regulation, among other factors. U.S. futures exchanges and some foreign exchanges limit the amount of fluctuation in futures contract prices that may occur in a single business day (generally referred to as "daily price fluctuation limits"). The maximum or minimum price of a contract as a result of these limits is referred to as a "limit price." If the limit price has been reached in a particular contract, no trades may be made beyond the limit price. Limit prices may have the effect of precluding trading in a particular contract or forcing the liquidation of contracts at disadvantageous times or prices and could adversely affect the value of commodity-linked investments.
Investments in the Fund's Wholly-Owned Subsidiary. The Fund may invest up to 25% of its total assets in the Subsidiary. The Subsidiary invests primarily in commodity-linked derivatives (including commodity futures, financial futures, options and swap contracts), and certain fixed-income securities and other investments that may serve as margin or collateral for its derivatives positions.
Investment in the Subsidiary is expected to provide the Fund with exposure to the commodities markets within the limitations of the federal tax requirements of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code ("Subchapter M"). Subchapter M requires, among other things, that at least 90% of the Fund's gross income be derived from securities or derived with respect to its business of investing in securities (typically referred to as "qualifying income"). Income from certain of the commodity-linked derivatives in which the Fund invests may not be treated as "qualifying income" for purposes of the 90% income requirement. The Fund has received a private letter ruling from the Internal Revenue Service confirming that income from the Fund's investment in the Subsidiary constitutes "qualifying income" for purposes of Subchapter M.
Event-Linked Securities. The Fund may invest in "event-linked" securities (sometimes called "catastrophe" bonds) or in interests in trusts and other pooled entities that invest primarily or exclusively in event-linked securities, including entities sponsored and/or advised by the Manager or an affiliate. Event-linked securities are fixed income securities for which the return of principal and payment of interest is contingent on the non-occurrence of a trigger event, such as a hurricane, earthquake, or other event that leads to physical or economic loss. In some cases, the trigger event will not be deemed to have occurred unless it is of a certain magnitude or causes a certain measurable amount of loss to the issuer, an industry group, or a reference index. If the trigger event occurs prior to maturity, the Fund may lose all or a portion of its principal and additional interest. Event-linked securities may expose the Fund to certain other risks, including issuer default, adverse regulatory or jurisdictional interpretations, liquidity risk and adverse tax consequences.
Inflation-Indexed Debt Securities. Inflation-indexed bonds are fixed income securities whose principal value is periodically adjusted according to an identified rate of inflation. For example, the U.S. Treasury uses the Consumer Price Index as the inflation measure for Treasury Inflation-Protection Securities. If the index measuring inflation falls, the principal value of the inflation-indexed bonds will be adjusted downward, and consequently the interest payable on these securities (calculated with respect to smaller principal amounts) will be reduced. If the index measuring inflation rises, both the principal value and the interest payable (calculated with respect to a larger principal amount) will increase. With respect to certain inflation-indexed bonds, instead of adjusting the bond's principal value, the inflation adjustment is reflected in the coupon payment. Because of this inflation adjustment feature, inflation-protected bonds typically have lower yields than conventional fixed-rate bonds with similar maturities.
Treasury Inflation-Protection Securities. Treasury inflation-protection securities ("TIPS") are U.S. Treasury securities designed to protect against inflation. The interest rate paid on TIPS is fixed. The principal value rises or falls semi-annually based on published changes to the Consumer Price Index. If inflation occurs, the principal amount will be adjusted upwards, resulting in increased interest payments. If deflation occurs, the principal amount will be adjusted downwards, resulting in lower interest payments. The principal amount payable at maturity will be the greater of the adjusted principal amount and the original principal amount. While U.S. Treasury securities have relatively little credit risk, they are subject to price fluctuations from changes in interest rates prior to their maturity.
Special Risks of Inflation-Indexed Debt Securities. If inflation declines, the principal amount or the interest rate of an inflation-indexed bond will be adjusted downward. This will result in reduced income and may result in a decline in the bond's price which could cause losses for the fund. Interest payments on inflation-protected debt securities can be unpredictable and will vary as the principal or interest rate is adjusted for inflation. Inflation-indexed bonds normally will decline in price when real interest rates rise which could cause losses for the fund. A real interest rate is calculated by subtracting the inflation rate from a nominal interest rate.
Investments in Real Estate Securities. The Fund may invest in shares of real estate investment trusts (REITs), real estate operating companies (REOCs) and other real estate related securities. REITs can generally be classified as Equity REITs, Mortgage REITs or Hybrid REITs.
Because the Fund can invest a significant amount of its assets in the real estate industry, its performance may be closely linked to the performance of the real estate markets. Property values or revenues from real estate investments may fall due to many different factors, including: disruptions to real estate sales markets, increased vacancies or declining rents, negative economic developments affecting businesses or individuals, increased real estate operating costs, lower real estate demand, oversupply, obsolescence, competition, uninsured casualty losses, condemnation losses, environmental liabilities, the failure of borrowers to repay loans in a timely manner, changes in prevailing interest rates or rates of inflation, lack of available credit or changes in federal or state taxation policies affecting real estate. The price of a real estate company's securities may also drop because of dividend reductions, lowered credit ratings, poor company management, or other factors that affect companies in general. Smaller REIT companies may be subject to greater risks than larger REIT companies. The Fund's investments in real estate securities could cause it to perform poorly during a downturn in that industry.
Investments in Mining Securities and Metal Investments. The Fund may invest directly in, or indirectly through the Subsidiary or by means of derivative instruments, securities issued by companies that are involved in mining or processing or dealing in gold or other metals or minerals. These securities are described as "Mining Securities." The Fund may also invest up to 10% of its total assets in gold or silver bullion, in other precious metals, in metals naturally occurring with precious metals, in certificates representing an ownership interest in those metals, and in gold or silver coins. These investments are referred to as "Metal Investments." While the Fund may hold gold or silver coins that have an active, quoted trading market, it will not hold them for their value as "collectibles." The Fund's investment in Gold ETFs is subject to this investment restriction.
Special Risks of Investments in Mining Securities and Metal Investments. Investments in Mining Securities and Metal Investments involve additional risks and considerations not typically associated with other types of investments: (1) the risk of substantial price fluctuations of gold and precious metals; (2) the concentration of gold supply is mainly in five territories (South Africa, Australia, the Commonwealth of Independent States (the former Soviet Union), Canada and the United States), and the prevailing economic and political conditions of these countries may have a direct effect on the production and marketing of gold and sales of central bank gold holdings; (3) unpredictable international monetary policies, economic and political conditions; (4) possible U.S. governmental regulation of Metal Investments, as well as foreign regulation of such investments; and (5) possible adverse tax consequences for the Fund in making Metal Investments, if it fails to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under the Internal Revenue Code.
To the extent the Fund invests in gold or silver bullion, it will earn no income. However, the Fund may realize gains as a result of the sale of those investments after an appreciation in the market price and such investments may incur higher storage and custody costs as compared to purchasing, holding and selling more traditional investments.
Investments in metals entail the risk that the Fund might not qualify as a "regulated investment company," under the Internal Revenue Code because any gains from the sale of those investments would not constitute "qualifying income" under Subchapter M of the Code. As explained further under "Investments in the Fund's Wholly-Owned Subsidiary" in this prospectus, Subchapter M requires, among other things, that at least 90% of the Fund's gross income be derived from qualifying sources. The "Taxes" section in this prospectus and "Distributions and Taxes" section in the Statement of Additional Information provides additional information about the Fund's tax implications.
Industry and Sector Focus. At times the Fund may increase the relative emphasis of its investments in a particular industry or sector. The prices of securities of issuers in a particular industry or sector may go up and down in response to changes in economic conditions, government regulations, availability of basic resources or supplies, or other events that affect that industry or sector more than others. To the extent that the Fund increases the relative emphasis of its investments in a particular industry or sector, its share values may fluctuate in response to events affecting that industry or sector. To some extent that risk may be limited by the Fund's policy of not concentrating 25% or more of its total assets in investments in any one industry.
Price Arbitrage. Because the Fund may invest in smaller company stocks that might trade infrequently, investors might seek to trade fund shares based on their knowledge or understanding of the value of those securities (this is sometimes referred to as "price arbitrage"). If such price arbitrage were successful, it might interfere with the efficient management of the Fund's portfolio and the Fund may be required to sell securities at disadvantageous times or prices to satisfy the liquidity requirements created by that activity. Successful price arbitrage might also dilute the value of fund shares held by other shareholders.
Master Limited Partnerships. The Fund may invest in publicly traded limited partnerships known as "master limited partnerships" or MLPs. MLPs issue units that are registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission and are freely tradable on a securities exchange or in the over-the-counter market. An MLP consists of one or more general partners, who conduct the business, and one or more limited partners, who contribute capital. The Fund, as a limited partner, normally would not be liable for the debts of the MLP beyond the amounts the Fund has contributed, but would not be shielded to the same extent that a shareholder of a corporation would be. In certain circumstances creditors of an MLP would have the right to seek return of capital distributed to a limited partner. This right of an MLP's creditors would continue after the Fund sold its investment in the MLP. MLPs are typically real estate, oil and gas and equipment leasing vehicles, but they also finance movies, research and development, and other projects.
MLP Affiliates. The Fund may invest in the debt and equity securities of MLP affiliates and companies that own MLP general partner interests that are energy infrastructure companies. The Fund may also invest in MLP I-Shares, which represent an indirect ownership interest in MLP common units. MLP I-Shares differ from MLP common units primarily in that, instead of receiving cash distributions, holders of MLP I-Shares receive distributions in the form of additional I-Shares. Issuers of MLP I-Shares are treated as corporations and not partnerships for tax purposes. MLP affiliates also include publicly traded limited liability companies that own, directly or indirectly, general partner interests of MLPs.
Risks of Investing in Master Limited Partnerships. Investments in securities of MLPs involve risks that differ from an investment in common stock, including but not limited to:
Tax Risk of Master Limited Partnerships
Energy Infrastructure and Energy Related Assets or Activities. Energy infrastructure companies are subject to risks specific to the energy and energy-related industry. Risks inherent in the energy infrastructure business of MLPs include, but are not limited to, the following:
Greenfield Projects. Greenfield projects are energy-related projects built by private joint ventures formed by energy infrastructure companies. Greenfield projects may include the creation of a new pipeline, processing plant or storage facility or other energy infrastructure asset that is integrated with the company's existing assets. The Fund's investments in greenfield projects may distribute income. However, the Fund's investment also may be structured as pay-in-kind securities with minimal or no cash interest or dividends until construction is completed, at which time interest payments or dividends would be paid in cash. An investment in a greenfield project entails substantial risk, including the risk that the project may not materialize due to, among other factors, financing constraints, the absence of a natural energy source, an inability to obtain the necessary governmental permits to build the project, and the failure of the technology necessary to generate the energy. The Fund's investment could lose its value in the event of a failure of a greenfield project. Greenfield projects also may be illiquid.
Exchange Traded Notes (ETNs). ETNs are senior, unsecured, unsubordinated debt securities that typically are issued by a financial institution. The returns of an ETN are linked to the performance of a particular market benchmark index or strategy minus applicable fees. At maturity, the issuer pays to the investor a cash amount equal to the principal amount, subject to the day's market benchmark or strategy factor. ETNs are traded on an exchange (e.g., the NYSE) during normal trading hours.
Risks of ETNs. ETNs are subject to credit risk, and the value of the ETN may drop due to a downgrade in the issuer's credit rating, despite the underlying market benchmark or strategy remaining unchanged. The value of an ETN may also be influenced by time to maturity, level of supply and demand for the ETN, volatility and lack of liquidity in underlying assets, changes in the applicable interest rates, changes in the issuer's credit rating and economic, legal, political or geographic events that affect the referenced underlying asset. When an Underlying Fund invests in ETNs, it will bear its proportionate share of any fees and expenses borne by the ETN. These fees and expenses generally reduce the return realized at maturity or upon redemption from an investment in an ETN; therefore, the value of the index underlying the ETN must increase significantly in order for an investor in an ETN to receive at least the principal amount of the investment at maturity or upon redemption. An Underlying Fund's decision to sell ETN holdings may be limited by the availability of a secondary market.
Pay-In-Kind Securities. Pay-in-kind securities are securities that pay interest through the issuance of additional debt or equity securities. Upon maturity, the holder is entitled to receive the aggregate par value of the securities. Pay-in-kind securities may be subject to greater fluctuation in value and lesser liquidity in the event of adverse market conditions than comparably rated securities paying cash interest at regular interest payment periods. Pay-in-kind securities carry additional risk as holders of these types of securities realize no cash until the cash payment date unless a portion of such securities is sold. If the issuer defaults, the Fund may obtain no return at all on its investment. The market price of pay-in-kind securities is affected by interest rate changes to a greater extent, and therefore tends to be more volatile, than that of securities which pay interest in cash.
Private Equity and Debt Investments. The Underlying Funds managed by SteelPath can invest in private equity and debt investments, which generally will include traditional private equity control positions and minority investments in MLPs and energy infrastructure companies. Private equity and debt investments involve a high degree of business and financial risk and can result in substantial or complete losses. Some portfolio companies in which an Underlying Fund may invest may be operating at a loss or with substantial variations in operating results from period to period and may need substantial additional capital to support expansion or to achieve or maintain competitive positions. Such companies may face intense competition, including competition from companies with much greater financial resources, much more extensive development, production, marketing and service capabilities and a much larger number of qualified managerial and technical personnel. An Underlying Fund can offer no assurance that the marketing efforts of any particular portfolio company will be successful or that its business will succeed. Additionally, privately held companies are not subject to Securities and Exchange Commission ("SEC") reporting requirements, are not required to maintain their accounting records in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles, and are not required to maintain effective internal controls over financial reporting. As a result, timely or accurate information may at times not be readily available about the business, financial condition and results of operations of the privately held companies in which an Underlying Fund invests. Private debt investments also are subject to interest rate risk, credit risk and duration risk.
Private Investments in Public Equity (PIPEs). PIPEs are equity securities issued in a private placement by companies that have outstanding, publicly traded equity securities of the same class. Shares in PIPEs generally are not registered with the SEC until after a certain time period from the date the private sale is completed. PIPE transactions will generally result in the Fund acquiring either restricted stock or an instrument convertible into restricted stock. As with investments in other types of restricted securities, such an investment may be illiquid. The Fund's ability to dispose of securities acquired in PIPE transactions may depend upon the registration of such securities for resale. Any number of factors may prevent or delay a proposed registration. Alternatively, it may be possible for securities acquired in a PIPE transaction to be resold in transactions exempt from registration in accordance with Rule 144 under the Securities Act of 1933, or otherwise under the federal securities laws. There is no guarantee, however, that an active trading market for the securities will exist at the time of disposition of the securities, and the lack of such a market could hurt the market value of the Fund's investments. As a result, even if the Fund is able to have securities acquired in a PIPE transaction registered or sell such securities through an exempt transaction, the Fund may not be able to sell all the securities on short notice, and the sale of the securities could lower the market price of the securities.
Exchange-Traded Funds. The Fund can invest in exchange-traded funds (ETFs), which are typically open-end funds or unit investment trusts listed on a stock exchange. The Fund might do so as a way of gaining exposure to securities represented by the ETF's portfolio at times when the Fund may not be able to buy those securities directly. As a shareholder of an ETF, the Fund would be subject to its ratable share of that ETFs' expenses, including its advisory and administration expenses. At the same time, the Fund would bear its own management fees and expenses. The Fund does not intend to invest in ETFs unless the portfolio manager believes that the potential benefits of the investment justify the expenses. The Fund's investments in the securities of ETFs are subject to the limits that apply to investments in investment companies under the Investment Company Act of 1940.
Other Investment Strategies and Risks. The Underlying Funds can also use the investment techniques and strategies described below. An Underlying Fund might not use all of these techniques or strategies or might only use them from time to time.
Investing in Special Situations. Some of the Underlying Funds might periodically seek to benefit from what they perceive to be a "special situation," such as a merger, reorganization, restructuring or other unusual event that is expected to affect a particular issuer. However, there is a risk that the anticipated change or event might not occur, which could have a negative impact on the price of the issuer's securities. An Underlying Fund's investment might not produce the expected gains or could incur a loss for the portfolio.
Cyclical Opportunities. At times, the Fund might seek to take advantage of short-term market movements or changes in the business cycle by investing in companies or industries that are sensitive to those changes. For example, when the economy is expanding, companies in consumer durables and the technology sector might benefit. There is a risk that if a cyclical event does not have the anticipated effect, or when the issuer or industry is out of phase in the business cycle, the value of the Fund's investment could fall.
When-Issued and Delayed-Delivery Transactions. The Fund may purchase securities on a "when-issued" basis and may purchase or sell such securities on a "delayed-delivery" basis. When-issued and delayed-delivery securities are purchased at a price that is fixed at the time of the transaction, with payment and delivery of the security made at a later date. When purchasing securities in this manner, during the period between purchase and settlement, the Fund makes no payment to the issuer (or seller) of the security and no interest accrues to the Fund from the investment.
The securities are subject to changes in value from market fluctuations during the period until settlement and the value of the security on the delivery date may be more or less than the Fund paid. The Fund may lose money if the value of the security declines below the purchase price.
Zero-Coupon and Stripped Securities. Some of the debt securities the Fund may invest in are "zero-coupon" or "stripped" securities. Zero-coupon securities pay no interest prior to their maturity date or another specified date in the future but are issued at a discount from their face value. Stripped securities are the separate income or principal components of a debt security, such as Treasury securities whose coupons have been stripped by a Federal Reserve Bank. One component might receive all the interest and the other all the principal payments.
Interest rate changes generally cause greater price fluctuations in zero-coupon securities or the "principal-only" components of stripped securities than in interest-paying securities of the same or similar maturities. The Fund may be required to pay a dividend of the imputed income on a zero-coupon or principal-only security at a time when it has not actually received the income. The "interest-only" components of stripped securities are also especially sensitive to changes in prevailing interest rates. The market for some of these securities may be limited, making it difficult for the Fund to dispose of its holdings quickly at an acceptable price.
Money Market Instruments. The Fund may also invest in "money market instruments." Money market instruments are short-term, high-quality, dollar-denominated debt instruments issued by the U.S. government, domestic and foreign corporations and financial institutions, and other entities that meet the quality, maturity, diversification and other standards that apply to money market funds under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Money market instruments include bank obligations, repurchase agreements, commercial paper, and other corporate and governmental debt obligations. They may have fixed, variable or floating interest rates. Money market instruments generally do not generate capital appreciation if they are held to maturity.
Illiquid and Restricted Securities. Investments that do not have an active trading market, or that have legal or contractual limitations on their resale, are generally referred to as "illiquid" securities. Illiquid securities may be difficult to value or to sell promptly at an acceptable price or may require registration under applicable securities laws before they can be sold publicly. Securities that have limitations on their resale are referred to as "restricted securities." Certain restricted securities that are eligible for resale to qualified institutional purchasers may not be regarded as illiquid.
Repurchase Agreements. The Fund may also enter into repurchase agreements. In a repurchase transaction, the Fund buys a security and simultaneously sells it back to the vendor for delivery at a future date. Repurchase agreements must be fully collateralized. However, if the seller fails to pay the repurchase price on the delivery date, the Fund may incur costs in disposing of the collateral and may experience losses if there is any delay in its ability to do so. If the default on the part of the seller is due to its bankruptcy, the Fund's ability to liquidate the collateral may be delayed or limited.
Conflicts of Interest. The investment activities of the Manager, the Sub-Adviser, the Sub-Sub-Adviser and their affiliates in regard to other accounts they manage may present conflicts of interest that could disadvantage the Fund and its shareholders. The Manager, the Sub-Adviser, the Sub-Sub-Adviser or their affiliates may provide investment advisory services to other funds and accounts that have investment objectives or strategies that differ from, or are contrary to, those of the Fund. That may result in another fund or account holding investment positions that are adverse to the Fund's investment strategies or activities. Other funds or accounts advised by the Manager, the Sub-Adviser, the Sub-Sub-Adviser and their affiliates may have conflicting interests arising from investment objectives that are similar to those of the Fund. Those funds and accounts may engage in, and compete for, the same types of securities or other investments as the Fund or invest in securities of the same issuers that have different, and possibly conflicting, characteristics. The trading and other investment activities of those other funds or accounts may be carried out without regard to the investment activities of the Fund and, as a result, the value of securities held by the Fund or the Fund's investment strategies may be adversely affected. The Fund's investment performance will usually differ from the performance of other accounts advised by the Manager, the Sub-Adviser, the Sub-Sub-Adviser or their affiliates and the Fund may experience losses during periods in which other accounts they advise achieve gains. The Manager, the Sub-Adviser and the Sub-Sub-Adviser have adopted policies and procedures designed to address potential identified conflicts of interest, however, such policies and procedures may also limit the Fund's investment activities and affect its performance.
Investments in Oppenheimer Institutional Money Market Fund. The Fund can invest its free cash balances in Class E shares of Oppenheimer Institutional Money Market Fund to provide liquidity or for defensive purposes. The Fund invests in Oppenheimer Institutional Money Market Fund, rather than purchasing individual short-term investments, to seek a higher yield than it could obtain on its own. Oppenheimer Institutional Money Market Fund is a registered open-end management investment company, regulated as a money market fund under the Investment Company Act of 1940, and is part of the Oppenheimer family of funds. It invests in a variety of short-term, high-quality, dollar-denominated money market instruments issued by the U.S. government, domestic and foreign corporations, other financial institutions, and other entities. Those investments may have a higher rate of return than the investments that would be available to the Fund directly. At the time of an investment, the Fund cannot always predict what the yield of the Oppenheimer Institutional Money Market Fund will be because of the wide variety of instruments that fund holds in its portfolio. The return on those investments may, in some cases, be lower than the return that would have been derived from other types of investments that would provide liquidity. As a shareholder, the Fund will be subject to its proportional share of the expenses of Oppenheimer Institutional Money Market Fund's Class E shares, including its advisory fee. However, the Manager will waive a portion of the Fund's advisory fee to the extent of the Fund's share of the advisory fee paid to the Manager by Oppenheimer Institutional Money Market Fund.
Temporary Defensive and Interim Investments. For temporary defensive purposes in times of adverse or unstable market, economic or political conditions, the Fund can invest up to 100% of its total assets in investments that may be inconsistent with the Fund's principal investment strategies. Generally, the Fund would invest in shares of Oppenheimer Institutional Money Market Fund or in the types of money market instruments in which Oppenheimer Institutional Money Market Fund invests or in other short-term U.S. government securities. The Fund might also hold these types of securities as interim investments pending the investment of proceeds from the sale of Fund shares or the sale of Fund portfolio securities or to meet anticipated redemptions of Fund shares. To the extent the Fund invests in these securities, it might not achieve its investment objective.
Portfolio Turnover. A change in the securities held by the Fund is known as "portfolio turnover." The Fund may engage in active and frequent trading to try to achieve its investment objective and may have a portfolio turnover rate of over 100% annually. Increased portfolio turnover may result in higher brokerage fees or other transaction costs, which can reduce performance. The Financial Highlights table at the end of this prospectus shows the Fund's portfolio turnover rates during past fiscal years.
Changes To The Fund's Investment Policies. The Fund's fundamental investment policies cannot be changed without the approval of a majority of the Fund's outstanding voting shares, however, the Fund's Board can change non-fundamental policies without a shareholder vote. Significant policy changes will be described in supplements to this prospectus. The Fund's investment objective is not a fundamental policy but will not be changed by the Board without advance notice to shareholders. Investment restrictions that are fundamental policies are listed in the Fund's Statement of Additional Information. An investment policy is not fundamental unless this prospectus or the Statement of Additional Information states that it is.
Portfolio Holdings. The Fund's portfolio holdings are included in its semi-annual and annual reports that are distributed to its shareholders within 60 days after the close of the applicable reporting period. The Fund also discloses its portfolio holdings in its Schedule of Investments on Form N-Q, which are public filings that are required to be made with the Securities and Exchange Commission within 60 days after the end of the Fund's first and third fiscal quarters. Therefore, the Fund's portfolio holdings are made publicly available no later than 60 days after the end of each of its fiscal quarters. In addition, the Fund's portfolio holdings information, as of the end of each calendar month, may be posted and available on the Fund's website no sooner than 30 days after the end of each calendar month.
A description of the Fund's policies and procedures with respect to the disclosure of its portfolio holdings is available in the Fund's Statement of Additional Information.
THE MANAGER AND THE SUB-ADVISER. OFI Global Asset Management, Inc., the Manager, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of OppenheimerFunds, Inc. The Manager oversees the Fund's investments and its business operations. OppenheimerFunds, Inc., the Sub-Adviser, chooses the Fund's investments and provides related advisory services. The Manager carries out its duties, subject to the policies established by the Fund's Board, under an investment advisory agreement with the Fund that states the Manager's responsibilities. The agreement sets the fees the Fund pays to the Manager and describes the expenses that the Fund is responsible to pay to conduct its business. The Sub-Adviser has a sub-advisory agreement with the Manager and is paid by the Manager.
The Manager has been an investment adviser since 2012. The Sub-Adviser has been an investment adviser since 1960. The Manager and the Sub-Adviser are located at Two World Financial Center, 225 Liberty Street, 11th Floor, New York, New York 10281-1008.
Advisory Fees. Under the investment advisory agreement, the Fund pays the Manager an advisory fee at an annual rate that declines on additional
assets as the Fund grows: 1.00% of the first $500 million of average annual net assets of the Fund, 0.95% of the next $500
million, 0.90% of the next $4 billion, and 0.88% of average annual net assets in excess of $5 billion, calculated on the daily
net assets of the Fund. Under the sub-advisory agreement, the Manager pays the Sub-Adviser a percentage of the net investment
advisory fee (after all applicable waivers) that it receives from the Fund as compensation for the provision of investment
advisory services.
After discussions with the Fund's Board of Trustees, the Manager has contractually agreed to waive fees and/or reimburse
the Fund for certain expenses in order to limit "Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Fee Waiver and/or Expense Reimbursement"
(excluding (i) interest, taxes, dividends tied to short sales, brokerage commissions, and other expenditures which are capitalized
in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; (ii) expenses incurred directly or indirectly by the Fund as
a result of investments in other investment companies, wholly-owned subsidiaries and pooled investment vehicles; (iii) certain
other expenses attributable to, and incurred as a result of, a Fund's investments; and (iv) other extraordinary expenses (including
litigation expenses) not incurred in the ordinary course of the Fund's business) to annual rates of 1.20% for Non-Service
Shares and 1.45% for Service Shares, as calculated on the daily net assets of the Fund. This fee waiver and/or expense reimbursement
may not be amended or withdrawn for one year from the date of this prospectus, unless approved by the Board.
A discussion regarding the basis for the Board's approval of the Fund's investment advisory contract will be available
in the Fund's first shareholder report following commencement of operations.
Portfolio Managers.The Fund's portfolio is managed by Mark Hamilton, lead portfolio manager, David Wharmby, CFA, and Brian Watson, who are primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund's investments. Mr. Hamilton has been a Vice President and portfolio manager of the Fund since its inception. Mr. Wharmby has been a portfolio manager of the Fund since its inception.
Mr. Hamilton has been Chief Investment Officer, Asset Allocation, and a Senior Vice President of the Sub-Adviser since April 2013. He served at AllianceBernstein L.P. from 1994 to 2013, as an Investment Director of Dynamic Asset Allocation from 2010 to 2013, Head of North American Blend Team from 2009 to 2010, and Senior Portfolio Manager of Blend Strategies from 2006 to 2010.
Mr. Wharmby is a Managing Director and Global Head of Real Estate Securities for the Sub-Sub-Adviser. Prior to joining the Sub-Sub-Adviser in 1996, he was Assistant Vice President with L.W. Ellwood & Co./Coopers & Lybrand (September 1995-September 1996) and was a real estate appraiser with Heberger and Associates (August 1990-September 1995). Mr. Wharmby is responsible for the management of the global real estate securities strategy of the Fund.
Mr. Watson is a Vice President of OFI SteelPath. Prior to joining the Manager in 2012, Mr. Watson was portfolio manager and Director of Research of SteelPath Fund Advisors, LLC from 2009, a portfolio manager at Swank Capital Research, LLC from 2005 to 2009, and an MLP and diversified energy sector analyst in the Equity Research Division of RBC Capital Markets from 2002 to 2005.
The Sub-Sub-Advisers. The Sub-Adviser has retained Cornerstone Real Estate Advisers LLC, to provide securities selection and day-to-day portfolio management for the Fund's investments in real estate securities. Cornerstone has operated as an investment adviser since 1994. As of December 31, 2012, Cornerstone's total assets under management were $37.3 billion. Cornerstone is an indirect subsidiary of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company ("MassMutual") of Springfield, Massachusetts, the parent company of the Manager, and is located at One Financial Plaza, Suite 1700, Hartford, Connecticut 06103-2604.
The Sub-Adviser has retained OFI SteelPath Inc. to provide securities selection and day-to-day portfolio management for the Fund's investments in MLPs. OFI SteelPath has operated as an investment adviser since [_____]. As of December 31, 2012, OFI SteelPath's total assets under management were $[_____]. OFI SteelPath is a wholly-owned subsidiary of OppenheimerFunds, Inc., and is located at 2100 McKinney Ave., Suite 1401, Dallas, Texas 75201.
Sub-Sub-Advisory Fees. The Sub-Adviser, not the Fund, pays each Sub-Sub-Adviser an annual fee under each Sub-Sub-Advisory Agreement between the Sub-Adviser and a Sub-Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser pays each Sub-Sub-Adviser a percentage of the advisory fee collected by the Sub-Adviser (after all applicable waivers) with respect to and based on the portion of the average daily net assets of the Fund comprising the assets managed by each Sub-Sub-Adviser.
A discussion regarding the basis for the Board of Trustees' approval of the Fund's investment advisory arrangements will be available in the Fund's first shareholder report following commencement of operations.
ABOUT THE FUND'S WHOLLY-OWNED SUBSIDIARY. The Subsidiary is an exempted company incorporated with limited liability under the laws of the Cayman Islands and is overseen by its own board of directors. The Fund is the sole shareholder of the Subsidiary and it is currently expected that shares of the Subsidiary will not be sold or offered to other investors. If, at any time in the future, the Subsidiary proposes to offer or sell its shares to any investor other than the Fund, shareholders will receive 60 days' prior notice of such offer or sale and this prospectus will be revised accordingly.
The Manager is responsible for the Subsidiary's day-to-day business and investment operations pursuant to an investment advisory agreement with the Subsidiary. Under that agreement, the Manager provides the Subsidiary with the same type of management services, under the same terms, as are provided to the Fund. The Subsidiary's investment advisory agreement provides for its automatic termination upon the termination of the Fund's Investment Advisory Agreement. The Subsidiary has also entered into separate contracts for the provision of custody, transfer agency, and audit services with the same service providers as those engaged by the Fund. In addition, it is expected that an adviser affiliated with the Manager will be engaged to provide sub-advisory services to the Subsidiary.
The Subsidiary is managed pursuant to compliance policies and procedures that are the same, in all material respects, as those adopted by the Fund. As a result, in managing the Subsidiary's portfolio, the Manager is subject to the same investment policies and restrictions that apply to the management of the Fund, and, in particular, to the requirements relating to portfolio leverage, liquidity, brokerage, and the timing and method of the valuation of the Subsidiary's portfolio investments and shares of the Subsidiary. The Fund's Chief Compliance Officer oversees implementation of the Subsidiary's policies and procedures, and makes periodic reports to the Fund's Board regarding the Subsidiary's compliance with its policies and procedures.
The Manager has contractually agreed to waive the management fee it receives from the Fund in an amount equal to the management fee paid to the Manager by the Subsidiary. This undertaking will continue in effect for as long as the Fund invests in the Subsidiary, and may not be terminated by the Manager unless the Manager obtains the prior approval of the Fund's Board of Trustees. The rate of the management fee paid directly or indirectly by the Fund, calculated by aggregating the fees paid to the Manager by the Fund (after the waiver described above) and the Subsidiary, may not increase without the prior approval of the Board and a majority of the Fund's shareholders. The Subsidiary also bears the fees and expenses incurred in connection with the custody, transfer agency, and audit services that it receives. The Fund expects that the expenses borne by the Subsidiary will not be material in relation to the value of the Fund's assets. It is also anticipated that the Fund's expenses will be reduced to a certain extent as a result of the payment of such expenses at the Subsidiary level. It is therefore expected that the Fund's investment in the Subsidiary will not result in the Fund paying duplicative fees for similar services provided to the Fund and the Subsidiary.
The financial statements of the Subsidiary are included in the Fund's Annual and Semi-Annual Reports provided to shareholders (which include the Subsidiary's full audited financial statements and unaudited financial statements, respectively). Copies of the reports are provided without charge upon request as indicated on the back cover of this prospectus. Please refer to the Statement of Additional Information for additional information about the organization and management of the Subsidiary.
The Statement of Additional Information provides additional information about portfolio manager compensation, other accounts managed and ownership of Fund shares.
You may only submit instructions for buying or selling shares of the Fund to your insurance company or its servicing agent, not directly to the Fund or its Transfer Agent. Information about your investment in the Fund can only be obtained from your participating insurance company or its servicing agent. The Fund's Transfer Agent does not hold or have access to those records.
WHAT CLASSES OF SHARES DOES THE FUND OFFER? The Fund currently offers two different classes of shares. The different classes of shares represent investments in the same portfolio of securities, but the classes are subject to different expenses and will usually have different share prices. The Service Shares are subject to a distribution and service plan. The expenses of that plan are described below. The Non-Service Shares are not subject to a service and distribution plan.
THE PRICE OF FUND SHARES. Fund shares are sold to participating insurance companies, and are redeemed, at their net asset value per share. The net asset value that applies to a purchase order is the next one calculated after the insurance company (as the Fund's designated agent to receive purchase orders) receives the order from its contract owner, in proper form. Fund shares are redeemed at the next net asset value calculated after the insurance company (as the Fund's designated agent to receive purchase orders) receives the order from its contract owner, in proper form. The Fund's Transfer Agent generally must receive the purchase or redemption order from the insurance company by 9:30 a.m. Eastern Time on the next regular business day.
The Fund does not impose any sales charge on purchases of its shares. If there are any charges imposed under the variable annuity, variable life or other contract through which Fund shares are purchased, they are described in the accompanying prospectus of the participating insurance company. The participating insurance company's prospectus may also include information regarding the time you must submit your purchase and redemption orders.
The sale and redemption price for Fund shares will change from day to day because the value of the securities in its portfolio and its expenses fluctuate. The redemption price will normally differ for different classes of shares. The redemption price of your shares may be more or less than their original cost.
Net Asset Value. The Fund calculates the net asset value of each class of shares as of the close of the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE), on each day the NYSE is open for trading (referred to in this prospectus as a "regular business day"). The NYSE normally closes at 4:00 p.m., Eastern Time, but may close earlier on some days.
The Fund determines the net assets of each class of shares by subtracting the class-specific expenses and the amount of the Fund's liabilities attributable to the share class from the market value of the Fund's securities and other assets attributable to the share class. The Fund's "other assets" might include, for example, cash and interest or dividends from its portfolio securities that have been accrued but not yet collected. The Fund's securities are valued primarily on the basis of current market quotations.
The net asset value per share for each share class is determined by dividing the net assets of the class by the number of outstanding shares of that class.
Fair Value Pricing. If market quotations are not readily available or (in the Sub-Adviser's judgment) do not accurately reflect the fair value of a security, or if after the close of the principal market on which a security held by the Fund is traded and before the time as of which the Fund's net asset value is calculated that day, an event occurs that the Sub-Adviser learns of and believes in the exercise of its judgment will cause a material change in the value of that security from the closing price of the security on the principal market on which it is traded, that security may be valued by another method that the Board believes would more accurately reflect the security's fair value.
In determining whether current market prices are readily available and reliable, the Sub-Adviser monitors the information it receives in the ordinary course of its investment management responsibilities. It seeks to identify significant events that it believes, in good faith, will affect the market prices of the securities held by the Fund. Those may include events affecting specific issuers (for example, a halt in trading of the securities of an issuer on an exchange during the trading day) or events affecting securities markets (for example, a foreign securities market closes early because of a natural disaster).
The Board has adopted valuation procedures for the Fund and has delegated the day-to-day responsibility for fair value determinations to the Sub-Adviser's "Valuation Committee." Those determinations may include consideration of recent transactions in comparable securities, information relating to the specific security, developments in the markets and their performance, and current valuations of foreign or U.S. indices. Fair value determinations by the Sub-Adviser are subject to review, approval and ratification by the Board at its next scheduled meeting after the fair valuations are determined.
The Fund's use of fair value pricing procedures involves subjective judgments and it is possible that the fair value determined for a security may be materially different from the value that could be realized upon the sale of that security. Accordingly, there can be no assurance that the Fund could obtain the fair value assigned to a security if it were to sell the security at approximately the same time at which the Fund determines its net asset value per share.
Pricing Foreign Securities. The Fund may use fair value pricing more frequently for securities primarily traded on foreign exchanges. Because many foreign markets close hours before the Fund values its foreign portfolio holdings, significant events, including broad market movements, may occur during that time that could potentially affect the values of foreign securities held by the Fund.
The Sub-Adviser believes that foreign securities values may be affected by volatility that occurs in U.S. markets after the close of foreign securities markets. The Sub-Adviser's fair valuation procedures therefore include a procedure whereby foreign securities prices may be "fair valued" to take those factors into account.
Because some foreign securities trade in markets and on exchanges that operate on weekends and U.S. holidays, the values of some of the Fund's foreign investments may change on days when investors cannot buy or redeem Fund shares.
Pricing of the Subsidiary. The valuation procedures described above for the Fund are the same used in valuing the Subsidiary's portfolio investments and shares of the Subsidiary.
How Can You Buy Fund Shares? Shares of the Fund may be purchased only by separate investment accounts of participating insurance companies as an underlying investment for variable life insurance policies, variable annuity contracts or other investment products. Individual investors cannot buy shares of the Fund directly. Please refer to the accompanying prospectus of the participating insurance company for information on how to select the Fund as an investment option. That prospectus will indicate which share class you may be eligible to purchase.
Suspension of Share Offering. The offering of Fund shares may be suspended during any period in which the determination of net asset value is suspended, and may be suspended by the Board at any time the Board believes it is in the Fund's best interest to do so.
How Can You Redeem Fund Shares? Only the participating insurance companies that hold Fund shares in their separate accounts can place orders to redeem shares. Contract holders and policy holders should not directly contact the Fund or its transfer agent to request a redemption of Fund shares. The Fund normally sends payment by Federal Funds wire to the insurance company's account on the next business day after the Fund receives the order (and no later than seven days after the Fund's receipt of the order). Under unusual circumstances determined by the Securities and Exchange Commission, payment may be delayed or suspended. Contract owners should refer to the withdrawal or surrender instructions in the accompanying prospectus of the participating insurance company.
Redemptions "In-Kind." Shares may be "redeemed in-kind" under certain circumstances (such as redemptions of substantial amounts of shares by shareholders that have consented to such in kind redemptions). That means that the redemption proceeds will be paid to the participating insurance companies in securities from the Fund's portfolio. If the Fund redeems shares in-kind, the insurance company accounts may bear transaction costs and will bear market risks until such securities are converted into cash.
Redemption or transfer requests will not be honored until the Transfer Agent receives all required documents in proper form.
From time to time, the Transfer Agent, in its discretion, may waive certain of the requirements for redemptions stated in
this prospectus.
Limitations on Frequent Transactions
Frequent purchases and redemptions of Fund shares may interfere with the Sub-Adviser's ability to manage the Fund's investments efficiently, may increase its transaction and administrative costs and may affect its performance, depending on various factors, such as the size of the Fund, the nature of its investments, the amount of Fund assets the portfolio manager maintains in cash or cash equivalents, and the aggregate dollar amount, the number and the frequency of trades.
If large dollar amounts are involved in frequent redemption transactions, the Fund might be required to sell portfolio securities at unfavorable times to meet those transaction requests, and the Fund's brokerage or administrative expenses might be increased. Therefore, the Sub-Adviser and the Fund's Board have adopted the following policies and procedures to detect and prevent frequent and/or excessive purchase and redemption activity, while addressing the needs of investors who seek liquidity in their investment. There is no guarantee that those policies and procedures, described below, will be sufficient to identify and deter all excessive short-term trading. If the Transfer Agent is not able to detect and curtail such activity, frequent trading could occur in the Fund.
Policies on Disruptive Activity. The Transfer Agent and the Distributor, on behalf of the Fund, have entered into agreements with participating insurance companies designed to detect and restrict excessive short-term trading activity by contract or policy owners or their financial advisers in their accounts. The Transfer Agent generally does not consider periodic asset allocation or re-balancing that affects a portion of the Fund shares held in the account of a policy or contract owner to be "excessive trading." However, the Transfer Agent has advised participating insurance companies that it generally considers certain other types of trading activity to be "excessive," such as making a "transfer" out of the Fund within 30 days after buying Fund shares (by the sale of the recently purchased Fund shares and the purchase of shares of another fund) or making more than six "round-trip transfers" between funds during one year. The agreements require participating insurance companies to provide transaction information to the Fund and to execute Fund instructions to restrict trading in Fund shares.
A participating insurance company may also have its own policies and procedures and may impose its own restrictions or limitations to discourage short-term and/or excessive trading by its policy or contract owners. Those policies and procedures may be different from the Fund's in certain respects. You should refer to the prospectus for your insurance company variable annuity contract for specific information about the insurance company's policies. Under certain circumstances, policy or contract owners may be required to transmit purchase or redemption orders only by first class U.S. mail.
Monitoring the Policies. The Fund's policies and procedures for detecting and deterring frequent or excessive trading are administered by the Fund's Transfer Agent. However, the Transfer Agent presently does not have the ability to directly monitor trading activity in the accounts of policy or contract owners within the participating insurance companies' accounts. The Transfer Agent's ability to monitor and deter excessive short-term trading in such insurance company accounts ultimately depends on the capability and diligence of each participating insurance company, under their agreements with the Transfer Agent, the Distributor and the Fund, in monitoring and controlling the trading activity of the policy or contract owners in the insurance company's accounts.
The Transfer Agent will attempt to monitor the net effect on the Fund's assets from the purchase and redemption activity in the accounts of participating insurance companies and will seek to identify patterns that may suggest excessive trading by the contract or policy owners who invest in the insurance company's accounts. If the Transfer Agent believes it has observed evidence of possible excessive trading activity, it will ask the participating insurance companies or other registered owners to provide information about the transaction activity of the contract or policy holders in their respective accounts, and to take appropriate action. In that case, the insurance company must confirm to the Transfer Agent that appropriate action has been taken to curtail the excessive trading activity.
The Transfer Agent will, subject to the limitations described in this section, limit or terminate the trading activity of any person, group or account that it believes would be excessive or disruptive. However, the Transfer Agent may not be able to detect or curtail all such trading activity in the Fund. The Transfer Agent will evaluate trading activity on a case by case basis and the limitations placed on trading may vary between accounts.
Right to Refuse Purchase Orders. The Fund's Distributor or Transfer Agent may, in their discretion, refuse any purchase order and are not obligated to provide notice before rejecting an order.
DISTRIBUTION AND SERVICE (12b-1) PLANS
Distribution and Service Plan for Service Shares. The Fund has adopted a Distribution and Service Plan for Service Shares to pay the Distributor for distribution related services, personal services and account maintenance for those shares. Under the Plan, the Fund pays the Distributor quarterly at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the daily net assets of the Fund's Service Shares. Because these fees are paid out of the Fund's assets on an on-going basis, over time they will increase the operating expenses of the Service Shares and may cost you more than other types of fees or sales charges. As a result, the Service Shares may have lower performance compared to the Fund's shares that are not subject to a service fee.
Use of Plan Fees: The Distributor currently uses all of those fees to compensate sponsor(s) of the insurance product for providing personal services and account maintenance for variable contract owners that hold Service Shares.
Payments to Financial Intermediaries and Service Providers. The Sub-Adviser and the Distributor, in their discretion, may also make payments for distribution and/or shareholder servicing activities to brokers, dealers and other financial intermediaries, including the insurance companies that offer the Fund as an investment option, or to service providers. Those payments are made out of the Sub-Adviser's and/or the Distributor's own resources and/or assets, including from the revenues or profits derived from the advisory fees the Sub-Adviser receives from the Fund. Those cash payments, which may be substantial, are paid to many firms having business relationships with the Sub-Adviser and Distributor and are in addition to any distribution fees, servicing fees, or transfer agency fees paid directly or indirectly by the Fund to those entities. Payments by the Sub-Adviser or Distributor from their own resources are not reflected in the tables in the "Fees and Expenses of the Fund" section of this prospectus because they are not paid by the Fund.
The financial intermediaries that may receive those payments include firms that offer and sell Fund shares to their clients,
or provide shareholder services to the Fund, or both, and receive compensation for those activities. The financial intermediaries
that may receive payments include your securities broker, dealer or financial advisor, sponsors of fund "supermarkets," sponsors
of fee-based advisory or wrap fee programs, sponsors of college and retirement savings programs, banks, trust companies and
other intermediaries offering products that hold Fund shares, and insurance companies that offer variable annuity or variable
life insurance products.
In general, these payments to financial intermediaries can be categorized as "distribution-related" or "servicing" payments.
Payments for distribution-related expenses, such as marketing or promotional expenses, are often referred to as "revenue sharing."
Revenue sharing payments may be made on the basis of the sales of shares attributable to that intermediary, the average net
assets of the Fund and other Oppenheimer funds attributable to the accounts of that intermediary and its clients, negotiated
lump sum payments for distribution services provided, or similar fees. In some circumstances, revenue sharing payments may
create an incentive for a financial intermediary or its representatives to recommend or offer shares of the Fund or other
Oppenheimer funds to its customers. These payments also may give an intermediary an incentive to cooperate with the Distributor's
marketing efforts. A revenue sharing payment may, for example, qualify the Fund for preferred status with the intermediary
receiving the payment or provide representatives of the Distributor with access to representatives of the intermediary's sales
force, in some cases on a preferential basis over funds of competitors. Additionally, as firm support, the Sub-Adviser or
Distributor may reimburse expenses related to educational seminars and "due diligence" or training meetings (to the extent
permitted by applicable laws or the rules of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority ("FINRA")) designed to increase sales
representatives' awareness about Oppenheimer funds, including travel and lodging expenditures. However, the Sub-Adviser does
not consider a financial intermediary's sale of shares of the Fund or other Oppenheimer funds when selecting brokers or dealers
to effect portfolio transactions for the funds.
Various factors are used to determine whether to make revenue sharing payments. Possible considerations include, without
limitation, the types of services provided by the intermediary, sales of Fund shares, the redemption rates on accounts of
clients of the intermediary or overall asset levels of Oppenheimer funds held for or by clients of the intermediary, the willingness
of the intermediary to allow the Distributor to provide educational and training support for the intermediary's sales personnel
relating to the Oppenheimer funds, the availability of the Oppenheimer funds on the intermediary's sales system, as well as
the overall quality of the services provided by the intermediary and the Sub-Adviser or Distributor's relationship with the
intermediary. The Sub-Adviser and Distributor have adopted guidelines for assessing and implementing each prospective revenue
sharing arrangement. To the extent that financial intermediaries receiving distribution-related payments from the Sub-Adviser
or Distributor sell more shares of the Oppenheimer funds or retain more shares of the funds in their client accounts, the
Sub-Adviser and Distributor benefit from the incremental management and other fees they receive with respect to those assets.
Payments may also be made by the Sub-Adviser, the Distributor or the Transfer Agent to financial intermediaries to compensate
or reimburse them for administrative or other client services provided, such as sub-transfer agency services for shareholders
or retirement plan participants, omnibus accounting or sub-accounting, participation in networking arrangements, account set-up,
recordkeeping and other shareholder services. Payments may also be made for administrative services related to the distribution
of Fund shares through the intermediary. Firms that may receive servicing fees include retirement plan administrators, qualified
tuition program sponsors, banks and trust companies, and insurance companies that offer variable annuity or variable life
insurance products, and others. These fees may be used by the service provider to offset or reduce fees that would otherwise
be paid directly to them by certain account holders, such as retirement plans.
The Statement of Additional Information contains more information about revenue sharing and service payments made by the
Sub-Adviser or the Distributor. Your broker, dealer or other financial intermediary may charge you fees or commissions in
addition to those disclosed in this prospectus. You should ask your financial intermediary for details about any such payments it receives from the Sub-Adviser or the Distributor
and their affiliates, or any other fees or expenses it charges.
Dividends, Capital Gains and Taxes
DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS. The Fund intends to declare and pay dividends annually from any net investment income. The Fund may also realize capital gains on the sale of portfolio securities, in which case it may make distributions out of any net short-term or long-term capital gains annually. The Fund may also make supplemental distributions of dividends and capital gains following the end of its fiscal year. The Fund has no fixed dividend rate and cannot guarantee that it will pay any dividends or capital gains distributions in a particular year.
Dividends and distributions are paid separately for each share class. Because of the higher expenses on Service Shares, the
dividends and capital gains distributions paid on those shares will generally be lower than for other Fund shares.
Receiving Dividends and Distributions. Any dividends and capital gains distributions will be automatically reinvested in additional Fund shares for the account of the participating insurance company, unless the insurance company elects to have dividends or distributions paid in cash.
TAXES. For a discussion of the tax status of a variable annuity contract, a variable life insurance policy or other investment product of a participating insurance company, please refer to the accompanying variable contract prospectus of your participating insurance company. Because shares of the Fund may be purchased only through insurance company separate accounts for variable annuity contracts, variable life insurance policies or other investment products, any dividends from net investment income and distributions of net realized short-term and long-term capital gains will be taxable, if at all, to the participating insurance company. However, those payments may affect the tax basis of certain types of distributions from those accounts.
The Fund has qualified and intends to qualify each year to be taxed as a regulated investment company under the Internal Revenue Code by satisfying certain income, asset diversification and income distribution requirements, but reserves the right not to so qualify. In each year that it qualifies as a regulated investment company, the Fund will not be subject to federal income taxes on its income that it distributes to shareholders.
This information is only a summary of certain Federal income tax information about your investment. You are encouraged to consult your tax adviser about the effect of an investment in the Fund on your particular tax situation and about any changes to the Internal Revenue Code that may occur from time to time. Additional information about the tax effects of investing in the Fund is contained in the Statement of Additional Information.
Financial information for the Fund is not provided because prior to the date of this prospectus the Fund had not commenced operations.
STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION. This document includes additional information about the Fund's investment policies, risks, and operations. It is incorporated
by reference into this prospectus (it is legally part of this prospectus).
ANNUAL AND SEMI-ANNUAL REPORTS. The Fund's Annual and Semi-Annual Reports will provide additional information about the Fund's investments and performance.
The Annual Report will include a discussion of market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the
Fund's performance during its last fiscal year.
You can request the above documents, the notice explaining the Fund's privacy policy, and other information about the Fund, without charge, by:
Telephone: |
Call OppenheimerFunds Services toll-free: 1.800.988.8287 |
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Mail: |
Use the following address for regular mail: |
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Use the following address for courier or express mail: |
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Internet: |
You can read or download the Fund's Statement of Additional Information, Annual and Semi-Annual Reports on the OppenheimerFunds website at: www.oppenheimerfunds.com |
Information about the Fund including the Statement of Additional Information can 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 the SEC at 1.202.551.8090. Reports and other information about the Fund are available on the EDGAR database on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov. Copies may be obtained after payment of a duplicating fee by electronic request at the SEC's e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing to the SEC's Public Reference Section, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520.
No one has been authorized to provide any information about the Fund or to make any representations about the Fund other than what is contained in this prospectus. This prospectus is not an offer to sell shares of the Fund, nor a solicitation of an offer to buy shares of the Fund, to any person in any state or other jurisdiction where it is unlawful to make such an offer.
Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds
November __, 2013
Statement of Additional Information
This document contains additional information about the Funds and the Trust, and supplements information in the Funds' Prospectuses dated April 30, 2013 with respect to each Fund except Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA, and supplements information in Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA prospectus dated November __, 2013. This Statement of Additional Information ("SAI") is not a prospectus. It should be read together with the Funds' Prospectuses and the Prospectus for the insurance products you have selected. The Funds' financial statements are incorporated by reference into this SAI from each Fund's most recent Annual Report. Shares of the Funds are sold to provide benefits under variable life insurance policies and variable annuity contracts and other insurance company separate accounts, as described in the Prospectuses for the Funds and for the insurance products you have selected.
This SAI and the Funds' Prospectuses can also be viewed or downloaded online at the OppenheimerFunds internet website at www.oppenheimerfunds.com. They may also be obtained by writing to OppenheimerFunds Services, at P.O. Box 5270, Denver, Colorado 80217, or by calling OppenheimerFunds Services at the toll-free number shown below.
OPPENHEIMER VARIABLE ACCOUNT FUNDS (the "Trust") is an investment company consisting of 11 separate series (each a "Fund" or the "Funds"). Any reference to the term "Fund" or "Funds" throughout this SAI refers to each Fund named below, unless otherwise indicated.
Oppenheimer | Oppenheimer | Oppenheimer | |
Capital Appreciation Fund/VA | Capital Income Fund/VA* | Core Bond Fund/VA | |
Non-Service Shares | Non-Service Shares | Non-Service Shares | |
Service Shares | Service Shares | Service Shares | |
Oppenheimer | Oppenheimer | Oppenheimer | |
Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA* | Equity Income Fund/VA* | Global Fund/VA* | |
Non-Service Shares | Non-Service Shares | Non-Service Shares | Class 3 Shares |
Service Shares | Service Shares | Service Shares | Class 4 Shares |
Oppenheimer | Oppenheimer | Oppenheimer | |
Global Strategic Income Fund/VA | Main Street Fund®/VA | Main Street Small Cap Fund®/VA* | |
Non-Service Shares | Non-Service Shares | Non-Service Shares | |
Service Shares | Service Shares | Service Shares | |
Oppenheimer | Oppenheimer | ||
Money Fund/VA | Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA | ||
Non-Service Shares | Non-Service Shares | ||
Service Shares |
THE INFORMATION IN THIS STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION IS NOT COMPLETE AND MAY BE CHANGED. SHARES OF THE OPPENHEIMER DIVERSIFIED ALTERNATIVES FUND/VA (THE “FUND”) MAY NOT BE SOLD UNTIL THE REGISTRATION STATEMENT FILED WITH THE SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION RELATING TO THE FUND IS EFFECTIVE. THIS STATEMENT OF ADDITIONAL INFORMATION IS NOT AN OFFER TO SELL THE FUND’S SECURITIES AND IS NOT SOLICITING AN OFFER TO BUY THE FUND’S SECURITIES IN ANY STATE WHERE THE OFFER OR SALE IS NOT PERMITTED.
* Prior to April 30, 2013, Oppenheimer Capital Income Fund/VA was named "Oppenheimer Balanced Fund/VA;" Oppenheimer Equity Income Fund/VA was named "Oppenheimer Value Fund/VA;" Oppenheimer Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA was named "Oppenheimer Small- & Mid-Cap Growth Fund/VA;" Oppenheimer Global Fund/VA was named "Oppenheimer Global Securities Fund/VA;" and Oppenheimer Main Street Small Cap Fund®/VA was named "Oppenheimer Main Street Small- & Mid-Cap Fund®/VA."
6803 South Tucson Way, Centennial, Colorado 80112-3924
1.800.988.8287
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Summary Prospectus |
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To Capital Appreciation Fund/VA |
https://www.oppenheimerfunds.com/fund/investors/documents/summaryprospectus/00610 |
To Capital Income Fund/VA |
https://www.oppenheimerfunds.com/fund/investors/documents/summaryprospectus/00670 |
To Core Bond Fund/VA |
https://www.oppenheimerfunds.com/fund/investors/documents/summaryprospectus/00630 |
To Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA |
https://www.oppenheimerfunds.com/fund/investors/documents/summaryprospectus/00620 |
To Equity Income Fund/VA |
https://www.oppenheimerfunds.com/fund/investors/documents/summaryprospectus/00642 |
To Global Fund/VA |
https://www.oppenheimerfunds.com/fund/investors/documents/summaryprospectus/00485 |
To Global Strategic Income Fund/VA |
https://www.oppenheimerfunds.com/fund/investors/documents/summaryprospectus/00265 |
To Main Street Fund/VA |
https://www.oppenheimerfunds.com/fund/investors/documents/summaryprospectus/00650 |
To Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA |
https://www.oppenheimerfunds.com/fund/investors/documents/summaryprospectus/00297 |
To Money Fund/VA |
https://www.oppenheimerfunds.com/fund/investors/documents/summaryprospectus/00660 |
To Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA |
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Additional Information About the Funds' Investment Policies and Risks
OFI Global Asset Management, Inc. ("OFI Global"), the Funds' investment adviser, has retained OppenheimerFunds, Inc. (the "Sub-Adviser") to choose the Funds' investments and provide related advisory services to the Funds. The portfolio managers, who are responsible for the day-to-day management of the Funds' portfolios, are employed by the Sub-Adviser unless indicated otherwise. In this Statement of Additional Information ("SAI"), references to the "Manager" mean OFI Global and the Sub-Adviser unless the context indicates otherwise or unless otherwise specified.
The investment objective, the principal investment policies and the main risks of the Funds are described in their Prospectuses. This SAI contains supplemental information about those policies and risks and the types of securities that the Funds' Sub-Adviser can select for the Funds. Additional information is also provided about the strategies that the Funds may use to try to achieve their objectives.
The composition of the Funds' portfolios and the techniques and strategies that the Funds use in selecting portfolio securities will vary over time. The Funds are not required to use all of the investment techniques and strategies described below in seeking their objectives. They may use some of the investment techniques and strategies only at some times or they may not use them at all.
The Funds' Main Investment Policies
In selecting securities for the Funds' portfolios, the Sub-Adviser and Sub-Sub-Advisers, where applicable, evaluate the merits of particular securities primarily through the exercise of their own investment analysis. That process may include, among other things:
The Funds are categorized by the types of investments they make. Capital Appreciation Fund/VA, Global Fund/VA, Main Street Small Cap Fund®/VA, Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund Fund/VA, Main Street Fund®/VA and Equity Income Fund/VA can be categorized as "Equity Funds." Core Bond Fund/VA and Global Strategic Income Fund/VA can be categorized as "Fixed Income Funds." Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA can be categorized as an "alternative" fund because it invests across a variety of alternative asset classes, including both equity and fixed income securities within those asset classes, subject to the allocations determined from time to time by the Sub-Adviser. Capital Income Fund/VA shares the investment characteristics (and certain of the investment policies) of both the Equity Funds and the Fixed Income Funds, depending upon the allocations determined from time to time by their respective portfolio managers. In general, the discussion of particular investments and strategies below indicates which Funds can use that investment or technique as part of their investment program. For example, some investments can be held by only some of the Funds and some can be held by all. Please refer to the prospectus of a particular Fund for an explanation of its principal investment policies and risks. The allocation of Main Street Fund®/VA's portfolio to equity securities is generally substantially larger than its allocation to fixed-income securities. Money Fund/VA's investment policies are explained separately; however, discussion below about investment restrictions, repurchase agreements and illiquid securities also apply to Money Fund/VA.
Fund |
Investment Category |
Oppenheimer Capital Appreciation Fund/VA |
Equity |
Oppenheimer Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA |
Equity |
Oppenheimer Equity Income Fund/VA |
Equity |
Oppenheimer Global Fund/VA |
Equity |
Oppenheimer Main Street Fund/VA |
Equity |
Oppenheimer Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA |
Equity |
Oppenheimer Core Bond Fund/VA |
Fixed-Income |
Oppenheimer Global Strategic Income Fund/VA |
Fixed-Income |
Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA |
Alternative |
Oppenheimer Money Fund/VA |
Money Market |
Oppenheimer Capital Income Fund/VA |
Other |
The full name of each Fund is shown above and on the cover page. The word "Oppenheimer" is omitted from these names in the rest of this document to conserve space.
Investments in Equity Securities. The Equity Funds focus their investments in equity securities, which include common stocks, preferred stocks, rights and warrants, and securities convertible into common stock. Certain equity securities may be selected not only for their appreciation possibilities but because they may provide dividend income. At times, a Fund may have substantial amounts of its assets invested in securities of issuers in one or more capitalization ranges, based upon the Sub-Adviser's use of its investment strategies and its judgment of where the best market opportunities are to seek a Fund's objective.
Small- and mid-cap companies may offer greater opportunities for capital appreciation than securities of larger, more established companies. However, those securities also involve greater risks than securities of larger companies. Securities of small- and mid- cap issuers may be subject to greater price volatility in general than securities of large-cap companies. Therefore, to the degree that a Fund has investments in smaller capitalization companies at times of market volatility, that Fund's share prices may fluctuate more. Main Street Small Cap Fund®/VA and Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA will invest primarily in securities of small- and mid-cap issuers, but, for the other Equity Funds those investments may be limited to the extent the Sub-Adviser believes that such investments would be inconsistent with the goal of preservation of principal.
While Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA and Capital Income Fund/VA do not primarily focus their investments in equity securities, they are expected to invest significantly in them.
Risks of Small- and Mid-Sized Companies. Small- and mid-sized companies may be either established or newer companies, including "unseasoned" companies that have been in operation for less than three years. While smaller companies might offer greater opportunities for gain than larger companies, they also may involve greater risk of loss. They may be more sensitive to changes in a company's earnings expectations and may experience more abrupt and erratic price movements. Smaller companies' securities often trade in lower volumes and in many instances, are traded over-the-counter or on a regional securities exchange, where the frequency and volume of trading is substantially less than is typical for securities of larger companies traded on national securities exchanges. Therefore, the securities of smaller companies may be subject to wider price fluctuations and it might be harder for the Fund to dispose of its holdings at an acceptable price when it wants to sell them. Small- and mid-sized companies may not have established markets for their products or services and may have fewer customers and product lines. They may have more limited access to financial resources and may not have the financial strength to sustain them through business downturns or adverse market conditions. Since small- and mid-sized companies typically reinvest a high proportion of their earnings in their business, they may not pay dividends for some time, particularly if they are newer companies. Smaller companies may have unseasoned management or less depth in management skill than larger, more established companies. They may be more reliant on the efforts of particular members of their management team and management changes may pose a greater risk to the success of the business. Securities of small, unseasoned companies may be particularly volatile, especially in the short term, and may have very limited liquidity. It may take a substantial period of time to realize a gain on an investment in a small- or mid-sized company, if any gain is realized at all.
Growth Investing. In selecting equity investments, the portfolio managers for the Equity Funds may from time to time use a growth investing style, a value investing style, or a combination of both. In using a growth approach, the portfolio managers seek securities of "growth" companies. Growth companies are those companies that the Sub-Adviser believes are entering into a growth cycle in their business, with the expectation that their stock will increase in value. They may be established companies, as well as, newer companies in the development stage. Growth companies may have a variety of characteristics that in the Sub-Adviser's view define them as "growth" issuers.
Growth companies may be generating or applying new technologies, new or improved distribution techniques or new services. They may own or develop natural resources. They may be companies that can benefit from changing consumer demands or lifestyles, or companies that have projected earnings in excess of the average for their sector or industry. In each case, they have prospects that the Sub-Adviser believes are favorable for the long term. The portfolio managers of the Funds look for growth companies with strong, capable management, sound financial and accounting policies, successful product development and marketing and other factors.
Value Investing.
In selecting equity investments, the portfolio managers for the Equity Funds in particular may from time to time use a value investing style. In using a value approach, the portfolio managers seek stock and other equity securities that appear to be temporarily undervalued, by various measures, such as price/earnings ratios, rather than seeking stocks of "growth" issuers. This approach is subject to change and might not necessarily be used in all cases. Value investing seeks stocks having prices that are low in relation to their real worth or future prospects, in the hope that a Fund will realize appreciation in the value of its holdings when other investors realize the intrinsic value of the stock.
Using value investing requires research as to the issuer's underlying financial condition and prospects. Some of the measures that can be used to identify these securities include, among others:
Convertible Securities. Convertible securities are debt securities that are convertible into an issuer's common stock. Convertible securities rank senior to common stock in a corporation's capital structure and therefore are subject to less risk than common stock in case of the issuer's bankruptcy or liquidation.
The value of a convertible security is a function of its "investment value" and its "conversion value." If the investment value exceeds the conversion value, the security will behave more like a debt security, and the security's price will likely increase when interest rates fall and decrease when interest rates rise. If the conversion value exceeds the investment value, the security will behave more like an equity security: it will likely sell at a premium over its conversion value, and its price will tend to fluctuate directly with the price of the underlying security.
While many convertible securities are a form of debt security, in some cases their conversion feature (allowing conversion into equity securities) causes the Sub-Adviser to regard them more as "equity equivalents." In those cases, the credit rating assigned to the security has less impact on the Sub-Adviser's investment decision than in the case of non-convertible fixed income securities. Convertible securities are subject to the credit risks and interest rate risks described below in "Investments in Bonds and Other Debt Securities."
To determine whether convertible securities should be regarded as "equity equivalents," the Sub-Adviser may examine the following factors:
Preferred Stocks. Preferred stocks are equity securities but have certain attributes of debt securities. Preferred stock, unlike common stock, has a stated dividend rate payable from the corporation's earnings. Preferred stock dividends may be cumulative or non-cumulative, participating, or auction rate. "Cumulative" dividend provisions require all or a portion of prior unpaid dividends to be paid before the issuer can pay dividends on common shares.
If interest rates rise, the fixed dividend on preferred stocks may be less attractive, causing the price of preferred stocks to decline. Preferred stock may have mandatory sinking fund provisions, as well as provisions for their call or redemption prior to maturity which can have a negative effect on their prices when interest rates decline. Preferred stock may be "participating" stock, which means that it may be entitled to a dividend exceeding the stated dividend in certain cases.
Preferred stocks are equity securities because they do not constitute a liability of the issuer and therefore do not offer the same degree of protection of capital as debt securities and may not offer the same degree of assurance of continued income as debt securities. The rights of preferred stock on distribution of a corporation's assets in the event of its liquidation are generally subordinate to the rights associated with a corporation's debt securities. Preferred stock generally has a preference over common stock on the distribution of a corporation's assets in the event of its liquidation.
Rights and Warrants. The Funds may invest in warrants or rights. Warrants basically are options to purchase equity securities at specific prices valid for a specific period of time. Their prices do not necessarily move parallel to the prices of the underlying securities. Rights are similar to warrants, but normally have a short duration and are distributed directly by the issuer to its shareholders. Rights and warrants have no voting rights, receive no dividends and have no rights with respect to the assets of the issuer.
Investing in Cyclical Opportunities. The Funds, particulalry Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA, might seek to take advantage of short-term market movements or events affecting particular issuers or industries by investing in companies that are sensitive to changes in the business cycle. For example, when the economy is expanding, companies in consumer durables and the technology sector might benefit. There is the risk that those securities might lose value if the business cycle becomes unfavorable to that issuer or industry or if the portfolio manager's expectations for favorable cyclical movement is not realized.
Investments in Bonds and Other Debt Securities. The Fixed Income Funds in particular, and Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA and Capital Income Fund/VA to a significant extent, can invest in bonds, debentures and other debt securities to seek current income as part of their investment objectives.
A Fund's debt investments can include investment-grade and non-investment-grade bonds (commonly referred to as "junk bonds"). Investment-grade bonds are bonds rated at least "Baa" by Moody's Investors Service, Inc. ("Moody's") or at least "BBB" by Standard & Poor's Rating Services ("S&P") or Fitch, Inc. ("Fitch") or that have comparable ratings by another nationally recognized rating organization. In making investments in debt securities, the Sub-Adviser may rely to some extent on the ratings of ratings organizations or it may use its own research to evaluate a security's credit-worthiness. If the securities that a Fund buys are unrated, to be considered part of a Fund's holdings of investment-grade securities, they must be judged by the Sub-Adviser to be of comparable quality to bonds rated as investment grade by a rating organization.
Credit Risk. Credit risk relates to the ability of the issuer of a debt security to meet interest and principal payment obligations as they become due. Some of the special credit risks of lower-grade securities are discussed in the Prospectus. There is a greater risk that the issuer may default on its obligation to pay interest or to repay principal than in the case of investment grade securities. The issuer's low creditworthiness may increase the potential for its insolvency. An overall decline in values in the high yield bond market is also more likely during a period of a general economic downturn. An economic downturn or an increase in interest rates could severely disrupt the market for high yield bonds, adversely affecting the values of outstanding bonds as well as the ability of issuers to pay interest or repay principal. In the case of foreign high yield bonds, these risks are in addition to the special risks of foreign investing discussed in the Prospectus and in this SAI.
Interest Rate Risk. Interest rate risk refers to the fluctuations in value of fixed-income securities resulting from the inverse relationship between price and yield. For example, an increase in general interest rates will tend to reduce the market value of already-issued fixed-income investments, and a decline in general interest rates will tend to increase their value. In addition, debt securities with longer maturities, which tend to have higher yields, are subject to potentially greater fluctuations in value from changes in interest rates than obligations with shorter maturities.
Fluctuations in the market value of fixed-income securities after the Funds buy them will not affect the interest income payable on those securities (unless the security pays interest at a variable rate pegged to interest rate changes). However, those price fluctuations will be reflected in the valuations of the securities, and therefore the Funds' net asset values will be affected by those fluctuations.
Prepayment Risk. Certain fixed-income securities (in particular mortgage-related securities) are subject to the risk of unanticipated prepayment. That is the risk that when interest rates fall, the issuer will repay the security prior to the security's expected maturity, or with respect to certain fixed-income securities, that borrowers will prepay the loans that underlie these securities more quickly than expected, thereby causing the issuer of the security to repay the principal prior to the security's expected maturity. The Fund may need to reinvest the proceeds at a lower interest rate, reducing its income. Securities subject to prepayment risk generally offer less potential for gains when prevailing interest rates fall. If the Fund buys those securities at a premium, accelerated prepayments on those securities could cause it to lose a portion of its principal investment represented by the premium. The impact of prepayments on the price of a security may be difficult to predict and may increase the security's price volatility. Interest-only and principal-only securities are especially sensitive to interest rate changes, which can affect not only their prices but can also change the income flows and prepayment assumptions about those investments.
Extension Risk. If interest rates rise rapidly, repayments of principal on certain debt securities may occur at a slower rate than expected and the expected maturity of those securities could lengthen as a result. Those securities generally have a greater potential for loss when prevailing interest rates rise, which could cause their value to fall sharply.
Event Risk . If an issuer of debt securities is the subject of a buyout, debt restructuring, merger or recapitalization that increases its debt load, it could interfere with its ability to make timely payments of interest and principal and cause the value of its debt securities to fall.
Special Risks of Lower-Grade Securities. Because lower-grade securities tend to offer higher yields than investment grade securities, a Fund may invest in lower grade securities if the Sub-Adviser is trying to achieve greater income (and, in some cases, the appreciation possibilities of lower-grade securities may be a reason they are selected for a Fund's portfolio). High-yield convertible debt securities might be selected as "equity substitutes," as described above but are subject to a Fund's limitation on its investment in debt securities as stated in the Prospectus.
As mentioned above, "lower-grade" debt securities are those rated below "investment grade," which means they have a rating lower than "Baa" by Moody's or lower than "BBB" by S&P or Fitch, Inc. or similar ratings by other nationally recognized rating organizations. If they are unrated, and are determined by the Sub-Adviser to be of comparable quality to debt securities rated below investment grade, they are included in the limitation on the percentage of a Fund's assets that can be invested in lower-grade securities.
While securities rated "Baa" by Moody's or "BBB" by Standard & Poor's or Fitch are investment-grade and are not regarded as junk bonds, those securities may be subject to special risks, and have some speculative characteristics. Definitions of the debt security ratings categories of Moody's, Standard & Poor's and Fitch are included in Appendix B to this SAI.
Floating Rate and Variable Rate Obligations. Some securities the Funds can purchase have variable or floating interest rates. Variable rates are adjusted at stated periodic intervals. Variable rate obligations can have a demand feature that allows the Funds to tender the obligation to the issuer or a third party prior to its maturity. The tender may be at par value plus accrued interest, according to the terms of the obligations.
The interest rate on a floating rate demand note is adjusted automatically according to a stated prevailing market rate, such as a bank's prime rate, the 91-day U.S. Treasury Bill rate, or some other standard. The instrument's rate is adjusted automatically each time the base rate is adjusted. The interest rate on a variable rate note is also based on a stated prevailing market rate but is adjusted automatically at specified intervals of not less than one year. Generally, the changes in the interest rate on such securities reduce the fluctuation in their market value. As interest rates decrease or increase, the potential for capital appreciation or depreciation is less than that for fixed-rate obligations of the same maturity. The Sub-Adviser may determine that an unrated floating rate or variable rate demand obligation meets the Funds' quality standards by reason of being backed by a letter of credit or guarantee issued by a bank that meets those quality standards.
Floating rate and variable rate demand notes that have a stated maturity in excess of one year may have features that permit the holder to recover the principal amount of the underlying security at specified intervals not exceeding one year and upon no more than 30 days' notice. The issuer of that type of note normally has a corresponding right in its discretion, after a given period, to prepay the outstanding principal amount of the note plus accrued interest. Generally, the issuer must provide a specified number of days' notice to the holder.
Asset-Backed Securities. Asset-backed securities are fractional interests in pools of assets, typically accounts receivable or consumer loans. They are issued by trusts or special-purpose corporations. They are similar to mortgage-backed securities, described below, and are backed by a pool of assets that consist of obligations of individual borrowers. The income from the pool is passed through to the holders of the asset-back security. The pools may offer a credit enhancement, such as a bank letter of credit, to try to reduce the risks that the underlying debtors will not pay their obligations when due. However, the enhancement, if any, might not be for the full par value of the security. If the enhancement is exhausted and any required payments of interest or repayments of principal are not made, that Fund could suffer losses on its investment or delays in receiving payment.
The value of an asset-backed security is affected by changes in the market's perception of the asset backing the security, the creditworthiness of the servicing agent for the loan pool, the originator of the loans, or the financial institution providing any credit enhancement, and is also affected if any credit enhancement has been exhausted. The risks of investing in asset-backed securities are ultimately related to payment of consumer loans by the individual borrowers. As a purchaser of an asset-backed security, a Fund would generally have no recourse to the entity that originated the loans in the event of default by a borrower. The underlying loans are subject to prepayments, which may shorten the weighted average life of asset-backed securities and may lower their return, in the same manner as in the case of mortgage-backed securities and CMOs, described below.
Mortgage-Related Securities. Mortgage-related securities (also referred to as mortgage-backed securities) are a form of fixed-income investment collateralized by pools of commercial or residential mortgages. Pools of mortgage loans are assembled as securities for sale to investors by government agencies or entities or by private issuers. These securities include collateralized mortgage obligations ("CMOs"), mortgage pass-through securities, stripped mortgage pass-through securities, interests in real estate mortgage investment conduits ("REMICs") and other real-estate related securities.
Mortgage-related securities that are issued or guaranteed by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. government have relatively little credit risk (depending on the nature of the issuer). Privately issued mortgage-related securities have some credit risk, as the underlying mortgage may not fully collateralize the obligation and full payment of them is not guaranteed. Both types of mortgage-related securities are subject to interest rate risks and prepayment risks, as described in the Prospectuses.
As with other debt securities, the prices of mortgage-related securities tend to move inversely to changes in interest rates. The Fixed Income Funds and Capital Income Fund/VA can buy mortgage-related securities that have interest rates that move inversely to changes in general interest rates, based on a multiple of a specific index. Although the value of a mortgage-related security may decline when interest rates rise, the converse is not always the case.
In periods of declining interest rates, mortgages are more likely to be prepaid. Therefore, a mortgage-related security's maturity can be shortened by unscheduled prepayments on the underlying mortgages. Therefore, it is not possible to predict accurately the security's yield. The principal that is returned earlier than expected may have to be reinvested in other investments having a lower yield than the prepaid security. Therefore, these securities may be less effective as a means of "locking in" attractive long-term interest rates, and they may have less potential for appreciation during periods of declining interest rates, than conventional bonds with comparable stated maturities.
Prepayment risks can lead to substantial fluctuations in the value of a mortgage-related security. In turn, this can affect the value of that Fund's shares. If a mortgage-related security has been purchased at a premium, all or part of the premium that Fund paid may be lost if there is a decline in the market value of the security, whether that results from interest rate changes or prepayments on the underlying mortgages. In the case of stripped mortgage-related securities, if they experience greater rates of prepayment than were anticipated, that Fund may fail to recoup its initial investment on the security.
During periods of rapidly rising interest rates, prepayments of mortgage-related securities may occur at slower than expected rates. Slower prepayments effectively may lengthen a mortgage-related security's expected maturity. Generally, that would cause the value of the security to fluctuate more widely in responses to changes in interest rates. If the prepayments on a Fund's mortgage-related securities were to decrease broadly, that Fund's effective duration, and therefore its sensitivity to interest rate changes, would increase. As with other debt securities, the values of mortgage-related securities may be affected by changes in the market's perception of the creditworthiness of the entity issuing the securities or guaranteeing them. Their values may also be affected by changes in government regulations and tax policies.
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations. CMOs are multi-class bonds that are backed by pools of mortgage loans or mortgage pass-through certificates. They may be collateralized by:
Each class of CMO, referred to as a "tranche," is issued at a specific coupon rate and has a stated maturity or final distribution date. Principal prepayments on the underlying mortgages may cause the CMO to be retired much earlier than the stated maturity or final distribution date. The principal and interest on the underlying mortgages may be allocated among the several classes of a series of a CMO in different ways. One or more trenches may have coupon rates that reset periodically at a specified increase over an index. These are floating rate CMOs, and typically have a cap on the coupon rate. Inverse floating rate CMOs have a coupon rate that moves in the reverse direction to an applicable index. The coupon rate on these CMOs will increase as general interest rates decrease. These are usually much more volatile than fixed rate CMOs or floating rate CMOs.
U.S. Government Securities. These are securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Treasury or other government agencies or federally-chartered corporate entities referred to as "instrumentalities." The obligations of U.S. government agencies or instrumentalities in which the Funds may invest may or may not be guaranteed or supported by the "full faith and credit" of the United States. "Full faith and credit," means generally that the taxing power of the U.S. government is pledged to the payment of interest and repayment of principal on a security. If a security is not backed by the full faith and credit of the United States, the owner of the security must look principally to the agency issuing the obligation for repayment. The owner might not be able to assert a claim against the United States if the issuing agency or instrumentality does not meet its commitment. The Funds will invest in securities of U.S. government agencies and instrumentalities only if the Sub-Adviser is satisfied that the credit risk with respect to the agency or instrumentality is minimal.
U.S. Treasury Obligations. These include Treasury bills (maturities of one year or less when issued), Treasury notes (maturities of one to 10 years), and Treasury bonds (maturities of more than 10 years). Treasury securities are backed by the full faith and credit of the United States as to timely payments of interest and repayments of principal. They also can include U.S. Treasury securities that have been "stripped" by a Federal Reserve Bank, zero-coupon U.S. Treasury securities described below, and Treasury Inflation-Protection Securities ("TIPS").
Treasury Inflation-Protection Securities. The Funds can buy these TIPS, which are designed to provide an investment vehicle that is not vulnerable to inflation. The interest rate paid by TIPS is fixed. The principal value rises or falls semi-annually based on changes in the published Consumer Price Index. If inflation occurs, the principal and interest payments on TIPS are adjusted to protect investors from inflationary loss. If deflation occurs, the principal and interest payments will be adjusted downward, although the principal will not fall below its face amount at maturity.
Obligations Issued or Guaranteed by U.S. Government Agencies or Instrumentalities. These include direct obligations and mortgage-related securities that have different levels of credit support from the government. Some are supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government, such as Government National Mortgage Association ("GNMA") pass-through mortgage certificates (called "Ginnie Maes"). Some are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury under certain circumstances, such as Federal National Mortgage Association bonds ("Fannie Maes"). Others are supported only by the credit of the entity that issued them, such as Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation ("FHLMC") obligations ("Freddie Macs").
U.S. Government Mortgage-Related Securities. The Funds can invest in a variety of mortgage-related securities that are issued by U.S. government agencies or instrumentalities, some of which are described below.
GNMA Certificates. The Government National Mortgage Association is a wholly-owned corporate instrumentality of the United States within the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. GNMA's principal programs involve its guarantees of privately-issued securities backed by pools of mortgages. Ginnie Maes are debt securities representing an interest in one mortgage or a pool of mortgages that are insured by the Federal Housing Administration ("FHA") or the Farmers Home Administration ("FMHA") or guaranteed by the Veterans Administration ("VA").
The Ginnie Maes in which the Funds invest are of the "fully modified pass-through" type. They provide that the registered holders of the Ginnie Maes will receive timely monthly payments of the pro-rata share of the scheduled principal payments on the underlying mortgages, whether or not those amounts are collected by the issuers. Amounts paid include, on a pro rata basis, any prepayment of principal of such mortgages and interest (net of servicing and other charges) on the aggregate unpaid principal balance of the Ginnie Maes, whether or not the interest on the underlying mortgages has been collected by the issuers.
The Ginnie Maes purchased by the Funds are guaranteed as to timely payment of principal and interest by GNMA. In giving that guaranty, GNMA expects that payments received by the issuers of Ginnie Maes on account of the mortgages backing the Ginnie Maes will be sufficient to make the required payments of principal of and interest on those Ginnie Maes. However, if those payments are insufficient, the guaranty agreements between the issuers of the Ginnie Maes and GNMA require the issuers to make advances sufficient for the payments. If the issuers fail to make those payments, GNMA will do so.
Under federal law, the full faith and credit of the United States is pledged to the payment of all amounts that may be required to be paid under any guaranty issued by GNMA as to such mortgage pools. An opinion of an Assistant Attorney General of the United States, dated December 9, 1969, states that such guaranties "constitute general obligations of the United States backed by its full faith and credit." GNMA is empowered to borrow from the United States Treasury to the extent necessary to make any payments of principal and interest required under those guaranties.
Ginnie Maes are backed by the aggregate indebtedness secured by the underlying FHA-insured, FMHA-insured or VA-guaranteed mortgages. Except to the extent of payments received by the issuers on account of such mortgages, Ginnie Maes do not constitute a liability of those issuers, nor do they evidence any recourse against those issuers. Recourse is solely against GNMA. Holders of Ginnie Maes (such as the Funds) have no security interest in or lien on the underlying mortgages.
Monthly payments of principal will be made, and additional prepayments of principal may be made, to the Funds with respect to the mortgages underlying the Ginnie Maes owned by the Funds. All of the mortgages in the pools relating to the Ginnie Maes in the Funds are subject to prepayment without any significant premium or penalty, at the option of the mortgagors. While the mortgages on one-to-four family dwellings underlying certain Ginnie Maes have a stated maturity of up to 30 years, it has been the experience of the mortgage industry that the average life of comparable mortgages, as a result of prepayments, refinancing and payments from foreclosures, is considerably less.
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (FHLMC) Certificates. FHLMC, a corporate instrumentality of the United States, issues FHLMC Certificates representing interests in mortgage loans. FHLMC guarantees to each registered holder of a FHLMC Certificate timely payment of the amounts representing a holder's proportionate share in:
The obligations of FHLMC under its guarantees are obligations solely of FHLMC and are not backed by the full faith and credit of the United States.
Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae) Certificates. Fannie Mae, a federally-chartered and privately-owned corporation, issues Fannie Mae Certificates which are backed by a pool of mortgage loans. Fannie Mae guarantees to each registered holder of a Fannie Mae Certificate that the holder will receive amounts representing the holder's proportionate interest in scheduled principal and interest payments, and any principal prepayments, on the mortgage loans in the pool represented by such Certificate, less servicing and guarantee fees, and the holder's proportionate interest in the full principal amount of any foreclosed or other liquidated mortgage loan. In each case the guarantee applies whether or not those amounts are actually received. The obligations of Fannie Mae under its guarantees are obligations solely of Fannie Mae and are not backed by the full faith and credit of the United States or any of its agencies or instrumentalities other than Fannie Mae.
Forward Rolls. The Funds can enter into "forward roll" transactions with respect to mortgage-related securities (also referred to as "mortgage dollar rolls"). In this type of transaction, a Fund sells a mortgage-related security to a buyer and simultaneously agrees to repurchase a similar security (the same type of security, and having the same coupon and maturity) at a later date at a set price. The securities that are repurchased will have the same interest rate as the securities that are sold, but typically will be collateralized by different pools of mortgages (with different prepayment histories) than the securities that have been sold. Proceeds from the sale are invested in short-term instruments, such as repurchase agreements. The income from those investments, plus the fees from the forward roll transaction, are expected to generate income to a Fund in excess of the yield on the securities that have been sold.
The Funds will only enter into "covered" rolls. To assure its future payment of the purchase price, the Funds will identify on its books liquid assets in an amount equal to the payment obligation under the roll.
These transactions have risks. During the period between the sale and the repurchase, the Fund will not be entitled to receive interest and principal payments on the securities that have been sold. It is possible that the market value of the securities the Fund sells may decline below the price at which the Fund is obligated to repurchase securities.
Zero-Coupon U.S. Government Securities. The Funds may buy zero-coupon U.S. government securities. These will typically be U.S. Treasury Notes and Bonds that have been stripped of their unmatured interest coupons, the coupons themselves, or certificates representing interests in those stripped debt obligations and coupons.
Zero-coupon securities do not make periodic interest payments and are sold at a deep discount from their face value at maturity. The buyer recognizes a rate of return determined by the gradual appreciation of the security, which is redeemed at face value on a specified maturity date. This discount depends on the time remaining until maturity, as well as prevailing interest rates, the liquidity of the security and the credit quality of the issuer. The discount typically decreases as the maturity date approaches.
Because zero-coupon securities pay no interest and compound semi-annually at the rate fixed at the time of their issuance, their value is generally more volatile than the value of other debt securities that pay interest. Their value may fall more dramatically than the value of interest-bearing securities when interest rates rise. When prevailing interest rates fall, zero-coupon securities tend to rise more rapidly in value because they have a fixed rate of return.
A Fund's investment in zero-coupon securities may cause that Fund to recognize income and make distributions to shareholders before it receives any cash payments on the zero-coupon investment. To generate cash to satisfy those distribution requirements, a Fund may have to sell portfolio securities that it otherwise might have continued to hold or to use cash flows from other sources such as the sale of Fund shares.
Commercial (Privately-Issued) Mortgage Related Securities. The Funds can invest in commercial mortgage-related securities issued by private entities. Generally these are multi-class debt or pass-through certificates secured by mortgage loans on commercial properties. They are subject to the credit risk of the issuer. These securities typically are structured to provide protection to investors in senior classes from possible losses on the underlying loans. They do so by having holders of subordinated classes take the first loss if there are defaults on the underlying loans. They may also be protected to some extent by guarantees, reserve funds or additional collateralization mechanisms.
Inflation-Indexed Debt Securities. Inflation-indexed bonds are fixed income securities whose principal value is periodically adjusted according to an identified rate of inflation. For example, the U.S. Treasury uses the Consumer Price Index as the inflation measure for Treasury Inflation-Protection Securities. If the index measuring inflation falls, the principal value of the inflation-indexed bonds will be adjusted downward, and consequently the interest payable on these securities (calculated with respect to smaller principal amounts) will be reduced. If the index measuring inflation rises, both the principal value and the interest payable (calculated with respect to a larger principal amounts) will increase. With respect to certain inflation-indexed bonds, instead of adjusting the bond's principal value, the inflation adjustment is reflected in the coupon payment. Because of this inflation adjustment feature, inflation-protected bonds typically have lower yields than conventional fixed-rate bonds with similar maturities.
Special Risks of Inflation-Indexed Debt Securities. If inflation declines, the principal amount or the interest rate of an inflation-indexed bond will be adjusted downward. This will result in reduced income and may result in a decline in the bond's price which could cause losses for the fund. Interest payments on inflation-protected debt securities can be unpredictable and will vary as the principal or interest rate is adjusted for inflation. Inflation-indexed bonds normally will decline in price when real interest rates rise which could cause losses for the fund. (A real interest rate is calculated by subtracting the inflation rate from a nominal interest rate).
Loan Participation Interests. The Fund may invest in loan participation interests, subject to the Fund's limitation on investments in illiquid investments. A participation interest is an undivided interest in a loan made by the issuing financial institution in the proportion that the buyer's participation interest bears to the total principal amount of the loan. The issuing financial institution may have no obligation to the Fund other than to pay the Fund the proportionate amount of the principal and interest payments it receives. The Fund may also buy interests in trusts and other entities that hold loan obligations.
Participation interests are primarily dependent upon the creditworthiness of the borrowing corporation, which is obligated to make payments of principal and interest on the loan. There is a risk that a borrower may have difficulty making payments. If a borrower fails to pay scheduled interest or principal payments, the Fund could experience a reduction in its income. The value of that participation interest might also decline, which could affect the net asset value of the Fund's shares. If the issuing financial institution fails to perform its obligations under the participation agreement, the Fund might incur costs and delays in realizing payment and suffer a loss of principal and/or interest. In some cases, these participation interests, whether held directly by the Fund or indirectly through an interest in a trust or other entity, may be partially "unfunded," meaning the Fund may be required to advance additional money on future dates.
Loan Assignments. Capital Income Fund/VA may also purchase a loan by assignment. When the Fund purchases a loan by assignment, it typically succeeds to whatever rights the assigning lender had under the loan agreement and becomes a "lender" under the loan agreement, which may provide that the Fund can enforce the terms of the agreement and may provide that the Fund may have rights with respect to any funds acquired by the borrower's other lenders. Subject to the terms of the loan agreement, the Fund may enforce compliance by the borrower with the terms of the loan agreement and may have rights with respect to any funds acquired by other lenders through set-off. When the Fund buys an assignment, it may be required to pay a fee, or forgo a portion of interest and fees payable to it, to the lender selling the assignment. In addition, the Fund may be required to pay a transfer fee to the lending agent. Occasionally, the assignor pays a fee to the assignee. If the Fund assigns a loan, it may be required to pass along to a buyer a portion of any fees that the Fund is entitled to. Loan assignments are subject to the Fund's limit on investing in illiquid securities and are also subject to credit risk.
Event-Linked Bonds. The Funds may invest in "event-linked" bonds. Event-linked bonds, which are sometimes referred to as "catastrophe" bonds, are fixed income securities for which the return of principal and payment of interest is contingent on the non-occurrence of a specific trigger event, such as a hurricane, earthquake, or other occurrence that leads to physical or economic loss. In some cases, the trigger event will not be deemed to have occurred unless the event is of a certain magnitude (based on scientific readings) or causes a certain measurable amount of loss to the issuer, a particular industry group or a reference index. If the trigger event occurs prior to maturity, a Fund may lose all or a portion of its principal and additional interest. The Funds may also invest in similar bonds where a Fund may lose all or a portion of its principal and additional interest if the mortality rate in a geographic area exceeds a stated threshold prior to maturity whether or not a particular catastrophic event has occurred.
Event-linked bonds may be issued by government agencies, insurance companies, reinsurers, and financial institutions, among other issuers, or special purpose vehicles associated with the foregoing. Often event-linked bonds provide for extensions of maturity in order to process and audit loss claims in those cases when a trigger event has occurred or is likely to have occurred. An extension of maturity may increase a bond's volatility.
Event-linked bonds may expose the Funds to certain other risks, including issuer default, adverse regulatory or jurisdictional interpretations, liquidity risk and adverse tax consequences. Lack of a liquid market may result in higher transaction costs and the possibility that a Fund may be forced to liquidate positions when it would not be advantageous to do so. Event-linked bonds are typically rated by one or more nationally recognized statistical rating organization and a Fund will only invest in event-linked bonds that meet the credit quality requirements for the Fund.
Exchange-Traded Notes. Exchange-traded notes are senior, unsecured, unsubordinated debt securities whose returns are linked to the performance of a particular market benchmark or strategy minus applicable fees. ETNs are traded on an exchange (e.g., the NYSE) during normal trading hours. However, investors can also hold the ETN until maturity. At maturity, the issuer pays to the investor a cash amount equal to the principal amount, subject to the day's market benchmark or strategy factor.
ETNs do not make periodic coupon payments or provide principal protection. ETNs are subject to credit risk, and the value of the ETN may drop due to a downgrade in the issuer's credit rating, despite the underlying market benchmark or strategy remaining unchanged. The value of an ETN may also be influenced by time to maturity, level of supply and demand for the ETN, volatility and lack of liquidity in underlying assets, changes in the applicable interest rates, changes in the issuer's credit rating and economic, legal, political or geographic events that affect the referenced underlying asset. When a Fund invests in ETNs, it will bear its proportionate share of any fees and expenses borne by the ETN. These fees and expenses generally reduce the return realized at maturity or upon redemption from an investment in an ETN; therefore, the value of the index underlying the ETN must increase significantly in order for an investor in an ETN to receive at least the principal amount of the investment at maturity or upon redemption. A Fund's decision to sell ETN holdings may be limited by the availability of a secondary market.
Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs). Certain of the Funds, particularly Diversified Alternaitves Fund/VA, Capital Income Fund/VA and Global Strategic Income Fund/VA, may invest in REITs. REITs are trusts that sell shares to investors and use the proceeds to invest in real estate. A REIT can focus on a particular project, such as a shopping center or apartment complex, or may buy many properties or properties located in a particular geographic region.
REITs are sometimes informally characterized as equity REITs, mortgage REITs and hybrid REITs. An equity REIT invests primarily in the fee ownership or leasehold ownership of land and buildings and derives its income primarily from rental income. An equity REIT may also realize capital gains (or losses) by selling real estate properties in its portfolio that have appreciated (or depreciated) in value. A mortgage REIT invests primarily in mortgages on real estate, which may secure construction, development or long-term loans. A mortgage REIT generally derives its income primarily from interest payments on the credit it has extended. A hybrid REIT combines the characteristics of equity REITs and mortgage REITs, generally by holding both ownership interests and mortgage interests in real estate.
To the extent that a REIT focuses on a particular project, sector of the real estate market or geographic region, its share price will be affected by economic and political events affecting that project, sector or geographic region. Property values may fall due to increasing vacancies or declining rents resulting from unanticipated economic, legal, cultural or technological developments. REIT prices also may drop because of the failure of borrowers to pay their loans, a dividend cut, a disruption to the real estate investment sales market, changes in federal or state taxation policies affecting REITs, and poor management.
Foreign Securities. The Equity Funds and the Fixed Income Funds may invest in foreign securities, and Global Fund/VA and Global Strategic Income Fund/VA expect to have substantial investments in foreign securities. These include equity securities issued by foreign companies and debt securities issued or guaranteed by foreign companies or governments, including supra-national entities. "Foreign securities" include equity and debt securities of companies organized under the laws of countries other than the United States and debt securities issued or guaranteed by governments other than the U.S. government or by foreign supra-national entities. They also include securities of companies (including those that are located in the U.S. or organized under U.S. law) that derive a significant portion of their revenue or profits from foreign businesses, investments or sales, or that have a significant portion of their assets abroad. They may be traded on foreign securities exchanges or in the foreign over-the-counter markets. Global Strategic Income Fund/VA has no limitation on the amount of foreign securities in which it may invest but will not concentrate 25% or more of its total assets in the securities of any one foreign government.
Securities of foreign issuers that are represented by American Depository Receipts or that are listed on a U.S. securities exchange or traded in the U.S. over-the-counter markets are not considered "foreign securities" for the purpose of a Fund's investment allocations, because they are not subject to many of the special considerations and risks, discussed below, that apply to foreign securities traded and held abroad.
Because the Funds may purchase securities denominated in foreign currencies, a change in the value of such foreign currency against the U.S. dollar will result in a change in the amount of income the Funds have available for distribution. Because a portion of the Funds' investment income may be received in foreign currencies, the Funds will be required to compute their income in U.S. dollars for distribution to shareholders, and therefore the Funds will absorb the cost of currency fluctuations. After the Funds have distributed income, subsequent foreign currency losses may result in the Funds' having distributed more income in a particular fiscal period than was available from investment income, which could result in a return of capital to shareholders.
Investing in foreign securities offers potential benefits not available from investing solely in securities of domestic issuers. They include the opportunity to invest in foreign issuers that appear to offer growth potential, or in foreign countries with economic policies or business cycles different from those of the U.S., or to reduce fluctuations in portfolio value by taking advantage of foreign stock markets that do not move in a manner parallel to U.S. markets. The Funds will hold foreign currency only in connection with the purchase or sale of foreign securities.
Foreign Debt Obligations. The debt obligations of foreign governments and entities may or may not be supported by the full faith and credit of the foreign government. The Fixed Income Funds may buy securities issued by certain supra-national entities, which include entities designated or supported by governments to promote economic reconstruction or development, international banking organizations and related government agencies. Examples are the International Bank for Reconstruction and Development (commonly called the "World Bank"), the Asian Development bank and the Inter-American Development Bank.
The governmental members of these supra-national entities are "stockholders" that typically make capital contributions and may be committed to make additional capital contributions if the entity is unable to repay its borrowings. A supra-national entity's lending activities may be limited to a percentage of its total capital, reserves and net income. There can be no assurance that the constituent foreign governments will continue to be able or willing to honor their capitalization commitments for those entities.
The Fixed Income Funds can invest in U.S. dollar-denominated "Brady Bonds." These foreign debt obligations may be fixed-rate par bonds or floating-rate discount bonds. They are generally collateralized in full as to repayment of principal at maturity by U.S. Treasury zero-coupon obligations that have the same maturity as the Brady Bonds. Brady Bonds can be viewed as having three or four valuation components: (i) the collateralized repayment of principal at final maturity; (ii) the collateralized interest payments; (iii) the uncollateralized interest payments; and (iv) any uncollateralized repayment of principal at maturity. Those uncollateralized amounts constitute what is called the "residual risk".
If there is a default on collateralized Brady Bonds resulting in acceleration of the payment obligations of the issuer, the zero-coupon U.S. Treasury securities held as collateral for the payment of principal will not be distributed to investors, nor will those obligations be sold to distribute the proceeds. The collateral will be held by the collateral agent to the scheduled maturity of the defaulted Brady Bonds. The defaulted bonds will continue to remain outstanding, and the face amount of the collateral will equal the principal payments which would have then been due on the Brady Bonds in the normal course. Because of the residual risk of Brady Bonds and the history of defaults with respect to commercial bank loans by public and private entities of countries issuing Brady Bonds, Brady Bonds are considered speculative investments.
Risks of Foreign Investing. Investments in foreign securities may offer special opportunities for investing but also present special additional risks and considerations not typically associated with investments in domestic securities. Some of these additional risks are:
In the past, U.S. government policies have discouraged certain investments abroad by U.S. investors, through taxation or other restrictions, and it is possible that such restrictions could be re-imposed.
Special Risks of Emerging Markets. Emerging and developing markets abroad may also offer special opportunities for growth investing but have greater risks than more developed foreign markets, such as those in Europe, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Japan. There may be even less liquidity in their securities markets, and settlements of purchases and sales of securities may be subject to additional delays. They are subject to greater risks of limitations on the repatriation of income and profits because of currency restrictions imposed by local governments. Those countries may also be subject to the risk of greater political and economic instability, which can greatly affect the volatility of prices of securities in those countries. The Sub-Adviser will consider these factors when evaluating securities in these markets.
Eurozone Investment Risks. The European Union (EU) is an economic and political union of most western European countries and a growing number of eastern European countries, each known as a member state. One of the key mandates of the EU is the establishment and administration of a common single market, consisting of, among other things, a single currency and a common trade policy. In order to pursue this goal, member states established the Economic and Monetary Union (EMU), which sets out different stages and commitments that member states need to follow to achieve greater economic and monetary policy coordination, including the adoption of a single currency, the euro. Many member states have adopted the euro as their currency and, as a result, are subject to the monetary policies of the European Central Bank (ECB).
The global economic crisis that began in 2008 has caused severe financial difficulties for many EU countries, pushing some EU countries to the brink of insolvency and causing others to experience recession, large public debt, restructuring of government debt, credit rating downgrades and an overall weakening of banking and financial sectors. Recovery from the crisis has been challenged by high unemployment and budget deficits as well as by weaknesses in sovereign debt issued by Greece, Spain, Portugal, the Republic of Ireland, Italy and other EU countries. The sovereign debt of several of these countries has been downgraded in 2012 and many remain subject to further downgrades, which may have a negative effect on European and non-European banks that have significant exposure to sovereign debt. Since 2010, several countries, including Greece, Italy, Spain, the Republic of Ireland and Portugal, agreed to multi-year bailout loans from the ECB, the International Monetary Fund, and other institutions. To address budget deficits and public debt concerns, a number of European countries have imposed strict austerity measures and comprehensive financial and labor market reforms. In the wake of the crisis, EU countries will need to make economic and political decisions in order to restore economies to sustainable growth. While a number of initiatives have been instituted to strengthen regulation and supervision of financial markets in the EU, greater regulation is expected but the exact nature and effect of this regulation is still unknown.
Some EU countries may continue to be dependent on assistance from the ECB, the International Monetary Fund, or other governments and institutions. Such assistance could depend on a country's implementation of reforms or attainment of a certain level of performance. Failure by one or more EU countries to reach those objectives or an insufficient level of assistance could result in a deeper or prolonged economic downturn, which could have a significant adverse effect on the value of investments in European countries. By adopting the euro, a member country relinquishes control of its own monetary policies. As a result, European countries are significantly affected by fiscal and monetary controls implemented by the EMU and may be limited to some degree from implementing their own economic policies. The euro may not fully reflect the strengths and weaknesses of the various economies that comprise the EMU and Europe generally.
Additionally, it is possible that EMU member countries could voluntarily abandon the euro or involuntarily be forced out of the euro, including by way of a partial or complete dissolution of the monetary union. The effects of such outcomes on the rest of the Eurozone and global markets as a whole are unpredictable, but are likely to be negative, including adversely impacted market values of Eurozone and various other securities and currencies, redenomination of certain securities into less valuable local currencies, and more volatile and illiquid markets. Under such circumstances, investments denominated in euros or replacement currencies may be difficult to value, the ability to operate an investment strategy in connection with euro-denominated securities may be significantly impaired and the value of euro-denominated investments may decline significantly and unpredictably.
Publicly Traded Partnerships; Master Limited Partnerships. Certain of the Funds, particularly Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA, Capital Income Fund/VA, Equity Income Fund/VA, Main Street Fund/VA, Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA, and Global Strategic Income Fund/VA, may invest in publicly traded limited partnerships such as master limited partnerships ("MLPs"). MLPs issue units that are registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC") and are freely tradable on a securities exchange or in the over-the-counter market. An MLP may have one or more general partners, who conduct the business, and one or more limited partners, who contribute capital. The general partner and partners are jointly and severally responsible for the liabilities of the MLP. A Fund invests as a limited partner, and normally would not be liable for the debts of an MLP beyond the amounts the Fund has contributed but it would not be shielded to the same extent that a shareholder of a corporation would be. In certain circumstances, creditors of an MLP would have the right to seek a return of capital that had been distributed to a limited partner. This right of an MLP's creditors would continue even after the Fund had sold its investment in the partnership. MLPs typically invest in real estate, oil and gas and equipment leasing assets, but they also finance entertainment, research and development, and other projects.
MLP Equity Securities. Equity securities issued by MLPs currently consist of common units, subordinated units and preferred units, as described more fully below.
MLP Common Units. The common units of many MLPs are listed and traded on U.S. securities exchanges, including the New York Stock Exchange, Inc. ("NYSE'') and the Nasdaq National Market System ("Nasdaq''). MLP common units can be purchased through open market transactions and underwritten offerings, but may also be acquired through direct placements and privately negotiated transactions. Holders of MLP common units typically have very limited control and voting rights. Holders of such common units are typically entitled to receive the minimum quarterly distribution ("MQD"), including arrearage rights, from the issuer. Generally, an MLP must pay (or set aside for payment) the MQD to holders of common units before any distributions may be paid to subordinated unit holders. In addition, incentive distributions are typically not paid to the general partner or managing member unless the quarterly distributions on the common units exceed specified threshold levels above the MQD. In the event of liquidation, common unit holders are intended to have a preference to the remaining assets of the issuer over holders of subordinated units. MLPs also issue different classes of common units that may have different voting, trading, and distribution rights.
MLP Subordinated Units. Subordinated units, which, like common units, represent limited partner or member interests, are not typically listed or traded on an exchange. Outstanding subordinated units may be purchased through negotiated transactions directly with holders of such units or newly issued subordinated units may be purchased directly from the issuer. Holders of such subordinated units are generally entitled to receive a distribution only after the MQD and any arrearages from prior quarters have been paid to holders of common units. Holders of subordinated units typically have the right to receive distributions before any incentive distributions are payable to the general partner or managing member. Subordinated units generally do not provide arrearage rights. Most MLP subordinated units are convertible into common units after the passage of a specified period of time or upon the achievement by the issuer of specified financial goals. MLPs also issue different classes of subordinated units that may have different voting, trading, and distribution rights.
MLP Convertible Subordinated Units. MLP convertible subordinated units are typically issued by MLPs to founders, corporate general partners of MLPs, entities that sell assets to the MLPs, and institutional investors. The purpose of the convertible subordinated units is to increase the likelihood that during the subordination period there will be available cash to be distributed to common unitholders. Subordinated units may be purchased in direct placements from such persons or other persons that may hold such units. MLP convertible subordinated units generally are not entitled to distributions until holders of common units have received specified MQD, plus any arrearages, and may receive less than common unitholders in distributions upon liquidation. Convertible subordinated unitholders generally are entitled to MQD prior to the payment of incentive distributions to the general partner, but are not entitled to arrearage rights. Therefore, MLP convertible subordinated units generally entail greater risk than MLP common units. They are generally convertible automatically into the senior common units of the same issuer at a one-to-one ratio upon the passage of time or the satisfaction of certain financial tests. Although the means by which convertible subordinated units convert into senior common units depend on a security's specific terms, MLP convertible subordinated units typically are exchanged for common shares. These units do not trade on a national exchange or OTC, and there is no active market for convertible subordinated units. The value of a convertible subordinated unit is a function of its worth if converted into the underlying common units. Convertible subordinated units generally have similar voting rights as do MLP common units. Distributions may be paid in cash or in-kind.
MLP Preferred Units. MLP preferred units are not typically listed or traded on an exchange. MLP preferred units can be purchased through negotiated transactions directly with MLPs, affiliates of MLPs and institutional holders of such units. Holders of MLP preferred units can be entitled to a wide range of voting and other rights, depending on the structure of each separate security.
MLP General Partner or Managing Member Interests. The general partner or managing member interest in MLPs is typically retained by the original sponsors of an MLP, such as its founders, corporate partners and entities that sell assets to the MLP. The holder of the general partner or managing member interest can be liable in certain circumstances for amounts greater than the amount of the holder's investment in the general partner or managing member. General partner or managing member interests often confer direct board participation rights in, and in many cases control over the operations of, the MLP. General partner or managing member interests can be privately held or owned by publicly traded entities. General partner or managing member interests receive cash distributions, typically in an amount of up to 2% of available cash, which is contractually defined in the partnership or limited liability company agreement. In addition, holders of general partner or managing member interests typically receive incentive distribution rights ("IDRs''), which provide them with an increasing share of the entity's aggregate cash distributions upon the payment of per common unit distributions that exceed specified threshold levels above the MQD. Due to the IDRs, general partners of MLPs have higher distribution growth prospects than their underlying MLPs, but quarterly incentive distribution payments would also decline at a greater rate than the decline rate in quarterly distributions to common and subordinated unit holders in the event of a reduction in the MLP's quarterly distribution. The ability of the limited partners or members to remove the general partner or managing member without cause is typically very limited. In addition, some MLPs permit the holder of IDRs to reset, under specified circumstances, the incentive distribution levels and receive compensation in exchange for the distribution rights given up in the reset.
MLP Debt Securities. Debt securities issued by MLPs may include those rated below investment grade or that are unrated but judged to be below investment grade by the Sub-Adviser at the time of purchase. A debt security of an MLP will be considered to be investment grade if it is rated as such by one of the rating organizations or, if unrated, are judged to be investment grade by the Sub-Adviser at the time of purchase. Investments in such securities may not offer the tax characteristics of equity securities of MLPs.
I-Shares. I-Shares represent an indirect ownership interest in an MLP and are issued by an MLP affiliate. The MLP affiliate uses the proceeds from the sale of I-Shares to purchase limited partnership interests in the MLP in the form of I-units. Thus, I-Shares represent an indirect interest in an MLP limited partnership interest. I-units have similar features as MLP common units in terms of voting rights, liquidation preference and distribution. I-Shares themselves have limited voting rights and are similar in that respect to MLP common units. I-Shares differ from MLP common units primarily in that instead of receiving cash distributions, holders of I-Shares will receive distributions of additional I-Shares in an amount equal to the cash distributions received by common unit holders. I-Shares are traded on the NYSE. Issuers of MLP I-Shares are treated as corporations and not partnerships for tax purposes. MLP affiliates also include publicly traded limited liability companies that own, directly or indirectly, general partner interests of MLPs.
Risks of Investing in MLPs. Investments in securities of MLPs involve risks that differ from an investment in common stock. Holders of units of MLPs have more limited control rights and limited rights to vote on matters affecting the MLP as compared to holders of stock of a corporation. For example, unit holders may not elect the general partner or the directors of the general partner and they have limited ability to remove an MLP's general partner. MLPs are controlled by their general partners, which may be subject to conflicts of interest. General partners typically have limited fiduciary duties to an MLP, which could allow a general partner to favor its own interests over the MLP's interests. General partners of MLPs often have limited call rights that may require unit holders to sell their common units at an undesirable time or price. MLPs may also issue additional common units without unit holder approval, which would dilute the interests of existing unit holders, including the Fund's ownership interest.
Neither the Fund nor its investment manager has control over the actions of underlying MLPs, particularly as to whether the MLPs can make distributions to its partners and on the tax character of those distributions. The amount of cash that each individual MLP can distribute to its partners will depend on the amount of cash it generates from operations, which will vary from quarter to quarter depending on factors affecting the particular business lines of the MLP. Available cash will also depend on the MLPs' level of operating costs (including incentive distributions to the general partner), level of capital expenditures, debt service requirements, acquisition costs (if any), fluctuations in working capital needs and other factors.
MLP common units, like other equity securities, can be affected by macroeconomic and other factors affecting the stock market in general, expectations of interest rates, investor sentiment towards an issuer or certain market sector, changes in a particular issuer's financial condition, or unfavorable or unanticipated poor performance of a particular issuer (in the case of MLPs, generally measured in terms of distributable cash flow). Prices of common units of individual MLPs, like the prices other equity securities, also can be affected by fundamentals unique to the partnership or company, including earnings power and coverage ratios.
Tax Risk of Master Limited Partnerships. MLPs do not pay U.S. federal income tax at the partnership level. Rather, each partner is allocated a share of the partnership's income, gains, losses, deductions and expenses. A change in current tax law, or a change in the underlying business mix of a given MLP, could result in an MLP being treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, which would result in such MLP being required to pay U.S. federal income tax on its taxable income plus any applicable state and local taxes. The classification of an MLP as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes would have the effect of reducing the amount of cash available for distribution by the MLP. Thus, if any of the MLPs owned by the Fund were treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, it could result in a reduction of the value of the Fund's investment.
The benefit the Fund is expected to derive from its investment in MLPs depends largely on the MLPs being treated as partnerships for federal income tax purposes. As a partnership, an MLP has no federal income tax liability at the entity level. If, as a result of a change in current law or a change in an MLP's underlying asset mix, an MLP were treated as a corporation for federal income tax purposes, the MLP would be obligated to pay federal income tax on its income at the corporate tax rate (currently at a maximum rate of 35%). If an MLP were classified as a corporation for federal income tax purposes, the amount of cash available for distribution would be reduced and part or all of the distributions the Fund receives might be taxed entirely as dividend income. Therefore, treatment of one or more MLPs as a corporation for federal income tax purposes could affect the Fund's investment in the MLP and would reduce the amount of cash available to pay or distribute to the Fund. As discussed under below, a Fund may also invest in MLPs that qualify as publicly traded partnerships treated as corporations for U.S. tax purposes.
The tax treatment of publicly traded partnerships could be subject to potential legislative, judicial or administrative changes and differing interpretations, possibly on a retroactive basis. For example, members of Congress are considering substantive changes to the existing federal income tax laws that affect certain publicly traded partnerships. Any modification to the federal income tax laws and interpretations thereof may or may not be applied retroactively. Specifically, federal income tax legislation has been proposed that would eliminate partnership tax treatment for certain publicly traded partnerships and re characterize certain types of income received from partnerships. Any such changes could negatively impact the value of an investment in MLPs and therefore the value of the Fund. In addition, federal tax incentives are widely used by oil, gas and coal companies. If those incentives were eliminated, or if new fees were imposed on certain energy producers, MLPs and other natural resources sector companies in which a Fund invests, and/or the natural resources sector generally, could be adversely affected.
A Fund will be a limited partner in the MLPs in which it invests. As a result, it will be allocated a pro rata share of income, gains, losses, deductions and expenses from those MLPs. Historically, a significant portion of income from such MLPs has been offset by tax deductions. The percentage of an MLP's income and gains which is offset by tax deductions and losses will fluctuate over time for various reasons. A significant slowdown in acquisition activity by MLPs held in a Fund's portfolio could result in a reduction of accelerated depreciation generated by new acquisitions, which may result in increased current income tax liability to the Fund.
A Fund currently may also invest in MLPs that may qualify to be taxed as corporations for United States federal tax purposes and that make distributions in additional shares rather than cash. Because these distributions of additional shares will be made proportionately to all owners of shares, the receipt of these additional shares will not be included in the gross income of an owner of shares for United States federal income tax purposes. When the Fund as an owner of the shares of such an MLP receives additional shares, it will be required to allocate its tax basis in its shares of the MLP equally between shares that the Fund already owns and the new additional shares received. Gain or loss recognized by the Fund as an owner of shares, on the sale or other disposition of a share will generally be taxable as capital gain or loss. As a regulated investment company, the Funds are required to derive at least 90% of its gross income for every taxable year from qualifying income. As an owner of shares of such an MLP, a Fund will not report on its United States federal income tax return any of such an MLP's items of income, gain, loss and deduction. Thus, ownership of shares by a Fund will not result in income which is not qualifying income to the fund that elects to qualify as a regulated investment company for federal tax purposes. Furthermore, any gain from the sale or other disposition of the shares of an MLP that a Fund owns, and the associated purchase rights, will qualify for purposes of that 90% test. Finally, shares, and the associated purchase rights, will constitute qualifying assets to mutual funds which also must own at least 50% qualifying assets at the end of each quarter.
Energy Infrastructure Industry MLPs. Certian of the Funds, paricularly Diversified Alternaitves Fund/VA, may invest in MLPs which are engaged in the: (i) gathering, transporting, processing, treating, terminalling, storing, refining, distributing, mining or marketing of natural gas, natural gas liquids, crude oil, refined products or coal, (ii) the acquisition, exploitation and development of crude oil, natural gas and natural gas liquids, (iii) processing, treating, and refining of natural gas liquids and crude oil, and (iv) owning, managing and transporting alternative energy infrastructure assets, including alternative fuels such as ethanol, hydrogen and biodiesel. These MLPs are subject to many of the risks associated with investments in the energy infrastructure companies, including the following:
Greenfield Projects. Greenfield projects are energy-related projects built by private joint ventures formed by energy infrastructure companies. Greenfield projects may include the creation of a new pipeline, processing plant or storage facility or other energy infrastructure asset that is integrated with the company's existing assets. Greenfield projects involve less investment risk than typical private equity financing arrangements. The primary risk involved with greenfield projects is execution risk or construction risk. Changing project requirements, elevated costs for labor and materials, and unexpected construction hurdles all can increase construction costs. Financing risk exists should changes in construction costs or financial markets occur. Regulatory risk exists should changes in regulation occur during construction or the necessary permits are not secured prior to beginning construction.
MLP Affiliates. The Funds, particularly Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA, may invest in the equity and debt securities issued by affiliates of MLPs, including the general partners or managing members of MLPs and companies that own MLP general partner interests and are energy infrastructure companies. Such issuers may be organized and/or taxed as corporations and therefore may not offer the advantageous tax characteristics of MLP units. A Fund may purchase such other MLP equity securities through market transactions, but may also do so through direct placements.
Portfolio Turnover. "Portfolio turnover" describes the rates at which the Funds traded their portfolio securities during their last fiscal year. For example, if a Fund sold all of its securities during the year, its portfolio turnover rate would have been 100%. The Funds' portfolio turnover rates will fluctuate from year to year, and any of the Funds may have portfolio turnover rates of more than 100% annually.
Increased portfolio turnover creates higher brokerage and transaction costs for a Fund, which may reduce its overall performance. Additionally, the realization of capital gains from selling portfolio securities may result in distributions of taxable long-term capital gains to shareholders, since a Fund will normally distribute all of its capital gains realized each year, to avoid excise taxes under the Code.
Other Investments and Investment Strategies
Other Investment Techniques and Strategies. In seeking their respective objectives, the Funds may from time to time use the types of investment strategies and investments described below. They are not required to use all of these strategies at all times, and at times may not use them.
Investing in Small, Unseasoned Companies. A Fund may invest in securities of small, unseasoned companies, subject to limits (if any) stated in that Fund's Prospectus. These are companies that have been in operation for less than three years, including the operations of any predecessors. Securities of these companies may be subject to volatility in their prices. They may have a limited trading market or no trading market, which may adversely affect a Fund's ability to value them or to dispose of them and can reduce the price that Fund might be able to obtain for them. Other investors that own a security issued by a small, unseasoned issuer for which there is limited liquidity might trade the security when a Fund is attempting to dispose of their holdings of that security. In that case, a Fund might receive a lower price for its holdings than might otherwise be obtained.
When-Issued and Delayed-Delivery Transactions. The Funds may invest in securities on a "when-issued" basis and may purchase or sell securities on a "delayed-delivery" or "forward commitment" basis. When-issued and delayed-delivery are terms that refer to securities whose terms and indenture are available and for which a market exists, but which are not available for immediate delivery.
When such transactions are negotiated, the price (which is generally expressed in yield terms) is fixed at the time the commitment is made. Delivery and payment for the securities take place at a later date. The securities are subject to change in value from market fluctuations during the period until settlement. The value at delivery may be less than the purchase price. For example, changes in interest rates in a direction other than that expected by the Sub-Adviser before settlement will affect the value of such securities and may cause a loss to the Funds. During the period between purchase and settlement, no payment is made by a Fund to the issuer and no interest accrues to that Fund from the investment until it receives the security at settlement. There is a risk of loss to a Fund if the value of the security changes prior to the settlement date, and there is the risk that the other party may not perform.
The Funds engage in when-issued transactions to secure what the Sub-Adviser considers to be an advantageous price and yield at the time of entering into the obligation. When a Fund enters into a when-issued or delayed-delivery transaction, it relies on the other party to complete the transaction. Its failure to do so may cause that Fund to lose the opportunity to obtain the security at a price and yield the Sub-Adviser considers to be advantageous.
When a Fund engages in when-issued and delayed-delivery transactions, it does so for the purpose of acquiring or selling securities consistent with its investment objective and policies for its portfolio or for delivery pursuant to options contracts it has entered into, and not for the purpose of investment leverage. Although a Fund will enter into delayed-delivery or when-issued purchase transactions to acquire securities, it may dispose of a commitment prior to settlement. If a Fund chooses to dispose of the right to acquire a when-issued security prior to its acquisition or to dispose of its right to delivery against a forward commitment, it may incur a gain or loss.
At the time a Fund makes the commitment to purchase or sell a security on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis, it records the transaction on its books and reflects the value of the security purchased in determining that Fund's net asset value. In a sale transaction, it records the proceeds to be received. That Fund will identify on its books liquid assets at least equal in value to the value of that Fund's purchase commitments until that Fund pays for the investment.
When-issued and delayed-delivery transactions can be used by the Funds as a defensive technique to hedge against anticipated changes in interest rates and prices. For instance, in periods of rising interest rates and falling prices, a Fund might sell securities in its portfolio on a forward commitment basis to attempt to limit its exposure to anticipated falling prices. In periods of falling interest rates and rising prices, a Fund might sell portfolio securities and purchase the same or similar securities on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis to obtain the benefit of currently higher cash yields.
Zero-Coupon Securities. The Fixed Income Funds and Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA may buy zero-coupon and delayed interest securities, and "stripped" securities of foreign government issuers, which may or may not be backed by the "full faith and credit" of the issuing foreign government, and of domestic and foreign corporations. The Fixed Income Funds and Capital Income Fund/VA may also buy zero-coupon and "stripped" U.S. government securities. Zero-coupon securities issued by foreign governments and by corporations will be subject to greater credit risks than U.S. government zero-coupon securities.
"Stripped" Mortgage-Related Securities. The Fixed Income Funds, Capital Income Fund/VA and Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA can invest in stripped mortgage-related securities that are created by segregating the cash flows from underlying mortgage loans or mortgage securities to create two or more new securities. Each has a specified percentage of the underlying security's principal or interest payments. These are a form of derivative investment.
Mortgage securities may be partially stripped so that each class receives some interest and some principal. However, they may be completely stripped. In that case all of the interest is distributed to holders of one type of security, known as an "interest-only" security, or "I/O," and all of the principal is distributed to holders of another type of security, known as a "principal-only" security or "P/O." Strips can be created for pass-through certificates or CMOs.
The yields to maturity of I/Os and P/Os are very sensitive to principal repayments (including prepayments) on the underlying mortgages. If the underlying mortgages experience greater than anticipated prepayments of principal, a Fund might not fully recoup its investment in an I/O based on those assets. If underlying mortgages experience less than anticipated prepayments of principal, the yield on the P/Os based on them could decline substantially.
Repurchase Agreements. The Funds may acquire securities subject to repurchase agreements. They may do so for liquidity purposes to meet anticipated redemptions of Funds shares, or pending the investment of the proceeds from sales of Funds shares, or pending the settlement of portfolio securities transactions, or for temporary defensive purposes, as described below.
In a repurchase transaction, a Fund buys a security from, and simultaneously resells it to, an approved institution for delivery on an agreed-upon future date. The resale price exceeds the purchase price by an amount that reflects an agreed-upon interest rate effective for the period during which the repurchase agreement is in effect. Approved institutions include U.S. commercial banks, U.S. branches of foreign banks, or broker-dealers that have been designated as primary dealers in government securities. They must meet credit requirements set by the Sub-Adviser from time to time.
The majority of these transactions run from day to day, and delivery pursuant to the resale typically occurs within one to five days of the purchase. Repurchase agreements having a maturity beyond seven days are subject to each Fund's limit on holding illiquid investments. No Fund will enter into a repurchase agreement that causes more than 15% of its net assets (for Money Fund/VA, 5% of its total assets) to be subject to repurchase agreements having a maturity beyond seven days. There is no limit on the amount of a Fund's net assets that may be subject to repurchase agreements having maturities of seven days or less.
Repurchase agreements, considered "loans" under the Investment Company Act, are collateralized by the underlying security. The Funds' repurchase agreements require that at all times while the repurchase agreements are in effect, the value of the collateral must equal or exceed the repurchase price to fully collateralize the repayment obligation. However, if the institution fails to pay the resale price on the delivery date, the Funds may incur costs in disposing of the collateral and may experience losses if there is any delay in its ability to do so. The Sub-Adviser will monitor the institution's creditworthiness to confirm that it is financially sound and will continuously monitor the collateral's value.
Pursuant to an Exemptive Order issued by the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "SEC"), the Funds, along with other affiliated entities managed by the Manager, may transfer uninvested cash balances into one or more joint repurchase accounts. These balances are invested in one or more repurchase agreements, secured by U.S. government securities. Securities that are collateral for repurchase agreements are financial assets subject to the Funds' entitlement orders through its securities account at its custodian bank until the agreements mature. Each joint repurchase arrangement requires that the market value of the collateral be sufficient to cover payments of interest and principal; however, in the event of default by the other party to the agreement, retention or sale of the collateral may be subject to legal proceedings.
Reverse Repurchase Agreements. The Funds may engage in reverse repurchase agreements. A reverse repurchase agreement is the sale of a debt obligation to a party for a specified price, with the simultaneous agreement to repurchase it from that party on a future date at a higher price. These transactions involve the risk that the market value of the securities sold under a reverse repurchase agreement could decline below the price that a Fund is required to repurchase them. A Fund will identify liquid assets on its books to cover its obligations under reverse repurchase agreements until payment is made to the other party.
Illiquid and Restricted Securities. Generally, an illiquid asset is an asset that cannot be sold or disposed of in the ordinary course of business within seven days at approximately the price at which it has been valued. Under the policies and procedures established by the Board, the Sub-Adviser determines the liquidity of portfolio investments. The Sub-Adviser monitors holdings of illiquid and restricted securities on an ongoing basis to determine whether to sell any holdings to maintain adequate liquidity. Among the types of illiquid securities are repurchase agreements maturing in more than seven days. Liquidity may dissipate at anytime and there can be no assurance that the Sub-Adviser's liquidity determinations will be correct or that a reduction in liquidity will not occur between the time such determination is made and an event prompting the Fund to sell a security.
Restricted securities acquired through private placements have contractual restrictions on their public resale that might limit the ability to value or to dispose of the securities and might lower the price that could be realized on a sale. To sell a restricted security that is not registered under applicable securities laws, the security might need to be registered. The expense of registering restricted securities may be negotiated with the issuer at the time of purchase. If the securities must be registered in order to be sold, a significant period may elapse between the time the decision is made to sell the security and the time the security is registered. There is a risk of downward price fluctuation during that period.
Limitations that apply to purchases of restricted securities do not limit purchases of restricted securities that are eligible for sale to qualified institutional buyers under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933, if those securities have been determined to be liquid by the Sub-Adviser under Board-approved guidelines. Those guidelines take into account the trading activity for the securities and the availability of reliable pricing information, among other factors. If there is a lack of trading interest in a particular Rule 144A security, holdings of that security may be considered to be illiquid.
Borrowing and Leverage. Each Fund, other than Money Fund/VA, has the ability to borrow from banks on an unsecured basis. Each Fund has undertaken to limit borrowing to 25% of the value of that Fund's net assets, which is further limited to 10% if borrowing is for a purpose other than to facilitate redemptions. Investing borrowed funds in portfolio securities is a speculative technique known as "leverage." A Fund cannot borrow money in excess of 33-1/3% of the value of that Fund's total assets. The Funds may borrow only from banks and/or affiliated investment companies. With respect to this fundamental policy, the Funds can borrow only if they maintain a 300% ratio of assets to borrowings at all times in the manner set forth in the Investment Company Act. Currently, under the Investment Company Act, a mutual fund may borrow only from banks (for other than emergency purposes) and only to the extent that the value of the Fund's assets, less its liabilities other than borrowings, is equal to at least 300% of all borrowings including the proposed borrowing, except that it may also borrow up to 5% of its total assets for temporary or emergency purposes from any lender. Under the Investment Company Act, there is a rebuttable presumption that a loan is temporary if it is repaid within 60 days and not extended or renewed.
When a Fund borrows, it segregates or identifies securities on its books equal to 300% of the amount borrowed to cover its obligation to repay the loan. If the value of the Fund's assets fail to meet this 300% asset coverage requirement, it will reduce its borrowings within three days to meet the requirement. To do so, the Fund might have to sell a portion of its investments at a disadvantageous time.
When a Fund invests borrowed money in portfolio securities, it is using a speculative investment technique known as "leverage." If the Fund does borrow, its expenses may be greater than comparable funds that do not borrow. The Fund will pay interest on loans, and that interest expense may raise the overall expenses of the Fund and reduce its returns. In the case of borrowing for leverage, the interest paid on a loan might be more (or less) than the yield on the securities purchased with the loan proceeds. Additionally, the use of leverage may make the Fund's share prices more sensitive to interest rate changes and thus might cause the Fund's net asset value per share to fluctuate more than that of funds that do not borrow.
Currently, the Funds do not contemplate using this technique in the next year but if they do so, it will not likely be to a substantial degree.
Bank Obligations. The Funds can buy time deposits, certificates of deposit and bankers' acceptances. They must be:
"Banks" include commercial banks, savings banks and savings and loan associations, which may or may not be members of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.
Commercial Paper. The Funds can invest in commercial paper if it is rated within the top three rating categories of S&P and Moody's or other rating organizations.
If the paper is not rated, it may be purchased if the Sub-Adviser determines that it is comparable to rated commercial paper in the top three rating categories of national rating organizations.
The Funds can buy commercial paper, including U.S. dollar-denominated securities of foreign branches of U.S. banks, issued by other entities if the commercial paper is guaranteed as to principal and interest by a bank, government or corporation whose certificates of deposit or commercial paper may otherwise be purchased by the Funds.
Variable Amount Master Demand Notes. Master demand notes are corporate obligations that permit the investment of fluctuating amounts by the Funds at varying rates of interest under direct arrangements between the Funds, as lender, and the borrower. They permit daily changes in the amounts borrowed. The Funds have the right to increase the amount under the note at any time up to the full amount provided by the note agreement, or to decrease the amount. The borrower may prepay up to the full amount of the note without penalty. These notes may or may not be backed by bank letters of credit.
Because these notes are direct lending arrangements between the lender and borrower, it is not expected that there will be a trading market for them. There is no secondary market for these notes, although they are redeemable (and thus are immediately repayable by the borrower) at principal amount, plus accrued interest, at any time. Accordingly, the Funds' right to redeem such notes is dependent upon the ability of the borrower to pay principal and interest on demand.
The Funds have no limitations on the type of issuer from whom these notes will be purchased. However, in connection with such purchases and on an ongoing basis, the Sub-Adviser will consider the earning power, cash flow and other liquidity ratios of the issuer, and its ability to pay principal and interest on demand, including a situation in which all holders of such notes made demand simultaneously. Investments in master demand notes are subject to the limitation on investments by the Funds in illiquid securities, described in the Prospectus. A description of the investment policies for Money Fund/VA is located below under the heading "Money Fund/VA Investment Policies."
Derivatives. The Funds can invest in a variety of derivative investments, including swaps, "structured" notes, convertible notes, options, forward contracts and futures contracts, to seek income or for hedging purposes. The use of derivatives requires special skills and knowledge of investment techniques that are different than what is required for normal portfolio management. If the Sub-Adviser uses a derivative instrument at the wrong time or judges market conditions incorrectly, the use of derivatives may reduce a Fund's return.
Although it is not obligated to do so, the Funds can use derivatives to hedge. To attempt to protect against declines in the market value of a Fund's portfolio, to permit a Fund to retain unrealized gains in the value of portfolio securities which have appreciated, or to facilitate selling securities for investment reasons, a Fund could:
The Funds can use hedging to establish a position in the securities market as a temporary substitute for purchasing particular securities. In that case a Fund would normally seek to purchase the securities and then terminate that hedging position. A Fund might also use this type of hedge to attempt to protect against the possibility that its portfolio securities would not be fully included in a rise in value of the market. To do so a Fund could:
A Fund's strategy of hedging with futures and options on futures will be incidental to that Fund's activities in the underlying cash market. The particular hedging strategies a Fund can use are described below. A Fund may employ new hedging strategies when they are developed, if those investment methods are consistent with that Fund's investment objectives and are permissible under applicable regulations governing that Fund.
"Structured" Notes. "Structured" notes are specially-designed derivative debt instruments. The terms of the instrument may be "structured" by the purchaser and the issuer of the note. Payments of principal or interest on these notes may be linked to the value of an index (such as a currency or securities index), one or more securities or a commodity or to the financial performance of one or more obligors. The value of these notes will normally rise or fall in response to the changes in the performance of the underlying security, index, commodity or obligors.
Structured notes are subject to interest rate risk and are also subject to credit risk with respect both to the issuer and, if applicable, to the underlying security or obligor. If the underlying investment or index does not perform as anticipated, the Funds might receive less interest than the stated coupon payment or receive less principal upon maturity of the structured note. The price of structured notes may be very volatile and they may have a limited trading market, making it difficult for the Funds to value them or sell them at an acceptable price. In some cases, the Funds may enter into agreements with an issuer of structured notes to purchase a minimum amount of these notes over time.
Swaps. The Funds may enter into swap agreements, including interest rate, total return, credit default and volatility swaps. Swap agreements are two-party contracts entered into primarily by institutional investors for a specified period of time typically ranging from a few weeks to more than one year. In a standard swap transaction, two parties agree to exchange the returns (or the difference between the returns) earned or realized on a particular asset, such as an equity or debt security, commodity or currency, or non-asset reference, such as an interest rate or index. The swapped returns are generally calculated with respect to a notional amount, that is, the return on a particular dollar amount invested in the underlying asset or reference. A Fund may enter into a swap agreement to, among other reasons, gain exposure to certain markets in the most economical way possible, protect against currency fluctuations, or reduce risk arising from ownership of a particular security or instrument. A Fund will identify liquid assets on that Fund's books (such as cash or U.S. government securities) to cover any amounts it could owe under swaps that exceed the amounts it is entitled to receive, and it will adjust that amount daily, as needed.
The Funds may enter into swap transactions with certain counterparties pursuant to master netting agreements. A master netting agreement provides that all swaps done between a Fund and that counterparty shall be regarded as parts of an integral agreement. If amounts are payable on a particular date in the same currency in respect of more than one swap transaction, the amount payable shall be the net amount. In addition, the master netting agreement may provide that if one party defaults generally or on any swap, the counterparty can terminate all outstanding swaps with that party.
The use of swap agreements by the Funds entails certain risks. The swaps market is generally unregulated. There is no central exchange or market for swap transactions and therefore they are less liquid investments than exchange-traded instruments and may be considered illiquid by a Fund. Swap agreements entail credit risk arising from the possibility that the counterparty will default. If the counterparty defaults, a Fund's loss will consist of the net amount of contractual payments that that Fund has not yet received. The Sub-Adviser will monitor the creditworthiness of counterparties to a Fund's swap transactions on an ongoing basis. A Fund's successful use of swap agreements is dependent upon the Sub-Adviser's ability to predict correctly whether certain types of investments are likely to produce greater returns than other investments. Swap agreements may effectively add leverage to a Fund's portfolio because that Fund would be subject to investment exposure on the notional amount of the swap.
If a Fund buys credit protection using a credit default swap and a credit event occurs, that Fund will deliver the defaulted bonds underlying the swap and the swap counterparty will pay the par amount of the bonds. Alternatively, the credit default swap may be cash settled where the seller of protection will pay the buyer of protection the difference between the par value and the market value of the defaulted bonds. If a Fund sells credit protection using a credit default swap and a credit event occurs, that Fund will pay the par amount of the defaulted bonds underlying the swap and the swap counterparty will deliver the bonds. If the swap is on a basket of securities, the notional amount of the swap is reduced by the par amount of the defaulted bonds, and the fixed payments are then made on the reduced notional amount.
Risks of credit default swaps include counterparty credit risk (if the counterparty fails to meet its obligations) and the risk that a Fund will not properly assess the cost of the instrument based on the lack of transparency in the market. If a Fund is selling credit protection, there is a risk that a credit event will occur and that the Fund will have to pay par value on defaulted bonds. If a Fund is buying credit protection, there is a risk that no credit event will occur and that Fund will receive no benefit for the premium paid. In addition, if a Fund is buying credit protection and a credit event does occur, there is a risk when that Fund does not own the underlying security, that Fund will have difficulty acquiring the bond on the open market and may receive adverse pricing.
Swap Options and Swap Forwards. The Funds also may enter into options on swaps as well as forwards on swaps. A swap option is a contract that gives a counterparty the right (but not the obligation) to enter into a new swap agreement or to shorten, extend, cancel, or otherwise modify an existing swap agreement on pre-designated terms. The Funds may write (sell) and purchase put and call swap options. A swap forward is an agreement to enter into a swap agreement at some point in the future, usually three to six months from the date of the contract.
The writer of the contract receives the premium and bears the risk of unfavorable changes in the preset rate on the underlying swap. The Funds generally will incur a greater risk when it writes a swap option than when it purchases a swap option. When a Fund purchases a swap option it risks losing only the amount of the premium it has paid if that Fund lets the option expire unexercised. When a Fund writes a swap option it will become obligated, upon exercise of the option by the counterparty, according to the terms of the underlying agreement.
Futures. The Funds can buy and sell futures contracts that relate to debt securities (these are referred to as "interest rate futures"), broadly-based securities indices ("stock index futures" and "bond index futures"), foreign currencies, commodities and an individual stock ("single stock futures").
A broadly-based stock index is used as the basis for trading stock index futures. They may in some cases be based on stocks of issuers in a particular industry or group of industries. A stock index assigns relative values to the securities included in the index and its value fluctuates in response to the changes in value of the underlying securities. A stock index cannot be purchased or sold directly. Bond index futures are similar contracts based on the future value of the basket of securities that comprise the index. These contracts obligate the seller to deliver, and the purchaser to take, cash to settle the futures transaction. There is no delivery made of the underlying securities to settle the futures obligation. Either party may also settle the transaction by entering into an offsetting contract.
An interest rate future obligates the seller to deliver (and the purchaser to take) cash or a specified type of debt security to settle the futures transaction. Either party could also enter into an offsetting contract to close out the position. Similarly, a single stock future obligates the seller to deliver (and the purchaser to take) cash or a specified equity security to settle the futures transaction. Either party could also enter into an offsetting contract to close out the position. Single stock futures trade on a very limited number of exchanges, with contracts typically not fungible among the exchanges.
The Funds can invest a portion of its assets in commodity futures contracts. Commodity futures may be based upon commodities within five main commodity groups: (1) energy, which includes crude oil, natural gas, gasoline and heating oil; (2) livestock, which includes cattle and hogs; (3) agriculture, which includes wheat, corn, soybeans, cotton, coffee, sugar and cocoa; (4) industrial metals, which includes aluminum, copper, lead, nickel, tin and zinc; and (5) precious metals, which includes gold, platinum and silver. The Funds may purchase and sell commodity futures contracts, options on futures contracts and options and futures on commodity indices with respect to these five main commodity groups and the individual commodities within each group, as well as other types of commodities.
No money is paid or received by the Funds on the purchase or sale of a future. Upon entering into a futures transaction, the Funds will be required to deposit an initial margin payment with the futures commission merchant (the "futures broker"). Initial margin payments will be deposited with the Funds' custodian bank in an account registered in the futures broker's name. However, the futures broker can gain access to that account only under specified conditions. As the future is marked to market (that is, its value on that Fund's books is changed) to reflect changes in its market value, subsequent margin payments, called variation margin, will be paid to or by the futures broker daily.
At any time prior to expiration of the future, the Funds may elect to close out its position by taking an opposite position, at which time a final determination of variation margin is made and any additional cash must be paid by or released to that Fund. Any loss or gain on the future is then realized by that Fund for tax purposes. All futures transactions (except forward contracts) are effected through a clearinghouse associated with the exchange on which the contracts are traded.
Put and Call Options. The Funds can buy and sell exchange-traded and over-the-counter put options ("puts") and call options ("calls"), including index options, securities options, currency options, commodities options and options on futures.
Writing Call Options. The Funds may write (that is, sell) calls. If a Fund sells a call option, it must be covered. That means a Fund must own the security subject to the call while the call is outstanding, or the call must be covered by segregating liquid assets to enable that Fund to satisfy its obligations if the call is exercised. There is no limit on the amount of a Fund's total assets that may be subject to covered calls that Fund writes.
When a Fund writes a call on a security, it receives cash (a premium). That Fund agrees to sell the underlying security to a purchaser of a corresponding call on the same security during the call period at a fixed exercise price regardless of market price changes during the call period. The call period is usually not more than nine months. The exercise price may differ from the market price of the underlying security. That Fund has the risk of loss that the price of the underlying security may decline during the call period. That risk may be offset to some extent by the premium that Fund receives. If the value of the investment does not rise above the call price, it is likely that the call will lapse without being exercised. In that case that Fund would keep the cash premium and the investment.
When a Fund writes a call on an index, it receives cash (a premium). If the buyer of the call exercises it, that Fund will pay an amount of cash equal to the difference between the closing price of the call and the exercise price, multiplied by a specific multiple that determines the total value of the call for each point of difference. If the value of the underlying investment does not rise above the call price, it is likely that the call will lapse without being exercised. In that case, that Fund would keep the cash premium.
A Fund's custodian bank, or a securities depository acting for the custodian, will act as that Fund's escrow agent, through the facilities of the Options Clearing Corporation ("OCC"), as to the investments on which that Fund has written calls traded on exchanges or as to other acceptable escrow securities. In that way, no margin will be required for such transactions. OCC will release the securities on the expiration of the option or when the Fund enters into a closing transaction.
When a Fund writes an over-the-counter ("OTC") option, it will enter into an arrangement with a primary U.S. government securities dealer which will establish a formula price at which that Fund will have the absolute right to repurchase that OTC option. The formula price will generally be based on a multiple of the premium received for the option, plus the amount by which the option is exercisable below the market price of the underlying security (i.e., the option is "in the money"). When that Fund writes an OTC option, it will treat as illiquid (for purposes of its restriction on holding illiquid securities) the market-to-market value of the underlying security, unless the option is subject to a buy-back agreement with the executing broker.
To terminate its obligation on a call it has written, a Fund may purchase a corresponding call in a "closing purchase transaction." That Fund will then realize a profit or loss, depending upon whether the net of the amount of the option transaction costs and the premium received on the call that Fund wrote is more or less than the price of the call that Fund purchases to close out the transaction. That Fund may realize a profit if the call expires unexercised, because that Fund will retain the underlying security and the premium it received when it wrote the call. If that Fund cannot effect a closing purchase transaction due to the lack of a market, it will have to hold the callable securities until the call expires or is exercised.
A Fund may also write calls on a futures contract without owning the futures contract or securities deliverable under the contract. To do so, at the time the call is written, that Fund must cover the call by segregating an equivalent dollar amount of liquid assets as identified in that Fund's books. That Fund will segregate additional liquid assets if the value of the segregated assets drops below 100% of the current value of the future. Because of this segregation requirement, in no circumstances would that Fund's receipt of an exercise notice as to that future require that Fund to deliver a futures contract. It would simply put that Fund in a short futures position, which is permitted by that Fund's hedging policies.
Writing Put Options. The Funds may write (that is, sell) put options. A put option on securities gives the purchaser the right to sell, and the writer the obligation to buy, the underlying investment at the exercise price during the option period. A put must be covered by segregated liquid assets.
If a Fund writes a put, the put must be covered by liquid assets identified in that Fund's books. The premium a Fund receives from writing a put represents a profit, as long as the price of the underlying investment remains equal to or above the exercise price. However, a Fund also assumes the obligation during the option period to buy the underlying investment from the buyer of the put at the exercise price, even if the value of the investment falls below the exercise price.
If a put a Fund has written expires unexercised, that Fund realizes a gain in the amount of the premium less the transaction costs incurred. If the put is exercised, that Fund must fulfill its obligation to purchase the underlying investment at the exercise price. That price will usually exceed the market value of the investment at that time. In that case, that Fund may incur a loss if it sells the underlying investment. That loss will be equal to the sum of the sale price of the underlying investment and the premium received minus the sum of the exercise price and any transaction costs that Fund incurred.
When writing a put option on a security, to secure its obligation to pay for the underlying security a Fund will deposit in escrow liquid assets with a value equal to or greater than the exercise price of the underlying securities. That Fund therefore forgoes the opportunity of investing the segregated assets or writing calls against those assets.
As long as a Fund's obligation as the put writer continues, it may be assigned an exercise notice by the broker-dealer through which the put was sold. That notice will require that Fund to take delivery of the underlying security and pay the exercise price. That Fund has no control over when it may be required to purchase the underlying security, since it may be assigned an exercise notice at any time prior to the termination of its obligation as the writer of the put. That obligation terminates upon expiration of the put. It may also terminate if, before it receives an exercise notice, that Fund effects a closing purchase transaction by purchasing a put of the same series as it sold. Once that Fund has been assigned an exercise notice, it cannot effect a closing purchase transaction.
A Fund may decide to effect a closing purchase transaction to realize a profit on an outstanding put option it has written or to prevent the underlying security from being put. Effecting a closing purchase transaction will also permit that Fund to write another put option on the security, or to sell the security and use the proceeds from the sale for other investments. That Fund will realize a profit or loss from a closing purchase transaction depending on whether the cost of the transaction is less or more than the premium received from writing the put option.
Purchasing Puts and Calls. The Funds may purchase call options. When a Fund buys a call (other than in a closing purchase transaction), it pays a premium. That Fund then has the right to buy the underlying investment from a seller of a corresponding call on the same investment during the call period at a fixed exercise price.
A Fund benefits only if it sells the call at a profit or if, during the call period, the market price of the underlying investment is above the sum of the call price plus the transaction costs and the premium paid for the call and that Fund exercises the call. If that Fund does not exercise the call or sell it (whether or not at a profit), the call will become worthless at its expiration date. In that case that Fund will have paid the premium but lost the right to purchase the underlying investment.
A Fund can buy puts whether or not it owns the underlying investment. When a Fund purchases a put, it pays a premium and, except as to puts on indices, has the right to sell the underlying investment to a seller of a put on a corresponding investment during the put period at a fixed exercise price.
Buying a put on an investment the Fund does not own (such as an index or a future) permits the Fund either to resell the put or to buy the underlying investment and sell it at the exercise price. The resale price will vary inversely to the price of the underlying investment. If the market price of the underlying investment is above the exercise price and, as a result, the put is not exercised, the put will become worthless on its expiration date.
Buying a put on securities or futures a Fund owns enables the Fund to attempt to protect itself during the put period against a decline in the value of the underlying investment below the exercise price by selling the underlying investment at the exercise price to a seller of a corresponding put. If the market price of the underlying investment is equal to or above the exercise price and, as a result, the put is not exercised or resold, the put will become worthless at its expiration date. In that case the Fund will have paid the premium but lost the right to sell the underlying investment. However, the Fund may sell the put prior to its expiration. That sale may or may not be at a profit.
When the Fund purchases a call or put on an index or future, it pays a premium, but settlement is in cash rather than by delivery of the underlying investment to the Fund. Gain or loss depends on changes in the index in question (and thus on price movements in the securities market generally) rather than on price movements in individual securities or futures contracts.
Buying and Selling Options on Foreign Currencies. The Funds can buy and sell exchange-traded and over-the-counter put options and call options on foreign currencies. A Fund could use these calls and puts to try to protect against declines in the dollar value of foreign securities and increases in the dollar cost of foreign securities the Fund wants to acquire.
If the Sub-Adviser anticipates a rise in the dollar value of a foreign currency in which securities to be acquired are denominated, the increased cost of those securities may be partially offset by purchasing calls or writing puts on that foreign currency. If the Sub-Adviser anticipates a decline in the dollar value of a foreign currency, the decline in the dollar value of portfolio securities denominated in that currency might be partially offset by writing calls or purchasing puts on that foreign currency. However, the currency rates could fluctuate in a direction adverse to a Fund's position. That Fund will then have incurred option premium payments and transaction costs without a corresponding benefit.
A call the Fund writes on a foreign currency is "covered" if the Fund owns the underlying foreign currency covered by the call or has an absolute and immediate right to acquire that foreign currency without additional cash consideration (or it can do so for additional cash consideration held in a segregated account by its custodian bank) upon conversion or exchange of other foreign currency held in its portfolio.
A Fund could write a call on a foreign currency to provide a hedge against a decline in the U.S. dollar value of a security which a Fund owns or has the right to acquire and which is denominated in the currency underlying the option. That decline might be one that occurs due to an expected adverse change in the exchange rate. This is known as a "cross-hedging" strategy. In those circumstances, that Fund covers the option by maintaining cash, U.S. government securities or other liquid, high grade debt securities in an amount equal to the exercise price of the option, in a segregated account with that Fund's custodian bank.
Risks of Hedging with Options and Futures. The use of hedging strategies requires special skills and knowledge of investment techniques that are different than what is required for normal portfolio management. If the Sub-Adviser uses a hedging strategy at the wrong time or judges market conditions incorrectly, hedging strategies may reduce a Fund's return. The Fund could also experience losses if the prices of its futures and options positions were not correlated with its other investments.
A Fund's option activities could affect its portfolio turnover rate and brokerage commissions. The exercise of calls written by a Fund might cause that Fund to sell related portfolio securities, thus increasing its turnover rate. The exercise by a Fund of puts on securities will cause the sale of underlying investments, increasing portfolio turnover. Although the decision whether to exercise a put it holds is within a Fund's control, holding a put might cause that Fund to sell the related investments for reasons that would not exist in the absence of the put.
A Fund could pay a brokerage commission each time it buys a call or put, sells a call or put, or buys or sells an underlying investment in connection with the exercise of a call or put. Those commissions could be higher on a relative basis than the commissions for direct purchases or sales of the underlying investments. Premiums paid for options are small in relation to the market value of the underlying investments. Consequently, put and call options offer large amounts of leverage. The leverage offered by trading in options could result in a Fund's net asset value being more sensitive to changes in the value of the underlying investment.
If a covered call written by a Fund is exercised on an investment that has increased in value, that Fund will be required to sell the investment at the call price. It will not be able to realize any profit if the investment has increased in value above the call price.
An option position may be closed out only on a market that provides secondary trading for options of the same series, and there is no assurance that a liquid secondary market will exist for any particular option. The Fund might experience losses if it could not close out a position because of an illiquid market for the future or option.
There is a risk in using short hedging by selling futures or purchasing puts on broadly-based indices or futures to attempt to protect against declines in the value of a Fund's portfolio securities. The risk is that the prices of the futures or the applicable index will correlate imperfectly with the behavior of the cash prices of a Fund's securities. For example, it is possible that while a Fund has used derivative instruments in a short hedge, the market may advance and the value of the securities held in that Fund's portfolio might decline. If that occurred, that Fund would lose money on the derivative instruments and also experience a decline in the value of its portfolio securities. However, while this could occur for a very brief period or to a very small degree, over time the value of a diversified portfolio of securities will tend to move in the same direction as the indices upon which the derivative instruments are based.
The risk of imperfect correlation increases as the composition of a Fund's portfolio diverges from the securities included in the applicable index. To compensate for the imperfect correlation of movements in the price of the portfolio securities being hedged and movements in the price of the hedging instruments, that Fund might use derivative instruments in a greater dollar amount than the dollar amount of portfolio securities being hedged. It might do so if the historical volatility of the prices of the portfolio securities being hedged is more than the historical volatility of the applicable index.
The ordinary spreads between prices in the cash and futures markets are subject to distortions, due to differences in the nature of those markets. First, all participants in the futures market are subject to margin deposit and maintenance requirements. Rather than meeting additional margin deposit requirements, investors may close futures contracts through offsetting transactions which could distort the normal relationship between the cash and futures markets. Second, the liquidity of the futures market depends on participants entering into offsetting transactions rather than making or taking delivery. To the extent participants decide to make or take delivery, liquidity in the futures market could be reduced, thus producing distortion. Third, from the point of view of speculators, the deposit requirements in the futures market are less onerous than margin requirements in the securities markets. Therefore, increased participation by speculators in the futures market may cause temporary price distortions.
The Fund can use derivative instruments to establish a position in the securities markets as a temporary substitute for the purchase of individual securities (long hedging) by buying futures and/or calls on such futures, broadly-based indices or on securities. It is possible that when the Fund does so the market might decline. If the Fund then concludes not to invest in securities because of concerns that the market might decline further or for other reasons, the Fund will realize a loss on the hedge position that is not offset by a reduction in the price of the securities purchased.
Forward Contracts. Forward contracts are foreign currency exchange contracts. They are used to buy or sell foreign currency for future delivery at a fixed price. The Funds can use them to "lock in" the U.S. dollar price of a security denominated in a foreign currency that the Fund has bought or sold, or to protect against possible losses from changes in the relative values of the U.S. dollar and a foreign currency. The Fund can also use "cross-hedging" where the Fund hedges against changes in currencies other than the currency in which a security it holds is denominated.
Under a forward contract, one party agrees to purchase, and another party agrees to sell, a specific currency at a future date. That date may be any fixed number of days from the date of the contract agreed upon by the parties. The transaction price is set at the time the contract is entered into. These contracts are traded in the inter-bank market conducted directly among currency traders (usually large commercial banks) and their customers.
The Fund may use forward contracts to protect against uncertainty in the level of future exchange rates. The use of forward contracts does not eliminate the risk of fluctuations in the prices of the underlying securities the Fund owns or intends to acquire, but it does fix a rate of exchange in advance. Although forward contracts may reduce the risk of loss from a decline in the value of the hedged currency, at the same time they limit any potential gain if the value of the hedged currency increases.
When the Fund enters into a contract for the purchase or sale of a security denominated in a foreign currency, or when it anticipates receiving dividend payments in a foreign currency, the Fund might desire to "lock-in" the U.S. dollar price of the security or the U.S. dollar equivalent of the dividend payments. To do so, the Fund could enter into a forward contract for the purchase or sale of the amount of foreign currency involved in the underlying transaction, in a fixed amount of U.S. dollars per unit of the foreign currency. This is called a "transaction hedge." The transaction hedge will protect the Fund against a loss from an adverse change in the currency exchange rates during the period between the date on which the security is purchased or sold or on which the payment is declared, and the date on which the payments are made or received.
The Fund could also use forward contracts to lock in the U.S. dollar value of portfolio positions. This is called a "position hedge." When the Fund believes that a foreign currency might suffer a substantial decline against the U.S. dollar, it could enter into a forward contract to sell an amount of that foreign currency approximating the value of some or all of a Fund's portfolio securities denominated in that foreign currency. When the Fund believes that the U.S. dollar might suffer a substantial decline against a foreign currency, it could enter into a forward contract to buy that foreign currency for a fixed dollar amount. Alternatively, the Fund could enter into a forward contract to sell a different foreign currency for a fixed U.S. dollar amount if the Fund believes that the U.S. dollar value of the foreign currency to be sold pursuant to its forward contract will fall whenever there is a decline in the U.S. dollar value of the currency in which portfolio securities of the Fund are denominated. That is referred to as a "cross hedge."
A Fund will cover its short positions in these cases by identifying on its books assets having a value equal to the aggregate amount of that Fund's commitment under forward contracts. A Fund will not enter into forward contracts or maintain a net exposure to such contracts if the consummation of the contracts would obligate that Fund to deliver an amount of foreign currency in excess of the value of that Fund's portfolio securities or other assets denominated in that currency or another currency that is the subject of the hedge.
However, to avoid excess transactions and transaction costs, a Fund may maintain a net exposure to forward contracts in excess of the value of that Fund's portfolio securities or other assets denominated in foreign currencies if the excess amount is "covered" by liquid securities denominated in any currency. The cover must be at least equal at all times to the amount of that excess. As one alternative, the Fund may purchase a call option permitting the Fund to purchase the amount of foreign currency being hedged by a forward sale contract at a price no higher than the forward contract price. As another alternative, the Fund may purchase a put option permitting the Fund to sell the amount of foreign currency subject to a forward purchase contract at a price as high or higher than the forward contact price.
The precise matching of the amounts under forward contracts and the value of the securities involved generally will not be possible because the future value of securities denominated in foreign currencies will change as a consequence of market movements between the date the forward contract is entered into and the date it is sold. In some cases the Sub-Adviser might decide to sell the security and deliver foreign currency to settle the original purchase obligation. If the market value of the security is less than the amount of foreign currency the Fund is obligated to deliver, the Fund might have to purchase additional foreign currency on the "spot" (that is, cash) market to settle the security trade. If the market value of the security instead exceeds the amount of foreign currency the Fund is obligated to deliver to settle the trade, the Fund might have to sell on the spot market some of the foreign currency received upon the sale of the security. There will be additional transaction costs on the spot market in those cases.
The projection of short-term currency market movements is extremely difficult, and the successful execution of a short-term hedging strategy is highly uncertain. Forward contracts involve the risk that anticipated currency movements will not be accurately predicted, causing the Fund to sustain losses on these contracts and to pay additional transactions costs. The use of forward contracts in this manner might reduce a Fund's performance if there are unanticipated changes in currency prices to a greater degree than if the Fund had not entered into such contracts.
At or before the maturity of a forward contract requiring a Fund to sell a currency, that Fund might sell a portfolio security and use the sale proceeds to make delivery of the currency. In the alternative a Fund might retain the security and offset its contractual obligation to deliver the currency by purchasing a second contract. Under that contract the Fund will obtain, on the same maturity date, the same amount of the currency that it is obligated to deliver. Similarly, a Fund might close out a forward contract requiring it to purchase a specified currency by entering into a second contract entitling it to sell the same amount of the same currency on the maturity date of the first contract. The Fund would realize a gain or loss as a result of entering into such an offsetting forward contract under either circumstance. The gain or loss will depend on the extent to which the exchange rate or rates between the currencies involved moved between the execution dates of the first contract and offsetting contract.
The costs to the Fund of engaging in forward contracts varies with factors such as the currencies involved, the length of the contract period and the market conditions then prevailing. Because forward contracts are usually entered into on a principal basis, no brokerage fees or commissions are involved. Because these contracts are not traded on an exchange, the Fund must evaluate the credit and performance risk of the counterparty under each forward contract.
Although the Fund values its assets daily in terms of U.S. dollars, it does not intend to convert its holdings of foreign currencies into U.S. dollars on a daily basis. The Fund may convert foreign currency from time to time, and will incur costs in doing so. Foreign exchange dealers do not charge a fee for conversion, but they do seek to realize a profit based on the difference between the prices at which they buy and sell various currencies. Thus, a dealer might offer to sell a foreign currency to the Fund at one rate, while offering a lesser rate of exchange if the Fund desires to resell that currency to the dealer.
Asset Coverage for Certain Investments and Trading Practices. A Fund will segregate with its custodian or otherwise designate on its books and records liquid assets in an amount the Fund believes to be adequate to ensure that it has sufficient liquid assets to meet its obligations under its derivatives contracts, or the Fund may engage in other measures to "cover" its obligations with respect to such transactions. Depending upon the contractual terms of the derivatives instrument, the customary settlement practice associated with the derivative instrument and the instrument's liquidity, among other things, the amounts that are segregated or designated may be based on the notional (or contract) amount of the derivative or on the daily mark-to-market obligation under the derivatives contract. These amounts may be reduced by amounts on deposit with the applicable broker or counterparty to the derivatives transaction. With respect to less liquid derivative instruments (or in other situations in which the Sub-Adviser believes it necessary), a Fund may segregate amounts in addition to the amounts described above. By segregating or designating liquid assets equal to only the mark-to-market obligation under a derivatives contract, a Fund will have the ability to utilize these instruments to a greater extent than if the Fund segregated or designated liquid assets equal to the full market value of the underlying asset or the notional (or contract) amount of the instrument.
In certain circumstances, a Fund may enter into an offsetting position rather than segregating or designating liquid assets (e.g., the Fund may "cover" a written put option with a purchased put option with the same or higher exercise price). Although the Sub-Adviser will attempt to ensure that a Fund has sufficient liquid assets to meet its obligations under its derivative contracts, it is possible that the Fund's liquid assets may be insufficient to support such obligations under its derivatives positions.
Segregating or designating a large percentage of the Fund's liquid assets could impede the Sub-Adviser's ability to manage the Fund's portfolio. A Fund may modify its asset segregation policies from time to time.
Regulatory Aspects of Derivatives and Hedging Instruments. As a result of recent amendments to rules under the Commodity Exchange Act ("CEA") by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission ("CFTC"), the Manager must either operate within certain guidelines and restrictions with respect to a Fund's use of futures, options on such futures, commodity options and certain swaps, or be subject to registration with the CFTC as a "commodity pool operator" ("CPO") with respect to a Fund, and, upon the finalization of additional CFTC rules, be required to operate a Fund in compliance with certain disclosure, reporting, and recordkeeping requirements.
Previously, the CFTC permitted unlimited futures transactions and options thereon, so long as a fund had claimed an exclusion from registration as a CPO, and swap contracts were not formerly regulated by the CFTC. Under the amended rules, the investment adviser of a registered investment company may claim an exemption from registration as a CPO only if the registered investment company that it advises uses futures contracts, options on such futures, commodity options and certain swaps solely for "bona fide hedging purposes," or limits its use of such instruments for non-bona fide hedging purposes to certain de minimis amounts.
While the Manager will be registered as a CPO under the CEA, the Manager currently intends to limit a Fund's use of futures, options on such futures, commodity options and certain swaps in order to permit such Fund to continue to claim an exemption under the CFTC rules. As such, with respect to the management of a Fund, the Manager will not be subject to the disclosure, reporting and recordkeeping requirements under the CFTC rules.
Financial reform legislation enacted in 2010 that is currently being implemented imposes execution and clearing requirements on certain types of over-the-counter derivatives, among other things. In a cleared derivatives transaction, a Fund's ultimate counterparty is a central derivatives clearing organization, or clearing house, rather than a bank or broker. A Fund will enter into cleared derivatives transactions with an executing broker. Such transactions then will be submitted for clearing and, if cleared, will be held in accounts at regulated futures commission merchants that are members of central clearing house counterparties. In contrast to bilateral derivatives transactions, cleared derivatives transactions are submitted for clearing to central clearing house counterparties immediately following execution of the agreement. Central clearing house counterparties and the members of such clearing houses generally can require termination of existing cleared derivatives transactions at any time, and can also require increases in margin above the margin that was required at the beginning of a transaction.
A Fund is also subject to the risk that, after entering into a cleared derivatives transaction, no futures commission merchant or clearing house counterparty is willing or able to clear the transaction on a Fund's behalf. In such an event, a Fund is likely to have to pay a termination amount to the executing broker. Further, the assets of a Fund might not be fully protected in the event of the bankruptcy of a Fund's futures commission merchant or the clearing house counterparty, because a Fund might be limited to recovering only a pro rata share of all available funds and margin segregated on behalf of the futures commission merchant's customers. Also, a Fund is subject to the risk that the futures commission merchant will use a Fund's assets, which are held in an omnibus account with assets belonging to the futures commission merchant's other customers, to satisfy payment obligations of a defaulting customer of the futures commission merchant to the clearing house counterparty. In addition, futures commission merchants generally provide to the clearing house counterparty the net amount of variation margin required for cleared derivatives for all customers in the aggregate, rather than the gross amount for each customer. A Fund is therefore subject to the risk that a clearing house counterparty will not make variation margin payments owed to a Fund if another customer of the futures commission merchant has suffered a loss and is in default. In cleared derivatives transactions, a Fund is also required to post initial as well as variation margin, thus increasing the cost of transacting in this type of instrument.
The ultimate impact of the 2010 financial reform legislation and related regulations remains unclear. New regulations could, among other things, restrict a Fund's ability to engage in, or increase the cost to a Fund of, derivatives transactions.
Tax Aspects of Certain Hedging Instruments. Certain foreign currency exchange contracts in which a Fund may invest are treated as "Section 1256 contracts" under the IRC. In general, gains or losses relating to Section 1256 contracts are characterized as 60% long-term and 40% short-term capital gains or losses under the Code. However, foreign currency gains or losses arising from Section 1256 contracts that are forward contracts generally are treated as ordinary income or loss. In addition, Section 1256 contracts held by a Fund at the end of each taxable year are "marked-to-market," and unrealized gains or losses are treated as though they were realized. These contracts also may be marked-to-market for purposes of determining the excise tax potentially applicable to a Fund and for other purposes under rules prescribed pursuant to the IRC. An election can be made by a Fund to exempt those transactions from this marked-to-market treatment.
Certain forward contracts a Fund enters into may result in "straddles" for federal income tax purposes. The straddle rules may affect the character and timing of gains (or losses) recognized by that Fund on straddle positions. Generally, a loss sustained on the disposition of a position making up a straddle is allowed only to the extent that the loss exceeds any unrecognized gain in the offsetting positions making up the straddle. Disallowed loss is generally allowed at the point where there is no unrecognized gain in the offsetting positions making up the straddle, or the offsetting position is disposed of.
Under the IRC, the following gains or losses are treated as ordinary income or loss:
Currency gains and losses are offset against market gains and losses on each trade before determining a net "Section 988" gain or loss under the IRC for that trade, which may increase or decrease the amount of a Fund's investment income available for distribution to its shareholders.
Money Fund/VA Investment Policies. Under Rule 2a-7 under the investment Company Act, Money Fund/VA may purchase only "Eligible Securities," as defined below, that the Manager, under procedures approved by the Trust's Board of Trustees, has determined have minimal credit risk. An "Eligible Security" is (a) a security that has received a rating in one of the two highest short-term rating categories by any two "nationally recognized statistical rating organizations" as defined in Rule 2a-7 ("Rating Organizations"), or, if only one Rating Organization has rated that security, by that Rating Organization (the "Rating Requirements"), (b) a security that is guaranteed, and either that guarantee or the party providing that guarantee meets the Rating Requirements, or (c) an unrated security that is either issued by an issuer having another similar security that meets the Rating Requirements, or is judged by the Manager to be of comparable quality to investments that meet the Rating Requirements. Rule 2a-7 permits Money Fund/VA to purchase "First Tier Securities," which are Eligible Securities rated in the highest category for short-term debt obligations by at least two Rating Organizations, or, if only one Rating Organization has rated a particular security, by that Rating Organization, or comparable unrated securities, subject to limits set forth in the Money Fund/VA's Prospectus. The Fund can also buy "Second Tier Securities," which are Eligible Securities that are not First Tier securities.
If a security's rating is downgraded, the Manager and/or the Board may have to reassess the security's credit risk. If a security has ceased to be a First Tier Security, the Manager will promptly reassess whether the security continues to present "minimal credit risk." If the Manager becomes aware that any Rating Organization has downgraded its rating of a Second Tier Security or rated an unrated security below its second highest rating category, the Trust's Board of Trustees shall promptly reassess whether the security presents minimal credit risk and whether it is in Money Fund/VA's best interests to dispose of it.
If Money Fund/VA disposes of the security within five days of the Manager learning of the downgrade, the Manager will provide the Board with subsequent notice of such downgrade. If a security is in default, or ceases to be an Eligible Security, or is determined no longer to present minimal credit risks, the Board must determine if disposal of the security would be in Money Fund/VA's best interests.
The Rating Organizations currently designated as nationally recognized statistical rating organizations by the SEC include Standard & Poor's (a division of the McGraw-Hill Companies), Moody's Investors Service, Inc., Fitch, Inc. and Dominion Bond Rating Service Limited. See Appendix B to this SAI for a description of the rating categories of those Rating Organizations.
Investments in Other Investment Companies. The Funds can also invest in the securities of other investment companies, which can include open-end funds, closed-end funds and unit investment trusts, subject to the limits set forth in the Investment Company Act that apply to those types of investments. For example, a Fund can invest in Exchange-Traded Funds, which are typically open-end funds or unit investment trusts, listed on a stock exchange. A Fund might do so as a way of gaining exposure to the segments of the equity or fixed-income markets represented by the Exchange-Traded Funds' portfolio, at times when a Fund may not be able to buy those portfolio securities directly.
Investing in another investment company may involve the payment of substantial premiums above the value of such investment company's portfolio securities and is subject to limitations under the Investment Company Act. The Funds do not intend to invest in other investment companies unless the Sub-Adviser believes that the potential benefits of the investment justify the payment of any premiums or sales charges. As a shareholder of an investment company, a Fund would be subject to its ratable share of that investment company's expenses, including its advisory and administration expenses. The Funds do not anticipate investing a substantial amount of their net assets in shares of other investment companies.
Passive Foreign Investment Companies. Under U.S. tax laws, passive foreign investment companies ("PFICs") are those foreign corporations which generate primarily "passive" income. Passive income is defined as any income that is considered foreign personal holding company income under the Internal Revenue Code. For federal tax purposes, a foreign corporation is deemed to be a PFIC if 75% or more of its gross income during a fiscal year is passive income or if 50% or more of its assets are assets that produce, or are held to produce, passive income.
Foreign mutual funds are generally deemed to be PFICs, since nearly all of the income of a mutual fund is passive income. Foreign mutual funds investments may be used to gain exposure to the securities of companies in countries that limit or prohibit direct foreign investment; however investments in foreign mutual funds by the Fund are subject to limits under the Investment Company Act.
Other types of foreign corporations may also be considered PFICs if their percentage of passive income or passive assets exceeds the limits described above. Federal tax laws impose severe tax penalties for failure to properly report investment income from PFICs. Although every effort is made to ensure compliance with federal tax reporting requirements for these investments, foreign corporations that are PFICs for federal tax purposes may not always be recognized as such.
Loans of Portfolio Securities. Securities lending pursuant to a Securities Lending Agency Agreement (the "Securities Lending Agreement") with Goldman Sachs Bank USA, doing business as Goldman Sachs Agency Lending ("Goldman Sachs"), may be used to attempt to increase income. Loans of portfolio securities are subject to the restrictions stated in the Prospectus and must comply with all applicable regulations and with the Funds' Securities Lending Procedures adopted by the Board. The terms of any loans must also meet applicable tests under the Internal Revenue Code.
There are certain risks in connection with securities lending, including possible delays in receiving additional collateral to secure a loan, or a delay or expenses in recovery of the loaned securities. Goldman Sachs has agreed, in general, to guarantee the obligations of borrowers to return loaned securities and to be responsible for certain expenses relating to securities lending. Under the Securities Lending Agreement, the Funds' securities lending procedures and applicable regulatory requirements (which are subject to change), the Funds must receive collateral from the borrower consisting of cash, bank letters of credit or securities of the U.S. Government (or its agencies or instrumentalities). On each business day, the amount of collateral that the Funds have received must at least equal the value of the loaned securities. If the Funds receive cash collateral from the borrower, the Sub-Adviser, in its capacity as the Fund's collateral administrator, may invest that cash in certain high quality, short-term investments, including in money market funds advised by the Manager. The Funds will be subject to its proportional share of the expenses of such money market funds, including the advisory fee payable to the Manager or its affiliate as adviser to such funds. The Sub-Adviser may charge a collateral administration fee of 0.08% on the value of cash collateral invested in other securities. All of the Funds' collateral investments must comply with its securities lending procedures. The Funds will be responsible for the risks associated with the investment of cash collateral, including the risk that the Fund may lose money on the investment or may fail to earn sufficient income to meet its obligations to the borrower.
The terms of the loans must permit the Funds to recall loaned securities on five business days' notice and the Funds will seek to recall loaned securities in time to vote on any matters that the Manager determines would have a material effect on the Funds' investment. The Securities Lending Agreement may be terminated by either Goldman Sachs or the Funds on 30 days' written notice.
Loans of portfolio securities are limited to not more than 25% of the value of the Funds' net assets.
Temporary Defensive and Interim Investments. When market conditions are unstable, or the Sub-Adviser believes it is otherwise appropriate to reduce holdings in stocks or bonds, the Funds can invest in a variety of debt securities for defensive purposes. The Funds can also purchase these securities for liquidity purposes to meet cash needs due to the redemption of Fund shares, or to hold while waiting to reinvest cash received from the sale of other portfolio securities. The Funds can buy:
Short-term debt securities would normally be selected for defensive or cash management purposes because they can normally be disposed of quickly, are not generally subject to significant fluctuations in principal value and their value will be less subject to interest rate risk than longer-term debt securities.
Global Strategic Income Fund/VA and Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA can also engage in the following techniques and strategies:
"Structured" Investments. "Structured" investments are financial instruments and contractual obligations designed to provide a specific risk-reward profile. A structured instrument is generally a hybrid security (often referred to as "hybrids") that combines characteristics of two or more different financial instruments. The terms of these investments may be contractually "structured" by the purchaser and the issuer (which is typically associated with an investment banking firm) of the instrument. Structured investments may have certain features of equity and debt securities, but may also have additional features. The key characteristics of structured investments are:
The returns on these investments may be linked to the value of an index (such as a currency or securities index) or a basket of instruments (a portfolio of assets, such as, high yield bonds, emerging market bonds, equities from a specific industry sector, a broad-based equity index or commodities), an individual stock, bond or other security, an interest rate, or a commodity. Some of the types of structured investments are:
The values of structured investments will normally rise or fall in response to the changes in the performance of the underlying index, security, interest rate or commodity. Certain structured investments may offer full or partial principal protection, or may pay a variable amount at maturity, or may pay a coupon linked to a specific security or index while leaving the principal at risk. These investments may be used to seek to realize gain or limit exposure to price fluctuations and help control risk.
Depending on the terms of the particular instrument, structured investments may be subject to equity market risk, commodity market risk, currency market risk or interest rate risk. Structured notes are subject to credit risk with respect to the issuer of the instrument (referred to as "counter-party" risk) and, for structured debt investments, might also be subject to credit risk with respect to the issuer of the underlying investment. For notes that do not include principal protection (a form of insurance), a main risk is the possible loss of principal. There is a legal risk involved with holding complex instruments, where regulatory or tax considerations may change during the term of a note. Some structured investments may create leverage, which involves additional risks.
If the underlying investment or index does not perform as anticipated, the investment might not result in a gain or may cause a loss. The price of structured investments may be very volatile and they may have a limited trading market, making it difficult for the Fund to value them or sell them at an acceptable price. Usually structured investments are considered illiquid investments for purposes of limits on those investments.
Commodity-Linked Notes. A commodity-linked note is a derivative instrument that has characteristics of both a debt security and a commodity-linked derivative. It typically makes interest payments like a debt security and at maturity the principal payment is linked to the price movement of an underlying commodity-related variable that may be: a physical commodity (such as heating oil, livestock, or agricultural products), a commodity future or option contract, a commodity index, or some other readily measurable variable that reflects changes in the value of particular commodities or the commodities markets. Commodity-linked notes are typically issued by a bank, other financial institution or a commodity producer, and are negotiated with the issuer to obtain specific terms and features that are tailored to particular investment needs.
Qualifying Hybrid Instruments. "Qualifying hybrid instruments" are commodity-linked notes that are excluded from regulation under the Commodity Exchange Act and the rules thereunder.
Investment in Wholly-Owned Subsidiary. Global Strategic Income Fund/VA and Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA each may invest up to 25% of its total assets in a wholly-owned and controlled subsidiary (the "Subsidiary"). The Subsidiary invests primarily in commodity-linked derivatives (including commodity futures, financial futures, options and swap contracts) and exchange traded funds related to gold or other special minerals ("Gold ETFs"). The Subsidiary may also invest in certain fixed-income securities and other investments that may serve as margin or collateral for its derivatives positions.
Since each Fund may invest a substantial portion of its assets in the Subsidiary, which may hold certain of the investments described in the Fund's prospectus and this Statement of Additional Information, each Fund may be considered to be investing indirectly in those investments through its Subsidiary. Therefore, references in the Fund's prospectus and in this Statement of Additional Information to investments by the Fund also may be deemed to include the Fund's indirect investments through the Subsidiary.
The Subsidiary is not registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "Investment Company Act") and does not subject its investor protections, except as noted in each Fund's prospectus or this Statement of Additional Information. Each Fund, as the sole shareholder of the Subsidiary, does not have all of the protections offered by the Investment Company Act. However, each Subsidiary is wholly-owned and controlled by its respective Fund and managed by the Manager. Therefore, the Fund's ownership and control of the Subsidiary make it unlikely that the Subsidiary would take action contrary to the interests of the Fund or its shareholders. The Funds' Board has oversight responsibility for the investment activities of the Funds, including its expected investment in the Subsidiary, and each Fund's role as the sole shareholder of its Subsidiary. Also, in managing the Subsidiary's portfolio, the Manager is subject to the same investment policies and restrictions that apply to the management of a Fund, and, in particular, to the requirements relating to portfolio leverage, liquidity, brokerage, and the timing and method of the valuation of the Subsidiary's portfolio investments and shares of the Subsidiary.
Changes in the laws of the United States (where each Fund is organized) and/or the Cayman Islands (where each Subsidiary is organized), could prevent a Fund and/or its Subsidiary from operating as described in the Fund's prospectus and this Statement of Additional Information and could negatively affect the Fund and its shareholders. For example, the Cayman Islands currently does not impose certain taxes on the Subsidiary, including income and capital gains tax, among others. If Cayman Islands laws were changed to require a Subsidiary to pay Cayman Islands taxes, the investment returns of a Fund would likely decrease.
For information about the tax treatment of the Subsidiary and its investments, please refer to "Distributions and Taxes."
Special Risks of Investments in Mining Securities, Metal Investments and Gold ETFs. The Fund's prospectus describes whether and to what extent the Fund may invest in Mining Securities, Metal Investments and/or Gold ETFs.
Investments in Mining Securities, Metal Investments and Gold ETFs involve additional risks and considerations not typically associated with other types of investments: (1) the risk of substantial price fluctuations of gold and precious metals; (2) the concentration of gold supply is mainly in five territories (South Africa, Australia, the Commonwealth of Independent States (the former Soviet Union), Canada and the United States), and the prevailing economic and political conditions of these countries may have a direct effect on the production and marketing of gold and sales of central bank gold holdings; (3) unpredictable international monetary policies, economic and political conditions; (4) possible U.S. governmental regulation of Metal Investments, as well as foreign regulation of such investments; and (5) possible adverse tax consequences for the Fund in making Metal Investments, if it fails to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under the Internal Revenue Code. An adverse change with respect to any of these risk factors could have a significant negative effect on the Fund's net asset value per share. These risks are discussed in greater detail below.
Diversification. The Funds are classified as "diversified" under the Investment Company Act. Currently, under the Investment Company Act a "diversified" fund is one with at least 75% of the value of its total assets represented by: (i) cash and cash items (including receivables), (ii) securities issued by the U.S. government or any of its agencies or instrumentalities, (iii) securities of other investment companies, and (iv) other securities that, for any one issuer, are limited in respect to an amount not greater than 5% of the value of the fund's total assets and not more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer. A change to a non-diversified status would require shareholder approval.
Fundamental Policies. The Funds have adopted policies and restrictions to govern their investments. Under the Investment Company Act, fundamental policies are those policies that can be changed only by the vote of a "majority" of each Fund's outstanding voting securities which is defined as the vote of the holders of the lesser of:
Each Fund's investment objective is a non-fundamental policy. Other policies and restrictions described in the Funds' Prospectuses or this SAI are "fundamental" only if they are identified as such. The Funds' Board of Trustees can change non-fundamental policies and restrictions without shareholder approval. However, significant changes to investment policies and restrictions will be described in supplements or updates to a Fund's Prospectus or this SAI, as appropriate. The Funds' most significant investment policies are described in the Prospectus.
Other Fundamental Investment Restrictions. The following investment restrictions are fundamental policies of each Fund, except Money Fund/VA.
The following investment restrictions are fundamental policies of Money Fund/VA.
The following is only a brief summary of certain current limitations imposed on investment companies by the Investment Company Act and certain rules and interpretations thereunder, and is not a complete description of such limits. The discussion below is based on current law, regulations and administrative interpretations. Those laws, regulations and administrative interpretations may be changed by legislative, judicial, or administrative action, sometimes with retroactive effect.
The Investment Company Act prohibits a fund from issuing "senior securities," which are generally defined as fund obligations that have a priority over the fund's shares with respect to the payment of dividends or the distribution of fund assets, except that the fund may borrow money as described above.
Currently, under the Investment Company Act, and an Oppenheimer funds' exemptive order, a fund may borrow only from banks and/or affiliated investment companies in an amount up to one-third of its total assets (including the amount borrowed less all liabilities and indebtedness other than borrowing), except that a fund may borrow up to 5% of its total assets from any person for temporary purposes. Under the Investment Company Act, there is a rebuttable presumption that a loan is temporary if it is repaid within 60 days and not extended or renewed.
Under the Investment Company Act a fund currently cannot make any commitment as an underwriter, if immediately thereafter the amount of its outstanding underwriting commitments, plus the value of its investments in securities of issuers (other than investment companies) of which it owns more than ten percent of the outstanding voting securities, exceeds twenty-five percent of the value of the fund's total assets, except to the extent that a fund may be considered an underwriter within the meaning of the Securities Act when reselling securities held in its own portfolio.
The Investment Company Act does not prohibit a fund from owning real estate, commodities or contracts related to commodities. The extent to which the Fund can invest in real estate and/or commodities or contracts related to commodities is set out in the investment strategies described in the Prospectus and this SAI.
Current SEC staff interpretations under the Investment Company Act prohibit a fund from lending more than one-third of its total assets, except through the purchase of debt obligations or the use of repurchase agreements.
The Investment Company Act does not define what constitutes "concentration" in an industry. However, the SEC has taken the position that investment of more than 25% of a fund's total assets in issuers in the same industry constitutes concentration in that industry. That limit does not apply to securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its agencies and instrumentalities or securities issued by investment companies; however, securities issued by any one foreign government are considered to be part of a single "industry."
Unless a Fund's Prospectus or this SAI states that a percentage restriction applies on an ongoing basis, it applies only at the time that a Fund makes an investment (except in the case of borrowing and investments in illiquid securities). A Fund need not sell securities to meet the percentage limits if the value of the investment increases in proportion to the size of the Fund.
For purposes of the Funds' policy not to concentrate its investments as described above, the Funds have adopted classifications of industries and group of related industries. These classifications are not fundamental policies.
The Global Strategic Income Fund/VA's and Diversified Alternative Fund/VA's Subsidiaries will also follow those Funds' fundamental and non-fundamental investment restrictions, described above, with respect to its investments.
Disclosure of Portfolio Holdings
While recognizing the importance of providing Fund shareholders with information about their Fund's investments and providing portfolio information to a variety of third parties to assist with the management, distribution and administrative processes, the need for transparency must be balanced against the risk that third parties who gain access to a Fund's portfolio holdings information could attempt to use that information to trade ahead of or against a Fund, which could negatively affect the prices a Fund is able to obtain in portfolio transactions or the availability of the securities that a portfolio manager is trading on a Fund's behalf.
The Funds, the Manager, the Distributor and the Transfer Agent have therefore adopted policies and procedures regarding the dissemination of information about the Funds' portfolio holdings by employees, officers and directors or trustees of the Funds, the Manager, the Distributor and the Transfer Agent. These policies are designed to assure that non-public information about the Funds' portfolio securities holdings is distributed only for a legitimate business purpose, and is done in a manner that (a) conforms to applicable laws and regulations and (b) is designed to prevent that information from being used in a way that could negatively affect the Funds' investment program or enable third parties to use that information in a manner that is harmful to the Funds. It is a violation of the Code of Ethics for any covered person to release holdings in contravention of the portfolio holdings disclosure policies and procedures adopted by the Funds.
Portfolio Holdings Disclosure Policies. The Funds, the Manager, the Distributor and the Transfer Agent and their affiliates and subsidiaries, employees, officers, and directors or trustees, shall neither solicit nor accept any compensation or other consideration (including any agreement to maintain assets in the Funds or in other investment companies or accounts managed by the Manager or any affiliated person of the Manager) in connection with the disclosure of the Funds' non-public portfolio holdings. The receipt of investment advisory fees or other fees and compensation paid to the Manager and its subsidiaries pursuant to agreements approved by the Funds' Board shall not be deemed to be "compensation" or "consideration" for these purposes. Until publicly disclosed, the Funds' portfolio holdings are proprietary, confidential business information. After they are publicly disclosed, the Funds' portfolio holdings may be released in any appropriate manner.
The Fund's complete portfolio holdings positions may be released to the following categories of individuals or entities on an ongoing basis, provided that such individual or entity either (1) has signed an agreement to keep such information confidential and not trade on the basis of such information, or (2) as a member of the Fund's Board, or as an employee, officer or director of the Manager, the Distributor, or the Transfer Agent, or of their legal counsel, is subject to fiduciary obligations (a) not to disclose such information except in compliance with the Fund's policies and procedures and (b) not to trade for his or her personal account on the basis of such information:
Month-end lists of the Fund's complete portfolio holdings may be disclosed for legitimate business reasons, no sooner than 30 days after the relevant month end, pursuant to special requests and under limited circumstances discussed below, provided that:
Other than for Money Fund/VA, portfolio holdings information of the Fund may be provided, under limited circumstances, to brokers or dealers with whom the Fund trades and entities that provide investment coverage or analytical information regarding the Fund's portfolio, provided that there is a legitimate investment reason for providing the information to the broker, dealer or other entity. Month-end portfolio holdings information may, under this procedure, be provided to vendors providing research information or analytics to the Fund, with at least a 15-day delay after the month end, but in certain cases may be provided to a broker or analytical vendor with a 1- 2 day lag to facilitate the provision of requested investment information to the Manager to facilitate a particular trade or portfolio manager's investment process for the Fund. Any third party receiving such information must first sign the Manager's portfolio holdings non-disclosure agreement as a pre-condition to receiving this information.
Portfolio holdings may be disclosed for legitimate business purposes to brokers and dealers for purposes of providing portfolio analytic services, in connection with portfolio transactions (purchases and sales), and to obtain bids or bid and asked prices (if securities held by the Fund are not priced by the Fund's regular pricing services). Portfolio holdings also may be disclosed for legitimate business purposes to consultants for pension plans that invest in Oppenheimer funds and sponsors of 401(k) plans that include Oppenheimer funds.
Portfolio holdings information (which may include information on the Fund's entire portfolio or individual securities therein) may be provided by senior officers of the Manager/Sub-Adviser or attorneys on the legal staff of the Manager, Distributor, or Transfer Agent, in the following circumstances:
Portfolio managers and analysts may, subject to the Manager's/Sub-Adviser's policies on communications with the press and other media, discuss portfolio information in interviews with members of the media, or in due diligence or similar meetings with clients or prospective purchasers of Fund shares or their financial representatives.
The Fund's shareholders may, under unusual circumstances (such as a lack of liquidity in the Fund's portfolio to meet redemptions), receive redemption proceeds of their Fund shares paid as pro rata shares of securities held in the Fund's portfolio. In such circumstances, disclosure of the Fund's portfolio holdings may be made to such shareholders.
Any permitted release of otherwise non-public portfolio holdings information must be in accordance with the then-current policy on approved methods for communicating confidential information.
The Chief Compliance Officer (the "CCO") of the Fund and the Manager/Sub-Adviser, Distributor, and Transfer Agent shall oversee the compliance by the Manager/Sub-Adviser, Distributor, Transfer Agent, and their personnel with applicable policies and procedures. At least annually the CCO reports to the Fund's Board any material violation of these policies and procedures during the previous period and makes recommendations to the Board as to any amendments that the CCO believes are necessary and desirable to carry out or improve these policies and procedures.
The Sub-Adviser and the Fund have entered into ongoing arrangements, in addition to those described above, to make available information about the Fund's portfolio holdings. One or more of the Oppenheimer funds may currently disclose portfolio holdings information based on ongoing arrangements to the following parties:
Bloomberg L.P. |
Fidelity Management & Research Company |
The Yield Book Inc. |
Brown Brothers Harriman & Co. |
MSCI Inc. |
|
FactSet Research Systems Inc. |
Sungard Investment Systems, LLC |
|
|
|
|
Organization and History. Each Fund is an investment portfolio, or "series" of Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds (the "Trust"), a multi-series open-end diversified management investment company that was organized as a Massachusetts business trust. The Trust was reorganized as a Delaware statutory trust in August 2012 and presently includes 11 series. All references to the Funds' Board of Trustees and Officers refer to the Trustees and Officers, respectively, of Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds.
The suffix "VA" was added to each Fund's name on May 1, 1999 (if applicable). The following table shows each Fund's current name, its year of organization and any prior Fund names:
Fund Name |
|
Year of |
Prior Fund Name |
Capital Appreciation Fund/VA |
|
1983 |
N/A |
Capital Income |
|
1986 |
Oppenheimer Balanced Fund/VA (prior to April 30, 2013). |
Core Bond Fund/VA |
|
1983 |
Oppenheimer Bond Fund/VA (prior to April 29, 2005). |
Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA |
1986 |
Oppenheimer Small- & Mid-Cap Growth Fund/VA (prior to April 30, 2013); Oppenheimer MidCap Fund/VA (prior to April 30, 2010); Oppenheimer Aggressive Growth Fund/VA (prior to April 30, 2006). |
|
Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA |
|
2013 |
N/A |
Equity Income Fund/VA |
2002 |
Oppenheimer Value Fund/VA (prior to April 30, 2013). |
|
Global Fund/VA |
|
1990 |
Oppenheimer Global Securities Fund/VA (prior to April 30, 2013). |
Global Strategic Income Fund/VA |
|
1993 |
Oppenheimer Strategic Bond Fund/VA (prior to April 30, 2010). |
Main Street Fund/VA |
|
1995 |
N/A |
Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA |
|
1998 |
Oppenheimer Main Street Small- & Mid-Cap Fund®/VA (prior to April 30, 2013); Oppenheimer Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA (prior to April 29, 2011). |
Money Fund/VA
|
|
1983
|
N/A
|
|
|
|
|
Shareholders. Insurance companies that hold shares of the Funds in their separate accounts for the benefit of their customers' variable annuities, variable life insurance policies and other investment products are the record holders and the owners of shares of beneficial interest in the Funds. The right of those customers of the insurance companies to give directions to the insurance company for the purchase or redemption of shares is determined under the contract between the customer and the insurance company. The insurance companies, and not their customers, are "shareholders" of the Funds. The rights of those insurance companies as record holders and owners of shares of a Fund are different from the rights of their customers. These customers are indirect owners for all purposes except for those rights reserved by insurance companies in the insurance contract, or as permitted by the SEC.
Classes of Shares. The Trustees are authorized, without shareholder approval, to create new series and classes of shares, to reclassify unissued shares into additional series or classes and to divide or combine the shares of a class into a greater or lesser number of shares without changing the proportionate beneficial interest of a shareholder in the Fund. Shares do not have cumulative voting rights, preemptive rights or subscription rights. Shares may be voted in person or by proxy at shareholder meetings.
The Funds currently have four classes of shares authorized. All Funds offer a class of shares with no name designation referred to in this SAI and the Prospectus as "non-service shares." As of September 15, 2006, all Funds except Money Fund/VA also offer a service share class, subject to a Distribution and Service Plan. Money Fund/VA currently only offers the class of non-service shares. Global Fund/VA offers two additional share classes, referred to in this SAI as "Class 3" and "Class 4", which are subject to a redemption fee. In addition, Class 4 shares are subject to a Distribution and Service Plan. Each class of shares:
Each share of each class has one vote at shareholder meetings, with fractional shares voting proportionally, on matters submitted to a vote of shareholders. Each share of a Fund represents an interest in each Fund proportionately equal to the interest of each other share of the same class of that Fund.
Shareholder and Trustee Liability; Shareholder Meetings. Under Delaware law and the Trust's Declaration of Trust, Fund shareholders are entitled to the same limitation of personal liability extended to shareholders of corporations organized under Delaware law. Under Delaware law and the Trust's Declaration of Trust, Trustees are not personally liable to any person for any obligations of the Funds. Therefore a shareholder or Trustee of the Funds generally will not be subject to personal liability for Fund obligations. The risk that a Fund shareholder or Trustee will incur personal liability for Fund obligations is limited to the circumstances in which a state court may not apply Delaware law or the terms of the Trust's Declaration of Trust.
As a Delaware statutory trust, the Trust is not required to hold regular annual meetings of shareholders and does not plan to do so. The Trust may hold shareholder meetings from time to time.
Board of Trustees and Oversight Committees
The Fund is governed by a Board of Trustees, which is responsible for overseeing the Fund. The Board is led by Sam Freedman, an independent trustee, who is not an "interested person" of the Fund, as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act. The Board meets periodically throughout the year to oversee the Fund's activities, including to review its performance, oversee potential conflicts that could affect the Fund, and review the actions of the Manager and Sub-Adviser. With respect to its oversight of risk, the Board, through its committees, relies on reports and information received from various parties, including the Manager and Sub-Adviser, internal auditors, the Fund's Chief Compliance Officer, the Fund's outside auditors and Fund counsel. It is important to note that, despite the efforts of the Board and of the various parties that play a role in the oversight of risk, it is likely that not all risks will be identified or mitigated.
The Board has an Audit Committee, a Review Committee and a Governance Committee. Each of the Committees is comprised solely of Trustees who are not "interested persons" under the Investment Company Act (the "Independent Trustees"). The Board has determined that its leadership structure is appropriate in light of the characteristics and circumstances of the Trust because it allocates areas of responsibility among the committees in a manner that enhances the Board's oversight.
During the Fund's fiscal year ended December 31, 2012, the Audit Committee held 4 meetings, the Review Committee held 4 meetings and the Governance Committee held 4 meetings.
The members of the Audit Committee are F. William Marshall, Jr. (Chairman), Edward L. Cameron, Jon S. Fossel, Karen L. Stuckey and James D. Vaughn. The Audit Committee selects the Fund's independent registered public accounting firm (also referred to as the "independent Auditors"). Other main functions of the Audit Committee, outlined in the Audit Committee Charter, include, but are not limited to: (i) reviewing the scope and results of financial statement audits and the audit fees charged; (ii) reviewing reports from the Fund's independent Auditors regarding the Fund's internal accounting procedures and controls; (iii) reviewing reports from the Manager's Internal Audit Department; (iv) reviewing certain reports from and meeting periodically with the Fund's Chief Compliance Officer; (v) maintaining a separate line of communication between the Fund's independent Auditors and the Independent Trustees; (vi) reviewing the independence of the Fund's independent Auditors; and (vii) approving in advance the provision of any audit or non-audit services by the Fund's independent Auditors, including tax services, that are not prohibited by the Sarbanes-Oxley Act, to the Fund, the Manager and certain affiliates of the Manager. The Audit Committee also reviews reports concerning the valuation on certain investments.
The members of the Review Committee are Richard F. Grabish (Chairman), Beverly L. Hamilton, Victoria J. Herget and Robert J. Malone. Among other duties, as set forth in the Review Committee's Charter, the Review Committee reviews Fund performance and expenses as well as oversees several of the Fund's principal service providers and certain policies and procedures of the Fund.
The members of the Governance Committee are Beverly L. Hamilton (Chairman), Edward L. Cameron, Richard F. Grabish, Victoria J. Herget, Robert J. Malone, F. William Marshall, Jr., Karen L. Stuckey and James D. Vaughn. The Governance Committee has adopted a charter setting forth its duties and responsibilities. Among other duties, the Governance Committee reviews and oversees Fund governance and the nomination of Trustees, including Independent Trustees. The Governance Committee has adopted a process for shareholder submission of nominees for board positions. Shareholders may submit names of individuals, accompanied by complete and properly supported resumes, for the Governance Committee's consideration by mailing such information to the Governance Committee in care of the Fund. The Governance Committee has not established specific qualifications that it believes must be met by a nominee. In evaluating nominees, the Governance Committee considers, among other things, an individual's background, skills, and experience; whether the individual is an "interested person" as defined in the Investment Company Act; and whether the individual would be deemed an "audit committee financial expert" within the meaning of applicable SEC rules. The Governance Committee also considers whether the individual's background, skills, and experience will complement the background, skills, and experience of other Trustees and will contribute to the Board's diversity. The Governance Committee may consider such persons at such time as it meets to consider possible nominees. The Governance Committee, however, reserves sole discretion to determine which candidates for Trustee it will recommend to the Board and the shareholders and it may identify candidates other than those submitted by shareholders. The Governance Committee may, but need not, consider the advice and recommendation of the Manager or its affiliates in selecting nominees. The full Board elects new Trustees except for those instances when a shareholder vote is required.
Shareholders who desire to communicate with the Board should address correspondence to the Board or an individual Board member and may submit correspondence electronically at www.oppenheimerfunds.com under the caption "contact us" or by mail to the Fund at the address on the front cover of this SAI.
Below is a brief discussion of the specific experience, qualifications, attributes or skills of each Board member that led the Board to conclude that he or she should serve as a Trustee of the Fund.
Each Independent Trustee has served on the Board for the number of years listed below, during the course of which he or she has become familiar with the Fund's (and other Oppenheimer funds') financial, accounting, regulatory and investment matters and has contributed to the Board's deliberations. Each Trustee's outside professional experience is outlined in the table of Biographical Information, below.
Trustees and Officers of the Funds
Except for Mr. Glavin, each of the Trustees is an Independent Trustee. All of the Trustees are also trustees of the following Oppenheimer funds (referred to as "Denver Board Funds"):
Oppenheimer Capital Income Fund |
Oppenheimer Main Street Select Fund |
Oppenheimer Cash Reserves |
Oppenheimer Main Street Small Cap Fund |
Oppenheimer Commodity Strategy Total Return Fund |
Oppenheimer Main Street Small- & Mid-Cap Fund |
Oppenheimer Corporate Bond Fund |
Oppenheimer Master Event-Linked Bond Fund, LLC |
Oppenheimer Currency Opportunities Fund |
Oppenheimer Master Inflation Protected Securities Fund, LLC |
Oppenheimer Emerging Markets Debt Fund |
Oppenheimer Master Loan Fund, LLC |
Oppenheimer Equity Fund |
Oppenheimer SteelPath Master MLP Fund, LLC |
Oppenheimer Global Strategic Income Fund |
Oppenheimer Senior Floating Rate Fund |
Oppenheimer Integrity Funds |
Oppenheimer Short Duration Fund |
Oppenheimer International Bond Fund |
Oppenheimer SteelPath MLP Funds Trust |
Oppenheimer Limited-Term Government Fund |
Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds |
Oppenheimer Main Street Funds |
Panorama Series Fund |
|
|
Messrs. Anello, Bhaman, Brown, Edwards, Gabinet, Glavin, Govil, Hamilton, Kennedy, Krantz, Kotlarz, Legg, Levine, Memani, O'Donnell, Petersen, Proctor, Ram, Steinmetz, Strzalkowski, Vandehey, Vardharaj, Weiner, Wixted, Zibelli and Ziehl and Mss. Budzinski, Bloomberg, Bullington, Kantesaria, Ketner Pak, LaFond, Nasta, Wolf and Zervos, who are officers of the Funds, hold the same offices with one or more of the other Denver Board Funds.
Present or former officers, directors, trustees and employees (and their immediate family members) of the Fund, the Manager and its affiliates, and retirement plans established by them for their employees are permitted to purchase Class A shares of other Oppenheimer funds at net asset value without sales charge. The sales charge on Class A shares is waived for that group because of the reduced sales efforts realized by the Distributor. Present or former officers, directors, trustees and employees (and their eligible family members) of the Fund, the Manager and its affiliates, its parent company and the subsidiaries of its parent company, and retirement plans established for the benefit of such individuals, are also permitted to purchase Class Y shares of the Oppenheimer funds that offer Class Y shares.
As of April 4, 2013 the Trustees/Directors and officers of the Fund, as a group, owned less than 1% of any class of shares of the Fund beneficially or of record.
The foregoing statement does not reflect ownership of shares held of record by an employee benefit plan for employees of the Manager, Sub-Adviser and its subsidiaries, other than the shares beneficially owned under that plan by the officers of the Fund. In addition, none of the Independent Trustees/Directors (nor any of their immediate family members) owns securities of either the Manager, Sub-Adviser or the Distributor or of any entity directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by or under common control with the Manager or the Distributor.
Biographical Information. The Trustees and officers, their positions with the Fund, length of service in such position(s) and principal occupations and business affiliations during at least the past five years are listed in the charts below. The address of each Independent Trustee in the chart below is 6803 S. Tucson Way, Centennial, Colorado 80112-3924. Each Trustee serves for an indefinite term, or until his or her resignation, retirement, death or removal.
Each Trustee has served the Fund in the following capacities from the following dates: |
||
Independent Trustees |
Position(s) |
Length of Service |
Sam Freedman |
Board Chairman |
Since 2013 |
|
Trustee |
Since 1996 |
Edward L. Cameron |
Trustee |
Since 1999 |
Jon S. Fossel |
Trustee |
Since 1990 |
Richard F. Grabish |
Trustee |
Since 2012 |
Beverly L. Hamilton |
Trustee |
Since 2002 |
Victoria J. Herget |
Trustee |
Since 2012 |
Robert J. Malone |
Trustee |
Since 2002 |
F. William Marshall, Jr. |
Trustee |
Since 2000 |
Karen L. Stuckey |
Trustee |
Since 2012 |
James D. Vaughn |
Trustee |
Since 2012 |
Interested Trustee |
|
|
William F. Glavin, Jr. |
Trustee |
Since 2009 |
Independent Trustees |
|
|
Name, Year of Birth, Position(s) |
Principal Occupations(s) During the Past |
Portfolios Overseen |
Sam Freedman (1940), Chairman of the Board of Trustees |
Director of Colorado UpLIFT (charitable organization) (since September 1984). Mr. Freedman held several positions with the Sub-Adviser and with subsidiary or affiliated companies of the Sub-Adviser (until October 1994). Mr. Freedman has served on the Boards of certain Oppenheimer funds since 1996, during which time he has become familiar with the Fund's (and other Oppenheimer funds') financial, accounting, regulatory and investment matters and has contributed to the Boards' deliberations. |
37 |
Edward L. Cameron (1938), Trustee |
Member of The Life Guard of Mount Vernon (George Washington historical site) (June 2000 - June 2006); Partner of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (accounting firm) (July 1974-June 1999); Chairman of Price Waterhouse LLP Global Investment Management Industry Services Group (accounting firm) (July 1994-June 1998). Mr. Cameron has served on the Boards of certain Oppenheimer funds since 1999, during which time he has become familiar with the Fund's (and other Oppenheimer funds') financial, accounting, regulatory and investment matters and has contributed to the Boards' deliberations. |
37 |
Jon S. Fossel (1942), Trustee |
Chairman of the Board (2006-December 2011) and Director (June 2002-December 2011) of UNUMProvident (insurance company); Director of Northwestern Energy Corp. (public utility corporation) (November 2004-December 2009); Director of P.R. Pharmaceuticals (October 1999-October 2003); Director of Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (non-profit organization) (February 1998-February 2003 and February 2005-February 2007); Chairman and Director (until October 1996) and President and Chief Executive Officer (until October 1995) of the Sub-Adviser; President, Chief Executive Officer and Director of the following: Oppenheimer Acquisition Corp. ("OAC") (parent holding company of the Sub-Adviser), Shareholders Services, Inc. and Shareholder Financial Services, Inc. (until October 1995). Mr. Fossel has served on the Boards of certain Oppenheimer funds since 1990, during which time he has become familiar with the Fund's (and other Oppenheimer funds') financial, accounting, regulatory and investment matters and has contributed to the Boards' deliberations. |
37 |
Richard F. Grabish (1948), Trustee |
Formerly Senior Vice President and Assistant Director of Sales and Marketing (March 1997-December 2007), Director (March 1987-December 2007) and Manager of Private Client Services (June 1985-June 2005) of A.G. Edwards & Sons, Inc. (broker/dealer and investment firm); Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of A.G. Edwards Trust Company, FSB (March 2001-December 2007); President and Vice Chairman of A.G. Edwards Trust Company, FSB (investment adviser) (April 1987-March 2001); President of A.G. Edwards Trust Company, FSB (investment adviser) (June 2005-December 2007). Mr. Grabish has served on the Boards of certain Oppenheimer funds since 2001, during which time he has become familiar with the Fund's (and other Oppenheimer funds') financial, accounting, regulatory and investment matters and has contributed to the Boards' deliberations. |
37 |
Beverly L. Hamilton (1946), Trustee |
Trustee of Monterey Institute for International Studies (educational organization) (since February 2000); Board Member of Middlebury College (educational organization) (December 2005-June 2011); Chairman (since 2010) of American Funds' Emerging Markets Growth Fund, Inc. (mutual fund); Director of The California Endowment (philanthropic organization) (April 2002-April 2008); Director (February 2002-2005) and Chairman of Trustees (2006-2007) of the Community Hospital of Monterey Peninsula; Director (October 1991-2005); Vice Chairman (2006-2009) of American Funds' Emerging Markets Growth Fund, Inc. (mutual fund); President of ARCO Investment Management Company (February 1991-April 2000); Member of the investment committees of The Rockefeller Foundation (2001-2006) and The University of Michigan (since 2000); Advisor at Credit Suisse First Boston's Sprout venture capital unit (venture capital fund) (1994-January 2005); Trustee of MassMutual Institutional Funds (investment company) (1996-June 2004); Trustee of MML Series Investment Fund (investment company) (April 1989-June 2004); Member of the investment committee of Hartford Hospital (2000-2003); and Advisor to Unilever (Holland) pension fund (2000-2003). Ms. Hamilton has served on the Boards of certain Oppenheimer funds since 2002, during which time she has become familiar with the Fund's (and other Oppenheimer funds') financial, accounting, regulatory and investment matters and has contributed to the Boards' deliberations. |
37 |
Victoria J. Herget (1951), Trustee |
Independent Director of the First American Funds (mutual fund family) (2003-2011); former Managing Director (1993-2001), Principal (1985-1993), Vice President (1978-1985) and Assistant Vice President (1973-1978) of Zurich Scudder Investments (and its predecessor firms); Board Chair (2008-Present) and Director (2004-Present), United Educators (insurance company); Trustee (1992-2007), Chair of the Board of Trustees (1999-2007), Investment Committee Chair (1994-1999) and Investment Committee member (2007-2010) of Wellesley College; Trustee (since 2000) and Chair (since 2010), Newberry Library; Trustee, Mather LifeWays (since 2001); Trustee, BoardSource (2006-2009) and Chicago City Day School (1994-2005). Ms. Herget has served on the Boards of certain Oppenheimer funds since 2012, during which time she has become familiar with the Fund's (and other Oppenheimer funds') financial, accounting, regulatory and investment matters and has contributed to the Boards' deliberations. |
37 |
Robert J. Malone (1944), Trustee |
Chairman of the Board (since 2012) and Director (since August 2005) of Jones International University (educational organization) (since August 2005); Chairman, Chief Executive Officer and Director of Steele Street Bank Trust (commercial banking) (since August 2003); Trustee of the Gallagher Family Foundation (non-profit organization) (since 2000); Board of Directors of Opera Colorado Foundation (non-profit organization) (2008-2012); Director of Colorado UpLIFT (charitable organization) (1986-2010); Director of Jones Knowledge, Inc. (2006-2010); Former Chairman of U.S. Bank-Colorado (subsidiary of U.S. Bancorp and formerly Colorado National Bank) (July 1996-April 1999); Director of Commercial Assets, Inc. (real estate investment trust) (1993-2000); Director of U.S. Exploration, Inc. (oil and gas exploration) (1997-February 2004); Chairman of the Board (1991-1994) and Trustee (1985-1994) of Regis University; and Chairman of the Board (1990-1991 and Trustee (1984-1999) of Young Presidents Organization. Mr. Malone has served on the Board since 2002, during which time he has become familiar with the Fund's (and other Oppenheimer funds') financial, accounting, regulatory and investment matters and has contributed to the Board's deliberations. |
37 |
F. William Marshall, Jr. (1942), Trustee |
Trustee Emeritus of Worcester Polytech Institute (WPI) (private university) (since 2009); Trustee of MassMutual Select Funds (formerly MassMutual Institutional Funds) (investment company) (since 1996), MML Series Investment Fund (investment company) (since 1996) and Mass Mutual Premier Funds (investment company) (since January 2012); President and Treasurer of the SIS Fund (private charitable fund) (January 1999-March 2011); Former Trustee of WPI (1985-2008); Former Chairman of the Board (2004-2006) and Former Chairman of the Investment Committee of WPI (1994-2008); Chairman of SIS Family Bank, F.S.B. (formerly SIS Bank) (commercial bank) (January 1999-July 1999); Executive Vice President of Peoples Heritage Financial Group, Inc. (commercial bank) (January 1999-July 1999); and Former President and Chief Executive Officer of SIS Bancorp. (1993-1999). Mr. Marshall has served on the Boards of certain Oppenheimer funds since 2000, during which time he has become familiar with the Fund's (and other Oppenheimer funds') financial, accounting, regulatory and investment matters and has contributed to the Boards' deliberations. |
41 * |
Karen L. Stuckey (1953), Trustee |
Partner (1990-2012) of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (held various positions 1975-1990); Emeritus Trustee (since 2006) and Trustee (1992-2006) and member of Executive, Nominating and Audit Committees and Chair of Finance Committee of Lehigh University; and member, Women's Investment Management Forum since inception. Ms. Stuckey has served on the Boards of certain Oppenheimer funds since 2012, during which time she has become familiar with the Fund's (and other Oppenheimer funds') financial, accounting, regulatory and investment matters and has contributed to the Boards' deliberations. |
37 |
James D. Vaughn (1945), Trustee |
Retired; former managing partner (1994-2001) of Denver office of Deloitte & Touche LLP, (held various positions 1969-1993); Trustee and Chairman of the Audit Committee of Schroder Funds (2003-2012); Board member and Chairman of Audit Committee of AMG National Trust Bank (since 2005); Trustee and Investment Committee member, University of South Dakota Foundation (since 1996); Board member, Audit Committee Member and past Board Chair, Junior Achievement (since 1993); former Board member, Mile High United Way, Boys and Girls Clubs, Boy Scouts, Colorado Business Committee for the Arts, Economic Club of Colorado and Metro Denver Network. Mr. Vaughn has served on the Boards of certain Oppenheimer funds since 2012, during which time he has become familiar with the Fund's (and other Oppenheimer funds') financial, accounting, regulatory and investment matters and has contributed to the Boards' deliberations. |
37 |
*Includes four open-end investment companies: MassMutual Select Funds, MML Series Investment Fund, MassMutual Premier Funds and MML Series Investment Fund II. In accordance with the instructions for SEC Form N-1A, for purposes of this section only, MassMutual Select Funds and MML Series Investment Fund are included in the "Fund Complex." The Manager does not consider MassMutual Select Funds, MML Series Investment Fund, MassMutual Premier Funds and MML Series Investment Fund II to be part of the OppenheimerFunds' "Fund Complex" as that term may be otherwise interpreted.
Mr. Glavin is an "Interested Trustee/Director" because he is affiliated with the Manager and the Sub-Adviser by virtue of his positions as an officer and director of the Manager and a director of the Sub-Adviser, and as a shareholder of the Sub-Adviser's parent company. Both as a Trustee/Director and as an officer, he serves for an indefinite term, or until his resignation, retirement, death or removal. Mr. Glavin's address is Two World Financial Center, 225 Liberty Street, 11th Floor, New York, New York 10281-1008.
Interested Trustee and Officer |
|
|
Name, Year of Birth, Position(s) |
Principal Occupation(s) During the Past 5 |
Portfolios Overseen |
William F. Glavin, Jr. (1958) Trustee, President and Principal Executive Officer |
Director, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of the Manager (since January 2013); President of the Manager (January 2013-May 2013); Chairman of the Sub-Adviser (December 2009-December 2012); Chief Executive Officer (January 2009-December 2012) and Director of the Sub-Adviser (since January 2009); President of the Sub-Adviser (May 2009-December 2012); Management Director (since June 2009), President (since December 2009) and Chief Executive Officer (since January 2011) of Oppenheimer Acquisition Corp. ("OAC") (the Sub-Adviser's parent holding company); Director of Oppenheimer Real Asset Management, Inc. (since March 2010); Executive Vice President (March 2006 - February 2009) and Chief Operating Officer (July 2007 - February 2009) of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company (OAC's parent company); Director (May 2004 - March 2006) and Chief Operating Officer and Chief Compliance Officer (May 2004 - January 2005), President (January 2005 - March 2006) and Chief Executive Officer (June 2005 - March 2006) of Babson Capital Management LLC; Director (March 2005 - March 2006), President (May 2003 - March 2006) and Chief Compliance Officer (July 2005 - March 2006) of Babson Capital Securities, Inc. (a broker-dealer); President (May 2003 - March 2006) of Babson Investment Company, Inc.; Director (May 2004 - August 2006) of Babson Capital Europe Limited; Director (May 2004 - October 2006) of Babson Capital Guernsey Limited; Director (May 2004 - March 2006) of Babson Capital Management LLC; Non-Executive Director (March 2005 - March 2007) of Baring Asset Management Limited; Director (February 2005 - June 2006) Baring Pension Trustees Limited; Director and Treasurer (December 2003 - November 2006) of Charter Oak Capital Management, Inc.; Director (May 2006 - September 2006) of C.M. Benefit Insurance Company; Director (May 2008 - June 2009) and Executive Vice President (June 2007 - July 2009) of C.M. Life Insurance Company; President (March 2006 - May 2007) of MassMutual Assignment Company; Director (January 2005 - December 2006), Deputy Chairman (March 2005 - December 2006) and President (February 2005 - March 2005) of MassMutual Holdings (Bermuda) Limited; Director (May 2008 - June 2009) and Executive Vice President (June 2007 - July 2009) of MML Bay State Life Insurance Company; Chief Executive Officer and President (April 2007 - January 2009) of MML Distributors, LLC.; and Chairman (March 2006 -December 2008) and Chief Executive Officer (May 2007 - December 2008) of MML Investors Services, Inc. Mr. Glavin has served on the Boards of certain Oppenheimer funds since December 2009, during which time he has become familiar with the Fund's (and other Oppenheimer funds') financial, accounting, regulatory and investment matters and has contributed to the Boards' deliberations. |
88 |
The addresses of the officers in the chart below are as follows: for Messrs. Anello, Bhaman, Brown, Edwards, Gabinet, Glavin, Govil, Hamilton, Kotlarz, Krantz, Levine, Memani, Ram, Steinmetz, Strzalkowski, Vardharaj, Weiner, Ziehl and Zibelli and Mss. Bloomberg, Budzinski, Kantesaria, Ketner Pak, Nasta and Zervos, Two World Financial Center, 225 Liberty Street, New York, New York 10281-1008, for Messrs. Kennedy, Legg, O'Donnell, Petersen, Proctor, Vandehey and Wixted and Mss. Bullington, LaFond and Wolf, 6803 S. Tucson Way, Centennial, Colorado 80112-3924. Each officer serves for an indefinite term or until his or her resignation, retirement death or removal.
Each of the Officers has served the Funds in the following capacities from the following dates: |
||
Raymond Anello |
Vice President |
Since 2011 |
Rajeev Bhaman |
Vice President |
Since 2004 |
Jack Brown |
Vice President |
Since 2013 |
Joy Budzinski |
Vice President |
Since 2013 |
Manind Govil |
Vice President |
Since 2009 |
Mark Hamilton |
Vice President |
Since 2013 |
Kristin Ketner Pak |
Vice President |
Since 2013 |
Magnus Krantz |
Vice President |
Since 2013 |
Michael Kotlarz |
Vice President |
Since 2012 |
Michael Levine |
Vice President |
Since 2013 |
Krishna Memani |
Vice President |
Since 2009 |
Christopher Proctor |
Vice President |
Since 2010 |
Benjamin Ram |
Vice President |
Since 2009 |
Arthur P. Steinmetz |
Vice President |
Since 1993 |
Peter A. Strzalkowski |
Vice President |
Since 2009 |
Raman Vardharaj |
Vice President |
Since 2009 |
Adam Weiner |
Vice President |
Since 2013 |
Carol E. Wolf |
Vice President |
Since 1998 |
Sara Zervos |
Vice President |
Since 2010 |
Ronald Zibelli, Jr. |
Vice President |
Since 2006 |
Matthew Ziehl |
Vice President |
Since 2009 |
William F. Glavin, Jr. |
President and Principal Executive Officer |
Since 2009 |
Christina Nasta |
Vice President and Chief Business Officer |
Since 2011 |
Mark S. Vandehey |
Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer |
Since 2004 |
Brian W. Wixted |
Treasurer and Principal Financial & Accounting Officer |
Since 1999 |
James A. Kennedy |
Assistant Treasurer |
Since 2011 |
Brian S. Petersen |
Assistant Treasurer |
Since 2004 |
Stephanie J. Bullington |
Assistant Treasurer |
Since 2008 |
Mathew O'Donnell |
Assistant Treasurer |
Since 2012 |
Arthur S. Gabinet |
Secretary and Chief Legal Officer |
Since 2011 |
Lisa I. Bloomberg |
Assistant Secretary |
Since 2004 |
Taylor V. Edwards |
Assistant Secretary |
Since 2008 |
Amee Kantesaria |
Assistant Secretary |
Since 2012 |
Randy G. Legg |
Assistant Secretary |
Since 2008 |
Gloria LaFond |
Blue Sky Officer |
Since 2011 |
Other Information About the Officers of the Funds |
|
|
Name, Year of Birth, Position(s) |
Principal Occupation(s) During the Last 5 Years |
Portfolios Overseen in Fund Complex |
Raymond Anello (1964) |
Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (since May 2009) and a portfolio manager of the Sub-Adviser (since April 2011). Sector manager for energy and utilities for the Sub-Adviser's Main Street Investment Team (since May 2009). Portfolio Manager of the RS All Cap Dividend product (from its inception in July 2007-April 2009) and served as a sector manager for energy and utilities for various other RS Investments products. Guardian Life Insurance Company (October 1999) and transitioned to RS Investments (October 2006) in connection with Guardian Life Insurance Company's acquisition of an interest in RS Investments. An equity portfolio manager/analyst and high yield analyst at Orion Capital (1995-1998) and an assistant portfolio manager at the Garrison Bradford portfolio management firm (1988-1995). |
2 |
Rajeev Bhaman (1963) |
Director of Global Equities of the Sub-Adviser (since January 2013); Senior Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (since May 2006); Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (January 1997-May 2006). |
2 |
Jack Brown (1973) |
Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (since May 2009) and was a senior analyst for the High Yield Corporate Debt team (from 2000 to 2012). He joined the Sub-Adviser (in 1995) and has held numerous positions including fixed income liaison, analyst and senior analyst. |
2 |
Joy Budzinski (1968) |
Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (since May 2009) and a portfolio manager of the Sub-Adviser (since November 2012). Sector manager for healthcare for the Sub-Adviser's Main Street Investment Team (since May 2009). Healthcare sector manager at RS Investment and Guardian Life Insurance Company. Guardian Life Insurance Company (August 2006) and transitioned to RS Investments (October 2006) in connection with Guardian Life Insurance Company's acquisition of an interest in RS Investments. Senior equity analyst at Bank of New York BNY Asset Management (2001 -2006); portfolio manager and analyst at Alliance of America (1999-2001); portfolio manager and analyst at JP Morgan Chase (1993-1997); analyst at Prudential Investments (1997-1998). |
2 |
Manind "Mani" Govil (1969) |
Senior Vice President, the Main Street Team Leader and a portfolio manager of the Sub-Adviser (since May 2009). Portfolio manager with RS Investment Management Co. LLC (October 2006-March 2009). Head of equity investments at The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (August 2005-October 2006) when Guardian Life Insurance acquired an interest in RS Investment Management Co. LLC. Lead portfolio manager - large cap blend/core equity, co-head of equities and head of equity research (2001-July 2005), and was lead portfolio manager - core equity (April 1996-July 2005), at Mercantile Capital Advisers, Inc. |
3 |
Mark Hamilton (1965) |
Chief Investment Officer, Asset Allocation of the Sub-Adviser (since April 2013) and a Senior Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (since April 2013). Mr. Hamilton served at AllianceBernstein L.P. (from 1994-2013), as an Investment Director of Dynamic Asset Allocation (from 2010-2013), Head of North American Blend Team (from 2009-2010), and Senior Portfolio Manager of Blend Strategies (from 2006-2010). |
7 |
Kristin Ketner Pak (1965) |
Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (since June 2009) and a portfolio manager of the Sub-Adviser (since November 2012). Sector manager for consumer discretionary and consumer staples for the Sub-Adviser's Main Street Investment Team (since May 2009). Sector manager at RS Investment and Guardian Life Insurance Company. Ms. Ketner Pak joined Guardian Life Insurance Company in February 2006 and transitioned to RS Investments in October 2006 in connection with Guardian Life Insurance Company's acquisition of an interest in RS Investments. Portfolio Manager at Solstice Equity Management (2002-2005); Retail analyst at Goldman Sachs (1999-2001); Director of Strategy and Integration at Staples (1997-1999); Investment banker at Merrill Lynch (1987-1992 and 1995-1997) and Montgomery Securities (1994-1995). |
2 |
Michael Kotlarz (1972) |
Vice President and Senior Research Analyst of the Sub-Adviser (since March 2008). Managing Director of Equity Research at Ark Asset Management (March 2000-March 2008). |
3 |
Magnus Krantz (1967) |
Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (since May 2009) and a portfolio manager of the Sub-Adviser (since November 2012); sector manager for technology for the Sub-Adviser's Main Street Investment Team (since May 2009). Prior to joining the Sub-Adviser, Mr. Krantz was a sector manager at RS Investment and Guardian Life Insurance Company. Mr. Krantz joined Guardian Life Insurance Company in December 2005 and transitioned to RS Investments in October 2006 in connection with Guardian Life Insurance Company's acquisition of an interest in RS Investments. Portfolio manager and analyst at Citigroup Asset Management (1998-2005) and as a consultant at Price Waterhouse (1997-1998). Product development engineer at Newbridge Networks (1993-1996); Software engineer at Mitel Corporation (1990-1993). |
3 |
Michael Levine (1965) |
Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (since June 1998) and Senior Portfolio Manager of the Sub-Adviser (since September 2000). |
2 |
Krishna Memani (1960) |
President of the Sub-Adviser (since January 2013); Chief Investment Officer, Fixed Income of the Sub-Adviser (since January 2013) and Head of the Investment Grade Fixed Income Team of the Sub-Adviser (since March 2009). Director of Fixed Income of the Sub-Adviser (October 2010-December 2012) and Senior Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (March 2009-December 2012). Managing Director and Head of the U.S. and European Credit Analyst Team at Deutsche Bank Securities (June 2006-January 2009). Chief Credit Strategist at Credit Suisse Securities (August 2002-March 2006). Managing Director and Senior Portfolio Manager at Putnam Investments (September 1998-June 2002). |
13 |
Christopher Proctor (1968) |
Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (since August 2008) and Senior Portfolio Manager of the Sub-Adviser (since January 2010). Vice President at Calamos Asset Management (January 2007-March 2008) and Scudder-Kemper Investments (1999-2002). Managing Director and Co-Founder of Elmhurst Capital Management (June 2004-January 2007); Senior Manager of Research for Etrade Global Asset Management (2002-2004). |
5 |
Benjamin Ram (1972) |
Vice President and portfolio manager of the Sub-Adviser (since May 2009); Senior Portfolio Manager of the Sub-Adviser (since January 2011). Sector manager for financial investments and a co portfolio manager for mid-cap portfolios with the RS Core Equity Team of RS Investment Management Co. LLC (October 2006-May 2009). Portfolio Manager of Mid Cap Strategies, Sector Manager Financials at The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (January 2006-October 2006) when Guardian Life Insurance acquired an interest in RS Investment Management Co. LLC. Financial analyst (2003-2005), and co-portfolio manager (2005-2006) at Mercantile Capital Advisers, Inc.; Bank analyst at Legg Mason Securities (2000-2003) and a senior financial analyst at the CitiFinancial division of Citigroup, Inc. (1997-2000). |
2 |
Arthur P. Steinmetz (1958) |
Chief Investment Officer of the OppenheimerFunds advisory entities (since January 2013); Executive Vice President and Director of the Manager (since January 2013); President and Director of OFI SteelPath, Inc. (since January 2013); Chief Investment Officer of the Sub-Adviser (October 2010-December 2012); Chief Investment Officer, Fixed-Income, of the Sub-Adviser (April 2009-October 2010); Executive Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (October 2009-December 2012); Director of Fixed Income of the Sub-Adviser (January 2009-April 2009); Senior Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (March 1993-September 2009). |
3 |
Peter A. Strzalkowski (1965) |
Vice President and Senior Portfolio Manager of the Sub-Adviser (since August 2007) and a member of the Sub-Adviser's Investment Grade Fixed Income Team (since April 2009). Managing Partner and Chief Investment Officer of Vector Capital Management, LLC, a structured products money management firm he founded, (July 2006-August 2007). Senior Portfolio Manager at Highland Capital Management, L.P. (June 2005-July 2006) and a Senior Fixed Income Portfolio Manager at Microsoft Corp. (June 2003-June 2005). Vice President and Senior Fixed Income Portfolio Manager at First Citizens Bank Trust, Capital Management Group (April 2000-June 2003); Vice President and Fixed Income Portfolio Manager at Centura Banks (November 1998-April 2000). |
4 |
Raman Vardharaj (1971) |
Vice President and portfolio manager of the Sub-Adviser (since May 2009); Sector manager and a senior quantitative analyst creating stock selection models, monitoring portfolio risks and analyzing portfolio performance across the RS Core Equity Team of RS Investment Management Co. LLC (October 2006-May 2009); Quantitative analyst at The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (1998-October 2006) when Guardian Life Insurance acquired an interest in RS Investment Management Co. LLC. |
2 |
Adam Weiner (1969) |
Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (since May 2009) and a portfolio manager of the Sub-Adviser (since November 2012). Sector manager for industrials and materials for the Sub-Adviser's Main Street Investment Team (since May 2009). Sector manager at RS Investment for industrials and materials (January 2007-April 2009). Director and senior equity analyst at Credit Suisse Asset Management (CSAM) (September 2004-December 2006). Equity analyst at Credit Suisse First Boston 2004-2006 (buy-side) and 1999-2004 (sell-side) and Morgan Stanley (1996-1999); internal auditor at Dun and Bradstreet (1992-1996). Budget analyst, Information Resources Division of the Executive Office of the President (1990-1992). |
2 |
Carol E. Wolf (1951) |
Senior Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (since June 2000) and of HarbourView Asset Management Corporation (since June 2003); Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (June 1990-June 2000). |
6 |
Sara Zervos, PhD (1969) |
Senior Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (since January 2011); Head of the Global Debt Team (since October 2010) and is the team's Director of International Research; Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (April 2008-December 2010). Portfolio manager with Sailfish Capital Management (May 2007-February 2008) and a portfolio manager for emerging market debt at Dillon Read Capital Management and OTA Asset Management (June 2004-April 2007). |
4 |
Ronald Zibelli, Jr. (1959) |
Vice President and Senior Portfolio Manager of the Sub-Adviser (since May 2006). Prior to joining the Sub-Adviser, he spent six years at Merrill Lynch Investment Managers, during which time he was a Managing Director and Small Cap Growth Team Leader, responsible for managing 11 portfolios. Prior to joining Merrill Lynch Investment Managers, Mr. Zibelli spent 12 years with Chase Manhattan Bank, including two years as Senior Portfolio Manager (U.S. Small Cap Equity) at Chase Asset Management. |
3 |
Matthew Ziehl (1967) |
Vice President and Senior Portfolio Manager of the Sub-Adviser (since May 2009). Portfolio manager with RS Investment Management Co. LLC (October 2006-May 2009); Managing Director at The Guardian Life Insurance Company of America (December 2001-October 2006) when Guardian Life Insurance acquired an interest in RS Investment Management Co. LLC. Team leader and co portfolio manager with Salomon Brothers Asset Management, Inc. for small growth portfolios (January 2001-December 2001). |
2 |
Name, Year of Birth, Position(s) |
Principal Occupation(s) During the Past 5 Years |
Portfolios Overseen |
Mark S. Vandehey (1950) |
Senior Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer of the Manager (since January 2013); Chief Compliance Officer of OFI SteelPath, Inc. (since January 2013); Senior Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (March 2004-December 2012); Chief Compliance Officer of the Sub-Adviser, OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc., OFI Trust Company, OFI Institutional Asset Management , Inc., Oppenheimer Real Asset Management, Inc., OFI Private Investments, Inc., Harborview Asset Management Corporation, Trinity Investment Management Corporation, and Shareholder Services, Inc. (since March 2004); Vice President of OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc., Centennial Asset Management Corporation and Shareholder Services, Inc. (June 1983-December 2012). |
88 |
Christina M. Nasta (1973) |
Senior Vice President of OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc. (since January 2013); Senior Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (July 2010-December 2012); Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (January 2003-July 2010); Vice President of OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc. (January 2003-July 2010). |
88 |
Brian W. Wixted (1959) |
Senior Vice President of the Manager (since January 2013); Treasurer of the Sub-Adviser, HarbourView Asset Management Corporation, Shareholder Financial Services, Inc., Shareholder Services, Inc., and Oppenheimer Real Asset Management, Inc. (March 1999-June 2008), OFI Private Investments, Inc. (March 2000-June 2008), OppenheimerFunds International Ltd. and OppenheimerFunds plc (since May 2000), OFI Institutional Asset Management, Inc. (November 2000-June 2008), and OppenheimerFunds Legacy Program (charitable trust program established by the Sub-Adviser) (June 2003-December 2011); Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of OFI Trust Company (since May 2000); Assistant Treasurer of Oppenheimer Acquisition Corporation (March 1999-June 2008). |
88 |
Brian S. Petersen (1970) |
Vice President of the Manager (since January 2013); Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (February 2007-December 2012); Assistant Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (August 2002-February 2007). |
88 |
Stephanie J. Bullington (1977) |
Vice President of the Manager (since January 2013); Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (January 2010-December 2012); Assistant Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (October 2005-January 2010). |
88 |
James A. Kennedy (1958) |
Senior Vice President of the Manager (since January 2013); Senior Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (September 2006-December 2012.) |
88 |
Mathew O'Donnell (1967) |
Vice President of the Manager (since January 2013); Vice President of the Sub-Adviser (January 2008-December 2012); Accounting Policy Director of the Sub-Adviser (May 2007-March 2012). |
88 |
Arthur S. Gabinet (1958) |
Executive Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel of the Manager (since January 2013); General Counsel OFI SteelPath, Inc. (since January 2013); Executive Vice President (May 2010-December 2012) and General Counsel (since January 2011) of the Sub-Adviser; General Counsel of the Distributor (since January 2011); General Counsel of Centennial Asset Management Corporation (January 2011-December 2012); Executive Vice President (January 2011-December 2012) and General Counsel of HarbourView Asset Management Corporation (since January 2011); Assistant Secretary (since January 2011) and Director (since January 2011) of OppenheimerFunds International Ltd. and OppenheimerFunds plc; Director of Oppenheimer Real Asset Management, Inc. (January 2011-December 2012) and General Counsel (since January 2011); Executive Vice President (January 2011-December 2011) and General Counsel of Shareholder Financial Services, Inc. and Shareholder Services, Inc. (since January 2011); Executive Vice President (January 2011-December 2012) and General Counsel of OFI Private Investments Inc. (since January 2011); Vice President of OppenheimerFunds Legacy Program (January 2011-December 2011); Executive Vice President (January 2011-December 2012) and General Counsel of OFI Institutional Asset Management, Inc. (since January 2011); General Counsel, Asset Management of the Sub-Adviser (May 2010-December 2010); Principal, The Vanguard Group (November 2005-April 2010); District Administrator, U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (January 2003-October 2005). |
88 |
Lisa I. Bloomberg (1968) |
Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel of the Manager (since January 2013); Senior Vice President (February 2010-December 2012) and Deputy General Counsel (May 2008-December 2012) of the Sub-Adviser; Vice President (May 2004-January 2010) and Associate Counsel of the Sub-Adviser (May 2004-May 2008). |
88 |
Randy G. Legg (1965) |
Vice President and Senior Counsel of the Manager (since January 2013); Vice President (June 2005-December 2012) and Senior Counsel (March 2011-December 2012) of the Sub-Adviser; Associate Counsel (January 2007-March 2011) of the Sub-Adviser. |
88 |
Taylor V. Edwards (1967) |
Vice President and Senior Counsel of the Manager (since January 2013); Vice President (February 2007-December 2012) and Senior Counsel (February 2012-December 2012) of the Sub-Adviser; Associate Counsel (May 2009-January 2012); Assistant Vice President (January 2006-January 2007) and Assistant Counsel (January 2006-April 2009) of the Sub-Adviser. |
88 |
Amee Kantesaria (1980) |
Vice President and Assistant Counsel of the Manager (since January 2013); Vice President (May 2009-December 2012) and Assistant Counsel (December 2006-December 2012) of the Sub-Adviser; Assistant Vice President (December 2006-May 2009) of the Sub-Adviser; Assistant Secretary (since January 2011) of the Sub-Adviser and Oppenheimer Acquisition Corp. |
88 |
Gloria J. LaFond (1945) |
Assistant Vice President of the Manager (since January 2013); Assistant Vice President (January 2006-December 2012) of the Sub-Adviser. |
88 |
Trustees Share Ownership. The chart below shows information about each Trustee's beneficial share ownership in the Fund and in all of the registered investment companies that the Trustee oversees in the Oppenheimer family of funds ("Supervised Funds").
As of December 31, 2012 |
|
|
|
Dollar Range of Shares Beneficially Owned in the Funds |
Aggregate Dollar Range of Shares Beneficially Owned in Supervised Funds |
Independent Trustees |
|
|
Edward L. Cameron |
None |
Over $100,000 |
Jon S. Fossel |
None |
Over $100,000 |
Sam Freedman |
None |
Over $100,000 |
Richard F. Grabish |
None |
Over $100,000 |
Beverly L. Hamilton |
None |
Over $100,000 |
Victoria J. Herget |
None |
Over $100,000 |
Robert J. Malone |
None |
Over $100,000 |
F. William Marshall, Jr. |
None |
Over $100,000 |
Karen L. Stuckey |
None |
Over $100,000 |
James D. Vaughn |
None |
Over $100,000 |
Interested Trustee |
|
|
William F. Glavin |
None |
Over $100,000 |
Remuneration of the Officers and Trustees. The officers of the Fund, who are associated with the Manager, receive no salary or fee from the Fund. The Independent Trustees' total compensation from the Fund and fund complex represents compensation for serving as a Trustee and member of a committee (if applicable) of the Boards of the Fund and other funds in the OppenheimerFunds complex during the calendar year ended December 31, 2012.
Name and Other Fund Position(s) (as applicable) |
Aggregate Compensation From the Fund1 |
Total Compensation From the Fund and Fund Complex2 |
|
Fiscal Year Ended December 31, 2012 |
Year Ended December 31, 2012 |
Sam Freedman |
$42,619 |
$225,400 |
Chairman of the Board |
|
|
Edward L. Cameron |
$34,761 |
$183,750 |
Audit Committee Member and Governance Committee Member |
|
|
Jon S. Fossel |
$37,060 |
$196,000 |
Audit Committee Member |
|
|
Richard Grabish |
$27,388 |
$155,027 |
Review Committee Chairman and Governance Committee Member |
|
|
Beverly Hamilton |
$37,060 3 |
$196,000 |
Governance Committee Chairman and Review Committee Member |
|
|
Victoria J. Herget |
$30,223 |
$159,519 |
Review Committee Member and Governance Committee Member |
|
|
Robert J. Malone |
$42,619 |
$225,400 |
Review Committee Member and Governance Committee Member |
|
|
F. William Marshall, Jr. |
$44,472 |
$377,632 4 |
Audit Committee Chairman and Governance Committee Member |
|
|
Karen L. Stuckey |
$27,874 |
$147,000 |
Audit Committee Member and Governance Committee Member |
|
|
James D. Vaughn |
$30,223 |
$159,519 |
Audit Committee Member and Governance Committee Member |
|
|
1. "Aggregate Compensation from the Fund" includes fees and deferred compensation, if any.
2. In accordance with SEC regulations, for purposes of this section only, "Fund Complex" includes the Oppenheimer Funds, the MassMutual Institutional Funds, the MassMutual Select Funds and the MML Series Investment Fund, the investment adviser for which is the indirect parent company of the Fund's Manager. The Manager also serves as the Sub-Adviser to the following: MassMutual Premier International Equity Fund, MassMutual Premier Main Street Fund, MassMutual Premier Strategic Income Fund, MassMutual Premier Capital Appreciation Fund, and MassMutual Premier Global Fund. The Manager does not consider MassMutual Institutional Funds, MassMutual Select Funds and MML Series Investment Fund to be part of the Oppenheimer Funds' "Fund Complex" as that term may be otherwise interpreted.
3. Includes $37,060 deferred by Ms. Hamilton under the "Compensation Deferral Plan" described below.
4. Includes $142,432 compensation paid to Mr. Marshall for serving as a Trustee for MassMutual Select Funds and MML Series Investment Fund.
Compensation Deferral Plan. The Board of Trustees has adopted a Compensation Deferral Plan for Independent Trustees that enables them to elect to defer receipt of all or a portion of the annual fees they are entitled to receive from certain Funds. Under the plan, the compensation deferred by a Trustee is periodically adjusted as though an equivalent amount had been invested in shares of one or more Oppenheimer funds selected by the Trustee. The amount paid to the Trustee under the plan will be determined based on the amount of compensation deferred and the performance of the selected funds.
Deferral of the Trustees' fees under the plan will not materially affect a Fund's assets, liabilities or net income per share. The plan will not obligate a fund to retain the services of any Trustee or to pay any particular level of compensation to any Trustee. Pursuant to an Order issued by the SEC, a fund may invest in the funds selected by the Trustee under the plan without shareholder approval for the limited purpose of determining the value of the Trustee's deferred compensation account.
Major Shareholders. For information on control persons and principal holders of securities of the Funds, please see Appendix A.
The Manager and the Sub-Adviser
The Manager is a wholly-owned subsidiary of OppenheimerFunds, Inc., the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser is wholly-owned by Oppenheimer Acquisition Corp., a holding company primarily owned by Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company, a global, diversified insurance and financial services company.
Code of Ethics. The Funds (except Money Fund/VA), the Manager, the Sub-Adviser and the Distributor have a Code of Ethics. It is designed to detect and prevent improper personal trading by certain employees, including portfolio managers, that would compete with or take advantage of a Fund's portfolio transactions. Covered persons include persons with knowledge of the investments and investment intentions of the Fund and other funds advised by the Manager. The Code of Ethics does permit personnel subject to the Code to invest in securities, including securities that may be purchased or held by the Fund, subject to a number of restrictions and controls. Compliance with the Code of Ethics is carefully monitored and enforced by the Manager, the Sub-Adviser and the Distributor.
The Code of Ethics is an exhibit to the Funds' registration statement filed with the SEC and can be reviewed and copied at the SEC's Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. You can obtain information about the hours of operation of the Public Reference Room by calling the SEC at 1.202.551.8090. The Code of Ethics can also be viewed as part of the Funds' registration statement on the SEC's EDGAR database at the SEC's Internet website at http://www.sec.gov. Copies may be obtained, after paying a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following E-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov., or by writing to the SEC's Public Reference Section, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520.
The Investment Advisory Agreement.The Manager provides investment advisory and management services to each Fund under an investment advisory agreement between the Manager and each Fund. The Manager has retained the Sub-Adviser pursuant to a separate sub-advisory agreement, described below, under which the Sub-Adviser chooses the Funds' investments and provides related advisory services to the Funds. Prior to January 1, 2013, OppenheimerFunds, Inc. was the Manager of the Fund.
The advisory agreement requires the Manager, at its expense, to provide the Funds with adequate office space, facilities and equipment. It also requires the Manager to provide and supervise the activities of all administrative and clerical personnel required to provide effective administration for the Funds. Those responsibilities include the compilation and maintenance of records with respect to Funds' operations, the preparation and filing of specified reports, and composition of proxy materials and registration statements for the continuous public sale of shares of the Funds.
The Funds pay expenses not expressly assumed by the Manager under the investment advisory agreements. The investment advisory agreements list examples of expenses paid by the Funds. The major categories relate to interest, taxes, brokerage commissions, fees to certain Directors/Trustees, legal and audit expenses, custodian and transfer agent expenses, share issuance costs, certain printing and registration costs and non-recurring expenses, including litigation costs. The management fees paid by the Funds to the Manager are calculated at the rates described in the Prospectus, which are applied to the assets of the Funds as a whole. The fees are allocated to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of a Fund's net assets represented by that class. The management fees paid by the Funds to the Manager during their last three fiscal years were:
Management Fees for the Fiscal Year Ended December 31 |
|||
Fund |
2010 |
2011 |
2012 |
Capital Appreciation Fund/VA |
$9,268,654 |
$7,570,152 |
$6,753,708 |
Capital Income Fund/VA |
$1,780,237 |
$1,695,109 |
$1,985,570 |
Core Bond Fund/VA |
$1,161,961 |
$1,115,919 |
$1,120,003 |
Discovery Mid Cap |
$4,152,994 |
$4,602,216 |
$4,415,676 |
Equity Income Fund/VA |
$52,993 |
$56,629 |
$54,356 |
Global Fund/VA |
$16,477,772 |
$17,004,569 |
$15,919,693 |
Global Strategic Income Fund/VA |
$17,980,400 |
$13,684,521 |
$13,867,182 |
Main Street Fund/VA |
$10,730,968 |
$9,967,881 |
$9,147,166 |
Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA |
$5,732,969 |
$6,299,582 |
$6,378,552 |
Money Fund/VA |
$739,544 |
$702,396 |
$739,124 |
The investment advisory agreements state that in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence in the performance of its duties or reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under the investment advisory agreements, the Manager is not liable for any loss the Funds sustain in connection with matters to which the agreement relates.
The agreements permit the Manager to act as investment advisor for any other person, firm or corporation and to use the name "Oppenheimer" in connection with other investment companies for which it may act as investment advisor or general distributor. If OFI shall no longer act as investment advisor to the Funds, OFI may withdraw the right of the Funds to use the name "Oppenheimer" as part of their name.
The Sub-Advisory Agreement. Under the sub-advisory agreement between the Manager and the Sub-Adviser, the Sub-Adviser shall regularly provide investment advice with respect to the Funds and invest and reinvest cash, securities, commodity interests and the property comprising the assets of the Funds. The Sub-Adviser selects securities and/or commodity interests for the Funds' portfolios and provides related advisory services. The portfolio managers of the Funds are employed by the Sub-Adviser and are principally responsible for the provision of advisory services of the Funds' portfolios. Other members of the Sub-Adviser's investment teams provide the portfolio managers with counsel and support in managing the Funds' portfolios.
Under the sub-advisory agreement, the Manager pays the Sub-Adviser a percentage of the net investment advisory fee (after all applicable waivers) that it receives from the Funds as compensation for the provision of investment advisory services. The fee paid to the Sub-Adviser under the sub-advisory agreement is paid by the Manager, not by the Funds.
The sub-advisory agreement states that in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith, negligence or reckless disregard of its duties or obligations, the Sub-Adviser shall not be liable to the Manager for any act or omission in the course of or connected with rendering services under the Sub-Advisory Agreement or for any losses that may be sustained in the purchase, holding or sale of any security.
In addition, as described below under "Organization and Management of Wholly-Owned Subsidiary," the Subsidiary has entered into a separate contract with the Manager for the management of the Subsidiary's portfolio. The Manager has contractually agreed to waive the management fee it receives from the Global Strategic Income Fund/VA in an amount equal to the management fee paid to the Manager by the Subsidiary. This undertaking will continue in effect for so long as the Global Strategic Income Fund/VA invests in the Subsidiary, and may not be terminated by the Manager unless the Manager first obtains the prior approval of the Global Strategic Income Fund/VA's Board of Trustees for such termination.
The Sub-Sub-Advisers. OFI SteelPath, Inc., one of the Sub-Sub-Advisers to the Fund, is a wholly-owned subsidiary of OFI, the Fund's Sub-Adviser. Cornerstone Real Estate Advisers, LLC, another Sub-Sub-Adviser to the Fund, is an indirect subsidiary of Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company ("MassMutual"), the parent company of the Manager.
The Sub-Sub-Advisory Agreement. Under the Sub-Sub-Advisory Agreements between the Sub-Adviser and the Sub-Sub-Advisers, each Sub-Sub-Adviser shall regularly provide investment advice with respect to that portion, or all, of the Fund's assets that the SubAdviser and/or the Adviser shall allocate to the Sub-Sub-Adviser from time to time (the "Allocated Assets"), and invest and reinvest cash, securities and the property comprising the assets of the Allocated Assets that the respective Sub-Sub-Adviser manages. The Sub-Sub-Adviser also agrees to provide assistance in the distribution and marketing of the Fund.
Under the Sub-Sub-Advisory Agreements, the Sub-Adviser pays each Sub-Sub-Adviser an annual fee in monthly installments, with respect to and based on the portion of the average daily net assets of the Fund comprising the Allocated Assets. The fee paid to the Sub-Sub-Adviser under the Sub-Sub-Advisory Agreement is paid by the Sub-Adviser, not by the Fund. The Sub-Adviser will pay each Sub-Sub-Adviser a percentage of the investment management fee collected by the Sub-Adviser from the Manager with respect to and based on the portion of the average daily net assets of the Fund comprising the assets managed by each Sub-Sub-Adviser, which shall be calculated after any investment management fee waivers (voluntary or otherwise). Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Sub-Adviser, without the Sub-Sub-adviser's concurrence, agrees to voluntarily waive a portion of the investment management fee the Manager is required to pay to the Sub-Adviser, the Sub-Sub-Adviser's fee hereunder shall be based upon the investment management fee the Manager would have to pay exclusive of any such waiver agreed to by the Sub-Adviser in its sole discretion.
Each Sub-Sub-Advisory Agreement states that in the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith, negligence or reckless disregard of its duties or obligations, the Sub-Sub-Adviser shall not be liable to the Sub-Adviser for any act or omission in the course of or connected with rendering services under the Sub-Sub-Advisory Agreement or for any losses that may be sustained in the purchase, holding or sale of any security.
Portfolio Proxy Voting. The Fund has adopted Portfolio Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures, which include Proxy Voting Guidelines, under which the Fund votes proxies relating to securities held by the Fund ("portfolio proxies"). The Manager generally undertakes to vote portfolio proxies with a view to enhancing the value of the company's stock held by the Fund. The Fund has retained an independent, third party proxy voting agent to vote portfolio proxies in accordance with the Fund's Proxy Voting Guidelines and to maintain records of such portfolio proxy voting. The Manager's internal Proxy Voting Committee is responsible for monitoring the third party proxy voting agent.
The Portfolio Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures include provisions to address conflicts of interest that may arise between the Fund and the Manager or the Manager's affiliates or business relationships. Such a conflict of interest may arise, for example, where the Manager or an affiliate of the Manager manages or administers the assets of a pension plan or other investment account of the portfolio company soliciting the proxy or seeks to serve in that capacity. The Manager and its affiliates generally seek to avoid such material conflicts of interest by maintaining separate investment decision making processes to prevent the sharing of business objectives with respect to proposed or actual actions regarding portfolio proxy voting decisions. Additionally, the Manager employs the following procedures, as long as OFI determines that the course of action is consistent with the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders:
If the proposal that gives rise to the conflict is specifically addressed in the Proxy Voting Guidelines, the Manager will vote the portfolio proxy in accordance with the Proxy Voting Guidelines.
If none of the previous procedures provides an appropriate voting recommendation, the Proxy Voting Committee may: (i) determine how to vote on the proposal; (ii) recommend that the Manager retain an independent fiduciary to advise the Manager on how to vote the proposal; or (iii) determine that voting on the particular proposal is impracticable and/or is outweighed by the cost of voting and direct the Manager to abstain from voting.
The Proxy Voting Guidelines' provisions with respect to certain routine and non-routine proxy proposals are summarized below:
The Fund is required to file Form N-PX, with its complete proxy voting record for the 12 months ended June 30th, no later than August 31st of each year. The Fund's Form N-PX filing is available (i) without charge, upon request, by calling the Fund toll-free at 1.800.525.7048 and (ii) on the SEC's website at www.sec.gov.
Investment in Wholly-Owned Subsidiary. Global Strategic Income Fund/VA and Diversified Alternaitves Fund/VA may each invest up to 25% of its total assets in a wholly-owned and controlled subsidiary (the "Subsidiary"). The Subsidiary invests primarily in commodity-linked derivatives (including commodity futures, financial futures, options and swap contracts) and exchange traded funds related to gold or other special minerals ("Gold ETFs"). The Subsidiary may also invest in certain fixed-income securities and other investments that may serve as margin or collateral for its derivatives positions.
Since Global Strategic Income Fund/VA and Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA may invest a substantial portion of its assets in its Subsidiary, which may hold certain of the investments described in each Fund's prospectus and this Statement of Additional Information, each Fund may be considered to be investing indirectly in those investments through its Subsidiary. Therefore, references in Global Strategic Income Fund/VA's and Diversified Alternaitve Fund/VA's respective prospectus and in this Statement of Additional Information to investments by the respective Funds also may be deemed to include each Fund's indirect investments through the Subsidiary.
The Subsidiaries are not registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "Investment Company Act") and are not subject its investor protections, except as noted in Global Strategic Income Fund/VA's or Diversified Alternative Fund/VA's prospectus or this Statement of Additional Information. Global Strategic Income Fund/VA or Diversified Alternative Fund/VA, each as the sole shareholder of its Subsidiary, does not have all of the protections offered by the Investment Company Act. However, the Subsidiary is wholly-owned and controlled by each Fund and managed by the Manager. Therefore, each Fund's ownership and control of a Subsidiary make it unlikely that the Subsidiary would take action contrary to the interests of the Funds or their shareholders. Global Strategic Income Fund/VA's and Diversified Alternative Fund/VA's Board has oversight responsibility for the investment activities of the Funds, including their expected investment in their Subsidiaries and their role as the sole shareholder of their Subsidiary. Also, in managing a Subsidiary's portfolio, the Manager is subject to the same investment policies and restrictions that apply to the management of each Fund, and in particular, to the requirements relating to portfolio leverage, liquidity, brokerage, and the timing and method of the valuation of the Subsidiary's portfolio investments and shares of its Subsidiary.
Changes in the laws of the United States (where Global Strategic Income Fund/VA and Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA are organized) and/or the Cayman Islands (where the Subsidiaries are organized), could prevent the Funds and/or their Subsidiaries from operating as described in the Funds' prospectus and this Statement of Additional Information and could negatively affect the Funds and their shareholders. For example, the Cayman Islands currently does not impose certain taxes on the Subsidiaries, including income and capital gains tax, among others. If Cayman Islands laws were changed to require a Subsidiary to pay Cayman Islands taxes, the investment returns of the Funds would likely decrease.
Pending Litigation. Since 2009, a number of class action lawsuits have been pending in federal courts against the Sub-Adviser, the Distributor and certain Oppenheimer mutual funds (but not including the Fund) advised by OFI Global and distributed by the Distributor (the "Defendant Funds"). Several of these lawsuits also name as defendants certain officers and current and former trustees of the respective Defendant Funds. The lawsuits raise claims under federal securities law and allege, among other things, that the disclosure documents of the respective Defendant Fund contained misrepresentations and omissions and that the respective Defendant Funds' investment policies were not followed. The plaintiffs in these actions seek unspecified damages, equitable relief and awards of attorneys' fees and litigation expenses. The Defendant Funds' Boards of Trustees have also engaged counsel to represent the Funds and the present and former Independent Trustees named in those suits.
Other class action and individual lawsuits have been filed since 2008 in various state and federal courts against the Sub-Adviser and certain of its affiliates by investors seeking to recover investments they allegedly lost as a result of the "Ponzi" scheme run by Bernard L. Madoff and his firm, Bernard L. Madoff Investment Securities, LLC ("BLMIS"). Plaintiffs in these suits allege that they suffered losses as a result of their investments in several funds managed by an affiliate of the Sub-Adviser and assert a variety of claims, including breach of fiduciary duty, fraud, negligent misrepresentation, unjust enrichment, and violation of federal and state securities laws and regulations, among others. They seek unspecified damages, equitable relief and awards of attorneys' fees and litigation expenses. Neither the Distributor, nor any of the Oppenheimer mutual funds, their independent trustees or directors are named as defendants in these lawsuits. None of the Oppenheimer mutual funds invested in any funds or accounts managed by Madoff or BLMIS. On February 28, 2011, a stipulation of partial settlement of three groups of consolidated putative class action lawsuits relating to these matters was filed in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of New York. On August 19, 2011, the court entered an order and final judgment approving the settlement as fair, reasonable and adequate. In September 2011, certain parties filed notices of appeal from the court's order approving the settlement. The settlement does not resolve other outstanding lawsuits against the Sub-Adviser and its affiliates relating to BLMIS.
On April 16, 2010, a lawsuit was filed in New York state court against the Sub-Adviser, an affiliate of the Sub-Adviser and AAArdvark IV Funding Limited ("AAArdvark IV"), an entity advised by the Sub-Adviser's affiliate, in connection with investments made by the plaintiffs in AAArdvark IV. Plaintiffs allege breach of contract and common law fraud claims against the defendants and seek compensatory damages, costs and disbursements, including attorney fees. On April 11, 2013, the court granted defendants' motion for summary judgment, dismissing plaintiffs' fraud claim with prejudice and dismissing their contract claim without prejudice, and granted plaintiffs leave to replead their contract claim to assert a cause of action for specific performance within 30 days. On May 9, 2013, plaintiffs filed a notice of appeal from the court's dismissal order. On July 15, 2011, a lawsuit was filed in New York state court against the Sub-Adviser, an affiliate of the Sub-Adviser and AAArdvark Funding Limited ("AAArdvark I"), an entity advised by the Sub-Adviser's affiliate, in connection with investments made by the plaintiffs in AAArdvark I. The complaint alleges breach of contract and common law fraud claims against the defendants and seeks compensatory damages, costs and disbursements, including attorney fees. On November 9, 2011, a lawsuit was filed in New York state court against the Sub-Adviser, an affiliate of the Sub-Adviser and AAArdvark XS Funding Limited ("AAArdvark XS"), an entity advised by the Sub-Adviser's affiliate, in connection with investments made by the plaintiffs in AAArdvark XS. The complaint alleges breach of contract against the defendants and seeks compensatory damages, costs and disbursements, including attorney fees.
The Sub-Adviser believes the lawsuits and appeals described above are without legal merit and, with the exception of actions it has settled, is defending against them vigorously. While it is premature to render any opinion as to the outcome in these lawsuits, or whether any costs that the Defendant Funds may bear in defending the suits might not be reimbursed by insurance, the Sub-Adviser believes that these suits should not impair the ability of the Sub-Adviser or the Distributor to perform their respective duties to the Fund, and that the outcome of all of the suits together should not have any material effect on the operations of any of the Oppenheimer mutual funds.
Portfolio Managers. Each Fund's portfolio is managed by the following:
Fund |
Portfolio Manager(s) |
Capital Appreciation Fund/VA |
Michael Kotlarz |
Capital Income Fund/VA |
Magnus Krantz, Krishna Memani |
Core Bond Fund/VA |
Krishna Memani, Peter A. Strzalkowski |
Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA |
Ronald Zibelli, Jr. |
Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA |
Mark Hamilton, David Wharmby, Brian Watson |
Equity Income Fund/VA |
Michael Levine |
Global Fund/VA |
Rajeev Bhaman |
Global Strategic Income Fund/VA |
Arthur P. Steinmetz, Krishna Memani, Jack Brown, Sara Zervos |
Main Street Fund/VA |
Manind "Mani" Govil, Benjamin Ram |
Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA |
Matthew Ziehl, Raymond Anello, Raman Vardharaj, |
Money Fund/VA |
Carol E. Wolf, Christopher Proctor |
Each of the above individuals is referred to as a "Portfolio Manager" and collectively they are referred to as the "Portfolio Managers." They are the persons who are responsible for the day-to-day management of each Fund's respective investments.
Other Accounts Managed. In addition to managing the Funds' investment portfolio, Messrs. Anello, Bhaman, Brown, Govil, Hamilton, Krantz, Kotlarz, Levine, Memani, Proctor, Ram, Steinmetz, Strzalkowski, Vardharaj, Watson, Weiner, Wharmby, Zibelli and Ziehl and Mss. Budzinski, Ketner Pak, Wolf and Zervos also manage other investment portfolios or accounts on behalf of the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates. The following tables provide information regarding those portfolios and accounts as of December 31, 2012. Except for one registered investment company managed by Mr. Bhaman, no portfolio or account has a performance-based advisory fee:
Fund Name & Portfolio Managers |
Registered Investment Companies Managed |
Total Assets in Registered Investment Companies Managed1 |
Other Pooled Investment Vehicles Managed |
Total Assets in Other Pooled Investment Vehicles Managed |
Other Accounts Managed |
Total Assets in Other Accounts Managed3 |
|
Capital Appreciation Fund/VA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Michael Kotlarz |
5 |
$7.91 |
1 |
$153.88 2 |
0 |
$0 |
|
Capital Income Fund/VA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Magnus Krantz |
4 |
$4.38 |
0 |
$0 |
2 |
$388.39 2 |
|
Krishna Memani |
14 |
$23.50 |
2 |
$16.40 2 |
0 |
$0 |
|
Core Bond/VA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Krishna Memani |
14 |
$23.61 |
2 |
$16.40 2 |
0 |
$0 |
|
Peter A. Strzalkowski |
3 |
$4.03 |
5 |
$2.22 2 |
0 |
$0 |
|
Discovery Mid Cap |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Ronald J. Zibelli, Jr. |
5 |
$2.23 |
1 |
$23.83 2 |
0 |
$0 |
|
Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Mark Hamilton |
0 |
$0 |
0 |
$0 |
0 |
$0 |
|
David Wharmby |
0 |
$0 |
0 |
$0 |
0 |
$0 |
|
Brian Watson |
0 |
$0 |
0 |
$0 |
0 |
$0 |
|
Equity Income Fund/VA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Michael Levine |
1 |
$3.49 |
0 |
$0 |
0 |
$0 |
|
Global Fund/VA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Rajeev Bhaman |
7 |
$12.62 |
2 |
$666.55 2 |
1 |
$120.36 2 |
|
Global Strategic Income Fund/VA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Arthur P. Steinmetz |
3 |
$23.88 |
2 |
$16.40 2 |
0 |
$0 |
|
Krishna Memani |
14 |
$21.21 |
2 |
$16.40 2 |
0 |
$0 |
|
Jack Brown |
0 |
$0 |
0 |
$0 |
0 |
$0 |
|
Sara Zervos |
3 |
$22.24 |
1 |
$1.43 |
0 |
$0 |
|
Main Street Fund/VA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Manind Govil |
8 |
$9.35 |
0 |
$0 |
1 |
$248.10 2 |
|
Benjamin Ram |
7 |
$7.91 |
0 |
$0 |
0 |
$0 |
|
Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Matthew Ziehl |
3 |
$3.44 |
0 |
$0 |
2 |
$388.39 2 |
|
Raymond Anello |
3 |
$3.44 |
0 |
$0 |
2 |
$388.39 2 |
|
Raman Vardharaj |
3 |
$3.44 |
0 |
$0 |
2 |
$388.39 2 |
|
Joy Budzinski |
3 |
$3.44 |
0 |
$0 |
2 |
$388.39 2 |
|
Kristin Ketner Pak |
3 |
$3.44 |
0 |
$0 |
2 |
$388.39 2 |
|
Magnus Krantz |
4 |
$3.73 |
0 |
$0 |
2 |
$388.39 2 |
|
Adam Weiner |
3 |
$3.44 |
0 |
$0 |
2 |
$388.39 2 |
|
Money Fund/VA |
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
Carol E. Wolf |
5 |
$10.95 |
0 |
$0 |
1 |
$250.29 2 |
|
Christopher Proctor |
4 |
$10.33 |
0 |
$0 |
1 |
$250.29 2 |
|
1. In billions.
2. In millions.
3. Does not include personal accounts of portfolio managers and their families, which are subject to the Code of Ethics.
As indicated above, a portfolio manager may also manage other funds and accounts. At different times, a portfolio manager may manage other funds or accounts with investment objectives and strategies similar to, or different from, those of the Funds. At times, those responsibilities could potentially conflict with the interests of the Funds. That may occur whether the investment objectives and strategies of the other funds and accounts are the same as, or different from, the Funds' investment objectives and strategies. For example, a portfolio manager may need to allocate investment opportunities between a Fund and another fund or account having similar objectives or strategies, or may need to execute transactions for another fund or account that could have a negative impact on the value of securities held by a Fund. Not all funds and accounts advised by the Sub-Adviser have the same management fee. If the management fee structure of another fund or account is more advantageous to the Sub-Adviser than the fee structure of a Fund, the Sub-Adviser could have an incentive to favor the other fund or account. However, the Sub-Adviser's compliance procedures and Code of Ethics recognize the Sub-Adviser's obligation to treat all of its clients, including the Funds, fairly and equitably, and are designed to preclude a portfolio manager from favoring one client over another. It is possible, of course, that those compliance procedures and the Code of Ethics may not always be adequate to do so.
Compensation of Portfolio Managers. Portfolio managers are employed and compensated by the Sub-Adviser or an affiliate, not by the Funds. Under the compensation program for portfolio managers and portfolio analysts, compensation is based primarily on the relative investment performance results of the funds or accounts they manage, rather than on the financial success of the Sub-Adviser. This is intended to align the interests of the portfolio managers and analysts with the success of the funds and accounts of their shareholders. The compensation structure is designed to attract and retain highly qualified investment management professionals and to reward individual and team contributions toward creating shareholder value. A portfolio manager's compensation is not directly based on the total value of assets they manage; however, higher total compensation potential is likely to align with greater assets under management. The compensation structure is intended to be internally and externally equitable and serve to reduce potential conflicts of interest arising from a portfolio manager's responsibilities managing different funds or accounts.
Portfolio manager compensation generally consists of three components: a base salary, an annual bonus, and eligibility to participate in long-term awards. In general, the average proportion of total compensation among these three components is as follows: base salary is 15%, annual bonus is 65%, and long-term awards are 20%.
The base pay component for each portfolio manager is reviewed regularly to ensure that it reflects the performance of the individual, is commensurate with the requirements of the particular portfolio, reflects any specific competence or specialty of the individual manager, and is competitive with other comparable positions.
The annual bonus is calculated based on two factors: a formulaic performance portion and a discretionary portion. In general, the formulaic performance portion is a much larger part of the annual bonus than the discretionary portion. The formulaic performance portion of the annual bonus is measured against the one, three and five year performance, or performance since inception, as applicable, of the fund(s) relative to an appropriate peer group category selected by senior management. The compensation structure is weighted towards long-term performance of the funds, with one year performance weighted at 20%, three year performance rated at 30%, and five year performance weighted at 50%. This formula has the effect of rewarding consistently above median performance, which best aligns the interests of the portfolio manager and the shareholder. Below median performance in all three periods results in an extremely low, and in some cases no, formulaic performance based bonus.
The discretionary portion of the annual bonus is determined by senior management of the Sub-Adviser and is based on a number of factors, including, management quality (such as style consistency, risk management, sector coverage, team leadership and coaching), contributions to marketing efforts and organizational development.
Finally, the long-term award component consists of grants in the form of appreciation rights in regard to the common stock of the Sub-Adviser's holding company parent, restricted shares of such common stock, as well as deferred cash investments in the fund(s) managed by a portfolio manager. Portfolio managers must elect to receive either 20% or 40% of their long-term award component in the form of deferred cash investments in the fund(s) managed. Through this long-term award component, portfolio managers' interests are further aligned with those of fund shareholders.
The compensation structure of other funds and/or accounts managed by a portfolio manager, if any, is generally the same as the compensation structure described above. A portfolio manager's compensation with regard to other portfolios may be based on the performance of those portfolios compared to a peer group category that may be different from that described below.
With respect to compensation of portfolio managers relating to a Fund's cash management, such compensation reflects aspects unique to that role: The formulaic performance portion of the annual bonus is measured against the one and three year performance, or performance since inception, as applicable, of the fund(s) relative to appropriate peer group rankings, credit performance and collateral management selected by senior management. The compensation structure is weighted at 50% for one year performance and 50% for three year performance. This formula has the effect of rewarding consistently above median performance, which best aligns the interests of the portfolio manager and the shareholder. Below median performance results in an extremely low, and in some cases no, formulaic performance based bonus. Finally, the long-term award component consists of two equal portions, the first portion being grants in the form of appreciation rights in regard to the common stock of the Sub-Adviser's holding company parent, and the second portion being restricted shares of such common stock.
The peer group categories with respect to the Funds are listed below.
Fund Name and Portfolio Managers |
Peer Group Category |
Capital Appreciation Fund/VA |
Morningstar Large Growth |
Michael Kotlarz |
|
Capital Income Fund/VA |
|
Magnus Krantz (Equity Sleeve) |
Lipper Multi-Cap Core |
Krishna Memani (Fixed Income Sleeve) |
Morningstar Intermediate Term Bond |
Core Bond Fund/VA |
Morningstar Intermediate-Term Bond |
Krishna Memani |
|
Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA |
Morningstar Mid-Cap Growth |
Ronald Zibelli, Jr. |
|
Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA |
Morningstar Multialternative |
Mark Hamilton |
|
Equity Income Fund/VA |
Morningstar Large Value |
Michael Levine |
|
Global Fund/VA |
Morningstar World Stock |
Rajeev Bhaman |
|
Global Strategic Income Fund/VA |
Morningstar Multisector Bond |
Arthur P. Steinmetz |
|
Main Street Fund/VA |
Morningstar Large Blend |
Manind "Mani" Govil |
|
Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA |
Morningstar Small Blend |
Matthew Ziehl |
|
Money Fund/VA |
N/A |
Carol E. Wolf |
|
Ownership of Fund Shares. As of December 31, 2012, the Portfolio Managers did not beneficially own any shares of the Funds, which are sold only through insurance companies to their contract owners.
Organization and Management of Wholly-Owned Subsidiary. The Global Strategic Income Fund/VA may invest up to 25% of its total assets in the Subsidiary. It is expected that the Subsidiary will invest primarily in commodity and financial futures and option contracts, Gold ETFs, as well as fixed income securities and other investments intended to serve as margin or collateral for the Subsidiary's derivatives positions.
The Subsidiary is an exempted company incorporated under the laws of the Cayman Islands, whose registered office is located at the offices of Maples Corporate Services Limited, PO Box 309, Ugland House, South Church Street, Grand Cayman, KY1-1104, Cayman Islands. The Subsidiary's affairs are overseen by a board of directors consisting of the following directors:
Sophia A. Dilbert:
Ms. Dilbert is a Vice President of Maples Fiduciary Services, and works on a wide range of investment fund products, including multi-manager funds, hedge funds, private equity funds, unit trust structures and segregated portfolio companies. Ms. Dilbert is a graduate of The University of Liverpool, having obtained a Degree of Bachelor of Laws with Honours in 1995. She was called as a barrister in England and Wales in 1996 and thereafter admitted as an Attorney-at-Law in the Cayman Islands. Ms. Dilbert worked with Maples and Calder as an Associate Attorney from 1996 to 2004 specialising in capital markets and investment funds. Her area of practice also included general corporate and commercial law, real estate, immigration and employment matters. From 2004 to 2007, she worked as a Senior Associate with Stuarts Walker Hersant in their corporate and investments funds practice before becoming the Global Head of Legal at Admiral Administration Ltd. from 2007 to 2011. Ms. Dilbert is a member of the Caymanian Bar Association, the Cayman Islands Law Society, the Financial Services Council and is a member of the Council of the Cayman Islands Stock Exchange.
Letitia Solomon:
Ms. Solomon is a Vice President of Maples Fiduciary Services, and works on a wide range of investment fund products, including multi-manager funds, hedge funds, private equity funds, unit trust structures, and segregated portfolio companies. Prior to joining Maples Fiduciary Services Ms. Solomon worked with Deloitte as a Senior Manager, responsible for a team of consultants providing consulting services to private and public sector entities. Prior to that Ms. Solomon worked in the Ministry of Finance of the Cayman Islands Government where she progressed to the level of Assistant Financial Secretary. Ms. Solomon acquired extensive experience in drafting anti-money laundering policies including the anti-money laundering guidance notes as well as in developing regulatory policy and guidelines for the financial services industry. Ms. Solomon commenced her career with the Cayman Islands Monetary Authority ("CIMA") where she spent nine years providing supervision and regulation of financial services entities and ensuring compliance with relevant regulatory laws and regulations. Ms. Solomon graduated from the University of South Florida with a BSc in Finance. She also holds a MBA from Edinburgh University, Scotland. Ms. Solomon is also a former Director of the CIMA. She is an Accredited Director by the Chartered Secretaries of Canada, and is also a member of the Cayman Islands Directors Association.
Brian W. Wixted:
Mr. Wixted's biographical information appears above in the chart "Other Officers of the Funds."
The services of Sophia A. Dilbert and Letitia Solomon are being provided by Maples Fiduciary Services (Cayman) Limited ("MaplesFS"), a regulated entity in the Cayman Islands.
MaplesFS has entered into a Director Services Agreement with the Subsidiary which sets out the terms on which it will provide the services of Sophia A. Dilbert and Letitia Solomon.
The directors provided by MaplesFS are non-executive directors of the Subsidiary. They may be engaged in any other business and/or be concerned or interested in or act as directors or officers of any other company or entity. Neither MaplesFS nor any of the directors supplied by MaplesFS are responsible for (i) the commercial structuring of the Subsidiary or its investment strategy, (ii) the purchase or sale of any investment on behalf of the Subsidiary (which is the responsibility solely of the Investment Manager), (iii) the valuation of the assets of the Subsidiary, or (iv) any loss or damage caused by the acts or omissions of the Manager, any other service provider to the Subsidiary, or any of their delegates or sub-delegates unless any such loss or damage is actually occasioned by the actual fraud, willful default or gross negligence (as defined in the Director Services Agreement) of the directors supplied by MaplesFS.
The Subsidiary's Articles of Association (the "Articles") provide that every director and officer of the Subsidiary shall be indemnified out of the assets of the Subsidiary against any liability incurred as a result of any act or failure to act in carrying out his or her functions other than such liability (if any) that may be incurred by reason of the actual fraud, willful default or gross negligence of such director or officer. The Articles also provide that no such director or officer shall be liable to the Subsidiary for any loss or damage in carrying out his or her functions unless that liability arises through the actual fraud, willful default or gross negligence of such director or officer.
The Director Services Agreement provides that none of MaplesFS or any of the directors provided by the Maples Group shall be liable to the Subsidiary under or in connection with the Director Services Agreement in an amount more than that specified in the Agreement, except in circumstances where such liability was caused by the actual fraud of MaplesFS or, as the case may be, any of the directors provided by the Maples Group.
The Subsidiary has entered into separate contracts with the Manager for the management of the Subsidiary's portfolio. The Subsidiary has also entered into arrangements with KPMG LLP to serve as the Subsidiary's independent auditor. The Subsidiary has also entered into arrangements with JP Morgan Chase Bank to serve as the Subsidiary's custodian, and with OppenheimerFunds Services to serve as the Subsidiary's transfer agent. The Subsidiary has adopted compliance policies and procedures that are substantially similar to the policies and procedures adopted by Global Strategic Income Fund/VA. Global Strategic Income Fund/VA's Chief Compliance Officer oversees implementation of the Subsidiary's policies and procedures, and makes periodic reports to Global Strategic Income Fund/VA's Board regarding the Subsidiary's compliance with its policies and procedures.
Global Strategic Income Fund/VA pays the Manager a fee for its services. The Manager has contractually agreed to waive the management fee it receives from Global Strategic Income Fund/VA in an amount equal to the management fee paid to the Manager by the Subsidiary. This undertaking will continue in effect for so long as Global Strategic Income Fund/VA invests in the Subsidiary, and may not be terminated by the Manager unless the Manager first obtains the prior approval of Global Strategic Income Fund/VA's Board of Trustees for such termination. The Subsidiary will bear the fees and expenses incurred in connection with the custody, transfer agency, and audit services that it receives. Global Strategic Income Fund/VA expects that the expenses borne by the Subsidiary will not be material in relation to the value of Global Strategic Income Fund/VA's assets. It is also anticipated that Global Strategic Income Fund/VA's own expenses will be reduced to some extent as a result of the payment of such expenses at the Subsidiary level. It is therefore expected that Global Strategic Income Fund/VA's investment in the Subsidiary will not result in Global Strategic Income Fund/VA's paying duplicative fees for similar services provided to Global Strategic Income Fund/VA and Subsidiary.
Please refer to the section titled "Distributions and Taxes" for information about certain tax aspects of Global Strategic Income Fund/VA's investment in the Subsidiary.
Brokerage Policies of the Funds
Brokerage Provisions of the Investment Advisory Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreement. One of the duties of the Sub-Adviser under the sub-advisory agreements is to arrange the portfolio transactions for the Funds. The sub-advisory agreements contain provisions relating to the employment of broker-dealers to effect the Funds' portfolio transactions. The Sub-Adviser is authorized by the sub-advisory agreements to employ broker-dealers, including "affiliated brokers," as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act, that the Sub-Adviser thinks, in its best judgment based on all relevant factors, will implement the policy of the Funds to obtain, at reasonable expense, the "best execution" of the Funds' portfolio transactions. "Best execution" means prompt and reliable execution at the most favorable price obtainable for the services provided. The Sub-Adviser need not seek competitive commission bidding. However, the Sub-Adviser is expected to be aware of the current rates of eligible brokers and to minimize the commissions paid to the extent consistent with the interests and policies of the Funds as established by its Board of Trustees.
Under the investment advisory and sub-advisory agreements, in choosing brokers to execute portfolio transactions for the Funds, the Manager and the Sub-Adviser may select brokers (other than affiliates) that provide both brokerage and research services to the Funds. The commissions paid to those brokers may be higher than another qualified broker would charge, if the Manager and Sub-Adviser make a good faith determination that the commission is fair and reasonable in relation to the services provided.
Brokerage Practices Followed by the Sub-Adviser. The Sub-Adviser allocates brokerage for the Funds subject to the provisions of the sub-advisory agreements and other applicable rules and procedures described below.
The Sub-Adviser's portfolio traders allocate brokerage based upon recommendations from the Sub-Adviser's portfolio managers, together with the portfolio traders' judgment as to the execution capability of the broker or dealer. In certain instances, portfolio managers may directly place trades and allocate brokerage. In either case, the Sub-Adviser's executive officers supervise the allocation of brokerage.
For Equity Funds, transactions in securities other than those for which an exchange is the primary market are generally done with principals or market makers. In transactions on foreign exchanges, a Fund may be required to pay fixed brokerage commissions and therefore would not have the benefit of negotiated commissions that are available in U.S. markets. Brokerage commissions are paid primarily for transactions in listed securities or for certain fixed-income agency transactions executed in the secondary market. Otherwise, brokerage commissions are paid only if it appears likely that a better price or execution can be obtained by doing so. In an option transaction, a Fund ordinarily uses the same broker for the purchase or sale of the option and any transaction in the securities to which the option relates.
For the Fixed-Income Funds, most securities purchases made by a Fund are in principal transactions at net prices. A Fund usually deals directly with the selling or purchasing principal or market maker without incurring charges for the services of a broker on its behalf unless the Sub-Adviser determines that a better price or execution may be obtained by using the services of a broker. Therefore, a Fund does not incur substantial brokerage costs. Portfolio securities purchased from underwriters include a commission or concession paid by the issuer to the underwriter in the price of the security. Portfolio securities purchased from dealers include a spread between the bid and asked price. In an option transaction, a Fund ordinarily uses the same broker for the purchase or sale of the option and any transaction in the investment to which the option relates.
Other accounts advised by the Sub-Adviser have investment policies similar to those of the Funds. Those other accounts may purchase or sell the same securities as a Fund at the same time as that Fund, which could affect the supply and price of the securities. If two or more accounts advised by the Sub-Adviser purchase the same security on the same day from the same dealer, the transactions under those combined orders are averaged as to price and allocated in accordance with the purchase or sale orders actually placed for each account. When possible, the Sub-Adviser tries to combine concurrent orders to purchase or sell the same security by more than one of the accounts managed by the Sub-Adviser or its affiliates. The transactions under those combined orders are averaged as to price and allocated in accordance with the purchase or sale orders actually placed for each account.
Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act prohibits any fund from compensating a broker or dealer for promoting or selling the fund's shares by (1) directing to that broker or dealer any of the fund's portfolio transactions, or (2) directing any other remuneration to that broker or dealer, such as commissions, mark-ups, mark downs or other fees from the fund's portfolio transactions, that were effected by another broker or dealer (these latter arrangements are considered to be a type of "step-out" transaction). In other words, a fund and its investment adviser cannot use the fund's brokerage for the purpose of rewarding broker-dealers for selling the fund's shares.
However, the Rule permits funds to effect brokerage transactions through firms that also sell fund shares, provided that certain procedures are adopted to prevent a quid pro quo with respect to portfolio brokerage allocations. As permitted by the Rule, the Manager and the Sub-Adviser have adopted procedures (and the Funds' Board of Trustees has approved those procedures) that permit the Funds to direct portfolio securities transactions to brokers or dealers that also promote or sell shares of the Funds, subject to the "best execution" considerations discussed above. Those procedures are designed to prevent: (1) the Sub-Adviser's personnel who effect the Funds' portfolio transactions from taking into account a broker's or dealer's promotion or sales of the Funds shares when allocating the Funds' portfolio transactions, and (2) the Funds, the Manager, the Sub-Adviser and the Distributor from entering into agreements or understandings under which the Sub-Adviser directs or is expected to direct the Funds' brokerage directly, or through a "step-out" arrangement, to any broker or dealer in consideration of that broker's or dealer's promotion or sale of the Funds' shares or the shares of any of the other Oppenheimer funds.
The investment advisory and sub-advisory agreements permit the Manager and the Sub-Adviser to allocate brokerage for research services. The research services provided by a particular broker may be useful both to the Funds and to one or more of the other accounts advised by the Manager or its affiliates. Investment research may be supplied to the Manager and the Sub-Adviser by the broker or by a third party at the instance of a broker through which trades are placed.
Investment research services include information and analysis on particular companies and industries as well as market or economic trends and portfolio strategy, market quotations for portfolio evaluations, analytical software and similar products and services. If a research service also assists the Manager or Sub-Adviser in a non-research capacity (such as bookkeeping or other administrative functions), then only the percentage or component that provides assistance to the Manager or Sub-Adviser in the investment decision making process may be paid in commission dollars.
Although the Manager and the Sub-Adviser currently do not do so, the Board of Trustees may permit the Manager and the Sub-Adviser to use stated commissions on secondary fixed-income agency trades to obtain research if the broker represents to the Manager or Sub-Adviser that: (i) the trade is not from or for the broker's own inventory, (ii) the trade was executed by the broker on an agency basis at the stated commission, and (iii) the trade is not a riskless principal transaction. The Board of Trustees may also permit the Manager and Sub-Adviser to use commissions on fixed-price offerings to obtain research, in the same manner as is permitted for agency transactions.
The research services provided by brokers broaden the scope and supplement the research activities of the Manager and the Sub-Adviser. That research provides additional views and comparisons for consideration, and helps the Manager and the Sub-Adviser to obtain market information for the valuation of securities that are either held in the Funds' portfolio or are being considered for purchase. The Manager and the Sub-Adviser provide information to the Board about the commissions paid to brokers furnishing such services, together with the Manager's and the Sub-Adviser's representation that the amount of such commissions was reasonably related to the value or benefit of such services.
During the fiscal years ended December 31, 2010, 2011 and 2012, the Fund paid the total brokerage commissions indicated in the chart below:
Total Brokerage Commissions Paid by the Funds* |
|||
Fund |
2010 |
2011 |
2012 |
Capital Appreciation Fund/VA |
$1,121,338 |
$491,675 |
$346,752 |
Capital Income Fund/VA |
$88,070 |
$127,466 |
$227,905 |
Core Bond Fund/VA |
$8,759 |
$7,334 |
$8,049 |
Discovery Mid Cap |
$985,846 |
$900,927 |
$603,992 |
Equity Income Fund/VA |
$14,042 |
$10,738 |
$10,481 |
Global Fund/VA |
$1,058,464 |
$969,552 |
$951,074 |
Global Strategic Income Fund/VA |
$343,287 |
$321,826 |
$674,998 |
Main Street Fund/VA |
$1,348,818 |
$1,004,339 |
$770,518 |
Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA |
$1,160,632 |
$1,601,977 |
$1,390,451 |
Money Fund/VA |
$0 |
$0 |
$0 |
* Amounts do not include spreads or commissions on principal transactions on a net trade basis.
During the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012, the Fund paid the following amounts in commissions to firms that provide brokerage and research services to the Fund with respect to the aggregate portfolio transactions indicated. All such transactions were on a "best execution" basis, as described above. The provision of research services was not necessarily a factor in the placement of all such transactions.
Fund |
Commissions Paid |
Aggregate Transactions |
Capital Appreciation Fund/VA |
$335,659 |
$708,531,623 |
Capital Income Fund/VA |
$218,279 |
$287,759,617 |
Core Bond Fund/VA |
$0 |
$0 |
Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA |
$586,895 |
$779,616,400 |
Equity Income Fund/VA |
$9,836 |
$12,556,199 |
Global Fund/VA |
$931,059 |
$823,328,581 |
Global Strategic Income Fund/VA |
$0 |
$0 |
Main Street Fund/VA |
$742,424 |
$1,240,265,654 |
Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA |
$1,315,384 |
$1,430,010,717 |
Money Fund/VA |
$0 |
$0 |
Regular Broker-Dealers. If the Fund has acquired during its most recent fiscal year, securities of its regular brokers or dealers as defined in Rule 10b-1 under the Investment Company Act or of their parents, the following table identifies those regular brokers or dealers or their parents that derived more than 15% of their gross revenues from the business of a broker, a dealer, an underwriter, or an investment adviser as of the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012:
Fund Name |
Name of Regular Broker or Dealer or |
Aggregate Holdings of the Securities of the Issuer |
Capital Appreciation Fund/VA |
N/A |
N/A |
Capital Income Fund/VA |
N/A |
N/A |
Core Bond Fund/VA |
N/A |
N/A |
Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA |
N/A |
N/A |
Equity Income Fund/VA |
N/A |
N/A |
Global Fund/VA |
N/A |
N/A |
Global Strategic Income Fund/VA |
N/A |
N/A |
Main Street Fund/VA |
N/A |
N/A |
Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA |
N/A |
N/A |
Money Fund/VA |
N/A |
N/A |
Distribution and Service Arrangements
The Distributor. Under its General Distributor's Agreement with each Fund, OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc. ("OFDI" or the "Distributor") will act as the principal underwriter for the Funds' Service shares and Class 4 shares only.
Distribution and Service (12b-1) Plans. Each Fund has adopted a Distribution and Service Plan under Rule 12b-1 of the Investment Company Act (a "Plan") for its Service shares and Class 4 shares, although as of December 31, 2012, only Global Fund/VA offered Class 4 shares. Each Fund that offers Service shares and/or Class 4 shares will make compensation payments to the Distributor in connection with the distribution and/or servicing of those shares. The Distributor will pay insurance company separate account sponsors and other entities that offer and/or provide services to Service shares and Class 4 shares, as described in the applicable Fund's Prospectus.
Each Plan has been approved by a vote of (i) the Board of Trustees of the Trust, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on that Plan, and (ii) the Manager as the then-sole initial holder of such shares.
Under the Plans, the Funds currently use the fees it receives to pay insurance company separate account sponsors or their affiliates (each is referred to as a "Recipient") for personal services and account maintenance services they provide for their customers who hold Service and Class 4 shares. The services include, among others, answering customer inquiries about the Funds, assisting in establishing and maintaining accounts in the Funds, and providing other services at the request of a Fund.
Under the Plans, no payment will be made to any Recipient in any period if the aggregate net assets of a Fund's Service and Class 4 shares held by the Recipient for itself and its customers did not exceed a minimum amount, if any, that may be determined from time to time by a majority of the Trust's Independent Trustees. The Plans provide for a fee of 0.25% of average annual net assets (although the Board of Trustees had set the fee at 0.15% of average net assets for all series prior to May 1, 2003). As of December 31, 2012, the Board had set no minimum asset amount. For the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012, all payments made under the Service share Plan were paid by the Distributor, to Recipients (including Recipients affiliated with the Manager).
The Service shares and Class 4 shares payments during the fiscal year ended December 31, 2012, for all Funds having Service shares and Class 4 shares outstanding as of that date, were as follows:
Fund |
Service Plan Payments by OFDI |
Capital Appreciation Fund/VA Service Shares |
$959,337 |
Capital Income Fund/VA Service Shares |
$192,074 |
Core Bond Fund/VA Service Shares |
$168,000 |
Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA Service Shares |
$94,918 |
Equity Income Fund/VA Service Shares |
$17,737 |
Global Fund/VA Service Shares |
$2,674,031 |
Global Fund/VA Class 4 Shares |
$175,308 |
Global Strategic Income Fund/VA Service Shares |
$4,289,482 |
Main Street Fund/VA Service Shares |
$2,303,240 |
Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA Service Shares |
$2,100,177 |
Under the Plans, the Sub-Adviser and the Distributor may make payments to affiliates. In their sole discretion, they may also from time to time make substantial payments from their own resources, which include the profits the Sub-Adviser derives from the advisory fees it receives from the Funds, to compensate brokers, dealers, financial institutions and other intermediaries for providing distribution assistance and/or administrative services or that otherwise promote sales of the Funds' shares. These payments, some of which may be referred to as "revenue sharing," may relate to the Funds' inclusion on a financial intermediary's preferred list of funds offered to its clients.
Unless a plan is terminated as described below, each Plan continues in effect from year to year but only if the Trust's Board of Trustees and its Independent Trustees specially vote annually to approve its continuance. Approval must be by a vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on continuing each Plan. Each Plan may be terminated at any time by the vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or by the vote of the holders of a "majority" (as defined in the Investment Company Act) of the outstanding Service shares or Class 4 shares. The Board of Trustees and the Independent Trustees must approve all material amendments to each plan. An amendment to increase materially the amount of payments to be made under a plan must be approved by shareholders of the class affected by the amendment.
While the plans are in effect and Service shares and/or Class 4 shares are outstanding, the Treasurer of the Trust shall provide separate written reports on each plan to the Board of Trustees at least quarterly for their review. The reports shall detail the amount of all payments made under a plan and the purpose for which the payments were made. Those reports are subject to the review and approval of the Independent Trustees.
A plan states that while it is in effect, the selection and nomination of these Trustees of the Trust who are not "interested persons" of the Trust are committed to the discretion of the Independent Trustees. This does not prevent the involvement of others in the selection and nomination process as long as the final decision as to selection or nomination is approved by a majority of the Independent Trustees.
Payments to Financial Intermediaries
Financial intermediaries may receive various forms of compensation or reimbursement from the Fund in the form of distribution and service (12b-1) plan payments as described above. They may also receive payments or concessions from the Distributor, derived from sales charges paid by the financial intermediary's clients, also as described in this SAI. In addition, the Sub-Adviser and the Distributor (including their affiliates) may make payments to financial intermediaries in connection with the intermediaries' offering and sales of Fund shares and shares of other Oppenheimer funds, or their provision of marketing or promotional support, transaction processing or administrative services. Among the financial intermediaries that may receive these payments are brokers or dealers who sell or hold shares of the Fund, banks (including bank trust departments), registered investment advisers, insurance companies, retirement plan or qualified tuition program administrators, third party administrators, recordkeepers or other institutions that have selling, servicing or similar arrangements with the Sub-Adviser or the Distributor. The payments to financial intermediaries vary by the types of product sold, the features of the Fund share class and the role played by the intermediary.
Types of payments to financial intermediaries may include, without limitation, all or portions of the following:
Payments made by the Fund, or by an investor buying or selling shares of the Fund, including:
In addition, the Sub-Adviser or Distributor may, at their discretion, make the following types of payments from their own respective resources, which may include profits the Sub-Adviser derives from investment advisory fees paid by the Fund. Payments are made based on the guidelines established by the Sub-Adviser and Distributor, subject to applicable law. These payments are often referred to as "revenue sharing" payments, and may include:
Although a broker or dealer that sells Fund shares may also act as a broker or dealer in connection with the purchase or sale of portfolio securities by the Fund or other Oppenheimer funds, neither the Manager nor the Sub-Adviser considers does not consider a financial intermediary's sales of shares of the Fund or other Oppenheimer funds when choosing brokers or dealers to effect portfolio transactions for the Fund or other Oppenheimer funds.
Revenue sharing payments can pay for distribution-related or asset retention items including, without limitation:
These payments may provide an incentive to financial intermediaries to actively market or promote the sale of shares of the Fund or other Oppenheimer funds, or to support the marketing or promotional efforts of the Distributor in offering shares of the Fund or other Oppenheimer funds. In addition, some types of payments may provide a financial intermediary with an incentive to recommend the Fund or a particular share class. Financial intermediaries may earn profits on these payments, since the amount of the payments may exceed the cost of providing the services. Certain of these payments are subject to limitations under applicable law. Financial intermediaries may categorize and disclose these arrangements to their clients and to members of the public in a manner different from the disclosures in the Fund's Prospectus and this SAI. You should ask your financial intermediary for information about any payments it receives from the Fund, the Sub-Adviser or the Distributor and any services it provides, as well as the fees and commissions it charges.
For the year ended December 31, 2012, the following financial intermediaries and/or their affiliates (which in some cases are broker-dealers) offered shares of the Oppenheimer funds and received revenue sharing or similar distribution-related payments (of at least $5,000) from the Sub-Adviser or the Distributor for marketing or program support:
Aegon USA Securities Inc. |
Massachusetts Mutual Life Insurance Company |
AIG Advisor Group, Inc. |
MetLife Investors Insurance Company |
Allianz Life Insurance Company |
MetLife Securities, Inc. |
Allstate Life Insurance Company |
MML Bay State Life Insurance Company |
American General Annuity Insurance Company |
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC |
American Portfolios Financial Services Inc. |
Multi-Financial Securities Corporation |
Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. |
Mutual Service Corporation |
Ameritas Life Insurance Company |
Nathan & Lewis Securities, Inc. |
Ascensus, Inc. |
National Planning Corporation |
AXA Advisors, LLC |
National Planning Holdings, Inc. |
Bank of America Merrill Lynch |
Nationwide Investment Services, Inc. |
Cadaret Grant & Co. |
New England Securities, Inc. |
CCO Investment Services Corporation |
NFP Securities Inc. |
Chase Investment Services Corporation |
Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC |
C.M. Life Insurance Company |
Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. |
Commonwealth Financial Network |
Park Avenue Securities LLC |
CUNA Brokerage Services, Inc. |
PlanMember Securities Corp. |
CUSO Financial Services LP |
Prime Capital Services, Inc. |
Directed Services LLC |
Primevest Financial Services, Inc. |
Edward Jones and Company |
Protective Life and Annuity Insurance Company |
Essex National Securities, Inc. |
Prudential Investment Management Services, Inc. |
Financial Network Investment Corporation |
Raymond James & Associates, Inc. |
First Clearing LLC |
Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. |
First Global Capital Corporation |
RBC Capital Markets |
FSC Securities Corporation |
Riversource Life Insurance Co. |
GE Life and Annuity Company |
Royal Alliance Associates, Inc. |
Genworth Financial, Inc. |
Sagepoint Financial Advisors |
Great West Life Insurance Company |
Securities America, Inc. |
GWFS Equities, Inc. |
Security Benefit Life Insurance Company |
Guardian Insurance & Annuity Company, Inc. |
Signator Investments, Inc. |
H.D. Vest Investment Services, Inc. |
SII Investments, Inc. |
Hartford Life Insurance Company |
Sorrento Pacific Financial LLC |
Hartford Securities Distribution Company |
State Farm VP Management Corp. |
ING Financial Partners, Inc. |
Stifel Nicolaus & Co., Inc. |
Investacorp, Inc. |
Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada (U.S.) |
INVEST Financial Corporation |
Sun Life Insurance and Annuity Company of New York |
Investment Centers of America, Inc. |
Sun Life Insurance and Annuity Company (Bermuda) Ltd. |
Janney Montgomery Scott LLC |
SunTrust Bank |
Jefferson Pilot Securities Corporation |
SunTrust Investment Services, Inc. |
Kemper Investors Life Insurance Company |
Thrivent Financial for Lutherans |
Legend Equities Co. |
Tower Square Securities, Inc. |
Lincoln Benefit National Life |
UBS Financial Services, Inc. |
Lincoln Financial Advisors Corporation |
Union Central Life Insurance Company |
Lincoln Financial Securities Corporation |
UVEST Financial Services Group, Inc. |
Lincoln Investment Planning, Inc. |
Walnut Street Securities, Inc. |
Linsco Private Ledger |
Waterstone Financial Group |
LPL Financial LLC |
Wells Fargo Advisors |
MassMutual Financial Group |
Wescom Financial Services |
For the year ended December 31, 2012, the following firms (which in some cases are broker-dealers) received payments from the Sub-Adviser or Distributor (of at least $2,500) for administrative or other services provided (other than revenue sharing arrangements), as described above:
Acacia National |
MetLife Securities Inc. |
ACS HR Solutions LLC |
Mid Atlantic Capital Co. |
ADP Broker-Dealer, Inc. |
Milliman, Inc. |
Aegon USA |
Minnesota Life Insurance Company |
Alliance Benefit Group |
MML Investors Services LLC |
Allianz Life Insurance Company |
Morgan Keegan & Co, Inc. |
Allstate Financial Services, LLC |
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney |
Allstate Life Insurance Company |
Multi-Financial Securities |
American Funds |
Mutual of Omaha Insurance Company |
American General Annuity Insurance Company |
National City Bank |
American Portfolios Financial |
National Investor Services Corp. |
American United Life Insurance Co. |
National Financial Services LLC |
Ameriprise Financial Services Inc. |
National Planning Corporation |
Ameritas Investment Corp. |
Nationwide |
Ameritas Life Insurance Company |
New England Securities |
Annuity Investors Life Insurance Company |
New York Life Insurance and Annuity Company |
Ascensus |
Newport Retirement Services |
AXA Advisors LLC |
Next Financial Group Inc. |
Baden Retirement Services |
NFP Securities Inc |
Banc of America Investment |
Northridge Securities Corp. |
Bank of America Merrill Lynch |
Northwestern Mutual Investment |
Benefit Administration Co. |
NRP Financial Inc. |
Benefit Consultants Group |
NYLIFE Distributors LLC |
Benefit Plans Administrative Services, Inc. |
NYLIFE Securities LLC |
Benetech, Inc. |
Oneamerica Securities Inc. |
Boston Financial Data Services, Inc. |
Oppenheimer & Co. Inc. |
Cadaret Grant & Co. |
Pacific Life Insurance Co. |
Cambridge Investment Research |
Park Avenue Securities LLC |
Cetera Financial Specialists LLC |
Penn Mutual |
Cetera Investment Services LLC |
Pershing LLC |
Champions of the Community, Inc. |
PFS Investments Inc. |
Charles Schwab & Co, Inc. |
Phoenix Life Insurance Company |
Chase Investment Services Corp. |
Plan Administrators Inc. |
CitiGroup Global Markets, Inc. |
PlanMember Securities |
Commonwealth Financial Network |
PNC Investments LLC |
CPI Qualified Plan Consultants |
Prime Capital Services |
CUNA Brokerage Services Inc. |
Primevest Financial Services, Inc. |
CUNA Mutual Insurance Society |
Principal Life Insurance |
CUSO Financial Services LP |
Proequities Inc. |
DA Davidson & Co. |
Protective Life and Annuity Insurance Company |
DailyAccess Corp |
Pruco Securities LLC |
David Lerner Associates, Inc. |
Prudential Investment Management |
Digital Retirement Solutions |
PSMI Group |
Dyatech, LLC |
Purshe Kaplan Sterling Investments |
E*TRADE Clearing LLC |
Questar Capital Corporation |
Edward Jones and Company |
Raymond James & Associates, Inc. |
ExpertPlan Retirement Plan Services |
Raymond James Financial Services |
Federal Kemper Life Assurance Company |
RBC Capital Markets |
Fidelity |
Reliance Trust Co. |
Financial Network Investment |
Richards, Merrill & Peterson Inc. |
Financial Telesis Inc. |
Robert W. Baird & Co. |
First Allied Securities Inc. |
Rothman Securities Inc. |
First Clearing LLC |
Royal Alliance Associates Inc. |
First Global Capital Corporation |
Sagepoint Financial Inc. |
Freestone Capital Management |
Santander Securities |
FSC Securities Corp. |
Scott & Stringfellow LLC |
GE Financial Assurance |
Securities America Inc. |
GE Life and Annuity Company |
Securities Service Network Inc. |
Geneos Wealth Management Inc. |
Security Benefit Life Insurance Company |
Genworth Financial Securities |
Signator Investors Inc. |
Girard Securities Inc. |
SII Investments Inc. |
Great West Life Insurance Company |
Smith Hayes Financial Services |
Guardian Insurance & Annuity Company, Inc. |
Southwest Securities, Inc. |
H.D. Vest Investment Services, Inc. |
Standard Insurance Co. |
Hartford Life & Annuity |
State Farm Mutual Funds |
Hartford Life Insurance Company |
Stanton Group, Inc. |
H Beck Inc. |
Sterne Agee & Leach, Inc. |
Hennion & Walsh Inc. |
Stifel Nicolaus & Co., Inc. |
Hewitt Associates LLC |
Summit Brokerage Services Inc. |
HSBC Securities (USA) Inc. |
Sunamerica |
Independent Financial Group, LLC |
Sun Trust Investments |
ING Financial Advisers LLC |
Suntrust Investment Services Inc. |
Intuition Systems, Inc. |
T. Rowe Price |
Invest Financial Corporation |
TD Ameritrade |
Investacorp Inc. |
The Investment Center Inc. |
Investments Centers of America |
The O N Equity Sales Company |
Investors Capital Corp. |
The Retirement Plan Company, LLC |
Jackson National Life Insurance Company |
Thrivent Investment Management |
Janney Montgomery Scott LLC |
Tiaa-Cref Individual & Institutional |
JJB Hillard W.L. Lyons, Inc. |
Transamerica Financial Advisors |
John Hancock Life Insurance Company |
Transamerica Life Insurance Co. |
JP Morgan Securities, LLC |
UBS Financial Services, Inc. |
Kemper Investors Life Insurance Company |
Unified Fund Services, Inc. |
Key Investment Services Inc. |
Union Bank & Trust Company |
KMS Financial Services Inc. |
Union Central Life Insurance Company |
Lasalle St. Securities LLC |
United Planners Financial |
Legends Equities Corp. |
USAA Investment Management Co. |
Lincoln Benefit National Life |
USI Securities Inc. |
Lincoln Financial Advisors Corporation |
Valic Financial Advisors, Inc. |
Lincoln Financial Securities |
Vanderbilt Securities LLC |
Lincoln Investment Planning, Inc. |
Vanguard Group |
LPL Financial Corporation |
VSR Financial Services Inc. |
Madison Avenue Securities Inc. |
Walnut Street Securities |
Manulife Financial |
Wedbush Securities |
Matrix Settlement & Clearance Services |
Wells Fargo Advisors LLC |
Mercer HR Services |
Wells Fargo Investments LLC |
Merrill Lynch Pierce Fenner |
Wilmington Trust Company |
MetLife Investors Insurance |
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Shares of the Funds are sold to provide benefits under variable life insurance policies and variable annuity and other insurance company separate accounts, as explained in the Prospectuses of the Funds and of the insurance product you have selected. Instructions from an investor to buy or sell shares of a Fund should be directed to the insurance sponsor for the investor's separate account, or that insurance sponsor's agent.
Determination of Net Asset Value Per Share. The net asset value ("NAV") per share for each class of shares of the Fund is determined by dividing the value of the Fund's net assets attributable to a class by the number of shares of that class that are outstanding. The NAV is determined as of the close of business on the New York Stock Exchange ("NYSE") on each day that the NYSE is open. The NYSE normally closes at 4:00 p.m., Eastern time, but may close earlier on some other days (for example, in case of weather emergencies or on days falling before a U.S. holiday). All references to time in this SAI mean "Eastern time." The NYSE's most recent annual announcement (which is subject to change) states that it will close on New Year's Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Washington's Birthday (Presidents Day), Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving Day and Christmas Day. It may also close on other days.
Dealers other than NYSE members may conduct trading in certain securities on days that the NYSE is closed (including weekends and holidays) or after 4:00 p.m. on a regular business day. Because the Fund's net asset values will not be calculated on those days, the Fund's net asset values per share may be significantly affected on days when shareholders may not purchase or redeem shares. Additionally, trading on many foreign stock exchanges and over-the-counter markets normally is completed before the close of the NYSE.
Changes in the values of securities traded on foreign exchanges or markets as a result of events that occur after the close of the principal market on which a security is traded, but before the close of the NYSE, will not be reflected in the Fund's calculation of its net asset values that day unless the Sub-Adviser learns of the event and determines that the event is likely to cause a material change in the value of the security. The Board has adopted valuation procedures for the Fund and has delegated the day-to-day responsibility for fair value determinations under those procedures to the Sub-Adviser's "Valuation Committee". Fair value determinations by the Sub-Adviser are subject to review, approval, ratification and confirmation by the Board at its next scheduled meeting after the fair valuations are determined.
Allocation of Expenses. Each Fund pays expenses related to its daily operations, such as custodian fees, Trustees' fees, transfer agency fees, legal fees and auditing costs. Those expenses are paid out of each Fund's assets and are not paid directly by shareholders. However, those expenses reduce the net asset values of shares, and therefore are indirectly borne by shareholders through their investment.
For each Fund that has more than one class of shares outstanding, methodology for calculating the net asset value, dividends and distributions of each Fund's share classes recognizes two types of expenses. General expenses that do not pertain specifically to any one class are allocated pro rata to the shares of all classes. The allocation is based on the percentage of a Fund's total assets that is represented by the assets of each class, and then equally to each outstanding share within a given class. Such general expenses include management fees, legal, bookkeeping and audit fees, printing and mailing costs of shareholder reports, Prospectuses, Statements of Additional Information and other materials for current shareholders, fees to unaffiliated Trustees, custodian expenses, share issuance costs, organization and start-up costs, interest, taxes and brokerage commissions, and non-recurring expenses, such as litigation costs.
Other expenses that are directly attributable to a particular class are allocated equally to each outstanding share within that class. Examples of such expenses include distribution and service plan (12b-1) fees, transfer and shareholder servicing agent fees and expenses, and shareholder meeting expenses (to the extent that such expenses pertain only to a specific class).
Securities Valuation. The Funds' Board of Trustees has established procedures for the valuation of the Funds' securities. In general those procedures for all Funds other than Money Fund/VA are as follows:
In the case of U.S. government securities, mortgage-backed securities, corporate bonds and foreign government securities, when last sale information is not generally available, the Sub-Adviser may use pricing services approved by the Board of Trustees. The pricing service may use "matrix" comparisons to the prices for comparable instruments on the basis of quality, yield and maturity. Other special factors may be involved (such as the tax-exempt status of the interest paid by municipal securities). The Sub-Adviser will monitor the accuracy of the pricing services. That monitoring may include comparing prices used for portfolio valuation to actual sales prices of selected securities.
The closing prices in the New York foreign exchange market on a particular business day that are provided to the Sub-Adviser by a bank, dealer or pricing service that the Sub-Adviser has determined to be reliable are used to value foreign currency, including forward contracts, and to convert to U.S. dollars securities that are denominated in foreign currency.
Puts, calls, and futures are valued at the last sale price on the principal exchange on which they are traded, as determined by a pricing service approved by the Board of Trustees or by the Sub-Adviser. If there were no sales that day, they shall be valued at the last sale price on the preceding trading day if it is within the spread of the closing "bid" and "asked" prices on the principal exchange on the valuation date. If not, the value shall be the closing bid price on the principal exchange on the valuation date. If the put, call or future is not traded on an exchange, it shall be valued by the mean between "bid" and "asked" prices obtained by the Sub-Adviser from two active market makers. In certain cases that may be at the "bid" price if no "asked" price is available.
When a Fund writes an option, an amount equal to the premium received is included in that Fund's Statement of Assets and Liabilities as an asset. An equivalent credit is included in the liability section. The credit is adjusted ("marked-to-market") to reflect the current market value of the option. In determining the Funds' gain on investments, if a call or put written by a Fund is exercised, the proceeds are increased by the premium received. If a call or put written by a Fund expires, that Fund has a gain in the amount of the premium. If a Fund enters into a closing purchase transaction, it will have a gain or loss, depending on whether the premium received was more or less than the cost of the closing transaction. If a Fund exercises a put it holds, the amount that Fund receives on its sale of the underlying investment is reduced by the amount of premium paid by that Fund.
Money Fund/VA Net Asset Valuation Per Share. Money Fund/VA will seek to maintain a net asset value of $1.00 per share for purchases and redemptions. There can be no assurance it will be able to do so. Money Fund/VA operates under Rule 2a-7 under which it may use the amortized cost method of valuing their shares. The Funds' Board of Trustees has adopted procedures for that purpose. The amortized cost method values a security initially at its cost and thereafter assumes a constant amortization of any premium or accretion of any discount, regardless of the impact of fluctuating interest rates on the market value of the security. This method does not take into account unrealized capital gains or losses.
The Funds' Board of Trustees has established procedures intended to stabilize Money Fund/VA's net asset value at $1.00 per share. If Money Fund/VA's net asset value per share were to deviate from $1.00 by more than 0.5%, Rule 2a-7 requires the Board promptly to consider what action, if any, should be taken. If the Trustees find that the extent of any such deviation may result in material dilution or other unfair effects on shareholders, the Board will take whatever steps it considers appropriate to eliminate or reduce such dilution or unfair effects, including, without limitation, selling portfolio securities prior to maturity, shortening the average portfolio maturity, withholding or reducing dividends, reducing the outstanding number of shares of that Fund without monetary consideration, or calculating net asset value per share by using available market quotations.
As long as Money Fund/VA uses Rule 2a-7, it must abide by certain conditions described in the Prospectus which limit the maturity of securities that Fund buys. Under Rule 2a-7, the maturity of an instrument is generally considered to be its stated maturity (or in the case of an instrument called for redemption, the date on which the redemption payment must be made), with special exceptions for certain variable rate demand and floating rate instruments. Repurchase agreements and securities loan agreements are, in general, treated as having maturity equal to the period scheduled until repurchase or return, or if subject to demand, equal to the notice period.
While amortized cost method provides certainty in valuation, there may be periods during which the value of an instrument, as determined by amortized cost, is higher or lower than the price Money Fund/VA would receive if it sold the instrument. During periods of declining interest rates, the daily yield on shares of that Fund may tend to be lower (and net investment income and daily dividends higher) than market prices or estimates of market prices for its portfolio. Thus, if the use of amortized cost by the funds resulted in a lower aggregate portfolio value on a particular day, a prospective investor in Money Fund/VA would be able to obtain a somewhat higher yield than would result from investment in a fund utilizing solely market values, and existing investors in that Fund would receive less investment income than if Money Fund/VA were priced at market value. Conversely, during periods of rising interest rates, the daily yield on shares of that Fund will tend to be higher and its aggregate value lower than that of a portfolio priced at market value. A prospective investor would receive a lower yield than from an investment in a portfolio priced at market value, while existing investors in Money Fund/VA would receive more investment income than if that Fund were priced at market value.
Fair Value Pricing. Pursuant to Rule 2a-7, Money Fund/VA will also calculate a shadow price for periodic review by the Board. For purposes of calculating the shadow price, Money Fund/VA may if after the close of the principal market on which a security held by the Fund is traded and before the time as of which the Fund's net asset value is calculated that day, an event occurs that the Manager learns of and believes in the exercise of its judgment will cause a material change in the value of that security, that security may be valued by another method that the Board believes would more accurately reflect the security's fair value. Fair value determinations by the Manager are subject to review, approval and ratification by the Board at its next scheduled meeting after the fair valuations are determined.
Money Fund/VA's use of fair value pricing procedures involves subjective judgments and it is possible that the fair value determined for a security may be materially different from the value that could be realized upon the sale of that security.
Valuation of the Subsidiary and its Underlying Investments. The securities valuation procedures for the Fund are the same used in valuing the Subsidiary's portfolio investments and shares of the Subsidiary.
Payments "In Kind". The Prospectus states that payment for shares tendered for redemption is ordinarily made in cash. However, under certain circumstances, the Board of Trustees of a Fund may determine that it would be detrimental to the best interests of the remaining shareholders of the Fund to make payment of a redemption order wholly or partly in cash. In that case, the Fund may pay the redemption proceeds in whole or in part by a distribution "in kind" of liquid portfolio securities from the portfolio of the Fund, in lieu of cash. The Board of Trustees of the Fund has adopted procedures for "in kind" redemptions. In accordance with the procedures, the Board of Trustees of a Fund may be required to approve an "in kind" redemption paid to a shareholder that holds 5% or more of the shares of any class, or of all outstanding shares, of that Fund, or to any other shareholder that may be deemed to be an "affiliated person" under section 2(a)(3) of the Investment Company Act.
Each of Oppenheimer Global Fund/VA, Oppenheimer Main Street Fund®/VA and Oppenheimer Global Strategic Income Fund/VA has elected to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under the Investment Company Act. Under that rule, each of Oppenheimer Global Fund/VA, Oppenheimer Main Street Fund®/VA and Oppenheimer Global Strategic Income Fund/VA is obligated to redeem shares solely in cash up to the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the net assets of such Fund redeemed during any 90-day period for any one shareholder. As of the date of this SAI, those Funds intend to redeem shares in kind only under certain limited circumstances (such as redemptions of substantial amounts by shareholders that have consented to such in kind redemptions). If shares are redeemed in kind, the redeeming shareholder may incur brokerage or other costs in selling the securities. Each of the Funds will value securities used to pay redemptions in kind using the same method it uses to value its portfolio securities described above under "Determination of Net Asset Values Per Share." That valuation will be made as of the time the redemption price is determined.
Dividends and Distributions. The Funds have no fixed dividend rate and there can be no assurance as to the payment of any dividends or the realization of any capital gains. The dividends and distributions paid by a class of shares will vary from time to time depending on market conditions, the composition of the Funds' portfolio, and expenses borne by the Fund or borne separately by a class (if more than one class of shares is outstanding). Dividends are calculated in the same manner, at the same time, and on the same day for each class of shares. Dividends on Service shares and Class 4 Shares are expected to be lower because of the additional expenses for those shares. Dividends will also differ in amount as a consequence of any difference in the net asset values of the different classes of shares.
Taxes. Each Fund is treated as a separate entity for federal income tax purposes. Each Fund intends to qualify as a "regulated investment company" under the provisions of Subchapter M of the Code. As a regulated investment company, each Fund is required to distribute to its shareholders for each taxable year at least 90% of its investment company taxable income (consisting generally of net investment income, net short-term capital gain, and net gains from certain foreign currency transactions). To qualify for treatment as a regulated investment company, a Fund must meet certain income source, asset diversification and income distribution requirements. If each Fund qualifies as a "regulated investment company" and complies with the relevant provisions of the Code, each Fund will be relieved of federal income tax on the part of its net ordinary income and realized net capital gain which it distributes to the separate accounts. If a Fund fails to qualify as a regulated investment company, the Fund will be subject to federal, and possibly state, corporate taxes on its taxable income and gains. Furthermore, all distributions to its shareholders would then constitute ordinary dividend income to the extent of such Fund's available earnings and profits, and insurance policy and product holders could be subject to current tax on distributions received with respect to Fund shares.
Each Fund supports variable life insurance, variable annuity contracts and other insurance company separate accounts and therefore must, and intends to, comply with the diversification requirements imposed by section 817(h) of the Code and the regulations hereunder. These requirements place certain limitations on the proportion of each Fund's assets that may be represented by any single investment (which includes all securities of the issuer) and are in addition to the diversification requirements applicable to such Fund's status as a regulated investment company. For these purposes, each U.S. Government agency or instrumentality is treated as a separate issuer, while a particular foreign government and its agencies, instrumentalities, and political subdivisions are all considered the same issuer.
Generally, a regulated investment company must distribute substantially all of its ordinary income and capital gains in accordance with a calendar year distribution requirement in order to avoid a nondeductible 4% federal excise tax. However, the excise tax does not apply to a Fund whose only shareholders are certain tax-exempt trusts or segregated asset accounts of life insurance companies held in connection with variable contracts, or any other tax-exempt entity whose ownership of beneficial interests in the company would not preclude exemption from the excise tax or another regulated investment company that qualifies for this exemption. The Funds intend to qualify for this exemption or to make distributions in accordance with the calendar year distribution requirements and therefore do not expect to be subject to this excise tax.
Foreign Taxes. Investment income received from sources within foreign countries may be subject to foreign income taxes. In this regard, withholding tax rates in countries with which the United States does not have a tax treaty are often as high as 30% or more. The United States has entered into tax treaties with many foreign countries that entitle certain investors to a reduced rate of tax (generally 10-15%) or to certain exemptions from tax. Each Fund will operate so as to qualify for such reduced tax rates or tax exemptions whenever possible. While insurance policy and product holders will bear the cost of any foreign tax withholding, they will not be able to claim a foreign tax credit or deduction for taxes paid by the Fund.
The Funds that may invest in foreign securities, may invest in securities of "passive foreign investment companies" ("PFICs"). A PFIC is a foreign corporation that, in general, meets either of the following tests: (1) at least 75% of the its gross income is passive; or (2) an average of at least 50% of its assets produce, or are held for the production of, passive income. A Fund investing in securities of PFICs may be subject to U.S. federal income taxes and interest charges, which would reduce the investment return of a Fund making such investments. The owners of variable annuities, variable life insurance products and other insurance company separate accounts investing in such Fund would effectively bear the cost of these taxes and interest charges. In certain cases, a Fund may be eligible to make certain elections with respect to securities of PFICs that could reduce taxes and interest charges payable by the Fund. However, no assurance can be given that such elections can or will be made.
Tax Considerations with Respect to the Subsidiary. Global Strategic Income Fund/VA may invest a portion of its assets in the Subsidiary, which is classified as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes. A foreign corporation, such as the Subsidiary, will generally not be subject to U.S. federal income taxation unless it is deemed to be engaged in a U.S. trade or business. It is expected that the Subsidiary will conduct its activities in a manner so as to meet the requirements of a safe harbor under Section 864(b)(2) of the Internal Revenue Code (the "Safe Harbor") pursuant to which the Subsidiary, provided it is not a dealer in stocks, securities or commodities, may engage in the following activities without being deemed to be engaged in a U.S. trade or business: (1) trading in stocks or securities (including contracts or options to buy or sell securities) for its own account; and (2) trading, for its own account, in commodities that are "of a kind customarily dealt in on an organized commodity exchange" if the transaction is of a kind customarily consummated at such place. Thus, the Subsidiary's securities and commodities trading activities should not constitute a U.S. trade or business. However, if certain of the Subsidiary's activities were determined not to be of the type described in the Safe Harbor or if the Subsidiary's gains are attributable to investments in securities that constitute U.S. real property interests (which is not expected), then the activities of the Subsidiary may constitute a U.S. trade or business, or be taxed as such.
In general, a foreign corporation that does not conduct a U.S. trade or business is nonetheless subject to tax at a flat rate of 30 percent on the gross amount of certain U.S.-source income that is not effectively connected with a U.S. trade or business (or lower tax treaty rate), generally payable through withholding. There is presently no tax treaty in force between the U.S. and the Cayman Islands that would reduce this rate of withholding tax. Income subject to such a flat tax includes dividends and certain interest income. The 30 percent tax does not apply to U.S.-source capital gains (whether long-term or short-term) or to interest paid to a foreign corporation on its deposits with U.S. banks. The 30 percent tax also does not apply to interest which qualifies as "portfolio interest." The term "portfolio interest" generally includes interest (including original issue discount) on an obligation in registered form which has been issued after July 18, 1984 and with respect to which the person, who would otherwise be required to deduct and withhold the 30 percent tax, received the required statement that the beneficial owner of the obligation is not a U.S. person within the meaning of the Internal Revenue Code. Under certain circumstances, interest on bearer obligations may also be considered portfolio interest.
The Subsidiary is wholly-owned by Global Strategic Income Fund/VA. A U.S. person who owns (directly, indirectly or constructively) 10 percent or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of stock of a foreign corporation is a "U.S. Shareholder" for purposes of the controlled foreign corporation ("CFC") provisions of the Internal Revenue Code. A foreign corporation is a CFC if, on any day of its taxable year, more than 50 percent of the voting power or value of its stock is owned (directly, indirectly or constructively) by "U.S. Shareholders." Because Global Strategic Income Fund/VA is a U.S. person that owns all of the stock of the Subsidiary, Global Strategic Income Fund/VA is a "U.S. Shareholder" and the Subsidiary is a CFC. As a "U.S. Shareholder," Global Strategic Income Fund/VA is required to include in gross income for United States federal income tax purposes all of the Subsidiary's "subpart F income" (defined, in part, below), whether or not such income is distributed by the Subsidiary. It is expected that all of the Subsidiary's income will be "subpart F income." "Subpart F income" generally includes interest, original issue discount, dividends, net gains from the disposition of stocks or securities, receipts with respect to securities loans and net payments received with respect to equity swaps and similar derivatives. "Subpart F income" also includes the excess of gains over losses from transactions (including futures, forward and similar transactions) in any commodities. Global Strategic Income Fund/VA's recognition of the Subsidiary's "subpart F income" will increase Global Strategic Income Fund/VA's tax basis in the Subsidiary.
Distributions by the Subsidiary to Global Strategic Income Fund/VA will be tax-free, to the extent of its previously undistributed "subpart F income," and will correspondingly reduce Global Strategic Income Fund/VA's tax basis in the Subsidiary. "Subpart F income" is generally treated as ordinary income, regardless of the character of the Subsidiary's underlying income.
In general, each "U.S. Shareholder" is required to file IRS Form 5471 with its U.S. federal income tax (or information) returns providing information about its ownership of the CFC and the CFC. In addition, a "U.S. Shareholder" may in certain circumstances be required to report a disposition of shares in the Subsidiary by attaching IRS Form 5471 to its U.S. federal income tax (or information) return that it would normally file for the taxable year in which the disposition occurs. In general, these filing requirements will apply to investors of Global Strategic Income Fund/VA if the investor is a U.S. person who owns directly, indirectly or constructively (within the meaning of Sections 958(a) and (b) of the Internal Revenue Code) 10 percent or more of the total combined voting power of all classes of voting stock of a foreign corporation that is a CFC for an uninterrupted period of 30 days or more during any tax year of the foreign corporation, and who owned that stock on the last day of that year.
This is a general and abbreviated summary of the applicable provisions of the Code and Treasury Regulations currently in effect as interpreted by the Courts and the Internal Revenue Service. For further information, consult the prospectus and/or statement of additional information for your particular insurance product, as well as your own tax advisor.
Additional Information About the Funds
The Transfer Agent. OFI Global Asset Management, Inc. is the Fund's Transfer Agent. It serves as the Transfer Agent for a fee based on annual net assets. Shareholder Services, Inc., an affiliate of the Transfer Agent, doing business as OppenheimerFunds Services, is the Fund's Sub-Transfer Agent. OppenheimerFunds Services is responsible for maintaining the Fund's shareholder registry and shareholder accounting records, and for paying dividends and distributions to shareholders. It also handles shareholder servicing and administrative functions. It also acts as shareholder servicing agent for the other Oppenheimer funds. Shareholders should direct inquiries about their accounts to OppenheimerFunds Services at the address and toll-free numbers shown on the back cover.
Information about your investment in the Funds through your variable annuity contract, variable life insurance policy or other plan can be obtained only from your participating insurance company or its servicing agent. The Funds' Transfer Agent and Sub-Transfer Agent do not hold or have access to those records. Instructions for buying or selling shares of the Funds should be given to your insurance company or its servicing agent, not directly to the Funds or to the Funds' Transfer Agent or Sub-Transfer Agent.
The Custodian. JPMorgan Chase Bank is the custodian of the Fund's assets. The custodian's responsibilities include safeguarding and controlling the Fund's portfolio securities and handling the delivery of such securities to and from the Fund. It is the practice of the Fund to deal with the custodian in a manner uninfluenced by any banking relationship the custodian may have with the Manager and its affiliates. The Fund's cash balances with the custodian in excess of $250,000 are not protected by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation ("FDIC"). Those uninsured balances at times may be substantial.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm. KPMG LLP serves as the independent registered public accounting firm for the Fund. KPMG LLP audits the Fund's financial statements and performs other related audit and tax services. KPMG LLP also acts as the independent registered public accounting firm for the Manager, the Sub-Adviser and certain other funds advised by the Manager and its affiliates. Audit and non-audit services provided by KPMG LLP to the Fund must be pre-approved by the Audit Committee.
Major Shareholders
Control Persons. Shareholders who beneficially own 25% or more of outstanding shares of a Fund may be in control of the Fund and may be able to affect the outcome of certain matters presented for a vote of shareholders. As of April 5, 2013, to the best of our knowledge, the following insurance companies held 25% or more of the outstanding shares of the applicable Fund:
Fund |
Name of Insurance Company |
Address of Insurance Company |
Percent Owned by Insurance Co. |
Capital Appreciation Fund/VA |
MassMutual |
1295 State Street |
46.24% |
Capital Income Fund/VA |
MassMutual |
1295 State Street |
44.22% |
Core Bond Fund/VA |
MassMutual |
1295 State Street |
26.23% |
Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA |
MassMutual |
1295 State Street |
70.69% |
Equity Income Fund/VA |
RiverSource Life Insurance Company |
222 Ameriprise Financial Center |
57.85% |
Global Fund/VA |
MassMutual |
1295 State Street |
26.80% |
Global Strategic Income Fund/VA |
RiverSource Life Insurance Company |
222 Ameriprise Financial Center |
33.31% |
Main Street Fund/VA |
Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada (U.S.) |
One Sun Life Executive Park |
25.18% |
Money Fund/VA |
Protective Life Insurance Company |
PO Box 2606 |
62.05% |
Money Fund/VA |
MassMutual |
1295 State Street |
35.07% |
Principal Holders of Securities. As of April 4, 2013, to the best of our knowledge, the only persons or entities who owned of record or were known by the Fund to own beneficially 5% or more of any class of the Fund's outstanding shares are listed below:
Fund - Class |
Name of Insurance Company |
Address of Insurance Company |
Percent Owned by Insurance Co. |
Capital Income Fund/VA - Non-Service Shares |
Genworth Life and Annuity Insurance Company |
6610 W. Broad St. |
7.83% |
|
Transamerica Advisors Life Insurance Company |
4333 Edgewood Rd. NE |
8.42% |
|
MassMutual |
1295 State Street |
59.15% |
|
Nationwide Insurance |
PO Box 182029 |
20.16% |
Capital Income Fund/VA - Service Shares |
Allstate Life Insurance Company |
544 Lakeview Parkway, Suite L1B |
17.21% |
|
Genworth Life and Annuity Insurance Company |
6610 W. Broad St. |
43.66% |
|
Genworth Life Insurance Company of New York |
6610 W. Broad St. |
7.85% |
|
Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada (U.S.) |
One Sun Life Executive Park |
17.67% |
Capital Appreciation Fund/VA - Non-Service Shares |
Genworth Life and Annuity Insurance Company |
6610 W. Broad St. |
6.70% |
|
MassMutual |
1295 State Street |
76.38% |
Capital Appreciation Fund/VA - Service Shares |
RiverSource Life Insurance Company |
222 Ameriprise Financial Center |
7.96% |
|
Allstate Life Insurance Company |
544 Lakeview Parkway, Suite L1B |
7.75% |
|
Guardian Insurance & Annuity Co. Inc. |
3900 Burgess Place |
23.19% |
|
Hartford Life Insurance Company |
200 Hopmeadow St. |
10.24% |
|
Hartford Life & Annuity Insurance Company |
200 Hopmeadow St. |
21.80% |
|
Protective Life Insurance Company |
PO Box 2606 |
9.72% |
|
Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada (U.S.) |
One Sun Life Executive Park |
6.28% |
Core Bond Fund/VA - Non-Service Shares |
Genworth Life and Annuity Insurance Company |
6610 W. Broad St. |
16.94% |
|
MassMutual |
1295 State Street |
41.43% |
|
Nationwide Insurance |
PO Box 182029 |
35.49% |
Core Bond Fund/VA - Service Shares |
Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York |
PO Box 94210 |
12.30% |
|
Allstate Life Insurance Company |
544 Lakeview Parkway, Suite L1B |
47.20% |
|
Security Benefit Life Insurance Company |
One Security Benefit Place |
38.13% |
Global Fund/VA - Non-Service Shares |
Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America |
PO Box 1117 |
5.86% |
|
MassMutual |
1295 State Street |
56.10% |
|
MassMutual Life Insurance Company |
1295 State Street |
8.71% |
|
Nationwide Insurance |
PO Box 182029 |
20.87% |
Global Fund/VA - Service Shares |
Hartford Life Insurance Company |
200 Hopmeadow St. |
12.42% |
|
Hartford Life & Annuity Insurance Company |
200 Hopmeadow St. |
22.25% |
|
RiverSource Life Insurance Company |
222 Ameriprise Financial Center |
9.06% |
|
Genworth Life and Annuity Insurance Company |
6610 W. Broad St. |
9.08% |
|
Protective Life Insurance Company |
PO Box 2606 |
29.90% |
Global Fund/VA - Class 3 Shares |
Nationwide Insurance |
PO Box 182029 |
100.00% |
Global Fund/VA - Class 4 Shares |
Nationwide Insurance |
PO Box 182029 |
100.00% |
Global Strategic Income Fund/VA - Non-Service Shares |
MassMutual |
1295 State Street |
66.12% |
|
MassMutual Life Insurance Company |
1295 State Street |
24.05% |
Global Strategic Income Fund/VA - Service Shares |
Guardian Insurance & Annuity Co. Inc. |
3900 Burgess Place |
14.22% |
|
RiverSource Life Insurance Company |
222 Ameriprise Financial Center |
46.98% |
|
Protective Life Insurance Company |
PO Box 2606 |
20.87% |
Main Street Fund/VA - Non-Service Shares |
Allianz Life Insurance Company of North America |
PO Box 1117 |
11.73% |
|
Mutual of America |
320 Park Ave. |
7.52% |
|
MassMutual |
1295 State Street |
40.67% |
|
Nationwide Insurance |
PO Box 182029 |
28.47% |
Main Street Fund/VA - Service Shares |
Allstate Life Insurance Company |
544 Lakeview Parkway, Suite L1B |
5.48% |
|
Genworth Life and Annuity Insurance Company |
6610 W. Broad St. |
13.14% |
|
Nationwide Insurance |
PO Box 182029 |
24.85% |
|
Sun Life Assurance Company of Canada (U.S.) |
One Sun Life Executive Park |
39.25% |
Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA - Non-Service Shares |
ING Life Insurance and Annuity Company |
One Orange Way B3N |
41.58% |
|
CMFG Life Insurance Company |
2000 Heritage Way |
6.61% |
|
Lincoln Benefit Life Company |
PO Box 94210 |
8.31% |
|
MassMutual |
1295 State Street |
5.13% |
|
Nationwide Insurance |
PO Box 182029 |
31.65% |
Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA - Service Shares |
Guardian Insurance & Annuity Co. Inc. |
3900 Burgess Place |
17.26% |
|
Hartford Life Insurance Company |
200 Hopmeadow St. |
6.29% |
|
Hartford Life & Annuity Insurance Company |
200 Hopmeadow St. |
15.50% |
|
RiverSource Life Insurance Company |
222 Ameriprise Financial Center |
8.47% |
|
Genworth Life and Annuity Insurance Company |
6610 W. Broad St. |
12.31% |
|
MetLife Investors Insurance Company |
501 Boylston Street |
12.03% |
|
Nationwide Insurance |
PO Box 182029 |
6.46% |
|
Phoenix Life Insurance Company |
31 Tech Valley Drive |
5.62% |
Money Fund/VA - Non-Service Shares |
MassMutual |
1295 State Street |
35.07% |
|
Protective Life Insurance Company |
PO Box 2606 |
62.05% |
Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA - Non-Service Shares |
Genworth Life and Annuity Insurance Company |
6610 W. Broad St. |
5.41% |
|
MassMutual |
1295 State Street |
75.17% |
|
Nationwide Insurance |
PO Box 182029 |
15.35% |
Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA - Service Shares |
Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York |
PO Box 94210 |
6.29% |
|
Allstate Life Insurance Company |
544 Lakeview Parkway, Suite L1B |
22.63% |
|
Hartford Life Insurance Company |
200 Hopmeadow St. |
10.69% |
|
Hartford Life & Annuity Insurance Company |
200 Hopmeadow St. |
23.63% |
|
Lincoln Benefit Life Company |
PO Box 94210 |
5.67% |
|
Genworth Life and Annuity Insurance Company |
6610 W. Broad St. |
9.11% |
|
MassMutual |
1295 State Street |
13.11% |
Equity Income Fund/VA - Non-Service Shares |
Lincoln Benefit Life Company |
PO Box 94210 |
94.99% |
|
Allstate Life Insurance Company of New York |
PO Box 94210 |
5.01% |
Equity Income Fund/VA - Service Shares |
Hartford Life Insurance Company |
200 Hopmeadow St. |
22.61% |
|
RiverSource Life Insurance Company |
222 Ameriprise Financial Center |
59.48% |
|
RiverSource Life Insurance Company of NY |
222 Ameriprise Financial Center |
14.54% |
Ratings Definitions
Below are summaries of the rating definitions used by the nationally recognized statistical rating organizations ("NRSROs") listed below. Those ratings represent the opinion of the NRSRO as to the credit quality of issues that they rate. The summaries below are based upon publicly available information provided by the NRSROs.
Moody's Investors Service, Inc. ("Moody's")
LONG-TERM OBLIGATION RATINGS
Long-term ratings are assigned to issuers or obligations with an original maturity of one year or more and reflect both on the likelihood of a default on contractually promised payments and the expected financial loss suffered in the event of default.
Aaa: Obligations rated Aaa are judged to be of the highest quality, subject to the lowest level of credit risk.
Aa: Obligations rated Aa are judged to be of high quality and are subject to very low credit risk.
A: Obligations rated A are judged to be upper-medium grade and are subject to low credit risk.
Baa: Obligations rated Baa are judged to be medium-grade and subject to moderate credit risk and as such may possess certain speculative characteristics.
Ba: Obligations rated Ba are judged to be speculative and are subject to substantial credit risk.
B: Obligations rated B are considered speculative and are subject to high credit risk.
Caa: Obligations rated Caa are judged to be speculative of poor standing and are subject to very high credit risk.
Ca: Obligations rated Ca are highly speculative and are likely in, or very near, default, with some prospect of recovery of principal and interest.
C: Obligations rated C are the lowest rated and are typically in default, with little prospect for recovery of principal or interest.
Note: Moody's appends numerical modifiers 1, 2, and 3 to each generic rating classification from Aa through Caa. The modifier 1 indicates that the obligation ranks in the higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates a ranking in the lower end of that generic rating category. Additionally, a "(hyb)" indicator is appended to all ratings of hybrid securities issued by banks, insurers, finance companies, and securities firms.*
* By their terms, hybrid securities allow for the omission of scheduled dividends, interest, or principal payments, which can potentially result in impairment if such an omission occurs. Hybrid securities may also be subject to contractually allowable write-downs of principal that could result in impairment. Together with the hybrid indicator, the long-term obligation rating assigned to a hybrid security is an expression of the relative credit risk associated with that security.
SHORT-TERM OBLIGATION RATINGS FOR TAXABLE DEBT AND U.S. MUNICIPAL TAX-EXEMPT COMMERCIAL PAPER
Short-term ratings are assigned to obligations with an original maturity of thirteen months or less and reflect the likelihood of a default on contractually promised payments.
P-1: Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-1 have a superior ability to repay short-term debt obligations.
P-2: Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-2 have a strong ability to repay short-term debt obligations.
P-3: Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-3 have an acceptable ability to repay short-term obligations.
NP: Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Not Prime do not fall within any of the Prime rating categories.
U.S. MUNICIPAL SHORT-TERM DEBT AND DEMAND OBLIGATION RATINGS
Short-Term Obligation Ratings
The Municipal Investment Grade (MIG) scale is used to rate US municipal bond anticipation notes of up to three years maturity. Municipal notes rated on the MIG scale may be secured by either pledged revenues or proceeds of a take-out financing received prior to note maturity.
MIG 1: This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by established cash flows, highly reliable liquidity support, or demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing.
MIG 2: This designation denotes strong credit quality. Margins of protection are ample, although not as large as in the preceding group.
MIG 3: This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Liquidity and cash-flow protection may be narrow, and market access for refinancing is likely to be less well-established.
SG: This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Debt instruments in this category may lack sufficient margins of protection.
Demand Obligation Ratings
In the case of variable rate demand obligations (VRDOs), a two-component rating is assigned: a long or short-term debt rating and a demand obligation rating. The first element represents Moody's evaluation of risk associated with scheduled principal and interest payments. The second element represents Moody's evaluation of risk associated with the ability to receive purchase price upon demand ("demand feature"). The second element uses a rating from a variation of the MIG scale called the Variable Municipal Investment Grade (VMIG) scale.
VMIG 1: This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by the superior short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.
VMIG 2: This designation denotes strong credit quality. Good protection is afforded by the strong short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.
VMIG 3: This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Adequate protection is afforded by the satisfactory short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.
SG: This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Demand features rated in this category may be supported by a liquidity provider that does not have an investment grade short-term rating or may lack the structural and/or legal protections necessary to ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.
Standard & Poor's Ratings Services ("Standard & Poor's"), a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc.
ISSUE CREDIT RATINGS
A Standard & Poor's issue credit rating is a forward-looking opinion about the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to a specific financial obligation, a specific class of financial obligations, or a specific financial program (including ratings on medium-term note programs and commercial paper programs). It takes into consideration the creditworthiness of guarantors, insurers, or other forms of credit enhancement on the obligation and takes into account the currency in which the obligation is denominated. The opinion reflects Standard & Poor's view of the obligor's capacity and willingness to meet its financial commitments as they come due, and may assess terms, such as collateral security and subordination, which could affect ultimate payment in the event of default.
Issue credit ratings are based, in varying degrees, on Standard & Poor's analysis of the following considerations:
Issue ratings are an assessment of default risk, but may incorporate an assessment of relative seniority or ultimate recovery in the event of default. Junior obligations are typically rated lower than senior obligations, to reflect the lower priority in bankruptcy, as noted above. (Such differentiation may apply when an entity has both senior and subordinated obligations, secured and unsecured obligations, or operating company and holding company obligations.)
LONG-TERM ISSUE CREDIT RATINGS
AAA: An obligation rated 'AAA' has the highest rating assigned by Standard & Poor's. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is extremely strong.
AA: An obligation rated 'AA' differs from the highest-rated obligations only to a small degree. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is very strong.
A: An obligation rated 'A' is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher-rated categories. However, the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is still strong.
BBB: An obligation rated 'BBB' exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
BB; B; CCC; CC; and C: Obligations rated 'BB', 'B', 'CCC', 'CC', and 'C' are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. 'BB' indicates the least degree of speculation and 'C' the highest. While such obligations will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these may be outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions.
BB: An obligation rated 'BB' is less vulnerable to nonpayment than other speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions which could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
B: An obligation rated 'B' is more vulnerable to nonpayment than obligations rated 'BB', but the obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. Adverse business, financial, or economic conditions will likely impair the obligor's capacity or willingness to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
CCC: An obligation rated 'CCC' is currently vulnerable to nonpayment, and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation. In the event of adverse business, financial, or economic conditions, the obligor is not likely to have the capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
CC: An obligation rated 'CC' is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment.
C: A 'C' rating is assigned to obligations that are currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment, obligations that have payment arrearages allowed by the terms of the documents, or obligations of an issuer that is the subject of a bankruptcy petition or similar action which have not experienced a payment default. Among others, the 'C' rating may be assigned to subordinated debt, preferred stock or other obligations on which cash payments have been suspended in accordance with the instrument's terms or when preferred stock is the subject of a distressed exchange offer, whereby some or all of the issue is either repurchased for an amount of cash or replaced by other instruments having a total value that is less than par.
D: An obligation rated 'D' is in payment default. The 'D' rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless Standard & Poor's believes that such payments will be made within five business days, irrespective of any grace period. The 'D' rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of similar action if payments on an obligation are jeopardized. An obligation's rating is lowered to 'D' upon completion of a distressed exchange offer, whereby some or all of the issue is either repurchased for an amount of cash or replaced by other instruments having a total value that is less than par.
NR: This indicates that no rating has been requested, that there is insufficient information on which to base a rating, or that Standard & Poor's does not rate a particular obligation as a matter of policy.
Note: The ratings from 'AA' to 'CCC' may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus (-) sign to show relative standing within the major rating categories.
SHORT-TERM ISSUE CREDIT RATINGS
Short-term ratings are generally assigned to those obligations considered short-term in the relevant market. In the U.S., for example, that means obligations with an original maturity of no more than 365 days-including commercial paper.
A-1: A short-term obligation rated 'A-1' is rated in the highest category by Standard & Poor's. The obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is strong. Within this category, certain obligations are designated with a plus sign (+). This indicates that the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on these obligations is extremely strong.
A-2: A short-term obligation rated 'A-2' is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher rating categories. However, the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is satisfactory.
A-3: A short-term obligation rated 'A-3' exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
B: A short-term obligation rated 'B' is regarded as vulnerable and has significant speculative characteristics. The obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitments; however, it faces major ongoing uncertainties which could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitments.
C: A short-term obligation rated 'C' is currently vulnerable to nonpayment and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.
D: A short-term obligation rated 'D' is in payment default. The 'D' rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless Standard & Poor's believes that such payments will be made within any stated grace period. However, any stated grace period longer than five business days will be treated as five business days. The 'D' rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of a similar action if payments on an obligation are jeopardized.
MUNICIPAL SHORT-TERM NOTE RATINGS
A Standard & Poor's U.S. municipal note rating reflects Standard & Poor's opinion about the liquidity factors and market access risks unique to the notes. Notes due in three years or less will likely receive a note rating. Notes with an original maturity of more than three years will most likely receive a long-term debt rating. In determining which type of rating, if any, to assign, Standard & Poor's analysis will review the following considerations:
SP-1: Strong capacity to pay principal and interest. An issue determined to possess a very strong capacity to pay debt service is given a plus (+) designation.
SP-2: Satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest, with some vulnerability to adverse financial and economic changes over the term of the notes.
SP-3: Speculative capacity to pay principal and interest.
ISSUER CREDIT RATINGS
A Standard & Poor's issuer credit rating is a forward-looking opinion about an obligor's overall creditworthiness in order to pay its financial obligations. This opinion focuses on the obligor's capacity and willingness to meet its financial commitments as they come due. It does not apply to any specific financial obligation, as it does not take into account the nature of and provisions of the obligation, its standing in bankruptcy or liquidation, statutory preferences, or the legality and enforceability of the obligation.
LONG-TERM ISSUER CREDIT RATINGS
AAA: An obligor rated 'AAA' has extremely strong capacity to meet its financial commitments. 'AAA' is the highest issuer credit rating assigned by Standard & Poor's.
AA: An obligor rated 'AA' has very strong capacity to meet its financial commitments. It differs from the highest-rated obligors only to a small degree.
A: An obligor rated 'A' has strong capacity to meet its financial commitments but is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligors in higher-rated categories.
BBB: An obligor rated 'BBB' has adequate capacity to meet its financial commitments. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitments.
BB; B; CCC; and CC: Obligors rated 'BB', 'B', 'CCC', and 'CC' are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. 'BB' indicates the least degree of speculation and 'CC' the highest. While such obligors will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these may be outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions.
BB: An obligor rated 'BB' is less vulnerable in the near term than other lower-rated obligors. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties and exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions which could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitments.
B: An obligor rated 'B' is more vulnerable than the obligors rated 'BB', but the obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitments. Adverse business, financial, or economic conditions will likely impair the obligor's capacity or willingness to meet its financial commitments.
CCC: An obligor rated 'CCC' is currently vulnerable, and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions to meet its financial commitments.
CC: An obligor rated 'CC' is currently highly vulnerable.
R: An obligor rated 'R' is under regulatory supervision owing to its financial condition. During the pendency of the regulatory supervision the regulators may have the power to favor one class of obligations over others or pay some obligations and not others.
SD and D: An obligor rated 'SD' (selective default) or 'D' is in payment default on one or more of its financial obligations (rated or unrated) unless Standard & Poor's believes that such payments will be made within five business days, irrespective of any grace period. The 'D' rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of similar action if payments on a financial obligation are jeopardized. A 'D' rating is assigned when Standard & Poor's believes that the default will be a general default and that the obligor will fail to pay all or substantially all of its obligations as they come due. An 'SD' rating is assigned when Standard & Poor's believes that the obligor has selectively defaulted on a specific issue or class of obligations, but it will continue to meet its payment obligations on other issues or classes of obligations in a timely manner. A selective default includes the completion of a distressed exchange offer, whereby one or more financial obligation is either repurchased for an amount of cash or replaced by other instruments having a total value that is less than par.
NR: An issuer designated 'NR' is not rated.
Note: The ratings from 'AA' to 'CCC' may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus (-) sign to show relative standing within the major rating categories.
SHORT-TERM ISSUER CREDIT RATINGS
A-1: An obligor rated 'A-1' has strong capacity to meet its financial commitments. It is rated in the highest category by Standard & Poor's. Within this category, certain obligors are designated with a plus sign (+). This indicates that the obligor's capacity to meet its financial commitments is extremely strong.
A-2: An obligor rated 'A-2' has satisfactory capacity to meet its financial commitments. However, it is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligors in the highest rating category.
A-3: An obligor rated 'A-3' has adequate capacity to meet its financial obligations. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity of the obligor to meet its financial commitments.
B: An obligor rated 'B' is regarded as vulnerable and has significant speculative characteristics. The obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitments; however, it faces major ongoing uncertainties which could lead to the obligor's inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitments.
C: An obligor rated 'C' is currently vulnerable to nonpayment and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for it to meet its financial commitments.
R: An obligor rated 'R' is under regulatory supervision owing to its financial condition. During the pendency of the regulatory supervision the regulators may have the power to favor one class of obligations over others or pay some obligations and not others. Please see Standard & Poor's issue credit ratings for a more detailed description of the effects of regulatory supervision on specific issues or classes of obligations.
SD and D: An obligor rated 'SD' (selective default) or 'D' has failed to pay one or more of its financial obligations (rated or unrated) when it came due, unless Standard & Poor's believes that such payments will be made within any stated grace period. However, any stated grace period longer than five business days will be treated as five business days. A 'D' rating is assigned when Standard & Poor's believes that the default will be a general default and that the obligor will fail to pay all or substantially all of its obligations as they come due. An 'SD' rating is assigned when Standard & Poor's believes that the obligor has selectively defaulted on a specific issue or class of obligations but it will continue to meet its payment obligations on other issues or classes of obligations in a timely manner. Please see Standard & Poor's issue credit ratings for a more detailed description of the effects of a default on specific issues or classes of obligations.
NR: An issuer designated 'NR' is not rated.
Fitch, Inc.
International credit ratings relate to either foreign currency or local currency commitments and, in both cases, assess the capacity to meet these commitments using a globally applicable scale. As such, both foreign currency and local currency international ratings are internationally comparable assessments. The local currency international rating measures the likelihood of repayment in the currency of the jurisdiction in which the issuer is domiciled and hence does not take account of the possibility that it will not be possible to convert local currency into foreign currency, or make transfers between sovereign jurisdictions (transfer and convertibility risk). Foreign currency ratings additionally consider the profile of the issuer or note after taking into account transfer and convertibility risk. Where the rating is not explicitly described in the relevant rating action commentary as local or foreign currency, the reader should assume that the rating is a "foreign currency" rating (i.e. the rating is applicable for all convertible currencies of obligation).
INTERNATIONAL LONG-TERM ISSUER RATINGS
AAA: Highest credit quality. 'AAA' ratings denote the lowest expectation of default risk. They are assigned only in cases of exceptionally strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is highly unlikely to be adversely affected by foreseeable events.
AA: Very high credit quality. 'AA' ratings denote expectations of very low default risk. They indicate very strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable events.
A: High credit quality. 'A' ratings denote expectations of low default risk. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered strong. This capacity may, nevertheless, be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic conditions than is the case for higher ratings.
BBB: Good credit quality. 'BBB' ratings indicate that expectations of default risk are currently low. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered adequate but adverse business or economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity.
BB: Speculative. 'BB' ratings indicate an elevated vulnerability to default risk, particularly in the event of adverse changes in business or economic conditions over time; however, business or financial flexibility exists which supports the servicing of financial commitments.
B: Highly speculative. 'B' ratings indicate that material default risk is present, but a limited margin of safety remains. Financial commitments are currently being met; however, capacity for continued payment is vulnerable to deterioration in the business and economic environment.
CCC: Substantial credit risk. Default is a real possibility.
CC: Very high levels of credit risk. Default of some kind appears probable.
C: Exceptionally high levels of credit risk. Default is imminent or inevitable, or the issuer is in standstill. Conditions that are indicative of a 'C' category rating for an issuer include:
a. the issuer has entered into a grace or cure period following non-payment of a material financial obligation;
b. the issuer has entered into a temporary negotiated waiver or standstill agreement following a payment default on a material financial obligation; or
c. Fitch Ratings otherwise believes a condition of 'RD' or 'D' to be imminent or inevitable, including through the formal announcement of a distressed debt exchange.
RD: Restricted default. 'RD' ratings indicate an issuer that in Fitch Ratings' opinion has experienced an uncured payment default on a bond, loan or other material financial obligation but which has not entered into bankruptcy filings, administration, receivership, liquidation or other formal winding-up procedure, and which has not otherwise ceased operating. This would include:
a. the selective payment default on a specific class or currency of debt;
b. the uncured expiry of any applicable grace period, cure period or default forbearance period following a payment default on a bank loan, capital markets security or other material financial obligation;
c. the extension of multiple waivers or forbearance periods upon a payment default on one or more material financial obligations, either in series or in parallel; or
d. execution of a distressed debt exchange on one or more material financial obligations.
D: Default. 'D' ratings indicate an issuer that in Fitch Ratings' opinion has entered into bankruptcy filings, administration, receivership, liquidation or other formal winding-up procedure, or which has otherwise ceased business. Default ratings are not assigned prospectively to entities or their obligations; within this context, non-payment on an instrument that contains a deferral feature or grace period will generally not be considered a default until after the expiration of the deferral or grace period, unless a default is otherwise driven by bankruptcy or other similar circumstance, or by a distressed debt exchange. "Imminent" default typically refers to the occasion where a payment default has been intimated by the issuer, and is all but inevitable. This may, for example, be where an issuer has missed a scheduled payment, but (as is typical) has a grace period during which it may cure the payment default. Another alternative would be where an issuer has formally announced a distressed debt exchange, but the date of the exchange still lies several days or weeks in the immediate future. In all cases, the assignment of a default rating reflects the agency's opinion as to the most appropriate rating category consistent with the rest of its universe of ratings, and may differ from the definition of default under the terms of an issuer's financial obligations or local commercial practice.
Note: The modifiers "+" or "-" may be appended to a rating to denote relative status within major rating categories. Such suffixes are not added to the 'AAA' Long-Term category, or to Long-Term categories below 'B'.
INTERNATIONAL SHORT-TERM ISSUER AND ISSUE CREDIT RATINGS
A short-term issuer or obligation rating is based in all cases on the short-term vulnerability to default of the rated entity or security stream and relates to the capacity to meet financial obligations in accordance with the documentation governing the relevant obligation. Short-Term Ratings are assigned to obligations whose initial maturity is viewed as "short term" based on market convention. Typically, this means up to 13 months for corporate, sovereign, and structured obligations, and up to 36 months for obligations in U.S. public finance markets.
F1: Highest short-term credit quality. Indicates the strongest intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments; may have an added "+" to denote any exceptionally strong credit feature.
F2: Good short-term credit quality. Good intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments.
F3: Fair short-term credit quality. The intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments is adequate.
B: Speculative short-term credit quality. Minimal capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, plus heightened vulnerability to near term adverse changes in financial and economic conditions.
C: High short-term default risk. Default is a real possibility.
RD: Restricted default. Indicates an entity that has defaulted on one or more of its financial commitments, although it continues to meet other financial obligations. Applicable to entity ratings only.
D: Default Indicates a broad-based default event for an entity, or the default of a short-term obligation.
DBRS
LONG-TERM OBLIGATIONS
The DBRS® long-term rating scale provides an opinion on the risk of default. That is, the risk that an issuer will fail to satisfy its financial obligations in accordance with the terms under which an obligations has been issued. Ratings are based on quantitative and qualitative considerations relevant to the issuer, and the relative ranking of claims. All rating categories other than AAA and D also contain subcategories "(high)" and "(low)". The absence of either a "(high)" or "(low)" designation indicates the rating is in the middle of the category.
AAA: Highest credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is exceptionally high and unlikely to be adversely affected by future events.
AA: Superior credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is considered high. Credit quality differs from AAA only to a small degree. Unlikely to be significantly vulnerable to future events.
A: Good credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is substantial, but of lesser credit quality than AA. May be vulnerable to future events, but qualifying negative factors are considered manageable.
BBB: Adequate credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is considered acceptable. May be vulnerable to future events.
BB: Speculative, non investment-grade credit quality. The capacity for the payment of financial obligations is uncertain. Vulnerable to future events.
B: Highly speculative credit quality. There is a high level of uncertainty as to the capacity to meet financial obligations.
CCC/CC/C: Very highly speculative credit quality. In danger of defaulting on financial obligations. There is little difference between these three categories, although CC and C ratings are normally applied to obligations that are seen as highly likely to default, or subordinated to obligations rated in the CCC to B range. Obligations in respect of which default has not technically taken place but is considered inevitable may be rated in the C category.
D: A financial obligation has not been met or it is clear that a financial obligation will not be met in the near future or a debt instrument has been subject to a distressed exchange. A downgrade to D may not immediately follow an insolvency or restructuring filing as grace periods or extenuating circumstances may exist.
COMMERCIAL PAPER AND SHORT-TERM DEBT
The DBRS® short-term debt rating scale provides an opinion on the risk that an issuer will not meet its short-term financial obligations in a timely manner. Ratings are based on quantitative and qualitative considerations relevant to the issuer and the relative ranking of claims. The R-1 and R-2 rating categories are further denoted by the subcategories "(high)," "(middle)," and "(low)."
R-1 (high): Highest credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is exceptionally high. Unlikely to be adversely affected by future events.
R-1 (middle): Superior credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is very high. Differs from R-1 (high) by a relatively modest degree. Unlikely to be significantly vulnerable to future events.
R-1 (low): Good credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is substantial. Overall strength is not as favourable as higher rating categories. May be vulnerable to future events, but qualifying negative factors are considered manageable.
R-2 (high): Upper end of adequate credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is acceptable. May be vulnerable to future events.
R-2 (middle): Adequate credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is acceptable. May be vulnerable to future events or may be exposed to other factors that could reduce credit quality.
R-2 (low): Lower end of adequate credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is acceptable. May be vulnerable to future events. A number of challenges are present that could affect the issuer's ability to meet such obligations.
R-3: Lowest end of adequate credit quality. There is a capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due. May be vulnerable to future events and the certainty of meeting such obligations could be impacted by a variety of developments.
R-4: Speculative credit quality. The capacity for the payment of short-term financial obligations as they fall due is uncertain.
R-5: Highly speculative credit quality. There is a high level of uncertainty as to the capacity to meet short-term financial obligations as they fall due.
D: A financial obligation has not been met or it is clear that a financial obligation will not be met in the near future, or a debt instrument has been subject to a distressed exchange. A downgrade to D may not immediately follow an insolvency or restructuring filing as grace periods, other procedural considerations, or extenuating circumstance may exist.
Kroll Bond Rating Agency ("KBRA")
Kroll Bond Rating Agency (KBRA) assigns credit ratings to issuers and their obligations using the same rating scale. In either case, KBRA's credit ratings are intended to reflect both the probability of default and severity of loss in the event of default, with greater emphasis on probability of default at higher rating categories. For obligations, the determination of expected loss severity is, among other things, a function of the seniority of the claim. Generally speaking, issuer-level ratings assume a loss severity consistent with a senior unsecured claim. KBRA appends an (sf) indicator to ratings assigned to structured finance obligations.
LONG-TERM CREDIT RATINGS
AAA Determined to have almost no risk of loss due to credit-related events. Assigned only to the very highest quality obligors and obligations able to survive extremely challenging economic events.
AA Determined to have minimal risk of loss due to credit-related events. Such obligors and obligations are deemed very high quality.
A Determined to be of high quality with a small risk of loss due to credit-related events. Issuers and obligations in this category are expected to weather difficult times with low credit losses.
BBB Determined to be of medium quality with some risk of loss due to credit-related events. Such issuers and obligations may experience credit losses during stress environments.
BB Determined to be of low quality with moderate risk of loss due to credit-related events. Such issuers and obligations have fundamental weaknesses that create moderate credit risk.
B Determined to be of very low quality with high risk of loss due to credit-related events. These issuers and obligations contain many fundamental shortcomings that create significant credit risk.
CCC Determined to be at substantial risk of loss due to credit-related events, or currently in default with high recovery expectations.
CC Determined to be near default or in default with average recovery expectations.
C Determined to be near default or in default with low recovery expectations.
D In default.
KBRA may append - or + modifiers to ratings in categories AA through CCC to indicate, respectively, upper and lower risk levels within the broader category.
SHORT-TERM CREDIT RATINGS
K1 Very strong ability to meet short-term obligations.
K2 Strong ability to meet short-term obligations.
K3 Adequate ability to meet short-term obligations.
B Questionable ability to meet short-term obligations.
C Little ability to meet short-term obligations.
D In default on short-term obligations.
KBRA may append a + modifier to ratings in the K1 category to indicate exceptional ability to meet short-term obligations.
The Funds' audited Financial Statements (and in the case of Global Strategic Income Fund/VA, that Fund's Subsidiary), included in each Fund's Annual Report dated December 31, 2012, including the notes thereto and the reports of KPMG LLP thereon, are incorporated by reference into this Statement of Additional Information.
Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds
Website
www.oppenheimerfunds.com
Investment Adviser and Sub-Adviser
OFI Global Asset Management, Inc. and OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
Two World Financial Center
225 Liberty Street, 11th Floor
New York, New York 10281-1008
Distributor
OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc.
Two World Financial Center
225 Liberty Street, 11th Floor
New York, New York 10281-1008
Transfer Agent and Sub-Transfer Agent
OFI Global Asset Management, Inc. and
Shareholder Services Inc. doing business as OppenheimerFunds Services
P.O. Box 5270
Denver, Colorado 80217
1.800.CALL OPP (225.5677)
Custodian Bank
JPMorgan Chase Bank
4 Chase Metro Tech Center
Brooklyn, New York 11245
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
KPMG LLP
1225 17th Street, Suite 800
Denver, Colorado 80202
Counsel to the Funds & Independent Trustees
K&L Gates LLP
70 West Madison Street, Suite 3100
Chicago, Illinois 60602
PX0610.001.0413
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OPPENHEIMER VARIABLE ACCOUNT FUNDS
FORM N-1A
PART C
OTHER INFORMATION
Item 28. Exhibits
(a) | Agreement and Declaration of Trust dated 8/15/12: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 64, (8/21/12), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(b) | By-Laws dated 8/15/12: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 64, (8/21/12), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(c) | (i) |
Article V of the Agreement and Declaration of Trust: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 64, (8/21/12), and incorporated herein by reference
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(ii) | Article II of the By-Laws: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 64, (8/21/12), and incorporated herein by reference. | |||||||||
(d) | (i) |
Restated Investment Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Capital Appreciation Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(ii) |
Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Capital Appreciation Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
| |||||||||
(iii) |
Restated Investment Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Capital Income Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(iv) |
Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Capital Income Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(v) |
Restated Investment Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Core Bond Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(vi) |
Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Core Bond Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(vii) |
Restated Investment Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(viii) |
Form of Investment Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA dated 8/__/13: Filed herewith.
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(ix) |
Form of Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA dated 8/__/13: Filed herewith.
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(x) |
Form of Investment Sub-SubAdvisory Agreement with Cornerstone Real Estate Advisers LLC for Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA dated 8/__/13: Filed herewith.
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(xi) |
Form of Investment Sub-SubAdvisory Agreement with OFI SteelPath, Inc. for Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA dated 8/__/13: Filed herewith.
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(xii) |
Restated Investment Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Equity Income Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(xiii) |
Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Equity Income Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(xiv) |
Restated Investment Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Global Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
| |||||||||
(xv) |
Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Global Fund Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
| |||||||||
(xvi) |
Restated Investment Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Global Strategic Income Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
| |||||||||
(xvii) |
Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Global Strategic Income Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(xviii) |
Restated Investment Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Main Street Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(xix) |
Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Main Street Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(xx) |
Restated Investment Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
| |||||||||
(xxi) |
Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(xxii) |
Restated Investment Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Money Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(xxiii) |
Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement for Oppenheimer Money Fund/VA dated 1/1/13: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 66, (4/26/13), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(e) | (i) | General Distributors Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Capital Income Fund/VA dated 5/1/98: Filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 32, (4/29/98), and incorporated herein by reference. | ||||||||
(ii) | General Distributors Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA dated 5/1/98: Filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 32, (4/29/98), and incorporated herein by reference. | ||
(iii) | General Distributors Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Core Bond Fund/VA dated 5/1/98: Filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 32, (4/29/98), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(iv) | General Distributors Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Capital Appreciation Fund/VA dated 5/1/98: Filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 32, (4/29/98), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(v) | General Distributors Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Global Fund/VA dated 5/1/98: Filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 32, (4/29/98), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(vi) | General Distributors Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Main Street Fund/VA dated 5/1/98: Filed with Post-Effective Amendment 32, (4/29/98), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(vii) | General Distributors Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA dated 5/1/98: Filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 32, (4/29/98), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(viii) | General Distributors Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Money Fund/VA dated 5/1/98: Filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 32, (4/29/98), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(ix) | General Distributors Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Global Strategic Income Fund/VA dated 5/1/98: Filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 32, (4/29/98), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(x) | General Distributors Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Equity Income Fund/VA dated 10/22/02: Filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 39, (12/20/02) and incorporated herein by reference. |
(xi) | Form of General Distributors Agreement for Service Shares of Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA dated 8/_/13: Filed herewith. |
(xii) | Form of Participation Agreement: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 52, (4/24/07), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(f) | Form of Oppenheimer Funds Compensation Deferral Plan, As Amended and Restated Effective 1/1/08: Previously filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 2 to the Registration Statement of Oppenheimer Portfolio Series Fixed Income Active Allocation Fund (Reg. No. 333-146105), (5/29/09), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(g) | (i) | Global Custody Agreement dated 8/16/02, as amended: Previously filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 51 to the Registration Statement of Oppenheimer Capital Appreciation Fund (Reg. No. 2-69719), (10/23/06), and incorporated herein by reference. | |
(ii) | Amendment dated 4/5/13 to the Global Custody Agreement: Previously filed with Pre-Effective Amendment No. 1 to the Registration Statement of Oppenheimer Main Street Small Cap Fund (Reg. No. 333-186810), (4/23/13), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(h) | Not Applicable. |
(i) | (i) | Opinion and Consent of Counsel for Oppenheimer Capital Income Fund/VA dated 8/21/12: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 64, (8/21/12), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(ii) | Opinion and Consent of Counsel for Oppenheimer Capital Appreciation Fund/VA dated 8/21/12: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 64, (8/21/12), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(iii) | Opinion and Consent of Counsel for Oppenheimer Core Bond Fund/VA dated 8/21/12: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 64, (8/21/12), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(iv) | Opinion and Consent of Counsel for Oppenheimer Global Fund/VA dated 8/21/12: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 64, (8/21/12), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(v) | Opinion and Consent of Counsel for Oppenheimer Global Strategic Income Fund/VA dated 8/21/12: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 64, (8/21/12), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(vi) | Opinion and Consent of Counsel for Oppenheimer Main Street Fund/VA dated 8/21/12: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 64, (8/21/12), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(vii) | Opinion and Consent of Counsel for Oppenheimer Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA dated 8/21/12: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 64, (8/21/12), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(viii) | Opinion and Consent of Counsel for Oppenheimer Money Fund/VA dated 8/21/12: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 64, (8/21/12), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(ix) | Opinion and Consent of Counsel for Oppenheimer Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA dated 8/21/12: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 64, (8/21/12), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(x) | Opinion and Consent of Counsel for Oppenheimer Equity Income Fund/VA dated 8/21/12: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 64, (8/21/12), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(xi) | Opinion and Consent of Counsel for Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA: To be filed by amendment |
(j) | Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm’s Consent: To be filed by amendment. |
(k) | Not applicable. |
(l) | Investment Letter dated 3/14/85 from Monarch Life Insurance Company to Registrant: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 37, (4/24/02), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(m) | (i) |
Amended and Restated Distribution and Service Plan and Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA dated 10/28/05: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 48, (04/28/06), and incorporated herein by reference.
| |
(ii) |
Amended and Restated Distribution and Service Plan and Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Capital Income Fund/VA dated 10/28/05: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 48, (04/28/06), and incorporated herein by reference.
| ||
(iii) |
Amended and Restated Distribution and Service Plan and Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Capital Appreciation Fund/VA dated 10/28/05: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 48, (04/28/06), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(iv) |
Amended and Restated Distribution and Service Plan and Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Core Bond Fund/VA dated 10/28/05: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 48, (04/28/06), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(v) |
Amended and Restated Distribution and Service Plan and Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Global Fund/VA dated 10/28/05: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 48, (04/28/06), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(vi) |
Amended and Restated Service Plan and Agreement for Class 4 shares of Oppenheimer Global Fund/VA dated 10/28/05: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 48, (04/28/06), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(vii) |
Amended and Restated Distribution and Service Plan and Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Main Street Fund/VA dated 10/28/05: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 48, (04/28/06), and incorporated herein by reference.
| ||
(viii) |
Amended and Restated Distribution and Service Plan and Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA dated 10/28/05: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 48, (04/28/06), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(ix) |
Amended and Restated Distribution and Service Plan and Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Money Fund/VA dated 10/28/05: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 48, (04/28/06), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(x) |
Amended and Restated Distribution and Service Plan and Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Global Strategic Income Fund/VA dated 10/28/05: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 48, (04/28/06), and incorporated herein by reference.
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(xi) | Amended and Restated Distribution and Service Plan and Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Equity Income Fund/VA dated 10/28/05: Previously filed with Registrant’s Post-Effective Amendment No. 48, (04/28/06), and incorporated herein by reference. | ||
(xii) | Form of Distribution and Service Plan and Agreement for Service shares of Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA dated 8/_/13: Filed herewith |
(n) | Oppenheimer Funds Multiple Class Plan under Rule 18f-3 as updated through 4/20/11: Previously filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to the Registration Statement of Oppenheimer Transition 2010 Fund (Reg. No. 333-135516), (6/27/11), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(o) | Power of Attorney dated 2/26/13 for all Trustees and Officers: Previously filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 58 to the Registration Statement of Oppenheimer Integrity Funds (Reg. No. 2-76547), (3/27/13), and incorporated herein by reference. |
(p) | Code of Ethics of the Oppenheimer Funds, OppenheimerFunds, Inc. (including affiliates and subsidiaries) and OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc., dated as of 5/25/12, under Rule 17j-1 of the Investment Company Act of 1940: Previously filed with Post-Effective Amendment No. 7 to the Registration Statement of Oppenheimer Transition 2010 Fund (Reg. No. 333-135516), (6/26/12), and incorporated herein by reference. |
Item 29. - Persons Controlled by or Under Common Control with the Fund
None.
Item 30. - Indemnification
Reference is made to the provisions of Article VII of Registrant's Declaration of Trust filed as Exhibit 28(a) to the Registration Statement and incorporated herein by reference.
Insofar as indemnification for certain liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933 may be permitted to trustees, officers and controlling persons of Registrant pursuant to the foregoing provisions or otherwise, Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act of 1933 and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a trustee, officer or controlling person of Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such trustee, officer or controlling person, Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act of 1933 and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
Item 31. - Business and Other Connections of the Investment Adviser
(a) | OFI Global Asset Management, Inc. (the “Manager”) is the manager of the Registrant. The information required by this Item 31 about officers and directors of the Manager, together with information as to any other business, profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature engaged in by such officers and directors during the past two years, is incorporated by reference to Form ADV, filed by the Manager pursuant to the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (SEC File No. 801-76771). |
(b) | OppenheimerFunds, Inc. (the “Sub-Adviser”) provides advisory services to the Registrant. The information required by this Item 31 about officers and directors of the Sub-Adviser, together with information as to any other business, profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature engaged in by such officers and directors during the past two years, is incorporated by reference to Form ADV, filed by the Sub-Adviser pursuant to the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (SEC File No. 801-8253). |
Item 32. Principal Underwriter
(a) | OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc. is the Distributor of the Registrant's shares. It is also the Distributor of each of the registered open-end investment companies listed below (except Panorama Series Fund) and for MassMutual Institutional Funds. |
Oppenheimer AMT-Free Municipals | |
Oppenheimer California Municipal Fund | |
Oppenheimer Capital Appreciation Fund | |
Oppenheimer Capital Income Fund | |
Oppenheimer Cash Reserves | |
Oppenheimer Commodity Strategy Total Return Fund | |
Oppenheimer Core Bond Fund (a series of Oppenheimer Integrity Funds) | |
Oppenheimer Corporate Bond Fund | |
Oppenheimer Currency Opportunities Fund | |
Oppenheimer Developing Markets Fund | |
Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund | |
Oppenheimer Discovery Fund | |
Oppenheimer Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund | |
Oppenheimer Emerging Markets Debt Fund | |
Oppenheimer Equity Fund | |
Oppenheimer Equity Income Fund | |
Oppenheimer Global Fund | |
Oppenheimer Global Multi Strategies Fund | |
Oppenheimer Global Real Estate Fund | |
Oppenheimer Global Opportunities Fund | |
Oppenheimer Global Strategic Income Fund | |
Oppenheimer Global Value Fund | |
Oppenheimer Gold & Special Minerals Fund | |
Oppenheimer International Bond Fund | |
Oppenheimer Institutional Money Market Fund | |
Oppenheimer International Diversified Fund | |
Oppenheimer International Growth Fund | |
Oppenheimer International Small Company Fund | |
Oppenheimer International Value Fund | |
Oppenheimer Limited Term California Municipal Fund | |
Oppenheimer Limited-Term Bond Fund | |
Oppenheimer Limited-Term Government Fund | |
Oppenheimer Main Street Fund (a series of Oppenheimer Main Street Funds) | |
Oppenheimer Main Street Select Fund | |
Oppenheimer Main Street Small Cap Fund | |
Oppenheimer Main Street Small- & Mid-Cap Fund | |
Oppenheimer Master Event-Linked Bond Fund, LLC | |
Oppenheimer Master Loan Fund, LLC | |
Oppenheimer Master Inflation Protected Securities Fund, LLC | |
Oppenheimer Master International Value Fund, LLC | |
Oppenheimer SteelPath Master MLP Fund, LLC | |
Oppenheimer SteelPath MLP Funds Trust (5 series): | |
Oppenheimer SteelPath MLP Select 40 Fund | |
Oppenheimer SteelPath MLP Alpha Fund | |
Oppenheimer SteelPath MLP Income Fund | |
Oppenheimer SteelPath MLP Alpha Plus Fund | |
Oppenheimer Money Market Fund, Inc. | |
Oppenheimer Multi-State Municipal Trust (3 series): | |
Oppenheimer New Jersey Municipal Fund | |
Oppenheimer Pennsylvania Municipal Fund | |
Oppenheimer Rochester National Municipals | |
Oppenheimer Portfolio Series (4 series): | |
Active Allocation Fund | |
Equity Investor Fund | |
Conservative Investor Fund | |
Moderate Investor Fund | |
Oppenheimer Quest For Value Funds (3 series): | |
Oppenheimer Global Allocation Fund | |
Oppenheimer Flexible Strategies Fund | |
Oppenheimer Small- & Mid-Cap Value Fund | |
Oppenheimer Real Estate Fund | |
Oppenheimer Rising Dividends Fund | |
Oppenheimer Rochester AMT-Free New York Municipal Fund | |
Oppenheimer Rochester Arizona Municipal Fund | |
Oppenheimer Rochester Intermediate Term Municipal Fund | |
Oppenheimer Rochester Fund Municipals | |
Oppenheimer Rochester Limited Term Municipal Fund (a series of Oppenheimer Municipal Fund) | |
Oppenheimer Rochester Limited Term New York Municipal Fund (a series of Rochester Portfolio Series) | |
Oppenheimer Rochester Maryland Municipal Fund | |
Oppenheimer Rochester Massachusetts Municipal Fund | |
Oppenheimer Rochester Michigan Municipal Fund | |
Oppenheimer Rochester Minnesota Municipal Fund | |
Oppenheimer Rochester North Carolina Municipal Fund | |
Oppenheimer Rochester Ohio Municipal Fund | |
Oppenheimer Rochester Short Term Municipal Fund | |
Oppenheimer Rochester Virginia Municipal Fund | |
Oppenheimer Select Value Fund | |
Oppenheimer Senior Floating Rate Fund | |
Oppenheimer Senior Floating Rate Plus Fund | |
Oppenheimer Value Fund (a series of Oppenheimer Series Fund, Inc.) | |
Oppenheimer Short Duration Fund | |
Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds (10 series): | |
Oppenheimer Capital Appreciation Fund/VA | |
Oppenheimer Capital Income Fund/VA | |
Oppenheimer Core Bond Fund/VA | |
Oppenheimer Discovery Mid Cap Growth Fund/VA | |
Oppenheimer Equity Income Fund/VA | |
Oppenheimer Global Fund/VA | |
Oppenheimer Global Strategic Income Fund/VA | |
Oppenheimer Main Street Fund/VA | |
Oppenheimer Main Street Small Cap Fund/VA | |
Oppenheimer Money Fund/VA | |
Oppenheimer International Growth Fund/VA (a series of Panorama Series Fund) |
(b) | The directors and officers of the Registrant’s principal underwriter are: |
Name & Principal Business Address |
Position & Office with Underwriter |
Position and Office with Registrant |
Timothy Abbuhl(2) | Treasurer | None |
Anthony Allocco(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Nicole Andersen(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Chuck Anderson(1) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Janette Aprilante(2) | Secretary | None |
James Austin(1) | Vice President | None |
Latoya Baker(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
David J. Barker(2) | Vice President | None |
James Barker(2) | Vice President | None |
Cesar Bastidas(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Kathleen Beichert(1) | Senior Vice President | None |
Rocco Benedetto(2) | Vice President | None |
Emanuele S. Bergagnini(2) | Vice President | None |
Christopher Bergeron(2) | Vice President | None |
Rick Bettridge(2) | Vice President | None |
Rhea M. Berglund(1) | Vice President | None |
Kamal Bhatia(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Adam Bilmes(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Paul Blease(2) | Vice President | None |
Carolyn Boccaccio(2) | Vice President | None |
William Borders(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
David A. Borrelli(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Jeffrey R. Botwinick(2) | Vice President | None |
Sarah Bourgraf(1) | Vice President | None |
Joshua Broad(2) | Vice President | None |
Ken Brodsky(2) | Vice President | None |
Kevin E. Brosmith(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Greg Brown(2) | Vice President | None |
Jack E. Brown(1) | Vice President | None |
Tracy Cairoli(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Clare Cambria(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Mersin Capollari | Vice President | None |
Tara Carbonneau(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Sean Carey(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Robert Caruso(2) | Vice President | None |
Donelle Chisolm(2) | Vice President | None |
Andrew Chonofsky(2) | Vice President | None |
Angelanto Ciaglia(2) | Vice President | None |
Nicholas Cirbo(1) | Vice President | None |
Kevin Clark(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
John Clark(2) | Vice President | None |
John Corcoran(2) | Vice President | None |
Craig Colby(2) | Vice President | None |
Gerald James Concepcion(2) | Vice President | None |
Cameron Cowden(2) | Vice President | None |
Neev Crane(2) | Vice President | None |
Geoffrey Crumine(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Scott Curran(2) | Vice President | None |
Michael Daley(2) | Vice President | None |
Brendan J. Deasy(2) | Vice President | None |
Madeline T. Delianides(2) | Vice President | None |
Michael Dennehy(2) | Vice President | None |
Jeffrey Dickin(2) | Vice President | None |
Brian Dietrich(1) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Carmela DiMeo(2) | Vice President | None |
Steven Dombrower(2) | Vice President | None |
Robert Duffey(2) | Vice President | None |
Ryan Duffy(2) | Vice President | None |
Robert Dunphy(2) | Vice President | None |
Paul Eisenhardt(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Kent M. Elwell(2) | Vice President | None |
Rick Emzen(2) | Vice President | None |
Dana Espinel(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Gregg A. Everett(2) | Vice President | None |
George R. Fahey(1) | Senior Vice President | None |
Eric C. Fallon(2) | Vice President | None |
Kristie Feinberg(2) | Assistant Treasurer | None |
Kristin Fenik(1) | Vice President | None |
Josean Fernandez(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Joseph Fernandez(2) | Vice President | None |
Christopher Ferrara(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Michael Ferrer(2) | Vice President | None |
Mark J. Ferro(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Nicole Filingeri(2) | Vice President | None |
Eric P. Fishel(2) | Vice President | None |
Patrick W. Flynn(1) | Senior Vice President | None |
John Fortuna(2) | Vice President | None |
Jayme Fowler(2) | Vice President | None |
Diane Frankenfield(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Jerry Fraustro(2) | Vice President | None |
William Friebel(2) | Vice President | None |
Alice Fricke(2) | Vice President | None |
Alyson Frost(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Josh Fudge(1) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Arthur S. Gabinet(2) | Chief Legal Officer | Secretary and Chief Legal Officer |
William Gahagan(2) | Vice President | None |
Hazem Gamal(2) | Vice President | None |
Charlotte Gardner(1) | Vice President | None |
Nancy Girondo | Assistant Vice President | None |
Jill E. Glazerman(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Jack Goldin(2) | Vice President | None |
Michael Gottesman(2) | Vice President | None |
Raquel Granahan(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Eric Grossjung(2) | Vice President | None |
Ellen Gutierrez(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Michael D. Guman(2) | Vice President | None |
James E. Gunter(2) | Vice President | None |
LeaAnna Hartman(1) | Vice President | None |
Alexander Hayes(2) | Vice President | None |
John Hauryluke(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Kevin J. Healy(2) | Vice President | None |
Lori M. Heinel(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
David Van Hellemont(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Kenneth Henry(2) | Vice President | None |
Philipp Hensler(2) | Chairman, Chief Executive Officer & Director | None |
Wendy Hetson Ehrlich(2) | Vice President | None |
Jennifer Hoelscher(1) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Eric Holquist(2) | Vice President | None |
Lucienne Howell(2) | Vice President | None |
Edward Hrybenko(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Jason Hubersberger(2) | Vice President | None |
Brian F. Husch(2) | Vice President | None |
Keith Hylind(2) | Vice President | None |
Vincent Iacono(2) | Vice President | None |
Kathleen T. Ives(1) | Assistant Secretary | None |
Shonda Rae Jaquez(2) | Vice President | None |
Allyson Jarecky(2) | Vice President | None |
Robin Jennings(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Brian Johnson(1) | Vice President | None |
Eric K. Johnson(1) | Senior Vice President |
None
|
Diane Johnston(2) | Vice President | None |
Sarah Joyce(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Erica Kelley(1) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Sean Keller(2) | Vice President | None |
Scott Kelley(1) | Vice President | None |
Andrew Kehnast(1) | Vice President | None |
Richard Keri (2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Brian Kiley(2) | Vice President | None |
Robert K. Kinsey(2) | Vice President | None |
Richard Klein(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Eric Kristenson(2) | Vice President | None |
Justin Kroll(1) | Vice President | None |
Lamar Kunes(2) | Vice President | None |
David T. Kuzia(1) | Vice President | None |
Lisa Lamentino(2) | Vice President | None |
John Laudadio(2) | Vice President | None |
Daniel Lee(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Wendy Lee(2) | Vice President | None |
John Leonard(2) | Vice President | None |
Brian Levitt(2) | Vice President | None |
Jesse Levitt(2) | Vice President | None |
Julie Libby(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Eric J. Liberman(2) | Vice President | None |
Lorna Lindquist(2) | Vice President | None |
Malissa Lischin(2) | Vice President | None |
Christina Loftus(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Thomas Loncar(2) | Vice President | None |
Peter Maddox(2) | Vice President | None |
Michael Malik(2) | Vice President | None |
Joseph Marich(2) | Vice President | None |
Steven C. Manns(2) | Vice President | None |
Todd A. Marion(2) | Vice President | None |
Kyle Martin(1) | Vice President | None |
Anthony Mazzariello(2) | Vice President | None |
Derren McDaniel(1) | Vice President | None |
John C. McDonough(2) | President | None |
Matthew McGee(1) | Vice President | None |
Brian McGinty(1) | Vice President | None |
Kent C. McGowan(2) | Vice President | None |
William McNamara(2) | Vice President | None |
Daniel Melehan(2) | Vice President | None |
Brian F. Medina(1) | Vice President | None |
Debbie S. Michaelson | Vice President | None |
Toller Miller(1) | Vice President | None |
Clint Modler(1) | Vice President | None |
Joseph Moran(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Robert Moser(2) | Vice President | None |
James Mugno(2) | Vice President | None |
Matthew Mulcahy(2) | Vice President | None |
Wendy Jean Murray(2) | Vice President | None |
Kimberly Mustin(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Keith Myers(1) | Assistant Vice President | None |
John S. Napier(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Christina Nasta(2) | Senior Vice President | Chief Business Officer and Vice President |
Kevin P. Neznek(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Nichola Noriega(2) | Vice President | None |
Christopher Nicholson(2) | Vice President | None |
Peter Novak(2) | Vice President | None |
Timothy O’Connell(2) | Vice President | None |
James B. O’Connell(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Patricia O’Connor | Assistant Vice President | None |
Alan Panzer(2) | Vice President | None |
Andrea Pash(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Maria Paster(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Ashley Patten(1) | Vice President | None |
Donald Pawluk(2) | Vice President | None |
Russell W. Pearlman(2) | Vice President | None |
Brian C. Perkes(2) | Vice President | None |
Charles K. Pettit(2) | Vice President | None |
David Pfeffer(2) | Director & Chief Financial Officer | None |
Andrew Phillips(1) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Cheryl Pipia(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Rachel Powers(1) | Vice President | None |
Nicole Pretzel Holahan(2) | Vice President | None |
Minnie Ra(2) | Vice President | None |
Jill S. Rosmarin(2) | Vice President | None |
Richard E. Rath(2) | Vice President | None |
William J. Raynor(2) | Vice President | None |
Dennis Robinson(1) | Vice President | None |
Ian M. Roche(2) | Vice President | None |
Michael Rock(2) | Vice President | None |
Antoinette Rodriguez(2) | Vice President | None |
Megan P. Rosenblum(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Jacob Rothschild(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Thomas Sabow(2) | Vice President | None |
Mark Santero(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Christopher Saul(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
John Saunders(2) | Vice President | None |
Timothy Scanlan(2) | Vice President | None |
Alex Schardt(2) | Vice President | None |
Thomas Schmitt(2) | Vice President | None |
Erik Schneberger(2) | Vice President | None |
William Schories(2) | Vice President | None |
Jennifer Sexton(2) | Vice President | None |
Jeffrey Sharon(2) | Vice President | None |
Kenneth Shell(1) | Vice President | None |
Erin Simpson(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Bryant Smith(2) | Vice President | None |
Aaron Spatz(2) | Vice President | None |
Christopher M. Spencer(2) | Vice President | None |
John A. Spensley(2) | Vice President | None |
Amy Sperber(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Kirti Srikant(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Michael Staples(2) | Vice President | None |
Alfred St. John(2) | Vice President | None |
Bryan Stein(2) | Vice President | None |
Benjamin Stewart(2) | Vice President | None |
Brian C. Summe(2) | Vice President | None |
Michael Sussman(2) | Vice President | None |
George T. Sweeney(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Leo Tallon(2) | Vice President | None |
Brian Taylor(2) | Vice President | None |
James Taylor(2) | Vice President | None |
Paul Temple(2) | Vice President | None |
Saul Tessler(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Christopher Thabet(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
David G. Thomas(2) | Vice President | None |
Jay S. Therrien(2) | Vice President | None |
Bryce Tillery(1) | Vice President | None |
Luz Touma(2) | Vice President | None |
Cenk Toroslu(1) | Vice President | None |
Wesley Vance(2) | Vice President | None |
Mark S. Vandehey(1) | Chief Compliance Officer | Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer |
Tanya Valle(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Vincent Vermette(2) | Vice President | None |
Alyse Vishnick(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Melissa Wade(1) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Kenneth Waddell(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Eliot Walsh(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Richard Walsh(2) | Vice President | None |
Samuel W. Wang(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Jerry Webman(2) | Senior Vice President | None |
Janeanne Weickum(1) | Vice President | None |
Michael J. Weigner(2) | Vice President | None |
Donn S. Weise(2) | Vice President | None |
Chris G. Werner(2) | Vice President | None |
Laura White(2) | Vice President | None |
Jason Widener(2) | Vice President | None |
Ryan Wilde(1) | Vice President | None |
Martha B. Willis(2) | Director & Executive Vice President | None |
Patrick Wisneski(1) | Vice President | None |
Meredith Wolff(2) | Vice President | None |
Kevin Woodson(1) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Cary Patrick Wozniak | Vice President | None |
David Zicchinella(2) | Assistant Vice President | None |
Steven Zito(1) | Vice President | None |
(1)6803 South Tucson Way, Centennial, CO 80112-3924
(2)Two World Financial Center, 225 Liberty Street, 11th Floor, New York, NY 10281-1008
(c) | Not applicable. |
Item 33. Location of Accounts and Records
The accounts, books and other documents required to be maintained by Registrant pursuant to Section 31(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 and rules promulgated thereunder are in the possession of OFI Global Asset Management, Inc., OppenheimerFunds, Inc. and Shareholder Services, Inc., as applicable, at each entity’s offices at 6803 South Tucson Way, Centennial, Colorado 80112-3924.
Item 34. Management Services
Not applicable.
Item 35. Undertakings
The financial statements of Oppenheimer Global Strategic Income Fund/VA (Cayman) Ltd., the wholly-owned subsidiary of Oppenheimer Global Strategic Income Fund/VA, will be updated each time the financial statements of Oppenheimer Global Strategic Income Fund/VA are updated.
The financial statements of Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA (Cayman) Ltd., the wholly-owned subsidiary of Oppenheimer
Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA, will be updated each time the financial statements of Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA
are updated.
The books and records of the Fund’s wholly-owned subsidiary will be made available to inspection to the same extent as the Fund’s.
SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant has duly caused this Registration Statement on Form N-1A to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized, in the City of New York and State of New York on the 23rd day of August, 2013.
Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds | |
By: | William F. Glavin, Jr.* |
William F. Glavin, Jr., President | |
Principal Executive Officer and Trustee |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities on the dates indicated:
Signatures | Title | Date | |
Sam Freedman* | Chairman of the | August 23, 2013 | |
Sam Freedman | Board of Trustees | ||
William F. Glavin, Jr.* | President, Principal Executive | August 23, 2013 | |
William F. Glavin, Jr. | Officer and Trustee | ||
Brian W. Wixted* | Treasurer, Principal | August 23, 2013 | |
Brian W. Wixted | Financial & Accounting Officer | ||
Edward L. Cameron* | Trustee | August 23, 2013 | |
Edward L. Cameron | |||
Jon S. Fossel* | Trustee | August 23, 2013 | |
Jon S. Fossel | |||
Richard F. Grabish* | Trustee | August 23, 2013 | |
Richard F. Grabish | |||
Beverly L. Hamilton* | Trustee | August 23, 2013 | |
Beverly L. Hamilton | |||
Victoria J. Herget* | Trustee | August 23, 2013 | |
Victoria J. Herget | |||
Robert J. Malone* | Trustee | August 23, 2013 | |
Robert J. Malone | |||
F. William Marshall, Jr.* | Trustee | August 23, 2013 | |
F. William Marshall, Jr. | |||
Karen L. Stuckey* | Trustee | August 23, 2013 | |
Karen L. Stuckey | |||
James D. Vaughn* | Trustee | August 23, 2013 | |
James D. Vaughn |
*By: | /s/ Mitchell J. Lindauer |
Mitchell J. Lindauer, Attorney-in-Fact |
OPPENHEIMER VARIABLE ACCOUNT FUNDS
Post-Effective Amendment No. 68
Registration No. 2-93177
EXHIBIT INDEX
Exhibit No. Description
28(d) | (viii) | Form of Investment Advisory Agreement | ||||
(ix) |
Form of Investment Sub-Advisory Agreement
| |||||
(x) |
Form of Investment Sub-SubAdvisory Agreement with Cornerstone Real Estate Advisers LLC
| |||||
(xi) | Form of Investment Sub-SubAdvisory Agreement with OFI SteelPath, Inc. | |||||
28(e) | (xi) | Form of General Distributors Agreement | ||||
28(m) | (xii) | Form of Distribution and Service Plan and Agreement | ||||
|
[FORM OF]
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT
AGREEMENT made the __ day of August, 2013, by and between Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds (hereinafter referred to as the “Trust”), and OFI Global Asset Management, Inc. (hereinafter referred to as “OFI GLOBAL”).
WHEREAS, the Trust is an open-end management investment company registered as such with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the "Commission") pursuant to the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the "Investment Company Act"), and OFI GLOBAL is an investment adviser registered as such with the Commission under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended;
WHEREAS, Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA, (the "Fund"), is a series of the Trust having a separate portfolio, investment policies and investment restrictions; and
NOW, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual promises and covenants hereinafter set forth, it is agreed by and between the parties, as follows:
1. General Provision.
a. The Trust hereby employs OFI GLOBAL and OFI GLOBAL hereby undertakes to act as the investment adviser of the Fund and to perform for the Fund such other duties and functions as are hereinafter set forth. OFI GLOBAL shall, in all matters, give to the Fund and the Trust’s Board of Trustees the benefit of its best judgment, effort, advice and recommendations and shall, at all times conform to, and use its best efforts to enable the Fund to conform to: (i) the provisions of the Investment Company Act and any rules or regulations thereunder; (ii) any other applicable provisions of state or Federal law; (iii) the provisions of the Declaration of Trust and By-Laws of the Trust as amended from time to time; (iv) policies and determinations of the Board of Trustees of the Trust; (v) the fundamental policies and investment restrictions of the Fund as reflected in the Trust’s registration statement under the Investment Company Act or as such policies may, from time to time, be amended by the Fund’s shareholders; and (vi) the Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information of the Trust in effect from time to time. The appropriate officers and employees of OFI GLOBAL shall be available upon reasonable notice for consultation with any of the trustees and officers of the Trust with respect to any matters dealing with the business and affairs of the Trust including the valuation of portfolio securities of the Fund which securities are either not registered for public sale or not traded on any securities market.
2. Investment Management.
a. OFI GLOBAL shall, subject to the direction and control by the Trust’s Board of Trustees: (i) regularly provide investment advice and recommendations to the Fund with respect to its investments, investment policies and the purchase and sale of securities; (ii) supervise continuously the investment program of the Fund and the composition of its portfolio and determine what securities shall be purchased or sold by the Fund; and (iii) arrange, subject to the provisions of paragraph 7 hereof, for the purchase of securities and other investments for the Fund and the sale of securities and other investments held in the portfolio of the Fund.
b. Provided that the Trust shall not be required to pay any compensation for services under this Agreement other than as provided by the terms of this Agreement and subject to the provisions of paragraph 7 hereof, OFI GLOBAL may obtain investment information, research or assistance from any other person, firm or corporation to supplement, update or otherwise improve its investment management services.
c. To the extent permitted by applicable law, OFI GLOBAL may, from time to time in its sole discretion, appoint one or more sub-advisers, including, without limitation, affiliates of OFI GLOBAL, to perform investment advisory services with respect to the Fund and may, in its sole discretion, terminate any or all such sub-advisers at any time to the extent permitted by applicable law.
d. OFI GLOBAL shall not be liable for any loss sustained by the Trust and/or the Fund in connection with matters to which this Agreement relates, except a loss resulting by reason of OFI GLOBAL’s willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its duties; or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.
e. Nothing in this Agreement shall prevent OFI GLOBAL or any officer thereof from acting as investment adviser for any other person, firm or corporation and shall not in any way limit or restrict OFI GLOBAL or any of its directors, officers, stockholders or employees from buying, selling or trading any securities for its or their own account or for the account of others for whom it or they may be acting, provided that such activities will not adversely affect or otherwise impair the performance by OFI GLOBAL of its duties and obligations under this Agreement and under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940.
3. Other Duties of OFI GLOBAL.
OFI GLOBAL shall, at its own expense, provide and supervise the activities of all administrative and clerical personnel as shall be required to provide effective administration for the Fund, including (i) the compilation and maintenance of such records with respect to its operations as may reasonably be required; (ii) the preparation and filing of such reports with respect thereto as shall be required by the Commission; (iii) the composition of periodic reports with respect to operations of the Fund for its shareholders; (iv) the composition of proxy materials for meetings of the Fund’s shareholders, and (v) the composition of such registration statements as may be required by Federal securities laws for continuous public sale of shares of the Fund. OFI GLOBAL shall, at its own cost and expense, also provide the Trust with adequate office space, facilities and equipment.
4. Allocation of Expenses.
All other costs and expenses of the Fund not expressly assumed by OFI GLOBAL under this Agreement, or to be paid by the General Distributor of the shares of the Fund, shall be paid by the Trust, including, but not limited to: (i) interest and taxes; (ii) brokerage commissions; (iii) insurance premiums for fidelity and other coverage requisite to its operations; (iv) compensation and expenses of its trustees other than those associated or affiliated with OFI GLOBAL; (v) legal and audit expenses; (vi) custodian and transfer agent fees and expenses; (vii) expenses incident to the redemption of its shares; (viii) expenses incident to the issuance of its shares against payment therefor by or on behalf of the subscribers thereto; (ix) fees and expenses, other than as hereinabove provided, incident to the registration under Federal securities laws of shares of the Fund for public sale; (x) expenses of printing and mailing reports, notices and proxy materials to shareholders of the Fund; (xi) except as noted above, all other expenses incidental to holding meetings of the Fund’s shareholders; and (xii) such extraordinary non-recurring expenses as may arise, including litigation, affecting the Fund and any obligation which the Trust may have on behalf of the Fund to indemnify its officers and trustees with respect thereto. Any officers or employees of OFI GLOBAL or any entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with OFI GLOBAL, who may also serve as officers, trustees or employees of the Trust shall not receive any compensation from the Trust for their services. The expenses with respect to any two or more series of the Trust shall be allocated in proportion to the net assets of the respective series except where allocations of direct expenses can be made.
5. Compensation of OFI GLOBAL.
The Trust agrees to pay OFI GLOBAL on behalf of the Fund and OFI GLOBAL agrees to accept as full compensation for the performance of all functions and duties on its part to be performed pursuant to the provisions hereof, a management fee payable monthly and calculated on the daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate that declines on additional assets as the Fund grows:
1.00% of the first $500 million of average annual net assets of the Fund,
0.95% of the next $500 million,
0.90% of the next $4 billion and
0.88% of average annual net assets in excess of $5 billion.
6. Use of Name “Oppenheimer.”
OFI GLOBAL hereby grants to the Trust a royalty-free, non-exclusive license to use the name “Oppenheimer” in the name of the Trust and the Fund for the duration of this Agreement and any extensions or renewals thereof. To the extent necessary to protect OFI GLOBAL’s rights to the name “Oppenheimer” under applicable law, such license shall allow OFI GLOBAL to inspect, and subject to control by the Trust’s Board, control the name and quality of services offered by the Fund under such name. Such license may, upon termination of this Agreement, be terminated by OFI GLOBAL, in which event the Trust shall promptly take whatever action may be necessary to change its name and the name of the Fund and discontinue any further use of the name “Oppenheimer” in the name of the Trust or the Fund or otherwise. The name “Oppenheimer” may be used or licensed by OFI GLOBAL in connection with any of its activities, or licensed by OFI GLOBAL to any other party.
7. Portfolio Transactions and Brokerage.
a. OFI GLOBAL is authorized, in arranging the Fund’s portfolio transactions, to employ or deal with such members of securities or commodities exchanges, brokers or dealers (hereinafter “broker-dealers”), including “affiliated” broker-dealers (as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act), as may, in its best judgment, implement the policy of the Fund to obtain, at reasonable expense, the “best execution” (prompt and reliable execution at the most favorable security price obtainable) of the Fund’s portfolio transactions as well as to obtain, consistent with the provisions of subparagraph (c) of this paragraph 7, the benefit of such investment information or research as will be of significant assistance to the performance by OFI GLOBAL of its investment management functions.
b. OFI GLOBAL shall select broker-dealers to effect the Fund’s portfolio transactions on the basis of its estimate of their ability to obtain best execution of particular and related portfolio transactions. The abilities of a broker-dealer to obtain best execution of particular portfolio transaction(s) will be judged by OFI GLOBAL on the basis of all relevant factors and considerations including, insofar as feasible, the execution capabilities required by the transaction or transactions; the ability and willingness of the broker-dealer to facilitate the Fund’s portfolio transactions by participating therein for its own account; the importance to the Fund of speed, efficiency or confidentiality; the broker-dealer’s apparent familiarity with sources from or to whom particular securities might be purchased or sold; as well as any other matters relevant to the selection of a broker-dealer for particular and related transactions of the Fund.
c. OFI GLOBAL shall have discretion, in the interests of the Fund, to allocate brokerage on the Fund’s portfolio transactions to broker-dealers, other than an affiliated broker-dealer, qualified to obtain best execution of such transactions who provide brokerage and/or research services (as such services are defined in Section 28(e)(3) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) for the Fund and/or other accounts for which OFI GLOBAL or its affiliates exercise “investment discretion” (as that term is defined in Section 3(a)(35) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) and to cause the Trust to pay such broker-dealers a commission for effecting a portfolio transaction for the Fund that is in excess of the amount of commission another broker-dealer adequately qualified to effect such transaction would have charged for effecting that transaction, if OFI GLOBAL determines, in good faith, that such commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and/or research services provided by such broker-dealer, viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or the overall responsibilities of OFI GLOBAL or its affiliates with respect to the accounts as to which they exercise investment discretion. In reaching such determination, OFI GLOBAL will not be required to place or attempt to place a specific dollar value on the brokerage and/or research services provided or being provided by such broker-dealer. In demonstrating that such determinations were made in good faith, OFI GLOBAL shall be prepared to show that all commissions were allocated for purposes contemplated by this Agreement and that the total commissions paid by the Trust over a representative period selected by the Trust’s trustees were reasonable in relation to the benefits to the Fund.
d. OFI GLOBAL shall have no duty or obligation to seek advance competitive bidding for the most favorable commission rate applicable to any particular portfolio transactions or to select any broker-dealer on the basis of its purported or “posted” commission rate but will, to the best of its ability, endeavor to be aware of the current level of the charges of eligible broker-dealers and to minimize the expense incurred by the Fund for effecting its portfolio transactions to the extent consistent with the interests and policies of the Fund as established by the determinations of the Board of Trustees of the Trust and the provisions of this paragraph 7.
e. The Trust recognizes that an affiliated broker-dealer: (i) may act as one of the Fund’s regular brokers so long as it is lawful for it so to act; (ii) may be a major recipient of brokerage commissions paid by the Trust; and (iii) may effect portfolio transactions for the Fund only if the commissions, fees or other remuneration received or to be received by it are determined in accordance with procedures contemplated by any rule, regulation or order adopted under the Investment Company Act for determining the permissible level of such commissions.
8. Duration.
This Agreement will take effect on the date first set forth above. Unless earlier terminated pursuant to paragraph 10 hereof, this Agreement shall remain in effect until two years from the date of execution hereof, and thereafter will continue in effect from year to year, so long as such continuance shall be approved at least annually by the Trust’s Board of Trustees, including the vote of the majority of the Trustees of the Trust who are not parties to this Agreement or “interested persons” (as defined in the Investment Company Act) of any such party, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval, or by the holders of a “majority” (as defined in the Investment Company Act) of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund and by such a vote of the Trust’s Board of Trustees.
9. Disclaimer of Trustee or Shareholder Liability.
OFI GLOBAL understands and agrees that the obligations of the Trust under this Agreement are not binding upon any Trustee or shareholder of the Trust or Fund personally, but bind only the Trust and the Trust’s property. OFI GLOBAL represents that it has notice of the provisions of the Declaration of Trust of the Trust disclaiming Trustee or shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the Trust.
10. Termination.
This Agreement may be terminated: (i) by OFI GLOBAL at any time without penalty upon sixty days’ written notice to the Trust (which notice may be waived by the Trust); or (ii) by the Trust at any time without penalty upon sixty days’ written notice to OFI GLOBAL (which notice may be waived by OFI GLOBAL) provided that such termination by the Trust shall be directed or approved by the vote of a majority of all of the trustees of the Trust then in office or by the vote of the holders of a “majority” of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund (as defined in the Investment Company Act).
11. Assignment or Amendment.
This Agreement may not be amended or the rights of OFI GLOBAL hereunder sold, transferred, pledged or otherwise in any manner encumbered without the affirmative vote of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, including a majority of the Trustees who are not parties to this Agreement or interested persons of any such party, cast in person at a meeting called for the purposes of voting on such approval and, where required by the Investment Company Act, by a vote or written consent of the holders of the “majority” of the outstanding voting securities of the Trust. This Agreement shall automatically and immediately terminate in the event of its “assignment,” as defined in the Investment Company Act.
12. | Definitions. |
The terms and provisions of this Agreement shall be interpreted and defined in a manner consistent with the provisions and definitions of the Investment Company Act.
Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds, for Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA
By: ___________________
Arthur S. Gabinet
Secretary and Chief Legal Officer
OFI Global Asset Management, Inc.
By: ___________________
Lisa I. Bloomberg
Senior Vice President and Deputy General President
[FORM OF]
INVESTMENT SUBADVISORY AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into as of the __ day of ________, 2013 between OFI Global Asset Management, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Adviser”), and OppenheimerFunds, Inc., a Colorado corporation (the “SubAdviser”)
W I T N E S S E T H:
WHEREAS, Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA, a series of Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds (the “Fund”) is registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”);
WHEREAS, the Adviser is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) as an investment adviser under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the “Advisers Act”) and is engaged in the business of rendering investment advice;
WHEREAS, the Adviser has, pursuant to an Advisory Agreement with the Fund dated as of August __, 2013 (the “Advisory Agreement”) been retained to act as investment adviser for the Fund;
WHEREAS, pursuant to the Advisory Agreement and subject to the supervision of the Board of Trustees, the Adviser shall administer the Fund's business affairs and, in connection therewith, shall furnish the Fund with office facilities and with clerical, bookkeeping and recordkeeping services at such office facilities, as needed. The Adviser shall supervise continuously the investment program of the Fund;
WHEREAS, the Adviser (or a SubAdviser under the Adviser’s supervision) shall manage the investment operations of the Fund and the composition of the Fund's portfolio, including the purchase, retention and disposition thereof, in accordance with the Fund's investment objectives, policies and restrictions as stated in the Fund's registration statement;
WHEREAS, the Advisory Agreement permits the Adviser to delegate certain of its duties under the Advisory Agreement subject to the requirements of the 1940 Act;
WHEREAS, the SubAdviser is registered with the SEC as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act, is engaged in the business of rendering investment advice; and
WHEREAS, the Adviser desires to retain SubAdviser to assist it in the provision of a continuous investment program for the Fund's assets, and SubAdviser is willing to render such services subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties do mutually agree and promise as follows:
1. Appointment as SubAdviser. The Adviser hereby retains the SubAdviser to act as SubAdviser of the Fund to provide investment advice to the Fund as hereinafter set forth, subject to the supervision of the Adviser and the Board of Trustees of the Fund and subject to the terms of this Agreement; and the SubAdviser hereby accepts such employment.
2. Duties of SubAdviser.
(a) Investments. The SubAdviser is hereby authorized and directed and hereby agrees, subject to the stated investment policies and restrictions of the Fund as set forth in the Fund's prospectus, summary prospectus and/or statement of additional information, in each case as currently in effect and as supplemented or amended from time to time (collectively referred to hereinafter as the “Prospectus”) and subject to the directions and continuous oversight of the Adviser and the Fund’s Board of Trustees, to (i) regularly provide investment advice and recommendations to the Fund with respect to the Fund’s investments, investment policies and the purchase and sale of securities and other investments; (ii) supervise continuously the investment program of the Fund and the composition of its portfolio and determine what securities and other investments shall be purchased or sold by the Fund; and (iii) arrange, subject to the provisions of paragraphs (c) and (d) below, for the purchase of securities, and other investments for the Fund and the sale of securities and other investments held in the portfolio of the Fund. The Adviser agrees to provide the SubAdviser with such assistance as may be reasonably requested by the SubAdviser in connection with its activities under this Agreement, including, without limitation, information concerning the Fund, its assets available, or to become available, for investment and generally as to the conditions of the Fund or the Fund’s affairs.
Provided that the Fund shall not be required to pay any compensation for services under this Agreement other than as provided by the terms of the Agreement and subject to the provisions of part (c) of paragraph 2 hereof, the SubAdviser may obtain investment information, research or assistance from any other person, firm or corporation to supplement, update or otherwise improve its investment management services including entering into sub-advisory agreements with other affiliated or unaffiliated registered investment advisors to perform investment advisory services with respect to the Fund, and to terminate any such sub-advisory agreements at any time to the extent permitted by law.
(b) Compliance with Applicable Laws and Governing Documents. In the performance of its duties and obligations under this Agreement or otherwise, the SubAdviser shall act in conformity with the Fund's Declaration of Trust, By-Laws, procedures and policies adopted by the Board of the Fund and/or by the Adviser and the Prospectus and with the instructions and directions received in writing from the Adviser or the Board of Trustees of the Fund and will conform to and comply with the requirements of the 1940 Act, the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), and all other applicable federal and state laws and regulations necessary to allow the Fund to qualify as a “regulated investment company” as defined in Subchapter M of the Code. Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Adviser shall, subject to the SubAdviser’s compliance with its obligations, remain responsible for the Fund’s overall compliance with the 1940 Act, the Code and all other applicable federal and state laws and regulations.
(c) Brokerage.
(i) the Adviser and the SubAdviser is authorized, in arranging the Fund's portfolio transactions, to employ or deal with such members of securities or commodities exchanges, brokers or dealers, including "affiliated" broker dealers (as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act) (hereinafter "broker-dealers"), as may, in its best judgment, implement the policy of the Fund to obtain, at reasonable expense, the "best execution" (prompt and reliable execution at the most favorable security price obtainable) of the Fund's portfolio transactions as well as to obtain, consistent with the provisions of part (c) (iii) of section 2 of this Agreement, the benefit of such investment information or research as may be of significant assistance to the performance by the SubAdviser of its investment management functions.
(ii) the SubAdviser shall select broker-dealers to effect the Fund's portfolio transactions on the basis of its estimate of their ability to obtain best execution of particular and related portfolio transactions. The abilities of a broker-dealer to obtain best execution of particular portfolio transaction(s) will be judged by the SubAdviser on the basis of all relevant factors and considerations including, insofar as feasible, the execution capabilities required by the transaction or transactions; the ability and willingness of the broker-dealer to facilitate the Fund's portfolio transactions by participating therein for its own account; the importance to the Fund of speed, efficiency or confidentiality; the broker-dealer's apparent familiarity with sources from or to whom particular securities might be purchased or sold; as well as any other matters relevant to the selection of a broker-dealer for particular and related transactions of the Fund.
(iii) the SubAdviser shall have discretion, in the interests of the Fund, to allocate brokerage on the Fund's portfolio transactions to broker-dealers other than affiliated broker-dealers, qualified to obtain best execution of such transactions who provide brokerage and/or research services (as such services are defined in Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) for the Fund and/or other accounts for which the SubAdviser and its affiliates exercise "investment discretion" (as that term is defined in the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) and to cause the Fund to pay such broker-dealers a commission for effecting a portfolio transaction for the Fund that is in excess of the amount of commission another broker-dealer adequately qualified to effect such transaction would have charged for effecting that transaction, if the SubAdviser determines, in good faith, that such commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and/or research services provided by such broker-dealer, viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or the overall responsibilities of the SubAdviser and its investment advisory affiliates with respect to the accounts as to which they exercise investment discretion. In reaching such determination, the SubAdviser will not be required to place or attempt to place a specific dollar value on the brokerage and/or research services provided or being provided by such broker-dealer. In demonstrating that such determinations were made in good faith, the SubAdviser shall be prepared to show that all commissions were allocated for the purposes contemplated by this Agreement and that the total commissions paid by the Fund over a representative period selected by the Fund's Board of Trustees were reasonable in relation to the benefits to the Fund.
(iv) The SubAdviser shall have no duty or obligation to seek advance competitive bidding for the most favorable commission rate applicable to any particular portfolio transactions or to select any broker-dealer on the basis of its purported or "posted" commission rate but will, to the best of its ability, endeavor to be aware of the current level of the charges of eligible broker-dealers and to minimize the expense incurred by the Fund for effecting its portfolio transactions to the extent consistent with the interests and policies of the Fund as established by the determinations of its Board of Trustees and the provisions of section 2 (c) of this Agreement."
(d) Books and Records. The SubAdviser shall maintain separate detailed records of all matters pertaining to the Fund (the “Fund’s Records”), including, without limitation, brokerage and other records of all securities transactions. The SubAdviser acknowledges that the Fund’s Records are property of the Fund. The Fund's Records shall be available to the Fund, the Adviser, the SubAdviser and their respective agents at any time upon reasonable request during normal business hours and shall be available for telecopying without delay to the Adviser during any day that the Fund is open for business.
(e) Information Concerning the Fund and SubAdviser. From time to time as the Adviser or the Fund may request, the SubAdviser will furnish the requesting party information and reports on portfolio transactions and reports on Fund assets held in the portfolio, all in such detail, form and frequency as the Adviser or the Fund may reasonably request.
The SubAdviser will also provide the Adviser with notice and analysis of events that may affect or relate to the valuation of the Fund’s portfolio.
(f) Custody Arrangements. The SubAdviser shall on each business day provide the Adviser, the Fund and the Fund’s custodian(s) with such information as the Adviser, the Fund and the Fund’s custodian(s) may reasonably request relating to all transactions and portfolio holdings of the Fund.
4. Expenses. During the term of this Agreement, SubAdviser will pay all expenses incurred by it in connection with its activities under this Agreement other than the cost of securities and other investments (including brokerage commissions and other transaction charges, if any) purchased or sold for the Fund. Provided that the Fund shall not be required to pay any compensation other than as provided by the terms of the Advisory Agreement, the SubAdviser may obtain investment information, research or assistance from any other person, firm or corporation to supplement, update or otherwise improve its investment management services. Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement or by law, the SubAdviser shall not be responsible for the Fund's or Adviser’s expenses, which shall include, but not be limited to, organizational and offering expenses (which include out-of-pocket expenses, but not overhead or employee costs of the SubAdviser); expenses for legal, accounting and auditing services; taxes and governmental fees; dues and expenses incurred in connection with membership in investment company organizations; costs of printing and distributing shareholder reports, proxy materials, Prospectuses, stock certificates and distribution of dividends; charges of the Fund’s custodians and sub-custodians, administrators and sub-administrators, registrars, transfer agents, dividend disbursing agents and dividend reinvestment plan agents; payment for portfolio pricing services to a pricing agent, if any; registration and filing fees of the SEC; expenses of registering or qualifying securities of the Fund for sale in the various states; freight and other charges in connection with the shipment of the Fund’s portfolio securities; fees and expenses of non-interested Trustees; salaries of shareholder relations personnel; costs of shareholders meetings; insurance; interest; brokerage costs; and litigation and other extraordinary or non-recurring expenses.
5. Compensation. For the services provided and the expenses assumed with respect to the Fund pursuant to this Agreement, the SubAdviser will be entitled to the fee set forth for the Fund on Exhibit A (“Sub Advisory Fee”). The Sub Advisory Fee will be calculated as described in Exhibit A.
6. Representations and Warranties of SubAdviser. The SubAdviser represents and warrants to the Adviser and the Fund as follows:
(a) The SubAdviser is registered with the SEC as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act;
(b) The SubAdviser is or will be registered as a Commodity Trading Advisor (“CTA”) and a Commodity Pool Operator (“CPO”) under the Commodity Exchange Act (the “CEA”) with the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (the “CFTC”) and the National Futures Association (“NFA”), or is not required to register pursuant to an applicable exemption;
(c) The SubAdviser is a corporation duly organized and properly registered and operating under the laws of the State of Colorado with the power to own and possess its assets, perform its obligations under this Agreement, and to carry on its business as it is now being, and to be, conducted;
(d) The execution, delivery and performance by the SubAdviser of this Agreement are within the SubAdviser's powers and have been duly authorized by all necessary action and no action by or in respect of, or filing with, any governmental body, agency or official is required on the part of the SubAdviser for the execution, delivery and performance by the SubAdviser of this Agreement, and the execution, delivery and performance by the SubAdviser of this Agreement do not contravene or constitute a default under (i) any provision of applicable law, rule or regulation, (ii) the SubAdviser's governing instruments, or (iii) any agreement, judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instrument binding upon the SubAdviser;
(e) The Form ADV of the SubAdviser previously provided to the Adviser and all amendments to the SubAdviser’s Form ADV to be provided to Adviser is or will be a true and complete copy of the form as currently filed or as then filed with the SEC and the information contained therein is accurate and complete in all material respects and does not omit to state any material fact necessary in order to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.
7. Representations and Warranties of Adviser. The Adviser represents and warrants to the SubAdviser as follows:
(a) The Adviser is registered with the SEC as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act;
(b) The Adviser is or will be registered as a CTA and a CPO under the CEA with the CFTC and the NFA or is not required to register pursuant to an applicable exemption;
(c) The Adviser is a corporation duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the State of Delaware with the power to own and possess its assets, perform its obligations under this Agreement, and to carry on its business as it is now being, and to be, conducted;
(d) The execution, delivery and performance by the Adviser of this Agreement are within the Adviser's powers and have been duly authorized by all necessary action, and no action by or in respect of, or filing with, any governmental body, agency or official is required on the part of the Adviser for the execution, delivery and performance by the Adviser of this Agreement, and the execution, delivery and performance by the Adviser of this Agreement do not contravene or constitute a default under (i) any provision of applicable law, rule or regulation, (ii) the Adviser's governing instruments, or (iii) any agreement, judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instrument binding upon the Adviser;
(e) The Adviser acknowledges that it received a copy of the SubAdviser's Form ADV prior to the execution of this Agreement;
(f) The Adviser and the Fund have duly entered into the Advisory Agreement pursuant to which the Fund authorized the Adviser to enter into this Agreement; and
(g) The Adviser will take such steps as are necessary to ensure that the Fund’s shares are duly authorized and registered for sale to the extent that such shares are offered for sale.
8. Survival of Representations and Warranties; Duty to Update Information. All representations and warranties made by the SubAdviser and the Adviser pursuant to Sections 6 and 7, respectively, shall survive the termination of this Agreement. The parties hereto shall promptly notify each other in writing upon becoming aware that any of the foregoing representations and warranties are no longer true and the SubAdviser shall promptly update all information and documents which the SubAdviser is required to provide to the Adviser hereunder.
9. Liability. The SubAdviser shall exercise its best judgment in rendering the services in accordance with the terms of this Agreement. Provided that nothing herein shall be deemed to protect the SubAdviser from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its duties, or reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement, the SubAdviser shall not be liable for any loss sustained by reason of good faith errors or omissions in connection with any matters to which this Agreement relates.
10. Duration and Termination.
(a) Duration. This Agreement will take effect on the date first set forth above. Unless sooner terminated, this Agreement shall remain in effect until one year from the date first set forth above, and thereafter shall continue automatically for successive annual periods, provided such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by the Fund's Board of Trustees or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund (as defined in the 1940 Act); provided that in either event its continuance also is approved by a majority of the Fund's Board of Trustees who are not "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any party to this Agreement, by vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
(b) Termination. Notwithstanding whatever may be provided herein to the contrary, this Agreement may be terminated at any time, without payment of any penalty:
(i) By vote of a majority of the Fund's Board of Trustees, or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, or by the Adviser, in each case, upon at least 60 days' written notice to the SubAdviser;
(ii) By the non-defaulting party immediately upon receipt of written notice from the non-defaulting party to the defaulting party in the event of a breach of any provision of this Agreement by the defaulting party; or
(iii) By the SubAdviser upon at least 60 days’ written notice to the Adviser and the Fund.
The notice provided for in (i) and (iii) above may be waived by the party required to be notified.
This Agreement shall not be assigned (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act) and shall terminate automatically in the event of its assignment or upon the termination of the Advisory Agreement.
(c) Transactions in Progress Upon Termination. The Adviser and SubAdviser will cooperate with each other to ensure that portfolio securities or other transactions in progress at the date of termination of this Agreement shall be completed by the SubAdviser in accordance with the terms of such transactions, and to this end the SubAdviser shall provide the Adviser with all necessary information and documentation to secure the implementation thereof.
11. Duties of the Adviser. The Adviser shall continue to have responsibility for all services to be provided to the Fund pursuant to the Advisory Agreement and shall oversee and review the SubAdviser’s performance of its duties under this Agreement.
12. Amendment. This Agreement may be amended only by mutual consent of the parties, provided that the terms of any material amendment shall be approved by: a) the Fund’s Board of Trustees or by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund (as required by the 1940 Act), and b) the vote of a majority of the Fund’s Board of Trustees who are not “interested persons” of any party to this Agreement cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval, if such approval is required by applicable law.
13. Confidentiality. Subject to the duties of the SubAdviser to comply with applicable law, including any demand of any regulatory or taxing authority having jurisdiction, the SubAdviser shall treat as confidential all information pertaining to the Fund and the actions of the SubAdviser, the Adviser and the Fund in respect thereof.
14. Notice. Any notice that is required to be given by the parties to each other under the terms of this Agreement shall be in writing, delivered, or mailed postpaid to the other parties, or transmitted by facsimile with acknowledgment of receipt, to the parties at the following addresses or facsimile numbers, which may from time to time be changed by the parties by notice to the other party:
(a) | If to the SubAdviser: |
OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
2 World Financial Center
225 Liberty Street
New York, NY 10281-1008
Attn: Chief Legal Officer
Facsimile: (212) 323-4070
(b) If to the Adviser:
OFI Global Asset Management, Inc.
2 World Financial Center
225 Liberty Street
New York, NY 10281-1008
Attn: Executive Vice President, General Counsel & Secretary
Facsimile: (212) 323-4070
Such notice shall be deemed effective when provided in accordance with this section 14.
15. Jurisdiction. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed consistent with the Advisory Agreement and in accordance with substantive laws of the State of New York without reference to choice of law principles thereof and in accordance with the 1940 Act. In the case of any conflict, the 1940 Act shall control.
16. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, all of which shall together constitute one and the same instrument.
17. Certain Definitions. The terms and provisions of this Agreement shall be interpreted and defined in a manner consistent with the provisions and definitions of the 1940 Act.
18. Captions. The captions herein are included for convenience of reference only and shall be ignored in the construction or interpretation hereof.
19. Severability. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision or applicable law, the remainder of the Agreement shall not be affected adversely and shall remain in full force and effect.
20. Survival. The provisions of Sections 2(e), 8, 9, 10(c), 13, and 14 will survive termination of this Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the day and year first written above.
ADVISER:
OFI GLOBAL ASSET MANAGEMENT, INC.
By: ______________________
Name: Lisa I. Bloomberg
Title: Senior Vice President and Deputy General Counsel
SUBADVISER:
OPPENHEIMERFUNDS, INC.
By: ______________________
Name: Arthur S. Gabinet
Title: Chief Legal Officer
EXHIBIT A
TO SUBADVISORY AGREEMENT
SubAdvisory Fee
The Adviser will pay the SubAdviser a SubAdvisory Fee calculated in the same manner as the investment management fee paid by the Fund to the Adviser under the Advisory Agreement, which SubAdvisory Fee shall not exceed 90% of the investment management fee collected by the Adviser from the Fund, and which shall be calculated after any investment management fee waivers (i) required by the Fund’s Board of Trustees or (ii) voluntarily agreed to by both the Adviser and the SubAdviser.
[FORM OF]
SUB-SUBADVISORY AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into on this __ day of August 2013 among OppenheimerFunds, Inc., a Colorado corporation (the “SubAdviser”), and Cornerstone Real Estate Advisers, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the “Sub-SubAdviser”)
W I T N E S S E T H:
WHEREAS, Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds (the “Trust”) is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”);
WHEREAS, Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA (the “Fund”) is a separate series of the Trust;
WHEREAS, the Trust has appointed OFI Global Asset Management, Inc. (the “Adviser”) as the investment adviser for the Fund pursuant to the terms of an Investment Advisory Agreement (the “Advisory Agreement”);
WHEREAS, the Adviser, SubAdviser and Sub-SubAdviser are registered investment advisers under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the “Advisers Act”) and are engaged in the business of rendering investment advice;
WHEREAS, the SubAdviser has, pursuant to a Subadvisory Agreement with the Adviser dated as of August __, 2013 (the “SubAdvisory Agreement”) been retained to act as investment adviser for the Fund;
WHEREAS, the SubAdvisory Agreement permits the SubAdviser, at its option, subject to approval by the Trust’s Board of Trustees and, to the extent necessary, shareholders of the Fund, to delegate certain of its duties under the SubAdvisory Agreement to other investment advisers, subject to the requirements of the 1940 Act;
WHEREAS, the SubAdviser desires to retain Sub-SubAdviser to assist it in the provision of a continuous investment program for that portion, or all, of the Fund's assets that the SubAdviser and or the Adviser shall allocate to the Sub-SubAdviser from time to time, and Sub-SubAdviser is willing to render such services subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties do mutually agree and promise as follows:
1. Appointment as Sub-SubAdviser. The SubAdviser hereby retains the Sub-SubAdviser to act as Sub-SubAdviser for and manage that portion, or all, of the Fund's assets that the SubAdviser and or the Adviser shall allocate to the Sub-SubAdviser from time to time (the “Allocated Assets”) and to provide investment advice to the Fund with the respect to the Allocated Assets as hereinafter set forth, subject to the supervision of the Adviser, SubAdviser and the Board of Trustees of the Trust and subject to the terms of this Agreement; and the Sub-SubAdviser hereby accepts such employment.
2. Duties of Sub-SubAdviser.
(a) Investments. The Sub-SubAdviser is hereby authorized and directed and hereby agrees, subject to the stated investment policies and restrictions of the Fund as set forth in the Fund's prospectus and Statement of Additional Information as currently in effect and as supplemented or amended from time to time (collectively referred to hereinafter as the “Prospectus”) and subject to the directions of the SubAdviser, the Adviser and the Trust’s Board of Trustees, to (i) regularly provide investment advice and recommendations to the Fund with respect to the Allocated Assets, investment policies and the purchase and sale of securities and other investments; (ii) supervise and monitor the investment program of the Allocated Assets and the composition of its portfolio to determine what securities and other investments shall be purchased or sold by the Fund; and (iii) arrange, subject to the provisions of paragraph (d) below, for the purchase of securities and other investments for the Alloocated Assets and the sale of securities and other investments held in the portfolio of the Allocated Assets. The SubAdviser agrees to provide the Sub-SubAdviser with such assistance as may be reasonably requested by the Sub-SubAdviser in connection with its activities under this Agreement, including, without limitation, information concerning the Fund, its funds available, or to become available, for investment and generally as to the conditions of the Fund or the Fund’s affairs.
(b) Compliance with Applicable Laws and Governing Documents. In the performance of its duties and obligations under this Agreement or otherwise, the Sub-SubAdviser shall act in conformity with the Trust's Declaration of Trust, By-Laws, procedures and policies adopted by the Board of the Trust and/or by the Adviser and/or SubAdviser and the Prospectus and with the instructions and directions received in writing from the Adviser, SubAdviser or the Trustees of the Trust and will conform to and comply with the requirements of the 1940 Act, the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), and all other applicable federal and state laws and regulations necessary to allow the Fund to qualify as a “regulated investment company” as defined in Subchapter M of the Code (which currently requires that, at the close of each quarter of the taxable year, (A) at least 50 percent of the value of the Fund’s total assets is represented by (i) cash and cash items [including receivables], government securities and securities of other regulated investment companies, and (ii) other securities for purposes of this calculation limited in respect of any one issuer to an amount not greater in value than 5 percent of the value of the total assets of the Fund and to not more than 10 percent of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (B) not more than 25 percent of the value of its total assets is invested in the securities other than government securities or the securities of other regulated investment companies of any one issuer). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Adviser shall, subject to the Sub-SubAdviser’s compliance with its obligations with respect to the Allocated Assets, remain responsible for the Fund’s overall compliance with the 1940 Act, the Code and all other applicable federal and state laws and regulations. The Adviser and/or SubAdviser will provide the Sub-SubAdviser with a copy of those portions of the minutes of the meetings of the Board of Trustees of the Trust to the extent they may materially affect the duties of the Sub-SubAdviser, and with the copies of any financial statements or reports made by the Fund to its shareholders, and any further materials or information which the Sub-SubAdviser may reasonably request to enable it to perform its functions under this Agreement.
The Adviser and/or SubAdviser will provide the Sub-SubAdviser with advance notice of any change in the Fund's investment objectives, policies and restrictions as stated in the Prospectus or in any procedures and policies adopted by the Board of the Trust and/or the Adviser and/or SubAdviser, and the Sub-SubAdviser shall, in the performance of its duties and obligations under this Agreement, manage the Allocated Assets in compliance with such changes, provided the Sub-SubAdviser has received prompt notice of the effectiveness of such changes from the Fund or the Adviser and/or SubAdviser. In addition to such notice, the SubAdviser shall provide to the Sub-SubAdviser a copy of a modified Prospectus reflecting such changes. The SubAdviser acknowledges and agrees that, provided that the Sub-SubAdviser has provided the SubAdviser with complete, accurate and timely information regarding the Sub-SubAdviser’s activities relating to the Fund, the Prospectus will at all times be in compliance with all disclosure requirements under all applicable federal and state laws and regulations relating to the Fund, including, without limitation, the 1940 Act, and the rules and regulations thereunder, and that the Sub-SubAdviser shall have no liability in connection therewith, except as to the accuracy of material information furnished in writing by the Sub-SubAdviser to the Fund or to the SubAdviser specifically for inclusion in the Prospectus, or information which was provided to the Sub-SubAdviser to review and which Sub-SubAdviser approved as to the accuracy of such information or if the Sub-SubAdviser does not promptly respond will be deemed to have approved the accuracy of such information as described below. The Sub-SubAdviser hereby agrees to provide to the SubAdviser in a timely manner such information relating to the Sub-SubAdviser and its relationship to, and actions for, the Fund as may be required to be contained in the Prospectus or in the Fund’s registration statement on Form N-1A. The Sub-SubAdviser shall have seven (7) business days to review all disclosure about the Fund and the Sub-SubAdviser contained in the Fund’s Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information and certain advertisements for accuracy and shall approve or disapprove of such disclosure within seven (7) business days of receiving such disclosure. After the expiration of seven (7) business days, the SubAdviser shall provide the Sub-SubAdviser an additional five (5) business days to respond, such additional five (5) business days to commence upon written notice from the SubAdviser. The Sub-SubAdviser’s failure to respond within such time shall be deemed to constitute Sub-SubAdviser’s approval of such disclosure.
(c) Voting of Proxies. Absent specific written instructions to the contrary provided to the Sub-SubAdviser by the SubAdviser, the Sub-SubAdviser shall vote, either in person or by proxy, all securities in which the Allocated Assets may be invested from time to time in accordance with the Fund’s proxy voting procedures.
(d) Brokerage. The Sub-SubAdviser is authorized, subject to the supervision of the Adviser, SubAdviser and the Trust's Board of Trustees, to establish and maintain accounts on behalf of the Fund with, and place orders for the purchase and sale of the Allocated Asset’s portfolio securities with or through, such persons, brokers (including, to the extent permitted by applicable law and by the Fund, the Adviser or the SubAdviser, any broker affiliated with the Sub-SubAdviser) or dealers (“brokers”) as Sub-SubAdviser may elect and negotiate commissions to be paid on such transactions.
Upon obtaining consent of the Adviser, SubAdviser or the Trust’s Board of Trustees, the Sub-SubAdviser may effect the purchase and sale of securities in private transactions on such terms and conditions as shall be approved by the Adviser or SubAdviser.
The Sub-SubAdviser shall place orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio investments for the Fund’s account with brokers or dealers selected by the Sub-SubAdviser. In the selection of such brokers or dealers and the placing of such orders, the Sub-SubAdviser shall seek to obtain for the Fund the most favorable price and execution available, except to the extent it may be permitted to pay higher brokerage commissions for brokerage and research services, as provided below. In using its reasonable efforts to obtain for the Fund the most favorable price and execution available, the Sub-SubAdviser, bearing in mind the best interests of the Fund at all times, shall consider all factors it deems relevant, including price, the size of the transaction, the breadth and nature of the market for the security, the difficulty of the execution, the amount of the commission, if any, the timing of the transaction, market prices and trends, the reputation, experience and financial stability of the broker or dealer involved, and the quality of service rendered by the broker or dealer in other transactions. Subject to such policies as the Trustees may determine, or as may be mutually agreed to by the SubAdviser and the Sub-SubAdviser, the Sub-SubAdviser shall not be deemed to have acted unlawfully or to have breached any duty created by this Agreement or otherwise solely by reason of its having caused the Fund to pay a broker that provides brokerage and research services (within the meaning of Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) to the Sub-SubAdviser an amount of commission for effecting the Allocated Asset’s investment transaction that is in excess of the amount of commission that another broker would have charged for effecting that transaction if, but only if, the Sub-SubAdviser determines in good faith that such commission was reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such broker or dealer viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or the overall responsibility of the Sub-SubAdviser with respect to the accounts as to which it exercises investment discretion. It is recognized that the services provided by such brokers may be useful to the Sub-SubAdviser in connection with the Sub-SubAdviser's services to other clients.
On occasions when the Sub-SubAdviser deems the purchase or sale of a security to be in the best interests of the Fund with respect to the Allocated Assets as well as other clients of the Sub-SubAdviser, the Sub-SubAdviser, to the extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations and subject to the allocation procedures approved by the Trust’s Board or Adviser, may, but shall be under no obligation to, aggregate the securities to be sold or purchased in order to obtain the most favorable price or lower brokerage commissions and efficient execution. In such event, allocation of securities so sold or purchased, as well as the expenses incurred in the transaction, will be made by the Sub-SubAdviser in accordance with the procedures approved by the Trustees, the Adviser or the SubAdviser, which currently require unfulfilled allocations to be filled first followed by pro-rata allocations based on the size of the client's portfolio.
(e) Securities Transactions. The Sub-SubAdviser and any affiliated person of the Sub-SubAdviser will not purchase securities or other instruments from or sell securities or other instruments to the Fund; provided, however, the Sub-SubAdviser or any affiliated person of the Sub-SubAdviser may purchase securities or other instruments from or sell securities or other instruments to the Fund if such transaction is permissible under applicable laws and regulations, including, without limitation, the 1940 Act and the Advisers Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder and is permitted by the procedures adopted by the Fund.
The Sub-SubAdviser, including its Access Persons (as defined in subsection (e) of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act), agrees to observe and comply with Rule 17j-1 and the Sub-SubAdviser’s and the Fund’s Code of Ethics (which shall comply in all material respects with Rule 17j-1), as the same may be amended from time to time. On at least a quarterly basis, the Sub-SubAdviser will comply with the reporting requirements of Rule 17j-1, which may include either (i) certifying to the SubAdviser that the Sub-SubAdviser and its Access Persons have complied with the Sub-SubAdviser’s and the Fund’s Code of Ethics with respect to the Allocated Assets or (ii) identifying any violations which have occurred with respect to the Allocated Assets.
(f) Books and Records. The Sub-SubAdviser shall maintain separate detailed records of all matters pertaining to the Allocated Assets (the “Fund’s Records”), including, without limitation, brokerage and other records of all securities transactions. The Sub-SubAdviser acknowledges that the Fund’s Records are property of the Fund. The Fund's Records shall be available to the Fund, the Adviser, or the SubAdviser and their respective agents at any time upon reasonable request during normal business hours and shall be available for telecopying without delay to each during any day that the Fund is open for business.
(g) Information Concerning the Allocated Assets and Sub-SubAdviser. From time to time as the Adviser, SubAdviser or the Fund may request, the Sub-SubAdviser will furnish the requesting party information and reports on portfolio transactions and reports on the Allocated Assets held in the portfolio, all in such detail, form and frequency as the Adviser, SubAdviser or the Fund may reasonably request.
The Sub-SubAdviser will (i) make appropriate persons, including the Fund’s portfolio manager(s), available for the purpose of reviewing with representatives of the Adviser, SubAdviser and/or the Trust’s Board of Trustees on a regular basis the management of the Allocated Assets, including, without limitation, review of the general investment strategy of the Fund, economic considerations and general conditions affecting the marketplace; (ii) on a continuing basis, (A) provide the distributor of the Fund (the “Distributor”) with assistance in the distribution and marketing of the Fund in such amount and form as the Fund’s distributor may reasonably request from time to time, and (B) upon reasonable notice from the Fund’s distributor, use reasonable efforts to cause the portfolio manager or other person who manages or is responsible for overseeing the management of the Allocated Assets (the “Portfolio Manager”) to provide marketing and distribution assistance to the Distributor, including, without limitation, conference calls, meetings and road trips, provided that each portfolio manager shall not be required to devote more than 10% of his or her time to such marketing and distribution activity (in this regard, the SubAdviser undertakes to reimburse the Sub-SubAdviser for its reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, provided that, such expenses are related to a request for marketing or distribution assistance by a duly authorized employee of the Adviser or SubAdviser); (iii) use reasonable efforts (A) to retain the services of the Portfolio Manager who manages the Allocated Assets, from time to time or (B) to promptly obtain the services of a Portfolio Manager acceptable to the Adviser or SubAdviser if the services of the Portfolio Manager are no longer available to the Sub-SubAdviser; (iv) from time to time, assure that each Portfolio Manager is acceptable to the Adviser or SubAdviser; (v) obtain the written approval of the Adviser or SubAdviser prior to designating a new Portfolio Manager; provided, however, that, if the services of a Portfolio Manager are no longer available to the Sub-SubAdviser due to circumstances beyond the reasonable control of the Sub-SubAdviser (e.g., voluntary resignation, death or disability), the Sub-SubAdviser may designate an interim Portfolio Manager who (A) shall be reasonably acceptable to the Adviser or SubAdviser and (B) shall function for a reasonable period of time until the Sub-SubAdviser designates an acceptable permanent replacement; (vi) promptly notify the SubAdviser of any anticipated changes in the Portfolio Manager, portfolio management, any anticipated changes in the ownership or management of the Sub-SubAdviser, or of material changes in the control of the Sub-SubAdviser, or any other material matter that may require disclosure to the Trustees, shareholders of the Fund or dealers.
The Sub-SubAdviser will also provide the SubAdviser with notice and analysis of events that may affect or relate to the valuation of the Fund’s portfolio securities.
(h) Custody Arrangements. The Sub-SubAdviser shall on each business day provide the SubAdviser, the Fund and the Fund’s custodian such information as the SubAdviser, the Fund and the Fund’s custodian may reasonably request relating to all transactions and portfolio holdings of the Allocated Assets.
(i) Historical Performance Information. To the extent agreed upon by the parties, the Sub-SubAdviser will provide the Fund and the SubAdviser with historical performance information with respect to Sub-SubAdviser’s similarly managed investment companies or other accounts, to be included in the Prospectus or for any other uses permitted by applicable law and to the extent available.
3. Independent Contractor. In the performance of its duties hereunder, the Sub-SubAdviser is and shall be an independent contractor and unless otherwise expressly provided herein or otherwise authorized in writing, shall have no authority to act for or represent the Fund, the Adviser or the SubAdviser in any way or otherwise be deemed an agent of the Fund, Adviser or the SubAdviser.
4. Expenses. During the term of this Agreement, Sub-SubAdviser will pay all expenses incurred by it in connection with its activities under this Agreement other than the cost of securities, commodities and other investments (including brokerage commissions and other transaction charges, if any) purchased or sold for the Fund. The Sub-SubAdviser shall, at its sole expense, employ or associate itself with such persons or firms as it believes to be particularly fitted to assist it in the execution of its duties under this Agreement. Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement or by law, the Sub-SubAdviser shall not be responsible for the Fund's, Adviser’s or SubAdviser’s expenses, which shall include, but not be limited to, organizational and offering expenses (which include out-of-pocket expenses, but not overhead or employee costs of the Sub-SubAdviser); expenses for legal, accounting and auditing services; taxes and governmental fees; dues and expenses incurred in connection with membership in investment company organizations; costs of printing and distributing shareholder reports, proxy materials, prospectuses, stock certificates and distribution of dividends; charges of the Fund’s custodians and sub-custodians, administrators and sub-administrators, registrars, transfer agents, dividend disbursing agents and dividend reinvestment plan agents; payment for portfolio pricing services to a pricing agent, if any; registration and filing fees of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”); expenses of registering or qualifying securities of the Fund for sale in the various states; freight and other charges in connection with the shipment of the Allocated Asset’s portfolio securities; fees and expenses of non-interested Trustees; salaries of shareholder relations personnel; costs of shareholders meetings; insurance; interest; brokerage costs; and litigation and other extraordinary or non-recurring expenses. The Fund or the SubAdviser, as the case may be, shall reimburse the Sub-SubAdviser for any expenses of the Fund or the SubAdviser as may be reasonably incurred as specifically provided for in this Agreement or as specifically agreed to beforehand by SubAdviser. The Sub-SubAdviser shall keep and supply to the Fund and the SubAdviser reasonable records of all such expenses.
5. Compensation. For the services provided and the expenses assumedpursuant to this Agreement, the Sub-SubAdviser will be entitled to the fee as described on Exhibit A. Such fee will be computed daily and payable no later than the tenth (10th) business day following the end of each month, from the SubAdviser, calculated as described in Exhibit A.
The method of determining net assets of the Allocated Assets for purposes hereof shall be the same as the method of determining net assets for purposes of establishing the offering and redemption price of the shares as described in the Fund's Prospectus. If this Agreement shall be effective for only a portion of a month, the aforesaid fee shall be prorated for the portion of such month during which this Agreement is in effect.
The Sub-SubAdviser agrees that during any period in which the Sub-SubAdviser serves as a subadviser to any other registered investment company and provides the same or substantially similar services to such investment company at a lower fee rate, the Sub-SubAdviser shall charge the SubAdviser and the Fund no more than the lowest fee rate then in effect unless otherwise specifically agreed by the SubAdviser and Sub-SubAdviser in writing.
In the event that the investment advisory fee rate paid to the SubAdviser by the Adviser is reduced, the compensation paid to the Sub-SubAdviser hereunder shall be reduced by the same percentage.
6. Representations and Warranties of Sub-SubAdviser. The Sub-SubAdviser represents and warrants to the SubAdviser and the Fund as follows:
(a) The Sub-SubAdviser is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act;
(b) The Sub-SubAdviser is a limited liability company duly organized and properly registered and operating under the laws of the State of Delaware with the power to own and possess its assets, perform its obligations under this Agreement, and to carry on its business as it is now being, and to be, conducted;
(c) The execution, delivery and performance by the Sub-SubAdviser of this Agreement are within the Sub-SubAdviser's powers and have been duly authorized by all necessary action and no action by or in respect of, or filing with, any governmental body, agency or official is required on the part of the Sub-SubAdviser for the execution, delivery and performance by the Sub-SubAdviser of this Agreement, and the execution, delivery and performance by the Sub-SubAdviser of this Agreement do not contravene or constitute a default under (i) any provision of applicable law, rule or regulation, (ii) the Sub-SubAdviser's governing instruments, or (iii) any agreement, judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instrument binding upon the Sub-SubAdviser; and
(d) The Form ADV of the Sub-SubAdviser previously provided to the SubAdviser and all amendments to the Sub-SubAdviser’s Form ADV to be provided to SubAdviser is or will be a true and complete copy of the form as currently filed or as then filed with the SEC and the information contained therein is accurate and complete in all material respects and does not omit to state any material fact necessary in order to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.
7. Representations and Warranties of SubAdviser. The SubAdviser represents and warrants to the Sub-SubAdviser as follows:
(a) The SubAdviser is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act;
(b) The SubAdviser is registered under the CEA as a Commodity Pool Operator and Commodity Trading Adviser with the CFTC and the NFA, or it is not required to register pursuant to an applicable exemption;
(c) The SubAdviser is a corporation duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the State of Colorado with the power to own and possess its assets, perform its obligations under this Agreement, and to carry on its business as it is now being, and to be, conducted;
(d) The execution, delivery and performance by the SubAdviser of this Agreement are within the SubAdviser's powers and have been duly authorized by all necessary action, and no action by or in respect of, or filing with, any governmental body, agency or official is required on the part of the SubAdviser for the execution, delivery and performance by the SubAdviser of this Agreement, and the execution, delivery and performance by the SubAdviser of this Agreement do not contravene or constitute a default under (i) any provision of applicable law, rule or regulation, (ii) the SubAdviser's governing instruments, or (iii) any agreement, judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instrument binding upon the SubAdviser;
(e) The SubAdviser acknowledges that it received a copy of the Sub-SubAdviser's Form ADV prior to the execution of this Agreement; and
(f) The SubAdviser and the Adviser have duly entered into the SubAdvisory Agreement pursuant to which the Adviser authorized the SubAdviser to enter into this Agreement; and
8. Delivery of Documents to the Adviser. The Sub-SubAdviser has furnished the SubAdviser with true, accurate and complete copies of the following:
(a) The Sub-SubAdviser’s Form ADV as filed with the Commission, as of the date hereof;
(b) Separate lists of persons who the Sub-SubAdviser wishes to have authorized to give written and oral instructions to custodian(s) of the Fund; and
(c) | The Code of Ethics of the Sub-SubAdviser, as in effect on the date hereof. |
The Sub-SubAdviser will furnish the SubAdviser from time to time with copies, properly certified or otherwise authenticated, of all amendments of or supplements to the foregoing.
9. Survival of Representations and Warranties; Duty to Update Information. All representations and warranties made by the Sub-SubAdviser and the SubAdviser pursuant to Sections 6 and 7, respectively, shall survive the termination of this Agreement. The parties hereto shall promptly notify each other in writing upon becoming aware that any of the foregoing representations and warranties are no longer true and the Sub-SubAdviser shall promptly update all information and documents which the Sub-SubAdviser is required to provide to the SubAdviser hereunder.
10. Liability and Indemnification.
(a) Liability. The Sub-SubAdviser shall exercise its best judgment in rendering the services in accordance with the terms of this Agreement. In the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the Sub-SubAdviser or a reckless disregard of its duties hereunder, the Sub-SubAdviser, each of its affiliates and all respective partners, officers, Trustees and employees (“Affiliates”) and each person, if any, who within the meaning of the Securities Act controls the Sub-SubAdviser (“Controlling Persons”) shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law and shall not be subject to any expenses or liability to the Adviser, the SubAdviser, the Fund or any of the Fund’s shareholders, in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates. Except as set forth in (c) below, the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the SubAdviser or a reckless disregard of its duties hereunder, the SubAdviser, any of its Affiliates and each of the SubAdviser’s Controlling Persons, if any, shall not be subject to any liability to the Sub-SubAdviser, for any act or omission in the case of, or connected with, rendering services hereunder or for any losses that may be sustained in the purchase, holding or sale of Allocated Assets; provided, however, that nothing herein shall relieve the SubAdviser and the Sub-SubAdviser from any of their obligations under applicable law, including, without limitation, federal and state securities or commodities laws.
(b) The Sub-SubAdviser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the SubAdviser, its Affiliates and Controlling Persons and their respective officers, Trustees and employees, against any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including reasonable attorneys’ fees), to which the SubAdviser or such Affiliates or Controlling Persons of the SubAdviser or their respective officers, Trustees and employees may become subject under the 1940 Act, the Securities Act of 1933 (the “1933 Act”), the Advisers Act, the CEA or any other statute, law, rule or regulation, arising directly out of the Sub-SubAdviser's responsibilities hereunder (1) to the extent of and as result of the willful misfeasance, bad faith, or gross negligence by the Sub-SubAdviser, any of the Sub-SubAdviser's employees or representatives or any other affiliate of or any person acting on behalf of the Sub-SubAdviser, or (2) as a result of any untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Fund’s registration statement, including any amendment thereof or any supplement thereto, or the omission of a material fact required to be stated in such registration statement necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, if such a statement or omission was made in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished by the Sub-SubAdviser to the Fund or written information furnished by the SubAdviser to the Sub-SubAdviser for review and such information is approved or deemed approved by the Sub-SubAdviser; provided, however, that in no case is the Sub-SubAdviser's indemnity hereunder deemed to protect a person against any liability to which any such person would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in performance of its duties or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.
(c) The SubAdviser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Sub-SubAdviser, its Affiliates and each Controlling Person of the Sub-SubAdviser, if any, and their respective officers, Trustees and employees against any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including reasonable attorneys’ fees), to which the Sub-SubAdviser or such Affiliates or Controlling Person of the Sub-SubAdviser or their respective officers, Trustees and employees may become subject under the Act, the 1933 Act, the Advisers Act, or any other statute, law, rule or regulation, arising out of the SubAdviser's responsibilities as investment manager of the Allocated Assets or the SubAdviser’s obligations hereunder (1) to the extent of and as a result of the willful misfeasance, bad faith, or gross negligence by the SubAdviser, any of the SubAdviser's employees or representatives or any affiliate of or any person acting on behalf of the SubAdviser, or (2) as a result of any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Fund’s registration statement, including any amendment thereof or any supplement thereto, or the omission of or alleged omission to state a material fact in such registration statement necessary to make the statements therein not misleading; provided, however, that in no case shall the SubAdviser's indemnity hereunder be deemed to protect a person against any liability to which any such person would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its duties or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.
11. Duration and Termination.
(a) Duration. Unless sooner terminated, this Agreement shall remain in effect until two years from the date of execution hereof, and thereafter shall continue automatically for successive annual periods, provided such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by the Trust's Board of Trustees or vote of the lesser of (a) 67% of the shares of the Fund represented at a meeting if holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund are present in person or by proxy or (b) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund; provided that in either event its continuance also is approved by a majority of the Trust's Trustees who are not "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any party to this Agreement, by vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
(b) Termination. Notwithstanding whatever may be provided herein to the contrary, this Agreement may be terminated at any time, without payment of any penalty:
(i) By vote of a majority of the Trust's Board of Trustees, or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, or by the SubAdviser, in each case, upon at least 60 days' written notice to the Sub-SubAdviser;
(ii) By the non-defaulting party immediately upon receipt of written notice from the non-defaulting party to the defaulting party in the event of a breach of any provision of this Agreement by the defaulting party; or
(iii) By the Sub-SubAdviser upon at least 60 days’ written notice to the SubAdviser and the Trust. If Sub-SubAdviser terminates this Agreement pursuant to this sub-paragraph (iii), Sub-SubAdviser is hereby prohibited from using any performance information with respect to the Fund and the Allocated Assets for any purpose for a period of one (1) year from the effective date of termination under this sub-paragraph (iii). This restriction shall not apply to any mutual fund that Sub-SubAdviser managed prior to the date of this Agreement.
The notice provided for in (i) and (iii) above may be waived by the party required to be notified.
This Agreement shall not be assigned (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act) and shall terminate automatically in the event of its assignment or upon the termination of the Advisory Agreement. In the event of an assignment that occurs solely due to the change of control of the Sub-SubAdviser, any necessary approvals will be obtained at the sole expense of the Sub-SubAdviser.
(c) Transactions in Progress Upon Termination. The SubAdviser and Sub-SubAdviser will cooperate with each other to ensure that portfolio or other transactions in progress at the date of termination of this Agreement shall be completed by the Sub-SubAdviser in accordance with the terms of such transactions, and to this end the Sub-SubAdviser shall provide the SubAdviser with all necessary information and documentation to secure the implementation thereof.
12. Duties of the SubAdviser. The SubAdviser shall continue to have responsibility for all services to be provided to the Fund pursuant to the SubAdvisory Agreement and shall oversee and review the Sub-SubAdviser’s performance of its duties under this Agreement. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall obligate the SubAdviser to provide any funding or other support for the purpose of directly or indirectly promoting investments in the Fund.
13. | Reference to SubAdviser and Sub-SubAdviser. |
(a) Neither the SubAdviser nor any Affiliate or agent of it shall make reference to or use the name of Sub-SubAdviser or any of its Affiliates, or any of their clients, except as provided herein and except for references concerning the identity of and services provided by the Sub-SubAdviser to the Fund, which references shall not differ in substance from those included in the Prospectus and this Agreement, in any advertising or promotional materials without the prior approval of Sub-SubAdviser, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. The SubAdviser hereby agrees to make all reasonable efforts to cause the Fund and any Affiliate thereof to satisfy the foregoing obligation.
(b) Neither the Sub-SubAdviser nor any Affiliate or agent of it shall make reference to or use the name of the Fund, the Adviser, the SubAdviser or any of their respective Affiliates, or any of their clients, except references concerning the identity of the Fund or the SubAdviser, which references shall not differ in substance from those included in the Prospectus and this Agreement, in any advertising or promotional materials without the prior approval of Sub-SubAdviser, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. The Sub-SubAdviser hereby agrees to make all reasonable efforts to cause the Fund and any Affiliate thereof to satisfy the foregoing obligation.
14. Amendment. This Agreement may be amended only by mutual consent of the parties, provided that the terms of any material amendment shall be approved by: a) the Trust’s Board of Trustees or by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund (as required by the 1940 Act) and b) the vote of a majority of those Trustees of the Fund who are not “interested persons” of any party to this Agreement cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval, if such approval is required by applicable law.
15. Confidentiality. Subject to the duties of the Sub-SubAdviser to comply with applicable law, including any demand of any regulatory or taxing authority having jurisdiction, the Sub-SubAdviser shall treat as confidential all information pertaining to the Fund and the actions of the Sub-SubAdviser, the SubAdviser, the Adviser and the Fund in respect thereof.
16. Notice. Any notice that is required to be given by the parties to each other under the terms of this Agreement shall be in writing, delivered, or mailed postpaid to the other parties, or transmitted by facsimile with acknowledgment of receipt, to the parties at the following addresses or facsimile numbers, which may from time to time be changed by the parties by notice to the other party:
(a) | If to the Sub-SubAdviser: |
Cornerstone Real Estate Advisers, LLC
One Financial Plaza, Ste. 1700
Hartford, CT 06103-2604
Attention: General Counsel
Facsimile: (860) 509-2224
(b) If to the SubAdviser:
OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
Two World Financial Center
225 Liberty Street, 11th Floor
New York, NY 10281-1008
Attention: Chief Legal Officer
Facsimile: (212) 323-4070
Such notice shall be deemed effective when provided in accordance with this section 16.
17. Jurisdiction. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed consistent with the Advisory Agreement and in accordance with substantive laws of the State of New York without reference to choice of law principles thereof and in accordance with the 1940 Act. In the case of any conflict, the 1940 Act shall control.
18. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, all of which shall together constitute one and the same instrument.
19. Certain Definitions. For the purposes of this Agreement and except as otherwise provided herein, "interested person," "affiliated person," and "assignment" shall have their respective meanings as set forth in the 1940 Act, subject, however, to such exemptions as may be granted by the SEC.
20. Captions. The captions herein are included for convenience of reference only and shall be ignored in the construction or interpretation hereof.
21. Severability. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision or applicable law, the remainder of the Agreement shall not be affected adversely and shall remain in full force and effect.
22. Survival. The provisions of Sections 2(f), 9, 10, 11(c), 13, 15 and 16 will survive termination of this Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the day and year first written above.
SUBADVISER
OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
By:_________________________________
Name: Arthur S. Gabinet
Title: Chief Legal Officer
SUB-SUBADVISER
Cornerstone Real Estate Advisers, LLC
By:_________________________________
Name:
Title:
EXHIBIT A TO
SUBADVISORY AGREEMENT
Sub-SubAdvisory Fee
The SubAdviser will pay the Sub-SubAdviser a fee equal to 40% of the investment management fee collected by the Adviser from the Fund, with respect to and based on the portion of the average daily net assets of the Fund comprising the Allocated Assets, which shall be calculated after any investment management fee waivers (i) required by the Fund’s Board of Trustees or (ii) voluntarily agreed to by the Adviser with the Sub-SubAdviser's concurrence. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Adviser, without demand from the Fund’s Board of Trustees, agrees, without the Sub-SubAdviser's concurrence, to voluntarily waive a portion of the investment management fee the Fund is required to pay to the Adviser, the Sub-SubAdviser's fee hereunder shall be based upon the investment management fee the Fund would have paid but for any such waiver agreed to by the Adviser in its sole discretion.
[FORM OF]
SUB-SUBADVISORY AGREEMENT
THIS AGREEMENT is made and entered into on this __ day of August 2013 among OppenheimerFunds, Inc., a Colorado corporation (the “SubAdviser”), and OFI SteelPath, Inc., a Delaware corporation (the “Sub-SubAdviser”)
W I T N E S S E T H:
WHEREAS, Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds (the “Trust”) is registered with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”) as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”);
WHEREAS, Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA (the “Fund”) is a separate series of the Trust;
WHEREAS, the Trust has appointed OFI Global Asset Management, Inc. (the “Adviser”) as the investment adviser for the Fund pursuant to the terms of an Investment Advisory Agreement (the “Advisory Agreement”);
WHEREAS, the Adviser, SubAdviser and Sub-SubAdviser are registered investment advisers under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the “Advisers Act”) and are engaged in the business of rendering investment advice;
WHEREAS, the SubAdviser has, pursuant to a Subadvisory Agreement with the Adviser dated as of August __, 2013 (the “SubAdvisory Agreement”) been retained to act as investment adviser for the Fund;
WHEREAS, the SubAdvisory Agreement permits the SubAdviser, at its option, subject to approval by the Trust’s Board of Trustees and, to the extent necessary, shareholders of the Fund, to delegate certain of its duties under the SubAdvisory Agreement to other investment advisers, subject to the requirements of the 1940 Act;
WHEREAS, the SubAdviser desires to retain Sub-SubAdviser to assist it in the provision of a continuous investment program for that portion, or all, of the Fund's assets that the SubAdviser and or the Adviser shall allocate to the Sub-SubAdviser from time to time, and Sub-SubAdviser is willing to render such services subject to the terms and conditions set forth in this Agreement.
NOW, THEREFORE, the parties do mutually agree and promise as follows:
1. Appointment as Sub-SubAdviser. The SubAdviser hereby retains the Sub-SubAdviser to act as Sub-SubAdviser for and manage that portion, or all, of the Fund's assets that the SubAdviser and or the Adviser shall allocate to the Sub-SubAdviser from time to time (the “Allocated Assets”) and to provide investment advice to the Fund with the respect to the Allocated Assets as hereinafter set forth, subject to the supervision of the Adviser, SubAdviser and the Board of Trustees of the Trust and subject to the terms of this Agreement; and the Sub-SubAdviser hereby accepts such employment.
2. Duties of Sub-SubAdviser.
(a) Investments. The Sub-SubAdviser is hereby authorized and directed and hereby agrees, subject to the stated investment policies and restrictions of the Fund as set forth in the Fund's prospectus and Statement of Additional Information as currently in effect and as supplemented or amended from time to time (collectively referred to hereinafter as the “Prospectus”) and subject to the directions of the SubAdviser, the Adviser and the Trust’s Board of Trustees, to (i) regularly provide investment advice and recommendations to the Fund with respect to the Allocated Assets, investment policies and the purchase and sale of securities and other investments; (ii) supervise and monitor the investment program of the Allocated Assets and the composition of its portfolio to determine what securities and other investments shall be purchased or sold by the Fund; and (iii) arrange, subject to the provisions of paragraph (d) below, for the purchase of securities and other investments for the Alloocated Assets and the sale of securities and other investments held in the portfolio of the Allocated Assets. The SubAdviser agrees to provide the Sub-SubAdviser with such assistance as may be reasonably requested by the Sub-SubAdviser in connection with its activities under this Agreement, including, without limitation, information concerning the Fund, its funds available, or to become available, for investment and generally as to the conditions of the Fund or the Fund’s affairs.
(b) Compliance with Applicable Laws and Governing Documents. In the performance of its duties and obligations under this Agreement or otherwise, the Sub-SubAdviser shall act in conformity with the Trust's Declaration of Trust, By-Laws, procedures and policies adopted by the Board of the Trust and/or by the Adviser and/or SubAdviser and the Prospectus and with the instructions and directions received in writing from the Adviser, SubAdviser or the Trustees of the Trust and will conform to and comply with the requirements of the 1940 Act, the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), and all other applicable federal and state laws and regulations necessary to allow the Fund to qualify as a “regulated investment company” as defined in Subchapter M of the Code (which currently requires that, at the close of each quarter of the taxable year, (A) at least 50 percent of the value of the Fund’s total assets is represented by (i) cash and cash items [including receivables], government securities and securities of other regulated investment companies, and (ii) other securities for purposes of this calculation limited in respect of any one issuer to an amount not greater in value than 5 percent of the value of the total assets of the Fund and to not more than 10 percent of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (B) not more than 25 percent of the value of its total assets is invested in the securities other than government securities or the securities of other regulated investment companies of any one issuer). Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Adviser shall, subject to the Sub-SubAdviser’s compliance with its obligations with respect to the Allocated Assets, remain responsible for the Fund’s overall compliance with the 1940 Act, the Code and all other applicable federal and state laws and regulations. The Adviser and/or SubAdviser will provide the Sub-SubAdviser with a copy of those portions of the minutes of the meetings of the Board of Trustees of the Trust to the extent they may materially affect the duties of the Sub-SubAdviser, and with the copies of any financial statements or reports made by the Fund to its shareholders, and any further materials or information which the Sub-SubAdviser may reasonably request to enable it to perform its functions under this Agreement.
The Adviser and/or SubAdviser will provide the Sub-SubAdviser with advance notice of any change in the Fund's investment objectives, policies and restrictions as stated in the Prospectus or in any procedures and policies adopted by the Board of the Trust and/or the Adviser and/or SubAdviser, and the Sub-SubAdviser shall, in the performance of its duties and obligations under this Agreement, manage the Allocated Assets in compliance with such changes, provided the Sub-SubAdviser has received prompt notice of the effectiveness of such changes from the Fund or the Adviser and/or SubAdviser. In addition to such notice, the SubAdviser shall provide to the Sub-SubAdviser a copy of a modified Prospectus reflecting such changes. The SubAdviser acknowledges and agrees that, provided that the Sub-SubAdviser has provided the SubAdviser with complete, accurate and timely information regarding the Sub-SubAdviser’s activities relating to the Fund, the Prospectus will at all times be in compliance with all disclosure requirements under all applicable federal and state laws and regulations relating to the Fund, including, without limitation, the 1940 Act, and the rules and regulations thereunder, and that the Sub-SubAdviser shall have no liability in connection therewith, except as to the accuracy of material information furnished in writing by the Sub-SubAdviser to the Fund or to the SubAdviser specifically for inclusion in the Prospectus, or information which was provided to the Sub-SubAdviser to review and which Sub-SubAdviser approved as to the accuracy of such information or if the Sub-SubAdviser does not promptly respond will be deemed to have approved the accuracy of such information as described below. The Sub-SubAdviser hereby agrees to provide to the SubAdviser in a timely manner such information relating to the Sub-SubAdviser and its relationship to, and actions for, the Fund as may be required to be contained in the Prospectus or in the Fund’s registration statement on Form N-1A. The Sub-SubAdviser shall have seven (7) business days to review all disclosure about the Fund and the Sub-SubAdviser contained in the Fund’s Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information and certain advertisements for accuracy and shall approve or disapprove of such disclosure within seven (7) business days of receiving such disclosure. After the expiration of seven (7) business days, the SubAdviser shall provide the Sub-SubAdviser an additional five (5) business days to respond, such additional five (5) business days to commence upon written notice from the SubAdviser. The Sub-SubAdviser’s failure to respond within such time shall be deemed to constitute Sub-SubAdviser’s approval of such disclosure.
(c) Voting of Proxies. Absent specific written instructions to the contrary provided to the Sub-SubAdviser by the SubAdviser, the Sub-SubAdviser shall vote, either in person or by proxy, all securities in which the Allocated Assets may be invested from time to time in accordance with the Fund’s proxy voting procedures.
(d) Brokerage. The Sub-SubAdviser is authorized, subject to the supervision of the Adviser, SubAdviser and the Trust's Board of Trustees, to establish and maintain accounts on behalf of the Fund with, and place orders for the purchase and sale of the Allocated Asset’s portfolio securities with or through, such persons, brokers (including, to the extent permitted by applicable law and by the Fund, the Adviser or the SubAdviser, any broker affiliated with the Sub-SubAdviser) or dealers (“brokers”) as Sub-SubAdviser may elect and negotiate commissions to be paid on such transactions.
Upon obtaining consent of the Adviser, SubAdviser or the Trust’s Board of Trustees, the Sub-SubAdviser may effect the purchase and sale of securities in private transactions on such terms and conditions as shall be approved by the Adviser or SubAdviser.
The Sub-SubAdviser shall place orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio investments for the Fund’s account with brokers or dealers selected by the Sub-SubAdviser. In the selection of such brokers or dealers and the placing of such orders, the Sub-SubAdviser shall seek to obtain for the Fund the most favorable price and execution available, except to the extent it may be permitted to pay higher brokerage commissions for brokerage and research services, as provided below. In using its reasonable efforts to obtain for the Fund the most favorable price and execution available, the Sub-SubAdviser, bearing in mind the best interests of the Fund at all times, shall consider all factors it deems relevant, including price, the size of the transaction, the breadth and nature of the market for the security, the difficulty of the execution, the amount of the commission, if any, the timing of the transaction, market prices and trends, the reputation, experience and financial stability of the broker or dealer involved, and the quality of service rendered by the broker or dealer in other transactions. Subject to such policies as the Trustees may determine, or as may be mutually agreed to by the SubAdviser and the Sub-SubAdviser, the Sub-SubAdviser shall not be deemed to have acted unlawfully or to have breached any duty created by this Agreement or otherwise solely by reason of its having caused the Fund to pay a broker that provides brokerage and research services (within the meaning of Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934) to the Sub-SubAdviser an amount of commission for effecting the Allocated Asset’s investment transaction that is in excess of the amount of commission that another broker would have charged for effecting that transaction if, but only if, the Sub-SubAdviser determines in good faith that such commission was reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such broker or dealer viewed in terms of either that particular transaction or the overall responsibility of the Sub-SubAdviser with respect to the accounts as to which it exercises investment discretion. It is recognized that the services provided by such brokers may be useful to the Sub-SubAdviser in connection with the Sub-SubAdviser's services to other clients.
On occasions when the Sub-SubAdviser deems the purchase or sale of a security to be in the best interests of the Fund with respect to the Allocated Assets as well as other clients of the Sub-SubAdviser, the Sub-SubAdviser, to the extent permitted by applicable laws and regulations and subject to the allocation procedures approved by the Trust’s Board or Adviser, may, but shall be under no obligation to, aggregate the securities to be sold or purchased in order to obtain the most favorable price or lower brokerage commissions and efficient execution. In such event, allocation of securities so sold or purchased, as well as the expenses incurred in the transaction, will be made by the Sub-SubAdviser in accordance with the procedures approved by the Trustees, the Adviser or the SubAdviser, which currently require unfulfilled allocations to be filled first followed by pro-rata allocations based on the size of the client's portfolio.
(e) Securities Transactions. The Sub-SubAdviser and any affiliated person of the Sub-SubAdviser will not purchase securities or other instruments from or sell securities or other instruments to the Fund; provided, however, the Sub-SubAdviser or any affiliated person of the Sub-SubAdviser may purchase securities or other instruments from or sell securities or other instruments to the Fund if such transaction is permissible under applicable laws and regulations, including, without limitation, the 1940 Act and the Advisers Act and the rules and regulations promulgated thereunder and is permitted by the procedures adopted by the Fund.
The Sub-SubAdviser, including its Access Persons (as defined in subsection (e) of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act), agrees to observe and comply with Rule 17j-1 and the Sub-SubAdviser’s and the Fund’s Code of Ethics (which shall comply in all material respects with Rule 17j-1), as the same may be amended from time to time. On at least a quarterly basis, the Sub-SubAdviser will comply with the reporting requirements of Rule 17j-1, which may include either (i) certifying to the SubAdviser that the Sub-SubAdviser and its Access Persons have complied with the Sub-SubAdviser’s and the Fund’s Code of Ethics with respect to the Allocated Assets or (ii) identifying any violations which have occurred with respect to the Allocated Assets.
(f) Books and Records. The Sub-SubAdviser shall maintain separate detailed records of all matters pertaining to the Allocated Assets (the “Fund’s Records”), including, without limitation, brokerage and other records of all securities transactions. The Sub-SubAdviser acknowledges that the Fund’s Records are property of the Fund. The Fund's Records shall be available to the Fund, the Adviser, or the SubAdviser and their respective agents at any time upon reasonable request during normal business hours and shall be available for telecopying without delay to each during any day that the Fund is open for business.
(g) Information Concerning the Allocated Assets and Sub-SubAdviser. From time to time as the Adviser, SubAdviser or the Fund may request, the Sub-SubAdviser will furnish the requesting party information and reports on portfolio transactions and reports on the Allocated Assets held in the portfolio, all in such detail, form and frequency as the Adviser, SubAdviser or the Fund may reasonably request.
The Sub-SubAdviser will (i) make appropriate persons, including the Fund’s portfolio manager(s), available for the purpose of reviewing with representatives of the Adviser, SubAdviser and/or the Trust’s Board of Trustees on a regular basis the management of the Allocated Assets, including, without limitation, review of the general investment strategy of the Fund, economic considerations and general conditions affecting the marketplace; (ii) on a continuing basis, (A) provide the distributor of the Fund (the “Distributor”) with assistance in the distribution and marketing of the Fund in such amount and form as the Fund’s distributor may reasonably request from time to time, and (B) upon reasonable notice from the Fund’s distributor, use reasonable efforts to cause the portfolio manager or other person who manages or is responsible for overseeing the management of the Allocated Assets (the “Portfolio Manager”) to provide marketing and distribution assistance to the Distributor, including, without limitation, conference calls, meetings and road trips, provided that each portfolio manager shall not be required to devote more than 10% of his or her time to such marketing and distribution activity (in this regard, the SubAdviser undertakes to reimburse the Sub-SubAdviser for its reasonable out-of-pocket expenses, provided that, such expenses are related to a request for marketing or distribution assistance by a duly authorized employee of the Adviser or SubAdviser); (iii) use reasonable efforts (A) to retain the services of the Portfolio Manager who manages the Allocated Assets, from time to time or (B) to promptly obtain the services of a Portfolio Manager acceptable to the Adviser or SubAdviser if the services of the Portfolio Manager are no longer available to the Sub-SubAdviser; (iv) from time to time, assure that each Portfolio Manager is acceptable to the Adviser or SubAdviser; (v) obtain the written approval of the Adviser or SubAdviser prior to designating a new Portfolio Manager; provided, however, that, if the services of a Portfolio Manager are no longer available to the Sub-SubAdviser due to circumstances beyond the reasonable control of the Sub-SubAdviser (e.g., voluntary resignation, death or disability), the Sub-SubAdviser may designate an interim Portfolio Manager who (A) shall be reasonably acceptable to the Adviser or SubAdviser and (B) shall function for a reasonable period of time until the Sub-SubAdviser designates an acceptable permanent replacement; (vi) promptly notify the SubAdviser of any anticipated changes in the Portfolio Manager, portfolio management, any anticipated changes in the ownership or management of the Sub-SubAdviser, or of material changes in the control of the Sub-SubAdviser, or any other material matter that may require disclosure to the Trustees, shareholders of the Fund or dealers.
The Sub-SubAdviser will also provide the SubAdviser with notice and analysis of events that may affect or relate to the valuation of the Fund’s portfolio securities.
(h) Custody Arrangements. The Sub-SubAdviser shall on each business day provide the SubAdviser, the Fund and the Fund’s custodian such information as the SubAdviser, the Fund and the Fund’s custodian may reasonably request relating to all transactions and portfolio holdings of the Allocated Assets.
(i) Historical Performance Information. To the extent agreed upon by the parties, the Sub-SubAdviser will provide the Fund and the SubAdviser with historical performance information with respect to Sub-SubAdviser’s similarly managed investment companies or other accounts, to be included in the Prospectus or for any other uses permitted by applicable law and to the extent available.
3. Independent Contractor. In the performance of its duties hereunder, the Sub-SubAdviser is and shall be an independent contractor and unless otherwise expressly provided herein or otherwise authorized in writing, shall have no authority to act for or represent the Fund, the Adviser or the SubAdviser in any way or otherwise be deemed an agent of the Fund, Adviser or the SubAdviser.
4. Expenses. During the term of this Agreement, Sub-SubAdviser will pay all expenses incurred by it in connection with its activities under this Agreement other than the cost of securities, commodities and other investments (including brokerage commissions and other transaction charges, if any) purchased or sold for the Fund. The Sub-SubAdviser shall, at its sole expense, employ or associate itself with such persons or firms as it believes to be particularly fitted to assist it in the execution of its duties under this Agreement. Except as otherwise provided in this Agreement or by law, the Sub-SubAdviser shall not be responsible for the Fund's, Adviser’s or SubAdviser’s expenses, which shall include, but not be limited to, organizational and offering expenses (which include out-of-pocket expenses, but not overhead or employee costs of the Sub-SubAdviser); expenses for legal, accounting and auditing services; taxes and governmental fees; dues and expenses incurred in connection with membership in investment company organizations; costs of printing and distributing shareholder reports, proxy materials, prospectuses, stock certificates and distribution of dividends; charges of the Fund’s custodians and sub-custodians, administrators and sub-administrators, registrars, transfer agents, dividend disbursing agents and dividend reinvestment plan agents; payment for portfolio pricing services to a pricing agent, if any; registration and filing fees of the Securities and Exchange Commission (the “SEC”); expenses of registering or qualifying securities of the Fund for sale in the various states; freight and other charges in connection with the shipment of the Allocated Asset’s portfolio securities; fees and expenses of non-interested Trustees; salaries of shareholder relations personnel; costs of shareholders meetings; insurance; interest; brokerage costs; and litigation and other extraordinary or non-recurring expenses. The Fund or the SubAdviser, as the case may be, shall reimburse the Sub-SubAdviser for any expenses of the Fund or the SubAdviser as may be reasonably incurred as specifically provided for in this Agreement or as specifically agreed to beforehand by SubAdviser. The Sub-SubAdviser shall keep and supply to the Fund and the SubAdviser reasonable records of all such expenses.
5. Compensation. For the services provided and the expenses assumedpursuant to this Agreement, the Sub-SubAdviser will be entitled to the fee as described on Exhibit A. Such fee will be computed daily and payable no later than the tenth (10th) business day following the end of each month, from the SubAdviser, calculated as described in Exhibit A.
The method of determining net assets of the Allocated Assets for purposes hereof shall be the same as the method of determining net assets for purposes of establishing the offering and redemption price of the shares as described in the Fund's Prospectus. If this Agreement shall be effective for only a portion of a month, the aforesaid fee shall be prorated for the portion of such month during which this Agreement is in effect.
The Sub-SubAdviser agrees that during any period in which the Sub-SubAdviser serves as a subadviser to any other registered investment company and provides the same or substantially similar services to such investment company at a lower fee rate, the Sub-SubAdviser shall charge the SubAdviser and the Fund no more than the lowest fee rate then in effect unless otherwise specifically agreed by the SubAdviser and Sub-SubAdviser in writing.
In the event that the investment advisory fee rate paid to the SubAdviser by the Adviser is reduced, the compensation paid to the Sub-SubAdviser hereunder shall be reduced by the same percentage.
6. Representations and Warranties of Sub-SubAdviser. The Sub-SubAdviser represents and warrants to the SubAdviser and the Fund as follows:
(a) The Sub-SubAdviser is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act;
(b) The Sub-SubAdviser is a limited liability company duly organized and properly registered and operating under the laws of the State of Delaware with the power to own and possess its assets, perform its obligations under this Agreement, and to carry on its business as it is now being, and to be, conducted;
(c) The execution, delivery and performance by the Sub-SubAdviser of this Agreement are within the Sub-SubAdviser's powers and have been duly authorized by all necessary action and no action by or in respect of, or filing with, any governmental body, agency or official is required on the part of the Sub-SubAdviser for the execution, delivery and performance by the Sub-SubAdviser of this Agreement, and the execution, delivery and performance by the Sub-SubAdviser of this Agreement do not contravene or constitute a default under (i) any provision of applicable law, rule or regulation, (ii) the Sub-SubAdviser's governing instruments, or (iii) any agreement, judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instrument binding upon the Sub-SubAdviser; and
(d) The Form ADV of the Sub-SubAdviser previously provided to the SubAdviser and all amendments to the Sub-SubAdviser’s Form ADV to be provided to SubAdviser is or will be a true and complete copy of the form as currently filed or as then filed with the SEC and the information contained therein is accurate and complete in all material respects and does not omit to state any material fact necessary in order to make the statements made, in light of the circumstances under which they were made, not misleading.
7. Representations and Warranties of SubAdviser. The SubAdviser represents and warrants to the Sub-SubAdviser as follows:
(a) The SubAdviser is registered as an investment adviser under the Advisers Act;
(b) The SubAdviser is registered under the CEA as a Commodity Pool Operator and Commodity Trading Adviser with the CFTC and the NFA, or it is not required to register pursuant to an applicable exemption;
(c) The SubAdviser is a corporation duly organized and validly existing under the laws of the State of Colorado with the power to own and possess its assets, perform its obligations under this Agreement, and to carry on its business as it is now being, and to be, conducted;
(d) The execution, delivery and performance by the SubAdviser of this Agreement are within the SubAdviser's powers and have been duly authorized by all necessary action, and no action by or in respect of, or filing with, any governmental body, agency or official is required on the part of the SubAdviser for the execution, delivery and performance by the SubAdviser of this Agreement, and the execution, delivery and performance by the SubAdviser of this Agreement do not contravene or constitute a default under (i) any provision of applicable law, rule or regulation, (ii) the SubAdviser's governing instruments, or (iii) any agreement, judgment, injunction, order, decree or other instrument binding upon the SubAdviser;
(e) The SubAdviser acknowledges that it received a copy of the Sub-SubAdviser's Form ADV prior to the execution of this Agreement; and
(f) The SubAdviser and the Adviser have duly entered into the SubAdvisory Agreement pursuant to which the Adviser authorized the SubAdviser to enter into this Agreement; and
8. Delivery of Documents to the Adviser. The Sub-SubAdviser has furnished the SubAdviser with true, accurate and complete copies of the following:
(a) The Sub-SubAdviser’s Form ADV as filed with the Commission, as of the date hereof;
(b) Separate lists of persons who the Sub-SubAdviser wishes to have authorized to give written and oral instructions to custodian(s) of the Fund; and
(c) | The Code of Ethics of the Sub-SubAdviser, as in effect on the date hereof. |
The Sub-SubAdviser will furnish the SubAdviser from time to time with copies, properly certified or otherwise authenticated, of all amendments of or supplements to the foregoing.
9. Survival of Representations and Warranties; Duty to Update Information. All representations and warranties made by the Sub-SubAdviser and the SubAdviser pursuant to Sections 6 and 7, respectively, shall survive the termination of this Agreement. The parties hereto shall promptly notify each other in writing upon becoming aware that any of the foregoing representations and warranties are no longer true and the Sub-SubAdviser shall promptly update all information and documents which the Sub-SubAdviser is required to provide to the SubAdviser hereunder.
10. Liability and Indemnification.
(a) Liability. The Sub-SubAdviser shall exercise its best judgment in rendering the services in accordance with the terms of this Agreement. In the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the Sub-SubAdviser or a reckless disregard of its duties hereunder, the Sub-SubAdviser, each of its affiliates and all respective partners, officers, Trustees and employees (“Affiliates”) and each person, if any, who within the meaning of the Securities Act controls the Sub-SubAdviser (“Controlling Persons”) shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law and shall not be subject to any expenses or liability to the Adviser, the SubAdviser, the Fund or any of the Fund’s shareholders, in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates. Except as set forth in (c) below, the absence of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the SubAdviser or a reckless disregard of its duties hereunder, the SubAdviser, any of its Affiliates and each of the SubAdviser’s Controlling Persons, if any, shall not be subject to any liability to the Sub-SubAdviser, for any act or omission in the case of, or connected with, rendering services hereunder or for any losses that may be sustained in the purchase, holding or sale of Allocated Assets; provided, however, that nothing herein shall relieve the SubAdviser and the Sub-SubAdviser from any of their obligations under applicable law, including, without limitation, federal and state securities or commodities laws.
(b) The Sub-SubAdviser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the SubAdviser, its Affiliates and Controlling Persons and their respective officers, Trustees and employees, against any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including reasonable attorneys’ fees), to which the SubAdviser or such Affiliates or Controlling Persons of the SubAdviser or their respective officers, Trustees and employees may become subject under the 1940 Act, the Securities Act of 1933 (the “1933 Act”), the Advisers Act, the CEA or any other statute, law, rule or regulation, arising directly out of the Sub-SubAdviser's responsibilities hereunder (1) to the extent of and as result of the willful misfeasance, bad faith, or gross negligence by the Sub-SubAdviser, any of the Sub-SubAdviser's employees or representatives or any other affiliate of or any person acting on behalf of the Sub-SubAdviser, or (2) as a result of any untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Fund’s registration statement, including any amendment thereof or any supplement thereto, or the omission of a material fact required to be stated in such registration statement necessary to make the statements therein not misleading, if such a statement or omission was made in reliance upon and in conformity with written information furnished by the Sub-SubAdviser to the Fund or written information furnished by the SubAdviser to the Sub-SubAdviser for review and such information is approved or deemed approved by the Sub-SubAdviser; provided, however, that in no case is the Sub-SubAdviser's indemnity hereunder deemed to protect a person against any liability to which any such person would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in performance of its duties or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.
(c) The SubAdviser agrees to indemnify and hold harmless the Sub-SubAdviser, its Affiliates and each Controlling Person of the Sub-SubAdviser, if any, and their respective officers, Trustees and employees against any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including reasonable attorneys’ fees), to which the Sub-SubAdviser or such Affiliates or Controlling Person of the Sub-SubAdviser or their respective officers, Trustees and employees may become subject under the Act, the 1933 Act, the Advisers Act, or any other statute, law, rule or regulation, arising out of the SubAdviser's responsibilities as investment manager of the Allocated Assets or the SubAdviser’s obligations hereunder (1) to the extent of and as a result of the willful misfeasance, bad faith, or gross negligence by the SubAdviser, any of the SubAdviser's employees or representatives or any affiliate of or any person acting on behalf of the SubAdviser, or (2) as a result of any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in the Fund’s registration statement, including any amendment thereof or any supplement thereto, or the omission of or alleged omission to state a material fact in such registration statement necessary to make the statements therein not misleading; provided, however, that in no case shall the SubAdviser's indemnity hereunder be deemed to protect a person against any liability to which any such person would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence in the performance of its duties or by reason of its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under this Agreement.
11. Duration and Termination.
(a) Duration. Unless sooner terminated, this Agreement shall remain in effect until two years from the date of execution hereof, and thereafter shall continue automatically for successive annual periods, provided such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by the Trust's Board of Trustees or vote of the lesser of (a) 67% of the shares of the Fund represented at a meeting if holders of more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund are present in person or by proxy or (b) more than 50% of the outstanding shares of the Fund; provided that in either event its continuance also is approved by a majority of the Trust's Trustees who are not "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any party to this Agreement, by vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
(b) Termination. Notwithstanding whatever may be provided herein to the contrary, this Agreement may be terminated at any time, without payment of any penalty:
(i) By vote of a majority of the Trust's Board of Trustees, or by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, or by the SubAdviser, in each case, upon at least 60 days' written notice to the Sub-SubAdviser;
(ii) By the non-defaulting party immediately upon receipt of written notice from the non-defaulting party to the defaulting party in the event of a breach of any provision of this Agreement by the defaulting party; or
(iii) By the Sub-SubAdviser upon at least 60 days’ written notice to the SubAdviser and the Trust. If Sub-SubAdviser terminates this Agreement pursuant to this sub-paragraph (iii), Sub-SubAdviser is hereby prohibited from using any performance information with respect to the Fund and the Allocated Assets for any purpose for a period of one (1) year from the effective date of termination under this sub-paragraph (iii). This restriction shall not apply to any mutual fund that Sub-SubAdviser managed prior to the date of this Agreement.
The notice provided for in (i) and (iii) above may be waived by the party required to be notified.
This Agreement shall not be assigned (as such term is defined in the 1940 Act) and shall terminate automatically in the event of its assignment or upon the termination of the Advisory Agreement. In the event of an assignment that occurs solely due to the change of control of the Sub-SubAdviser, any necessary approvals will be obtained at the sole expense of the Sub-SubAdviser.
(c) Transactions in Progress Upon Termination. The SubAdviser and Sub-SubAdviser will cooperate with each other to ensure that portfolio or other transactions in progress at the date of termination of this Agreement shall be completed by the Sub-SubAdviser in accordance with the terms of such transactions, and to this end the Sub-SubAdviser shall provide the SubAdviser with all necessary information and documentation to secure the implementation thereof.
12. Duties of the SubAdviser. The SubAdviser shall continue to have responsibility for all services to be provided to the Fund pursuant to the SubAdvisory Agreement and shall oversee and review the Sub-SubAdviser’s performance of its duties under this Agreement. Nothing contained in this Agreement shall obligate the SubAdviser to provide any funding or other support for the purpose of directly or indirectly promoting investments in the Fund.
13. | Reference to SubAdviser and Sub-SubAdviser. |
(a) Neither the SubAdviser nor any Affiliate or agent of it shall make reference to or use the name of Sub-SubAdviser or any of its Affiliates, or any of their clients, except as provided herein and except for references concerning the identity of and services provided by the Sub-SubAdviser to the Fund, which references shall not differ in substance from those included in the Prospectus and this Agreement, in any advertising or promotional materials without the prior approval of Sub-SubAdviser, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. The SubAdviser hereby agrees to make all reasonable efforts to cause the Fund and any Affiliate thereof to satisfy the foregoing obligation.
(b) Neither the Sub-SubAdviser nor any Affiliate or agent of it shall make reference to or use the name of the Fund, the Adviser, the SubAdviser or any of their respective Affiliates, or any of their clients, except references concerning the identity of the Fund or the SubAdviser, which references shall not differ in substance from those included in the Prospectus and this Agreement, in any advertising or promotional materials without the prior approval of Sub-SubAdviser, which approval shall not be unreasonably withheld or delayed. The Sub-SubAdviser hereby agrees to make all reasonable efforts to cause the Fund and any Affiliate thereof to satisfy the foregoing obligation.
14. Amendment. This Agreement may be amended only by mutual consent of the parties, provided that the terms of any material amendment shall be approved by: a) the Trust’s Board of Trustees or by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund (as required by the 1940 Act) and b) the vote of a majority of those Trustees of the Fund who are not “interested persons” of any party to this Agreement cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval, if such approval is required by applicable law.
15. Confidentiality. Subject to the duties of the Sub-SubAdviser to comply with applicable law, including any demand of any regulatory or taxing authority having jurisdiction, the Sub-SubAdviser shall treat as confidential all information pertaining to the Fund and the actions of the Sub-SubAdviser, the SubAdviser, the Adviser and the Fund in respect thereof.
16. Notice. Any notice that is required to be given by the parties to each other under the terms of this Agreement shall be in writing, delivered, or mailed postpaid to the other parties, or transmitted by facsimile with acknowledgment of receipt, to the parties at the following addresses or facsimile numbers, which may from time to time be changed by the parties by notice to the other party:
(a) | If to the Sub-SubAdviser: |
OFI SteelPath Inc.
2100 McKinney Avenue
Suite 1401
Dallas, Texas 75201 Financial Plaza, Ste. 1700
Attention: Chief Legal Officer
Facsimile: (212) 323-4070
(b) If to the SubAdviser:
OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
Two World Financial Center
225 Liberty Street, 11th Floor
New York, NY 10281-1008
Attention: Chief Legal Officer
Facsimile: (212) 323-4070
Such notice shall be deemed effective when provided in accordance with this section 16.
17. Jurisdiction. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed consistent with the Advisory Agreement and in accordance with substantive laws of the State of New York without reference to choice of law principles thereof and in accordance with the 1940 Act. In the case of any conflict, the 1940 Act shall control.
18. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in one or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, all of which shall together constitute one and the same instrument.
19. Certain Definitions. For the purposes of this Agreement and except as otherwise provided herein, "interested person," "affiliated person," and "assignment" shall have their respective meanings as set forth in the 1940 Act, subject, however, to such exemptions as may be granted by the SEC.
20. Captions. The captions herein are included for convenience of reference only and shall be ignored in the construction or interpretation hereof.
21. Severability. If any provision of this Agreement shall be held or made invalid by a court decision or applicable law, the remainder of the Agreement shall not be affected adversely and shall remain in full force and effect.
22. Survival. The provisions of Sections 2(f), 9, 10, 11(c), 13, 15 and 16 will survive termination of this Agreement.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have executed this Agreement on the day and year first written above.
SUBADVISER
OppenheimerFunds, Inc.
By:_________________________________
Name: Arthur S. Gabinet
Title: Chief Legal Officer
SUB-SUBADVISER
OFI SteelPath, Inc.
By:_________________________________
Name:
Title:
EXHIBIT A TO
SUBADVISORY AGREEMENT
Sub-SubAdvisory Fee
The SubAdviser will pay the Sub-SubAdviser a fee equal to 40% of the investment management fee collected by the Adviser from the Fund, with respect to and based on the portion of the average daily net assets of the Fund comprising the Allocated Assets, which shall be calculated after any investment management fee waivers (i) required by the Fund’s Board of Trustees or (ii) voluntarily agreed to by the Adviser with the Sub-SubAdviser's concurrence. Notwithstanding the foregoing, if the Adviser, without demand from the Fund’s Board of Trustees, agrees, without the Sub-SubAdviser's concurrence, to voluntarily waive a portion of the investment management fee the Fund is required to pay to the Adviser, the Sub-SubAdviser's fee hereunder shall be based upon the investment management fee the Fund would have paid but for any such waiver agreed to by the Adviser in its sole discretion.
[FORM OF]
GENERAL DISTRIBUTOR’S AGREEMENT
WITH
OPPENHEIMERFUNDS DISTRIBUTOR, INC. AND
OPPENHEIMER VARIABLE ACCOUNT FUNDS
FOR SERVICE SHARES OF
OPPENHEIMER DIVERSIFIED ALTERNATIVES FUND/VA
Date: August __, 2013
OPPENHEIMERFUNDS DISTRIBUTOR, INC.
Two World Financial Center
225 Liberty Street
New York, New York 10281-1008
Dear Sirs:
OPPENHEIMER VARIABLE ACCOUNT FUNDS (the “Trust”), a Delaware statutory trust, is registered as an investment company under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”) consisting of one or more series (“Series”) and an indefinite number of one or more classes of its shares of beneficial interest for each Series have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933 (the “1933 Act”) to be offered for sale to the public in a continuous public offering in accordance with the terms and conditions set forth in the Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information (“SAI”) included in the Trust’s Registration Statement as it may be amended from time to time (the “Current Prospectus and/or SAI”).
In this connection, the Trust desires that your firm (the “General Distributor”) act in a principal capacity as General Distributor for the sale and distribution of service shares of beneficial interest (“Shares”) of Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA (the “Fund”), a series of the Trust, which have been registered as described above and of any additional service and subsequent Classes of Shares which may become registered during the term of this Agreement. You have advised the Fund that you are willing to act as such General Distributor, and it is accordingly agreed by and between us as follows:
1. Appointment of the Distributor. The Trust hereby appoints you as the sole General Distributor of the Fund for sale of its Shares, pursuant to the aforesaid continuous public offering of its Shares and the Trust further agrees from and after the date of this Agreement that it will not, without your consent, sell or agree to sell any Shares otherwise than through you, except (a) the Trust may issue Shares in connection with a merger, consolidation or acquisition of assets on such basis as may be authorized or permitted under the 1940 Act; (b) the Trust may issue Shares for the reinvestment of dividends and other distributions of the Fund or of any other fund if permitted by the current Prospectus and/or SAI; and (d) the Trust may issue Shares as underlying securities of a unit investment trust if such unit investment trust has elected to use Shares as an underlying investment; provided that in no event as to any of the foregoing exceptions shall Shares be issued and sold at less than the then-existing net asset value.
2. Sale of Shares. You hereby accept such appointment and agree to use your best efforts to sell Shares, provided, however, that when requested by the Trust at any time because of market or other economic considerations or abnormal circumstances of any kind, or when agreed to by mutual consent of the Trust and the General Distributor, you will suspend such efforts. The Trust may also withdraw the offering of Shares at any time when required by the provisions of any statute, order, rule or regulation of any governmental body having jurisdiction. It is understood that you do not undertake to sell all or any specific number of Shares of the Fund.
3. Purchase of Shares.
(a) | As General Distributor, you shall have the right to accept or reject orders for the purchase of Shares at your discretion, provided, however, that you agree not to exercise that discretion in a manner inconsistent with the Trust=s obligations under any participation agreement to which the Trust is a party and to which the Shares are subject. Any consideration which you may receive in connection with a rejected purchase order will be returned promptly. Shares of the Fund may be sold by you only at net asset value without sales charge upon receipt of Federal Funds for the purchase of any Shares sold by you pursuant to provisions hereof. |
(b) | You agree promptly to issue or to cause the duly appointed transfer or shareholder servicing agent of the Fund to issue as your agent confirmations of all accepted purchase orders and to transmit a copy of such confirmations to the Trust. The net asset value of all Shares which are the subject of such confirmations, computed in accordance with the applicable rules under the 1940 Act, shall be a liability of the General Distributor to the Trust to be paid promptly after receipt of payment from the authorized insurance company, dealer or broker (collectively, the authorized "insurance company") and not later than eleven business days after such confirmation even if you have not actually received payment from the authorized insurance company or investor. In no event shall the General Distributor make payment to the Trust later than permitted by applicable rules of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. Notwithstanding the provisions of part (a) of this Section 3 of this Agreement, purchase orders received from an authorized insurance company after the latest determination of the Fund's net asset value on a regular business day will receive that latest net asset value if the request to the authorized insurance company by its customer to arrange such purchase prior to the latest determination of the Fund's net asset value that day complies with the requirements governing such requests as stated in the current Prospectus and/or SAI. |
(c) | If the authorized insurance company shall fail to make timely settlement of its purchase order in accordance with applicable rules of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., or if any purchaser shall fail to make good payment for Shares in a timely manner, you shall have the right to cancel such purchase order and, at your account and risk, to hold responsible the authorized insurance company or investor. You agree promptly to reimburse the Trust for losses suffered by it that are attributable to any such cancellation, or to errors on your part in relation to the effective date of accepted purchase orders, limited to the amount that such losses exceed contemporaneous gains realized by the Trust for either of such reasons with respect to other purchase orders. |
(d) | In the case of a canceled purchase for the account of a directly purchasing shareholder, the Trust agrees that if such investor fails to make you whole for any loss you pay to the Trust on such canceled purchase order, the Trust will reimburse you for such loss to the extent of the aggregate redemption proceeds of any other Shares of the Fund owned by such investor, on your demand that the Trust exercise its right to claim such redemption proceeds. The Trust shall register or cause to be registered all Shares sold to you pursuant to the provisions hereof in such names and amounts as you may request from time to time and the Trust shall issue or cause to be issued certificates evidencing such Shares for delivery to you or pursuant to your direction if and to the extent that the shareholder account in question contemplates the issuance of such certificates. All Shares when so issued and paid for, shall be fully paid and non-assessable by the Trust to the extent set forth in the current Prospectus and/or SAI. |
4. Repurchase of Shares.
(a) | In connection with the repurchase of Shares, you are appointed and shall act as Agent of the Trust. You are authorized, for so long as you act as General Distributor of the Fund, to repurchase, from authorized insurance companies, certificated or uncertificated shares of the Fund (“Shares”) on the basis of orders received from each authorized insurance company with which you have a participation agreement for the sale of Shares and permitting resales of Shares to you, provided that such authorized insurance company, at the time of placing such resale order, shall represent (i) if such Shares are represented by certificate(s), that certificate(s) for the Shares to be repurchased have been delivered to it by the indirect shareholder(s) with a request for the redemption of such Shares executed in the manner and with the signature guarantee required by the then current effective prospectus and/or SAI, or (ii) if such Shares are uncertificated, that the indirect shareholder(s) has delivered to the authorized insurance company a request for the redemption of such Shares executed in the manner and with the signature guarantee required by the then current policies and procedures of the Transfer Agent of the Fund. |
(b) | You shall (a) have the right in your discretion to accept or reject orders for the repurchase of Shares; (b) promptly transmit confirmations of accepted repurchase orders (which may be netted against corresponding redemption orders); and (c) transmit a copy of such confirmation to the Trust, or, if so directed, to any duly appointed transfer or shareholder servicing agent of the Trust. In your discretion, you may accept repurchase requests made by a financially responsible authorized insurance company which provides you with indemnification in form satisfactory to you in consideration of your acceptance of such request in lieu of the written redemption request of the owner of the account; you agree that the Trust shall be a third party beneficiary of such indemnification. |
(c) | Upon receipt by the Trust or its duly appointed transfer or shareholder servicing agent of any certificate(s) (if any has been issued) for repurchased Shares and a written redemption request of the indirect shareholder(s) of such Shares executed in the manner and bearing the signature guarantee required by the then current policies and procedures of the Transfer Agent of the Fund, the Trust will pay or cause its duly appointed transfer or shareholder servicing agent promptly to pay to the authorized insurance company the redemption price of the repurchased Shares (other than repurchased Shares subject to the provisions of part (d) of Section 4 of this Agreement) next determined after your receipt of the authorized insurance company's repurchase order. |
(d) | Notwithstanding the provisions of part (c) of Section 4 of this Agreement, repurchase orders received from an authorized insurance company after the latest determination of the Fund’s redemption price on a regular business day will receive that day's latest redemption price if the request to the authorized insurance company by its customer to arrange such repurchase prior to the latest determination of the Fund’s redemption price that day complies with the requirements governing such requests as stated in the current Prospectus and/or SAI. |
(e) | You will make every reasonable effort and take all reasonably available measures to assure the accurate performance of all services to be performed by you hereunder within the requirements of any statute, rule or regulation pertaining to the redemption of shares of a regulated investment company and any requirements set forth in the then current Prospectus and/or SAI of the Trust. You shall correct any error or omission made by you in the performance of your duties hereunder of which you shall have received notice in writing and any necessary substantiating data; and you shall hold a Fund harmless from the effect of any errors or omissions which might cause an over- or under-redemption of a Fund’s Shares and/or an excess or non-payment of dividends, capital gains distributions, or other distributions. |
(f) | In the event an authorized authorized insurance company initiating a repurchase order shall fail to make delivery or otherwise settle such order in accordance either with the rules of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc. or a participation agreement to which the Trust is a party and to which the Shares are subject, you shall have the right to cancel such repurchase order and, at your account and risk, to hold responsible the authorized insurance company. In the event that any cancellation of a Share repurchase order or any error in the timing of the acceptance of a Share repurchase order shall result in a gain or loss to the Trust, you agree promptly to reimburse the Trust for any amount by which any loss shall exceed then-existing gains so arising. |
5. 1933 Act Registration. The Trust has delivered to you a copy of its current Prospectus and SAI. The Trust agrees that it will use its best efforts to continue the effectiveness of the Trust's Registration Statement filed under the 1933 Act. The Trust further agrees to prepare and file any amendments to its Registration Statement as may be necessary and any supplemental data in order to comply with the 1933 Act. The Trust will furnish you at your expense with a reasonable number of copies of the current Prospectus and SAI and any amendments thereto for use in connection with the sale of Shares.
6. 1940 Act Registration. The Trust has already registered under the 1940 Act as an investment company, and it will use its best efforts to maintain such registration and to comply with the requirements of the 1940 Act.
7. Duties of Distributor:
(a) | You shall furnish to the Trust any pertinent information required to be inserted with respect to you as General Distributor within the purview of the Securities Act of 1933 in any reports or registration required to be filed with any governmental authority; |
(b) | You will not make any representations inconsistent with the information contained in the current Prospectus and/or SAI. |
(c) | You shall maintain such records as may be reasonably required for the Trust or its transfer or shareholder servicing agent to respond to shareholder requests or complaints, and to permit the Trust to maintain proper accounting records, and you shall make such records available to the Trust and its transfer agent or shareholder servicing agent upon request; and |
(d) | In performing under this Agreement, you shall comply with all requirements of the Trust’s current Prospectus and/or SAI and all applicable laws, rules and regulations with respect to the purchase, sale and distribution of Shares. |
8. Allocation of Costs. The Trust shall pay the cost of composition and printing of sufficient copies of its Prospectus and SAI as shall be required for periodic distribution to its shareholders and the expense of registering Shares for sale under applicable securities laws. You shall pay the expenses normally attributable to the sale of Shares, other than as paid under the Fund's Service Plan(s) under Rule 12b-1 of the 1940 Act, including the cost of printing and mailing of the Prospectus (other than those furnished to existing direct or indirect shareholders) and any sales literature used by you in the public sale of the Shares.
9. Duration. This Agreement shall take effect on the date first written above, and shall supersede any and all prior General Distributor’s Agreements by and among the Trust and you. Unless earlier terminated pursuant to Section 10 hereof, this Agreement shall remain in effect until two years from the date of execution hereof, and thereafter shall continue in effect from year to year thereafter, provided that such continuance shall be specifically approved at least annually: (a) by the Trust's Board of Trustees or by vote of a majority of the voting securities of the Fund; and (b) by the vote of a majority of the Trustees, who are not parties to this Agreement or "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of any such person, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval.
10. Termination. This Agreement may be terminated (a) by the General Distributor at any time without penalty by giving sixty days’ written notice (which notice may be waived by the Trust); (b) by the Trust at any time without penalty upon sixty days’ written notice to the General Distributor (which notice may be waived by the General Distributor); or (c) by mutual consent of the Trust and the General Distributor, provided that such termination by the Trust pursuant to part (b) of this Section 10 shall be directed or approved by the Board of Trustees of the Trust or by the vote of the holders of a “majority” of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund.
11. Assignment. This Agreement may not be amended or changed except in writing and shall be binding upon and shall enure to the benefit of the parties hereto and their respective successors, however, this Agreement shall not be assigned by either party and shall automatically terminate upon assignment.
12. Disclaimer of Shareholder Liability. The General Distributor understands and agrees that the obligations of the Trust or the Fund under this Agreement are not binding upon any shareholder or any Trustee of the Trust personally, but bind only the Fund and the Fund’s property; the General Distributor represents that it has notice of the provisions of the Declaration of Trust of the Trust disclaiming shareholder and Trustee liability for acts or obligations of the Trust and the Fund.
13. Section Headings. The heading of each section is for descriptive purposes only, and such headings are not to be construed or interpreted as part of this Agreement.
If the foregoing is in accordance with your understanding, kindly so indicate by signing in the space provided below.
Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds, on behalf of Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA
By: _____________________
Arthur S. Gabinet
Secretary and Chief Legal Officer
Accepted:
OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc.
By: _____________________
John McDonough
President
[FORM OF]
DISTRIBUTION AND
SERVICE PLAN AND AGREEMENT
with
OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc. and
Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds
For Service Shares of
Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA
This Distribution and Service Plan and Agreement (the "Plan") dated the [ ] day of August, 2013, by and between Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds (the “Trust”) for the account of its Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA (the "Fund") and OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc. (the "Distributor").
1. The Plan. This Plan is the Fund's written distribution and service plan for its Service Shares described in the Fund's registration statement as of the date this Plan takes effect, contemplated by and to comply with Rule 2830 of the Conduct Rules of the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc., as administered by the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (the “FINRA Rules”), or any amendment or successor to such rule, pursuant to which the Fund will compensate the Distributor for its services in connection with the distribution of Shares, and the personal service and maintenance of shareholder accounts (“Accounts”) that hold Service Shares (the "Shares") of the Fund. The Fund may be deemed to be acting as distributor of securities of which it is the issuer, pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the "1940 Act"), according to the terms of this Plan. The Distributor is authorized under the Plan to pay "Insurance Company Recipients," as hereinafter defined, for rendering services and for the maintenance of Accounts and for distributing Service Shares. Such Insurance Company Recipients are intended to have certain rights as third-party beneficiaries under this Plan.
2. Definitions. As used in this Plan, the following terms shall have the following meanings:
(a) "Insurance Company Recipient" shall mean any insurance company or affiliate thereof or other person or entity which: (i) has rendered assistance (whether direct, administrative, or both) in the distribution of Shares and/or has rendered services in connection with the personal service and maintenance of Accounts; (ii) shall furnish the Distributor (on behalf of the Fund) with such information as the Distributor shall reasonably request to answer such questions as may arise concerning such service and/or the sale of Shares; and (iii) has been selected by the Distributor to receive payments under the Plan. Notwithstanding the foregoing, a majority of the Trust's Board of Trustees (the "Board") who are not "interested persons" (as defined in the 1940 Act) and who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of this Plan or in any agreements relating to this Plan (the "Independent Trustees") may remove any institution as a Insurance Company Recipient, whereupon such entity's rights as a third-party beneficiary hereof shall terminate.
(b) "Qualified Holdings" shall mean, as to any Insurance Company Recipient, all Shares owned beneficially or of record by: (i) such Insurance Company Recipient, (ii) such clients of such Insurance Company Recipient and/or accounts as to which such Insurance Company Recipient provides administrative services and/or is a fiduciary or custodian or co-fiduciary or co-custodian (collectively, the "Customers"), or (iii) separate accounts created or sponsored by such Insurance Company Recipient or its affiliate, but in no event shall any such Shares be deemed owned by more than one Insurance Company Recipient for purposes of this Plan. In the event that two entities would otherwise qualify as Insurance Company Recipients as to the same Shares, the Distributor shall determine which Insurance Company Recipient shall be deemed the Insurance Company Recipient as to such Shares for purposes of this Plan.
3. Payments.
(a) Under the Plan, the Fund will make payments to the Distributor, within forty-five (45) days of the end of each calendar quarter or at such other interval as deemed appropriate, in the amount of 0.0625% (.25% on an annual basis) of the average during the calendar quarter, or such other period, of the aggregate net asset value of the Shares, computed as of the close of each business day (the “Service Fee”), provided, however, that the Distributor may, in its sole discretion, reduce that payment level from time to time. The Distributor will use such fee received from the Fund in its entirety for payments to Insurance Company Recipients and for its other expenditures and costs of the type approved by the Board incurred in connection with the personal service and maintenance of Accounts including, but not limited to, the services described in the following two paragraphs. The Distributor may make Plan payments to any "affiliated person" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Distributor if such affiliated person qualifies as an Insurance Company Recipient.
The services to be rendered by the Distributor and Insurance Company Recipients in connection with the personal service and the maintenance of Accounts may include, but shall not be limited to, the following: answering routine inquiries from the Insurance Company Recipient's Customers concerning the Fund, providing such Customers with information on their investment in Shares, assisting in the establishment and maintenance of accounts or sub-accounts in the Fund, making the Fund's investment plans and dividend payment options available, and providing such other information and Customer liaison services and the maintenance of Accounts as the Distributor or the Fund may reasonably request. It may be presumed that an Insurance Company Recipient has provided services qualifying for compensation under the Plan if it has Qualified Holdings of Shares to entitle it to payments under the Plan. In the event that either the Distributor or the Board should have reason to believe that, notwithstanding the level of Qualified Holdings, an Insurance Company Recipient may not be rendering appropriate services, then the Distributor, at the request of the Board, shall require the Insurance Company Recipient to provide a written report or other information to verify that said Insurance Company Recipient is providing appropriate services in this regard. If the Distributor still is not satisfied, it may take appropriate steps to terminate the Insurance Company Recipient's status as such under the Plan, whereupon such entity's rights as a third-party beneficiary hereunder shall terminate.
The distribution assistance services to be rendered by the Distributor in connection with the Shares may include, but shall not be limited to, the following: (i) paying sales commissions to any insurance company, broker, dealer, bank or other person or entity that directly or indirectly sells Shares; (ii) paying compensation to and expenses of personnel of the Distributor who support distribution of Shares by Insurance Company Recipients; (iii) obtaining financing or providing such financing from its own resources, or from an affiliate, for the interest and other borrowing costs of the Distributor’s unreimbursed expenses incurred in rendering distribution assistance and administrative support services to the Fund; and (iv) paying other direct distribution costs, including without limitation the costs of sales literature, advertising and prospectuses (other than those prospectuses furnished to current direct and indirect holders of the Fund’s shares (“Shareholders”)).
(b) The Distributor shall make payments to any Insurance Company Recipient quarterly or at such other interval as deemed appropriate by the Distributor, within forty-five (45) days of the end of each calendar quarter or such other period, at a rate not to exceed ..0625% (.25% on an annual basis) of the average during each calendar quarter, or such other period, of the aggregate net asset value of the Shares computed as of the close of each business day, of Qualified Holdings owned beneficially or of record by the Insurance Company Recipient or by its Customers, provided, however, that the Distributor may, in its sole discretion, reduce that payment level from time to time. However, no such payments shall be made to any Insurance Company Recipient for any such period in which its Qualified Holdings do not equal or exceed, at the end of such period, the minimum amount ("Minimum Qualified Holdings"), if any, to be set from time to time by a majority of the Independent Trustees. A majority of the Independent Trustees may at any time or from time to time increase or decrease and thereafter adjust the rate of fees to be paid to the Distributor or to any Insurance Company Recipient, but not to exceed the rate set forth above, and/or increase or decrease the number of shares constituting Minimum Qualified Holdings. The Distributor shall notify all Insurance Company Recipients of the Minimum Qualified Holdings and the rate of payments hereunder applicable to Insurance Company Recipients, and shall provide each Insurance Company Recipient with written notice within thirty (30) days after any change in these provisions. Inclusion of such provisions or a change in such provisions in a revised current prospectus shall constitute sufficient notice.
(c) Under the Plan, payments may be made to Insurance Company Recipients: (i) by OppenheimerFunds, Inc. ("OFI") from its own resources (which may include profits derived from the advisory fee it receives from the Fund), or (ii) by the Distributor (a subsidiary of OFI), from its own resources.
4. Selection and Nomination of Trustees. While this Plan is in effect, the selection or replacement of Independent Trustees and the nomination of those persons to be Trustees of the Trust who are not "interested persons" of the Fund or the Trust shall be committed to the discretion of the Independent Trustees. Nothing herein shall prevent the Independent Trustees from soliciting the views or the involvement of others in such selection or nomination if the final decision on any such selection and nomination is approved by a majority of the incumbent Independent Trustees.
5. Reports. While this Plan is in effect, the Treasurer of the Trust shall provide at least quarterly a written report to the Trust's Board for its review, detailing the amount of all payments made under this Plan, and the purposes for which the payments were made. The reports shall be provided quarterly, and shall state whether all provisions of Section 3 of this Plan have been complied with.
6. Related Agreements. Any agreement related to this Plan shall be in writing and shall provide that: (i) such agreement may be terminated at any time, without payment of any penalty, by vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or by a vote of the holders of a "majority" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Fund's outstanding voting securities of the Shares, on not more than sixty days written notice to any other party to the agreement; (ii) such agreement shall automatically terminate in the event of its "assignment" (as defined in the 1940 Act); (iii) it shall go into effect when approved by a vote of the Board and its Independent Trustees cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such agreement; and (iv) it shall, unless terminated as herein provided, continue in effect from year to year only so long as such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by the Board and its Independent Trustees cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such continuance.
7. Effectiveness, Continuation, Termination and Amendment. This Plan has been approved by a vote of the Independent Trustees cast in person at a meeting called on August 21, 2013 for the purpose of voting on this Plan. Unless terminated as hereinafter provided, it shall continue in effect until renewed by the Board in accordance with Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act and from year to year thereafter or as the Board may otherwise determine, only so long as such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by the Board and its Independent Trustees by a vote cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such continuance. This Plan may be terminated at any time by vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or by the vote of the holders of a "majority" (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Fund's outstanding voting Service shares. In the event of such termination, the Board and its Independent Trustees shall determine whether the Distributor shall be entitled to payment from the Fund of all or a portion of the Service Fee in respect of Shares sold prior to the effective date of such termination. This Plan may not be amended to increase materially the amount of payments to be made without approval of the Service Shareholders, in the manner described above, and all material amendments must be approved by a vote of the Board and of the Independent Trustees.
8. Disclaimer of Shareholder and Trustee Liability. The Distributor understands that the obligations of the Trust under this Plan are not binding upon any Trustee or shareholder of the Fund personally, but bind only the Fund and the Fund's property. The Distributor represents that it has notice of the provisions of the Declaration of Trust of the Fund disclaiming shareholder and Trustee liability for acts or obligations of the Trust and the Fund.
Oppenheimer Variable Account Funds,
on behalf of Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA
By: _____________________
Arthur S. Gabinet
Secretary and Chief Legal Officer
OppenheimerFunds Distributor, Inc.
By: _____________________
John McDonough
President
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OFI Global Asset Management, Inc.
Two World Financial Center
225 Liberty Street, 11th Floor
New York, New York 10281-1008
August 23, 2013
VIA EDGAR
Securities and Exchange Commission
100 F Street, NE
Washington, DC, 20549
Re: Oppenheimer
Variable Account Funds (the "Registrant" or the “Trust”)
Post-Effective Amendment No. 68 under the Securities Act
and Amendment No. 63 under the Investment Company Act
File Nos. 2-93177; 811-4108:
Filing to Register Shares of a Newly Added Series – Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA
To the Securities and Exchange Commission:
An electronic (“EDGAR”) filing on Form N-1A is hereby being made under the Securities Act of 1933 (the “1933 Act”) and the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”) on behalf of the Registrant to register Non-Service Shares and Service Shares of Oppenheimer Diversified Alternatives Fund/VA, a new series of the Registrant (the “Registration Statement”). This Amendment does not affect the currently effective prospectuses and Statement of Additional Information for the other series and classes of the Trust.
In connection with this filing, pursuant to Investment Company Act Release No. IC 13768 (February 15, 1984), the Trust respectfully requests selective review of the Registration Statement, to limit review to the following sections of the prospectus and SAI:
The Fund believes that selective review of the above sections is proper because the remaining section of the prospectus, titled “MORE ABOUT YOUR ACCOUNT,” and the remaining sections of the SAI, titled “ABOUT YOUR ACCOUNT,” “APPENDIX A: MAJOR SHAREHOLDERS,” and “APPENDIX B: RATINGS DEFINITIONS,” are substantially similar and not materially different from those same sections most recently reviewed by SEC staff in connection with the 485(a) filed for Capital Income Fund/VA and Equity Income Fund/VA, each a series of the Trust, filed February 22, 2013 (File No. 2-93177; SEC Accession No. 0000728889-13-000298).
The consent of the Fund’s independent auditors is not included in this Registration Statement, but will be added by Amendment. This filing is scheduled to go effective in seventy-five days on (November 6, 2013), as indicated on the facing page.
In order to expedite review and achieve consistency, we request that you address any comments on this filing to the undersigned at:
OFI Global Asset Management, Inc.
Two World Financial Center
225 Liberty Street, 16th Floor
New York, New York 10281-1008
212.323.0310
tedwards@ofiglobal.com
Thank you for your attention to this matter.
Sincerely,
/s/ Taylor V. Edwards
Taylor V. Edwards
Vice President & Senior Counsel
Enclosures
cc: | Valerie J. Lithotomos, Esq. |
Paulita A. Pike, Esq.
Rita Rubin, Esq.
Arthur S. Gabinet Esq.
Lori
E. Bostrom, Esq.
Edward Gizzi, Esq.
Gloria J. LaFond