N-CSRS 1 d875344dncsrs.htm MFS SERIES TRUST I N-CSRS MFS SERIES TRUST I N-CSRS
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UNITED STATES

SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

Washington, D.C. 20549

FORM N-CSR

CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF

REGISTERED MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES

Investment Company Act file number 811-04777

MFS SERIES TRUST I

(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)

111 Huntington Avenue, Boston, Massachusetts 02199

(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)

Susan S. Newton

Massachusetts Financial Services Company

111 Huntington Avenue

Boston, Massachusetts 02199

(Name and address of agents for service)

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (617) 954-5000

Date of fiscal year end: August 31

Date of reporting period: February 28, 2015


Table of Contents
ITEM 1. REPORTS TO STOCKHOLDERS.


Table of Contents

SEMIANNUAL REPORT

February 28, 2015

 

LOGO

MFS® CORE EQUITY FUND

 

LOGO

 

RGI-SEM

 


Table of Contents

MFS® CORE EQUITY FUND

CONTENTS

 

Letter from the Chairman     1   
Portfolio composition     2   
Expense table     3   
Portfolio of investments     5   
Statement of assets and liabilities     14   
Statement of operations     16   
Statements of changes in net assets     17   
Financial highlights     18   
Notes to financial statements     27   
Proxy voting policies and information     39   
Quarterly portfolio disclosure     39   
Further information     39   
Provision of financial reports and summary prospectuses     39   
Contact information    back cover   

 

 

The report is prepared for the general information of shareholders.

It is authorized for distribution to prospective investors only when preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.

 

NOT FDIC INSURED Ÿ MAY LOSE VALUE Ÿ NO BANK GUARANTEE


Table of Contents

LOGO

LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Dear Shareholders:

Lower oil prices continue to influence markets in different ways. Among those economies hurt, oil-exporters such as Russia and Venezuela have been hit particularly hard, along with U.S. regions that have close oil industry ties.

The U.S. economic recovery remains solid. The labor market is strong, interest rates are historically low and reduced energy prices have helped to stimulate consumer spending.

Economic reports early in 2015 indicate that the eurozone is on a more solid footing, with confidence boosted by the launch of European Central Bank quantitative easing.

In Asia, the Chinese economy continues to raise concerns, with the People’s Bank of China implementing stimulus programs to counter a steady decline in growth rates.

As always, active risk management is integral to how we at MFS® manage your investments. We use a collaborative process, sharing insights across asset classes, regions and economic sectors. Our global investment team uses a diversified, multidisciplined, long-term approach.

Applying proven principles, such as asset allocation and diversification, can best serve investors over the long term. We are confident that this approach can help you as you work with your financial advisors to reach your goals in the years ahead.

Respectfully,

 

LOGO

Robert J. Manning

Chairman

MFS Investment Management

April 14, 2015

The opinions expressed in this letter are subject to change and may not be relied upon for investment advice. No forecasts can be guaranteed.

 

1


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION

 

Portfolio structure

 

LOGO

 

Top ten holdings  
Apple, Inc.     2.9%   
Hess Corp.     1.8%   
Actavis PLC     1.7%   
JPMorgan Chase & Co.     1.6%   
Visa, Inc., “A”     1.6%   
Wells Fargo & Co.     1.6%   
American International Group, Inc.     1.6%   
Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc.     1.2%   
CVS Health Corp.     1.2%   
Honeywell International, Inc.     1.2%   
Equity sectors  
Financial Services     17.5%   
Technology     15.9%   
Health Care     14.7%   
Industrial Goods & Services     7.6%   
Retailing     7.3%   
Energy     6.9%   
Consumer Staples     6.6%   
Utilities & Communications     5.4%   
Leisure (s)     4.9%   
Basic Materials     4.4%   
Special Products & Services     4.1%   
Transportation     2.1%   
Autos & Housing     1.7%   
 
(s) Includes securities sold short.

 

Cash & Other can include cash, other assets less liabilities, offsets to derivative positions, and short-term securities.

Percentages are based on net assets as of 2/28/15.

The portfolio is actively managed and current holdings may be different.

 

2


Table of Contents

EXPENSE TABLE

Fund expenses borne by the shareholders during the period, September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015

As a shareholder of the fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on certain purchase or redemption payments, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015.

Actual Expenses

The first line for each share class in the following table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The second line for each share class in the following table provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads). Therefore, the second line for each share class in the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

3


Table of Contents

Expense Table – continued

 

 

Share
Class
      

Annualized

Expense

Ratio

   

Beginning

Account Value

9/01/14

   

Ending

Account Value

2/28/15

   

Expenses

Paid During

Period (p)

9/01/14-2/28/15

 
A   Actual     1.04%        $1,000.00        $1,062.93        $5.32   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.04%        $1,000.00        $1,019.64        $5.21   
B   Actual     1.80%        $1,000.00        $1,058.97        $9.19   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.80%        $1,000.00        $1,015.87        $9.00   
C   Actual     1.79%        $1,000.00        $1,059.11        $9.14   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.79%        $1,000.00        $1,015.92        $8.95   
I   Actual     0.80%        $1,000.00        $1,064.27        $4.09   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.80%        $1,000.00        $1,020.83        $4.01   
R1   Actual     1.80%        $1,000.00        $1,058.76        $9.19   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.80%        $1,000.00        $1,015.87        $9.00   
R2   Actual     1.30%        $1,000.00        $1,061.66        $6.65   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.30%        $1,000.00        $1,018.35        $6.51   
R3   Actual     1.05%        $1,000.00        $1,062.80        $5.37   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.05%        $1,000.00        $1,019.59        $5.26   
R4   Actual     0.80%        $1,000.00        $1,063.96        $4.09   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.80%        $1,000.00        $1,020.83        $4.01   
R5   Actual     0.70%        $1,000.00        $1,064.63        $3.58   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.70%        $1,000.00        $1,021.32        $3.51   

 

(h) 5% class return per year before expenses.
(p) “Expenses Paid During Period” are equal to each class’s annualized expense ratio, as shown above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181/365 (to reflect the one-half year period). Expenses paid do not include any applicable sales charges (loads). If these transaction costs had been included, your costs would have been higher.

Notes to Expense Table

Each class with a Rule 12b-1 service fee is subject to a rebate of a portion of such fee. Such rebates are included in the expense ratios above. For Class A shares, this rebate reduced the expense ratio above by 0.01%. See Note 3 in the Notes to Financial Statements for additional information.

 

4


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PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS

2/28/15 (unaudited)

The Portfolio of Investments is a complete list of all securities owned by your fund. It is categorized by broad-based asset classes.

 

Common Stocks - 99.3%                 
Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Aerospace - 3.6%                 
Honeywell International, Inc.      154,688      $ 15,898,833   
Northrop Grumman Corp.      62,066        10,284,957   
Precision Castparts Corp.      21,980        4,754,274   
Textron, Inc.      55,069        2,440,107   
United Technologies Corp.      125,451        15,293,731   
    

 

 

 
             $ 48,671,902   
Alcoholic Beverages - 0.3%                 
Constellation Brands, Inc., “A” (a)      35,941      $ 4,123,152   
Apparel Manufacturers - 0.5%                 
PVH Corp.      41,364      $ 4,406,507   
VF Corp.      33,207        2,545,649   
    

 

 

 
             $ 6,952,156   
Automotive - 0.8%                 
Delphi Automotive PLC      67,355      $ 5,310,268   
Harley-Davidson, Inc.      78,639        4,999,081   
    

 

 

 
             $ 10,309,349   
Biotechnology - 2.4%                 
Alexion Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (a)      49,380      $ 8,906,671   
AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (a)      131,800        6,488,514   
Biogen Idec, Inc. (a)      29,389        12,037,441   
Exact Sciences Corp. (a)(l)      25,454        571,951   
Illumina, Inc. (a)      3,350        654,791   
MiMedx Group, Inc. (a)      76,132        787,966   
Puma Biotechnology, Inc. (a)      16,356        3,483,992   
    

 

 

 
             $ 32,931,326   
Broadcasting - 2.0%                 
Time Warner, Inc.      137,542      $ 11,259,188   
Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc.      465,917        16,307,095   
    

 

 

 
             $ 27,566,283   
Brokerage & Asset Managers - 2.4%                 
Affiliated Managers Group, Inc. (a)      13,060      $ 2,826,445   
BlackRock, Inc.      33,348        12,386,114   
Franklin Resources, Inc.      180,909        9,738,331   
NASDAQ OMX Group, Inc.      156,176        7,833,788   
    

 

 

 
             $ 32,784,678   

 

5


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Business Services - 2.6%                 
Accenture PLC, “A”      56,421      $ 5,079,583   
Bright Horizons Family Solutions, Inc. (a)      160,148        8,119,504   
Equifax, Inc.      31,849        2,973,741   
Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.      98,172        6,635,445   
FleetCor Technologies, Inc. (a)      17,524        2,688,707   
Gartner, Inc. (a)      82,833        6,884,251   
Global Payments, Inc.      26,242        2,410,590   
    

 

 

 
             $ 34,791,821   
Cable TV - 1.3%                 
Charter Communications, Inc., “A” (a)      32,991      $ 5,958,175   
Comcast Corp., “Special A”      68,562        4,041,387   
Time Warner Cable, Inc.      46,740        7,200,297   
    

 

 

 
             $ 17,199,859   
Chemicals - 1.5%                 
Agrium, Inc.      41,368      $ 4,777,787   
E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co.      124,282        9,675,354   
LyondellBasell Industries N.V., “A”      66,253        5,691,795   
    

 

 

 
             $ 20,144,936   
Computer Software - 3.7%                 
Adobe Systems, Inc. (a)      115,428      $ 9,130,355   
Check Point Software Technologies Ltd. (a)      80,903        6,754,591   
Intuit, Inc.      38,886        3,796,440   
Oracle Corp.      234,456        10,273,862   
Qlik Technologies, Inc. (a)      172,362        5,591,423   
Salesforce.com, Inc. (a)      217,906        15,118,318   
    

 

 

 
             $ 50,664,989   
Computer Software - Systems - 4.8%                 
Apple, Inc. (s)      306,294      $ 39,346,527   
EMC Corp.      434,008        12,560,192   
Hewlett-Packard Co.      70,164        2,444,514   
NCR Corp. (a)      132,717        3,903,207   
Sabre Corp.      130,249        2,834,218   
SS&C Technologies Holdings, Inc.      72,893        4,423,147   
    

 

 

 
             $ 65,511,805   
Construction - 1.0%                 
Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc.      124,836      $ 5,782,404   
Pool Corp.      7,213        498,923   
Sherwin-Williams Co.      23,887        6,812,572   
    

 

 

 
             $ 13,093,899   

 

6


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Consumer Products - 2.2%                 
Colgate-Palmolive Co.      124,021      $ 8,783,167   
Estee Lauder Cos., Inc., “A”      36,336        3,003,897   
Newell Rubbermaid, Inc.      152,609        5,996,008   
Procter & Gamble Co.      146,222        12,447,879   
    

 

 

 
             $ 30,230,951   
Consumer Services - 1.5%                 
Nord Anglia Education, Inc. (a)      290,309      $ 6,215,516   
Priceline Group, Inc. (a)      11,681        14,455,004   
    

 

 

 
             $ 20,670,520   
Containers - 0.1%                 
Crown Holdings, Inc. (a)      34,913      $ 1,850,389   
Electrical Equipment - 2.1%                 
Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc.      211,830      $ 5,751,185   
AMETEK, Inc.      138,219        7,344,958   
Danaher Corp.      140,959        12,302,902   
W.W. Grainger, Inc.      12,696        3,007,809   
    

 

 

 
             $ 28,406,854   
Electronics - 3.7%                 
Avago Technologies Ltd.      93,315      $ 11,908,860   
Broadcom Corp., “A”      151,570        6,855,511   
Freescale Semiconductor Ltd. (a)      57,791        2,086,833   
KLA-Tencor Corp.      58,266        3,784,668   
Mellanox Technologies Ltd. (a)      91,587        4,363,205   
Rubicon Technology, Inc. (a)(l)      233,726        1,019,045   
Skyworks Solutions, Inc.      45,105        3,957,964   
Texas Instruments, Inc.      249,257        14,656,312   
Ultratech, Inc. (a)      88,502        1,596,576   
    

 

 

 
             $ 50,228,974   
Energy - Independent - 3.3%                 
Anadarko Petroleum Corp.      71,624      $ 6,032,890   
Concho Resources, Inc. (a)      16,404        1,786,724   
Energy XXI (Bermuda) Ltd. (l)      80,076        380,361   
EOG Resources, Inc.      65,372        5,865,176   
Goodrich Petroleum Corp. (a)(l)      130,695        585,514   
Memorial Resource Development Corp. (a)      155,791        3,195,273   
Noble Energy, Inc.      56,350        2,661,411   
PDC Energy, Inc. (a)      14,771        763,365   
Pioneer Natural Resources Co.      18,913        2,884,611   
Rice Energy, Inc. (a)      45,600        892,848   

 

7


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Energy - Independent - continued                 
Rosetta Resources, Inc. (a)      39,246      $ 695,832   
Sanchez Energy Corp. (a)(l)      39,475        528,965   
Targa Resources Corp.      22,960        2,286,357   
Valero Energy Corp.      256,910        15,848,778   
    

 

 

 
             $ 44,408,105   
Energy - Integrated - 2.5%                 
Chevron Corp. (s)      82,960      $ 8,850,173   
Hess Corp. (s)      329,550        24,742,614   
    

 

 

 
             $ 33,592,787   
Food & Beverages - 2.9%                 
Coca-Cola Co.      328,349      $ 14,217,512   
General Mills, Inc.      106,745        5,741,814   
Mondelez International, Inc.      201,009        7,424,267   
Pinnacle Foods, Inc.      109,212        3,964,396   
Snyders-Lance, Inc.      90,017        2,777,024   
WhiteWave Foods Co., “A” (a)      120,062        4,916,539   
    

 

 

 
             $ 39,041,552   
Food & Drug Stores - 1.3%                 
CVS Health Corp.      156,746      $ 16,281,207   
Fairway Group Holdings Corp. (a)(l)      367,443        2,046,658   
    

 

 

 
             $ 18,327,865   
Gaming & Lodging - 0.8%                 
La Quinta Holdings, Inc. (a)      107,826      $ 2,394,815   
Wynn Resorts Ltd.      59,491        8,477,468   
    

 

 

 
             $ 10,872,283   
General Merchandise - 1.4%                 
Dollar Tree, Inc. (a)      52,032      $ 4,145,910   
Five Below, Inc. (a)      93,897        2,979,821   
Kohl’s Corp.      81,482        6,013,372   
Target Corp.      67,850        5,212,916   
    

 

 

 
             $ 18,352,019   
Health Maintenance Organizations - 1.2%                 
UnitedHealth Group, Inc.      137,715      $ 15,648,555   
Insurance - 2.5%                 
American International Group, Inc.      384,742      $ 21,287,775   
MetLife, Inc.      252,465        12,832,796   
    

 

 

 
             $ 34,120,571   

 

8


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Internet - 3.0%                 
Facebook, Inc., “A “ (a)      139,494      $ 11,015,841   
Google, Inc., “A” (a)      25,406        14,294,178   
Google, Inc., “C” (a)      18,694        10,438,730   
LinkedIn Corp., “A” (a)      20,980        5,605,856   
    

 

 

 
             $ 41,354,605   
Machinery & Tools - 1.9%                 
Colfax Corp. (a)      100,094      $ 5,272,952   
IPG Photonics Corp. (a)      51,361        4,925,520   
Joy Global, Inc.      70,306        3,115,962   
Roper Industries, Inc.      73,965        12,394,315   
    

 

 

 
             $ 25,708,749   
Major Banks - 4.1%                 
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.      63,196      $ 11,993,969   
JPMorgan Chase & Co.      361,955        22,180,602   
Wells Fargo & Co.      391,471        21,448,696   
    

 

 

 
             $ 55,623,267   
Medical & Health Technology & Services - 1.1%                 
Cerner Corp. (a)      28,479      $ 2,052,197   
Express Scripts Holding Co. (a)      66,371        5,627,597   
Healthcare Services Group, Inc.      72,870        2,446,246   
McKesson Corp.      21,011        4,805,216   
    

 

 

 
             $ 14,931,256   
Medical Equipment - 4.3%                 
Abbott Laboratories      225,751      $ 10,693,825   
AtriCure, Inc. (a)      89,720        1,586,250   
Cepheid, Inc. (a)      31,261        1,776,875   
Cooper Cos., Inc.      33,946        5,566,126   
DENTSPLY International, Inc.      47,076        2,495,499   
DexCom, Inc. (a)      25,666        1,558,953   
Heartware International, Inc. (a)      9,293        792,042   
Inovalon Holdings, Inc., “A” (a)      4,070        126,414   
Medtronic PLC      189,707        14,719,366   
OraSure Technologies, Inc. (a)      75,737        542,277   
STERIS Corp.      15,178        979,285   
Stryker Corp.      123,350        11,687,413   
TearLab Corp. (a)(l)      289,159        751,813   
Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.      39,243        5,101,590   
    

 

 

 
             $ 58,377,728   

 

9


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Metals & Mining - 0.3%                 
First Quantum Minerals Ltd.      124,679      $ 1,580,803   
Lundin Mining Corp. (a)      531,117        2,315,485   
    

 

 

 
             $ 3,896,288   
Natural Gas - Pipeline - 0.5%                 
Williams Cos., Inc.      88,793      $ 4,354,409   
Williams Partners LP      50,629        2,589,167   
    

 

 

 
             $ 6,943,576   
Network & Telecom - 0.6%                 
Cisco Systems, Inc.      228,259      $ 6,735,923   
Ixia (a)      178,290        2,028,940   
    

 

 

 
             $ 8,764,863   
Oil Services - 1.1%                 
Forum Energy Technologies, Inc. (a)      33,435      $ 652,986   
Halliburton Co.      65,958        2,832,237   
Schlumberger Ltd.      138,525        11,658,264   
    

 

 

 
             $ 15,143,487   
Other Banks & Diversified Financials - 5.0%                 
American Express Co.      180,203      $ 14,702,763   
BB&T Corp.      113,481        4,317,952   
Discover Financial Services      249,152        15,193,289   
EuroDekania Ltd.      580,280        211,043   
PrivateBancorp, Inc.      191,778        6,660,450   
Texas Capital Bancshares, Inc. (a)      92,500        4,294,775   
Visa, Inc., “A”      81,660        22,155,175   
    

 

 

 
             $ 67,535,447   
Pharmaceuticals - 5.7%                 
Actavis PLC (a)      77,466      $ 22,570,494   
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.      210,016        12,794,175   
Eli Lilly & Co.      149,535        10,492,871   
Endo International PLC (a)      105,692        9,047,235   
Merck & Co., Inc.      111,328        6,517,141   
Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc. (a)      79,301        15,660,361   
    

 

 

 
             $ 77,082,277   
Railroad & Shipping - 1.5%                 
Canadian Pacific Railway Ltd.      43,021      $ 8,071,600   
Union Pacific Corp.      101,574        12,215,289   
    

 

 

 
             $ 20,286,889   

 

10


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Real Estate - 3.5%                 
Equity Lifestyle Properties, Inc., REIT      140,730      $ 7,581,125   
Gramercy Property Trust, Inc., REIT      650,891        4,588,782   
Medical Properties Trust, Inc., REIT      542,183        8,208,651   
Mid-America Apartment Communities, Inc., REIT      134,668        9,759,390   
Plum Creek Timber Co. Inc., REIT      191,270        8,308,769   
Tanger Factory Outlet Centers, Inc., REIT      244,741        8,676,068   
    

 

 

 
             $ 47,122,785   
Restaurants - 1.0%                 
Domino’s Pizza, Inc.      40,159      $ 4,077,343   
YUM! Brands, Inc.      121,021        9,816,013   
    

 

 

 
             $ 13,893,356   
Specialty Chemicals - 2.5%                 
Albemarle Corp.      132,656      $ 7,504,350   
Amira Nature Foods Ltd. (a)(l)      72,290        748,924   
Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. (a)      291,858        8,288,767   
Ecolab, Inc.      89,953        10,393,170   
W.R. Grace & Co. (a)      71,446        7,083,871   
    

 

 

 
             $ 34,019,082   
Specialty Stores - 4.1%                 
American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.      364,689      $ 5,459,394   
AutoZone, Inc. (a)      9,790        6,291,837   
Bed Bath & Beyond, Inc. (a)      96,229        7,184,457   
Burlington Stores, Inc. (a)      140,302        7,796,582   
Express, Inc. (a)      269,133        3,719,418   
L Brands, Inc.      56,032        5,147,100   
Ross Stores, Inc.      78,822        8,340,156   
Sally Beauty Holdings, Inc. (a)      122,801        4,116,290   
Urban Outfitters, Inc. (a)      192,763        7,510,046   
    

 

 

 
             $ 55,565,280   
Telecommunications - Wireless - 1.4%                 
American Tower Corp., REIT      150,098      $ 14,880,716   
SBA Communications Corp. (a)      34,562        4,310,227   
    

 

 

 
             $ 19,190,943   
Telephone Services - 0.9%                 
RigNet, Inc. (a)      93,716      $ 2,963,300   
Verizon Communications, Inc.      176,863        8,745,875   
    

 

 

 
             $ 11,709,175   

 

11


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Tobacco - 1.2%                 
Altria Group, Inc.      148,317      $ 8,348,764   
Philip Morris International, Inc.      96,505        8,006,055   
    

 

 

 
             $ 16,354,819   
Trucking - 0.6%                 
Swift Transportation Co. (a)      276,914      $ 7,831,128   
Utilities - Electric Power - 2.6%                 
American Electric Power Co., Inc.      89,289      $ 5,141,261   
Calpine Corp. (a)      153,376        3,251,571   
CMS Energy Corp.      159,241        5,594,136   
Dominion Resources, Inc.      47,722        3,440,279   
Edison International      72,111        4,633,132   
Exelon Corp.      123,469        4,188,060   
NextEra Energy, Inc.      41,065        4,248,585   
NRG Energy, Inc.      86,965        2,085,421   
Pattern Energy Group, Inc.      87,741        2,440,955   
    

 

 

 
             $ 35,023,400   
Total Common Stocks (Identified Cost, $1,026,839,472)            $ 1,346,855,980   
Money Market Funds - 0.7%                 
MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio, 0.1%,
at Cost and Net Asset Value (v)
     9,385,602      $ 9,385,602   
Collateral for Securities Loaned - 0.2%                 
Navigator Securities Lending Prime Portfolio, 0.17%,
at Cost and Net Asset Value (j)
     3,001,002      $ 3,001,002   
Total Investments (Identified Cost, $1,039,226,076)            $ 1,359,242,584   
Securities Sold Short - (0.2)%                 
Gaming & Lodging - (0.2)%                 
Marriott International, Inc., “A” (Proceeds Received $2,063,501)      (30,725   $ (2,553,248
Other Assets, Less Liabilities - (0.0)%              (151,581
Net Assets - 100.0%            $ 1,356,537,755   

 

(a) Non-income producing security.
(j) The rate quoted is the annualized seven-day yield of the fund at period end.
(l) A portion of this security is on loan.
(s) Security or a portion of the security was pledged to cover collateral requirements for securities sold short and certain derivative transactions.
(v) Underlying affiliated fund that is available only to investment companies managed by MFS. The rate quoted for the MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio is the annualized seven-day yield of the fund at period end.

 

12


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

At February 28, 2015, the fund had cash collateral of $7,548 and other liquid securities with an aggregate value of $4,654,836 to cover any commitments for securities sold short and/or certain derivative contracts. Cash collateral is comprised of “Deposits with brokers” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following abbreviations are used in this report and are defined:

 

PLC   Public Limited Company
REIT   Real Estate Investment Trust

See notes to financial statements

 

13


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement represents your fund’s balance sheet, which details the assets and liabilities comprising the total value of the fund.

 

Assets         

Investments-

  

Non-affiliated issuers, at value (identified cost, $1,029,840,474)

     $1,349,856,982   

Underlying affiliated funds, at cost and value

     9,385,602   

Total investments, at value, including $2,917,816 of securities on loan
(identified cost, $1,039,226,076)

     $1,359,242,584   

Cash

     53   

Deposits with brokers

     7,548   

Receivables for

  

Investments sold

     17,378,908   

Fund shares sold

     1,326,209   

Interest and dividends

     1,847,050   

Other assets

     6,627   

Total assets

     $1,379,808,979   
Liabilities         

Payables for

  

Dividends on securities sold short

     $6,145   

Securities sold short, at value (proceeds received, $2,063,501)

     2,553,248   

Investments purchased

     15,465,125   

Fund shares reacquired

     1,505,961   

Collateral for securities loaned, at value

     3,001,002   

Payable to affiliates

  

Investment adviser

     60,285   

Shareholder servicing costs

     499,998   

Distribution and service fees

     30,205   

Payable for independent Trustees’ compensation

     84,660   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     64,595   

Total liabilities

     $23,271,224   

Net assets

     $1,356,537,755   
Net assets consist of         

Paid-in capital

     $970,720,899   

Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments and translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies

     319,526,761   

Accumulated net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     62,536,766   

Undistributed net investment income

     3,753,329   

Net assets

     $1,356,537,755   

Shares of beneficial interest outstanding

     47,841,961   

 

14


Table of Contents

Statement of Assets and Liabilities (unaudited) – continued

 

 

     Net assets      Shares
outstanding
     Net asset value
per share (a)
 

Class A

     $1,049,597,394         36,678,634         $28.62   

Class B

     39,318,229         1,507,079         26.09   

Class C

     93,990,731         3,636,652         25.85   

Class I

     52,490,570         1,755,802         29.90   

Class R1

     4,500,047         174,210         25.83   

Class R2

     19,057,382         679,343         28.05   

Class R3

     73,716,433         2,584,579         28.52   

Class R4

     21,396,708         743,122         28.79   

Class R5

     2,470,261         82,540         29.93   

 

(a) Maximum offering price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for all share classes, except for Class A, for which the maximum offering price per share was $30.37 [100 / 94.25 x $28.62]. On sales of $50,000 or more, the maximum offering price of Class A shares is reduced. A contingent deferred sales charge may be imposed on redemptions of Class A, Class B, and Class C shares. Redemption price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for Classes I, R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5.

See notes to financial statements

 

15


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Six months ended 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement describes how much your fund earned in investment income and accrued in expenses. It also describes any gains and/or losses generated by fund operations.

 

Net investment income         

Income

  

Dividends

     $10,772,536   

Interest

     169,875   

Dividends from underlying affiliated funds

     7,564   

Foreign taxes withheld

     (12,981

Total investment income

     $10,936,994   

Expenses

  

Management fee

     $3,759,130   

Distribution and service fees

     2,023,710   

Shareholder servicing costs

     990,265   

Administrative services fee

     108,381   

Independent Trustees’ compensation

     17,191   

Custodian fee

     60,603   

Shareholder communications

     50,305   

Audit and tax fees

     26,663   

Legal fees

     5,586   

Dividend and interest expense on securities sold short

     24,386   

Miscellaneous

     86,031   

Total expenses

     $7,152,251   

Fees paid indirectly

     (24

Reduction of expenses by investment adviser and distributor

     (69,163

Net expenses

     $7,083,064   

Net investment income

     $3,853,930   
Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency         

Realized gain (loss) (identified cost basis)

  

Investments

     $70,691,093   

Securities sold short

     (51,451

Foreign currency

     (813

Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     $70,638,829   

Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

  

Investments

     $5,801,151   

Securities sold short

     (405,761

Translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies

     (39

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency translation

     $5,395,351   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     $76,034,180   

Change in net assets from operations

     $79,888,110   

See notes to financial statements

 

16


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

These statements describe the increases and/or decreases in net assets resulting from operations, any distributions, and any shareholder transactions.

 

Change in net assets    Six months ended
2/28/15
(unaudited)
    

Year ended
8/31/14

 
From operations                  

Net investment income

     $3,853,930         $5,110,168   

Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     70,638,829         105,521,459   

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency translation

     5,395,351         142,264,064   

Change in net assets from operations

     $79,888,110         $252,895,691   
Distributions declared to shareholders                  

From net investment income

     $(5,098,135      $(7,149,277

From net realized gain on investments

     (95,270,510        

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(100,368,645      $(7,149,277

Change in net assets from fund share transactions

     $84,920,626         $(64,001,160

Total change in net assets

     $64,440,091         $181,745,254   
Net assets                  

At beginning of period

     1,292,097,664         1,110,352,410   

At end of period (including undistributed net investment income of $3,753,329 and $4,997,534, respectively)

     $1,356,537,755         $1,292,097,664   

See notes to financial statements

 

17


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the fund’s financial performance for the semiannual period and the past 5 fiscal years (or life of a particular share class, if shorter). Certain information reflects financial results for a single fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate by which an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the fund share class (assuming reinvestment of all distributions) held for the entire period.

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class A     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $29.19        $23.82        $19.68        $17.20        $14.62        $13.87   
Income (loss) from investment operations                           

Net investment income (d)

    $0.09        $0.13        $0.18        $0.11        $0.11        $0.10   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.62        5.41        4.07        2.47        2.58        0.77   

Total from investment operations

    $1.71        $5.54        $4.25        $2.58        $2.69        $0.87   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                           

From net investment income

    $(0.13     $(0.17     $(0.11     $(0.10     $(0.11     $(0.12

From net realized gain on
investments

    (2.15                                   

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(2.28     $(0.17     $(0.11     $(0.10     $(0.11     $(0.12

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $28.62        $29.19        $23.82        $19.68        $17.20        $14.62   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    6.29 (n)      23.33        21.69        15.10        18.39        6.27   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.05 (a)      1.05        1.11        1.15        1.18        1.24   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.04 (a)      1.04        1.11        1.15        1.18        1.23   

Net investment income

    0.67 (a)      0.49        0.81        0.61        0.60        0.68   

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      48        58        65        66        77   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $1,049,597        $1,002,028        $873,139        $686,616        $612,504        $547,296   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                           

Ratio of expenses to average
net assets after expense
reductions excluding short sale
dividend and interest expense (f)

    1.04 (a)      1.04        1.10        1.15        1.17        1.22   

See notes to financial statements

 

18


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class B     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $26.78        $21.88        $18.11        $15.86        $13.50        $12.80   
Income (loss) from investment operations                                   

Net investment income (loss) (d)

    $(0.01     $(0.06     $0.01        $(0.02     $(0.02     $(0.01

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.47        4.96        3.76        2.27        2.38        0.71   

Total from investment operations

    $1.46        $4.90        $3.77        $2.25        $2.36        $0.70   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                                   

From net investment income

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

From net realized gain on
investments

    (2.15                                   

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(2.15     $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $26.09        $26.78        $21.88        $18.11        $15.86        $13.50   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    5.90 (n)      22.39        20.82        14.19        17.48        5.49   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                                   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.80 (a)      1.80        1.86        1.91        1.93        1.99   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.80 (a)      1.80        1.86        1.90        1.93        1.98   

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.09 )(a)      (0.26     0.07        (0.14     (0.15     (0.06

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      48        58        65        66        77   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $39,318        $40,536        $40,495        $43,320        $49,181        $55,327   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                                           

Ratio of expenses to average
net assets after expense
reductions excluding short sale
dividend and interest expense (f)

    1.79 (a)      1.80        1.86        1.90        1.92        1.97   

See notes to financial statements

 

19


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class C     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $26.55        $21.72        $17.98        $15.74        $13.39        $12.75   
Income (loss) from investment operations                                   

Net investment income (loss) (d)

    $(0.01     $(0.06     $0.01        $(0.02     $(0.02     $(0.01

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.46        4.92        3.73        2.26        2.37        0.70   

Total from investment operations

    $1.45        $4.86        $3.74        $2.24        $2.35        $0.69   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                                   

From net investment income

    $—        $(0.03     $—        $—        $—        $(0.05

From net realized gain on
investments

    (2.15                                   

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(2.15     $(0.03     $—        $—        $—        $(0.05

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $25.85        $26.55        $21.72        $17.98        $15.74        $13.39   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    5.91 (n)      22.38        20.80        14.23        17.55        5.40   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                                   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.80 (a)      1.80        1.86        1.90        1.93        1.99   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.79 (a)      1.80        1.86        1.90        1.93        1.98   

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.08 )(a)      (0.26     0.06        (0.14     (0.15     (0.07

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      48        58        65        66        77   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $93,991        $89,702        $78,777        $64,258        $62,249        $59,265   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                                                

Ratio of expenses to average
net assets after expense
reductions excluding short sale
dividend and interest expense (f)

    1. 79(a)      1.80        1.86        1.90        1.92        1.97   

See notes to financial statements

 

20


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class I     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $30.43        $24.82        $20.49        $17.91        $15.21        $14.43   
Income (loss) from investment operations                                   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.13        $0.21        $0.24        $0.16        $0.15        $0.15   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.69        5.62        4.25        2.57        2.70        0.79   

Total from investment operations

    $1.82        $5.83        $4.49        $2.73        $2.85        $0.94   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                                   

From net investment income

    $(0.20     $(0.22     $(0.16     $(0.15     $(0.15     $(0.16

From net realized gain on
investments

    (2.15                                   

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(2.35     $(0.22     $(0.16     $(0.15     $(0.15     $(0.16

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $29.90        $30.43        $24.82        $20.49        $17.91        $15.21   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    6.43 (n)      23.61        22.03        15.36        18.73        6.47   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                                   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    0.80 (a)      0.80        0.86        0.90        0.93        0.99   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.80 (a)      0.80        0.86        0.90        0.93        0.98   

Net investment income

    0.92 (a)      0.73        1.05        0.86        0.83        0.93   

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      48        58        65        66        77   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $52,491        $45,089        $29,812        $20,441        $17,250        $16,291   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                                   

Ratio of expenses to average
net assets after expense
reductions excluding short sale
dividend and interest expense (f)

    0.79 (a)      0.80        0.86        0.90        0.92        0.97   

See notes to financial statements

 

21


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R1     2014     2013      2012     2011      2010  
                                   

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $26.54        $21.69        $17.95         $15.72        $13.38         $12.75   
Income (loss) from investment operations                                     

Net investment income (loss) (d)

    $(0.01     $(0.06     $0.02         $(0.02     $(0.02      $(0.01

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.45        4.91        3.72         2.25        2.37         0.70   

Total from investment operations

    $1.44        $4.85        $3.74         $2.23        $2.35         $0.69   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                                     

From net investment income

    $—        $(0.00 )(w)      $—         $—        $(0.01      $(0.06

From net realized gain on
investments

    (2.15                                     

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(2.15     $(0.00 )(w)      $—         $—        $(0.01      $(0.06

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $25.83        $26.54        $21.69         $17.95        $15.72         $13.38   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    5.88 (n)      22.38        20.84         14.19        17.56         5.43   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                                     

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.80 (a)      1.80        1.86         1.90        1.93         1.99   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.80 (a)      1.80        1.86         1.90        1.93         1.98   

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.09 )(a)      (0.26     0.08         (0.14     (0.15      (0.07

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      48        58         65        66         77   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $4,500        $4,132        $3,839         $4,098        $3,904         $3,688   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                                                  

Ratio of expenses to average
net assets after expense
reductions excluding short sale
dividend and interest expense (f)

    1.79 (a)      1.80        1.85         1.90        1.92         1.97   

See notes to financial statements

 

22


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R2     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $28.59        $23.35        $19.28        $16.86        $14.33        $13.62   
Income (loss) from investment operations                                   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.06        $0.06        $0.12        $0.06        $0.06        $0.06   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.58        5.29        4.00        2.42        2.54        0.75   

Total from investment operations

    $1.64        $5.35        $4.12        $2.48        $2.60        $0.81   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                                   

From net investment income

    $(0.03     $(0.11     $(0.05     $(0.06     $(0.07     $(0.10

From net realized gain on
investments

    (2.15                                   

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(2.18     $(0.11     $(0.05     $(0.06     $(0.07     $(0.10

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $28.05        $28.59        $23.35        $19.28        $16.86        $14.33   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    6.17 (n)      22.96        21.44        14.74        18.14        5.97   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                                   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.30 (a)      1.30        1.36        1.40        1.43        1.49   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.30 (a)      1.30        1.36        1.40        1.43        1.48   

Net investment income

    0.41 (a)      0.24        0.56        0.36        0.35        0.43   

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      48        58        65        66        77   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $19,057        $19,434        $19,625        $17,369        $16,424        $14,013   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                                                

Ratio of expenses to average
net assets after expense
reductions excluding short sale
dividend and interest expense (f)

    1.29 (a)      1.30        1.36        1.40        1.42        1.47   

See notes to financial statements

 

23


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R3     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $29.10        $23.75        $19.63        $17.16        $14.59        $13.85   
Income (loss) from investment operations                                   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.09        $0.13        $0.18        $0.11        $0.11        $0.10   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.61        5.39        4.05        2.47        2.57        0.77   

Total from investment operations

    $1.70        $5.52        $4.23        $2.58        $2.68        $0.87   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                                   

From net investment income

    $(0.13     $(0.17     $(0.11     $(0.11     $(0.11     $(0.13

From net realized gain on
investments

    (2.15                                   

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(2.28     $(0.17     $(0.11     $(0.11     $(0.11     $(0.13

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $28.52        $29.10        $23.75        $19.63        $17.16        $14.59   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    6.28 (n)      23.32        21.68        15.12        18.38        6.25   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                                   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.05 (a)      1.05        1.11        1.15        1.18        1.24   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.05 (a)      1.05        1.11        1.15        1.18        1.23   

Net investment income

    0.67 (a)      0.49        0.81        0.61        0.60        0.68   

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      48        58        65        66        77   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $73,716        $68,977        $58,381        $46,833        $32,277        $26,573   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                                   

Ratio of expenses to average
net assets after expense
reductions excluding short sale
dividend and interest expense (f)

    1.04 (a)      1.05        1.10        1.15        1.17        1.22   

See notes to financial statements

 

24


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R4     2014     2013     2012     2011      2010  
                                  

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $29.40        $23.99        $19.81        $17.32        $14.72         $13.98   
Income (loss) from investment operations                                    

Net investment income (d)

    $0.13        $0.20        $0.23        $0.16        $0.13         $0.14   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.61        5.44        4.11        2.48        2.62         0.76   

Total from investment operations

    $1.74        $5.64        $4.34        $2.64        $2.75         $0.90   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                                    

From net investment income

    $(0.20     $(0.23     $(0.16     $(0.15     $(0.15      $(0.16

From net realized gain on
investments

    (2.15                                    

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(2.35     $(0.23     $(0.16     $(0.15     $(0.15      $(0.16

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $28.79        $29.40        $23.99        $19.81        $17.32         $14.72   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    6.40 (n)      23.62        22.03        15.36        18.68         6.40   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                                    

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    0.80 (a)      0.81        0.86        0.91        0.92         0.98   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.80 (a)      0.80        0.86        0.90        0.92         0.97   

Net investment income

    0.92 (a)      0.72        1.04        0.86        0.75         0.92   

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      48        58        65        66         77   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $21,397        $19,706        $6,165        $1,871        $1,367         $408   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                                    

Ratio of expenses to average
net assets after expense
reductions excluding short sale
dividend and interest expense (f)

    0.79(a     0.80        0.86        0.90        0.91         0.97   

See notes to financial statements

 

25


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

    

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

     Years ended 8/31  
Class R5       2014      2013 (i)  
        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $30.47         $24.84         $21.02   
Income (loss) from investment operations                           

Net investment income (d)

     $0.15         $0.23         $0.22   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

     1.68         5.64         3.60   

Total from investment operations

     $1.83         $5.87         $3.82   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                           

From net investment income

     $(0.22      $(0.24      $—   

From net realized gain on investments

     (2.15                

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(2.37      $(0.24      $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $29.93         $30.47         $24.84   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

     6.46 (n)       23.73         18.17 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                          

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     0.71 (a)       0.71         0.76 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     0.70 (a)       0.71         0.76 (a) 

Net investment income

     1.01 (a)       0.80         1.39 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     31 (n)       48         58   

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $2,470         $2,492         $119   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                           

Ratio of expenses to average net assets after expense
reductions excluding short sale dividend and interest
expense (f)

     0.70 (a)       0.71         0.75 (a) 

 

(a) Annualized.
(d) Per share data is based on average shares outstanding.
(f) Ratios do not reflect reductions from fees paid indirectly, if applicable.
(i) For the period from the class inception, January 2, 2013, through the stated period end.
(n) Not annualized.
(r) Certain expenses have been reduced without which performance would have been lower.
(s) From time to time the fund may receive proceeds from litigation settlements, without which performance would be lower.
(t) Total returns do not include any applicable sales charges.
(w) Per share amount was less than $0.01.
(x) The net asset values per share and total returns have been calculated on net assets which include adjustments made in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles required at period end for financial reporting purposes.

See notes to financial statements

 

26


Table of Contents

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

(1) Business and Organization

MFS Core Equity Fund (the fund) is a diversified series of MFS Series Trust I (the trust). The trust is organized as a Massachusetts business trust and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as an open-end management investment company.

The fund is an investment company and accordingly follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 Financial Services – Investment Companies.

(2) Significant Accounting Policies

General – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. In the preparation of these financial statements, management has evaluated subsequent events occurring after the date of the fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities through the date that the financial statements were issued.

In June 2014, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-11, Transfers and Servicing (Topic 860) – Repurchase-to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures (“ASU 2014-11”). ASU 2014-11 changes the accounting for repurchase-to-maturity transactions (i.e., repurchase agreements that settle at the same time as the maturity of the transferred financial asset) and enhances the required disclosures for repurchase agreements and other similar transactions. Although still evaluating the potential impacts of ASU 2014-11 to the fund, management expects that the impact of the fund’s adoption will be limited to additional financial statement disclosures which would first be effective for interim reporting periods beginning after March 15, 2015.

Balance Sheet Offsetting – The fund’s accounting policy with respect to balance sheet offsetting is that, absent an event of default by the counterparty or a termination of the agreement, the International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) Master Agreement does not result in an offset of reported amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities across transactions between the fund and the applicable counterparty. The fund’s right to setoff may be restricted or prohibited by the bankruptcy or insolvency laws of the particular jurisdiction to which a specific master netting agreement counterparty is subject. Balance sheet offsetting disclosures, to the extent applicable to the fund, have been included in the fund’s Significant Accounting Policies note under the captions for each of the fund’s in-scope financial instruments and transactions.

Investment Valuations – Equity securities, including restricted equity securities, are generally valued at the last sale or official closing price as provided by a third-party

 

27


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

pricing service on the market or exchange on which they are primarily traded. Equity securities, for which there were no sales reported that day, are generally valued at the last quoted daily bid quotation as provided by a third-party pricing service on the market or exchange on which such securities are primarily traded. Equity securities held short, for which there were no sales reported for that day, are generally valued at the last quoted daily ask quotation as provided by a third-party pricing service on the market or exchange on which such securities are primarily traded. Short-term instruments with a maturity at issuance of 60 days or less may be valued at amortized cost, which approximates market value. Open-end investment companies are generally valued at net asset value per share. Securities and other assets generally valued on the basis of information from a third-party pricing service may also be valued at a broker/dealer bid quotation. Values obtained from third-party pricing services can utilize both transaction data and market information such as yield, quality, coupon rate, maturity, type of issue, trading characteristics, and other market data. The values of foreign securities and other assets and liabilities expressed in foreign currencies are converted to U.S. dollars using the mean of bid and asked prices for rates provided by a third-party pricing service.

The Board of Trustees has delegated primary responsibility for determining or causing to be determined the value of the fund’s investments (including any fair valuation) to the adviser pursuant to valuation policies and procedures approved by the Board. If the adviser determines that reliable market quotations are not readily available, investments are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the adviser in accordance with such procedures under the oversight of the Board of Trustees. Under the fund’s valuation policies and procedures, market quotations are not considered to be readily available for most types of debt instruments and floating rate loans and many types of derivatives. These investments are generally valued at fair value based on information from third-party pricing services. In addition, investments may be valued at fair value if the adviser determines that an investment’s value has been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the exchange or market on which the investment is principally traded (such as foreign exchange or market) and prior to the determination of the fund’s net asset value, or after the halting of trading of a specific security where trading does not resume prior to the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded. Events that occur on a frequent basis after foreign markets close (such as developments in foreign markets and significant movements in the U.S. markets) and prior to the determination of the fund’s net asset value may be deemed to have a material effect on the value of securities traded in foreign markets. Accordingly, the fund’s foreign equity securities may often be valued at fair value. The adviser generally relies on third-party pricing services or other information (such as the correlation with price movements of similar securities in the same or other markets; the type, cost and investment characteristics of the security; the business and financial condition of the issuer; and trading and other market data) to assist in determining whether to fair value and at what value to fair value an investment. The value of an investment for purposes of calculating the fund’s net asset value can differ depending on the source and method used to determine value. When fair valuation is used, the value of an investment used to determine the fund’s net asset value may differ from quoted or published prices for the same investment. There can be no assurance that

 

28


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

the fund could obtain the fair value assigned to an investment if it were to sell the investment at the same time at which the fund determines its net asset value per share.

Various inputs are used in determining the value of the fund’s assets or liabilities. These inputs are categorized into three broad levels. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, an investment’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The fund’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the investment. Level 1 includes unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 includes other significant observable market-based inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speed, and credit risk). Level 3 includes unobservable inputs, which may include the adviser’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. The following is a summary of the levels used as of February 28, 2015 in valuing the fund’s assets or liabilities:

 

Investments at Value    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  
Equity Securities:            

United States

     $1,300,519,870         $—         $—         $1,300,519,870   

Canada

     32,406,036                         32,406,036   

Israel

     6,754,591                         6,754,591   

Hong Kong

     6,215,516                         6,215,516   

United Arab Emirates

     748,924                         748,924   

Cayman Islands

                     211,043         211,043   
Mutual Funds      12,386,604                         12,386,604   
Total Investments      $1,359,031,541         $—         $211,043         $1,359,242,584   
Short Sales      $(2,553,248      $—         $—         $(2,553,248

For further information regarding security characteristics, see the Portfolio of Investments.

The following is a reconciliation of level 3 assets for which significant unobservable inputs were used to determine fair value. The fund’s policy is to recognize transfers between the levels as of the end of the period. The table presents the activity of level 3 securities held at the beginning and the end of the period.

 

     Equity Securities  
Balance as of 8/31/14      $274,485   

Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

     (63,442
Balance as of 2/28/15      $211,043   

The net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) from investments still held as level 3 at February 28, 2015 is $(63,442). At February 28, 2015, the fund held one level 3 security.

Foreign Currency Translation Purchases and sales of foreign investments, income, and expenses are converted into U.S. dollars based upon currency exchange rates prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions or on the reporting date for foreign denominated receivables and payables. Gains and losses attributable to foreign currency exchange rates on sales of securities are recorded for financial statement

 

29


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

purposes as net realized gains and losses on investments. Gains and losses attributable to foreign exchange rate movements on receivables, payables, income and expenses are recorded for financial statement purposes as foreign currency transaction gains and losses. That portion of both realized and unrealized gains and losses on investments that results from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates is not separately disclosed.

Short Sales – The fund entered into short sales whereby it sells a security it does not own in anticipation of a decline in the value of that security. The fund will realize a gain if the security price decreases and a loss if the security price increases between the date of the short sale and the date on which the fund replaces the borrowed security. Losses from short sales can exceed the proceeds of the security sold; and they can also exceed the potential loss from an ordinary buy and sell transaction. The amount of any premium, dividends, or interest the fund may be required to pay in connection with a short sale will be recognized as a fund expense. During the six months ended February 28, 2015, this expense amounted to $24,386. The fund segregates cash or marketable securities in an amount that, when combined with the amount of proceeds from the short sale deposited with the broker, at least equals the current market value of the security sold short.

Security Loans – Under its Securities Lending Agency Agreement with the fund, State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), as lending agent, loans the securities of the fund to certain qualified institutions (the “Borrowers”) approved by the fund. The loans are collateralized by cash and/or U.S. Treasury and federal agency obligations in an amount typically at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned. On loans collateralized by cash, the cash collateral is invested in a money market fund. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of business of the fund and any additional required collateral is delivered to the fund on the next business day. State Street provides the fund with indemnification against Borrower default. In the event of Borrower default, State Street will for the benefit of the fund either purchase securities identical to those loaned or, when such purchase is commercially impracticable, pay the fund the market value of the loaned securities. In return, State Street assumes the fund’s rights to the related collateral. If the collateral value is less than the cost to purchase identical securities, State Street is responsible for the shortfall, but only to the extent that such shortfall is not due to a decline in collateral value resulting from collateral reinvestment for which the fund bears the risk of loss. At period end, the fund had investment securities on loan with a fair value of $2,917,816 and a related liability of $3,001,002 for cash collateral received on securities loaned, both of which are presented gross in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The collateral received on securities loaned exceeded the value of securities on loan at period end. The liability for cash collateral for securities loaned is carried at fair value, which is categorized as level 2 within the fair value hierarchy. A portion of the income generated upon investment of the collateral is remitted to the Borrowers, and the remainder is allocated between the fund and the lending agent. On loans collateralized by U.S. Treasury and/or federal agency obligations, a fee is received from the Borrower, and is allocated between the fund and the lending agent. Income from securities

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

lending is included in “Interest” income in the Statement of Operations. The dividend and interest income earned on the securities loaned is accounted for in the same manner as other dividend and interest income.

Indemnifications – Under the fund’s organizational documents, its officers and Trustees may be indemnified against certain liabilities and expenses arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into agreements with service providers that may contain indemnification clauses. The fund’s maximum exposure under these agreements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the fund that have not yet occurred.

Investment Transactions and Income – Investment transactions are recorded on the trade date. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis. Dividends received in cash are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Certain dividends from foreign securities will be recorded when the fund is informed of the dividend if such information is obtained subsequent to the ex-dividend date. Dividend and interest payments received in additional securities are recorded on the ex-dividend or ex-interest date in an amount equal to the value of the security on such date.

The fund may receive proceeds from litigation settlements. Any proceeds received from litigation involving portfolio holdings are reflected in the Statement of Operations in realized gain/loss if the security has been disposed of by the fund or in unrealized gain/loss if the security is still held by the fund. Any other proceeds from litigation not related to portfolio holdings are reflected as other income in the Statement of Operations.

Fees Paid Indirectly – The fund’s custody fee may be reduced according to an arrangement that measures the value of cash deposited with the custodian by the fund. This amount, for the six months ended February 28, 2015, is shown as a reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Tax Matters and Distributions – The fund intends to qualify as a regulated investment company, as defined under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, and to distribute all of its taxable income, including realized capital gains. As a result, no provision for federal income tax is required. The fund’s federal tax returns, when filed, will remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service for a three year period. Management has analyzed the fund’s tax positions taken on federal and state tax returns for all open tax years and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability. Foreign taxes, if any, have been accrued by the fund in the accompanying financial statements in accordance with the applicable foreign tax law. Foreign income taxes may be withheld by certain countries in which the fund invests. Additionally, capital gains realized by the fund on securities issued in or by certain foreign countries may be subject to capital gains tax imposed by those countries.

Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Certain capital accounts in the financial statements are periodically adjusted for permanent differences in order to reflect their tax character. These adjustments have no impact on net assets or

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

net asset value per share. Temporary differences which arise from recognizing certain items of income, expense, gain or loss in different periods for financial statement and tax purposes will reverse at some time in the future. Distributions in excess of net investment income or net realized gains are temporary overdistributions for financial statement purposes resulting from differences in the recognition or classification of income or distributions for financial statement and tax purposes.

Book/tax differences primarily relate to wash sale loss deferrals, straddle loss deferrals, and treating a portion of the proceeds from redemptions as a distribution for tax purposes.

The tax character of distributions made during the current period will be determined at fiscal year end. The tax character of distributions declared to shareholders for the last fiscal year is as follows:

 

     8/31/14  
Ordinary income (including any
short-term capital gains)
     $7,149,277   

The federal tax cost and the tax basis components of distributable earnings were as follows:

 

As of 2/28/15       
Cost of investments      $1,040,674,994   
Gross appreciation      346,463,498   
Gross depreciation      (27,895,908
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)      $318,567,590   
As of 8/31/14       
Undistributed ordinary income      40,337,229   
Undistributed long-term capital gain      60,026,109   
Capital loss carryforwards      (6,399,816
Other temporary differences      (432,570
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)      312,766,439   

The aggregate cost above includes prior fiscal year end tax adjustments, if applicable.

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010 (the “Act”), net capital losses recognized for fund fiscal years beginning after August 31, 2011, may be carried forward indefinitely, and their character is retained as short-term and/or long-term losses (“post-enactment losses”). Previously, net capital losses were carried forward for eight years and treated as short-term losses (“pre-enactment losses”). As a transition rule, the Act requires that all post-enactment net capital losses be used before pre-enactment net capital losses.

As of August 31, 2014, the fund had capital loss carryforwards available to offset future realized gains. Such pre-enactment losses expire as follows:

 

8/31/16      $(6,399,816

The availability of $6,399,816 of the capital loss carryforwards, which were acquired on July 24, 2009 in connection with the MFS Endeavor Fund merger, may be limited in a given year.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

Multiple Classes of Shares of Beneficial Interest – The fund offers multiple classes of shares, which differ in their respective distribution and service fees. The fund’s income, realized and unrealized gain (loss), and common expenses are allocated to shareholders based on the daily net assets of each class. Dividends are declared separately for each class. Differences in per share dividend rates are generally due to differences in separate class expenses. Class B shares will convert to Class A shares approximately eight years after purchase. The fund’s distributions declared to shareholders as reported in the Statements of Changes in Net Assets are presented by class as follows:

 

     From net investment
income
     From net realized gain on
investments
 
     Six months
ended
2/28/15
     Year
ended
8/31/14
     Six months
ended
2/28/15
     Year
ended
8/31/14
 
Class A      $4,295,673         $6,151,825         $73,002,676         $—   
Class B                      3,135,634           
Class C              97,951         7,201,066           
Class I      325,586         313,713         3,509,320           
Class R1              485         336,539           
Class R2      18,884         88,902         1,366,894           
Class R3      301,920         423,237         5,094,315           
Class R4      137,694         72,032         1,445,918           
Class R5      18,378         1,132         178,148           
Total      $5,098,135         $7,149,277         $95,270,510         $—   

(3) Transactions with Affiliates

Investment Adviser – The fund has an investment advisory agreement with MFS to provide overall investment management and related administrative services and facilities to the fund. The management fee is computed daily and paid monthly at the following annual rates:

 

First $500 million of average daily net assets      0.65
Average daily net assets in excess of $500 million      0.55

The investment adviser has agreed in writing to reduce its management fee to 0.50% of average daily net in excess of $2.5 billion. This written agreement will continue until modified by the fund’s Board of Trustees, but such agreement will continue at least until December 31, 2015. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fund’s average daily net assets did not exceed $2.5 billion and therefore, the management fee was not reduced in accordance with this agreement. MFS has also agreed in writing to reduce its management fee by a specified amount if certain MFS mutual fund assets exceed thresholds agreed to by MFS and the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2014, this management fee reduction amounted to $38,982, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. The management fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.58% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

Distributor – MFS Fund Distributors, Inc. (MFD), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, as distributor, received $154,993 for the six months ended February 28, 2015, as its portion of the initial sales charge on sales of Class A shares of the fund.

The Board of Trustees has adopted a distribution plan for certain share classes pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the Investment Company Act of 1940.

The fund’s distribution plan provides that the fund will pay MFD for services provided by MFD and financial intermediaries in connection with the distribution and servicing of certain share classes. One component of the plan is a distribution fee paid to MFD and another component of the plan is a service fee paid to MFD. MFD may subsequently pay all, or a portion, of the distribution and/or service fees to financial intermediaries.

Distribution Plan Fee Table:

 

     Distribution
Fee Rate (d)
     Service
Fee Rate (d)
     Total
Distribution
Plan (d)
     Annual
Effective
Rate (e)
     Distribution
and Service
Fee
 
Class A              0.25%         0.25%         0.24%         $1,234,442   
Class B      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         194,246   
Class C      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         442,617   
Class R1      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         20,835   
Class R2      0.25%         0.25%         0.50%         0.50%         45,636   
Class R3              0.25%         0.25%         0.25%         85,934   
Total Distribution and Service Fees         $2,023,710   

 

(d) In accordance with the distribution plan for certain classes, the fund pays distribution and/or service fees equal to these annual percentage rates of each class’s average daily net assets. The distribution and service fee rates disclosed by class represent the current rates in effect at the end of the reporting period. Any rate changes, if applicable, are detailed below.
(e) The annual effective rates represent actual fees incurred under the distribution plan for the six months ended February 28, 2015 based on each class’s average daily net assets. MFD has voluntarily agreed to rebate a portion of each class’s 0.25% service fee attributable to accounts for which MFD retains the 0.25% service fee except for accounts attributable to MFS or its affiliates’ seed money. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this rebate amounted to $28,384, $270, $1,035, and $65 for Class A, Class B, Class C, and Class R3, respectively, and is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Certain Class A shares are subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) in the event of a shareholder redemption within 18 months of purchase. Class C shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder redemption within 12 months of purchase. Class B shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder redemption within six years of purchase. All contingent deferred sales charges are paid to MFD and during the six months ended February 28, 2015, were as follows:

 

     Amount  
Class A      $324   
Class B      16,723   
Class C      1,307   

Shareholder Servicing Agent – MFS Service Center, Inc. (MFSC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, receives a fee from the fund for its services as shareholder servicing agent calculated as a percentage of the average daily net assets of the fund as

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

determined periodically under the supervision of the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fee was $242,831, which equated to 0.0380% annually of the fund’s average daily net assets. MFSC also receives payment from the fund for out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs which may be paid to affiliated and unaffiliated service providers. Class R5 shares do not incur sub-accounting fees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, these out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs amounted to $747,434.

Administrator – MFS provides certain financial, legal, shareholder communications, compliance, and other administrative services to the fund. Under an administrative services agreement, the fund reimburses MFS the costs incurred to provide these services. The fund is charged an annual fixed amount of $17,500 plus a fee based on average daily net assets. The administrative services fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.0170% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

Trustees’ and Officers’ Compensation – The fund pays compensation to independent Trustees in the form of a retainer, attendance fees, and additional compensation to Board and Committee chairpersons. The fund does not pay compensation directly to Trustees or officers of the fund who are also officers of the investment adviser, all of whom receive remuneration for their services to the fund from MFS. Certain officers and Trustees of the fund are officers or directors of MFS, MFD, and MFSC.

Prior to December 31, 2001, the fund had an unfunded defined benefit plan (“DB plan”) for independent Trustees. As of December 31, 2001, the Board took action to terminate the DB plan with respect to then-current and any future independent Trustees, such that the DB plan covers only certain of those former independent Trustees who retired on or before December 31, 2001. Effective January 1, 2002, accrued benefits under the DB plan for then-current independent Trustees who continued were credited to an unfunded retirement deferral plan (the “Retirement Deferral plan”), which was established for and exists solely with respect to these credited amounts, and is not available for other deferrals by these or other independent Trustees. Although the Retirement Deferral plan is unfunded, amounts deferred under the plan are periodically adjusted for investment experience as if they had been invested in shares of the fund. The DB plan resulted in a pension expense of $1,908 and the Retirement Deferral plan resulted in an expense of $2,544. Both amounts are included in independent Trustees’ compensation for the six months ended February 28, 2015. The liability for deferred retirement benefits payable to certain independent Trustees under both plans amounted to $84,650 at February 28, 2015, and is included in “Payable for independent Trustees’ compensation” in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Other – Effective November 1, 2014, this fund and certain other funds managed by MFS (the funds) have entered into a service agreement (the ISO Agreement) which provides for payment of fees solely by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the provision of services of an Independent Senior Officer (ISO) for the funds. Frank L. Tarantino serves as the ISO and is an officer of the funds and the sole member of

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

Tarantino LLC. The funds can terminate the ISO Agreement with Tarantino LLC at any time under the terms of the ISO Agreement. Prior to November 1, 2014, the funds had entered into a service agreement (the Compliance Officer Agreement) which provided for payment of fees by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the provision of services of an Independent Chief Compliance Officer (ICCO) for the funds. Prior to November 1, 2014, Frank L. Tarantino served as the ICCO. Effective October 31, 2014, Mr. Tarantino resigned as ICCO and the Compliance Officer Agreement between the funds and Tarantino LLC was terminated. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the aggregate fees paid by the fund under these agreements were $2,462 and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations. MFS had agreed to reimburse the fund for a portion of the payments made by the fund for the services under the Compliance Officer Agreement in the amount of $427, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. Additionally, MFS has agreed to bear all expenses associated with office space, other administrative support, and supplies provided to the ICCO and ISO.

The fund invests in the MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio which is managed by MFS and seeks current income consistent with preservation of capital and liquidity. Income earned on this investment is included in “Dividends from underlying affiliated funds” in the Statement of Operations. This money market fund does not pay a management fee to MFS.

(4) Portfolio Securities

For the six months ended February 28, 2015, purchases and sales of investments, other than short sales, and short-term obligations, aggregated $399,633,016 and $414,747,913, respectively.

(5) Shares of Beneficial Interest

The fund’s Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest. Transactions in fund shares were as follows:

 

    Six months ended
2/28/15
    Year ended
8/31/14
 
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  
Shares sold        

Class A

    2,283,684        $63,964,132        3,726,575        $98,779,253   

Class B

    75,363        1,932,953        128,799        3,156,038   

Class C

    256,080        6,494,772        320,385        7,756,813   

Class I

    254,497        7,523,476        489,647        13,383,291   

Class R1

    14,558        362,924        25,142        616,104   

Class R2

    56,526        1,570,654        114,651        3,009,148   

Class R3

    175,825        4,938,682        388,156        10,206,825   

Class R4

    88,004        2,518,443        568,620        15,584,037   

Class R5

    3,152        94,529        80,363        2,205,958   
    3,207,689        $89,400,565        5,842,338        $154,697,467   

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
    Year ended
8/31/14
 
     Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  
Shares issued to shareholders in
reinvestment of distributions
        

Class A

     2,710,272        $73,339,956        219,909        $5,744,030   

Class B

     123,690        3,056,391                 

Class C

     267,888        6,557,903        3,671        87,708   

Class I

     127,373        3,598,289        10,378        282,064   

Class R1

     13,757        336,495        20        485   

Class R2

     49,416        1,311,498        3,341        85,652   

Class R3

     200,083        5,396,235        16,253        423,237   

Class R4

     58,200        1,583,612        2,743        72,032   

Class R5

     6,949        196,526        41        1,122   
     3,557,628        $95,376,905        256,356        $6,696,330   
Shares reacquired         

Class A

     (2,647,567     $(74,611,581     (6,266,489     $(167,777,284

Class B

     (205,693     (5,291,893     (465,704     (11,473,848

Class C

     (266,040     (6,757,065     (572,495     (13,987,990

Class I

     (107,943     (3,132,131     (219,406     (6,160,376

Class R1

     (9,826     (249,028     (46,483     (1,136,563

Class R2

     (106,236     (2,874,397     (278,899     (7,430,972

Class R3

     (161,727     (4,538,970     (491,785     (13,044,811

Class R4

     (73,443     (2,133,567     (158,003     (4,285,803

Class R5

     (9,362     (268,212     (3,403     (97,310
     (3,587,837     $(99,856,844     (8,502,667     $(225,394,957
Net change         

Class A

     2,346,389        $62,692,507        (2,320,005     $(63,254,001

Class B

     (6,640     (302,549     (336,905     (8,317,810

Class C

     257,928        6,295,610        (248,439     (6,143,469

Class I

     273,927        7,989,634        280,619        7,504,979   

Class R1

     18,489        450,391        (21,321     (519,974

Class R2

     (294     7,755        (160,907     (4,336,172

Class R3

     214,181        5,795,947        (87,376     (2,414,749

Class R4

     72,761        1,968,488        413,360        11,370,266   

Class R5

     739        22,843        77,001        2,109,770   
     3,177,480        $84,920,626        (2,403,973     $(64,001,160

(6) Line of Credit

The fund and certain other funds managed by MFS participate in a $1.1 billion unsecured committed line of credit, subject to a $1 billion sublimit, provided by a syndication of banks under a credit agreement. Borrowings may be made for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, generally at a rate equal to the higher of the Federal Reserve funds rate or one month LIBOR plus an agreed upon spread. A commitment fee, based on the average daily, unused portion of the committed line of credit, is allocated among the participating

 

37


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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

funds at the end of each calendar quarter. In addition, the fund and other funds managed by MFS have established unsecured uncommitted borrowing arrangements with certain banks for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, at a rate equal to the Federal Reserve funds rate plus an agreed upon spread. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fund’s commitment fee and interest expense were $2,277 and $0, respectively, and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations. The period-end carrying value of the outstanding borrowings under this agreement on the fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities approximates its fair value which would have been considered level 2 under the fair value hierarchy disclosure if the liability were carried at fair value.

(7) Transactions in Underlying Affiliated Funds-Affiliated Issuers

An affiliated issuer may be considered one in which the fund owns 5% or more of the outstanding voting securities, or a company which is under common control. For the purposes of this report, the fund assumes the following to be an affiliated issuer:

 

Underlying Affiliated Fund    Beginning
Shares/Par
Amount
     Acquisitions
Shares/Par
Amount
     Dispositions
Shares/Par
Amount
    Ending
Shares/Par
Amount
 
MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio      4,714,652         103,657,791         (98,986,841     9,385,602   
Underlying Affiliated Fund    Realized
Gain (Loss)
     Capital Gain
Distributions
     Dividend
Income
    Ending
Value
 
MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio      $—         $—         $7,564        $9,385,602   

 

38


Table of Contents

PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND INFORMATION

MFS votes proxies on behalf of the fund pursuant to proxy voting policies and procedures that are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-225-2606, by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

Information regarding how the fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 is available without charge by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

QUARTERLY PORTFOLIO DISCLOSURE

The fund will file a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. A shareholder can obtain the quarterly portfolio holdings report at mfs.com. The fund’s Form N-Q is also available on the EDGAR database on the Commission’s Internet Web site at http://www.sec.gov, and may be reviewed and copied at the:

Public Reference Room

Securities and Exchange Commission

100 F Street, NE, Room 1580

Washington, D.C. 20549

Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330. Copies of the fund’s Form N-Q also may be obtained, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section at the above address.

FURTHER INFORMATION

From time to time, MFS may post important information about the fund or the MFS funds on the MFS web site (mfs.com). This information is available by visiting the “Market Commentary” and “Announcements” sub sections in the “Market Outlooks” section of mfs.com or by clicking on the fund’s name under “Mutual Funds” in the “Products” section of mfs.com.

PROVISION OF FINANCIAL REPORTS AND SUMMARY PROSPECTUSES

The fund produces financial reports every six months and updates its summary prospectus and prospectus annually. To avoid sending duplicate copies of materials to households, only one copy of the fund’s annual and semiannual report and summary prospectus may be mailed to shareholders having the same last name and residential address on the fund’s records. However, any shareholder may contact MFSC (please see back cover for address and telephone number) to request that copies of these reports and summary prospectuses be sent personally to that shareholder.

 

39


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

Save paper with eDelivery.

 

LOGO

MFS® will send you prospectuses,

reports, and proxies directly via e-mail so you will get information faster with less mailbox clutter.

To sign up:

1. Go to mfs.com.

2. Log in via MFS® Access.

3. Select eDelivery.

If you own your MFS fund shares through a financial institution or a retirement plan, MFS® TALK, MFS® Access, or eDelivery may not be available to you.

 

CONTACT

WEB SITE

mfs.com

MFS TALK

1-800-637-8255

24 hours a day

ACCOUNT SERVICE AND LITERATURE

Shareholders

1-800-225-2606

Financial advisors

1-800-343-2829

Retirement plan services

1-800-637-1255

MAILING ADDRESS

MFS Service Center, Inc.

P.O. Box 55824

Boston, MA 02205-5824

OVERNIGHT MAIL

MFS Service Center, Inc.

c/o Boston Financial Data Services

30 Dan Road

Canton, MA 02021-2809

 


Table of Contents

SEMIANNUAL REPORT

February 28, 2015

 

LOGO

MFS® GLOBAL LEADERS FUND

 

LOGO

 

GLD-SEM

 


Table of Contents

MFS® GLOBAL LEADERS FUND

CONTENTS

 

Letter from the Chairman     1   
Portfolio composition     2   
Expense table     3   
Portfolio of investments     5   
Statement of assets and liabilities     8   
Statement of operations     9   
Statements of changes in net assets     10   
Financial highlights     11   
Notes to financial statements     15   
Proxy voting policies and information     24   
Quarterly portfolio disclosure     24   
Further information     24   
Provision of financial reports and summary prospectuses     24   
Contact information    back cover   

 

 

The report is prepared for the general information of shareholders.

It is authorized for distribution to prospective investors only when preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.

 

NOT FDIC INSURED Ÿ MAY LOSE VALUE Ÿ NO BANK GUARANTEE


Table of Contents

LOGO

LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Dear Shareholders:

Lower oil prices continue to influence markets in different ways. Among those economies hurt, oil-exporters such as Russia and Venezuela have been hit particularly hard, along with U.S. regions that have close oil industry ties.

The U.S. economic recovery remains solid. The labor market is strong, interest rates are historically low and reduced energy prices have helped to stimulate consumer spending.

Economic reports early in 2015 indicate that the eurozone is on a more solid footing, with confidence boosted by the launch of European Central Bank quantitative easing.

In Asia, the Chinese economy continues to raise concerns, with the People’s Bank of China implementing stimulus programs to counter a steady decline in growth rates.

As always, active risk management is integral to how we at MFS® manage your investments. We use a collaborative process, sharing insights across asset classes, regions and economic sectors. Our global investment team uses a diversified, multidisciplined, long-term approach.

Applying proven principles, such as asset allocation and diversification, can best serve investors over the long term. We are confident that this approach can help you as you work with your financial advisors to reach your goals in the years ahead.

Respectfully,

 

LOGO

Robert J. Manning

Chairman

MFS Investment Management

April 14, 2015

The opinions expressed in this letter are subject to change and may not be relied upon for investment advice. No forecasts can be guaranteed.

 

1


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION

 

Portfolio structure

 

LOGO

 

Top ten holdings  
Nestle S.A.     3.8%   
Time Warner, Inc.     3.1%   
Pernod Ricard S.A.     3.0%   
YUM! Brands, Inc.     3.0%   
Visa, Inc., “A”     3.0%   
Danone S.A.     3.0%   
Urban Outfitters, Inc.     2.9%   
Danaher Corp.     2.9%   
3M Co.     2.9%   
Burberry Group PLC     2.8%   
Equity sectors  
Consumer Staples     40.3%   
Retailing     23.2%   
Leisure     16.7%   
Industrial Goods & Services     5.3%   
Financial Services     4.3%   
Basic Materials     2.9%   
Technology     2.7%   
Special Products & Services     1.8%   
Issuer country weightings (x)   
United States     42.9%   
France     18.9%   
United Kingdom     13.0%   
Switzerland     6.6%   
Japan     4.1%   
Germany     2.7%   
Brazil     2.7%   
Netherlands     2.0%   
China     1.7%   
Other Countries     5.4%   
Currency exposure weightings (y)   
United States Dollar     42.9%   
Euro     24.8%   
British Pound Sterling     13.0%   
Swiss Franc     6.6%   
Japanese Yen     4.1%   
Hong Kong Dollar     3.1%   
Brazilian Real     2.7%   
Swedish Krona     1.5%   
Danish Krone     1.3%   
 

 

(x) Represents the portfolio’s exposure to issuer countries as a percentage of a portfolio’s net assets. For purposes of this presentation, United States includes Cash & Other.
(y) Represents the portfolio’s exposure to a particular currency as a percentage of a portfolio’s net assets. For purposes of this presentation, United States Dollar includes Cash & Other.

Cash & Other can include cash, other assets less liabilities, offsets to derivative positions, and short-term securities.

Percentages are based on net assets as of 2/28/15.

The portfolio is actively managed and current holdings may be different.

 

2


Table of Contents

EXPENSE TABLE

Fund expenses borne by the shareholders during the period, September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015

As a shareholder of the fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on certain purchase or redemption payments, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015.

Actual Expenses

The first line for each share class in the following table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The second line for each share class in the following table provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads). Therefore, the second line for each share class in the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

3


Table of Contents

Expense Table – continued

 

 

Share
Class
       Annualized
Expense
Ratio
    Beginning
Account Value
9/01/14
    Ending
Account Value
2/28/15
    Expenses
Paid During
Period (p)
9/01/14-2/28/15
 
A   Actual     1.45%        $1,000.00        $1,041.37        $7.34   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.45%        $1,000.00        $1,017.60        $7.25   
B   Actual     2.20%        $1,000.00        $1,037.88        $11.12   
  Hypothetical (h)     2.20%        $1,000.00        $1,013.88        $10.99   
C   Actual     2.20%        $1,000.00        $1,037.88        $11.12   
  Hypothetical (h)     2.20%        $1,000.00        $1,013.88        $10.99   
I   Actual     1.20%        $1,000.00        $1,042.52        $6.08   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.20%        $1,000.00        $1,018.84        $6.01   

 

(h) 5% class return per year before expenses.
(p) “Expenses Paid During Period” are equal to each class’s annualized expense ratio, as shown above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181/365 (to reflect the one-half year period). Expenses paid do not include any applicable sales charges (loads). If these transaction costs had been included, your costs would have been higher.

 

4


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS

2/28/15 (unaudited)

The Portfolio of Investments is a complete list of all securities owned by your fund. It is categorized by broad-based asset classes.

 

Common Stocks - 97.2%                 
Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
Alcoholic Beverages - 10.9%                 
AmBev S.A.      24,052      $ 155,390   
Carlsberg A.S., “B”      2,086        178,463   
Diageo PLC      12,159        363,326   
Pernod Ricard S.A.      3,474        411,889   
SABMiller PLC      6,663        378,035   
    

 

 

 
      $ 1,487,103   
Apparel Manufacturers - 14.1%                 
Burberry Group PLC      13,412      $ 387,619   
Compagnie Financiere Richemont S.A.      2,329        205,209   
Global Brands Group Holding Ltd. (a)      796,000        136,502   
Kering S.A.      1,745        355,399   
Li & Fung Ltd.      50,000        51,123   
LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton S.A.      2,095        384,249   
NIKE, Inc., “B”      2,464        239,304   
Tod’s S.p.A.      1,682        171,566   
    

 

 

 
      $ 1,930,971   
Broadcasting - 9.7%                 
Nippon Television Holdings, Inc.      11,100      $ 183,631   
Publicis Groupe S.A.      4,245        346,159   
Time Warner, Inc.      5,169        423,134   
Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc.      10,781        377,335   
    

 

 

 
      $ 1,330,259   
Business Services - 1.8%                 
Accenture PLC, “A”      2,710      $ 243,981   
Chemicals - 2.8%                 
3M Co.      2,329      $ 392,786   
Computer Software - 2.7%                 
SAP AG      5,257      $ 369,678   
Consumer Products - 14.3%                 
Colgate-Palmolive Co.      4,806      $ 340,361   
L’Oreal S.A.      1,952        354,417   
Newell Rubbermaid, Inc.      7,368        289,489   
Procter & Gamble Co.      4,146        352,949   

 

5


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
Common Stocks - continued                 
Consumer Products - continued                 
Reckitt Benckiser Group PLC      3,838      $ 347,223   
Unilever N.V.      6,188        269,370   
    

 

 

 
      $ 1,953,809   
Electrical Equipment - 5.3%                 
Danaher Corp.      4,513      $ 393,895   
Schneider Electric S.A.      4,118        331,702   
    

 

 

 
      $ 725,597   
Food & Beverages - 10.0%                 
Danone S.A.      5,819      $ 405,878   
M. Dias Branco S.A. Industria e Comercio de Alimentos      7,244        211,802   
Nestle S.A.      6,589        514,209   
Want Want China Holdings Ltd.      213,000        234,811   
    

 

 

 
      $ 1,366,700   
Gaming & Lodging - 1.3%                 
InterContinental Hotels Group PLC      4,270      $ 174,694   
General Merchandise - 1.6%                 
Target Corp.      2,810      $ 215,892   
Other Banks & Diversified Financials - 4.3%                 
Julius Baer Group Ltd.      4,063      $ 187,562   
Visa, Inc., “A”      1,499        406,694   
    

 

 

 
      $ 594,256   
Restaurants - 5.7%                 
McDonald’s Corp.      3,841      $ 379,875   
YUM! Brands, Inc.      5,015        406,767   
    

 

 

 
      $ 786,642   
Specialty Stores - 7.5%                 
AutoZone, Inc. (a)      543      $ 348,975   
L Brands, Inc.      3,037        278,979   
Urban Outfitters, Inc. (a)      10,343        402,963   
    

 

 

 
      $ 1,030,917   
Tobacco - 5.2%                 
Imperial Tobacco Group PLC      2,682      $ 132,210   
Japan Tobacco, Inc.      11,900        375,229   
Swedish Match AB      6,442        202,988   
    

 

 

 
      $ 710,427   
Total Common Stocks (Identified Cost, $11,322,181)            $ 13,313,712   

 

6


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Money Market Funds - 2.7%                 
Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio, 0.1%,
at Cost and Net Asset Value (v)
     379,786      $ 379,786   
Total Investments (Identified Cost, $11,701,967)      $ 13,693,498   
Other Assets, Less Liabilities - 0.1%        9,137   
Net Assets - 100.0%      $ 13,702,635   

 

(a) Non-income producing security.
(v) Underlying affiliated fund that is available only to investment companies managed by MFS. The rate quoted for the MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio is the annualized seven-day yield of the fund at period end.

The following abbreviations are used in this report and are defined:

 

PLC   Public Limited Company

See notes to financial statements

 

7


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement represents your fund’s balance sheet, which details the assets and liabilities comprising the total value of the fund.

 

Assets         

Investments-

  

Non-affiliated issuers, at value (identified cost, $11,322,181)

     $13,313,712   
Underlying affiliated funds, at cost and value      379,786   
Total investments, at value (identified cost, $11,701,967)      $13,693,498   

Receivables for

  

Fund shares sold

     10,954   

Dividends

     38,688   

Receivable from investment adviser

     11,333   
Other assets      213   
Total assets      $13,754,686   
Liabilities         

Payable for fund shares reacquired

     $4,444   

Payable to affiliates

  

Shareholder servicing costs

     4,273   

Distribution and service fees

     360   

Payable for independent Trustees’ compensation

     11   
Accrued expenses and other liabilities      42,963   
Total liabilities      $52,051   
Net assets      $13,702,635   
Net assets consist of         

Paid-in capital

     $11,682,772   

Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments and translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies

     1,990,963   

Accumulated net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     722   
Undistributed net investment income      28,178   
Net assets      $13,702,635   
Shares of beneficial interest outstanding      972,813   

 

     Net assets      Shares
outstanding
     Net asset value
per share (a)
 

Class A

     $8,346,964         591,408         $14.11   

Class B

     501,880         36,135         13.89   

Class C

     1,823,667         131,321         13.89   

Class I

     3,030,124         213,949         14.16   

 

(a) Maximum offering price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for all share classes, except for Class A, for which the maximum offering price per share was $14.97 [100 / 94.25 x $14.11]. On sales of $50,000 or more, the maximum offering price of Class A shares is reduced. A contingent deferred sales charge may be imposed on redemptions of Class A, Class B, and Class C shares. Redemption price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for Class I.

See notes to financial statements

 

8


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Six months ended 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement describes how much your fund earned in investment income and accrued in expenses. It also describes any gains and/or losses generated by fund operations.

 

Net investment income         

Income

  

Dividends

     $136,687   

Dividends from underlying affiliated funds

     130   

Foreign taxes withheld

     (9,202

Total investment income

     $127,615   

Expenses

  

Management fee

     $58,343   

Distribution and service fees

     20,934   

Shareholder servicing costs

     8,700   

Administrative services fee

     8,679   

Independent Trustees’ compensation

     596   

Custodian fee

     7,534   

Shareholder communications

     5,451   

Audit and tax fees

     26,081   

Legal fees

     58   

Registration fees

     25,124   

Miscellaneous

     5,478   

Total expenses

     $166,978   

Reduction of expenses by investment adviser and distributor

     (68,300

Net expenses

     $98,678   

Net investment income

     $28,937   
Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency
        

Realized gain (loss) (identified cost basis)

  

Investments

     $200,506   

Foreign currency

     (3,004

Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     $197,502   

Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

  

Investments

     $278,737   

Translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies

     (296

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency translation

     $278,441   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     $475,943   

Change in net assets from operations

     $504,880   

See notes to financial statements

 

9


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

These statements describe the increases and/or decreases in net assets resulting from operations, any distributions, and any shareholder transactions.

 

Change in net assets   

Six months ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    

Year ended
8/31/14

 
From operations                  

Net investment income

     $28,937         $74,290   

Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     197,502         249,780   

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency translation

     278,441         577,585   

Change in net assets from operations

     $504,880         $901,655   
Distributions declared to shareholders                  

From net investment income

     $(50,007      $(68,001

From net realized gain on investments

     (409,274      (810,506

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(459,281      $(878,507

Change in net assets from fund share transactions

     $(93,130      $3,114,847   

Total change in net assets

     $(47,531      $3,137,995   
Net assets                  

At beginning of period

     13,750,166         10,612,171   

At end of period (including undistributed net investment income of $28,178 and $49,248, respectively)

     $13,702,635         $13,750,166   

See notes to financial statements

 

10


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the fund’s financial performance for the semiannual period and the past 5 fiscal years (or life of a particular share class, if shorter). Certain information reflects financial results for a single fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate by which an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the fund share class (assuming reinvestment of all distributions) held for the entire period.

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

     Years ended 8/31    

Period ended

8/31/12 (c)

 
Class A      2014      2013    
                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $14.04         $13.95         $12.16        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.04         $0.09         $0.07        $0.20   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments and foreign currency

    0.51         1.04         1.91        1.96   

Total from investment operations

    $0.55         $1.13         $1.98        $2.16   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.05      $(0.08      $(0.06     $—   

From net realized gain on investments

    (0.43      (0.96      (0.13       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

    $(0.48      $(1.04      $(0.19     $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $14.11         $14.04         $13.95        $12.16   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    4.14 (n)       8.30         16.39        21.60 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    2.50 (a)       2.48         2.89        6.60 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    1.45 (a)       1.45         1.45        1.45 (a) 

Net investment income

    0.52 (a)       0.64         0.55 (l)      1.83 (a)(l) 

Portfolio turnover

    9 (n)       17         82        19 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

    $8,347         $8,639         $6,632        $8,331   

See notes to financial statements

 

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Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31    

Period ended

8/31/12 (c)

 
Class B     2014      2013    
                      

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $13.82        $13.81         $12.07        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (loss) (d)

    $(0.02     $(0.02      $0.01        $(0.01

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments and foreign currency

    0.52        1.03         1.86        2.08   

Total from investment operations

    $0.50        $1.01         $1.87        $2.07   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $—        $(0.04      $—        $—   

From net realized gain on investments

    (0.43     (0.96      (0.13       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

    $(0.43     $(1.00      $(0.13     $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $13.89        $13.82         $13.81        $12.07   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    3.79 (n)      7.48         15.55        20.70 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    3.26 (a)      3.23         3.96        5.96 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    2.20 (a)      2.20         2.21        2.20 (a) 

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.23 )(a)      (0.12      0.09        (0.10 )(a) 

Portfolio turnover

    9 (n)      17         82        19 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

    $502        $486         $364        $131   

See notes to financial statements

 

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Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31    

Period ended

8/31/12 (c)

 
Class C     2014      2013    
                      

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $13.82        $13.81         $12.07        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (loss) (d)

    $(0.01     $(0.01      $0.02        $(0.01

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments and foreign currency

    0.51        1.02         1.85        2.08   

Total from investment operations

    $0.50        $1.01         $1.87        $2.07   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $—        $(0.04      $(0.00 )(w)      $—   

From net realized gain on investments

    (0.43     (0.96      (0.13       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

    $(0.43     $(1.00      $(0.13     $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $13.89        $13.82         $13.81        $12.07   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    3.79 (n)      7.50         15.57        20.70 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    3.25 (a)      3.22         4.02        5.96 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    2.20 (a)      2.20         2.21        2.20 (a) 

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.22 )(a)      (0.08      0.16        (0.07 )(a) 

Portfolio turnover

    9 (n)      17         82        19 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

    $1,824        $1,712         $927        $133   

See notes to financial statements

 

13


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

     Years ended 8/31    

Period ended

8/31/12 (c)

 
Class I      2014      2013    
                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $14.11         $14.00         $12.18        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.05         $0.12         $0.14        $0.09   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments and foreign currency

    0.52         1.05         1.88        2.09   

Total from investment operations

    $0.57         $1.17         $2.02        $2.18   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.09      $(0.10      $(0.07     $—   

From net realized gain on investments

    (0.43      (0.96      (0.13       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

    $(0.52      $(1.06      $(0.20     $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $14.16         $14.11         $14.00        $12.18   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    4.25 (n)       8.57         16.72        21.80 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    2.25 (a)       2.24         2.86        4.94 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    1.20 (a)       1.20         1.21        1.20 (a) 

Net investment income

    0.77 (a)       0.85         1.03        0.90 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

    9 (n)       17         82        19 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

    $3,030         $2,913         $2,690        $2,193   

 

(a) Annualized.
(c) For the period from the commencement of the fund’s investment operations, September 28, 2011, through the stated period end.
(d) Per share data is based on average shares outstanding.
(f) Ratios do not reflect reductions from fees paid indirectly, if applicable.
(l) The net investment income ratio does not vary by the class specific expense differential because of the timing of sales of fund shares and the allocation of fund level income at such time.
(n) Not annualized.
(r) Certain expenses have been reduced without which performance would have been lower.
(s) From time to time the fund may receive proceeds from litigation settlements, without which performance would be lower.
(t) Total returns do not include any applicable sales charges.
(w) Per share amount was less than $0.01.
(x) The net asset values per share and total returns have been calculated on net assets which include adjustments made in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles required at period end for financial reporting purposes.

See notes to financial statements

 

14


Table of Contents

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

(1) Business and Organization

MFS Global Leaders Fund (the fund) is a diversified series of MFS Series Trust I (the trust). Prior to September 29, 2014, the fund was a non-diversified series of the trust. The trust is organized as a Massachusetts business trust and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as an open-end management investment company.

The fund is an investment company and accordingly follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 Financial Services – Investment Companies.

(2) Significant Accounting Policies

General – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. In the preparation of these financial statements, management has evaluated subsequent events occurring after the date of the fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities through the date that the financial statements were issued. The fund invests in foreign securities. Investments in foreign securities are vulnerable to the effects of changes in the relative values of the local currency and the U.S. dollar and to the effects of changes in each country’s legal, political, and economic environment.

In June 2014, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-11, Transfers and Servicing (Topic 860) – Repurchase-to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures (“ASU 2014-11”). ASU 2014-11 changes the accounting for repurchase-to-maturity transactions (i.e., repurchase agreements that settle at the same time as the maturity of the transferred financial asset) and enhances the required disclosures for repurchase agreements and other similar transactions. Although still evaluating the potential impacts of ASU 2014-11 to the fund, management expects that the impact of the fund’s adoption will be limited to additional financial statement disclosures which would first be effective for interim reporting periods beginning after March 15, 2015.

Balance Sheet Offsetting – The fund’s accounting policy with respect to balance sheet offsetting is that, absent an event of default by the counterparty or a termination of the agreement, the International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) Master Agreement does not result in an offset of reported amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities across transactions between the fund and the applicable counterparty. The fund’s right to setoff may be restricted or prohibited by the bankruptcy or insolvency laws of the particular jurisdiction to which a specific master netting agreement counterparty is subject. Balance sheet offsetting disclosures, to the extent applicable to the fund, have been included in the fund’s Significant Accounting Policies note under the captions for each of the fund’s in-scope financial instruments and transactions.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

Investment Valuations – Equity securities, including restricted equity securities, are generally valued at the last sale or official closing price as provided by a third-party pricing service on the market or exchange on which they are primarily traded. Equity securities, for which there were no sales reported that day, are generally valued at the last quoted daily bid quotation as provided by a third-party pricing service on the market or exchange on which such securities are primarily traded. Short-term instruments with a maturity at issuance of 60 days or less may be valued at amortized cost, which approximates market value. Open-end investment companies are generally valued at net asset value per share. Securities and other assets generally valued on the basis of information from a third-party pricing service may also be valued at a broker/dealer bid quotation. Values obtained from third-party pricing services can utilize both transaction data and market information such as yield, quality, coupon rate, maturity, type of issue, trading characteristics, and other market data. The values of foreign securities and other assets and liabilities expressed in foreign currencies are converted to U.S. dollars using the mean of bid and asked prices for rates provided by a third-party pricing service.

The Board of Trustees has delegated primary responsibility for determining or causing to be determined the value of the fund’s investments (including any fair valuation) to the adviser pursuant to valuation policies and procedures approved by the Board. If the adviser determines that reliable market quotations are not readily available, investments are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the adviser in accordance with such procedures under the oversight of the Board of Trustees. Under the fund’s valuation policies and procedures, market quotations are not considered to be readily available for most types of debt instruments and floating rate loans and many types of derivatives. These investments are generally valued at fair value based on information from third-party pricing services. In addition, investments may be valued at fair value if the adviser determines that an investment’s value has been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the exchange or market on which the investment is principally traded (such as foreign exchange or market) and prior to the determination of the fund’s net asset value, or after the halting of trading of a specific security where trading does not resume prior to the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded. Events that occur on a frequent basis after foreign markets close (such as developments in foreign markets and significant movements in the U.S. markets) and prior to the determination of the fund’s net asset value may be deemed to have a material effect on the value of securities traded in foreign markets. Accordingly, the fund’s foreign equity securities may often be valued at fair value. The adviser generally relies on third-party pricing services or other information (such as the correlation with price movements of similar securities in the same or other markets; the type, cost and investment characteristics of the security; the business and financial condition of the issuer; and trading and other market data) to assist in determining whether to fair value and at what value to fair value an investment. The value of an investment for purposes of calculating the fund’s net asset value can differ depending on the source and method used to determine value. When fair valuation is used, the value of an investment used to determine the fund’s net asset value may differ from quoted or published prices for the same investment. There can be no assurance that

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

the fund could obtain the fair value assigned to an investment if it were to sell the investment at the same time at which the fund determines its net asset value per share.

Various inputs are used in determining the value of the fund’s assets or liabilities. These inputs are categorized into three broad levels. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, an investment’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The fund’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the investment. Level 1 includes unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 includes other significant observable market-based inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speed, and credit risk). Level 3 includes unobservable inputs, which may include the adviser’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. The following is a summary of the levels used as of February 28, 2015 in valuing the fund’s assets or liabilities:

 

Investments at Value    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  
Equity Securities      $13,313,712         $—         $—         $13,313,712   
Mutual Funds      379,786                         379,786   
Total Investments      $13,693,498         $—         $—         $13,693,498   

For further information regarding security characteristics, see the Portfolio of Investments.

Foreign Currency Translation – Purchases and sales of foreign investments, income, and expenses are converted into U.S. dollars based upon currency exchange rates prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions or on the reporting date for foreign denominated receivables and payables. Gains and losses attributable to foreign currency exchange rates on sales of securities are recorded for financial statement purposes as net realized gains and losses on investments. Gains and losses attributable to foreign exchange rate movements on receivables, payables, income and expenses are recorded for financial statement purposes as foreign currency transaction gains and losses. That portion of both realized and unrealized gains and losses on investments that results from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates is not separately disclosed.

Indemnifications – Under the fund’s organizational documents, its officers and Trustees may be indemnified against certain liabilities and expenses arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into agreements with service providers that may contain indemnification clauses. The fund’s maximum exposure under these agreements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the fund that have not yet occurred.

Investment Transactions and Income – Investment transactions are recorded on the trade date. Dividends received in cash are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Certain dividends from foreign securities will be recorded when the fund is informed of the dividend if such information is obtained subsequent to the ex-dividend date. Dividend payments received in additional securities are recorded on the ex-dividend date in an amount equal to the value of the security on such date.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

The fund may receive proceeds from litigation settlements. Any proceeds received from litigation involving portfolio holdings are reflected in the Statement of Operations in realized gain/loss if the security has been disposed of by the fund or in unrealized gain/loss if the security is still held by the fund. Any other proceeds from litigation not related to portfolio holdings are reflected as other income in the Statement of Operations.

Fees Paid Indirectly – The fund’s custody fee may be reduced according to an arrangement that measures the value of cash deposited with the custodian by the fund. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, custody fees were not reduced.

Tax Matters and Distributions – The fund intends to qualify as a regulated investment company, as defined under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, and to distribute all of its taxable income, including realized capital gains. As a result, no provision for federal income tax is required. The fund’s federal tax returns, when filed, will remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service for a three year period. Management has analyzed the fund’s tax positions taken on federal and state tax returns for all open tax years and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability. Foreign taxes, if any, have been accrued by the fund in the accompanying financial statements in accordance with the applicable foreign tax law. Foreign income taxes may be withheld by certain countries in which the fund invests. Additionally, capital gains realized by the fund on securities issued in or by certain foreign countries may be subject to capital gains tax imposed by those countries.

Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Certain capital accounts in the financial statements are periodically adjusted for permanent differences in order to reflect their tax character. These adjustments have no impact on net assets or net asset value per share. Temporary differences which arise from recognizing certain items of income, expense, gain or loss in different periods for financial statement and tax purposes will reverse at some time in the future. Distributions in excess of net investment income or net realized gains are temporary overdistributions for financial statement purposes resulting from differences in the recognition or classification of income or distributions for financial statement and tax purposes.

Book/tax differences primarily relate to passive foreign investment companies, wash sale loss deferrals, and treating a portion of the proceeds from redemptions as a distribution for tax purposes.

The tax character of distributions made during the current period will be determined at fiscal year end. The tax character of distributions declared to shareholders for the last fiscal year is as follows:

 

     8/31/14  
Ordinary income (including any
short-term capital gains)
     $795,002   
Long-term capital gains      83,505   
Total distributions      $878,507   

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

The federal tax cost and the tax basis components of distributable earnings were as follows:

 

As of 2/28/15       
Cost of investments      $11,725,172   
Gross appreciation      2,254,970   
Gross depreciation      (286,644
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)      $1,968,326   
As of 8/31/14       
Undistributed ordinary income      138,864   
Undistributed long-term capital gain      146,442   
Other temporary differences      (631
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)      1,689,589   

The aggregate cost above includes prior fiscal year end tax adjustments, if applicable.

Multiple Classes of Shares of Beneficial Interest – The fund offers multiple classes of shares, which differ in their respective distribution and service fees. The fund’s income, realized and unrealized gain (loss), and common expenses are allocated to shareholders based on the daily net assets of each class. Dividends are declared separately for each class. Differences in per share dividend rates are generally due to differences in separate class expenses. Class B shares will convert to Class A shares approximately eight years after purchase. The fund’s distributions declared to shareholders as reported in the Statements of Changes in Net Assets are presented by class as follows:

 

     From net investment
income
     From net realized gain  on
investments
 
     Six months
ended
2/28/15
     Year
ended
8/31/14
     Six months
ended
2/28/15
     Year
ended
8/31/14
 
Class A      $31,148         $43,141         $247,860         $505,890   
Class B              1,474         15,312         32,256   
Class C              4,066         56,700         87,699   
Class I      18,859         19,320         89,402         184,661   
Total      $50,007         $68,001         $409,274         $810,506   

(3) Transactions with Affiliates

Investment Adviser – The fund has an investment advisory agreement with MFS to provide overall investment management and related administrative services and facilities to the fund. The management fee is computed daily and paid monthly at the following annual rates:

 

First $1 billion of average daily net assets      0.90
Next $1.5 billion of average daily net assets      0.75
Average daily net assets in excess of $2.5 billion      0.65

MFS has agreed in writing to reduce its management fee by a specified amount if certain MFS mutual fund assets exceed thresholds agreed to by MFS and the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this management fee

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

reduction amounted to $395, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. The management fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.89% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

The investment adviser has agreed in writing to pay a portion of the fund’s total annual operating expenses, excluding interest, taxes, extraordinary expenses, brokerage and transaction costs, and investment-related expenses, such that total fund operating expenses do not exceed the following rates annually of each class’s average daily net assets:

 

Class A     Class B     Class C     Class I  
  1.45%        2.20     2.20     1.20

This written agreement will continue until modified by the fund’s Board of Trustees, but such agreement will continue at least until December 31, 2015. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this reduction amounted to $67,891, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Distributor – MFS Fund Distributors, Inc. (MFD), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, as distributor, received $3,243 for the six months ended February 28, 2015, as its portion of the initial sales charge on sales of Class A shares of the fund, respectively.

The Board of Trustees has adopted a distribution plan for certain share classes pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the Investment Company Act of 1940.

The fund’s distribution plan provides that the fund will pay MFD for services provided by MFD and financial intermediaries in connection with the distribution and servicing of certain share classes. One component of the plan is a distribution fee paid to MFD and another component of the plan is a service fee paid to MFD. MFD may subsequently pay all, or a portion, of the distribution and/or service fees to financial intermediaries.

Distribution Plan Fee Table:

 

    

Distribution

Fee Rate (d)

    

Service

Fee Rate (d)

    

Total

Distribution

Plan (d)

    

Annual

Effective

Rate (e)

    

Distribution

and Service

Fee

 
Class A              0.25%         0.25%         0.25%         $9,868   
Class B      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         2,389   
Class C      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         8,677   
Total Distribution and Service Fees         $20,934   

 

(d) In accordance with the distribution plan for certain classes, the fund pays distribution and/or service fees equal to these annual percentage rates of each class’s average daily net assets. The distribution and service fee rates disclosed by class represent the current rates in effect at the end of the reporting period. Any rate changes, if applicable, are detailed below.
(e) The annual effective rates represent actual fees incurred under the distribution plan for the six months ended February 28, 2015 based on each class’s average daily net assets. MFD has voluntarily agreed to rebate a portion of each class’s 0.25% service fee attributable to accounts for which MFD retains the 0.25% service fee except for accounts attributable to MFS or its affiliates’ seed money. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this rebate amounted to $10 for Class A and is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

Certain Class A shares are subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) in the event of a shareholder redemption within 18 months of purchase. Class C shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder redemption within 12 months of purchase. Class B shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder redemption within six years of purchase. All contingent deferred sales charges are paid to MFD and during the six months ended February 28, 2015, were as follows:

 

     Amount  
Class A      $—   
Class B      43   
Class C      116   

Shareholder Servicing Agent – MFS Service Center, Inc. (MFSC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, receives a fee from the fund for its services as shareholder servicing agent calculated as a percentage of the average daily net assets of the fund as determined periodically under the supervision of the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fee was $1,680, which equated to 0.0259% annually of the fund’s average daily net assets. MFSC also receives payment from the fund for out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs which may be paid to affiliated and unaffiliated service providers. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, these out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs amounted to $7,020.

Administrator – MFS provides certain financial, legal, shareholder communications, compliance, and other administrative services to the fund. Under an administrative services agreement, the fund reimburses MFS the costs incurred to provide these services. The fund is charged an annual fixed amount of $17,500 plus a fee based on average daily net assets. The administrative services fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.1339% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

Trustees’ and Officers’ Compensation – The fund pays compensation to independent Trustees in the form of a retainer, attendance fees, and additional compensation to Board and Committee chairpersons. The fund does not pay compensation directly to Trustees or officers of the fund who are also officers of the investment adviser, all of whom receive remuneration for their services to the fund from MFS. Certain officers and Trustees of the fund are officers or directors of MFS, MFD, and MFSC.

Other – Effective November 1, 2014, this fund and certain other funds managed by MFS (the funds) have entered into a service agreement (the ISO Agreement) which provides for payment of fees solely by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the provision of services of an Independent Senior Officer (ISO) for the funds. Frank L. Tarantino serves as the ISO and is an officer of the funds and the sole member of Tarantino LLC. The funds can terminate the ISO Agreement with Tarantino LLC at any time under the terms of the ISO Agreement. Prior to November 1, 2014, the funds had entered into a service agreement (the Compliance Officer Agreement) which provided for payment of fees by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the provision of services of an Independent Chief Compliance Officer (ICCO) for the funds. Prior to November 1, 2014, Frank L. Tarantino served as the ICCO. Effective October 31, 2014, Mr. Tarantino

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

resigned as ICCO and the Compliance Officer Agreement between the funds and Tarantino LLC was terminated. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the aggregate fees paid by the fund under these agreements were $26 and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations. MFS had agreed to reimburse the fund for a portion of the payments made by the fund for the services under the Compliance Officer Agreement in the amount of $4, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. Additionally, MFS has agreed to bear all expenses associated with office space, other administrative support, and supplies provided to the ICCO and ISO.

The fund invests in the MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio which is managed by MFS and seeks current income consistent with preservation of capital and liquidity. Income earned on this investment is included in “Dividends from underlying affiliated funds” in the Statement of Operations. This money market fund does not pay a management fee to MFS.

On September 11, 2013, MFS redeemed 10,143 shares of Class A for an aggregate amount of $147,378. At February 28, 2015, MFS held approximately 96% of the outstanding shares of Class I.

(4) Portfolio Securities

For the six months ended February 28, 2015, purchases and sales of investments, other than short-term obligations, aggregated $1,102,927 and $1,514,761, respectively.

(5) Shares of Beneficial Interest

The fund’s Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest. Transactions in fund shares were as follows:

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
     Year ended
8/31/14
 
     Shares      Amount      Shares      Amount  
Shares sold            

Class A

     78,356         $1,077,474         255,307         $3,612,305   

Class B

     849         11,353         11,692         169,040   

Class C

     9,962         133,910         70,847         990,306   

Class I

     368         5,000         1,341         19,082   
     89,535         $1,227,737         339,187         $4,790,733   
Shares issued to shareholders in reinvestment of distributions            

Class A

     20,283         $274,026         39,229         $537,433   

Class B

     1,115         14,846         2,406         32,621   

Class C

     4,136         55,051         6,502         88,100   

Class I

     7,990         108,261         14,846         203,981   
     33,524         $452,184         62,983         $862,135   

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
     Year ended
8/31/14
 
     Shares      Amount      Shares      Amount  
Shares reacquired            

Class A

     (122,386      $(1,659,480      (154,628      $(2,164,259

Class B

     (987      (13,408      (5,284      (74,272

Class C

     (6,630      (88,530      (20,627      (273,867

Class I

     (857      (11,633      (1,869      (25,623
     (130,860      $(1,773,051      (182,408      $(2,538,021
Net change            

Class A

     (23,747      $(307,980      139,908         $1,985,479   

Class B

     977         12,791         8,814         127,389   

Class C

     7,468         100,431         56,722         804,539   

Class I

     7,501         101,628         14,318         197,440   
     (7,801      $(93,130      219,762         $3,114,847   

(6) Line of Credit

The fund and certain other funds managed by MFS participate in a $1.1 billion unsecured committed line of credit, subject to a $1 billion sublimit, provided by a syndication of banks under a credit agreement. Borrowings may be made for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, generally at a rate equal to the higher of the Federal Reserve funds rate or one month LIBOR plus an agreed upon spread. A commitment fee, based on the average daily, unused portion of the committed line of credit, is allocated among the participating funds at the end of each calendar quarter. In addition, the fund and other funds managed by MFS have established unsecured uncommitted borrowing arrangements with certain banks for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, at a rate equal to the Federal Reserve funds rate plus an agreed upon spread. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fund’s commitment fee and interest expense were $25 and $0, respectively, and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations.

(7) Transactions in Underlying Affiliated Funds-Affiliated Issuers

An affiliated issuer may be considered one in which the fund owns 5% or more of the outstanding voting securities, or a company which is under common control. For the purposes of this report, the fund assumes the following to be an affiliated issuer:

 

Underlying Affiliated Fund   

Beginning

Shares/Par

Amount

    

Acquisitions

Shares/Par

Amount

    

Dispositions

Shares/Par

Amount

    

Ending

Shares/Par

Amount

 
MFS Institutional Money
Market Portfolio
     541,652         1,509,944         (1,671,810      379,786   
Underlying Affiliated Fund   

Realized

Gain (Loss)

    

Capital Gain

Distributions

    

Dividend

Income

    

Ending

Value

 
MFS Institutional Money
Market Portfolio
     $—         $—         $130         $379,786   

 

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PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND INFORMATION

MFS votes proxies on behalf of the fund pursuant to proxy voting policies and procedures that are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-225-2606, by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

Information regarding how the fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 is available without charge by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

QUARTERLY PORTFOLIO DISCLOSURE

The fund will file a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. A shareholder can obtain the quarterly portfolio holdings report at mfs.com. The fund’s Form N-Q is also available on the EDGAR database on the Commission’s Internet Web site at http://www.sec.gov, and may be reviewed and copied at the:

Public Reference Room

Securities and Exchange Commission

100 F Street, NE, Room 1580

Washington, D.C. 20549

Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330. Copies of the fund’s Form N-Q also may be obtained, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section at the above address.

FURTHER INFORMATION

From time to time, MFS may post important information about the fund or the MFS funds on the MFS web site (mfs.com). This information is available by visiting the “Market Commentary” and “Announcements” sub sections in the “Market Outlooks” section of mfs.com or by clicking on the fund’s name under “Mutual Funds” in the “Products” section of mfs.com.

PROVISION OF FINANCIAL REPORTS AND SUMMARY PROSPECTUSES

The fund produces financial reports every six months and updates its summary prospectus and prospectus annually. To avoid sending duplicate copies of materials to households, only one copy of the fund’s annual and semiannual report and summary prospectus may be mailed to shareholders having the same last name and residential address on the fund’s records. However, any shareholder may contact MFSC (please see back cover for address and telephone number) to request that copies of these reports and summary prospectuses be sent personally to that shareholder.

 

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Table of Contents

SEMIANNUAL REPORT

February 28, 2015

 

LOGO

 

MFS® LOW VOLATILITY GLOBAL EQUITY FUND

 

LOGO

 

LVO-SEM

 


Table of Contents

MFS® LOW VOLATILITY GLOBAL EQUITY FUND

CONTENTS

 

Letter from the Chairman     1   
Portfolio composition     2   
Expense table     4   
Portfolio of investments     6   
Statement of assets and liabilities     11   
Statement of operations     13   
Statements of changes in net assets     14   
Financial highlights     15   
Notes to financial statements     24   
Proxy voting policies and information     35   
Quarterly portfolio disclosure     35   
Further information     35   
Provision of financial reports and summary prospectuses     35   
Contact information    back cover   

 

 

The report is prepared for the general information of shareholders.

It is authorized for distribution to prospective investors only when preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.

 

NOT FDIC INSURED Ÿ MAY LOSE VALUE Ÿ NO BANK GUARANTEE


Table of Contents

LOGO

LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Dear Shareholders:

Lower oil prices continue to influence markets in different ways. Among those economies hurt, oil-exporters such as Russia and Venezuela have been hit particularly hard, along with U.S. regions that have close oil industry ties.

The U.S. economic recovery remains solid. The labor market is strong, interest rates are historically low and reduced energy prices have helped to stimulate consumer spending.

Economic reports early in 2015 indicate that the eurozone is on a more solid footing, with confidence boosted by the launch of European Central Bank quantitative easing.

In Asia, the Chinese economy continues to raise concerns, with the People’s Bank of China implementing stimulus programs to counter a steady decline in growth rates.

As always, active risk management is integral to how we at MFS® manage your investments. We use a collaborative process, sharing insights across asset classes, regions and economic sectors. Our global investment team uses a diversified, multidisciplined, long-term approach.

Applying proven principles, such as asset allocation and diversification, can best serve investors over the long term. We are confident that this approach can help you as you work with your financial advisors to reach your goals in the years ahead.

Respectfully,

 

LOGO

Robert J. Manning

Chairman

MFS Investment Management

April 14, 2015

The opinions expressed in this letter are subject to change and may not be relied upon for investment advice. No forecasts can be guaranteed.

 

1


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION

 

Portfolio structure

 

LOGO

 

Top ten holdings  
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd., ADR     3.6%   
General Mills, Inc.     3.3%   
Discover Financial Services     2.6%   
Roche Holding AG     2.4%   
Johnson & Johnson     2.2%   
Santen Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.     2.2%   
Cheung Kong Infrastructure Holdings Ltd.     2.2%   
Exxon Mobil Corp.     2.1%   
Royal Dutch Shell PLC, “B”     2.0%   
Ross Stores, Inc.     1.8%   
Equity sectors  
Utilities & Communications     16.8%   
Financial Services     14.5%   
Consumer Staples     13.9%   
Health Care     13.4%   
Technology     10.2%   
Retailing     9.3%   
Leisure     6.5%   
Energy     5.4%   
Industrial Goods & Services     2.3%   
Autos & Housing     2.1%   
Transportation     1.9%   
Basic Materials     1.7%   
Special Products & Services     0.8%   
Issuer country weightings (x)   
United States     43.1%   
Japan     12.4%   
Hong Kong     6.0%   
United Kingdom     5.9%   
Switzerland     5.4%   
Taiwan     5.1%   
Canada     4.2%   
Israel     2.9%   
China     2.5%   
Other Countries     12.5%   
Currency exposure weightings (y)   
United States Dollar     48.5%   
Japanese Yen     12.4%   
Hong Kong Dollar     8.1%   
British Pound Sterling     5.9%   
Swiss Franc     5.4%   
Taiwan Dollar     5.1%   
Euro     4.5%   
Israeli Shekel     2.9%   
Malaysian Ringgit     1.6%   
Other Currencies     5.6%   
 

 

2


Table of Contents

Portfolio Composition – continued

 

 

(x) Represents the portfolio’s exposure to issuer countries as a percentage of a portfolio’s net assets. For purposes of this presentation, United States includes Cash & Other.
(y) Represents the portfolio’s exposure to a particular currency as a percentage of a portfolio’s net assets. For purposes of this presentation, United States Dollar includes Cash & Other.

Cash & Other can include cash, other assets less liabilities, offsets to derivative positions, and short-term securities.

Percentages are based on net assets as of 2/28/15.

The portfolio is actively managed and current holdings may be different.

 

3


Table of Contents

EXPENSE TABLE

Fund expenses borne by the shareholders during the period, September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015

As a shareholder of the fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on certain purchase or redemption payments, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015.

Actual Expenses

The first line for each share class in the following table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The second line for each share class in the following table provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads). Therefore, the second line for each share class in the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

4


Table of Contents

Expense Table – continued

 

 

Share
Class
       Annualized
Expense
Ratio
    Beginning
Account Value
9/01/14
    Ending
Account Value
2/28/15
    Expenses
Paid During
Period  (p)
9/01/14-2/28/15
 
A   Actual     1.25%        $1,000.00        $1,055.97        $6.37   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.25%        $1,000.00        $1,018.60        $6.26   
B   Actual     2.03%        $1,000.00        $1,051.99        $10.33   
  Hypothetical (h)     2.03%        $1,000.00        $1,014.73        $10.14   
C   Actual     2.02%        $1,000.00        $1,051.99        $10.28   
  Hypothetical (h)     2.02%        $1,000.00        $1,014.78        $10.09   
I   Actual     1.00%        $1,000.00        $1,057.68        $5.10   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.00%        $1,000.00        $1,019.84        $5.01   
R1   Actual     2.03%        $1,000.00        $1,051.99        $10.33   
  Hypothetical (h)     2.03%        $1,000.00        $1,014.73        $10.14   
R2   Actual     1.53%        $1,000.00        $1,054.69        $7.79   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.53%        $1,000.00        $1,017.21        $7.65   
R3   Actual     1.28%        $1,000.00        $1,055.41        $6.52   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.28%        $1,000.00        $1,018.45        $6.41   
R4   Actual     1.03%        $1,000.00        $1,056.74        $5.25   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.03%        $1,000.00        $1,019.69        $5.16   
R5   Actual     1.01%        $1,000.00        $1,056.67        $5.15   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.01%        $1,000.00        $1,019.79        $5.06   

 

(h) 5% class return per year before expenses.
(p) “Expenses Paid During Period” are equal to each class’s annualized expense ratio, as shown above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181/365 (to reflect the one-half year period). Expenses paid do not include any applicable sales charges (loads). If these transaction costs had been included, your costs would have been higher.

Notes to Expense Table

Each class with a Rule 12b-1 service fee is subject to a rebate of a portion of such fee. Such rebates are included in the expense ratios above and are outside of the expense limitation arrangement. For Class A shares, this rebate reduced the expense ratio above by 0.01%. See Note 3 in the Notes to Financial Statements for additional information.

Changes to the fund’s fee arrangements occurred during the six month period. Had these fee changes been in effect throughout the entire six month period, the annualized expense ratios, the actual expenses paid during the period and the hypothetical expenses paid during the period would have been approximately 1.20%, $6.12 and $6.01 for Class A, 1.96%, $9.97 and $9.79 for Class B, 1.96%, $9.97 and $9.79 for Class C, 0.96%, $4.90 and $4.81 for Class I, 1.96%, $9.97 and $9.79 for Class R1, 1.46%, $7.44 and $7.30 for Class R2, 1.21%, $6.17 and $6.06 for Class R3, 0.96%, $4.90 and $4.81 for Class R4, and 0.95%, $4.84 and $4.76 for Class R5, respectively. For further information about the fund’s fee arrangements and changes to those fee arrangements, please see Note 3 in the Notes to Financial Statements.

 

5


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS

2/28/15 (unaudited)

The Portfolio of Investments is a complete list of all securities owned by your fund. It is categorized by broad-based asset classes.

 

Common Stocks - 98.8%                 
Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Aerospace - 1.6%                 
Lockheed Martin Corp.      3,502      $ 700,571   
Airlines - 1.1%                 
Copa Holdings S.A., “A”      2,261      $ 257,483   
Southwest Airlines Co.      4,955        214,254   
    

 

 

 
             $ 471,737   
Automotive - 1.4%                 
USS Co. Ltd.      34,100      $ 602,611   
Biotechnology - 0.5%                 
Amgen, Inc.      1,248      $ 196,835   
Broadcasting - 1.2%                 
Television Broadcasts Ltd.      81,500      $ 521,735   
Business Services - 0.8%                 
Forrester Research, Inc.      9,163      $ 344,712   
Cable TV - 1.6%                 
Liberty Global PLC, “A” (a)      6,959      $ 376,204   
Time Warner Cable, Inc.      2,072        319,192   
    

 

 

 
             $ 695,396   
Chemicals - 0.7%                 
Monsanto Co.      2,311      $ 278,314   
Computer Software - 0.9%                 
Dassault Systems S.A.      5,560      $ 389,057   
Computer Software - Systems - 1.8%                 
EMC Corp.      7,600      $ 219,944   
NICE Systems Ltd., ADR      9,172        535,370   
    

 

 

 
             $ 755,314   
Construction - 0.7%                 
Geberit AG      813      $ 289,605   

 

6


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Consumer Products - 5.0%                 
Colgate-Palmolive Co.      2,913      $ 206,299   
Kimberly-Clark Corp.      4,111        450,812   
Kobayashi Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.      8,400        575,799   
Procter & Gamble Co.      7,919        674,144   
Uni-Charm Corp.      9,000        248,991   
    

 

 

 
             $ 2,156,045   
Electronics - 6.1%                 
Kyocera Corp.      8,100      $ 409,046   
Siliconware Precision Industries Co. Ltd., ADR      72,744        643,784   
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd., ADR      62,660        1,537,050   
    

 

 

 
             $ 2,589,880   
Energy - Independent - 0.7%                 
Occidental Petroleum Corp.      4,064      $ 316,504   
Energy - Integrated - 4.7%                 
China Petroleum & Chemical Corp.      266,000      $ 222,930   
Exxon Mobil Corp.      10,147        898,415   
Royal Dutch Shell PLC, “B”      25,595        871,500   
    

 

 

 
             $ 1,992,845   
Food & Beverages - 7.6%                 
Chr. Hansen Holding A.S.      8,678      $ 388,847   
General Mills, Inc.      26,582        1,429,846   
Mondelez International, Inc.      6,483        239,450   
Nestle S.A.      4,745        370,303   
Sligro Food Group N.V.      6,548        266,466   
Toyo Suisan Kaisha Ltd.      11,000        392,644   
Want Want China Holdings Ltd., ADR      3,036        168,012   
    

 

 

 
             $ 3,255,568   
Food & Drug Stores - 6.0%                 
CVS Health Corp.      3,025      $ 314,207   
Dairy Farm International Holdings Ltd.      22,500        196,200   
Kroger Co.      5,912        420,639   
Lawson, Inc.      10,200        666,784   
METRO, Inc., “A”      8,582        238,355   
Sun Art Retail Group Ltd.      463,500        415,942   
Sundrug Co. Ltd.      6,700        329,329   
    

 

 

 
             $ 2,581,456   
Gaming & Lodging - 0.9%                 
Paddy Power PLC      5,145      $ 388,920   

 

7


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Insurance - 4.2%                 
Beazley Group PLC      51,683      $ 230,835   
Catlin Group Ltd.      43,200        456,523   
Intact Financial Corp.      6,326        455,183   
Suncorp-Metway Ltd.      42,890        468,529   
Travelers Cos., Inc.      1,897        203,814   
    

 

 

 
             $ 1,814,884   
Internet - 0.6%                 
Google, Inc., “A” (a)      438      $ 246,432   
Machinery & Tools - 0.6%                 
Schindler Holding AG      1,593      $ 258,663   
Major Banks - 4.8%                 
Bank of Nova Scotia      4,264      $ 227,911   
BOC Hong Kong Holdings Ltd.      156,000        550,117   
HSBC Holdings PLC, ADR      10,627        474,177   
Royal Bank of Canada      3,155        197,566   
Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.      10,200        405,826   
Wells Fargo & Co.      3,452        189,135   
    

 

 

 
             $ 2,044,732   
Medical & Health Technology & Services - 1.2%                 
Express Scripts Holding Co. (a)      6,285      $ 532,905   
Medical Equipment - 1.9%                 
Abbott Laboratories      4,886      $ 231,450   
Fisher & Paykel Healthcare Corp. Ltd.      109,583        567,787   
    

 

 

 
             $ 799,237   
Natural Gas - Distribution - 0.6%                 
Osaka Gas Co. Ltd.      62,000      $ 255,722   
Network & Telecom - 0.9%                 
VTech Holdings Ltd.      26,900      $ 383,949   
Other Banks & Diversified Financials - 3.9%                 
China Construction Bank      302,000      $ 251,154   
Credicorp Ltd.      1,962        284,922   
Discover Financial Services      18,390        1,121,422   
    

 

 

 
             $ 1,657,498   
Pharmaceuticals - 9.9%                 
Johnson & Johnson      9,172      $ 940,222   
Merck & Co., Inc.      7,341        429,742   

 

8


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Pharmaceuticals - continued                 
Novartis AG      3,324      $ 339,774   
Roche Holding AG      3,838        1,041,878   
Santen Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.      14,000        937,429   
Teva Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd., ADR      9,255        527,720   
    

 

 

 
             $ 4,216,765   
Railroad & Shipping - 0.7%                 
Canadian National Railway Co.      4,593      $ 317,560   
Real Estate - 1.6%                 
Grand City Properties S.A. (a)      12,787      $ 212,207   
IGB Trust, REIT      461,800        172,983   
Public Storage, Inc., REIT      1,519        299,577   
    

 

 

 
             $ 684,767   
Restaurants - 2.8%                 
McDonald’s Corp.      6,934      $ 685,773   
Whitbread PLC      6,117        496,268   
    

 

 

 
             $ 1,182,041   
Specialty Chemicals - 1.1%                 
Symrise AG      7,269      $ 462,358   
Specialty Stores - 3.2%                 
Home Depot, Inc.      3,452      $ 396,117   
Inditex      7,014        220,440   
Ross Stores, Inc.      7,287        771,037   
    

 

 

 
             $ 1,387,594   
Telecommunications - Wireless - 5.1%                 
Advanced Info Service PLC      73,400      $ 528,989   
American Tower Corp., REIT      2,673        265,001   
Crown Castle International Corp, REIT      4,557        393,315   
KDDI Corp.      6,700        464,309   
SBA Communications Corp. (a)      4,373        545,357   
    

 

 

 
             $ 2,196,971   
Telephone Services - 3.5%                 
BCE, Inc.      4,111      $ 180,103   
Bezeq - The Israel Telecommunication Corp. Ltd.      120,170        192,709   
DiGi.Com Berhad      300,000        528,579   
TDC A.S.      26,874        212,585   
TELUS Corp.      5,670        201,625   
Verizon Communications, Inc.      3,452        170,701   
    

 

 

 
             $ 1,486,302   

 

9


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Tobacco - 1.3%                 
Altria Group, Inc.      4,747      $ 267,209   
Lorillard, Inc.      4,202        287,501   
    

 

 

 
             $ 554,710   
Utilities - Electric Power - 7.6%                 
Alliant Energy Corp.      3,155      $ 200,658   
American Electric Power Co., Inc.      6,172        355,384   
Calpine Corp. (a)      13,974        296,249   
Cheung Kong Infrastructure Holdings Ltd.      109,000        929,672   
Consolidated Edison, Inc.      4,264        269,229   
Dominion Resources, Inc.      2,518        181,523   
Duke Energy Corp.      3,311        260,079   
PG&E Corp.      9,469        508,769   
Xcel Energy, Inc.      7,511        264,988   
    

 

 

 
      $ 3,266,551   
Total Common Stocks (Identified Cost, $40,015,066)      $ 42,276,746   
Money Market Funds - 1.4%                 
MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio, 0.1%,
at Cost and Net Asset Value (v)
     598,704      $ 598,704   
Total Investments (Identified Cost, $40,613,770)      $ 42,875,450   
Other Assets, Less Liabilities - (0.2)%        (65,148
Net Assets - 100.0%      $ 42,810,302   

 

(a) Non-income producing security.
(v) Underlying affiliated fund that is available only to investment companies managed by MFS. The rate quoted for the MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio is the annualized seven-day yield of the fund at period end.

The following abbreviations are used in this report and are defined:

 

ADR   American Depositary Receipt
PLC   Public Limited Company
REIT   Real Estate Investment Trust

See notes to financial statements

 

10


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement represents your fund’s balance sheet, which details the assets and liabilities comprising the total value of the fund.

 

Assets         

Investments-

  

Non-affiliated issuers, at value (identified cost, $40,015,066)

     $42,276,746   

Underlying affiliated funds, at cost and value

     598,704   

Total investments, at value (identified cost, $40,613,770)

     $42,875,450   

Cash

     62,375   

Foreign currency, at value (identified cost, $4,479)

     4,454   

Receivables for

  

Fund shares sold

     203,685   

Dividends

     125,134   

Receivable from investment adviser

     11,249   

Other assets

     49,329   

Total assets

     $43,331,676   
Liabilities         

Payable for investments purchased

     $489,237   

Payable to affiliates

  

Shareholder servicing costs

     344   

Distribution and service fees

     167   

Payable for independent Trustees’ compensation

     8   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     31,618   

Total liabilities

     $521,374   

Net assets

     $42,810,302   
Net assets consist of         

Paid-in capital

     $40,493,496   

Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments and translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies

     2,261,256   

Accumulated distributions in excess of net realized gain on investments and foreign currency

     (50,494

Undistributed net investment income

     106,044   

Net assets

     $42,810,302   

Shares of beneficial interest outstanding

     3,721,942   

 

11


Table of Contents

Statement of Assets and Liabilities (unaudited) – continued

 

 

     Net assets     

Shares

outstanding

    

Net asset value

per share (a)

 

Class A

     $9,497,385         826,040         $11.50   

Class B

     141,970         12,397         11.45   

Class C

     255,089         22,278         11.45   

Class I

     2,492,820         216,547         11.51   

Class R1

     115,101         10,051         11.45   

Class R2

     115,815         10,078         11.49   

Class R3

     116,173         10,099         11.50   

Class R4

     116,531         10,126         11.51   

Class R5

     29,959,418         2,604,326         11.50   

 

(a) Maximum offering price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for all share classes, except for Class A, for which the maximum offering price per share was $12.20 [100 / 94.25 x $11.50]. On sales of $50,000 or more, the maximum offering price of Class A shares is reduced. A contingent deferred sales charge may be imposed on redemptions of Class A, Class B, and Class C shares. Redemption price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for Classes I, R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5.

See notes to financial statements

 

12


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Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Six months ended 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement describes how much your fund earned in investment income and accrued in expenses. It also describes any gains and/or losses generated by fund operations.

 

Net investment income         

Income

  

Dividends

     $319,050   

Dividends from underlying affiliated funds

     465   

Foreign taxes withheld

     (9,932

Total investment income

     $309,583   

Expenses

  

Management fee

     $137,075   

Distribution and service fees

     9,859   

Shareholder servicing costs

     2,322   

Administrative services fee

     8,679   

Independent Trustees’ compensation

     614   

Custodian fee

     17,189   

Shareholder communications

     3,865   

Audit and tax fees

     25,740   

Legal fees

     18   

Registration fees

     56,579   

Miscellaneous

     6,373   

Total expenses

     $268,313   

Fees paid indirectly

     (3

Reduction of expenses by investment adviser and distributor

     (104,323

Net expenses

     $163,987   

Net investment income

     $145,596   
Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency   

Realized gain (loss) (identified cost basis)

  

Investments

     $(38,361

Foreign currency

     (11,937

Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     $(50,298

Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

  

Investments

     $2,091,619   

Translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies

     (387

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency translation

     $2,091,232   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     $2,040,934   

Change in net assets from operations

     $2,186,530   

See notes to financial statements

 

13


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

These statements describe the increases and/or decreases in net assets resulting from operations, any distributions, and any shareholder transactions.

 

    

Six months ended

2/28/15

    

Period ended

8/31/14 (c)

 
Change in net assets    (unaudited)         
From operations                  

Net investment income

     $145,596         $31,198   

Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     (50,298      44,888   

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency translation

     2,091,232         170,024   

Change in net assets from operations

     $2,186,530         $246,110   
Distributions declared to shareholders                  

From net investment income

     $(48,293      $(21,333

From net realized gain on investments

     (47,180        

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(95,473      $(21,333

Change in net assets from fund share transactions

     $33,128,875         $7,365,593   

Total change in net assets

     $35,219,932         $7,590,370   
Net assets                  

At beginning of period

     7,590,370           

At end of period (including undistributed net investment income of $106,044 and $8,741, respectively)

     $42,810,302         $7,590,370   

 

(c) For the period from the commencement of the fund’s investment operations, December 5, 2013, through the stated period end.

See notes to financial statements

 

14


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the fund’s financial performance for the semiannual period and the past 5 fiscal years (or life of a particular share class, if shorter). Certain information reflects financial results for a single fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate by which an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the fund share class (assuming reinvestment of all distributions) held for the entire period.

 

Class A    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.92        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $0.04        $0.15   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

     0.57        0.86   

Total from investment operations

     $0.61        $1.01   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.01     $(0.09

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.02       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.03     $(0.09

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.50        $10.92   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

     5.60 (n)      10.13 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     1.89 (a)      5.81 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     1.25 (a)      1.22 (a) 

Net investment income

     0.80 (a)      1.86 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     24 (n)      28 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $9,497        $800   

See notes to financial statements

 

15


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

Class B    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.91        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $(0.00 )(w)      $0.06   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

     0.56        0.89   

Total from investment operations

     $0.56        $0.95   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.00 )(w)      $(0.04

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.02       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.02     $(0.04

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.45        $10.91   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

     5.10 (n)      9.50 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     2.74 (a)      6.87 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     2.03 (a)      2.07 (a) 

Net investment income (loss)

     (0.07 )(a)      0.80 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     24 (n)      28 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $142        $116   

See notes to financial statements

 

16


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

Class C    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.91        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $0.00 (w)      $0.06   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

     0.56        0.89   

Total from investment operations

     $0.56        $0.95   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.00 )(w)      $(0.04

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.02       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.02     $(0.04

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.45        $10.91   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

     5.10 (n)      9.50 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     2.72 (a)      6.85 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     2.02 (a)      2.07 (a) 

Net investment income

     0.03 (a)      0.82 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     24 (n)      28 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $255        $130   

See notes to financial statements

 

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Financial Highlights – continued

 

Class I    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.93        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $0.07        $0.14   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

     0.55        0.89   

Total from investment operations

     $0.62        $1.03   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.02     $(0.10

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.02       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.04     $(0.10

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.51        $10.93   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

     5.67 (n)      10.29 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     1.64 (a)      5.85 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     1.00 (a)      1.07 (a) 

Net investment income

     1.29 (a)      1.81 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     24 (n)      28 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $2,493        $138   

See notes to financial statements

 

18


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

Class R1    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.91        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $(0.00 )(w)      $0.06   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

     0.56        0.89   

Total from investment operations

     $0.56        $0.95   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.00 )(w)      $(0.04

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.02       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.02     $(0.04

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.45        $10.91   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

     5.10 (n)      9.50 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     2.76 (a)      6.89 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     2.03 (a)      2.07 (a) 

Net investment income (loss)

     (0.07 )(a)      0.79 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     24 (n)      28 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $115        $109   

See notes to financial statements

 

19


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

Class R2    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.92        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $0.02        $0.10   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

     0.57        0.89   

Total from investment operations

     $0.59        $0.99   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.00 )(w)      $(0.07

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.02       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.02     $(0.07

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.49        $10.92   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

     5.37 (n)      9.89 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     2.26 (a)      6.39 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     1.53 (a)      1.57 (a) 

Net investment income

     0.43 (a)      1.29 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     24 (n)      28 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $116        $110   

See notes to financial statements

 

20


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

Class R3    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.92        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $0.04        $0.12   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

     0.57        0.88   

Total from investment operations

     $0.61        $1.00   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.01     $(0.08

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.02       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.03     $(0.08

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.50        $10.92   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

     5.54 (n)      10.04 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     2.01 (a)      6.14 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     1.28 (a)      1.32 (a) 

Net investment income

     0.68 (a)      1.54 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     24 (n)      28 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $116        $110   

See notes to financial statements

 

21


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

Class R4    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.93        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $0.05        $0.14   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

     0.57        0.89   

Total from investment operations

     $0.62        $1.03   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.02     $(0.10

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.02       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.04     $(0.10

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.51        $10.93   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

     5.67 (n)      10.29 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     1.76 (a)      5.89 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     1.03 (a)      1.07 (a) 

Net investment income

     0.93 (a)      1.79 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     24 (n)      28 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $117        $110   

See notes to financial statements

 

22


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

Class R5    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.92        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $0.05        $0.14   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

     0.57        0.88   

Total from investment operations

     $0.62        $1.02   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.02     $(0.10

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.02       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.04     $(0.10

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.50        $10.92   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

     5.67 (n)      10.21 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     1.71 (a)      5.88 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     1.01 (a)      1.06 (a) 

Net investment income

     1.00 (a)      1.80 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     24 (n)      28 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $29,959        $5,966   

 

(a) Annualized.
(c) For the period from the commencement of the fund’s investment operations, December 5, 2013, through the stated period end.
(d) Per share data is based on average shares outstanding.
(f) Ratios do not reflect reductions from fees paid indirectly, if applicable.
(n) Not annualized.
(r) Certain expenses have been reduced without which performance would have been lower.
(s) From time to time the fund may receive proceeds from litigation settlements, without which performance would be lower.
(t) Total returns do not include any applicable sales charges.
(w) Per share amount was less than $0.01.
(x) The net asset values per share and total returns have been calculated on net asset values which include adjustments made in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles required at period end for financial reporting purposes.

See notes to financial statements

 

23


Table of Contents

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

(1) Business and Organization

MFS Low Volatility Global Equity Fund (the fund) is a diversified series of MFS Series Trust I (the trust). The trust is organized as a Massachusetts business trust and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as an open-end management investment company.

The fund is an investment company and accordingly follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 Financial Services – Investment Companies.

(2) Significant Accounting Policies

General – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. In the preparation of these financial statements, management has evaluated subsequent events occurring after the date of the fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities through the date that the financial statements were issued. The fund invests in foreign securities, including securities of emerging market issuers. Investments in foreign securities are vulnerable to the effects of changes in the relative values of the local currency and the U.S. dollar and to the effects of changes in each country’s legal, political, and economic environment. The markets of emerging markets countries are generally more volatile than the markets of developed countries with more mature economies. All of the risks of investing in foreign securities previously described are heightened when investing in emerging markets countries.

In June 2014, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-11, Transfers and Servicing (Topic 860) – Repurchase-to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures (“ASU 2014-11”). ASU 2014-11 changes the accounting for repurchase-to-maturity transactions (i.e., repurchase agreements that settle at the same time as the maturity of the transferred financial asset) and enhances the required disclosures for repurchase agreements and other similar transactions. Although still evaluating the potential impacts of ASU 2014-11 to the fund, management expects that the impact of the fund’s adoption will be limited to additional financial statement disclosures which would first be effective for interim reporting periods beginning after March 15, 2015.

Balance Sheet Offsetting – The fund’s accounting policy with respect to balance sheet offsetting is that, absent an event of default by the counterparty or a termination of the agreement, the International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) Master Agreement does not result in an offset of reported amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities across transactions between the fund and the applicable counterparty. The fund’s right to setoff may be restricted or prohibited by the bankruptcy or insolvency laws of the particular jurisdiction to

 

24


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

which a specific master netting agreement counterparty is subject. Balance sheet offsetting disclosures, to the extent applicable to the fund, have been included in the fund’s Significant Accounting Policies note under the captions for each of the fund’s in-scope financial instruments and transactions.

Investment Valuations – Equity securities, including restricted equity securities, are generally valued at the last sale or official closing price as provided by a third-party pricing service on the market or exchange on which they are primarily traded. Equity securities, for which there were no sales reported that day, are generally valued at the last quoted daily bid quotation as provided by a third-party pricing service on the market or exchange on which such securities are primarily traded. Short-term instruments with a maturity at issuance of 60 days or less may be valued at amortized cost, which approximates market value. Open-end investment companies are generally valued at net asset value per share. Securities and other assets generally valued on the basis of information from a third-party pricing service may also be valued at a broker/dealer bid quotation. Values obtained from third-party pricing services can utilize both transaction data and market information such as yield, quality, coupon rate, maturity, type of issue, trading characteristics, and other market data. The values of foreign securities and other assets and liabilities expressed in foreign currencies are converted to U.S. dollars using the mean of bid and asked prices for rates provided by a third-party pricing service.

The Board of Trustees has delegated primary responsibility for determining or causing to be determined the value of the fund’s investments (including any fair valuation) to the adviser pursuant to valuation policies and procedures approved by the Board. If the adviser determines that reliable market quotations are not readily available, investments are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the adviser in accordance with such procedures under the oversight of the Board of Trustees. Under the fund’s valuation policies and procedures, market quotations are not considered to be readily available for most types of debt instruments and floating rate loans and many types of derivatives. These investments are generally valued at fair value based on information from third-party pricing services. In addition, investments may be valued at fair value if the adviser determines that an investment’s value has been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the exchange or market on which the investment is principally traded (such as foreign exchange or market) and prior to the determination of the fund’s net asset value, or after the halting of trading of a specific security where trading does not resume prior to the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded. Events that occur on a frequent basis after foreign markets close (such as developments in foreign markets and significant movements in the U.S. markets) and prior to the determination of the fund’s net asset value may be deemed to have a material effect on the value of securities traded in foreign markets. Accordingly, the fund’s foreign equity securities may often be valued at fair value. The adviser generally relies on third-party pricing services or other information (such as the correlation with price movements of similar securities in the same or other markets; the type, cost and investment characteristics of the security; the business and financial condition of the issuer; and trading and other market data) to assist in determining whether to fair value and at what value to fair value an investment. The value of an investment for purposes of calculating the fund’s net asset value can differ depending

 

25


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

on the source and method used to determine value. When fair valuation is used, the value of an investment used to determine the fund’s net asset value may differ from quoted or published prices for the same investment. There can be no assurance that the fund could obtain the fair value assigned to an investment if it were to sell the investment at the same time at which the fund determines its net asset value per share.

Various inputs are used in determining the value of the fund’s assets or liabilities. These inputs are categorized into three broad levels. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, an investment’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The fund’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the investment. Level 1 includes unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 includes other significant observable market-based inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speed, and credit risk). Level 3 includes unobservable inputs, which may include the adviser’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. The following is a summary of the levels used as of February 28, 2015 in valuing the fund’s assets or liabilities:

 

Investments at Value    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  
Equity Securities:            

United States

     $17,913,931         $—         $—         $17,913,931   

Japan

     5,288,490                         5,288,490   

Hong Kong

     2,581,673                         2,581,673   

United Kingdom

     2,529,303                         2,529,303   

Switzerland

     2,300,223                         2,300,223   

Taiwan

     2,180,834                         2,180,834   

Canada

     1,363,120         455,183                 1,818,303   

Israel

     1,255,799                         1,255,799   

China

     1,058,038                         1,058,038   

Other Countries

     4,821,163         528,989                 5,350,152   
Mutual Funds      598,704                         598,704   
Total Investments      $41,891,278         $984,172         $—         $42,875,450   

For further information regarding security characteristics, see the Portfolio of Investments.

Of the level 2 investments presented above, equity investments amounting to $455,183 would have been considered level 1 investments at the beginning of the period. The primary reason for changes in the classifications between levels 1 and 2 occurs when foreign equity securities are fair valued using other observable market-based inputs in place of the closing exchange price due to events occurring after the close of the exchange or market on which the investment is principally traded. The fund’s foreign equity securities may often be valued at fair value. The fund’s policy is to recognize transfers between the levels as of the end of the period.

Foreign Currency Translation – Purchases and sales of foreign investments, income, and expenses are converted into U.S. dollars based upon currency exchange rates prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions or on the reporting date for

 

26


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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

foreign denominated receivables and payables. Gains and losses attributable to foreign currency exchange rates on sales of securities are recorded for financial statement purposes as net realized gains and losses on investments. Gains and losses attributable to foreign exchange rate movements on receivables, payables, income and expenses are recorded for financial statement purposes as foreign currency transaction gains and losses. That portion of both realized and unrealized gains and losses on investments that results from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates is not separately disclosed.

Indemnifications – Under the fund’s organizational documents, its officers and Trustees may be indemnified against certain liabilities and expenses arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into agreements with service providers that may contain indemnification clauses. The fund’s maximum exposure under these agreements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the fund that have not yet occurred.

Investment Transactions and Income – Investment transactions are recorded on the trade date. Dividends received in cash are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Certain dividends from foreign securities will be recorded when the fund is informed of the dividend if such information is obtained subsequent to the ex-dividend date. Dividend payments received in additional securities are recorded on the ex-dividend date in an amount equal to the value of the security on such date.

The fund may receive proceeds from litigation settlements. Any proceeds received from litigation involving portfolio holdings are reflected in the Statement of Operations in realized gain/loss if the security has been disposed of by the fund or in unrealized gain/loss if the security is still held by the fund. Any other proceeds from litigation not related to portfolio holdings are reflected as other income in the Statement of Operations.

Fees Paid Indirectly – The fund’s custody fee may be reduced according to an arrangement that measures the value of cash deposited with the custodian by the fund. This amount, for the six months ended February 28, 2015, is shown as a reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Tax Matters and Distributions – The fund intends to qualify as a regulated investment company, as defined under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, and to distribute all of its taxable income, including realized capital gains. As a result, no provision for federal income tax is required. The fund’s federal tax returns, when filed, will remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service for a three year period. Management has analyzed the fund’s tax positions taken on federal and state tax returns for all open tax years and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability. Foreign taxes, if any, have been accrued by the fund in the accompanying financial statements in accordance with the applicable foreign tax law. Foreign income taxes may be withheld by certain countries in which the fund invests. Additionally, capital gains realized by the fund on securities issued in or by certain foreign countries may be subject to capital gains tax imposed by those countries.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Certain capital accounts in the financial statements are periodically adjusted for permanent differences in order to reflect their tax character. These adjustments have no impact on net assets or net asset value per share. Temporary differences which arise from recognizing certain items of income, expense, gain or loss in different periods for financial statement and tax purposes will reverse at some time in the future. Distributions in excess of net investment income or net realized gains are temporary overdistributions for financial statement purposes resulting from differences in the recognition or classification of income or distributions for financial statement and tax purposes.

During the period ended August 31, 2014, there were no significant adjustments due to differences between book and tax accounting.

The tax character of distributions made during the current period will be determined at fiscal year end. The tax character of distributions declared to shareholders for the last fiscal period is as follows:

 

     8/31/14  
Ordinary income (including any
short-term capital gains)
     $21,333   

The federal tax cost and the tax basis components of distributable earnings were as follows:

 

As of 2/28/15       
Cost of investments      $40,613,960   
Gross appreciation      2,929,706   
Gross depreciation      (668,216
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)      $2,261,490   
As of 8/31/14       
Undistributed ordinary income      55,915   
Other temporary differences      (37
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)      169,871   

The aggregate cost above includes prior fiscal year end tax adjustments, if applicable.

Multiple Classes of Shares of Beneficial Interest – The fund offers multiple classes of shares, which differ in their respective distribution and service fees. The fund’s income, realized and unrealized gain (loss), and common expenses are allocated to shareholders based on the daily net assets of each class. Dividends are declared separately for each class. Differences in per share dividend rates are generally due to differences in separate class expenses. Class B shares will convert to Class A shares

 

28


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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

approximately eight years after purchase. The fund’s distributions declared to shareholders as reported in the Statements of Changes in Net Assets are presented by class as follows:

 

     From net investment
income
     From net realized gain on
investments
 
     Six months
ended
2/28/15
     Period
ended
8/31/14 (c)
     Six months
ended
2/28/15
     Period
ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
Class A      $5,994         $2,891         $12,199         $—   
Class B              389         202           
Class C              403         208           
Class I      1,186         1,071         1,445           
Class R1              389         160           
Class R2              673         160           
Class R3      81         816         160           
Class R4      223         959         161           
Class R5      40,809         13,742         32,485           
Total      $48,293         $21,333         $47,180         $—   

 

(c) For the period from the commencement of the fund’s investment operations, December 5, 2013, through the stated period end.

(3) Transactions with Affiliates

Investment Adviser – The fund has an investment advisory agreement with MFS to provide overall investment management and related administrative services and facilities to the fund. The management fee is computed daily and paid monthly at the following annual rates:

 

First $1 billion of average daily net assets      0.90
Next $1.5 billion of average daily net assets      0.75
Average daily net assets in excess of $2.5 billion      0.65

The investment adviser had agreed in writing to reduce its management fee to 0.75% of average daily net assets for the first $1 billion, and 0.70% of average daily net assets in excess of $1 billion. This written agreement expired on December 28, 2014. For the period September 1, 2014 through December 28, 2014, this management fee reduction amounted to $12,751, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. Effective December 29, 2014, the investment adviser has agreed in writing to reduce its management fee to 0.65% of average daily net assets. This written agreement will continue until modified by the fund’s Board of Trustees, but such agreement will continue at least until December 31, 2015. For the period December 29, 2014 through February 28, 2015, this management fee reduction amounted to $16,826, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. MFS has also agreed in writing to reduce its management fee by a specified amount if certain MFS mutual fund assets exceed thresholds agreed to by MFS and the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this management fee reduction amounted to $947, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. The management fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.70% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

The investment adviser had agreed in writing to pay a portion of the fund’s total annual operating expenses, excluding interest, taxes, extraordinary expenses, brokerage and transaction costs, and investment-related expenses, such that total fund operating expenses do not exceed the following rates annually of each class’s average daily net assets:

 

Classes  
A     B     C     I     R1     R2     R3     R4     R5  
  1.35%        2.10%        2.10%        1.10%        2.10%        1.60%        1.35%        1.10%        1.06%   

This written agreement expired on December 28, 2014. For the period September 1, 2014 through December 28, 2014, this reduction amounted to $46,218, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. Effective December 29, 2014, the investment adviser has agreed in writing to pay a portion of the fund’s total annual operating expenses, excluding interest, taxes, extraordinary expenses, brokerage and transaction costs, and investment-related expenses, such that total fund operating expenses do not exceed the following rates annually of each class’s average daily net assets:

 

Classes  
A     B     C     I     R1     R2     R3     R4     R5  
  1.24%        1.99%        1.99%        0.99%        1.99%        1.49%        1.24%        0.99%        0.95%   

This written agreement will continue until modified by the fund’s Board of Trustees, but such agreement will continue at least until December 31, 2015. For the period December 29, 2014 through February 28, 2015, this reduction amounted to $27,334, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Distributor – MFS Fund Distributors, Inc. (MFD), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, as distributor, received $2,995 for the six months ended February 28, 2015, as its portion of the initial sales charge on sales of Class A shares of the fund.

The Board of Trustees has adopted a distribution plan for certain share classes pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the Investment Company Act of 1940.

The fund’s distribution plan provides that the fund will pay MFD for services provided by MFD and financial intermediaries in connection with the distribution and servicing of certain share classes. One component of the plan is a distribution fee paid to MFD and another component of the plan is a service fee paid to MFD. MFD may subsequently pay all, or a portion, of the distribution and/or service fees to financial intermediaries.

Distribution Plan Fee Table:

 

     Distribution
Fee Rate (d)
     Service
Fee Rate (d)
     Total
Distribution
Plan (d)
     Annual
Effective
Rate (e)
     Distribution
and Service
Fee
 
Class A              0.25%         0.25%         0.24%         $7,417   
Class B      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         643   
Class C      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         843   
Class R1      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         545   
Class R2      0.25%         0.25%         0.50%         0.50%         274   
Class R3              0.25%         0.25%         0.25%         137   
Total Distribution and Service Fees         $9,859   

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

 

(d) In accordance with the distribution plan for certain classes, the fund pays distribution and/or service fees equal to these annual percentage rates of each class’s average daily net assets. The distribution and service fee rates disclosed by class represent the current rates in effect at the end of the reporting period. Any rate changes, if applicable, are detailed below.
(e) MFD has voluntarily agreed to rebate a portion of each class’s 0.25% service fee attributable to accounts for which MFD retains the 0.25% service fee except for accounts attributable to MFS or its affiliates’ seed money. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this rebate amounted to $243 for Class A, and is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Certain Class A shares are subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) in the event of a shareholder redemption within 18 months of purchase. Class C shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder redemption within 12 months of purchase. Class B shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder redemption within six years of purchase. All contingent deferred sales charges are paid to MFD and during the six months ended February 28, 2015, were as follows:

 

     Amount  
Class B      $71   

Shareholder Servicing Agent – MFS Service Center, Inc. (MFSC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, receives a fee from the fund for its services as shareholder servicing agent calculated as a percentage of the average daily net assets of the fund as determined periodically under the supervision of the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fee was $1,758, which equated to 0.0115% annually of the fund’s average daily net assets. MFSC also receives payment from the fund for out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs which may be paid to affiliated and unaffiliated service providers. Class R5 shares do not incur sub-accounting fees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, these out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs amounted to $564.

Administrator – MFS provides certain financial, legal, shareholder communications, compliance, and other administrative services to the fund. Under an administrative services agreement, the fund reimburses MFS the costs incurred to provide these services. The fund is charged an annual fixed amount of $17,500 plus a fee based on average daily net assets. The administrative services fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.0570% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

Trustees’ and Officers’ Compensation – The fund pays compensation to independent Trustees in the form of a retainer, attendance fees, and additional compensation to Board and Committee chairpersons. The fund does not pay compensation directly to Trustees or officers of the fund who are also officers of the investment adviser, all of whom receive remuneration for their services to the fund from MFS. Certain officers and Trustees of the fund are officers or directors of MFS, MFD, and MFSC.

Other – Effective November 1, 2014, this fund and certain other funds managed by MFS (the funds) have entered into a service agreement (the ISO Agreement) which provides for payment of fees solely by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

provision of services of an Independent Senior Officer (ISO) for the funds. Frank L. Tarantino serves as the ISO and is an officer of the funds and the sole member of Tarantino LLC. The funds can terminate the ISO Agreement with Tarantino LLC at any time under the terms of the ISO Agreement. Prior to November 1, 2014, the funds had entered into a service agreement (the Compliance Officer Agreement) which provided for payment of fees by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the provision of services of an Independent Chief Compliance Officer (ICCO) for the funds. Prior to November 1, 2014, Frank L. Tarantino served as the ICCO. Effective October 31, 2014, Mr. Tarantino resigned as ICCO and the Compliance Officer Agreement between the funds and Tarantino LLC was terminated. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the aggregate fees paid by the fund under these agreements were $34 and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations. MFS had agreed to reimburse the fund for a portion of the payments made by the fund for the services under the Compliance Officer Agreement in the amount of $4, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. Additionally, MFS has agreed to bear all expenses associated with office space, other administrative support, and supplies provided to the ICCO and ISO.

The fund invests in the MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio which is managed by MFS and seeks current income consistent with preservation of capital and liquidity. Income earned on this investment is included in “Dividends from underlying affiliated funds” in the Statement of Operations. This money market fund does not pay a management fee to MFS.

On December 5, 2013, MFS purchased 140,000 shares of Class R5 and 10,000 shares of Class A, Class B, Class C, Class I, Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, and Class R4 for an aggregate amount of $2,200,000.

At February 28, 2015, MFS held approximately 81% of the outstanding shares of Class B, and 100% of the outstanding shares each of Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, and Class R4.

(4) Portfolio Securities

For the six months ended February 28, 2015, purchases and sales of investments, other than short-term obligations, aggregated $43,690,109 and $6,593,311, respectively.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

(5) Shares of Beneficial Interest

The fund’s Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest. Transactions in fund shares were as follows:

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
     Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     Shares      Amount      Shares      Amount  
Shares sold            

Class A

     773,432         $8,504,643         74,023         $777,936   

Class B

     2,041         22,501         10,644         106,935   

Class C

     10,303         112,616         11,922         120,556   

Class I

     203,803         2,261,646         12,538         127,000   

Class R1

                     10,000         100,000   

Class R2

                     10,000         100,000   

Class R3

                     10,000         100,000   

Class R4

                     10,000         100,000   

Class R5

     2,051,360         22,383,452         544,945         5,822,000   
     3,040,939         $33,284,858         694,072         $7,354,427   
Shares issued to shareholders in reinvestment of distributions            

Class A

     1,657         $18,193         272         $2,891   

Class B

     18         202         37         389   

Class C

     19         208         38         403   

Class I

     240         2,631         101         1,071   

Class R1

     14         160         37         389   

Class R2

     15         160         63         673   

Class R3

     22         241         77         816   

Class R4

     35         384         91         959   

Class R5

     6,721         73,294         1,300         13,742   
     8,741         $95,473         2,016         $21,333   
Shares reacquired            

Class A

     (22,321      $(246,134      (1,023      $(10,146

Class B

     (343      (3,816                

Class C

     (2      (24      (2      (21

Class I

     (135      (1,482                
     (22,801      $(251,456      (1,025      $(10,167

 

33


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
     Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     Shares      Amount      Shares      Amount  
Net change            

Class A

     752,768         $8,276,702         73,272         $770,681   

Class B

     1,716         18,887         10,681         107,324   

Class C

     10,320         112,800         11,958         120,938   

Class I

     203,908         2,262,795         12,639         128,071   

Class R1

     14         160         10,037         100,389   

Class R2

     15         160         10,063         100,673   

Class R3

     22         241         10,077         100,816   

Class R4

     35         384         10,091         100,959   

Class R5

     2,058,081         22,456,746         546,245         5,835,742   
     3,026,879         $33,128,875         695,063         $7,365,593   

 

(c) For the period from the commencement of the fund’s investment operations, December 5, 2013, through the stated period end.

(6) Line of Credit

The fund and certain other funds managed by MFS participate in a $1.1 billion unsecured committed line of credit, subject to a $1 billion sublimit, provided by a syndication of banks under a credit agreement. Borrowings may be made for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, generally at a rate equal to the higher of the Federal Reserve funds rate or one month LIBOR plus an agreed upon spread. A commitment fee, based on the average daily, unused portion of the committed line of credit, is allocated among the participating funds at the end of each calendar quarter. In addition, the fund and other funds managed by MFS have established unsecured uncommitted borrowing arrangements with certain banks for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, at a rate equal to the Federal Reserve funds rate plus an agreed upon spread. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fund’s commitment fee and interest expense were $10 and $0, respectively, and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations.

(7) Transactions in Underlying Affiliated Funds-Affiliated Issuers

An affiliated issuer may be considered one in which the fund owns 5% or more of the outstanding voting securities, or a company which is under common control. For the purposes of this report, the fund assumes the following to be an affiliated issuer:

 

Underlying Affiliated Fund    Beginning
Shares/Par
Amount
     Acquisitions
Shares/Par
Amount
     Dispositions
Shares/Par
Amount
     Ending
Shares/Par
Amount
 
MFS Institutional Money
Market Portfolio
     128,237         34,406,157         (33,935,690      598,704   
Underlying Affiliated Fund    Realized
Gain (Loss)
     Capital Gain
Distributions
     Dividend
Income
     Ending
Value
 
MFS Institutional Money
Market Portfolio
     $—         $—         $465         $598,704   

 

34


Table of Contents

PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND INFORMATION

MFS votes proxies on behalf of the fund pursuant to proxy voting policies and procedures that are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-225-2606, by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

Information regarding how the fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 is available without charge by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

QUARTERLY PORTFOLIO DISCLOSURE

The fund will file a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. A shareholder can obtain the quarterly portfolio holdings report at mfs.com. The fund’s Form N-Q is also available on the EDGAR database on the Commission’s Internet Web site at http://www.sec.gov, and may be reviewed and copied at the:

Public Reference Room

Securities and Exchange Commission

100 F Street, NE, Room 1580

Washington, D.C. 20549

Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330. Copies of the fund’s Form N-Q also may be obtained, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section at the above address.

FURTHER INFORMATION

From time to time, MFS may post important information about the fund or the MFS funds on the MFS web site (mfs.com). This information is available by visiting the “Market Commentary” and “Announcements” sub sections in the “Market Outlooks” section of mfs.com or by clicking on the fund’s name under “Mutual Funds” in the “Products” section of mfs.com.

PROVISION OF FINANCIAL REPORTS AND SUMMARY PROSPECTUSES

The fund produces financial reports every six months and updates its summary prospectus and prospectus annually. To avoid sending duplicate copies of materials to households, only one copy of the fund’s annual and semiannual report and summary prospectus may be mailed to shareholders having the same last name and residential address on the fund’s records. However, any shareholder may contact MFSC (please see back cover for address and telephone number) to request that copies of these reports and summary prospectuses be sent personally to that shareholder.

 

35


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

Save paper with eDelivery.

 

LOGO

MFS® will send you prospectuses,

reports, and proxies directly via e-mail so you will get information faster with less mailbox clutter.

To sign up:

1. Go to mfs.com.

2. Log in via MFS® Access.

3. Select eDelivery.

If you own your MFS fund shares through a financial institution or a retirement plan, MFS® TALK, MFS® Access, or eDelivery may not be available to you.

 

CONTACT

WEB SITE

mfs.com

MFS TALK

1-800-637-8255

24 hours a day

ACCOUNT SERVICE AND LITERATURE

Shareholders

1-800-225-2606

Financial advisors

1-800-343-2829

Retirement plan services

1-800-637-1255

MAILING ADDRESS

MFS Service Center, Inc.

P.O. Box 55824

Boston, MA 02205-5824

OVERNIGHT MAIL

MFS Service Center, Inc.

c/o Boston Financial Data Services

30 Dan Road

Canton, MA 02021-2809

 


Table of Contents

SEMIANNUAL REPORT

February 28, 2015

 

LOGO

MFS® LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND

 

LOGO

 

LVU-SEM

 


Table of Contents

MFS® LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND

CONTENTS

 

Letter from the Chairman     1   
Portfolio composition     2   
Expense table     3   
Portfolio of investments     5   
Statement of assets and liabilities     10   
Statement of operations     12   
Statements of changes in net assets     13   
Financial highlights     14   
Notes to financial statements     23   
Proxy voting policies and information     33   
Quarterly portfolio disclosure     33   
Further information     33   
Provision of financial reports and summary prospectuses     33   
Contact information    back cover   

 

 

The report is prepared for the general information of shareholders.

It is authorized for distribution to prospective investors only when preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.

 

NOT FDIC INSURED Ÿ MAY LOSE VALUE Ÿ NO BANK GUARANTEE


Table of Contents

LOGO

LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Dear Shareholders:

Lower oil prices continue to influence markets in different ways. Among those economies hurt, oil-exporters such as Russia and Venezuela have been hit particularly hard, along with U.S. regions that have close oil industry ties.

The U.S. economic recovery remains solid. The labor market is strong, interest rates are historically low and reduced energy prices have helped to stimulate consumer spending.

Economic reports early in 2015 indicate that the eurozone is on a more solid footing, with confidence boosted by the launch of European Central Bank quantitative easing.

In Asia, the Chinese economy continues to raise concerns, with the People’s Bank of China implementing stimulus programs to counter a steady decline in growth rates.

As always, active risk management is integral to how we at MFS® manage your investments. We use a collaborative process, sharing insights across asset classes, regions and economic sectors. Our global investment team uses a diversified, multidisciplined, long-term approach.

Applying proven principles, such as asset allocation and diversification, can best serve investors over the long term. We are confident that this approach can help you as you work with your financial advisors to reach your goals in the years ahead.

Respectfully,

 

LOGO

Robert J. Manning

Chairman

MFS Investment Management

April 14, 2015

The opinions expressed in this letter are subject to change and may not be relied upon for investment advice. No forecasts can be guaranteed.

 

1


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION

 

Portfolio structure

 

LOGO

 

Top ten holdings  
Eli Lilly & Co.     2.9%   
Procter & Gamble Co.     2.8%   
Public Storage, Inc., REIT     2.8%   
M&T Bank Corp.     2.7%   
Visa, Inc., “A”     2.6%   
Exxon Mobil Corp.     2.6%   
Merck & Co., Inc.     2.5%   
Johnson & Johnson     2.5%   
McDonald’s Corp.     2.4%   
Google, Inc., “A”     2.3%   
Equity sectors  
Financial Services     20.3%   
Health Care     14.3%   
Consumer Staples     13.6%   
Technology     12.3%   
Utilities & Communications     10.2%   
Retailing     8.3%   
Industrial Goods & Services     5.8%   
Energy     5.2%   
Leisure     3.4%   
Special Products & Services     2.8%   
Basic Materials     1.0%   
Autos & Housing     0.5%   
Transportation     0.4%   
 

 

Cash & Other can include cash, other assets less liabilities, offsets to derivative positions, and short-term securities.

Percentages are based on net assets as of 2/28/15.

The portfolio is actively managed and current holdings may be different.

 

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Table of Contents

EXPENSE TABLE

Fund expenses borne by the shareholders during the period, September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015

As a shareholder of the fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on certain purchase or redemption payments, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015.

Actual Expenses

The first line for each share class in the following table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The second line for each share class in the following table provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads). Therefore, the second line for each share class in the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

3


Table of Contents

Expense Table – continued

 

 

Share
Class
       Annualized
Expense
Ratio
    Beginning
Account Value
9/01/14
    Ending
Account Value
2/28/15
    Expenses
Paid During
Period  (p)
9/01/14-2/28/15
 
A   Actual     1.18%        $1,000.00        $1,074.36        $6.07   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.18%        $1,000.00        $1,018.94        $5.91   
B   Actual     1.94%        $1,000.00        $1,070.75        $9.96   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.94%        $1,000.00        $1,015.17        $9.69   
C   Actual     1.94%        $1,000.00        $1,070.65        $9.96   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.94%        $1,000.00        $1,015.17        $9.69   
I   Actual     0.94%        $1,000.00        $1,075.30        $4.84   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.94%        $1,000.00        $1,020.13        $4.71   
R1   Actual     1.94%        $1,000.00        $1,069.89        $9.96   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.94%        $1,000.00        $1,015.17        $9.69   
R2   Actual     1.44%        $1,000.00        $1,072.60        $7.40   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.44%        $1,000.00        $1,017.65        $7.20   
R3   Actual     1.19%        $1,000.00        $1,074.92        $6.12   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.19%        $1,000.00        $1,018.89        $5.96   
R4   Actual     0.94%        $1,000.00        $1,075.32        $4.84   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.94%        $1,000.00        $1,020.13        $4.71   
R5   Actual     0.91%        $1,000.00        $1,075.36        $4.68   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.91%        $1,000.00        $1,020.28        $4.56   

 

(h) 5% class return per year before expenses.
(p) “Expenses Paid During Period” are equal to each class’s annualized expense ratio, as shown above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181/365 (to reflect the one-half year period). Expenses paid do not include any applicable sales charges (loads). If these transaction costs had been included, your costs would have been higher.

Notes to Expense Table

Each class with a Rule 12b-1 service fee is subject to a rebate of a portion of such fee. Such rebates are included in the expense ratios above and are outside of the expense limitation arrangement. For Class A shares, this rebate reduced the expense ratio above by 0.01%. See Note 3 in the Notes to Financial Statements for additional information.

 

4


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS

2/28/15 (unaudited)

The Portfolio of Investments is a complete list of all securities owned by your fund. It is categorized by broad-based asset classes.

 

Common Stocks - 98.1%                 
Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Aerospace - 3.5%                 
General Dynamics Corp.      629      $ 87,285   
Honeywell International, Inc.      1,480        152,114   
Lockheed Martin Corp.      406        81,220   
United Technologies Corp.      1,181        143,976   
    

 

 

 
      $ 464,595   
Automotive - 0.5%                 
Delphi Automotive PLC      772      $ 60,864   
Business Services - 2.8%                 
Amdocs Ltd.      2,729      $ 143,273   
Automatic Data Processing, Inc.      2,609        231,784   
    

 

 

 
      $ 375,057   
Cable TV - 0.4%                 
Time Warner Cable, Inc.      378      $ 58,231   
Chemicals - 0.5%                 
3M Co.      399      $ 67,291   
Computer Software - 2.7%                 
Adobe Systems, Inc. (a)      754      $ 59,641   
Intuit, Inc.      1,400        136,682   
Microsoft Corp.      2,359        103,442   
Oracle Corp.      1,363        59,727   
    

 

 

 
      $ 359,492   
Computer Software - Systems - 1.4%                 
EMC Corp.      1,853      $ 53,626   
International Business Machines Corp.      818        132,467   
    

 

 

 
      $ 186,093   
Consumer Products - 4.6%                 
Colgate-Palmolive Co.      2,732      $ 193,480   
Kimberly-Clark Corp.      391        42,877   
Procter & Gamble Co.      4,439        377,892   
    

 

 

 
      $ 614,249   

 

5


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
Common Stocks - continued                 
Electrical Equipment - 0.9%                 
Danaher Corp.      649      $ 56,645   
TE Connectivity Ltd.      789        56,911   
    

 

 

 
      $ 113,556   
Electronics - 4.4%                 
Analog Devices, Inc.      1,011      $ 59,184   
Intel Corp.      4,787        159,168   
Microchip Technology, Inc.      4,565        234,048   
Texas Instruments, Inc.      2,271        133,535   
    

 

 

 
      $ 585,935   
Energy - Integrated - 4.6%                 
Chevron Corp.      2,492      $ 265,847   
Exxon Mobil Corp.      3,867        342,384   
    

 

 

 
      $ 608,231   
Food & Beverages - 6.1%                 
Bunge Ltd.      522      $ 42,689   
Coca-Cola Co.      2,810        121,673   
Dr Pepper Snapple Group, Inc.      1,040        81,942   
General Mills, Inc.      4,649        250,070   
McCormick & Co., Inc.      975        73,496   
Mondelez International, Inc.      1,400        51,709   
PepsiCo, Inc.      1,875        185,588   
    

 

 

 
      $ 807,167   
Food & Drug Stores - 2.3%                 
CVS Health Corp.      665      $ 69,074   
Kroger Co.      3,337        237,428   
    

 

 

 
      $ 306,502   
Gaming & Lodging - 0.5%                 
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (a)      1,451      $ 71,563   
General Merchandise - 4.6%                 
Costco Wholesale Corp.      1,377      $ 202,364   
Macy’s, Inc.      800        50,976   
Target Corp.      975        74,909   
Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.      3,304        277,305   
    

 

 

 
      $ 605,554   
Health Maintenance Organizations - 1.3%                 
Aetna, Inc.      557      $ 55,449   
Health Net, Inc. (a)      1,088        62,397   

 

6


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Health Maintenance Organizations - continued                 
UnitedHealth Group, Inc.      526      $ 59,769   
    

 

 

 
      $ 177,615   
Insurance - 6.8%                 
American International Group, Inc.      1,348      $ 74,585   
Chubb Corp.      572        57,457   
Everest Re Group Ltd.      1,457        258,516   
Loews Corp.      1,321        54,174   
MetLife, Inc.      991        50,373   
PartnerRe Ltd.      1,228        140,606   
Travelers Cos., Inc.      1,204        129,358   
Validus Holdings Ltd.      3,361        139,952   
    

 

 

 
      $ 905,021   
Internet - 2.3%                 
Google, Inc., “A” (a)      541      $ 304,383   
Major Banks - 1.9%                 
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.      308      $ 58,455   
PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.      800        73,568   
Wells Fargo & Co.      2,137        117,086   
    

 

 

 
      $ 249,109   
Medical & Health Technology & Services - 1.9%                 
AmerisourceBergen Corp.      1,501      $ 154,243   
McKesson Corp.      458        104,745   
    

 

 

 
      $ 258,988   
Medical Equipment - 2.8%                 
Abbott Laboratories      3,673      $ 173,990   
Becton, Dickinson and Co.      522        76,588   
Zimmer Holdings, Inc.      959        115,454   
    

 

 

 
      $ 366,032   
Natural Gas - Distribution - 0.4%                 
Sempra Energy      452      $ 48,906   
Network & Telecom - 1.5%   
Cisco Systems, Inc.      5,287      $ 156,019   
Qualcomm, Inc.      665        48,219   
    

 

 

 
      $ 204,238   
Oil Services - 0.6%                 
Schlumberger Ltd.      997      $ 83,908   

 

7


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Other Banks & Diversified Financials - 7.0%                 
American Express Co.      869      $ 70,902   
Discover Financial Services      1,463        89,214   
East West Bancorp, Inc.      1,781        71,151   
M&T Bank Corp.      2,963        358,523   
Visa, Inc., “A”      1,265        343,207   
    

 

 

 
      $ 932,997   
Pharmaceuticals - 8.3%                 
Eli Lilly & Co.      5,414      $ 379,900   
Johnson & Johnson      3,215        329,570   
Merck & Co., Inc.      5,766        337,542   
Pfizer, Inc.      1,582        54,294   
    

 

 

 
      $ 1,101,306   
Pollution Control - 1.4%                 
Stericycle, Inc. (a)      1,059      $ 142,933   
Waste Management, Inc.      912        49,686   
    

 

 

 
      $ 192,619   
Real Estate - 4.6%                 
Federal Realty Investment Trust, REIT      933      $ 132,514   
Public Storage, Inc., REIT      1,880        370,774   
Simon Property Group, Inc., REIT      540        102,794   
    

 

 

 
      $ 606,082   
Restaurants - 2.4%                 
McDonald’s Corp.      3,252      $ 321,623   
Specialty Chemicals - 0.5%                 
Praxair, Inc.      516      $ 65,996   
Specialty Stores - 1.4%                 
AutoZone, Inc. (a)      156      $ 100,258   
O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. (a)      443        92,202   
    

 

 

 
      $ 192,460   
Telecommunications - Wireless - 0.7%                 
American Tower Corp., REIT      900      $ 89,226   
Telephone Services - 2.3%                 
AT&T, Inc.      2,687      $ 92,863   
Verizon Communications, Inc.      4,265        210,904   
    

 

 

 
      $ 303,767   

 

8


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Tobacco - 2.9%                 
Altria Group, Inc.      1,335      $ 75,147   
Lorillard, Inc.      2,530        173,103   
Philip Morris International, Inc.      1,646        136,552   
    

 

 

 
      $ 384,802   
Trucking - 0.4%                 
United Parcel Service, Inc., “B”      483      $ 49,136   
Utilities - Electric Power - 6.9%                 
Alliant Energy Corp.      877      $ 55,777   
American Electric Power Co., Inc.      1,748        100,650   
Consolidated Edison, Inc.      841        53,101   
Dominion Resources, Inc.      1,213        87,445   
Duke Energy Corp.      830        65,197   
ITC Holdings Corp.      1,249        48,374   
MGE Energy, Inc.      1,888        81,354   
NextEra Energy, Inc.      1,197        123,842   
OGE Energy Corp.      4,856        157,869   
Pinnacle West Capital Corp.      800        51,264   
Southern Co.      1,954        89,474   
    

 

 

 
      $ 914,347   
Total Common Stocks (Identified Cost, $12,382,581)      $ 13,036,941   
Money Market Funds - 1.3%                 
MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio, 0.1%,
at Cost and Net Asset Value (v)
     167,148      $ 167,148   
Total Investments (Identified Cost, $12,549,729)      $ 13,204,089   
Other Assets, Less Liabilities - 0.6%        84,203   
Net Assets - 100.0%      $ 13,288,292   

 

(a) Non-income producing security.
(v) Underlying affiliated fund that is available only to investment companies managed by MFS. The rate quoted for the MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio is the annualized seven-day yield of the fund at period end.

The following abbreviations are used in this report and are defined:

 

PLC   Public Limited Company
REIT   Real Estate Investment Trust

See notes to financial statements

 

9


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement represents your fund’s balance sheet, which details the assets and liabilities comprising the total value of the fund.

 

Assets         

Investments-

  

Non-affiliated issuers, at value (identified cost, $12,382,581)

     $13,036,941   

Underlying affiliated funds, at cost and value

     167,148   

Total investments, at value (identified cost, $12,549,729)

     $13,204,089   

Receivables for

  

Fund shares sold

     26,289   

Dividends

     33,588   

Receivable from investment adviser

     12,757   

Other assets

     38,623   

Total assets

     $13,315,346   
Liabilities         

Payable for fund shares reacquired

     $852   

Payable to affiliates

  

Shareholder servicing costs

     628   

Distribution and service fees

     231   

Payable for independent Trustees’ compensation

     9   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     25,334   

Total liabilities

     $27,054   

Net assets

     $13,288,292   
Net assets consist of         

Paid-in capital

     $12,608,557   

Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments

     654,360   

Accumulated distributions in excess of net realized gain on investments

     (4,718

Undistributed net investment income

     30,093   

Net assets

     $13,288,292   

Shares of beneficial interest outstanding

     1,150,057   

 

10


Table of Contents

Statement of Assets and Liabilities (unaudited) – continued

 

     Net assets      Shares
outstanding
     Net asset value
per share (a)
 

Class A

     $9,059,024         784,050         $11.55   

Class B

     442,934         38,385         11.54   

Class C

     1,202,197         104,276         11.53   

Class I

     474,441         41,003         11.57   

Class R1

     115,871         10,032         11.55   

Class R2

     116,596         10,085         11.56   

Class R3

     116,956         10,112         11.57   

Class R4

     117,317         10,138         11.57   

Class R5

     1,642,956         141,976         11.57   

 

(a) Maximum offering price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for all share classes, except for Class A, for which the maximum offering price per share was $12.25 [100 / 94.25 x $11.55]. On sales of $50,000 or more, the maximum offering price of Class A shares is reduced. A contingent deferred sales charge may be imposed on redemptions of Class A, Class B, and Class C shares. Redemption price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for Classes I, R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5.

See notes to financial statements

 

11


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Six months ended 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement describes how much your fund earned in investment income and accrued in expenses. It also describes any gains and/or losses generated by fund operations.

 

Net investment income         

Income

  

Dividends

     $84,978   

Dividends from underlying affiliated funds

     65   

Total investment income

     $85,043   

Expenses

  

Management fee

     $23,805   

Distribution and service fees

     9,748   

Shareholder servicing costs

     1,427   

Administrative services fee

     8,679   

Independent Trustees’ compensation

     585   

Custodian fee

     6,420   

Shareholder communications

     3,844   

Audit and tax fees

     18,901   

Legal fees

     12   

Registration fees

     50,952   

Miscellaneous

     5,912   

Total expenses

     $130,285   

Reduction of expenses by investment adviser and distributor

     (91,045

Net expenses

     $39,240   

Net investment income

     $45,803   
Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments         

Realized gain (loss) on investments (identified cost basis)

     $(2,511

Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments

     $428,938   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments

     $426,427   

Change in net assets from operations

     $472,230   

See notes to financial statements

 

12


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

These statements describe the increases and/or decreases in net assets resulting from operations, any distributions, and any shareholder transactions.

 

Change in net assets    Six months ended
2/28/15
(unaudited)
    

Period ended
8/31/14 (c)

 
From operations                  

Net investment income

     $45,803         $26,186   

Net realized gain (loss) on investments

     (2,511      743   

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments

     428,938         225,422   

Change in net assets from operations

     $472,230         $252,351   
Distributions declared to shareholders                  

From net investment income

     $(26,449      $(16,493

From net realized gain on investments

     (2,950        

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(29,399      $(16,493

Change in net assets from fund share transactions

     $8,961,940         $3,647,663   

Total change in net assets

     $9,404,771         $3,883,521   
Net assets                  

At beginning of period

     3,883,521           

At end of period (including undistributed net investment income of $30,093 and $10,739, respectively)

     $13,288,292         $3,883,521   

 

(c) For the period from the commencement of the fund’s investment operations, December 5, 2013, through the stated period end.

See notes to financial statements

 

13


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the fund’s financial performance for the semiannual period and the past 5 fiscal years (or life of a particular share class, if shorter). Certain information reflects financial results for a single fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate by which an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the fund share class (assuming reinvestment of all distributions) held for the entire period.

 

Class A   

Six months

ended
2/28/15

    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.82        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $0.09        $0.11   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency

     0.71        0.77   

Total from investment operations

     $0.80        $0.88   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.06     $(0.06

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.01       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.07     $(0.06

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.55        $10.82   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

     7.44 (n)      8.82 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     3.75 (a)      4.45 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     1.18 (a)      1.15 (a) 

Net investment income

     1.70 (a)      1.40 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     12 (n)      30 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $9,059        $1,154   

See notes to financial statements

 

14


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

Class B    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.81        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $0.03        $0.04   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency

     0.74        0.78   

Total from investment operations

     $0.77        $0.82   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.03     $(0.01

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.01       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.04     $(0.01

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.54        $10.81   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

     7.07 (n)      8.23 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     4.88 (a)      5.75 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     1.94 (a)      1.93 (a) 

Net investment income

     0.61 (a)      0.46 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     12 (n)      30 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $443        $170   

See notes to financial statements

 

15


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

Class C    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.80        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $0.04        $0.04   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency

     0.73        0.79   

Total from investment operations

     $0.77        $0.83   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.03     $(0.03

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.01       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.04     $(0.03

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.53        $10.80   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

     7.07 (n)      8.27 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     4.89 (a)      5.39 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     1.94 (a)      1.93 (a) 

Net investment income

     0.67 (a)      0.48 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     12 (n)      30 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $1,202        $421   

See notes to financial statements

 

16


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

Class I    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.84        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $0.09        $0.11   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency

     0.73        0.80   

Total from investment operations

     $0.82        $0.91   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.08     $(0.07

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.01       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.09     $(0.07

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.57        $10.84   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

     7.53 (n)      9.09 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     3.89 (a)      4.72 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     0.94 (a)      0.93 (a) 

Net investment income

     1.69 (a)      1.43 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     12 (n)      30 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $474        $177   

See notes to financial statements

 

17


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

Class R1    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.82        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $0.03        $0.03   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency

     0.73        0.80   

Total from investment operations

     $0.76        $0.83   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.02     $(0.01

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.01       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.03     $(0.01

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.55        $10.82   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

     6.99 (n)      8.30 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     5.24 (a)      5.92 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     1.94 (a)      1.93 (a) 

Net investment income

     0.47 (a)      0.40 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     12 (n)      30 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $116        $108   

See notes to financial statements

 

18


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

Class R2    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.83        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $0.05        $0.07   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency

     0.74        0.80   

Total from investment operations

     $0.79        $0.87   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.05     $(0.04

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.01       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.06     $(0.04

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.56        $10.83   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

     7.26 (n)      8.69 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     4.74 (a)      5.42 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     1.44 (a)      1.43 (a) 

Net investment income

     0.97 (a)      0.90 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     12 (n)      30 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $117        $109   

See notes to financial statements

 

19


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

Class R3    Six months
ended
2/28/15
   

Period ended

8/31/14 (c)

 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.83        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $0.07        $0.09   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency

     0.74        0.79   

Total from investment operations

     $0.81        $0.88   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.06     $(0.05

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.01       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.07     $(0.05

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.57        $10.83   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

     7.49 (n)      8.84 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     4.49 (a)      5.17 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     1.19 (a)      1.18 (a) 

Net investment income

     1.22 (a)      1.15 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     12 (n)      30 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $117        $109   

See notes to financial statements

 

20


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

Class R4    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.84        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $0.08        $0.11   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency

     0.74        0.80   

Total from investment operations

     $0.82        $0.91   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.08     $(0.07

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.01       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.09     $(0.07

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.57        $10.84   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

     7.53 (n)      9.09 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     4.24 (a)      4.92 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     0.94 (a)      0.93 (a) 

Net investment income

     1.47 (a)      1.40 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     12 (n)      30 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $117        $109   

See notes to financial statements

 

21


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

Class R5    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     (unaudited)        

Net asset value, beginning of period

     $10.84        $10.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations                 

Net investment income (d)

     $0.08        $0.11   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency

     0.74        0.80   

Total from investment operations

     $0.82        $0.91   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                 

From net investment income

     $(0.08     $(0.07

From net realized gain on investments

     (0.01       

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(0.09     $(0.07

Net asset value, end of period (x)

     $11.57        $10.84   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

     7.54 (n)      9.11 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

     4.20 (a)      4.90 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

     0.91 (a)      0.91 (a) 

Net investment income

     1.51 (a)      1.42 (a) 

Portfolio turnover

     12 (n)      30 (n) 

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

     $1,643        $1,527   

 

(a) Annualized.
(c) For the period from the commencement of the fund’s investment operations, December 5, 2013, through the stated period end.
(d) Per share data is based on average shares outstanding.
(f) Ratios do not reflect reductions from fees paid indirectly, if applicable.
(n) Not annualized.
(r) Certain expenses have been reduced without which performance would have been lower.
(s) From time to time the fund may receive proceeds from litigation settlements, without which performance would be lower.
(t) Total returns do not include any applicable sales charges.
(x) The net asset values per share and total returns have been calculated on net asset values which include adjustments made in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles required at period end for financial reporting purposes.

See notes to financial statements

 

22


Table of Contents

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

(1) Business and Organization

MFS Low Volatility Equity Fund (the fund) is a diversified series of MFS Series Trust I (the trust). The trust is organized as a Massachusetts business trust and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as an open-end management investment company.

The fund is an investment company and accordingly follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 Financial Services – Investment Companies.

(2) Significant Accounting Policies

General – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. In the preparation of these financial statements, management has evaluated subsequent events occurring after the date of the fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities through the date that the financial statements were issued.

In June 2014, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-11, Transfers and Servicing (Topic 860) – Repurchase-to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures (“ASU 2014-11”). ASU 2014-11 changes the accounting for repurchase-to-maturity transactions (i.e., repurchase agreements that settle at the same time as the maturity of the transferred financial asset) and enhances the required disclosures for repurchase agreements and other similar transactions. Although still evaluating the potential impacts of ASU 2014-11 to the fund, management expects that the impact of the fund’s adoption will be limited to additional financial statement disclosures which would first be effective for interim reporting periods beginning after March 15, 2015.

Balance Sheet Offsetting – The fund’s accounting policy with respect to balance sheet offsetting is that, absent an event of default by the counterparty or a termination of the agreement, the International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) Master Agreement does not result in an offset of reported amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities across transactions between the fund and the applicable counterparty. The fund’s right to setoff may be restricted or prohibited by the bankruptcy or insolvency laws of the particular jurisdiction to which a specific master netting agreement counterparty is subject. Balance sheet offsetting disclosures, to the extent applicable to the fund, have been included in the fund’s Significant Accounting Policies note under the captions for each of the fund’s in-scope financial instruments and transactions.

Investment Valuations – Equity securities, including restricted equity securities, are generally valued at the last sale or official closing price as provided by a third-party pricing service on the market or exchange on which they are primarily traded. Equity

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

securities, for which there were no sales reported that day, are generally valued at the last quoted daily bid quotation as provided by a third-party pricing service on the market or exchange on which such securities are primarily traded. Short-term instruments with a maturity at issuance of 60 days or less may be valued at amortized cost, which approximates market value. Open-end investment companies are generally valued at net asset value per share. Securities and other assets generally valued on the basis of information from a third-party pricing service may also be valued at a broker/dealer bid quotation. Values obtained from third-party pricing services can utilize both transaction data and market information such as yield, quality, coupon rate, maturity, type of issue, trading characteristics, and other market data.

The Board of Trustees has delegated primary responsibility for determining or causing to be determined the value of the fund’s investments (including any fair valuation) to the adviser pursuant to valuation policies and procedures approved by the Board. If the adviser determines that reliable market quotations are not readily available, investments are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the adviser in accordance with such procedures under the oversight of the Board of Trustees. Under the fund’s valuation policies and procedures, market quotations are not considered to be readily available for most types of debt instruments and floating rate loans and many types of derivatives. These investments are generally valued at fair value based on information from third-party pricing services. In addition, investments may be valued at fair value if the adviser determines that an investment’s value has been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the exchange or market on which the investment is principally traded (such as foreign exchange or market) and prior to the determination of the fund’s net asset value, or after the halting of trading of a specific security where trading does not resume prior to the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded. Events that occur on a frequent basis after foreign markets close (such as developments in foreign markets and significant movements in the U.S. markets) and prior to the determination of the fund’s net asset value may be deemed to have a material effect on the value of securities traded in foreign markets. Accordingly, the fund’s foreign equity securities may often be valued at fair value. The adviser generally relies on third-party pricing services or other information (such as the correlation with price movements of similar securities in the same or other markets; the type, cost and investment characteristics of the security; the business and financial condition of the issuer; and trading and other market data) to assist in determining whether to fair value and at what value to fair value an investment. The value of an investment for purposes of calculating the fund’s net asset value can differ depending on the source and method used to determine value. When fair valuation is used, the value of an investment used to determine the fund’s net asset value may differ from quoted or published prices for the same investment. There can be no assurance that the fund could obtain the fair value assigned to an investment if it were to sell the investment at the same time at which the fund determines its net asset value per share.

Various inputs are used in determining the value of the fund’s assets or liabilities. These inputs are categorized into three broad levels. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, an investment’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The fund’s assessment of the

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the investment. Level 1 includes unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 includes other significant observable market-based inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speed, and credit risk). Level 3 includes unobservable inputs, which may include the adviser’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. The following is a summary of the levels used as of February 28, 2015 in valuing the fund’s assets or liabilities:

 

Investments at Value    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  
Equity Securities      $13,036,941         $—         $—         $13,036,941   
Mutual Funds      167,148                         167,148   
Total Investments      $13,204,089         $—         $—         $13,204,089   

For further information regarding security characteristics, see the Portfolio of Investments.

Indemnifications – Under the fund’s organizational documents, its officers and Trustees may be indemnified against certain liabilities and expenses arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into agreements with service providers that may contain indemnification clauses. The fund’s maximum exposure under these agreements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the fund that have not yet occurred.

Investment Transactions and Income – Investment transactions are recorded on the trade date. Dividends received in cash are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Certain dividends from foreign securities will be recorded when the fund is informed of the dividend if such information is obtained subsequent to the ex-dividend date. Dividend payments received in additional securities are recorded on the ex-dividend date in an amount equal to the value of the security on such date.

The fund may receive proceeds from litigation settlements. Any proceeds received from litigation involving portfolio holdings are reflected in the Statement of Operations in realized gain/loss if the security has been disposed of by the fund or in unrealized gain/loss if the security is still held by the fund. Any other proceeds from litigation not related to portfolio holdings are reflected as other income in the Statement of Operations.

Fees Paid Indirectly – The fund’s custody fee may be reduced according to an arrangement that measures the value of cash deposited with the custodian by the fund. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, custody fees were not reduced.

Tax Matters and Distributions – The fund intends to qualify as a regulated investment company, as defined under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, and to distribute all of its taxable income, including realized capital gains. As a result, no provision for federal income tax is required. The fund’s federal tax returns, when filed, will remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service for a three year period. Management has analyzed the fund’s tax positions taken on federal and state tax returns for all open tax years and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Certain capital accounts in the financial statements are periodically adjusted for permanent differences in order to reflect their tax character. These adjustments have no impact on net assets or net asset value per share. Temporary differences which arise from recognizing certain items of income, expense, gain or loss in different periods for financial statement and tax purposes will reverse at some time in the future. Distributions in excess of net investment income or net realized gains are temporary overdistributions for financial statement purposes resulting from differences in the recognition or classification of income or distributions for financial statement and tax purposes.

During the period ended August 31, 2014, there were no significant adjustments due to differences between book and tax accounting.

The tax character of distributions made during the current period will be determined at fiscal year end. The tax character of distributions declared to shareholders for the last fiscal period is as follows:

 

     8/31/14  
Ordinary income (including any
short-term capital gains)
     $16,493   

The federal tax cost and the tax basis components of distributable earnings were as follows:

 

As of 2/28/15       
Cost of investments      $12,550,501   
Gross appreciation      740,989   
Gross depreciation      (87,401
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)      $653,588   
As of 8/31/14       
Undistributed ordinary income      12,254   
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)      224,650   

The aggregate cost above includes prior fiscal year end tax adjustments, if applicable.

Multiple Classes of Shares of Beneficial Interest – The fund offers multiple classes of shares, which differ in their respective distribution and service fees. The fund’s income, realized and unrealized gain (loss), and common expenses are allocated to shareholders based on the daily net assets of each class. Dividends are declared separately for each class. Differences in per share dividend rates are generally due to differences in separate class expenses. Class B shares will convert to Class A shares

 

26


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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

approximately eight years after purchase. The fund’s distributions declared to shareholders as reported in the Statements of Changes in Net Assets are presented by class as follows:

 

     From net investment
income
     From net realized gain  on
investments
 
     Six months
ended
2/28/15
     Period
ended
8/31/14 (c)
     Six months
ended
2/28/15
     Period
ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
Class A      $10,649         $3,470         $1,238         $—   
Class B      542         140         145           
Class C      1,229         618         355           
Class I      1,231         1,009         100           
Class R1      188         97         61           
Class R2      475         379         62           
Class R3      619         521         62           
Class R4      763         663         62           
Class R5      10,753         9,596         865           
Total      $26,449         $16,493         $2,950         $—   

 

(c) For the period from the commencement of the fund’s investment operations, December 5, 2013, through the stated period end.

(3) Transactions with Affiliates

Investment Adviser – The fund has an investment advisory agreement with MFS to provide overall investment management and related administrative services and facilities to the fund. The management fee is computed daily and paid monthly at the following annual rates:

 

First $1 billion of average daily net assets      0.75
Next $1.5 billion of average daily net assets      0.70
Average daily net assets in excess of $2.5 billion      0.65

The investment adviser has agreed in writing to reduce its management fee to 0.60% of average daily net assets for the first $1 billion and 0.55% of average daily net assets in excess of $1 billion. This written agreement will continue until modified by the fund’s Board of Trustees, but such agreement will continue at least until December 31, 2015. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this management fee reduction amounted to $4,761, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. MFS has also agreed in writing to reduce its management fee by a specified amount if certain MFS mutual fund assets exceed thresholds agreed to by MFS and the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this management fee reduction amounted to $197, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. The management fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.59% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

The investment adviser has agreed in writing to pay a portion of the fund’s total annual operating expenses, excluding interest, taxes, extraordinary expenses, brokerage and

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

transaction costs, and investment-related expenses, such that total fund operating expenses do not exceed the following rates annually of each class’s average daily net assets:

 

Classes  
A     B     C     I     R1     R2     R3     R4     R5  
  1.20%        1.95%        1.95%        0.95%        1.95%        1.45%        1.20%        0.95%        0.91%   

This written agreement will continue until modified by the fund’s Board of Trustees, but such agreement will continue at least until December 31, 2015. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this reduction amounted to $85,891, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Distributor – MFS Fund Distributors, Inc. (MFD), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, as distributor, received $8,881 for the six months ended February 28, 2015, as its portion of the initial sales charge on sales of Class A shares of the fund.

The Board of Trustees has adopted a distribution plan for certain share classes pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the Investment Company Act of 1940.

The fund’s distribution plan provides that the fund will pay MFD for services provided by MFD and financial intermediaries in connection with the distribution and servicing of certain share classes. One component of the plan is a distribution fee paid to MFD and another component of the plan is a service fee paid to MFD. MFD may subsequently pay all, or a portion, of the distribution and/or service fees to financial intermediaries.

Distribution Plan Fee Table:

 

    

Distribution

Fee Rate (d)

    

Service

Fee Rate (d)

    

Total

Distribution

Plan (d)

    

Annual

Effective

Rate (e)

    

Distribution

and Service

Fee

 
Class A              0.25%         0.25%         0.24%         $3,920   
Class B      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         1,483   
Class C      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         3,376   
Class R1      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         552   
Class R2      0.25%         0.25%         0.50%         0.50%         278   
Class R3              0.25%         0.25%         0.25%         139   
Total Distribution and Service Fees         $9,748   

 

(d) In accordance with the distribution plan for certain classes, the fund pays distribution and/or service fees equal to these annual percentage rates of each class’s average daily net assets. The distribution and service fee rates disclosed by class represent the current rates in effect at the end of the reporting period. Any rate changes, if applicable, are detailed below.
(e) MFD has voluntarily agreed to rebate a portion of each class’s 0.25% service fee attributable to accounts for which MFD retains the 0.25% service fee except for accounts attributable to MFS or its affiliates’ seed money. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this rebate amounted to $195 for Class A, and is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Certain Class A shares are subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) in the event of a shareholder redemption within 18 months of purchase. Class C shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder redemption within 12 months of purchase. Class B shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

redemption within six years of purchase. All contingent deferred sales charges are paid to MFD and during the six months ended February 28, 2015, were as follows:

 

     Amount  
Class C      $7   

Shareholder Servicing Agent – MFS Service Center, Inc. (MFSC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, receives a fee from the fund for its services as shareholder servicing agent calculated as a percentage of the average daily net assets of the fund as determined periodically under the supervision of the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fee was $366, which equated to 0.0115% annually of the fund’s average daily net assets. MFSC also receives payment from the fund for out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs which may be paid to affiliated and unaffiliated service providers. Class R5 shares do not incur sub-accounting fees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, these out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs amounted to $1,061.

Administrator – MFS provides certain financial, legal, shareholder communications, compliance, and other administrative services to the fund. Under an administrative services agreement, the fund reimburses MFS the costs incurred to provide these services. The fund is charged an annual fixed amount of $17,500 plus a fee based on average daily net assets. The administrative services fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.2734% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

Trustees’ and Officers’ Compensation – The fund pays compensation to independent Trustees in the form of a retainer, attendance fees, and additional compensation to Board and Committee chairpersons. The fund does not pay compensation directly to Trustees or officers of the fund who are also officers of the investment adviser, all of whom receive remuneration for their services to the fund from MFS. Certain officers and Trustees of the fund are officers or directors of MFS, MFD, and MFSC.

Other – Effective November 1, 2014, this fund and certain other funds managed by MFS (the funds) have entered into a service agreement (the ISO Agreement) which provides for payment of fees solely by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the provision of services of an Independent Senior Officer (ISO) for the funds. Frank L. Tarantino serves as the ISO and is an officer of the funds and the sole member of Tarantino LLC. The funds can terminate the ISO Agreement with Tarantino LLC at any time under the terms of the ISO Agreement. Prior to November 1, 2014, the funds had entered into a service agreement (the Compliance Officer Agreement) which provided for payment of fees by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the provision of services of an Independent Chief Compliance Officer (ICCO) for the funds. Prior to November 1, 2014, Frank L. Tarantino served as the ICCO. Effective October 31, 2014, Mr. Tarantino resigned as ICCO and the Compliance Officer Agreement between the funds and Tarantino LLC was terminated. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the aggregate fees paid by the fund under these agreements were $8 and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations. MFS had agreed to reimburse the fund for a portion of the payments made by the fund for the services

 

29


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

under the Compliance Officer Agreement in the amount of $1, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. Additionally, MFS has agreed to bear all expenses associated with office space, other administrative support, and supplies provided to the ICCO and ISO.

The fund invests in the MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio which is managed by MFS and seeks current income consistent with preservation of capital and liquidity. Income earned on this investment is included in “Dividends from underlying affiliated funds” in the Statement of Operations. This money market fund does not pay a management fee to MFS.

On December 5, 2013, MFS purchased 140,000 shares of Class R5 and 10,000 shares of Class A, Class B, Class C, and Class I, Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, Class R4 for an aggregate amount of $2,200,000.

At February 28, 2015, MFS held 100% of the outstanding shares of Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, Class R4, and Class R5.

(4) Portfolio Securities

For the six months ended February 28, 2015, purchases and sales of investments, other than short-term obligations, aggregated $9,561,027 and $777,036, respectively.

(5) Shares of Beneficial Interest

The fund’s Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest. Transactions in fund shares were as follows:

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
     Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     Shares      Amount      Shares      Amount  
Shares sold            

Class A

     708,542         $8,033,271         110,758         $1,150,103   

Class B

     25,523         287,330         15,774         160,956   

Class C

     65,454         735,135         38,895         404,114   

Class I

     24,850         282,677         16,190         163,700   

Class R1

                     10,000         100,000   

Class R2

                     10,000         100,000   

Class R3

                     10,000         100,000   

Class R4

                     10,000         100,000   

Class R5

                     140,000         1,400,000   
     824,369         $9,338,413         361,617         $3,678,873   

 

30


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
     Period ended
8/31/14 (c)
 
     Shares      Amount      Shares      Amount  
Shares issued to shareholders in
reinvestment of distributions
           

Class A

     1,077         $11,887         331         $3,470   

Class B

     62         683         13         138   

Class C

     144         1,584         58         618   

Class I

     121         1,331         96         1,009   

Class R1

     23         249         9         97   

Class R2

     49         537         36         379   

Class R3

     62         681         50         521   

Class R4

     75         825         63         663   

Class R5

     1,058         11,618         918         9,596   
     2,671         $29,395         1,574         $16,491   
Shares reacquired            

Class A

     (32,177      $(366,283      (4,481      $(46,920

Class B

     (2,922      (33,723      (65      (700

Class C

     (267      (2,960      (8      (81

Class I

     (254      (2,902                
     (35,620      $(405,868      (4,554      $(47,701
Net change            

Class A

     677,442         $7,678,875         106,608         $1,106,653   

Class B

     22,663         254,290         15,722         160,394   

Class C

     65,331         733,759         38,945         404,651   

Class I

     24,717         281,106         16,286         164,709   

Class R1

     23         249         10,009         100,097   

Class R2

     49         537         10,036         100,379   

Class R3

     62         681         10,050         100,521   

Class R4

     75         825         10,063         100,663   

Class R5

     1,058         11,618         140,918         1,409,596   
     791,420         $8,961,940         358,637         $3,647,663   

 

(c) For the period from the commencement of the fund’s investment operations, December 5, 2013, through the stated period end.

(6) Line of Credit

The fund and certain other funds managed by MFS participate in a $1.1 billion unsecured committed line of credit, subject to a $1 billion sublimit, provided by a syndication of banks under a credit agreement. Borrowings may be made for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, generally at a rate equal to the higher of the Federal Reserve funds rate or one month LIBOR plus an agreed upon spread. A commitment fee, based on the average daily, unused portion of the committed line of credit, is allocated among the participating funds at the end of each calendar quarter. In addition, the fund and other funds managed by MFS have established unsecured uncommitted borrowing arrangements with certain banks for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund,

 

31


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

based on its borrowings, at a rate equal to the Federal Reserve funds rate plus an agreed upon spread. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fund’s commitment fee and interest expense were $6 and $0, respectively, and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations.

(7) Transactions in Underlying Affiliated Funds-Affiliated Issuers

An affiliated issuer may be considered one in which the fund owns 5% or more of the outstanding voting securities, or a company which is under common control. For the purposes of this report, the fund assumes the following to be an affiliated issuer:

 

Underlying Affiliated Fund   

Beginning

Shares/Par

Amount

    

Acquisitions

Shares/Par

Amount

    

Dispositions

Shares/Par

Amount

    

Ending

Shares/Par

Amount

 
MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio      132,053         4,655,125         (4,620,030      167,148   
Underlying Affiliated Fund   

Realized

Gain (Loss)

    

Capital Gain

Distributions

    

Dividend

Income

    

Ending

Value

 
MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio      $—         $—         $65         $167,148   

 

32


Table of Contents

PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND INFORMATION

MFS votes proxies on behalf of the fund pursuant to proxy voting policies and procedures that are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-225-2606, by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

Information regarding how the fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 is available without charge by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

QUARTERLY PORTFOLIO DISCLOSURE

The fund will file a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. A shareholder can obtain the quarterly portfolio holdings report at mfs.com. The fund’s Form N-Q is also available on the EDGAR database on the Commission’s Internet Web site at http://www.sec.gov, and may be reviewed and copied at the:

Public Reference Room

Securities and Exchange Commission

100 F Street, NE, Room 1580

Washington, D.C. 20549

Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330. Copies of the fund’s Form N-Q also may be obtained, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section at the above address.

FURTHER INFORMATION

From time to time, MFS may post important information about the fund or the MFS funds on the MFS web site (mfs.com). This information is available by visiting the “Market Commentary” and “Announcements” sub sections in the “Market Outlooks” section of mfs.com or by clicking on the fund’s name under “Mutual Funds” in the “Products” section of mfs.com.

PROVISION OF FINANCIAL REPORTS AND SUMMARY PROSPECTUSES

The fund produces financial reports every six months and updates its summary prospectus and prospectus annually. To avoid sending duplicate copies of materials to households, only one copy of the fund’s annual and semiannual report and summary prospectus may be mailed to shareholders having the same last name and residential address on the fund’s records. However, any shareholder may contact MFSC (please see back cover for address and telephone number) to request that copies of these reports and summary prospectuses be sent personally to that shareholder.

 

33


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

Save paper with eDelivery.

 

LOGO

MFS® will send you prospectuses,

reports, and proxies directly via e-mail so you will get information faster with less mailbox clutter.

To sign up:

1. Go to mfs.com.

2. Log in via MFS® Access.

3. Select eDelivery.

If you own your MFS fund shares through a financial institution or a retirement plan, MFS® TALK, MFS® Access, or eDelivery may not be available to you.

 

CONTACT

WEB SITE

mfs.com

MFS TALK

1-800-637-8255

24 hours a day

ACCOUNT SERVICE AND LITERATURE

Shareholders

1-800-225-2606

Financial advisors

1-800-343-2829

Retirement plan services

1-800-637-1255

MAILING ADDRESS

MFS Service Center, Inc.

P.O. Box 55824

Boston, MA 02205-5824

OVERNIGHT MAIL

MFS Service Center, Inc.

c/o Boston Financial Data Services

30 Dan Road

Canton, MA 02021-2809

 


Table of Contents

SEMIANNUAL REPORT

February 28, 2015

 

LOGO

MFS® NEW DISCOVERY FUND

 

LOGO

 

NDF-SEM

 


Table of Contents

MFS® NEW DISCOVERY FUND

CONTENTS

 

Letter from the Chairman     1   
Portfolio composition     2   
Expense table     3   
Portfolio of investments     5   
Statement of assets and liabilities     11   
Statement of operations     13   
Statements of changes in net assets     14   
Financial highlights     15   
Notes to financial statements     27   
Proxy voting policies and information     40   
Quarterly portfolio disclosure     40   
Further information     40   
Provision of financial reports and summary prospectuses     40   
Contact information    back cover   

 

 

The report is prepared for the general information of shareholders.

It is authorized for distribution to prospective investors only when preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.

 

NOT FDIC INSURED Ÿ MAY LOSE VALUE Ÿ NO BANK GUARANTEE


Table of Contents

LOGO

LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Dear Shareholders:

Lower oil prices continue to influence markets in different ways. Among those economies hurt, oil-exporters such as Russia and Venezuela have been hit particularly hard, along with U.S. regions that have close oil industry ties.

The U.S. economic recovery remains solid. The labor market is strong, interest rates are historically low and reduced energy prices have helped to stimulate consumer spending.

Economic reports early in 2015 indicate that the eurozone is on a more solid footing, with confidence boosted by the launch of European Central Bank quantitative easing.

In Asia, the Chinese economy continues to raise concerns, with the People’s Bank of China implementing stimulus programs to counter a steady decline in growth rates.

As always, active risk management is integral to how we at MFS® manage your investments. We use a collaborative process, sharing insights across asset classes, regions and economic sectors. Our global investment team uses a diversified, multidisciplined, long-term approach.

Applying proven principles, such as asset allocation and diversification, can best serve investors over the long term. We are confident that this approach can help you as you work with your financial advisors to reach your goals in the years ahead.

Respectfully,

 

LOGO

Robert J. Manning

Chairman

MFS Investment Management

April 14, 2015

The opinions expressed in this letter are subject to change and may not be relied upon for investment advice. No forecasts can be guaranteed.

 

1


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION

 

Portfolio structure

 

LOGO

 

Top ten holdings  
Bright Horizons Family Solutions, Inc.     2.1%   
Swift Transportation Co.     2.0%   
Urban Outfitters, Inc.     1.9%   
Citi Trends, Inc.     1.8%   
Gartner, Inc.     1.7%   
Cvent, Inc.     1.6%   
Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc.     1.5%   
Healthcare Services Group, Inc.     1.5%   
AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc.     1.5%   
Burlington Stores, Inc.     1.5%   
Equity sectors  
Health Care     26.7%   
Technology     13.0%   
Special Products & Services     12.9%   
Industrial Goods & Services     9.0%   
Retailing     7.7%   
Leisure     7.0%   
Financial Services     5.4%   
Energy     3.9%   
Transportation     3.9%   
Basic Materials     3.6%   
Autos & Housing     3.2%   
Consumer Staples     1.5%   
Utilities & Communications     0.3%   
 

 

Cash & Other can include cash, other assets less liabilities, offsets to derivative positions, and short-term securities.

Percentages are based on net assets as of 2/28/15.

The portfolio is actively managed and current holdings may be different.

 

2


Table of Contents

EXPENSE TABLE

Fund expenses borne by the shareholders during the period, September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015

As a shareholder of the fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on certain purchase or redemption payments, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015.

Actual Expenses

The first line for each share class in the following table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The second line for each share class in the following table provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads). Therefore, the second line for each share class in the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

3


Table of Contents

Expense Table – continued

 

Share
Class
       Annualized
Expense
Ratio
    Beginning
Account Value
9/01/14
    Ending
Account Value
2/28/15
    Expenses
Paid During
Period (p)
9/01/14-2/28/15
 
A   Actual     1.31%        $1,000.00        $1,015.71        $6.55   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.31%        $1,000.00        $1,018.30        $6.56   
B   Actual     2.06%        $1,000.00        $1,012.16        $10.28   
  Hypothetical (h)     2.06%        $1,000.00        $1,014.58        $10.29   
C   Actual     2.07%        $1,000.00        $1,012.13        $10.33   
  Hypothetical (h)     2.07%        $1,000.00        $1,014.53        $10.34   
I   Actual     1.06%        $1,000.00        $1,017.18        $5.30   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.06%        $1,000.00        $1,019.54        $5.31   
R1   Actual     2.07%        $1,000.00        $1,012.22        $10.33   
  Hypothetical (h)     2.07%        $1,000.00        $1,014.53        $10.34   
R2   Actual     1.57%        $1,000.00        $1,014.69        $7.84   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.57%        $1,000.00        $1,017.01        $7.85   
R3   Actual     1.32%        $1,000.00        $1,015.73        $6.60   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.32%        $1,000.00        $1,018.25        $6.61   
R4   Actual     1.07%        $1,000.00        $1,017.15        $5.35   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.07%        $1,000.00        $1,019.49        $5.36   
R5   Actual     0.93%        $1,000.00        $1,017.51        $4.65   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.93%        $1,000.00        $1,020.18        $4.66   
529A   Actual     1.35%        $1,000.00        $1,015.30        $6.75   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.35%        $1,000.00        $1,018.10        $6.76   
529B   Actual     2.10%        $1,000.00        $1,012.02        $10.48   
  Hypothetical (h)     2.10%        $1,000.00        $1,014.38        $10.49   
529C   Actual     2.12%        $1,000.00        $1,011.97        $10.58   
  Hypothetical (h)     2.12%        $1,000.00        $1,014.28        $10.59   

 

(h) 5% class return per year before expenses.
(p) “Expenses Paid During Period” are equal to each class’s annualized expense ratio, as shown above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181/365 (to reflect the one-half year period). Expenses paid do not include any applicable sales charges (loads). If these transaction costs had been included, your costs would have been higher.

Notes to Expense Table

Each class with a Rule 12b-1 service fee is subject to a rebate of a portion of such fee. Such rebates are included in the expense ratios above. For Class A, Class 529A, and Class 529B shares, this rebate reduced the expense ratios above by 0.01%, 0.02%, and 0.02%, respectively. See Note 3 in the Notes to Financial Statements for additional information.

 

4


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS

2/28/15 (unaudited)

The Portfolio of Investments is a complete list of all securities owned by your fund. It is categorized by broad-based asset classes.

 

Common Stocks - 98.1%                 
Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
Aerospace - 0.8%                 
FLIR Systems, Inc.      397,485      $ 12,830,816   
Apparel Manufacturers - 0.3%                 
Tumi Holdings, Inc. (a)      235,983      $ 5,519,642   
Biotechnology - 6.5%                 
Alnylam Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (a)      49,251      $ 5,000,454   
AMAG Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (a)      497,009        24,467,753   
Amicus Therapeutics, Inc. (a)      693,291        6,073,229   
Exact Sciences Corp. (a)(l)      485,583        10,911,050   
Isis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (a)      306,363        21,004,247   
MiMedx Group, Inc. (a)      1,462,003        15,131,731   
Novavax, Inc. (a)      589,275        5,391,866   
Puma Biotechnology, Inc. (a)      47,541        10,126,708   
Spark Therapeutics, Inc. (a)      16,780        966,360   
Tesaro, Inc. (a)      209,000        11,145,970   
    

 

 

 
      $ 110,219,368   
Broadcasting - 1.2%                 
Live Nation, Inc. (a)      794,049      $ 20,319,714   
Brokerage & Asset Managers - 1.4%                 
LPL Financial Holdings, Inc.      200,193      $ 8,980,658   
NASDAQ OMX Group, Inc.      306,024        15,350,164   
    

 

 

 
      $ 24,330,822   
Business Services - 8.8%                 
Borderfree, Inc. (a)      684,347      $ 5,276,315   
Bright Horizons Family Solutions, Inc. (a)      694,695        35,221,036   
Constant Contact, Inc. (a)      589,339        24,357,381   
CoStar Group, Inc. (a)      92,231        18,368,726   
Gartner, Inc. (a)      345,255        28,694,143   
Global Payments, Inc.      126,262        11,598,427   
Ultimate Software Group, Inc. (a)      100,750        16,587,984   
Zillow Group, Inc. (a)      63,690        7,308,411   
    

 

 

 
      $ 147,412,423   
Chemicals - 0.2%                 
Marrone Bio Innovations, Inc. (a)      760,770      $ 2,662,695   

 

5


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
Common Stocks - continued                 
Computer Software - 0.8%                 
SolarWinds, Inc. (a)      253,150      $ 12,842,300   
Computer Software - Systems - 9.3%                 
Cvent, Inc. (a)      922,679      $ 26,711,557   
Demandware, Inc. (a)      279,950        17,690,041   
Exa Corp. (a)      422,625        4,162,856   
Fleetmatics Group PLC (a)      440,293        18,144,475   
Model N, Inc. (a)(h)      1,429,420        17,681,925   
Proofpoint, Inc. (a)      128,380        7,271,443   
Sabre Corp.      749,854        16,316,823   
SciQuest, Inc. (a)      686,131        11,945,541   
ServiceNow, Inc. (a)      219,918        16,770,947   
SS&C Technologies Holdings, Inc.      315,500        19,144,540   
    

 

 

 
      $ 155,840,148   
Construction - 3.2%                 
Eagle Materials, Inc.      245,293      $ 19,255,500   
Lennox International, Inc.      98,196        10,237,915   
Pool Corp.      132,656        9,175,816   
Trex Co., Inc. (a)      305,520        15,382,932   
    

 

 

 
      $ 54,052,163   
Consumer Services - 3.7%                 
HomeAway, Inc. (a)      250,521      $ 7,764,898   
MakeMyTrip Ltd. (a)      450,244        10,594,241   
Nord Anglia Education, Inc. (a)      899,711        19,262,813   
Servicemaster Global Holdings, Inc. (a)      691,993        23,936,038   
    

 

 

 
      $ 61,557,990   
Electrical Equipment - 3.8%                 
Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc.      918,126      $ 24,927,121   
AMETEK, Inc.      322,294        17,126,703   
MSC Industrial Direct Co., Inc., “A”      168,396        12,291,224   
TriMas Corp. (a)      303,401        9,089,894   
    

 

 

 
      $ 63,434,942   
Electronics - 1.7%                 
Monolithic Power Systems, Inc.      125,344      $ 6,609,389   
Silicon Laboratories, Inc. (a)      234,167        11,858,217   
Stratasys Ltd. (a)      151,442        9,398,491   
    

 

 

 
      $ 27,866,097   
Energy - Independent - 2.6%                 
Foresight Energy LP      743,420      $ 12,526,627   
Memorial Resource Development Corp. (a)      457,675        9,386,914   

 

6


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
Common Stocks - continued                 
Energy - Independent - continued                 
Range Resources Corp.      130,987      $ 6,489,096   
Rice Energy, Inc. (a)      534,189        10,459,421   
Sanchez Energy Corp. (a)(l)      399,334        5,351,076   
    

 

 

 
      $ 44,213,134   
Engineering - Construction - 1.4%                 
Stantec, Inc.      348,243      $ 8,892,022   
Team, Inc. (a)      382,318        14,681,011   
    

 

 

 
      $ 23,573,033   
Entertainment - 0.3%                 
DHX Media Ltd.      631,995      $ 4,666,278   
Food & Beverages - 1.5%                 
Flex Pharma, Inc. (a)      153,972      $ 2,676,803   
Freshpet, Inc. (a)(l)      913,275        16,831,658   
Snyders-Lance, Inc.      214,458        6,616,029   
    

 

 

 
             $ 26,124,490   
Gaming & Lodging - 2.9%                 
Diamond Resorts International, Inc. (a)      494,029      $ 17,118,105   
La Quinta Holdings, Inc. (a)      422,095        9,374,730   
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd. (a)      457,451        22,561,483   
    

 

 

 
             $ 49,054,318   
General Merchandise - 1.2%                 
Five Below, Inc. (a)      658,545      $ 20,898,926   
Internet - 1.3%                 
Dealertrack Holdings, Inc. (a)      380,861      $ 15,146,842   
Pandora Media, Inc. (a)      489,082        7,238,414   
    

 

 

 
             $ 22,385,256   
Machinery & Tools - 3.0%                 
Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc.      522,648      $ 16,630,659   
IPG Photonics Corp. (a)      218,448        20,949,163   
Oshkosh Corp.      73,865        3,603,873   
WABCO Holdings, Inc. (a)      83,194        9,719,555   
    

 

 

 
             $ 50,903,250   
Medical & Health Technology & Services - 7.2%                 
Adeptus Health, Inc., “A” (a)      124,989      $ 5,543,262   
Advisory Board Co. (a)      154,427        8,357,589   
Brookdale Senior Living, Inc. (a)      644,235        24,165,255   

 

7


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
Common Stocks - continued           
Medical & Health Technology & Services - continued           
Capital Senior Living Corp. (a)      881,845      $ 22,046,125   
Healthcare Services Group, Inc.      731,596        24,559,678   
HealthStream, Inc. (a)      433,118        11,209,094   
IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (a)      74,877        11,742,960   
INC Research Holdings, Inc., “A” (a)      479,880        14,362,808   
    

 

 

 
             $ 121,986,771   
Medical Equipment - 9.7%                 
Align Technology, Inc. (a)      246,222      $ 14,120,832   
AtriCure, Inc. (a)      198,964        3,517,684   
Cardiovascular Systems, Inc. (a)      423,049        15,953,178   
Cepheid, Inc. (a)      295,868        16,817,137   
DexCom, Inc. (a)      277,590        16,860,817   
GenMark Diagnostics, Inc. (a)      637,186        8,098,634   
Masimo Corp. (a)      660,830        19,474,660   
Nevro Corp. (a)      159,265        6,662,055   
Novadaq Technologies, Inc. (a)      635,130        10,511,401   
NxStage Medical, Inc. (a)      438,489        7,533,241   
PerkinElmer, Inc.      307,781        14,465,707   
STERIS Corp.      224,692        14,497,128   
Thoratec Corp. (a)      353,228        14,383,444   
    

 

 

 
             $ 162,895,918   
Metals & Mining - 0.8%                 
Globe Specialty Metals, Inc.      829,480      $ 13,810,842   
Natural Gas - Pipeline - 0.4%                 
StealthGas, Inc. (a)      976,797      $ 6,007,302   
Oil Services - 1.3%                 
Forum Energy Technologies, Inc. (a)      224,799      $ 4,390,324   
Frank’s International N.V.      710,338        12,615,603   
Patterson-UTI Energy, Inc.      229,216        4,282,901   
    

 

 

 
             $ 21,288,828   
Other Banks & Diversified Financials - 4.0%                 
Air Lease Corp.      363,882      $ 13,914,848   
Avolon Holdings Ltd. (a)      387,177        7,604,156   
CAI International, Inc. (a)      264,498        6,422,011   
First Republic Bank      283,308        16,148,556   
PrivateBancorp, Inc.      351,933        12,222,633   
Texas Capital Bancshares, Inc. (a)      232,619        10,800,500   
    

 

 

 
             $ 67,112,704   

 

8


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
Common Stocks - continued           
Pharmaceuticals - 3.2%                 
Aratana Therapeutics, Inc. (a)      693,571      $ 13,358,177   
Intercept Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (a)      44,852        9,928,887   
Kythera Biopharmaceuticals, Inc. (a)      216,564        8,998,234   
MediWound Ltd. (a)      431,491        3,335,425   
Receptos, Inc. (a)      79,797        10,105,492   
TherapeuticsMD, Inc. (a)      1,706,775        8,653,349   
    

 

 

 
             $ 54,379,564   
Railroad & Shipping - 1.4%                 
Diana Shipping, Inc. (a)      2,050,892      $ 14,212,682   
Navios Maritime Holdings, Inc.      2,079,450        9,045,608   
    

 

 

 
             $ 23,258,290   
Restaurants - 2.6%                 
Chuy’s Holdings, Inc. (a)      736,461      $ 16,548,279   
Domino’s Pizza, Inc.      73,519        7,464,384   
Dunkin Brands Group, Inc.      218,955        10,260,231   
Zoe’s Kitchen, Inc. (a)(l)      257,119        8,821,753   
    

 

 

 
             $ 43,094,647   
Special Products & Services - 0.4%                 
WL Ross Holding Corp. (a)      707,014      $ 7,501,065   
Specialty Chemicals - 2.6%                 
Albemarle Corp.      272,096      $ 15,392,471   
Axalta Coating Systems Ltd. (a)      655,944        18,628,810   
PolyOne Corp.      248,227        9,864,541   
    

 

 

 
             $ 43,885,822   
Specialty Stores - 6.1%                 
Boot Barn Holdings, Inc. (a)      168,382      $ 4,143,881   
Burlington Stores, Inc. (a)      439,584        24,427,683   
Citi Trends, Inc. (a)(h)      1,126,996        30,034,443   
Lumber Liquidators Holdings, Inc. (a)      256,442        13,299,082   
Urban Outfitters, Inc. (a)      807,607        31,464,369   
    

 

 

 
      $ 103,369,458   
Trucking - 2.5%                 
Knight Transportation, Inc.      242,177      $ 8,006,372   
Swift Transportation Co. (a)      1,191,093        33,684,110   
    

 

 

 
      $ 41,690,482   
Total Common Stocks (Identified Cost, $1,362,532,821)      $ 1,650,989,498   

 

9


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Warrants - 0.0%                                 
Issuer    Strike Price     First Exercise     Shares/Par     Value ($)  
Food & Drug Stores - 0.0%                                 
Brasil Pharma S.A. (1 share for 1 warrant) (a) (Identified Cost, $0)    BRL  5.50        6/25/14        731,699      $ 7,733   
Money Market Funds - 1.4%   
MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio, 0.1%,
at Cost and Net Asset Value (v)
        23,466,193      $ 23,466,193   
Collateral for Securities Loaned - 0.8%   
Navigator Securities Lending Prime Portfolio, 0.17%,
at Cost and Net Asset Value (j)
        12,640,650      $ 12,640,650   
Total Investments (Identified Cost, $1,398,639,664)      $ 1,687,104,074   
Other Assets, Less Liabilities - (0.3)%        (4,981,577
Net Assets - 100.0%      $ 1,682,122,497   

 

(a) Non-income producing security.
(h) Affiliated issuers are those in which the fund’s holdings of an issuer represent 5% or more of the outstanding voting securities of the issuer.
(j) The rate quoted is the annualized seven-day yield of the fund at period end.
(l) A portion of this security is on loan.
(v) Underlying affiliated fund that is available only to investment companies managed by MFS. The rate quoted for the MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio is the annualized seven-day yield of the fund at period end.

The following abbreviations are used in this report and are defined:

 

PLC   Public Limited Company

See notes to financial statements

 

10


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement represents your fund’s balance sheet, which details the assets and liabilities comprising the total value of the fund.

 

Assets         

Investments-

  

Non-affiliated issuers, at value (identified cost, $1,326,012,869)

     $1,615,921,513   

Underlying affiliated funds, at cost and value

     23,466,193   

Other affiliated issuers, at value (identified cost, $49,160,602)

     47,716,368   

Total investments, at value, including $11,993,745 of securities on loan
(identified cost, $1,398,639,664)

     $1,687,104,074   

Receivables for

  

Investments sold

     19,029,332   

Fund shares sold

     1,457,914   

Interest and dividends

     607,291   

Other assets

     9,144   

Total assets

     $1,708,207,755   
Liabilities         

Payables for

  

Investments purchased

     $7,622,283   

Fund shares reacquired

     4,864,547   

Collateral for securities loaned, at value

     12,640,650   

Payable to affiliates

  

Investment adviser

     112,801   

Shareholder servicing costs

     715,667   

Distribution and service fees

     26,768   

Program manager fees

     29   

Payable for independent Trustees’ compensation

     4,264   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     98,249   

Total liabilities

     $26,085,258   

Net assets

     $1,682,122,497   
Net assets consist of         

Paid-in capital

     $1,539,942,991   

Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments and translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies

     288,464,380   

Accumulated net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     (140,214,361

Accumulated net investment loss

     (6,070,513

Net assets

     $1,682,122,497   

Shares of beneficial interest outstanding

     69,108,391   

 

11


Table of Contents

Statement of Assets and Liabilities (unaudited) – continued

 

 

     Net assets      Shares
outstanding
     Net asset value
per share (a)
 

Class A

     $490,200,526         20,466,367         $23.95   

Class B

     29,254,983         1,436,283         20.37   

Class C

     116,871,780         5,727,087         20.41   

Class I

     287,265,480         11,060,881         25.97   

Class R1

     7,751,457         382,972         20.24   

Class R2

     62,589,267         2,735,348         22.88   

Class R3

     131,748,842         5,505,689         23.93   

Class R4

     210,445,058         8,473,659         24.84   

Class R5

     339,069,897         13,009,460         26.06   

Class 529A

     5,224,340         224,561         23.26   

Class 529B

     339,864         17,202         19.76   

Class 529C

     1,361,003         68,882         19.76   

 

(a) Maximum offering price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for all share classes, except for Classes A and 529A, for which the maximum offering prices per share were $25.41 [100 / 94.25 x $23.95] and $24.68 [100 / 94.25 x $23.26], respectively. On sales of $50,000 or more, the maximum offering prices of Class A and Class 529A shares are reduced. A contingent deferred sales charge may be imposed on redemptions of Class A, Class B, Class C, Class 529B, and Class 529C shares. Redemption price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for Classes I, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, and 529A.

See notes to financial statements

 

12


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Six months ended 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement describes how much your fund earned in investment income and accrued in expenses. It also describes any gains and/or losses generated by fund operations.

 

Net Investment loss         

Income

  

Dividends

     $4,206,077   

Income on securities loaned

     764,403   

Dividends from underlying affiliated funds

     4,671   

Foreign taxes withheld

     (27,891

Total investment income

     $4,947,260   

Expenses

  

Management fee

     $7,985,802   

Distribution and service fees

     1,781,386   

Program manager fees

     3,218   

Shareholder servicing costs

     1,238,914   

Administrative services fee

     148,983   

Independent Trustees’ compensation

     20,928   

Custodian fee

     78,112   

Shareholder communications

     75,055   

Audit and tax fees

     27,813   

Legal fees

     9,629   

Miscellaneous

     106,112   

Total expenses

     $11,475,952   

Fees paid indirectly

     (128

Reduction of expenses by investment adviser and distributor

     (461,947

Net expenses

     $11,013,877   

Net investment loss

     $(6,066,617
Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency   

Realized gain (loss) (identified cost basis)

  

Investments:

  

Non-affiliated issuers

     $(119,323,467

Other affiliated issuers

     (2,801,881

Foreign currency

     (21,685

Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     $(122,147,033

Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

  

Investments

     $137,692,167   

Translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies

     (990

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency translation

     $137,691,177   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     $15,544,144   

Change in net assets from operations

     $9,477,527   

See notes to financial statements

 

13


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

These statements describe the increases and/or decreases in net assets resulting from operations, any distributions, and any shareholder transactions.

 

Change in net assets    Six months ended
2/28/15
(unaudited)
    

Year ended
8/31/14

 
From operations                  

Net investment loss

     $(6,066,617      $(16,765,231

Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     (122,147,033      306,638,157   

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency translation

     137,691,177         (131,752,340

Change in net assets from operations

     $9,477,527         $158,120,586   
Distributions declared to shareholders                  

From net realized gain on investments

     $(126,855,750      $(182,188,311

Change in net assets from fund share transactions

     $(263,055,803      $48,101,270   

Total change in net assets

     $(380,434,026      $24,033,545   
Net assets                  

At beginning of period

     2,062,556,523         2,038,522,978   

At end of period (including accumulated net investment loss of $6,070,513 and $3,896, respectively)

     $1,682,122,497         $2,062,556,523   

See notes to financial statements

 

14


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the fund’s financial performance for the semiannual period and the past 5 fiscal years (or life of a particular share class, if shorter). Certain information reflects financial results for a single fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate by which an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the fund share class (assuming reinvestment of all distributions) held for the entire period.

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class A     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $25.49        $25.86        $20.17        $22.63        $19.03        $16.22   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.09     $(0.22     $(0.14     $(0.16     $(0.22     $(0.17

Net realized and unrealized gain
(loss) on investments and
foreign currency

    0.37        2.30        5.83        1.80        5.23        2.98   

Total from investment operations

    $0.28        $2.08        $5.69        $1.64        $5.01        $2.81   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on
investments

    $(1.82     $(2.45     $—        $(4.10     $(1.41     $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $23.95        $25.49        $25.86        $20.17        $22.63        $19.03   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    1.57 (n)      8.01        28.21        9.88        26.13        17.32   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    1.37 (a)      1.33        1.35        1.39        1.40        1.51   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    1.31 (a)      1.27        1.31        1.35        1.30        1.41   

Net investment loss

    (0.76 )(a)      (0.83     (0.59     (0.83     (0.90     (0.92

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      98        96        128        205        167   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $490,201        $620,802        $866,006        $529,749        $626,258        $338,380   

See notes to financial statements

 

15


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class B     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $22.04        $22.83        $17.94        $20.73        $17.65        $15.16   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.15     $(0.36     $(0.27     $(0.28     $(0.37     $(0.29

Net realized and unrealized gain
(loss) on investments and
foreign currency

    0.30        2.02        5.16        1.59        4.86        2.78   

Total from investment operations

    $0.15        $1.66        $4.89        $1.31        $4.49        $2.49   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on
investments

    $(1.82     $(2.45     $—        $(4.10     $(1.41     $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $20.37        $22.04        $22.83        $17.94        $20.73        $17.65   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    1.22 (n)      7.18        27.26        9.08        25.18        16.42   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    2.12 (a)      2.08        2.10        2.14        2.15        2.26   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    2.06 (a)      2.02        2.06        2.10        2.05        2.16   

Net investment loss

    (1.51 )(a)      (1.58     (1.34     (1.59     (1.65     (1.67

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      98        96        128        205        167   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $29,255        $34,971        $37,952        $30,308        $33,037        $26,777   

See notes to financial statements

 

16


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class C     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $22.08        $22.86        $17.96        $20.76        $17.67        $15.18   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.15     $(0.36     $(0.27     $(0.28     $(0.37     $(0.30

Net realized and unrealized gain
(loss) on investments and
foreign currency

    0.30        2.03        5.17        1.58        4.87        2.79   

Total from investment operations

    $0.15        $1.67        $4.90        $1.30        $4.50        $2.49   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on
investments

    $(1.82     $(2.45     $—        $(4.10     $(1.41     $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $20.41        $22.08        $22.86        $17.96        $20.76        $17.67   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    1.21 (n)      7.22        27.28        9.01        25.21        16.40   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    2.12 (a)      2.08        2.10        2.14        2.15        2.26   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    2.07 (a)      2.02        2.06        2.10        2.05        2.16   

Net investment loss

    (1.51 )(a)      (1.59     (1.35     (1.59     (1.65     (1.67

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      98        96        128        205        167   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $116,872        $141,293        $136,913        $91,138        $95,479        $37,144   

See notes to financial statements

 

17


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class I     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $27.44        $27.61        $21.48        $23.77        $19.88        $16.91   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.06     $(0.17     $(0.09     $(0.12     $(0.17     $(0.13

Net realized and unrealized gain
(loss) on investments and
foreign currency

    0.41        2.45        6.22        1.93        5.47        3.10   

Total from investment operations

    $0.35        $2.28        $6.13        $1.81        $5.30        $2.97   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on
investments

    $(1.82     $(2.45     $—        $(4.10     $(1.41     $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $25.97        $27.44        $27.61        $21.48        $23.77        $19.88   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    1.72 (n)      8.25        28.54        10.16        26.48        17.56   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    1.11 (a)      1.08        1.10        1.15        1.15        1.26   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    1.06 (a)      1.02        1.06        1.10        1.05        1.16   

Net investment loss

    (0.51 )(a)      (0.59     (0.36     (0.59     (0.65     (0.67

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      98        96        128        205        167   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $287,265        $483,893        $368,806        $170,830        $323,848        $263,575   

See notes to financial statements

 

18


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R1     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $21.91        $22.71        $17.84        $20.65        $17.58        $15.10   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.15     $(0.36     $(0.27     $(0.28     $(0.37     $(0.29

Net realized and unrealized gain
(loss) on investments and
foreign currency

    0.30        2.01        5.14        1.57        4.85        2.77   

Total from investment operations

    $0.15        $1.65        $4.87        $1.29        $4.48        $2.48   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on
investments

    $(1.82     $(2.45     $—        $(4.10     $(1.41     $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $20.24        $21.91        $22.71        $17.84        $20.65        $17.58   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    1.22 (n)      7.17        27.30        9.00        25.22        16.42   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    2.12 (a)      2.08        2.10        2.14        2.15        2.26   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    2.07 (a)      2.02        2.06        2.10        2.05        2.16   

Net investment loss

    (1.51 )(a)      (1.59     (1.34     (1.59     (1.65     (1.67

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      98        96        128        205        167   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $7,751        $8,490        $8,972        $7,506        $6,904        $5,253   

See notes to financial statements

 

19


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R2     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $24.46        $24.97        $19.52        $22.09        $18.65        $15.94   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.11     $(0.27     $(0.19     $(0.21     $(0.28     $(0.22

Net realized and unrealized gain
(loss) on investments and
foreign currency

    0.35        2.21        5.64        1.74        5.13        2.93   

Total from investment operations

    $0.24        $1.94        $5.45        $1.53        $4.85        $2.71   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on
investments

    $(1.82     $(2.45     $—        $(4.10     $(1.41     $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $22.88        $24.46        $24.97        $19.52        $22.09        $18.65   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    1.47 (n)      7.72        27.92        9.58        25.79        17.00   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    1.62 (a)      1.58        1.60        1.64        1.65        1.76   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    1.57 (a)      1.52        1.56        1.60        1.55        1.66   

Net investment loss

    (1.01 )(a)      (1.09     (0.85     (1.09     (1.15     (1.17

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      98        96        128        205        167   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $62,589        $66,923        $60,501        $35,599        $24,316        $13,125   

See notes to financial statements

 

20


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R3     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $25.47        $25.84        $20.15        $22.62        $19.02        $16.22   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.09     $(0.22     $(0.14     $(0.16     $(0.22     $(0.18

Net realized and unrealized gain
(loss) on investments and
foreign currency

    0.37        2.30        5.83        1.79        5.23        2.98   

Total from investment operations

    $0.28        $2.08        $5.69        $1.63        $5.01        $2.80   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on
investments

    $(1.82     $(2.45     $—        $(4.10     $(1.41     $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $23.93        $25.47        $25.84        $20.15        $22.62        $19.02   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    1.57 (n)      8.02        28.24        9.84        26.14        17.26   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    1.37 (a)      1.33        1.35        1.39        1.40        1.51   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    1.32 (a)      1.27        1.31        1.35        1.30        1.41   

Net investment loss

    (0.76 )(a)      (0.84     (0.60     (0.83     (0.90     (0.93

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      98        96        128        205        167   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $131,749        $150,359        $110,562        $61,125        $28,966        $6,456   

See notes to financial statements

 

21


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R4     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $26.33        $26.57        $20.67        $23.04        $19.31        $16.42   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.06     $(0.16     $(0.08     $(0.12     $(0.16     $(0.13

Net realized and unrealized gain
(loss) on investments and
foreign currency

    0.39        2.37        5.98        1.85        5.30        3.02   

Total from investment operations

    $0.33        $2.21        $5.90        $1.73        $5.14        $2.89   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on
investments

    $(1.82     $(2.45     $—        $(4.10     $(1.41     $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $24.84        $26.33        $26.57        $20.67        $23.04        $19.31   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    1.72 (n)      8.31        28.54        10.13        26.43        17.60   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    1.12 (a)      1.08        1.10        1.14        1.15        1.26   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    1.07 (a)      1.02        1.06        1.10        1.05        1.16   

Net investment loss

    (0.51 )(a)      (0.59     (0.35     (0.58     (0.66     (0.67

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      98        96        128        205        167   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $210,445        $229,964        $197,884        $141,694        $78,534        $50,147   

See notes to financial statements

 

22


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R5     2014     2013     2012 (i)  
                     

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $27.52        $27.64        $21.48        $19.73   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.05     $(0.13     $(0.06     $(0.03

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

    0.41        2.46        6.22        1.78   

Total from investment operations

    $0.36        $2.33        $6.16        $1.75   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on investments

    $(1.82     $(2.45     $—        $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $26.06        $27.52        $27.64        $21.48   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    1.75 (n)      8.43        28.68        8.87 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    0.98 (a)      0.97        0.99        1.07 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    0.93 (a)      0.91        0.96        1.05 (a) 

Net investment loss

    (0.37 )(a)      (0.48     (0.24     (0.49 )(a) 

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      98        96        128   

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

    $339,070        $319,139        $244,655        $174,681   

See notes to financial statements

 

23


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class 529A     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $24.82        $25.25        $19.70        $22.22        $18.71        $15.97   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.09     $(0.22     $(0.14     $(0.17     $(0.24     $(0.19

Net realized and unrealized gain
(loss) on investments and
foreign currency

    0.35        2.24        5.69        1.75        5.16        2.93   

Total from investment operations

    $0.26        $2.02        $5.55        $1.58        $4.92        $2.74   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on
investments

    $(1.82     $(2.45     $—        $(4.10     $(1.41     $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $23.26        $24.82        $25.25        $19.70        $22.22        $18.71   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    1.53 (n)      7.97        28.17        9.80        26.09        17.16   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    1.47 (a)      1.43        1.45        1.49        1.50        1.61   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    1.35 (a)      1.30        1.34        1.40        1.39        1.51   

Net investment loss

    (0.79 )(a)      (0.86     (0.62     (0.89     (0.99     (1.02

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      98        96        128        205        167   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $5,224        $5,150        $4,519        $3,304        $2,848        $1,735   

See notes to financial statements

 

24


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class 529B     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $21.44        $22.27        $17.51        $20.35        $17.36        $14.92   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.15     $(0.36     $(0.28     $(0.28     $(0.38     $(0.31

Net realized and unrealized gain
(loss) on investments and
foreign currency

    0.29        1.98        5.04        1.54        4.78        2.75   

Total from investment operations

    $0.14        $1.62        $4.76        $1.26        $4.40        $2.44   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on
investments

    $(1.82     $(2.45     $—        $(4.10     $(1.41     $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $19.76        $21.44        $22.27        $17.51        $20.35        $17.36   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    1.20 (n)      7.18        27.18        8.99        25.08        16.35   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    2.22 (a)      2.18        2.20        2.24        2.24        2.36   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    2.10 (a)      2.06        2.10        2.15        2.14        2.26   

Net investment loss

    (1.54 )(a)      (1.62     (1.39     (1.64     (1.74     (1.77

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      98        96        128        205        167   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $340        $348        $300        $217        $197        $204   

See notes to financial statements

 

25


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class 529C     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $21.44        $22.28        $17.52        $20.36        $17.36        $14.93   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.15     $(0.36     $(0.28     $(0.28     $(0.38     $(0.31

Net realized and unrealized gain
(loss) on investments and
foreign currency

    0.29        1.97        5.04        1.54        4.79        2.74   

Total from investment operations

    $0.14        $1.61        $4.76        $1.26        $4.41        $2.43   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on
investments

    $(1.82     $(2.45     $—        $(4.10     $(1.41     $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $19.76        $21.44        $22.28        $17.52        $20.36        $17.36   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    1.20 (n)      7.13        27.17        8.98        25.14        16.28   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    2.22 (a)      2.18        2.20        2.24        2.25        2.36   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    2.12 (a)      2.07        2.11        2.15        2.14        2.26   

Net investment loss

    (1.55 )(a)      (1.63     (1.39     (1.64     (1.74     (1.78

Portfolio turnover

    31 (n)      98        96        128        205        167   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $1,361        $1,223        $1,454        $906        $709        $469   

 

(a) Annualized.
(d) Per share data is based on average shares outstanding.
(f) Ratios do not reflect reductions from fees paid indirectly, if applicable.
(i) For the period from the class inception, June 1, 2012, through the stated period end.
(n) Not annualized.
(r) Certain expenses have been reduced without which performance would have been lower.
(s) From time to time the fund may receive proceeds from litigation settlements, without which performance would be lower.
(t) Total returns do not include any applicable sales charges.
(x) The net asset values per share and total returns have been calculated on net assets which include adjustments made in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles required at period end for financial reporting purposes.

See notes to financial statements

 

26


Table of Contents

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

(1) Business and Organization

MFS New Discovery Fund (the fund) is a diversified series of MFS Series Trust I (the trust). The trust is organized as a Massachusetts business trust and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as an open-end management investment company.

The fund is an investment company and accordingly follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 Financial Services – Investment Companies.

(2) Significant Accounting Policies

General – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. In the preparation of these financial statements, management has evaluated subsequent events occurring after the date of the fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities through the date that the financial statements were issued. The fund will generally focus on securities of small size companies which may be more volatile than those of larger companies.

In June 2014, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-11, Transfers and Servicing (Topic 860) – Repurchase-to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures (“ASU 2014-11”). ASU 2014-11 changes the accounting for repurchase-to-maturity transactions (i.e., repurchase agreements that settle at the same time as the maturity of the transferred financial asset) and enhances the required disclosures for repurchase agreements and other similar transactions. Although still evaluating the potential impacts of ASU 2014-11 to the fund, management expects that the impact of the fund’s adoption will be limited to additional financial statement disclosures which would first be effective for interim reporting periods beginning after March 15, 2015.

Balance Sheet Offsetting – The fund’s accounting policy with respect to balance sheet offsetting is that, absent an event of default by the counterparty or a termination of the agreement, the International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) Master Agreement does not result in an offset of reported amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities across transactions between the fund and the applicable counterparty. The fund’s right to setoff may be restricted or prohibited by the bankruptcy or insolvency laws of the particular jurisdiction to which a specific master netting agreement counterparty is subject. Balance sheet offsetting disclosures, to the extent applicable to the fund, have been included in the fund’s Significant Accounting Policies note under the captions for each of the fund’s in-scope financial instruments and transactions.

Investment Valuations – Equity securities, including restricted equity securities, are generally valued at the last sale or official closing price as provided by a third-party

 

27


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

pricing service on the market or exchange on which they are primarily traded. Equity securities, for which there were no sales reported that day, are generally valued at the last quoted daily bid quotation as provided by a third-party pricing service on the market or exchange on which such securities are primarily traded. Short-term instruments with a maturity at issuance of 60 days or less may be valued at amortized cost, which approximates market value. Open-end investment companies are generally valued at net asset value per share. Securities and other assets generally valued on the basis of information from a third-party pricing service may also be valued at a broker/dealer bid quotation. Values obtained from third-party pricing services can utilize both transaction data and market information such as yield, quality, coupon rate, maturity, type of issue, trading characteristics, and other market data. The values of foreign securities and other assets and liabilities expressed in foreign currencies are converted to U.S. dollars using the mean of bid and asked prices for rates provided by a third-party pricing service.

The Board of Trustees has delegated primary responsibility for determining or causing to be determined the value of the fund’s investments (including any fair valuation) to the adviser pursuant to valuation policies and procedures approved by the Board. If the adviser determines that reliable market quotations are not readily available, investments are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the adviser in accordance with such procedures under the oversight of the Board of Trustees. Under the fund’s valuation policies and procedures, market quotations are not considered to be readily available for most types of debt instruments and floating rate loans and many types of derivatives. These investments are generally valued at fair value based on information from third-party pricing services. In addition, investments may be valued at fair value if the adviser determines that an investment’s value has been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the exchange or market on which the investment is principally traded (such as foreign exchange or market) and prior to the determination of the fund’s net asset value, or after the halting of trading of a specific security where trading does not resume prior to the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded. Events that occur on a frequent basis after foreign markets close (such as developments in foreign markets and significant movements in the U.S. markets) and prior to the determination of the fund’s net asset value may be deemed to have a material effect on the value of securities traded in foreign markets. Accordingly, the fund’s foreign equity securities may often be valued at fair value. The adviser generally relies on third-party pricing services or other information (such as the correlation with price movements of similar securities in the same or other markets; the type, cost and investment characteristics of the security; the business and financial condition of the issuer; and trading and other market data) to assist in determining whether to fair value and at what value to fair value an investment. The value of an investment for purposes of calculating the fund’s net asset value can differ depending on the source and method used to determine value. When fair valuation is used, the value of an investment used to determine the fund’s net asset value may differ from quoted or published prices for the same investment. There can be no assurance that the fund could obtain the fair value assigned to an investment if it were to sell the investment at the same time at which the fund determines its net asset value per share.

 

28


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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

Various inputs are used in determining the value of the fund’s assets or liabilities. These inputs are categorized into three broad levels. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, an investment’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The fund’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the investment. Level 1 includes unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 includes other significant observable market-based inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speed, and credit risk). Level 3 includes unobservable inputs, which may include the adviser’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. The following is a summary of the levels used as of February 28, 2015 in valuing the fund’s assets or liabilities:

 

Investments at Value    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  
Equity Securities:            

United States

     $1,543,293,440         $7,501,065         $—         $1,550,794,505   

Greece

     29,265,591                         29,265,591   

Canada

     24,069,701                         24,069,701   

Hong Kong

     19,262,813                         19,262,813   

India

     10,594,241                         10,594,241   

Israel

     9,398,491                         9,398,491   

Ireland

     7,604,156                         7,604,156   

Brazil

             7,733                 7,733   
Mutual Funds      36,106,843                         36,106,843   
Total Investments      $1,679,595,276         $7,508,798         $—         $1,687,104,074   

For further information regarding security characteristics, see the Portfolio of Investments.

Of the level 2 investments presented above, equity investments amounting to $7,501,065 would have been considered level 1 investments at the beginning of the period. The primary reason for changes in the classifications between levels 1 and 2 occurs when foreign equity securities are fair valued using other observable market-based inputs in place of the closing exchange price due to events occurring after the close of the exchange or market on which the investment is principally traded. The fund’s foreign equity securities may often be valued at fair value. The fund’s policy is to recognize transfers between the levels as of the end of the period.

Foreign Currency Translation – Purchases and sales of foreign investments, income, and expenses are converted into U.S. dollars based upon currency exchange rates prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions or on the reporting date for foreign denominated receivables and payables. Gains and losses attributable to foreign currency exchange rates on sales of securities are recorded for financial statement purposes as net realized gains and losses on investments. Gains and losses attributable to foreign exchange rate movements on receivables, payables, income and expenses are recorded for financial statement purposes as foreign currency transaction gains and losses. That portion of both realized and unrealized gains and losses on investments that results from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates is not separately disclosed.

 

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Security Loans – Under its Securities Lending Agency Agreement with the fund, State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), as lending agent, loans the securities of the fund to certain qualified institutions (the “Borrowers”) approved by the fund. The loans are collateralized by cash and/or U.S. Treasury and federal agency obligations in an amount typically at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned. On loans collateralized by cash, the cash collateral is invested in a money market fund. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of business of the fund and any additional required collateral is delivered to the fund on the next business day. State Street provides the fund with indemnification against Borrower default. In the event of Borrower default, State Street will for the benefit of the fund either purchase securities identical to those loaned or, when such purchase is commercially impracticable, pay the fund the market value of the loaned securities. In return, State Street assumes the fund’s rights to the related collateral. If the collateral value is less than the cost to purchase identical securities, State Street is responsible for the shortfall, but only to the extent that such shortfall is not due to a decline in collateral value resulting from collateral reinvestment for which the fund bears the risk of loss. At period end, the fund had investment securities on loan with a fair value of $11,993,745 and a related liability of $12,640,650 for cash collateral received on securities loaned, both of which are presented gross in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The collateral received on securities loaned exceeded the value of securities on loan at period end. The liability for cash collateral for securities loaned is carried at fair value, which is categorized as level 2 within the fair value hierarchy. A portion of the income generated upon investment of the collateral is remitted to the Borrowers, and the remainder is allocated between the fund and the lending agent. On loans collateralized by U.S. Treasury and/or federal agency obligations, a fee is received from the Borrower, and is allocated between the fund and the lending agent. Income from securities lending is separately reported in the Statement of Operations. The dividend and interest income earned on the securities loaned is accounted for in the same manner as other dividend and interest income.

Indemnifications – Under the fund’s organizational documents, its officers and Trustees may be indemnified against certain liabilities and expenses arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into agreements with service providers that may contain indemnification clauses. The fund’s maximum exposure under these agreements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the fund that have not yet occurred.

Investment Transactions and Income – Investment transactions are recorded on the trade date. Dividends received in cash are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Certain dividends from foreign securities will be recorded when the fund is informed of the dividend if such information is obtained subsequent to the ex-dividend date. Dividend payments received in additional securities are recorded on the ex-dividend date in an amount equal to the value of the security on such date.

The fund may receive proceeds from litigation settlements. Any proceeds received from litigation involving portfolio holdings are reflected in the Statement of Operations in realized gain/loss if the security has been disposed of by the fund or in unrealized

 

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gain/loss if the security is still held by the fund. Any other proceeds from litigation not related to portfolio holdings are reflected as other income in the Statement of Operations.

Fees Paid Indirectly – The fund’s custody fee may be reduced according to an arrangement that measures the value of cash deposited with the custodian by the fund. This amount, for the six months ended February 28, 2015, is shown as a reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Tax Matters and Distributions – The fund intends to qualify as a regulated investment company, as defined under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, and to distribute all of its taxable income, including realized capital gains. As a result, no provision for federal income tax is required. The fund’s federal tax returns, when filed, will remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service for a three year period. Management has analyzed the fund’s tax positions taken on federal and state tax returns for all open tax years and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability. Foreign taxes, if any, have been accrued by the fund in the accompanying financial statements in accordance with the applicable foreign tax law. Foreign income taxes may be withheld by certain countries in which the fund invests. Additionally, capital gains realized by the fund on securities issued in or by certain foreign countries may be subject to capital gains tax imposed by those countries.

Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Certain capital accounts in the financial statements are periodically adjusted for permanent differences in order to reflect their tax character. These adjustments have no impact on net assets or net asset value per share. Temporary differences which arise from recognizing certain items of income, expense, gain or loss in different periods for financial statement and tax purposes will reverse at some time in the future. Distributions in excess of net investment income or net realized gains are temporary overdistributions for financial statement purposes resulting from differences in the recognition or classification of income or distributions for financial statement and tax purposes.

Book/tax differences primarily relate to wash sale loss deferrals, treating a portion of the proceeds from redemptions as a distribution for tax purposes, and redemptions in-kind.

The tax character of distributions made during the current period will be determined at fiscal year end. The tax character of distributions declared to shareholders for the last fiscal year is as follows:

 

     8/31/14  
Ordinary income (including any
short-term capital gains)
     $94,156,613   
Long-term capital gains      88,031,698   
Total distributions      $182,188,311   

 

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The federal tax cost and the tax basis components of distributable earnings were as follows:

 

As of 2/28/15       
Cost of investments      $1,416,706,623   
Gross appreciation      334,118,752   
Gross depreciation      (63,721,301
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)      $270,397,451   
As of 8/31/14       
Undistributed ordinary income      48,232,335   
Undistributed long-term capital gain      78,623,046   
Other temporary differences      (2,936
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)      132,705,284   

The aggregate cost above includes prior fiscal year end tax adjustments, if applicable.

Multiple Classes of Shares of Beneficial Interest – The fund offers multiple classes of shares, which differ in their respective distribution, service, and program manager fees. The fund’s income, realized and unrealized gain (loss), and common expenses are allocated to shareholders based on the daily net assets of each class. Dividends are declared separately for each class. Differences in per share dividend rates are generally due to differences in separate class expenses. Class B and Class 529B shares will convert to Class A and Class 529A shares, respectively, approximately eight years after purchase. The fund’s distributions declared to shareholders as reported in the Statements of Changes in Net Assets are presented by class as follows:

 

     From net realized gain on
investments
 
     Six months
ended
2/28/15
     Year
ended
8/31/14
 
Class A      $37,499,564         $64,919,407   
Class B      2,602,265         4,186,982   
Class C      10,467,996         15,593,082   
Class I      23,496,764         35,717,827   
Class R1      677,901         937,201   
Class R2      4,749,388         6,122,546   
Class R3      10,116,834         12,790,928   
Class R4      15,023,639         19,003,758   
Class R5      21,708,105         22,264,000   
Class 529A      376,407         451,752   
Class 529B      29,302         33,273   
Class 529C      107,585         167,555   
Total      $126,855,750         $182,188,311   

(3) Transactions with Affiliates

Investment Adviser – The fund has an investment advisory agreement with MFS to provide overall investment management and related administrative services and facilities to the fund. The management fee is computed daily and paid monthly at an

 

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annual rate of 0.90% of the fund’s average daily net assets. The investment adviser has agreed in writing to reduce its management fee to 0.80% of average daily net assets in excess of $1 billion up to $2.5 billion, 0.75% of average daily net assets in excess of $2.5 billion up to $5 billion, and 0.70% of average daily net assets in excess of $5 billion. This written agreement will continue until modified by the fund’s Board of Trustees, but such agreement will continue at least until December 31, 2015. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this management fee reduction amounted to $391,790, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. MFS has also agreed in writing to reduce its management fee by a specified amount if certain MFS mutual fund assets exceed thresholds agreed to by MFS and the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this management fee reduction amounted to $53,892, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. The management fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.85% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

Distributor – MFS Fund Distributors, Inc. (MFD), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, as distributor, received $100,314 and $1,300 for the six months ended February 28, 2015, as its portion of the initial sales charge on sales of Class A and Class 529A shares of the fund, respectively.

The Board of Trustees has adopted a distribution plan for certain share classes pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the Investment Company Act of 1940.

The fund’s distribution plan provides that the fund will pay MFD for services provided by MFD and financial intermediaries in connection with the distribution and servicing of certain share classes. One component of the plan is a distribution fee paid to MFD and another component of the plan is a service fee paid to MFD. MFD may subsequently pay all, or a portion, of the distribution and/or service fees to financial intermediaries.

Distribution Plan Fee Table:

 

     Distribution
Fee Rate (d)
     Service
Fee Rate (d)
     Total
Distribution
Plan (d)
     Annual
Effective
Rate (e)
     Distribution
and Service
Fee
 
Class A              0.25%         0.25%         0.24%         $642,317   
Class B      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         151,826   
Class C      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         612,870   
Class R1      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         39,124   
Class R2      0.25%         0.25%         0.50%         0.50%         153,005   
Class R3              0.25%         0.25%         0.25%         168,456   
Class 529A              0.25%         0.25%         0.23%         6,130   
Class 529B      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         0.98%         1,651   
Class 529C      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         6,007   
Total Distribution and Service Fees               $1,781,386   

 

(d) In accordance with the distribution plan for certain classes, the fund pays distribution and/or service fees equal to these annual percentage rates of each class’s average daily net assets. The distribution and service fee rates disclosed by class represent the current rates in effect at the end of the reporting period. Any rate changes, if applicable, are detailed below.

 

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(e) The annual effective rates represent actual fees incurred under the distribution plan for the six months ended February 28, 2015 based on each class’s average daily net assets. MFD has voluntarily agreed to rebate a portion of each class’s 0.25% service fee attributable to accounts for which MFD retains the 0.25% service fee except for accounts attributable to MFS or its affiliates’ seed money. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this rebate amounted to $12,971, $347, $109, $522, $33, and $9 for Class A, Class B, Class C, Class 529A, Class 529B, and Class 529C, respectively, and is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Certain Class A shares are subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) in the event of a shareholder redemption within 18 months of purchase. Class C and Class 529C shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder redemption within 12 months of purchase. Class B and Class 529B shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder redemption within six years of purchase. All contingent deferred sales charges are paid to MFD and during the six months ended February 28, 2015, were as follows:

 

     Amount  
Class A      $1,597   
Class B      57,120   
Class C      18,912   
Class 529B        
Class 529C        

The fund has entered into and may from time to time enter into contracts with program managers and other parties which administer the tuition programs through which an investment in the fund’s 529 share classes is made. The fund has entered into an agreement with MFD pursuant to which MFD receives an annual fee of up to 0.10% of the average daily net assets attributable to each 529 share class. MFD has agreed to waive a portion of this fee in an amount equal to 0.05% of the average daily net assets for each 529 share class. This waiver agreement will expire on December 31, 2016, unless MFD elects to extend the waiver. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this waiver amounted to $1,609 and is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. The program manager fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.05% of the average daily net assets attributable to each 529 share class. The services provided by MFD, or a third party with which MFD contracts, include recordkeeping and tax reporting and account services, as well as services designed to maintain the program’s compliance with the Internal Revenue Code and other regulatory requirements. Program manager fees and waivers for the six months ended February 28, 2015, were as follows:

 

     Fee      Waiver  
Class 529A      $2,452         $1,226   
Class 529B      165         83   
Class 529C      601         300   
Total Program Manager Fees and Waivers      $3,218         $1,609   

Shareholder Servicing Agent – MFS Service Center, Inc. (MFSC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, receives a fee from the fund for its services as shareholder servicing agent calculated as a percentage of the average daily net assets of the fund as

 

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determined periodically under the supervision of the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fee was $120,919, which equated to 0.0136% annually of the fund’s average daily net assets. MFSC also receives payment from the fund for out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs which may be paid to affiliated and unaffiliated service providers. Class R5 shares do not incur sub-accounting fees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, these out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs amounted to $1,117,995.

Administrator – MFS provides certain financial, legal, shareholder communications, compliance, and other administrative services to the fund. Under an administrative services agreement, the fund reimburses MFS the costs incurred to provide these services. The fund is charged an annual fixed amount of $17,500 plus a fee based on average daily net assets. The administrative services fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.0168% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

Trustees’ and Officers’ Compensation – The fund pays compensation to independent Trustees in the form of a retainer, attendance fees, and additional compensation to Board and Committee chairpersons. The fund does not pay compensation directly to Trustees or officers of the fund who are also officers of the investment adviser, all of whom receive remuneration for their services to the fund from MFS. Certain officers and Trustees of the fund are officers or directors of MFS, MFD, and MFSC.

Prior to December 31, 2001, the fund had an unfunded defined benefit plan (“DB plan”) for independent Trustees. As of December 31, 2001, the Board took action to terminate the DB plan with respect to then-current and any future independent Trustees, such that the DB plan covers only certain of those former independent Trustees who retired on or before December 31, 2001. The DB plan resulted in a pension expense of $175 and is included in independent Trustees’ compensation for the six months ended February 28, 2015. The liability for deferred retirement benefits payable to certain independent Trustees under the DB plan amounted to $3,517 at February 28, 2015, and is included in “Payable for independent Trustees’ compensation” in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Other – Effective November 1, 2014, this fund and certain other funds managed by MFS (the funds) have entered into a service agreement (the ISO Agreement) which provides for payment of fees solely by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the provision of services of an Independent Senior Officer (ISO) for the funds. Frank L. Tarantino serves as the ISO and is an officer of the funds and the sole member of Tarantino LLC. The funds can terminate the ISO Agreement with Tarantino LLC at any time under the terms of the ISO Agreement. Prior to November 1, 2014, the funds had entered into a service agreement (the Compliance Officer Agreement) which provided for payment of fees by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the provision of services of an Independent Chief Compliance Officer (ICCO) for the funds. Prior to November 1, 2014, Frank L. Tarantino served as the ICCO. Effective October 31, 2014, Mr. Tarantino resigned as ICCO and the Compliance Officer Agreement between the funds and Tarantino LLC was terminated. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the aggregate fees paid by the fund under these agreements were $3,786 and are

 

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included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations. MFS had agreed to reimburse the fund for a portion of the payments made by the fund for the services under the Compliance Officer Agreement in the amount of $665, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. Additionally, MFS has agreed to bear all expenses associated with office space, other administrative support, and supplies provided to the ICCO and ISO.

The fund invests in the MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio which is managed by MFS and seeks current income consistent with preservation of capital and liquidity. Income earned on this investment is included in “Dividends from underlying affiliated funds” in the Statement of Operations. This money market fund does not pay a management fee to MFS.

On September 11, 2013, MFS redeemed 5,066 shares of Class R5 for an aggregate amount of $148,181.

(4) Portfolio Securities

For the six months ended February 28, 2015, purchases and sales of investments, other than short-term obligations, aggregated $557,506,279 and $985,396,527, respectively.

(5) Shares of Beneficial Interest

The fund’s Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest. Transactions in fund shares were as follows:

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
     Year ended
8/31/14
 
     Shares      Amount      Shares      Amount  
Shares sold            

Class A

     1,856,262         $43,807,805         7,663,272         $202,602,844   

Class B

     71,009         1,434,933         302,403         6,974,766   

Class C

     413,787         8,286,611         1,723,327         39,755,016   

Class I

     2,441,669         63,276,676         9,806,541         275,081,634   

Class R1

     38,676         780,038         106,194         2,417,551   

Class R2

     321,897         7,265,878         1,059,827         26,814,007   

Class R3

     790,802         18,768,975         3,285,711         86,307,510   

Class R4

     838,250         20,298,931         3,655,137         99,348,416   

Class R5

     1,186,895         30,008,316         2,964,479         81,129,522   

Class 529A

     14,812         336,466         47,165         1,207,593   

Class 529B

     931         18,513         4,218         94,274   

Class 529C

     11,589         222,700         12,166         272,203   
     7,986,579         $194,505,842         30,630,440         $822,005,336   

 

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     Six months ended
2/28/15
     Year ended
8/31/14
 
     Shares      Amount      Shares      Amount  
Shares issued to shareholders in
reinvestment of distributions
            

Class A

     1,510,896         $33,904,512         2,328,346         $59,512,523   

Class B

     119,944         2,292,151         163,157         3,625,353   

Class C

     419,267         8,028,972         515,039         11,464,768   

Class I

     673,187         16,371,901         902,424         24,789,597   

Class R1

     35,698         677,901         42,426         937,201   

Class R2

     201,430         4,320,672         223,362         5,490,231   

Class R3

     451,241         10,116,834         500,819         12,790,928   

Class R4

     641,547         14,922,377         718,763         18,939,409   

Class R5

     889,676         21,708,105         809,012         22,264,000   

Class 529A

     17,266         376,407         18,150         451,745   

Class 529B

     1,580         29,302         1,539         33,273   

Class 529C

     5,800         107,585         7,745         167,520   
     4,967,532         $112,856,719         6,230,782         $160,466,548   
Shares reacquired            

Class A

     (7,257,108      $(171,522,847      (19,125,143      $(506,940,419

Class B

     (341,344      (6,929,720      (541,566      (12,107,368

Class C

     (1,505,594      (30,489,616      (1,827,747      (40,779,135

Class I

     (9,685,743      (249,763,573      (6,437,022      (178,077,081

Class R1

     (78,813      (1,578,677      (156,327      (3,527,623

Class R2

     (523,456      (11,820,452      (970,658      (24,347,286

Class R3

     (1,640,274      (38,523,188      (2,161,380      (55,844,205

Class R4

     (1,741,080      (42,365,041      (3,085,619      (82,182,423

Class R5

     (665,313      (16,949,392      (1,025,858      (28,960,837

Class 529A

     (15,059      (341,295      (36,759      (920,840

Class 529B

     (1,549      (30,283      (2,976      (65,601

Class 529C

     (5,557      (104,280      (28,105      (617,796
     (23,460,890      $(570,418,364      (35,399,160      $(934,370,614
Net change            

Class A

     (3,889,950      $(93,810,530      (9,133,525      $(244,825,052

Class B

     (150,391      (3,202,636      (76,006      (1,507,249

Class C

     (672,540      (14,174,033      410,619         10,440,649   

Class I

     (6,570,887      (170,114,996      4,271,943         121,794,150   

Class R1

     (4,439      (120,738      (7,707      (172,871

Class R2

     (129      (233,902      312,531         7,956,952   

Class R3

     (398,231      (9,637,379      1,625,150         43,254,233   

Class R4

     (261,283      (7,143,733      1,288,281         36,105,402   

Class R5

     1,411,258         34,767,029         2,747,633         74,432,685   

Class 529A

     17,019         371,578         28,556         738,498   

Class 529B

     962         17,532         2,781         61,946   

Class 529C

     11,832         226,005         (8,194      (178,073
     (10,506,779      $(263,055,803      1,462,062         $48,101,270   

 

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The fund is one of several mutual funds in which certain MFS funds may invest. The MFS funds do not invest in the underlying MFS funds for the purpose of exercising management or control. At the end of the period, the MFS Growth Allocation Fund, the MFS Moderate Allocation Fund, the MFS Aggressive Growth Allocation Fund, and the MFS Conservative Allocation Fund were the owners of record of approximately 6%, 6%, 3%, and 2%, respectively, of the value of outstanding voting shares of the fund. In addition, the MFS Lifetime 2015 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2020 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2025 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2030 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2035 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2040 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2045 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2050 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2055 Fund, and the MFS Lifetime Income Fund were each the owners of record of less than 1% of the value of outstanding voting shares of the fund.

(6) Line of Credit

The fund and certain other funds managed by MFS participate in a $1.1 billion unsecured committed line of credit, subject to a $1 billion sublimit, provided by a syndication of banks under a credit agreement. Borrowings may be made for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, generally at a rate equal to the higher of the Federal Reserve funds rate or one month LIBOR plus an agreed upon spread. A commitment fee, based on the average daily, unused portion of the committed line of credit, is allocated among the participating funds at the end of each calendar quarter. In addition, the fund and other funds managed by MFS have established unsecured uncommitted borrowing arrangements with certain banks for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, at a rate equal to the Federal Reserve funds rate plus an agreed upon spread. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fund’s commitment fee and interest expense were $3,816 and $0, respectively, and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations.

 

38


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

(7) Transactions in Underlying Affiliated Funds-Affiliated Issuers

An affiliated issuer may be considered one in which the fund owns 5% or more of the outstanding voting securities, or a company which is under common control. For the purposes of this report, the fund assumes the following to be affiliated issuers:

 

Underlying Affiliated Fund    Beginning
Shares/Par
Amount
    Acquisitions
Shares/Par
Amount
     Dispositions
Shares/Par
Amount
    Ending
Shares/Par
Amount
 
MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio      1,739,356        281,783,286         (260,056,449     23,466,193   
Underlying Affiliated Fund   

Realized

Gain (Loss)

    Capital Gain
Distributions
     Dividend
Income
    Ending
Value
 
MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio      $—        $—         $4,671        $23,466,193   
Other Affiliated Issuers    Beginning
Shares/Par
Amount
    Acquisitions
Shares/Par
Amount
     Dispositions
Shares/Par
Amount
    Ending
Shares/Par
Amount
 
Citi Trends, Inc.      1,217,419                (90,423     1,126,996   
Model N, Inc      1,653,151                (223,731     1,429,420   
Other Affiliated Issuers    Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Capital Gain
Distributions
     Dividend
Income
    Ending
Value
 
Citi Trends, Inc.      $(429,558     $—         $—        $30,034,443   
Model N, Inc      (2,372,323                    17,681,925   
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 
     $(2,801,881     $—         $—        $47,716,368   
  

 

 

   

 

 

    

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

39


Table of Contents

PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND INFORMATION

MFS votes proxies on behalf of the fund pursuant to proxy voting policies and procedures that are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-225-2606, by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

Information regarding how the fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 is available without charge by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

QUARTERLY PORTFOLIO DISCLOSURE

The fund will file a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. A shareholder can obtain the quarterly portfolio holdings report at mfs.com. The fund’s Form N-Q is also available on the EDGAR database on the Commission’s Internet Web site at http://www.sec.gov, and may be reviewed and copied at the:

Public Reference Room

Securities and Exchange Commission

100 F Street, NE, Room 1580

Washington, D.C. 20549

Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330. Copies of the fund’s Form N-Q also may be obtained, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section at the above address.

FURTHER INFORMATION

From time to time, MFS may post important information about the fund or the MFS funds on the MFS web site (mfs.com). This information is available by visiting the “Market Commentary” and “Announcements” sub sections in the “Market Outlooks” section of mfs.com or by clicking on the fund’s name under “Mutual Funds” in the “Products” section of mfs.com.

PROVISION OF FINANCIAL REPORTS AND SUMMARY PROSPECTUSES

The fund produces financial reports every six months and updates its summary prospectus and prospectus annually. To avoid sending duplicate copies of materials to households, only one copy of the fund’s annual and semiannual report and summary prospectus may be mailed to shareholders having the same last name and residential address on the fund’s records. However, any shareholder may contact MFSC (please see back cover for address and telephone number) to request that copies of these reports and summary prospectuses be sent personally to that shareholder.

 

40


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

Save paper with eDelivery.

 

LOGO

MFS® will send you prospectuses,

reports, and proxies directly via e-mail so you will get information faster with less mailbox clutter.

To sign up:

1. Go to mfs.com.

2. Log in via MFS® Access.

3. Select eDelivery.

If you own your MFS fund shares through a financial institution or a retirement plan, MFS® TALK, MFS® Access, or eDelivery may not be available to you.

 

CONTACT

WEB SITE

mfs.com

MFS TALK

1-800-637-8255

24 hours a day

ACCOUNT SERVICE AND LITERATURE

Shareholders

1-800-225-2606

Financial advisors

1-800-343-2829

Retirement plan services

1-800-637-1255

MAILING ADDRESS

MFS Service Center, Inc.

P.O. Box 55824

Boston, MA 02205-5824

OVERNIGHT MAIL

MFS Service Center, Inc.

c/o Boston Financial Data Services

30 Dan Road

Canton, MA 02021-2809

 


Table of Contents

SEMIANNUAL REPORT

February 28, 2015

 

LOGO

MFS® RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL FUND

 

LOGO

 

RIF-SEM

 


Table of Contents

MFS® RESEARCH INTERNATIONAL FUND

CONTENTS

 

Letter from the Chairman     1   
Portfolio composition     2   
Expense table     3   
Portfolio of investments     5   
Statement of assets and liabilities     11   
Statement of operations     13   
Statements of changes in net assets     14   
Financial highlights     15   
Notes to financial statements     28   
Proxy voting policies and information     41   
Quarterly portfolio disclosure     41   
Further information     41   
Provision of financial reports and summary prospectuses     41   
Contact information    back cover   

 

 

The report is prepared for the general information of shareholders.

It is authorized for distribution to prospective investors only when preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.

 

NOT FDIC INSURED Ÿ MAY LOSE VALUE Ÿ NO BANK GUARANTEE


Table of Contents

LOGO

LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Dear Shareholders:

Lower oil prices continue to influence markets in different ways. Among those economies hurt, oil-exporters such as Russia and Venezuela have been hit particularly hard, along with U.S. regions that have close oil industry ties.

The U.S. economic recovery remains solid. The labor market is strong, interest rates are historically low and reduced energy prices have helped to stimulate consumer spending.

Economic reports early in 2015 indicate that the eurozone is on a more solid footing, with confidence boosted by the launch of European Central Bank quantitative easing.

In Asia, the Chinese economy continues to raise concerns, with the People’s Bank of China implementing stimulus programs to counter a steady decline in growth rates.

As always, active risk management is integral to how we at MFS® manage your investments. We use a collaborative process, sharing insights across asset classes, regions and economic sectors. Our global investment team uses a diversified, multidisciplined, long-term approach.

Applying proven principles, such as asset allocation and diversification, can best serve investors over the long term. We are confident that this approach can help you as you work with your financial advisors to reach your goals in the years ahead.

Respectfully,

 

LOGO

Robert J. Manning

Chairman

MFS Investment Management

April 14, 2015

The opinions expressed in this letter are subject to change and may not be relied upon for investment advice. No forecasts can be guaranteed.

 

1


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION

 

Portfolio structure

 

LOGO

 

Top ten holdings  
Novartis AG     3.2%   
Roche Holding AG     3.1%   
Nestle S.A.     2.7%   
Royal Dutch Shell PLC, “A”     2.1%   
Bayer AG     2.1%   
Rio Tinto Ltd.     2.0%   
Schneider Electric S.A.     1.9%   
DENSO Corp.     1.9%   
Westpac Banking Corp.     1.8%   
UBS AG     1.8%   
Global equity sectors  
Financial Services     25.3%   
Capital Goods     22.8%   
Health Care     11.5%   
Consumer Staples     9.3%   
Energy     9.1%   
Consumer Cyclicals     8.4%   
Technology     7.9%   
Telecommunications/Cable Television     5.1%   
Issuer country weightings (x)   
Japan     18.5%   
United Kingdom     17.2%   
Switzerland     14.2%   
France     10.2%   
Germany     7.7%   
Netherlands     4.5%   
United States     4.3%   
Hong Kong     4.2%   
Australia     3.8%   
Other Countries     15.4%   
Currency exposure weightings (y)   
Euro     26.3%   
Japanese Yen     18.5%   
British Pound Sterling     17.2%   
Swiss Franc     14.2%   
United States Dollar     5.2%   
Hong Kong Dollar     4.7%   
Australian Dollar     3.8%   
Swedish Krona     3.3%   
Taiwan Dollar     2.5%   
Other Currencies     4.3%   
 

 

(x) Represents the portfolio’s exposure to issuer countries as a percentage of a portfolio’s net assets. For purposes of this presentation, United States includes Cash & Other.
(y) Represents the portfolio’s exposure to a particular currency as a percentage of a portfolio’s net assets. For purposes of this presentation, United States Dollar includes Cash & Other.

Cash & Other can include cash, other assets less liabilities, offsets to derivative positions, and short-term securities.

Percentages are based on net assets as of 2/28/15.

The portfolio is actively managed and current holdings may be different.

 

2


Table of Contents

EXPENSE TABLE

Fund expenses borne by the shareholders during the period, September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015

As a shareholder of the fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on certain purchase or redemption payments, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015.

Actual Expenses

The first line for each share class in the following table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The second line for each share class in the following table provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads). Therefore, the second line for each share class in the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

3


Table of Contents

Expense Table – continued

 

 

Share
Class
      

Annualized

Expense

Ratio

   

Beginning

Account Value

9/01/14

   

Ending

Account Value

2/28/15

   

Expenses

Paid During

Period (p)

9/01/14-2/28/15

 
A   Actual     1.11%        $1,000.00        $986.17        $5.47   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.11%        $1,000.00        $1,019.29        $5.56   
B   Actual     1.86%        $1,000.00        $982.51        $9.14   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.86%        $1,000.00        $1,015.57        $9.30   
C   Actual     1.86%        $1,000.00        $982.47        $9.14   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.86%        $1,000.00        $1,015.57        $9.30   
I   Actual     0.86%        $1,000.00        $987.95        $4.24   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.86%        $1,000.00        $1,020.53        $4.31   
R1   Actual     1.86%        $1,000.00        $982.79        $9.14   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.86%        $1,000.00        $1,015.57        $9.30   
R2   Actual     1.36%        $1,000.00        $985.08        $6.69   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.36%        $1,000.00        $1,018.05        $6.80   
R3   Actual     1.11%        $1,000.00        $986.91        $5.47   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.11%        $1,000.00        $1,019.29        $5.56   
R4   Actual     0.86%        $1,000.00        $987.54        $4.24   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.86%        $1,000.00        $1,020.53        $4.31   
R5   Actual     0.75%        $1,000.00        $987.94        $3.70   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.75%        $1,000.00        $1,021.08        $3.76   
529A   Actual     1.13%        $1,000.00        $986.62        $5.57   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.13%        $1,000.00        $1,019.19        $5.66   
529B   Actual     1.90%        $1,000.00        $982.95        $9.34   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.90%        $1,000.00        $1,015.37        $9.49   
529C   Actual     1.91%        $1,000.00        $982.50        $9.39   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.91%        $1,000.00        $1,015.32        $9.54   

 

(h) 5% class return per year before expenses.
(p) “Expenses Paid During Period” are equal to each class’s annualized expense ratio, as shown above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181/365 (to reflect the one-half year period). Expenses paid do not include any applicable sales charges (loads). If these transaction costs had been included, your costs would have been higher.

Notes to Expense Table

Each class with a Rule 12b-1 service fee is subject to a rebate of a portion of such fee. Such rebates are included in the expense ratios above. For Class 529A shares, this rebate reduced the expense ratio above by 0.03%. See Note 3 in the Notes to Financial Statements for additional information.

 

4


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS

2/28/15 (unaudited)

The Portfolio of Investments is a complete list of all securities owned by your fund. It is categorized by broad-based asset classes.

 

Common Stocks - 99.0%                 
Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Alcoholic Beverages - 1.3%                 
Pernod Ricard S.A.      835,582      $ 99,069,412   
Apparel Manufacturers - 1.5%                 
Global Brands Group Holding Ltd. (a)      88,942,000      $ 15,252,180   
Li & Fung Ltd.      13,824,000        14,134,495   
LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton S.A.      448,760        82,308,113   
    

 

 

 
             $ 111,694,788   
Automotive - 4.4%                 
Autoliv, Inc.      715,420      $ 80,484,750   
DENSO Corp.      2,948,500        138,471,666   
Honda Motor Co. Ltd.      3,384,900        111,754,755   
    

 

 

 
             $ 330,711,171   
Broadcasting - 1.7%                 
ProSiebenSat.1 Media AG      719,410      $ 35,337,927   
WPP PLC      3,766,830        89,266,749   
    

 

 

 
             $ 124,604,676   
Brokerage & Asset Managers - 0.5%                 
Computershare Ltd.      3,651,193      $ 35,891,279   
Business Services - 3.3%                 
Brenntag AG      444,907      $ 26,013,877   
Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., “A” (a)      1,286,771        80,403,886   
Compass Group PLC      3,169,532        56,370,636   
Mitsubishi Corp.      2,132,100        42,606,354   
Nomura Research, Inc.      1,127,900        39,458,821   
    

 

 

 
             $ 244,853,574   
Computer Software - 0.4%                 
Dassault Systems S.A.      442,656      $ 30,974,502   
Conglomerates - 1.0%                 
Hutchison Whampoa Ltd.      5,144,000      $ 70,436,680   
Consumer Products - 2.2%                 
L’Oreal S.A.      442,979      $ 80,429,875   
Reckitt Benckiser Group PLC      947,444        85,714,932   
    

 

 

 
             $ 166,144,807   

 

5


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Electrical Equipment - 3.8%                 
Legrand S.A.      425,897      $ 23,544,045   
Schneider Electric S.A.      1,767,921        142,404,675   
Siemens AG      1,011,480        112,985,943   
    

 

 

 
             $ 278,934,663   
Electronics - 3.1%                 
Infineon Technologies AG      4,168,476      $ 48,256,670   
MediaTek, Inc.      6,105,000        91,949,212   
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd.      19,147,326        91,516,067   
    

 

 

 
             $ 231,721,949   
Energy - Independent - 2.0%                 
Cairn Energy PLC (a)      5,330,831      $ 16,748,065   
Cenovus Energy, Inc.      820,846        14,163,386   
Galp Energia SGPS S.A., “B”      2,341,581        27,526,741   
INPEX Corp.      2,683,600        31,821,832   
Oil Search Ltd.      4,379,084        27,922,027   
Reliance Industries Ltd.      2,206,979        30,893,421   
    

 

 

 
             $ 149,075,472   
Energy - Integrated - 3.0%                 
BG Group PLC      4,389,897      $ 64,926,973   
Royal Dutch Shell PLC, “A”      4,865,864        159,107,715   
    

 

 

 
             $ 224,034,688   
Engineering - Construction - 0.6%                 
JGC Corp.      2,031,000      $ 41,664,150   
Food & Beverages - 4.6%                 
Danone S.A.      1,706,624      $ 119,037,700   
M. Dias Branco S.A. Industria e Comercio de Alimentos      908,965        26,576,520   
Nestle S.A.      2,550,909        199,074,453   
    

 

 

 
             $ 344,688,673   
Food & Drug Stores - 0.6%                 
Sundrug Co. Ltd.      893,300      $ 43,908,915   
Gaming & Lodging - 0.4%                 
Sands China Ltd.      7,215,600      $ 32,934,351   
Insurance - 5.0%                 
AIA Group Ltd.      21,566,400      $ 126,938,054   
Hiscox Ltd.      2,813,170        34,354,037   
Prudential PLC      3,085,346        77,618,198   

 

6


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Insurance - continued                 
Sony Financial Holdings, Inc.      1,644,800      $ 24,914,337   
Zurich Insurance Group AG      344,032        109,992,084   
    

 

 

 
             $ 373,816,710   
Machinery & Tools - 3.6%                 
Atlas Copco AB, “A”      4,039,533      $ 130,290,323   
Joy Global, Inc.      1,004,254        44,508,537   
Schindler Holding AG      539,314        88,985,254   
    

 

 

 
             $ 263,784,114   
Major Banks - 9.5%                 
BNP Paribas      1,455,359      $ 84,834,801   
BOC Hong Kong Holdings Ltd.      10,500,500        37,028,891   
HSBC Holdings PLC      14,268,988        127,174,503   
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.      16,148,100        104,981,211   
Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC (a)      13,975,690        79,228,466   
Standard Chartered PLC      3,792,931        58,030,180   
Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.      2,052,800        81,674,413   
Westpac Banking Corp.      4,584,058        136,115,382   
    

 

 

 
             $ 709,067,847   
Medical Equipment - 0.6%                 
Terumo Corp.      1,735,100      $ 47,864,828   
Metals & Mining - 2.8%                 
Gerdau S.A., ADR      4,807,291      $ 17,162,029   
Iluka Resources Ltd.      6,626,178        40,696,696   
Rio Tinto Ltd.      3,022,221        148,934,194   
    

 

 

 
             $ 206,792,919   
Natural Gas - Distribution - 2.8%                 
Centrica PLC      8,351,576      $ 31,499,033   
China Resources Gas Group Ltd.      14,844,000        36,709,033   
GDF SUEZ      3,301,950        73,439,072   
Tokyo Gas Co. Ltd.      10,428,000        63,478,952   
    

 

 

 
             $ 205,126,090   
Natural Gas - Pipeline - 0.6%                 
APA Group      6,148,204      $ 44,150,669   
Network & Telecom - 1.1%                 
Ericsson, Inc., “B”      6,078,822      $ 78,819,798   
Oil Services - 0.3%                 
Technip      354,403      $ 23,089,745   

 

7


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Other Banks & Diversified Financials - 9.5%                 
Aeon Credit Service Co. Ltd.      1,834,800      $ 42,102,621   
DBS Group Holdings Ltd.      5,099,100        73,221,108   
Erste Group Bank AG      1,390,725        36,448,336   
HDFC Bank Ltd., ADR      460,398        28,549,280   
ING Groep N.V. (a)      8,425,651        125,920,636   
Intesa Sanpaolo S.p.A.      23,931,295        79,912,473   
Julius Baer Group Ltd.      1,210,027        55,859,116   
Kasikornbank PLC, NVDR      3,910,100        26,244,717   
KBC Group N.V.      1,520,494        92,255,820   
Sberbank of Russia, ADR      2,879,105        14,634,491   
UBS AG      7,476,201        131,354,032   
    

 

 

 
             $ 706,502,630   
Pharmaceuticals - 10.8%                 
Bayer AG      1,059,331      $ 156,537,948   
Novartis AG      2,325,896        237,749,583   
Roche Holding AG      843,077        228,864,874   
Santen Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd.      1,686,600        112,933,467   
Valeant Pharmaceuticals International, Inc. (a)      349,436        69,006,621   
    

 

 

 
             $ 805,092,493   
Printing & Publishing - 0.8%                 
Reed Elsevier N.V.      2,530,079      $ 62,854,533   
Real Estate - 0.8%                 
Deutsche Wohnen AG      940,641      $ 25,931,403   
Intu Properties PLC, REIT      5,895,877        32,176,822   
    

 

 

 
             $ 58,108,225   
Restaurants - 2.2%                 
Whitbread PLC      1,239,731      $ 100,578,580   
YUM! Brands, Inc.      814,693        66,079,749   
    

 

 

 
             $ 166,658,329   
Specialty Chemicals - 5.1%                 
Akzo Nobel N.V.      1,576,453      $ 117,138,230   
JSR Corp.      5,001,600        91,523,531   
Linde AG      603,716        122,821,986   
Symrise AG      741,546        47,167,376   
    

 

 

 
             $ 378,651,123   
Specialty Stores - 1.1%                 
Esprit Holdings Ltd.      15,517,900      $ 16,046,515   
Hennes & Mauritz AB, “B”      901,547        39,340,626   

 

8


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Specialty Stores - continued                 
Ryohin Keikaku Co. Ltd.      179,600      $ 23,406,178   
    

 

 

 
             $ 78,793,319   
Telecommunications - Wireless - 3.2%                 
KDDI Corp.      1,884,600      $ 130,602,583   
Mobile TeleSystems OJSC (a)      2,981,309        12,044,813   
Philippine Long Distance Telephone Co.      305,895        21,937,854   
Vodafone Group PLC      22,142,940        76,712,026   
    

 

 

 
             $ 241,297,276   
Telephone Services - 1.5%                 
BT Group PLC      5,204,922      $ 36,618,333   
Hellenic Telecommunications Organization S.A. (a)      2,277,914        22,686,990   
Royal KPN N.V.      8,116,720        27,721,367   
TDC A.S.      727,782        5,757,078   
Telefonica Brasil S.A., ADR      835,888        15,497,364   
    

 

 

 
             $ 108,281,132   
Tobacco - 1.1%                 
Japan Tobacco, Inc.      2,617,200      $ 82,525,211   
Trucking - 1.7%                 
Yamato Holdings Co. Ltd.      5,259,600      $ 123,108,712   
Utilities - Electric Power - 0.5%                 
Canadian Utilities Ltd.      1,055,707      $ 35,088,894   
Total Common Stocks (Identified Cost, $6,619,182,547)            $ 7,360,818,347   
Preferred Stocks - 0.4%                 
Telephone Services - 0.4%                 
Telecom Italia S.p.A. (Identified Cost, $32,334,347)      31,089,030      $ 30,458,806   
Money Market Funds - 0.6%                 
MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio, 0.1%,
at Cost and Net Asset Value (v)
     47,922,248      $ 47,922,248   
Total Investments (Identified Cost, $6,699,439,142)            $ 7,439,199,401   
Other Assets, Less Liabilities - (0.0)%              (1,854,402
Net Assets - 100.0%            $ 7,437,344,999   

 

(a) Non-income producing security.
(v) Underlying affiliated fund that is available only to investment companies managed by MFS. The rate quoted for the MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio is the annualized seven-day yield of the fund at period end.

 

9


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

The following abbreviations are used in this report and are defined:

 

ADR   American Depositary Receipt
NVDR   Non-Voting Depositary Receipt
PLC   Public Limited Company
REIT   Real Estate Investment Trust

See notes to financial statements

 

10


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement represents your fund’s balance sheet, which details the assets and liabilities comprising the total value of the fund.

 

Assets         

Investments-

  

Non-affiliated issuers, at value (identified cost, $6,651,516,894)

     $7,391,277,153   

Underlying affiliated funds, at cost and value

     47,922,248   

Total investments, at value (identified cost, $6,699,439,142)

     $7,439,199,401   

Foreign currency, at value (identified cost, $921,164)

     921,045   

Receivables for

  

Investments sold

     7,487,613   

Fund shares sold

     7,342,982   

Interest and dividends

     13,438,913   

Other assets

     37,455   

Total assets

     $7,468,427,409   
Liabilities         

Payables for

  

Investments purchased

     $12,102,320   

Fund shares reacquired

     16,455,823   

Payable to affiliates

  

Investment adviser

     399,152   

Shareholder servicing costs

     1,353,008   

Distribution and service fees

     45,375   

Program manager fees

     15   

Payable for independent Trustees’ compensation

     1,048   

Deferred country tax expense payable

     239,513   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     486,156   

Total liabilities

     $31,082,410   

Net assets

     $7,437,344,999   
Net assets consist of         

Paid-in capital

     $7,113,719,863   

Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments and translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies (net of $239,513 deferred country tax)

     739,170,347   

Accumulated net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     (433,353,730

Undistributed net investment income

     17,808,519   

Net assets

     $7,437,344,999   

Shares of beneficial interest outstanding

     424,658,888   

 

11


Table of Contents

Statement of Assets and Liabilities (unaudited) – continued

 

 

     Net assets      Shares
outstanding
     Net asset value
per share (a)
 
Class A      $1,276,435,285         73,292,351         $17.42   
Class B      14,105,400         842,402         16.74   
Class C      85,126,392         5,195,574         16.38   
Class I      2,140,510,046         118,987,453         17.99   
Class R1      3,741,244         231,794         16.14   
Class R2      172,291,841         10,215,797         16.87   
Class R3      198,439,493         11,519,562         17.23   
Class R4      494,310,011         28,371,071         17.42   
Class R5      3,048,826,457         175,791,053         17.34   
Class 529A      2,371,678         138,040         17.18   
Class 529B      157,284         9,676         16.26   
Class 529C      1,029,868         64,115         16.06   

 

(a) Maximum offering price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for all share classes, except for Classes A and 529A, for which the maximum offering prices per share were $18.48 [100 / 94.25 x $17.42] and $18.23 [100 / 94.25 x $17.18], respectively. On sales of $50,000 or more, the maximum offering prices of Class A and Class 529A shares are reduced. A contingent deferred sales charge may be imposed on redemptions of Class A, Class B, Class C, Class 529B, and Class 529C shares. Redemption price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for Classes I, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, and 529A.

See notes to financial statements

 

12


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Six months ended 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement describes how much your fund earned in investment income and accrued in expenses. It also describes any gains and/or losses generated by fund operations.

 

Net investment income         

Income

  

Dividends

     $53,859,074   

Interest

     1,012,119   

Dividends from underlying affiliated funds

     34,126   

Foreign taxes withheld

     (4,865,895

Total investment income

     $50,039,424   

Expenses

  

Management fee

     $26,298,063   

Distribution and service fees

     2,674,759   

Program manager fees

     1,705   

Shareholder servicing costs

     2,365,429   

Administrative services fee

     326,995   

Independent Trustees’ compensation

     49,477   

Custodian fee

     738,813   

Shareholder communications

     137,372   

Audit and tax fees

     34,945   

Legal fees

     32,327   

Miscellaneous

     172,372   

Total expenses

     $32,832,257   

Fees paid indirectly

     (101

Reduction of expenses by investment adviser and distributor

     (1,289,315

Net expenses

     $31,542,841   

Net investment income

     $18,496,583   

Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and

foreign currency

        

Realized gain (loss) (identified cost basis)

  

Investments (net of $63,910 country tax)

     $51,455,638   

Foreign currency

     (2,549,472

Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     $48,906,166   

Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

  

Investments (net of $202,135 decrease in deferred country tax)

     $(148,623,298

Translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies

     (158,342

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency translation

     $(148,781,640

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     $(99,875,474

Change in net assets from operations

     $(81,378,891

See notes to financial statements

 

13


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

These statements describe the increases and/or decreases in net assets resulting from operations, any distributions, and any shareholder transactions.

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
     Year ended
8/31/14
 
Change in net assets    (unaudited)         
From operations                  

Net investment income

     $18,496,583         $175,860,090   

Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     48,906,166         258,567,787   

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency translation

     (148,781,640      373,522,243   

Change in net assets from operations

     $(81,378,891      $807,950,120   
Distributions declared to shareholders                  

From net investment income

     $(172,549,524      $(103,250,534

Change in net assets from fund share transactions

     $282,427,767         $512,989,442   

Total change in net assets

     $28,499,352         $1,217,689,028   
Net assets                  

At beginning of period

     7,408,845,647         6,191,156,619   

At end of period (including undistributed net investment income of $17,808,519 and $171,861,460, respectively)

     $7,437,344,999         $7,408,845,647   

See notes to financial statements

 

14


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the fund’s financial performance for the semiannual period and the past 5 fiscal years. Certain information reflects financial results for a single fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate by which an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the fund share class (assuming reinvestment of all distributions) held for the entire period.

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class A     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $18.06        $16.25        $14.25        $14.66        $12.93        $13.03   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.03        $0.40        $0.26        $0.28        $0.26        $0.21   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    (0.29     1.64        2.01        (0.45     1.67        (0.11

Total from investment
operations

    $(0.26     $2.04        $2.27        $(0.17     $1.93        $0.10   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.38     $(0.23     $(0.27     $(0.24     $(0.20     $(0.20

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $17.42        $18.06        $16.25        $14.25        $14.66        $12.93   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    (1.33 )(n)      12.60        16.08        (1.03     14.89        0.65   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.14 (a)      1.13        1.18        1.21        1.19        1.25   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.11 (a)      1.11        1.18        1.21        1.19        1.25   

Net investment income

    0.30 (a)(m)      2.24        1.65        2.02        1.67        1.59   

Portfolio turnover

    12 (n)      27        32        37        43        56   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $1,276,435        $1,184,927        $1,108,795        $970,501        $1,008,654        $1,466,337   

See notes to financial statements

 

15


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class B     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $17.26        $15.52        $13.59        $13.96        $12.30        $12.39   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (loss) (d)

    $(0.03     $0.25        $0.12        $0.16        $0.11        $0.09   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    (0.28     1.57        1.94        (0.42     1.62        (0.09

Total from investment
operations

    $(0.31     $1.82        $2.06        $(0.26     $1.73        $—   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.21     $(0.08     $(0.13     $(0.11     $(0.07     $(0.09

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $16.74        $17.26        $15.52        $13.59        $13.96        $12.30   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    (1.75 )(n)      11.77        15.27        (1.82     14.02        (0.09
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.89 (a)      1.88        1.93        1.96        1.95        1.99   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.86 (a)      1.86        1.93        1.96        1.94        1.99   

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.43 )(a)(m)      1.46        0.83        1.19        0.76        0.71   

Portfolio turnover

    12 (n)      27        32        37        43        56   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $14,105        $16,932        $19,751        $23,369        $33,059        $40,476   

See notes to financial statements

 

16


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class C     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $16.93        $15.26        $13.39        $13.78        $12.16        $12.27   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (loss) (d)

    $(0.03     $0.25        $0.13        $0.16        $0.12        $0.10   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    (0.28     1.54        1.90        (0.42     1.59        (0.10

Total from investment
operations

    $(0.31     $1.79        $2.03        $(0.26     $1.71        $—   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.24     $(0.12     $(0.16     $(0.13     $(0.09     $(0.11

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $16.38        $16.93        $15.26        $13.39        $13.78        $12.16   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    (1.75 )(n)      11.74        15.22        (1.80     14.05        (0.03
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.89 (a)      1.88        1.93        1.96        1.95        2.00   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.86 (a)      1.86        1.93        1.96        1.95        2.00   

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.44 )(a)(m)      1.50        0.87        1.23        0.80        0.78   

Portfolio turnover

    12 (n)      27        32        37        43        56   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $85,126        $91,487        $86,793        $84,133        $99,830        $101,267   

See notes to financial statements

 

17


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class I     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $18.66        $16.78        $14.71        $15.15        $13.35        $13.44   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.05        $0.46        $0.31        $0.35        $0.29        $0.26   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    (0.30     1.69        2.06        (0.49     1.74        (0.12

Total from investment
operations

    $(0.25     $2.15        $2.37        $(0.14     $2.03        $0.14   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.42     $(0.27     $(0.30     $(0.30     $(0.23     $(0.23

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $17.99        $18.66        $16.78        $14.71        $15.15        $13.35   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    (1.20 )(n)      12.89        16.32        (0.82     15.19        0.92   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    0.89 (a)      0.88        0.93        0.96        0.95        1.00   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.86 (a)      0.86        0.93        0.96        0.95        1.00   

Net investment income

    0.56 (a)(m)      2.51        1.89        2.45        1.86        1.90   

Portfolio turnover

    12 (n)      27        32        37        43        56   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $2,140,510        $2,194,432        $1,834,498        $1,143,621        $2,484,795        $1,926,221   

See notes to financial statements

 

18


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R1     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $16.69        $15.02        $13.17        $13.57        $11.98        $12.10   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (loss) (d)

    $(0.03     $0.24        $0.12        $0.15        $0.12        $0.10   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    (0.27     1.52        1.87        (0.40     1.57        (0.10

Total from investment
operations

    $(0.30     $1.76        $1.99        $(0.25     $1.69        $—   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.25     $(0.09     $(0.14     $(0.15     $(0.10     $(0.12

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $16.14        $16.69        $15.02        $13.17        $13.57        $11.98   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    (1.72 )(n)      11.73        15.24        (1.80     14.09        (0.09
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.89 (a)      1.88        1.93        1.96        1.95        2.00   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.86 (a)      1.86        1.93        1.96        1.95        2.00   

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.44 )(a)(m)      1.47        0.85        1.18        0.84        0.77   

Portfolio turnover

    12 (n)      27        32        37        43        56   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $3,741        $4,243        $4,034        $4,914        $6,288        $5,868   

See notes to financial statements

 

19


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R2     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $17.48        $15.75        $13.83        $14.26        $12.59        $12.70   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.01        $0.36        $0.21        $0.24        $0.20        $0.18   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    (0.28     1.57        1.95        (0.44     1.64        (0.11

Total from investment
operations

    $(0.27     $1.93        $2.16        $(0.20     $1.84        $0.07   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.34     $(0.20     $(0.24     $(0.23     $(0.17     $(0.18

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $16.87        $17.48        $15.75        $13.83        $14.26        $12.59   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    (1.43 )(n)      12.32        15.79        (1.32     14.61        0.45   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.39 (a)      1.38        1.43        1.46        1.45        1.50   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.36 (a)      1.36        1.43        1.46        1.45        1.50   

Net investment income

    0.06 (a)(m)      2.06        1.41        1.78        1.37        1.34   

Portfolio turnover

    12 (n)      27        32        37        43        56   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $172,292        $182,466        $136,444        $107,567        $91,693        $72,425   

See notes to financial statements

 

20


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R3     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $17.86        $16.08        $14.10        $14.53        $12.82        $12.92   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.03        $0.40        $0.25        $0.28        $0.23        $0.21   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    (0.29     1.61        2.00        (0.45     1.68        (0.10

Total from investment
operations

    $(0.26     $2.01        $2.25        $(0.17     $1.91        $0.11   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.37     $(0.23     $(0.27     $(0.26     $(0.20     $(0.21

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $17.23        $17.86        $16.08        $14.10        $14.53        $12.82   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    (1.31 )(n)      12.56        16.13        (1.06     14.88        0.72   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.14 (a)      1.13        1.18        1.21        1.20        1.25   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.11 (a)      1.11        1.18        1.21        1.20        1.25   

Net investment income

    0.31 (a)(m)      2.28        1.63        2.05        1.54        1.55   

Portfolio turnover

    12 (n)      27        32        37        43        56   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $198,439        $229,232        $195,358        $168,989        $154,869        $151,073   

See notes to financial statements

 

21


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six
months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R4     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $18.09        $16.27        $14.26        $14.70        $12.96        $13.05   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.05        $0.45        $0.25        $0.32        $0.28        $0.24   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    (0.30     1.63        2.06        (0.46     1.69        (0.10

Total from investment
operations

    $(0.25     $2.08        $2.31        $(0.14     $1.97        $0.14   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.42     $(0.26     $(0.30     $(0.30     $(0.23     $(0.23

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $17.42        $18.09        $16.27        $14.26        $14.70        $12.96   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    (1.25 )(n)      12.87        16.42        (0.84     15.19        0.95   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    0.89 (a)      0.88        0.93        0.96        0.95        1.00   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.86 (a)      0.86        0.93        0.96        0.95        1.00   

Net investment income

    0.57 (a)(m)      2.54        1.60        2.28        1.83        1.77   

Portfolio turnover

    12 (n)      27        32        37        43        56   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $494,310        $546,069        $470,915        $825,288        $561,557        $482,217   

See notes to financial statements

 

22


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six
months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R5 (y)     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $18.02        $16.21        $14.20        $14.63        $12.90        $13.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.06        $0.46        $0.33        $0.17        $0.26        $0.23   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    (0.30     1.64        1.99        (0.31 )(g)      1.69        (0.11

Total from investment
operations

    $(0.24     $2.10        $2.32        $(0.14     $1.95        $0.12   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.44     $(0.29     $(0.31     $(0.29     $(0.22     $(0.22

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $17.34        $18.02        $16.21        $14.20        $14.63        $12.90   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    (1.21 )(n)      13.01        16.50        (0.85     15.07        0.81   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    0.79 (a)      0.79        0.81        0.89        1.05        1.10   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.75 (a)      0.77        0.81        0.89        1.05        1.10   

Net investment income

    0.66 (a)(m)      2.62        2.09        1.20 (l)      1.71        1.73   

Portfolio turnover

    12 (n)      27        32        37        43        56   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $3,048,826        $2,955,339        $2,331,325        $1,433,832        $26,173        $24,820   

See notes to financial statements

 

23


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class 529A     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $17.81        $16.03        $14.06        $14.49        $12.78        $12.88   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.02        $0.39        $0.25        $0.27        $0.22        $0.20   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    (0.28     1.62        1.98        (0.45     1.68        (0.12

Total from investment
operations

    $(0.26     $2.01        $2.23        $(0.18     $1.90        $0.08   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.37     $(0.23     $(0.26     $(0.25     $(0.19     $(0.18

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $17.18        $17.81        $16.03        $14.06        $14.49        $12.78   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    (1.34 )(n)      12.57        16.05        (1.15     14.80        0.54   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.24 (a)      1.23        1.28        1.31        1.30        1.35   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.13 (a)      1.14        1.21        1.26        1.29        1.35   

Net investment income

    0.29 (a)(m)      2.22        1.62        1.96        1.47        1.47   

Portfolio turnover

    12 (n)      27        32        37        43        56   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $2,372        $2,428        $2,105        $1,762        $1,747        $1,512   

See notes to financial statements

 

24


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class 529B     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $16.80        $15.14        $13.25        $13.57        $11.99        $12.11   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (loss) (d)

    $(0.04     $0.25        $0.12        $0.13        $0.09        $0.09   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    (0.26     1.52        1.88        (0.38     1.58        (0.10

Total from investment
operations

    $(0.30     $1.77        $2.00        $(0.25     $1.67        $(0.01
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.24     $(0.11     $(0.11     $(0.07     $(0.09     $(0.11

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $16.26        $16.80        $15.14        $13.25        $13.57        $11.99   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    (1.71 )(n)      11.71        15.15        (1.84     13.90        (0.14
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.99 (a)      1.98        2.03        2.06        2.04        2.10   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.90 (a)      1.91        1.98        2.01        2.04        2.10   

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.48 )(a)(m)      1.49        0.82        1.03        0.66        0.69   

Portfolio turnover

    12 (n)      27        32        37        43        56   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $157        $192        $188        $199        $366        $461   

See notes to financial statements

 

25


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class 529C     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $16.61        $14.98        $13.17        $13.56        $12.00        $12.12   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (loss) (d)

    $(0.04     $0.23        $0.12        $0.15        $0.11        $0.09   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    (0.26     1.52        1.86        (0.41     1.56        (0.10

Total from investment
operations

    $(0.30     $1.75        $1.98        $(0.26     $1.67        $(0.01
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.25     $(0.12     $(0.17     $(0.13     $(0.11     $(0.11

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $16.06        $16.61        $14.98        $13.17        $13.56        $12.00   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    (1.75 )(n)      11.68        15.17        (1.83     13.89        (0.11
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.99 (a)      1.98        2.03        2.06        2.05        2.10   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.91 (a)      1.91        1.98        2.01        2.04        2.10   

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.48 )(a)(m)      1.43        0.81        1.19        0.81        0.76   

Portfolio turnover

    12 (n)      27        32        37        43        56   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $1,030        $1,098        $950        $914        $906        $796   

See notes to financial statements

 

26


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

 

(a) Annualized.
(d) Per share data is based on average shares outstanding.
(f) Ratios do not reflect reductions from fees paid indirectly, if applicable.
(g) The per share amount varies from the net realized and unrealized gain/loss for the period because of the timing of sales of fund shares and the per share amount of realized and unrealized gains and losses at such time.
(l) The net investment income ratio does not vary by the class specific expense differential because of the timing of sales of fund shares and the allocation of fund level income at such time.
(m) Recognition of net investment income by the fund may be affected by the timing of the declaration of dividends by companies in which the fund invests and the actual annual net investment income ratio may differ.
(n) Not annualized.
(r) Certain expenses have been reduced without which performance would have been lower.
(s) From time to time the fund may receive proceeds from litigation settlements, without which performance would be lower.
(t) Total returns do not include any applicable sales charges.
(x) The net asset values per share and total returns have been calculated on net assets which include adjustments made in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles required at period end for financial reporting purposes.
(y) On May 10, 2012, sales of Class W shares (including exchanges) were suspended. On May 11, 2012, certain Class W shares were automatically converted to Class I shares. Shareholders of certain Class W shares became shareholders of Class I and received Class I shares with a total net asset value equal to their Class W shares at the time of the conversion. On May 30, 2012, remaining Class W shares, which represented MFS seed money, were redesignated Class R5. Class R5 shares are generally available only to certain eligible retirement plans and to funds distributed by MFD. Class R5 shares do not pay a 12b-1 distribution fee or sub-accounting costs. On June 1, 2012, Class R5 shares were offered for sale to the public.

See notes to financial statements

 

27


Table of Contents

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

(1) Business and Organization

MFS Research International Fund (the fund) is a diversified series of MFS Series Trust I (the trust). The trust is organized as a Massachusetts business trust and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as an open-end management investment company.

The fund is an investment company and accordingly follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 Financial Services – Investment Companies.

(2) Significant Accounting Policies

General – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. In the preparation of these financial statements, management has evaluated subsequent events occurring after the date of the fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities through the date that the financial statements were issued. The fund invests in foreign securities. Investments in foreign securities are vulnerable to the effects of changes in the relative values of the local currency and the U.S. dollar and to the effects of changes in each country’s legal, political, and economic environment.

In June 2014, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-11, Transfers and Servicing (Topic 860) – Repurchase-to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures (“ASU 2014-11”). ASU 2014-11 changes the accounting for repurchase-to-maturity transactions (i.e., repurchase agreements that settle at the same time as the maturity of the transferred financial asset) and enhances the required disclosures for repurchase agreements and other similar transactions. Although still evaluating the potential impacts of ASU 2014-11 to the fund, management expects that the impact of the fund’s adoption will be limited to additional financial statement disclosures which would first be effective for interim reporting periods beginning after March 15, 2015.

Balance Sheet Offsetting – The fund’s accounting policy with respect to balance sheet offsetting is that, absent an event of default by the counterparty or a termination of the agreement, the International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) Master Agreement does not result in an offset of reported amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities across transactions between the fund and the applicable counterparty. The fund’s right to setoff may be restricted or prohibited by the bankruptcy or insolvency laws of the particular jurisdiction to which a specific master netting agreement counterparty is subject. Balance sheet offsetting disclosures, to the extent applicable to the fund, have been included in the fund’s Significant Accounting Policies note under the captions for each of the fund’s in-scope financial instruments and transactions.

 

28


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

Investment Valuations – Equity securities, including restricted equity securities, are generally valued at the last sale or official closing price as provided by a third-party pricing service on the market or exchange on which they are primarily traded. Equity securities, for which there were no sales reported that day, are generally valued at the last quoted daily bid quotation as provided by a third-party pricing service on the market or exchange on which such securities are primarily traded. Short-term instruments with a maturity at issuance of 60 days or less may be valued at amortized cost, which approximates market value. Open-end investment companies are generally valued at net asset value per share. Securities and other assets generally valued on the basis of information from a third-party pricing service may also be valued at a broker/dealer bid quotation. Values obtained from third-party pricing services can utilize both transaction data and market information such as yield, quality, coupon rate, maturity, type of issue, trading characteristics, and other market data. The values of foreign securities and other assets and liabilities expressed in foreign currencies are converted to U.S. dollars using the mean of bid and asked prices for rates provided by a third-party pricing service.

The Board of Trustees has delegated primary responsibility for determining or causing to be determined the value of the fund’s investments (including any fair valuation) to the adviser pursuant to valuation policies and procedures approved by the Board. If the adviser determines that reliable market quotations are not readily available, investments are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the adviser in accordance with such procedures under the oversight of the Board of Trustees. Under the fund’s valuation policies and procedures, market quotations are not considered to be readily available for most types of debt instruments and floating rate loans and many types of derivatives. These investments are generally valued at fair value based on information from third-party pricing services. In addition, investments may be valued at fair value if the adviser determines that an investment’s value has been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the exchange or market on which the investment is principally traded (such as foreign exchange or market) and prior to the determination of the fund’s net asset value, or after the halting of trading of a specific security where trading does not resume prior to the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded. Events that occur on a frequent basis after foreign markets close (such as developments in foreign markets and significant movements in the U.S. markets) and prior to the determination of the fund’s net asset value may be deemed to have a material effect on the value of securities traded in foreign markets. Accordingly, the fund’s foreign equity securities may often be valued at fair value. The adviser generally relies on third-party pricing services or other information (such as the correlation with price movements of similar securities in the same or other markets; the type, cost and investment characteristics of the security; the business and financial condition of the issuer; and trading and other market data) to assist in determining whether to fair value and at what value to fair value an investment. The value of an investment for purposes of calculating the fund’s net asset value can differ depending on the source and method used to determine value. When fair valuation is used, the value of an investment used to determine the fund’s net asset value may differ from quoted or published prices for the same investment. There can be no assurance that

 

29


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

the fund could obtain the fair value assigned to an investment if it were to sell the investment at the same time at which the fund determines its net asset value per share.

Various inputs are used in determining the value of the fund’s assets or liabilities. These inputs are categorized into three broad levels. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, an investment’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The fund’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the investment. Level 1 includes unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 includes other significant observable market-based inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speed, and credit risk). Level 3 includes unobservable inputs, which may include the adviser’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. The following is a summary of the levels used as of February 28, 2015 in valuing the fund’s assets or liabilities:

 

Investments at Value    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  
Equity Securities:            

Japan

     $1,378,802,539         $—         $—         $1,378,802,539   

United Kingdom

     1,275,059,442                         1,275,059,442   

Switzerland

     1,051,879,397                         1,051,879,397   

France

     759,131,939                         759,131,939   

Germany

     575,053,131                         575,053,131   

Netherlands

     333,634,766                         333,634,766   

Hong Kong

     312,771,166                         312,771,166   

Australia

     284,776,052                         284,776,052   

United States

     271,476,922                         271,476,922   

Other Countries

     1,045,130,919         103,560,880                 1,148,691,799   
Mutual Funds      47,922,248                         47,922,248   
Total Investments      $7,335,638,521         $103,560,880         $—         $7,439,199,401   

For further information regarding security characteristics, see the Portfolio of Investments.

Of the level 2 investments presented above, equity investments amounting to $91,516,067 would have been considered level 1 investments at the beginning of the period. Of the level 1 investments presented above, equity investments amounting to $30,893,421 would have been considered level 2 investments at the beginning of the period. The primary reason for changes in the classifications between levels 1 and 2 occurs when foreign equity securities are fair valued using other observable market-based inputs in place of the closing exchange price due to events occurring after the close of the exchange or market on which the investment is principally traded. The fund’s foreign equity securities may often be valued at fair value. The fund’s policy is to recognize transfers between the levels as of the end of the period.

Foreign Currency Translation – Purchases and sales of foreign investments, income, and expenses are converted into U.S. dollars based upon currency exchange rates prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions or on the reporting date for foreign denominated receivables and payables. Gains and losses attributable to foreign

 

30


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

currency exchange rates on sales of securities are recorded for financial statement purposes as net realized gains and losses on investments. Gains and losses attributable to foreign exchange rate movements on receivables, payables, income and expenses are recorded for financial statement purposes as foreign currency transaction gains and losses. That portion of both realized and unrealized gains and losses on investments that results from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates is not separately disclosed.

Security Loans – Under its Securities Lending Agency Agreement with the fund, State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), as lending agent, loans the securities of the fund to certain qualified institutions (the “Borrowers”) approved by the fund. The loans are collateralized by cash and/or U.S. Treasury and federal agency obligations in an amount typically at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned. On loans collateralized by cash, the cash collateral is invested in a money market fund. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of business of the fund and any additional required collateral is delivered to the fund on the next business day. State Street provides the fund with indemnification against Borrower default. In the event of Borrower default, State Street will for the benefit of the fund either purchase securities identical to those loaned or, when such purchase is commercially impracticable, pay the fund the market value of the loaned securities. In return, State Street assumes the fund’s rights to the related collateral. If the collateral value is less than the cost to purchase identical securities, State Street is responsible for the shortfall, but only to the extent that such shortfall is not due to a decline in collateral value resulting from collateral reinvestment for which the fund bears the risk of loss. A portion of the income generated upon investment of the collateral is remitted to the Borrowers, and the remainder is allocated between the fund and the lending agent. On loans collateralized by U.S. Treasury and/or federal agency obligations, a fee is received from the Borrower, and is allocated between the fund and the lending agent. Income from securities lending is included in “Interest” income in the Statement of Operations. The dividend and interest income earned on the securities loaned is accounted for in the same manner as other dividend and interest income. At February 28, 2015, there were no securities on loan or collateral outstanding.

Indemnifications – Under the fund’s organizational documents, its officers and Trustees may be indemnified against certain liabilities and expenses arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into agreements with service providers that may contain indemnification clauses. The fund’s maximum exposure under these agreements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the fund that have not yet occurred.

Investment Transactions and Income – Investment transactions are recorded on the trade date. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis. Dividends received in cash are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Certain dividends from foreign securities will be recorded when the fund is informed of the dividend if such information is obtained subsequent to the ex-dividend date. Dividend and interest payments received in additional securities are recorded on the ex-dividend or ex-interest date in an amount equal to the value of the security on such date.

 

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The fund may receive proceeds from litigation settlements. Any proceeds received from litigation involving portfolio holdings are reflected in the Statement of Operations in realized gain/loss if the security has been disposed of by the fund or in unrealized gain/loss if the security is still held by the fund. Any other proceeds from litigation not related to portfolio holdings are reflected as other income in the Statement of Operations.

Fees Paid Indirectly – The fund’s custody fee may be reduced according to an arrangement that measures the value of cash deposited with the custodian by the fund. This amount, for the six months ended February 28, 2015, is shown as a reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Tax Matters and Distributions – The fund intends to qualify as a regulated investment company, as defined under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, and to distribute all of its taxable income, including realized capital gains. As a result, no provision for federal income tax is required. The fund’s federal tax returns, when filed, will remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service for a three year period. Management has analyzed the fund’s tax positions taken on federal and state tax returns for all open tax years and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability. Foreign taxes, if any, have been accrued by the fund in the accompanying financial statements in accordance with the applicable foreign tax law. Foreign income taxes may be withheld by certain countries in which the fund invests. Additionally, capital gains realized by the fund on securities issued in or by certain foreign countries may be subject to capital gains tax imposed by those countries.

Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Certain capital accounts in the financial statements are periodically adjusted for permanent differences in order to reflect their tax character. These adjustments have no impact on net assets or net asset value per share. Temporary differences which arise from recognizing certain items of income, expense, gain or loss in different periods for financial statement and tax purposes will reverse at some time in the future. Distributions in excess of net investment income or net realized gains are temporary overdistributions for financial statement purposes resulting from differences in the recognition or classification of income or distributions for financial statement and tax purposes.

Book/tax differences primarily relate to wash sale loss deferrals.

The tax character of distributions made during the current period will be determined at fiscal year end. The tax character of distributions declared to shareholders for the last fiscal year is as follows:

 

     8/31/14  
Ordinary income (including any
short-term capital gains)
     $103,250,534   

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

The federal tax cost and the tax basis components of distributable earnings were as follows:

 

As of 2/28/15       
Cost of investments      $6,747,238,569   
Gross appreciation      1,147,910,244   
Gross depreciation      (455,949,412
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)      $691,960,832   
As of 8/31/14       
Undistributed ordinary income      172,550,010   
Capital loss carryforwards      (434,460,469
Other temporary differences      (1,322,255
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)      840,786,265   

The aggregate cost above includes prior fiscal year end tax adjustments, if applicable.

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010 (the “Act”), net capital losses recognized for fund fiscal years beginning after August 31, 2011 may be carried forward indefinitely, and their character is retained as short-term and/or long-term losses (“post-enactment losses”). Previously, net capital losses were carried forward for eight years and treated as short-term losses (“pre-enactment losses”). As a transition rule, the Act requires that all post-enactment net capital losses be used before pre-enactment net capital losses.

As of August 31, 2014, the fund had capital loss carryforwards available to offset future realized gains. Such pre-enactment losses expire as follows:

 

8/31/18      $(434,460,469

Multiple Classes of Shares of Beneficial Interest – The fund offers multiple classes of shares, which differ in their respective distribution, service, and program manager fees. The fund’s income, realized and unrealized gain (loss), and common expenses are allocated to shareholders based on the daily net assets of each class. Dividends are declared separately for each class. Differences in per share dividend rates are generally due to differences in separate class expenses. Class B and Class 529B shares will convert to Class A and Class 529A shares, respectively, approximately eight years after purchase.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

The fund’s distributions declared to shareholders as reported in the Statements of Changes in Net Assets are presented by class as follows:

 

     From net investment
income
 
     Six months
ended
2/28/15
     Year
ended
8/31/14
 
Class A      $26,484,236         $15,702,653   
Class B      190,010         102,139   
Class C      1,249,657         675,749   
Class I      49,946,711         31,156,722   
Class R1      61,803         23,279   
Class R2      3,461,556         1,827,492   
Class R3      4,609,216         2,842,760   
Class R4      12,429,398         7,705,916   
Class R5      74,050,172         43,174,399   
Class 529A      48,384         30,527   
Class 529B      2,822         1,412   
Class 529C      15,559         7,486   
Total      $172,549,524         $103,250,534   

(3) Transactions with Affiliates

Investment Adviser – The fund has an investment advisory agreement with MFS to provide overall investment management and related administrative services and facilities to the fund. The management fee is computed daily and paid monthly at the following annual rates:

 

First $1 billion of average daily net assets      0.90
Next $1 billion of average daily net assets      0.80
Average daily net assets in excess of $2 billion      0.70

The investment adviser has agreed in writing to reduce its management fee to 0.60% of average daily net assets in excess of $5 billion up to $10 billion and 0.55% of average daily net assets in excess of $10 billion. This written agreement will continue until modified by the fund’s Board of Trustees, but such agreement will continue at least until December 31, 2015. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this management fee reduction amounted to $1,064,890, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. MFS has also agreed in writing to reduce its management fee by a specified amount if certain MFS mutual fund assets exceed thresholds agreed to by MFS and the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this management fee reduction amounted to $216,127, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. The management fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.71% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

Distributor – MFS Fund Distributors, Inc. (MFD), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, as distributor, received $27,351 and $808 for the six months ended February 28, 2015, as its portion of the initial sales charge on sales of Class A and Class 529A shares of the fund, respectively.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

The Board of Trustees has adopted a distribution plan for certain share classes pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the Investment Company Act of 1940.

The fund’s distribution plan provides that the fund will pay MFD for services provided by MFD and financial intermediaries in connection with the distribution and servicing of certain share classes. One component of the plan is a distribution fee paid to MFD and another component of the plan is a service fee paid to MFD. MFD may subsequently pay all, or a portion, of the distribution and/or service fees to financial intermediaries.

Distribution Plan Fee Table:

 

     Distribution
Fee Rate (d)
     Service
Fee Rate (d)
    

Total
Distribution

Plan (d)

    

Annual
Effective

Rate (e)

     Distribution
and Service
Fee
 
Class A              0.25%         0.25%         0.25%         $1,472,995   
Class B      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         74,532   
Class C      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         416,329   
Class R1      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         19,276   
Class R2      0.25%         0.25%         0.50%         0.50%         424,180   
Class R3              0.25%         0.25%         0.25%         258,796   
Class 529A              0.25%         0.25%         0.22%         2,801   
Class 529B      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         883   
Class 529C      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         4,967   
Total Distribution and Service Fees         $2,674,759   

 

(d) In accordance with the distribution plan for certain classes, the fund pays distribution and/or service fees equal to these annual percentage rates of each class’s average daily net assets. The distribution and service fee rates disclosed by class represent the current rates in effect at the end of the reporting period. Any rate changes, if applicable, are detailed below.
(e) The annual effective rates represent actual fees incurred under the distribution plan for the six months ended February 28, 2015 based on each class’s average daily net assets. MFD has voluntarily agreed to rebate a portion of each class’s 0.25% service fee attributable to accounts for which MFD retains the 0.25% service fee except for accounts attributable to MFS or its affiliates’ seed money. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this rebate amounted to $4,607, $51, $52, $295, $1, and $4 for Class A, Class B, Class C, Class 529A, Class 529B, and Class 529C, respectively, and is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Certain Class A shares are subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) in the event of a shareholder redemption within 18 months of purchase. Class C and Class 529C shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder redemption within 12 months of purchase. Class B and Class 529B shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder redemption within six years of purchase. All contingent deferred sales charges are paid to MFD and during the six months ended February 28, 2015, were as follows:

 

     Amount  
Class A      $190   
Class B      6,199   
Class C      4,205   
Class 529B      4   
Class 529C      39   

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

The fund has entered into and may from time to time enter into contracts with program managers and other parties which administer the tuition programs through which an investment in the fund’s 529 share classes is made. The fund has entered into an agreement with MFD pursuant to which MFD receives an annual fee of up to 0.10% of the average daily net assets attributable to each 529 share class. MFD has agreed to waive a portion of this fee in an amount equal to 0.05% of the average daily net assets for each 529 share class. This waiver agreement will expire on December 31, 2016, unless MFD elects to extend the waiver. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this waiver amounted to $853 and is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. The program manager fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.05% of the average daily net assets attributable to each 529 share class. The services provided by MFD, or a third party with which MFD contracts, include recordkeeping and tax reporting and account services, as well as services designed to maintain the program’s compliance with the Internal Revenue Code and other regulatory requirements. Program manager fees and waivers for the six months ended February 28, 2015, were as follows:

 

     Fee      Waiver  
Class 529A      $1,120         $561   
Class 529B      88         44   

Class 529C

     497         248   
Total Program Manager Fees and Waivers      $1,705         $853   

Shareholder Servicing Agent – MFS Service Center, Inc. (MFSC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, receives a fee from the fund for its services as shareholder servicing agent calculated as a percentage of the average daily net assets of the fund as determined periodically under the supervision of the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fee was $124,093, which equated to 0.0035% annually of the fund’s average daily net assets. MFSC also receives payment from the fund for out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs which may be paid to affiliated and unaffiliated service providers. Class R5 shares do not incur sub-accounting fees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, these out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs amounted to $2,241,336.

Administrator – MFS provides certain financial, legal, shareholder communications, compliance, and other administrative services to the fund. Under an administrative services agreement, the fund reimburses MFS the costs incurred to provide these services. The fund is charged an annual fixed amount of $17,500 plus a fee based on average daily net assets. The administrative services fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.0092% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

Trustees’ and Officers’ Compensation – The fund pays compensation to independent Trustees in the form of a retainer, attendance fees, and additional compensation to Board and Committee chairpersons. The fund does not pay compensation directly to Trustees or officers of the fund who are also officers of the

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

investment adviser, all of whom receive remuneration for their services to the fund from MFS. Certain officers and Trustees of the fund are officers or directors of MFS, MFD, and MFSC.

Prior to December 31, 2001, the fund had an unfunded defined benefit plan (“DB plan”) for independent Trustees. As of December 31, 2001, the Board took action to terminate the DB plan with respect to then-current and any future independent Trustees, such that the DB plan covers only certain of those former independent Trustees who retired on or before December 31, 2001. The DB plan resulted in a pension expense of $87 and is included in independent Trustees’ compensation for the six months ended February 28, 2015. The liability for deferred retirement benefits payable to certain independent Trustees under the DB plan amounted to $1,039 at February 28, 2015, and is included in “Payable for independent Trustees’ compensation” in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Other – Effective November 1, 2014, this fund and certain other funds managed by MFS (the funds) have entered into a service agreement (the ISO Agreement) which provides for payment of fees solely by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the provision of services of an Independent Senior Officer (ISO) for the funds. Frank L. Tarantino serves as the ISO and is an officer of the funds and the sole member of Tarantino LLC. The funds can terminate the ISO Agreement with Tarantino LLC at any time under the terms of the ISO Agreement. Prior to November 1, 2014, the funds had entered into a service agreement (the Compliance Officer Agreement) which provided for payment of fees by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the provision of services of an Independent Chief Compliance Officer (ICCO) for the funds. Prior to November 1, 2014, Frank L. Tarantino served as the ICCO. Effective October 31, 2014, Mr. Tarantino resigned as ICCO and the Compliance Officer Agreement between the funds and Tarantino LLC was terminated. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the aggregate fees paid by the fund under these agreements were $13,998 and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations. MFS had agreed to reimburse the fund for a portion of the payments made by the fund for the services under the Compliance Officer Agreement in the amount of $2,435, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. Additionally, MFS has agreed to bear all expenses associated with office space, other administrative support, and supplies provided to the ICCO and ISO.

The fund invests in the MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio which is managed by MFS and seeks current income consistent with preservation of capital and liquidity. Income earned on this investment is included in “Dividends from underlying affiliated funds” in the Statement of Operations. This money market fund does not pay a management fee to MFS.

On September 11, 2013, MFS redeemed 7,903 shares of Class R5 for an aggregate amount of $135,774.

(4) Portfolio Securities

For the six months ended February 28, 2015, purchases and sales of investments, other than short-term obligations, aggregated $1,043,097,633 and $832,034,504, respectively.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

(5) Shares of Beneficial Interest

The fund’s Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest. Transactions in fund shares were as follows:

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
     Year ended
8/31/14
 
     Shares      Amount      Shares      Amount  
Shares sold            

Class A

     17,361,089         $286,706,597         11,795,045         $210,179,639   

Class B

     34,462         560,270         73,919         1,254,919   

Class C

     339,060         5,399,547         779,624         12,932,437   

Class I

     13,490,190         236,523,068         32,553,405         597,030,708   

Class R1

     21,852         344,525         48,002         787,268   

Class R2

     969,937         15,928,793         3,262,913         55,773,824   

Class R3

     1,279,062         21,378,047         4,217,815         73,822,772   

Class R4

     2,927,853         49,578,738         6,760,440         120,226,134   

Class R5

     11,303,996         189,683,439         23,987,940         423,700,354   

Class 529A

     11,403         191,951         20,890         363,424   

Class 529B

     835         13,279         2,494         41,383   

Class 529C

     4,285         66,886         10,025         164,945   
     47,744,024         $806,375,140         83,512,512         $1,496,277,807   
Shares issued to shareholders in
reinvestment of distributions
           

Class A

     1,314,652         $21,665,463         740,280         $12,917,878   

Class B

     9,844         156,227         5,142         86,227   

Class C

     43,975         682,930         21,795         358,525   

Class I

     2,157,499         36,699,053         1,243,827         22,388,889   

Class R1

     4,026         61,593         1,431         23,203   

Class R2

     205,523         3,282,204         101,560         1,719,409   

Class R3

     282,774         4,609,216         164,702         2,842,760   

Class R4

     747,936         12,325,993         428,261         7,473,150   

Class R5

     4,499,401         73,790,177         2,485,573         43,174,399   

Class 529A

     2,978         48,384         1,773         30,527   

Class 529B

     183         2,822         86         1,412   

Class 529C

     1,022         15,559         464         7,486   
     9,269,813         $153,339,621         5,194,894         $91,023,865   

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
     Year ended

8/31/14
 
     Shares      Amount      Shares      Amount  
Shares reacquired            

Class A

     (11,000,401      $(184,410,518      (15,156,261      $(270,617,354

Class B

     (183,068      (2,981,950      (370,599      (6,313,790

Class C

     (592,259      (9,394,087      (1,085,852      (18,135,045

Class I

     (14,246,332      (247,843,211      (25,510,410      (468,165,738

Class R1

     (48,310      (759,001      (63,860      (1,051,501

Class R2

     (1,397,738      (23,027,042      (1,589,201      (27,401,731

Class R3

     (2,875,459      (48,030,232      (3,700,880      (65,149,095

Class R4

     (5,493,806      (92,374,361      (5,948,182      (105,874,108

Class R5

     (4,041,507      (68,100,106      (6,253,975      (111,106,638

Class 529A

     (12,619      (212,711      (17,644      (308,796

Class 529B

     (2,775      (43,272      (3,584      (59,757

Class 529C

     (7,282      (110,503      (7,843      (128,677
     (39,901,556      $(677,286,994      (59,708,291      $(1,074,312,230
Net change            

Class A

     7,675,340         $123,961,542         (2,620,936      $(47,519,837

Class B

     (138,762      (2,265,453      (291,538      (4,972,644

Class C

     (209,224      (3,311,610      (284,433      (4,844,083

Class I

     1,401,357         25,378,910         8,286,822         151,253,859   

Class R1

     (22,432      (352,883      (14,427      (241,030

Class R2

     (222,278      (3,816,045      1,775,272         30,091,502   

Class R3

     (1,313,623      (22,042,969      681,637         11,516,437   

Class R4

     (1,818,017      (30,469,630      1,240,519         21,825,176   

Class R5

     11,761,890         195,373,510         20,219,538         355,768,115   

Class 529A

     1,762         27,624         5,019         85,155   

Class 529B

     (1,757      (27,171      (1,004      (16,962

Class 529C

     (1,975      (28,058      2,646         43,754   
     17,112,281         $282,427,767         28,999,115         $512,989,442   

The fund is one of several mutual funds in which certain MFS funds may invest. The MFS funds do not invest in the underlying funds for the purpose of exercising management or control. At the end of the period, the MFS International Diversification Fund, the MFS Moderate Allocation Fund, the MFS Growth Allocation Fund, the MFS Aggressive Growth Allocation Fund, and the MFS Conservative Allocation Fund were the owners of record of approximately 18%, 5%, 5%, 2%, and 2% respectively, of the value of outstanding voting shares of the fund. In addition, the MFS Lifetime 2015 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2020 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2025 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2030 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2035 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2040 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2045 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2050 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2055 Fund, and the MFS Lifetime Income Fund were each the owners of record of less than 1% of the value of outstanding voting shares of the fund.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

(6) Line of Credit

The fund and certain other funds managed by MFS participate in a $1.1 billion unsecured committed line of credit, subject to a $1 billion sublimit, provided by a syndication of banks under a credit agreement. Borrowings may be made for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, generally at a rate equal to the higher of the Federal Reserve funds rate or one month LIBOR plus an agreed upon spread. A commitment fee, based on the average daily, unused portion of the committed line of credit, is allocated among the participating funds at the end of each calendar quarter. In addition, the fund and other funds managed by MFS have established unsecured uncommitted borrowing arrangements with certain banks for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, at a rate equal to the Federal Reserve funds rate plus an agreed upon spread. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fund’s commitment fee and interest expense were $13,340 and $0, respectively, and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations.

(7) Transactions in Underlying Affiliated Funds-Affiliated Issuers

An affiliated issuer may be considered one in which the fund owns 5% or more of the outstanding voting securities, or a company which is under common control. For the purposes of this report, the fund assumes the following to be an affiliated issuer:

 

Underlying Affiliated Fund    Beginning
Shares/Par
Amount
     Acquisitions
Shares/Par
Amount
     Dispositions
Shares/Par
Amount
    Ending
Shares/Par
Amount
 
MFS Institutional Money
Market Portfolio
     102,287,398         441,403,013         (495,768,163     47,922,248   
Underlying Affiliated Fund    Realized
Gain (Loss)
     Capital Gain
Distributions
     Dividend
Income
    Ending
Value
 
MFS Institutional Money
Market Portfolio
     $—         $—      

 

$34,126

  

    $47,922,248   

 

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Table of Contents

PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND INFORMATION

MFS votes proxies on behalf of the fund pursuant to proxy voting policies and procedures that are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-225-2606, by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

Information regarding how the fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 is available without charge by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

QUARTERLY PORTFOLIO DISCLOSURE

The fund will file a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. A shareholder can obtain the quarterly portfolio holdings report at mfs.com. The fund’s Form N-Q is also available on the EDGAR database on the Commission’s Internet Web site at http://www.sec.gov, and may be reviewed and copied at the:

Public Reference Room

Securities and Exchange Commission

100 F Street, NE, Room 1580

Washington, D.C. 20549

Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330. Copies of the fund’s Form N-Q also may be obtained, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section at the above address.

FURTHER INFORMATION

From time to time, MFS may post important information about the fund or the MFS funds on the MFS web site (mfs.com). This information is available by visiting the “Market Commentary” and “Announcements” sub sections in the “Market Outlooks” section of mfs.com or by clicking on the fund’s name under “Mutual Funds” in the “Products” section of mfs.com.

PROVISION OF FINANCIAL REPORTS AND SUMMARY PROSPECTUSES

The fund produces financial reports every six months and updates its summary prospectus and prospectus annually. To avoid sending duplicate copies of materials to households, only one copy of the fund’s annual and semiannual report and summary prospectus may be mailed to shareholders having the same last name and residential address on the fund’s records. However, any shareholder may contact MFSC (please see back cover for address and telephone number) to request that copies of these reports and summary prospectuses be sent personally to that shareholder.

 

41


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

Save paper with eDelivery.

 

LOGO

MFS® will send you prospectuses,

reports, and proxies directly via e-mail so you will get information faster with less mailbox clutter.

To sign up:

1. Go to mfs.com.

2. Log in via MFS® Access.

3. Select eDelivery.

If you own your MFS fund shares through a financial institution or a retirement plan, MFS® TALK, MFS® Access, or eDelivery may not be available to you.

 

CONTACT

WEB SITE

mfs.com

MFS TALK

1-800-637-8255

24 hours a day

ACCOUNT SERVICE AND LITERATURE

Shareholders

1-800-225-2606

Financial advisors

1-800-343-2829

Retirement plan services

1-800-637-1255

MAILING ADDRESS

MFS Service Center, Inc.

P.O. Box 55824

Boston, MA 02205-5824

OVERNIGHT MAIL

MFS Service Center, Inc.

c/o Boston Financial Data Services

30 Dan Road

Canton, MA 02021-2809

 


Table of Contents

SEMIANNUAL REPORT

February 28, 2015

 

LOGO

MFS® TECHNOLOGY FUND

 

LOGO

 

SCT-SEM

 


Table of Contents

MFS® TECHNOLOGY FUND

CONTENTS

 

Letter from the Chairman     1   
Portfolio composition     2   
Expense table     3   
Portfolio of investments     5   
Statement of assets and liabilities     10   
Statement of operations     12   
Statements of changes in net assets     13   
Financial highlights     14   
Notes to financial statements     23   
Proxy voting policies and information     37   
Quarterly portfolio disclosure     37   
Further information     37   
Provision of financial reports and summary prospectuses     37   
Contact information    back cover   

 

 

The report is prepared for the general information of shareholders.

It is authorized for distribution to prospective investors only when preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.

 

NOT FDIC INSURED Ÿ MAY LOSE VALUE Ÿ NO BANK GUARANTEE


Table of Contents

LOGO

LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Dear Shareholders:

Lower oil prices continue to influence markets in different ways. Among those economies hurt, oil-exporters such as Russia and Venezuela have been hit particularly hard, along with U.S. regions that have close oil industry ties.

The U.S. economic recovery remains solid. The labor market is strong, interest rates are historically low and reduced energy prices have helped to stimulate consumer spending.

Economic reports early in 2015 indicate that the eurozone is on a more solid footing, with confidence boosted by the launch of European Central Bank quantitative easing.

In Asia, the Chinese economy continues to raise concerns, with the People’s Bank of China implementing stimulus programs to counter a steady decline in growth rates.

As always, active risk management is integral to how we at MFS® manage your investments. We use a collaborative process, sharing insights across asset classes, regions and economic sectors. Our global investment team uses a diversified, multidisciplined, long-term approach.

Applying proven principles, such as asset allocation and diversification, can best serve investors over the long term. We are confident that this approach can help you as you work with your financial advisors to reach your goals in the years ahead.

Respectfully,

 

LOGO

Robert J. Manning

Chairman

MFS Investment Management

April 14, 2015

The opinions expressed in this letter are subject to change and may not be relied upon for investment advice. No forecasts can be guaranteed.

 

1


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION

 

Portfolio structure (i)

 

LOGO

 

Top ten holdings (i)  
Google, Inc., “A”     8.2%   
Apple, Inc.     6.1%   
Oracle Corp.     4.4%   
Facebook, Inc., “A”     4.4%   
Visa, Inc., “A”     4.4%   
Hewlett-Packard Co.     3.9%   
EMC Corp.     3.8%   
Salesforce.com, Inc.     3.2%   
MasterCard, Inc., “A”     3.2%   
Priceline Group, Inc.     3.2%   
Top five industries (i)  
Internet     21.0%   
Computer Software-Systems (s)     18.5%   
Computer Software     15.1%   
Electronics (s)     8.0%   
Other Banks & Diversified Financials     7.6%   
 

 

(i) For purposes of this presentation, the components include the value of securities, less any securities sold short, and reflect the impact of the equivalent exposure of derivative positions. These amounts may be negative from time to time. Equivalent exposure is a calculated amount that translates the derivative position into a reasonable approximation of the amount of the underlying asset that the portfolio would have to hold at a given point in time to have the same price sensitivity that results from the portfolio’s ownership of the derivative contract. When dealing with derivatives, equivalent exposure is a more representative measure of the potential impact of a position on portfolio performance than value.
(s) Includes securities sold short.

Cash & Other can include cash, other assets less liabilities, offsets to derivative positions, and short-term securities.

Percentages are based on net assets as of 2/28/15.

The portfolio is actively managed and current holdings may be different.

 

2


Table of Contents

EXPENSE TABLE

Fund expenses borne by the shareholders during the period, September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015

As a shareholder of the fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on certain purchase or redemption payments, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015.

Actual Expenses

The first line for each share class in the following table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The second line for each share class in the following table provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads). Therefore, the second line for each share class in the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

3


Table of Contents

Expense Table – continued

 

 

Share
Class
      

Annualized
Expense

Ratio

    Beginning
Account Value
9/01/14
   

Ending

Account Value
2/28/15

    Expenses
Paid During
Period  (p)
9/01/14-2/28/15
 
A   Actual     1.30%        $1,000.00        $1,069.28        $6.67   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.30%        $1,000.00        $1,018.35        $6.51   
B   Actual     2.05%        $1,000.00        $1,065.50        $10.50   
  Hypothetical (h)     2.05%        $1,000.00        $1,014.63        $10.24   
C   Actual     2.05%        $1,000.00        $1,065.62        $10.50   
  Hypothetical (h)     2.05%        $1,000.00        $1,014.63        $10.24   
I   Actual     1.05%        $1,000.00        $1,071.11        $5.39   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.05%        $1,000.00        $1,019.59        $5.26   
R1   Actual     2.05%        $1,000.00        $1,065.74        $10.50   
  Hypothetical (h)     2.05%        $1,000.00        $1,014.63        $10.24   
R2   Actual     1.55%        $1,000.00        $1,068.15        $7.95   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.55%        $1,000.00        $1,017.11        $7.75   
R3   Actual     1.30%        $1,000.00        $1,069.73        $6.67   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.30%        $1,000.00        $1,018.35        $6.51   
R4   Actual     1.05%        $1,000.00        $1,070.76        $5.39   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.05%        $1,000.00        $1,019.59        $5.26   
R5   Actual     0.96%        $1,000.00        $1,071.78        $4.93   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.96%        $1,000.00        $1,020.03        $4.81   

 

(h) 5% class return per year before expenses.
(p) “Expenses Paid During Period” are equal to each class’s annualized expense ratio, as shown above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181/365 (to reflect the one-half year period). Expenses paid do not include any applicable sales charges (loads). If these transaction costs had been included, your costs would have been higher.

Notes to Expense Table

Expense ratios include 0.04% of investment related expenses from short sales (See Note 2 of the Notes to Financial Statements).

Each class with a Rule 12b-1 service fee is subject to a rebate of a portion of such fee. Such rebates are included in the expense ratios above. For Class A shares, this rebate reduced the expense ratio above by 0.01%. See Note 3 in the Notes to Financial Statements for additional information.

 

4


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS

2/28/15 (unaudited)

The Portfolio of Investments is a complete list of all securities owned by your fund. It is categorized by broad-based asset classes.

 

Common Stocks - 98.1%                 
Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Broadcasting - 5.1%                 
Discovery Communications, Inc., “C” (a)      72,447      $ 2,210,355   
Time Warner, Inc.      83,372        6,824,832   
Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc.      196,395        6,873,825   
Walt Disney Co.      12,939        1,346,691   
    

 

 

 
      $ 17,255,703   
Brokerage & Asset Managers - 1.3%                 
Allied Minds PLC (a)      299,737      $ 2,753,358   
Intercontinental Exchange, Inc.      7,233        1,702,359   
    

 

 

 
      $ 4,455,717   
Business Services - 6.7%                 
Accenture PLC, “A”      25,197      $ 2,268,486   
Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., “A” (a)      73,411        4,587,086   
Equifax, Inc.      17,132        1,599,615   
Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.      59,715        4,036,137   
FleetCor Technologies, Inc. (a)      19,097        2,930,053   
Gartner, Inc. (a)      28,023        2,328,992   
Global Payments, Inc.      25,092        2,304,951   
IHS, Inc., “A” (a)      8,479        996,537   
Wex, Inc. (a)      17,899        1,915,014   
    

 

 

 
      $ 22,966,871   
Cable TV - 0.3%                 
Time Warner Cable, Inc.      6,730      $ 1,036,757   
Computer Software - 15.3%                 
Adobe Systems, Inc. (a)      73,526      $ 5,815,907   
Intuit, Inc.      31,632        3,088,232   
Microsoft Corp.      228,925        10,038,361   
Oracle Corp.      346,214        15,171,097   
Qlik Technologies, Inc. (a)      67,260        2,181,914   
Red Hat, Inc. (a)      67,739        4,682,120   
Salesforce.com, Inc. (a)      158,924        11,026,147   
    

 

 

 
      $ 52,003,778   
Computer Software - Systems - 18.4%                 
Apple, Inc. (s)      161,490      $ 20,745,005   
Benefitfocus, Inc. (a)(l)      15,488        504,289   
CDW Corp.      79,824        3,003,777   

 

5


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Computer Software - Systems - continued                 
EMC Corp.      442,153      $ 12,795,908   
Guidewire Software, Inc. (a)      35,270        1,963,128   
Hewlett-Packard Co. (s)      384,614        13,399,952   
Hortonworks, Inc. (a)      44,207        1,018,087   
Kinaxis, Inc. (a)      43,895        877,479   
Qualys, Inc. (a)      38,960        1,793,329   
Sabre Corp.      45,361        987,055   
ServiceNow, Inc. (a)      25,799        1,967,432   
SS&C Technologies Holdings, Inc.      35,570        2,158,388   
Vantiv, Inc., “A” (a)      39,838        1,473,608   
    

 

 

 
      $ 62,687,437   
Consumer Services - 3.2%                 
Priceline Group, Inc. (a)      8,732      $ 10,805,675   
Electrical Equipment - 2.3%                 
Amphenol Corp., “A”      60,056      $ 3,390,762   
TE Connectivity Ltd.      59,218        4,271,394   
    

 

 

 
      $ 7,662,156   
Electronics - 8.4%                 
Altera Corp.      102,399      $ 3,789,787   
Avago Technologies Ltd.      17,428        2,224,161   
Broadcom Corp., “A”      121,748        5,506,662   
Cypress Semiconductor Corp.      125,062        1,844,665   
JDS Uniphase Corp. (a)      332,171        4,573,995   
Mellanox Technologies Ltd. (a)      43,580        2,076,151   
Microchip Technology, Inc.      170,985        8,766,401   
    

 

 

 
      $ 28,781,822   
Entertainment - 0.6%                 
AMC Networks, Inc., “A” (a)      28,103      $ 2,023,978   
Internet - 21.0%                 
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., ADR (a)      17,098      $ 1,455,382   
eBay, Inc. (a)      73,263        4,242,660   
Facebook, Inc., “A “ (a)      191,696        15,138,233   
Google, Inc., “A” (a)(s)      49,564        27,886,193   
Google, Inc., “C” (a)      4,550        2,540,720   
LinkedIn Corp., “A” (a)      22,189        5,928,901   
Twitter, Inc. (a)      79,512        3,822,937   
Yahoo!, Inc. (a)      198,874        8,806,141   
Yelp, Inc. (a)      38,193        1,833,264   
    

 

 

 
      $ 71,654,431   

 

6


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Network & Telecom - 3.8%                 
Cisco Systems, Inc.      286,903      $ 8,466,508   
Juniper Networks, Inc.      85,719        2,049,541   
Qualcomm, Inc.      33,317        2,415,816   
    

 

 

 
      $ 12,931,865   
Other Banks & Diversified Financials - 7.6%                 
MasterCard, Inc., “A”      121,558      $ 10,956,023   
Visa, Inc., “A”      55,649        15,098,130   
    

 

 

 
      $ 26,054,153   
Specialty Stores - 2.9%                 
Amazon.com, Inc. (a)      26,422      $ 10,044,588   
Telecommunications - Wireless - 1.2%                 
American Tower Corp., REIT      26,972      $ 2,674,004   
SBA Communications Corp. (a)      12,410        1,547,651   
    

 

 

 
      $ 4,221,655   
Total Common Stocks (Identified Cost, $222,749,590)      $ 334,586,586   
Collateral for Securities Loaned - 0.1%                 
Navigator Securities Lending Prime Portfolio, 0.17%,
at Cost and Net Asset Value (j)
     361,792      $ 361,792   
Issuer/Expiration Date/Strike Price   

Number

of
Contracts

        
Put Options Purchased - 0.1%                 
Computer Software - 0.0%                 
Commvault Systems Inc. - July 2015 @ $50      150      $ 67,500   
Electronics - 0.0%                 
3d Systems Corp. - March 2015 @ $33      180      $ 51,840   
Entertainment - 0.1%   
Dreamworks Animation SKG Inc. - September 2015 @ $25      160      $ 80,000   
Total Put Options Purchased (Premiums Paid, $268,713)      $ 199,340   
Issuer    Shares/Par         
Money Market Funds - 1.7%                 
MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio, 0.1%,
at Cost and Net Asset Value (v)
     5,776,075      $ 5,776,075   
Total Investments (Identified Cost, $229,156,170)      $ 340,923,793   

 

7


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Call Options Written - 0.0%                 
Issuer/Expiration Date/Strike Price   

Number

of
Contracts

    Value ($)  
    
Computer Software - Systems - 0.0%                 
Hewlett-Packard Co. - March 2015 @ $36      (402   $ (11,658
Hewlett-Packard Co. - March 2015 @ $41      (354     (708
Total Call Options Written (Premiums Received, $16,468)      $ (12,366
Put Options Written - (0.1)%                 
Computer Software - Systems - (0.1)%                 
Apple Inc. - March 2015 @ $118      (393   $ (22,008
Apple Inc. - March 2015 @ $125      (236     (45,312
Benefitfocus Inc. - March 2015 @ $30      (369     (31,365
Hewlett-Packard Co. - March 2015 @ $35      (221     (19,448
Splunk Inc. - March 2015 @ $54      (98     (2,940
    

 

 

 
      $ (121,073
Electronics - 0.0%                 
Avago Technologies Ltd. - March 2015 @ $115      (120   $ (6,000
Avago Technologies Ltd. - March 2015 @ $120      (105     (12,600
Avago Technologies Ltd. - March 2015 @ $95      (121     (22,748
    

 

 

 
      $ (41,348
Network & Telecom - 0.0%                 
Cisco Systems Inc. - March 2015 @ $29      (516   $ (13,932
Total Put Options Written (Premiums Received, $118,945)      $ (176,353
Issuer    Shares/Par         
Securities Sold Short - (0.9)%                 
Computer Software - Systems - (0.4)%                 
Arrow Electronics, Inc. (a)      (24,400   $ (1,511,824
Electronics - (0.5)%                 
Linear Technology Corp.      (35,500   $ (1,710,568
Total Securities Sold Short (Proceeds Received, $2,833,769)      $ (3,222,392
Other Assets, Less Liabilities - 1.0%        3,445,784   
Net Assets - 100.0%      $ 340,958,466   

 

(a) Non-income producing security.
(j) The rate quoted is the annualized seven-day yield of the fund at period end.
(l) A portion of this security is on loan.
(s) Security or a portion of the security was pledged to cover collateral requirements for securities sold short and/or certain derivative transactions.
(v) Underlying affiliated fund that is available only to investment companies managed by MFS. The rate quoted for the MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio is the annualized seven-day yield of the fund at period end.

 

8


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

At February 28, 2015, the fund had cash collateral of $830,323 and other liquid securities with an aggregate value of $7,262,366 to cover any commitments for securities sold short and/or certain derivative contracts. Cash collateral is comprised of “Deposits with brokers” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following abbreviations are used in this report and are defined:

 

ADR   American Depositary Receipt
PLC   Public Limited Company
REIT   Real Estate Investment Trust

See notes to financial statements

 

9


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement represents your fund’s balance sheet, which details the assets and liabilities comprising the total value of the fund.

 

Assets         

Investments-

  

Non-affiliated issuers, at value (identified cost, $223,380,095)

     $335,147,718   

Underlying affiliated funds, at cost and value

     5,776,075   

Total investments, at value, including $368,123 of securities on loan (identified cost, $229,156,170)

     $340,923,793   

Deposits with brokers

     830,323   

Receivables for

  

Premiums on options written

     8,004   

Investments sold

     5,642,956   

Fund shares sold

     768,341   

Interest and dividends

     288,376   

Other assets

     1,959   

Total assets

     $348,463,752   
Liabilities         

Payables for

  

Securities sold short, at value (proceeds received, $2,833,769)

     $3,222,392   

Investments purchased

     3,274,194   

Fund shares reacquired

     299,093   

Written options outstanding, at value (premiums received, $135,413)

     188,719   

Collateral for securities loaned, at value

     361,792   

Payable to affiliates

  

Investment adviser

     19,770   

Shareholder servicing costs

     117,085   

Distribution and service fees

     9,120   

Payable for independent Trustees’ compensation

     1,040   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     12,081   

Total liabilities

     $7,505,286   

Net assets

     $340,958,466   
Net assets consist of         

Paid-in capital

     $222,357,955   

Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments and translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies

     111,324,861   

Accumulated net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     8,195,937   

Accumulated net investment loss

     (920,287

Net assets

     $340,958,466   

Shares of beneficial interest outstanding

     13,675,980   

 

10


Table of Contents

Statement of Assets and Liabilities (unaudited) – continued

 

 

     Net assets      Shares
outstanding
     Net asset value
per share (a)
 
Class A      $191,700,305         7,585,284         $25.27   
Class B      18,398,075         808,369         22.76   
Class C      41,140,586         1,810,956         22.72   
Class I      50,258,290         1,888,804         26.61   
Class R1      2,329,143         102,714         22.68   
Class R2      18,345,243         751,326         24.42   
Class R3      10,072,342         398,671         25.26   
Class R4      3,073,871         118,323         25.98   
Class R5      5,640,611         211,533         26.67   

 

(a) Maximum offering price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for all share classes, except for Class A, for which the maximum offering price per share was $26.81 [100 / 94.25 x $25.27]. On sales of $50,000 or more, the maximum offering price of Class A shares is reduced. A contingent deferred sales charge may be imposed on redemptions of Class A, Class B, and Class C shares. Redemption price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for Classes I, R1, R2, R3, R4, and R5.

See notes to financial statements

 

11


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Six months ended 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement describes how much your fund earned in investment income and accrued in expenses. It also describes any gains and/or losses generated by fund operations.

 

Net Investment loss   

Income

  

Dividends

     $1,242,855   

Interest

     7,559   

Dividends from underlying affiliated funds

     5,470   

Total investment income

     $1,255,884   

Expenses

  

Management fee

     $1,157,236   

Distribution and service fees

     553,873   

Shareholder servicing costs

     254,091   

Administrative services fee

     29,716   

Independent Trustees’ compensation

     4,703   

Custodian fee

     19,572   

Shareholder communications

     19,365   

Audit and tax fees

     27,705   

Legal fees

     1,260   

Dividend and interest expense on securities sold short

     55,484   

Miscellaneous

     66,751   

Total expenses

     $2,189,756   

Fees paid indirectly

     (50

Reduction of expenses by investment adviser and distributor

     (14,677

Net expenses

     $2,175,029   

Net investment loss

     $(919,145
Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency
   

Realized gain (loss) (identified cost basis)

  

Investments

     $10,446,587   

Written options

     79,525   

Securities sold short

     (8,562

Foreign currency

     (651

Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     $10,516,899   

Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

  

Investments

     $12,555,702   

Written options

     (60,739

Securities sold short

     (174,392

Translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies

     (895

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency translation

     $12,319,676   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     $22,836,575   

Change in net assets from operations

     $21,917,430   

See notes to financial statements

 

12


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

These statements describe the increases and/or decreases in net assets resulting from operations, any distributions, and any shareholder transactions.

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
     Year ended
8/31/14
 
Change in net assets    (unaudited)         
From operations                  

Net investment loss

     $(919,145      $(1,913,552

Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     10,516,899         18,225,243   

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency translation

     12,319,676         44,993,780   

Change in net assets from operations

     $21,917,430         $61,305,471   
Distributions declared to shareholders                  

From net realized gain on investments

     $(10,909,819      $—   

Change in net assets from fund share transactions

     $32,770,089         $(1,601,290

Total change in net assets

     $43,777,700         $59,704,181   
Net assets                  

At beginning of period

     297,180,766         237,476,585   

At end of period (including accumulated net investment loss of $920,287 and $1,142, respectively)

     $340,958,466         $297,180,766   

See notes to financial statements

 

13


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the fund’s financial performance for the semiannual period and the past 5 fiscal years (or life of a particular share class, if shorter). Certain information reflects financial results for a single fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate by which an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the fund share class (assuming reinvestment of all distributions) held for the entire period.

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class A     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $24.47        $19.41        $16.80        $14.50        $11.80        $11.06   
Income (loss) from investment operations                                   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.06     $(0.13     $(0.12     $(0.17     $(0.09     $(0.11

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments and foreign currency

    1.71        5.19        2.73        2.47        2.79        0.85   

Total from investment operations

    $1.65        $5.06        $2.61        $2.30        $2.70        $0.74   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                           

From net realized gain on investments

    $(0.85     $—        $—        $—        $—        $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $25.27        $24.47        $19.41        $16.80        $14.50        $11.80   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    6.93 (n)      26.07        15.54        15.86        22.88        6.69   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                           

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    1.31 (a)      1.33        1.55        1.45        1.52        1.63   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    1.30 (a)      1.32        1.54        1.45        1.52        1.57   

Net investment loss

    (0.49 )(a)      (0.58     (0.70     (1.08     (0.61     (0.91

Portfolio turnover

    19 (n)      38        54        68        106        182   

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

    $191,700        $171,020        $141,147        $143,595        $96,785        $82,976   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                                   

Ratio of expenses to average net assets
after expense reductions excluding
short sale dividend and interest
expense (f)

    1.26 (a)      1.28        1.36        1.38        1.43        1.53   

See notes to financial statements

 

14


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class B     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $22.20        $17.75        $15.48        $13.45        $11.03        $10.42   
Income (loss) from investment operations                                   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.13     $(0.27     $(0.23     $(0.27     $(0.18     $(0.19

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments and foreign currency

    1.54        4.72        2.50        2.30        2.60        0.80   

Total from investment operations

    $1.41        $4.45        $2.27        $2.03        $2.42        $0.61   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                           

From net realized gain on investments

    $(0.85     $—        $—        $—        $—        $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $22.76        $22.20        $17.75        $15.48        $13.45        $11.03   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    6.55 (n)      25.07        14.66        15.09        21.94        5.85   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    2.06 (a)      2.08        2.30        2.20        2.27        2.37   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    2.05 (a)      2.07        2.29        2.20        2.27        2.32   

Net investment loss

    (1.24 )(a)      (1.34     (1.44     (1.83     (1.35     (1.66

Portfolio turnover

    19 (n)      38        54        68        106        182   

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

    $18,398        $16,190        $13,009        $12,911        $11,365        $11,849   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                                                

Ratio of expenses to average net assets
after expense reductions excluding
short sale dividend and interest
expense (f)

    2.02 (a)      2.03        2.12        2.13        2.18        2.27   

See notes to financial statements

 

15


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class C     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $22.16        $17.71        $15.45        $13.43        $11.01        $10.40   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.13     $(0.28     $(0.24     $(0.27     $(0.19     $(0.19

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments and foreign currency

    1.54        4.73        2.50        2.29        2.61        0.80   

Total from investment operations

    $1.41        $4.45        $2.26        $2.02        $2.42        $0.61   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on investments

    $(0.85     $—        $—        $—        $—        $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $22.72        $22.16        $17.71        $15.45        $13.43        $11.01   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    6.56 (n)      25.13        14.63        15.04        21.98        5.87   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    2.06 (a)      2.07        2.30        2.20        2.27        2.38   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    2.05 (a)      2.07        2.30        2.20        2.27        2.33   

Net investment loss

    (1.24 )(a)      (1.34     (1.45     (1.83     (1.37     (1.66

Portfolio turnover

    19 (n)      38        54        68        106        182   

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

    $41,141        $35,998        $25,026        $23,940        $19,251        $16,858   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                                                

Ratio of expenses to average net assets
after expense reductions excluding
short sale dividend and interest
expense (f)

    2.02 (a)      2.03        2.12        2.13        2.18        2.28   

See notes to financial statements

 

16


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Years ended 8/31  
Class I     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
    (unaudited)                                

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $25.69        $20.33        $17.56        $15.11        $12.26        $11.47   
Income (loss) from investment operations                                           

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.03     $(0.08     $(0.08     $(0.14     $(0.06     $(0.08

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments and foreign currency

    1.80        5.44        2.85        2.59        2.91        0.87   

Total from investment operations

    $1.77        $5.36        $2.77        $2.45        $2.85        $0.79   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                                           

From net realized gain on investments

    $(0.85     $—        $—        $—        $—        $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $26.61        $25.69        $20.33        $17.56        $15.11        $12.26   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    7.07 (n)      26.36        15.77        16.21        23.25        6.89   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                                               

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    1.06 (a)      1.08        1.30        1.20        1.27        1.38   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    1.05 (a)      1.07        1.30        1.20        1.27        1.33   

Net investment loss

    (0.24 )(a)      (0.35     (0.45     (0.83     (0.38     (0.66

Portfolio turnover

    19 (n)      38        54        68        106        182   

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

    $50,258        $40,359        $30,615        $21,898        $10,833        $8,873   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                                                

Ratio of expenses to average net assets
after expense reductions excluding
short sale dividend and interest
expense (f)

    1.02 (a)      1.04        1.12        1.12        1.18        1.29   

See notes to financial statements

 

17


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Years ended 8/31  
Class R1     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
    (unaudited)                                

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $22.12        $17.68        $15.42        $13.41        $10.99        $10.39   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.13     $(0.27     $(0.23     $(0.26     $(0.19     $(0.19

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments and foreign currency

    1.54        4.71        2.49        2.27        2.61        0.79   

Total from investment operations

    $1.41        $4.44        $2.26        $2.01        $2.42        $0.60   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on investments

    $(0.85     $—        $—        $—        $—        $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $22.68        $22.12        $17.68        $15.42        $13.41        $10.99   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    6.57 (n)      25.11        14.66        14.99        22.02        5.77   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    2.06 (a)      2.08        2.30        2.21        2.27        2.38   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    2.05 (a)      2.07        2.30        2.21        2.27        2.32   

Net investment loss

    (1.24 )(a)      (1.34     (1.45     (1.82     (1.39     (1.66

Portfolio turnover

    19 (n)      38        54        68        106        182   

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

    $2,329        $2,033        $1,542        $1,666        $1,831        $1,421   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                                                

Ratio of expenses to average net assets
after expense reductions excluding
short sale dividend and interest
expense (f)

    2.02 (a)      2.04        2.12        2.13        2.18        2.28   

See notes to financial statements

 

18


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Years ended 8/31  
Class R2     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
    (unaudited)                                

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $23.70        $18.85        $16.36        $14.15        $11.54        $10.85   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.09     $(0.18     $(0.16     $(0.20     $(0.12     $(0.14

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments and foreign currency

    1.66        5.03        2.65        2.41        2.73        0.83   

Total from investment operations

    $1.57        $4.85        $2.49        $2.21        $2.61        $0.69   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on investments

    $(0.85     $—        $—        $—        $—        $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $24.42        $23.70        $18.85        $16.36        $14.15        $11.54   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    6.81 (n)      25.73        15.22        15.62        22.62        6.36   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    1.56 (a)      1.58        1.79        1.70        1.77        1.87   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    1.55 (a)      1.58        1.79        1.70        1.77        1.82   

Net investment loss

    (0.74 )(a)      (0.83     (0.94     (1.33     (0.87     (1.16

Portfolio turnover

    19 (n)      38        54        68        106        182   

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

    $18,345        $17,123        $15,890        $17,748        $15,911        $13,501   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                                                

Ratio of expenses to average net assets
after expense reductions excluding
short sale dividend and interest
expense (f)

    1.52        1.54        1.62        1.63        1.68        1.78   

See notes to financial statements

 

19


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Years ended 8/31  
Class R3     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
    (unaudited)                                

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $24.46        $19.41        $16.80        $14.49        $11.79        $11.06   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.06     $(0.13     $(0.12     $(0.17     $(0.09     $(0.11

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments and foreign currency

    1.71        5.18        2.73        2.48        2.79        0.84   

Total from investment operations

    $1.65        $5.05        $2.61        $2.31        $2.70        $0.73   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on investments

    $(0.85     $—        $—        $—        $—        $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $25.26        $24.46        $19.41        $16.80        $14.49        $11.79   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    6.93 (n)      26.02        15.54        15.94        22.90        6.60   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    1.31 (a)      1.33        1.55        1.45        1.52        1.62   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    1.30 (a)      1.32        1.55        1.45        1.52        1.58   

Net investment loss

    (0.49 )(a)      (0.59     (0.70     (1.08     (0.63     (0.90

Portfolio turnover

    19 (n)      38        54        68        106        182   

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

    $10,072        $10,626        $8,863        $8,720        $5,949        $4,589   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                                                

Ratio of expenses to average net assets
after expense reductions excluding
short sale dividend and interest
expense (f)

    1.27 (a)      1.29        1.37        1.38        1.43        1.53   

See notes to financial statements

 

20


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Years ended 8/31  
Class R4     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
    (unaudited)                                

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $25.10        $19.86        $17.15        $14.76        $11.98        $11.21   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment loss (d)

    $(0.03     $(0.08     $(0.08     $(0.14     $(0.05     $(0.08

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss)
on investments and foreign currency

    1.76        5.32        2.79        2.53        2.83        0.85   

Total from investment operations

    $1.73        $5.24        $2.71        $2.39        $2.78        $0.77   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net realized gain on investments

    $(0.85     $—        $—        $—        $—        $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $25.98        $25.10        $19.86        $17.15        $14.76        $11.98   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    7.08 (n)      26.38        15.80        16.19        23.21        6.87   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    1.06 (a)      1.07        1.29        1.20        1.26        1.39   

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    1.05 (a)      1.07        1.29        1.20        1.26        1.36   

Net investment loss

    (0.26 )(a)      (0.34     (0.45     (0.84     (0.32     (0.65

Portfolio turnover

    19 (n)      38        54        68        106        182   

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

    $3,074        $1,403        $1,269        $823        $368        $445   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                                                

Ratio of expenses to average net assets
after expense reductions excluding
short sale dividend and interest
expense (f)

    1.02 (a)      1.04        1.12        1.12        1.17        1.31   

See notes to financial statements

 

21


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

    Six months
ended
2/28/15
    Years ended 8/31  
Class R5     2014     2013 (i)  
    (unaudited)              

Net asset value, beginning of period

    $25.73        $20.34        $17.68   
Income (loss) from investment operations                        

Net investment income (loss) (d)

    $(0.02     $(0.07     $(0.04

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and
foreign currency

    1.81        5.46        2.70   

Total from investment operations

    $1.79        $5.39        $2.66   
Less distributions declared to shareholders                        

From net realized gain on investments

    $(0.85     $—        $—   

Net asset value, end of period (x)

    $26.67        $25.73        $20.34   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    7.14 (n)      26.50        15.05 (n) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
                       

Expenses before expense reductions (f)

    0.97 (a)      0.97        1.13 (a) 

Expenses after expense reductions (f)

    0.96 (a)      0.96        1.13 (a) 

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.14 )(a)      (0.28     (0.35 )(a) 

Portfolio turnover

    19 (n)      38        54   

Net assets at end of period (000 omitted)

    $5,641        $2,429        $116   
Supplemental Ratios (%):                        

Ratio of expenses to average net assets after expense reductions
excluding short sale dividend and interest expense (f)

    0.93 (a)      0.95        1.01 (a) 

 

(a) Annualized.
(d) Per share data is based on average shares outstanding.
(f) Ratios do not reflect reductions from fees paid indirectly, if applicable.
(i) For the period from the class’s inception, January 2, 2013, through the stated period end.
(n) Not annualized.
(r) Certain expenses have been reduced without which performance would have been lower.
(s) From time to time the fund may receive proceeds from litigation settlements, without which performance would be lower.
(t) Total returns do not include any applicable sales charges.
(x) The net asset values per share and total returns have been calculated on net assets which include adjustments made in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles required at period end for financial reporting purposes.

See notes to financial statements

 

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NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

(1) Business and Organization

MFS Technology Fund (the fund) is a non-diversified series of MFS Series Trust I (the trust). The trust is organized as a Massachusetts business trust and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as an open-end management investment company.

The fund is an investment company and accordingly follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 Financial Services – Investment Companies.

(2) Significant Accounting Policies

General – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. In the preparation of these financial statements, management has evaluated subsequent events occurring after the date of the fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities through the date that the financial statements were issued. The fund invests primarily in securities of issuers in the technology industry. Issuers in a single industry can react similarly to market, economic, political and regulatory conditions and developments.

In June 2014, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-11, Transfers and Servicing (Topic 860) – Repurchase-to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures (“ASU 2014-11”). ASU 2014-11 changes the accounting for repurchase-to-maturity transactions (i.e., repurchase agreements that settle at the same time as the maturity of the transferred financial asset) and enhances the required disclosures for repurchase agreements and other similar transactions. Although still evaluating the potential impacts of ASU 2014-11 to the fund, management expects that the impact of the fund’s adoption will be limited to additional financial statement disclosures which would first be effective for interim reporting periods beginning after March 15, 2015.

Balance Sheet Offsetting – The fund’s accounting policy with respect to balance sheet offsetting is that, absent an event of default by the counterparty or a termination of the agreement, the International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) Master Agreement does not result in an offset of reported amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities across transactions between the fund and the applicable counterparty. The fund’s right to setoff may be restricted or prohibited by the bankruptcy or insolvency laws of the particular jurisdiction to which a specific master netting agreement counterparty is subject. Balance sheet offsetting disclosures, to the extent applicable to the fund, have been included in the fund’s Significant Accounting Policies note under the captions for each of the fund’s in-scope financial instruments and transactions.

 

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Investment Valuations – Equity securities, including restricted equity securities, are generally valued at the last sale or official closing price as provided by a third-party pricing service on the market or exchange on which they are primarily traded. Equity securities, for which there were no sales reported that day, are generally valued at the last quoted daily bid quotation as provided by a third-party pricing service on the market or exchange on which such securities are primarily traded. Equity securities held short, for which there were no sales reported for that day, are generally valued at the last quoted daily ask quotation as provided by a third-party pricing service on the market or exchange on which such securities are primarily traded. Short-term instruments with a maturity at issuance of 60 days or less may be valued at amortized cost, which approximates market value. Exchange-traded options are generally valued at the last sale or official closing price as provided by a third-party pricing service on the exchange on which such options are primarily traded. Exchange-traded options for which there were no sales reported that day are generally valued at the last daily bid quotation as provided by a third-party pricing service on the exchange on which such options are primarily traded. Options not traded on an exchange are generally valued at a broker/dealer bid quotation. Foreign currency options are generally valued at valuations provided by a third-party pricing service. Open-end investment companies are generally valued at net asset value per share. Securities and other assets generally valued on the basis of information from a third-party pricing service may also be valued at a broker/dealer bid quotation. Values obtained from third-party pricing services can utilize both transaction data and market information such as yield, quality, coupon rate, maturity, type of issue, trading characteristics, and other market data. The values of foreign securities and other assets and liabilities expressed in foreign currencies are converted to U.S. dollars using the mean of bid and asked prices for rates provided by a third-party pricing service.

The Board of Trustees has delegated primary responsibility for determining or causing to be determined the value of the fund’s investments (including any fair valuation) to the adviser pursuant to valuation policies and procedures approved by the Board. If the adviser determines that reliable market quotations are not readily available, investments are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the adviser in accordance with such procedures under the oversight of the Board of Trustees. Under the fund’s valuation policies and procedures, market quotations are not considered to be readily available for most types of debt instruments and floating rate loans and many types of derivatives. These investments are generally valued at fair value based on information from third-party pricing services. In addition, investments may be valued at fair value if the adviser determines that an investment’s value has been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the exchange or market on which the investment is principally traded (such as foreign exchange or market) and prior to the determination of the fund’s net asset value, or after the halting of trading of a specific security where trading does not resume prior to the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded. Events that occur on a frequent basis after foreign markets close (such as developments in foreign markets and significant movements in the U.S. markets) and prior to the determination of the fund’s net asset value may be deemed to have a material effect on the value of securities traded in foreign markets. Accordingly, the fund’s foreign equity securities may often be valued at fair value. The

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

adviser generally relies on third-party pricing services or other information (such as the correlation with price movements of similar securities in the same or other markets; the type, cost and investment characteristics of the security; the business and financial condition of the issuer; and trading and other market data) to assist in determining whether to fair value and at what value to fair value an investment. The value of an investment for purposes of calculating the fund’s net asset value can differ depending on the source and method used to determine value. When fair valuation is used, the value of an investment used to determine the fund’s net asset value may differ from quoted or published prices for the same investment. There can be no assurance that the fund could obtain the fair value assigned to an investment if it were to sell the investment at the same time at which the fund determines its net asset value per share.

Various inputs are used in determining the value of the fund’s assets or liabilities. These inputs are categorized into three broad levels. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, an investment’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The fund’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the investment. Level 1 includes unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 includes other significant observable market-based inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speed, and credit risk). Level 3 includes unobservable inputs, which may include the adviser’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. Other financial instruments are derivative instruments not reflected in total investments, such as written options. The following is a summary of the levels used as of February 28, 2015 in valuing the fund’s assets or liabilities:

 

Investments at Value    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  
Equity Securities:            

United States

     $329,552,207         $147,500         $—         $329,699,707   

United Kingdom

     2,753,358                         2,753,358   

China

     1,455,382                         1,455,382   

Canada

     877,479                         877,479   
Mutual Funds      6,137,867                         6,137,867   
Total Investments      $340,776,293         $147,500         $—         $340,923,793   
Short Sales      $(3,222,392      $—         $—         $(3,222,392
Other Financial Instruments                            
Written Options      $(185,779      $(2,940      $—         $(188,719

For further information regarding security characteristics, see the Portfolio of Investments.

Foreign Currency Translation – Purchases and sales of foreign investments, income, and expenses are converted into U.S. dollars based upon currency exchange rates prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions or on the reporting date for foreign denominated receivables and payables. Gains and losses attributable to foreign currency exchange rates on sales of securities are recorded for financial statement purposes as net realized gains and losses on investments. Gains and losses attributable to foreign exchange rate movements on receivables, payables, income and expenses

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

are recorded for financial statement purposes as foreign currency transaction gains and losses. That portion of both realized and unrealized gains and losses on investments that results from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates is not separately disclosed.

Derivatives – The fund uses derivatives for different purposes, primarily to increase or decrease exposure to a particular market or segment of the market, or security, to increase or decrease interest rate or currency exposure, or as alternatives to direct investments. Derivatives are used for hedging or non-hedging purposes. While hedging can reduce or eliminate losses, it can also reduce or eliminate gains. When the fund uses derivatives as an investment to increase market exposure, or for hedging purposes, gains and losses from derivative instruments may be substantially greater than the derivative’s original cost.

The derivative instruments used by the fund were written options and purchased options. The fund’s period end derivatives, as presented in the Portfolio of Investments, generally are indicative of the volume of its derivative activity during the period.

The following table presents, by major type of derivative contract, the fair value, on a gross basis, of the asset and liability components of derivatives held by the fund at February 28, 2015 as reported in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities:

 

        Fair Value (a)  
Risk   Derivative Contracts   Asset Derivatives     Liability Derivatives  
Equity   Purchased Equity Options     $199,340        $—   
Equity   Written Equity Options            (188,719

 

(a) The value of purchased options outstanding is included in total investments, at value, within the fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

The following table presents, by major type of derivative contract, the realized gain (loss) on derivatives held by the fund for the six months ended February 28, 2015 as reported in the Statement of Operations:

 

Risk    Investments
(Purchased
Options)
     Written
Options
 
Equity      $415,538         $79,525   

The following table presents, by major type of derivative contract, the change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on derivatives held by the fund for the six months ended February 28, 2015 as reported in the Statement of Operations:

 

Risk    Investments
(Purchased
Options)
     Written
Options
 
Equity      $217,317         $(60,739

Derivative counterparty credit risk is managed through formal evaluation of the creditworthiness of all potential counterparties. On certain, but not all, uncleared derivatives, the fund attempts to reduce its exposure to counterparty credit risk whenever possible by entering into an ISDA Master Agreement on a bilateral basis. The ISDA Master Agreement gives each party to the agreement the right to terminate all transactions traded under such agreement if there is a certain deterioration in the

 

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credit quality of the other party. Upon an event of default or a termination of the ISDA Master Agreement, the non-defaulting party has the right to close out all transactions traded under such agreement and to net amounts owed under each transaction to one net amount payable by one party to the other. This right to close out and net payments across all transactions traded under the ISDA Master Agreement could result in a reduction of the fund’s credit risk to such counterparty equal to any amounts payable by the fund under the applicable transactions, if any.

Collateral and margin requirements differ by type of derivative. Margin requirements are set by the clearing broker and the clearing house for cleared derivatives (i.e., futures contracts, cleared swaps, and exchange-traded options) while collateral terms are contract specific for uncleared derivatives (i.e., forward foreign currency exchange contracts, uncleared swap agreements, and uncleared options). For derivatives traded under an ISDA Master Agreement, which contains a collateral support annex, the collateral requirements are netted across all transactions traded under such agreement and one amount is posted from one party to the other to collateralize such obligations. Cash that has been segregated to cover the fund’s collateral or margin obligations under derivative contracts, if any, will be reported separately in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as “Restricted cash” or “Deposits with brokers.” Securities pledged as collateral or margin for the same purpose, if any, are noted in the Portfolio of Investments.

Written Options – In exchange for a premium, the fund wrote call options on securities for which it anticipated the price would decline and also wrote put options on securities for which it anticipated the price would increase. At the time the option was written, the fund believed the premium received exceeded the potential loss that could result from adverse price changes in the options’ underlying securities. In a written option, the fund as the option writer grants the buyer the right to purchase from, or sell to, the fund a specified number of shares or units of a particular security, currency or index at a specified price within a specified period of time.

The premium received is initially recorded as a liability in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The option is subsequently marked-to-market daily with the difference between the premium received and the market value of the written option being recorded as unrealized appreciation or depreciation. When a written option expires, the fund realizes a gain equal to the amount of the premium received. The difference between the premium received and the amount paid on effecting a closing transaction is considered a realized gain or loss. When a written call option is exercised, the premium received is offset against the proceeds to determine the realized gain or loss. When a written put option is exercised, the premium reduces the cost basis of the security purchased by the fund.

At the initiation of the written option contract, for exchange traded options, the fund is required to deposit securities or cash as collateral with the custodian for the benefit of the broker or directly with the clearing broker, based on the type of option. For uncleared options, the fund may post collateral subject to the terms of an ISDA Master Agreement as generally described above if the market value of the options contract moves against it. The fund, as writer of an option, may have no control over whether the underlying securities may be sold (call) or purchased (put) and, as a result, bears the market risk of an unfavorable change in the price of the securities underlying the

 

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written option. Losses from writing options can exceed the premium received and can exceed the potential loss from an ordinary buy and sell transaction. Although the fund’s market risk may be significant, the maximum counterparty credit risk to the fund is equal to the market value of any collateral posted to the broker. For uncleared options, this risk is mitigated in cases where there is an ISDA Master Agreement between the fund and the counterparty providing for netting as described above.

The following table represents the written option activity in the fund during the six months ended February 28, 2015:

 

     

Number of

contracts

    

Premiums

received

 
Outstanding, beginning of period      936         $39,852   
Options written      29,320         1,360,176   
Options closed      (5,501      (391,658
Options exercised      (1,472      (68,042
Options expired      (20,348      (804,915
Outstanding, end of period      2,935         $135,413   

Purchased Options – The fund purchased call and put options for a premium. Purchased call and put options entitle the holder to buy and sell a specified number of shares or units of a particular security, currency or index at a specified price at a specified date or within a specified period of time. Purchasing call options may hedge against an anticipated increase in the dollar cost of securities or currency to be acquired or increase the fund’s exposure to an underlying instrument. Purchasing put options may hedge against an anticipated decline in the value of portfolio securities or currency or decrease the fund’s exposure to an underlying instrument.

The premium paid is initially recorded as an investment in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. That investment is subsequently marked-to-market daily with the difference between the premium paid and the market value of the purchased option being recorded as unrealized appreciation or depreciation. Premiums paid for purchased call and put options which have expired are treated as realized losses on investments in the Statement of Operations. Upon the exercise or closing of a purchased call option, the premium paid is added to the cost of the security or financial instrument purchased. Upon the exercise or closing of a purchased put option, the premium paid is offset against the proceeds on the sale of the underlying security or financial instrument in order to determine the realized gain or loss on investments.

Whether or not the option is exercised, the fund’s maximum risk of loss from purchasing an option is the amount of premium paid. All option contracts involve credit risk if the counterparty to the option contract fails to perform. For uncleared options, this risk is mitigated in cases where there is an ISDA Master Agreement between the fund and the counterparty providing for netting as described above and, where applicable, by the posting of collateral by the counterparty to the fund to cover the fund’s exposure to the counterparty under such ISDA Master Agreement.

Short Sales – The fund entered into short sales whereby it sells a security it does not own in anticipation of a decline in the value of that security. The fund will realize a gain if the security price decreases and a loss if the security price increases between the date of the short sale and the date on which the fund replaces the borrowed security. Losses

 

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from short sales can exceed the proceeds of the security sold; and they can also exceed the potential loss from an ordinary buy and sell transaction. The amount of any premium, dividends, or interest the fund may be required to pay in connection with a short sale will be recognized as a fund expense. During the six months ended February 28, 2015, this expense amounted to $55,484. The fund segregates cash or marketable securities in an amount that, when combined with the amount of proceeds from the short sale deposited with the broker, at least equals the current market value of the security sold short.

Security Loans – Under its Securities Lending Agency Agreement with the fund, State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), as lending agent, loans the securities of the fund to certain qualified institutions (the “Borrowers”) approved by the fund. The loans are collateralized by cash and/or U.S. Treasury and federal agency obligations in an amount typically at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned. On loans collateralized by cash, the cash collateral is invested in a money market fund. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of business of the fund and any additional required collateral is delivered to the fund on the next business day. State Street provides the fund with indemnification against Borrower default. In the event of Borrower default, State Street will for the benefit of the fund either purchase securities identical to those loaned or, when such purchase is commercially impracticable, pay the fund the market value of the loaned securities. In return, State Street assumes the fund’s rights to the related collateral. If the collateral value is less than the cost to purchase identical securities, State Street is responsible for the shortfall, but only to the extent that such shortfall is not due to a decline in collateral value resulting from collateral reinvestment for which the fund bears the risk of loss. At period end, the fund had investment securities on loan with a fair value of $368,123 and a related liability of $361,792 for cash collateral received on securities loaned, both of which are presented gross in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The value of the fund’s securities on loan net of the related collateral is $6,331 at period end. The liability for cash collateral for securities loaned is carried at fair value, which is categorized as level 2 within the fair value hierarchy. A portion of the income generated upon investment of the collateral is remitted to the Borrowers, and the remainder is allocated between the fund and the lending agent. On loans collateralized by U.S. Treasury and/or federal agency obligations, a fee is received from the Borrower, and is allocated between the fund and the lending agent. Income from securities lending is included in “Interest” income, separately reported in the Statement of Operations. The dividend and interest income earned on the securities loaned is accounted for in the same manner as other dividend and interest income.

Indemnifications – Under the fund’s organizational documents, its officers and Trustees may be indemnified against certain liabilities and expenses arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into agreements with service providers that may contain indemnification clauses. The fund’s maximum exposure under these agreements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the fund that have not yet occurred.

Investment Transactions and Income – Investment transactions are recorded on the trade date. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis. Dividends received in cash

 

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are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Certain dividends from foreign securities will be recorded when the fund is informed of the dividend if such information is obtained subsequent to the ex-dividend date. Dividend and interest payments received in additional securities are recorded on the ex-dividend or ex-interest date in an amount equal to the value of the security on such date.

The fund may receive proceeds from litigation settlements. Any proceeds received from litigation involving portfolio holdings are reflected in the Statement of Operations in realized gain/loss if the security has been disposed of by the fund or in unrealized gain/loss if the security is still held by the fund. Any other proceeds from litigation not related to portfolio holdings are reflected as other income in the Statement of Operations.

Fees Paid Indirectly – The fund’s custody fee may be reduced according to an arrangement that measures the value of cash deposited with the custodian by the fund. This amount, for the six months ended February 28, 2015, is shown as a reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Tax Matters and Distributions – The fund intends to qualify as a regulated investment company, as defined under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, and to distribute all of its taxable income, including realized capital gains. As a result, no provision for federal income tax is required. The fund’s federal tax returns, when filed, will remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service for a three year period. Management has analyzed the fund’s tax positions taken on federal and state tax returns for all open tax years and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability. Foreign taxes, if any, have been accrued by the fund in the accompanying financial statements in accordance with the applicable foreign tax law. Foreign income taxes may be withheld by certain countries in which the fund invests. Additionally, capital gains realized by the fund on securities issued in or by certain foreign countries may be subject to capital gains tax imposed by those countries.

Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Certain capital accounts in the financial statements are periodically adjusted for permanent differences in order to reflect their tax character. These adjustments have no impact on net assets or net asset value per share. Temporary differences which arise from recognizing certain items of income, expense, gain or loss in different periods for financial statement and tax purposes will reverse at some time in the future. Distributions in excess of net investment income or net realized gains are temporary overdistributions for financial statement purposes resulting from differences in the recognition or classification of income or distributions for financial statement and tax purposes.

Book/tax differences primarily relate to wash sale loss deferrals, straddle loss deferrals, and treating a portion of the proceeds from redemptions as a distribution for tax purposes.

The tax character of distributions made during the current period will be determined at fiscal year end. The fund declared no distributions for the year ended August 31, 2014.

 

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The federal tax cost and the tax basis components of distributable earnings were as follows:

 

As of 2/28/15       
Cost of investments      $229,651,024   
Gross appreciation      112,162,461   
Gross depreciation      (889,692
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)      $111,272,769   
As of 8/31/14       
Undistributed ordinary income      $260,665   
Undistributed long-term capital gain      10,649,055   
Other temporary differences      (2,033,887
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)      98,717,067   

The aggregate cost above includes prior fiscal year end tax adjustments, if applicable.

Multiple Classes of Shares of Beneficial Interest – The fund offers multiple classes of shares, which differ in their respective distribution and service fees. The fund’s income, realized and unrealized gain (loss), and common expenses are allocated to shareholders based on the daily net assets of each class. Dividends are declared separately for each class. Differences in per share dividend rates are generally due to differences in separate class expenses. Class B shares will convert to Class A shares approximately eight years after purchase. The fund’s distributions declared to shareholders as reported in the Statements of Changes in Net Assets are presented by class as follows:

 

     From net realized gain on
investments
 
     Six months
ended
2/28/15
     Year
ended
8/31/14
 
Class A      $6,168,354         $—   
Class B      639,076           
Class C      1,427,980           
Class I      1,439,815           
Class R1      76,932           
Class R2      619,660           
Class R3      328,090           
Class R4      92,251           
Class R5      117,661           
Total      $10,909,819         $—   

(3) Transactions with Affiliates

Investment Adviser – The fund has an investment advisory agreement with MFS to provide overall investment management and related administrative services and facilities to the fund. The management fee is computed daily and paid monthly at the following annual rates:

 

First $1 billion of average daily net assets      0.75
Average daily net assets in excess of $1 billion      0.70

 

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MFS has agreed in writing to reduce its management fee by a specified amount if certain MFS mutual fund assets exceed thresholds agreed to by MFS and the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this management fee reduction amounted to $9,440, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. The management fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.74% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

Distributor – MFS Fund Distributors, Inc. (MFD), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, as distributor, received $46,904 for the six months ended February 28, 2015, as its portion of the initial sales charge on sales of Class A shares of the fund.

The Board of Trustees has adopted a distribution plan for certain share classes pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the Investment Company Act of 1940.

The fund’s distribution plan provides that the fund will pay MFD for services provided by MFD and financial intermediaries in connection with the distribution and servicing of certain share classes. One component of the plan is a distribution fee paid to MFD and another component of the plan is a service fee paid to MFD. MFD may subsequently pay all, or a portion, of the distribution and/or service fees to financial intermediaries.

Distribution Plan Fee Table:

 

     Distribution
Fee Rate (d)
     Service
Fee Rate (d)
     Total
Distribution
Plan (d)
     Annual
Effective
Rate (e)
     Distribution
and Service
Fee
 
Class A              0.25%         0.25%         0.24%         $219,876   
Class B      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         82,865   
Class C      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         185,485   
Class R1      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         10,157   
Class R2      0.25%         0.25%         0.50%         0.50%         42,972   
Class R3              0.25%         0.25%         0.25%         12,518   
Total Distribution and Service Fees         $553,873   

 

(d) In accordance with the distribution plan for certain classes, the fund pays distribution and/or service fees equal to these annual percentage rates of each class’s average daily net assets. The distribution and service fee rates disclosed by class represent the current rates in effect at the end of the reporting period. Any rate changes, if applicable, are detailed below.
(e) The annual effective rates represent actual fees incurred under the distribution plan for the six months ended February 28, 2015 based on each class’s average daily net assets. MFD has voluntarily agreed to rebate a portion of each class’s 0.25% service fee except for accounts attributable to MFS or its affiliates’ seed money. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this rebate amounted to $4,875, $101, and $162, for Class A, Class B, and Class C, respectively, and is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Certain Class A shares are subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) in the event of a shareholder redemption within 18 months of purchase. Class C shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder redemption within 12 months of purchase. Class B shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder

 

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redemption within six years of purchase. All contingent deferred sales charges are paid to MFD and during the six months ended February 28, 2015, were as follows:

 

     Amount  
Class A      $1,028   
Class B      6,064   
Class C      3,732   

Shareholder Servicing Agent – MFS Service Center, Inc. (MFSC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, receives a fee from the fund for its services as shareholder servicing agent calculated as a percentage of the average daily net assets of the fund as determined periodically under the supervision of the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fee was $62,741, which equated to 0.0406% annually of the fund’s average daily net assets. MFSC also receives payment from the fund for out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs which may be paid to affiliated and unaffiliated service providers. Class R5 shares do not incur sub-accounting fees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, these out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs amounted to $191,350.

Administrator – MFS provides certain financial, legal, shareholder communications, compliance, and other administrative services to the fund. Under an administrative services agreement, the fund reimburses MFS the costs incurred to provide these services. The fund is charged an annual fixed amount of $17,500 plus a fee based on average daily net assets. The administrative services fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.0192% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

Trustees’ and Officers’ Compensation – The fund pays compensation to independent Trustees in the form of a retainer, attendance fees, and additional compensation to Board and Committee chairpersons. The fund does not pay compensation directly to Trustees or officers of the fund who are also officers of the investment adviser, all of whom receive remuneration for their services to the fund from MFS. Certain officers and Trustees of the fund are officers or directors of MFS, MFD, and MFSC.

Prior to December 31, 2001, the fund had an unfunded defined benefit plan (“DB plan”) for independent Trustees. As of December 31, 2001, the Board took action to terminate the DB plan with respect to then-current and any future independent Trustees, such that the DB plan covers only certain of those former independent Trustees who retired on or before December 31, 2001. The DB plan resulted in a pension expense of $87 and is included in independent Trustees’ compensation for the six months ended February 28, 2015. The liability for deferred retirement benefits payable to certain independent Trustees under the DB plan amounted to $1,034 at February 28, 2015, and is included in “Payable for independent Trustees’ compensation” in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Other – Effective November 1, 2014, this fund and certain other funds managed by MFS (the funds) have entered into a service agreement (the ISO Agreement) which provides for payment of fees solely by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the

 

33


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

provision of services of an Independent Senior Officer (ISO) for the funds. Frank L. Tarantino serves as the ISO and is an officer of the funds and the sole member of Tarantino LLC. The funds can terminate the ISO Agreement with Tarantino LLC at any time under the terms of the ISO Agreement. Prior to November 1, 2014, the funds had entered into a service agreement (the Compliance Officer Agreement) which provided for payment of fees by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the provision of services of an Independent Chief Compliance Officer (ICCO) for the funds. Prior to November 1, 2014, Frank L. Tarantino served as the ICCO. Effective October 31, 2014, Mr. Tarantino resigned as ICCO and the Compliance Officer Agreement between the funds and Tarantino LLC was terminated. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the aggregate fees paid by the fund under these agreements were $579 and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations. MFS had agreed to reimburse the fund for a portion of the payments made by the fund for the services under the Compliance Officer Agreement in the amount of $99, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. Additionally, MFS has agreed to bear all expenses associated with office space, other administrative support, and supplies provided to the ICCO and ISO.

The fund invests in the MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio which is managed by MFS and seeks current income consistent with preservation of capital and liquidity. Income earned on this investment is included in “Dividends from underlying affiliated funds” in the Statement of Operations. This money market fund does not pay a management fee to MFS.

On September 11, 2013, MFS redeemed 13,238 shares of Class R4 for an aggregate amount of $274,821.

(4) Portfolio Securities

For the six months ended February 28, 2015, purchases and sales of investments, other than purchased option transactions, short sales, and short-term obligations, aggregated $84,988,058 and $57,123,587, respectively.

 

34


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

(5) Shares of Beneficial Interest

The fund’s Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest. Transactions in fund shares were as follows:

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
     Year ended
8/31/14
 
     Shares      Amount      Shares      Amount  
Shares sold            

Class A

     1,075,600         $26,004,805         1,925,678         $43,258,626   

Class B

     119,366         2,610,615         156,272         3,221,334   

Class C

     230,732         5,038,653         437,949         9,054,054   

Class I

     513,116         13,037,927         684,731         16,296,362   

Class R1

     22,141         480,649         58,654         1,191,202   

Class R2

     110,612         2,586,136         268,302         5,825,941   

Class R3

     60,102         1,451,178         185,343         4,130,801   

Class R4

     66,712         1,700,723         36,448         830,516   

Class R5

     128,850         3,311,248         97,026         2,314,761   
     2,327,231         $56,221,934         3,850,403         $86,123,597   
Shares issued to shareholders in
reinvestment of distributions
           

Class A

     247,815         $5,935,159                 $—   

Class B

     28,581         617,360                   

Class C

     55,394         1,194,300                   

Class I

     40,833         1,028,984                   

Class R1

     3,575         76,932                   

Class R2

     26,342         609,819                   

Class R3

     13,705         328,090                   

Class R4

     3,750         92,251                   

Class R5

     4,660         117,661                   
     424,655         $10,000,556                 $—   
Shares reacquired            

Class A

     (727,714      $(17,600,345      (2,207,242      $(49,633,349

Class B

     (68,860      (1,507,081      (160,079      (3,283,048

Class C

     (99,610      (2,181,489      (226,224      (4,601,607

Class I

     (236,384      (6,008,300      (619,451      (14,855,590

Class R1

     (14,916      (327,027      (53,964      (1,115,740

Class R2

     (108,201      (2,531,920      (388,747      (8,456,797

Class R3

     (109,541      (2,678,957      (207,625      (4,585,001

Class R4

     (8,027      (199,277      (44,430      (988,142

Class R5

     (16,384      (418,005      (8,330      (205,613
     (1,389,637      $(33,452,401      (3,916,092      $(87,724,887

 

35


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
    Year ended
8/31/14
 
     Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  
Net change         

Class A

     595,701        $14,339,619        (281,564     $(6,374,723

Class B

     79,087        1,720,894        (3,807     (61,714

Class C

     186,516        4,051,464        211,725        4,452,447   

Class I

     317,565        8,058,611        65,280        1,440,772   

Class R1

     10,800        230,554        4,690        75,462   

Class R2

     28,753        664,035        (120,445     (2,630,856

Class R3

     (35,734     (899,689     (22,282     (454,200

Class R4

     62,435        1,593,697        (7,982     (157,626

Class R5

     117,126        3,010,904        88,696        2,109,148   
     1,362,249        $32,770,089        (65,689     $(1,601,290

(6) Line of Credit

The fund and certain other funds managed by MFS participate in a $1.1 billion unsecured committed line of credit, subject to a $1 billion sublimit, provided by a syndication of banks under a credit agreement. Borrowings may be made for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, generally at a rate equal to the higher of the Federal Reserve funds rate or one month LIBOR plus an agreed upon spread. A commitment fee, based on the average daily, unused portion of the committed line of credit, is allocated among the participating funds at the end of each calendar quarter. In addition, the fund and other funds managed by MFS have established unsecured uncommitted borrowing arrangements with certain banks for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, at a rate equal to the Federal Reserve funds rate plus an agreed upon spread. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fund’s commitment fee and interest expense were $520 and $0, respectively, and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations.

(7) Transactions in Underlying Affiliated Funds-Affiliated Issuers

An affiliated issuer may be considered one in which the fund owns 5% or more of the outstanding voting securities, or a company which is under common control. For the purposes of this report, the fund assumes the following to be an affiliated issuer:

 

Underlying Affiliated Fund    Beginning
Shares/Par
Amount
     Acquisitions
Shares/Par
Amount
     Dispositions
Shares/Par
Amount
    Ending
Shares/Par
Amount
 
MFS Institutional Money
Market Portfolio
     11,667,042         35,678,075         (41,579,042     5,776,075   
Underlying Affiliated Fund    Realized
Gain (Loss)
     Capital Gain
Distributions
     Dividend
Income
    Ending
Value
 
MFS Institutional Money
Market Portfolio
     $—         $—         $5,470        $5,776,075   

 

36


Table of Contents

PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND INFORMATION

MFS votes proxies on behalf of the fund pursuant to proxy voting policies and procedures that are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-225-2606, by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

Information regarding how the fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 is available without charge by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

QUARTERLY PORTFOLIO DISCLOSURE

The fund will file a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. A shareholder can obtain the quarterly portfolio holdings report at mfs.com. The fund’s Form N-Q is also available on the EDGAR database on the Commission’s Internet Web site at http://www.sec.gov, and may be reviewed and copied at the:

Public Reference Room

Securities and Exchange Commission

100 F Street, NE, Room 1580

Washington, D.C. 20549

Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330. Copies of the fund’s Form N-Q also may be obtained, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section at the above address.

FURTHER INFORMATION

From time to time, MFS may post important information about the fund or the MFS funds on the MFS web site (mfs.com). This information is available by visiting the “Market Commentary” and “Announcements” sub sections in the “Market Outlooks” section of mfs.com or by clicking on the fund’s name under “Mutual Funds” in the “Products” section of mfs.com.

PROVISION OF FINANCIAL REPORTS AND SUMMARY PROSPECTUSES

The fund produces financial reports every six months and updates its summary prospectus and prospectus annually. To avoid sending duplicate copies of materials to households, only one copy of the fund’s annual and semiannual report and summary prospectus may be mailed to shareholders having the same last name and residential address on the fund’s records. However, any shareholder may contact MFSC (please see back cover for address and telephone number) to request that copies of these reports and summary prospectuses be sent personally to that shareholder.

 

37


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

Save paper with eDelivery.

 

LOGO

MFS® will send you prospectuses,

reports, and proxies directly via e-mail so you will get information faster with less mailbox clutter.

To sign up:

1. Go to mfs.com.

2. Log in via MFS® Access.

3. Select eDelivery.

If you own your MFS fund shares through a financial institution or a retirement plan, MFS® TALK, MFS® Access, or eDelivery may not be available to you.

 

CONTACT

WEB SITE

mfs.com

MFS TALK

1-800-637-8255

24 hours a day

ACCOUNT SERVICE AND LITERATURE

Shareholders

1-800-225-2606

Financial advisors

1-800-343-2829

Retirement plan services

1-800-637-1255

MAILING ADDRESS

MFS Service Center, Inc.

P.O. Box 55824

Boston, MA 02205-5824

OVERNIGHT MAIL

MFS Service Center, Inc.

c/o Boston Financial Data Services

30 Dan Road

Canton, MA 02021-2809

 


Table of Contents

SEMIANNUAL REPORT

February 28, 2015

 

LOGO

MFS® U.S. GOVERNMENT CASH RESERVE FUND

 

LOGO

 

LMM-SEM

 


Table of Contents

MFS® U.S. GOVERNMENT CASH RESERVE FUND

CONTENTS

 

Letter from the Chairman     1   
Portfolio composition     2   
Expense table     3   
Portfolio of investments     5   
Statement of assets and liabilities     7   
Statement of operations     9   
Statements of changes in net assets     10   
Financial highlights     11   
Notes to financial statements     21   
Proxy voting policies and information     30   
Quarterly portfolio disclosure     30   
Further information     30   
Provision of financial reports and summary prospectuses     30   
Contact information    back cover   

 

 

The report is prepared for the general information of shareholders.

It is authorized for distribution to prospective investors only when preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.

 

NOT FDIC INSURED Ÿ MAY LOSE VALUE Ÿ NO BANK GUARANTEE


Table of Contents

LOGO

LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Dear Shareholders:

Lower oil prices continue to influence markets in different ways. Among those economies hurt, oil-exporters such as Russia and Venezuela have been hit particularly hard, along with U.S. regions that have close oil industry ties.

The U.S. economic recovery remains solid. The labor market is strong, interest rates are historically low and reduced energy prices have helped to stimulate consumer spending.

Economic reports early in 2015 indicate that the eurozone is on a more solid footing, with confidence boosted by the launch of European Central Bank quantitative easing.

In Asia, the Chinese economy continues to raise concerns, with the People’s Bank of China implementing stimulus programs to counter a steady decline in growth rates.

As always, active risk management is integral to how we at MFS® manage your investments. We use a collaborative process, sharing insights across asset classes, regions and economic sectors. Our global investment team uses a diversified, multidisciplined, long-term approach.

Applying proven principles, such as asset allocation and diversification, can best serve investors over the long term. We are confident that this approach can help you as you work with your financial advisors to reach your goals in the years ahead.

Respectfully,

 

LOGO

Robert J. Manning

Chairman

MFS Investment Management

April 14, 2015

The opinions expressed in this letter are subject to change and may not be relied upon for investment advice. No forecasts can be guaranteed.

 

1


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION

 

Portfolio structure (u)

 

LOGO

 

Composition including fixed income credit quality (a)(u)    
A-1+     17.4%   
A-1     82.7%   
Not Rated     0.0%   
Other Assets Less Liabilities     (0.1)%   
Maturity breakdown (u)  
0 - 7 days     22.0%   
8 - 29 days     15.9%   
30 - 59 days     43.4%   
60 - 89 days     8.2%   
90 - 365 days     10.6%   
Other Assets Less Liabilities     (0.1)%   
 
(a) Ratings are assigned to portfolio securities utilizing ratings from Moody’s, Fitch, and Standard & Poor’s rating agencies and applying the following hierarchy: If all three agencies provide a rating, the middle rating (after dropping the highest and lowest ratings) is assigned; if two of the three agencies rate a security, the lower of the two is assigned. Ratings are shown in the S&P scale. All ratings are subject to change. The fund is not rated by these agencies.
(u) For purposes of this presentation, accrued interest, where applicable, is included.

From time to time Other Assets Less Liabilities may be negative due to timing of cash receipts.

Percentages are based on net assets as of 2/28/15.

The portfolio is actively managed and current holdings may be different.

 

2


Table of Contents

EXPENSE TABLE

Fund expenses borne by the shareholders during the period, September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015

As a shareholder of the fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on certain purchase or redemption payments, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015.

Actual Expenses

The first line for each share class in the following table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The second line for each share class in the following table provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads). Therefore, the second line for each share class in the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

3


Table of Contents

Expense Table – continued

 

 

Share
Class
       Annualized
Expense
Ratio
    Beginning
Account Value
9/01/14
    Ending
Account Value
2/28/15
    Expenses
Paid During
Period (p)
9/01/14-2/28/15
 
A   Actual     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,000.00        $0.30   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,024.50        $0.30   
B   Actual     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,000.00        $0.30   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,024.50        $0.30   
C   Actual     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,000.00        $0.30   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,024.50        $0.30   
R1   Actual     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,000.00        $0.30   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,024.50        $0.30   
R2   Actual     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,000.00        $0.30   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,024.50        $0.30   
R3   Actual     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,000.00        $0.30   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,024.50        $0.30   
R4   Actual     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,000.00        $0.30   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,024.50        $0.30   
529A   Actual     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,000.00        $0.30   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,024.50        $0.30   
529B   Actual     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,000.00        $0.30   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,024.50        $0.30   
529C   Actual     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,000.00        $0.30   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.06%        $1,000.00        $1,024.50        $0.30   

 

(h) 5% class return per year before expenses.
(p) “Expenses Paid During Period” are equal to each class’s annualized expense ratio, as shown above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181/365 (to reflect the one-half year period). Expenses paid do not include any applicable sales charges (loads). If these transaction costs had been included, your costs would have been higher.

Notes to Expense Table

As more fully disclosed in footnote 3 to the financial statements, the expense ratios reported above include additional expense reductions to avoid a negative yield.

 

4


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS

2/28/15 (unaudited)

The Portfolio of Investments is a complete list of all securities owned by your fund. It is categorized by broad-based asset classes.

 

U.S. Government Agencies and Equivalents (y) - 98.4%           
Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Fannie Mae, 0.07%, due 3/03/15    $ 572,000      $ 571,998   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.05%, due 3/02/15      4,857,000        4,856,993   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.04%, due 3/03/15      13,000,000        12,999,971   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.01%, due 3/04/15      34,740,000        34,739,896   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.06%, due 3/04/15      7,948,000        7,947,960   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.01%, due 3/09/15      6,116,000        6,115,959   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.01%, due 3/11/15      17,419,000        17,418,794   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.01%, due 3/18/15      13,272,000        13,271,718   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.01%, due 3/20/15      5,925,000        5,924,878   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.01%, due 3/25/15      5,800,000        5,799,859   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.01%, due 3/27/15      1,000,000        999,968   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.01%, due 4/01/15      28,108,000        28,106,669   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.075%, due 4/01/15      13,500,000        13,499,128   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.01%, due 4/06/15      16,900,000        16,898,929   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.08%, due 4/06/15      13,000,000        12,998,960   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.01%, due 4/08/15      12,670,000        12,669,131   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.01%, due 4/10/15      17,888,000        17,886,807   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.09%, due 4/10/15      5,000,000        4,999,500   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.01%, due 4/15/15      11,094,000        11,093,168   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.01%, due 4/20/15      2,001,000        2,000,819   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.09%, due 4/24/15      7,031,000        7,030,051   
Federal Home Loan Bank, 0.01%, due 4/29/15      12,515,000        12,513,769   
Freddie Mac, 0.05%, due 3/03/15      2,300,000        2,299,994   
U.S. Treasury Bill, 0.045%, due 4/02/15      5,000,000        4,999,800   
U.S. Treasury Bill, 0.01%, due 4/23/15      3,018,000        3,017,967   
U.S. Treasury Bill, 0.03%, due 5/07/15      2,661,000        2,660,851   
U.S. Treasury Bill, 0.053%, due 5/07/15      10,330,000        10,328,991   
U.S. Treasury Bill, 0.09%, due 7/09/15      13,045,000        13,040,760   
U.S. Treasury Bill, 0.108%, due 7/23/15      7,000,000        6,996,976   
U.S. Treasury Bill, 0.275%, due 1/07/16      13,060,000        13,028,874   
Total U.S. Government Agencies and Equivalents,
at Amortized Cost and Value
           $ 306,719,138   

 

5


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Repurchase Agreements - 1.7%                 
Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith, Inc. Repurchase Agreement, 0.05%, dated 2/27/15, due 3/02/15, total to be received $5,298,022 (secured by U.S. Treasury and Federal Agency obligations valued at $5,403,970 in a jointly traded account), at Cost and Value    $ 5,298,000      $ 5,298,000   
Total Investments, at Amortized Cost and Value            $ 312,017,138   
Other Assets, Less Liabilities - (0.1)%              (235,201
Net Assets - 100.0%            $ 311,781,937   

 

(y) The rate shown represents an annualized yield at time of purchase.

See notes to financial statements

 

6


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement represents your fund’s balance sheet, which details the assets and liabilities comprising the total value of the fund.

 

Assets         

Investments, at amortized cost and value

     $312,017,138   

Cash

     857   

Receivables for

  

Fund shares sold

     845,042   

Interest

     15   

Receivable from investment adviser and distributor

     109,500   

Other assets

     1,983   

Total assets

     $312,974,535   
Liabilities         

Payable for fund shares reacquired

     $1,004,581   

Payable to affiliate for shareholder servicing costs

     166,484   

Payable for independent Trustees’ compensation

     10,472   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     11,061   

Total liabilities

     $1,192,598   

Net assets

     $311,781,937   
Net assets consist of         

Paid-in capital

     $312,001,952   

Accumulated net realized gain (loss) on investments

     (207,393

Accumulated net investment loss

     (12,622

Net assets

     $311,781,937   

Shares of beneficial interest outstanding

     312,011,941   

 

7


Table of Contents

Statement of Assets and Liabilities (unaudited) – continued

 

 

     Net assets      Shares
outstanding
     Net asset value
per share
 

Class A

     $114,996,394         115,079,694         $1.00   

Class B

     19,574,985         19,591,852         1.00   

Class C

     39,470,890         39,499,544         1.00   

Class R1

     15,733,389         15,745,042         1.00   

Class R2

     55,350,624         55,391,509         1.00   

Class R3

     46,837,060         46,871,769         1.00   

Class R4

     2,887,299         2,889,451         1.00   

Class 529A

     10,692,526         10,699,936         1.00   

Class 529B

     557,400         557,856         1.00   

Class 529C

     5,681,370         5,685,288         1.00   

A contingent deferred sales charge may be imposed on redemptions of Class A, Class B, Class C, Class 529B, and Class 529C shares. Redemption price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for Classes R1, R2, R3, R4, and 529A.

See notes to financial statements

 

8


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Six months ended 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement describes how much your fund earned in investment income and accrued in expenses. It also describes any gains and/or losses generated by fund operations.

 

Net investment income   

Interest income

     $98,848   

Expenses

  

Management fee

     $655,056   

Distribution and service fees

     802,937   

Program manager fees

     8,573   

Shareholder servicing costs

     306,069   

Administrative services fee

     31,269   

Independent Trustees’ compensation

     5,132   

Custodian fee

     17,691   

Shareholder communications

     12,176   

Audit and tax fees

     17,528   

Legal fees

     1,785   

Miscellaneous

     62,026   

Total expenses

     $1,920,242   

Fees paid indirectly

     (170

Reduction of expenses by investment adviser and distributor

     (1,821,224

Net expenses

     $98,848   

Net investment income

     $0   

Change in net assets from operations

     $0   

See notes to financial statements

 

9


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

These statements describe the increases and/or decreases in net assets resulting from operations, any distributions, and any shareholder transactions.

 

Change in net assets   

Six months ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    

Year ended
8/31/14

 
From operations                  

Net investment income

     $0         $0   

Net realized gain (loss) on investments

     0         315   

Change in net assets from operations

     $0         $315   

Change in net assets from fund share transactions

     $(30,383,964      $(70,967,905

Total change in net assets

     $(30,383,964      $(70,967,590
Net assets                  

At beginning of period

     342,165,901         413,133,491   

At end of period (including accumulated net investment loss of $12,622 and $12,622, respectively)

     $311,781,937         $342,165,901   

See notes to financial statements

 

10


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the fund’s financial performance for the semiannual period and the past 5 fiscal years. Certain information reflects financial results for a single fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate by which an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the fund share class (assuming reinvestment of all distributions) held for the entire period.

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class A     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of
period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00 (w)      $0.00 (w) 

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments

           0.00 (w)                    (0.00 )(w)      0.00 (w) 

Total from investment
operations

    $0.00        $0.00 (w)      $0.00        $0.00        $0.00 (w)      $0.00 (w) 
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w)      $(0.00 )(w) 

From tax return of capital

                                (0.00 )(w)      (0.00 )(w) 

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w)      $(0.00 )(w) 

Net asset value, end of period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   

Total return (%) (r)(t)

    0.00 (n)      0.00 (w)      0.00        0.00        0.00 (w)      0.00 (w) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    0.93 (a)      0.90        0.93        0.93        0.94        0.85   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.06 (a)      0.09        0.15        0.13        0.20        0.27   

Net investment income

    0.00 (a)      0.00        0.00        0.00        0.00 (w)      0.00 (w) 

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $114,996        $124,550        $145,062        $126,283        $153,634        $141,832   

See notes to financial statements

 

11


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class B     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of
period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00 (w)      $0.00 (w) 

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments

           0.00 (w)                    (0.00 )(w)      0.00 (w) 

Total from investment
operations

    $0.00        $0.00 (w)      $0.00        $0.00        $(0.00 )(w)      $0.00 (w) 
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

From tax return of capital

                                       (0.00 )(w) 

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

Net asset value, end of period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   

Total return (%) (r)(t)

    0.00 (n)      0.00 (w)      0.00        0.00        0.00 (w)      0.00 (w) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.68 (a)      1.65        1.68        1.68        1.69        1.69   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.06 (a)      0.10        0.15        0.12        0.20        0.27   

Net investment income

    0.00 (a)      0.00        0.00        0.00        0.00 (w)      0.00 (w) 

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $19,575        $22,982        $30,833        $35,098        $50,379        $66,601   

See notes to financial statements

 

12


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class C     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of
period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00 (w) 

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments

           0.00 (w)                    (0.00 )(w)      0.00 (w) 

Total from investment
operations

    $0.00        $0.00 (w)      $0.00        $0.00        $(0.00 )(w)      $0.00 (w) 
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

From tax return of capital

                                       (0.00 )(w) 

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $—        $—   

Net asset value, end of period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   

Total return (%) (r)(t)

    0.00 (n)      0.00 (w)      0.00        0.00        0.00 (w)      0.00 (w) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.68 (a)      1.65        1.68        1.68        1.69        1.69   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.06 (a)      0.10        0.15        0.13        0.20        0.27   

Net investment income

    0.00 (a)      0.00        0.00        0.00        0.00        0.00 (w) 

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $39,471        $45,662        $58,363        $49,851        $61,943        $50,196   

See notes to financial statements

 

13


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R1     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of
period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00 (w) 

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments

           0.00 (w)                    (0.00 )(w)      0.00 (w) 

Total from investment
operations

    $0.00        $0.00 (w)      $0.00        $0.00        $(0.00 )(w)      $0.00 (w) 
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

From tax return of capital

                                       (0.00 )(w) 

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

Net asset value, end of period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   

Total return (%) (r)

    0.00 (n)      0.00 (w)      0.00        0.00        0.00 (w)      0.00 (w) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.68 (a)      1.65        1.68        1.68        1.69        1.69   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.06 (a)      0.09        0.15        0.13        0.20        0.27   

Net investment income

    0.00 (a)      0.00        0.00        0.00        0.00        0.00 (w) 

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $15,733        $16,819        $21,080        $24,361        $28,705        $30,233   

See notes to financial statements

 

14


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R2     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of
period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00 (w) 

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments

           0.00 (w)                    (0.00 )(w)      0.00 (w) 

Total from investment
operations

    $0.00        $0.00 (w)      $0.00        $0.00        $(0.00 )(w)      $0.00 (w) 
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

From tax return of capital

                                       (0.00 )(w) 

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

Net asset value, end of period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   

Total return (%) (r)

    0.00 (n)      0.00 (w)      0.00        0.00        0.00 (w)      0.00 (w) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.18 (a)      1.15        1.18        1.18        1.19        1.19   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.06 (a)      0.09        0.15        0.13        0.20        0.27   

Net investment income

    0.00 (a)      0.00        0.00        0.00        0.00        0.00 (w) 

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $55,351        $57,634        $74,406        $83,723        $104,130        $109,362   

See notes to financial statements

 

15


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R3     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of
period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00 (w) 

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments

           0.00 (w)                    (0.00 )(w)      0.00 (w) 

Total from investment
operations

    $0.00        $0.00 (w)      $0.00        $0.00        $(0.00 )(w)      $0.00 (w) 
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

From tax return of capital

                                       (0.00 )(w) 

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

Net asset value, end of period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   

Total return (%) (r)

    0.00 (n)      0.00 (w)      0.00        0.00        0.00 (w)      0.00 (w) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    0.93 (a)      0.90        0.93        0.93        0.94        0.94   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.06 (a)      0.09        0.15        0.13        0.20        0.27   

Net investment income

    0.00 (a)      0.00        0.00        0.00        0.00        0.00 (w) 

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $46,837        $53,916        $64,925        $79,029        $85,602        $90.331   

See notes to financial statements

 

16


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R4     2014     2013      2012      2011     2010  
                                   

Net asset value, beginning of
period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00         $1.00         $1.00        $1.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.00        $0.00        $0.00         $0.00         $0.00 (w)      $0.00 (w) 

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments

           0.00 (w)                      (0.00 )(w)      0.00 (w) 

Total from investment
operations

    $0.00        $0.00 (w)      $0.00         $0.00         $0.00 (w)      $0.00 (w) 
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $—        $—        $—         $—         $(0.00 )(w)      $(0.00 )(w) 

From tax return of capital

                                  (0.00 )(w)      (0.00 )(w) 

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $—        $—        $—         $—         $(0.00 )(w)      $(0.00 )(w) 

Net asset value, end of period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00         $1.00         $1.00        $1.00   

Total return (%) (r)

    0.00 (n)      0.00 (w)      0.00         0.00         0.00 (w)      0.00 (w) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    0.68 (a)      0.65        0.68         0.69         0.69        0.68   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.06 (a)      0.09        0.15         0.12         0.20        0.27   

Net investment income

    0.00 (a)      0.00        0.00         0.00         0.00 (w)      0.00 (w) 

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $2,887        $2,907        $820         $810         $5,743        $6,172   

See notes to financial statements

 

17


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class 529A     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of
period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00 (w) 

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments

           0.00 (w)                    (0.00 )(w)      0.00 (w) 

Total from investment
operations

    $0.00        $0.00 (w)      $0.00        $0.00        $(0.00 )(w)      $0.00 (w) 
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

From tax return of capital

                                       (0.00 )(w) 

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

Net asset value, end of period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   

Total return (%) (r)

    0.00 (n)      0.00 (w)      0.00        0.00        0.00 (w)      0.00 (w) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.03 (a)      1.00        1.03        1.03        1.04        1.03   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.06 (a)      0.09        0.15        0.13        0.20        0.27   

Net investment income

    0.00 (a)      0.00        0.00        0.00        0.00        0.00 (w) 

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $10,693        $10,927        $10,897        $10,330        $9,710        $9,919   

See notes to financial statements

 

18


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class 529B     2014     2013      2012     2011     2010  
                                  

Net asset value, beginning of
period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00         $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.00        $0.00        $0.00         $0.00        $0.00        $0.00 (w) 

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments

           0.00 (w)                     (0.00 )(w)      0.00 (w) 

Total from investment
operations

    $0.00        $0.00 (w)      $0.00         $0.00        $(0.00 )(w)      $0.00 (w) 
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $—        $—        $—         $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

From tax return of capital

                                        (0.00 )(w) 

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $—        $—        $—         $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

Net asset value, end of period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00         $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   

Total return (%) (r)(t)

    0.00 (n)      0.00 (w)      0.00         0.00        0.00 (w)      0.00 (w) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.78 (a)      1.75        1.78         1.78        1.79        1.79   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.06 (a)      0.10        0.15         0.12        0.20        0.27   

Net investment income

    0.00 (a)      0.00        0.00         0.00        0.00        0.00 (w) 

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $557        $531        $676         $665        $1,073        $1,613   

See notes to financial statements

 

19


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class 529C     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning of
period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00        $0.00 (w) 

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments

           0.00 (w)                    (0.00 )(w)      0.00 (w) 

Total from investment
operations

    $0.00        $0.00 (w)      $0.00        $0.00        $(0.00 )(w)      $0.00 (w) 
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

From tax return of capital

                                       (0.00 )(w) 

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $—        $—        $—        $—        $—        $(0.00 )(w) 

Net asset value, end of period

    $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00        $1.00   

Total return (%) (r)(t)

    0.00 (n)      0.00 (w)      0.00        0.00        0.00 (w)      0.00 (w) 
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.78 (a)      1.75        1.78        1.78        1.79        1.78   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.06 (a)      0.09        0.15        0.13        0.20        0.27   

Net investment income

    0.00 (a)      0.00        0.00        0.00        0.00        0.00 (w) 

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $5,681        $6,240        $6,072        $5,020        $5,525        $6,224   

 

(a) Annualized.
(d) Per share data is based on average shares outstanding.
(f) Ratios do not reflect reductions from fees paid indirectly, if applicable.
(n) Not annualized.
(r) Certain expenses have been reduced without which performance would have been lower.
(t) Total returns do not include any applicable sales charges.
(w) Per share amount was less than $0.01 and total return or ratio was less than 0.01%, as applicable.

See notes to financial statements

 

20


Table of Contents

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

(1) Business and Organization

MFS U.S. Government Cash Reserve Fund (the fund) is a diversified series of MFS Series Trust I (the trust). The trust is organized as a Massachusetts business trust and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as an open-end management investment company.

The fund is an investment company and accordingly follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 Financial Services – Investment Companies.

On July 23, 2014, the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission adopted amendments to its money market fund regulations. At this time, management is evaluating the potential implications of the changes.

(2) Significant Accounting Policies

General – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. In the preparation of these financial statements, management has evaluated subsequent events occurring after the date of the fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities through the date that the financial statements were issued.

In June 2014, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-11, Transfers and Servicing (Topic 860) – Repurchase-to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures (“ASU 2014-11”). ASU 2014-11 changes the accounting for repurchase-to-maturity transactions (i.e., repurchase agreements that settle at the same time as the maturity of the transferred financial asset) and enhances the required disclosures for repurchase agreements and other similar transactions. Although still evaluating the potential impacts of ASU 2014-11 to the fund, management expects that the impact of the fund’s adoption will be limited to additional financial statement disclosures which would first be effective for interim reporting periods beginning after March 15, 2015.

Balance Sheet Offsetting – The fund’s accounting policy with respect to balance sheet offsetting is that, absent an event of default by the counterparty or a termination of the agreement, the International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) Master Agreement does not result in an offset of reported amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities across transactions between the fund and the applicable counterparty. The fund’s right to setoff may be restricted or prohibited by the bankruptcy or insolvency laws of the particular jurisdiction to which a specific master netting agreement counterparty is subject. Balance sheet offsetting disclosures, to the extent applicable to the fund, have been included in the fund’s Significant Accounting Policies note under the captions for each of the fund’s in-scope financial instruments and transactions.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

Investment Valuations – Pursuant to procedures approved by the Board of Trustees, investments held by the fund are generally valued at amortized cost, which approximates market value. Amortized cost involves valuing an instrument at its cost as adjusted for amortization of premium or accretion of discount rather than its current market value. The amortized cost value of an instrument can be different from the market value of an instrument.

Various inputs are used in determining the value of the fund’s assets or liabilities. These inputs are categorized into three broad levels. In certain cases, the inputs used to measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, an investment’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The fund’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the investment. Level 1 includes unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 includes other significant observable market-based inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speed, and credit risk). Level 3 includes unobservable inputs, which may include the adviser’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. The following is a summary of the levels used as of February 28, 2015 in valuing the fund’s assets or liabilities:

 

Investments at Value    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  
Short Term Securities      $—         $312,017,138         $—         $312,017,138   

For further information regarding security characteristics, see the Portfolio of Investments.

Repurchase Agreements – The fund enters into repurchase agreements under the terms of Master Repurchase Agreements with approved counterparties. Each repurchase agreement is recorded at cost. The fund requires that the securities collateral in a repurchase transaction be transferred to a custodian. The fund monitors, on a daily basis, the value of the collateral to ensure that its value, including accrued interest, is greater than amounts owed to the fund under each such repurchase agreement. Upon an event of default under a Master Repurchase Agreement, the non-defaulting party may close out all transactions traded under such agreement and net amounts owed under each transaction to one net amount payable by one party to the other. Absent an event of default, the Master Repurchase Agreement does not result in an offset of reported amounts of assets and liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities across transactions between the fund and the applicable counterparty. The fund and other funds managed by MFS may utilize a joint trading account for the purpose of entering into one or more repurchase agreements. At period end, the fund had investments in repurchase agreements with a gross value of $5,298,000 included in “Investments” in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The value of the related collateral exceeded the value of the repurchase agreements at period end.

Indemnifications – Under the fund’s organizational documents, its officers and Trustees may be indemnified against certain liabilities and expenses arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into agreements with service providers that may contain

 

22


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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

indemnification clauses. The fund’s maximum exposure under these agreements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the fund that have not yet occurred.

Investment Transactions and Income – Investment transactions are recorded on the trade date. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis. All premium and discount is amortized or accreted for financial statement purposes in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Fees Paid Indirectly – The fund’s custody fee may be reduced according to an arrangement that measures the value of cash deposited with the custodian by the fund. This amount, for the six months ended February 28, 2015, is shown as a reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Tax Matters and Distributions – The fund intends to qualify as a regulated investment company, as defined under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, and to distribute all of its taxable income, including realized capital gains. As a result, no provision for federal income tax is required. The fund’s federal tax returns, when filed, will remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service for a three year period. Management has analyzed the fund’s tax positions taken on federal and state tax returns for all open tax years and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability.

Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Certain capital accounts in the financial statements are periodically adjusted for permanent differences in order to reflect their tax character. These adjustments have no impact on net assets or net asset value per share. Temporary differences which arise from recognizing certain items of income, expense, gain or loss in different periods for financial statement and tax purposes will reverse at some time in the future. Distributions in excess of net investment income or net realized gains are temporary overdistributions for financial statement purposes resulting from differences in the recognition or classification of income or distributions for financial statement and tax purposes.

During the year ended August 31, 2014, there were no significant adjustments due to differences between book and tax accounting.

The fund declared no distributions for the current period or for the year ended August 31, 2014.

The federal tax cost and the tax basis components of distributable earnings were as follows:

 

As of 2/28/15       
Cost of investments      $312,017,138   
As of 8/31/14       
Capital loss carryforwards      (207,393
Late year ordinary loss deferral      (1,253
Other temporary differences      (11,369

The aggregate cost above includes prior fiscal year end tax adjustments, if applicable.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010 (the “Act”), net capital losses recognized for fund fiscal years beginning after August 31, 2011 may be carried forward indefinitely, and their character is retained as short-term and/or long-term losses (“post-enactment losses”). Previously, net capital losses were carried forward for eight years and treated as short-term losses (“pre-enactment losses”). As a transition rule, the Act requires that all post-enactment net capital losses be used before pre-enactment net capital losses.

As of August 31, 2014, the fund had capital loss carryforwards available to offset future realized gains. Such pre-enactment losses expire as follows:

 

8/31/15      $(14
8/31/16      (22,989
8/31/17      (184,390
Total      $(207,393

Multiple Classes of Shares of Beneficial Interest – The fund offers multiple classes of shares, which differ in their respective distribution, service, and program manager fees. The fund’s income and common expenses are allocated to shareholders based on the value of settled shares outstanding of each class. The fund’s realized and unrealized gain (loss) are allocated to shareholders based on the daily net assets of each class. Dividends are declared separately for each class. Differences in per share dividend rates are generally due to differences in separate class expenses. Class B and Class 529B shares will convert to Class A and Class 529A shares, respectively, approximately eight years after purchase.

(3) Transactions with Affiliates

Investment Adviser – The fund has an investment advisory agreement with MFS to provide overall investment management and related administrative services and facilities to the fund. The management fee is computed daily and paid monthly at an annual rate of 0.40% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

During the six months ended February 28, 2015, MFS voluntarily waived receipt of $645,073 of the fund’s management fee in order to avoid a negative yield. This amount, for the six months ended February 28, 2015, is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. MFS has also agreed in writing to reduce its management fee by a specified amount if certain MFS mutual fund assets exceed thresholds agreed to by MFS and the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this management fee reduction amounted to $9,983, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, these waivers had the effect of reducing the management fee by 0.40% of average daily net assets on an annualized basis. The management fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.00% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

In order to avoid a negative yield for the six months ended February 28, 2015, MFS voluntarily agreed to reduce certain other expenses in the amount of $354,544, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

Distributor – The Board of Trustees has adopted a distribution plan for certain share classes pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the Investment Company Act of 1940.

The fund’s distribution plan provides that the fund will pay MFS Fund Distributors, Inc. (MFD) for services provided by MFD and financial intermediaries in connection with the distribution and servicing of certain share classes. One component of the plan is a distribution fee paid to MFD and another component of the plan is a service fee paid to MFD. MFD may subsequently pay all, or a portion, of the distribution and/or service fees to financial intermediaries.

Distribution Plan Fee Table:

 

    

Distribution

Fee Rate (d)

    

Service

Fee Rate (d)

    

Total

Distribution

Plan (d)

    

Annual

Effective

Rate (e)

    

Distribution

and Service

Fee

 
Class A              0.25%         0.25%         0.00%         $149,538   
Class B      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         0.00%         108,325   
Class C      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         0.00%         212,842   
Class R1      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         0.00%         81,282   
Class R2      0.25%         0.25%         0.50%         0.00%         141,834   
Class R3              0.25%         0.25%         0.00%         63,337   
Class 529A              0.25%         0.25%         0.00%         13,314   
Class 529B      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         0.00%         2,826   
Class 529C      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         0.00%         29,639   
Total Distribution and Service Fees         $802,937   

 

(d) In accordance with the distribution plan for certain classes, the fund pays distribution and/or service fees equal to these annual percentage rates of each class’s average daily net assets. The distribution and service fee rates disclosed by class represent the current rates in effect at the end of the reporting period. Any rate changes, if applicable, are detailed below.
(e) The annual effective rates represent actual fees incurred under the distribution plan for the six months ended February 28, 2015 based on each class’s average daily net assets. MFD has agreed in writing to waive the Class A and Class 529A service fee. This written agreement will continue until modified by the fund’s Board of Trustees, but such agreement will continue until at least December 31, 2015. These reductions, for the six months ended February 28, 2015, for Class A and Class 529A amounted to $149,538 and $13,314, respectively, and are included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. During the six months ended February 28, 2015, MFD also voluntarily waived a receipt of $640,085 of the fund’s distribution and service fees to ensure the fund avoids a negative yield for Class B, Class C, Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, Class 529B, and Class 529C shares. This amount is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Certain Class A shares acquired through an exchange may be subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) upon redemption depending on when the shares exchanged were originally purchased. Class C and Class 529C shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder redemption within 12 months of purchase. Class B

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

and Class 529B shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder redemption within six years of purchase. All contingent deferred sales charges are paid to MFD and during the six months ended February 28, 2015, were as follows:

 

     Amount  
Class A      $63   
Class B      33,128   
Class C      6,960   
Class 529B        
Class 529C      96   

The fund has entered into and may from time to time enter into contracts with program managers and other parties which administer the tuition programs through which an investment in the fund’s 529 share classes is made. The fund has entered into an agreement with MFD pursuant to which MFD receives an annual fee of up to 0.10% of the average daily net assets attributable to each 529 share class. MFD has agreed to waive a portion of this fee in an amount equal to 0.05% of the average daily net assets for each 529 share class. This waiver agreement will expire on December 31, 2016, unless MFD elects to extend the waiver. For the six month’s ended February 28, 2015, this waiver amounted to $4,286 and is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. In addition, MFS voluntarily waived receipt of $4,286 of the fund’s program manager fees in order to avoid a negative yield for Class 529A, Class 529B, and Class 529C shares. This amount, for the six months ended February 28, 2015, is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. This voluntary waiver had the effect of reducing the program manager fee by 0.05% of average daily net assets attributable to Class 529A, Class 529B, and Class 529C shares on an annualized basis. The program manager fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.00% of the average daily net assets attributable to each 529 share class. The services provided by MFD, or a third party with which MFD contracts, include recordkeeping and tax reporting and account services, as well as services designed to maintain the program’s compliance with the Internal Revenue Code and other regulatory requirements. Program manager fees and waivers for the six months ended February 28, 2015, were as follows:

 

     Fee      Waiver  
Class 529A      $5,325         $5,325   
Class 529B      283         283   
Class 529C      2,964         2,964   
Total Program Manager Fees and Waivers      $8,572         $8,572   

Shareholder Servicing Agent – MFS Service Center, Inc. (MFSC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, receives a fee from the fund for its services as shareholder servicing agent calculated as a percentage of the average daily net assets of the fund as determined periodically under the supervision of the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fee was $100,766, which equated to 0.0615% annually of the fund’s average daily net assets. MFSC also receives payment from the fund for out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs which may be paid to affiliated and unaffiliated service providers. For

 

26


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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

the six months ended February 28, 2015, these out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs amounted to $205,303.

Administrator – MFS provides certain financial, legal, shareholder communications, compliance, and other administrative services to the fund. Under an administrative services agreement, the fund reimburses MFS the costs incurred to provide these services. The fund is charged an annual fixed amount of $17,500 plus a fee based on average daily net assets. The administrative services fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.0191% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

Trustees’ and Officers’ Compensation – The fund pays compensation to independent Trustees in the form of a retainer, attendance fees, and additional compensation to Board and Committee chairpersons. The fund does not pay compensation directly to Trustees or officers of the fund who are also officers of the investment adviser, all of whom receive remuneration for their services to the fund from MFS. Certain officers and Trustees of the fund are officers or directors of MFS, MFD, and MFSC.

Prior to December 31, 2001, the fund had an unfunded defined benefit plan (“DB plan”) for independent Trustees. As of December 31, 2001, the Board took action to terminate the DB plan with respect to then-current and any future independent Trustees, such that the DB plan covers only certain of those former independent Trustees who retired on or before December 31, 2001. The DB plan resulted in a pension expense of $505 and is included in independent Trustees’ compensation for the six months ended February 28, 2015. The liability for deferred retirement benefits payable to certain independent Trustees under the DB plan amounted to $10,466 at February 28, 2015, and is included in “Payable for independent Trustees’ compensation” in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Other – Effective November 1, 2014, this fund and certain other funds managed by MFS (the funds) have entered into a service agreement (the ISO Agreement) which provides for payment of fees solely by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the provision of services of an Independent Senior Officer (ISO) for the funds. Frank L. Tarantino serves as the ISO and is an officer of the funds and the sole member of Tarantino LLC. The funds can terminate the ISO Agreement with Tarantino LLC at any time under the terms of the ISO Agreement. Prior to November 1, 2014, the funds had entered into a service agreement (the Compliance Officer Agreement) which provided for payment of fees by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the provision of services of an Independent Chief Compliance Officer (ICCO) for the funds. Prior to November 1, 2014, Frank L. Tarantino served as the ICCO. Effective October 31, 2014, Mr. Tarantino resigned as ICCO and the Compliance Officer Agreement between the funds and Tarantino LLC was terminated. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the aggregate fees paid by the fund under these agreements were $658 and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations. MFS had agreed to reimburse the fund for a portion of the payments made by the fund for the services under the Compliance Officer Agreement in the amount of $115, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. Additionally, MFS has agreed to bear all expenses associated with office space, other administrative support, and supplies provided to the ICCO and ISO.

 

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Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

On October 9, 2013, MFS purchased 2,600,000 shares of Class R4 for an aggregate amount of $2,600,000. At February 28, 2015, MFS held approximately 90% of the outstanding shares of Class R4.

(5) Shares of Beneficial Interest

The fund’s Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest. Transactions in fund shares were as follows:

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
     Year ended
8/31/14
 
     Shares      Amount      Shares      Amount  
Shares sold            

Class A

     23,330,963         $23,330,966         68,204,993         $68,204,998   

Class B

     4,313,284         4,313,285         10,789,946         10,789,945   

Class C

     12,574,073         12,574,073         34,883,605         34,883,605   

Class R1

     3,027,547         3,027,547         5,104,049         5,104,049   

Class R2

     6,261,268         6,261,267         14,432,020         14,432,021   

Class R3

     5,355,954         5,355,954         25,816,000         25,816,000   

Class R4

     194,885         194,884         2,901,681         2,901,681   

Class 529A

     2,084,464         2,084,464         4,546,774         4,546,774   

Class 529B

     112,240         112,240         329,642         329,642   

Class 529C

     1,232,966         1,232,965         3,360,364         3,360,364   
     58,487,644         $58,487,645         170,369,074         $170,369,079   
Shares reacquired            

Class A

     (32,872,208      $(32,872,208      (88,717,004      $(88,717,004

Class B

     (7,750,155      (7,750,157      (18,641,374      (18,641,379

Class C

     (18,765,811      (18,765,811      (47,585,499      (47,585,499

Class R1

     (4,110,841      (4,110,841      (9,365,466      (9,365,466

Class R2

     (8,540,560      (8,540,560      (31,204,212      (31,204,212

Class R3

     (12,430,925      (12,430,925      (36,824,742      (36,824,742

Class R4

     (214,137      (214,137      (814,201      (814,201

Class 529A

     (2,312,867      (2,312,867      (4,517,477      (4,517,477

Class 529B

     (85,392      (85,392      (474,489      (474,490

Class 529C

     (1,788,711      (1,788,711      (3,192,514      (3,192,514
     (88,871,607      $(88,871,609      (241,336,978      $(241,336,984
Net change            

Class A

     (9,541,245      $(9,541,242      (20,512,011      $(20,512,006

Class B

     (3,436,871      (3,436,872      (7,851,428      (7,851,434

Class C

     (6,191,738      (6,191,738      (12,701,894      (12,701,894

Class R1

     (1,083,294      (1,083,294      (4,261,417      (4,261,417

Class R2

     (2,279,292      (2,279,293      (16,772,192      (16,772,191

Class R3

     (7,074,971      (7,074,971      (11,008,742      (11,008,742

Class R4

     (19,252      (19,253      2,087,480         2,087,480   

Class 529A

     (228,403      (228,403      29,297         29,297   

Class 529B

     26,848         26,848         (144,847      (144,848

Class 529C

     (555,745      (555,746      167,850         167,850   
     (30,383,963      $(30,383,964      (70,967,904      $(70,967,905

 

28


Table of Contents

Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

(6) Line of Credit

The fund and certain other funds managed by MFS participate in a $1.1 billion unsecured committed line of credit, subject to a $1 billion sublimit, provided by a syndication of banks under a credit agreement. Borrowings may be made for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, generally at a rate equal to the higher of the Federal Reserve funds rate or one month LIBOR plus an agreed upon spread. A commitment fee, based on the average daily, unused portion of the committed line of credit, is allocated among the participating funds at the end of each calendar quarter. In addition, the fund and other funds managed by MFS have established unsecured uncommitted borrowing arrangements with certain banks for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, at a rate equal to the Federal Reserve funds rate plus an agreed upon spread. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fund’s commitment fee and interest expense were $647 and $0, respectively, and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations.

 

29


Table of Contents

PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND INFORMATION

MFS votes proxies on behalf of the fund pursuant to proxy voting policies and procedures that are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-225-2606, by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

Information regarding how the fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 is available without charge by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

QUARTERLY PORTFOLIO DISCLOSURE

The fund will file a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. A shareholder can obtain the quarterly portfolio holdings report at mfs.com. The fund’s Form N-Q is also available on the EDGAR database on the Commission’s Internet Web site at http://www.sec.gov, and may be reviewed and copied at the:

Public Reference Room

Securities and Exchange Commission

100 F Street, NE, Room 1580

Washington, D.C. 20549

Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330. Copies of the fund’s Form N-Q also may be obtained, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section at the above address.

FURTHER INFORMATION

From time to time, MFS may post important information about the fund or the MFS funds on the MFS web site (mfs.com). This information is available by visiting the “Market Commentary” and “Announcements” sub sections in the “Market Outlooks” section of mfs.com or by clicking on the fund’s name under “Mutual Funds” in the “Products” section of mfs.com.

PROVISION OF FINANCIAL REPORTS AND SUMMARY PROSPECTUSES

The fund produces financial reports every six months and updates its summary prospectus and prospectus annually. To avoid sending duplicate copies of materials to households, only one copy of the fund’s annual and semiannual report and summary prospectus may be mailed to shareholders having the same last name and residential address on the fund’s records. However, any shareholder may contact MFSC (please see back cover for address and telephone number) to request that copies of these reports and summary prospectuses be sent personally to that shareholder.

 

30


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

Save paper with eDelivery.

 

LOGO

MFS® will send you prospectuses,

reports, and proxies directly via e-mail so you will get information faster with less mailbox clutter.

To sign up:

1. Go to mfs.com.

2. Log in via MFS® Access.

3. Select eDelivery.

If you own your MFS fund shares through a financial institution or a retirement plan, MFS® TALK, MFS® Access, or eDelivery may not be available to you.

 

CONTACT

WEB SITE

mfs.com

MFS TALK

1-800-637-8255

24 hours a day

ACCOUNT SERVICE AND LITERATURE

Shareholders

1-800-225-2606

Financial advisors

1-800-343-2829

Retirement plan services

1-800-637-1255

MAILING ADDRESS

MFS Service Center, Inc.

P.O. Box 55824

Boston, MA 02205-5824

OVERNIGHT MAIL

MFS Service Center, Inc.

c/o Boston Financial Data Services

30 Dan Road

Canton, MA 02021-2809

 


Table of Contents

SEMIANNUAL REPORT

February 28, 2015

 

LOGO

MFS® VALUE FUND

 

LOGO

 

EIF-SEM

 


Table of Contents

MFS® VALUE FUND

CONTENTS

 

Letter from the Chairman     1   
Portfolio composition     2   
Expense table     3   
Portfolio of investments     5   
Statement of assets and liabilities     10   
Statement of operations     12   
Statements of changes in net assets     13   
Financial highlights     14   
Notes to financial statements     27   
Proxy voting policies and information     39   
Quarterly portfolio disclosure     39   
Further information     39   
Provision of financial reports and summary prospectuses     39   
Contact information    back cover   

 

 

The report is prepared for the general information of shareholders.

It is authorized for distribution to prospective investors only when preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.

 

NOT FDIC INSURED Ÿ MAY LOSE VALUE Ÿ NO BANK GUARANTEE


Table of Contents

LOGO

LETTER FROM THE CHAIRMAN

Dear Shareholders:

Lower oil prices continue to influence markets in different ways. Among those economies hurt, oil-exporters such as Russia and Venezuela have been hit particularly hard, along with U.S. regions that have close oil industry ties.

The U.S. economic recovery remains solid. The labor market is strong, interest rates are historically low and reduced energy prices have helped to stimulate consumer spending.

Economic reports early in 2015 indicate that the eurozone is on a more solid footing, with confidence boosted by the launch of European Central Bank quantitative easing.

In Asia, the Chinese economy continues to raise concerns, with the People’s Bank of China implementing stimulus programs to counter a steady decline in growth rates.

As always, active risk management is integral to how we at MFS® manage your investments. We use a collaborative process, sharing insights across asset classes, regions and economic sectors. Our global investment team uses a diversified, multidisciplined, long-term approach.

Applying proven principles, such as asset allocation and diversification, can best serve investors over the long term. We are confident that this approach can help you as you work with your financial advisors to reach your goals in the years ahead.

Respectfully,

 

LOGO

Robert J. Manning

Chairman

MFS Investment Management

April 14, 2015

The opinions expressed in this letter are subject to change and may not be relied upon for investment advice. No forecasts can be guaranteed.

 

1


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO COMPOSITION

 

Portfolio structure

 

LOGO

 

Top ten holdings  
JPMorgan Chase & Co.     4.2%   
Johnson & Johnson     3.4%   
Philip Morris International, Inc.     3.3%   
Wells Fargo & Co.     3.2%   
Pfizer, Inc.     3.0%   
Accenture PLC, “A”     2.4%   
Honeywell International, Inc.     2.2%   
United Technologies Corp.     2.2%   
Lockheed Martin Corp.     2.1%   
3M Co.     2.1%   
Equity sectors  
Financial Services     25.4%   
Health Care     14.4%   
Industrial Goods & Services     11.7%   
Consumer Staples     11.3%   
Leisure     6.6%   
Energy     5.6%   
Retailing     4.6%   
Basic Materials     4.3%   
Special Products & Services     3.9%   
Technology     3.6%   
Utilities & Communications     2.8%   
Autos & Housing     2.2%   
Transportation     2.1%   
 

 

Cash & Other can include cash, other assets less liabilities, offsets to derivative positions, and short-term securities.

Percentages are based on net assets as of 2/28/15.

The portfolio is actively managed and current holdings may be different.

 

2


Table of Contents

EXPENSE TABLE

Fund expenses borne by the shareholders during the period, September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015

As a shareholder of the fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on certain purchase or redemption payments, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees; distribution and service (12b-1) fees; and other fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

The example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period September 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015.

Actual Expenses

The first line for each share class in the following table provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The second line for each share class in the following table provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds.

Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as sales charges (loads). Therefore, the second line for each share class in the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only, and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

3


Table of Contents

Expense Table – continued

 

 

Share
Class
      

Annualized
Expense

Ratio

    Beginning
Account Value
9/01/14
   

Ending

Account Value
2/28/15

   

Expenses

Paid During

Period (p)

9/01/14-2/28/15

 
A   Actual     0.86%        $1,000.00        $1,064.00        $4.40   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.86%        $1,000.00        $1,020.53        $4.31   
B   Actual     1.61%        $1,000.00        $1,060.14        $8.22   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.61%        $1,000.00        $1,016.81        $8.05   
C   Actual     1.61%        $1,000.00        $1,059.96        $8.22   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.61%        $1,000.00        $1,016.81        $8.05   
I   Actual     0.61%        $1,000.00        $1,065.39        $3.12   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.61%        $1,000.00        $1,021.77        $3.06   
R1   Actual     1.61%        $1,000.00        $1,060.03        $8.22   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.61%        $1,000.00        $1,016.81        $8.05   
R2   Actual     1.11%        $1,000.00        $1,062.59        $5.68   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.11%        $1,000.00        $1,019.29        $5.56   
R3   Actual     0.86%        $1,000.00        $1,063.95        $4.40   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.86%        $1,000.00        $1,020.53        $4.31   
R4   Actual     0.61%        $1,000.00        $1,065.10        $3.12   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.61%        $1,000.00        $1,021.77        $3.06   
R5   Actual     0.51%        $1,000.00        $1,065.99        $2.61   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.51%        $1,000.00        $1,022.27        $2.56   
529A   Actual     0.85%        $1,000.00        $1,063.93        $4.35   
  Hypothetical (h)     0.85%        $1,000.00        $1,020.58        $4.26   
529B   Actual     1.28%        $1,000.00        $1,061.74        $6.54   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.28%        $1,000.00        $1,018.45        $6.41   
529C   Actual     1.65%        $1,000.00        $1,059.80        $8.43   
  Hypothetical (h)     1.65%        $1,000.00        $1,016.61        $8.25   

 

(h) 5% class return per year before expenses.
(p) “Expenses Paid During Period” are equal to each class’s annualized expense ratio, as shown above, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 181/365 (to reflect the one-half year period). Expenses paid do not include any applicable sales charges (loads). If these transaction costs had been included, your costs would have been higher.

Notes to Expense Table

Each class with a Rule 12b-1 service fee is subject to a rebate of a portion of such fee. Such rebates are included in the expense ratios above. For Class 529A and Class 529B shares, this rebate reduced the expense ratios above by 0.05% and 0.01%, respectively. See Note 3 in the Notes to Financial Statements for additional information.

 

4


Table of Contents

PORTFOLIO OF INVESTMENTS

2/28/15 (unaudited)

The Portfolio of Investments is a complete list of all securities owned by your fund. It is categorized by broad-based asset classes.

 

Common Stocks - 98.4%                 
Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Aerospace - 7.3%                 
Honeywell International, Inc.      7,587,691      $ 779,862,885   
Lockheed Martin Corp.      3,758,550        751,897,928   
Northrop Grumman Corp.      1,914,657        317,277,811   
United Technologies Corp.      6,317,044        770,110,834   
    

 

 

 
             $ 2,619,149,458   
Alcoholic Beverages - 1.4%                 
Diageo PLC      16,277,377      $ 486,388,071   
Automotive - 1.7%                 
Delphi Automotive PLC      3,467,749      $ 273,397,331   
Johnson Controls, Inc.      7,006,535        356,002,043   
    

 

 

 
             $ 629,399,374   
Broadcasting - 3.3%                 
Omnicom Group, Inc.      5,356,340      $ 426,043,284   
Time Warner, Inc.      3,534,044        289,296,842   
Viacom, Inc., “B”      3,053,895        213,589,416   
Walt Disney Co.      2,401,544        249,952,700   
    

 

 

 
             $ 1,178,882,242   
Brokerage & Asset Managers - 3.0%                 
BlackRock, Inc.      967,849      $ 359,478,476   
Franklin Resources, Inc.      7,986,639        429,920,777   
NASDAQ OMX Group, Inc.      5,469,076        274,328,852   
    

 

 

 
             $ 1,063,728,105   
Business Services - 3.9%                 
Accenture PLC, “A”      9,402,661      $ 846,521,570   
Equifax, Inc.      892,239        83,308,355   
Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.      2,804,743        189,572,579   
Fiserv, Inc. (a)      3,419,715        266,977,150   
    

 

 

 
             $ 1,386,379,654   
Cable TV - 1.2%                 
Comcast Corp., “Special A”      7,180,953      $ 423,281,275   
Chemicals - 3.8%                 
3M Co.      4,432,344      $ 747,514,816   
E.I. du Pont de Nemours & Co.      1,162,279        90,483,420   

 

5


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Chemicals - continued                 
PPG Industries, Inc.      2,242,086      $ 527,742,203   
    

 

 

 
             $ 1,365,740,439   
Computer Software - 1.0%                 
Oracle Corp.      8,085,726      $ 354,316,513   
Computer Software - Systems - 1.4%                 
International Business Machines Corp.      3,014,724      $ 488,204,405   
Construction - 0.5%                 
Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.      1,688,710      $ 166,067,741   
Consumer Products - 0.5%                 
Procter & Gamble Co.      2,117,714      $ 180,280,993   
Containers - 0.5%                 
Crown Holdings, Inc. (a)      3,441,729      $ 182,411,637   
Electrical Equipment - 2.8%                 
Danaher Corp.      5,286,238      $ 461,382,853   
Pentair PLC      2,054,767        136,580,362   
Tyco International PLC      9,299,823        392,638,527   
    

 

 

 
             $ 990,601,742   
Electronics - 1.2%                 
Texas Instruments, Inc.      7,685,509      $ 451,907,929   
Energy - Independent - 1.6%                 
EOG Resources, Inc.      2,191,367      $ 196,609,447   
Occidental Petroleum Corp.      4,675,371        364,117,893   
    

 

 

 
             $ 560,727,340   
Energy - Integrated - 3.2%                 
Chevron Corp.      4,613,639      $ 492,183,009   
Exxon Mobil Corp.      7,255,395        642,392,673   
    

 

 

 
             $ 1,134,575,682   
Food & Beverages - 4.3%                 
Danone S.A.      3,730,760      $ 260,221,987   
Dr Pepper Snapple Group, Inc.      953,820        75,151,478   
General Mills, Inc.      9,633,168        518,168,107   
Kellogg Co.      1,397,388        90,103,578   
Nestle S.A.      7,454,454        581,750,016   
    

 

 

 
             $ 1,525,395,166   

 

6


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Food & Drug Stores - 1.9%                 
CVS Health Corp.      6,721,182      $ 698,129,174   
General Merchandise - 1.9%                 
Kohl’s Corp.      1,384,031      $ 102,141,488   
Target Corp.      7,560,916        580,905,176   
    

 

 

 
             $ 683,046,664   
Insurance - 7.5%                 
ACE Ltd.      3,463,877      $ 394,916,617   
Aon PLC      4,306,087        432,158,891   
Chubb Corp.      2,622,585        263,438,663   
MetLife, Inc.      12,094,812        614,779,294   
Prudential Financial, Inc.      3,904,464        315,675,914   
Travelers Cos., Inc.      6,192,613        665,334,341   
    

 

 

 
             $ 2,686,303,720   
Leisure & Toys - 0.6%                 
Hasbro, Inc.      2,775,715      $ 172,968,680   
Mattel, Inc.      1,573,713        41,420,126   
    

 

 

 
             $ 214,388,806   
Machinery & Tools - 1.6%                 
Eaton Corp. PLC      4,369,483      $ 310,276,988   
Illinois Tool Works, Inc.      2,580,970        255,154,694   
    

 

 

 
             $ 565,431,682   
Major Banks - 12.2%                 
Bank of New York Mellon Corp.      10,773,012      $ 421,655,690   
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.      3,514,473        667,011,831   
JPMorgan Chase & Co.      24,472,727        1,499,688,711   
PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.      3,142,325        288,968,207   
State Street Corp.      4,298,301        320,008,509   
Wells Fargo & Co.      21,110,311        1,156,633,940   
    

 

 

 
             $ 4,353,966,888   
Medical & Health Technology & Services - 1.0%                 
Express Scripts Holding Co. (a)      4,394,003      $ 372,567,514   
Medical Equipment - 5.0%                 
Abbott Laboratories      9,464,866      $ 448,350,702   
Medtronic PLC      9,017,338        699,655,255   
St. Jude Medical, Inc.      3,673,349        244,938,911   
Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.      3,026,056        393,387,280   
    

 

 

 
             $ 1,786,332,148   

 

7


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Oil Services - 0.8%                 
Baker Hughes, Inc.      1,089,289      $ 68,091,455   
Schlumberger Ltd.      2,652,832        223,262,341   
    

 

 

 
             $ 291,353,796   
Other Banks & Diversified Financials - 2.7%                 
American Express Co.      2,047,599      $ 167,063,602   
Citigroup, Inc.      2,332,092        122,248,263   
U.S. Bancorp      15,272,892        681,323,712   
    

 

 

 
             $ 970,635,577   
Pharmaceuticals - 8.3%                 
Johnson & Johnson      11,814,211      $ 1,211,074,770   
Merck & Co., Inc.      8,245,230        482,675,764   
Novartis AG      1,200,256        122,688,359   
Pfizer, Inc.      31,101,719        1,067,410,996   
Roche Holding AG      344,315        93,469,053   
    

 

 

 
             $ 2,977,318,942   
Printing & Publishing - 0.5%                 
McGraw-Hill Cos., Inc.      1,714,857      $ 176,801,757   
Time, Inc.      375,296        8,894,515   
    

 

 

 
             $ 185,696,272   
Railroad & Shipping - 0.6%                 
Canadian National Railway Co.      3,100,715      $ 214,383,435   
Restaurants - 1.0%                 
McDonald’s Corp.      3,551,118      $ 351,205,570   
Specialty Stores - 0.8%                 
Advance Auto Parts, Inc.      1,172,387      $ 181,637,918   
Bed Bath & Beyond, Inc. (a)      1,240,171        92,591,167   
    

 

 

 
             $ 274,229,085   
Telecommunications - Wireless - 0.5%                 
Vodafone Group PLC      56,741,893      $ 196,576,677   
Telephone Services - 2.0%                 
AT&T, Inc.      2,858,108      $ 98,776,212   
Verizon Communications, Inc.      12,450,072        615,656,060   
    

 

 

 
             $ 714,432,272   
Tobacco - 5.2%                 
Altria Group, Inc.      3,542,104      $ 199,385,034   
Imperial Tobacco Group PLC      1,605,637        79,150,125   

 

8


Table of Contents

Portfolio of Investments (unaudited) – continued

 

Issuer    Shares/Par     Value ($)  
    
Common Stocks - continued                 
Tobacco - continued                 
Lorillard, Inc.      5,736,017      $ 392,458,283   
Philip Morris International, Inc.      14,340,907        1,189,721,645   
    

 

 

 
             $ 1,860,715,087   
Trucking - 1.5%                 
United Parcel Service, Inc., “B”      5,167,461      $ 525,685,808   
Utilities - Electric Power - 0.2%                 
Duke Energy Corp.      1,028,017      $ 80,750,735   
Total Common Stocks
(Identified Cost, $22,972,278,998)
      $ 35,190,587,618   
Convertible Preferred Stocks - 0.1%                 
Aerospace - 0.1%                 
United Technologies Corp., 7.5%
(Identified Cost, $18,338,355)
     364,100      $ 23,193,170   
Money Market Funds - 1.3%                 
MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio, 0.1%,
at Cost and Net Asset Value (v)
     453,171,032      $ 453,171,032   
Total Investments (Identified Cost, $23,443,788,385)            $ 35,666,951,820   
Other Assets, Less Liabilities - 0.2%              79,610,985   
Net Assets - 100.0%            $ 35,746,562,805   

 

(a) Non-income producing security.
(v) Underlying affiliated fund that is available only to investment companies managed by MFS. The rate quoted for the MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio is the annualized seven-day yield of the fund at period end.

The following abbreviations are used in this report and are defined:

 

PLC   Public Limited Company

See notes to financial statements

 

9


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

At 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement represents your fund’s balance sheet, which details the assets and liabilities comprising the total value of the fund.

 

Assets         

Investments-

  

Non-affiliated issuers, at value (identified cost, $22,990,617,353)

     $35,213,780,788   

Underlying affiliated funds, at cost and value

     453,171,032   

Total investments, at value (identified cost, $23,443,788,385)

     $35,666,951,820   

Receivables for

  

Fund shares sold

     53,247,112   

Dividends

     99,725,267   

Other assets

     158,789   

Total assets

     $35,820,082,988   
Liabilities         

Payable to custodian

     $9,365   

Payable for fund shares reacquired

     62,279,567   

Payable to affiliates

  

Investment adviser

     1,256,511   

Shareholder servicing costs

     8,684,056   

Distribution and service fees

     380,071   

Program manager fees

     93   

Payable for independent Trustees’ compensation

     3,201   

Accrued expenses and other liabilities

     907,319   

Total liabilities

     $73,520,183   

Net assets

     $35,746,562,805   
Net assets consist of         

Paid-in capital

     $22,915,486,033   

Unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments and translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies

     12,222,736,451   

Accumulated net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     418,345,546   

Undistributed net investment income

     189,994,775   

Net assets

     $35,746,562,805   

Shares of beneficial interest outstanding

     1,001,768,413   

 

10


Table of Contents

Statement of Assets and Liabilities (unaudited) – continued

 

 

     Net assets      Shares
outstanding
     Net asset value
per share (a)
 

Class A

     $9,378,974,266         263,234,379         $35.63   

Class B

     176,876,481         4,991,938         35.43   

Class C

     1,431,167,365         40,611,742         35.24   

Class I

     14,754,142,588         411,901,943         35.82   

Class R1

     33,099,700         945,452         35.01   

Class R2

     576,779,459         16,333,741         35.31   

Class R3

     1,658,961,362         46,700,328         35.52   

Class R4

     3,169,514,077         88,922,945         35.64   

Class R5

     4,544,470,058         127,485,793         35.65   

Class 529A

     16,864,794         476,540         35.39   

Class 529B

     1,001,188         28,570         35.04   

Class 529C

     4,711,467         135,042         34.89   

 

(a) Maximum offering price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for all share classes, except for Classes A and 529A, for which the maximum offering prices per share were $37.80 [100 / 94.25 x $35.63] and $37.55 [100 / 94.25 x $35.39], respectively. On sales of $50,000 or more, the maximum offering prices of Class A and Class 529A shares are reduced. A contingent deferred sales charge may be imposed on redemptions of Class A, Class B, Class C, Class 529B, and Class 529C shares. Redemption price per share was equal to the net asset value per share for Classes I, R1, R2, R3, R4, R5, and 529A.

See notes to financial statements

 

11


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Six months ended 2/28/15 (unaudited)

This statement describes how much your fund earned in investment income and accrued in expenses. It also describes any gains and/or losses generated by fund operations.

 

Net investment income         

Income

  

Dividends

     $497,666,296   

Interest

     53,988   

Dividends from underlying affiliated funds

     174,516   

Foreign taxes withheld

     (227,802

Total investment income

     $497,666,998   

Expenses

  

Management fee

     $90,065,578   

Distribution and service fees

     22,685,733   

Program manager fees

     10,172   

Shareholder servicing costs

     16,644,875   

Administrative services fee

     326,995   

Independent Trustees’ compensation

     111,881   

Custodian fee

     410,925   

Shareholder communications

     736,502   

Audit and tax fees

     28,390   

Legal fees

     142,706   

Miscellaneous

     603,530   

Total expenses

     $131,767,287   

Fees paid indirectly

     (366

Reduction of expenses by investment adviser and distributor

     (6,648,831

Net expenses

     $125,118,090   

Net investment income

     $372,548,908   
Realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency   

Realized gain (loss) (identified cost basis)

  

Investments

     $725,584,474   

Foreign currency

     (1,359,712

Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     $724,224,762   

Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation)

  

Investments

     $1,098,521,286   

Translation of assets and liabilities in foreign currencies

     (225,251

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency translation

     $1,098,296,035   

Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     $1,822,520,797   

Change in net assets from operations

     $2,195,069,705   

See notes to financial statements

 

12


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

These statements describe the increases and/or decreases in net assets resulting from operations, any distributions, and any shareholder transactions.

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
     Year ended
8/31/14
 
Change in net assets    (unaudited)         
From operations                  

Net investment income

     $372,548,908         $702,164,857   

Net realized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency

     724,224,762         1,252,691,611   

Net unrealized gain (loss) on investments and foreign currency translation

     1,098,296,035         3,834,435,083   

Change in net assets from operations

     $2,195,069,705         $5,789,291,551   
Distributions declared to shareholders                  

From net investment income

     $(344,380,576      $(632,546,037

From net realized gain on investments

     (905,973,115      (534,397,478

Total distributions declared to shareholders

     $(1,250,353,691      $(1,166,943,515

Change in net assets from fund share transactions

     $409,149,243         $2,708,168,604   

Total change in net assets

     $1,353,865,257         $7,330,516,640   
Net assets                  

At beginning of period

     34,392,697,548         27,062,180,908   

At end of period (including undistributed net investment income of $189,994,775 and $161,826,443, respectively)

     $35,746,562,805         $34,392,697,548   

See notes to financial statements

 

13


Table of Contents

Financial Statements

 

FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS

The financial highlights table is intended to help you understand the fund’s financial performance for the semiannual period and the past 5 fiscal years. Certain information reflects financial results for a single fund share. The total returns in the table represent the rate by which an investor would have earned (or lost) on an investment in the fund share class (assuming reinvestment of all distributions) held for the entire period.

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class A     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $34.70        $29.81        $24.90        $21.83        $19.46        $19.39   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.35        $0.69        $0.50        $0.43        $0.34        $0.32   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.82        5.41        5.08        3.05        2.35        0.06 (g) 

Total from investment
operations

    $2.17        $6.10        $5.58        $3.48        $2.69        $0.38   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.32     $(0.63     $(0.48     $(0.41     $(0.32     $(0.31

From net realized gain on
investments

    (0.92     (0.58     (0.19                     

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(1.24     $(1.21     $(0.67     $(0.41     $(0.32     $(0.31

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $35.63        $34.70        $29.81        $24.90        $21.83        $19.46   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    6.40 (n)      20.78        22.75        16.16        13.78        1.88   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    0.90 (a)      0.90        0.93        0.95        0.95        0.98   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.86 (a)      0.88        0.92        0.93        0.94        0.98   

Net investment income

    2.03 (a)      2.10        1.80        1.86        1.49        1.54   

Portfolio turnover

    5 (n)      13        12        14        17        22   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $9,378,974        $9,448,535        $8,058,858        $6,628,244        $5,086,069        $4,980,816   

See notes to financial statements

 

14


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class B     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $34.50        $29.64        $24.76        $21.70        $19.34        $19.26   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.22        $0.44        $0.29        $0.26        $0.16        $0.16   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.82        5.38        5.05        3.03        2.34        0.07 (g) 

Total from investment
operations

    $2.04        $5.82        $5.34        $3.29        $2.50        $0.23   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.19     $(0.38     $(0.27     $(0.23     $(0.14     $(0.15

From net realized gain on
investments

    (0.92     (0.58     (0.19                     

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(1.11     $(0.96     $(0.46     $(0.23     $(0.14     $(0.15

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $35.43        $34.50        $29.64        $24.76        $21.70        $19.34   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    6.01 (n)      19.89        21.82        15.28        12.92        1.14   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.65 (a)      1.65        1.68        1.70        1.70        1.73   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.61 (a)      1.63        1.67        1.68        1.69        1.73   

Net investment income

    1.27 (a)      1.35        1.05        1.11        0.73        0.80   

Portfolio turnover

    5 (n)      13        12        14        17        22   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $176,876        $179,284        $169,208        $167,949        $182,654        $238,473   

See notes to financial statements

 

15


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class C     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $34.33        $29.50        $24.65        $21.62        $19.27        $19.21   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.22        $0.44        $0.29        $0.25        $0.17        $0.16   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.80        5.36        5.03        3.02        2.33        0.06 (g) 

Total from investment
operations

    $2.02        $5.80        $5.32        $3.27        $2.50        $0.22   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.19     $(0.39     $(0.28     $(0.24     $(0.15     $(0.16

From net realized gain on
investments

    (0.92     (0.58     (0.19                     

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(1.11     $(0.97     $(0.47     $(0.24     $(0.15     $(0.16

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $35.24        $34.33        $29.50        $24.65        $21.62        $19.27   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

    6.00 (n)      19.92        21.83        15.23        12.97        1.11   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.65 (a)      1.65        1.68        1.69        1.70        1.73   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.61 (a)      1.63        1.67        1.68        1.69        1.73   

Net investment income

    1.29 (a)      1.35        1.05        1.11        0.74        0.79   

Portfolio turnover

    5 (n)      13        12        14        17        22   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $1,431,167        $1,359,860        $1,090,690        $906,572        $871,026        $832,696   

See notes to financial statements

 

16


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class I     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $34.88        $29.96        $25.02        $21.94        $19.55        $19.48   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.40        $0.78        $0.57        $0.49        $0.40        $0.37   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.83        5.43        5.10        3.06        2.37        0.06 (g) 

Total from investment
operations

    $2.23        $6.21        $5.67        $3.55        $2.77        $0.43   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.37     $(0.71     $(0.54     $(0.47     $(0.38     $(0.36

From net realized gain on
investments

    (0.92     (0.58     (0.19                     

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(1.29     $(1.29     $(0.73     $(0.47     $(0.38     $(0.36

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $35.82        $34.88        $29.96        $25.02        $21.94        $19.55   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    6.54 (n)      21.07        23.06        16.42        14.10        2.12   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    0.65 (a)      0.65        0.68        0.70        0.70        0.73   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.61 (a)      0.63        0.67        0.68        0.69        0.73   

Net investment income

    2.29 (a)      2.35        2.05        2.11        1.75        1.79   

Portfolio turnover

    5 (n)      13        12        14        17        22   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $14,754,143        $13,905,910        $10,568,573        $7,472,693        $5,272,157        $3,289,827   

See notes to financial statements

 

17


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R1     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $34.11        $29.32        $24.50        $21.48        $19.15        $19.09   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.22        $0.43        $0.29        $0.25        $0.17        $0.16   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.79        5.33        5.00        3.01        2.32        0.06 (g) 

Total from investment
operations

    $2.01        $5.76        $5.29        $3.26        $2.49        $0.22   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.19     $(0.39     $(0.28     $(0.24     $(0.16     $(0.16

From net realized gain on
investments

    (0.92     (0.58     (0.19                     

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(1.11     $(0.97     $(0.47     $(0.24     $(0.16     $(0.16

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $35.01        $34.11        $29.32        $24.50        $21.48        $19.15   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    6.00 (n)      19.88        21.83        15.29        12.95        1.13   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.65 (a)      1.65        1.68        1.69        1.70        1.73   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.61 (a)      1.63        1.67        1.68        1.69        1.73   

Net investment income

    1.29 (a)      1.33        1.06        1.10        0.74        0.80   

Portfolio turnover

    5 (n)      13        12        14        17        22   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $33,100        $33,390        $33,485        $32,389        $33,806        $32,934   

See notes to financial statements

 

18


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R2     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $34.40        $29.56        $24.69        $21.66        $19.31        $19.24   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.30        $0.60        $0.43        $0.37        $0.28        $0.26   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.81        5.36        5.04        3.01        2.34        0.07 (g) 

Total from investment
operations

    $2.11        $5.96        $5.47        $3.38        $2.62        $0.33   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.28     $(0.54     $(0.41     $(0.35     $(0.27     $(0.26

From net realized gain on
investments

    (0.92     (0.58     (0.19                     

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(1.20     $(1.12     $(0.60     $(0.35     $(0.27     $(0.26

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $35.31        $34.40        $29.56        $24.69        $21.66        $19.31   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    6.26 (n)      20.48        22.47        15.80        13.51        1.66   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    1.15 (a)      1.15        1.18        1.20        1.20        1.23   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    1.11 (a)      1.13        1.17        1.18        1.19        1.23   

Net investment income

    1.75 (a)      1.84        1.55        1.61        1.24        1.29   

Portfolio turnover

    5 (n)      13        12        14        17        22   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $576,779        $607,340        $572,590        $517,005        $496,236        $426,938   

See notes to financial statements

 

19


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R3     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $34.60        $29.73        $24.83        $21.78        $19.41        $19.34   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.35        $0.69        $0.50        $0.43        $0.34        $0.31   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.82        5.39        5.07        3.03        2.35        0.07 (g) 

Total from investment
operations

    $2.17        $6.08        $5.57        $3.46        $2.69        $0.38   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.33     $(0.63     $(0.48     $(0.41     $(0.32     $(0.31

From net realized gain on
investments

    (0.92     (0.58     (0.19                     

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(1.25     $(1.21     $(0.67     $(0.41     $(0.32     $(0.31

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $35.52        $34.60        $29.73        $24.83        $21.78        $19.41   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    6.40 (n)      20.77        22.77        16.11        13.82        1.90   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    0.90 (a)      0.90        0.93        0.95        0.95        0.99   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.86 (a)      0.87        0.91        0.93        0.94        0.98   

Net investment income

    2.03 (a)      2.11        1.80        1.86        1.49        1.53   

Portfolio turnover

    5 (n)      13        12        14        17        22   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $1,658,961        $1,559,863        $1,299,126        $1,022,504        $763,670        $587,645   

See notes to financial statements

 

20


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R4     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $34.72        $29.82        $24.90        $21.84        $19.47        $19.39   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.39        $0.77        $0.57        $0.49        $0.40        $0.36   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.82        5.42        5.08        3.04        2.35        0.08 (g) 

Total from investment
operations

    $2.21        $6.19        $5.65        $3.53        $2.75        $0.44   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.37     $(0.71     $(0.54     $(0.47     $(0.38     $(0.36

From net realized gain on
investments

    (0.92     (0.58     (0.19                     

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(1.29     $(1.29     $(0.73     $(0.47     $(0.38     $(0.36

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $35.64        $34.72        $29.82        $24.90        $21.84        $19.47   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    6.51 (n)      21.11        23.09        16.40        14.05        2.18   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    0.65 (a)      0.65        0.68        0.70        0.70        0.74   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.61 (a)      0.63        0.67        0.68        0.69        0.73   

Net investment income

    2.25 (a)      2.34        2.07        2.10        1.74        1.77   

Portfolio turnover

    5 (n)      13        12        14        17        22   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $3,169,514        $3,283,133        $2,892,340        $2,907,088        $2,036,438        $1,266,492   

See notes to financial statements

 

21


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

   

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class R5 (y)     2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                 

Net asset value, beginning
of period

    $34.72        $29.82        $24.90        $21.81        $19.44        $19.37   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

    $0.42        $0.82        $0.60        $0.46        $0.37        $0.35   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

    1.82        5.40        5.07        3.08        2.35        0.06 (g) 

Total from investment
operations

    $2.24        $6.22        $5.67        $3.54        $2.72        $0.41   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

    $(0.39     $(0.74     $(0.56     $(0.45     $(0.35     $(0.34

From net realized gain on
investments

    (0.92     (0.58     (0.19                     

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

    $(1.31     $(1.32     $(0.75     $(0.45     $(0.35     $(0.34

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

    $35.65        $34.72        $29.82        $24.90        $21.81        $19.44   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(x)

    6.60 (n)      21.23        23.18        16.48        13.96        2.04   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

    0.54 (a)      0.55        0.57        0.77        0.80        0.83   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

    0.51 (a)      0.53        0.56        0.76        0.79        0.83   

Net investment income

    2.42 (a)      2.48        2.12        1.98        1.63        1.70   

Portfolio turnover

    5 (n)      13        12        14        17        22   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

    $4,544,470        $3,995,830        $2,362,012        $940,695        $1,334,446        $1,393,429   

See notes to financial statements

 

22


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

    

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class 529A      2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                  

Net asset value, beginning
of period

     $34.48        $29.62        $24.74        $21.70        $19.34        $19.28   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

     $0.36        $0.69        $0.49        $0.42        $0.32        $0.29   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

     1.80        5.38        5.05        3.02        2.34        0.06   

Total from investment
operations

     $2.16        $6.07        $5.54        $3.44        $2.66        $0.35   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

     $(0.33     $(0.63     $(0.47     $(0.40     $(0.30     $(0.29

From net realized gain on
investments

     (0.92     (0.58     (0.19                     

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

     $(1.25     $(1.21     $(0.66     $(0.40     $(0.30     $(0.29

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

     $35.39        $34.48        $29.62        $24.74        $21.70        $19.34   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

     6.39 (n)      20.84        22.73        16.06        13.71        1.74   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

     1.00 (a)      1.00        1.03        1.05        1.05        1.08   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

     0.85 (a)      0.87        0.93        0.98        1.03        1.08   

Net investment income

     2.09 (a)      2.11        1.79        1.80        1.40        1.44   

Portfolio turnover

     5 (n)      13        12        14        17        22   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

     $16,865        $14,547        $10,899        $8,195        $6,315        $5,192   

See notes to financial statements

 

23


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

    

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class 529B      2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                  

Net asset value, beginning
of period

     $34.08        $29.29        $24.48        $21.45        $19.12        $19.06   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

     $0.27        $0.42        $0.27        $0.24        $0.14        $0.14   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

     1.80        5.32        4.99        3.01        2.32        0.06 (g) 

Total from investment
operations

     $2.07        $5.74        $5.26        $3.25        $2.46        $0.20   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

     $(0.19     $(0.37     $(0.26     $(0.22     $(0.13     $(0.14

From net realized gain on
investments

     (0.92     (0.58     (0.19                     

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

     $(1.11     $(0.95     $(0.45     $(0.22     $(0.13     $(0.14

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

     $35.04        $34.08        $29.29        $24.48        $21.45        $19.12   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

     6.17 (n)      19.85        21.74        15.27        12.84        1.01   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

     1.37 (a)      1.75        1.78        1.79        1.80        1.83   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

     1.28 (a)      1.67        1.71        1.73        1.78        1.83   

Net investment income

     1.59 (a)      1.30        1.00        1.05        0.64        0.70   

Portfolio turnover

     5 (n)      13        12        14        17        22   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

     $1,001        $1,026        $1,013        $963        $1,147        $1,198   

See notes to financial statements

 

24


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Financial Highlights – continued

 

    

Six months
ended
2/28/15

(unaudited)

    Years ended 8/31  
Class 529C      2014     2013     2012     2011     2010  
                                  

Net asset value, beginning
of period

     $34.00        $29.23        $24.43        $21.43        $19.11        $19.05   
Income (loss) from investment operations   

Net investment income (d)

     $0.22        $0.41        $0.27        $0.24        $0.15        $0.14   

Net realized and unrealized
gain (loss) on investments
and foreign currency

     1.78        5.32        4.99        2.99        2.31        0.07 (g) 

Total from investment
operations

     $2.00        $5.73        $5.26        $3.23        $2.46        $0.21   
Less distributions declared to shareholders   

From net investment income

     $(0.19     $(0.38     $(0.27     $(0.23     $(0.14     $(0.15

From net realized gain on
investments

     (0.92     (0.58     (0.19                     

Total distributions declared to
shareholders

     $(1.11     $(0.96     $(0.46     $(0.23     $(0.14     $(0.15

Net asset value, end of
period (x)

     $34.89        $34.00        $29.23        $24.43        $21.43        $19.11   

Total return (%) (r)(s)(t)(x)

     5.98 (n)      19.85        21.80        15.18        12.82        1.06   
Ratios (%) (to average net assets)
and Supplemental data:
   

Expenses before expense
reductions (f)

     1.75 (a)      1.75        1.78        1.79        1.80        1.83   

Expenses after expense
reductions (f)

     1.65 (a)      1.67        1.72        1.73        1.78        1.83   

Net investment income

     1.31 (a)      1.28        1.00        1.06        0.65        0.69   

Portfolio turnover

     5 (n)      13        12        14        17        22   

Net assets at end of period
(000 omitted)

     $4,711        $3,981        $3,387        $2,610        $2,438        $2,180   

See notes to financial statements

 

25


Table of Contents

Financial Highlights – continued

 

 

(a) Annualized.
(d) Per share data is based on average shares outstanding.
(f) Ratios do not reflect reductions from fees paid indirectly, if applicable.
(g) The per share amount varies from the net realized and unrealized gain/loss for the period because of the timing of sales of fund shares and the per share amount of realized and unrealized gains and losses at such time.
(n) Not annualized.
(r) Certain expenses have been reduced without which performance would have been lower.
(s) From time to time the fund may receive proceeds from litigation settlements, without which performance would be lower.
(t) Total returns do not include any applicable sales charges.
(x) The net asset values per share and total returns have been calculated on net assets which include adjustments made in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles required at period end for financial reporting purposes.
(y) On May 10, 2012, sales of Class W shares (including exchanges) were suspended. On May 11, 2012, certain Class W shares were automatically converted to Class I shares. Shareholders of certain Class W shares became shareholders of Class I and received Class I shares with a total net asset value equal to their Class W shares at the time of the conversion. On May 30, 2012, remaining Class W shares, which represented MFS seed money, were redesignated Class R5. Class R5 shares do not pay a 12b-1 distribution fee or sub-accounting costs. On June 1, 2012, Class R5 shares were offered for sale to the public.

See notes to financial statements

 

26


Table of Contents

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

(unaudited)

(1) Business and Organization

MFS Value Fund (the fund) is a diversified series of MFS Series Trust I (the trust). The trust is organized as a Massachusetts business trust and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as an open-end management investment company.

The fund is an investment company and accordingly follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 Financial Services – Investment Companies.

(2) Significant Accounting Policies

General – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities, and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of increases and decreases in net assets from operations during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates. In the preparation of these financial statements, management has evaluated subsequent events occurring after the date of the fund’s Statement of Assets and Liabilities through the date that the financial statements were issued.

In June 2014, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2014-11, Transfers and Servicing (Topic 860) – Repurchase-to-Maturity Transactions, Repurchase Financings, and Disclosures (“ASU 2014-11”). ASU 2014-11 changes the accounting for repurchase-to-maturity transactions (i.e., repurchase agreements that settle at the same time as the maturity of the transferred financial asset) and enhances the required disclosures for repurchase agreements and other similar transactions. Although still evaluating the potential impacts of ASU 2014-11 to the fund, management expects that the impact of the fund’s adoption will be limited to additional financial statement disclosures which would first be effective for interim reporting periods beginning after March 15, 2015.

Balance Sheet Offsetting The fund’s accounting policy with respect to balance sheet offsetting is that, absent an event of default by the counterparty or a termination of the agreement, the International Swaps and Derivatives Association (ISDA) Master Agreement does not result in an offset of reported amounts of financial assets and financial liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities across transactions between the fund and the applicable counterparty. The fund’s right to setoff may be restricted or prohibited by the bankruptcy or insolvency laws of the particular jurisdiction to which a specific master netting agreement counterparty is subject. Balance sheet offsetting disclosures, to the extent applicable to the fund, have been included in the fund’s Significant Accounting Policies note under the captions for each of the fund’s in-scope financial instruments and transactions.

Investment Valuations Equity securities, including restricted equity securities, are generally valued at the last sale or official closing price as provided by a third-party pricing service on the market or exchange on which they are primarily traded. Equity

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

securities, for which there were no sales reported that day, are generally valued at the last quoted daily bid quotation as provided by a third-party pricing service on the market or exchange on which such securities are primarily traded. Short-term instruments with a maturity at issuance of 60 days or less may be valued at amortized cost, which approximates market value. Open-end investment companies are generally valued at net asset value per share. Securities and other assets generally valued on the basis of information from a third-party pricing service may also be valued at a broker/dealer bid quotation. Values obtained from third-party pricing services can utilize both transaction data and market information such as yield, quality, coupon rate, maturity, type of issue, trading characteristics, and other market data. The values of foreign securities and other assets and liabilities expressed in foreign currencies are converted to U.S. dollars using the mean of bid and asked prices for rates provided by a third-party pricing service.

The Board of Trustees has delegated primary responsibility for determining or causing to be determined the value of the fund’s investments (including any fair valuation) to the adviser pursuant to valuation policies and procedures approved by the Board. If the adviser determines that reliable market quotations are not readily available, investments are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the adviser in accordance with such procedures under the oversight of the Board of Trustees. Under the fund’s valuation policies and procedures, market quotations are not considered to be readily available for most types of debt instruments and floating rate loans and many types of derivatives. These investments are generally valued at fair value based on information from third-party pricing services. In addition, investments may be valued at fair value if the adviser determines that an investment’s value has been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the exchange or market on which the investment is principally traded (such as foreign exchange or market) and prior to the determination of the fund’s net asset value, or after the halting of trading of a specific security where trading does not resume prior to the close of the exchange or market on which the security is principally traded. Events that occur on a frequent basis after foreign markets close (such as developments in foreign markets and significant movements in the U.S. markets) and prior to the determination of the fund’s net asset value may be deemed to have a material effect on the value of securities traded in foreign markets. Accordingly, the fund’s foreign equity securities may often be valued at fair value. The adviser generally relies on third-party pricing services or other information (such as the correlation with price movements of similar securities in the same or other markets; the type, cost and investment characteristics of the security; the business and financial condition of the issuer; and trading and other market data) to assist in determining whether to fair value and at what value to fair value an investment. The value of an investment for purposes of calculating the fund’s net asset value can differ depending on the source and method used to determine value. When fair valuation is used, the value of an investment used to determine the fund’s net asset value may differ from quoted or published prices for the same investment. There can be no assurance that the fund could obtain the fair value assigned to an investment if it were to sell the investment at the same time at which the fund determines its net asset value per share.

Various inputs are used in determining the value of the fund’s assets or liabilities. These inputs are categorized into three broad levels. In certain cases, the inputs used to

 

28


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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

measure fair value may fall into different levels of the fair value hierarchy. In such cases, an investment’s level within the fair value hierarchy is based on the lowest level of input that is significant to the fair value measurement. The fund’s assessment of the significance of a particular input to the fair value measurement in its entirety requires judgment, and considers factors specific to the investment. Level 1 includes unadjusted quoted prices in active markets for identical assets or liabilities. Level 2 includes other significant observable market-based inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speed, and credit risk). Level 3 includes unobservable inputs, which may include the adviser’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments. The following is a summary of the levels used as of February 28, 2015 in valuing the fund’s assets or liabilities:

 

Investments at Value    Level 1      Level 2      Level 3      Total  
Equity Securities      $35,213,780,788         $—         $—         $35,213,780,788   
Mutual Funds      453,171,032                         453,171,032   
Total Investments      $35,666,951,820         $—         $—         $35,666,951,820   

For further information regarding security characteristics, see the Portfolio of Investments.

Foreign Currency Translation Purchases and sales of foreign investments, income, and expenses are converted into U.S. dollars based upon currency exchange rates prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions or on the reporting date for foreign denominated receivables and payables. Gains and losses attributable to foreign currency exchange rates on sales of securities are recorded for financial statement purposes as net realized gains and losses on investments. Gains and losses attributable to foreign exchange rate movements on receivables, payables, income and expenses are recorded for financial statement purposes as foreign currency transaction gains and losses. That portion of both realized and unrealized gains and losses on investments that results from fluctuations in foreign currency exchange rates is not separately disclosed.

Security Loans – Under its Securities Lending Agency Agreement with the fund, State Street Bank and Trust Company (“State Street”), as lending agent, loans the securities of the fund to certain qualified institutions (the “Borrowers”) approved by the fund. The loans are collateralized by cash and/or U.S. Treasury and federal agency obligations in an amount typically at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned. On loans collateralized by cash, the cash collateral is invested in a money market fund. The market value of the loaned securities is determined at the close of business of the fund and any additional required collateral is delivered to the fund on the next business day. State Street provides the fund with indemnification against Borrower default. In the event of Borrower default, State Street will for the benefit of the fund either purchase securities identical to those loaned or, when such purchase is commercially impracticable, pay the fund the market value of the loaned securities. In return, State Street assumes the fund’s rights to the related collateral. If the collateral value is less than the cost to purchase identical securities, State Street is responsible for the shortfall, but only to the extent that such shortfall is not due to a decline in collateral value resulting from collateral reinvestment for which the fund bears the risk of loss. A portion of the income generated upon investment of the collateral is remitted to the

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

Borrowers, and the remainder is allocated between the fund and the lending agent. On loans collateralized by U.S. Treasury and/or federal agency obligations, a fee is received from the Borrower, and is allocated between the fund and the lending agent. Income from securities lending is included in “Interest” income in the Statement of Operations. The dividend and interest income earned on the securities loaned is accounted for in the same manner as other dividend and interest income. At February 28, 2015, there were no securities on loan or collateral outstanding.

Indemnifications – Under the fund’s organizational documents, its officers and Trustees may be indemnified against certain liabilities and expenses arising out of the performance of their duties to the fund. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the fund enters into agreements with service providers that may contain indemnification clauses. The fund’s maximum exposure under these agreements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the fund that have not yet occurred.

Investment Transactions and Income – Investment transactions are recorded on the trade date. Interest income is recorded on the accrual basis. Dividends received in cash are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Certain dividends from foreign securities will be recorded when the fund is informed of the dividend if such information is obtained subsequent to the ex-dividend date. Dividend and interest payments received in additional securities are recorded on the ex-dividend or ex-interest date in an amount equal to the value of the security on such date.

The fund may receive proceeds from litigation settlements. Any proceeds received from litigation involving portfolio holdings are reflected in the Statement of Operations in realized gain/loss if the security has been disposed of by the fund or in unrealized gain/loss if the security is still held by the fund. Any other proceeds from litigation not related to portfolio holdings are reflected as other income in the Statement of Operations.

Fees Paid Indirectly – The fund’s custody fee may be reduced according to an arrangement that measures the value of cash deposited with the custodian by the fund. This amount, for the six months ended February 28, 2015, is shown as a reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations.

Tax Matters and Distributions – The fund intends to qualify as a regulated investment company, as defined under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, and to distribute all of its taxable income, including realized capital gains. As a result, no provision for federal income tax is required. The fund’s federal tax returns, when filed, will remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service for a three year period. Management has analyzed the fund’s tax positions taken on federal and state tax returns for all open tax years and does not believe that there are any uncertain tax positions that require recognition of a tax liability. Foreign taxes, if any, have been accrued by the fund in the accompanying financial statements in accordance with the applicable foreign tax law. Foreign income taxes may be withheld by certain countries in which the fund invests. Additionally, capital gains realized by the fund on securities issued in or by certain foreign countries may be subject to capital gains tax imposed by those countries.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

Distributions to shareholders are recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. generally accepted accounting principles. Certain capital accounts in the financial statements are periodically adjusted for permanent differences in order to reflect their tax character. These adjustments have no impact on net assets or net asset value per share. Temporary differences which arise from recognizing certain items of income, expense, gain or loss in different periods for financial statement and tax purposes will reverse at some time in the future. Distributions in excess of net investment income or net realized gains are temporary overdistributions for financial statement purposes resulting from differences in the recognition or classification of income or distributions for financial statement and tax purposes.

Book/tax differences primarily relate to wash sale loss deferrals, and treating a portion of the proceeds from redemptions as a distribution for tax purposes.

The tax character of distributions made during the current period will be determined at fiscal year end. The tax character of distributions declared to shareholders for the last fiscal year is as follows:

 

     8/31/14  
Ordinary income (including any short-term capital gains)      $760,612,303   
Long-term capital gains      406,331,212   
Total distributions      $1,166,943,515   

The federal tax cost and the tax basis components of distributable earnings were as follows:

 

As of 2/28/15       
Cost of investments      $23,580,213,946   
Gross appreciation      12,183,166,184   
Gross depreciation      (96,428,310
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)      $12,086,737,874   
As of 8/31/14       
Undistributed ordinary income      231,870,445   
Undistributed long-term capital gain      683,583,120   
Capital loss carryforwards      (17,104,180
Other temporary differences      (205,215
Net unrealized appreciation (depreciation)      10,988,216,588   

The aggregate cost above includes prior fiscal year end tax adjustments, if applicable.

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010 (the “Act”), net capital losses recognized for fund fiscal years beginning after August 31, 2011 may be carried forward indefinitely, and their character is retained as short-term and/or long-term losses (“post-enactment losses”). Previously, net capital losses were carried forward for eight years and treated as short-term losses (“pre-enactment losses”). As a transition rule, the Act requires that all post-enactment net capital losses be used before pre-enactment net capital losses.

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

As of August 31, 2014, the fund had capital loss carryforwards available to offset future realized gains. Such pre-enactment losses expire as follows:

 

8/31/16      $(17,104,180

The availability of $17,104,180 of the capital loss carryforwards, which were acquired on July 24, 2009 in connection with the MFS Strategic Value Fund merger, may be limited in a given year.

Multiple Classes of Shares of Beneficial Interest – The fund offers multiple classes of shares, which differ in their respective distribution, service, and program manager fees. The fund’s income, realized and unrealized gain (loss), and common expenses are allocated to shareholders based on the daily net assets of each class. Dividends are declared separately for each class. Differences in per share dividend rates are generally due to differences in separate class expenses. Class B and Class 529B shares will convert to Class A and Class 529A shares, respectively, approximately eight years after purchase. The fund’s distributions declared to shareholders as reported in the Statements of Changes in Net Assets are presented by class as follows:

 

     From net investment
income
     From net realized gain on
investments
 
     Six months
ended
2/28/15
     Year
ended
8/31/14
     Six months
ended
2/28/15
     Year
ended
8/31/14
 
Class A      $84,751,580         $173,579,969         $239,583,600         $158,274,114   
Class B      953,816         2,090,774         4,634,261         3,249,251   
Class C      7,536,039         15,134,051         36,311,961         21,935,733   
Class I      150,717,849         261,803,666         373,030,365         207,624,418   
Class R1      180,817         399,161         860,444         629,904   
Class R2      4,827,143         10,006,893         15,646,860         10,778,017   
Class R3      15,119,709         27,923,409         42,200,616         25,565,924   
Class R4      34,642,484         68,672,815         85,489,253         55,241,972   
Class R5      45,482,677         72,631,471         107,673,294         50,791,793   
Class 529A      140,600         248,321         402,549         220,123   
Class 529B      5,584         11,886         27,726         18,765   
Class 529C      22,278         43,621         112,186         67,464   
Total      $344,380,576         $632,546,037         $905,973,115         $534,397,478   

(3) Transactions with Affiliates

Investment Adviser – The fund has an investment advisory agreement with MFS to provide overall investment management and related administrative services and facilities to the fund. The management fee is computed daily and paid monthly at the following annual rates:

 

First $7.5 billion of average daily net assets      0.60
Next $2.5 billion of average daily net assets      0.53
Average daily net assets in excess of $10 billion      0.50

The investment adviser has agreed in writing to reduce its management fee to 0.45% of average daily net assets in excess of $20 billion up to $25 billion, 0.42% of average daily net assets in excess of $25 billion up to $30 billion, and 0.40% of average daily net assets in excess of $30 billion. This written agreement will continue until modified

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

by the fund’s Board of Trustees, but such agreement will continue at least until December 31, 2015. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this management fee reduction amounted to $5,540,419, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. MFS has also agreed in writing to reduce its management fee by a specified amount if certain MFS mutual fund assets exceed thresholds agreed to by MFS and the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this management fee reduction amounted to $1,050,043, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. The management fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.49% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

Distributor – MFS Fund Distributors, Inc. (MFD), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, as distributor, received $1,363,185 and $5,812 for the six months ended February 28, 2015, as its portion of the initial sales charge on sales of Class A and Class 529A shares of the fund, respectively.

The Board of Trustees has adopted a distribution plan for certain share classes pursuant to Rule 12b-1 of the Investment Company Act of 1940.

The fund’s distribution plan provides that the fund will pay MFD for services provided by MFD and financial intermediaries in connection with the distribution and servicing of certain share classes. One component of the plan is a distribution fee paid to MFD and another component of the plan is a service fee paid to MFD. MFD may subsequently pay all, or a portion, of the distribution and/or service fees to financial intermediaries.

Distribution Plan Fee Table:

 

     Distribution
Fee Rate (d)
     Service
Fee Rate (d)
     Total
Distribution
Plan (d)
     Annual
Effective
Rate (e)
     Distribution
and Service
Fee
 
Class A              0.25%         0.25%         0.25%         $11,339,305   
Class B      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         874,588   
Class C      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         6,807,984   
Class R1      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         159,249   
Class R2      0.25%         0.25%         0.50%         0.50%         1,460,104   
Class R3              0.25%         0.25%         0.25%         2,001,600   
Class 529A              0.25%         0.25%         0.20%         18,974   
Class 529B      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         0.62%         3,166   
Class 529C      0.75%         0.25%         1.00%         1.00%         20,763   
Total Distribution and Service Fees         $22,685,733   

 

(d) In accordance with the distribution plan for certain classes, the fund pays distribution and/or service fees equal to these annual percentage rates of each class’s average daily net assets. The distribution and service fee rates disclosed by class represent the current rates in effect at the end of the reporting period. Any rate changes, if applicable, are detailed below.
(e)

The annual effective rates represent actual fees incurred under the distribution plan for the six months ended February 28, 2015 based on each class’s average daily net assets. MFD has voluntarily agreed to rebate a portion of each class’s 0.25% service fee attributable to accounts for which MFD retains the 0.25% service fee except for accounts attributable to MFS or its affiliates’ seed money. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this rebate amounted to $35,681, $382, $579, $861, $118, $4,114, $38, and $63 for Class A, Class B, Class C, Class R2, Class R3, Class 529A, Class 529B, and Class 529C, respectively, and is

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

  included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. For the period December 1, 2014 through February 28, 2015, the 0.75% distribution fee was not imposed for Class 529B shares.

Certain Class A shares are subject to a contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) in the event of a shareholder redemption within 18 months of purchase. Class C and Class 529C shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder redemption within 12 months of purchase. Class B and Class 529B shares are subject to a CDSC in the event of a shareholder redemption within six years of purchase. All contingent deferred sales charges are paid to MFD and during the six months ended February 28, 2015, were as follows:

 

     Amount  
Class A      $27,103   
Class B      89,083   
Class C      42,049   
Class 529B      170   
Class 529C      18   

The fund has entered into and may from time to time enter into contracts with program managers and other parties which administer the tuition programs through which an investment in the fund’s 529 share classes is made. The fund has entered into an agreement with MFD pursuant to which MFD receives an annual fee of up to 0.10% of the average daily net assets attributable to each 529 share class. MFD has agreed to waive a portion of this fee in an amount equal to 0.05% of the average daily net assets for each 529 share class. This waiver agreement will expire on December 31, 2016, unless MFD elects to extend the waiver. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, this waiver amounted to $5,086 and is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. The program manager fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.05% of the average daily net assets attributable to each 529 share class. The services provided by MFD, or a third party with which MFD contracts, include recordkeeping and tax reporting and account services, as well as services designed to maintain the program’s compliance with the Internal Revenue Code and other regulatory requirements. Program manager fees and waivers for the six months ended February 28, 2015, were as follows:

 

     Fee      Waiver  
Class 529A      $7,590         $3,795   
Class 529B      506         253   
Class 529C      2,076         1,038   
Total Program Manager Fees and Waivers      $10,172         $5,086   

Shareholder Servicing Agent – MFS Service Center, Inc. (MFSC), a wholly-owned subsidiary of MFS, receives a fee from the fund for its services as shareholder servicing agent calculated as a percentage of the average daily net assets of the fund as determined periodically under the supervision of the fund’s Board of Trustees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fee was $793,103, which equated to 0.0046% annually of the fund’s average daily net assets. MFSC also receives payment

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

from the fund for out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs which may be paid to affiliated and unaffiliated service providers. Class R5 shares do not incur sub-accounting fees. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, these out-of-pocket expenses, sub-accounting and other shareholder servicing costs amounted to $15,851,772.

Administrator – MFS provides certain financial, legal, shareholder communications, compliance, and other administrative services to the fund. Under an administrative services agreement, the fund reimburses MFS the costs incurred to provide these services. The fund is charged an annual fixed amount of $17,500 plus a fee based on average daily net assets. The administrative services fee incurred for the six months ended February 28, 2015 was equivalent to an annual effective rate of 0.0019% of the fund’s average daily net assets.

Trustees’ and Officers’ Compensation – The fund pays compensation to independent Trustees in the form of a retainer, attendance fees, and additional compensation to Board and Committee chairpersons. The fund does not pay compensation directly to Trustees or officers of the fund who are also officers of the investment adviser, all of whom receive remuneration for their services to the fund from MFS. Certain officers and Trustees of the fund are officers or directors of MFS, MFD, and MFSC.

Prior to December 31, 2001, the fund had an unfunded defined benefit plan (“DB plan”) for independent Trustees. As of December 31, 2001, the Board took action to terminate the DB plan with respect to then-current and any future independent Trustees, such that the DB plan covers only certain of those former independent Trustees who retired on or before December 31, 2001. The DB plan resulted in a pension expense of $167 and is included in independent Trustees’ compensation for the six months ended February 28, 2015. The liability for deferred retirement benefits payable to certain independent Trustees under the DB plan amounted to $3,145 at February 28, 2015, and is included in “Payable for independent Trustees’ compensation” in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Other – Effective November 1, 2014, this fund and certain other funds managed by MFS (the funds) have entered into a service agreement (the ISO Agreement) which provides for payment of fees solely by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the provision of services of an Independent Senior Officer (ISO) for the funds. Frank L. Tarantino serves as the ISO and is an officer of the funds and the sole member of Tarantino LLC. The funds can terminate the ISO Agreement with Tarantino LLC at any time under the terms of the ISO Agreement. Prior to November 1, 2014, the funds had entered into a service agreement (the Compliance Officer Agreement) which provided for payment of fees by the funds to Tarantino LLC in return for the provision of services of an Independent Chief Compliance Officer (ICCO) for the funds. Prior to November 1, 2014, Frank L. Tarantino served as the ICCO. Effective October 31, 2014, Mr. Tarantino resigned as ICCO and the Compliance Officer Agreement between the funds and Tarantino LLC was terminated. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the aggregate fees paid by the fund under these agreements were $66,131 and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations. MFS had agreed to reimburse the fund for a portion of the payments made by the fund for the services

 

35


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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

under the Compliance Officer Agreement in the amount of $11,447, which is included in the reduction of total expenses in the Statement of Operations. Additionally, MFS has agreed to bear all expenses associated with office space, other administrative support, and supplies provided to the ICCO and ISO.

The fund invests in the MFS Institutional Money Market Portfolio which is managed by MFS and seeks current income consistent with preservation of capital and liquidity. Income earned on this investment is included in “Dividends from underlying affiliated funds” in the Statement of Operations. This money market fund does not pay a management fee to MFS.

On September 11, 2013, MFS redeemed 4,432 shares of Class R5 for an aggregate amount of $137,259.

(4) Portfolio Securities

For the six months ended February 28, 2015, purchases and sales of investments, other than short-term obligations, aggregated $1,814,678,785 and $2,394,036,068, respectively.

(5) Shares of Beneficial Interest

The fund’s Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest. Transactions in fund shares were as follows:

 

     Six months ended
2/28/15
     Year ended
8/31/14
 
     Shares      Amount      Shares      Amount  
Shares sold            

Class A

     24,101,417         $834,218,112         60,870,511         $1,998,346,176   

Class B

     228,065         7,862,168         554,113         18,053,263   

Class C

     3,073,806         105,258,402         6,897,860         223,711,170   

Class I

     55,668,538         1,938,923,075         109,423,187         3,625,117,953   

Class R1

     121,204         4,168,403         194,673         6,295,259   

Class R2

     1,274,463         43,827,437         3,053,945         99,572,053   

Class R3

     5,957,507         205,726,405         12,218,431         399,503,879   

Class R4

     7,402,672         257,205,604         23,035,381         757,348,601   

Class R5

     16,247,539         562,797,098         41,463,392         1,361,664,476   

Class 529A

     57,496         1,995,970         80,831         2,657,258   

Class 529B

     1,593         54,490         3,899         125,823   

Class 529C

     27,274         921,702         22,400         724,788   
     114,161,574         $3,962,958,866         257,818,623         $8,493,120,699   

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

    Six months ended
2/28/15
    Year ended
8/31/14
 
    Shares     Amount     Shares     Amount  
Shares issued to shareholders in reinvestment of distributions        

Class A

    8,618,516        $297,472,576        9,415,560        $305,704,358   

Class B

    147,093        5,061,038        150,377        4,855,668   

Class C

    847,145        28,988,296        740,995        23,828,112   

Class I

    10,610,627        367,982,666        9,622,407        314,091,576   

Class R1

    30,628        1,041,261        32,246        1,029,065   

Class R2

    573,839        19,643,660        618,578        19,902,257   

Class R3

    1,665,535        57,319,672        1,651,963        53,489,015   

Class R4

    3,341,595        115,313,162        3,656,123        118,701,122   

Class R5

    4,072,827        140,504,512        3,668,044        119,290,819   

Class 529A

    15,833        542,911        14,540        468,444   

Class 529B

    981        33,310        961        30,651   

Class 529C

    3,969        134,464        3,488        111,072   
    29,928,588        $1,034,037,528        29,575,282        $961,502,159   
Shares reacquired        

Class A

    (41,785,485     $(1,443,390,028     (68,358,836     $(2,261,976,774

Class B

    (579,182     (20,018,251     (1,216,763     (39,918,338

Class C

    (2,924,486     (100,197,846     (4,992,374     (162,937,252

Class I

    (53,041,728     (1,856,880,903     (73,189,862     (2,414,804,530

Class R1

    (185,313     (6,331,231     (390,185     (12,621,777

Class R2

    (3,170,658     (109,396,530     (5,389,359     (175,451,679

Class R3

    (6,003,870     (207,318,572     (12,493,293     (410,560,625

Class R4

    (16,394,223     (566,522,624     (29,116,657     (960,068,960

Class R5

    (7,919,780     (276,553,269     (9,245,299     (305,654,695

Class 529A

    (18,725     (646,088     (41,342     (1,358,958

Class 529B

    (4,102     (139,002     (9,354     (303,416

Class 529C

    (13,296     (452,807     (24,670     (797,250
    (132,040,848     $(4,587,847,151     (204,467,994     $(6,746,454,254
Net change        

Class A

    (9,065,552     $(311,699,340     1,927,235        $42,073,760   

Class B

    (204,024     (7,095,045     (512,273     (17,009,407

Class C

    996,465        34,048,852        2,646,481        84,602,030   

Class I

    13,237,437        450,024,838        45,855,732        1,524,404,999   

Class R1

    (33,481     (1,121,567     (163,266     (5,297,453

Class R2

    (1,322,356     (45,925,433     (1,716,836     (55,977,369

Class R3

    1,619,172        55,727,505        1,377,101        42,432,269   

Class R4

    (5,649,956     (194,003,858     (2,425,153     (84,019,237

Class R5

    12,400,586        426,748,341        35,886,137        1,175,300,600   

Class 529A

    54,604        1,892,793        54,029        1,766,744   

Class 529B

    (1,528     (51,202     (4,494     (146,942

Class 529C

    17,947        603,359        1,218        38,610   
    12,049,314        $409,149,243        82,925,911        $2,708,168,604   

 

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Notes to Financial Statements (unaudited) – continued

 

The fund is one of several mutual funds in which certain MFS funds may invest. The MFS funds do not invest in the underlying funds for the purpose of exercising management or control. At the end of the period, the MFS Growth Allocation Fund, the MFS Aggressive Growth Allocation Fund, the MFS Conservative Allocation Fund, and the MFS Moderate Allocation Fund were the owners of record of approximately 2%, 1%, 1%, and 1%, respectively, of the value of outstanding voting shares of the fund. In addition, the MFS Lifetime Income Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2015 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2020 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2025 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2030 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2035 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2040 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2045 Fund, the MFS Lifetime 2050 Fund, and the MFS Lifetime 2055 Fund, were each the owners of record of less than 1% of the value of outstanding voting shares of the fund.

(6) Line of Credit

The fund and certain other funds managed by MFS participate in a $1.1 billion unsecured committed line of credit, subject to a $1 billion sublimit, provided by a syndication of banks under a credit agreement. Borrowings may be made for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, generally at a rate equal to the higher of the Federal Reserve funds rate or one month LIBOR plus an agreed upon spread. A commitment fee, based on the average daily, unused portion of the committed line of credit, is allocated among the participating funds at the end of each calendar quarter. In addition, the fund and other funds managed by MFS have established unsecured uncommitted borrowing arrangements with certain banks for temporary financing needs. Interest is charged to each fund, based on its borrowings, at a rate equal to the Federal Reserve funds rate plus an agreed upon spread. For the six months ended February 28, 2015, the fund’s commitment fee and interest expense were $60,677 and $0, respectively, and are included in “Miscellaneous” expense in the Statement of Operations.

(7) Transactions in Underlying Affiliated Funds-Affiliated Issuers

An affiliated issuer may be considered one in which the fund owns 5% or more of the outstanding voting securities, or a company which is under common control. For the purposes of this report, the fund assumes the following to be an affiliated issuer:

 

Underlying Affiliated Fund    Beginning
Shares/Par
Amount
     Acquisitions
Shares/Par
Amount
     Dispositions
Shares/Par
Amount
    Ending
Shares/Par
Amount
 
MFS Institutional Money
Market Portfolio
     329,051,729         1,886,998,787         (1,762,879,484     453,171,032   
Underlying Affiliated Fund    Realized
Gain (Loss)
     Capital Gain
Distributions
     Dividend
Income
    Ending
Value
 
MFS Institutional Money
Market Portfolio
     $—         $—         $174,516        $453,171,032   

 

38


Table of Contents

PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND INFORMATION

MFS votes proxies on behalf of the fund pursuant to proxy voting policies and procedures that are available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-800-225-2606, by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

Information regarding how the fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 is available without charge by visiting the Proxy Voting section of mfs.com or by visiting the SEC’s Web site at http://www.sec.gov.

QUARTERLY PORTFOLIO DISCLOSURE

The fund will file a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (the Commission) for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. A shareholder can obtain the quarterly portfolio holdings report at mfs.com. The fund’s Form N-Q is also available on the EDGAR database on the Commission’s Internet Web site at http://www.sec.gov, and may be reviewed and copied at the:

Public Reference Room

Securities and Exchange Commission

100 F Street, NE, Room 1580

Washington, D.C. 20549

Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling the Commission at 1-800-SEC-0330. Copies of the fund’s Form N-Q also may be obtained, upon payment of a duplicating fee, by electronic request at the following e-mail address: publicinfo@sec.gov or by writing the Public Reference Section at the above address.

FURTHER INFORMATION

From time to time, MFS may post important information about the fund or the MFS funds on the MFS web site (mfs.com). This information is available by visiting the “Market Commentary” and “Announcements” sub sections in the “Market Outlooks” section of mfs.com or by clicking on the fund’s name under “Mutual Funds” in the “Products” section of mfs.com.

PROVISION OF FINANCIAL REPORTS AND SUMMARY PROSPECTUSES

The fund produces financial reports every six months and updates its summary prospectus and prospectus annually. To avoid sending duplicate copies of materials to households, only one copy of the fund’s annual and semiannual report and summary prospectus may be mailed to shareholders having the same last name and residential address on the fund’s records. However, any shareholder may contact MFSC (please see back cover for address and telephone number) to request that copies of these reports and summary prospectuses be sent personally to that shareholder.

 

39


Table of Contents

LOGO

 

Save paper with eDelivery.

 

LOGO

MFS® will send you prospectuses,

reports, and proxies directly via e-mail so you will get information faster with less mailbox clutter.

To sign up:

1. Go to mfs.com.

2. Log in via MFS® Access.

3. Select eDelivery.

If you own your MFS fund shares through a financial institution or a retirement plan, MFS® TALK, MFS® Access, or eDelivery may not be available to you.

 

CONTACT

WEB SITE

mfs.com

MFS TALK

1-800-637-8255

24 hours a day

ACCOUNT SERVICE AND LITERATURE

Shareholders

1-800-225-2606

Financial advisors

1-800-343-2829

Retirement plan services

1-800-637-1255

MAILING ADDRESS

MFS Service Center, Inc.

P.O. Box 55824

Boston, MA 02205-5824

OVERNIGHT MAIL

MFS Service Center, Inc.

c/o Boston Financial Data Services

30 Dan Road

Canton, MA 02021-2809

 


Table of Contents
ITEM 2. CODE OF ETHICS.

During the period covered by this report, the Registrant has not amended any provision in its Code of Ethics (the “Code”) that relates to an element of the Code’s definitions enumerated in paragraph (b) of Item 2 of this Form N-CSR. During the period covered by this report, the Registrant did not grant a waiver, including an implicit waiver, from any provision of the Code.

 

ITEM 3. AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT.

Not applicable for semi-annual reports.

 

ITEM 4. PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.

Not applicable for semi-annual reports.

 

ITEM 5. AUDIT COMMITTEE OF LISTED REGISTRANTS.

Not applicable to the Registrant.

 

ITEM 6. INVESTMENTS

A schedule of investments for each series of the Registrant is included as part of the report to shareholders of such series under Item 1 of this Form N-CSR.

 

ITEM 7. DISCLOSURE OF PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.

Not applicable to the Registrant.

 

ITEM 8. PORTFOLIO MANAGERS OF CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.

Not applicable to the Registrant.

 

ITEM 9. PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANY AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS.

Not applicable to the Registrant.


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ITEM 10. SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.

There were no material changes to the procedures by which shareholders may send recommendations to the Board for nominees to the Registrant’s Board since the Registrant last provided disclosure as to such procedures in response to the requirements of Item 407 (c)(2)(iv) of Regulation S-K or this Item.

 

ITEM 11. CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.

 

(a) Based upon their evaluation of the effectiveness of the registrant’s disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “Act”)) as conducted within 90 days of the filing date of this report on Form N-CSR, the registrant’s principal financial officer and principal executive officer have concluded that those disclosure controls and procedures provide reasonable assurance that the material information required to be disclosed by the registrant on this report is recorded, processed, summarized and reported within the time periods specified in the Securities and Exchange Commission’s rules and forms.

 

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

 

ITEM 12. EXHIBITS.

 

(a) File the exhibits listed below as part of this form. Letter or number the exhibits in the sequence indicated.

 

  (1) Any code of ethics, or amendment thereto, that is the subject of the disclosure required by Item 2, to the extent that the registrant intends to satisfy the Item 2 requirements through filing of an exhibit.

 

  (2) A separate certification for each principal executive officer and principal financial officer of the registrant as required by Rule 30a-2(a) under the Act (17 CFR 270.30a-2): Attached hereto.

 

(b) If the report is filed under Section 13(a) or 15(d) of the Exchange Act, provide the certifications required by Rule 30a-2(b) under the Act (17 CFR 270.30a-2(b)), Rule 13a-14(b) or Rule 15d-14(b) under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 240.13a-14(b) or 240.15d-14(b)) and Section 1350 of Chapter 63 of Title 18 of the United States Code (18 U.S.C. 1350) as an exhibit. A certification furnished pursuant to this paragraph will not be deemed “filed” for the purposes of Section 18 of the Exchange Act (15 U.S.C. 78r), or otherwise subject to the liability of that section. Such certification will not be deemed to be incorporated by reference into any filing under the Securities Act of 1933 or the Exchange Act, except to the extent that the registrant specifically incorporates it by reference: Attached hereto.


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Notice

A copy of the Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, as amended, of the Registrant is on file with the Secretary of State of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts and notice is hereby given that this instrument is executed on behalf of the Registrant by an officer of the Registrant as an officer and not individually and the obligations of or arising out of this instrument are not binding upon any of the Trustees or shareholders individually, but are binding only upon the assets and property of the respective constituent series of the Registrant.


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SIGNATURES

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

(Registrant) MFS SERIES TRUST I

 

By (Signature and Title)*    ROBIN A. STELMACH
  Robin A. Stelmach, President

Date: April 14, 2015

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

 

By (Signature and Title)*    ROBIN A. STELMACH
 

Robin A. Stelmach, President

(Principal Executive Officer)

Date: April 14, 2015

 

By (Signature and Title)*    DAVID L. DILORENZO
 

David L. DiLorenzo, Treasurer

(Principal Financial Officer

and Accounting Officer)

Date: April 14, 2015

 

* Print name and title of each signing officer under his or her signature.