N-CSR 1 d814742dncsr.htm N-CSR N-CSR

 

 

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: 811-4984

 

 

AMERICAN BEACON FUNDS

(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)

 

 

220 East Las Colinas Boulevard, Suite 1200

Irving, Texas 75039

(Address of principal executive offices)-(Zip code)

 

 

GENE L. NEEDLES, JR., PRESIDENT

220 East Las Colinas Boulevard, Suite 1200

Irving, Texas 75039

(Name and address of agent for service)

 

 

Registrant’s telephone number, including area code: (817) 391-6100

Date of fiscal year end: October 31, 2019

Date of reporting period: October 31, 2019

 

 

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

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

 

 

 


ITEM 1.

REPORTS TO STOCKHOLDERS.

 


LOGO


About American Beacon Advisors

 

Since 1986, American Beacon Advisors has offered a variety of products and investment advisory services to numerous institutional and retail clients, including a variety of mutual funds, corporate cash management, and separate account management.

Our clients include defined benefit plans, defined contribution plans, foundations, endowments, corporations, financial planners, and other institutional investors. With American Beacon Advisors, you can put the experience of a multi-billion dollar asset management firm to work for your company.

BALANCED FUND RISKS

The use of fixed-income securities entails interest rate and credit risks. Investing in foreign securities may involve heightened risk due to currency fluctuations and economic and political risks. Investing in value stocks may limit downside risk over time; however, the Fund may produce more modest gains than riskier stock funds as a trade-off for this potentially lower risk. The use of futures contracts for cash management may subject the Fund to losing more money than invested. The Fund participates in a securities lending program. Please see the prospectus for a complete discussion of the Fund’s risks. There can be no assurances that the investment objectives of this Fund will be met.

MID-CAP VALUE FUND RISKS

Investing in medium-capitalization stocks may involve greater volatility and lower liquidity than larger company stocks. Investing in value stocks may limit downside risk over time; however, the Fund may produce more modest gains than riskier stock funds as a trade-off for this potentially lower risk. Investing in foreign securities may involve heightened risk due to currency fluctuations and economic and political risks. The use of futures contracts for cash management may subject the Fund to losing more money than invested. The Fund participates in a securities lending program. Please see the prospectus for a complete discussion of the Fund’s risks. There can be no assurances that the investment objectives of this Fund will be met.

Any opinions herein, including forecasts, reflect our judgment as of the end of the reporting period and are subject to change. Each advisor’s strategies and each Fund’s portfolio composition will change depending on economic and market conditions. This report is not a complete analysis of market conditions, and, therefore, should not be relied upon as investment advice. Although economic and market information has been compiled from reliable sources, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. makes no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of the statements contained herein.

 

American Beacon Funds

October 31, 2019


Contents

 

 

President’s Message

    1  

Market and Performance Overviews

    2  

Expense Examples

    9  

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

    11  

Schedules of Investments:

 

American Beacon Balanced Fund

    12  

American Beacon Mid-Cap Value Fund

    27  

Financial Statements

    33  

Notes to Financial Statements

    37  

Financial Highlights:

 

American Beacon Balanced Fund

    65  

American Beacon Mid-Cap Value Fund

    71  

Federal Tax Information

    78  

Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements

    79  

Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon Funds

    85  

Privacy Policy

    92  

Additional Fund Information

    Back Cover  


President’s Message

 

 

LOGO  

Dear Shareholders,

 

In recent months, you’ve likely seen and heard news reports about disruptive headwinds in the global economy – including the U.S. trade war with China and its toll on the global economy, slowing global growth, the Federal Reserve’s series of rate cuts, Brexit, disruptions in the Middle East and protests in Hong Kong – and watched a flood of reaction in the world’s markets.

 

As Peter L. Bernstein said in his treatise on risk, Against the Gods: The Remarkable Story of Risk, published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. in September 1998, “Volatility is a proxy for uncertainty and must be accommodated in measuring investment risk.”

 

During times of economic uncertainty and market volatility, fear of loss can be a powerful emotion – one that drives many investors to making short-term decisions subject to a variety of potential error-leading biases. Unfortunately, some short-term investment decisions may create more volatility rather than mitigate it.

Instead of dwelling on the markets’ short-term reaction to waves of negative global news, we encourage investors to focus on the horizon instead. Long-term investing isn’t about identifying and anticipating the next big market move, it is about identifying the right investment products for riding out those moves. As a long-term investor, you should keep in mind the three Ds: direction, discipline and diversification.

 

u  

Direction: Achieving your long-term financial goals requires an individualized plan of action. You may want your plan to provide some measure of protection against periods of geopolitical turmoil, economic uncertainty, market volatility and job insecurity. Your plan should be reviewed annually and be adjusted in the event your long-range needs change.

 

u  

Discipline: Long-term, systematic participation in an investment portfolio requires your resolution to stay the course. Spending time in the market – rather than trying to time the market – may place you in a better position to reach your long-term financial goals.

 

u  

Diversification: By investing in different investment styles and asset classes, you may be able to help mitigate financial risks across your investment portfolio. By allocating your investment portfolio according to your risk-tolerance level, you may be better positioned to weather storms and achieve your long-term financial goals.

Since 1986, American Beacon has endeavored to provide investors with a disciplined approach to realizing long-term financial goals. As a manager of managers, we strive to provide investment products that may enable investors to participate during market upswings while potentially insulating against market downswings.

Many of the sub-advisors to our mutual funds pursue upside capture and/or downside protection using proprietary strategies. The investment teams behind our mutual funds seek to produce consistent, long-term results rather than focus only on short-term movements in the markets. In managing our investment products, we emphasize identifying opportunities that offer the potential for long-term rewards.

Our management approach is more than a concept; it’s the cornerstone of our culture. And we strive to apply it at every turn as we seek to provide a well-diversified line of investment solutions to help our shareholders seek long-term rewards while mitigating volatility and risk.

Thank you for your continued interest in American Beacon. For additional information about our investment products or to access your account information, please visit our website at www.americanbeaconfunds.com.

Best Regards,

 

LOGO

Gene L. Needles, Jr.

President

American Beacon Funds

 

 

1


Domestic Bond and Domestic Equity Market Overviews

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

Domestic Bond Market Overview

During the 12 months ended October 31, 2019, the Federal Reserve (the “Fed”) hiked the federal funds rate in December 2018, paused for the first half of 2019, and then cut the rate three times in as many meetings. The most recent meeting, held at the end of October, saw the Fed vote to cut its target rate to a range of 1.50% to 1.75%. However, the Fed also indicated its “midcycle adjustment” was complete. The official statement changed with regard to future actions by removing the phrase “will act as appropriate to sustain the expansion,” which was added in advance of the recent rate cuts, addressing economic “uncertainties” and “muted inflation pressures.” Fed Chairman Jerome Powell was more explicit about the completion of the midcycle adjustment at his October press conference when he said further easing would only be needed if developments forced a “material reassessment” of the outlook. He was likely encouraged by recent developments on global trade since U.S. officials indicated they were “close to finalizing” sections of the Phase One agreement with China and the European Union granted the U.K. a Brexit extension. Additionally, the first release of third quarter GDP was reported at 1.9%, which surprised to the upside on solid consumer spending.

Multiple rate cuts from the Fed and uncertainties around global trade caused interest rates to decline and the yield curve to steepen during the period. The 10-year Treasury yield fell 145 basis points (or 1.45%) to 1.69%. The two-year Treasury yield declined 132 basis points (or 1.32%) to 1.52%, and the 30-year Treasury yield declined 121 basis points (or 1.21%) to 2.17%. These moves caused the two- to 30-year Treasury yield spread to increase by 11 basis points (or 0.11%) to 65 basis points (or 0.65%).

With the decline in rates during the year, the bond market posted a positive return of 11.51%, according to the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index. Spread product was mostly in favor over the period as three of the four spread sectors posted positive excess returns. The leader was the corporate sector with an excess return of 232 basis points (or 2.32%). The agency and asset-backed sectors followed with excess returns of 107 basis points (or 1.07%) and 59 basis points (or 0.59%), respectively. The laggard was the mortgage-backed sector with a negative excess return of -11 basis points (or -0.11%). Overall, the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index had an excess return of 63 basis points (or 0.63%) for the period.

Domestic Equity Market Overview

For the 12-month period ended October 31, 2019, the U.S. equity markets rallied strongly after a depressed start to the period that saw market volatility spike to its highest level in seven years during the fourth quarter of 2018. The S&P 500 Index and the Dow Jones Industrial Average returned 14.33% and 10.32%, respectively, for the period. Growth broadly outperformed Value across all market caps; the Russell 1000 Growth Index and the Russell 1000 Value Index returned 17.10% and 11.21%, respectively, and the Russell Midcap Growth Index and the Russell Midcap Value Index returned 18.93% and 10.08%, respectively. Large and mid-cap stocks also did significantly better than small-cap stocks; the Russell 1000 Index returned 14.15% and the Russell Midcap Index returned 13.72%, compared to the Russell 2000 Index return of 4.90%.

All of this occurred in an environment that saw rising fears of economic recession as the current expansion entered its 11th year, intensified by the effects of an escalating trade war, as well as concerns over the ability of the Fed policy to forestall the effects of an economic downturn. Feeding these uncertainties, growth slowed during the period as the third quarter’s gross domestic product decelerated to 1.9% from its peak rate of 3.5% in the second quarter of 2018. Corporate earnings growth also slowed with profit growth.

The Fed did alter its policy course at year end 2018 and began lowering the federal funds rate in the third quarter of 2019. At the same time, the economic strength underlying the U.S. economy remained resilient with the September unemployment rate at 3.5%, a 40-year low. In addition, the consumer continued to show good strength with both income and expenditures growing at healthy rates. Also, ongoing tariff negotiations between the U.S. and China are providing hope to prospects of settlement. Collectively, all of these factors kept the markets positive going into the fiscal year end.

 

 

2


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

The Investor Class of the American Beacon Balanced Fund (the “Fund”) returned 10.50% for the twelve months ended October 31, 2019, underperforming the 60% Russell 1000® Value Index/40% Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index (“Balanced Composite Index”) return of 11.82% for the same period.

Comparison of Change in Value of a $10,000 Investment for the period from 10/31/2009 through 10/31/2019

 

 

LOGO

 

Total Returns for the Period ended October 31, 2019

 

   

Ticker

 

1 Year

 

3 Years

 

5 Years

 

10 Years

 

Value of $10,000

10/31/2009-

10/31/2019

Institutional Class (1,7)

  AADBX       10.89 %       9.00 %       5.98 %       8.98 %     $ 23,623

Y Class (1,2,7)

  ACBYX       10.75 %       9.04 %       5.95 %       8.90 %     $ 23,456

Investor Class (1,7)

  AABPX       10.50 %       8.70 %       5.65 %       8.62 %     $ 22,867

Advisor Class (1,7)

  ABLSX       10.34 %       8.54 %       5.48 %       8.45 %     $ 22,509

A Class without sales charge (1,3,7)

  ABFAX       10.54 %       8.70 %       5.62 %       8.55 %     $ 22,712

A Class with sales charge (1,3,7)

  ABFAX       4.16 %       6.57 %       4.38 %       7.91 %     $ 21,404

C Class without sales charge (1,4,7)

  ABCCX       9.63 %       7.89 %       4.84 %       7.79 %     $ 21,176

C Class with sales charge (1,4,7)

  ABCCX       8.63 %       7.89 %       4.84 %       7.79 %     $ 21,176
                     

Balanced Composite Index (5)

        11.82 %       7.81 %       6.05 %       8.85 %     $ 23,342

Russell 1000® Value Index (6)

        11.21 %       10.51 %       7.61 %       11.96 %     $ 30,959

Bloomberg Barclays US Aggregate Bond Index (6)

        11.51 %       3.29 %       3.24 %       3.73 %     $ 14,421

 

1.

Performance shown is historical and is not indicative of future returns. Investment returns and principal value will vary, and shares may be worth more or less at redemption than at original purchase. Performance shown is calculated based on the published end of day net asset values as of date indicated, and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. To obtain performance as of the most recent month end, please visit www.americanbeaconfunds.com or call 1-800-967-9009. Fund performance in the table above does not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder would pay on distributions or the redemption of shares. Generally accepted accounting principles require adjustments to be made to the net assets of the Fund at period end for financial reporting purposes only; and as such, the total return based on the unadjusted net asset value per share may differ from the total return reported in the financial highlights.

 

 

3


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

 

2.

Fund performance for the ten-year period represents the total returns achieved by the Institutional Class from 10/31/09 up to 3/1/10, the inception date of the Y Class, and the returns of the Y Class since its inception. Expenses of the Y Class are higher than those of the Institutional Class. Therefore, total returns shown may be higher than they would have been had the Y Class been in existence since 10/31/09. A portion of the fees charged to the Y Class of the Fund was waived in 2011, partially recovered in 2013 and fully recovered in 2014. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than the actual returns shown for 2011.

 

3.

Fund performance for the ten-year period represents the total returns achieved by the Investor Class from 10/31/09 up to 5/17/10, the inception date of the A Class, and the returns of the A Class since its inception. Expenses of the A Class are higher than those of the Investor Class. Therefore, total returns shown may be higher than they would have been had the A Class been in existence since 10/31/09. A portion of the fees charged to the A Class of the Fund was waived in 2011 and 2012, partially recovered in 2013, fully recovered in 2014 and waived in 2018. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than the actual returns shown for 2011, 2012 and 2018. A Class has a maximum sales charge of 5.75%.

 

4.

Fund performance for the ten-year period represents the total returns achieved by the Investor Class from 10/31/09 up to 9/1/10, the inception date of the C Class, and the returns of the C Class since its inception. Expenses of the C Class are higher than those of the Investor Class. Therefore, total returns shown may be higher than they would have been had the C Class been in existence since 10/31/09. A portion of the fees charged to the C Class of the Fund was waived from 2010 through 2012, partially recovered in 2013, fully recovered in 2014 and waived in 2018. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than the actual returns shown for 2010 through 2012 and for 2018. The maximum contingent deferred sales charge for C Class is 1% for shares redeemed within one year of the date of purchase.

 

5.

To reflect the Fund’s allocation of its assets between investment-grade fixed-income securities and equity securities, the returns of the Russell 1000 Value Index and the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index have been combined in a 60% / 40% proportion.

 

6.

The Russell 1000 Value Index is an unmanaged index of those stocks in the Russell 1000 Index with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted values. Russell 1000 Value Index and Russell 1000 Index are registered trademarks of Frank Russell Company. Frank Russell Company (“Russell”) is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks and copyrights related to the Russell Indexes. Russell® is a trademark of Frank Russell Company. Neither Russell nor its licensors accept any liability for any errors or omissions in the Russell Indexes and/or Russell ratings or underlying data, and no party may rely on any Russell Indexes and/or Russell ratings and/or underlying data contained in this communication. No further distribution of Russell Data is permitted without Russell’s express written consent. Russell does not promote, sponsor or endorse the content of this communication. The Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index is a market value weighted index of government, corporate, mortgage-backed and asset-backed fixed-rate debt securities of all maturities. One cannot directly invest in an index.

 

7.

The Total Annual Fund Operating Expense ratios set forth in the most recent Fund prospectus for the Institutional, Y, Investor, Advisor, A, and C Class shares were 0.62%, 0.70%, 0.95%, 1.12%, 0.91% and 1.66%, respectively. The expense ratios above may vary from the expense ratios presented in other sections of this report that are based on expenses incurred during the period covered by this report.

During the twelve-month period, the Fund’s assets on average were invested 63% in equities (including equitized cash) and 37% in fixed-income securities, ending the period with 61% in equities (including equitized cash) and 39% in fixed-income securities.

The equity portion of the Fund (excluding equitized cash) returned 10.0% for the period, underperforming the Russell 1000 Value Index (the “Index”) return of 11.2%. The Fund underperformed the Index as sector allocation outweighed the benefits gained from stock selection relative to the Index.

Stock selection in the Consumer Discretionary and Financials sectors contributed the majority of the positive relative performance during the twelve-month period. In the Consumer Discretionary sector, the Fund’s position in Dollar General Corp. (up 44.6%) and PulteGroup, Inc. (up 63.9%) were the biggest additives. In the Financials sector, American International Group, Inc. (up 33.8%) and The Blackstone Group LP (up 49.5%) performed well. Conversely, positions in Altria Group Inc. (down 26.2%) and Imperial Brands PLC, Sponsored ADR (down 29.0%) both detracted from performance with the Consumer Staples sector.

The Fund’s overweight to Energy (down 12.3%) and underweight to Real Estate (up 25.2%) hurt performance the most through sector allocation. On the other side, being overweight in Information Technology (up 20.0%) helped buoy some of the Fund’s relative underperformance.

The fixed-income portion of the Fund returned 13.0% for the twelve-month period, outperforming the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index (the “Barclays Index”) return of 11.5%. The Fund’s fixed-income excess performance relative to the Barclays Index was due to both sector allocation and security selection. The Fund’s selections in U.S. Treasuries (up 13.9%) and Consumer Corporates (up 25.7%) added relative value. Also, an

 

 

4


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

underweight to Mortgage-Backed Securities (“MBS”) (up 9.1%) and an overweight to Manufacturing (up 14.7%), within Corporates, also benefited the Fund. From a duration perspective, the portfolio was helped most by an overweight allocation in the 10 to 30 year maturity and an underweight allocation in the 1 to 3 year maturity range.

The sub-advisors continue to focus on the disciplined selection of attractive securities that should allow the Fund to benefit long-term.

 

Top Ten Holdings (% Net Assets)

 

U.S. Treasury Notes/Bonds, 1.766%, Due 4/30/2021, (3-mo. Treasury money market yield + 0.139%)           5.1  
U.S. Treasury Notes/Bonds, 1.857%, Due 7/31/2021, (3-mo. Treasury money market yield + 0.220%)           3.9  
Citigroup, Inc.           1.7  
Microsoft Corp.           1.6  
American International Group, Inc.           1.5  
Bank of America Corp.           1.5  
Wells Fargo & Co.           1.5  
General Motors Co.           1.4  
Medtronic PLC           1.4  
Oracle Corp.           1.3  
Total Fund Holdings      491       
       
Sector Allocation (% Equities)

 

Financials           21.6  
Energy           14.3  
Health Care           12.1  
Consumer Discretionary           11.3  
Information Technology           10.8  
Industrials           9.3  
Communication Services           7.2  
Materials           6.0  
Consumer Staples           4.1  
Utilities           3.1  
Real Estate           0.2  
       
Sector Allocation (% Fixed Income)

 

U.S. Treasury Obligations           44.0  
U.S. Agency Mortgage-Backed Obligations           14.3  
Financial           10.3  
Technology           7.0  
Consumer, Non-Cyclical           4.5  
Communications           4.4  
Energy           3.4  
Industrial           2.8  
Utilities           2.7  
Consumer, Cyclical           2.3  
Commercial Mortgage-Backed Obligations           1.7  
Asset-Backed Obligations           1.4  
Basic Materials           0.7  
Foreign Sovereign Obligations           0.4  
Collateralized Mortgage Obligations           0.1  

 

 

5


American Beacon Mid-Cap Value FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

The Investor Class of the American Beacon Mid-Cap Value Fund (the “Fund”) returned 6.79% for the twelve months ended October 31, 2019, underperforming the Russell Midcap® Value Index (the “Index”) return of 10.08% for the same period.

Comparison of Change in Value of a $10,000 Investment for the period from 10/31/2009 through 10/31/2019

 

 

LOGO

 

Total Returns for the Period ended October 31, 2019

 

      
      

Ticker

    

1 Year

  

3 Years

  

5 Years

  

10 Years

    

Value of $10,000

10/31/2009-

10/31/2019

Institutional Class (1,3,10)

     AACIX          7.08 %        7.53 %        5.51 %        11.57 %        $ 29,899

Y Class (1,4,10)

     ACMYX          7.04 %        7.46 %        5.46 %        11.51 %        $ 29,716

Investor Class (1,2,10)

     AMPAX          6.79 %        7.29 %        5.27 %        11.38 %        $ 29,390

Advisor Class (1,5,10)

     AMCSX          6.50 %        6.98 %        4.97 %        10.98 %        $ 28,354

A Class without sales charge (1,6,10)

     ABMAX          6.64 %        7.09 %        5.11 %        11.09 %        $ 28,617

A Class with sales charge (1,6,10)

     ABMAX          0.54 %        4.99 %        3.87 %        10.43 %        $ 26,970

C Class without sales charge (1,7,10)

     AMCCX          5.94 %        6.37 %        4.36 %        10.35 %        $ 26,784

C Class with sales charge (1,7,10)

     AMCCX          4.94 %        6.37 %        4.36 %        10.35 %        $ 26,784

R6 Class (1,8,10)

     AMDRX          7.15 %        7.55 %        5.53 %        11.58 %        $ 29,919
                                 

Russell Midcap® Value Index (9)

     AMDRX          10.08 %        8.90 %        6.95 %        12.90 %        $ 33,652

 

1.

Performance shown is historical and is not indicative of future returns. Investment returns and principal value will vary, and shares may be worth more or less at redemption than at original purchase. Performance shown is calculated based on the published end of day net asset values as of date indicated, and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. To obtain performance as of the most recent month end, please visit www.americanbeaconfunds.com or call 1-800-967-9009. Fund performance in the table above does not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder would pay on distributions or the redemption of shares. Generally accepted accounting principles require adjustments to be made to the net assets of the Fund at period end for financial reporting purposes only; and as such, the total return based on the unadjusted net asset value per share may differ from the total return reported in the financial highlights.

 

2.

A portion of the fees charged to the Investor Class of the Fund was waived from 2006 through 2013 and fully recovered in 2014. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than actual returns shown for 2006 to 2013.

 

 

6


American Beacon Mid-Cap Value FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

 

3.

A portion of the fees charged to the Institutional Class of the Fund was waived from 2005 through 2013 and fully recovered in 2014. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than actual returns shown for 2005 to 2013.

 

4.

Fund performance for the ten-year period represents the total returns achieved by the Institutional Class from 10/31/09 up to 3/1/10, the inception date of the Y Class and the returns of the Y Class since its inception. Expenses of the Institutional Class are lower than those of the Y Class. As a result, total returns shown may be higher than they would have been had the Y Class been in existence since 10/31/09. A portion of the fees charged to the Y Class of the Fund was waived from 2010 through 2013. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than the actual returns shown for 2010 through 2013.

 

5.

A portion of the fees charged to the Advisor Class of the Fund was waived from 2007 through 2013 and fully recovered in 2014. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than the actual returns shown for 2007 to 2013.

 

6.

Fund performance for the ten-year period represents the total returns achieved by the Investor Class from 10/31/09 to 5/17/10, the inception date of the A Class, and the returns of the A Class since its inception. Expenses of the Investor Class are lower than those of the A Class. As a result, total returns shown may be higher than they would have been had the A Class been in existence since 10/31/09. A portion of the fees charged to the A Class of the Fund was waived for 2010 through 2012 and fully recovered in 2013. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than the actual returns shown from 2010 through 2012. A Class shares have a maximum sales charge of 5.75%.

 

7.

Fund performance for the ten-year period represents the total returns achieved by the Investor Class from 10/31/09 to 9/1/10, the inception date of the C Class, and the returns of the C Class since its inception. Expenses of the Investor Class are lower than those of the C Class. As a result, total returns shown may be higher than they would have been had the C Class been in existence since 10/31/09. A portion of the fees charged to the C Class of the Fund was waived from 2010 through 2013 and fully recovered in 2014. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than the actual returns shown for 2010 through 2013. The maximum contingent deferred sales charge for C Class is 1.00% for shares redeemed within one year of the date of purchase.

 

8.

Fund performance for the three-year, five-year and ten-year periods represents the returns achieved by the Institutional Class from 10/31/09 through 2/28/18, the inception date of the R6 Class, and the returns of the R6 Class since its inception. Expenses of the R6 Class are lower than those of the Institutional Class. As a result, total returns shown may be lower than they would have been had the R6 Class been in existence since 10/31/09. A portion of fees charged to the R6 Class of the Fund has been waived since Class inception. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than actual returns shown since inception.

 

9.

The Russell Midcap Value Index is an unmanaged index of those stocks in the Russell Midcap Index with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values. The Russell Midcap Index measures the performance of the 800 smallest companies in the Russell 1000 Index. Russell Midcap Value Index, Russell Midcap Index and Russell 1000 Index are registered trademarks of Frank Russell Company. Frank Russell Company (“Russell”) is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks and copyrights related to the Russell Indexes. Russell® is a trademark of Frank Russell Company. Neither Russell nor its licensors accept any liability for any errors or omissions in the Russell Indexes and/or Russell ratings or underlying data, and no party may rely on any Russell Indexes and/or Russell ratings and/or underlying data contained in this communication. No further distribution of Russell Data is permitted without Russell’s express written consent. Russell does not promote, sponsor or endorse the content of this communication. One cannot directly invest in an index.

 

10.

The Total Annual Fund Operating Expense ratios set forth in the most recent Fund prospectus for the Institutional, Y, Investor, Advisor, A, C, and R6 Class shares were 0.86%, 0.94%, 1.13%, 1.40%, 1.26%, 1.88% and 3.10%, respectively. The expense ratios above may vary from the expense ratios presented in other sections of this report that are based on expenses incurred during the period covered by this report.

The Fund trailed the Index due to sector allocation, while stock selection added value for the period.

In sector allocation, the Fund’s overweight position in Energy, the worst performing sector in the Index, was the primary driver of underperformance. Underweights to Real Estate and Utilities, two of the best performers for the Index, further detracted from relative returns. Offsetting some of this underperformance were underweight positions in the Health Care and Consumer Staples sectors, both of which were low performing sectors for the Index.

From a stock selection perspective, the Fund’s relative outperformance was driven by holdings in the Financials, Industrials, and Consumer Discretionary sectors. Within Financials, Fidelity National Financial, Inc. was up 40.8%, Apollo Global Management, Inc. was up 51.0%, and Willis Towers Watson PLC was up 32.0%. Companies in the Industrials sector adding to relative performance included Transdigm Group, Inc. (up 72.3%) and Carlisle Cos., Inc. (up 50.1%). In Consumer Discretionary, the Fund avoided Index-position Tapestry, Inc. (down 36.1%), while holdings in Aaron’s, Inc. and Dollar General Corp. were up 58.9% and 45.7%, respectively. Offsetting this performance were positions in the Utilities and Real Estate sectors. Within Utilities, PG&E Corp. was down 67.4% for the period. In the Real Estate sector, Realogy Holdings Corp. was down 55.7%, and the Fund did not hold Index-position Camden Property Trust, which was up 30.7% for the year.

The sub-advisors’ philosophy of investing in undervalued companies that exhibit improving profitability and earnings growth potential should allow the Fund to benefit longer term.

 

 

7


American Beacon Mid-Cap Value FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

Top Ten Holdings (% Net Assets)

 

Axis Capital Holdings Ltd.           2.3  
Fidelity National Financial, Inc.           1.9  
Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.           1.8  
Fifth Third Bancorp           1.7  
Marvell Technology Group Ltd.           1.6  
MGM Growth Properties LLC, Class A           1.6  
TransDigm Group, Inc.           1.5  
Universal Health Services, Inc., Class B           1.4  
Halliburton Co.           1.3  
Wabtec Corp.           1.3  
Total Fund Holdings      114       
       
Sector Allocation (% Equities)

 

Financials           22.8  
Industrials           18.7  
Consumer Discretionary           17.3  
Energy           8.2  
Information Technology           7.8  
Real Estate           7.5  
Utilities           6.0  
Health Care           4.9  
Materials           4.5  
Communication Services           1.8  
Consumer Staples           0.5  

 

 

8


American Beacon FundsSM

Expense Examples

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

Fund Expense Example

As a shareholder of a Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption fees if applicable, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees, distribution (12b-1) fees, sub-transfer agent fees, and other Fund expenses. The Examples are intended to help you understand the ongoing cost (in dollars) of investing in the Funds and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period in each Class and held for the entire period from May 1, 2019 through October 31, 2019.

Actual Expenses

The “Actual” lines on the tables provide information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information on this page, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the “Expenses Paid During Period” for the applicable Fund to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period. Shareholders of the Investor and Institutional Classes that invest in the Fund through an IRA or Roth IRA may be subject to a custodial IRA fee of $15 that is typically deducted each December. If your account was subject to a custodial IRA fee during the period, your costs would have been $15 higher.

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The “Hypothetical” line of the tables provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed 5% per year rate of return before expenses (not the Fund’s actual return). You may compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Funds with other funds by contrasting this 5% hypothetical example and the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. Shareholders of the Investor and Institutional Classes that invest in the Funds through an IRA or Roth IRA may be subject to a custodial IRA fee of $15 that is typically deducted each December. If your account was subject to a custodial IRA fee during the period, your costs would have been $15 higher.

You should also be aware that the expenses shown in the table highlight only your ongoing costs and do not reflect any transaction costs charged by the Funds, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption fees, as applicable. Similarly, the expense examples for other funds do not reflect any transaction costs charged by those funds, such as sales charges (loads), redemption fees or exchange fees. Therefore, the “Hypothetical” lines of the tables are useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. If you were subject to any transaction costs during the period, your costs would have been higher.

 

 

9


American Beacon FundsSM

Expense Examples

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

American Beacon Balanced Fund            
    Beginning Account Value
5/1/2019
  Ending Account Value
10/31/2019
  Expenses Paid During
Period
5/1/2019-10/31/2019*
Institutional Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,039.30       $3.44
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,021.83       $3.41
Y Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,038.00       $3.85
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,021.43       $3.82
Investor Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,037.30       $5.14
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,020.16       $5.09
Advisor Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,036.60       $5.95
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,019.36       $5.90
A Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,037.40       $5.19
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,020.11       $5.14
C Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,033.00       $9.02
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,016.33       $8.94

 

*

Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratios for the six-month period of 0.67%, 0.75%, 1.00%, 1.16%, 1.01%, and 1.76% for the Institutional, Y, Investor, Advisor, A, and C Classes, respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number derived by dividing the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year (184) by days in the year (365) to reflect the half-year period.

**

5% return before expenses.

 

American Beacon Mid-Cap Value Fund            
    Beginning Account Value
5/1/2019
  Ending Account Value
10/31/2019
  Expenses Paid During
Period
5/1/2019-10/31/2019*
Institutional Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $995.50       $4.98
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,020.22       $5.04
Y Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $996.10       $5.18
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,020.01       $5.24
Investor Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $994.90       $6.24
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,018.96       $6.31
Advisor Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $993.40       $7.59
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,017.59       $7.68
A Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $993.40       $7.54
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,017.64       $7.63
C Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $990.40       $10.33
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,014.82       $10.46
R6 Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $996.10       $4.18
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,021.02       $4.23

 

*

Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratios for the six-month period of 0.99%, 1.03%, 1.24%, 1.51%, 1.50%, 2.06%, and 0.83% for the Institutional, Y, Investor, Advisor, A, C, and R6 Classes, respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number derived by dividing the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year (184) by days in the year (365) to reflect the half-year period.

**

5% return before expenses.

 

 

10


American Beacon FundsSM

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

 

To the Shareholders and the Board of Trustees of

American Beacon Balanced Fund and American Beacon Mid-Cap Value Fund

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities of American Beacon Balanced Fund and American Beacon Mid-Cap Value Fund (collectively referred to as the “Funds”), (two of the funds constituting American Beacon Funds (the “Trust”)), including the schedules of investments, as of October 31, 2019, and the related statements of operations for the year then ended, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds at October 31, 2019, the results of their operations for the year then ended, the changes in their net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended and their financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Basis for Opinion

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

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Trust is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of October 31, 2019, by correspondence with the custodian and brokers or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from brokers were not received. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

LOGO

We have served as the auditor of one or more American Beacon investment companies since 1987.

Dallas, Texas

December 30, 2019

 

 

11


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 58.93%            
Communication Services - 4.26%            
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 0.82%            
AT&T, Inc.       55,073         $ 2,119,760
           

 

 

 
           
Interactive Media & Services - 0.74%            
Alphabet, Inc., Class AA       690           868,572
Facebook, Inc., Class AA       5,500           1,054,075
           

 

 

 
              1,922,647
           

 

 

 
           
Media - 2.27%            
CBS Corp., Class B, NVDR       11,852           427,146
Comcast Corp., Class A       67,029           3,004,240
Discovery, Inc., Class CA       44,799           1,130,727
Interpublic Group of Cos., Inc.       13,000           282,750
News Corp., Class A       55,500           760,905
Omnicom Group, Inc.       3,586           276,803
           

 

 

 
              5,882,571
           

 

 

 
           
Wireless Telecommunication Services - 0.43%            
Vodafone Group PLC, Sponsored ADRB       54,132           1,105,375
           

 

 

 
           

Total Communication Services

              11,030,353
           

 

 

 
           
Consumer Discretionary - 6.66%            
Auto Components - 0.97%            
Adient PLC       15,732           333,361
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.       30,759           488,145
Magna International, Inc.       31,427           1,689,830
           

 

 

 
              2,511,336
           

 

 

 
           
Automobiles - 1.58%            
General Motors Co.       99,391           3,693,370
Harley-Davidson, Inc.       10,541           410,150
           

 

 

 
              4,103,520
           

 

 

 
           
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 0.63%            
Aramark       25,988           1,137,235
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.A       9,565           485,519
           

 

 

 
              1,622,754
           

 

 

 
           
Household Durables - 0.99%            
DR Horton, Inc.       13,011           681,386
Mohawk Industries, Inc.A       6,800           974,984
PulteGroup, Inc.       23,100           906,444
           

 

 

 
              2,562,814
           

 

 

 
           
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 0.17%            
eBay, Inc.       12,200           430,050
           

 

 

 
           
Multiline Retail - 1.11%            
Dollar General Corp.       17,867           2,864,795
           

 

 

 
           
Specialty Retail - 1.21%            
Advance Auto Parts, Inc.       6,195           1,006,564
Lowe’s Cos., Inc.       19,078           2,129,295
           

 

 

 
              3,135,859
           

 

 

 
           

Total Consumer Discretionary

              17,231,128
           

 

 

 
           

 

See accompanying notes

 

12


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 58.93% (continued)            
Consumer Staples - 2.42%            
Beverages - 0.43%            
Molson Coors Brewing Co., Class B       21,000         $ 1,107,120
           

 

 

 
           
Food Products - 0.82%            
Ingredion, Inc.       9,200           726,800
Mondelez International, Inc., Class A       7,800           409,110
Tyson Foods, Inc., Class A       12,100           1,001,759
           

 

 

 
              2,137,669
           

 

 

 
           
Personal Products - 0.30%            
Unilever PLC, Sponsored ADR       12,900           775,419
           

 

 

 
           
Tobacco - 0.87%            
Altria Group, Inc.       17,589           787,812
Imperial Brands PLC, Sponsored ADR       22,104           486,288
Philip Morris International, Inc.       12,039           980,456
           

 

 

 
              2,254,556
           

 

 

 
           

Total Consumer Staples

              6,274,764
           

 

 

 
           
Energy - 8.40%            
Energy Equipment & Services - 1.40%            
Halliburton Co.       69,700           1,341,725
National Oilwell Varco, Inc.       46,100           1,042,782
Schlumberger Ltd.       38,000           1,242,220
           

 

 

 
              3,626,727
           

 

 

 
           
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 7.00%            
Apache Corp.       38,814           840,711
BP PLC, Sponsored ADR       88,835           3,367,735
Canadian Natural Resources Ltd.       69,565           1,754,429
Chevron Corp.       20,060           2,329,768
ConocoPhillips       52,202           2,881,550
Hess Corp.       15,332           1,008,079
Kosmos Energy Ltd.       34,869           216,188
Marathon Oil Corp.       76,931           887,015
Marathon Petroleum Corp.       7,531           481,608
Murphy Oil Corp.B       29,575           610,132
Phillips 66       18,747           2,190,025
Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class A, Sponsored ADR       13,835           802,015
Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class B, Sponsored ADR       12,500           728,625
           

 

 

 
              18,097,880
           

 

 

 
           

Total Energy

              21,724,607
           

 

 

 
           
Financials - 12.73%            
Banks - 6.75%            
Banco Santander S.A., Sponsored ADRB       156,400           619,344
Bank of America Corp.       123,578           3,864,284
CIT Group, Inc.       5,850           250,906
Citigroup, Inc.       59,266           4,258,855
Citizens Financial Group, Inc.       23,068           811,071
Fifth Third Bancorp       9,800           284,984
JPMorgan Chase & Co.       27,262           3,405,569
Wells Fargo & Co.       77,032           3,977,162
           

 

 

 
              17,472,175
           

 

 

 
           

 

See accompanying notes

 

13


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 58.93% (continued)            
Financials - 12.73% (continued)            
Capital Markets - 1.48%            
Bank of New York Mellon Corp.       5,915         $ 276,526
E*TRADE Financial Corp.       12,500           522,375
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.       7,697           1,642,386
Morgan Stanley       12,037           554,304
State Street Corp.       12,706           839,485
           

 

 

 
              3,835,076
           

 

 

 
           
Consumer Finance - 1.11%            
Capital One Financial Corp.       11,929           1,112,379
Discover Financial Services       6,200           497,612
Navient Corp.       32,214           443,587
SLM Corp.       96,249           812,342
           

 

 

 
              2,865,920
           

 

 

 
           
Diversified Financial Services - 1.04%            
AXA Equitable Holdings, Inc.       37,100           801,360
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class BA       8,849           1,881,121
           

 

 

 
              2,682,481
           

 

 

 
           
Insurance - 1.84%            
American International Group, Inc.       74,608           3,951,240
Travelers Cos., Inc.       6,257           820,042
           

 

 

 
              4,771,282
           

 

 

 
           
Mortgage Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) - 0.51%            
Annaly Capital Management, Inc.       91,900           825,262
Two Harbors Investment Corp.       35,200           488,224
           

 

 

 
              1,313,486
           

 

 

 
           

Total Financials

              32,940,420
           

 

 

 
           
Health Care - 7.14%            
Biotechnology - 0.52%            
AbbVie, Inc.       7,100           564,805
Biogen, Inc.A       1,072           320,217
Gilead Sciences, Inc.       7,420           472,728
           

 

 

 
              1,357,750
           

 

 

 
           
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 1.73%            
Medtronic PLC       32,468           3,535,765
Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.       6,732           930,565
           

 

 

 
              4,466,330
           

 

 

 
           
Health Care Providers & Services - 1.86%            
Anthem, Inc.       6,673           1,795,571
Centene Corp.A       5,800           307,864
CVS Health Corp.       27,922           1,853,741
HCA Healthcare, Inc.       2,200           293,788
UnitedHealth Group, Inc.       2,200           555,940
           

 

 

 
              4,806,904
           

 

 

 
           
Pharmaceuticals - 3.03%            
AstraZeneca PLC, Sponsored ADR       11,700           573,651
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.       23,993           1,376,478
GlaxoSmithKline PLC, Sponsored ADR       18,743           858,429
Horizon Therapeutics PLCA       11,812           341,485

 

See accompanying notes

 

14


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 58.93% (continued)            
Health Care - 7.14% (continued)            
Pharmaceuticals - 3.03% (continued)            
Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLCA       3,793         $ 476,515
Johnson & Johnson       5,500           726,220
Merck & Co., Inc.       12,385           1,073,284
Mylan N.V.A       15,744           301,498
Pfizer, Inc.       23,600           905,532
Sanofi, ADR       26,011           1,198,587
           

 

 

 
              7,831,679
           

 

 

 
           

Total Health Care

              18,462,663
           

 

 

 
           
Industrials - 5.48%            
Aerospace & Defense - 0.88%            
Embraer S.A., Sponsored ADR       9,024           156,747
General Dynamics Corp.       2,533           447,834
Raytheon Co.       4,957           1,051,925
United Technologies Corp.       4,338           622,850
           

 

 

 
              2,279,356
           

 

 

 
           
Air Freight & Logistics - 0.21%            
FedEx Corp.       3,600           549,576
           

 

 

 
           
Airlines - 0.45%            
American Airlines Group, Inc.       38,561           1,159,144
           

 

 

 
           
Building Products - 0.67%            
Johnson Controls International PLC       40,114           1,738,140
           

 

 

 
           
Construction & Engineering - 0.09%            
Fluor Corp.       13,600           219,096
           

 

 

 
           
Electrical Equipment - 0.17%            
Eaton Corp. PLC       4,883           425,358
           

 

 

 
           
Industrial Conglomerates - 1.74%            
General Electric Co.       331,840           3,311,763
Honeywell International, Inc.       6,949           1,200,301
           

 

 

 
              4,512,064
           

 

 

 
           
Machinery - 0.95%            
CNH Industrial N.V.B       101,180           1,103,874
Cummins, Inc.       6,272           1,081,795
PACCAR, Inc.       3,639           276,782
           

 

 

 
              2,462,451
           

 

 

 
           
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.32%            
AerCap Holdings N.V.A       14,391           832,951
           

 

 

 
           

Total Industrials

              14,178,136
           

 

 

 
           
Information Technology - 6.37%            
Communications Equipment - 0.26%            
Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson, Sponsored ADR       77,020           671,615
           

 

 

 
           
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 0.86%            
Corning, Inc.       39,495           1,170,237
IPG Photonics Corp.A       5,000           671,400

 

See accompanying notes

 

15


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 58.93% (continued)            
Information Technology - 6.37% (continued)            
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 0.86% (continued)            
TE Connectivity Ltd.       4,358         $ 390,041
           

 

 

 
              2,231,678
           

 

 

 
           
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 1.61%            
Marvell Technology Group Ltd.       42,600           1,039,014
NVIDIA Corp.       3,900           783,978
QUALCOMM, Inc.       24,214           1,947,774
Texas Instruments, Inc.       3,300           389,367
           

 

 

 
              4,160,133
           

 

 

 
           
Software - 3.01%            
Microsoft Corp.       28,824           4,132,497
Oracle Corp.       63,899           3,481,856
Teradata Corp.A       5,718           171,140
           

 

 

 
              7,785,493
           

 

 

 
           
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 0.63%            
Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.       98,808           1,621,439
           

 

 

 
           

Total Information Technology

              16,470,358
           

 

 

 
           
Materials - 3.56%            
Chemicals - 2.24%            
Air Products & Chemicals, Inc.       10,485           2,236,031
Corteva, Inc.A       27,072           714,159
Dow, Inc.A       12,001           605,931
DuPont de Nemours, Inc.       16,972           1,118,625
Eastman Chemical Co.       8,785           668,011
Huntsman Corp.       19,900           440,387
           

 

 

 
              5,783,144
           

 

 

 
           
Containers & Packaging - 0.73%            
Crown Holdings, Inc.A       16,235           1,182,557
International Paper Co.       16,225           708,708
           

 

 

 
              1,891,265
           

 

 

 
           
Metals & Mining - 0.59%            
Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.       37,000           363,340
Newmont Goldcorp Corp.       29,500           1,172,035
           

 

 

 
              1,535,375
           

 

 

 
           

Total Materials

              9,209,784
           

 

 

 
           
Real Estate - 0.10%            
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) - 0.10%            
Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc.       6,200           250,232
           

 

 

 
           
Utilities - 1.81%            
Electric Utilities - 1.40%            
Entergy Corp.       15,454           1,877,352
PPL Corp.       35,447           1,187,120
Southern Co.       8,843           554,102
           

 

 

 
              3,618,574
           

 

 

 
           

 

See accompanying notes

 

16


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 58.93% (continued)            
Utilities - 1.81% (continued)            
Multi-Utilities - 0.41%            
Dominion Energy, Inc.       13,060         $ 1,078,103
           

 

 

 
           

Total Utilities

              4,696,677
           

 

 

 
           

Total Common Stocks (Cost $122,984,159)

              152,469,122
           

 

 

 
    Principal Amount        
             
CORPORATE OBLIGATIONS - 11.45%            
Basic Materials - 0.22%            
Dow Chemical Co.,            

4.125%, Due 11/15/2021

    $     145,000           150,266

3.500%, Due 10/1/2024

      264,000           277,089
Nucor Corp.,            

4.125%, Due 9/15/2022

      52,000           54,808

4.000%, Due 8/1/2023

      80,000           84,956
           

 

 

 
              567,119
           

 

 

 
           
Communications - 0.95%            
Amazon.com, Inc., 3.875%, Due 8/22/2037       40,000           45,482
AT&T, Inc.,            

3.400%, Due 5/15/2025

      169,000           177,079

6.000%, Due 8/15/2040

      40,000           50,092

5.350%, Due 9/1/2040

      30,000           35,536
CBS Corp., 3.375%, Due 3/1/2022       337,000           345,330
Charter Communications Operating LLC / Charter Communications Operating Capital, 3.750%, Due 2/15/2028       90,000           92,725
Comcast Corp.,            

3.150%, Due 3/1/2026

      54,000           56,983

4.600%, Due 10/15/2038

      60,000           71,293

6.550%, Due 7/1/2039

      217,000           318,208
Fox Corp., 5.476%, Due 1/25/2039C       55,000           67,636
NBCUniversal Enterprise, Inc., 2.499%, Due 4/1/2021, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.400%)C D       835,000           837,806
Verizon Communications, Inc.,            

2.625%, Due 8/15/2026

      115,000           117,339

4.329%, Due 9/21/2028

      180,000           204,974
Walt Disney Co., 6.400%, Due 12/15/2035C       35,000           50,370
           

 

 

 
              2,470,853
           

 

 

 
           
Consumer, Cyclical - 0.77%            
American Airlines Pass Through Trust, 3.150%, Due 8/15/2033, Series AA       50,000           52,293
American Honda Finance Corp.,            

3.875%, Due 9/21/2020C

      250,000           254,383

3.375%, Due 12/10/2021

      95,000           98,009
Aptiv Corp., 4.150%, Due 3/15/2024       85,000           90,206
Costco Wholesale Corp.,            

2.150%, Due 5/18/2021

      30,000           30,176

2.750%, Due 5/18/2024

      65,000           67,476
Dollar General Corp., 4.125%, Due 5/1/2028       50,000           55,444
Dollar Tree, Inc., 3.700%, Due 5/15/2023       60,000           62,792
General Motors Financial Co., Inc., 3.150%, Due 6/30/2022       90,000           91,403
Home Depot, Inc., 2.700%, Due 4/1/2023       52,000           53,493
Lowe’s Cos., Inc., 2.500%, Due 4/15/2026       110,000           110,421
McDonald’s Corp., 3.700%, Due 1/30/2026       98,000           105,813
O’Reilly Automotive, Inc., 4.350%, Due 6/1/2028       70,000           78,443
Starbucks Corp., 4.000%, Due 11/15/2028       60,000           67,309
Toyota Motor Credit Corp., 3.450%, Due 9/20/2023       100,000           105,979
United Airlines Pass Through Trust, 2.700%, Due 11/1/2033, Series AA       35,000           35,213
Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc., 3.800%, Due 11/18/2024       145,000           153,661
Walmart, Inc.,            

3.400%, Due 6/26/2023

      65,000           68,678

2.375%, Due 9/24/2029

      150,000           151,168

7.550%, Due 2/15/2030

      169,000           247,308
           

 

 

 
              1,979,668
           

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

17


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Principal Amount       Fair Value
             
CORPORATE OBLIGATIONS - 11.45% (continued)            
Consumer, Non-Cyclical - 0.88%            
AbbVie, Inc.,            

3.200%, Due 5/14/2026

    $ 60,000         $ 61,446

4.450%, Due 5/14/2046

      55,000           56,845
Altria Group, Inc., 4.750%, Due 5/5/2021       145,000           150,635
Amgen, Inc., 4.400%, Due 5/1/2045       60,000           67,500
Anthem, Inc., 2.500%, Due 11/21/2020       65,000           65,387
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co., 3.400%, Due 7/26/2029C       650,000           699,131
Cigna Corp., 4.125%, Due 11/15/2025       75,000           81,230
CVS Health Corp.,            

3.700%, Due 3/9/2023

      60,000           62,556

5.050%, Due 3/25/2048

      35,000           40,342
Genzyme Corp., 5.000%, Due 6/15/2020       19,000           19,374
HCA, Inc., 4.125%, Due 6/15/2029       60,000           63,564
Humana, Inc., 3.150%, Due 12/1/2022       80,000           82,099
Kaiser Foundation Hospitals, 4.150%, Due 5/1/2047       25,000           29,380
Kraft Heinz Foods Co., 4.625%, Due 10/1/2039C       25,000           25,545
Medtronic, Inc., 3.500%, Due 3/15/2025       313,000           336,443
Molson Coors Brewing Co., 3.000%, Due 7/15/2026       90,000           90,845
Moody’s Corp., 4.875%, Due 12/17/2048       50,000           62,885
S&P Global, Inc., 4.400%, Due 2/15/2026       50,000           56,018
Shire Acquisitions Investments Ireland DAC, 2.875%, Due 9/23/2023       60,000           61,236
Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc., 3.550%, Due 4/1/2025       85,000           89,903
Zoetis, Inc., 3.000%, Due 9/12/2027       75,000           77,340
           

 

 

 
              2,279,704
           

 

 

 
           
Energy - 0.34%            
BP Capital Markets America, Inc., 3.796%, Due 9/21/2025       50,000           54,060
Columbia Pipeline Group, Inc., 4.500%, Due 6/1/2025       61,000           66,529
Concho Resources, Inc., 4.300%, Due 8/15/2028       60,000           64,746
Enterprise Products Operating LLC, 6.125%, Due 10/15/2039       45,000           58,350
Marathon Petroleum Corp., 5.125%, Due 12/15/2026       45,000           51,427
MPLX LP,            

4.125%, Due 3/1/2027

      55,000           57,722

5.200%, Due 3/1/2047

      26,000           27,896
Occidental Petroleum Corp., 2.900%, Due 8/15/2024       70,000           70,637
ONEOK, Inc., 4.550%, Due 7/15/2028       65,000           70,749
Phillips 66, 4.300%, Due 4/1/2022       87,000           91,920
Phillips 66 Partners LP,            

3.550%, Due 10/1/2026

      28,000           29,251

3.750%, Due 3/1/2028

      50,000           52,507
Spectra Energy Partners LP, 3.375%, Due 10/15/2026       63,000           65,311
Sunoco Logistics Partners Operations LP, 4.250%, Due 4/1/2024       48,000           50,676
Valero Energy Corp., 4.350%, Due 6/1/2028       60,000           65,323
           

 

 

 
              877,104
           

 

 

 
           
Financial - 3.59%            
American Campus Communities Operating Partnership LP, 3.625%, Due 11/15/2027       55,000           57,912
American Express Co.,            

2.887%, Due 11/5/2021, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.600%)D

      420,000           422,222

3.400%, Due 2/27/2023

      70,000           72,968

4.200%, Due 11/6/2025

      115,000           127,122

4.050%, Due 12/3/2042

      45,000           52,405
American International Group, Inc., 4.875%, Due 6/1/2022       289,000           309,877
Bank of America Corp.,            

4.125%, Due 1/22/2024

      193,000           207,499

2.456%, Due 10/22/2025, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.870%)D

      160,000           160,862

6.110%, Due 1/29/2037

      176,000           233,689

5.000%, Due 1/21/2044

      160,000           203,959
Bank of New York Mellon Corp., 3.250%, Due 5/16/2027       110,000           117,152
BB&T Corp., 2.750%, Due 4/1/2022       130,000           132,203
Boston Properties LP,            

3.200%, Due 1/15/2025

      50,000           51,991

2.900%, Due 3/15/2030

      50,000           50,220
Camden Property Trust, 3.150%, Due 7/1/2029       70,000           73,653
Capital One Financial Corp., 3.200%, Due 1/30/2023       95,000           97,628

 

See accompanying notes

 

18


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Principal Amount       Fair Value
             
CORPORATE OBLIGATIONS - 11.45% (continued)            
Financial - 3.59% (continued)            
CBOE Global Markets, Inc., 3.650%, Due 1/12/2027     $ 65,000         $ 69,864
Chubb INA Holdings, Inc., 3.350%, Due 5/3/2026       70,000           75,262
Citigroup, Inc.,            

3.887%, Due 1/10/2028, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.563%)D

      220,000           236,606

5.875%, Due 1/30/2042

      145,000           200,002
CNA Financial Corp., 3.900%, Due 5/1/2029       60,000           65,130
Crown Castle International Corp., 3.400%, Due 2/15/2021       59,000           59,977
Digital Realty Trust LP, 3.700%, Due 8/15/2027       95,000           100,284
ERP Operating LP, 3.000%, Due 4/15/2023       52,000           53,775
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.,            

5.750%, Due 1/24/2022

      385,000           414,879

2.908%, Due 6/5/2023, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.053%)D

      140,000           142,321

3.500%, Due 1/23/2025

      65,000           67,954

3.272%, Due 9/29/2025, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.201%)D

      65,000           67,206
HCP, Inc., 3.250%, Due 7/15/2026       60,000           62,665
Intercontinental Exchange, Inc., 2.750%, Due 12/1/2020       35,000           35,289
JPMorgan Chase & Co.,            

3.625%, Due 5/13/2024

      434,000           461,541

2.301%, Due 10/15/2025, (SOFRRATE + 1.160%)D

      180,000           179,634

3.782%, Due 2/1/2028, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.337%)D

      100,000           107,561

3.882%, Due 7/24/2038, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.360%)D

      95,000           104,057

5.500%, Due 10/15/2040

      313,000           413,551
KeyCorp, 5.100%, Due 3/24/2021       45,000           46,848
Liberty Mutual Group, Inc.,            

4.250%, Due 6/15/2023C

      25,000           26,534

4.569%, Due 2/1/2029C

      88,000           99,444
MetLife, Inc.,            

6.375%, Due 6/15/2034

      169,000           241,597

4.721%, Due 12/15/2044

      193,000           236,609
Morgan Stanley,            

3.700%, Due 10/23/2024

      145,000           154,268

3.591%, Due 7/22/2028, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.340%)D

      105,000           110,808
PNC Financial Services Group, Inc., 3.500%, Due 1/23/2024       105,000           111,070
Prudential Financial, Inc.,            

4.600%, Due 5/15/2044

      313,000           369,893

4.350%, Due 2/25/2050

      70,000           80,909
Public Storage, 2.370%, Due 9/15/2022       80,000           81,060
Raymond James Financial, Inc., 3.625%, Due 9/15/2026       105,000           109,962
Simon Property Group LP, 3.375%, Due 10/1/2024       313,000           330,566
State Street Corp., 3.300%, Due 12/16/2024       95,000           100,431
SunTrust Bank, 2.450%, Due 8/1/2022       85,000           85,963
TD Ameritrade Holding Corp., 2.750%, Due 10/1/2029       65,000           65,276
Trinity Acquisition PLC, 4.400%, Due 3/15/2026       67,000           72,583
US Bancorp,            

3.375%, Due 2/5/2024

      70,000           73,898

2.400%, Due 7/30/2024

      130,000           132,279
Ventas Realty LP, 5.700%, Due 9/30/2043       40,000           51,913
Visa, Inc., 3.150%, Due 12/14/2025       80,000           85,522
Wells Fargo & Co.,            

2.961%, Due 7/26/2021, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.025%)D

      1,087,000           1,100,261

3.584%, Due 5/22/2028, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.310%)D

      160,000           169,593

4.750%, Due 12/7/2046

      60,000           71,666
           

 

 

 
              9,297,873
           

 

 

 
           
Industrial - 1.05%            
Allegion PLC, 3.500%, Due 10/1/2029       60,000           61,864
BAE Systems Holdings, Inc., 3.800%, Due 10/7/2024C       313,000           331,572
Burlington Northern Santa Fe LLC,            

3.650%, Due 9/1/2025

      65,000           70,816

5.750%, Due 5/1/2040

      202,000           273,322
Caterpillar Financial Services Corp., 2.650%, Due 5/17/2021, Series I       125,000           126,520
CSX Corp., 5.500%, Due 4/15/2041       157,000           196,594
Eaton Corp., 2.750%, Due 11/2/2022       55,000           56,202

 

See accompanying notes

 

19


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Principal Amount       Fair Value
             
CORPORATE OBLIGATIONS - 11.45% (continued)            
Industrial - 1.05% (continued)            
General Electric Co.,            

5.500%, Due 1/8/2020

    $ 120,000         $ 120,727

3.450%, Due 5/15/2024

      70,000           72,192
Ingersoll-Rand Luxembourg Finance S.A., 2.625%, Due 5/1/2020       145,000           145,375
John Deere Capital Corp.,            

1.950%, Due 6/22/2020

      90,000           89,991

2.150%, Due 9/8/2022

      65,000           65,508
Johnson Controls International PLC, 5.000%, Due 3/30/2020       145,000           146,665
Lockheed Martin Corp., 3.550%, Due 1/15/2026       65,000           70,207
Martin Marietta Materials, Inc., 4.250%, Due 12/15/2047       65,000           66,405
Northrop Grumman Corp., 3.850%, Due 4/15/2045       130,000           142,013
Precision Castparts Corp., 3.250%, Due 6/15/2025       65,000           68,804
Republic Services, Inc., 2.500%, Due 8/15/2024       65,000           66,084
Union Pacific Corp., 4.100%, Due 9/15/2067       90,000           93,398
United Technologies Corp.,            

1.900%, Due 5/4/2020

      70,000           70,025

4.125%, Due 11/16/2028

      75,000           85,105

6.125%, Due 7/15/2038

      217,000           300,717
           

 

 

 
              2,720,106
           

 

 

 
           
Technology - 2.64%            
Analog Devices, Inc., 3.900%, Due 12/15/2025       75,000           80,925
Apple, Inc.,            

2.850%, Due 5/11/2024

      170,000           176,644

2.200%, Due 9/11/2029

      300,000           295,062
Broadcom Corp. / Broadcom Cayman Finance Ltd., 3.125%, Due 1/15/2025       60,000           59,948
Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc., 3.400%, Due 6/27/2026       65,000           68,202
Dell International LLC / EMC Corp.,            

4.420%, Due 6/15/2021C

      135,000           139,420

5.300%, Due 10/1/2029C

      1,110,000           1,226,310
Fiserv, Inc., 3.200%, Due 7/1/2026       70,000           73,137
Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co., 6.350%, Due 10/15/2045       1,560,000           1,853,735
HP, Inc., 4.050%, Due 9/15/2022       145,000           153,147
Intel Corp., 3.300%, Due 10/1/2021       86,000           88,465
International Business Machines Corp., 4.250%, Due 5/15/2049       870,000           991,290
Micron Technology, Inc., 5.327%, Due 2/6/2029       1,135,000           1,256,531
Microsoft Corp., 4.450%, Due 11/3/2045       50,000           63,502
Oracle Corp.,            

2.500%, Due 5/15/2022

      115,000           116,785

4.300%, Due 7/8/2034

      112,000           131,252
QUALCOMM, Inc., 2.900%, Due 5/20/2024       55,000           56,815
           

 

 

 
              6,831,170
           

 

 

 
           
Utilities - 1.01%            
American Electric Power Co., Inc., 3.650%, Due 12/1/2021, Series I       80,000           82,635
Appalachian Power Co., 4.500%, Due 3/1/2049, Series Y       30,000           36,278
Berkshire Hathaway Energy Co., 6.125%, Due 4/1/2036       267,000           371,151
Consolidated Edison Co. of New York, Inc.,            

5.500%, Due 12/1/2039, Series 09-C

      169,000           221,507

4.625%, Due 12/1/2054

      55,000           66,032
Delmarva Power & Light Co., 3.500%, Due 11/15/2023       61,000           64,376
Dominion Energy, Inc., 2.579%, Due 7/1/2020       60,000           60,179
DPL, Inc., 7.250%, Due 10/15/2021       144,000           154,080
Duke Energy Corp.,            

3.550%, Due 9/15/2021

      130,000           133,333

3.750%, Due 4/15/2024

      65,000           69,067
Duke Energy Progress LLC, 4.150%, Due 12/1/2044       70,000           80,171
Entergy Louisiana LLC, 4.000%, Due 3/15/2033       47,000           53,940
Florida Power & Light Co., 3.950%, Due 3/1/2048       50,000           58,193
MidAmerican Energy Co., 3.100%, Due 5/1/2027       75,000           79,465
National Fuel Gas Co., 3.950%, Due 9/15/2027       80,000           81,762
National Rural Utilities Cooperative Finance Corp.,            

2.950%, Due 2/7/2024

      65,000           67,271

4.300%, Due 3/15/2049

      50,000           60,050
Nevada Power Co., 2.750%, Due 4/15/2020, Series BB       50,000           50,200

 

See accompanying notes

 

20


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Principal Amount       Fair Value
             
CORPORATE OBLIGATIONS - 11.45% (continued)            
Utilities - 1.01% (continued)            
NextEra Energy Capital Holdings, Inc., 2.403%, Due 9/1/2021     $ 35,000         $ 35,267
NiSource, Inc.,            

3.490%, Due 5/15/2027

      45,000           47,326

3.950%, Due 3/30/2048

      65,000           69,587
Southern Co., 2.750%, Due 6/15/2020       241,000           241,948
Southern Power Co., 4.150%, Due 12/1/2025       64,000           70,006
Southwestern Electric Power Co., 3.550%, Due 2/15/2022       289,000           296,789
WEC Energy Group, Inc., 3.550%, Due 6/15/2025       59,000           63,029
           

 

 

 
              2,613,642
           

 

 

 
           

Total Corporate Obligations (Cost $27,005,915)

              29,637,239
           

 

 

 
           
FOREIGN CORPORATE OBLIGATIONS - 3.01%            
Basic Materials - 0.06%            
ArcelorMittal, 3.600%, Due 7/16/2024       70,000           71,618
Nutrien Ltd., 4.000%, Due 12/15/2026       49,000           52,526
Teck Resources Ltd., 6.000%, Due 8/15/2040       30,000           32,441
           

 

 

 
              156,585
           

 

 

 
           
Communications - 0.72%            
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., 3.600%, Due 11/28/2024       313,000           328,771
America Movil S.A.B. de C.V., 6.375%, Due 3/1/2035       169,000           227,914
Bell Canada, Inc., 4.464%, Due 4/1/2048       45,000           52,125
Deutsche Telekom International Finance B.V., 4.875%, Due 3/6/2042C       150,000           174,914
Rogers Communications, Inc., 3.625%, Due 12/15/2025       85,000           90,597
TELUS Corp., 2.800%, Due 2/16/2027       49,000           49,468
Thomson Reuters Corp.,            

4.300%, Due 11/23/2023

      145,000           155,994

3.850%, Due 9/29/2024

      193,000           204,662
Vodafone Group PLC,            

3.750%, Due 1/16/2024

      65,000           68,521

6.150%, Due 2/27/2037

      393,000           501,655
           

 

 

 
              1,854,621
           

 

 

 
           
Consumer, Cyclical - 0.12%            
Daimler Finance North America LLC, 2.450%, Due 5/18/2020C       313,000           313,869
           

 

 

 
           
Consumer, Non-Cyclical - 0.82%            
Anheuser-Busch InBev Worldwide, Inc.,            

4.375%, Due 4/15/2038

      20,000           22,341

5.450%, Due 1/23/2039

      1,465,000           1,844,663

5.550%, Due 1/23/2049

      50,000           66,030
Coca-Cola Femsa S.A.B. de C.V., 3.875%, Due 11/26/2023       45,000           47,680
RELX Capital, Inc., 3.500%, Due 3/16/2023       55,000           57,060
Sanofi, 4.000%, Due 3/29/2021       75,000           77,360
           

 

 

 
              2,115,134
           

 

 

 
           
Energy - 0.95%            
Canadian Natural Resources Ltd.,            

3.900%, Due 2/1/2025

      60,000           63,889

6.250%, Due 3/15/2038

      176,000           222,538
Petroleos Mexicanos,            

6.750%, Due 9/21/2047

      110,000           109,450

7.690%, Due 1/23/2050C

      605,000           657,417
Saudi Arabian Oil Co., 4.375%, Due 4/16/2049C       1,050,000           1,139,996
TransCanada PipeLines Ltd.,            

3.750%, Due 10/16/2023

      145,000           153,169

6.100%, Due 6/1/2040

      82,000           105,907
           

 

 

 
              2,452,366
           

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

21


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Principal Amount       Fair Value
             
FOREIGN CORPORATE OBLIGATIONS - 3.01% (continued)            
Financial - 0.33%            
Bank of Montreal, 3.300%, Due 2/5/2024, Series E     $ 140,000         $ 146,099
HSBC Holdings PLC, 3.262%, Due 3/13/2023, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.055%)D       123,000           125,711
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc., 2.623%, Due 7/18/2022       80,000           80,981
Nordea Bank Abp, 4.875%, Due 1/27/2020C       120,000           120,806
Royal Bank of Canada, 2.250%, Due 11/1/2024       125,000           125,285
Toronto-Dominion Bank, 3.250%, Due 3/11/2024       190,000           199,298
Westpac Banking Corp., 2.650%, Due 1/25/2021       65,000           65,617
           

 

 

 
              863,797
           

 

 

 
           
Industrial - 0.01%            
CNH Industrial N.V., 3.850%, Due 11/15/2027       35,000           36,461
           

 

 

 
           

Total Foreign Corporate Obligations (Cost $6,906,709)

              7,792,833
           

 

 

 
           
FOREIGN SOVEREIGN OBLIGATIONS - 0.16%            
European Investment Bank, 2.375%, Due 6/15/2022       90,000           91,773
Kreditanstalt fuer Wiederaufbau, 2.125%, Due 6/15/2022       100,000           101,392
Province of Ontario Canada, 2.500%, Due 4/27/2026       120,000           124,726
Province of Quebec Canada, 2.375%, Due 1/31/2022       100,000           101,461
           

 

 

 
           

Total Foreign Sovereign Obligations (Cost $409,465)

              419,352
           

 

 

 
           
ASSET-BACKED OBLIGATIONS - 0.54%            
Ally Auto Receivables Trust, 1.750%, Due 12/15/2021, 2017 4 A3       158,962           158,803
AmeriCredit Automobile Receivables Trust, 1.900%, Due 3/18/2022, 2017 3 A3       114,441           114,319
BMW Vehicle Lease Trust, 2.840%, Due 11/22/2021, 2019 1 A3       105,000           106,191
Ford Credit Auto Lease Trust,            

2.030%, Due 12/15/2020, 2017 B A3

      60,884           60,882

2.220%, Due 10/15/2022, 2019 B A3

      165,000           165,754
GM Financial Automobile Leasing Trust, 2.980%, Due 12/20/2021, 2019 1 A3       75,000           75,805
GM Financial Consumer Automobile Receivables Trust, 2.320%, Due 7/18/2022, 2018 1 A3       95,000           95,288
John Deere Owner Trust, 3.080%, Due 11/15/2022, 2018 B A3       190,000           192,376
Mercedes-Benz Auto Lease Trust, 3.100%, Due 11/15/2021, 2019 A A3       105,000           106,045
Nissan Auto Receivables Owner Trust, 2.120%, Due 4/18/2022, 2017 C A3       99,047           99,148
PSNH Funding LLC, 3.094%, Due 2/1/2026, 2018 1 A1       101,161           103,676
World Omni Auto Receivables Trust, 1.950%, Due 2/15/2023, 2017 B A3       123,207           123,218
           

 

 

 
           

Total Asset-Backed Obligations (Cost $1,392,585)

              1,401,505
           

 

 

 
           
COLLATERALIZED MORTGAGE OBLIGATIONS - 0.05% (Cost $139,511)            
Freddie Mac REMIC Trust, 3.000%, Due 1/15/2047       139,476           141,263
           

 

 

 
           
COMMERCIAL MORTGAGE-BACKED OBLIGATIONS - 0.63%            
Bank, 3.183%, Due 8/15/2061, 2019-BN19 A3       185,000           196,000
Ginnie Mae REMIC Trust,            

1.368%, Due 11/16/2041, 2013-125 AB

      498,319           492,106

1.147%, Due 12/16/2038, 2013-139 A

      196,716           195,480

1.624%, Due 7/16/2039, 2013-78 AB

      333,569           330,334
GS Mortgage Securities Trust, 3.679%, Due 8/10/2043, 2010-C1 A1C       3,005           3,006
JPMBB Commercial Mortgage Securities Trust, 3.157%, Due 7/15/2045, 2013-C12 ASB       212,348           215,103
WFRBS Commercial Mortgage Trust, 3.660%, Due 3/15/2047, 2014-C19 A3       186,336           189,163
           

 

 

 
           

Total Commercial Mortgage-Backed Obligations (Cost $1,624,477)

              1,621,192
           

 

 

 
           
U.S. AGENCY MORTGAGE-BACKED OBLIGATIONS - 5.43%            
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp.,            

5.000%, Due 10/1/2020

      1,256           1,295

3.500%, Due 9/1/2028

      42,547           44,560

3.000%, Due 11/1/2032

      118,472           122,082

5.000%, Due 8/1/2033

      38,456           42,499

5.500%, Due 2/1/2034

      38,290           43,119

3.000%, Due 8/1/2034

      24,020           24,602

4.000%, Due 1/1/2041

      142,741           152,821

 

See accompanying notes

 

22


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Principal Amount       Fair Value
             
U.S. AGENCY MORTGAGE-BACKED OBLIGATIONS - 5.43% (continued)            
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp. (continued)            

4.500%, Due 2/1/2041

    $ 97,414         $ 105,658

3.500%, Due 6/1/2042

      473,494           497,199

3.500%, Due 7/1/2042

      132,734           139,371

3.500%, Due 5/1/2046

      218,276           230,009

3.000%, Due 11/1/2046

      283,076           290,713

3.000%, Due 4/1/2047

      285,161           293,356

3.500%, Due 1/1/2048

      387,144           402,869

4.000%, Due 4/1/2048

      255,631           267,496

3.000%, Due 8/1/2048

      280,862           288,391
           

 

 

 
              2,946,040
           

 

 

 
           
Federal National Mortgage Association,            

4.000%, Due 8/1/2020

      3,270           3,407

3.500%, Due 1/1/2028E

      41,731           43,306

3.000%, Due 7/1/2032

      180,859           185,446

4.000%, Due 10/1/2033

      199,090           207,933

5.000%, Due 3/1/2034E

      41,358           45,659

4.500%, Due 4/1/2034

      73,199           78,582

3.000%, Due 10/1/2034

      14,934           15,345

3.500%, Due 6/1/2037

      270,378           281,397

5.500%, Due 6/1/2038

      8,255           9,262

4.500%, Due 1/1/2040

      107,245           116,232

5.000%, Due 5/1/2040

      159,100           173,972

5.000%, Due 6/1/2040

      132,371           146,154

4.000%, Due 9/1/2040

      95,006           101,639

4.000%, Due 1/1/2041

      186,749           199,808

3.000%, Due 6/1/2043

      756,786           780,631

3.500%, Due 7/1/2043

      135,677           142,388

3.000%, Due 8/1/2043

      663,937           684,709

4.000%, Due 11/1/2044E

      107,782           115,402

4.000%, Due 7/1/2045

      436,663           462,000

3.500%, Due 8/1/2045

      117,928           122,941

3.500%, Due 11/1/2045

      1,289,074           1,343,727

3.000%, Due 4/1/2046

      153,605           157,965

3.500%, Due 5/1/2046

      173,298           180,607

4.000%, Due 7/1/2046

      192,115           202,998

3.000%, Due 10/1/2046

      46,337           47,503

3.000%, Due 11/1/2046

      308,270           316,466

3.000%, Due 12/1/2046E

      188,704           193,759

3.000%, Due 2/1/2047

      208,163           213,547

3.500%, Due 3/1/2047

      96,490           100,710

4.500%, Due 7/1/2047

      110,211           116,703

4.500%, Due 8/1/2047

      116,091           123,209

3.500%, Due 9/1/2047

      116,233           121,910

3.500%, Due 2/1/2048

      249,334           257,573

4.000%, Due 3/1/2048

      221,596           231,703

4.500%, Due 4/1/2048

      98,728           104,532

4.500%, Due 7/1/2048E

      144,196           152,414

4.500%, Due 7/1/2048

      309,431           326,593

3.000%, Due 10/1/2048E

      164,401           167,308

4.500%, Due 9/1/2049

      209,050           220,804
           

 

 

 
              8,496,244
           

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

23


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Principal Amount       Fair Value
             
U.S. AGENCY MORTGAGE-BACKED OBLIGATIONS - 5.43% (continued)            
Government National Mortgage Association,            

6.500%, Due 8/15/2027

    $ 32,449         $ 35,936

6.500%, Due 11/15/2027

      37,731           41,785

7.500%, Due 12/15/2028

      34,366           39,071

5.500%, Due 7/15/2033

      40,335           45,277

6.000%, Due 12/15/2033

      52,424           60,090

5.500%, Due 2/20/2034

      55,775           62,819

5.000%, Due 10/15/2039

      89,984           100,946

3.500%, Due 9/15/2041

      235,140           248,122

3.000%, Due 1/20/2046

      68,519           70,987

3.000%, Due 4/20/2046

      173,427           179,457

3.000%, Due 6/20/2046

      230,159           237,909

3.000%, Due 12/20/2046

      156,044           161,425

3.500%, Due 8/20/2047

      73,618           76,682

3.500%, Due 10/20/2047

      71,545           74,511

4.000%, Due 1/20/2048

      395,087           411,742

5.000%, Due 6/20/2049

      200,930           213,299

4.500%, Due 7/20/2049

      207,815           218,721

4.500%, Due 8/20/2049

      203,501           214,342

5.000%, Due 8/20/2049

      104,408           110,476
           

 

 

 
              2,603,597
           

 

 

 
           

Total U.S. Agency Mortgage-Backed Obligations (Cost $13,681,750)

              14,045,881
           

 

 

 
           
U.S. TREASURY OBLIGATIONS - 16.65%            
U.S. Treasury Notes/Bonds,            

1.750%, Due 10/31/2020

      319,000           319,436

1.766%, Due 4/30/2021, (3-mo. Treasury money market yield + 0.139%)D

      13,175,000           13,158,079

2.000%, Due 5/31/2021

      1,446,000           1,455,094

1.857%, Due 7/31/2021, (3-mo. Treasury money market yield + 0.220%)D

      10,080,000           10,078,463

1.937%, Due 10/31/2021, (3-mo. Treasury money market yield + 0.300%)D

      565,000           565,420

2.000%, Due 2/15/2022

      2,326,000           2,350,714

1.750%, Due 9/30/2022

      500,000           503,340

1.625%, Due 11/15/2022

      964,000           967,163

1.750%, Due 1/31/2023

      590,000           594,148

2.000%, Due 2/15/2023

      500,000           507,578

2.750%, Due 7/31/2023

      500,000           522,168

2.500%, Due 8/15/2023

      964,000           998,342

2.375%, Due 8/15/2024

      1,885,000           1,957,160

2.875%, Due 7/31/2025

      500,000           535,527

6.875%, Due 8/15/2025

      279,000           360,771

2.000%, Due 11/15/2026

      500,000           513,184

2.875%, Due 5/15/2028

      200,000           219,383

2.875%, Due 8/15/2028

      100,000           109,852

5.250%, Due 11/15/2028

      217,000           282,125

2.625%, Due 2/15/2029

      1,155,000           1,248,754

2.375%, Due 5/15/2029

      450,000           477,158

1.625%, Due 8/15/2029

      250,000           248,506

4.750%, Due 2/15/2037

      304,000           432,511

4.500%, Due 8/15/2039

      241,000           339,481

2.750%, Due 8/15/2042

      250,000           277,324

3.000%, Due 2/15/2049

      2,154,000           2,539,364

2.875%, Due 5/15/2049

      1,315,000           1,515,229
           

 

 

 
              43,076,274
           

 

 

 
           

Total U.S. Treasury Obligations (Cost $42,122,895)

              43,076,274
           

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

24


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS - 2.09%            
Investment Companies - 1.90%            
American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund, Select Class, 1.75%F G       4,904,248         $ 4,904,248
           

 

 

 
    Principal Amount        
U.S. Treasury Obligations - 0.07%            
U.S. Treasury Bill, 1.870%, Due 2/13/2020H     $ 175,000           174,233
           

 

 

 
Foreign Corporate Obligations - 0.12%            
Nordea Bank Abp, 2.092%, Due 1/27/2020       300,000           298,636
           

 

 

 
           

Total Short-Term Investments (Cost $5,376,837)

              5,377,117
           

 

 

 
           

TOTAL INVESTMENTS - 98.94% (Cost $221,644,303)

              255,981,778

OTHER ASSETS, NET OF LIABILITIES - 1.06%

              2,749,415
           

 

 

 

TOTAL NET ASSETS - 100.00%

            $ 258,731,193
           

 

 

 
             
Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.                  

A Non-income producing security.

B All or a portion of this security is on loan, collateralized by either cash and/or U.S. Treasuries, at October 31, 2019 (Note 9).

C Security exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. These securities may be resold to qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A. At the period end, the value of these securities amounted to $6,168,159 or 2.38% of net assets. The Fund has no right to demand registration of these securities.

D Variable, floating, or adjustable rate securities with an interest rate that changes periodically. Rates are periodically reset with rates that are based on a predetermined benchmark such as a widely followed interest rate such as T-bills, LIBOR or PRIME plus a fixed spread. The interest rate disclosed reflects the rate in effect on October 31, 2019.

E Coupon rate may change based on changes of the underlying collateral or prepayments of principal. The coupon rate shown represents the rate at period end.

F The Fund is affiliated by having the same investment advisor.

G 7-day yield.

H This security or a piece thereof is held as segregated collateral.

ADR - American Depositary Receipt.

LIBOR - London Interbank Offered Rate.

LLC - Limited Liability Company.

LP - Limited Partnership.

NVDR - Non Voting Depositary Receipt.

PLC - Public Limited Company.

PRIME - A rate, charged by banks, based on the U.S. Federal Funds rate.

REMIC - Real Estate Mortgage Investment Conduit.

SOFRRATE – Secured Overnight Financing Rate.

 

Long Futures Contracts Open on October 31, 2019:

 

         
Equity Futures Contracts                                         
Description      Number of
Contracts
     Expiration Date      Notional Amount        Contract Value        Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
S&P 500 E-Mini Index Futures      27      December 2019      $     4,074,447        $ 4,098,330        $ 23,883  
              

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 
               $ 4,074,447        $ 4,098,330        $ 23,883  
              

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

Index Abbreviations:
S&P 500    Standard & Poor’s U.S. Equity Large-Cap Index.

 

See accompanying notes

 

25


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

The Fund’s investments are summarized by level based on the inputs used to determine their values. As of October 31, 2019, the investments were classified as described below:

 

Balanced Fund

  Level 1           Level 2           Level 3           Total  

Assets

             

Common Stocks

  $ 152,469,122       $ -       $ -       $ 152,469,122  

Corporate Obligations

    -         29,637,239         -         29,637,239  

Foreign Corporate Obligations

    -         7,792,833         -         7,792,833  

Foreign Sovereign Obligations

    -         419,352         -         419,352  

Asset-Backed Obligations

    -         1,401,505         -         1,401,505  

Collateralized Mortgage Obligations

    -         141,263         -         141,263  

Commercial Mortgage-Backed Obligations

    -         1,621,192         -         1,621,192  

U.S. Agency Mortgage-Backed Obligations

    -         14,045,881         -         14,045,881  

U.S. Treasury Obligations

    -         43,076,274         -         43,076,274  

Short-Term Investments

    4,904,248         472,869         -         5,377,117  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Investments in Securities - Assets

  $ 157,373,370       $ 98,608,408       $ -       $ 255,981,778  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Financial Derivative Instruments - Assets

             

Futures Contracts

  $ 23,883       $ -       $ -       $ 23,883  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Financial Derivative Instruments - Assets

  $ 23,883       $ -       $ -       $ 23,883  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

U.S. GAAP requires transfers between all levels to/from level 3 be disclosed. During the year ended October 31, 2019, there were no transfers into or out of Level 3.

 

See accompanying notes

 

26


American Beacon Mid-Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.07%            
Communication Services - 1.75%            
Media - 1.75%            
Altice USA, Inc., Class AA       128,539         $ 3,978,282
Interpublic Group of Cos., Inc.       215,801           4,693,672
           

 

 

 
              8,671,954
           

 

 

 
           

Total Communication Services

              8,671,954
           

 

 

 
           
Consumer Discretionary - 16.63%            
Auto Components - 1.91%            
Dana, Inc.       215,101           3,491,089
Lear Corp.       50,870           5,990,960
           

 

 

 
              9,482,049
           

 

 

 
           
Diversified Consumer Services - 0.68%            
Adtalem Global Education, Inc.A       114,125           3,398,643
           

 

 

 
           
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 6.26%            
Aramark       109,094           4,773,953
Marriott Vacations Worldwide Corp.       26,573           2,921,170
MGM Resorts International       129,399           3,687,872
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.A       73,520           3,731,875
Royal Caribbean Cruises Ltd.       37,508           4,081,996
SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc.A B       150,513           3,976,553
Wyndham Destinations, Inc.       79,634           3,695,814
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc.       77,268           4,170,154
           

 

 

 
              31,039,387
           

 

 

 
           
Household Durables - 2.53%            
Lennar Corp., Class A       72,444           4,317,662
Mohawk Industries, Inc.A       23,276           3,337,313
Newell Brands, Inc.       257,148           4,878,098
           

 

 

 
              12,533,073
           

 

 

 
           
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 0.66%            
Qurate Retail, Inc.A       343,486           3,276,856
           

 

 

 
           
Multiline Retail - 1.18%            
Dollar General Corp.       36,566           5,862,992
           

 

 

 
           
Specialty Retail - 2.08%            
Aaron’s, Inc.       74,879           5,610,684
Advance Auto Parts, Inc.       29,015           4,714,357
           

 

 

 
              10,325,041
           

 

 

 
           
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 1.33%            
Gildan Activewear, Inc.       74,056           1,890,650
PVH Corp.       53,966           4,703,676
           

 

 

 
              6,594,326
           

 

 

 
           

Total Consumer Discretionary

              82,512,367
           

 

 

 
           
Consumer Staples - 0.47%            
Beverages - 0.47%            
Coca-Cola European Partners PLC       43,401           2,322,388
           

 

 

 
           
Energy - 7.88%            
Energy Equipment & Services - 3.61%            
Baker Hughes Co.       121,347           2,596,826
Halliburton Co.       327,356           6,301,603

 

See accompanying notes

 

27


American Beacon Mid-Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.07% (continued)            
Energy - 7.88% (continued)            
Energy Equipment & Services - 3.61% (continued)            
National Oilwell Varco, Inc.       273,706         $ 6,191,230
TechnipFMC PLC       141,894           2,799,568
           

 

 

 
              17,889,227
           

 

 

 
           
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 4.27%            
Cenovus Energy, Inc.B       275,126           2,335,820
EQT Corp.       271,600           2,916,984
Equitrans Midstream Corp.B       205,907           2,866,225
Hess Corp.       65,434           4,302,286
Kosmos Energy Ltd.       443,683           2,750,835
Murphy Oil Corp.B       216,981           4,476,318
Parsley Energy, Inc., Class A       98,587           1,558,660
           

 

 

 
              21,207,128
           

 

 

 
           

Total Energy

              39,096,355
           

 

 

 
           
Financials - 21.86%            
Banks - 5.78%            
Fifth Third Bancorp       283,928           8,256,626
FNB Corp.       262,121           3,161,179
KeyCorp       279,115           5,015,697
Pinnacle Financial Partners, Inc.       28,784           1,693,075
Regions Financial Corp.       322,417           5,190,914
Signature Bank       30,170           3,569,714
Valley National Bancorp       155,166           1,796,822
           

 

 

 
              28,684,027
           

 

 

 
           
Capital Markets - 3.10%            
Apollo Global Management, Inc.       83,986           3,456,864
Invesco Ltd.       176,845           2,974,533
KKR & Co., Inc., Class A       197,179           5,684,670
Northern Trust Corp.       32,543           3,243,886
           

 

 

 
              15,359,953
           

 

 

 
           
Consumer Finance - 2.34%            
Ally Financial, Inc.       188,929           5,786,895
Navient Corp.       143,167           1,971,410
SLM Corp.       457,106           3,857,975
           

 

 

 
              11,616,280
           

 

 

 
           
Diversified Financial Services - 2.59%            
AXA Equitable Holdings, Inc.       257,014           5,551,502
Jefferies Financial Group, Inc.       125,166           2,336,849
Voya Financial, Inc.       92,036           4,966,263
           

 

 

 
              12,854,614
           

 

 

 
           
Insurance - 6.82%            
American Financial Group, Inc.       15,655           1,628,746
Assurant, Inc.       24,515           3,090,606
Axis Capital Holdings Ltd.       189,772           11,278,150
CNO Financial Group, Inc.       256,658           4,016,698
Fidelity National Financial, Inc.       205,125           9,402,930
Willis Towers Watson PLC       23,585           4,408,036
           

 

 

 
              33,825,166
           

 

 

 
           

 

See accompanying notes

 

28


American Beacon Mid-Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.07% (continued)            
Financials - 21.86% (continued)            
Mortgage Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) - 0.50%            
MFA Financial, Inc.       325,806         $ 2,472,868
           

 

 

 
           
Thrifts & Mortgage Finance - 0.73%            
New York Community Bancorp, Inc.       312,660           3,642,489
           

 

 

 
           

Total Financials

              108,455,397
           

 

 

 
           
Health Care - 4.66%            
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 1.20%            
Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.       43,080           5,954,948
           

 

 

 
           
Health Care Providers & Services - 2.93%            
Cardinal Health, Inc.       74,948           3,706,179
McKesson Corp.       30,258           4,024,314
Universal Health Services, Inc., Class B       49,550           6,811,143
           

 

 

 
              14,541,636
           

 

 

 
           
Pharmaceuticals - 0.53%            
Mylan N.V.A       137,321           2,629,697
           

 

 

 
           

Total Health Care

              23,126,281
           

 

 

 
           
Industrials - 17.98%            
Aerospace & Defense - 3.04%            
BWX Technologies, Inc.       49,184           2,857,591
Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc., Class A       58,605           4,795,061
TransDigm Group, Inc.       14,151           7,447,388
           

 

 

 
              15,100,040
           

 

 

 
           
Airlines - 0.64%            
Alaska Air Group, Inc.       45,628           3,167,952
           

 

 

 
           
Building Products - 2.14%            
JELD-WEN Holding, Inc.A       308,042           5,264,438
Johnson Controls International PLC       60,667           2,628,701
Owens Corning       44,118           2,703,551
           

 

 

 
              10,596,690
           

 

 

 
           
Commercial Services & Supplies - 1.03%            
Republic Services, Inc.       58,180           5,091,332
           

 

 

 
           
Construction & Engineering - 1.88%            
AECOMA       139,275           5,572,393
Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc.       40,151           3,757,330
           

 

 

 
              9,329,723
           

 

 

 
           
Industrial Conglomerates - 0.17%            
Carlisle Cos., Inc.       5,581           849,819
           

 

 

 
           
Machinery - 5.29%            
Dover Corp.       41,353           4,296,163
Snap-on, Inc.       21,397           3,480,650
Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.       59,689           9,032,736
Terex Corp.       109,820           3,025,541
Wabtec Corp.B       92,629           6,425,674
           

 

 

 
              26,260,764
           

 

 

 
           
Professional Services - 0.40%            
Nielsen Holdings PLC       97,955           1,974,773
           

 

 

 
           

 

See accompanying notes

 

29


American Beacon Mid-Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.07% (continued)            
Industrials - 17.98% (continued)            
Road & Rail - 2.50%            
Avis Budget Group, Inc.A       106,861         $ 3,174,840
JB Hunt Transport Services, Inc.       38,614           4,539,462
Ryder System, Inc.       96,297           4,682,923
           

 

 

 
              12,397,225
           

 

 

 
           
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.89%            
AerCap Holdings N.V.A       76,290           4,415,665
           

 

 

 
           

Total Industrials

              89,183,983
           

 

 

 
           
Information Technology - 7.48%            
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 2.09%            
Anixter International, Inc.A       68,038           5,630,145
Avnet, Inc.       119,577           4,730,466
           

 

 

 
              10,360,611
           

 

 

 
           
IT Services - 2.06%            
Alliance Data Systems Corp.       18,804           1,880,400
Conduent, Inc.A       271,999           1,680,954
Genpact Ltd.       76,811           3,008,687
KBR, Inc.       130,627           3,678,456
           

 

 

 
              10,248,497
           

 

 

 
           
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 2.37%            
Marvell Technology Group Ltd.       322,572           7,867,531
Microchip Technology, Inc.B       41,424           3,905,869
           

 

 

 
              11,773,400
           

 

 

 
           
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 0.96%            
Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.       289,022           4,742,851
           

 

 

 
           

Total Information Technology

              37,125,359
           

 

 

 
           
Materials - 4.32%            
Chemicals - 3.46%            
Ashland Global Holdings, Inc.       76,830           5,944,337
Axalta Coating Systems Ltd.A       131,820           3,887,372
Eastman Chemical Co.       29,681           2,256,943
Element Solutions, Inc.A       470,411           5,108,663
           

 

 

 
              17,197,315
           

 

 

 
           
Containers & Packaging - 0.86%            
Packaging Corp. of America       38,869           4,254,601
           

 

 

 
           

Total Materials

              21,451,916
           

 

 

 
           
Real Estate - 7.25%            
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) - 6.99%            
AvalonBay Communities, Inc.       20,471           4,455,718
EPR Properties       64,957           5,053,005
GEO Group, Inc.       99,041           1,507,404
Healthpeak Properties, Inc.       153,471           5,773,579
Lamar Advertising Co., Class A       65,919           5,274,179
Liberty Property Trust       83,898           4,955,855
MGM Growth Properties LLC, Class A       246,266           7,685,962
           

 

 

 
              34,705,702
           

 

 

 
           

 

See accompanying notes

 

30


American Beacon Mid-Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.07% (continued)            
Real Estate - 7.25% (continued)            
Real Estate Management & Development - 0.26%            
Realogy Holdings Corp.B       161,574         $ 1,273,203
           

 

 

 
           

Total Real Estate

              35,978,905
           

 

 

 
           
Utilities - 5.79%            
Electric Utilities - 5.23%            
Edison International       79,572           5,005,079
Entergy Corp.       36,718           4,460,503
Evergy, Inc.       41,008           2,620,821
FirstEnergy Corp.       112,307           5,426,674
Pinnacle West Capital Corp.       36,338           3,420,132
Xcel Energy, Inc.       78,864           5,008,653
           

 

 

 
              25,941,862
           

 

 

 
           
Gas Utilities - 0.56%            
UGI Corp.       58,093           2,769,294
           

 

 

 

Total Utilities

              28,711,156
           

 

 

 
           

Total Common Stocks (Cost $424,770,122)

              476,636,061
           

 

 

 
           
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS - 3.80%            
Investment Companies - 3.64%            
American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund, Select Class, 1.75%C D       18,059,056           18,059,056
           

 

 

 
    Principal Amount        
             
U.S. Treasury Obligations - 0.16%            
U.S. Treasury Bill, 1.870%, Due 2/13/2020E     $ 800,000           796,492
           

 

 

 
           

Total Short-Term Investments (Cost $18,854,827)

              18,855,548
           

 

 

 
    Shares        
             
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 0.25% (Cost $1,233,330)            
Investment Companies - 0.25%            
American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund, Select Class, 1.75%C D       1,233,330           1,233,330
           

 

 

 
           

TOTAL INVESTMENTS - 100.12% (Cost $444,858,279)

              496,724,939

LIABILITIES, NET OF OTHER ASSETS - (0.12%)

              (604,009 )
           

 

 

 

TOTAL NET ASSETS - 100.00%

            $ 496,120,930
           

 

 

 
Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.                  

A Non-income producing security.

B All or a portion of this security is on loan, collateralized by either cash and/or U.S. Treasuries, at October 31, 2019 (Note 9).

C The Fund is affiliated by having the same investment advisor.

D 7-day yield.

E This security or a piece thereof is held as segregated collateral.

LLC - Limited Liability Company.

PLC - Public Limited Company.

 

See accompanying notes

 

31


American Beacon Mid-Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

 

Long Futures Contracts Open on October 31, 2019:          
Equity Futures Contracts                                       
Description      Number of
Contracts
     Expiration Date      Notional Amount      Contract Value        Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
S&P MidCap 400 E-Mini Index Futures      87      December 2019      $16,924,711      $ 17,008,500        $ 83,789  
              

 

    

 

 

      

 

 

 
               $16,924,711      $ 17,008,500        $ 83,789  
              

 

    

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

Index Abbreviations:
S&P 400    Standard & Poor’s Midcap Index.

The Fund’s investments are summarized by level based on the inputs used to determine their values. As of October 31, 2019, the investments were classified as described below:

 

Mid-Cap Value Fund

  Level 1           Level 2           Level 3           Total  

Assets

             

Common Stocks

  $ 476,636,061       $ -       $ -       $ 476,636,061  

Short-Term Investments

    18,059,056         796,492         -         18,855,548  

Securities Lending Collateral

    1,233,330         -         -         1,233,330  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Investments in Securities - Assets

  $ 495,928,447       $ 796,492       $ -       $ 496,724,939  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Financial Derivative Instruments - Assets

             

Futures Contracts

  $ 83,789       $ -       $ -       $ 83,789  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Financial Derivative Instruments - Assets

  $ 83,789       $ -       $ -       $ 83,789  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

U.S. GAAP requires transfers between all levels to/from level 3 be disclosed. During the year ended October 31, 2019, there were no transfers into or out of Level 3.

 

See accompanying notes

 

32


American Beacon FundsSM

Statements of Assets and Liabilities

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Balanced Fund           Mid-Cap Value Fund  

Assets:

     

Investments in unaffiliated securities, at fair value §

  $ 251,077,530       $ 477,432,553  

Investments in affiliated securities, at fair value

    4,904,248         19,292,386  

Cash

    122,492         -  

Dividends and interest receivable

    674,624         172,103  

Deposits with broker for futures contracts

    7,948         -  

Receivable for investments sold

    2,015,827         3,193,418  

Receivable for fund shares sold

    154,326         99,530  

Receivable for tax reclaims

    8,472         -  

Receivable for expense reimbursement (Note 2)

    -         236  

Receivable for variation margin on open futures contracts (Note 5)

    23,971         83,947  

Prepaid expenses

    219,970         26,296  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total assets

    259,209,408         500,300,469  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Liabilities:

     

Payable for investments purchased

    146,490         1,565,571  

Payable for fund shares redeemed

    117,637         648,092  

Payable for expense reimbursement (Note 2)

    -         162  

Cash due to broker for futures contracts

    -         211,870  

Management and sub-advisory fees payable (Note 2)

    76,861         343,705  

Service fees payable (Note 2)

    47,151         66,140  

Transfer agent fees payable (Note 2)

    11,522         17,839  

Payable upon return of securities loaned (Note 9)§

    -         1,233,330  

Custody and fund accounting fees payable

    18,921         11,460  

Professional fees payable

    47,495         43,780  

Trustee fees payable (Note 2)

    1,820         3,617  

Payable for prospectus and shareholder reports

    6,326         24,866  

Other liabilities

    3,992         9,107  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    478,215         4,179,539  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 258,731,193       $ 496,120,930  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Analysis of net assets:

     

Paid-in-capital

  $ 204,483,704       $ 466,604,351  

Total distributable earnings (deficits)A

    54,247,489         29,516,579  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 258,731,193       $ 496,120,930  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

33


American Beacon FundsSM

Statements of Assets and Liabilities

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Balanced Fund           Mid-Cap Value Fund  

Shares outstanding at no par value (unlimited shares authorized):

     

Institutional Class

    2,848,665         10,916,705  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Y Class

    3,821,922         5,549,578  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Investor Class

    6,689,539         14,761,990  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Advisor Class

    393,805         210,108  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

A Class

    1,132,815         249,336  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

C Class

    2,130,106         300,234  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

R6 Class

    N/A         146,139  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net assets:

     

Institutional Class

  $ 46,593,155       $ 168,201,120  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Y Class

  $ 62,956,422       $ 84,763,978  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Investor Class

  $ 96,065,263       $ 229,639,964  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Advisor Class

  $ 6,039,168       $ 3,163,999  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

A Class

  $ 16,228,685       $ 3,748,595  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

C Class

  $ 30,848,500       $ 4,349,946  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

R6 Class

    N/A       $ 2,253,328  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share:

     

Institutional Class

  $ 16.36       $ 15.41  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Y Class

  $ 16.47       $ 15.27  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Investor Class

  $ 14.36       $ 15.56  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Advisor Class

  $ 15.34       $ 15.06  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

A Class

  $ 14.33       $ 15.03  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

A Class (offering price)

  $ 15.20       $ 15.95  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

C Class

  $ 14.48       $ 14.49  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

R6 Class

    N/A       $ 15.42  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Cost of investments in unaffiliated securities

  $ 216,740,055       $ 425,565,893  

Cost of investments in affiliated securities

  $ 4,904,248       $ 19,292,386  

§ Fair value of securities on loan

  $ 2,452,229       $ 20,651,471  

A The Fund’s investments in affiliated securities did not have unrealized appreciation (depreciation) at year end.

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

34


American Beacon FundsSM

Statements of Operations

For the year ended October 31, 2019

 

 

    Balanced Fund           Mid-Cap Value Fund  

Investment income:

     

Dividend income from unaffiliated securities (net of foreign taxes)

  $ 4,653,221       $ 13,122,881  

Dividend income from affiliated securities (Note 8)

    119,895         448,948  

Interest income (net of foreign taxes)

    3,157,544         11,159  

Income derived from securities lending (Note 9)

    7,171         16,218  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total investment income

    7,937,831         13,599,206  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Expenses:

     

Management and sub-advisory fees (Note 2)

    1,444,808         4,642,017  

Transfer agent fees:

     

Institutional Class (Note 2)

    7,482         89,620  

Y Class (Note 2)

    57,527         95,225  

Investor Class

    9,279         11,980  

Advisor Class

    471         2,530  

A Class

    1,177         1,117  

C Class

    3,378         1,508  

R6 Class

    -         285  

Custody and fund accounting fees

    79,597         89,651  

Professional fees

    61,000         72,238  

Registration fees and expenses

    85,945         123,187  

Service fees (Note 2):

     

Investor Class

    323,952         839,240  

Advisor Class

    14,548         7,805  

A Class

    18,015         15,643  

C Class

    33,747         5,442  

Distribution fees (Note 2):

     

Advisor Class

    15,622         7,873  

A Class

    41,419         18,854  

C Class

    326,377         48,369  

Prospectus and shareholder report expenses

    27,838         88,291  

Trustee fees (Note 2)

    20,635         44,991  

Other expenses

    51,210         68,776  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total expenses

    2,624,027         6,274,642  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net fees waived and expenses (reimbursed) / recouped (Note 2)

    -         (621
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net expenses

    2,624,027         6,274,021  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net investment income

    5,313,804         7,325,185  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Realized and unrealized gain (loss) from investments:

     

Net realized gain (loss) from:

     

Investments in unaffiliated securitiesA

    18,444,561         (24,328,094

Commission recapture (Note 1)

    4,136         52,175  

Foreign currency transactions

    (188       14  

Futures contracts

    (282,052       903,027  

Change in net unrealized appreciation of:

     

Investments in unaffiliated securitiesB

    2,410,846         52,835,570  

Foreign currency transactions

    -         81  

Futures contracts

    264,711         1,531,334  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net gain from investments

    20,842,014         30,994,107  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net increase in net assets resulting from operations

  $ 26,155,818       $ 38,319,292  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Foreign taxes

  $ 36,203       $ 59,238  

A The Fund did not recognize net realized gains (losses) from the sale of investments in affiliated securities.

 

B The Fund’s investments in affiliated securities did not have a change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) at year end.

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

35


American Beacon FundsSM

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

 

    Balanced Fund           Mid-Cap Value Fund  
    Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          Year Ended
October 31, 2018
          Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          Year Ended
October 31, 2018
 

Increase (decrease) in net assets:

             

Operations:

             

Net investment income

  $ 5,313,804       $ 5,594,543       $ 7,325,185       $ 8,243,269  

Net realized gain (loss) from investments in unaffiliated securities, commission recapture, foreign currency transactions, and futures contracts

    18,166,457         22,789,700         (23,372,878       39,046,228  

Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments in unaffiliated securities, foreign currency transactions, and futures contracts

    2,675,557         (24,223,813       54,366,985         (114,181,076
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    26,155,818         4,160,430         38,319,292         (66,891,579
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Distributions to shareholders:

             

Total retained earnings:

             

Institutional Class

    (5,001,897       (6,261,952       (16,149,794       (9,434,653

Y Class

    (5,879,168       (4,822,027       (6,006,150       (3,447,030

Investor Class

    (9,902,997       (9,640,824       (22,741,996       (9,262,634

Advisor Class

    (537,080       (761,574       (198,759       (94,728

A Class

    (1,636,327       (1,718,656       (712,238       (434,137

C Class

    (3,065,750       (2,976,692       (313,969       (184,144

R6 Class

    -         -         (12,536       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net distributions to shareholders

    (26,023,219       (26,181,725       (46,135,442       (22,857,326
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Capital share transactions (Note 11):

             

Proceeds from sales of shares

    35,227,904         53,469,502         101,076,057         405,914,174  

Reinvestment of dividends and distributions

    25,209,375         25,384,629         45,842,063         22,545,457  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (101,347,208       (109,865,841       (389,366,433       (261,376,072
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions

    (40,909,929       (31,011,710       (242,448,313       167,083,559  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets

    (40,777,330       (53,033,005       (250,264,463       77,334,654  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net assets:

             

Beginning of period

    299,508,523         352,541,528         746,385,393         669,050,739  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

End of period

  $ 258,731,193       $ 299,508,523       $ 496,120,930       $ 746,385,393  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

36


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

1.  Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

American Beacon Funds (the “Trust”) is organized as a Massachusetts business trust. The Funds, each a series within the Trust, are registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Act”), as diversified, open-end management investment companies. As of October 31, 2019, the Trust consists of thirty-two active series, two of which are presented in this filing: American Beacon Balanced Fund and American Beacon Mid-Cap Value Fund (collectively, the “Funds” and each individually a “Fund”). The remaining thirty active series are reported in separate filings.

American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (the “Manager”) is a Delaware corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (“RIM”) organized in 1986 to provide business management, advisory, administrative, and asset management consulting services to the Trust and other investors. The Manager is registered as an investment advisor under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the “Advisers Act”). RIM is, in turn, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Acquisition, Inc., which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Topco, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC (“RIH”). RIH is owned primarily by Kelso Investment Associates VIII, L.P., KEP VI, LLC and Estancia Capital Partners L.P., investment funds affiliated with Kelso & Company, L.P. (“Kelso”) or Estancia Capital Management, LLC (“Estancia”), which are private equity firms.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2017-08, Premium Amortization of Purchased Callable Debt Securities. The amendments in the ASU shorten the premium amortization period on a purchased callable debt security from the security’s contractual life to the earliest call date. It is anticipated that this change will enhance disclosures by reducing losses recognized when a security is called on an earlier date. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. The Manager continues to evaluate the impact this ASU will have on the financial statements and other disclosures.

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820). The amendments in the ASU impact disclosure requirements for fair value measurement. It is anticipated that this change will enhance the effectiveness of disclosures in the notes to the financial statements. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted and can include the entire standard or certain provisions that exclude or amend disclosures. For the year ended October 31, 2019, the Funds have chosen to adopt the standard. The adoption of this ASU guidance did not have a material impact on the financial statements and other disclosures.

Class Disclosure

Each Fund has multiple classes of shares designed to meet the needs of different groups of investors; however, not all of the Funds offer all classes. The following table sets forth the differences amongst the classes:

 

Class

  

Eligible Investors

   Minimum Initial
Investments
 
Institutional    Large institutional investors - sold directly or through intermediary channels.    $ 250,000  
Y Class    Large institutional retirement plan investors - sold directly or through intermediary channels.    $ 100,000  
Investor    All investors using intermediary organizations, such as broker-dealers or retirement plan sponsors.    $ 2,500  
Advisor Class    All investors who invest through intermediary organizations, such as broker-dealers or third party administrators.    $ 2,500  

 

 

37


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Class

  

Eligible Investors

   Minimum Initial
Investments
 
A Class    All investors who invest through intermediary organizations, such as broker-dealers or third party administrator. Retail investors who invest directly through a financial intermediary such as a broker, bank, or registered investment advisor which may include a front-end sales charge and a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”).    $ 2,500  
C Class    Retail investors who invest directly through a financial intermediary such as a broker or through employee directed benefit plans with applicable sales charges which may include CDSC.    $ 1,000  
R6 Class    Large institutional retirement plan investors - sold through retirement plan sponsors.      None  

Each class offered by the Trust has equal rights as to assets and voting privileges. Income and non-class specific expenses are allocated daily to each class based on the relative net assets. Realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of each class are allocated daily based on the relative net assets of each class of the respective Fund. Class specific expenses, where applicable, currently include service, distribution, transfer agent fees, and sub-transfer agent fees that vary amongst the classes as described more fully in Note 2.

Significant Accounting Policies

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies, consistently followed by the Funds in preparation of the financial statements. The Funds are considered investment companies and accordingly, follow the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946, Financial Services – Investment Companies, a part of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“U.S. GAAP”).

Security Transactions and Investment Income

Security transactions are recorded as of the trade date for financial reporting purposes. Securities purchased or sold on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis may be settled beyond a standard settlement period for the security after the trade date.

Dividend income, net of foreign taxes, is recorded on the ex-dividend date, except certain dividends from foreign securities which are recorded as soon as the information is available to the Funds. Interest income, net of foreign taxes, is earned from settlement date, recorded on the accrual basis, and adjusted, if necessary, for accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums. For convertible securities, premiums attributable to the conversion feature are not amortized. Realized gains (losses) from securities sold are determined on the basis of specific lot identification. Estimated tax liabilities on certain foreign securities are recorded on an accrual basis and are reflected as components of interest income or net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments on the Statements of Operations, as appropriate. Tax liabilities realized as a result of such security sales are reflected as a component of net realized gain (loss) on investments on the Statements of Operations. Paydown gains (losses) on mortgage-related and other asset-backed securities, if any, are recorded as components of interest income on the Statements of Operations. Income or short-term capital gain distributions received from registered investment companies, if any, are recorded as dividend income. Long-term gain distributions received from registered investment companies, if any, are recorded as realized gains.

Debt obligations may be placed on a non-accrual status and related interest income may be reduced by ceasing current accruals and writing off interest receivable when the collection of all or a portion of interest has become doubtful based on consistently applied procedures. A debt obligation is removed for non-accrual when the issuer resumes interest payments or when collectability of interest is probable. Realized gains (losses) from securities sold are determined on the basis of specific lot identification.

 

 

38


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Distributions to Shareholders

The Balanced Fund distributes most or all of its net earning and realized gains, if any, each taxable year in the form of dividends from net investment income on a quarterly basis and distributions of realized net capital gains and net gains or losses from foreign currency transactions on an annual basis. The Mid-Cap Value Fund distributes most or all of its net earning and realized gains, if any, each taxable year in the form of dividends from net investment income and distributions of realized net capital gains and net gains or losses from foreign currency transactions on an annual basis. The Funds do not have a fixed dividend rate and do not guarantee that they will pay any distributions in any particular year. Dividends to shareholders are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulation, which may differ in amount and character from net investment income and realized gains recognized for purposes of U.S. GAAP. To the extent necessary to fully distribute capital gains, the Funds may designate earning and profits distributed to shareholders on the redemption of shares.

Commission Recapture

The Funds have established brokerage commission recapture arrangements with certain brokers or dealers. If the Funds’ investment advisor chooses to execute a transaction through a participating broker, the broker rebates a portion of the commission back to the Funds. Any collateral benefit received through participation in the commission recapture program is directed exclusively to the Funds. This amount is reported with the net realized gain in the Funds’ Statements of Operations, if applicable.

Allocation of Income, Trust Expenses, Gains, and Losses

Investment income, realized and unrealized gains and losses from investments of the Funds are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class to the total net assets of the Funds. Expenses directly charged or attributable to the Fund will be paid from the assets of the Fund. Generally, expenses of the Trust will be allocated among and charged to the assets of the Funds on a basis that the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”) deems fair and equitable, which may be based on the relative net assets of the Funds or nature of the services performed and relative applicability to the Funds.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results may differ from those estimated.

Other

Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and trustees are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. In the normal course of business, the Trust enters into contracts that provide indemnification to the other party or parties against potential costs or liabilities. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made in the future and, therefore, cannot be estimated. The Trust has had no prior claims or losses pursuant to any such agreement.

Concentration of Ownership

From time to time, the Funds may have a concentration of one or more accounts constituting a significant percentage of shares outstanding. Investment activities by holders of accounts that represent a significant ownership of more than 5% of the Funds’ outstanding shares could have a material impact on the Funds. As of October 31, 2019, based on management’s evaluation of the shareholder account base, exclusive of omnibus accounts, one account has been identified as representing a non-affiliated significant ownership of approximately 7% of the Balanced Fund’s outstanding shares.

 

 

39


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

2.   Transactions with Affiliates

Management and Investment Sub-Advisory Agreements

The Funds and the Manager are parties to a Management Agreement that obligates the Manager to provide the Funds with investment advisory and administrative services. As compensation for performing the duties under the Management Agreement, the Manager will receive an annualized management fee based on a percentage of each Funds’ average daily net assets that is calculated and accrued daily according to the following schedule:

 

First $15 billion

     0.35

Next $15 billion

     0.325

Over $30 billion

     0.30

The Trust, on behalf of the Funds, and the Manager have entered into Investment Advisory Agreements with Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss, LLC; Brandywine Global Investment Management, LLC; and Hotchkis and Wiley Capital Management, LLC for the Balanced Fund. In addition, the Manager manages a portion of the Balanced Fund pursuant to the Management Agreement. The Trust, on behalf of the Funds, and the Manager have entered into Investment Advisory Agreements with Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss, LLC; Pzena Investment Management, LLC; and WEDGE Capital Management, L.L.P. for the Mid-Cap Value Fund. Pursuant to the Investment Advisory Agreements, the Funds have agreed to pay an annualized sub-advisory fee that is calculated and accrued daily based on the Funds’ average daily net assets.

The Management and Sub-Advisory Fees paid by the Funds for the year ended October 31, 2019 were as follows:

Balanced Fund

 

    Effective Fee Rate           Amount of Fees Paid  

Management Fees

    0.35     $ 961,308  

Sub-Advisor Fees

    0.18       483,500  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total

    0.53     $ 1,444,808  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Mid-Cap Value Fund

 

    Effective Fee Rate           Amount of Fees Paid  

Management Fees

    0.35     $ 2,057,593  

Sub-Advisor Fees

    0.41       2,584,424  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total

    0.76     $ 4,642,017  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

As compensation for services provided by the Manager in connection with securities lending activities conducted by the Funds, the lending Fund pays to the Manager, with respect to cash collateral posted by borrowers, a fee up to 10% of the net monthly interest income (the gross interest income earned by the investment of cash collateral, less the amount paid to borrowers and related expenses) from such activities and, with respect to loan fees paid by borrowers, a fee up to 10% of such loan fees. These fees are included in “Income derived from securities lending” and “Management and investment advisory fees” on the Statements of Operations. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Manager received securities lending fees of $661 and $1,746 for the securities lending activities of the Balanced Fund and Mid-Cap Value Fund, respectively.

Distribution Plans

The Funds, except for the Advisor, A, and C Classes of the Funds, have adopted a “defensive” Distribution Plan (the “Plan”) in accordance with Rule 12b-1 under the Act, pursuant to which no separate fees may be charged

 

 

40


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

to the Funds for distribution purposes. However, the Plan authorizes the management fee received by the Manager and the investment advisors hired by the Manager to be used for distribution purposes. Under this Plan, the Funds do not intend to compensate the Manager or any other party, either directly or indirectly, for the distribution of Fund shares.

Separate Distribution Plans (the “Distribution Plans”) have been adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act for the Advisor, A, and C Classes of the Funds. Under the Distribution Plans, as compensation for distribution and shareholder servicing assistance, the Manager receives an annual fee of 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Advisor and A Classes, and 1.00% of the average daily net assets of the C Class. The fee will be payable without regard to whether the amount of the fee is more or less than the actual expenses incurred in a particular month by the Manager for distribution assistance.

Service Plans

The Manager and the Trust entered into Service Plans that obligate the Manager to oversee additional shareholder servicing of the Investor, Advisor, A, and C Classes of the Funds. As compensation for performing the duties required under the Service Plans, the Manager receives an annualized fee up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the A and C Classes, up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Advisor Class, and up to 0.375% of the average daily net assets of the Investor Class of the Funds.

Sub-Transfer Agent Fees

The Manager has entered into agreements, which include servicing agreements, with financial intermediaries that provide recordkeeping, processing, shareholder communications and other services to customers of the intermediaries that hold positions in the Institutional and Y Classes of the Funds and has agreed to compensate the intermediaries for providing these services. Intermediaries transact with the Funds primarily through the use of omnibus accounts on behalf of their customers who hold positions in the Funds. Certain services would have been provided by the Funds’ transfer agent and other service providers if the shareholders’ accounts were maintained directly by the Funds’ transfer agent. Accordingly, the Funds, pursuant to Board approval, have agreed to reimburse the Manager for certain non-distribution shareholder services provided by financial intermediaries for the Institutional and Y Classes. The reimbursement amounts (sub-transfer agent fees) paid to the Manager are subject to a fee limit of up to 0.10% of an intermediary’s average net assets in the Institutional and Y Classes on an annual basis. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the sub-transfer agent fees, as reflected in “Transfer agent fees” on the Statements of Operations, were as follows:

 

Fund

   Sub-Transfer Agent Fees  

Balanced

   $ 61,454  

Mid-Cap Value

     162,226  

As of October 31, 2019, the Funds owed the Manager the following reimbursement of sub-transfer agent fees, as reflected in “Transfer agent fees payable” on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities:

 

Fund

   Reimbursement
Sub-Transfer Agent  Fees
 

Balanced

   $ 6,812  

Mid-Cap Value

     8,134  

Investments in Affiliated Funds

The Funds may invest in the American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund (the “USG Select Fund”). Cash collateral received by the Funds in connection with securities lending may also be invested in the USG Select Fund. The Funds and the USG Select Fund have the same investment advisor and therefore, are considered to be affiliated. The Manager serves as investment advisor to the USG Select Fund and receives management fees

 

 

41


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

and administrative fees totaling 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the USG Select Fund. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Manager earned fees on the Funds’ direct investments and securities lending collateral investments in the USG Select Fund as shown below:

 

Fund

   Direct Investments in
USG Select Fund
     Securities Lending
Collateral
Investments in USG
Select Fund
     Total  

Balanced

   $ 5,400      $ 1,164      $ 6,564  

Mid-Cap Value

     20,299        4,003        24,302  

Interfund Credit Facility

Pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”), the Funds, along with other registered investment companies having management contracts with the Manager, may participate in a credit facility whereby each fund, under certain conditions, is permitted to lend money directly to and borrow directly from other participating funds for temporary purposes. The interfund credit facility is advantageous to the funds because it provides added liquidity and eliminates the need to maintain higher cash balances to meet redemptions. This situation could arise when shareholder redemptions exceed anticipated volumes and certain funds have insufficient cash on hand to satisfy such redemptions or when sales of securities do not settle as expected, resulting in a cash shortfall for a fund. When a fund liquidates portfolio securities to meet redemption requests, they often do not receive payment in settlement for up to two days (or longer for certain foreign transactions). Redemption requests normally are satisfied on the next business day. The credit facility provides a source of immediate, short-term liquidity pending settlement of the sale of portfolio securities. The credit facility is administered by a credit facility team consisting of professionals from the Manager’s asset management, compliance, and accounting areas who report the activities of the credit facility to the Board. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Balanced Fund borrowed on average $685,888 for 2 days at an average interest rate of 3.11% with interest charges of $114. These amounts are recorded as “Other expenses” in the Statements of Operations. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Mid-Cap Value Fund did not utilize the credit facility.

Expense Reimbursement Plan

The Manager contractually agreed to reduce fees and/or reimburse expenses for the classes of the Funds to the extent that total operating expenses exceed the Funds’ expense cap. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Manager waived and/or reimbursed expenses as follows:

 

            Expense Cap                  Expiration of
Reimbursed
Expenses
 

Fund

   Class      11/1/2018 –
2/28/2019
    3/1/2019 –
10/31/2019
    Reimbursed
Expenses
     (Recouped)
Expenses
 

Mid-Cap Value

     R6        0.88 %(1)      0.83   $ 648      $ (27     2021 - 2022  

(1) Voluntary expense cap.

Of these amounts, $162 was disclosed as a payable to the Manager on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities at October 31, 2019 for the Mid-Cap Value Fund.

The Funds have adopted an Expense Reimbursement Plan whereby the Manager may seek repayment of such fee or voluntary reductions and expense reimbursements. Under the policy, the Manager can be reimbursed by the Funds for any contractual or voluntary fee reductions or expense reimbursements if reimbursement to the Manager (a) occurs within three years after the date of the Manager’s waiver/reimbursement and (b) does not cause the Funds’ annual operating expenses to exceed the lesser of the contractual percentage limit in effect at the time of the waiver/reimbursement or time of recoupment. The reimbursed expenses listed above will expire in 2021 and

 

 

42


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

2022. The Fund did not record a liability for potential reimbursement due to the current assessment that a reimbursement is uncertain. The carryover of excess expenses potentially reimbursable to the Manager, but not recorded as a liability are as follows:

 

Fund

   Recouped
Expenses
    Excess Expense
Carryover
     Expired Expense
Carryover
     Expiration of
Reimbursed
Expenses
 

Mid-Cap Value

   $ 27   $ 2,051      $        2020 - 2021  

* Amount related to R6 Class

Sales Commissions

The Funds’ Distributor, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (“RID” or “Distributor”), may receive a portion of Class A sales charges from broker dealers and it may be used to offset distribution related expenses. During the year ended October 31, 2019, RID collected $6,499 and $325 for Balanced Fund and Mid-Cap Value Fund, respectively, from the sale of Class A Shares.

A CDSC of 0.50% will be deducted with respect to Class A Shares on certain purchases of $1,000,000 or more that are redeemed in whole or part within 18 months of purchase, unless waived as discussed in the Funds’ Prospectus. Any applicable CDSC will be 0.50% of the lesser of the original purchase price or the value of the redemption of the Class A Shares redeemed. During the year ended October 31, 2019, there were no CDSC fees collected for Class A Shares of the Funds.

A CDSC of 1.00% will be deducted with respect to Class C Shares redeemed within 12 months of purchase, unless waived as discussed in the Funds’ Prospectus. Any applicable CDSC will be 1.00% of the lesser of the original purchase price or the value of the redemption of the Class C Shares redeemed. During the year ended October 31, 2019, CDSC fees of $3,005 and $797 were collected for the Class C Shares of Balanced Fund and Mid-Cap Value Fund, respectively.

Trustee Fees and Expenses

As compensation for their service to the Trusts, each Trustee receives an annual retainer of $120,000, plus $10,000 for each Board meeting attended in person or via teleconference, $2,500 for attendance by Committee members at meetings of the Audit Committee and the Investment Committee, and $1,500 for attendance by Committee members at meetings of the Nominating and Governance Committee, plus reimbursement of reasonable expenses incurred in attending Board meetings, Committee meetings, and relevant educational seminars. The Trustees also may be compensated for attendance at special Board and/or Committee meetings from time to time. The Board Chair receives an additional annual retainer of $50,000 as well as a $2,500 fee each quarter for attendance at the committee meetings. The Chairpersons of the Audit Committee and the Investment Committee each receive an additional annual retainer of $25,000 and the Chairman of the Nominating and Governance Committee receives an additional annual retainer of $10,000. These expenses are allocated on a prorated basis to each fund of the Trusts according to its respective net assets.

3.  Security Valuation and Fair Value Measurements

The price of the Fund’s shares is based on its net asset value (“NAV”) per share. The Fund’s NAV is computed by adding total assets, subtracting all the Fund’s liabilities, and dividing the result by the total number of shares outstanding.

The NAV of each class of the Fund’s shares is determined based on a pro rata allocation of the Fund’s investment income, expenses and total capital gains and losses. The Fund’s NAV per share is determined each business day as of the regular close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE” or “Exchange”), which is typically 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time (“ET”). However, if trading on the NYSE closes at a time other than 4:00 p.m. ET, the Fund’s NAV per share typically would still be determined as of the regular close of trading on the NYSE. The

 

 

43


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Fund does not price its shares on days that the NYSE is closed. Foreign exchanges may permit trading in foreign securities on days when the Fund is not open for business, which may result in the value of the Fund’s portfolio investments being affected at a time when you are unable to buy or sell shares.

Equity securities, including shares of closed-end funds and exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”), are valued at the last sale price or official closing price taken from the primary exchange in which each security trades. Investments in other mutual funds are valued at the closing NAV per share on the day of valuation. Debt securities are valued at bid quotes from broker/dealers or evaluated bid prices from pricing services, who may consider a number of inputs and factors, such as prices of comparable securities, yield curves, spreads, credit ratings, coupon rates, maturity, default rates, and underlying collateral. Futures are valued based on their daily settlement prices. Exchange-traded and over-the-counter (“OTC”) options are valued at the last sale price. Options with no last sale for the day are priced at mid quote. Swaps are valued at evaluated mid prices from pricing services.

The valuation of securities traded on foreign markets and certain fixed-income securities will generally be based on prices determined as of the earlier closing time of the markets on which they primarily trade unless a significant event has occurred. When the Fund holds securities or other assets that are denominated in a foreign currency, the Fund will normally use the currency exchange rates as of 4:00 p.m. ET.

Securities may be valued at fair value, as determined in good faith and pursuant to procedures approved by the Board, under certain limited circumstances. For example, fair value pricing will be used when market quotations are not readily available or reliable, as determined by the Manager, such as when (i) trading for a security is restricted or stopped; (ii) a security’s trading market is closed (other than customary closings); or (iii) a security has been de-listed from a national exchange. A security with limited market liquidity may require fair value pricing if the Manager determines that the available price does not reflect the security’s true market value. In addition, if a significant event that the Manager determines to affect the value of one or more securities held by the Fund occurs after the close of a related exchange but before the determination of the Fund’s NAV, fair value pricing may be used on the affected security or securities. Securities of small-capitalization companies are also more likely to require a fair value determination using these procedures because they are more thinly traded and less liquid than the securities of larger-capitalization companies. The Fund may fair value securities as a result of significant events occurring after the close of the foreign markets in which the Fund invests as described below. In addition, the Fund may invest in illiquid securities requiring these procedures.

The Fund may use fair value pricing for securities primarily traded in non-U.S. markets because most foreign markets close well before the Fund’s pricing time of 4:00 p.m. ET. The earlier close of these foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim and may materially affect the value of those securities. If the Manager determines that the last quoted prices of non-U.S. securities will, in its judgment, materially affect the value of some or all its portfolio securities, the Manager can adjust the previous closing prices to reflect what it believes to be the fair value of the securities as of the close of the Exchange. In deciding whether it is necessary to adjust closing prices to reflect fair value, the Manager reviews a variety of factors, including developments in foreign markets, the performance of U.S. securities markets, and the performance of instruments trading in U.S. markets that represent foreign securities and baskets of foreign securities. These securities are fair valued using a pricing service, using methods approved by the Board, that considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to intraday trading in the U.S. markets, based on indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators such as prices of relevant American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”) and futures contracts. The Valuation Committee, established by the Board, may also fair value securities in other situations, such as when a particular foreign market is closed but the Fund is open. The Fund uses outside pricing services to provide closing prices and information to evaluate and/or adjust those prices. As a means of evaluating its security valuation process, the Valuation Committee routinely compares closing prices, the next day’s opening prices in the same markets and adjusted prices.

Attempts to determine the fair value of securities introduce an element of subjectivity to the pricing of securities. As a result, the price of a security determined through fair valuation techniques may differ from the price quoted or published by other sources and may not accurately reflect the market value of the security when

 

 

44


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

trading resumes. If a reliable market quotation becomes available for a security formerly valued through fair valuation techniques, the Manager compares the new market quotation to the fair value price to evaluate the effectiveness of the Fund’s fair valuation procedures. If any significant discrepancies are found, the Manager may adjust the Fund’s fair valuation procedures.

Valuation Inputs

Various inputs may be used to determine the fair value of the Funds’ investments. These inputs are summarized in three broad levels for financial statement purposes. The inputs or methodologies used to value securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

Level 1   -   Quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
Level 2   -   Prices determined using other significant observable inputs. These may include quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, and others.
Level 3   -   Prices determined using other significant unobservable inputs. Unobservable inputs reflect the Fund’s own assumptions about the factors market participants would use in pricing an investment.

Level 1 and Level 2 trading assets and trading liabilities, at fair value

Common stocks, preferred securities, and financial derivative instruments, such as futures contracts that are traded on a national securities exchange, are stated at the last reported sale or settlement price on the day of valuation. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized as Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Preferred securities and other equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Fixed-income securities including corporate, convertible and municipal bonds and notes, U.S. government agencies, U.S. Treasury obligations, sovereign issues, bank loans, convertible preferred securities, and non-U.S. bonds are normally valued by pricing service providers that use broker dealer quotations, reported trades or valuation estimates from their internal pricing models. The service providers’ internal models use inputs that are observable such as issuer details, interest rates, yield curves, prepayment speeds, credit risks/spreads, default rates, and quoted prices for similar assets. Securities that use similar valuation techniques and inputs as described above are categorized as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Fixed-income securities purchased on a delayed-delivery basis are marked-to-market daily until settlement at the forward settlement date and are categorized as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Mortgage-related and asset-backed securities (“ABS”) are usually issued as separate tranches, or classes, of securities within each deal. These securities are also normally valued by pricing service providers that use broker-dealer quotations or valuation estimates from their internal pricing models. The pricing models for these securities usually consider tranche-level attributes, current market data, estimated cash flows, and market-based yield spreads for each tranche, and incorporates deal collateral performance, as available. Mortgage-related and ABS that use similar valuation techniques and inputs as described above are categorized as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Investments in registered open-end investment management companies will be valued based upon the NAVs of such investments and are categorized as Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

4.  Securities and Other Investments

Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities

Certain mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”) may be issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or a government sponsored entity, such as the Federal National Mortgage Association (“Fannie Mae”) or the Federal

 

 

45


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (“Freddie Mac”). Although these instruments may be guaranteed by the U.S. government or a government sponsored entity, many such MBS are not backed by the full faith and credit of the United States and are still exposed to the risk of non-payment.

American Depositary Receipts and Non-Voting Depositary Receipts

ADRs are depositary receipts for foreign issuers in registered form traded in U.S. securities markets. Non-Voting Depositary Receipts (“NVDRs”) represent financial interests in an issuer but the holder is not entitled to any voting rights. Depositary receipts may not be denominated in the same currency as the securities into which they may be converted. Investing in depositary receipts entails substantially the same risks as direct investment in foreign securities. There is generally less publicly available information about foreign companies and there may be less governmental regulation and supervision of foreign stock exchanges, brokers, and listed companies. In addition, such companies may use different accounting and financial standards (and certain currencies may become unavailable for transfer from a foreign currency), resulting in the Fund’s possible inability to convert immediately into U.S. currency proceeds realized upon the sale of portfolio securities of the affected foreign companies. In addition, the Funds may invest in unsponsored depositary receipts, the issuers of which are not obligated to disclose material information about the underlying securities to investors in the United States. Ownership of unsponsored depositary receipts may not entitle the Funds to the same benefits and rights as ownership of a sponsored depositary receipt or the underlying security.

Asset-Backed Securities

ABS are securities issued by trusts and special purpose entities that are backed by pools of assets, such as automobile and credit-card receivables and home equity loans, which pass through the payments on the underlying obligations to the security holders (less servicing fees paid to the originator or fees for any credit enhancement). Typically, loans or accounts receivable paper are transferred from the originator to a specially created trust, which repackages the trust’s interests as securities with a minimum denomination and a specific term. The securities are then privately placed or publicly offered. Examples include certificates for automobile receivables and so-called plastic bonds, backed by credit card receivables. The Balanced Fund is permitted to invest in ABS, subject to the Funds’ rating and quality requirements.

The value of an ABS is affected by, among other things, changes in the market’s perception of the asset backing the security, the creditworthiness of the servicing agent for the loan pool, the originator of the loans and the financial institution providing any credit enhancement. Payments of principal and interest passed through to holders of ABS are frequently supported by some form of credit enhancement, such as a letter of credit, surety bond, limited guarantee by another entity or by having a priority to certain of the borrower’s other assets. The degree of credit enhancement varies, and generally applies to only a portion of the ABS’s par value. Value is also affected if any credit enhancement has been exhausted.

Common Stock

Common stock generally takes the form of shares in a corporation which represent an ownership interest. It ranks below preferred stock and debt securities in claims for dividends and for assets of the company in a liquidation or bankruptcy. The value of a company’s common stock may fall as a result of factors directly relating to that company, such as decisions made by its management or decreased demand for the company’s products or services. A stock’s value may also decline because of factors affecting not just the company, but also companies in the same industry or sector. The price of a company’s stock may also be affected by changes in financial markets that are relatively unrelated to the company, such as changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates or industry regulation. Companies that elect to pay dividends on their common stock generally only do so after they invest in their own business and make required payments to bondholders and on other debt and preferred stock. Therefore, the value of a company’s common stock will usually be more volatile than its bonds, other debt and preferred stock. Common stock may be exchange-traded or OTC. OTC stock may be less liquid than exchange-traded stock.

 

 

46


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Fixed-Income Investments

The Funds may hold debt, including government and corporate debt, and other fixed-income securities. Typically, the values of fixed-income securities change inversely with prevailing interest rates. Therefore, a fundamental risk of fixed-income securities is interest rate risk, which is the risk that their value will generally decline as prevailing interest rates rise, which may cause the Funds’ NAV to likewise decrease, and vice versa. How specific fixed-income securities may react to changes in interest rates will depend on the specific characteristics of each security. For example, while securities with longer maturities tend to produce higher yields, they also tend to be more sensitive to changes in prevailing interest rates and are, therefore, more volatile than shorter-term securities and are subject to greater market fluctuations as a result of changes in interest rates. Fixed-income securities are also subject to credit risk, which is the risk that the credit strength of an issuer of a fixed-income security will weaken and/or that the issuer will be unable to make timely principal and interest payments and that the security may go into default. In addition, there is prepayment risk, which is the risk that during periods of falling interest rates, certain fixed-income securities with higher interest rates, such as mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”) and ABS, may be prepaid by their issuers thereby reducing the amount of interest payments. This may result in a Fund having to reinvest its proceeds in lower yielding securities. Securities underlying MBS and ABS, which may include subprime mortgages, also may be subject to a higher degree of credit risk, valuation risk, and liquidity risk.

High-Yield Securities

Non-investment-grade securities are rated below the four highest credit grades by at least one of the public rating agencies (or are unrated if not publicly rated). Participation in high-yielding securities transactions generally involves greater returns in the form of higher average yields. However, participation in such transactions involves greater risks, including sensitivity to economic changes, solvency, and relative liquidity in the secondary trading market. Lower ratings may reflect a greater possibility that the financial condition of the issuer, or adverse changes in general economic conditions, or both, may impair the ability of the issuer to make payments of interest and principal. The prices and yields of lower-rated securities generally fluctuate more than higher-quality securities, and such prices may decline significantly in periods of general economic difficulty or rising interest rates.

Illiquid and Restricted Securities

Generally, an illiquid asset is an asset that the Funds reasonably expect cannot be sold or disposed of in current market conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the investment. Historically, illiquid securities have included securities that have not been registered under the Securities Act, securities that are otherwise not readily marketable, and repurchase agreements having a remaining maturity of longer than seven calendar days. Securities that have not been registered under the Securities Act are referred to as private placements or restricted securities and are purchased directly from the issuer or in the secondary market. These securities may be sold only in a privately negotiated transaction or pursuant to an exemption from registration. A large institutional market exists for certain securities that are not registered under the Securities Act, including repurchase agreements, commercial paper, foreign securities, municipal securities and corporate bonds and notes. Institutional investors depend on an efficient institutional market in which the unregistered security can be readily resold or on an issuer’s ability to honor a demand for repayment. However, the fact that there are contractual or legal restrictions on resale of such investments to the general public or to certain institutions may not be indicative of their liquidity.

Limitations on resale may have an adverse effect on the marketability of portfolio securities, and the Fund might be unable to dispose of restricted or other illiquid securities promptly or at reasonable prices and might thereby experience difficulty satisfying redemptions within seven calendar days. In addition, the Fund may get only limited information about an issuer, so it may be less able to predict a loss. The Fund also might have to register such restricted securities in order to dispose of them resulting in additional expense and delay. Adverse market conditions could impede such a public offering of securities. In recognition of the increased size and liquidity of the institutional

 

 

47


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

market for unregistered securities and the importance of institutional investors in the formation of capital, the SEC adopted Rule 144A under the Securities Act. Rule 144A is designed to facilitate efficient trading among institutional investors by permitting the sale of certain unregistered securities to qualified institutional buyers. To the extent privately placed securities held by the Fund qualify under Rule 144A and an institutional market develops for those securities, the Fund likely will be able to dispose of the securities without registering them under the Securities Act. To the extent that institutional buyers become, for a time, uninterested in purchasing these securities, investing in Rule 144A securities could increase the level of the Fund’s illiquidity. The Manager or the sub-advisor, as applicable, may determine that certain securities qualified for trading under Rule 144A are liquid. Regulation S under the Securities Act permits the sale abroad of securities that are not registered for sale in the United States and includes a provision for U.S. investors, such as the Fund, to purchase such unregistered securities if certain conditions are met.

Securities sold in private placement offerings made in reliance on the “private placement” exemption from registration afforded by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act and resold to qualified institutional buyers under Rule 144A under the Securities Act (“Section 4(a)(2) securities”) are restricted as to disposition under the federal securities laws, and generally are sold to institutional investors, such as the Fund, that agree they are purchasing the securities for investment and not with an intention to distribute to the public. Any resale by the purchaser must be pursuant to an exempt transaction and may be accomplished in accordance with Rule 144A. Section 4(a)(2) securities normally are resold to other institutional investors through or with the assistance of the issuer or dealers that make a market in the Section 4(a)(2) securities, thus providing liquidity. Restricted securities outstanding during the year ended October 31, 2019 are disclosed in the Notes to the Schedules of Investments.

Mortgage-Backed Securities

MBS often have stated maturities of up to thirty years when they are issued, depending upon the length of the mortgages underlying the securities. In practice however, unscheduled or early payments of principal and interest on the underlying mortgages may make the securities’ effective maturity shorter than this, and the prevailing interest rates may be higher or lower than the current yield of the Funds’ portfolio at the time resulting in reinvestment risk.

Rising or high interest rates may result in slower than expected principal payments which may tend to extend the duration of MBS, making them more volatile and more sensitive to changes in interest rates. This is known as extension risk.

MBS may have less potential for capital appreciation than comparable fixed-income securities due to the likelihood of increased prepayments of mortgages resulting from foreclosures or declining interest rates. These foreclosed or refinanced mortgages are paid off at face value (par) or less, causing a loss, particularly for any investor who may have purchased the security at a premium or a price above par. In such an environment, this risk limits the potential price appreciation of these securities.

Mortgage-Related and Other Asset-Backed Securities

The Balanced Fund may invest in mortgage or other ABS. These securities may include mortgage instruments issued by U.S. government agencies (“agency mortgages”) or those issued by private entities (“non-agency mortgages”). Specific types of instruments may include mortgage pass-through securities, collateralized mortgage obligations (“CMOs”), commercial mortgage-backed securities, mortgage dollar rolls, CMO residuals, stripped mortgage-backed securities and other securities that directly or indirectly represent a participation in, or are secured by a payable from, mortgage loans on real property. The value of the Funds’ MBS may be affected by, among other things, changes or perceived changes in interest rates, factors concerning the interests in and structure of the issuer or the originator of the mortgage, or the quality of the underlying assets. The mortgages underlying the securities may default or decline in quality or value. Through its investments in MBS, a Fund has exposure to subprime loans, Alt-A loans and non-conforming loans as well as to the mortgage and credit markets generally. Underlying collateral related to subprime, Alt-A and non-conforming mortgage loans has become

 

 

48


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

increasingly susceptible to defaults and declines in quality or value, especially in a declining residential real estate market. In addition, regulatory or tax changes may adversely affect the mortgage securities markets as a whole.

Other Investment Company Securities and Other Exchange-Traded Products

The Funds may invest in shares of other investment companies, including open-end funds, closed-end funds, business development companies, ETFs, unit investment trusts, and other investment companies of the Trust. The Funds may invest in securities of an investment company advised by the Manager or a sub-advisor. Investments in the securities of other investment companies may involve duplication of advisory fees and certain other expenses. By investing in another investment company, the Funds become a shareholder of that investment company. As a result, the Funds’ shareholders indirectly will bear the Funds’ proportionate share of the fees and expenses paid by shareholders of the other investment company, in addition to the fees and expenses the Funds’ shareholders directly bear in connection with the Funds’ own operations. These other fees and expenses are reflected as Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses and are included in the Fees and Expenses Table for the Funds in their Prospectus, if applicable. Investments in other investment companies may involve the payment of substantial premiums above the value of such issuer’s portfolio securities.

Privately Issued Mortgage-Backed Securities

Pools created by non-governmental issuers generally offer a higher rate of interest than government and government-related pools because there are no direct or indirect government guarantees of payments in such pools. However, timely payment of interest and principal of these pools is often partially supported by various enhancements such as over-collateralization and senior/subordination structures and by various forms of insurance or guarantees, including individual loan, title, pool and hazard insurance. The insurance and guarantees are issued by government entities, private insurers or the mortgage poolers. Although the market for such securities is becoming increasingly liquid, securities issued by certain private organizations may not be readily marketable.

Publicly Traded Partnerships; Master Limited Partnerships

The Funds may invest in publicly traded partnerships such as master limited partnerships (“MLPs”). MLPs issue units that are registered with the SEC and are freely tradable on a securities exchange or in the OTC market. An MLP may have one or more general partners, who conduct the business, and one or more limited partners, who contribute capital. An MLP also may be an entity similar to a limited partnership, such as a limited liability company, which has a manager or managing member and non-managing members (who are like limited partners). The general partner or partners are jointly and severally responsible for the liabilities of the MLP. A Fund invests as a limited partner and normally would not be liable for the debts of an MLP beyond the amount the Fund has invested therein but it would not be shielded to the same extent that a shareholder of a corporation would be. In certain instances, creditors of an MLP would have the right to seek a return of capital that had been distributed to a limited partner. The right of an MLP’s creditors would continue even after a Fund had sold its investment in the partnership. MLPs typically invest in real estate and oil and gas equipment leasing assets, but they also finance entertainment, research and development, and other projects.

Real Estate Investment Trusts

The Funds may own shares of real estate investment trusts (“REITs”) which report information on the source of their distributions annually. The Funds re-characterize distributions received from REIT investments based on information provided by the REITs into the following categories: ordinary income, long-term capital gains, and return of capital. If information is not available on a timely basis from the REITs, the re-characterization will be estimated based on available information, which may include the previous year allocation. If new or additional information becomes available from the REITs at a later date, a re-characterization will be made the following year.

 

 

49


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

U.S. Government Agency Securities

U.S. Government agency securities are issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities. Some obligations issued by U.S. Government agencies and instrumentalities are supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury; others by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury; others by discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to purchase certain obligations of the agency or instrumentality; and others only by the credit of the agency or instrumentality. U.S. Government securities bear fixed, floating or variable rates of interest. While the U.S. Government currently provides financial support to certain U.S. Government-sponsored agencies or instrumentalities, no assurance can be given that it will always do so, since it is not so obligated by law. U.S. Government securities include U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds, Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) obligations, Federal Farm Credit Bank (“FFCB”) obligations, U.S. Government agency obligations and repurchase agreements secured thereby. U.S. Government agency securities are subject to credit risk and interest rate risk.

U.S. Treasury Obligations

U.S. Treasury obligations include bills (initial maturities of one year or less), notes (initial maturities between two and ten years), and bonds (initial maturities over ten years) issued by the U.S. Treasury, Separately Traded Registered Interest and Principal component parts of such obligations (known as “STRIPS”) and inflation-indexed securities. The prices of these securities (like all debt securities) change between issuance and maturity in response to fluctuating market interest rates. U.S. Treasury obligations are subject to credit risk and interest rate risk.

Variable or Floating Rate Obligations

The interest rates payable on certain fixed-income securities in which the Balanced Fund may invest are not fixed and may fluctuate based upon changes in market rates. A variable rate obligation has an interest rate which is adjusted at predesignated periods in response to changes in the market rate of interest on which the interest rate is based. Variable and floating rate obligations are less effective than fixed rate instruments at locking in a particular yield. Nevertheless, such obligations may fluctuate in value in response to interest rate changes if there is a delay between changes in market interest rates and the interest reset date for the obligation, or for other reasons.

5. Financial Derivative Instruments

The Funds may utilize derivative instruments to gain market exposure on cash balances or reduce market exposure in anticipation of liquidity needs. When considering the Funds’ use of derivatives, it is important to note that the Funds do not use derivatives for the purpose of creating financial leverage.

Futures Contracts

Futures contracts are contracts to buy or sell a standard quantity of securities at a specified price on a future date. The Funds may enter into financial futures contracts as a method for keeping assets readily convertible to cash if needed to meet shareholder redemptions or for other needs while maintaining exposure to the stock or bond market, as applicable. The primary risks associated with the use of futures contracts are the possibility of illiquid markets or imperfect correlation between the values of the contracts and the underlying securities or that the counterparty will fail to perform its obligations.

Upon entering into a futures contract, the Funds are required to set aside or deposit with a broker an amount, termed the initial margin, which typically represents a portion of the face value of the futures contract. The Funds usually reflects this amount on the Schedules of Investments as a U.S. Treasury Bill held as collateral for futures contracts or as cash deposited with broker on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Payments to and from the

 

 

50


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

broker, known as variation margin, are required to be made on a daily basis as the price of the futures contract fluctuates. Changes in initial settlement values are accounted for as unrealized appreciation (depreciation) until the contracts are terminated, at which time realized gains and losses are recognized. Futures contracts are valued at the most recent settlement price established each day by the exchange on which they are traded.

During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Funds entered into futures contracts primarily for exposing cash to markets.

The Funds’ average futures contracts outstanding fluctuate throughout the operating year as required to meet strategic requirements. The following table illustrates the average quarterly volume of futures contracts. For the purpose of this disclosure, volume is measured by contracts outstanding at each quarter end.

 

Average Futures Contracts Outstanding

 

Fund

  Year Ended October 31, 2019  

Balanced

    25  

Mid-Cap Value

    79  

The following is a summary of the fair valuations of the Funds’ derivative instruments categorized by risk exposure(1):

Balanced Fund

 

Fair values of financial instruments on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities as of October 31, 2019:

 

    Derivatives not accounted for as hedging instruments

Assets:

  Credit contracts       Foreign exchange
contracts
      Commodity
contracts
      Interest rate
contracts
      Equity contracts       Total
Receivable for variation margin from open futures contracts(2)     $ -         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ 23,883         $ 23,883
                                           
The effect of financial derivative instruments on the Statements of Operations as of October 31, 2019:

 

    Derivatives not accounted for as hedging instruments

Realized gain (loss) from derivatives
recognized as a result of operations

  Credit contracts       Foreign exchange
contracts
      Commodity
contracts
      Interest rate
contracts
      Equity contracts       Total
Futures contracts     $ -         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ (282,052 )         $ (282,052 )

Net change in unrealized appreciation
(depreciation) of derivatives recognized
as a result from operations:

  Credit contracts       Foreign exchange
contracts
      Commodity
contracts
      Interest rate
contracts
      Equity contracts       Total
Futures contracts     $ -         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ 264,711         $ 264,711

Mid-Cap Value Fund

 

Fair values of financial instruments on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities as of October 31, 2019:

 

    Derivatives not accounted for as hedging instruments

Assets:

  Credit contracts       Foreign exchange
contracts
      Commodity
contracts
      Interest rate
contracts
      Equity contracts       Total
Receivable for variation margin from open futures contracts(2)     $ -         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ 83,789         $ 83,789
                                           

 

 

51


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

The effect of financial derivative instruments on the Statements of Operations as of October 31, 2019:

 

    Derivatives not accounted for as hedging instruments

Realized gain (loss) from derivatives
recognized as a result of operations

  Credit contracts       Foreign exchange
contracts
      Commodity
contracts
      Interest rate
contracts
      Equity contracts       Total
Futures contracts     $ -         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ 903,027         $ 903,027

Net change in unrealized appreciation
(depreciation) of derivatives recognized
as a result from operations:

  Credit contracts       Foreign exchange
contracts
      Commodity
contracts
      Interest rate
contracts
      Equity contracts       Total
Futures contracts     $ -         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ 1,531,334         $ 1,531,334

(1) See Note 3 in the Notes to Financial Statements for additional information.

(2) Includes cumulative appreciation (depreciation) of futures contracts as reported in the Fund’s Schedule of Investments footnotes. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

Offsetting Assets and Liabilities

The Funds are parties to enforceable master netting agreements between brokers and counterparties which provide for the right to offset under certain circumstances. The Funds employ multiple money managers and counterparties and have elected not to offset qualifying financial and derivative instruments on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, as such all financial and derivative instruments are presented on a gross basis. The impacts of netting arrangements that provide the right to offset are detailed below. The net amount represents the net receivable or payable that would be due from or to the counterparty in the event of default. Exposure from borrowings and other financing agreements such as repurchase agreements can only be netted across transactions governed by the same Master Agreement with the same legal entity. All amounts reported below represent the balance as of the report date, October 31, 2019.

Balanced Fund

 

Offsetting of Financial and Derivative Assets as of October 31, 2019:      
    Assets           Liabilities  
Futures Contracts(1)   $ 23,883       $ -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 
Total derivative assets and liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities   $ 23,883       $ -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 
Derivatives not subject to a Master Netting Agreement or similar agreement (“MNA”)   $ (23,883     $ -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

(1) Includes cumulative appreciation or (depreciation) of futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments footnotes. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

Mid-Cap Value Fund

 

Offsetting of Financial and Derivative Assets as of October 31, 2019:      
    Assets           Liabilities  
Futures Contracts(1)   $ 83,789       $ -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 
Total derivative assets and liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities   $ 83,789       $ -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 
Derivatives not subject to a Master Netting Agreement or similar agreement (“MNA”)   $ (83,789     $ -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements
As of October 31, 2019
 
    Overnight and
Continuous
          <30 days           Between
30 & 90 days
          >90 days           Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

                 

Common Stocks

  $ 1,233,330       $ -       $ -       $ -       $ 1,233,330  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Borrowings

  $ 1,233,330       $ -       $ -       $ -       $ 1,233,330  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Gross amount of recognized liabilities for securities lending transactions

 

  $ 1,233,330  
                 

 

 

 

(1) Includes cumulative appreciation or (depreciation) of futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments footnotes. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

 

 

52


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

6.  Principal Risks

Investing in the Funds may involve certain risks including, but not limited to, those described below.

Asset-Backed and Mortgage Related Securities Risk

Investments in asset-backed and mortgage related securities are subject to market risks for fixed-income securities which include, but are not limited to, interest rate risk, prepayment risk and extension risk. Small movements in interest rates (both increases and decreases) may quickly and significantly reduce the value of certain MBS and ABS securities. If interest rates fall, the rate of prepayments tends to increase as borrowers are motivated to pay off debt and refinance at new lower rates. When mortgages and other obligations are prepaid and when securities are called, a Fund may have to reinvest in securities with a lower yield or fail to recover additional amounts (i.e., premiums) paid for securities with higher interest rates, resulting in an unexpected capital loss and/or a decrease in the amount of dividends and yield. Because prepayments increase when interest rates fall, the prices of MBS and ABS do not increase as much as other fixed income securities when interest rates fall. When interest rates rise, borrowers are less likely to prepay their mortgage and other loans. A decreased rate of prepayments lengthens the expected maturity of MBS and ABS. Therefore, the prices of MBS and ABS may decrease more than prices of other fixed-income securities when interest rates rise. Rising interest rates tend to extend the duration of these securities, making them more sensitive to changes in interest rates. Rising interest rates also may increase the risk of default by borrowers. As a result, in a period of rising interest rates, a Fund that holds these types of securities, may experience additional volatility and losses. A decline in the credit quality of and defaults by the issuers of asset-backed and mortgage related securities or instability in the markets for such securities may affect the value and liquidity of such securities, which could result in losses to a Fund. In addition, certain asset-backed and mortgage related securities may include securities backed by pools of loans made to “subprime” borrowers or borrowers with blemished credit histories; the risk of defaults is generally higher in the case of mortgage pools that include such subprime mortgages.

Credit Risk

The Funds are subject to the risk that the issuer or guarantor of a debt security, or the counterparty to a derivatives contract or a loan, will fail to make timely payment of interest or principal or otherwise honor its obligations or default completely. A decline in the credit rating of an individual security held by the Funds may have an adverse impact on its price and make it difficult for the Funds to sell it. Ratings represent a rating agency’s opinion regarding the quality of the security and are not a guarantee of quality. Rating agencies might not always change their credit rating on an issuer or security in a timely manner to reflect events that could affect the issuer’s ability to make timely payments on its obligations. Credit risk is typically greater for securities with ratings that are below investment grade.

Equity Investments Risk

Equity securities are subject to market risk. The Funds’ investments in equity securities may include common stocks, preferred stocks, securities convertible into or exchangeable for common stocks, REITs, depositary receipts, and U.S. dollar-denominated foreign stocks traded on U.S. exchanges. Such investments may expose the Funds to additional risk. The value of a company’s common stock may fall as a result of factors affecting the company, companies in the same industry or sector, or the financial markets overall. Common stock generally is subordinate to preferred stock upon the liquidation or bankruptcy of the issuing company. Preferred stocks and convertible securities are sensitive to movements in interest rates. Preferred stocks may be less liquid than common stocks and, unlike common stocks, participation in the growth of an issuer may be limited. Distributions on preferred stocks generally are payable at the discretion of an issuer and after required payments to bond holders. Convertible securities are subject to the risk that the credit standing of the issuer may have an effect on the convertible securities’ investment value. Investments in REITs are subject to the risks associated with investing in the real estate industry such as adverse developments affecting the real estate industry and real property

 

 

53


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

values. Depositary receipts and U.S. dollar-denominated foreign stocks traded on U.S. exchanges are subject to certain of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities, including, but not limited to, currency fluctuations and political and financial instability in the home country of a particular depositary receipt or foreign stock.

Foreign Investing and Emerging Markets Risk

Non-U.S. investments carry potential risks not associated with U.S. investments. Such risks include, but are not limited to: (1) currency exchange rate fluctuations, (2) political and financial instability, (3) less liquidity, (4) lack of uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, (5) increased price volatility, (6) less government regulation and supervision of foreign stock exchanges, brokers and listed companies, and (7) delays in transaction settlement in some foreign markets. To the extent the Funds invest a significant portion of its assets in securities of a single country or region, it is more likely to be affected by events or conditions of that country or region. In addition, the economies and political environments of emerging market countries tend to be more unstable than those of developed countries, resulting in more volatile rates of return than the developed markets and substantially greater risk to investors. There may be very limited oversight of certain foreign banks or securities depositories that hold foreign securities and currency and the laws of certain countries may limit the ability to recover such assets if a foreign bank or depository or their agents goes bankrupt. When investing in emerging markets, the risks of investing in foreign securities are heightened. Emerging markets have unique risks that are greater than, or in addition to, investing in developed markets because emerging markets are generally smaller, less developed, less liquid and more volatile than the securities markets of the U.S. and other developed markets. There are also risks of: greater political uncertainties; an economy’s dependence on revenues from particular commodities or on international aid or development assistance; currency transfer restrictions; a limited number of potential buyers for such securities, resulting in increased volatility and limited liquidity for emerging market securities; trading suspensions; and delays and disruptions in securities settlement procedures. In addition, there may be less information available to make investment decisions and more volatile rates of return.

Futures Contracts Risk

Futures contracts are derivative instruments where one party pays a fixed price for an agreed amount of securities or other underlying assets at an agreed date. The use of such derivative instruments may expose the Funds to additional risks that they would not be subject to if they invested directly in the securities underlying those derivatives. Futures contracts may experience potentially dramatic price changes (losses) and imperfect correlation between the price of the contract and the underlying security or index, which will increase the volatility of the Funds and may involve a small investment of cash (the amount of initial and variation margin) relative to the magnitude of the risk assumed (the potential increase or decrease in the price of the futures contract).

Illiquid and Restricted Securities Risk

Securities not registered in the U.S. under the Securities Act, including Rule 144A securities, are restricted as to their resale. Such securities may not be listed on an exchange and may have no active trading market. They may be more difficult to purchase or sell at an advantageous time or price because such securities may not be readily marketable in broad public markets. The Funds may not be able to sell a restricted security when the sub-advisor considers it desirable to do so and/or may have to sell the security at a lower price than the Funds believe is its fair market value. In addition, transaction costs may be higher for restricted securities and the Funds may receive only limited information regarding the issuer of a restricted security. The Funds may have to bear the expense of registering restricted securities for resale and the risk of substantial delays in effecting the registration.

Interest Rate Risk

Investments in fixed-income securities or derivatives that are influenced by interest rates are subject to interest rate risk. The value of the Funds’ fixed-income investments typically will fall when interest rates rise. The Funds may be particularly sensitive to changes in interest rates if it invests in debt securities with intermediate and

 

 

54


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

long terms to maturity. Debt securities with longer durations tend to be more sensitive to changes in interest rates, usually making them more volatile than debt securities with shorter durations. For example, if a bond has a duration of seven years, a 1% increase in interest rates could be expected to result in a 7% decrease in the value of the bond. Yields of debt securities will fluctuate over time. Following the financial crisis that started in 2008, the Federal Reserve has attempted to stabilize the economy and support the economic recovery by keeping the federal funds rate (the interest rate at which depository institutions lend reserve balances to each other overnight) at or near zero percent. The Federal Reserve has raised the federal funds rate several times since December 2015 and may continue to increase or decrease rates in the future. Interest rates may rise significantly and/or rapidly, potentially resulting in substantial losses to the Funds. During periods of very low or negative interest rates, the Funds may be unable to maintain positive returns. Certain European countries and Japan have recently experienced negative interest rates on deposits and debt securities have traded at negative yields. Negative interest rates may become more prevalent among non-U.S. issuers, and potentially within the United States. Changing interest rates, including rates that fall below zero, may have unpredictable effects on markets, may result in heightened market volatility and may detract from Fund performance to the extent the Funds are exposed to such interest rates.

Liquidity Risk

When there is little or no active trading market for a specific type of security, it can become more difficult to purchase or sell the securities at or near their perceived value. During such periods, certain investments held by the Funds may be difficult to sell or other investments may be difficult to purchase at favorable times or prices. As a result, the Fund may have to lower the price on certain securities that it is trying to sell, sell other securities instead or forgo an investment opportunity, any of which could have a negative effect on Fund management or performance. Additionally, the market for certain investments may become illiquid under adverse market or economic conditions independent of any specific adverse changes in the conditions of a particular issuer.

Market Risk

Conditions in the U.S. and many foreign economies have resulted, and may continue to result, in certain instruments experiencing unusual liquidity issues, increased price volatility and, in some cases, credit downgrades and increased likelihood of default. These events have reduced the willingness and ability of some lenders to extend credit, and have made it more difficult for some borrowers to obtain financing on attractive terms, if at all. In some cases, traditional market participants have been less willing to make a market in some types of debt instruments, which has affected the liquidity of those instruments. During times of market turmoil, investors tend to look to the safety of securities issued or backed by the U.S. Treasury, causing the prices of these securities to rise and the yields to decline. Reduced liquidity in fixed income and credit markets may negatively affect many issuers worldwide. In addition, global economies and financial markets are becoming increasingly interconnected, which increases the possibilities that conditions in one country or region might adversely impact issuers in a different country or region. A rise in protectionist trade policies, and the possibility of changes to some international trade agreements, could affect the economies of many nations, including the United States, in ways that cannot necessarily be foreseen at the present time.

In response to the financial crisis, the U.S. and other governments and the Federal Reserve and certain foreign central banks have taken steps to support financial markets. In some countries where economic conditions are recovering, they are nevertheless perceived as still fragile. Withdrawal of government support, failure of efforts in response to the crisis, or investor perception that such efforts are not succeeding, could adversely impact the value and liquidity of certain securities. The severity or duration of adverse economic conditions may also be affected by policy changes made by governments or quasi-governmental organizations, including changes in tax laws. The impact of new financial regulation legislation on the markets and the practical implications for market participants may not be fully known for some time. Regulatory changes are causing some financial services companies to exit long-standing lines of business, resulting in dislocations for other market participants. In addition, political and governmental events within the U.S. and abroad, such as the United States government’s

 

 

55


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

inability at times to agree on a long-term budget and deficit reduction plan, the threat of a federal government shutdown and threats not to increase the federal government’s debt limit, may affect investor and consumer confidence and may adversely impact financial markets and the broader economy, perhaps suddenly and to a significant degree. The U.S. government has reduced the federal corporate income tax rates, and future legislative, regulatory and policy changes may result in more restrictions on international trade, less stringent prudential regulation of certain players in the financial markets, and significant new investments in infrastructure and national defense. Markets may react strongly to expectations about the changes in these policies, which could increase volatility, especially if the markets’ expectations for changes in government policies are not borne out.

Changes in market conditions will not have the same impact on all types of securities. Interest rates have been unusually low in recent years in the United States and abroad. Because there is little precedent for this situation, it is difficult to predict the impact of a significant rate increase on various markets. For example, because investors may buy securities or other investments with borrowed money, a significant increase in interest rates may cause a decline in the markets for those investments. Because of the sharp decline in the worldwide price of oil, there is a concern that oil producing nations may withdraw significant assets now held in U.S. Treasuries, which could force a substantial increase in interest rates. Regulators have expressed concern that rate increases may cause investors to sell fixed income securities faster than the market can absorb them, contributing to price volatility. In addition, there is a risk that the prices of goods and services in the U.S. and many foreign economies may decline over time, known as deflation (the opposite of inflation). Deflation may have an adverse effect on stock prices and creditworthiness and may make defaults on debt more likely. If a country’s economy slips into a deflationary pattern, it could last for a prolonged period and may be difficult to reverse.

The precise timing and the resulting impact of the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union (the “EU”), commonly referred to as “Brexit,” are not yet known. The effect on the United Kingdom’s economy will likely depend on the nature of trade relations with the EU and other major economies following its exit, which are matters to be negotiated. The outcomes may cause increased volatility and have a significant adverse impact on world financial markets, other international trade agreements, and the United Kingdom and European economies, as well as the broader global economy for some time, which could significantly adversely affect the value of the Fund’s investments in the United Kingdom and Europe.

Mortgage-Backed and Mortgage Related Securities Risk

Investments in mortgage-backed and mortgage-related securities are subject to market risks for fixed-income securities which include, but are not limited to, interest rate risk, credit risk, extension risk and prepayment risk. When mortgages and other obligations are prepaid and when securities are called, a Fund may have to reinvest in securities with a lower yield or fail to recover additional amounts (i.e., premiums) paid for securities with higher interest rates, resulting in an unexpected capital loss and/or a decrease in the amount of dividends and yield.

Multiple Sub-Advisor Risk

The Manager may allocate the Funds’ assets among multiple sub-advisors, each of which is responsible for investing its allocated portion of the Funds’ assets. To a significant extent, the Funds’ performance will depend on the success of the Manager in allocating the Funds’ assets to sub-advisors and its selection and oversight of the sub-advisors. Because each sub-advisor manages its allocated portion of the Funds independently from another sub-advisor, the same security may be held in different portions of the Funds, or may be acquired for one portion of the Funds at a time when a sub-advisor to another portion deems it appropriate to dispose of the security from that other portion, resulting in higher expenses without accomplishing any net result in the Funds’ holdings. Similarly, under some market conditions, one sub-advisor may believe that temporary, defensive investments in short-term instruments or cash are appropriate when another sub-advisor believes continued exposure to the equity or debt markets is appropriate for its allocated portion of the Funds. Because each sub-advisor directs the trading for its own portion of the Funds, and does not aggregate its transactions with those of the other sub-advisors, the Funds may incur higher brokerage costs than would be the case if a single sub-adviser were

 

 

56


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

managing the entire Fund. In addition, while the Manager seeks to allocate the Funds’ assets among the Funds’ sub-advisors in a manner that it believes is consistent with achieving the Funds’ investment objective(s), the Manager may be subject to potential conflicts of interest in allocating the Funds’ assets among sub-advisors, due to factors that could impact the Manager’s revenues and profits.

Other Investment Companies Risk

The Funds may invest in shares of other registered investment companies, including money market funds. To the extent that the Funds invest in shares of other registered investment companies, the Funds will indirectly bear the fees and expenses, including for example advisory and administrative fees charged by those investment companies in addition to the Funds’ direct fees and expenses and will be subject to the risks associated with investments in those companies. For example, the Funds’ investments in money market funds are subject to interest rate risk, credit risk, and market risk. The Funds must rely on the investment company in which it invests to achieve its investment objective. If the investment company fails to achieve its investment objective, the value of the Funds’ investment will decline, adversely affecting the Funds’ performance. To the extent the Funds invest in other investment companies that invest in equity securities, fixed income securities and/or foreign securities, or track an index, the Funds are subject to the risks associated with the underlying investments held by the investment company or the index fluctuations to which the investment company is subject.

Prepayment and Extension Risk

When interest rates fall, borrowers will generally repay the loans that underlie certain debt securities, especially mortgage-related and other types of asset-backed securities, more quickly than expected, causing the issuer of the security to repay the principal prior to the security’s expected maturity date. The Fund may need to reinvest the proceeds at a lower interest rate, reducing its income. Securities subject to prepayment risk generally offer less potential for gains when prevailing interest rates fall. If the Fund buys those securities at a premium, accelerated prepayments on those securities could cause the Fund to lose a portion of its principal investment. The impact of prepayments on the price of a security may be difficult to predict and may increase the security’s price volatility.

Redemption Risk

The Funds may experience periods of heavy redemptions that could cause the Funds to sell assets at inopportune times or at a loss or depressed value. Redemption risk is greater to the extent that one or more investors or intermediaries control a large percentage of investments in the Funds, have short investment horizons, or have unpredictable cash flow needs. A general rise in interest rates has the potential to cause investors to move out of fixed-income securities on a large scale, which may increase redemptions from mutual funds that hold large amounts of fixed-income securities. This, coupled with a reduction in the ability or willingness of dealers and other institutional investors to buy or hold fixed-income securities, may result in decreased liquidity and increased volatility in the fixed-income markets, and heightened redemption risk. Heavy redemptions, whether by a few large investors or many smaller investors, could hurt the Funds’ performance. This risk is heightened if the Fund invests in emerging market securities, which are generally less liquid than the securities of U.S. and other developed markets. The sale of assets to meet redemption requests may create net capital gains or losses, which could cause the Funds to have to distribute substantial capital gains.

Sector Risk

Sector risk is the risk associated with a Fund holding a significant amount of investments in similar businesses, which would be similarly affected by particular economic or market events, which may, in certain circumstances, cause the value of the equity and debt securities of companies in a particular sector of the market to change. To the extent a Fund has substantial holdings within a particular sector, the risks to a Fund associated with that sector increase.

 

 

57


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

To the extent a Fund invests significantly in the financial services sector, the value of the Fund’s shares may be particularly vulnerable to factors affecting that sector, such as the availability and cost of capital funds, changes in interest rates, the rate of corporate and consumer debt defaults, extensive government regulation and price competition. The value of a Fund’s shares could experience significantly greater volatility than investment companies investing more broadly.

Securities Lending Risk

A Fund may lend its portfolio securities to brokers, dealers and financial institutions to seek income. There is a risk that a borrower may default on its obligations to return loaned securities; however, a Fund’s securities lending agent indemnifies the Fund against that risk. There is a risk that the assets of a Fund’s securities lending agent may be insufficient to satisfy any contractual indemnification requirements to the Fund. Borrowers of a Fund’s securities typically provide collateral in the form of cash that is reinvested in securities. A Fund will be responsible for the risks associated with the investment of cash collateral, including any collateral invested in an affiliated money market fund. A Fund may lose money on its investment of cash collateral or may fail to earn sufficient income on its investment to meet obligations to the borrower. In addition, delays may occur in the recovery of securities from borrowers, which could interfere with a Fund’s ability to vote proxies or to settle transactions and there is the risk of possible loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower fail financially. In any case in which the loaned securities are not returned to the Fund before an ex-dividend date, the payment in lieu of the dividend that the Fund receives from the securities’ borrower would not be treated as a dividend for federal income tax purposes and thus would not qualify for treatment as “qualified dividend income”.

U.S. Government Securities and Government-Sponsored Enterprises Risk

A security backed by the U.S. Treasury or the full faith and credit of the United States is guaranteed only as to the timely payment of interest and principal when held to maturity. The market prices for such securities are not guaranteed and will fluctuate. Additionally, circumstances could arise that would prevent the payment of interest or principal. This could result in losses to the Fund. Investments in government-sponsored enterprises are debt obligations issued by agencies and instrumentalities of the U.S. Government. These obligations vary in the level of support they receive from the U.S. Government. They may be: (i) supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury, such as those of the Government National Mortgage Association (‘‘Ginnie Mae’’); (ii) supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury, such as those of the Federal Home Loan Bank and the Federal Farm Credit Banks; (iii) supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to purchase the agency obligations, such as those of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac or (iv) supported only by the credit of the issuer, such as those of the Federal Farm Credit Bureau. The U.S. Government may choose not to provide financial support to U.S. Government-sponsored agencies or instrumentalities if it is not legally obligated to do so, in which case, if the issuer defaulted, to the extent the Funds holds securities of such issuers, it might not be able to recover its investment from the U.S. Government.

7.  Federal Income and Excise Taxes

It is the policy of each Fund to qualify as a regulated investment company (“RIC”), by complying with all applicable provisions of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended, and to make distributions of taxable income sufficient to relieve it from substantially all federal income and excise taxes. For federal income tax purposes, each Fund is treated as a single entity for the purpose of determining such qualification.

The Funds do not have any unrecorded tax liabilities in the accompanying financial statements. Each of the tax years in the four year period ended October 31, 2019 remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service. If applicable, the Funds recognize interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in “Other expenses” on the Statements of Operations.

 

 

58


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

The Funds may be subject to taxes imposed by countries in which it invests. Such taxes are generally based on returns of income earned or gains realized or repatriated. Taxes are accrued and applied to net investment income, net realized capital gains and net unrealized appreciation (depreciation), as applicable, as the income is earned or capital gains are recorded.

Dividends are categorized in accordance with income tax regulations which may treat certain transactions differently than U.S. GAAP. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying financial statements.

The tax character of distributions paid were as follows:

 

    Balanced Fund           Mid-Cap Value Fund  
    Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          Year Ended
October 31, 2018
          Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          Year Ended
October 31, 2018
 

Distributions paid from:

             

Ordinary income*

             

Institutional Class

  $ 1,032,845       $ 3,590,211       $ 3,461,026       $ 2,517,255  

Y Class

    1,191,905         2,835,075         1,228,142         867,845  

Investor Class

    2,000,977         5,484,303         4,048,812         2,066,989  

Advisor Class

    106,216         404,894         27,459         5,325  

A Class

    329,762         990,798         108,815         59,166  

C Class

    447,883         1,588,575         11,735         -  

R6 Class

    -         -         2,691         -  

Long-term capital gains

             

Institutional Class

    3,969,052         2,671,741        
12,688,768
 
      6,917,398  

Y Class

    4,687,263         1,986,952         4,778,008         2,579,185  

Investor Class

    7,902,020         4,156,521         18,693,184         7,195,645  

Advisor Class

    430,864         356,680         171,300         89,403  

A Class

    1,306,565         727,858         603,423         374,971  

C Class

    2,617,867         1,388,117         302,234         184,144  

R6 Class

    -         -         9,845         -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions paid

  $ 26,023,219       $ 26,181,725       $ 46,135,442       $ 22,857,326  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

* For tax purposes, short-term gains are considered ordinary income distributions.

As of October 31, 2019 the components of distributable earnings (deficits) on a tax basis were as follows:

 

Fund

   Tax Cost      Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
(Depreciation)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
Balanced    $ 223,663,111      $ 40,402,798      $ (8,060,248   $ 32,342,550  
Mid-Cap Value      453,297,404        89,194,286        (45,766,752     43,427,534  

 

Fund

   Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
     Undistributed
Ordinary
Income
     Undistributed
Long-Term
Capital Gains
     Accumulated
Capital and
Other (Losses)
    Other Temporary
Differences
     Distributable
Earnings
 

Balanced

   $ 32,342,550      $ 6,450,866      $ 15,454,073      $ -     $ -      $ 54,247,489  

Mid-Cap Value

     43,427,534        4,826,801        -        (18,737,756     -        29,516,579  

Financial reporting records are adjusted for permanent book/tax differences to reflect tax character. Financial records are not adjusted for temporary differences. The temporary differences between financial reporting and tax-basis reporting of unrealized appreciation (depreciation) are attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses from wash sales, the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains (losses) on certain derivative instruments, reclassifications of income from investments in real estate investment securities and publicly traded partnerships, and book amortization of premiums.

 

 

59


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Due to inherent differences in the recognition of income, expenses, and realized gains (losses) under U.S. GAAP and federal income tax regulations, permanent differences between book and tax reporting have been identified and appropriately reclassified on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

Accordingly, the following amounts represent current year permanent differences derived from tax-exempt interest and nondeductible expenses from investments in publicly traded partnerships as of October 31, 2019:

 

Fund

  Paid-In-Capital    

 

    Distributable
Earnings/(Deficits)
 

Balanced

  $ (65,537     $ 65,537  

Mid-Cap Value

    (8,452       8,452  

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010 (“RIC MOD”), net capital losses recognized by the Funds in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 are carried forward indefinitely and retain their character as short-term and/or long-term losses.

As of October 31, 2019, the Funds had the following capital loss carryforwards:

 

Fund

   Short-Term Capital
Loss Carryforwards
     Long-Term Capital
Loss Carryforwards
 

Balanced

   $ -      $ -  

Mid-Cap Value

     18,737,756        -  

8.  Investment Transactions

The aggregate cost of purchases and proceeds from sales and maturities of investments, other than short-term obligations, for the year ended October 31, 2019 were as follows:

 

Fund

   Purchases (non-U.S.
Government
Securities)
     Purchases of U.S.
Government
Securities
     Sales (non-U.S.
Government
Securities)
     Sales of U.S.
Government
Securities
 

Balanced

   $ 54,965,973      $ 128,462,907      $ 104,053,998      $ 131,544,136  

Mid-Cap Value

     172,646,736        -        444,404,458        -  

A summary of the Funds’ transactions in the USG Select Fund for the year ended October 31, 2019 were as follows:

 

Fund

 

Type of
Transaction

        October 31,
2018
Shares/Fair
Value
          Purchases           Sales           October 31,
2019
Shares/Fair

Value
          Dividend
Income
 
Balanced   Direct     $ 7,833,723       $ 144,063,630       $ 146,993,105       $ 4,904,248       $ 119,895  
Balanced   Securities Lending       2,690,067         22,183,710         24,873,777         -         N/A  
Mid-Cap Value   Direct       22,792,845         390,037,841         394,771,630         18,059,056       $ 448,948  
Mid-Cap Value   Securities Lending       12,169,943         80,534,797         91,471,410         1,233,330         N/A  

9.  Securities Lending

The Funds may lend their securities to qualified financial institutions, such as certain broker-dealers, to earn additional income. The borrowers are required to secure their loans continuously with collateral in an amount at least equal to the fair value of the securities loaned, initially in an amount at least equal to 102% of the fair value of domestic securities loaned and 105% of the fair value of international securities loaned. Collateral is monitored and marked-to-market daily. Daily mark-to-market amounts are required to be paid to the borrower or received

 

 

60


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

from the borrower by the end of the following business day. This one day settlement for mark-to-market amounts may result in the collateral being temporarily less than the value of the securities on loan or temporarily more than the required minimum collateral.

To the extent that a loan is collateralized by cash, such cash collateral shall be invested by the securities lending agent (the “Agent”) in money market mutual funds and other short-term investments, provided the investments meet certain quality and diversification requirements. Securities purchased with cash collateral proceeds are listed in the Funds’ Schedule of Investments and the collateral is shown on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities as a payable.

Securities lending income is generated from the demand premium (if any) paid by the borrower to borrow a specific security and from the return on investment of cash collateral, reduced by negotiated rebate fees paid to the borrower and transaction costs. To the extent that a loan is secured by non-cash collateral, securities lending income is generated as a demand premium reduced by transaction costs. The Funds, the Agent, and the Manager retained 80%, 10%, and 10%, respectively, of the income generated from securities lending.

While securities are on loan, the Funds continue to receive certain income associated with that security and any gain or loss in the market price that may occur during the term of the loan. In the case of domestic equities, the value of any dividend is received in the form of a substitute payment approximately equal to the dividend. In the case of foreign securities, a negotiated amount is received that is less than the actual dividend, but higher than the dividend amount minus the foreign tax that the Funds would be subject to on the dividend.

Securities lending transactions pose certain risks to the Funds, including that the borrower may not provide additional collateral when required or return the securities when due, that the value of the short-term investments will be less than the amount of cash collateral required to be returned to the borrower, that non-cash collateral may be subject to legal constraints in the event of a borrower bankruptcy, and that the cash collateral investments could become illiquid and unable to be used to return collateral to the borrower. The Funds could also experience delays and costs in gaining access to the collateral. The Funds bear the risk of any deficiency in the amount of the cash collateral available for return to the borrower and any action which impairs its ability to liquidate non-cash collateral to satisfy a borrower default.

As of October 31, 2019, the value of outstanding securities on loan and the value of collateral were as follows:

 

Fund

  Market Value of
Securities on Loan
          Cash Collateral
Received
          Non-Cash Collateral
Received
          Total Collateral
Received
 
Balanced   $ 2,452,229       $       $ 2,506,662       $ 2,506,662  
Mid-Cap Value     20,651,471         1,233,330         19,856,407         21,089,737  

Cash collateral is listed on the Funds’ Schedules of Investments and is shown on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Income earned on these investments is included in “Income derived from securities lending” on the Statements of Operations.

Non-cash collateral received by the Funds may not be sold or re-pledged except to satisfy a borrower default. Therefore, non-cash collateral is not included on the Funds’ Schedules of Investments or Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

10.  Borrowing Arrangements

Effective November 15, 2018 (the “Effective Date”), the Funds, along with certain other funds managed by the Manager (“Participating Funds”), entered into a committed revolving line of credit (the “Committed Line”) agreement with State Street Bank and Trust Company (the “Bank”) to be used to facilitate portfolio liquidity. The maximum borrowing amount under the Committed Line is $250 million with interest at a rate equal to the higher of

 

 

61


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

(a) one-month London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 1.25% per annum or (b) the Federal Funds rate plus 1.25% per annum on amounts borrowed. Each of the Participating Funds paid a closing fee of $100,000 on the Effective Date and a quarterly commitment fee at a rate of 0.25% per annum on the unused portion of the Committed Line amount. The Committed Line expires November 14, 2019, unless extended by the Bank or terminated by the Participating Funds in accordance with the agreement.

On the Effective Date, the Funds, along with certain other Participating Funds managed by the Manager, also entered into an uncommitted discretionary demand revolving line of credit (the “Uncommitted Line”) agreement with the Bank to be used to facilitate portfolio liquidity. The maximum borrowing amount under the Uncommitted Line is $50 million with interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) one-month LIBOR plus 1.25% per annum or (b) the Federal Funds rate plus 1.25% per annum on each outstanding loan. Each of the Participating Funds paid a closing fee of $35,000 on the Effective Date. The Uncommitted Line expires November 14, 2019 unless extended by the Bank or terminated by the Participating Funds in accordance with the agreement.

The Participating Funds paid administration, legal and arrangement fees, which are recognized as a component of “Other expenses” on the Statements of Operations, along with commitment fees, that have been allocated among the Participating Funds based on average daily net assets.

During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Funds did not utilize this facility.

11.  Capital Share Transactions

The tables below summarize the activity in capital shares for each Class of the Funds:

 

    Institutional Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

Balanced Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     456,844       $ 7,138,774         531,898       $ 8,911,974  
Reinvestment of dividends     350,166         4,997,137         371,350         6,232,774  
Shares redeemed     (1,674,089       (25,817,337       (2,279,037       (38,703,020
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net (decrease) in shares outstanding     (867,079     $ (13,681,426       (1,375,789     $ (23,558,272
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Y Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

Balanced Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     987,434       $ 15,397,785         1,548,487       $ 26,278,299  
Reinvestment of dividends     378,979         5,443,121         262,445         4,429,699  
Shares redeemed     (1,916,647       (29,418,048       (1,172,305       (19,896,265
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding     (550,234     $ (8,577,142       638,627       $ 10,811,733  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Investor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

Balanced Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     527,105       $ 7,203,146         693,194       $ 10,443,570  
Reinvestment of dividends     773,787         9,716,524         632,578         9,450,425  
Shares redeemed     (2,084,851       (28,573,330       (1,856,761       (27,850,950
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net (decrease) in shares outstanding     (783,959     $ (11,653,660       (530,989     $ (7,956,955
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Advisor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

Balanced Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     34,642       $ 505,559         60,001       $ 958,063  
Reinvestment of dividends     40,103         536,879         48,037         761,574  
Shares redeemed     (84,630       (1,245,331       (372,487       (5,908,441
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net (decrease) in shares outstanding     (9,885     $ (202,893       (264,449     $ (4,188,804
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 

 

 

62


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

    A Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

Balanced Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     146,435       $ 2,007,483         160,555       $ 2,416,192  
Reinvestment of dividends     125,852         1,576,366         111,181         1,658,485  
Shares redeemed     (399,350       (5,397,912       (428,548       (6,460,378
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net (decrease) in shares outstanding     (127,063     $ (1,814,063       (156,812     $ (2,385,701
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    C Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

Balanced Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     213,762       $ 2,975,157         293,469       $ 4,461,404  
Reinvestment of dividends     233,638         2,939,348         188,746         2,851,672  
Shares redeemed     (794,915       (10,895,250       (726,271       (11,046,787
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net (decrease) in shares outstanding     (347,515     $ (4,980,745       (244,056     $ (3,733,711
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Institutional Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

Mid-Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     2,933,380       $ 43,338,685         6,269,618       $ 106,947,861  
Reinvestment of dividends     1,242,979         15,910,136         526,390         9,164,443  
Shares redeemed     (9,286,798       (138,322,894       (6,183,734       (105,856,767
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding     (5,110,439     $ (79,074,073       612,274       $ 10,255,537  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Y Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

Mid-Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     1,021,924       $ 14,832,152         1,857,922       $ 31,620,714  
Reinvestment of dividends     470,384         5,973,877         197,830         3,416,518  
Shares redeemed     (2,233,351       (32,603,104       (1,620,549       (27,617,833
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding     (741,043     $ (11,797,075       435,203       $ 7,419,399  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Investor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

Mid-Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     2,591,144       $ 38,213,302         14,508,017       $ 258,034,860  
Reinvestment of dividends     1,753,702         22,727,979         526,115         9,254,355  
Shares redeemed     (13,815,110       (204,345,745       (6,582,101       (113,606,798
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding     (9,470,264     $ (143,404,464       8,452,031       $ 153,682,417  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Advisor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

Mid-Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     83,313       $ 1,198,170         113,873       $ 1,888,435  
Reinvestment of dividends     15,813         198,759         5,543         94,728  
Shares redeemed     (126,192       (1,844,844       (101,012       (1,693,636
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding     (27,066     $ (447,915       18,404       $ 289,527  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    A Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

Mid-Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     74,755       $ 1,099,220         343,780       $ 5,748,823  
Reinvestment of dividends     56,526         708,842         25,397         433,278  
Shares redeemed     (679,129       (10,091,248       (651,244       (10,958,448
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net (decrease) in shares outstanding     (547,848     $ (8,283,186       (282,067     $ (4,776,347
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 

 

 

63


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

    C Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

Mid-Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     14,869       $ 203,842         83,507       $ 1,358,250  
Reinvestment of dividends     25,509         309,934         11,018         182,135  
Shares redeemed     (140,085       (1,926,995       (95,319       (1,541,599
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net (decrease) in shares outstanding     (99,707     $ (1,413,219       (794     $ (1,214
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    R6 Class  
    Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          February 28, 2018A to
October 31, 2018
 

Mid-Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     149,021       $ 2,190,686         18,266       $ 315,231  
Reinvestment of dividends     979         12,536                  
Shares redeemed     (16,218       (231,603       (5,909       (100,991
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase in shares outstanding     133,782       $ 1,971,619         12,357       $ 214,240  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

A 

Commencement of operations.

12.  Subsequent Events

At meetings held on November 11-12, 2019, the Board of the Trust approved the termination of Brandywine Global Investment Management, LLC on behalf of the American Beacon Balanced Fund, effective on or about January 15, 2020.

Management has evaluated subsequent events for possible recognition or disclosure in the financial statements through the date the financial statements are issued. Management has determined that there are no additional material events that would require disclosure in the Funds’ financial statements through this date.

 

 

64


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Institutional ClassA  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 16.20       $ 17.30       $ 15.26       $ 15.79       $ 16.79  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.31         0.28         0.36         0.27         0.32  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    1.23         (0.10       2.04         0.20         (0.32
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    1.54         0.18         2.40         0.47         -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.26       (0.48       (0.36       (0.25       (0.22

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.12       (0.80       -         (0.75       (0.78
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (1.38       (1.28       (0.36       (1.00       (1.00
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 16.36       $ 16.20       $ 17.30       $ 15.26       $ 15.79  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    10.89       0.84       15.82       3.30       (0.07 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 46,593,155       $ 60,191,704       $ 88,015,702       $ 485,231,068       $ 99,173,943  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.66       0.62       0.59       0.62       0.58

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.66       0.62       0.59       0.62       0.58

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    2.24       1.95       1.80       1.90       1.83

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    2.24       1.95       1.80       1.90       1.83

Portfolio turnover rate

    68       28       32       16       62

 

A 

On May 31, 2016, the AMR Class closed and the assets were merged into the Institutional Class.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

65


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Y Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 16.31       $ 17.39       $ 15.30       $ 15.84       $ 16.83  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.33         0.35         0.24         0.30         0.30  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    1.20         (0.16       2.20         0.13         (0.30
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    1.53         0.19         2.44         0.43         -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.25       (0.47       (0.35       (0.22       (0.21

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.12       (0.80       -         (0.75       (0.78
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (1.37       (1.27       (0.35       (0.97       (0.99
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 16.47       $ 16.31       $ 17.39       $ 15.30       $ 15.84  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnA

    10.75       0.88       16.05       3.06       (0.07 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 62,956,422       $ 71,296,735       $ 64,926,394       $ 28,843,268       $ 39,151,318  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.74       0.70       0.68       0.72       0.66

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.74       0.70       0.68       0.72       0.66

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    2.15       1.86       1.67       1.95       1.75

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    2.15       1.86       1.67       1.95       1.75

Portfolio turnover rate

    68       28       32       16       62

 

A 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

66


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Investor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 14.41       $ 15.51       $ 13.71       $ 14.30       $ 15.31  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.18         0.20         0.15         0.18         0.22  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    1.11         (0.07       1.96         0.18         (0.26
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    1.29         0.13         2.11         0.36         (0.04
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.22       (0.43       (0.31       (0.20       (0.19

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.12       (0.80       -         (0.75       (0.78
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (1.34       (1.23       (0.31       (0.95       (0.97
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 14.36       $ 14.41       $ 15.51       $ 13.71       $ 14.30  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnA

    10.50       0.62       15.52       2.85       (0.35 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 96,065,263       $ 107,677,984       $ 124,143,894       $ 127,235,433       $ 155,757,561  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.97       0.95       0.89       0.95       0.91

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.97       0.95       0.89       0.95       0.91

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    1.92       1.62       1.48       1.72       1.51

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    1.92       1.62       1.48       1.72       1.51

Portfolio turnover rate

    68       28       32       16       62

 

A 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

67


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Advisor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 15.29       $ 16.38       $ 14.46       $ 15.02       $ 16.04  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.26         0.16         0.21         0.24         0.22  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    1.11         (0.06       1.99         0.12         (0.29
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    1.37         0.10         2.20         0.36         (0.07
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.20       (0.39       (0.28       (0.17       (0.17

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.12       (0.80       -         (0.75       (0.78
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (1.32       (1.19       (0.28       (0.92       (0.95
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 15.34       $ 15.29       $ 16.38       $ 14.46       $ 15.02  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnA

    10.41       0.42       15.31       2.71       (0.58 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 6,039,168       $ 6,174,284       $ 10,944,675       $ 10,603,004       $ 13,510,138  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.14       1.12       1.08       1.12       1.06

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    1.14       1.12       1.08       1.12       1.06

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    1.76       1.45       1.29       1.55       1.35

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    1.76       1.45       1.29       1.55       1.35

Portfolio turnover rate

    68       28       32       16       62

 

A 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

68


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    A Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 14.38       $ 15.48       $ 13.69       $ 14.27       $ 15.29  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.22         0.22         0.16         0.21         0.23  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    1.07         (0.07       1.93         0.15         (0.29
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    1.29         0.15         2.09         0.36         (0.06
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.22       (0.45       (0.30       (0.19       (0.18

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.12       (0.80       -         (0.75       (0.78
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (1.34       (1.25       (0.30       (0.94       (0.96
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 14.33       $ 14.38       $ 15.48       $ 13.69       $ 14.27  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnA

    10.54       0.73       15.36       2.84       (0.48 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 16,228,685       $ 18,121,273       $ 21,934,880       $ 24,892,096       $ 29,074,120  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements or recoupments

    1.01       0.91       0.99       1.02       0.97

Expenses, net of reimbursements or recoupments

    1.01 %B        0.83       0.99       1.02       0.97

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements or recoupments

    1.88       1.66       1.39       1.64       1.44

Net investment income, net of reimbursements or recoupments

    1.88       1.74       1.39       1.64       1.44

Portfolio turnover rate

    68       28       32       16       62

 

A 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

B 

This ratio does not include a voluntary reimbursement of service fees as included in the prior year.

 

See accompanying notes

 

69


American Beacon Balanced FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    C Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 14.55       $ 15.64       $ 13.83       $ 14.43       $ 15.47  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.10         0.13         0.08         0.12         0.14  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    1.09         (0.09       1.92         0.13         (0.29
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    1.19         0.04         2.00         0.25         (0.15
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.14       (0.33       (0.19       (0.10       (0.11

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.12       (0.80       -         (0.75       (0.78
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (1.26       (1.13       (0.19       (0.85       (0.89
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 14.48       $ 14.55       $ 15.64       $ 13.83       $ 14.43  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnA

    9.63       0.04       14.50       2.03       (1.14 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 30,848,500       $ 36,046,543       $ 42,575,983       $ 40,827,570       $ 45,641,648  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements or recoupments

    1.76       1.66       1.73       1.77       1.72

Expenses, net of reimbursements or recoupments

    1.76 %B        1.54       1.73       1.77       1.72

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements or recoupments

    1.13       0.91       0.63       0.89       0.69

Net investment income, net of reimbursements or recoupments

    1.13       1.02       0.63       0.89       0.69

Portfolio turnover rate

    68       28       32       16       62

 

A 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

B 

This ratio does not include a voluntary reimbursement of service fees as included in the prior year.

 

See accompanying notes

 

70


American Beacon Mid-Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Institutional Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015A  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 15.52       $ 17.25       $ 14.03       $ 14.62       $ 14.76  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.25         0.21         0.16         0.26         0.16  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.65         (1.34       3.28         0.03         0.25  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.90         (1.13       3.44         0.29         0.41  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.22       (0.16       (0.22       (0.17       (0.10

Distributions from net realized gains

    (0.79       (0.44       -         (0.71       (0.45
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (1.01       (0.60       (0.22       (0.88       (0.55
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Redemption fees added to beneficial interests

    -         -         -         -         0.00 B 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 15.41       $ 15.52       $ 17.25       $ 14.03       $ 14.62  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnC

    7.08       (6.89 )%        24.71       2.39       2.73
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 168,201,120       $ 248,752,034       $ 265,934,589       $ 195,472,135       $ 258,503,278  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.93       0.85       0.89       0.89       0.85

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.93       0.85       0.89       0.89       0.85

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    1.40       1.19       1.06       1.65       1.10

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    1.40       1.19       1.06       1.65       1.10

Portfolio turnover rate

    30       34       28       27       79

 

A 

WEDGE Capital Management was added as an investment manager to the Mid-Cap Value Fund on May 11, 2015.

B 

Amount represents less than $0.01 per share.

C 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

71


American Beacon Mid-Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Y Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015A  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 15.39       $ 17.11       $ 13.92       $ 14.52       $ 14.66  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.22         0.19         0.15         0.23         0.15  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.65         (1.32       3.25         0.05         0.26  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.87         (1.13       3.40         0.28         0.41  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.20       (0.15       (0.21       (0.17       (0.10

Distributions from net realized gains

    (0.79       (0.44       -         (0.71       (0.45
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (0.99       (0.59       (0.21       (0.88       (0.55
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Redemption fees added to beneficial interests

    -         -         -         -         0.00 B 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 15.27       $ 15.39       $ 17.11       $ 13.92       $ 14.52  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnC

    6.97       (6.96 )%        24.60       2.29       2.76
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 84,763,978       $ 96,799,413       $ 100,190,167       $ 68,994,531       $ 70,009,288  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.98       0.93       0.97       0.96       0.94

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.98       0.93       0.97       0.96       0.94

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    1.36       1.11       0.98       1.59       1.02

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    1.36       1.11       0.98       1.59       1.02

Portfolio turnover rate

    30       34       28       27       79

 

A 

WEDGE Capital Management was added as an investment manager to the Mid-Cap Value Fund on May 11, 2015.

B 

Amount represents less than $0.01 per share.

C 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

72


American Beacon Mid-Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Investor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015A  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 15.65       $ 17.40       $ 14.14       $ 14.73       $ 14.89  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.18         0.16         0.14         0.21         0.13  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.69         (1.34       3.31         0.05         0.25  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.87         (1.18       3.45         0.26         0.38  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.17       (0.13       (0.19       (0.14       (0.09

Distributions from net realized gains

    (0.79       (0.44       -         (0.71       (0.45
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (0.96       (0.57       (0.19       (0.85       (0.54
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Redemption fees added to beneficial interests

    -         -         -         -         0.00 B 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 15.56       $ 15.65       $ 17.40       $ 14.14       $ 14.73  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnC

    6.79       (7.13 )%        24.52       2.12       2.52
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 229,639,964       $ 379,123,913       $ 274,552,551       $ 243,421,035       $ 304,799,582  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.18       1.12       1.09       1.12       1.09

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    1.18       1.12       1.09       1.12       1.09

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    1.12       0.92       0.86       1.44       0.87

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    1.12       0.92       0.86       1.44       0.87

Portfolio turnover rate

    30       34       28       27       79

 

A 

WEDGE Capital Management was added as an investment manager to the Mid-Cap Value Fund on May 11, 2015.

B 

Amount represents less than $0.01 per share.

C 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

73


American Beacon Mid-Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Advisor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015A  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 15.17       $ 16.83       $ 13.69       $ 14.27       $ 14.46  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.15         0.10         0.10         0.16         0.08  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.66         (1.29       3.18         0.05         0.25  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.81         (1.19       3.28         0.21         0.33  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.13       (0.03       (0.14       (0.08       (0.07

Distributions from net realized gains

    (0.79       (0.44       -         (0.71       (0.45
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (0.92       (0.47       (0.14       (0.79       (0.52
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Redemption fees added to beneficial interests

    -         -         -         -         0.00 B 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 15.06       $ 15.17       $ 16.83       $ 13.69       $ 14.27  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnC

    6.50       (7.38 )%        24.10       1.82       2.25
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 3,163,999       $ 3,597,339       $ 3,682,231       $ 6,622,356       $ 6,684,131  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.45       1.39       1.40       1.40       1.37

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    1.45       1.39       1.40       1.40       1.37

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    0.90       0.64       0.55       1.16       0.58

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    0.90       0.64       0.55       1.16       0.58

Portfolio turnover rate

    30       34       28       27       79

 

A 

WEDGE Capital Management was added as an investment manager to the Mid-Cap Value Fund on May 11, 2015.

B 

Amount represents less than $0.01 per share.

C 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

74


American Beacon Mid-Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    A Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015A  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 15.15       $ 16.84       $ 13.70       $ 14.28       $ 14.43  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.49         0.18         0.13         0.18         0.11  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.32         (1.36       3.18         0.05         0.25  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.81         (1.18       3.31         0.23         0.36  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.14       (0.07       (0.17       (0.10       (0.06

Distributions from net realized gains

    (0.79       (0.44       -         (0.71       (0.45
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (0.93       (0.51       (0.17       (0.81       (0.51
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Redemption fees added to beneficial interests

    -         -         -         -         0.00 B 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 15.03       $ 15.15       $ 16.84       $ 13.70       $ 14.28  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnC

    6.57       (7.32 )%        24.26       1.98       2.35
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 3,748,595       $ 12,080,510       $ 18,170,218       $ 19,486,655       $ 16,422,504  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.35       1.25       1.27       1.26       1.25

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    1.35       1.25       1.27       1.26       1.25

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    0.94       0.78       0.69       1.30       0.71

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    0.94       0.78       0.69       1.30       0.71

Portfolio turnover rate

    30       34       28       27       79

 

A 

WEDGE Capital Management was added as an investment manager to the Mid-Cap Value Fund on May 11, 2015.

B 

Amount represents less than $0.01 per share.

C 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

75


American Beacon Mid-Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    C Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015A  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 14.60       $ 16.27       $ 13.26       $ 13.87       $ 14.08  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income (loss)

    0.02         0.03         (0.03       0.07         0.01  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.69         (1.26       3.11         0.06         0.23  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.71         (1.23       3.08         0.13         0.24  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.03       -         (0.07       (0.03       -  

Distributions from net realized gains

    (0.79       (0.44       -         (0.71       (0.45
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (0.82       (0.44       (0.07       (0.74       (0.45
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Redemption fees added to beneficial interests

    -         -         -         -         0.00 B 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 14.49       $ 14.60       $ 16.27       $ 13.26       $ 13.87  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnC

    5.94       (7.85 )%        23.27       1.19       1.57
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 4,349,946       $ 5,840,412       $ 6,520,983       $ 6,030,130       $ 6,238,827  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    2.02       1.87       2.04       2.04       2.01

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    2.02       1.87       2.04       2.04       2.01

Net investment income (loss), before expense reimbursements

    0.32       0.17       (0.09 )%        0.53       (0.05 )% 

Net investment income (loss), net of reimbursements

    0.32       0.17       (0.09 )%        0.53       (0.05 )% 

Portfolio turnover rate

    30       34       28       27       79

 

A 

WEDGE Capital Management was added as an investment manager to the Mid-Cap Value Fund on May 11, 2015.

B 

Amount represents less than $0.01 per share.

C 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

76


American Beacon Mid-Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    R6 Class  
    Year Ended
October 31,
2019
          February 28,
2018A to
October 31,
2018
 
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 15.52       $ 16.94  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

     

Net investment income

    0.20         0.10  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.71         (1.52
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.91         (1.42
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

     

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.22       -  

Distributions from net realized gains

    (0.79       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (1.01       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 15.42       $ 15.52  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    7.15       (8.38 )%C 
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 2,253,328       $ 191,772  

Ratios to average net assets:

     

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.90       3.09 %D 

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.83       0.88 %D 

Net investment income (loss), before expense reimbursements

    1.51       (0.88 )%D 

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    1.58       1.32 %D 

Portfolio turnover rate

    30       34 %C 

 

A 

Commencement of operations.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

C 

Not annualized.

D 

Annualized.

 

See accompanying notes

 

77


American Beacon FundsSM

Federal Tax Information

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

Certain tax information regarding the Funds is required to be provided to shareholders based upon the Funds’ income and distributions for the taxable year ended October 31, 2019. The information and distributions reported herein may differ from information and distributions taxable to the shareholders for the calendar year ended December 31, 2019.

The Funds designated the following items with regard to distributions paid during the fiscal year ended October 31, 2019. All designations are based on financial information available as of this annual report and, accordingly, are subject to change. For each item, it is the intention of the Funds to designate the maximum amount permitted under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the regulations there under.

 

Corporate Dividends-Received Deduction:

 

Balanced

    71.39

Mid-Cap Value

    100.00

Qualified Dividend Income:

 

Balanced

    97.00

Mid-Cap Value

    100.00

Long-Term Capital Gain Distributions:

 

Balanced

  $ 20,913,631  

Mid-Cap Value

    37,246,762  

Short-Term Capital Gain Distributions:

 

Balanced

  $ 991,251  

Mid-Cap Value

    -  

Shareholders will receive notification in January 2020 of the applicable tax information necessary to prepare their 2019 income tax returns.

 

 

78


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

Renewal and Approval of Management Agreement and Investment Advisory Agreements

At in-person meetings held on May 9, 2019 and June 4-5, 2019 (collectively, the “Meetings”), the Board of Trustees (“Board” or “Trustees”) considered and then, at its June 5, 2019 meeting, approved the renewal of:

(1) the Management Agreement between American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (“Manager” or “AmBeacon”) and the American Beacon Funds (“Trust”), on behalf of the American Beacon Balanced Fund (“Balanced Fund”) and the American Beacon Mid-Cap Value Fund (“Mid-Cap Fund”) (each, a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”);

(2) the Investment Advisory Agreements among the Manager, the Trust, on behalf of the Balanced Fund, and each of Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss, LLC (“Barrow”), Brandywine Global Investment Management, LLC (“Brandywine”) and Hotchkis and Wiley Capital Management, LLC (“Hotchkis”); and

(3) the Investment Advisory Agreements among the Manager, the Trust, on behalf of the Mid-Cap Fund, and each of Barrow, Pzena Investment Management, LLC (“Pzena”) and WEDGE Capital Management, LLP (“WEDGE”).

Barrow, Brandywine, Hotchkis, Pzena and WEDGE are hereinafter each referred to as a “subadvisor” and collectively as the “subadvisors.” The Management Agreement and the Investment Advisory Agreements are referred to herein individually as an “Agreement” and collectively as the “Agreements.” In preparation for its consideration of the renewal of the Agreements, the Board undertook steps to gather and consider information furnished by the Manager, the subadvisors, Broadridge, Inc. (“Broadridge”) and Morningstar, Inc. (“Morningstar”). The Board, with the assistance of independent legal counsel, requested and received certain relevant information from the Manager and the subadvisors.

In advance of the Meetings, the Board’s Investment Committee and/or the Manager coordinated the production of information from Broadridge and Morningstar regarding the performance, fees and expenses of the Funds as well as information from the Manager and the subadvisors. At the Meetings, the Board considered the information provided in connection with the renewal process, as well as information furnished to the Board throughout the year at regular meetings of the Board and its committees. In connection with the Board’s consideration of the Agreements, the Board received and evaluated such information as they deemed necessary. This information is described below in the section summarizing the factors the Board considered in connection with its renewal and approval of the Agreements, as well as the section describing additional Board considerations with respect to each Fund.

The Board noted that the Manager provides management and administrative services to the Funds pursuant to the Management Agreement. The Board considered that many mutual funds have separate contracts governing each type of service and observed that, with respect to such mutual funds, the actual management fee rates provided by Broadridge for peer group funds reflect the combined advisory and administrative expenses, reduced by any fee waivers and/or reimbursements.

A firm may not have been able to, or opted not to, provide information in response to certain information requests, in which case the Board conducted its evaluation of the firm based on information that was provided. In such cases, the Board determined that the omission of any such information was not material to its considerations. For each Fund, the class of shares used for comparative performance purposes was the share class with the lowest expenses available for purchase by the general public, which was the Institutional Class. The Board also considered that the use of Institutional Class performance generally facilitates a meaningful comparison for expense and performance purposes.

Provided below is an overview of certain factors the Board considered in connection with its renewal and approval of the Agreements. The Board did not identify any particular information that was most relevant to its consideration to renew or approve each Agreement, and each Trustee may have afforded different weight to the various factors. Legal counsel to the independent Trustees provided the Board with a memorandum regarding its responsibilities pertaining to the renewal and approval of investment advisory contracts, such as the Agreements.

 

 

79


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

The memorandum explained the regulatory requirements surrounding the Board’s process for evaluating investment advisors and the terms of investment advisory contracts. Based on its evaluation, the Board unanimously concluded that the terms of each Agreement were reasonable and fair and that the renewal and approval of each Agreement was in the best interests of the Funds and their shareholders.

Considerations With Respect to the Renewal of the Management Agreement and the Investment Advisory Agreements

In determining whether to renew the Agreements, the Board considered each Fund’s investment management and subadvisory relationships separately. In each instance, the Board considered, among other things, the following factors: (1) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided; (2) the investment performance of the Funds; (3) the costs incurred by the Manager in rendering services to the Funds and its resulting profits or losses; (4) comparisons of services and fee rates with contracts entered into by the Manager or the subadvisors or their affiliates with other clients (such as pension funds and other institutional clients); (5) the extent to which economies of scale, if any, have been taken into account in setting each fee rate schedule; (6) whether fee rate levels reflect economies of scale, if any, for the benefit of Fund investors; and (7) any other benefits derived or anticipated to be derived by the Manager or the subadvisors from their relationships with the Funds.

Nature, Extent and Quality of Services. With respect to the renewal of the Management Agreement, the Board considered, among other factors: each Fund’s long-term performance; the length of service of key investment personnel at the Manager; the cost structure of the Funds; the Manager’s culture of compliance and support that reduce risks to the Funds; the Manager’s quality of services; the Manager’s active role in monitoring and, as appropriate, recommending additional or replacement subadvisors; and the Manager’s efforts to retain key employees and maintain staffing levels.

With respect to the renewal of the Investment Advisory Agreements, the Board considered the level of staffing and the size of the subadvisors. The Board also considered the adequacy of the resources committed to the Funds by the subadvisors, and whether those resources were commensurate with the needs of the Funds and are sufficient to sustain appropriate levels of performance and compliance needs. In this regard, the Board considered the financial stability of the subadvisors. The Board also considered each subadvisor’s representations regarding its compliance program and code of ethics. Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of the management and advisory services provided by the Manager and the subadvisors were appropriate for each Fund.

Investment Performance. The Board evaluated the comparative information provided by Broadridge and the Manager regarding the performance of each Fund relative to its Broadridge performance universe, Morningstar Category, and benchmark index, as well as the Fund’s Morningstar rating. The Board considered the information provided by Broadridge regarding Broadridge’s independent methodology for selecting each Fund’s Broadridge performance universe. The Board also considered that the performance universes selected by Broadridge may not provide appropriate comparisons for a Fund. In addition, the Board considered the performance reports and discussions with management at Board and Committee meetings throughout the year. The Board also evaluated the comparative information provided by each subadvisor regarding the performance of its portion of the relevant Fund relative to the performance of a composite of similar accounts managed by the subadvisor and the relevant Fund’s benchmark index. In addition, the Board considered the Manager’s recommendation to continue to retain each subadvisor. A discussion regarding the Board’s considerations with respect to each Fund’s performance appears below under “Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to Each Fund.”

Costs of the Services Provided to the Funds and the Profits Realized by the Manager from its Relationship with the Funds. In analyzing the cost of services and profitability of the Manager, the Board considered the revenues earned and the expenses incurred by the Manager, before and after the payment of distribution-related expenses by the Manager. The profits or losses were noted at both an aggregate level for all funds within the group of mutual funds sponsored by the Manager (the “Fund Complex”) and at an individual Fund level, with the Manager earning a profit with respect to each Fund before and after the payment of distribution-related expenses by the

 

 

80


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

Manager. The Board also considered comparative information provided by the Manager regarding the Manager’s overall profitability with respect to the Fund Complex relative to the overall profitability of other firms in the mutual fund industry, as disclosed in publicly available sources. Although the Board noted that, in certain cases, the fee rates paid by other clients of the Manager are lower than the fee rates paid by the Funds, the Manager represented that, among other matters, the difference is attributable to the fact that the Manager does not perform administrative services for non-investment company clients and reflects the greater level of responsibility and regulatory requirements associated with managing the Funds.

The Board further considered that, with respect to each Fund, the Management Agreement provides for the Manager to receive a management fee comprised of an annualized fee that is retained by the Manager. In addition, the Board considered that the Manager receives fees for making direct investment decisions for the portion of the Balanced Fund with respect to which the Manager has not delegated day-to-day management to a subadviser and for overseeing the securities lending program on behalf of each Fund. The Board also considered that the Manager receives fees for overseeing the securities lending program on behalf of each Fund. The Board also noted that certain share classes of the Funds maintain higher expense ratios in order to compensate third-party financial intermediaries.

In analyzing the fee rates charged by each subadvisor in connection with its investment advisory services to a Fund, the Board considered representations made by each subadvisor that the fee rate negotiated by the Manager is favorable relative to the fee rates that the subadvisor charges for any comparable client accounts. The Board did not request profitability data from the subadvisors because the Board did not view this data as imperative to its deliberations given the arm’s-length nature of the relationship between the Manager and the subadvisors with respect to the negotiation of subadvisory fee rates. In addition, the Board considered that it was advised that the subadvisors may not account for their profits on an account-by-account basis and that different firms likely employ different methodologies in connection with these calculations.

Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the profitability levels of the Manager were reasonable in light of the services performed by the Manager. A discussion regarding the Board’s considerations with respect to each Fund’s fee rates is set forth below under “Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to Each Fund.”

Economies of Scale. In considering the reasonableness of the management and investment advisory fees rates, the Board considered whether economies of scale will be realized as each Fund grows and whether fee rate levels reflect these economies of scale for the benefit of Fund shareholders. In this regard, the Board considered that, with respect to each subadvisor, the Manager has negotiated breakpoints with respect to each Fund’s subadvisory fee rate. In addition, the Board noted the Manager’s representation that the Management Agreements contain fee schedule breakpoints at higher asset levels with respect to each Fund, except for the portion of the Balanced Fund with respect to which the Manager has not delegated day-to-day management to a subadvisor. Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the Manager and subadvisor fee rate schedules for each Fund provide for a reasonable sharing of benefits from any economies of scale with each Fund.

Benefits Derived from the Relationship with the Funds. The Board considered the “fall-out” or ancillary benefits that accrue to the Manager and/or the subadvisors as a result of the advisory relationships with the Funds, including greater exposure in the marketplace with respect to the Manager’s or a subadvisor’s investment process and expanding the level of assets under management by the Manager and the subadvisors. The Board also considered that the Manager may invest the Funds’ cash balances and cash collateral provided by the borrowers of the Funds’ securities in the American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund, which the Manager manages directly. In addition, the Board noted that each subadvisor benefits from soft dollar arrangements for proprietary and/or third-party research. Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the potential benefits accruing to the Manager and the subadvisors by virtue of their relationships with the Funds appear to be fair and reasonable.

 

 

81


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to Each Fund

The performance comparisons below were made in comparison to each Fund’s Broadridge performance universe and Morningstar Category. With respect to the Broadridge performance universe, the 1st Quintile represents the top 20 percent of the universe based on performance and the 5th Quintile representing the bottom 20 percent of the universe based on performance. References below to each Fund’s Broadridge performance universe are to the universe of mutual funds with a comparable investment classification/objective included in the analysis provided by Broadridge. In reviewing the performance, the Trustees viewed longer-term performance over a full market cycle as the most important consideration, because relative performance over shorter periods may be significantly impacted by market or economic events and not necessarily reflective of manager skill.

The expense comparisons below were made in comparison to each Fund’s Broadridge expense universe and Broadridge expense group, with the 1st Quintile representing the lowest 20 percent of the universe or group based on lowest total expense and the 5th Quintile representing the highest 20 percent of the universe or group based on highest total expense. References below to each Fund’s expense group and expense universe are to the respective group or universe of comparable mutual funds included in the analysis by Broadridge. A Broadridge expense group consists of the Fund and a representative sample of funds with similar operating structures and asset sizes, as selected by Broadridge. A Broadridge expense universe includes all funds in the investment classification/objective with a similar operating structure as the share class of the Fund included in the Broadridge comparative information and provides a broader view of expenses across the Fund’s investment classification/objective. The Board also considered each Fund’s Morningstar fee level category. In reviewing expenses, the Board considered the positive impact of fee waivers where applicable and the Manager’s agreement to continue the fee waivers. In addition, information regarding the subadvisors’ use of soft dollars was requested from the Manager and was considered by the Board.

Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to the American Beacon Balanced Fund

In considering the renewal of the Management Agreement for the Balanced Fund, the Board considered the following additional factors:

Broadridge Total Expenses Excluding 12b-1 Fees and Morningstar Fee Level Ranking

 

Compared to Broadridge Expense Group

  1st Quintile

Compared to Broadridge Expense Universe

  2nd Quintile

Morningstar Fee Level Ranking – Institutional Class

  Low Expense Ratio

Broadridge and Morningstar Performance Analysis (five-year period ended December 31, 2018)

 

Compared to Broadridge Performance Universe

  3rd Quintile

Compared to Morningstar Category

  3rd Quintile

The Board noted that AmBeacon receives an additional fee under the Management Agreement for making direct investment decisions with respect to an allocation of the Balanced Fund. In considering the renewal of the Management Agreement with AmBeacon and the Investment Advisory Agreements with Barrow, Brandywine, Hotchkis and AmBeacon, the Board considered that the diversification of investment strategies facilitated by the Balanced Fund’s multi-manager structure permits the Balanced Fund to mitigate the risks associated with a single subadvisor. The Board also considered the following additional factors:

 

 

82


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

Subadvisor Performance (compared to Broadridge Performance Universe for period indicated ended December 31, 2018)

 

Barrow

    5 Years       2 nd Quintile 

Brandywine

    5 Years       4 th Quintile 

Hotchkis*

    5 Years       3 rd Quintile 

AmBeacon**

    5 Years       2 nd Quintile 

*  Hotchkis equity value-only return compared to the Broadridge large cap value performance universe

 

** AmBeacon bond-only return compared to Broadridge core bond performance universe

 

The Board also considered: (1) that the funds included in the Broadridge performance universe are managed pursuant to a variety of investment styles, and the Balanced Fund may underperform when a value investment style is out of favor; (2) the Manager invests the Balanced Fund’s fixed income portfolio exclusively in investment grade debt securities while the funds in the Broadridge performance universe may invest in high yield debt securities; (3) information provided by each subadvisor regarding fee rates charged for managing assets in the same or a similar strategy as the subadvisor manages its allocation of the Balanced Fund; (4) the Manager’s recommendation to continue to retain each subadvisor; and (5) the Manager’s representation that, while the Manager was recommending that the Board continue to retain Brandywine, the Manager continues to evaluate the performance of Brandywine’s portion of the Fund and whether to make any further recommendations with respect to that subadvisor.

Based on these and other considerations, the Board: (1) concluded that the fees paid to the Manager and the subadvisors under the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements are fair and reasonable; and (2) determined that the Balanced Fund and its shareholders would benefit from the Manager’s and subadvisors’ continued management of the Balanced Fund.

Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to the American Beacon Mid-Cap Value Fund

In considering the renewal of the Management Agreement for the Mid-Cap Fund, the Board considered the following additional factors:

Broadridge Total Expense Analysis Excluding 12b-1 Fees and Morningstar Fee Level Ranking

 

Compared to Broadridge Expense Group

  3rd Quintile

Compared to Broadridge Expense Universe

  4th Quintile

Morningstar Fee Level Ranking – Institutional Class

  Average Expense Ratio

Broadridge and Morningstar Performance Analysis (five-year period ended December 31, 2018)

 

Compared to Broadridge Performance Universe

  3rd Quintile

Compared to Morningstar Category

  4th Quintile

In considering the renewal of the Investment Advisory Agreements with Barrow, Pzena and WEDGE, the Board considered that the diversification of investment strategies facilitated by the Mid-Cap Fund’s multi-manager structure permits the Mid-Cap Fund to mitigate the risks associated with a single subadvisor. The Board also considered the following additional factors:

Subadvisor Performance (compared to Broadridge Performance Universe for period indicated ended December 31, 2018)

 

Barrow   5 Years   5th Quintile
Pzena   5 Years   2nd Quintile
WEDGE*   3 Years   3rd Quintile

 

* Does not yet have a 5-year performance record.

 

 

83


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

The Board also considered: (1) that the Mid-Cap Fund’s Broadridge expense group and expense universe are comprised principally of single-manager funds, which typically reach breakpoints in their subadvisory fee schedules sooner than multi-manager funds; (2) the Manager’s representation that Barrow’s disciplined value investment style (in companies with low price-to-earnings, low price-to-book, and modest dividend yield) was out of favor during early 2016 and the latter part of 2018 but has rebounded in 2019; (3) information provided by each subadvisor regarding fee rates charged for managing assets in the same or a similar strategy as the subadvisor manages its allocation of the Mid-Cap Fund; and (4) the Manager’s recommendation to continue to retain each subadvisor at the present time.

Based on these and other considerations, the Board: (1) concluded that the fees paid to the Manager and the subadvisors under the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements are fair and reasonable; and (2) determined that the Mid-Cap Fund and its shareholders would benefit from the Manager’s and subadvisors’ continued management of the Mid-Cap Fund.

 

 

84


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

The Trustees and officers of the American Beacon Funds (the “Trust”) are listed below, together with their principal occupations during the past five years. The address of each person listed below is 220 Las Colinas Boulevard East, Suite 1200, Irving, Texas 75039. Each Trustee oversees thirty-six funds in the fund complex that includes the Trust, the American Beacon Select Funds, the American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust, the American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund and the American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund. The Trust’s Statement of Additional Information contains additional information about the Trustees and is available without charge by calling 1-800-658-5811.

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

INTERESTED TRUSTEES   

Term

  
   Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or retirement*   
Alan D. Feld** (82)    Trustee since 1996    Partner in the law firm of Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld, LLP (law firm) (1960-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (1999-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
NON-INTERESTED TRUSTEES   

Term

  
  

Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or

retirement*

  
Gilbert G. Alvarado (49)    Trustee since 2015    Director, Kura MD, Inc. (local telehealth organization) (2015-present); Vice President & CFO, Sierra Health Foundation (health conversion private foundation) (2006-Present); Vice President & CFO, Sierra Health Foundation: Center for Health Program Management (California public benefit corporation) (2012-Present); Director, Innovative North State (2012-2015); Director, Sacramento Regional Technology Alliance (2011-2016); Director, Women’s Empowerment (2009-2014); Director, Valley Healthcare Staffing (2017-present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2015-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Joseph B. Armes (57)    Trustee since 2015    Chairman & CEO, CSW Industrials f/k/a Capital Southwest Corporation (investment company) (2015-Present); Chairman of the Board of Capital Southwest Corporation, predecessor to CSW Industrials, Inc. (2014-2017) (investment company); CEO, Capital Southwest Corporation (2013-2015); President & CEO, JBA Investment Partners (family investment vehicle) (2010-Present); Director and Chair of Audit Committee, RSP Permian (oil and gas producer) (2013-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2015-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Gerard J. Arpey (61)    Trustee since 2012    Director, The Home Depot, Inc. (2015-Present); Partner, Emerald Creek Group (private equity firm) (2011-Present); Director, S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. (privately held company) (2008-present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2012-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

85


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

NON-INTERESTED TRUSTEES (CONT.)   

Term

  
  

Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or

retirement*

  
Brenda A. Cline (58)   

Trustee since 2004

Chair since 2019

Vice Chair 2018

   Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Secretary, Kimbell Art Foundation (1993-Present); Director, Tyler Technologies, Inc. (public sector software solutions company) (2014-Present); Director, Range Resources Corporation (oil and natural gas company) (2015-Present); Trustee, Cushing Closed-End and Open-End Funds and ETFs (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2004-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Eugene J. Duffy (65)    Trustee since 2008    Managing Director, Global Investment Management Distribution, Mesirow Financial (2016-Present); Managing Director, Institutional Services, Intercontinental Real Estate Corporation (2014-Present); Principal and Executive Vice President, Paradigm Asset Management (1994-2014); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2008-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Claudia A. Holz (62)    Trustee since 2018    Partner, KPMG LLP (1990-2017); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Douglas A. Lindgren (57)    Trustee since 2018    CEO North America, Carne Global Financial Services (2016-2017); Managing Director, IPS Investment Management and Global Head, Content Management, UBS Wealth Management (2010-2016); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Richard A. Massman (76)   

Trustee since 2004

Chair 2008-2018

Chair Emeritus since 2019

   Consultant and General Counsel Emeritus, Hunt Consolidated, Inc. (holding company engaged in oil and gas exploration and production, refining, real estate, farming, ranching and venture capital activities) (2009-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2004-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Barbara J. McKenna, CFA (56)    Trustee since 2012    President/Managing Principal, Longfellow Investment Management Company (2005-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2012-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

86


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

NON-INTERESTED TRUSTEES (CONT.)   

Term

  
  

Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or

retirement*

  
R. Gerald Turner (73)    Trustee since 2001    President, Southern Methodist University (1995-Present); Director, J.C. Penney Company, Inc. (1996-Present); Director, Kronus Worldwide Inc. (chemical manufacturing) (2003-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2001-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
OFFICERS   

Term

  
   One Year   
Gene L. Needles, Jr. (64)    President since 2009    President (2009-2018), CEO and Director (2009-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), American Beacon Advisors, Inc., President (2015-2018), Director and CEO (2015-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC; President (2015-2018), Director and CEO (2015-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Topco, Inc.; President (2015-2018); Director, and CEO (2015-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Acquisition, Inc.; President (2015-2018), Director and CEO (2015-Present), Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Investment Managers, Inc.; Director, Chairman, President and CEO, Resolute Investment Distributors (2017-Present); Director, Chairman, President and CEO; Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2017-Present); President and CEO, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2009-2015); President, CEO and Director, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2009-2015); Manager, President and CEO, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Director, Chairman, President and CEO, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Director, ARK Investment Management LLC (2016-Present); Director, Shapiro Capital Management LLC (2017-Present); Director, Chairman and CEO, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); President, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Director and President, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, LTD., (2017-2018); President, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); President American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd. (2018-Present); Member, Investment Advisory Committee, Employees Retirement System of Texas (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon NextShares Trust (2015-Present); President, American Beacon Select Funds (2009-Present); President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Director, RSW Investments Holdings LLC, (2019-Present); Manager, SSI Investment Management, LLC (2019-Present); President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Director, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).

 

 

87


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Rosemary K. Behan (60)    VP, Secretary and Chief Legal Officer since 2006    Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2006-Present); Secretary, Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC (2015-Present); Secretary, Resolute Topco, Inc. (2015-Present); Secretary, Resolute Acquisition, Inc. (2015-Present); Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2015-Present); Secretary, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President and Secretary, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2008-2015); Vice President and Secretary, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2008-2015); Secretary, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2008-Present); Secretary and General Counsel, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President and Secretary, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Secretary, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); Secretary, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, Ltd. (2017-2018); Secretary, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Secretary, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd (2018-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2006-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Secretary, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).
Brian E. Brett (59)    VP since 2004    Senior Vice President, Head of Distribution (2012-Present), Vice President, Director of Sales (2004-2012), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Senior Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Senior Vice President, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (2018-Present), Senior Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2018-Present); Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2008-2015); Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2008-2015); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2004-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Paul B. Cavazos (50)    VP since 2016    Chief Investment Officer and Senior Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2016-Present); Chief Investment Officer, DTE Energy (2007-2016); Vice President, American Private Equity Management, L.L.C. (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2016-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

88


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Erica Duncan (49)    VP Since 2011    Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers (2018-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2011-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Melinda G. Heika (58)    Treasurer since 2010    Treasurer and CFO (2010-Present), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Treasurer, Resolute Topco, Inc. (2015-Present); Treasurer, Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC. (2015-Present); Treasurer, Resolute Acquisition, Inc. (2015-Present); Treasurer and CFO, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Treasurer, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (2017-2017); Treasurer and CFO, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2015-Present); Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings Parent Inc., (2010-2015); Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2010-2015); Treasurer, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Treasurer and CFO, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Treasurer and CFO, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation, Ltd. (2017-2018); Treasurer, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); Director and Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd. (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Treasurer, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).
Terri L. McKinney (55)    VP since 2010    Vice President (2009-Present), Managing Director (2003-2009), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc (2018-Present); Vice President, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

89


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Jeffrey K. Ringdahl (44)    VP since 2010    Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Chief Operating Officer (2010-Present), Senior Vice President (2013-2018), Vice President (2010-2013), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Senior Vice Present (2015-2018), Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC; Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Senior Vice President (2015-2018), Resolute Topco, Inc.; Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Senior Vice President (2015-2018), Resolute Acquisition, Inc.; Director (2015-Present), President & COO (2018-Present), Senior Vice President (2015-2018), Resolute Investment Managers, Inc.; Director and Executive Vice President (2017-Present), Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc.; Director (2017-Present), President & COO (2018-Present), Executive Vice President (2017-2018), Resolute Investment Services, Inc.; Senior Vice President (2017-Present), Vice President (2012-2017), Manager (2015-Present), American Private Equity Management, LLC; Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2013-2015); Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2013-2015); Trustee, American Beacon NextShares Trust (2015-Present); Director, Executive Vice President & COO, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Director, Shapiro Capital Management, LLC (2017-Present); Director, Executive Vice President & COO, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Director and Vice President, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, Ltd., (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); Director and Vice President, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-2018); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Director, RSW Investments Holdings LLC, (2019-Present); Manager, SSI Investment Management, LLC (2019-Present), Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Samuel J. Silver (56)    VP Since 2011    Vice President (2011-Present), Chief Fixed Income Officer (2016-Present), American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2011-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Christina E. Sears (48)   

Chief Compliance

Officer since 2004

and Asst. Secretary since 1999

   Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2019-Present); Chief Compliance Officer, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2004-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Distributors (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2019-Present); Chief Compliance Officer, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Chief Compliance Officer (2016-2019) and Vice President, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Chief Compliance Officer (2004-Present) and Assistant Secretary (1999-Present), American Beacon Select Funds; Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

90


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Sonia L. Bates (62)   

Asst. Treasurer

since 2011

   Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-2018); Assistant Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings Parent Inc. (2011-2015); Assistant Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2011-2015); Assistant Treasurer, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, Ltd. (2017-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd. (2018-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Select Funds (2011-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Shelley D. Abrahams (44)    Assistant Secretary since 2008    Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2008-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Assistant Secretary, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).
Rebecca L. Harris (52)    Assistant Secretary since 2010    Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services (2015-Present); Vice President, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Teresa A. Oxford (61)    Assistant Secretary since 2015    Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2015-Present); Assistant Secretary, Resolute Investment Distributors (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, Resolute Investment Services (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2015-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Assistant Secretary, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).

* As of 11/12/2014, the Board adopted a retirement plan that requires Trustees, other than Messrs. Feld and Massman to retire no later than the last day of the calendar year in which they reach the age of 75. As of 11/7/17, the Board approved a waiver of the mandatory retirement policy with respect to Mr. Massman, who turned 75 in November 2018, to permit him to continue to serve on the Board as Chair Emeritus through 12/31/19.

** Mr. Feld is deemed to be an “interested person” of the Trusts, as defined by the 1940 Act. Mr. Feld’s law firm of Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld LLP has provided legal services within the past two fiscal years to one or more of the Trust’s sub-advisors.

 

 

91


American Beacon FundsSM

Privacy Policy

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

The American Beacon Funds recognize and respect the privacy of our shareholders. We are providing this notice to you so you will understand how shareholder information may be collected and used.

We may collect nonpublic personal information about you from one or more of the following sources:

 

   

information we receive from you on applications or other forms;

 

   

information about your transactions with us or our service providers; and

 

   

information we receive from third parties.

We do not disclose any nonpublic personal information about our customers or former customers to anyone, except as permitted by law.

We restrict access to your nonpublic personal information to those employees or service providers who need to know that information to provide products or services to you. To ensure the confidentiality of your nonpublic personal information, we maintain safeguards that comply with federal standards.

 

 

92


LOGO

 

 

 

Delivery of Documents

eDelivery is NOW AVAILABLE - Stop traditional mail delivery and receive your

shareholder reports and summary prospectus on-line. Sign up at

www.americanbeaconfunds.com

If you invest in the Fund through a financial institution, you may be able to receive the Fund’s regulatory mailings, such as the Prospectus, Annual Report and Semi-Annual Report, by e-mail. If you are interested in this option, please go to www.icsdelivery.com and search for your financial institution’s name or contact your financial institution directly.

To obtain more information about the Fund:

 

LOGO   LOGO
 
By E-mail:   On the Internet:
american_beacon.funds@ambeacon.com   Visit our website at www.americanbeaconfunds.com
   
     
 

LOGO

By Telephone:

Call (800) 658-5811

 

LOGO

By Mail:

American Beacon Funds

P.O. Box 219643

Kansas City, MO 64121-9643

   
     
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedules   Availability of Proxy Voting Policy and Records
 
In addition to the Schedule of Investments provided in each semi-annual and annual report, the Fund files a complete schedule of its portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on Form N-PORT as of the first and third fiscal quarters. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Forms N-PORT may also be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Section, 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549-2736. Information regarding the operation of the SEC’s Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800)-SEC-0330. A complete schedule of the Fund’s portfolio holdings is also available at www.americanbeaconfunds.com approximately twenty days after the end of each month.   A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available in the Fund’s Statement of Additional Information, is available free of charge on the Fund’s website www.americanbeaconfunds.com and by calling 1-800-967-9009 or by accessing the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record for the most recent year ended June 30 is filed annually with the SEC on Form N-PX. The Fund’s Forms N-PX are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record may also be obtained by calling 1-800-967-9009.

Fund Service Providers:

 

CUSTODIAN

State Street Bank and Trust Company

Boston, Massachusetts

   

TRANSFER AGENT

DST Asset Manager Solutions, Inc.

Quincy, Massachusetts

   

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Ernst & Young LLP

Dallas, Texas

   

DISTRIBUTOR

Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc.

Irving, Texas

This report is prepared for shareholders of the American Beacon Funds and may be distributed to others only if preceded or accompanied by a current Prospectus or Summary Prospectus.

 

American Beacon Funds, American Beacon Balanced Fund and American Beacon Mid-Cap Value Fund are service marks of American Beacon Advisors, Inc.

AR 10/19


LOGO


About American Beacon Advisors

 

Since 1986, American Beacon Advisors has offered a variety of products and investment advisory services to numerous institutional and retail clients, including a variety of mutual funds, corporate cash management, and separate account management.

Our clients include defined benefit plans, defined contribution plans, foundations, endowments, corporations, financial planners, and other institutional investors. With American Beacon Advisors, you can put the experience of a multi-billion dollar asset management firm to work for your company.

GARCIA HAMILTON QUALITY BOND FUND RISKS

The use of fixed-income securities entails interest rate and credit risks. Credit risk is the risk that the issuer of a bond will fail to make timely payment of interest or principal; and the decline in an issuer’s credit rating can cause the price of its bonds to go down. Please see the prospectus for a complete discussion of the Fund’s risks. There can be no assurances that the investment objectives of this Fund will be met.

This may contain information obtained from third parties, including ratings from credit rating agencies such as Standard & Poor’s. Reproduction and distribution of third-party content in any form is prohibited except with the prior written permission of the related third party. Third-party content providers do not guarantee the accuracy, completeness, timeliness or availability of any information, including ratings, and are not responsible for any errors or omissions (negligent or otherwise), regardless of the cause, or for the results obtained from the use of such content. THIRD-PARTY CONTENT PROVIDERS GIVE NO EXPRESS OR IMPLIED WARRANTIES, INCLUDING, BUT NOT LIMITED TO, ANY WARRANTIES OF MERCHANTABILITY OR FITNESS FOR A PARTICULAR PURPOSE OR USE. THIRD-PARTY CONTENT PROVIDERS SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR ANY DIRECT, INDIRECT, INCIDENTAL, EXEMPLARY, COMPENSATORY, PUNITIVE, SPECIAL OR CONSEQUENTIAL DAMAGES, COSTS, EXPENSES, LEGAL FEES OR LOSSES (INCLUDING LOST INCOME OR PROFITS AND OPPORTUNITY COSTS OR LOSSES CAUSED BY NEGLIGENCE) IN CONNECTION WITH ANY USE OF THEIR CONTENT, INCLUDING RATINGS.

Credit ratings are statements of opinions and are not statements of fact or recommendations to purchase, hold or sell securities. They do not address the suitability of securities or the suitability of securities for investment purposes and should not be relied on as investment advice.

Any opinions herein, including forecasts, reflect our judgment as of the end of the reporting period and are subject to change. Each advisor’s strategies and the Fund’s portfolio composition will change depending on economic and market conditions. This report is not a complete analysis of market conditions and therefore, should not be relied upon as investment advice. Although economic and market information has been compiled from reliable sources, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. makes no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of the statements contained herein.

 

American Beacon Funds

October 31, 2019


Contents

 

 

President’s Message

    1  

Market and Performance Overview

    2  

Expense Examples

    5  

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

    7  

Schedule of Investments:

 

American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond Fund

    8  

Financial Statements

    10  

Notes to Financial Statements

    13  

Financial Highlights:

 

American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond Fund

    29  

Federal Tax Information

    33  

Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements

    34  

Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon Funds

    38  

Privacy Policy

    45  

Additional Fund Information

    Back Cover  


President’s Message

 

 

LOGO  

Dear Shareholders,

 

In recent months, you’ve likely seen and heard news reports about disruptive headwinds in the global economy – including the U.S. trade war with China and its toll on the global economy, slowing global growth, the Federal Reserve’s series of rate cuts, Brexit, disruptions in the Middle East and protests in Hong Kong – and watched a flood of reaction in the world’s markets.

 

As Peter L. Bernstein said in his treatise on risk, Against the Gods: The Remarkable Story of Risk, published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. in September 1998, “Volatility is a proxy for uncertainty and must be accommodated in measuring investment risk.”

 

During times of economic uncertainty and market volatility, fear of loss can be a powerful emotion – one that drives many investors to making short-term decisions subject to a variety of potential error-leading biases. Unfortunately, some short-term investment decisions may create more volatility rather than mitigate it.

Instead of dwelling on the markets’ short-term reaction to waves of negative global news, we encourage investors to focus on the horizon instead. Long-term investing isn’t about identifying and anticipating the next big market move, it is about identifying the right investment products for riding out those moves. As a long-term investor, you should keep in mind the three Ds: direction, discipline and diversification.

 

u  

Direction: Achieving your long-term financial goals requires an individualized plan of action. You may want your plan to provide some measure of protection against periods of geopolitical turmoil, economic uncertainty, market volatility and job insecurity. Your plan should be reviewed annually and be adjusted in the event your long-range needs change.

 

u  

Discipline: Long-term, systematic participation in an investment portfolio requires your resolution to stay the course. Spending time in the market – rather than trying to time the market – may place you in a better position to reach your long-term financial goals.

 

u  

Diversification: By investing in different investment styles and asset classes, you may be able to help mitigate financial risks across your investment portfolio. By allocating your investment portfolio according to your risk-tolerance level, you may be better positioned to weather storms and achieve your long-term financial goals.

Since 1986, American Beacon has endeavored to provide investors with a disciplined approach to realizing long-term financial goals. As a manager of managers, we strive to provide investment products that may enable investors to participate during market upswings while potentially insulating against market downswings.

Many of the sub-advisors to our mutual funds pursue upside capture and/or downside protection using proprietary strategies. The investment teams behind our mutual funds seek to produce consistent, long-term results rather than focus only on short-term movements in the markets. In managing our investment products, we emphasize identifying opportunities that offer the potential for long-term rewards.

Our management approach is more than a concept; it’s the cornerstone of our culture. And we strive to apply it at every turn as we seek to provide a well-diversified line of investment solutions to help our shareholders seek long-term rewards while mitigating volatility and risk.

Thank you for your continued interest in American Beacon. For additional information about our investment products or to access your account information, please visit our website at www.americanbeaconfunds.com.

Best Regards,

 

LOGO

Gene L. Needles, Jr.

President

American Beacon Funds

 

 

1


Domestic Bond Market Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

During the 12 months ended October 31, 2019, the Federal Reserve (the “Fed”) hiked the federal funds rate in December 2018, paused for the first half of 2019, and then cut the rate three times in as many meetings. The most recent meeting, held at the end of October, saw the Fed vote to cut its target rate to a range of 1.50% to 1.75%. However, the Fed also indicated its “midcycle adjustment” was complete. The official statement changed with regard to future actions by removing the phrase “will act as appropriate to sustain the expansion,” which was added in advance of the recent rate cuts, addressing economic “uncertainties” and “muted inflation pressures.” Fed Chairman Jerome Powell was more explicit about the completion of the midcycle adjustment at his October press conference when he said further easing would only be needed if developments forced a “material reassessment” of the outlook. He was likely encouraged by recent developments on global trade since U.S. officials indicated they were “close to finalizing” sections of the Phase One agreement with China and the European Union granted the U.K. a Brexit extension. Additionally, the first release of third quarter GDP was reported at 1.9%, which surprised to the upside on solid consumer spending.

Multiple rate cuts from the Fed and uncertainties around global trade caused interest rates to decline and the yield curve to steepen during the period. The 10-year Treasury yield fell 145 basis points (or 1.45%) to 1.69%. The two-year Treasury yield declined 132 basis points (or 1.32%) to 1.52%, and the 30-year Treasury yield declined 121 basis points (or 1.21%) to 2.17%. These moves caused the two- to 30-year Treasury yield spread to increase by 11 basis points (or 0.11%) to 65 basis points (or 0.65%).

With the decline in rates during the year, the bond market posted a positive return of 11.51%, according to the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index. Spread product was mostly in favor over the period as three of the four spread sectors posted positive excess returns. The leader was the corporate sector with an excess return of 232 basis points (or 2.32%). The agency and asset-backed sectors followed with excess returns of 107 basis points (or 1.07%) and 59 basis points (or 0.59%), respectively. The laggard was the mortgage-backed sector with a negative excess return of -11 basis points (or -0.11%). Overall, the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index had an excess return of 63 basis points (or 0.63%) for the period.

 

 

2


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

The Investor Class of the American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond Fund (the “Fund”) returned 4.80% for the twelve months ended October 31, 2019. The Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index (the “Index”) returned 11.51% for the same period.

Comparison of Change in Value of a $10,000 Investment for the period from 4/4/16 through 10/31/19

 

 

LOGO

 

Total Returns for the Period ended October 31, 2019

 

      

Ticker

    

1 Year

    

3 Year

  

Since Inception
04/04/2016

  

Value of $10,000

04/04/2016-
10/31/2019

Institutional Class (1,4)

     GHQIX          5.20 %          2.26 %        1.99 %      $ 10,731

Y Class (1,4)

     GHQYX          5.09 %          2.16 %        1.89 %      $ 10,693

Investor Class (1,4)

     GHQPX          4.80 %          1.84 %        1.61 %      $ 10,587

R6 Class (1,3,4)

     GHQRX          5.13 %          2.24 %        1.97 %      $ 10,724
                            

Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index (2)

              11.51 %          3.29 %        3.28 %      $ 11,224

 

1.

Performance shown is historical and is not indicative of future returns. Investment returns and principal value will vary, and shares may be worth more or less at redemption than at original purchase. Performance shown is calculated based on the published end of day net asset values as of the date indicated and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. To obtain performance as of the most recent month end, please visit www.americanbeaconfunds.com or call 1-800-967-9009. Fund performance in the table above does not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder would pay on distributions or the redemption of shares. Generally accepted accounting principles require adjustments to be made to the net assets of the Fund at period end for financial reporting purposes only; and as such, the total return based on the unadjusted net asset value per share may differ from the total return reported in the financial highlights. A portion of the fees charged to each Class of the Fund has been waived since Fund inception. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than the actual returns shown since inception.

 

2.

The Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Aggregate Bond Index is a market value weighted performance benchmark for government, corporate, mortgage-backed and asset-backed fixed-rate debt securities of all maturities. One cannot directly invest in an index.

 

3.

Fund performance for the periods represent the returns achieved by the Institutional Class from 4/4/16 through 2/28/19, the inception date of the R6 Class, and the returns of the R6 Class since its inception. Expenses of the R6 Class are lower than the Institutional Class. As a result, total returns shown may be lower than they would have been had the R6 Class been in existence since 4/4/16.

 

 

3


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

 

4.

The Total Annual Fund Operating Expense ratios set forth in the most recent Fund prospectus for the Institutional, Y, Investor and R6 Class shares were 0.69%, 0.75%, 0.92% and 0.66%, respectively. The expense ratios above may vary from the expense ratios presented in other sections of this report that are based on expenses incurred during the period covered by this report.

Duration management was the primary detractor from the Fund’s performance during the year relative to the Index. The Fund maintained a shorter duration than the Index as the manager believed the economy would continue to perform well. However, market reaction to the temporary government shutdown, ongoing concerns regarding Brexit, global trade discussions, and the Fed’s mid-cycle adjustment were drags on performance. The Fund remains positioned for a market environment in which money supply is expanding rapidly, consumer confidence is high, and the labor market is very healthy. Historically, rates have the bias to move higher as the economy continues to grow and exceed market expectations.

In addition to active duration management, the Fund maintained a barbell yield-curve position. The Fund was overweight the shortest and longest durations along the curve and was underweight in the middle. The sub-advisor believes the “belly” of the curve, which is the middle of the curve, is most overvalued and is maintaining the largest underweight there.

Sector positioning contributed to performance as the Fund was overweight the corporate sector and underweight the Treasury sector and the mortgage-backed securities sector. An underweight to the Treasury sector was a positive contributor as credit spreads tightened and the Fund’s underweight to mortgage-backed securities benefited performance as the sector underperformed.

Overall, the Fund continues to emphasize high-quality, active fixed-income investing that seeks to perform well in volatile markets and serves an important role in asset allocation.

 

Top Ten Holdings (% Net Assets)

 

U.S. Treasury Notes/Bonds, 2.500%, Due 5/15/2046           8.4  
Federal Home Loan Banks, 2.032%, Due 9/13/2021, (3-mo. USD LIBOR - 0.095%)           7.3  
Federal National Mortgage Association, 4.500%, Due 6/1/2039           7.0  
Federal Home Loan Banks, 2.010%, Due 12/18/2020, (3-mo. USD LIBOR - 0.135%)           5.4  
Citigroup, Inc., 3.224%, Due 5/17/2024, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.100%)           4.6  
United Parcel Service, Inc., 2.549%, Due 4/1/2023, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.450%)           4.2  
U.S. Treasury Notes/Bonds, 1.752%, Due 1/31/2021, (3-mo. Treasury money market yield + 0.115%)           4.2  
Morgan Stanley, 3.336%, Due 10/24/2023, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.400%)           3.9  
IBM Credit LLC, 2.226%, Due 1/20/2021, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.260%)           3.3  
Intel Corp., 2.531%, Due 5/11/2022, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.350%)           3.2  
Total Fund Holdings      39       
       
Sector Allocation (% Investments)

 

Financial           28.1  
U.S. Government Agency Obligations           16.2  
Technology           13.3  
U.S. Treasury Obligations           12.7  
Industrial           8.4  
U.S. Agency Mortgage-Backed Obligations           8.0  
Communications           7.0  
Consumer, Non-Cyclical           4.3  
Utilities           1.1  
Energy           0.9  

 

 

4


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Expense Examples

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

Fund Expense Example

As a shareholder of a Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption fees if applicable, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees, distribution (12b-1) fees, sub-transfer agent fees, and other Fund expenses. The Examples are intended to help you understand the ongoing cost (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period in each Class and held for the entire period from May 1, 2019 through October 31, 2019.

Actual Expenses

The “Actual” lines of the table provide 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period. Shareholders of the Investor and Institutional Classes that invest in the Fund through an IRA or Roth IRA may be subject to a custodial IRA fee of $15 that is typically deducted each December. If your account was subject to a custodial IRA fee during the period, your costs would have been $15 higher.

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The “Hypothetical” lines of the table provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed 5% per year rate of return before expenses (not the Fund’s actual return). You may compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund with other funds by contrasting this 5% hypothetical example and the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. Shareholders of the Investor and Institutional Classes that invest in the Fund through an IRA or Roth IRA may be subject to a custodial IRA fee of $15 that is typically deducted each December. If your account was subject to a custodial IRA fee during the period, your costs would have been $15 higher.

You should also be aware that the expenses shown in the table highlight only your ongoing costs and do not reflect any transaction costs charged by the Fund, such as sales charges (loads). Similarly, the expense examples for other funds do not reflect any transaction costs charged by those funds, such as sales charges (loads), redemption fees or exchange fees. Therefore, the “Hypothetical” lines of the table are useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. If you were subject to any transaction costs during the period, your costs would have been higher.

 

 

5


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Expense Examples

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond Fund            
    Beginning Account Value
5/1/2019
  Ending Account Value
10/31/2019
  Expenses Paid During
Period
5/1/2019-10/31/2019*
Institutional Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,026.30       $2.30
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,022.94       $2.29
Y Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,025.80       $2.81
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,022.43       $2.80
Investor Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,024.40       $4.24
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,021.02       $4.23
R6 Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,025.60       $2.09
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,023.14       $2.09

 

*

Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratios for the six-month period of 0.45%, 0.55%, 0.83%, and 0.41% for the Institutional, Y, Investor, and R6 Classes, respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number derived by dividing the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year (184) by days in the year (365) to reflect the half-year period.

**

5% return before expenses.

 

 

6


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

 

To the Shareholders and the Board of Trustees of

American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond Fund

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond Fund (the “Fund”) (one of the funds constituting American Beacon Funds (the “Trust”)), including the schedule of investments, as of October 31, 2019, and the related statement of operations for the year then ended, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, the financial highlights for each of the three years in the period ended October 31, 2019 and the period from April 4, 2016 (commencement of operations) to October 31, 2016 and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund at October 31, 2019, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended and its financial highlights for each of the three years in the period ended October 31, 2019 and the period from April 4, 2016 (commencement of operations) to October 31, 2016, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Basis for Opinion

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

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Trust is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of October 31, 2019, by correspondence with the custodian. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

LOGO

We have served as the auditor of one or more American Beacon investment companies since 1987.

Dallas, Texas

December 30, 2019

 

 

7


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Principal Amount       Fair Value
             
CORPORATE OBLIGATIONS - 62.30%            
Communications - 6.89%            
Comcast Corp.,            

2.429%, Due 10/1/2020, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.330%)A

    $ 5,730,000         $ 5,744,382

2.631%, Due 4/15/2024, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.630%)A

      13,341,000           13,457,430
TWDC Enterprises 18 Corp., 2.523%, Due 3/4/2022, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.390%)A       13,772,000           13,839,564
           

 

 

 
              33,041,376
           

 

 

 
           
Consumer, Non-Cyclical - 4.28%            
PepsiCo, Inc.,            

2.573%, Due 10/6/2021, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.530%)A

      6,460,000           6,504,730

2.631%, Due 5/2/2022, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.365%)A

      10,285,000           10,328,372
UnitedHealth Group, Inc., 2.071%, Due 10/15/2020, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.070%)A       3,720,000           3,715,088
           

 

 

 
              20,548,190
           

 

 

 
           
Energy - 0.87%            
Chevron Corp., 2.688%, Due 11/15/2021, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.530%)A       4,140,000           4,173,198
           

 

 

 
           
Financial - 27.78%            
American Express Co., 2.519%, Due 8/1/2022, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.610%)A       6,600,000           6,630,787
American Express Credit Corp., 2.838%, Due 3/3/2022, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.700%)A       7,068,000           7,113,571
Bank of America Corp.,            

3.126%, Due 1/20/2023, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.160%)A

      9,166,000           9,293,223

2.917%, Due 3/5/2024, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.790%)A

      7,830,000           7,880,443
Citigroup, Inc., 3.224%, Due 5/17/2024, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.100%)A       21,774,000           22,042,808
Fifth Third Bank, 2.549%, Due 2/1/2022, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.640%)A       5,580,000           5,610,417
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.,            

3.717%, Due 11/29/2023, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.600%)A

      6,638,000           6,855,091

3.448%, Due 11/23/2024, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.300%)A

      8,145,000           8,180,617
JPMorgan Chase & Co.,            

2.840%, Due 4/25/2023, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.900%)A

      12,824,000           12,909,590

3.166%, Due 10/24/2023, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.230%)A

      8,400,000           8,546,709
Manufacturers & Traders Trust Co., 2.734%, Due 5/18/2022, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.610%)A       5,490,000           5,507,810
Morgan Stanley, 3.336%, Due 10/24/2023, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.400%)A       18,225,000           18,592,849
Wells Fargo & Co., 3.046%, Due 1/24/2023, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 1.110%)A       13,890,000           14,064,247
           

 

 

 
              133,228,162
           

 

 

 
           
Industrial - 8.26%            
John Deere Capital Corp.,            

2.582%, Due 9/8/2022, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.480%)A

      9,370,000           9,392,404

2.652%, Due 6/7/2023, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.550%)A

      10,095,000           10,115,634
United Parcel Service, Inc., 2.549%, Due 4/1/2023, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.450%)A       20,017,000           20,124,400
           

 

 

 
              39,632,438
           

 

 

 
           
Technology - 13.14%            
Apple, Inc., 2.685%, Due 2/9/2022, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.500%)A       14,585,000           14,695,547
IBM Credit LLC, 2.226%, Due 1/20/2021, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.260%)A       16,015,000           16,054,958
Intel Corp., 2.531%, Due 5/11/2022, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.350%)A       15,104,000           15,162,427
International Business Machines Corp., 2.576%, Due 5/13/2021, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.400%)A       4,890,000           4,912,460
QUALCOMM, Inc., 2.666%, Due 1/30/2023, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.730%)A       12,070,000           12,169,662
           

 

 

 
              62,995,054
           

 

 

 
           
Utilities - 1.08%            
Consolidated Edison Co. of New York, Inc., 2.506%, Due 6/25/2021, Series C, (3-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.400%)A       5,180,000           5,199,441
           

 

 

 
           

Total Corporate Obligations (Cost $297,553,136)

              298,817,859
           

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

8


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Principal Amount       Fair Value
             
U.S. AGENCY MORTGAGE-BACKED OBLIGATIONS - 7.89%            
Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corp., 4.500%, Due 12/1/2034     $ 2,293,372         $ 2,487,334
Federal National Mortgage Association,            

5.500%, Due 1/1/2024

      1,208,330           1,261,390

5.000%, Due 7/1/2026

      493,483           508,273

4.500%, Due 6/1/2039

      31,692,781           33,574,552
           

 

 

 
           

Total U.S. Agency Mortgage-Backed Obligations (Cost $37,870,378)

              37,831,549
           

 

 

 
           
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY OBLIGATIONS - 16.01%            
Federal Farm Credit Banks Funding Corp., 1.904%, Due 3/17/2021, (1-mo. USD LIBOR + 0.015%)A       7,115,000           7,106,779
Federal Home Loan Banks,            

2.010%, Due 12/18/2020, (3-mo. USD LIBOR - 0.135%)A

      25,750,000           25,726,880

1.921%, Due 1/4/2021, (3-mo. USD LIBOR - 0.135%)A

      9,165,000           9,155,148

2.032%, Due 9/13/2021, (3-mo. USD LIBOR - 0.095%)A

      34,815,000           34,786,632
           

 

 

 
           

Total U.S. Government Agency Obligations (Cost $76,842,823)

              76,775,439
           

 

 

 
           
U.S. TREASURY OBLIGATIONS - 12.53%            
U.S. Treasury Notes/Bonds,            

1.752%, Due 1/31/2021, (3-mo. Treasury money market yield + 0.115%)A

      20,000,000           19,978,071

2.500%, Due 5/15/2046

      37,690,000           40,131,017
           

 

 

 
           

Total U.S. Treasury Obligations (Cost $55,076,356)

              60,109,088
           

 

 

 
    Shares        
             
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS - 0.76% (Cost $3,627,253)            
Investment Companies - 0.76%            
American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund, Select Class, 1.75%B C       3,627,253           3,627,253
           

 

 

 
           

TOTAL INVESTMENTS - 99.49% (Cost $470,969,946)

              477,161,188

OTHER ASSETS, NET OF LIABILITIES - 0.51%

              2,461,739
           

 

 

 

TOTAL NET ASSETS - 100.00%

            $ 479,622,927
           

 

 

 
             
Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.                  

A Variable, floating, or adjustable rate securities with an interest rate that changes periodically. Rates are periodically reset with rates that are based on a predetermined benchmark such as a widely followed interest rate such as T-bills, LIBOR or PRIME plus a fixed spread. The interest rate disclosed reflects the rate in effect on October 31, 2019.

B The Fund is affiliated by having the same investment advisor.

C 7-day yield.

LIBOR - London Interbank Offered Rate.

LLC - Limited Liability Company.

PRIME – A rate, charged by banks, based on the U.S. Federal Funds rate.

The Fund’s investments are summarized by level based on the inputs used to determine their values. As of October 31, 2019, the investments were classified as described below:

 

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond Fund

  Level 1           Level 2           Level 3           Total  

Assets

             

Corporate Obligations

  $ -       $ 298,817,859       $ -       $ 298,817,859  

U.S. Agency Mortgage-Backed Obligations

    -         37,831,549         -         37,831,549  

U.S. Government Agency Obligations

    -         76,775,439         -         76,775,439  

U.S. Treasury Obligations

    -         60,109,088         -         60,109,088  

Short-Term Investments

    3,627,253         -         -         3,627,253  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Investments in Securities - Assets

  $ 3,627,253       $ 473,533,935       $ -       $ 477,161,188  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

U.S. GAAP requires transfers between all levels to/from level 3 be disclosed. During the year ended October 31, 2019, there were no transfers into or out of Level 3.

 

See accompanying notes

 

9


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Statement of Assets and Liabilities

October 31, 2019

 

 

Assets:

 

Investments in unaffiliated securities, at fair value

  $ 473,533,935  

Investments in affiliated securities, at fair value

    3,627,253  

Interest receivable

    1,780,914  

Receivable for investments sold

    1,917,695  

Receivable for fund shares sold

    216,068  

Receivable for expense reimbursement (Note 2)

    115,945  

Prepaid expenses

    27,316  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    481,219,126  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payable for fund shares redeemed

    1,152,745  

Dividends payable

    130,681  

Management and sub-advisory fees payable (Note 2)

    227,060  

Service fees payable (Note 2)

    3,137  

Transfer agent fees payable (Note 2)

    14,574  

Custody and fund accounting fees payable

    11,020  

Professional fees payable

    44,973  

Trustee fees payable (Note 2)

    2,313  

Payable for prospectus and shareholder reports

    5,924  

Other liabilities

    3,772  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    1,596,199  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 479,622,927  
 

 

 

 

Analysis of net assets:

 

Paid-in-capital

  $ 476,585,099  

Total distributable earnings (deficits)A

    3,037,828  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 479,622,927  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding at no par value (unlimited shares authorized):

 

Institutional Class

    31,509,871  
 

 

 

 

Y Class

    1,784,629  
 

 

 

 

Investor Class

    1,483,357  
 

 

 

 

R6 ClassB

    12,966,751  
 

 

 

 

Net assets:

 

Institutional Class

  $ 316,582,604  
 

 

 

 

Y Class

  $ 17,927,537  
 

 

 

 

Investor Class

  $ 14,904,591  
 

 

 

 

R6 ClassB

  $ 130,208,195  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share:

 

Institutional Class

  $ 10.05  
 

 

 

 

Y Class

  $ 10.05  
 

 

 

 

Investor Class

  $ 10.05  
 

 

 

 

R6 ClassB

  $ 10.04  
 

 

 

 

Cost of investments in unaffiliated securities

  $ 467,342,693  

Cost of investments in affiliated securities

  $ 3,627,253  

A The Fund’s investments in affiliated securities did not have unrealized appreciation (depreciation) at year end.

 

B Class commenced operations February 28, 2019 (Note 1).

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

10


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Statement of Operations

For the year ended October 31, 2019

 

 

Investment income:

 

Dividend income from affiliated securities (Note 7)

  $ 262,616  

Interest income

    9,641,814  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    9,904,430  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Management and sub-advisory fees (Note 2)

    1,927,599  

Transfer agent fees:

 

Institutional Class (Note 2)

    108,011  

Y Class (Note 2)

    19,161  

Investor Class

    1,732  

R6 ClassA

    2,082  

Custody and fund accounting fees

    62,247  

Professional fees

    52,133  

Registration fees and expenses

    62,461  

Service fees (Note 2):

 

Investor Class

    54,616  

Prospectus and shareholder report expenses

    28,358  

Trustee fees (Note 2)

    24,775  

Other expenses

    40,426  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    2,383,601  
 

 

 

 

Net fees waived and expenses (reimbursed) (Note 2)

    (745,393
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    1,638,208  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income

    8,266,222  
 

 

 

 

Realized and unrealized gain from investments:

 

Net realized gain from:

 

Investments in unaffiliated securitiesB

    429,672  

Change in net unrealized appreciation of:

 

Investments in unaffiliated securitiesC

    7,820,345  
 

 

 

 

Net gain from investments

    8,250,017  
 

 

 

 

Net increase in net assets resulting from operations

  $ 16,516,239  
 

 

 

 

A Class commenced operations February 28, 2019.

 

B The Fund did not recognize net realized gains (losses) from the sale of investments in affiliated securities.

 

C The Fund’s investments in affiliated securities did not have a change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) at year end.

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

11


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Statement of Changes in Net Assets

 

 

    Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond Fund  
    Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          Year Ended
October 31, 2018
 

Increase (decrease) in net assets:

     

Operations:

     

Net investment income

  $ 8,266,222       $ 3,376,947  

Net realized gain (loss) from investments in unaffiliated securities

    429,672         (780,123

Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments in unaffiliated securities

    7,820,345         (1,810,001
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net increase in net assets resulting from operations

    16,516,239         786,823  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Distributions to shareholders:

     

Total retained earnings:

     

Institutional Class

    (7,259,770       (3,305,504

Y Class

    (437,870       (59,124

Investor Class

    (280,134       (165,821

R6 ClassA

    (480,168        
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net distributions to shareholders

    (8,457,942       (3,530,449
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Capital share transactions (Note 9):

     

Proceeds from sales of shares

    295,256,390         128,042,724  

Reinvestment of dividends and distributions

    6,819,084         3,065,757  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (80,111,918       (24,196,699
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net increase in net assets from capital share transactions

    221,963,556         106,911,782  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net increase in net assets

    230,021,853         104,168,156  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net assets:

     

Beginning of period

    249,601,074         145,432,918  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

End of period

  $ 479,622,927       $ 249,601,074  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

A Class commenced operations February 28, 2019.

     

 

See accompanying notes

 

12


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

1.  Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

American Beacon Funds (the “Trust”) is organized as a Massachusetts business trust. The Fund, a series within the Trust, is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Act”), as a diversified, open-end management investment company. As of October 31, 2019, the Trust consists of thirty-two active series, one of which is presented in this filing: American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond Fund (the “Fund”). The remaining thirty-one active series are reported in separate filings.

American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (the “Manager”) is a Delaware corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (“RIM”) organized in 1986 to provide business management, advisory, administrative, and asset management consulting services to the Trust and other investors. The Manager is registered as an investment advisor under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the “Advisers Act”). RIM is, in turn, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Acquisition, Inc., which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Topco, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC (“RIH”). RIH is owned primarily by Kelso Investment Associates VIII, L.P., KEP VI, LLC and Estancia Capital Partners L.P., investment funds affiliated with Kelso & Company, L.P. (“Kelso”) or Estancia Capital Management, LLC (“Estancia”), which are private equity firms.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2017-08, Premium Amortization of Purchased Callable Debt Securities. The amendments in the ASU shorten the premium amortization period on a purchased callable debt security from the security’s contractual life to the earliest call date. It is anticipated that this change will enhance disclosures by reducing losses recognized when a security is called on an earlier date. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. The Manager continues to evaluate the impact this ASU will have on the financial statements and other disclosures.

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (“Topic 820”). The amendments in the ASU impact disclosure requirements for fair value measurement. It is anticipated that this change will enhance the effectiveness of disclosures in the notes to the financial statements. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted and can include the entire standard or certain provisions that exclude or amend disclosures. For the year ended October 31, 2019, the Fund has chosen to adopt the standard. The adoption of this ASU guidance did not have a material impact on the financial statements and other disclosures.

Class Disclosure

On February 28, 2019, the Fund created the R6 Class, a new class made available for sale to retirement plans pursuant to an amendment to the Fund’s registrations statement filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Refer to the Fund’s prospectus for more details.

The Fund has multiple classes of shares designed to meet the needs of different groups of investors. The following table sets forth the differences amongst the classes:

 

Class

  

Eligible Investors

   Minimum Initial
Investments
 
Institutional    Large institutional investors - sold directly through intermediary channels.    $ 250,000  
Y Class    Large institutional retirement plan investors - sold directly or through intermediary channels.    $ 100,000  
Investor    All investors using intermediary organizations, such as broker-dealers or retirement plan sponsors.    $ 2,500  
R6 Class    Large institutional retirement plan investors - sold through retirement plan sponsors.      None  

 

 

13


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Each class offered by the Trust has equal rights as to assets and voting privileges. Income and non-class specific expenses are allocated daily to each class based on the relative net assets. Realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of each class are allocated daily based on the relative net assets of each class of the respective Fund. Class specific expenses, where applicable, currently include service, distribution, transfer agent fees, and sub-transfer agent fees that vary amongst the classes as described more fully in Note 2.

Significant Accounting Policies

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies, consistently followed by the Fund in preparation of the financial statements. The Fund is considered an investment company and accordingly, follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946, Financial Services – Investment Companies, a part of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“U.S. GAAP”).

Security Transactions and Investment Income

Security transactions are recorded as of the trade date for financial reporting purposes. Securities purchased or sold on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis may be settled beyond a standard settlement period for the security after the trade date.

Dividend income, net of foreign taxes, is recorded on the ex-dividend date, except certain dividends from foreign securities which are recorded as soon as the information is available to the Fund. Interest income, net of foreign taxes, is earned from settlement date, recorded on the accrual basis, and adjusted, if necessary, for accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums. Realized gains (losses) from securities sold are determined based on specific lot identification.

Distributions to Shareholders

The Fund distributes most or all of its net earning and realized gains, if any, each taxable year in the form of dividends from net investment income on a monthly basis and distributions of realized net capital gains and net gains or losses from foreign currency transactions on an annual basis. The Fund does not have a fixed dividend rate and does not guarantee that they will pay any distributions in any particular year. Dividends to shareholders are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulation, which may differ in amount and character from net investment income and realized gains recognized for purposes of U.S. GAAP. To the extent necessary to fully distribute capital gains, the Fund may designate earning and profits distributed to shareholders on the redemption of shares.

Allocation of Income, Trust Expenses, Gains, and Losses

Investment income, realized and unrealized gains and losses from investments of the Fund is allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class to the total net assets of the Fund. Expenses directly charged or attributable to the Fund will be paid from the assets of the Fund. Generally, expenses of the Trust will be allocated among and charged to the assets of the Fund on a basis that the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”) deems fair and equitable, which may be based on the relative net assets of the Fund or nature of the services performed and relative applicability to the Fund.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results may differ from those estimated.

 

 

14


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Other

Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and trustees are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. In the normal course of business, the Trust enters into contracts that provide indemnification to the other party or parties against potential costs or liabilities. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made in the future and, therefore, cannot be estimated. The Trust has had no prior claims or losses pursuant to any such agreement.

2.  Transactions with Affiliates

Management and Investment Sub-Advisory Agreements

The Fund and the Manager are parties to a Management Agreement that obligates the Manager to provide the Fund with investment advisory and administrative services. As compensation for performing the duties under the Management Agreement, the Manager will receive an annualized management fee based on a percentage of the Fund’s average daily net assets that is calculated and accrued daily according to the following schedule:

 

First $5 billion

     0.35

Next $5 billion

     0.325

Next $10 billion

     0.30

Over $20 billion

     0.275

The Trust, on behalf of the Fund, and the Manager have entered into an Investment Advisory Agreement with Garcia Hamilton & Associates, L.P. (the “Sub-Advisor”) pursuant to which the Fund has agreed to pay an annualized sub-advisory fee that is calculated and accrued daily based on the Fund’s average daily net assets according to the following schedule:

 

First $1 billion

     0.20

Over $1 billion

     0.15

The Management and Sub-Advisory Fees paid by the Fund for the year ended October 31, 2019 were as follows:

 

    Effective Fee Rate           Amount of Fees Paid  

Management Fees

    0.35     $ 1,226,446  

Sub-Advisor Fees

    0.20       701,153  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total

    0.55     $ 1,927,599  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Distribution Plans

The Fund has adopted a “defensive” Distribution Plan (the “Plan”) in accordance with Rule 12b-1 under the Act, pursuant to which no separate fees may be charged to the Fund for distribution purposes. However, the Plan authorizes the management fee received by the Manager and the investment advisors hired by the Manager to be used for distribution purposes. Under this Plan, the Fund does not intend to compensate the Manager or any other party, either directly or indirectly, for the distribution of Fund shares.

Service Plans

The Manager and the Trust entered into a Service Plan that obligates the Manager to oversee additional shareholder servicing of the Investor Class of the Fund. As compensation for performing the duties required under the Service Plan, the Manager receives an annualized fee up to 0.375% of the average daily net assets of the Investor Class of the Fund.

 

 

15


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Sub-Transfer Agent Fees

The Manager has entered into agreements, which include servicing agreements, with financial intermediaries that provide recordkeeping, processing, shareholder communications and other services to customers of the intermediaries that hold positions in the Institutional and Y Classes of the Fund and has agreed to compensate the intermediaries for providing these services. Intermediaries transact with the Fund primarily through the use of omnibus accounts on behalf of its customers who hold positions in the Fund. Certain services would have been provided by the Fund’s transfer agent and other service providers if the shareholders’ accounts were maintained directly by the Fund’s transfer agent. Accordingly, the Fund, pursuant to Board approval, has agreed to reimburse the Manager for certain non-distribution shareholder services provided by financial intermediaries for the Institutional and Y Classes. The reimbursement amounts (sub-transfer agent fees) paid to the Manager are subject to a fee limit of up to 0.10% of an intermediary’s average net assets in the Institutional and Y Classes on an annual basis. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the sub-transfer agent fees, as reflected in “Transfer agent fees” on the Statement of Operations, were as follows:

 

Fund

   Sub-Transfer Agent Fees  

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond

   $ 117,285  

As of October 31, 2019, the Fund owed the Manager the following reimbursement of sub-transfer agent fees, as reflected in “Transfer agent fees payable” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities:

 

Fund

   Reimbursement
Sub-Transfer Agent  Fees
 

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond

   $ 11,106  

Investments in Affiliated Funds

The Fund may invest in the American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund (the “USG Select Fund”). The Fund and the USG Select Fund have the same investment advisor and therefore, are considered to be affiliated. The Manager serves as investment advisor to the USG Select Fund and receives management fees and administrative fees totaling 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the USG Select Fund. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Manager earned fees on the Fund’s direct investments in the USG Select Fund as shown below:

 

Fund

   Direct Investments in
USG Select Fund
 

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond

   $ 12,107  

Interfund Credit Facility

Pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the SEC, the Fund, along with other registered investment companies having management contracts with the Manager, may participate in a credit facility whereby each fund, under certain conditions, is permitted to lend money directly to and borrow directly from other participating funds for temporary purposes. The interfund credit facility is advantageous to the fund because it provides added liquidity and eliminates the need to maintain higher cash balances to meet redemptions. This situation could arise when shareholder redemptions exceed anticipated volumes and certain funds have insufficient cash on hand to satisfy such redemptions or when sales of securities do not settle as expected, resulting in a cash shortfall for a fund. When a fund liquidates portfolio securities to meet redemption requests, they often do not receive payment in settlement for up to two days (or longer for certain foreign transactions). Redemption requests normally are satisfied on the next business day. The credit facility provides a source of immediate, short-term liquidity pending settlement of the sale of portfolio securities. The credit facility is administered by a credit facility team consisting of professionals from the Manager’s asset management, compliance, and accounting areas who report the activities of the credit facility to the Board. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Fund did not utilize the credit facility.

 

 

16


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Expense Reimbursement Plan

The Manager contractually agreed to reduce fees and/or reimburse expenses for the classes of the Fund to the extent that total operating expenses exceed the Fund’s expense cap. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Manager waived and/or reimbursed expenses as follows:

 

         Expense Cap                   Expiration of
Reimbursed
Expenses
 

Fund

   Class   11/1/2018 -
8/25/2019
    8/26/2019 -
10/31/2019
    Reimbursed
Expenses
     (Recouped)
Expenses
 

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond

   Institutional     0.45     0.45   $ 630,224      $ -        2021-2022  

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond

   Y     0.55     0.55     32,884        -        2021-2022  

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond

   Investor     0.83     0.83     28,699        -        2021-2022  

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond

   R6(1)     0.42     0.41     53,586        -        2021-2022  

(1) Effective February 28, 2019.

  

Of these amounts, $115,945 was disclosed as a receivable from the Manager on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities at October 31, 2019.

The Fund has adopted an Expense Reimbursement Plan whereby the Manager may seek repayment of such fee or voluntary reductions and expense reimbursements. Under the policy, the Manager can be reimbursed by the Fund for any contractual or voluntary fee reductions or expense reimbursements if reimbursement to the Manager (a) occurs within three years after the date of the Manager’s waiver/reimbursement and (b) does not cause the Fund’s annual operating expenses to exceed the lesser of the contractual percentage limit in effect at the time of the waiver/reimbursement or time of recoupment. The reimbursed expenses listed above will expire in 2021 and 2022. The Fund did not record a liability for potential reimbursement due to the current assessment that a reimbursement is uncertain. The carryover of excess expenses potentially reimbursable to the Manager, but not recorded as a liability are as follows:

 

Fund

   Recouped
Expenses
     Excess Expense
Carryover
     Expired Expense
Carryover
     Expiration of
Reimbursed
Expenses
 

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond

   $ -      $ 334,782      $ -        2019-2020  

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond

     -        410,947        -        2020-2021  

Trustee Fees and Expenses

As compensation for their service to the Trusts, each Trustee receives an annual retainer of $120,000, plus $10,000 for each Board meeting attended in person or via teleconference, $2,500 for attendance by Committee members at meetings of the Audit Committee and the Investment Committee, and $1,500 for attendance by Committee members at meetings of the Nominating and Governance Committee, plus reimbursement of reasonable expenses incurred in attending Board meetings, Committee meetings, and relevant educational seminars. The Trustees also may be compensated for attendance at special Board and/or Committee meetings from time to time. The Board Chair receives an additional annual retainer of $50,000 as well as a $2,500 fee each quarter for attendance at the committee meetings. The Chairpersons of the Audit Committee and the Investment Committee each receive an additional annual retainer of $25,000 and the Chairman of the Nominating and Governance Committee receives an additional annual retainer of $10,000. These expenses are allocated on a prorated basis to each fund of the Trusts according to its respective net assets.

 

 

 

17


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

3.  Security Valuation and Fair Value Measurements

The price of the Fund’s shares is based on the Fund’s Net Asset Value (“NAV”). The NAV of the Fund, or each of its share classes, as applicable, is determined by dividing the total value of portfolio investments and other assets, less any liabilities attributable to the Fund or class, by the total number of shares outstanding of the Fund or class.

Investments are valued at the close of the New York Stock Exchange (the “Exchange”), normally at 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time, each day that the Exchange is open for business.

Debt securities normally are valued on the basis of prices provided by an independent pricing service and may take into account appropriate factors such as institution-size trading in similar groups of securities, yield, quality, coupon rate, maturity, type of issue, trading characteristics, and other market data. Prices of debt securities may be determined using quotes obtained from brokers.

Investments in open-end mutual funds are valued at the closing NAV per share of the mutual fund on the day of valuation.

Securities for which the market prices are not readily available or are not reflective of the fair value of the security, as determined by the Manager, will be priced at fair value following procedures approved by the Board.

Other investments, including restricted securities and those financial instruments for which the above valuation procedures are inappropriate or are deemed not to reflect fair value, are stated at fair value, as determined in good faith by the Manager’s Valuation Committee, pursuant to procedures established by the Board.

Valuation Inputs

Various inputs may be used to determine the fair value of the Fund’s investments. These inputs are summarized in three broad levels for financial statement purposes. The inputs or methodologies used to value securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

Level 1   -   Quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
Level 2   -   Prices determined using other significant observable inputs. These may include quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, and others.
Level 3   -   Prices determined using other significant unobservable inputs. Unobservable inputs reflect the Fund’s own assumptions about the factors market participants would use in pricing an investment.

Level 1 and Level 2 trading assets and trading liabilities, at fair value

Fixed-income securities including corporate, convertible and municipal bonds and notes, U.S. government agencies, U.S. Treasury obligations, sovereign issues, bank loans, convertible preferred securities, and non-U.S. bonds are normally valued by pricing service providers that use broker dealer quotations, reported trades or valuation estimates from their internal pricing models. The service providers’ internal models use inputs that are observable such as issuer details, interest rates, yield curves, prepayment speeds, credit risks/spreads, default rates, and quoted prices for similar assets. Securities that use similar valuation techniques and inputs as described above are categorized as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Mortgage-related and asset-backed securities (“ABS”) are usually issued as separate tranches, or classes, of securities within each deal. These securities are also normally valued by pricing service providers that use broker-dealer quotations or valuation estimates from their internal pricing models. The pricing models for these securities usually consider tranche-level attributes, current market data, estimated cash flows, and market-based yield spreads for each tranche, and incorporates deal collateral performance, as available. Mortgage-related and ABS that use similar valuation techniques and inputs as described above are categorized as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

 

 

18


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Investments in registered open-end investment management companies will be valued based upon the NAVs of such investments and are categorized as Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

4.  Securities and Other Investments

Agency Mortgage-Backed Securities

Certain mortgage-backed securities (“MBS”) may be issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or a government sponsored entity, such as the Federal National Mortgage Association (“Fannie Mae”) or the Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (“Freddie Mac”). Although these instruments may be guaranteed by the U.S. government or a government sponsored entity, many such MBS are not backed by the full faith and credit of the United States and are still exposed to the risk of non-payment.

Fixed-Income Investments

The Fund may hold debt, including government and corporate debt, and other fixed-income securities. Typically, the values of fixed-income securities change inversely with prevailing interest rates. Therefore, a fundamental risk of fixed-income securities is interest rate risk, which is the risk that their value will generally decline as prevailing interest rates rise, which may cause the Fund’s NAV to likewise decrease, and vice versa. How specific fixed-income securities may react to changes in interest rates will depend on the specific characteristics of each security. For example, while securities with longer maturities tend to produce higher yields, they also tend to be more sensitive to changes in prevailing interest rates and are, therefore, more volatile than shorter-term securities and are subject to greater market fluctuations as a result of changes in interest rates. Fixed-income securities are also subject to credit risk, which is the risk that the credit strength of an issuer of a fixed-income security will weaken and/or that the issuer will be unable to make timely principal and interest payments and that the security may go into default. In addition, there is prepayment risk, which is the risk that during periods of falling interest rates, certain fixed-income securities with higher interest rates, such as MBS and ABS, may be prepaid by their issuers thereby reducing the amount of interest payments. This may result in a Fund having to reinvest its proceeds in lower yielding securities. Securities underlying MBS and ABS, which may include subprime mortgages, also may be subject to a higher degree of credit risk, valuation risk, and liquidity risk.

Mortgage-Backed Securities

MBS often have stated maturities of up to thirty years when they are issued, depending upon the length of the mortgages underlying the securities. In practice however, unscheduled or early payments of principal and interest on the underlying mortgages may make the securities’ effective maturity shorter than this, and the prevailing interest rates may be higher or lower than the current yield of the Fund’s portfolio at the time resulting in reinvestment risk.

Rising or high interest rates may result in slower than expected principal payments which may tend to extend the duration of MBS, making them more volatile and more sensitive to changes in interest rates. This is known as extension risk.

MBS may have less potential for capital appreciation than comparable fixed-income securities due to the likelihood of increased prepayments of mortgages resulting from foreclosures or declining interest rates. These foreclosed or refinanced mortgages are paid off at face value (par) or less, causing a loss, particularly for any investor who may have purchased the security at a premium or a price above par. In such an environment, this risk limits the potential price appreciation of these securities.

 

 

19


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Mortgage-Related and Other Asset-Backed Securities

The Fund may invest in mortgage or other ABS. These securities may include mortgage instruments issued by U.S. government agencies (“agency mortgages”) or those issued by private entities (“non-agency mortgages”). Specific types of instruments may include mortgage pass-through securities, collateralized mortgage obligations (“CMOs”), commercial mortgage-backed securities, mortgage dollar rolls, CMO residuals, stripped mortgage-backed securities and other securities that directly or indirectly represent a participation in, or are secured by a payable from, mortgage loans on real property. The value of the Fund’s MBS may be affected by, among other things, changes or perceived changes in interest rates, factors concerning the interests in and structure of the issuer or the originator of the mortgage, or the quality of the underlying assets. The mortgages underlying the securities may default or decline in quality or value. Through its investments in MBS, a Fund has exposure to subprime loans, Alt-A loans and non-conforming loans as well as to the mortgage and credit markets generally. Underlying collateral related to subprime, Alt-A and non-conforming mortgage loans has become increasingly susceptible to defaults and declines in quality or value, especially in a declining residential real estate market. In addition, regulatory or tax changes may adversely affect the mortgage securities markets as a whole.

Other Investment Company Securities and Other Exchange-Traded Products

The Fund may invest in shares of other investment companies, including open-end funds, closed-end funds, business development companies, ETFs, unit investment trusts, and other investment companies of the Trust. The Fund may invest in securities of an investment company advised by the Manager or a sub-advisor. Investments in the securities of other investment companies may involve duplication of advisory fees and certain other expenses. By investing in another investment company, the Fund becomes a shareholder of that investment company. As a result, the Fund’s shareholders indirectly will bear the Fund’s proportionate share of the fees and expenses paid by shareholders of the other investment company, in addition to the fees and expenses the Fund’s shareholders directly bear in connection with the Fund’s own operations. These other fees and expenses are reflected as Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses and are included in the Fees and Expenses Table for the Fund in its Prospectus, if applicable. Investments in other investment companies may involve the payment of substantial premiums above the value of such issuer’s portfolio securities.

U.S. Government Agency Securities

U.S. Government agency securities are issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities. Some obligations issued by U.S. Government agencies and instrumentalities are supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Treasury; others by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury; others by discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to purchase certain obligations of the agency or instrumentality; and others only by the credit of the agency or instrumentality. U.S. Government securities bear fixed, floating or variable rates of interest. While the U.S. Government currently provides financial support to certain U.S. Government-sponsored agencies or instrumentalities, no assurance can be given that it will always do so, since it is not so obligated by law. U.S. Government securities include U.S. Treasury bills, notes and bonds, Federal Home Loan Bank (“FHLB”) obligations, Federal Farm Credit Bank (“FFCB”) obligations, U.S. Government agency obligations and repurchase agreements secured thereby. U.S. Government agency securities are subject to credit risk and interest rate risk.

U.S. Treasury Obligations

U.S. Treasury obligations include bills (initial maturities of one year or less), notes (initial maturities between two and ten years), and bonds (initial maturities over ten years) issued by the U.S. Treasury, Separately Traded Registered Interest and Principal component parts of such obligations (known as “STRIPS”) and inflation-indexed securities. The prices of these securities (like all debt securities) change between issuance and maturity in response to fluctuating market interest rates. U.S. Treasury obligations are subject to credit risk and interest rate risk.

 

 

20


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

5.  Principal Risks

Investing in the Fund may involve certain risks including, but not limited to, those described below.

Credit Risk

The Fund is subject to the risk that the issuer or guarantor of a debt security, or the counterparty to a derivatives contract or a loan, will fail to make timely payment of interest or principal or otherwise honor its obligations or default completely. A decline in the credit rating of an individual security held by the Fund may have an adverse impact on its price and make it difficult for the Fund to sell it. Ratings represent a rating agency’s opinion regarding the quality of the security and are not a guarantee of quality. Rating agencies might not always change their credit rating on an issuer or security in a timely manner to reflect events that could affect the issuer’s ability to make timely payments on its obligations. Credit risk is typically greater for securities with ratings that are below investment grade.

Floating Rate Securities Risk

The coupons on certain fixed income securities in which the Fund may invest are not fixed and may fluctuate based upon changes in market rates. The coupon on a floating rate security is generally based on an interest rate such as a money-market index, London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) or a Treasury bill rate. Such securities are subject to interest rate risk and may fluctuate in value in response to interest rate changes if there is a delay between changes in market interest rates and the interest reset date for the obligation, or for other reasons. As short-term interest rates decline, the coupons on floating rate securities typically decrease. Alternatively, during periods of rising interest rates, changes in the coupons of floating rate securities may lag behind changes in market rates or may have limits on the maximum increases in the coupon rates. The value of floating rate securities may decline if their coupons do not rise as much, or as quickly, as interest rates in general. Conversely, floating rate securities will not generally increase in value if interest rates decline. Floating rate obligations are less effective than fixed rate obligations at locking in a particular yield and are subject to credit risk.

Interest Rate Risk

Investments in investment-grade and non-investment grade fixed-income securities are subject to interest rate risk. The value of the Fund’s fixed-income investments typically will fall when interest rates rise. The Fund may be particularly sensitive to changes in interest rates if it invests in debt securities with intermediate and long terms to maturity. Debt securities with longer durations tend to be more sensitive to changes in interest rates, usually making them more volatile than debt securities with shorter durations. For example, if a bond has a duration of seven years, a 1% increase in interest rates could be expected to result in a 7% decrease in the value of the bond. Yields of debt securities will fluctuate over time. Following the financial crisis that started in 2008, the Federal Reserve attempted to stabilize the economy and support the economic recovery by keeping the federal funds rate (the interest rate at which depository institutions lend reserve balances to each other overnight) at or near zero percent. The Federal Reserve has raised the federal funds rate several times since December 2015 and may continue to increase or decrease rates in the future. Interest rates may rise significantly and/or rapidly, potentially resulting insubstantial losses to the Fund. During periods of very low or negative interest rates, the Fund may be unable to maintain positive returns. Certain European countries and Japan have recently experienced negative interest rates on deposits and debt securities have traded at negative yields. Negative interest rates may become more prevalent among non-U.S. issuers, and potentially within the United States. Changing interest rates, including rates that fall below zero, may have unpredictable effects on markets, may result in heightened market volatility and may detract from Fund’s performance to the extent the Fund is exposed to such interest rates.

 

 

21


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Investment Risk

An investment in the Fund is not a deposit with a bank and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. When you sell your shares of the Fund, they could be worth less than what you paid for them. Therefore, you may lose money by investing in the Fund.

LIBOR Risk

The Fund’s investments, payment obligations and financing terms may be based on floating rates, such as LIBOR, Euro Interbank Offered Rate and other similar types of reference rates (each, a “Reference Rate”). On July 27, 2017, the Chief Executive of the UK Financial Conduct Authority (“FCA”), which regulates LIBOR, announced that the FCA will no longer persuade nor require banks to submit rates for the calculation of LIBOR and certain other Reference Rates after 2021. Such announcement indicates that the continuation of LIBOR and other Reference Rates on the current basis cannot and will not be guaranteed after 2021. This announcement and any additional regulatory or market changes may have an adverse impact on the Fund or its investments, including increased volatility or illiquidity in markets for instruments that rely on LIBOR.

Liquidity Risk

When there is little or no active trading market for a specific security it can become more difficult to purchase or sell the securities at or near their perceived value. During such periods, certain investments held by the Fund may be difficult to sell or other investments may be difficult to purchase at favorable times or prices. As a result, the Fund may have to lower the price on certain securities that it is trying to sell, sell other securities instead or forgo an investment opportunity, any of which could have a negative effect on Fund management or performance. Redemptions by a few large investors in the Fund at such times may have a significant adverse effect on the Fund’s NAV and remaining Fund shareholders. In addition, the market-making capacity of dealers in certain types of securities has been reduced in recent years, in part as a result of structural and regulatory changes, such as fewer proprietary trading desks and increased regulatory capital requirements for broker-dealers. Further, many broker-dealers have reduced their inventory of certain debt securities. This could negatively affect the Fund’s ability to buy or sell debt securities and increase the related volatility and trading costs. The Fund may lose money if it is forced to sell certain investments at unfavorable prices to meet redemption requests or other cash needs.

Market Risk

Conditions in the U.S. and many foreign economies have resulted, and may continue to result, in certain instruments experiencing unusual liquidity issues, increased price volatility and, in some cases, credit downgrades and increased likelihood of default. These events have reduced the willingness and ability of some lenders to extend credit, and have made it more difficult for some borrowers to obtain financing on attractive terms, if at all. In some cases, traditional market participants have been less willing to make a market in some types of debt instruments, which has affected the liquidity of those instruments. During times of market turmoil, investors tend to look to the safety of securities issued or backed by the U.S. Treasury, causing the prices of these securities to rise and the yields to decline. Reduced liquidity in fixed income and credit markets may negatively affect many issuers worldwide. In addition, global economies and financial markets are becoming increasingly interconnected, which increases the possibilities that conditions in one country or region might adversely impact issuers in a different country or region. A rise in protectionist trade policies, and the possibility of changes to some international trade agreements, could affect the economies of many nations, including the United States, in ways that cannot necessarily be foreseen at the present time.

In response to the financial crisis, the U.S. and other governments and the Federal Reserve and certain foreign central banks have taken steps to support financial markets. In some countries where economic conditions are recovering, they are nevertheless perceived as still fragile. Withdrawal of government support, failure of efforts in response to the crisis, or investor perception that such efforts are not succeeding, could adversely impact

 

 

22


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

the value and liquidity of certain securities. The severity or duration of adverse economic conditions may also be affected by policy changes made by governments or quasi-governmental organizations, including changes in tax laws. The impact of new financial regulation legislation on the markets and the practical implications for market participants may not be fully known for some time. Regulatory changes are causing some financial services companies to exit long-standing lines of business, resulting in dislocations for other market participants. In addition, political and governmental events within the U.S. and abroad, such as the United States government’s inability at times to agree on a long-term budget and deficit reduction plan, the threat of a federal government shutdown and threats not to increase the federal government’s debt limit, may affect investor and consumer confidence and may adversely impact financial markets and the broader economy, perhaps suddenly and to a significant degree. The U.S. government has reduced the federal corporate income tax rates, and future legislative, regulatory and policy changes may result in more restrictions on international trade, less stringent prudential regulation of certain players in the financial markets, and significant new investments in infrastructure and national defense. Markets may react strongly to expectations about the changes in these policies, which could increase volatility, especially if the markets’ expectations for changes in government policies are not borne out.

Changes in market conditions will not have the same impact on all types of securities. Interest rates have been unusually low in recent years in the United States and abroad. Because there is little precedent for this situation, it is difficult to predict the impact of a significant rate increase on various markets. For example, because investors may buy securities or other investments with borrowed money, a significant increase in interest rates may cause a decline in the markets for those investments. Because of the sharp decline in the worldwide price of oil, there is a concern that oil producing nations may withdraw significant assets now held in U.S. Treasuries, which could force a substantial increase in interest rates. Regulators have expressed concern that rate increases may cause investors to sell fixed income securities faster than the market can absorb them, contributing to price volatility. In addition, there is a risk that the prices of goods and services in the U.S. and many foreign economies may decline over time, known as deflation (the opposite of inflation). Deflation may have an adverse effect on stock prices and creditworthiness and may make defaults on debt more likely. If a country’s economy slips into a deflationary pattern, it could last for a prolonged period and may be difficult to reverse.

The precise timing and the resulting impact of the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union (the “EU”), commonly referred to as “Brexit,” are not yet known. The effect on the United Kingdom’s economy will likely depend on the nature of trade relations with the EU and other major economies following its exit, which are matters to be negotiated. The outcomes may cause increased volatility and have a significant adverse impact on world financial markets, other international trade agreements, and the United Kingdom and European economies, as well as the broader global economy for some time, which could significantly adversely affect the value of the Fund’s investments in the United Kingdom and Europe.

Mortgage-Backed and Mortgage Related Securities Risk

Investments in mortgage-backed and mortgage-related securities are subject to market risks for fixed-income securities which include, but are not limited to, interest rate risk, credit risk, extension risk and prepayment risk. When mortgages and other obligations are prepaid and when securities are called, a Fund may have to reinvest in securities with a lower yield or fail to recover additional amounts (i.e., premiums) paid for securities with higher interest rates, resulting in an unexpected capital loss and/or a decrease in the amount of dividends and yield.

Other Investment Companies Risk

The Fund may invest in shares of other registered investment companies, including money market funds. To the extent that the Fund invests in shares of other registered investment companies, the Fund will indirectly bear the fees and expenses, including for example advisory and administrative fees charged by those investment companies in addition to the Fund’s direct fees and expenses and will be subject to the risks associated with investments in those companies. For example, the Fund’s investments in money market funds are subject to

 

 

23


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

interest rate risk, credit risk, and market risk. The Fund must rely on the investment company in which it invests to achieve its investment objective. If the investment company fails to achieve its investment objective, the value of the Fund’s investment will decline, adversely affecting the Fund’s performance. To the extent the Fund invests in other investment companies that invest in equity securities, fixed income securities and/or foreign securities, or track an index, the Fund is subject to the risks associated with the underlying investments held by the investment company or the index fluctuations to which the investment company is subject.

Prepayment Risk

When interest rates fall, borrowers will generally repay the loans that underlie certain debt securities, especially mortgage-related and other types of asset-backed securities, more quickly than expected, causing the issuer of the security to repay the principal prior to the security’s expected maturity date. The Fund may need to reinvest the proceeds at a lower interest rate, reducing its income. Securities subject to prepayment risk generally offer less potential for gains when prevailing interest rates fall. If the Fund buys those securities at a premium, accelerated prepayments on those securities could cause the Fund to lose a portion of its principal investment. The impact of prepayments on the price of a security may be difficult to predict and may increase the security’s price volatility.

Redemption Risk

The Fund may experience periods of heavy redemptions that could cause the Fund to sell assets at inopportune times or at a loss or depressed value. Redemption risk is greater to the extent that one or more investors or intermediaries control a large percentage of investments in the Fund, have short investment horizons, or have unpredictable cash flow needs. A general rise in interest rates has the potential to cause investors to move out of fixed-income securities on a large scale, which may increase redemptions from mutual funds that hold large amounts of fixed-income securities. This, coupled with a reduction in the ability or willingness of dealers and other institutional investors to buy or hold fixed-income securities, may result in decreased liquidity and increased volatility in the fixed-income markets, and heightened redemption risk. Heavy redemptions, whether by a few large investors or many smaller investors, could hurt the Fund’s performance. This risk is heightened if the Fund invests in emerging market securities, which are generally less liquid than the securities of U.S. and other developed markets. The sale of assets to meet redemption requests may create net capital gains or losses, which could cause the Fund to have to distribute substantial capital gains.

Sector Risk

Sector risk is the risk associated with the Fund holding a significant amount of investments in similar businesses, which would be similarly affected by particular economic or market events, which may, in certain circumstances, cause the value of the equity and debt securities of companies in a particular sector of the market to change. To the extent the Fund has substantial holdings within a particular sector, the risks to the Fund associated with that sector increase. To the extent a Fund invests in the financial services sector, the value of the Fund’s shares may be particularly vulnerable to factors affecting that sector, such as the availability and cost of capital funds, changes in interest rates, the rate of corporate and consumer debt defaults, extensive government regulation and price competition. The value of a Fund’s shares could experience significantly greater volatility than investment companies investing more broadly.

U.S. Government Securities and Government-Sponsored Enterprises Risk

A security backed by the U.S. Treasury or the full faith and credit of the United States is guaranteed only as to the timely payment of interest and principal when held to maturity. The market prices for such securities are not guaranteed and will fluctuate. Additionally, circumstances could arise that would prevent the payment of interest or principal. This could result in losses to the Fund. Investments in government-sponsored enterprises are debt obligations issued by agencies and instrumentalities of the U.S. Government. These obligations vary in the level of support they receive from the U.S. Government. They may be: (i) supported by the full faith and credit of

 

 

24


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

the U.S. Treasury, such as those of the Government National Mortgage Association (‘‘Ginnie Mae’’); (ii) supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury, such as those of the Federal Home Loan Bank and the Federal Farm Credit Banks; (iii) supported by the discretionary authority of the U.S. Government to purchase the agency obligations, such as those of Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac or (iv) supported only by the credit of the issuer, such as those of the Federal Farm Credit Bureau. The U.S. Government may choose not to provide financial support to U.S. Government-sponsored agencies or instrumentalities if it is not legally obligated to do so, in which case, if the issuer defaulted, to the extent the Fund holds securities of such issuers, it might not be able to recover its investment from the U.S. Government.

6.  Federal Income and Excise Taxes

It is the policy of the Fund to qualify as a regulated investment company (“RIC”), by complying with all applicable provisions of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended, and to make distributions of taxable income sufficient to relieve it from substantially all federal income and excise taxes. For federal income tax purposes, the Fund is treated as a single entity for the purpose of determining such qualification.

The Fund does not have any unrecorded tax liabilities in the accompanying financial statements. Each of the tax years in the four year period ended October 31, 2019 remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service. If applicable, the Fund recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in “Other expenses” on the Statement of Operations.

The Fund may be subject to taxes imposed by countries in which it invests. Such taxes are generally based on returns of income earned or gains realized or repatriated. Taxes are accrued and applied to net investment income, net realized capital gains and net unrealized appreciation (depreciation), as applicable, as the income is earned or capital gains are recorded.

Dividends are categorized in accordance with income tax regulations which may treat certain transactions differently than U.S. GAAP. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying financial statements.

The tax character of distributions paid were as follows:

 

    Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          Year Ended
October 31, 2018
 

Distributions paid from:

 

Ordinary income*

 

Institutional Class

  $ 7,259,770       $ 3,305,504  

Y Class

    437,870         59,124  

Investor Class

    280,134         165,821  

R6 Class

    480,168         -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions paid

  $ 8,457,942       $ 3,530,449  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

* For tax purposes, short-term gains are considered ordinary income distributions.

As of October 31, 2019 the components of distributable earnings (deficits) on a tax basis were as follows:

 

Fund

  Tax Cost         Unrealized
Appreciation
          Unrealized
(Depreciation)
          Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond   $471,269,271     $ 6,038,508       $ (146,591     $ 5,891,917  

 

Fund

  Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
          Undistributed
Ordinary
Income
          Undistributed
Long-Term
Capital Gains
          Accumulated
Capital and
Other (Losses)
          Other Temporary
Differences
          Distributable
Earnings
 
Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond   $ 5,891,917       $ 130,679       $ -       $ (2,854,087     $ (130,681     $ 3,037,828  

 

 

25


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Financial reporting records are adjusted for permanent book/tax differences to reflect tax character. Financial records are not adjusted for temporary differences. The temporary differences between financial reporting and tax-basis reporting of unrealized appreciation (depreciation) are attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses from wash sales, unused capital loss carryforwards, and dividends payable.

Due to inherent differences in the recognition of income, expenses, and realized gains (losses) under U.S. GAAP and federal income tax regulations, permanent differences between book and tax reporting have been identified and appropriately reclassified on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. The Fund had no permanent differences as of October 31, 2019.

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010 (“RIC MOD”), net capital losses recognized by the Fund in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 are carried forward indefinitely and retain their character as short-term and/or long-term losses.

As of October 31, 2019, the Fund had the following capital loss carryforwards:

 

Fund

  Short-Term Capital
Loss Carryforwards
          Long-Term Capital
Loss Carryforwards
 
Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond   $ 1,724,644       $ 1,129,443  

The Fund utilized $237,962 of capital loss carryforwards during the year ended October 31, 2019.

7.  Investment Transactions

The aggregate cost of purchases and proceeds from sales and maturities of investments, other than short-term obligations, for the year ended October 31, 2019 were as follows:

 

Fund

  Purchases (non-U.S.
Government
Securities)
          Purchases of U.S.
Government
Securities
          Sales (non-U.S.
Government
Securities)
          Sales of U.S.
Government
Securities
 
Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond   $ 271,233,574       $ 174,232,844       $ 75,903,944       $ 113,372,042  

A summary of the Fund’s transactions in the USG Select Fund for the year ended October 31, 2019 were as follows:

 

Fund

  Type of
Transaction
        October 31,
2018
Shares/Fair
Value
          Purchases           Sales           October 31,
2019
Shares/Fair
Value
          Dividend
Income
 
Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond   Direct     $ 27,218,440       $ 394,521,845       $ 418,113,032       $ 3,627,253       $ 262,616  

8.  Borrowing Arrangements

Effective November 15, 2018 (the “Effective Date”), the Fund, along with certain other funds managed by the Manager (“Participating Funds”), entered into a committed revolving line of credit (the “Committed Line”) agreement with State Street Bank and Trust Company (the “Bank”) to be used to facilitate portfolio liquidity. The maximum borrowing amount under the Committed Line is $250 million with interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) one-month LIBOR plus 1.25% per annum or (b) the Federal Funds rate plus 1.25% per annum on amounts borrowed. Each of the Participating Funds paid a closing fee of $100,000 on the Effective Date and a quarterly commitment fee at a rate of 0.25% per annum on the unused portion of the Committed Line amount. The Committed Line expires November 14, 2019, unless extended by the Bank or terminated by the Participating Funds in accordance with the agreement.

On the Effective Date, the Fund, along with certain other Participating Funds managed by the Manager, also entered into an uncommitted discretionary demand revolving line of credit (the “Uncommitted Line”) agreement

 

 

26


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

with the Bank to be used to facilitate portfolio liquidity. The maximum borrowing amount under the Uncommitted Line is $50 million with interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) one-month LIBOR plus 1.25% per annum or (b) the Federal Funds rate plus 1.25% per annum on each outstanding loan. Each of the Participating Funds paid a closing fee of $35,000 on the Effective Date. The Uncommitted Line expires November 14, 2019 unless extended by the Bank or terminated by the Participating Funds in accordance with the agreement.

The Participating Funds paid administration, legal and arrangement fees, which are recognized as a component of “Other expenses” on the Statement of Operations, along with commitment fees, that have been allocated among the Participating Funds based on average daily net assets.

During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Fund did not utilize this facility.

9.  Capital Share Transactions

The tables below summarize the activity in capital shares for each Class of the Fund:

 

    Institutional Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     13,533,670       $ 134,010,760         12,598,631       $ 124,573,816  
Reinvestment of dividends     565,317         5,624,443         287,808         2,842,265  
Shares redeemed     (6,579,506       (65,522,190       (2,278,673       (22,493,423
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase in shares outstanding     7,519,481       $ 74,113,013         10,607,766       $ 104,922,658  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Y Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     2,565,196       $ 25,317,668         77,645       $ 766,204  
Reinvestment of dividends     43,701         435,013         5,845         57,695  
Shares redeemed     (1,200,900       (12,027,942       (23,305       (230,768
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase in shares outstanding     1,407,997       $ 13,724,739         60,185       $ 593,131  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Investor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     573,641       $ 5,677,383         273,789       $ 2,702,704  
Reinvestment of dividends     28,161         280,122         16,784         165,797  
Shares redeemed     (241,219       (2,393,292       (149,158       (1,472,508
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase in shares outstanding     360,583       $ 3,564,213         141,415       $ 1,395,993  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    R6 Class  
    February 28, 2019A to
October 31, 2019
                         

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

                         
Shares sold     12,935,747 B      $ 130,250,579 B         
Reinvestment of dividends     47,760         479,506          
Shares redeemed     (16,756       (168,494        
 

 

 

     

 

 

         
Net increase in shares outstanding     12,966,751       $ 130,561,591          
 

 

 

     

 

 

         
 

 

A 

Class commenced operations.

B 

Seed capital was received on in the amount of $100,000 for the R6 Class. As a result, shares were issued in the amount of 10,132 for R6 Class.

 

 

27


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

10.  Subsequent Events

Management has evaluated subsequent events for possible recognition or disclosure in the financial statements through the date the financial statements are issued. Management has determined that there are no material events that would require disclosure in the Fund’s financial statements through this date.

 

 

28


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Institutional Class  
    Year Ended October 31,           April 4,
2016A to
October 31,
 
    2019           2018           2017           2016  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 9.79       $ 9.91       $ 9.98       $ 10.00  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

             

Net investment income

    0.24         0.20         0.14         0.05  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.26         (0.13       (0.05       (0.02
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.50         0.07         0.09         0.03  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

             

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.24       (0.19       (0.15       (0.05

Distributions from net realized gains

    -         -         (0.01       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (0.24       (0.19       (0.16       (0.05
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.05       $ 9.79       $ 9.91       $ 9.98  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    5.20       0.74       0.91       0.34 %C 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 316,582,604       $ 234,919,975       $ 132,575,412       $ 124,032,604  

Ratios to average net assets:

             

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.66       0.69       0.70       1.06 %D 

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.45       0.45       0.45       0.45 %D 

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    2.18       1.68       1.12       0.29 %D 

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    2.39       1.92       1.37       0.91 %D 

Portfolio turnover rate

    58       143       52       40 %E 

 

A 

Commencement of operations.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

C 

Not annualized.

D 

Annualized.

E 

Portfolio turnover rate is for the period from April 4, 2016 through October 31, 2016 and is not annualized.

 

See accompanying notes

 

29


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Y Class  
    Year Ended October 31,           April 4,
2016A to
October 31,
 
    2019           2018           2017           2016  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 9.79       $ 9.90       $ 9.98       $ 10.00  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

             

Net investment income

    0.24         0.18         0.13         0.05  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.25         (0.11       (0.06       (0.02
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.49         0.07         0.07         0.03  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

             

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.23       (0.18       (0.14       (0.05

Distributions from net realized gains

    -         -         (0.01       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (0.23       (0.18       (0.15       (0.05
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.05       $ 9.79       $ 9.90       $ 9.98  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    5.09       0.74       0.71       0.29 %C 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

             

Net assets, end of period

  $ 17,927,537       $ 3,685,857       $ 3,133,476       $ 3,265,315  

Ratios to average net assets:

             

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.73       0.75       0.77       1.29 %D 

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.55       0.55       0.55       0.55 %D 

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    2.14       1.58       1.05       0.11 %D 

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    2.32       1.78       1.27       0.85 %D 

Portfolio turnover rate

    58       143       52       40 %E 

 

A 

Commencement of operations.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

C 

Not annualized.

D 

Annualized.

E 

Portfolio turnover rate is for the period from April 4, 2016 through October 31, 2016 and is not annualized.

 

See accompanying notes

 

30


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Investor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,           April 4,
2016A to
October 31,
 
    2019           2018           2017           2016  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 9.79       $ 9.91       $ 9.99       $ 10.00  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

             

Net investment income

    0.21         0.15         0.10         0.03  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.26         (0.11       (0.06       (0.01
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.47         0.04         0.04         0.02  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

             

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.21       (0.16       (0.11       (0.03

Distributions from net realized gains

    -         -         (0.01       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (0.21       (0.16       (0.12       (0.03
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.05       $ 9.79       $ 9.91       $ 9.99  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    4.80       0.36       0.43       0.24 %C 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

             

Net assets, end of period

  $ 14,904,591       $ 10,995,242       $ 9,724,030       $ 8,594,617  

Ratios to average net assets:

             

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.04       0.92       0.94       1.19 %D 

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.83       0.83       0.83       0.83 %D 

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    1.81       1.41       0.89       0.21 %D 

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    2.02       1.50       0.99       0.57 %D 

Portfolio turnover rate

    58       143       52       40 %E 

 

A 

Commencement of operations.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

C 

Not annualized.

D 

Annualized.

E 

Portfolio turnover rate is for the period from April 4, 2016 through October 31, 2016 and is not annualized.

 

See accompanying notes

 

31


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    R6 Class  
    February 28,
2019A to
October 31,
2019
 
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 9.87  
 

 

 

 

Income from investment operations:

 

Net investment income

    0.17  

Net gains on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.17  
 

 

 

 

Total income from investment operations

    0.34  
 

 

 

 

Less distributions:

 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.17
 

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (0.17
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.04  
 

 

 

 

Total returnB

    3.44 %C 
 

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 130,208,195  

Ratios to average net assets:

 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.66 %D 

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.41 %D 

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    1.90 %D 

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    2.15 %D 

Portfolio turnover rate

    58 %E 

 

A 

Commencement of operations.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

C 

Not annualized.

D 

Annualized.

E 

Portfolio turnover is for the period ended herein.

 

See accompanying notes

 

32


American Beacon FundsSM

Federal Tax Information

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

Certain tax information regarding the Funds are required to be provided to shareholders based upon the Funds’ income and distributions for the taxable year ended October 31, 2019. The information and distributions reported herein may differ from information and distributions taxable to the shareholders for the calendar year ended December 31, 2019.

The Fund designated the following items with regard to distributions paid during the fiscal year ended October 31, 2019. All designations are based on financial information available as of this annual report and, accordingly, are subject to change. For each item, it is the intention of the Funds to designate the maximum amount permitted under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the regulations there under.

Corporate Dividends-Received Deduction:

 

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond

    -

Qualified Dividend Income:

 

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond

    -

Long-Term Capital Gain Distributions:

 

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond

  $             -  

Short-Term Capital Gain Distributions:

 

Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond

  $             -  

Shareholders will receive notification in January 2020 of the applicable tax information necessary to prepare their 2019 income tax returns.

 

 

33


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment

Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

Renewal and Approval of Management Agreement and Investment Advisory Agreement

At in-person meetings held on May 9, 2019 and June 4-5, 2019 (collectively, the “Meetings”), the Board of Trustees (“Board” or “Trustees”) considered and then, at its June 5, 2019 meeting, approved the renewal of:

(1) the Management Agreement between American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (“Manager”) and the American Beacon Funds (“Trust”), on behalf of the American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond Fund (“Fund”); and

(2) the Investment Advisory Agreement among the Manager, Garcia Hamilton & Associates, LP (“subadvisor”), and the Trust, on behalf of the Fund.

The Management Agreement and the Investment Advisory Agreement are referred to herein individually as an “Agreement” and collectively as the “Agreements.” In preparation for its consideration of the renewal of the Agreements, the Board undertook steps to gather and consider information furnished by the Manager, the subadvisor, Broadridge, Inc. (“Broadridge”) and Morningstar, Inc. (“Morningstar”). The Board, with the assistance of independent legal counsel, requested and received certain relevant information from the Manager and the subadvisor.

In advance of the Meetings, the Board’s Investment Committee and/or the Manager coordinated the production of information from Broadridge and Morningstar regarding the performance, fees and expenses of the Fund as well as information from the Manager and the subadvisor. At the Meetings, the Board considered the information provided in connection with the renewal process, as well as information furnished to the Board throughout the year at regular meetings of the Board and its committees. In connection with the Board’s consideration of the Agreements, the Board received and evaluated such information as they deemed necessary. This information is described below in the section summarizing the factors the Board considered in connection with its renewal and approval of the Agreements, as well as the section describing additional Board considerations with respect to the Fund.

The Board noted that the Manager provides management and administrative services to the Fund pursuant to the Management Agreement. The Board considered that many mutual funds have separate contracts governing each type of service and observed that, with respect to such mutual funds, the actual management fee rates provided by Broadridge for peer group funds reflect the combined advisory and administrative expenses, reduced by any fee waivers and/or reimbursements.

A firm may not have been able to, or opted not to, provide information in response to certain information requests, in which case the Board conducted its evaluation of the firm based on information that was provided. In such cases, the Board determined that the omission of any such information was not material to its considerations. The class of shares used for comparative performance purposes was the share class with the lowest expenses available for purchase by the general public, which was the Institutional Class. The Board also considered that the use of Institutional Class performance generally facilitates a meaningful comparison for expense and performance purposes.

Provided below is an overview of certain factors the Board considered in connection with its renewal and approval of the Agreements. The Board did not identify any particular information that was most relevant to its consideration to renew or approve each Agreement, and each Trustee may have afforded different weight to the various factors. Legal counsel to the independent Trustees provided the Board with a memorandum regarding its responsibilities pertaining to the renewal and approval of investment advisory contracts, such as the Agreements. The memorandum explained the regulatory requirements surrounding the Board’s process for evaluating investment advisors and the terms of investment advisory contracts. Based on its evaluation, the Board unanimously concluded that the terms of each Agreement were reasonable and fair and that the renewal and approval of each Agreement was in the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders.

 

 

34


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment

Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

Considerations With Respect to the Renewal of the Management Agreement and the Investment Advisory Agreement

In determining whether to renew the Agreements, the Board considered the Fund’s investment management and subadvisory relationships separately. In each instance, the Board considered, among other things, the following factors: (1) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided; (2) the investment performance of the Fund; (3) the costs incurred by the Manager in rendering services to the Fund and its resulting profits or losses; (4) comparisons of services and fee rates with contracts entered into by the Manager or the subadvisor or their affiliates with other clients (such as pension funds and other institutional clients); (5) the extent to which economies of scale, if any, have been taken into account in setting each fee rate schedule; (6) whether fee rate levels reflect economies of scale, if any, for the benefit of Fund investors; and (7) any other benefits derived or anticipated to be derived by the Manager or the subadvisor from their relationships with the Fund.

Nature, Extent and Quality of Services. With respect to the renewal of the Management Agreement, the Board considered, among other factors: the Fund’s performance since its inception on April 4, 2016; the length of service of key investment personnel at the Manager; the cost structure of the Fund; the Manager’s culture of compliance and support that reduce risks to the Fund; the Manager’s quality of services; the Manager’s active role in monitoring and, as appropriate, recommending additional or replacement subadvisors; and the Manager’s efforts to retain key employees and maintain staffing levels.

With respect to the renewal of the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Board considered the level of staffing and the size of the subadvisor. The Board also considered the adequacy of the resources committed to the Fund by the subadvisor, and whether those resources were commensurate with the needs of the Fund and are sufficient to sustain appropriate levels of performance and compliance needs. In this regard, the Board considered the financial stability of the subadvisor. The Board also considered the subadvisor’s representations regarding its compliance program and code of ethics. Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of the management and advisory services provided by the Manager and the subadvisor were appropriate for the Fund.

Investment Performance. The Board evaluated the comparative information provided by Broadridge and the Manager regarding the performance of the Fund relative to its Broadridge performance universe, Morningstar Category, and benchmark index, as well as the Fund’s Morningstar rating. The Board considered the information provided by Broadridge regarding Broadridge’s independent methodology for selecting the Fund’s Broadridge performance universe. The Board also considered that the performance universes selected by Broadridge may not provide appropriate comparisons for the Fund. In addition, the Board considered the performance reports and discussions with management at Board and Committee meetings throughout the year. The Board also evaluated the comparative information provided by the subadvisor regarding the performance of its portion of the Fund relative to the performance of a composite of similar accounts managed by the subadvisor and the Fund’s benchmark index. In addition, the Board considered the Manager’s recommendation to continue to retain the subadvisor. A discussion regarding the Board’s considerations with respect to the Fund’s performance appears below under “Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to the Fund.”

Costs of the Services Provided to the Fund and the Profits Realized by the Manager from its Relationship with the Fund. In analyzing the cost of services and profitability of the Manager, the Board considered the revenues earned and the expenses incurred by the Manager, before and after the payment of distribution-related expenses by the Manager. The profits or losses were noted at both an aggregate level for all funds within the group of mutual funds sponsored by the Manager (the “Fund Complex”) and at an individual Fund level, with the Manager sustaining a loss before and after the payment of distribution-related expenses by the Manager for the Fund. The Board also considered comparative information provided by the Manager regarding the Manager’s overall profitability with respect to the Fund Complex relative to the overall profitability of other firms in the mutual fund industry, as disclosed in publicly available sources. Although the Board noted that, in certain cases, the fee rates paid by other clients of the Manager are lower than the fee rates paid by the Fund, the Manager represented that,

 

 

35


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment

Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

among other matters, the difference is attributable to the fact that the Manager does not perform administrative services for non-investment company clients and reflects the greater level of responsibility and regulatory requirements associated with managing the Fund.

The Board also noted that the Manager proposed to continue the expense waivers and reimbursements for the Fund that were in place during the last fiscal year. The Board further considered that, with respect to the Fund, the Management Agreement provides for the Manager to receive a management fee comprised of an annualized fee that is retained by the Manager. The Board also noted that certain share classes of the Fund maintain higher expense ratios in order to compensate third-party financial intermediaries.

In analyzing the fee rates charged by the subadvisor in connection with its investment advisory services to the Fund, the Board considered representations made by the subadvisor that the fee rate negotiated by the Manager is favorable relative to the fee rates that the subadvisor charges for any comparable client accounts. The Board did not request profitability data from the subadvisor because the Board did not view this data as imperative to its deliberations given the arm’s-length nature of the relationship between the Manager and the subadvisor with respect to the negotiation of subadvisory fee rates. In addition, the Board considered that it was advised that the subadvisor may not account for its profits on an account-by-account basis and that different firms likely employ different methodologies in connection with these calculations.

Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the profitability levels of the Manager were reasonable in light of the services performed by the Manager. A discussion regarding the Board’s considerations with respect to the Fund’s fee rates is set forth below under “Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to the Fund.”

Economies of Scale. In considering the reasonableness of the management and investment advisory fees rates, the Board considered whether economies of scale will be realized as the Fund grows and whether fee rate levels reflect these economies of scale for the benefit of Fund shareholders. In this regard, the Board considered that the Manager has negotiated breakpoints in the subadvisory fee rate for the Fund. In addition, the Board noted the Manager’s representation that the Management Agreement contains fee schedule breakpoints at higher asset levels with respect to the Fund. Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the Manager and subadvisor fee rate schedules for the Fund provide for a reasonable sharing of benefits from any economies of scale with the Fund.

Benefits Derived from the Relationship with the Fund. The Board considered the “fall-out” or ancillary benefits that accrue to the Manager and/or the subadvisor as a result of the advisory relationships with the Fund, including greater exposure in the marketplace with respect to the Manager’s or the subadvisor’s investment process and expanding the level of assets under management by the Manager and the subadvisor. Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the potential benefits accruing to the Manager and the subadvisor by virtue of their relationships with the Fund appear to be fair and reasonable.

Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to the Fund

The performance comparisons below were made in comparison to the Fund’s Broadridge performance universe and Morningstar Category. With respect to the Broadridge performance universe, the 1st Quintile represents the top 20 percent of the universe based on performance and the 5th Quintile representing the bottom 20 percent of the universe based on performance. References below to the Fund’s Broadridge performance universe are to the universe of mutual funds with a comparable investment classification/objective included in the analysis provided by Broadridge.

The expense comparisons below were made in comparison to the Fund’s Broadridge expense universe and Broadridge expense group, with the 1st Quintile representing the lowest 20 percent of the universe or group based on lowest total expense and the 5th Quintile representing the highest 20 percent of the universe or group based on

 

 

36


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment

Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

highest total expense. References below to the Fund’s expense group and expense universe are to the respective group or universe of comparable mutual funds included in the analysis by Broadridge. A Broadridge expense group consists of the Fund and a representative sample of funds with similar operating structures and asset sizes, as selected by Broadridge. A Broadridge expense universe includes all funds in the investment classification/objective with a similar operating structure as the share class of the Fund included in the Broadridge comparative information and provides a broader view of expenses across the Fund’s investment classification/objective. The Board also considered the Fund’s Morningstar fee level category. In reviewing expenses, the Board considered the positive impact of fee waivers where applicable and the Manager’s agreement to continue the fee waivers. In addition, information regarding the subadvisor’s use of soft dollars was requested from the Manager and was considered by the Board.

In considering the renewal of the Management Agreement and the Investment Advisory Agreement with the subadvisor for the Fund, the Board considered the following additional factors:

Broadridge Total Expenses Excluding 12b-1 Fees and Morningstar Fee Level Ranking

 

Compared to Broadridge Expense Group

  2nd Quintile

Compared to Broadridge Expense Universe

  3rd Quintile

Morningstar Fee Level Ranking – Institutional Class

  Below Average Expense Ratio

Broadridge and Morningstar Performance Analysis (one-year period ended December 31, 2018)

 

Compared to Broadridge Performance Universe

  1st Quintile

Compared to Morningstar Category

  1st Quintile

The Board also considered: (1) information provided by the subadvisor regarding fee rates charged for managing assets in the same or a similar strategy as the subadvisor manages the Fund; and (2) the Manager’s recommendation to continue to retain the subadvisor based upon, among other factors, the relatively brief period that this Fund has been in operation.

Based on these and other considerations, the Board: (1) concluded that the fees paid to the Manager and subadvisor under the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements are fair and reasonable; and (2) determined that the Fund and its shareholders would benefit from the Manager’s and subadvisor’s continued management of the Fund.

 

 

37


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

The Trustees and officers of the American Beacon Funds (the “Trust”) are listed below, together with their principal occupations during the past five years. The address of each person listed below is 220 Las Colinas Boulevard East, Suite 1200, Irving, Texas 75039. Each Trustee oversees thirty-six funds in the fund complex that includes the Trust, the American Beacon Select Funds, the American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust, the American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund and the American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund. The Trust’s Statement of Additional Information contains additional information about the Trustees and is available without charge by calling 1-800-658-5811.

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

INTERESTED TRUSTEES   

Term

  
   Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or retirement*   
Alan D. Feld** (82)    Trustee since 1996    Partner in the law firm of Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld, LLP (law firm) (1960-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (1999-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
NON-INTERESTED TRUSTEES   

Term

  
   Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or retirement*   
Gilbert G. Alvarado (49)    Trustee since 2015    Director, Kura MD, Inc. (local telehealth organization) (2015-present); Vice President & CFO, Sierra Health Foundation (health conversion private foundation) (2006-Present); Vice President & CFO, Sierra Health Foundation: Center for Health Program Management (California public benefit corporation) (2012-Present); Director, Innovative North State (2012-2015); Director, Sacramento Regional Technology Alliance (2011-2016); Director, Women’s Empowerment (2009-2014); Director, Valley Healthcare Staffing (2017-present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2015-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Joseph B. Armes (57)    Trustee since 2015    Chairman & CEO, CSW Industrials f/k/a Capital Southwest Corporation (investment company) (2015-Present); Chairman of the Board of Capital Southwest Corporation, predecessor to CSW Industrials, Inc. (2014-2017) (investment company); CEO, Capital Southwest Corporation (2013-2015); President & CEO, JBA Investment Partners (family investment vehicle) (2010-Present); Director and Chair of Audit Committee, RSP Permian (oil and gas producer) (2013-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2015-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Gerard J. Arpey (61)    Trustee since 2012    Director, The Home Depot, Inc. (2015-Present); Partner, Emerald Creek Group (private equity firm) (2011-Present); Director, S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. (privately held company) (2008-present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2012-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

38


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

NON-INTERESTED TRUSTEES (CONT.)   

Term

  
   Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or retirement*   
Brenda A. Cline (58)    Trustee since 2004 Chair since 2019 Vice Chair 2018    Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Secretary, Kimbell Art Foundation (1993-Present); Director, Tyler Technologies, Inc. (public sector software solutions company) (2014-Present); Director, Range Resources Corporation (oil and natural gas company) (2015-Present); Trustee, Cushing Closed-End and Open-End Funds and ETFs (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2004-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Eugene J. Duffy (65)    Trustee since 2008    Managing Director, Global Investment Management Distribution, Mesirow Financial (2016-Present); Managing Director, Institutional Services, Intercontinental Real Estate Corporation (2014-Present); Principal and Executive Vice President, Paradigm Asset Management (1994-2014); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2008-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Claudia A. Holz (62)    Trustee since 2018    Partner, KPMG LLP (1990-2017); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Douglas A. Lindgren(57)    Trustee since 2018    CEO North America, Carne Global Financial Services (2016-2017); Managing Director, IPS Investment Management and Global Head, Content Management, UBS Wealth Management (2010-2016); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Richard A. Massman (76)    Trustee since 2004 Chair 2008-2018 Chair Emeritus since 2019    Consultant and General Counsel Emeritus, Hunt Consolidated, Inc. (holding company engaged in oil and gas exploration and production, refining, real estate, farming, ranching and venture capital activities) (2009-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2004-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Barbara J. McKenna, CFA (56)    Trustee since 2012    President/Managing Principal, Longfellow Investment Management Company (2005-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2012-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

39


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

NON-INTERESTED TRUSTEES (CONT.)   

Term

  
   Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or retirement*   
R. Gerald Turner (73)    Trustee since 2001    President, Southern Methodist University (1995-Present); Director, J.C. Penney Company, Inc. (1996-Present); Director, Kronus Worldwide Inc. (chemical manufacturing) (2003-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2001-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
OFFICERS   

Term

  
   One Year   
Gene L. Needles, Jr. (64)    President since 2009    President (2009-2018), CEO and Director (2009-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), American Beacon Advisors, Inc., President (2015-2018), Director and CEO (2015-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC; President (2015-2018), Director and CEO (2015-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present),Resolute Topco, Inc.; President (2015-2018); Director, and CEO (2015-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Acquisition, Inc.; President (2015-2018), Director and CEO (2015-Present), Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Investment Managers, Inc.; Director, Chairman, President and CEO, Resolute Investment Distributors (2017-Present); Director, Chairman, President and CEO; Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2017-Present); President and CEO, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2009-2015); President, CEO and Director, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2009-2015); Manager, President and CEO, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Director, Chairman, President and CEO, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Director, ARK Investment Management LLC (2016-Present); Director, Shapiro Capital Management LLC (2017-Present); Director, Chairman and CEO, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); President, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Director and President, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, LTD., (2017-2018); President, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); President American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd. (2018-Present);Member, Investment Advisory Committee, Employees Retirement System of Texas (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon NextShares Trust (2015-Present); President, American Beacon Select Funds (2009-Present); President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Director, RSW Investments Holdings LLC, (2019-Present); Manager, SSI Investment Management, LLC (2019-Present); President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Director, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).

 

 

40


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Rosemary K. Behan (60)    VP, Secretary and Chief Legal Officer since 2006    Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2006-Present); Secretary, Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC (2015-Present); Secretary, Resolute Topco, Inc. (2015-Present); Secretary, Resolute Acquisition, Inc. (2015-Present); Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2015-Present); Secretary, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President and Secretary, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2008-2015); Vice President and Secretary, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2008-2015); Secretary, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2008-Present); Secretary and General Counsel, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President and Secretary, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Secretary, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); Secretary, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, Ltd. (2017-2018); Secretary, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Secretary, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd (2018-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2006-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Secretary, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).
Brian E. Brett (59)    VP since 2004    Senior Vice President, Head of Distribution (2012-Present), Vice President, Director of Sales (2004-2012), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Senior Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Senior Vice President, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (2018-Present), Senior Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2018-Present); Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2008-2015); Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2008-2015); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2004-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Paul B. Cavazos (50)    VP since 2016    Chief Investment Officer and Senior Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2016-Present); Chief Investment Officer, DTE Energy (2007-2016); Vice President, American Private Equity Management, L.L.C. (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2016-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present);Vice President American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Erica Duncan (49)    VP Since 2011    Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers (2018-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2011-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

41


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Melinda G. Heika (58)    Treasurer since 2010    Treasurer and CFO (2010-Present), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Treasurer, Resolute Topco, Inc. (2015-Present); Treasurer, Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC. (2015-Present); Treasurer, Resolute Acquisition, Inc. (2015-Present); Treasurer and CFO, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Treasurer, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (2017-2017); Treasurer and CFO, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2015-Present); Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings Parent Inc., (2010-2015); Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2010-2015); Treasurer, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Treasurer and CFO, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Treasurer and CFO, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation, Ltd. (2017-2018); Treasurer, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); Director and Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd. (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Treasurer, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).
Terri L. McKinney (55)    VP since 2010    Vice President (2009-Present), Managing Director (2003-2009), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc (2018-Present); Vice President, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

42


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Jeffrey K. Ringdahl (44)    VP since 2010    Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Chief Operating Officer (2010-Present), Senior Vice President (2013-2018), Vice President (2010-2013), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Senior Vice Present (2015-2018), Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC; Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Senior Vice President (2015-2018), Resolute Topco, Inc.; Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Senior Vice President (2015-2018), Resolute Acquisition, Inc.; Director (2015-Present), President & COO (2018-Present), Senior Vice President (2015-2018), Resolute Investment Managers, Inc.; Director and Executive Vice President (2017-Present), Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc.; Director (2017-Present), President & COO (2018-Present), Executive Vice President (2017-2018), Resolute Investment Services, Inc.; Senior Vice President (2017-Present), Vice President (2012-2017), Manager (2015-Present), American Private Equity Management, LLC; Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2013-2015); Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2013-2015); Trustee, American Beacon NextShares Trust (2015-Present); Director, Executive Vice President & COO, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Director, Shapiro Capital Management, LLC (2017-Present); Director, Executive Vice President & COO, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Director and Vice President, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, Ltd., (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); Director and Vice President, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-2018); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Director, RSW Investments Holdings LLC, (2019-Present); Manager, SSI Investment Management, LLC (2019-Present), Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Samuel J. Silver (56)    VP Since 2011    Vice President (2011-Present), Chief Fixed Income Officer (2016-Present), American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2011-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Christina E. Sears (48)    Chief Compliance Officer since 2004 and Asst. Secretary since 1999    Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2019-Present); Chief Compliance Officer, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2004-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Distributors (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2019-Present); Chief Compliance Officer, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Chief Compliance Officer (2016-2019) and Vice President, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Chief Compliance Officer (2004-Present) and Assistant Secretary (1999-Present), American Beacon Select Funds; Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

43


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Sonia L. Bates (62)   

Asst. Treasurer

since 2011

   Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-2018); Assistant Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings Parent Inc. (2011-2015); Assistant Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2011-2015); Assistant Treasurer, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, Ltd. (2017-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd. (2018-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Select Funds (2011-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Shelley D. Abrahams (44)    Assistant Secretary since 2008    Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2008-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Assistant Secretary, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).
Rebecca L. Harris (52)    Assistant Secretary since 2010    Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services (2015-Present); Vice President, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Teresa A. Oxford (61)    Assistant Secretary since 2015    Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2015-Present); Assistant Secretary, Resolute Investment Distributors (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, Resolute Investment Services (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2015-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Assistant Secretary, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).

* As of 11/12/2014, the Board adopted a retirement plan that requires Trustees, other than Messrs. Feld and Massman to retire no later than the last day of the calendar year in which they reach the age of 75. As of 11/7/17, the Board approved a waiver of the mandatory retirement policy with respect to Mr. Massman, who turned 75 in November 2018, to permit him to continue to serve on the Board as Chair Emeritus through 12/31/19.

** Mr. Feld is deemed to be an “interested person” of the Trusts, as defined by the 1940 Act. Mr. Feld’s law firm of Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld LLP has provided legal services within the past two fiscal years to one or more of the Trust’s sub-advisors.

 

 

44


American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond FundSM

Privacy Policy

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

The American Beacon Funds recognize and respect the privacy of our shareholders. We are providing this notice to you so you will understand how shareholder information may be collected and used.

We may collect nonpublic personal information about you from one or more of the following sources:

 

   

information we receive from you on applications or other forms;

 

   

information about your transactions with us or our service providers; and

 

   

information we receive from third parties.

We do not disclose any nonpublic personal information about our customers or former customers to anyone, except as permitted by law.

We restrict access to your nonpublic personal information to those employees or service providers who need to know that information to provide products or services to you. To ensure the confidentiality of your nonpublic personal information, we maintain safeguards that comply with federal standards.

 

 

45


  

 

 

 

 

 

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48


LOGO

 

 

 

Delivery of Documents

eDelivery is NOW AVAILABLE – Stop traditional mail delivery and receive your

shareholder reports and summary prospectus on-line. Sign up at

www.americanbeaconfunds.com

If you invest in the Fund through a financial institution, you may be able to receive the Fund’s regulatory mailings, such as the Prospectus, Annual Report and Semi-Annual Report, by e-mail. If you are interested in this option, please go to www.icsdelivery.com and search for your financial institution’s name or contact your financial institution directly.

To obtain more information about the Fund:

 

LOGO   LOGO
 
By E-mail:   On the Internet:
american_beacon.funds@ambeacon.com   Visit our website at www.americanbeaconfunds.com
   
     
 

LOGO

By Telephone:

Call (800) 658-5811

 

LOGO

By Mail:

American Beacon Funds

P.O. Box 219643

Kansas City, MO 64121-9643

   
     
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedules   Availability of Proxy Voting Policy and Records
 
In addition to the Schedule of Investments provided in each semi-annual and annual report, the Fund files a complete schedule of its portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on Form N-PORT as of the first and third fiscal quarters. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Forms N-PORT may also be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Section, 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549-2736. Information regarding the operation of the SEC’s Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800)-SEC-0330. A complete schedule of the Fund’s portfolio holdings is also available at www.americanbeaconfunds.com approximately twenty days after the end of each month.   A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available in the Fund’s Statement of Additional Information, is available free of charge on the Fund’s website www.americanbeaconfunds.com and by calling 1-800-967-9009 or by accessing the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record for the most recent year ended June 30 is filed annually with the SEC on Form N-PX. The Fund’s Forms N-PX are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record may also be obtained by calling 1-800-967-9009.

Fund Service Providers:

 

CUSTODIAN

State Street Bank and Trust Company

Boston, Massachusetts

   

TRANSFER AGENT

DST Asset Manager Solutions, Inc.

Quincy, Massachusetts

   

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Ernst & Young LLP

Dallas, Texas

   

DISTRIBUTOR

Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc.

Irving, Texas

This report is prepared for shareholders of the American Beacon Funds and may be distributed to others only if preceded or accompanied by a current Prospectus or Summary Prospectus.

 

American Beacon Funds and American Beacon Garcia Hamilton Quality Bond Fund are service marks of American Beacon Advisors, Inc.

AR 10/19


LOGO


About American Beacon Advisors

 

Since 1986, American Beacon Advisors has offered a variety of products and investment advisory services to numerous institutional and retail clients, including a variety of mutual funds, corporate cash management, and separate account management.

Our clients include defined benefit plans, defined contribution plans, foundations, endowments, corporations, financial planners, and other institutional investors. With American Beacon Advisors, you can put the experience of a multi-billion dollar asset management firm to work for your company.

INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND RISKS

Investing in foreign securities may involve heightened risk due to currency fluctuations and economic and political risks. Investing in value stocks may limit downside risk over time; however, the Fund may produce more modest gains than riskier stock funds as a trade-off for this potentially lower risk. The use of futures contracts for cash management may subject the Fund to losing more money than invested. The Fund participates in a securities lending program. Please see the prospectus for a complete discussion of the Fund’s risks. There can be no assurances that the investment objectives of this Fund will be met.

TOCQUEVILLE INTERNATIONAL VALUE FUND RISKS

Investing in foreign securities including emerging markets may involve heightened risk due to currency fluctuations and economic and political risks. Investing in value stocks may limit downside risk over time; however, the Fund may produce more modest gains than riskier stock funds as a trade-off for this potentially lower risk. The use of futures contracts for cash management may subject the Fund to losing more money than invested. The Fund participates in a securities lending program. Please see the prospectus for a complete discussion of the Fund’s risks. There can be no assurances that the investment objectives of this Fund will be met.

Any opinions herein, including forecasts, reflect our judgment as of the end of the reporting period and are subject to change. Each advisor’s strategies and each Fund’s portfolio composition will change depending on economic and market conditions. This report is not a complete analysis of market conditions, and, therefore, should not be relied upon as investment advice. Although economic and market information has been compiled from reliable sources, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. makes no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of the statements contained herein.

 

American Beacon Funds

October 31, 2019


Contents

 

 

President’s Message

    1  

Market and Performance Overviews

    2  

Expense Examples

    8  

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

    10  

Schedules of Investments:

 

American Beacon International Equity Fund

    12  

American Beacon Tocqueville International Value Fund

    19  

Financial Statements

    23  

Notes to Financial Statements

    28  

Financial Highlights:

 

American Beacon International Equity Fund

    54  

American Beacon Tocqueville International Value Fund

    61  

Federal Tax Information

    64  

Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements

    65  

Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon Funds

    70  

Privacy Policy

    77  

Additional Fund Information

    Back Cover  


President’s Message

 

 

LOGO  

Dear Shareholders,

 

In recent months, you’ve likely seen and heard news reports about disruptive headwinds in the global economy – including the U.S. trade war with China and its toll on the global economy, slowing global growth, the Federal Reserve’s series of rate cuts, Brexit, disruptions in the Middle East and protests in Hong Kong – and watched a flood of reaction in the world’s markets.

 

As Peter L. Bernstein said in his treatise on risk, Against the Gods: The Remarkable Story of Risk, published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. in September 1998, “Volatility is a proxy for uncertainty and must be accommodated in measuring investment risk.”

 

During times of economic uncertainty and market volatility, fear of loss can be a powerful emotion – one that drives many investors to making short-term decisions subject to a variety of potential error-leading biases. Unfortunately, some short-term investment decisions may create more volatility rather than mitigate it.

Instead of dwelling on the markets’ short-term reaction to waves of negative global news, we encourage investors to focus on the horizon instead. Long-term investing isn’t about identifying and anticipating the next big market move, it is about identifying the right investment products for riding out those moves. As a long-term investor, you should keep in mind the three Ds: direction, discipline and diversification.

 

u  

Direction: Achieving your long-term financial goals requires an individualized plan of action. You may want your plan to provide some measure of protection against periods of geopolitical turmoil, economic uncertainty, market volatility and job insecurity. Your plan should be reviewed annually and be adjusted in the event your long-range needs change.

 

u  

Discipline: Long-term, systematic participation in an investment portfolio requires your resolution to stay the course. Spending time in the market – rather than trying to time the market – may place you in a better position to reach your long-term financial goals.

 

u  

Diversification: By investing in different investment styles and asset classes, you may be able to help mitigate financial risks across your investment portfolio. By allocating your investment portfolio according to your risk-tolerance level, you may be better positioned to weather storms and achieve your long-term financial goals.

Since 1986, American Beacon has endeavored to provide investors with a disciplined approach to realizing long-term financial goals. As a manager of managers, we strive to provide investment products that may enable investors to participate during market upswings while potentially insulating against market downswings.

Many of the sub-advisors to our mutual funds pursue upside capture and/or downside protection using proprietary strategies. The investment teams behind our mutual funds seek to produce consistent, long-term results rather than focus only on short-term movements in the markets. In managing our investment products, we emphasize identifying opportunities that offer the potential for long-term rewards.

Our management approach is more than a concept; it’s the cornerstone of our culture. And we strive to apply it at every turn as we seek to provide a well-diversified line of investment solutions to help our shareholders seek long-term rewards while mitigating volatility and risk.

Thank you for your continued interest in American Beacon. For additional information about our investment products or to access your account information, please visit our website at www.americanbeaconfunds.com.

Best Regards,

 

LOGO

Gene L. Needles, Jr.

President

American Beacon Funds

 

 

1


International Equity Market Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

Over the 12-month period ended October 31, 2019, developed international equities rose more than 11% and emerging market equities rose almost 12%. While investor uncertainty about global growth and trade weighed on sentiment, central banks responded by loosening monetary policy and governments with budget surpluses were urged to implement fiscal stimulus, which has sustained strong equity returns.

Trade tensions have contributed to the slower economy. Global growth has declined 1.2 percentage points since President Donald Trump first ordered tariffs on steel and aluminum in the first quarter of 2018. Germany, an export powerhouse, reported slightly negative gross domestic product (“GDP”) growth in the second quarter while manufacturing indexes deteriorated. China – the world’s second-largest economy and source of almost 20% of global growth – reported GDP growth of 6.2%, a 27-year low. While global manufacturing is weak, the global consumer remains more resilient. The majority of consumer data is still relatively positive – and the consumer expansion, though at low rates, is driving modestly positive global growth.

In the international equity markets, Growth continued to outperform Value despite a dramatic rise in deep-value equities in early September. The valuation gap between Growth and Value continues to reach extremes. Historically, the performance of Growth versus Value appears to have a correlation with interest rates. When interest rates decline, Growth has historically outperformed Value. When interest rates rise, Value tends to be more in favor. This implies that the recent rally in deep-value equities will not likely close the performance gap with Growth unless long-term rates rise, which would presumably occur if expectations rise for stronger economic growth. Without that acceleration, deep-value equities could prove to be a classic Value trap.

 

 

2


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

The Investor Class of the American Beacon International Equity Fund (the “Fund”) returned 5.55% for the twelve months ended October 31, 2019. The Fund underperformed the MSCI EAFE Index (the “Index”) return of 11.04%.

Comparison of Change in Value of a $10,000 Investment for the period from 10/31/2009 through 10/31/2019

 

LOGO

 

Total Returns for the Period ended October 31, 2019

 

                       
      

Ticker

    

1 Year

  

3 Years

    

5 Years

    

10 Years

  

Value of $10,000

10/31/2009-

10/31/2019

Institutional Class (1,7)

     AAIEX          5.94 %        6.39 %          2.50 %          5.02 %      $ 16,326

Y Class (1,7)

     ABEYX          5.83 %        6.31 %          2.43 %          4.93 %      $ 16,185

Investor Class (1,7)

     AAIPX          5.55 %        6.01 %          2.15 %          4.65 %      $ 15,758

Advisor Class (1,2,7)

     AAISX          5.38 %        5.87 %          2.03 %          4.50 %      $ 15,530

A Class without sales charge (1,3,7)

     AIEAX          5.51 %        5.97 %          2.11 %          4.57 %      $ 15,628

A Class with sales Charge (1,3,7)

     AIEAX          (0.56 )%        3.90 %          0.91 %          3.95 %      $ 14,733

C Class without sales charge (1,4,7)

     AILCX          4.69 %        5.18 %          1.35 %          3.84 %      $ 14,573

C Class with sales charge (1,4,7)

     AILCX          3.69 %        5.18 %          1.35 %          3.84 %      $ 14,573

R6 Class (1,5,7)

     AAERX          5.98 %        6.45 %          2.54 %          5.04 %      $ 16,355
                                   

MSCI EAFE Index Net (6)

              11.04 %        8.48 %          4.31 %          5.41 %      $ 16,931

 

1.

Performance shown is historical and is not indicative of future returns. Investment returns and principal value will vary, and shares may be worth more or less at redemption than at original purchase. Performance shown is calculated based on the published end of day net asset values as of date indicated and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. To obtain performance as of the most recent month end, please visit www.americanbeaconfunds.com or call 1-800-967-9009. Fund performance in the table above does not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder would pay on distributions or the redemption of shares. Generally accepted accounting principles require adjustments to be made to the net assets of the Fund at period end for financial reporting purposes only; and as such, the total return based on the unadjusted net asset value per share may differ from the total return reported in the financial highlights. A portion of the fees charged to the Institutional Class of the Fund was waived from 2013 through 2015. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than actual returns shown for 2013 through 2015.

 

 

3


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

 

2.

A portion of the fees charged to the Advisor Class of the Fund was waived in 2007 and 2009. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than the actual returns shown for these periods.

 

3.

Fund performance for the ten-year period represents the total returns achieved by the Investor Class from 10/31/09 up to 5/17/10, the inception date of the A Class, and the returns of the A Class since its inception. Expenses of the A Class are higher than those of the Investor Class. As a result, total returns shown may be higher than they would have been had the A Class been in existence since 10/31/09. A portion of the fees charged to the A Class of the Fund was waived from 2010 through 2012 and fully recovered in 2013. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than the actual returns shown for 2010 through 2012. The maximum sales charge for A Class is 5.75%.

 

4.

Fund performance for the ten-year period represents the total returns achieved by the Investor Class from 10/31/09 up to 9/1/10, the inception date of the C Class, and the returns of the C Class since its inception. Expenses of the C Class are higher than those of the Investor Class. As a result, total returns shown may be higher than they would have been had the C Class been in existence since 10/31/09. A portion of the fees charged to the C Class of the Fund was waived from 2010 through 2012, partially recovered in 2013, and fully recovered in 2015. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than the actual returns shown for 2010 through 2012. The maximum contingent deferred sales charge for C Class is 1.00% for shares redeemed within one year of the date of purchase.

 

5.

Fund performance for the three-year, five-year and ten-year periods represents the returns achieved by the Institutional Class from 10/31/09 through 2/28/17, the inception date of the R6 Class, and the returns of the R6 Class since its inception. Expenses of the R6 Class are lower than those of the Institutional Class. As a result, total returns shown may be lower than they would have been had the R6 Class been in existence since 10/31/09. A portion of the fees charged to the R6 Class of the Fund has been waived since Class inception. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than the actual returns shown since inception.

 

6.

The MSCI EAFE Index is a market capitalization weighted index of international stock performance composed of equities from developed markets excluding the U.S. and Canada. One cannot directly invest in an index.

 

7.

The Total Annual Fund Operating Expense ratios set forth in the most recent Fund prospectus for the Institutional, Y, Investor, Advisor, A, C and R6 Class shares were 0.74%, 0.81%, 1.07%, 1.21%, 1.09%, 1.82% and 0.71%, respectively. The expense ratios above may vary from the expense ratios presented in other sections of this report that are based on expenses incurred during the period covered by this report.

The Fund underperformed the Index over the twelve-month period primarily due to stock selection while country allocation also slightly hampered performance.

Stock selections within Japan and Italy primarily contributed to the Fund’s relative underperformance, while stock selections in the United Kingdom added value. Detracting securities included Takeda Pharmaceutical Co. Ltd (down 6.27%) in Japan and Eni SpA (down 10.58%) within Italy. The Fund’s investments in the United Kingdom, including Cobham plc (up 52.18%) helped relative performance during the prior twelve months.

From a country allocation perspective, overweighting out-of-index Republic of Korea (up 5.22%) and underweighting Australia (up 17.10%) contributed to the Fund’s underperformance relative to the Index. However, underweighting both Japan (up 9.69%) and Spain (up 6.32%) added to relative value during the period.

Although economic and market conditions vary from period to period, the Fund’s primary strategy of investing in undervalued companies with above-average earnings growth expectations remains consistent.

 

Top Ten Holdings (% Net Assets)

 

Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.           2.7  
Volkswagen AG           2.4  
Novartis AG           2.0  
BNP Paribas S.A.           1.9  
SAP SE           1.9  
Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.           1.8  
BP PLC           1.7  
Sanofi           1.7  
Vodafone Group PLC           1.7  
Prudential PLC           1.6  
Total Fund Holdings      141       
       

 

 

4


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

Sector Allocation (% Equities)

 

Financials           18.9  
Industrials           17.3  
Health Care           11.3  
Communication Services           9.4  
Energy           8.9  
Materials           8.4  
Consumer Staples           7.5  
Information Technology           7.1  
Consumer Discretionary           4.9  
Utilities           3.5  
Real Estate           2.8  
       
Country Allocation (% Equities)

 

United Kingdom           19.7  
Japan           16.3  
Germany           13.4  
France           12.2  
Netherlands           6.5  
Canada           5.0  
Switzerland           5.0  
Republic of Korea           4.7  
Italy           2.1  
United States           1.9  
Singapore           1.8  
Norway           1.7  
Denmark           1.5  
Ireland           1.5  
Sweden           1.3  
China           1.2  
Finland           0.8  
Hong Kong           0.7  
Luxembourg           0.7  
Spain           0.7  
Belgium           0.5  
Australia           0.4  
Israel           0.4  

 

 

5


American Beacon Tocqueville International Value FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

The Investor Class of the American Beacon Tocqueville International Value Fund (the “Fund”) returned 5.03% for the twelve month period ending October 31, 2019, which underperformed the MSCI EAFE Index (the “Index”) return of 11.04%.

Comparison of Change in Value of a $10,000 Investment for the period from 10/31/2009 through 10/31/2019

 

LOGO

 

Total Returns for the Period ended October 31, 2019

 

    
      

Ticker

    

1 Year

    

3 Years

    

5 Years

    

10 Years

  

Value of  $10,000
10/31/2009-
10/31/2019

Institutional Class (1,3,5)

     TOVIX          5.29 %          4.16 %          4.31 %          6.09 %      $ 18,065

Y Class (1,2,5)

     TOVYX          5.23 %          4.14 %          4.30 %          6.09 %      $ 18,053

Investor Class (1,5)

     TIVFX          5.03 %          4.07 %          4.26 %          6.06 %      $ 18,018
                                     

MSCI EAFE Index Net (4)

              11.04 %          8.48 %          4.31 %          5.41 %      $ 16,931

 

1.

Performance shown is historical and is not indicative of future returns. Investment returns and principal value will vary, and shares may be worth more or less at redemption than at original purchase. Performance shown is calculated based on the published end of day net asset values as of date indicated and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. To obtain performance as of the most recent month end, please visit www.americanbeaconfunds.com or call 1-800-967-9009. Fund performance in the table above does not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder would pay on distributions or the redemption of shares. Generally accepted accounting principles require adjustments to be made to the net assets of the Fund at period end for financial reporting purposes only; and as such, the total return based on the unadjusted net asset value per share may differ from the total return reported in the financial highlights. A portion of fees charged to each Class of the Fund has been waived since Fund inception. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than actual returns shown since inception.

 

2.

Fund performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year and ten-year periods represents the total returns achieved by the Investor Class from 10/31/09 up to 1/18/19, the inception date of the Y Class. Expenses of the Y Class are lower than those of the Investor Class. As a result, total returns shown may be lower than they would have been had the Y Class been in existence since 10/31/09.

 

3.

Fund performance for the one-year, three-year, five-year and ten-year periods represents the total returns achieved by the Investor Class from 10/31/09 up to 1/18/19, the inception date of the Institutional Class. Expenses of the Institutional Class are lower than those of the Investor Class. As a result, total returns shown may be lower than they would have been had the Institutional Class been in existence since 10/31/09.

 

 

6


American Beacon Tocqueville International Value FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

 

4.

The MSCI EAFE Index is a market capitalization weighted index of international stock performance composed of equities from developed markets excluding the U.S. and Canada. One cannot directly invest in an index.

 

5.

The Total Annual Fund Operating Expense ratios set forth in the most recent Fund prospectus for the Institutional, Y and Investor Class shares were 0.88%, 0.98% and 1.25%, respectively. The expense ratios above may vary from the expense ratios presented in other sections of this report that are based on expenses incurred during the period covered by this report.

The Fund underperformed the Index over the twelve month period due to stock selection, while country allocation slightly offset relative performance.

Stock selections within Germany and Switzerland both contributed the most to the Fund’s relative underperformance. Stock selections in the United Kingdom partially helped performance.

From a country allocation perspective, the Fund’s underweight to Japan and Sweden added the most relative value. On the flip side, the Fund’s underweight to Australia detracted the most.

Although economic and market conditions vary from period to period, the Fund’s primary strategy of investing in undervalued companies with above-average earnings growth expectations remains consistent.

 

Top Ten Holdings (% Net Assets)

 

FANUC Corp.           3.5  
Sanofi           3.5  
Bureau Veritas S.A.           3.3  
Siemens AG, Sponsored ADR           3.2  
Amano Corp.           3.1  
CRH PLC           3.1  
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.           3.0  
Smiths Group PLC           3.0  
Danone S.A.           2.9  
Makita Corp.           2.9  
Total Fund Holdings      50       
       
Sector Allocation (% Equities)

 

Industrials           30.5  
Information Technology           19.4  
Consumer Staples           15.7  
Health Care           10.8  
Financials           7.2  
Materials           6.5  
Energy           3.9  
Communication Services           2.5  
Consumer Discretionary           2.4  
Utilities           1.1  
       
Country Allocation (% Equities)

 

Japan           22.5  
France           16.6  
Germany           14.1  
United Kingdom           11.8  
Switzerland           5.0  
United States           4.5  
Ireland           3.3  
Canada           3.2  
Republic of Korea           3.1  
Spain           3.0  
Netherlands           2.9  
Belgium           2.8  
Denmark           1.8  
Finland           1.6  
Taiwan           1.3  
China           1.1  
Bermuda           0.9  
Italy           0.5  
Brazil           0.0

 

*

Amount represents less than 0.05%

 

 

7


American Beacon FundsSM

Expense Examples

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

Fund Expense Example

As a shareholder of a Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption fees if applicable, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees, distribution (12b-1) fees, Sub-transfer agent fees, and other Fund expenses. The Examples are intended to help you understand the ongoing cost (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period in each Class and held for the entire period from May 1, 2019 through October 31, 2019.

Actual Expenses

The “Actual” lines of the table provide information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information on this page, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period. Shareholders of the Investor and Institutional Classes that invest in the Fund through an IRA or Roth IRA may be subject to a custodial IRA fee of $15 that is typically deducted each December. If your account was subject to a custodial IRA fee during the period, your costs would have been $15 higher.

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The “Hypothetical” lines of the table provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed 5% per year rate of return before expenses (not the Fund’s actual return). You may compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund with other funds by contrasting this 5% hypothetical example and the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. Shareholders of the Investor and Institutional Classes that invest in the Fund through an IRA or Roth IRA may be subject to a custodial IRA fee of $15 that is typically deducted each December. If your account was subject to a custodial IRA fee during the period, your costs would have been $15 higher.

You should also be aware that the expenses shown in the table highlight only your ongoing costs and do not reflect any transaction costs charged by the Fund, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption fees as applicable. Similarly, the expense examples for other funds do not reflect any transaction costs charged by those funds, such as sales charges (loads), redemption fees or exchange fees. Therefore, the “Hypothetical” lines of the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. If you were subject to any transaction costs during the period, your costs would have been higher.

 

 

8


American Beacon FundsSM

Expense Examples

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

American Beacon International Equity Fund

 

    Beginning Account Value
5/1/2019
  Ending Account Value
10/31/2019
  Expenses Paid During
Period
5/1/2019-10/31/2019*
Institutional Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,007.80       $3.74
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,021.48       $3.77
Y Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,007.50       $4.10
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,021.12       $4.13
Investor Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,006.20       $5.41
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,019.81       $5.45
Advisor Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,005.50       $6.12
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,019.11       $6.16
A Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,005.60       $5.86
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,019.36       $5.90
C Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,001.70       $9.49
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,015.73       $9.55
R6 Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,008.40       $3.34
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,021.88       $3.36

 

*

Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratios for the six-month period of 0.74%, 0.81%, 1.07%, 1.21%, 1.16%, 1.88%, and 0.66% for the Institutional, Y, Investor, Advisor, A, C, and R6 Classes, respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number derived by dividing the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year (184) by days in the year (365) to reflect the half-year period.

**

5% return before expenses.

American Beacon Tocqueville International Value Fund

 

    Beginning Account Value
5/1/2019
  Ending Account Value
10/31/2019
  Expenses Paid During
Period
5/1/2019-10/31/2019*
Institutional Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $976.90       $4.43
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,020.72       $4.53
Y Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $976.90       $4.88
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,020.27       $4.99
Investor Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $975.60       $5.23
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,019.91       $5.35

 

*

Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratios for the six-month period of 0.89%, 0.98%, and 1.05% for the Institutional, Y, and Investor Classes, respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number derived by dividing the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year (184) by days in the year (365) to reflect the half-year period.

**

5% return before expenses.

 

 

9


American Beacon FundsSM

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

 

To the Shareholders and the Board of Trustees of

American Beacon International Equity Fund and American Beacon Tocqueville International Value Fund

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of American Beacon International Equity Fund and American Beacon Tocqueville International Value Fund (collectively referred to as the “Funds”), (two of the funds constituting American Beacon Funds (the “Trust”)), including the schedules of investments, as of October 31, 2019, and the related statements of operations, changes in net assets, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated in the table below and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds (two of the funds constituting American Beacon Funds) at October 31, 2019, the results of their operations, changes in net assets and financial highlights for each of the periods indicated in the table below, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

Individual fund constituting the
American Beacon Funds

 

Statement of

operations

 

Statements of
changes in net assets

 

Financial highlights

American Beacon International Equity Fund   For the year ended October 31, 2019   For each of the two years in the period ended October 31, 2019   For each of the five years in the period ended October 31, 2019
American Beacon Tocqueville International Value Fund   For the year ended October 31, 2019   For the year ended October 31, 2019   For the year ended October 31, 2019

The statement of changes in net assets for the period ended October 31, 2018 and the financial highlights for the four years in the period ended October 31, 2018 of American Beacon Tocqueville International Value Fund were audited by other auditors whose report dated December 21, 2018, expressed an unqualified opinion on those financial statements, financial highlights and statement of changes in net assets.

Basis for Opinion

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

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Trust is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of October 31, 2019, by correspondence with the custodian and brokers or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from brokers were not received.

 

 

10


American Beacon FundsSM

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

 

Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

LOGO

We have served as the auditor of one or more American Beacon investment companies since 1987.

Dallas, Texas

December 30, 2019

 

 

11


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
Australia - 0.40% (Cost $8,204,125)            
Common Stocks - 0.40%            
BHP Group PLC       547,291         $ 11,589,645
           

 

 

 
           
Belgium - 0.51% (Cost $14,061,610)            
Common Stocks - 0.51%            
Anheuser-Busch InBev S.A.       181,115           14,551,900
           

 

 

 
           
Canada - 4.77%            
Common Stocks - 4.77%            
Barrick Gold Corp.       1,257,300           21,826,728
Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce       87,619           7,471,331
Canadian National Railway Co.       161,900           14,480,161
Encana Corp.A       2,905,272           11,381,978
Gildan Activewear, Inc.       235,265           6,010,680
Husky Energy, Inc.       990,800           6,920,781
Manulife Financial Corp.       521,197           9,706,903
National Bank of Canada       293,802           15,173,041
Suncor Energy, Inc.       602,200           17,904,603
Wheaton Precious Metals Corp.       917,500           25,718,700
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              136,594,906
           

 

 

 
           

Total Canada (Cost $144,432,314)

              136,594,906
           

 

 

 
           
China - 1.13%            
Common Stocks - 1.13%            
China Merchants Port Holdings Co., Ltd.       2,777,068           4,352,044
China Mobile Ltd.       3,425,949           27,893,943
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              32,245,987
           

 

 

 
           

Total China (Cost $41,692,344)

              32,245,987
           

 

 

 
           
Denmark - 1.43%            
Common Stocks - 1.43%            
AP Moller - Maersk A/S, Class B       9,647           12,295,648
Carlsberg A/S, Class B       108,299           15,235,710
Vestas Wind Systems A/S       162,857           13,293,457
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              40,824,815
           

 

 

 
           

Total Denmark (Cost $34,585,235)

              40,824,815
           

 

 

 
           
Finland - 0.72%            
Common Stocks - 0.72%            
Nordea Bank Abp       1,324,472           9,688,314
Sampo OYJ, Class A       268,295           10,993,686
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              20,682,000
           

 

 

 
           

Total Finland (Cost $27,494,371)

              20,682,000
           

 

 

 
           
France - 11.62%            
Common Stocks - 11.62%            
Air France-KLMB       237,798           2,831,181
Air Liquide S.A.       115,734           15,373,201
Atos SE       43,322           3,354,167
BNP Paribas S.A.       1,049,153           54,773,317
Carrefour S.A.       612,284           10,417,337
Cie de Saint-Gobain       357,376           14,536,261
Cie Generale des Etablissements Michelin SCA       127,119           15,467,738
Credit Agricole S.A.       792,346           10,326,072

 

See accompanying notes

 

12


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
France - 11.62% (continued)            
Common Stocks - 11.62% (continued)            
Danone S.A.       51,667         $ 4,284,935
Engie S.A.       1,289,953           21,573,069
Ingenico Group S.A.       39,485           4,216,160
Safran S.A.       149,512           23,653,585
Sanofi       543,467           50,078,343
TOTAL S.A.       846,636           44,507,359
Veolia Environnement S.A.       916,960           24,104,690
Vinci S.A.       107,572           12,069,487
Vivendi S.A.       762,804           21,234,846
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              332,801,748
           

 

 

 
           

Total France (Cost $300,970,255)

              332,801,748
           

 

 

 
           
Germany - 12.74%            
Common Stocks - 10.37%            
BASF SE       499,843           38,036,502
Bayer AG       407,568           31,628,317
Deutsche Post AG       534,094           18,912,677
Deutsche Telekom AG       2,117,029           37,230,168
E.ON SE       2,342,080           23,605,738
Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA       299,946           21,704,286
Fresenius SE & Co. KGaA       126,634           6,655,693
Infineon Technologies AG       245,399           4,756,244
Merck KGaA       154,409           18,409,496
SAP SE       406,233           53,824,898
Siemens AG       366,808           42,292,845
           

 

 

 
           

Total Common Stocks

              297,056,864
           

 

 

 
           
Preferred Stocks - 2.37%            
Volkswagen AGC       356,605           67,891,050
           

 

 

 
           

Total Germany (Cost $338,153,693)

              364,947,914
           

 

 

 
           
Hong Kong - 0.71%            
Common Stocks - 0.71%            
CK Asset Holdings Ltd.       2,368,582           16,534,235
ESR Cayman Ltd.       1,728,000           3,742,104
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              20,276,339
           

 

 

 
           

Total Hong Kong (Cost $20,049,995)

              20,276,339
           

 

 

 
           
Ireland - 1.40%            
Common Stocks - 1.40%            
Bank of Ireland Group PLC       2,397,731           11,531,101
Ryanair Holdings PLC, Sponsored ADRB       384,478           28,697,438
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              40,228,539
           

 

 

 
           

Total Ireland (Cost $48,952,817)

              40,228,539
           

 

 

 
           
Israel - 0.40% (Cost $10,173,508)            
Common Stocks - 0.40%            
Bank Leumi Le-Israel BM       1,564,809           11,392,699
           

 

 

 
           
Italy - 2.04%            
Common Stocks - 2.04%            
Eni SpA       1,443,275           21,843,414

 

See accompanying notes

 

13


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
Italy - 2.04% (continued)            
Common Stocks - 2.04% (continued)            
UniCredit SpA       2,880,787         $ 36,524,711
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              58,368,125
           

 

 

 
           

Total Italy (Cost $65,983,894)

              58,368,125
           

 

 

 
           
Japan - 15.52%            
Common Stocks - 15.52%            
Asahi Group Holdings Ltd.       208,800           10,498,972
Astellas Pharma, Inc.       1,070,800           18,428,390
Coca-Cola Bottlers Japan Holdings, Inc.       125,000           2,855,589
Daiwa House Industry Co., Ltd.       805,554           27,861,322
Digital Garage, Inc.       140,100           4,644,486
East Japan Railway Co.       186,700           17,027,579
FANUC Corp.       146,100           29,222,706
Hitachi Ltd.       380,400           14,333,249
Kao Corp.       232,260           18,806,199
KDDI Corp.       866,600           24,066,427
Kirin Holdings Co., Ltd.       834,000           17,801,371
Matsumotokiyoshi Holdings Co., Ltd.       248,800           8,812,483
Mitsui Fudosan Co., Ltd.       1,083,500           27,902,709
Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.       94,200           5,114,312
Nexon Co., Ltd.B       890,500           10,348,898
Nintendo Co., Ltd.       600           222,379
Pan Pacific International Holdings Corp.       554,392           8,763,285
Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd.       522,800           19,848,875
Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.       125,500           14,131,679
Sompo Holdings, Inc.       361,200           14,295,479
Sumitomo Metal Mining Co., Ltd.       536,500           18,163,200
Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.       1,262,100           45,346,310
Suntory Beverage & Food Ltd.       215,300           9,210,908
Suzuki Motor Corp.       204,600           9,732,662
Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.       1,448,222           52,677,248
Yamaha Corp.       301,900           14,173,840
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              444,290,557
           

 

 

 
           

Total Japan (Cost $410,926,559)

              444,290,557
           

 

 

 
           
Luxembourg - 0.71%            
Common Stocks - 0.71%            
SES S.A.       768,346           14,884,979
Tenaris S.A.       530,025           5,352,152
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              20,237,131
           

 

 

 
           

Total Luxembourg (Cost $19,209,562)

              20,237,131
           

 

 

 
           
Netherlands - 6.14%            
Common Stocks - 6.14%            
ABN AMRO Bank N.V.E       515,293           9,591,845
Akzo Nobel N.V.       157,633           14,512,953
ING Groep N.V.       3,492,414           39,449,454
NXP Semiconductors N.V.       162,300           18,450,264
Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class A       942,310           27,256,477
Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class B       1,537,902           44,185,259
Wolters Kluwer N.V.       302,373           22,264,354
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              175,710,606
           

 

 

 
           

Total Netherlands (Cost $169,203,661)

              175,710,606
           

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

14


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
Norway - 1.59%            
Common Stocks - 1.59%            
Equinor ASA       666,211         $ 12,322,819
Mowi ASA       344,441           8,397,391
Telenor ASA       628,991           11,774,580
Yara International ASA       334,185           13,005,966
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              45,500,756
           

 

 

 
           

Total Norway (Cost $44,959,469)

              45,500,756
           

 

 

 
           
Republic of Korea - 4.51%            
Common Stocks - 4.51%            
Hana Financial Group, Inc.       495,880           14,363,450
KB Financial Group, Inc., ADRA       413,917           14,785,115
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.       1,783,231           77,248,565
SK Innovation Co., Ltd.       26,233           3,607,615
SK Telecom Co., Ltd.       94,174           19,183,668
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              129,188,413
           

 

 

 
           

Total Republic of Korea (Cost $108,085,827)

              129,188,413
           

 

 

 
           
Singapore - 1.66%            
Common Stocks - 1.66%            
DBS Group Holdings Ltd.       1,090,010           20,831,534
Singapore Telecommunications Ltd.       11,039,295           26,777,664
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              47,609,198
           

 

 

 
           

Total Singapore (Cost $42,639,982)

              47,609,198
           

 

 

 
           
Spain - 0.68%            
Common Stocks - 0.68%            
CaixaBank S.A.       3,761,646           10,761,105
Red Electrica Corp. S.A.       430,769           8,671,879
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              19,432,984
           

 

 

 
           

Total Spain (Cost $20,543,313)

              19,432,984
           

 

 

 
           
Sweden - 1.27%            
Common Stocks - 1.27%            
Assa Abloy AB, Class B       955,808           22,668,479
Epiroc AB, Class AA       1,217,191           13,690,042
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              36,358,521
           

 

 

 
           

Total Sweden (Cost $28,022,551)

              36,358,521
           

 

 

 
           
Switzerland - 4.70%            
Common Stocks - 4.70%            
ABB Ltd.       1,993,492           41,809,782
Aryzta AGA B       3,142,230           2,476,198
Cie Financiere Richemont S.A.       16,453           1,294,225
Novartis AG       667,618           58,261,768
Roche Holding AG       102,558           30,855,767
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              134,697,740
           

 

 

 
           

Total Switzerland (Cost $124,552,794)

              134,697,740
           

 

 

 
           
United Kingdom - 18.72%            
Common Stocks - 18.71%            
AstraZeneca PLC       193,510           18,802,248
Aviva PLC       2,766,291           14,877,926
BAE Systems PLC       3,389,682           25,299,935

 

See accompanying notes

 

15


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
United Kingdom - 18.72% (continued)            
Common Stocks - 18.71% (continued)            
Balfour Beatty PLC       3,140,341         $ 9,168,914
Barclays PLC       12,602,693           27,393,184
BP PLC       7,532,359           47,741,211
British American Tobacco PLC       725,099           25,378,728
CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd.       1,605,582           14,855,212
Cobham PLC       2,404,030           4,913,988
Compass Group PLC       357,879           9,531,177
Howden Joinery Group PLC       1,051,393           7,863,738
Informa PLC       1,521,370           15,272,979
Johnson Matthey PLC       575,392           22,881,758
Linde PLC       124,597           24,631,191
Lloyds Banking Group PLC       15,397,933           11,329,167
M&G PLCB       1,554,970           4,306,425
Micro Focus International PLC       519,319           7,130,620
Prudential PLC       2,631,511           45,966,702
RELX PLC       1,232,162           29,655,191
Rolls-Royce Holdings PLCB       2,596,270           23,844,229
RSA Insurance Group PLC       1,284,009           8,685,446
SSE PLC       950,417           15,801,462
Standard Chartered PLC       3,365,304           30,558,323
Tesco PLC       5,094,128           15,520,095
Unilever PLC       345,006           20,658,119
Vodafone Group PLC       23,535,054           47,985,180
Weir Group PLC       315,807           5,508,271
           

 

 

 
           

Total Common Stocks

              535,561,419
           

 

 

 
           
Preferred Stocks - 0.01%            
Rolls-Royce Holdings PLCC D H       114,347,904           148,121
           

 

 

 
           

Total United Kingdom (Cost $558,613,648)

              535,709,540
           

 

 

 
           
United States - 1.76%            
Common Stocks - 1.76%            
Amcor PLC       999,729           9,600,042
Aon PLC       129,299           24,975,395
Ferguson PLC       186,990           15,952,447
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              50,527,884
           

 

 

 
           

Total United States (Cost $35,126,337)

              50,527,884
           

 

 

 
           
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS - 4.76%            
Investment Companies - 4.55%            
American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund, Select Class, 1.75%F G           130,261,958           130,261,958
           

 

 

 
    Principal Amount        
             
U.S. Treasury Obligations - 0.21%            
U.S. Treasury Bill, 1.87%, Due 2/13/2020I     $ 6,000,000           5,973,694
           

 

 

 
           

Total Short-Term Investments (Cost $136,230,238)

              136,235,652
           

 

 

 
    Shares        
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 0.43% (Cost $12,296,539)            
Investment Companies - 0.43%            
American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund, Select Class, 1.75%F G       12,296,539           12,296,539
           

 

 

 
           

TOTAL INVESTMENTS - 100.32% (Cost $2,765,164,641)

              2,872,300,138

LIABILITIES, NET OF OTHER ASSETS - (0.32%)

              (9,199,590 )
           

 

 

 

TOTAL NET ASSETS - 100.00%

            $ 2,863,100,548
           

 

 

 
             
Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.                  

 

See accompanying notes

 

16


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

A All or a portion of this security is on loan, collateralized by either cash and/or U.S. Treasuries, at October 31, 2019 (Note 9).

B Non-income producing security.

C A type of Preferred Stock that has no maturity date.

D Fair valued pursuant to procedures approved by the Board of Trustees. At period end, the value of these securities amounted to $148,121 or 0.01% of net assets.

E Security exempt from registration under the Securities Act of 1933. These securities may be resold to qualified institutional buyers pursuant to Rule 144A. At the period end, the value of these securities amounted to $9,591,845 or 0.34% of net assets. The Fund has no right to demand registration of these securities.

F The Fund is affiliated by having the same investment advisor.

G 7-day yield.

H Value was determined using significant unobservable inputs.

I This security or a piece thereof is held as segregated collateral.

ADR - American Depositary Receipt.

PLC - Public Limited Company.

 

Long Futures Contracts Open on October 31, 2019:

 

         
Equity Futures Contracts                                         
Description      Number of
Contracts
     Expiration Date      Notional Amount        Contract Value        Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
Mini MSCI EAFE Index Futures      1,235      December 2019      $ 118,003,999        $ 120,857,100        $ 2,853,101  
              

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 
               $ 118,003,999        $ 120,857,100        $ 2,853,101  
              

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

Index Abbreviations:
MSCI EAFE    MSCI Europe, Australasia, and Far East.

The Fund’s investments are summarized by level based on the inputs used to determine their values. As of October 31, 2019, the investments were classified as described below:

 

International Equity Fund

  Level 1           Level 2           Level 3           Total  

Assets

             

Foreign Common Stocks

             

Australia

  $ 11,589,645       $ -       $ -       $ 11,589,645  

Belgium

    14,551,900         -         -         14,551,900  

Canada

    136,594,906         -         -         136,594,906  

China

    32,245,987         -         -         32,245,987  

Denmark

    40,824,815         -         -         40,824,815  

Finland

    20,682,000         -         -         20,682,000  

France

    332,801,748         -         -         332,801,748  

Germany

    297,056,864         -         -         297,056,864  

Hong Kong

    20,276,339         -         -         20,276,339  

Ireland

    40,228,539         -         -         40,228,539  

Israel

    11,392,699         -         -         11,392,699  

Italy

    58,368,125         -         -         58,368,125  

Japan

    444,290,557         -         -         444,290,557  

Luxembourg

    20,237,131         -         -         20,237,131  

Netherlands

    175,710,606         -         -         175,710,606  

Norway

    45,500,756         -         -         45,500,756  

Republic of Korea

    129,188,413         -         -         129,188,413  

Singapore

    47,609,198         -         -         47,609,198  

Spain

    19,432,984         -         -         19,432,984  

Sweden

    36,358,521         -         -         36,358,521  

Switzerland

    134,697,740         -         -         134,697,740  

United Kingdom

    535,561,419         -         -         535,561,419  

Foreign Preferred Stocks

             

Germany

    67,891,050         -         -         67,891,050  

United Kingdom

    -         -         148,121         148,121  

 

See accompanying notes

 

17


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

International Equity Fund

  Level 1           Level 2           Level 3           Total  

Common Stocks

             

United States

  $ 50,527,884       $ -       $ -       $ 50,527,884  

Short-Term Investments

    130,261,958         5,973,694         -         136,235,652  

Securities Lending Collateral

    12,296,539         -         -         12,296,539  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Investments in Securities - Assets

  $ 2,866,178,323       $ 5,973,694       $ 148,121       $ 2,872,300,138  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Financial Derivative Instruments - Assets

             

Futures Contracts

  $ 2,853,101       $ -       $ -       $ 2,853,101  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Financial Derivative Instruments - Assets

  $ 2,853,101       $ -       $ -       $ 2,853,101  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

U.S. GAAP requires transfers between all levels to/from level 3 be disclosed. During the year ended October 31, 2019, there were no transfers into or out of Level 3.

The following table is a reconciliation of Level 3 assets within the Fund for which significant unobservable inputs were used to determine fair value. Transfers in or out of Level 3 represent the ending value of any security or instrument where a change in the level has occurred from the beginning to the end of the period:

 

Security Type   Balance as
of
10/31/2018
    Purchases     Sales     Accrued
Discounts
(Premiums)
    Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Transfer
into
Level 3
    Transfer
out of
Level 3
    Balance as
of
10/31/2019
    Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
at Period end**
 
Common Stocks   $ 90,350     $ -     $ 90,024     $ -     $ (1,244   $ 918     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -  
Foreign Preferred Stocks     -       147,303       -       -       -       818       -       -       148,121       818  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 
  $ 90,350     $ 147,303     $ 90,024     $                   -     $       (1,244   $               1,736     $             -     $             -     $       148,121     $                     818  
 

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

   

 

 

 

 

**

Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) attributable to Level 3 securities held at period end. This balance is included in the change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the Statements of Operations.

The common stock and foreign preferred stock, classified as Level 3, were fair valued using the stated redemption value during the period, and the common stock was redeemed by the Fund on December 3, 2018. The securities were included in the Level 3 category due to the use of unobservable inputs that were significant to the valuation.

 

See accompanying notes

 

18


American Beacon Tocqueville International Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
Belgium - 2.69% (Cost $15,420,485)            
Common Stocks - 2.69%            
Groupe Bruxelles Lambert S.A.       166,712         $ 16,730,327
           

 

 

 
           
Bermuda - 0.87% (Cost $11,865,127)            
Common Stocks - 0.87%            
Clear Media Ltd.       11,736,000           5,391,765
           

 

 

 
           
Brazil - 0.03% (Cost $8,944,958)            
Common Stocks - 0.03%            
Estre Ambiental, Inc.A       1,073,395           177,754
           

 

 

 
           
Canada - 3.06%            
Common Stocks - 3.06%            
MAG Silver Corp.A       50,000           493,000
Nutrien Ltd.       309,354           14,784,028
Wheaton Precious Metals Corp.B       134,300           3,769,801
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              19,046,829
           

 

 

 
           

Total Canada (Cost $18,324,560)

              19,046,829
           

 

 

 
           
China - 0.99% (Cost $6,176,962)            
Common Stocks - 0.99%            
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., Sponsored ADRA       34,965           6,177,267
           

 

 

 
           
Denmark - 1.75% (Cost $15,558,289)            
Common Stocks - 1.75%            
ISS A/S       415,300           10,867,930
           

 

 

 
           
Finland - 1.55% (Cost $14,850,497)            
Common Stocks - 1.55%            
Nokia OYJ, Sponsored ADRB       2,647,200           9,662,280
           

 

 

 
           
France - 15.83%            
Common Stocks - 15.83%            
Bollore S.A.       3,875,304           16,769,846
Bureau Veritas S.A.       792,998           20,244,612
Danone S.A.       219,000           18,162,477
Engie S.A.       385,000           6,438,708
Sanofi       238,901           22,013,786
Sopra Steria Group       108,000           14,803,596
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              98,433,025
           

 

 

 
           

Total France (Cost $94,301,186)

              98,433,025
           

 

 

 
           
Germany - 13.43%            
Common Stocks - 11.36%            
Brenntag AG       112,300           5,636,167
Duerr AG       263,730           7,777,008
GEA Group AG       244,500           7,474,454
Infineon Technologies AG       810,169           15,702,435
Siemens AG, Sponsored ADR       344,465           19,885,964
Software AG       248,600           7,902,010
Wacker Neuson SE       366,800           6,267,288
           

 

 

 
           

Total Common Stocks

              70,645,326
           

 

 

 
           
Preferred Stocks - 2.07%            
Henkel AG & Co. KGaA       123,800           12,865,745
           

 

 

 
           

Total Germany (Cost $85,151,158)

              83,511,071
           

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

19


American Beacon Tocqueville International Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
Ireland - 3.10% (Cost $18,702,566)            
Common Stocks - 3.10%            
CRH PLC       529,520         $ 19,299,942
           

 

 

 
           
Italy - 0.51% (Cost $3,303,394)            
Common Stocks - 0.51%            
Salvatore Ferragamo SpA       168,900           3,155,266
           

 

 

 
           
Japan - 21.46%            
Common Stocks - 21.46%            
Amano Corp.       639,003           19,053,520
FANUC Corp.       107,370           21,475,989
Hitachi Ltd.       377,568           14,226,541
Hoya Corp.       144,500           12,849,648
Kao Corp.       171,200           13,862,143
Makita Corp.       522,200           17,819,307
Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group, Inc.       2,331,800           12,303,543
Nikon Corp.       391,500           5,039,217
Nintendo Co., Ltd.       16,700           5,972,349
Rohm Co., Ltd.       90,100           7,225,354
Tokyo Broadcasting System Holdings, Inc.       226,000           3,647,727
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              133,475,338
           

 

 

 
           

Total Japan (Cost $114,542,177)

              133,475,338
           

 

 

 
           
Netherlands - 2.73% (Cost $17,453,092)            
Common Stocks - 2.73%            
Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class B, Sponsored ADR       291,700           17,003,193
           

 

 

 
           
Republic of Korea - 2.98% (Cost $16,696,601)            
Preferred Stocks - 2.98%            
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.C       524,900           18,520,044
           

 

 

 
           
Spain - 2.83% (Cost $17,623,388)            
Common Stocks - 2.83%            
Applus Services S.A.       1,461,000           17,614,385
           

 

 

 
           
Switzerland - 4.73%            
Common Stocks - 4.73%            
Novartis AG, Sponsored ADR       146,150           12,779,356
Roche Holding AG       55,200           16,607,562
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              29,386,918
           

 

 

 
           

Total Switzerland (Cost $25,509,360)

              29,386,918
           

 

 

 
           
Taiwan - 1.25% (Cost $6,677,557)            
Common Stocks - 1.25%            
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd., Sponsored ADR       150,000           7,744,500
           

 

 

 
           
United Kingdom - 11.23%            
Common Stocks - 11.23%            
Diageo PLC, Sponsored ADR       80,390           13,173,510
IMI PLC       740,800           9,624,742
Reckitt Benckiser Group PLC       173,100           13,372,786
Smiths Group PLC       906,545           18,947,222
Unilever N.V.       248,401           14,715,275
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              69,833,535
           

 

 

 
           

Total United Kingdom (Cost $63,999,295)

              69,833,535
           

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

20


American Beacon Tocqueville International Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
United States - 4.25%            
Common Stocks - 4.25%            
Aflac, Inc.       251,535         $ 13,371,601
Bunge Ltd.       133,400           7,203,600
Schlumberger Ltd.       179,000           5,851,510
           

 

 

 

Total Common Stocks

              26,426,711
           

 

 

 
           

Total United States (Cost $25,666,045)

              26,426,711
           

 

 

 
           
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS - 3.99% (Cost $24,820,282)            
Investment Companies - 3.99%            
American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund, Select Class, 1.75%D E       24,820,282           24,820,282
           

 

 

 
           
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 1.48% (Cost $9,185,400)            
Investment Companies - 1.48%            
American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund, Select Class, 1.75%D E       9,185,400           9,185,400
           

 

 

 
           

TOTAL INVESTMENTS - 100.74% (Cost $614,772,379)

              626,463,762

LIABILITIES, NET OF OTHER ASSETS - (0.74%)

              (4,627,130 )
           

 

 

 

TOTAL NET ASSETS - 100.00%

            $ 621,836,632
           

 

 

 
             
Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.                  

A Non-income producing security.

B All or a portion of this security is on loan, collateralized by either cash and/or U.S. Treasuries, at October 31, 2019 (Note 9).

C A type of Preferred Stock that has no maturity date.

D The Fund is affiliated by having the same investment advisor.

E 7-day yield.

ADR - American Depositary Receipt.

PLC - Public Limited Company.

The Fund’s investments are summarized by level based on the inputs used to determine their values. As of October 31, 2019, the investments were classified as described below:

 

Tocqueville International Value Fund

  Level 1           Level 2           Level 3           Total  

Assets

             

Foreign Common Stocks

             

Belgium

  $ 16,730,327       $ -       $ -       $ 16,730,327  

Bermuda

    5,391,765         -         -         5,391,765  

Brazil

    177,754         -         -         177,754  

Canada

    19,046,829         -         -         19,046,829  

China

    6,177,267         -         -         6,177,267  

Denmark

    10,867,930         -         -         10,867,930  

Finland

    9,662,280         -         -         9,662,280  

France

    98,433,025         -         -         98,433,025  

Germany

    70,645,326         -         -         70,645,326  

Ireland

    19,299,942         -         -         19,299,942  

Italy

    3,155,266         -         -         3,155,266  

Japan

    133,475,338         -         -         133,475,338  

Netherlands

    17,003,193         -         -         17,003,193  

Spain

    17,614,385         -         -         17,614,385  

Switzerland

    29,386,918         -         -         29,386,918  

Taiwan

    7,744,500         -         -         7,744,500  

United Kingdom

    69,833,535         -         -         69,833,535  

Foreign Preferred Stocks

             

Germany

    12,865,745         -         -         12,865,745  

Republic of Korea

    18,520,044         -         -         18,520,044  

 

See accompanying notes

 

21


American Beacon Tocqueville International Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

Tocqueville International Value Fund

  Level 1           Level 2           Level 3           Total  

Common Stocks

             

United States

  $ 26,426,711       $ -       $ -       $ 26,426,711  

Short-Term Investments

    24,820,282         -         -         24,820,282  

Securities Lending Collateral

    9,185,400         -         -         9,185,400  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Investments in Securities - Assets

  $ 626,463,762       $ -       $ -       $ 626,463,762  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

U.S. GAAP requires transfers between all levels to/from level 3 be disclosed. During the year ended October 31, 2019, there were no transfers into or out of Level 3.

 

See accompanying notes

 

22


American Beacon FundsSM

Statements of Assets and Liabilities

October 31, 2019

 

 

    International
Equity Fund
          Tocqueville
International  Value
Fund
 

Assets:

     

Investments in unaffiliated securities, at fair value§

  $ 2,729,741,641       $ 592,458,080  

Investments in affiliated securities, at fair value

    142,558,497         34,005,682  

Foreign currency, at fair value¤

    28,924          

Dividends and interest receivable

    7,508,394         1,518,218  

Receivable for investments sold

    5,357,229         746,932  

Receivable for fund shares sold

    5,071,002         625,614  

Receivable for tax reclaims

    5,247,414         3,329,069  

Receivable for expense reimbursement (Note 2)

    10,693          

Receivable for variation margin on open futures contracts (Note 5)

    2,856,274          

Prepaid expenses

    67,623         18,422  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total assets

    2,898,447,691         632,702,017  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Liabilities:

     

Payable for investments purchased

    13,754,374         31  

Payable for fund shares redeemed

    2,877,143         519,060  

Payable for foreign currency, at fair value^

            340,851  

Payable for expense reimbursement (Note 2)

            49,861  

Cash due to broker for futures contracts

    2,465,074          

Management and sub-advisory fees payable (Note 2)

    3,333,821         211,961  

Service fees payable (Note 2)

    92,216         941  

Transfer agent fees payable (Note 2)

    159,521         5,634  

Payable upon return of securities loaned (Note 9)§

    12,296,539         9,185,400  

Custody and fund accounting fees payable

    129,713         101,695  

Professional fees payable

    69,229         76,199  

Trustee fees payable (Note 2)

    18,994         5,318  

Payable for prospectus and shareholder reports

    100,028         124,067  

Miscellaneous payable

    -         197,103  

Other liabilities

    50,491         47,264  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    35,347,143         10,865,385  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 2,863,100,548       $ 621,836,632  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Analysis of net assets:

     

Paid-in-capital

  $ 2,758,322,519       $ 605,515,464  

Total distributable earnings (deficits)A

    104,778,029         16,321,168  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 2,863,100,548       $ 621,836,632  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

23


American Beacon FundsSM

Statements of Assets and Liabilities

October 31, 2019

 

 

    International
Equity Fund
          Tocqueville
International  Value
Fund
 

Shares outstanding at no par value (unlimited shares authorized):

     

Institutional ClassB

    83,054,472         2,373,233  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Y ClassB

    47,661,864         14,663,491  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Investor Class

    12,367,210         22,766,862  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Advisor Class

    2,500,764         N/A  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

A Class

    782,632         N/A  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

C Class

    359,344         N/A  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

R6 Class

    9,943,320         N/A  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net assets:

     

Institutional ClassB

  $ 1,499,867,401       $ 37,138,368  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Y ClassB

  $ 896,442,437       $ 229,275,205  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Investor Class

  $ 221,043,036       $ 355,423,059  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Advisor Class

  $ 45,797,068         N/A  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

A Class

  $ 13,973,709         N/A  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

C Class

  $ 6,174,460         N/A  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

R6 Class

  $ 179,802,437         N/A  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share:

     

Institutional ClassB

  $ 18.06       $ 15.65  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Y ClassB

  $ 18.81       $ 15.64  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Investor Class

  $ 17.87       $ 15.61  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Advisor Class

  $ 18.31         N/A  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

A Class

  $ 17.85         N/A  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

A Class (offering price)

  $ 18.94         N/A  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

C Class

  $ 17.18         N/A  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

R6 Class

  $ 18.08         N/A  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Cost of investments in unaffiliated securities

  $ 2,622,606,144       $ 580,766,697  

Cost of investments in affiliated securities

  $ 142,558,497       $ 34,005,682  

§ Fair value of securities on loan

  $ 25,633,327       $ 10,772,475  

¤ Cost of foreign currency

  $ 28,827       $  

^ Cost of payable for foreign currency

  $       $ (323,957

A The Fund’s investments in affiliated securities did not have unrealized appreciation (depreciation) at year end.

 

B Class commenced operations January 22, 2019 in the Tocqueville International Value Fund (Note 1).

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

24


American Beacon FundsSM

Statements of Operations

For the year ended October 31, 2019

 

 

    International
Equity Fund
          Tocqueville
International
Value Fund
 

Investment income:

 

Dividend income from unaffiliated securities (net of foreign taxes)

  $ 99,992,341       $ 21,503,632  

Dividend income from affiliated securities (Note 8)

    2,015,977         676,573  

Interest income

    167,849         117,039  

Income derived from securities lending (Note 9)

    981,832         171,542  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total investment income

    103,157,999         22,468,786  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Management and sub-advisory fees (Note 2)

    17,264,838         4,477,041  

Investment advisor’s feesB

    -         2,106,854  

Transfer agent fees:

     

Institutional Class (Note 2)A

    525,035         4,601  

Y Class (Note 2)A

    939,874         99,843  

Investor Class

    12,316         164,131  

Advisor Class

    2,647         -  

A Class

    4,100         -  

C Class

    3,793         -  

R6 Class

    5,934         -  

Custody and fund accounting fees

    799,432         283,978  

Professional fees

    181,753         146,004  

Registration fees and expenses

    149,404         72,462  

Service fees (Note 2):

     

Investor Class

    822,238         1,115,199  

Advisor Class

    110,520         -  

A Class

    23,354         -  

C Class

    6,893         -  

Distribution fees (Note 2):

     

Investor ClassG

    -         528,972  

Advisor Class

    110,578         -  

A Class

    33,509         -  

C Class

    60,744         -  

Administration feesE

    -         292,677  

Prospectus and shareholder report expenses

    415,465         220,528  

Trustee fees (Note 2)

    212,096         96,643  

Other expenses

    474,805         192,153  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total expenses

    22,159,328         9,801,086  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net fees waived and expenses (reimbursed) (Note 2)

    (43,265       (693,429 )F 
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net expenses

    22,116,063         9,107,657  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net investment income

    81,041,936         13,361,129  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

25


American Beacon FundsSM

Statements of Operations

For the year ended October 31, 2019

 

 

    International
Equity Fund
          Tocqueville
International
Value Fund
 

Realized and unrealized gain (loss) from investments:

 

Net realized gain (loss) from:

     

Investments in unaffiliated securitiesC

  $ (71,915,300     $ 2,997,047  

Commission recapture (Note 1)

    27,427         -  

Foreign currency transactions

    (821,458       (911,262

Forward foreign currency contracts

    (4,704,460       -  

Futures contracts

    4,633,028         -  

Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of:

     

Investments in unaffiliated securitiesD

    141,491,860         11,001,044  

Foreign currency transactions

    87,203         (878

Forward foreign currency contracts

    2,354,220         -  

Futures contracts

    5,582,029         -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net gain from investments

    76,734,549         13,085,951  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net increase in net assets resulting from operations

  $ 157,776,485       $ 26,447,080  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Foreign taxes

  $ 9,602,158       $ 2,131,591  

A Class commenced operations January 22, 2019 in the Tocqueville International Value Fund (Note 1).

 

B This expense represents the Investment advisory fees paid to previous Advisor prior to the Reorganization. See Note 2.

 

C The Fund did not recognize net realized gains (losses) from the sale of investments in affiliated securities.

 

D The Fund’s investments in affiliated securities did not have a change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) at year end.

 

E This expense represents Administration fees paid to the previous Advisor prior to the Reorganization. See Note 2.

 

F This expense includes $684,461 of fees waived by the Tocqueville International Value Fund prior to the Reorganization. See Note 1.

 

G This expense represents Distribution fees paid to the previous Distributor prior to the Reorganization. See Note 2.

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

26


American Beacon FundsSM

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

 

    International Equity Fund           Tocqueville International Value Fund  
    Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          Year Ended
October 31, 2018
          Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          Year Ended
October 31, 2018B
 

Increase (decrease) in net assets:

             

Operations:

             

Net investment income

  $ 81,041,936       $ 66,429,991       $ 13,361,129       $ 16,561,256  

Net realized gain (loss) from investments in unaffiliated securities, commission recapture, foreign currency transactions, forward foreign currency contracts, and futures contracts

    (72,780,763       170,565,282         2,085,785         (9,208,831

Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments in unaffiliated securities, foreign currency transactions, forward foreign currency contracts, and futures contracts

    149,515,312         (482,846,814       11,000,166         (185,661,979
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    157,776,485         (245,851,541       26,447,080         (178,309,554
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Distributions to shareholders:

             

Total retained earnings:

             

Institutional ClassA

    (127,130,889       (51,858,343       -         -  

Y ClassA

    (70,121,553       (30,796,239       -         -  

Investor Class

    (20,019,511       (8,756,108       (12,373,617       (14,880,734

Advisor Class

    (3,580,435       (1,516,721       -         -  

A Class

    (1,054,868       (482,751       -         -  

C Class

    (488,926       (155,808       -         -  

R6 Class

    (7,544,822       (351,275       -         -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net distributions to shareholders

    (229,941,004       (93,917,245       (12,373,617       (14,880,734
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Capital share transactions (Note 11):

             

Proceeds from sales of shares

    802,141,221         802,744,600         577,502,947         500,256,514  

Reinvestment of dividends and distributions

    217,857,545         86,428,547         11,224,453         13,265,360  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (971,911,716       (740,146,553       (1,040,964,339       (381,325,273
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions

    48,087,050         149,026,594         (452,236,939       132,196,601  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net (decrease) in net assets

    (24,077,469       (190,742,192       (438,163,476       (60,993,687
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net assets:

             

Beginning of period

    2,887,178,017         3,077,920,209         1,060,000,108         1,120,993,795  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

End of period

  $ 2,863,100,548       $ 2,887,178,017       $ 621,836,632       $ 1,060,000,108  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
A Class commenced operations January 22, 2019 in the Tocqueville International Value Fund (Note 1).

 

B This Fund was reorganized on January 18, 2019 and became a series within the American Beacon Funds Trust thereafter.

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

27


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

1.  Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

American Beacon Funds (the “Trust”) is organized as a Massachusetts business trust. The Funds, each a series within the Trust, are registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Act”), as diversified, open-end management investment companies. As of October 31, 2019, the Trust consists of thirty-two active series, two of which are presented in this filing: American Beacon International Equity Fund and American Beacon Tocqueville International Value Fund (collectively, the “Funds” and each individually a “Fund”). The remaining thirty active series are reported in separate filings.

American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (the “Manager”) is a Delaware corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (“RIM”) organized in 1986 to provide business management, advisory, administrative, and asset management consulting services to the Trust and other investors. The Manager is registered as an investment advisor under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the “Advisers Act”). RIM is, in turn, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Acquisition, Inc., which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Topco, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC (“RIH”). RIH is owned primarily by Kelso Investment Associates VIII, L.P., KEP VI, LLC and Estancia Capital Partners L.P., investment funds affiliated with Kelso & Company, L.P. (“Kelso”) or Estancia Capital Management, LLC (“Estancia”), which are private equity firms.

Fund Reorganization

On September 13, 2018, the Trust’s Board of Trustees approved a Plan of Reorganization and Termination (the “Plan”) to reorganize the Tocqueville International Value Fund (the “Target Fund” and “Predecessor Fund”) into the American Beacon Tocqueville International Value Fund (the “Acquiring Fund”), a newly-created series of the Trust (the “Reorganization”). Shareholders for the Target Fund approved the Plan at a special meeting on December 13, 2018. On January 18, 2019, pursuant to the Plan, the Target Fund transferred all its property and assets to the Acquiring Fund in exchange solely for voting shares of the Acquiring Fund and the assumption of all the Target Fund’s liabilities. The Target Fund’s shareholders received a pro rata portion of the Acquiring Fund’s shares in exchange for their shares therein and in liquidation and termination of the Target Fund. The accounting and performance history of the shares of the Target Fund was redesignated as that of the Investor Class of the Acquiring Fund. Institutional Class and Y Class commenced operations on January 22, 2019.

The Reorganization was structured to qualify as a tax-free reorganization under the Internal Revenue Code for federal income tax purposes. As such, the Target Fund’s shareholders recognized no gain or loss for federal income tax purposes. The shares, net assets, net investment income, and net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of the investments of the Target Fund as of the close of business on January 18, 2019 were as follows:

 

Investor Class Shares

     58,023,801  

Net Assets

   $ 857,320,479  

Net Investment Income

   $ 283,068  

Unrealized Depreciation

   $ (8,771,740

The Reorganization shifted the management oversight responsibility from Tocqueville Asset Management, L.P. (“Tocqueville”) to the Manager. The Manager engaged Tocqueville as the sub-advisor to the Acquiring Fund, thus maintaining the continuity of the portfolio management.

For financial reporting purposes, assets received, and shares issued by the Acquiring Fund were recorded at fair value; however, the cost basis of the investments received from the Target Fund was carried forward to align ongoing reporting of the Acquiring Fund’s realized and unrealized gains and losses with the amount distributable to shareholders for tax purposes.

 

 

28


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2017-08, Premium Amortization of Purchased Callable Debt Securities. The amendments in the ASU shorten the premium amortization period on a purchased callable debt security from the security’s contractual life to the earliest call date. It is anticipated that this change will enhance disclosures by reducing losses recognized when a security is called on an earlier date. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. The Manager continues to evaluate the impact this ASU will have on the financial statements and other disclosures.

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (“Topic 820”). The amendments in the ASU impact disclosure requirements for fair value measurement. It is anticipated that this change will enhance the effectiveness of disclosures in the notes to the financial statements. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted and can include the entire standard or certain provisions that exclude or amend disclosures. For the year ended October 31, 2019, the Funds have chosen to adopt the standard. The adoption of this ASU guidance did not have a material impact on the financial statements and other disclosures.

Class Disclosure

On January 22, 2019, the Tocqueville International Value Fund created the Institutional and Y Classes, new classes made available for sale pursuant to the Fund’s registration statement filed with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”). Refer to the Fund’s prospectus for more details.

Each Fund has multiple classes of shares designed to meet the needs of different groups of investors. The following table sets forth the differences amongst the classes:

 

Class

  

Eligible Investors

   Minimum Initial
Investments
 
Institutional    Large institutional investors - sold directly or through intermediary channels.    $ 250,000  
Y Class    Large institutional retirement plan investors - sold directly or through intermediary channels.    $ 100,000  
Investor    All investors using intermediary organizations, such as broker-dealers or retirement plan sponsors.    $ 2,500  
Advisor Class    All investors who invest through intermediary organizations, such as broker-dealers or third party administrators.    $ 2,500  
A Class    All investors who invest through intermediary organizations, such as broker-dealers or third party administrator. Retail investors who invest directly through a financial intermediary such as a broker, bank, or registered investment advisor which may include a front-end sales charge and a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”).    $ 2,500  
C Class    Retail investors who invest directly through a financial intermediary such as a broker or through employee directed benefit plans with applicable sales charges which may include CDSC.    $ 1,000  
R6 Class    Large institutional retirement plan investors - sold through retirement plan sponsors.      None  

Each class offered by the Trust has equal rights as to assets and voting privileges. Income and non-class specific expenses are allocated daily to each class based on the relative net assets. Realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of each class are allocated daily based on the relative net assets of each class of the respective Fund. Class specific expenses, where applicable, currently include service, distribution, transfer agent fees, and sub-transfer agent fees that vary amongst the classes as described more fully in Note 2.

 

 

29


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Significant Accounting Policies

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies, consistently followed by the Funds in preparation of the financial statements. The Funds are considered investment companies and accordingly, follow the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946, Financial Services – Investment Companies, a part of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“U.S. GAAP”).

Security Transactions and Investment Income

Security transactions are recorded as of the trade date for financial reporting purposes. Securities purchased or sold on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis may be settled beyond a standard settlement period for the security after the trade date.

Dividend income, net of foreign taxes, is recorded on the ex-dividend date, except certain dividends from foreign securities which are recorded as soon as the information is available to the Funds. Interest income, net of foreign taxes, is earned from settlement date, recorded on the accrual basis, and adjusted, if necessary, for accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums. Realized gains (losses) from securities sold are determined based on specific lot identification.

Currency Translation

All assets and liabilities initially expressed in foreign currency values are converted into U.S. dollar values at the mean of the bid and ask prices of such currencies against U.S. dollars as last quoted by a recognized dealer. Income, expenses, and purchases and sales of investments are translated into U.S. dollars at the rate of the exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. The effect of changes in foreign currency exchange rates on investments is separately identified from the fluctuations arising from changes in market values of securities held and is reported with all other foreign currency gains and losses on the Funds’ Statements of Operations.

Distributions to Shareholders

The Funds distribute most or all of its net earning and realized gains, if any, each taxable year in the form of dividends from net investment income and distributions of realized net capital gains and net gains from foreign currency translations on an annual basis. The Funds do not have a fixed dividend rate and do not guarantee that it will pay any distributions in any particular period. Dividends to shareholders are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ in amount and character from net investment income and realized gains recognized for purposes of U.S. GAAP. To the extent necessary to fully distribute capital gains, the Funds may designate earnings and profits distributed to shareholders on the redemption of shares.

Commission Recapture

The Funds have established brokerage commission recapture arrangements with certain brokers or dealers. If the Funds’ investment advisor chooses to execute a transaction through a participating broker, the broker rebates a portion of the commission back to the Funds. Any collateral benefit received through participation in the commission recapture program is directed exclusively to the Funds. This amount is reported with the net realized gain (loss) in the Funds’ Statements of Operations, if applicable.

Allocation of Income, Trust Expenses, Gains, and Losses

Investment income, realized and unrealized gains and losses from investments of the Funds are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class to the total net assets of the Funds. Expenses directly charged or attributable to the Funds will be paid from the assets of the Fund. Generally, expenses of the Trust will be allocated among and charged to the assets of the Funds on a basis that the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”) deems fair and equitable, which may be based on the relative net assets of the Funds or nature of the services performed and relative applicability to the Funds.

 

 

30


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results may differ from those estimated.

Other

Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and trustees are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. In the normal course of business, the Trust enters into contracts that provide indemnification to the other party or parties against potential costs or liabilities. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made in the future and, therefore, cannot be estimated. The Trust has had no prior claims or losses pursuant to any such agreement.

2.  Transactions with Affiliates

Management and Investment Sub-Advisory Agreements

Prior to the Reorganization, the Advisor of the Predecessor fund received an investment advisory fee calculated daily and payable monthly, at an annual rate of 1.00% on the first $1 billion of the average daily assets and 0.75% of the average daily net assets in excess of $1 billion of the Predecessor Fund.

The Funds and the Manager are parties to a Management Agreement that obligates the Manager to provide the Funds with investment advisory and administrative services. As compensation for performing the duties under the Management Agreement, the Manager will receive an annualized management fee based on a percentage of the Funds’ average daily net assets that is calculated and accrued daily according to the following schedules:

International Equity Fund

 

First $15 billion

     0.35

Next $15 billion

     0.325

Over $30 billion

     0.30

Tocqueville International Value Fund

 

First $5 billion

     0.35

Next $5 billion

     0.325

Next $10 billion

     0.30

Over $20 billion

     0.275

The Trust, on behalf of the American Beacon International Equity Fund, and the Manager have entered into Investment Advisory Agreements with Causeway Capital Management LLC; Lazard Asset Management LLC; and Templeton Investment Counsel, LLC (“Sub-Advisors”) pursuant to which the Fund has agreed to pay an annualized sub-advisory fee that is calculated and accrued daily based on the Fund’s average daily net assets.

The Trust, on behalf of the American Beacon Tocqueville International Value Fund, and the Manager have entered into an Investment Advisory Agreement with Tocqueville Asset Management L.P. (“Sub-Advisor”) pursuant to which the Fund has agreed to pay an annualized sub-advisory fee that is calculated and accrued daily according to the following schedule:

 

First $1 billion

     0.40

Next $1 billion

     0.35

Over $2 billion

     0.325

 

 

 

31


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

The Management and Sub-Advisory Fees paid by the Funds for the year ended October 31, 2019 were as follows:

International Equity Fund

 

     Effective Fee Rate            Amount of Fees Paid  

Management Fees

     0.35      $ 9,964,028  

Sub-Advisor Fees

     0.26        7,300,810  
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

     0.61      $ 17,264,838  
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Tocqueville International Value Fund

 

     Effective Fee Rate            Amount of Fees Paid*  

Management Fees

     0.35      $ 2,099,452  

Sub-Advisor Fees

     0.40        2,377,589  
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

Total

     0.75      $ 4,477,041  
  

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

*

This includes fees paid since the reorganization on January 18, 2019.

As compensation for services provided by the Manager in connection with securities lending activities conducted by the Funds, the lending Fund pays to the Manager, with respect to cash collateral posted by borrowers, a fee of 10% of the net monthly interest income (the gross interest income earned by the investment of cash collateral, less the amount paid to borrowers and related expenses) from such activities and, with respect to loan fees paid by borrowers, a fee up to 10% of such loan fees. These fees are included in “Income derived from securities lending” and “Management and investment advisory fees” on the Statements of Operations. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Manager received securities lending fees of $100,599 and $19,356 for the securities lending activities of the International Equity Fund and Tocqueville International Value Fund, respectively.

Administration Services Agreement

Prior to the Reorganization, the Predecessor Fund paid the Advisor, pursuant to an Administrative Services Agreement, a fee computed and paid monthly at an annual rate of 0.15% on the first $400 million of the average daily net assets, 0.13% on the next $600 million of the average daily net assets; and 0.12% on all the average daily net assets over $1 billion.

Distribution Plans

Prior to the Reorganization, the Predecessor Shares incurred $528,972 of Distribution Fees. Since the Reorganization, the Shares were redesignated to the Investor Class and Distribution Fees are no longer applicable.

The Funds, except for the Advisor, A, and C Classes of the Funds, have adopted a “defensive” Distribution Plan (the “Plan”) in accordance with Rule 12b-1 under the Act, pursuant to which no separate fees may be charged to the Funds for distribution purposes. However, the Plan authorizes the management fee received by the Manager and the investment advisors hired by the Manager to be used for distribution purposes. Under this Plan, the Funds do not intend to compensate the Manager or any other party, either directly or indirectly, for the distribution of Fund shares.

Separate Distribution Plans (the “Distribution Plans”) have been adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act for the Advisor, A, and C Classes of the Funds. Under the Distribution Plans, as compensation for distribution and shareholder servicing assistance, the Manager receives an annual fee of 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Advisor and A Classes and 1.00% of the average daily net assets of the C Class. The fee will be payable without regard to whether the amount of the fee is more or less than the actual expenses incurred in a particular month by the Manager for distribution assistance.

 

 

32


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Service Plans

The Manager and the Trust entered into Service Plans that obligate the Manager to oversee additional shareholder servicing of the Investor, Advisor, A, and C Classes of the Funds. As compensation for performing the duties required under the Service Plans, the Manager receives an annualized fee up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the A and C Classes, up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Advisor Class, and up to 0.375% of the average daily net assets of the Investor Class of the Funds.

Sub-Transfer Agent Fees

The Manager has entered into agreements, which include servicing agreements, with financial intermediaries that provide recordkeeping, processing, shareholder communications and other services to customers of the intermediaries that hold positions in the Institutional and Y Classes of the Funds and has agreed to compensate the intermediaries for providing these services. Intermediaries transact with the Funds primarily through the use of omnibus accounts on behalf of their customers who hold positions in the Funds. Certain services would have been provided by the Funds’ transfer agent and other service providers if the shareholders’ accounts were maintained directly by the Funds’ transfer agent. Accordingly, the Funds, pursuant to Board approval, have agreed to reimburse the Manager for certain non-distribution shareholder services provided by financial intermediaries for the Institutional and Y Classes. The reimbursement amounts (sub-transfer agent fees) paid to the Manager are subject to a fee limit of up to 0.10% of an intermediary’s average net assets in the Institutional and Y Classes on an annual basis. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the sub-transfer agent fees, as reflected in “Transfer agent fees” on the Statements of Operations, were as follows:

 

Fund

   Sub-Transfer Agent Fees  

International Equity

   $ 1,371,105  

Tocqueville International Value

     89,921  

As of October 31, 2019, the Funds owed the Manager the following reimbursement of sub-transfer agent fees, as reflected in “Transfer agent fees payable” on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities:

 

Fund

   Reimbursement
Sub-Transfer Agent Fees
 

International Equity

   $ 128,636  

As of October 31, 2019, the Funds owed the Manager the following reimbursement of sub-transfer agent fees, as reflected in “Transfer agent fees payable” on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities:

 

Fund

   Reimbursement
Sub-Transfer Agent Fees*
 

Tocqueville International Value

   $ 14,584  

 

* 

This balance is presented as a contra liability as of October 31, 2019.

Investments in Affiliated Funds

The Funds may invest in the American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund (the “USG Select Fund”). Cash collateral received by the Funds in connection with securities lending may also be invested in the USG Select Fund. The Funds and the USG Select Fund have the same investment advisor and therefore, are considered to be affiliated. The Manager serves as investment advisor to the USG Select Fund and receives management fees and administrative fees totaling 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the USG Select Fund. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Manager earned fees on the Funds’ direct investments and securities lending collateral investments in the USG Select Fund as shown below:

 

 

33


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

 

Fund

   Direct Investments in
USG Select Fund
     Securities Lending
Collateral
Investments in USG
Select Fund
     Total  

International Equity

   $ 91,589      $ 37,256      $ 128,845  

Tocqueville International Value

     30,671        6,239        36,910  

Interfund Credit Facility

Pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the SEC, the Funds, along with other registered investment companies having management contracts with the Manager, may participate in a credit facility whereby each fund, under certain conditions, is permitted to lend money directly to and borrow directly from other participating funds for temporary purposes. The interfund credit facility is advantageous to the Funds because it provides added liquidity and eliminates the need to maintain higher cash balances to meet redemptions. This situation could arise when shareholder redemptions exceed anticipated volumes and certain funds have insufficient cash on hand to satisfy such redemptions or when sales of securities do not settle as expected, resulting in a cash shortfall for a fund. When a fund liquidates portfolio securities to meet redemption requests, they often do not receive payment in settlement for up to two days (or longer for certain foreign transactions). Redemption requests normally are satisfied on the next business day. The credit facility provides a source of immediate, short-term liquidity pending settlement of the sale of portfolio securities. The credit facility is administered by a credit facility team consisting of professionals from the Manager’s asset management, compliance, and accounting areas who report the activities of the credit facility to the Board. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Funds did not utilize the credit facility.

Expense Reimbursement Plan

The Manager contractually agreed to reduce fees and/or reimburse expenses for the R6 Class of the International Equity Fund and the Institutional and Y Classes of the Tocqueville International Value Fund to the extent that total operating expenses exceed the Funds’ expense cap. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Manager waived and/or reimbursed expenses as follows:

 

Fund

   Class   Expense Cap     Reimbursed
Expenses
     Expenses
Ineligible for
Recoupment
     (Recouped)
Expenses
     Expiration of
Reimbursed
Expenses
 
  11/1/2018 -
10/31/2019
 

International Equity

   R6     0.66   $ 43,265      $      $        2021 - 2022  

Tocqueville International Value

   Institutional(1)     0.89     8,968                      2021 - 2022  

Tocqueville International Value

   Y(1)     0.99                          2021 - 2022  

Tocqueville International Value

   Investor     1.25     684,461        684,461               2021 - 2022  

 

(1) 

Class commenced operations January 22, 2019.

Of these amounts, $10,693 was disclosed as a receivable to the Manager for the International Equity Fund and $49,861 was disclosed as a payable to the Manager for the Tocqueville International Value Fund on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities at October 31, 2019.

The Funds have adopted an Expense Reimbursement Plan whereby the Manager may seek repayment of such fee reductions and expense reimbursements. Under the policy, the Manager can be reimbursed by the Funds for any contractual or voluntary fee reductions or expense reimbursements if reimbursement to the Manager (a) occurs within three years after the date of the Manager’s waiver/reimbursement and (b) does not cause the Funds’ annual operating expenses to exceed the lesser of the contractual percentage limit in effect at the time of the waiver/reimbursement or time of recoupment. The reimbursed expenses listed above will expire in 2021-2022. The Funds

 

 

34


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

did not record a liability for potential reimbursements due to the current assessment that reimbursements are unlikely. The carryover of excess expenses potentially reimbursable to the Manager are as follows:

 

Fund

   Recouped
Expenses
     Excess Expense
Carryover
     Expired Expense
Carryover
     Expiration of
Reimbursed
Expenses
 

International Equity

   $               –      $ 3,001      $        2019 - 2020  

International Equity

            8,383               2020 - 2021  

Sales Commissions

The Funds’ Distributor, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (“RID” or “Distributor”), may receive a portion of Class A sales charges from broker dealers and it may be used to offset distribution related expenses. During the year ended October 31, 2019, RID collected $1,371 for International Equity Fund from the sale of Class A Shares. The Tocqueville International Value Fund does not offer Class A Shares.

A CDSC of 0.50% will be deducted with respect to Class A Shares on certain purchases of $1,000,000 or more that are redeemed in whole or part within 18 months of purchase, unless waived as discussed in the Funds’ Prospectus. Any applicable CDSC will be 0.50% of the lesser of the original purchase price or the value of the redemption of the Class A Shares redeemed. During the year ended October 31, 2019, there were no CDSC fees collected for Class A Shares of the International Equity Fund.

A CDSC of 1.00% will be deducted with respect to Class C shares of the International Equity Fund redeemed within 12 months of purchase, unless waived as discussed in the Funds’ Prospectus. Any applicable CDSC will be 1.00% of the lesser of the original purchase price or the value of the redemption of the Class C Shares redeemed. During the year ended October 31, 2019, CDSC fees of $254 were collected for the Class C Shares of International Equity Fund. The Tocqueville International Value Fund does not offer Class C Shares.

Trustee Fees and Expenses

As compensation for their service to the Trusts, each Trustee receives an annual retainer of $120,000, plus $10,000 for each Board meeting attended in person or via teleconference, $2,500 for attendance by Committee members at meetings of the Audit Committee and the Investment Committee, and $1,500 for attendance by Committee members at meetings of the Nominating and Governance Committee, plus reimbursement of reasonable expenses incurred in attending Board meetings, Committee meetings, and relevant educational seminars. The Trustees also may be compensated for attendance at special Board and/or Committee meetings from time to time. The Board Chair receives an additional annual retainer of $50,000 as well as a $2,500 fee each quarter for attendance at the committee meetings. The Chairpersons of the Audit Committee and the Investment Committee each receive an additional annual retainer of $25,000 and the Chairman of the Nominating and Governance Committee receives an additional annual retainer of $10,000. These expenses are allocated on a prorated basis to each fund of the Trusts according to its respective net assets.

3.  Security Valuation and Fair Value Measurements

The price of the Fund’s shares is based on its net asset value (“NAV”) per share. The Fund’s NAV is computed by adding total assets, subtracting all the Fund’s liabilities, and dividing the result by the total number of shares outstanding.

The NAV of each class of the Fund’s shares is determined based on a pro rata allocation of the Fund’s investment income, expenses and total capital gains and losses. The Fund’s NAV per share is determined each business day as of the regular close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE” or “Exchange”), which is typically 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time (“ET”). However, if trading on the NYSE closes at a time other than 4:00 p.m. ET, the Fund’s NAV per share typically would still be determined as of the regular close of trading on the NYSE. The Fund does not price its shares on days that the NYSE is closed. Foreign exchanges may permit trading in foreign

 

 

35


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

securities on days when the Fund is not open for business, which may result in the value of the Fund’s portfolio investments being affected at a time when you are unable to buy or sell shares.

Equity securities, including shares of closed-end funds and exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”), are valued at the last sale price or official closing price taken from the primary exchange in which each security trades. Investments in other mutual funds are valued at the closing NAV per share on the day of valuation. Debt securities are valued at bid quotes from broker/dealers or evaluated bid prices from pricing services, who may consider a number of inputs and factors, such as prices of comparable securities, yield curves, spreads, credit ratings, coupon rates, maturity, default rates, and underlying collateral. Futures are valued based on their daily settlement prices. Exchange-traded and over-the-counter (“OTC”) options are valued at the last sale price. Options with no last sale for the day are priced at mid quote. Swaps are valued at evaluated mid prices from pricing services.

The valuation of securities traded on foreign markets and certain fixed-income securities will generally be based on prices determined as of the earlier closing time of the markets on which they primarily trade unless a significant event has occurred. When the Fund holds securities or other assets that are denominated in a foreign currency, the Fund will normally use the currency exchange rates as of 4:00 p.m. ET.

Securities may be valued at fair value, as determined in good faith and pursuant to procedures approved by the Board, under certain limited circumstances. For example, fair value pricing will be used when market quotations are not readily available or reliable, as determined by the Manager, such as when (i) trading for a security is restricted or stopped; (ii) a security’s trading market is closed (other than customary closings); or (iii) a security has been de-listed from a national exchange. A security with limited market liquidity may require fair value pricing if the Manager determines that the available price does not reflect the security’s true market value. In addition, if a significant event that the Manager determines to affect the value of one or more securities held by the Fund occurs after the close of a related exchange but before the determination of the Fund’s NAV, fair value pricing may be used on the affected security or securities. Securities of small-capitalization companies are also more likely to require a fair value determination using these procedures because they are more thinly traded and less liquid than the securities of larger-capitalization companies. The Fund may fair value securities as a result of significant events occurring after the close of the foreign markets in which the Fund invests as described below. In addition, the Fund may invest in illiquid securities requiring these procedures.

The Fund may use fair value pricing for securities primarily traded in non-U.S. markets because most foreign markets close well before the Fund’s pricing time of 4:00 p.m. ET. The earlier close of these foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim and may materially affect the value of those securities. If the Manager determines that the last quoted prices of non-U.S. securities will, in its judgment, materially affect the value of some or all its portfolio securities, the Manager can adjust the previous closing prices to reflect what it believes to be the fair value of the securities as of the close of the Exchange. In deciding whether it is necessary to adjust closing prices to reflect fair value, the Manager reviews a variety of factors, including developments in foreign markets, the performance of U.S. securities markets, and the performance of instruments trading in U.S. markets that represent foreign securities and baskets of foreign securities. These securities are fair valued using a pricing service, using methods approved by the Board, that considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to intraday trading in the U.S. markets, based on indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators such as prices of relevant American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”) and futures contracts. The Valuation Committee, established by the Board, may also fair value securities in other situations, such as when a particular foreign market is closed but the Fund is open. The Fund uses outside pricing services to provide closing prices and information to evaluate and/or adjust those prices. As a means of evaluating its security valuation process, the Valuation Committee routinely compares closing prices, the next day’s opening prices in the same markets and adjusted prices.

Attempts to determine the fair value of securities introduce an element of subjectivity to the pricing of securities. As a result, the price of a security determined through fair valuation techniques may differ from the price quoted or published by other sources and may not accurately reflect the market value of the security when

 

 

36


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

trading resumes. If a reliable market quotation becomes available for a security formerly valued through fair valuation techniques, the Manager compares the new market quotation to the fair value price to evaluate the effectiveness of the Fund’s fair valuation procedures. If any significant discrepancies are found, the Manager may adjust the Fund’s fair valuation procedures.

Valuation Inputs

Various inputs may be used to determine the fair value of the Funds’ investments. These inputs are summarized in three broad levels for financial statement purposes. The inputs or methodologies used to value securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

Level 1   -   Quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
Level 2   -   Prices determined using other significant observable inputs. These may include quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, and others.
Level 3   -   Prices determined using other significant unobservable inputs. Unobservable inputs reflect the Fund’s own assumptions about the factors market participants would use in pricing an investment.

Level 1 and Level 2 trading assets and trading liabilities, at fair value

Common stocks, preferred securities, and financial derivative instruments, such as futures contracts that are traded on a national securities exchange, are stated at the last reported sale or settlement price on the day of valuation. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized as Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Preferred securities and other equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Valuation adjustments may be applied to certain securities that are solely traded on a foreign exchange to account for the market movement between the close of the foreign market and the close of the Exchange. These securities are valued using pricing service providers that consider the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to the intraday trading in the U.S. markets for investments. Securities using these valuation adjustments are categorized as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Investments in registered open-end investment management companies will be valued based upon the NAVs of such investments and are categorized as Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

OTC financial derivative instruments, such as forward foreign currency contracts derive their value from underlying asset prices, indices, reference rates, and other inputs or a combination of these factors. These contracts are normally valued on the basis of broker dealer quotations or pricing service providers. Depending on the product and the terms of the transaction, the fair value of the financial derivative contracts can be estimated by a pricing service provider using a series of techniques, including simulation pricing models. The pricing models use inputs that are observed from actively quoted markets such as issuer details, indices, spreads, interest rates, curves, dividends, and exchange rates. Financial derivatives that use similar valuation techniques and inputs as described above are categorized as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Level 3 trading assets and trading liabilities, at fair value

The valuation techniques and significant inputs used in determining the fair values of financial instruments classified as Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy are as follows.

Securities and other assets for which market quotes are not readily available are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Board or persons acting at their direction and may be categorized as Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

 

 

37


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Market quotes are considered not readily available in circumstances where there is an absence of current or reliable market-based data (e.g., trade information or broker quotes), including where events occur after the close of the relevant market, but prior to the Exchange close, that materially affect the values of the Fund’s securities or assets. In addition, market quotes are considered not readily available when, due to extraordinary circumstances, the exchanges or markets on which the securities trade, do not open for trading for the entire day and no other market prices are available. The Board has delegated to the Manager the responsibility for monitoring significant events that may materially affect the fair values of a Fund’s securities or assets and for determining whether the value of the applicable securities or assets should be re-evaluated in light of such significant events.

The Board has adopted methods for valuing securities and other assets in circumstances where market quotes are not readily available, and has delegated the responsibility for applying the valuation methods to the Manager. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, investments may be valued pursuant to guidelines established by the Board. In the event that the security or asset cannot be valued, pursuant to one of the valuation methods established by the Board, the fair value of the security or asset will be determined in good faith by the Valuation Committee, generally based upon recommendations provided by the Manager.

When a Fund uses fair valuation methods applied by the Manager that use significant unobservable inputs to determine its NAV, the securities priced using this methodology are categorized as Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. These methods may require subjective determinations about the value of a security. While the Trust’s policy is intended to result in a calculation of the Fund’s NAV that fairly reflects security values as of the time of pricing, the Trust cannot guarantee that values determined by the Board or persons acting at their direction would accurately reflect the price that a Fund could obtain for a security if it were to dispose of that security as of the time of pricing (for instance, in a forced or distressed sale). The prices used by a Fund may differ from the value that would be realized if the securities were sold.

4.  Securities and Other Investments

American Depositary Receipts

ADRs are depositary receipts for foreign issuers in registered form traded in U.S. securities markets. Depositary receipts may not be denominated in the same currency as the securities into which they may be converted. Investing in depositary receipts entails substantially the same risks as direct investment in foreign securities. There is generally less publicly available information about foreign companies and there may be less governmental regulation and supervision of foreign stock exchanges, brokers, and listed companies. In addition, such companies may use different accounting and financial standards (and certain currencies may become unavailable for transfer from a foreign currency), resulting in the Funds’ possible inability to convert immediately into U.S. currency proceeds realized upon the sale of portfolio securities of the affected foreign companies. In addition, the Funds may invest in unsponsored depositary receipts, the issuers of which are not obligated to disclose material information about the underlying securities to investors in the United States. Ownership of unsponsored depositary receipts may not entitle the Funds to the same benefits and rights as ownership of a sponsored depositary receipt or the underlying security.

Common Stock

Common stock generally takes the form of shares in a corporation which represent an ownership interest. It ranks below preferred stock and debt securities in claims for dividends and for assets of the company in a liquidation or bankruptcy. The value of a company’s common stock may fall as a result of factors directly relating to that company, such as decisions made by its management or decreased demand for the company’s products or services. A stock’s value may also decline because of factors affecting not just the company, but also companies in the same industry or sector. The price of a company’s stock may also be affected by changes in financial markets that are relatively unrelated to the company, such as changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates or industry regulation. Companies that elect to pay dividends on their common stock generally only do so after they invest in

 

 

38


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

their own business and make required payments to bondholders and on other debt and preferred stock. Therefore, the value of a company’s common stock will usually be more volatile than its bonds, other debt and preferred stock. Common stock may be exchange-traded or OTC. OTC stock may be less liquid than exchange-traded stock.

Foreign Securities

The Funds may invest in U.S. dollar-denominated and non-U.S. dollar denominated equity and debt securities of foreign issuers and foreign branches of U.S. banks, including negotiable certificates of deposit (“CDs”), bankers’ acceptances, and commercial paper. Foreign issuers are issuers organized and doing business principally outside the United States and include corporations, banks, non-U.S. governments, and quasi-governmental organizations. While investments in foreign securities may be intended to reduce risk by providing further diversification, such investments involve sovereign and other risks, in addition to the credit and market risks normally associated with domestic securities. These additional risks include the possibility of adverse political and economic developments (including political or social instability, nationalization, expropriation, or confiscatory taxation); the potentially adverse effects of unavailability of public information regarding issuers, different governmental supervision and regulation of financial markets, reduced liquidity of certain financial markets, and the lack of uniform accounting, auditing, and financial reporting standards or the application of standards that are different or less stringent than those applied in the United States; different laws and customs governing securities tracking; and possibly limited access to the courts to enforce the Funds’ rights as an investor.

Illiquid and Restricted Securities

Generally, an illiquid asset is an asset that the Funds reasonably expect cannot be sold or disposed of in current market conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the investment. Historically, illiquid securities have included securities that have not been registered under the Securities Act, securities that are otherwise not readily marketable, and repurchase agreements having a remaining maturity of longer than seven calendar days. Securities that have not been registered under the Securities Act are referred to as private placements or restricted securities and are purchased directly from the issuer or in the secondary market. These securities may be sold only in a privately negotiated transaction or pursuant to an exemption from registration. A large institutional market exists for certain securities that are not registered under the Securities Act, including repurchase agreements, commercial paper, foreign securities, municipal securities and corporate bonds and notes. Institutional investors depend on an efficient institutional market in which the unregistered security can be readily resold or on an issuer’s ability to honor a demand for repayment. However, the fact that there are contractual or legal restrictions on resale of such investments to the general public or to certain institutions may not be indicative of their liquidity.

Limitations on resale may have an adverse effect on the marketability of portfolio securities, and the Fund might be unable to dispose of restricted or other illiquid securities promptly or at reasonable prices and might thereby experience difficulty satisfying redemptions within seven calendar days. In addition, the Fund may get only limited information about an issuer, so it may be less able to predict a loss. The Fund also might have to register such restricted securities in order to dispose of them resulting in additional expense and delay. Adverse market conditions could impede such a public offering of securities. In recognition of the increased size and liquidity of the institutional market for unregistered securities and the importance of institutional investors in the formation of capital, the SEC adopted Rule 144A under the Securities Act. Rule 144A is designed to facilitate efficient trading among institutional investors by permitting the sale of certain unregistered securities to qualified institutional buyers. To the extent privately placed securities held by the Fund qualify under Rule 144A and an institutional market develops for those securities, the Fund likely will be able to dispose of the securities without registering them under the Securities Act. To the extent that institutional buyers become, for a time, uninterested in purchasing these securities, investing in Rule 144A securities could increase the level of the Fund’s illiquidity. The Manager or the sub-advisor, as applicable, may determine that certain securities qualified for trading under Rule 144A are liquid. Regulation S under the Securities Act permits the sale abroad of securities that are not registered for sale in the United States and includes a provision for U.S. investors, such as the Fund, to purchase such unregistered securities if certain conditions are met.

 

 

39


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Securities sold in private placement offerings made in reliance on the “private placement” exemption from registration afforded by Section 4(a)(2) of the Securities Act and resold to qualified institutional buyers under Rule 144A under the Securities Act (“Section 4(a)(2) securities”) are restricted as to disposition under the federal securities laws, and generally are sold to institutional investors, such as the Fund, that agree they are purchasing the securities for investment and not with an intention to distribute to the public. Any resale by the purchaser must be pursuant to an exempt transaction and may be accomplished in accordance with Rule 144A. Section 4(a)(2) securities normally are resold to other institutional investors through or with the assistance of the issuer or dealers that make a market in the Section 4(a)(2) securities, thus providing liquidity.

Restricted securities outstanding during the year ended October 31, 2019 are disclosed in the Notes to the Schedules of Investments.

Other Investment Company Securities and Other Exchange-Traded Products

The Funds may invest in shares of other investment companies, including open-end funds, closed-end funds, business development companies, ETFs, unit investment trusts, and other investment companies of the Trust. The Funds may invest in securities of an investment company advised by the Manager or a sub-advisor. Investments in the securities of other investment companies may involve duplication of advisory fees and certain other expenses. By investing in another investment company, the Funds become a shareholder of that investment company. As a result, the Funds’ shareholders indirectly will bear the Funds’ proportionate share of the fees and expenses paid by shareholders of the other investment company, in addition to the fees and expenses the Funds’ shareholders directly bear in connection with the Funds’ own operations. These other fees and expenses are reflected as Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses and are included in the Fees and Expenses Table for the Funds in their Prospectus, if applicable. Investments in other investment companies may involve the payment of substantial premiums above the value of such issuer’s portfolio securities.

Preferred Stock

A preferred stock blends the characteristics of a bond and common stock. It can offer the higher yield of a bond and has priority over common stock in equity ownership, but does not have the seniority of a bond and its participation in the issuer’s growth may be limited. Preferred stock generally has preference over common stock in the receipt of dividends and in any residual assets after payment to creditors should the issuer be dissolved. Although the dividend is set at a fixed or variable rate, in some circumstances it can be changed or omitted by the issuer. Preferred stocks are subject to the risks associated with other types of equity securities, as well as additional risks, such as credit risk, interest rate risk, potentially greater volatility and risks related to deferral, non-cumulative dividends, subordination, liquidity, limited voting rights, and special redemption rights.

5.  Financial Derivative Instruments

The Funds may utilize derivative instruments to gain market exposure on cash balances to hedge foreign currency exposure or reduce market exposure in anticipation of liquidity needs. When considering the Funds’ use of derivatives, it is important to note that the Funds do not use derivatives for the purpose of creating financial leverage.

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts

The Funds may enter into forward foreign currency contracts to hedge the exchange rate risk on investment transactions or to hedge the value of the Funds’ securities denominated in foreign currencies. Forward foreign currency contracts are valued at the forward exchange rate prevailing on the day of valuation. The Funds may also use currency contracts to increase exposure to a foreign currency or to shift exposure to foreign currency fluctuations from one country to another. The Funds bear the market risk that arises from changes in foreign exchange rates, and accordingly, the unrealized gain (loss) on these contracts is reflected in the accompanying financial statements. The Funds also bear the credit risk if the counterparty fails to perform under the contract.

 

 

40


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

During the year ended October 31, 2019, the International Equity Fund entered into forward foreign currency contracts primarily for hedging foreign currency fluctuations.

The Fund’s forward foreign currency contract notional dollar values fluctuate throughout the operating year as required to meet strategic requirements. The following table illustrates the average quarterly volume of forward foreign currency contracts. For the purpose of this disclosure, volume is measured by the amounts bought and sold in USD at each quarter end.

 

Average Forward Foreign Currency Notional Amounts
Year Ended October 31, 2019

 

Fund

  Purchased Contracts     Sold Contracts  

International Equity

  $ 102,661,725     $ 32,027,484  

Futures Contracts

Futures contracts are contracts to buy or sell a standard quantity of securities at a specified price on a future date. The Funds may enter into financial futures contracts as a method for keeping assets readily convertible to cash if needed to meet shareholder redemptions or for other needs while maintaining exposure to the stock or bond market, as applicable. The primary risks associated with the use of futures contracts are the possibility of illiquid markets or imperfect correlation between the values of the contracts and the underlying securities or that the counterparty will fail to perform its obligations.

Upon entering into a futures contract, the Funds are required to set aside or deposit with a broker an amount, termed the initial margin, which typically represents a portion of the face value of the futures contract. The Funds usually reflects this amount on the Schedules of Investments as a U.S. Treasury Bill held as collateral for futures contracts or as cash deposited with broker on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Payments to and from the broker, known as variation margin, are required to be made on a daily basis as the price of the futures contract fluctuates. Changes in initial settlement values are accounted for as unrealized appreciation (depreciation) until the contracts are terminated, at which time realized gains and losses are recognized. Futures contracts are valued at the most recent settlement price established each day by the exchange on which they are traded.

During the year ended October 31, 2019, the International Equity Fund entered into futures contracts primarily for return enhancement, hedging and exposing cash to markets.

The Fund’s average futures contracts outstanding fluctuate throughout the operating year as required to meet strategic requirements. The following table illustrates the average quarterly volume of futures contracts. For the purpose of this disclosure, volume is measured by contracts outstanding at each quarter end.

 

Average Futures Contracts Outstanding

 

Fund

  Year Ended October 31, 2019  

International Equity

    1,077  

 

 

41


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

The following is a summary of the fair valuations of the Funds’ derivative instruments categorized by risk exposure(1):

International Equity Fund

 

Fair values of financial instruments on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities as of October 31, 2019:

 

    Derivatives not accounted for as hedging instruments

Assets:

  Credit contracts       Foreign exchange
contracts
      Commodity
contracts
      Interest rate
contracts
      Equity contracts       Total
Receivable for variation margin from open futures contracts(2)     $         $ -         $         $         $ 2,853,101         $ 2,853,101
                                           
The effect of financial derivative instruments on the Statements of Operations as of October 31, 2019:

 

    Derivatives not accounted for as hedging instruments

Realized gain (loss) from derivatives
recognized as a result of operations

  Credit contracts       Foreign exchange
contracts
      Commodity
contracts
      Interest rate
contracts
      Equity contracts       Total
Forward foreign currency contracts     $         $ (4,704,460 )         $         $         $         $ (4,704,460 )
Futures contracts                                               4,633,028           4,633,028

Net change in unrealized appreciation
(depreciation) of derivatives recognized
as a result from operations:

  Credit contracts       Foreign exchange
contracts
      Commodity
contracts
      Interest rate
contracts
      Equity contracts       Total
Forward foreign currency contracts     $  –         $ 2,354,220         $  –         $  –         $         $ 2,354,220
Futures contracts                                               5,582,029           5,582,029

(1) See Note 3 in the Notes to Financial Statements for additional information.

(2) Includes cumulative appreciation (depreciation) of futures contracts as reported in the Fund’s Schedule of Investments footnotes. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

Master Agreements

Master Securities Forward Transaction Agreements (“Master Forward Agreements”) govern the considerations and factors surrounding the settlement of certain forward settling transactions, such as delayed delivery or sale-buyback financing transactions by and between a Fund and select counterparties. The Master Forward Agreements maintain provisions for, among other things, initiation and confirmation, payment and transfer, events of default, termination, and maintenance of collateral.

Offsetting Assets and Liabilities

The Funds are parties to enforceable master netting agreements between brokers and counterparties which provide for the right to offset under certain circumstances. The Funds employ multiple money managers and counterparties and have elected not to offset qualifying financial and derivative instruments on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities, as such all financial and derivative instruments are presented on a gross basis. The impacts of netting arrangements that provide the right to offset are detailed below. The net amount represents the net receivable or payable that would be due from or to the counterparty in the event of default. Exposure from borrowings and other financing agreements such as repurchase agreements can only be netted across transactions governed by the same Master Agreement with the same legal entity. All amounts reported below represent the balance as of the report date, October 31, 2019.

International Equity Fund

 

Offsetting of Financial and Derivative Assets as of October 31, 2019:      
    Assets           Liabilities  
Futures Contracts(1)   $ 2,853,101       $ -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 
Total derivative assets and liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities   $ 2,853,101       $ -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 
Derivatives not subject to a Master Netting Agreement or similar agreement (“MNA”)   $ (2,853,101     $ -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

 

42


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements
As of October 31, 2019
 
    Overnight and
Continuous
          <30 days           Between
30 & 90 days
          >90 days           Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

                 

Common Stocks

  $ 12,296,539       $ -       $ -       $ -       $ 12,296,539  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Borrowings

  $ 12,296,539       $ -       $ -       $ -       $ 12,296,539  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Gross amount of recognized liabilities for securities lending transactions

 

  $ 12,296,539  
                 

 

 

 

Tocqueville International Value Fund

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements
As of October 31, 2019
 
    Overnight and
Continuous
          <30 days           Between
30 & 90 days
          >90 days           Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

                 

Common Stocks

  $ 9,185,400       $ -       $ -       $ -       $ 9,185,400  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Borrowings

  $ 9,185,400       $ -       $ -       $ -       $ 9,185,400  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Gross amount of recognized liabilities for securities lending transactions

 

  $ 9,185,400  
                 

 

 

 

(1) Includes cumulative appreciation (depreciation) of futures contracts as reported in the Fund’s Schedule of Investments footnotes. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

6.  Principal Risks

Investing in the Funds may involve certain risks including, but not limited to, those described below.

Counterparty Risk

The Funds are subject to the risk that a party or participant to a transaction, such as a broker or derivative counterparty, will be unwilling or unable to satisfy its obligation to make timely principal, interest or settlement payments or to otherwise honor its obligations to the Funds. As a result the Funds may obtain no recovery of its investment or may only obtain a limited recovery, and any recovery may be delayed. Not all derivative transactions require a counterparty to post collateral, which may expose the Funds to greater losses in the event of a default by a counterparty.

Some of the markets in which the Funds may effect derivative transactions are OTC or “interdealer” markets. The participants in such markets are typically not subject to credit evaluation and regulatory oversight to the same extent as are members of “exchange-based” markets. This exposes the Funds to the risk that a counterparty will not settle a transaction in accordance with its terms and conditions because of a credit or liquidity problem with the counterparty and the recent turbulence in the financial markets highlights the importance of being aware of counterparty risk resulting from OTC derivative transactions. The Funds are subject to the risk that a party or participant to a transaction, such as a broker or derivative counterparty, will be unwilling or unable to satisfy its obligation to make timely principal, interest or settlement payments or to otherwise honor its obligations to the Funds. As a result, the Funds may obtain no recovery of its investment or may only obtain a limited recovery, and any recovery may be delayed. Not all derivative transactions require a counterparty to post collateral, which may expose the Funds to greater losses in the event of a default by a counterparty.

Credit Risk

The Funds are subject to the risk that the issuer or guarantor of a debt security, or the counterparty to a derivatives contract or a loan, will fail to make timely payment of interest or principal or otherwise honor its obligations or default completely. A decline in the credit rating of an individual security held by the Funds may

 

 

43


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

have an adverse impact on its price and make it difficult for the Funds to sell it. Ratings represent a rating agency’s opinion regarding the quality of the security and are not a guarantee of quality. Rating agencies might not always change their credit rating on an issuer or security in a timely manner to reflect events that could affect the issuer’s ability to make timely payments on its obligations. Credit risk is typically greater for securities with ratings that are below investment grade. Since the Funds can invest significantly in high-yield investments considered speculative in nature, this risk may be substantial.

Currency Risk

The Funds may have exposure to foreign currencies by investing in securities denominated in non-U.S. currencies or in securities denominated in non-U.S. currencies, purchasing or selling forward currency exchange contracts in non-U.S. currencies, non-U.S. currency futures contracts, options on non-U.S. currencies and non-U.S. currency futures and swaps for cross-currency investments. Foreign currencies may decline in value relative to the U.S. dollar, or, in the case of hedging positions, the U.S. dollar may decline in value relative to the currency being hedged, and thereby affect a Funds’ investments in foreign (non-U.S.) currencies or in securities that trade in, and receive revenues in, or in derivatives that provide exposure to, foreign (non-U.S.) currencies. Currency exchange rates may fluctuate significantly over short periods of time for a number of reasons, including changes in interest rates, intervention (or the failure to intervene) by U.S. or foreign governments, central banks or supranational entities such as the International Monetary Fund, or by the imposition of currency controls or other political developments in the United States or abroad. As a result, the Funds’ investments in foreign currency denominated securities may reduce the returns of the Funds. Currency futures, forwards, options or swaps may not always work as intended, and in specific cases, the Funds may be worse off than if it had not used such instrument(s). There may not always be suitable hedging instruments available. Even where suitable hedging instruments are available, the Funds may choose to not hedge its currency risks.

Equity Investments Risk

Equity securities are subject to market risk. The Funds’ investments in equity securities may include common stocks, preferred stocks, securities convertible into or exchangeable for common stocks, REITs, depositary receipts, and U.S. dollar-denominated foreign stocks traded on U.S. exchanges. Such investments may expose the Funds to additional risk. The value of a company’s common stock may fall as a result of factors affecting the company, companies in the same industry or sector, or the financial markets overall. Common stock generally is subordinate to preferred stock upon the liquidation or bankruptcy of the issuing company. Preferred stocks and convertible securities are sensitive to movements in interest rates. Preferred stocks may be less liquid than common stocks and, unlike common stocks, participation in the growth of an issuer may be limited. Distributions on preferred stocks generally are payable at the discretion of an issuer and after required payments to bond holders. Convertible securities are subject to the risk that the credit standing of the issuer may have an effect on the convertible securities’ investment value. Investments in REITs are subject to the risks associated with investing in the real estate industry such as adverse developments affecting the real estate industry and real property values. Depositary receipts and U.S. dollar-denominated foreign stocks traded on U.S. exchanges are subject to certain of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities, including, but not limited to, currency fluctuations and political and financial instability in the home country of a particular depositary receipt or foreign stock.

Foreign Investing and Emerging Markets Risk

Non-U.S. investments carry potential risks not associated with U.S. investments. Such risks include, but are not limited to: (1) currency exchange rate fluctuations, (2) political and financial instability, (3) less liquidity, (4) lack of uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, (5) increased price volatility, (6) less government regulation and supervision of foreign stock exchanges, brokers and listed companies, and (7) delays in transaction settlement in some foreign markets. To the extent the Funds invest a significant portion of its assets in securities of a single country or region, it is more likely to be affected by events or conditions of that country or region. In addition, the economies and political environments of emerging market countries tend to be more

 

 

44


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

unstable than those of developed countries, resulting in more volatile rates of return than the developed markets and substantially greater risk to investors. There may be very limited oversight of certain foreign banks or securities depositories that hold foreign securities and currency and the laws of certain countries may limit the ability to recover such assets if a foreign bank or depository or their agents goes bankrupt. When investing in emerging markets, the risks of investing in foreign securities are heightened. Emerging markets have unique risks that are greater than, or in addition to, investing in developed markets because emerging markets are generally smaller, less developed, less liquid and more volatile than the securities markets of the U.S. and other developed markets. There are also risks of: greater political uncertainties; an economy’s dependence on revenues from particular commodities or on international aid or development assistance; currency transfer restrictions; a limited number of potential buyers for such securities, resulting in increased volatility and limited liquidity for emerging market securities; trading suspensions; and delays and disruptions in securities settlement procedures. In addition, there may be less information available to make investment decisions and more volatile rates of return.

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts Risk

Forward foreign currency contracts, including non-deliverable forwards, are derivative instruments pursuant to a contract with a counterparty to pay a fixed price for an agreed amount of securities or other underlying assets at an agreed date or to buy or sell a specific currency at a future date at a price set at the time of the contract. The use of forward foreign currency contracts may expose the Funds to additional risks that it would not be subject to if it invested directly in the securities or currencies underlying the forward foreign currency contract.

Futures Contracts Risk

Futures contracts are derivative instruments where one party pays a fixed price for an agreed amount of securities or other underlying assets at an agreed date. The use of such derivative instruments may expose the Funds to additional risks that they would not be subject to if they invested directly in the securities underlying those derivatives. Futures contracts may experience potentially dramatic price changes (losses) and imperfect correlation between the price of the contract and the underlying security or index, which will increase the volatility of the Funds and may involve a small investment of cash (the amount of initial and variation margin) relative to the magnitude of the risk assumed (the potential increase or decrease in the price of the futures contract).

Market Risk

Conditions in the U.S. and many foreign economies have resulted, and may continue to result, in certain instruments experiencing unusual liquidity issues, increased price volatility and, in some cases, credit downgrades and increased likelihood of default. These events have reduced the willingness and ability of some lenders to extend credit, and have made it more difficult for some borrowers to obtain financing on attractive terms, if at all. In some cases, traditional market participants have been less willing to make a market in some types of debt instruments, which has affected the liquidity of those instruments. During times of market turmoil, investors tend to look to the safety of securities issued or backed by the U.S. Treasury, causing the prices of these securities to rise and the yields to decline. Reduced liquidity in fixed income and credit markets may negatively affect many issuers worldwide. In addition, global economies and financial markets are becoming increasingly interconnected, which increases the possibilities that conditions in one country or region might adversely impact issuers in a different country or region. A rise in protectionist trade policies, and the possibility of changes to some international trade agreements, could affect the economies of many nations in ways that cannot necessarily be foreseen at the present time.

In response to the financial crisis, the U.S. and other governments and the Federal Reserve and certain foreign central banks have taken steps to support financial markets. In some countries where economic conditions are recovering, they are nevertheless perceived as still fragile. Withdrawal of government support, failure of efforts in response to the crisis, or investor perception that such efforts are not succeeding, could adversely impact

 

 

45


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

the value and liquidity of certain securities. The severity or duration of adverse economic conditions may also be affected by policy changes made by governments or quasi-governmental organizations, including changes in tax laws. The impact of new financial regulation legislation on the markets and the practical implications for market participants may not be fully known for some time. Regulatory changes are causing some financial services companies to exit long-standing lines of business, resulting in dislocations for other market participants. In addition, political and governmental events within the U.S. and abroad, such as the U.S. government’s inability at times to agree on a long-term budget and deficit reduction plan, the threat of a federal government shutdown and threats not to increase the federal government’s debt limit, may affect investor and consumer confidence and may adversely impact financial markets and the broader economy, perhaps suddenly and to a significant degree. The U.S. government has recently reduced the federal corporate income tax rates, and future legislative, regulatory and policy changes may result in more restrictions on international trade, less stringent prudential regulation of certain players in the financial markets, and significant new investments in infrastructure and national defense. Markets may react strongly to expectations about the changes in these policies, which could increase volatility, especially if the markets’ expectations for changes in government policies are not borne out.

Changes in market conditions will not have the same impact on all types of securities. Interest rates have been unusually low in recent years in the U.S. and abroad. Because there is little precedent for this situation, it is difficult to predict the impact of a significant rate increase on various markets. For example, because investors may buy securities or other investments with borrowed money, a significant increase in interest rates may cause a decline in the markets for those investments. Regulators have expressed concern that rate increases may cause investors to sell fixed income securities faster than the market can absorb them, contributing to price volatility. In addition, there is a risk that the prices of goods and services in the U.S. and many foreign economies may decline over time, known as deflation (the opposite of inflation). Deflation may have an adverse effect on stock prices and creditworthiness and may make defaults on debt more likely. If a country’s economy slips into a deflationary pattern, it could last for a prolonged period and may be difficult to reverse.

The precise timing and the resulting impact of the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union (the “EU”), commonly referred to as “Brexit,” are not yet known. The effect on the United Kingdom’s economy will likely depend on the nature of trade relations with the EU and other major economies following its exit, which are matters to be negotiated. The outcomes may cause increased volatility and have a significant adverse impact on world financial markets, other international trade agreements, and the United Kingdom and European economies, as well as the broader global economy for some time, which could significantly adversely affect the value of the Fund’s investments in the United Kingdom and Europe.

Market Timing Risk

Because the Funds invest in foreign securities, it is particularly subject to the risk of market timing activities. Frequent trading by Fund shareholders poses risks to other shareholders in the Funds, including (i) the dilution of the Funds’ NAV, (ii) an increase in the Funds’ expenses, and (iii) interference with the portfolio manager’s ability to execute efficient investment strategies. Because of specific securities in which the Funds may invest, it could be subject to the risk of market timing activities by shareholders. Some examples of these types of securities are high-yield and foreign securities. The limited trading activity of some high-yield securities may result in market prices that do not reflect the true market value of these securities. The Funds generally prices foreign securities using their closing prices from the foreign markets in which they trade, typically prior to the Funds’ calculation of its NAV. These prices may be affected by events that occur after the close of a foreign market but before the Funds price its shares. In such instances, the Funds may fair value high yield and foreign securities. However, some investors may engage in frequent short-term trading in the Funds to take advantage of any price differentials that may be reflected in the NAV of the Funds’ shares. While the Manager monitors trading in the Funds, there is no guarantee that it can detect all market timing activities.

 

 

46


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Multiple Sub-Advisor Risk

The Manager may allocate the Funds’ assets among multiple sub-advisors, each of which is responsible for investing its allocated portion of the Funds’ assets. To a significant extent, the Funds’ performance will depend on the success of the Manager in allocating the Funds’ assets to sub-advisors and its selection and oversight of the sub-advisors. Because each sub-advisor manages its allocated portion of the Funds independently from another sub-advisor, the same security may be held in different portions of the Funds, or may be acquired for one portion of the Funds at a time when a sub-advisor to another portion deems it appropriate to dispose of the security from that other portion, resulting in higher expenses without accomplishing any net result in the Funds’ holdings. Similarly, under some market conditions, one sub-advisor may believe that temporary, defensive investments in short-term instruments or cash are appropriate when another sub-advisor believes continued exposure to the equity or debt markets is appropriate for its allocated portion of the Funds. Because each sub-advisor directs the trading for its own portion of the Funds, and does not aggregate its transactions with those of the other sub-advisors, the Funds may incur higher brokerage costs than would be the case if a single sub-adviser were managing the entire Fund. In addition, while the Manager seeks to allocate the Funds’ assets among the Funds’ sub-advisors in a manner that it believes is consistent with achieving the Funds’ investment objective(s), the Manager may be subject to potential conflicts of interest in allocating the Funds’ assets among sub-advisors due to factors that could impact the Manager’s revenues and profits.

Other Investment Companies Risk

The Funds may invest in shares of other registered investment companies, including money market funds, exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”). To the extent that the Funds invest in shares of other registered investment companies, the Funds will indirectly bear the fees and expenses, including for example, advisory and administrative fees, charged by those investment companies in addition to the Fund’s direct fees and expenses and will be subject to the risks associated with investments in those companies. For example, the Fund’s investments in money market funds are subject to interest rate risk, credit risk, and market risk. The Funds must rely on the investment company in which it invests to achieve its investment objective. If the investment company fails to achieve its investment objective, the value of the Fund’s investment may decline, adversely affecting the Fund’s performance. ETFs are subject to the following risks that do not apply to conventional funds: (1) the market price of an ETF’s shares may trade at a discount or premium to its NAV; (2) an active trading market for an ETF’s shares may not develop or be maintained; or (3) trading of an ETF’s shares may be halted if the listing exchange’s officials deem such action appropriate, the shares are delisted from the exchange, or the activation of market-wide “circuit breakers” (which are tied to large decreases in stock prices) halts stock trading generally. An ETF that tracks an index may not precisely replicate the returns of its benchmark index. To the extent the Funds invest in other investment companies that invest in equity securities, fixed-income securities and/or foreign securities, or that track an index, the Funds are subject to the risks associated with the underlying investments held by the investment company or the index fluctuations to which the investment company is subject. ETFs have expenses associated with their operation, typically including advisory fees. For example, the Funds’ investments in money market funds are subject to interest rate risk, credit risk, and market risk.

Securities Lending Risk

A Fund may lend its portfolio securities to brokers, dealers and financial institutions to seek income. There is a risk that a borrower may default on its obligations to return loaned securities; however, a Fund’s securities lending agent indemnifies the Fund against that risk. There is a risk that the assets of a Fund’s securities lending agent may be insufficient to satisfy any contractual indemnification requirements to the Fund. Borrowers of a Fund’s securities typically provide collateral in the form of cash that is reinvested in securities. A Fund will be responsible for the risks associated with the investment of cash collateral, including any collateral invested in an affiliated money market fund. A Fund may lose money on its investment of cash collateral or may fail to earn sufficient income on its investment to meet obligations to the borrower. In addition, delays may occur in the recovery of securities from borrowers, which could interfere with a Fund’s ability to vote proxies or to settle

 

 

47


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

transactions and there is the risk of possible loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower fail financially. In any case in which the loaned securities are not returned to the Fund before an ex-dividend date, the payment in lieu of the dividend that the Fund receives from the securities’ borrower would not be treated as a dividend for federal income tax purposes and thus would not qualify for treatment as “qualified dividend income”.

Valuation Risk

This is the risk that a Fund has valued a security at a price different from the price at which it can be sold. This risk may be especially pronounced for investments, such as derivatives, which may be illiquid or which may become illiquid and for securities that trade in relatively thin markets and/or markets that experience extreme volatility. If market conditions make it difficult to value certain investments, a Fund may value these investments using more subjective methods, such as fair-value methodologies. Investors who purchase or redeem Fund shares on days when a Fund is holding fair-valued securities may receive fewer or more shares, or lower or higher redemption proceeds, than they would have received if the Fund had not fair-valued the securities or had used a different valuation methodology. The value of foreign securities, certain fixed-income securities and currencies, as applicable, may be materially affected by events after the close of the markets on which they are traded, but before a Fund determines its NAV per share. The Fund’s ability to value its investments in an accurate and timely manner may be impacted by technological issues and/or errors by third-party service providers, such as pricing services or accounting agents.

7.  Federal Income and Excise Taxes

It is the policy of each Fund to qualify as a regulated investment company (“RIC”), by complying with all applicable provisions of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended, and to make distributions of taxable income sufficient to relieve it from substantially all federal income and excise taxes. For federal income tax purposes, each Fund is treated as a single entity for the purpose of determining such qualification.

The Funds do not have any unrecorded tax liabilities in the accompanying financial statements. Each of the tax years in the four year period ended October 31, 2019 remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service. If applicable, the Funds recognize interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in “Other expenses” on the Statements of Operations.

The Funds may be subject to taxes imposed by countries in which it invests. Such taxes are generally based on returns of income earned or gains realized or repatriated. Taxes are accrued and applied to net investment income, net realized capital gains and net unrealized appreciation (depreciation), as applicable, as the income is earned or capital gains are recorded.

Dividends are categorized in accordance with income tax regulations which may treat certain transactions differently than U.S. GAAP. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying financial statements.

The tax character of distributions paid were as follows:

 

    International Equity Fund           Tocqueville International Value Fund  
    Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          Year Ended
October 31, 2018
          Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          Year Ended
October 31, 2018
 

Distributions paid from:

             

Ordinary income*

             

Institutional Class

  $ 34,537,408       $ 33,083,270       $ -       $ -  

Y Class

    18,518,557         19,410,963         -         -  

Investor Class

    4,755,772         5,187,972         12,373,617         11,212,289  

Advisor Class

    791,389         904,837         -         -  

A Class

    242,775         277,117         -         -  

C Class

    73,960         71,451         -         -  

R6 Class

    2,075,537         225,362         -         -  

 

 

48


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

    International Equity Fund           Tocqueville International Value Fund  
    Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          Year Ended
October 31, 2018
          Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          Year Ended
October 31, 2018
 

Long-term capital gains

             

Institutional Class

  $ 92,593,481       $ 18,775,073       $ -       $ -  

Y Class

    51,602,996         11,385,276         -         -  

Investor Class

    15,263,739         3,568,136         -         3,668,445  

Advisor Class

    2,789,046         611,884         -         -  

A Class

    812,093         205,634         -         -  

C Class

    414,966         84,357         -         -  

R6 Class

    5,469,285         125,913         -         -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions paid

  $ 229,941,004       $ 93,917,245       $ 12,373,617       $ 14,880,734  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

* For tax purposes, short-term capital gains are considered ordinary income distributions.

As of October 31, 2019 the components of distributable earnings (deficits) on a tax basis were as follows:

 

Fund

  Tax Cost           Unrealized
Appreciation
          Unrealized
(Depreciation)
          Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
International Equity   $ 2,784,288,995       $ 281,532,547       $ (193,543,869     $ 87,988,678  
Tocqueville International Value     617,210,711         46,352,615         (37,194,512       9,158,103  

 

Fund

  Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
          Undistributed
Ordinary Income
          Undistributed
Long-Term
Capital Gains
          Accumulated
Capital and
Other (Losses)
          Other Temporary
Differences
          Distributable
Earnings
 
International Equity   $ 87,988,678       $ 75,079,811       $ -       $ (58,290,462     $ 2       $ 104,778,029  
Tocqueville International Value     9,158,103         11,863,415         -         (4,700,350       -         16,321,168  

Financial reporting records are adjusted for permanent book/tax differences to reflect tax character. Financial records are not adjusted for temporary differences. The temporary differences between financial reporting and tax-basis reporting of unrealized appreciation (depreciation) are attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses from wash sales, the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains (losses) on certain derivative instruments, and the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains from passive foreign investment companies.

Due to inherent differences in the recognition of income, expenses, and realized gains (losses) under U.S. GAAP and federal income tax regulations, permanent differences between book and tax reporting have been identified and appropriately reclassified on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

Accordingly, the following amounts represent current year permanent differences derived from Section 732 basis adjustments as of October 31, 2019:

 

Fund

  Paid-In-Capital           Distributable
Earnings/(Deficits)
 
International Equity   $ 152,597       $ (152,597
Tocqueville International Value     -         -  

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010 (“RIC MOD”), net capital losses recognized by the Funds in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 are carried forward indefinitely and retain their character as short-term and/or long-term losses.

 

 

49


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

As of October 31, 2019, the Funds had the following capital loss carryforwards:

 

Fund

  Short-Term Capital
Loss Carryforwards
          Long-Term Capital
Loss Carryforwards
 
International Equity   $ 26,829,245       $ 31,461,217  
Tocqueville International Value     4,700,350         -  

Tocqueville International Value Fund utilized $2,557,991 in short-term capital loss carryforwards during the year ending October 31, 2019.

8.  Investment Transactions

The aggregate cost of purchases and proceeds from sales and maturities of investments, other than short-term obligations, for the year ended October 31, 2019 were as follows:

 

Fund

  Purchases (non-U.S.
Government
Securities)
          Sales (non-U.S.
Government
Securities)
 
International Equity   $ 973,870,336       $ 1,116,489,726  
Tocqueville International Value     268,562,985         688,382,419  

A summary of the Funds’ transactions in the USG Select Fund for the year ended October 31, 2019 were as follows:

 

Fund

 

Type of
Transaction

        October 31,
2018
Shares/Fair
Value
          Purchases           Sales           October 31,
2019
Shares/Fair
Value
          Dividend
Income
 
International Equity   Direct     $ 78,615,200       $ 962,961,523       $ 911,314,765       $ 130,261,958       $ 2,015,977  
International Equity   Securities Lending       43,093,443         960,702,674         991,499,578         12,296,539         N/A  
Tocqueville International Value   Direct       -         325,084,882         300,264,600         24,820,282         676,573  
Tocqueville International Value   Securities Lending       -         167,528,949         158,343,549         9,185,400         N/A  

9.  Securities Lending

The Funds may lend their securities to qualified financial institutions, such as certain broker-dealers, to earn additional income. The borrowers are required to secure their loans continuously with collateral in an amount at least equal to the fair value of the securities loaned, initially in an amount at least equal to 102% of the fair value of domestic securities loaned and 105% of the fair value of international securities loaned. Collateral is monitored and marked-to-market daily. Daily mark-to-market amounts are required to be paid to the borrower or received from the borrower by the end of the following business day. This one day settlement for mark-to-market amounts may result in the collateral being temporarily less than the value of the securities on loan or temporarily more than the required minimum collateral.

To the extent that a loan is collateralized by cash, such cash collateral shall be invested by the securities lending agent (the “Agent”) in money market mutual funds and other short-term investments, provided the investments meet certain quality and diversification requirements. Securities purchased with cash collateral proceeds are listed in the Funds’ Schedules of Investments and the collateral is shown on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities as a payable.

Securities lending income is generated from the demand premium (if any) paid by the borrower to borrow a specific security and from the return on investment of cash collateral, reduced by negotiated rebate fees paid to the borrower and transaction costs. To the extent that a loan is secured by non-cash collateral, securities lending income is generated as a demand premium reduced by transaction costs. The Funds, the Agent, and the Manager retained 80%, 10%, and 10%, respectively, of the income generated from securities lending.

While securities are on loan, the Funds continue to receive certain income associated with that security and any gain or loss in the market price that may occur during the term of the loan. In the case of domestic equities,

 

 

50


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

the value of any dividend is received in the form of a substitute payment approximately equal to the dividend. In the case of foreign securities, a negotiated amount is received that is less than the actual dividend, but higher than the dividend amount minus the foreign tax that the Funds would be subject to on the dividend.

Securities lending transactions pose certain risks to the Funds, including that the borrower may not provide additional collateral when required or return the securities when due, that the value of the short-term investments will be less than the amount of cash collateral required to be returned to the borrower, that non-cash collateral may be subject to legal constraints in the event of a borrower bankruptcy, and that the cash collateral investments could become illiquid and unable to be used to return collateral to the borrower. The Funds could also experience delays and costs in gaining access to the collateral. The Funds bear the risk of any deficiency in the amount of the cash collateral available for return to the borrower and any action which impairs its ability to liquidate non-cash collateral to satisfy a borrower default.

As of October 31, 2019, the value of outstanding securities on loan and the value of collateral were as follows:

 

Fund

  Market Value of
Securities on Loan
          Cash Collateral
Received
          Non-Cash Collateral
Received
          Total Collateral
Received
 
International Equity   $ 25,633,327       $ 12,296,539       $ 15,226,887       $ 27,523,426  
Tocqueville International Value     10,772,475         9,185,400         1,834,586         11,019,986  

Cash collateral is listed on the Funds’ Schedules of Investments and is shown on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Income earned on these investments is included in “Income derived from securities lending” on the Statements of Operations.

Non-cash collateral received by the Funds may not be sold or re-pledged except to satisfy a borrower default. Therefore, non-cash collateral is not included on the Funds’ Schedules of Investments or Statements of Assets and Liabilities.

10.  Borrowing Arrangements

Effective November 15, 2018 (the “Effective Date”), the Funds, along with certain other funds managed by the Manager (“Participating Funds”), entered into a committed revolving line of credit (the “Committed Line”) agreement with State Street Bank and Trust Company (the “Bank”) to be used to facilitate portfolio liquidity. The maximum borrowing amount under the Committed Line is $250 million with interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) one-month London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 1.25% per annum or (b) the Federal Funds rate plus 1.25% per annum on amounts borrowed. Each of the Participating Funds paid a closing fee of $100,000 on the Effective Date and a quarterly commitment fee at a rate of 0.25% per annum on the unused portion of the Committed Line amount. The Committed Line expires November 14, 2019, unless extended by the Bank or terminated by the Participating Funds in accordance with the agreement.

On the Effective Date, the Funds, along with certain other Participating Funds managed by the Manager, also entered into an uncommitted discretionary demand revolving line of credit (the “Uncommitted Line”) agreement with the Bank to be used to facilitate portfolio liquidity. The maximum borrowing amount under the Uncommitted Line is $50 million with interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) one-month LIBOR plus 1.25% per annum or (b) the Federal Funds rate plus 1.25% per annum on each outstanding loan. Each of the Participating Funds paid a closing fee of $35,000 on the Effective Date. The Uncommitted Line expires November 14, 2019 unless extended by the Bank or terminated by the Participating Funds in accordance with the agreement.

The Participating Funds paid administration, legal and arrangement fees, which are recognized as a component of “Other expenses” on the Statements of Operations, along with commitment fees, that have been allocated among the Participating Funds based on average daily net assets.

During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Funds did not utilize this facility.

 

 

51


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

11.  Capital Share Transactions

The tables below summarize the activity in capital shares for each Class of the Funds:

 

    Institutional Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

International Equity Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     24,359,431       $ 419,653,044         25,895,144       $ 534,557,653  
Reinvestment of dividends     7,634,480         120,930,168         2,331,173         48,325,212  
Shares redeemed     (35,164,350       (612,015,555       (20,735,988       (420,683,891
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding     (3,170,439     $ (71,432,343       7,490,329       $ 162,198,974  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Y Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

International Equity Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     8,988,272       $ 160,621,998         7,511,577       $ 160,616,651  
Reinvestment of dividends     3,927,273         64,839,285         1,249,691         26,893,341  
Shares redeemed     (11,858,802       (213,196,249       (9,727,486       (207,013,204
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding     1,056,743       $ 12,265,034         (966,218     $ (19,503,212
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Investor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

International Equity Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     1,642,389       $ 28,386,833         1,848,441       $ 37,668,754  
Reinvestment of dividends     1,262,316         19,843,606         423,698         8,719,712  
Shares redeemed     (4,080,763       (69,925,950       (4,046,440       (82,887,269
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net (decrease) in shares outstanding     (1,176,058     $ (21,695,511       (1,774,301     $ (36,498,803
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Advisor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

International Equity Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     562,306       $ 9,859,157         522,085       $ 10,866,488  
Reinvestment of dividends     221,918         3,579,533         72,002         1,516,353  
Shares redeemed     (849,750       (15,010,142       (662,602       (13,941,921
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net (decrease) in shares outstanding     (65,526     $ (1,571,452       (68,515     $ (1,559,080
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    A Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

International Equity Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     285,160       $ 4,957,603         341,544       $ 6,990,871  
Reinvestment of dividends     65,896         1,035,879         22,967         472,205  
Shares redeemed     (332,804       (5,767,829       (464,462       (9,545,785
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding     18,252       $ 225,653         (99,951     $ (2,082,709
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    C Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

International Equity Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     87,222       $ 1,451,278         98,798       $ 1,957,866  
Reinvestment of dividends     30,807         468,881         7,541         150,449  
Shares redeemed     (130,112       (2,138,130       (117,307       (2,311,646
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net (decrease) in shares outstanding     (12,083     $ (217,971       (10,968     $ (203,331
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 

 

 

52


American Beacon FundsSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

 

    R6 Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

International Equity Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     9,972,905       $ 177,211,308         2,465,662       $ 50,086,317  
Reinvestment of dividends     451,747         7,160,193         16,937         351,275  
Shares redeemed     (3,082,577       (53,857,861       (186,126       (3,762,837
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase in shares outstanding     7,342,075       $ 130,513,640         2,296,473       $ 46,674,755  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Institutional Class  
    January 22, 2019A to
October 31, 2019
                         

Tocqueville International Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

                         
Shares sold     2,912,811       $ 45,150,396          
Shares redeemed     (539,578       (8,170,774        
 

 

 

     

 

 

         
Net increase in shares outstanding     2,373,233       $ 36,979,622          
 

 

 

     

 

 

         
 
    Y Class  
    January 22, 2019A to
October 31, 2019
                         

Tocqueville International Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

                         
Shares sold     24,079,914       $ 375,416,084          
Shares redeemed     (9,416,423       (141,613,817        
 

 

 

     

 

 

         
Net increase in shares outstanding     14,663,491       $ 233,802,267          
 

 

 

     

 

 

         
 
    Investor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018  

Tocqueville International Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     10,601,835       $ 156,936,467         28,716,655       $ 500,256,514  
Reinvestment of dividends     783,284         11,224,453         766,784         13,265,360  
Shares redeemed     (59,020,135       (891,179,748       (22,853,917       (381,325,273
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding     (47,635,016     $ (723,018,828       6,629,522       $ 132,196,601  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

A Commencement of operations.

12.  Subsequent Events

At meetings held on November 11-12, 2019, the Board of the Trust approved the termination of Templeton Investment Counsel, LLC and appointment of American Century Investment Management, Inc. on behalf of the American Beacon International Equity Fund, effective on or about January 15, 2020.

Management has evaluated subsequent events for possible recognition or disclosure in the financial statements through the date the financial statements are issued. Management has determined that there are no additional material events that would require disclosure in the Funds’ financial statements through this date.

 

 

53


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Institutional ClassA  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 18.71       $ 20.88       $ 17.41       $ 18.79       $ 19.51  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.55         0.44         0.39         0.29         0.35  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.34         (1.95       3.51         (1.24       (0.55
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.89         (1.51       3.90         (0.95       (0.20
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.40       (0.35       (0.43       (0.27       (0.52

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.14       (0.31       -         (0.16       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (1.54       (0.66       (0.43       (0.43       (0.52
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Redemption fees added to beneficial interests

    -         -         -         -         0.00 B 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 18.06       $ 18.71       $ 20.88       $ 17.41       $ 18.79  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnC

    5.94       (7.55 )%        22.94       (5.07 )%        (0.99 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

                 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 1,499,867,401       $ 1,613,462,237       $ 1,644,165,106       $ 1,450,052,040       $ 1,037,148,821  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.73       0.73       0.73       0.69       0.70

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.73       0.73       0.73       0.69       0.69

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    2.93       2.17       2.01       2.22       1.93

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    2.93       2.17       2.01       2.22       1.94

Portfolio turnover rate

    36       29       32       25       33

 

A 

On May 31, 2016, the AMR Class closed and the assets were merged into the Institutional Class.

B 

Amount represents less than $0.01 per share.

C 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

54


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Y Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 19.42       $ 21.64       $ 18.03       $ 19.46       $ 20.21  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.54         0.46         0.38         0.41         0.35  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.37         (2.04       3.65         (1.40       (0.57
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.91         (1.58       4.03         (0.99       (0.22
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.38       (0.33       (0.42       (0.28       (0.53

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.14       (0.31       -         (0.16       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (1.52       (0.64       (0.42       (0.44       (0.53
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Redemption fees added to beneficial interests

    -         -         -         -         0.00 A 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 18.81       $ 19.42       $ 21.64       $ 18.03       $ 19.46  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    5.83       (7.58 )%        22.84       (5.14 )%        (1.06 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

                 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 896,442,437       $ 904,847,058       $ 1,029,629,647       $ 820,596,038       $ 587,949,806  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.80       0.80       0.80       0.77       0.77

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.80       0.80       0.80       0.77       0.77

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    2.87       2.10       1.95       2.43       1.87

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    2.87       2.10       1.95       2.43       1.87

Portfolio turnover rate

    36       29       32       25       33

 

A 

Amount represents less than $0.01 per share.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

55


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Investor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 18.52       $ 20.67       $ 17.24       $ 18.60       $ 19.32  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.49         0.41         0.35         0.34         0.31  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.33         (1.97       3.45         (1.33       (0.57
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.82         (1.56       3.80         (0.99       (0.26
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.33       (0.28       (0.37       (0.21       (0.46

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.14       (0.31       -         (0.16       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (1.47       (0.59       (0.37       (0.37       (0.46
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Redemption fees added to beneficial interests

    -         -         -         -         0.00 A 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 17.87       $ 18.52       $ 20.67       $ 17.24       $ 18.60  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    5.55       (7.86 )%        22.50       (5.38 )%        (1.35 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

                 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 221,043,036       $ 250,804,403       $ 316,589,769       $ 334,895,337       $ 342,720,411  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.05       1.06       1.07       1.06       1.03

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    1.05       1.06       1.07       1.06       1.03

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    2.59       1.83       1.69       1.95       1.60

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    2.59       1.83       1.69       1.95       1.60

Portfolio turnover rate

    36       29       32       25       33

 

A 

Amount represents less than $0.01 per share.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

56


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Advisor ClassA  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 18.93       $ 21.15       $ 17.62       $ 19.01       $ 19.76  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.43         0.36         0.23         0.35         0.38  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.39         (1.99       3.64         (1.37       (0.68
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.82         (1.63       3.87         (1.02       (0.30
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.30       (0.28       (0.34       (0.21       (0.45

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.14       (0.31       -         (0.16       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (1.44       (0.59       (0.34       (0.37       (0.45
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Redemption fees added to beneficial interests

    -         -         -         -         0.00 B 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 18.31       $ 18.93       $ 21.15       $ 17.62       $ 19.01  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnC

    5.38       (7.99 )%        22.38       (5.40 )%        (1.51 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

                 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 45,797,068       $ 48,571,916       $ 55,715,606       $ 23,692,313       $ 22,912,069  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.20       1.20       1.20       1.19       1.16

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    1.20       1.20       1.20       1.19       1.16

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    2.40       1.70       1.51       1.87       1.55

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    2.40       1.70       1.51       1.87       1.55

Portfolio turnover rate

    36       29       32       25       33

 

A 

On January 15, 2016, the Retirement Class closed and the assets were merged into the Advisor Class.

B 

Amount represents less than $0.01 per share.

C 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

57


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    A Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 18.50       $ 20.63       $ 17.23       $ 18.59       $ 19.32  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.45         0.38         0.30         0.32         0.31  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.36         (1.95       3.48         (1.30       (0.59
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.81         (1.57       3.78         (0.98       (0.28
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.32       (0.25       (0.38       (0.22       (0.45

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.14       (0.31       -         (0.16       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (1.46       (0.56       (0.38       (0.38       (0.45
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Redemption fees added to beneficial interests

    -         -         -         -         0.00 A 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 17.85       $ 18.50       $ 20.63       $ 17.23       $ 18.59  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    5.46       (7.89 )%        22.43       (5.34 )%        (1.42 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

                 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 13,973,709       $ 14,141,551       $ 17,829,657       $ 18,673,142       $ 10,747,749  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.15       1.08       1.12       1.07       1.08

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    1.15       1.08       1.12       1.07       1.08

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    2.50       1.80       1.65       1.94       1.55

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    2.50       1.80       1.65       1.94       1.55

Portfolio turnover rate

    36       29       32       25       33

 

A 

Amount represents less than $0.01 per share.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

58


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    C Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 17.84       $ 19.93       $ 16.73       $ 18.09       $ 18.83  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.29         0.22         0.17         0.18         0.16  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.37         (1.87       3.36         (1.28       (0.56
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.66         (1.65       3.53         (1.10       (0.40
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.18       (0.13       (0.33       (0.10       (0.34

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.14       (0.31       -         (0.16       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (1.32       (0.44       (0.33       (0.26       (0.34
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Redemption fees added to beneficial interests

    -         -         -         -         0.00 A 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 17.18       $ 17.84       $ 19.93       $ 16.73       $ 18.09  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    4.69       (8.52 )%        21.50       (6.12 )%        (2.12 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

                 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 6,174,460       $ 6,625,329       $ 7,622,425       $ 2,945,246       $ 3,899,081  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.87       1.81       1.88       1.85       1.82

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    1.87       1.81       1.88       1.85       1.83

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    1.73       1.08       0.96       1.12       0.77

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    1.73       1.08       0.96       1.12       0.77

Portfolio turnover rate

    36       29       32       25       33

 

A 

Amount represents less than $0.01 per share.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

59


American Beacon International Equity FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    R6 Class  
    Year Ended October 31,          

February 28,

2017A to
October 31,

 
    2019           2018           2017  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 18.73       $ 20.89       $ 17.80  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

         

Net investment income

    0.51         0.39         0.08  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.39         (1.88       3.01  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.90         (1.49       3.09  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

         

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.41       (0.36       -  

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.14       (0.31       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (1.55       (0.67       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 18.08       $ 18.73       $ 20.89  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    5.98       (7.47 )%        17.36 %C 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 179,802,437       $ 48,725,523       $ 6,367,999  

Ratios to average net assets:

         

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.70       0.70       0.89 %D 

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.66       0.66       0.66 %D 

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    3.09       2.11       1.63 %D 

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    3.13       2.15       1.85 %D 

Portfolio turnover rate

    36       29       32 %E 

 

A 

Commencement of operations.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

C 

Not annualized.

D 

Annualized.

E 

Portfolio turnover rate is for the period from February 28, 2017 through October 31, 2017 and is not annualized.

 

See accompanying notes

 

60


American Beacon Tocqueville International Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Institutional Class  
   

January 22,

2019A to

October 31,

2019

 
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 14.78  
 

 

 

 

Income from investment operations:

 

Net investment income

    0.21  

Net gains on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.66  
 

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.87  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 15.65  
 

 

 

 

Total returnB

    5.89 %C 
 

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 37,138,368  

Ratios to average net assets:

 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.93 %D 

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.89 %D 

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    2.18 %D 

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    2.22 %D 

Portfolio turnover rate

    35 %E 

 

A 

Commencement of operations.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

C 

Not annualized.

D 

Annualized.

E 

Portfolio turnover is for the period ended herein.

 

See accompanying notes

 

61


American Beacon Tocqueville International Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Y Class  
   

January 22,

2019A to

October 31,

2019

 
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 14.78  
 

 

 

 

Income from investment operations:

 

Net investment income

    0.23  

Net gains on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.63  
 

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.86  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 15.64  
 

 

 

 

Total returnB

    5.82 %C 
 

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 229,275,205  

Ratios to average net assets:

 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.98 %D 

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.98 %D 

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    2.10 %D 

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    2.10 %D 

Portfolio turnover rate

    35 %E 

 

A 

Commencement of operations.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

C 

Not annualized.

D 

Annualized.

E 

Portfolio turnover is for the period ended herein.

 

See accompanying notes

 

62


American Beacon Tocqueville International Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Investor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 15.06       $ 17.58       $ 14.44       $ 14.59       $ 14.48  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.40         0.24 A        0.14 A        0.14 A        0.15 A 

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    0.34         (2.53       3.23         0.14         0.80  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.74         (2.29       3.37         0.28         0.95  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.19       (0.17       (0.15       (0.25       (0.32

Distributions from net realized gains

    -         (0.06       (0.08       (0.18       (0.52
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (0.19       (0.23       (0.23       (0.43       (0.84
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Redemption fees added to beneficial interests

    -         -         -         -         0.00 B 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 15.61       $ 15.06       $ 17.58       $ 14.44       $ 14.59  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnC

    5.03       (13.20 )%        23.70       2.00       7.20
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

                 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 355,423,059       $ 1,060,000,108       $ 1,120,993,795       $ 525,808,058       $ 333,761,762  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.29       1.48       1.53       1.58       1.57

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    1.18       1.25       1.25       1.25       1.25

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    1.42       1.09       0.73       0.90       0.71

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    1.53       1.32       1.01       1.23       1.03

Portfolio turnover rate

    35       25       22       26       42

 

A 

Net investment income per share is calculated using the ending balance prior to consideration or adjustment for permanent book-to-tax differences.

B 

Amount represents less than $0.01 per share.

C 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

63


American Beacon FundsSM

Federal Tax Information

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

Certain tax information regarding the Funds is required to be provided to shareholders based upon the Funds’ income and distributions for the taxable year ended October 31, 2019. The information and distributions reported herein may differ from information and distributions taxable to the shareholders for the calendar year ended December 31, 2019.

The Funds designated the following items with regard to distributions paid during the fiscal year ended October 31, 2019. All designations are based on financial information available as of this annual report and, accordingly, are subject to change. For each item, it is the intention of the Funds to designate the maximum amount permitted under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the regulations there under.

 

Corporate Dividends-Received Deduction:

 

International Equity

    N/A  

Tocqueville International Value

    N/A  

Qualified Dividend Income:

 

International Equity

    100

Tocqueville International Value

    100

Long-Term Capital Gain Distributions:

 

International Equity

  $ 168,945,606  

Tocqueville International Value

    -  

Short-Term Capital Gain Distributions:

 

International Equity

  $ 2,971,370  

Tocqueville International Value

    -  

Foreign tax credit:

 

International Equity

  $ 9,599,774  

Tocqueville International Value

    1,847,761  

The foreign tax credits for International Equity and Tocqueville International Value are based on foreign source income of $109,594,494 and $23,112,399, respectively for the year ended October 31, 2019.

Shareholders will receive notification in January 2020 of the applicable tax information necessary to prepare their 2019 income tax returns.

 

 

64


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

Renewal and Approval of Management Agreement and Investment Advisory Agreements

At in-person meetings held on May 9, 2019 and June 4-5, 2019 (collectively, the “Meetings”), the Board of Trustees (“Board” or “Trustees”) considered and then, at its June 5, 2019 meeting, approved the renewal of:

(1) the Management Agreement between American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (“Manager”) and the American Beacon Funds (“Trust”), on behalf of the American Beacon International Equity Fund (“Fund”); and

(2) the Investment Advisory Agreements among the Manager, the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, and each of Causeway Capital Management LLC (“Causeway”), Lazard Asset Management LLC (“Lazard”) and Templeton Investment Counsel, LLC (“Templeton”) (each, a “subadvisor” and collectively, the “subadvisors”).

The Management Agreement and the Investment Advisory Agreements are referred to herein individually as an “Agreement” and collectively as the “Agreements.” In preparation for its consideration of the renewal of the Agreements, the Board undertook steps to gather and consider information furnished by the Manager, the subadvisors, Broadridge, Inc. (“Broadridge”) and Morningstar, Inc. (“Morningstar”). The Board, with the assistance of independent legal counsel, requested and received certain relevant information from the Manager and the subadvisors.

In advance of the Meetings, the Board’s Investment Committee and/or the Manager coordinated the production of information from Broadridge and Morningstar regarding the performance, fees and expenses of the Fund as well as information from the Manager and the subadvisors. At the Meetings, the Board considered the information provided in connection with the renewal process, as well as information furnished to the Board throughout the year at regular meetings of the Board and its committees. In connection with the Board’s consideration of the Agreements, the Board received and evaluated such information as they deemed necessary. This information is described below in the section summarizing the factors the Board considered in connection with its renewal and approval of the Agreements, as well as the section describing additional Board considerations with respect to the Fund.

The Board noted that the Manager provides management and administrative services to the Fund pursuant to the Management Agreement. The Board considered that many mutual funds have separate contracts governing each type of service and observed that, with respect to such mutual funds, the actual management fee rates provided by Broadridge for peer group funds reflect the combined advisory and administrative expenses, reduced by any fee waivers and/or reimbursements.

A firm may not have been able to, or opted not to, provide information in response to certain information requests, in which case the Board conducted its evaluation of the firm based on information that was provided. In such cases, the Board determined that the omission of any such information was not material to its considerations. The class of shares used for comparative performance purposes was the share class with the lowest expenses available for purchase by the general public, which was the Institutional Class. The Board also considered that the use of Institutional Class performance generally facilitates a meaningful comparison for expense and performance purposes.

Provided below is an overview of certain factors the Board considered in connection with its renewal and approval of the Agreements. The Board did not identify any particular information that was most relevant to its consideration to renew or approve each Agreement, and each Trustee may have afforded different weight to the various factors. Legal counsel to the independent Trustees provided the Board with a memorandum regarding its responsibilities pertaining to the renewal and approval of investment advisory contracts, such as the Agreements. The memorandum explained the regulatory requirements surrounding the Board’s process for evaluating investment advisors and the terms of investment advisory contracts. Based on its evaluation, the Board unanimously concluded that the terms of each Agreement were reasonable and fair and that the renewal and approval of each Agreement was in the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders.

 

 

65


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

Considerations With Respect to the Renewal of the Management Agreement and the Investment Advisory Agreements

In determining whether to renew the Agreements, the Board considered the Fund’s investment management and subadvisory relationships separately. In each instance, the Board considered, among other things, the following factors: (1) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided; (2) the investment performance of the Fund; (3) the costs incurred by the Manager in rendering services to the Fund and its resulting profits or losses; (4) comparisons of services and fee rates with contracts entered into by the Manager or the subadvisors or their affiliates with other clients (such as pension funds and other institutional clients); (5) the extent to which economies of scale, if any, have been taken into account in setting each fee rate schedule; (6) whether fee rate levels reflect economies of scale, if any, for the benefit of Fund investors; and (7) any other benefits derived or anticipated to be derived by the Manager or the subadvisors from their relationships with the Fund.

Nature, Extent and Quality of Services. With respect to the renewal of the Management Agreement, the Board considered, among other factors: the Fund’s long-term performance; the length of service of key investment personnel at the Manager; the cost structure of the Fund; the Manager’s culture of compliance and support that reduce risks to the Fund; the Manager’s quality of services; the Manager’s active role in monitoring and, as appropriate, recommending additional or replacement subadvisors; and the Manager’s efforts to retain key employees and maintain staffing levels.

With respect to the renewal of the Investment Advisory Agreements, the Board considered the level of staffing and the size of the subadvisors. The Board also considered the adequacy of the resources committed to the Fund by the subadvisors, and whether those resources were commensurate with the needs of the Fund and are sufficient to sustain appropriate levels of performance and compliance needs. In this regard, the Board considered the financial stability of the subadvisors. The Board also considered each subadvisor’s representations regarding its compliance program and code of ethics. Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of the management and advisory services provided by the Manager and the subadvisors were appropriate for the Fund.

Investment Performance. The Board evaluated the comparative information provided by Broadridge and the Manager regarding the performance of the Fund relative to its Broadridge performance universe, Morningstar Category, and benchmark index, as well as the Fund’s Morningstar rating. The Board considered the information provided by Broadridge regarding Broadridge’s independent methodology for selecting the Fund’s Broadridge performance universe. The Board also considered that the performance universes selected by Broadridge may not provide appropriate comparisons for the Fund. In addition, the Board considered the performance reports and discussions with management at Board and Committee meetings throughout the year. The Board also evaluated the comparative information provided by each subadvisor regarding the performance of its portion of the Fund relative to the performance of the Fund’s benchmark index, and, with respect to Causeway and Lazard, a composite of similar accounts managed by the subadvisor. In addition, the Board considered the Manager’s recommendation to continue to retain each subadvisor. A discussion regarding the Board’s considerations with respect to the Fund’s performance appears below under “Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to the Fund.”

Costs of the Services Provided to the Fund and the Profits Realized by the Manager from its Relationship with the Fund. In analyzing the cost of services and profitability of the Manager, the Board considered the revenues earned and the expenses incurred by the Manager, before and after the payment of distribution-related expenses by the Manager. The profits or losses were noted at both an aggregate level for all funds within the group of mutual funds sponsored by the Manager (the “Fund Complex”) and at an individual Fund level, with the Manager earning a profit before and after the payment of distribution-related expenses by the Manager for the Fund. The Board also considered comparative information provided by the Manager regarding the Manager’s overall profitability with respect to the Fund Complex relative to the overall profitability of other firms in the mutual fund industry, as disclosed in publicly available sources. Although the Board noted that, in certain cases, the fee rates paid by other clients of the Manager are lower than the fee rates paid by the Fund, the Manager represented that,

 

 

66


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

among other matters, the difference is attributable to the fact that the Manager does not perform administrative services for non-investment company clients and reflects the greater level of responsibility and regulatory requirements associated with managing the Fund.

The Board also noted that the Manager proposed to continue the expense waivers and reimbursements for the Fund’s R6 Class shares that were in place during the last fiscal year. The Board further considered that, with respect to the Fund, the Management Agreement provides for the Manager to receive a management fee comprised of an annualized fee that is retained by the Manager. In addition, the Board considered that the Manager receives fees for overseeing the securities lending program on behalf of the Fund. The Board also noted that certain share classes of the Fund maintain higher expense ratios in order to compensate third-party financial intermediaries.

In analyzing the fee rates charged by each subadvisor in connection with its investment advisory services to the Fund, the Board considered representations made by Causeway and Lazard that the fee rate negotiated by the Manager is favorable relative to the fee rates that the relevant subadvisor charges for any comparable client accounts, and representations made by Templeton that, for fee comparison purposes, it does not manage any comparable client accounts and therefore could not provide fee schedules for comparable investment accounts managed by Templeton. The Board did not request profitability data from the subadvisors because the Board did not view this data as imperative to its deliberations given the arm’s-length nature of the relationship between the Manager and the subadvisors with respect to the negotiation of subadvisory fee rates. In addition, the Board considered that it was advised that the subadvisors may not account for their profits on an account-by-account basis and that different firms likely employ different methodologies in connection with these calculations.

Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the profitability levels of the Manager were reasonable in light of the services performed by the Manager. A discussion regarding the Board’s considerations with respect to the Fund’s fee rates is set forth below under “Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to the Fund.”

Economies of Scale. In considering the reasonableness of the management and investment advisory fees rates, the Board considered whether economies of scale will be realized as the Fund grows and whether fee rate levels reflect these economies of scale for the benefit of Fund shareholders. In this regard, the Board considered that, with respect to each subadvisor, the Manager has negotiated breakpoints in the subadvisory fee rate for the Fund. In addition, the Board noted the Manager’s representation that the Management Agreement contains fee schedule breakpoints at higher asset levels with respect to the Fund. Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the Manager and subadvisor fee rate schedules for the Fund provide for a reasonable sharing of benefits from any economies of scale with the Fund.

Benefits Derived from the Relationship with the Fund. The Board considered the “fall-out” or ancillary benefits that accrue to the Manager and/or the subadvisors as a result of the advisory relationships with the Fund, including greater exposure in the marketplace with respect to the Manager’s or a subadvisor’s investment process and expanding the level of assets under management by the Manager and the subadvisors. The Board also considered that the Manager may invest the Fund’s cash balances and cash collateral provided by the borrowers of the Fund’s securities in the American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund, which the Manager manages directly. In addition, the Board noted that each subadvisor benefits from soft dollar arrangements for proprietary and/or third-party research. Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the potential benefits accruing to the Manager and the subadvisors by virtue of their relationships with the Fund appear to be fair and reasonable.

Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to the Fund

The performance comparisons below were made in comparison to the Fund’s Broadridge performance universe and Morningstar Category. With respect to the Broadridge performance universe, the 1st Quintile represents the top 20 percent of the universe based on performance and the 5th Quintile representing the bottom

 

 

67


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

20 percent of the universe based on performance. References below to the Fund’s Broadridge performance universe are to the universe of mutual funds with a comparable investment classification/objective included in the analysis provided by Broadridge. In reviewing the performance, the Trustees viewed longer-term performance over a full market cycle as the most important consideration, because relative performance over shorter periods may be significantly impacted by market or economic events and not necessarily reflective of manager skill.

The expense comparisons below were made in comparison to the Fund’s Broadridge expense universe and Broadridge expense group, with the 1st Quintile representing the lowest 20 percent of the universe or group based on lowest total expense and the 5th Quintile representing the highest 20 percent of the universe or group based on highest total expense. References below to the Fund’s expense group and expense universe are to the respective group or universe of comparable mutual funds included in the analysis by Broadridge. A Broadridge expense group consists of the Fund and a representative sample of funds with similar operating structures and asset sizes, as selected by Broadridge. A Broadridge expense universe includes all funds in the investment classification/objective with a similar operating structure as the share class of the Fund included in the Broadridge comparative information and provides a broader view of expenses across the Fund’s investment classification/objective. The Board also considered the Fund’s Morningstar fee level category. In reviewing expenses, the Board considered the positive impact of fee waivers where applicable and the Manager’s agreement to continue the fee waivers. In addition, information regarding the subadvisors’ use of soft dollars was requested from the Manager and was considered by the Board.

In considering the renewal of the Management Agreement for the Fund, the Board considered the following additional factors:

Broadridge Total Expenses Excluding 12b-1 Fees and Morningstar Fee Level Ranking

 

Compared to Broadridge Expense Group

  1st Quintile

Compared to Broadridge Expense Universe

  1st Quintile

Morningstar Fee Level Ranking – Institutional Class

  Below Average Expense Ratio

Broadridge and Morningstar Performance Analysis (five-year period ended December 31, 2018)

 

Compared to Broadridge Performance Universe

  4th Quintile

Compared to Morningstar Category

  2nd Quintile

In considering the renewal of the Investment Advisory Agreements with each subadvisor, the Board considered that the diversification of investment strategies facilitated by the Fund’s multi-manager structure permits the Fund to mitigate the risks associated with a single subadvisor. The Board also considered the following additional factors:

Subadvisor Performance (compared to Broadridge Performance Universe for period indicated ended December 31, 2018)

 

Causeway

    5 Years       2 nd Quintile 

Lazard

    5 Years       1 st Quintile 

Templeton

    5 Years       5 th Quintile 

The Board also considered: (1) that, given the Fund’s value focus, the Morningstar Foreign Large Value category would provide a more appropriate peer group comparison than the Broadridge performance universe, which utilizes the Lipper Foreign Large Core category; (2) the Fund’s more limited exposure to emerging market countries than the funds in its Broadridge performance universe and, accordingly, the Manager expects the Fund to underperform its Broadridge and Morningstar peer groups when emerging markets outperform developed markets; (3) Templeton’s representations regarding the implementation of enhancements to its investment process and personnel changes; (4) information provided by each subadvisor, other than Templeton, regarding fee rates charged for managing assets in the same or a similar strategy as the subadvisor manages its allocation of the Fund;

 

 

68


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

(5) Templeton’s representation that it has no other comparable accounts in the same strategy as the subadvisor manages its allocation of the Fund; (6) the Manager’s recommendation to continue to retain each subadvisor; and (7) the Manager’s representation that, while the Manager was recommending that the Board continue to retain Templeton, the Manager continues to evaluate the performance of Templeton’s portion of the Fund and whether to make any further recommendations with respect to that subadvisor.

Based on these and other considerations, the Board: (1) concluded that the fees paid to the Manager and the subadvisors under the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements are fair and reasonable; and (2) determined that the Fund and its shareholders would benefit from the Manager’s and subadvisors’ continued management of the Fund.

 

 

69


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

The Trustees and officers of the American Beacon Funds (the “Trust”) are listed below, together with their principal occupations during the past five years. The address of each person listed below is 220 Las Colinas Boulevard East, Suite 1200, Irving, Texas 75039. Each Trustee oversees thirty-six funds in the fund complex that includes the Trust, the American Beacon Select Funds, the American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust, the American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund and the American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund. The Trust’s Statement of Additional Information contains additional information about the Trustees and is available without charge by calling 1-800-658-5811.

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

INTERESTED TRUSTEES   

Term

  
  

Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or

retirement*

  
Alan D. Feld** (82)    Trustee since 1996    Partner in the law firm of Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld, LLP (law firm) (1960-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (1999-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
NON-INTERESTED TRUSTEES   

Term

  
  

Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or

retirement*

  
Gilbert G. Alvarado (49)    Trustee since 2015    Director, Kura MD, Inc. (local telehealth organization) (2015-present); Vice President & CFO, Sierra Health Foundation (health conversion private foundation) (2006-Present); Vice President & CFO, Sierra Health Foundation: Center for Health Program Management (California public benefit corporation) (2012-Present); Director, Innovative North State (2012-2015); Director, Sacramento Regional Technology Alliance (2011-2016); Director, Women’s Empowerment (2009-2014); Director, Valley Healthcare Staffing (2017-present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2015-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Joseph B. Armes (57)    Trustee since 2015    Chairman & CEO, CSW Industrials f/k/a Capital Southwest Corporation (investment company) (2015-Present); Chairman of the Board of Capital Southwest Corporation, predecessor to CSW Industrials, Inc. (2014-2017) (investment company); CEO, Capital Southwest Corporation (2013-2015); President & CEO, JBA Investment Partners (family investment vehicle) (2010-Present); Director and Chair of Audit Committee, RSP Permian (oil and gas producer) (2013-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2015-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Gerard J. Arpey (61)    Trustee since 2012    Director, The Home Depot, Inc. (2015-Present); Partner, Emerald Creek Group (private equity firm) (2011-Present); Director, S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. (privately held company) (2008-present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2012-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

70


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

NON-INTERESTED TRUSTEES (CONT.)   

Term

  
  

Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or

retirement*

  
Brenda A. Cline (58)   

Trustee since 2004

Chair since 2019

Vice Chair 2018

   Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Secretary, Kimbell Art Foundation (1993-Present); Director, Tyler Technologies, Inc. (public sector software solutions company) (2014-Present); Director, Range Resources Corporation (oil and natural gas company) (2015-Present); Trustee, Cushing Closed-End and Open-End Funds and ETFs (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2004-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Eugene J. Duffy (65)    Trustee since 2008    Managing Director, Global Investment Management Distribution, Mesirow Financial (2016-Present); Managing Director, Institutional Services, Intercontinental Real Estate Corporation (2014-Present); Principal and Executive Vice President, Paradigm Asset Management (1994-2014); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2008-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Claudia A. Holz (62)    Trustee since 2018    Partner, KPMG LLP (1990-2017); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Douglas A. Lindgren (57)    Trustee since 2018    CEO North America, Carne Global Financial Services (2016-2017); Managing Director, IPS Investment Management and Global Head, Content Management, UBS Wealth Management (2010-2016); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Richard A. Massman (76)   

Trustee since 2004 Chair 2008-2018

Chair Emeritus since 2019

   Consultant and General Counsel Emeritus, Hunt Consolidated, Inc. (holding company engaged in oil and gas exploration and production, refining, real estate, farming, ranching and venture capital activities) (2009-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2004-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Barbara J. McKenna, CFA (56)    Trustee since 2012    President/Managing Principal, Longfellow Investment Management Company (2005-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2012-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

71


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

NON-INTERESTED TRUSTEES (CONT.)   

Term

  
  

Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or

retirement*

  
R. Gerald Turner (73)    Trustee since 2001    President, Southern Methodist University (1995-Present); Director, J.C. Penney Company, Inc. (1996-Present); Director, Kronus Worldwide Inc. (chemical manufacturing) (2003-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2001-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
OFFICERS   

Term

  
   One Year   
Gene L. Needles, Jr. (64)    President since 2009    President (2009-2018), CEO and Director (2009-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), American Beacon Advisors, Inc., President (2015-2018), Director and CEO (2015-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC; President (2015-2018), Director and CEO (2015-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Topco, Inc.; President (2015-2018); Director, and CEO (2015-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Acquisition, Inc.; President (2015-2018), Director and CEO (2015-Present), Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Investment Managers, Inc.; Director, Chairman, President and CEO, Resolute Investment Distributors (2017-Present); Director, Chairman, President and CEO; Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2017-Present); President and CEO, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2009-2015); President, CEO and Director, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2009-2015); Manager, President and CEO, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Director, Chairman, President and CEO, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Director, ARK Investment Management LLC (2016-Present); Director, Shapiro Capital Management LLC (2017-Present); Director, Chairman and CEO, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); President, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Director and President, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, LTD., (2017-2018); President, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); President American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd. (2018-Present); Member, Investment Advisory Committee, Employees Retirement System of Texas (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon NextShares Trust (2015-Present); President, American Beacon Select Funds (2009-Present); President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Director, RSW Investments Holdings LLC, (2019-Present); Manager, SSI Investment Management, LLC (2019-Present); President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Director, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).

 

 

72


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Rosemary K. Behan (60)   

VP, Secretary and

Chief Legal

Officer since 2006

   Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2006-Present); Secretary, Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC (2015-Present); Secretary, Resolute Topco, Inc. (2015-Present); Secretary, Resolute Acquisition, Inc. (2015-Present); Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2015-Present); Secretary, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President and Secretary, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2008-2015); Vice President and Secretary, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2008-2015); Secretary, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2008-Present); Secretary and General Counsel, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President and Secretary, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Secretary, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); Secretary, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, Ltd. (2017-2018); Secretary, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Secretary, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd (2018-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2006-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Secretary, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).
Brian E. Brett (59)    VP since 2004    Senior Vice President, Head of Distribution (2012-Present), Vice President, Director of Sales (2004-2012), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Senior Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Senior Vice President, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (2018-Present), Senior Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2018-Present); Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2008-2015); Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2008-2015); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2004-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Paul B. Cavazos (50)    VP since 2016    Chief Investment Officer and Senior Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2016-Present); Chief Investment Officer, DTE Energy (2007-2016); Vice President, American Private Equity Management, L.L.C. (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2016-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

73


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Erica Duncan (49)    VP Since 2011    Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers (2018-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2011-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Melinda G. Heika (58)    Treasurer since 2010    Treasurer and CFO (2010-Present), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Treasurer, Resolute Topco, Inc. (2015-Present); Treasurer, Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC. (2015-Present); Treasurer, Resolute Acquisition, Inc. (2015-Present); Treasurer and CFO, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Treasurer, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (2017-2017); Treasurer and CFO, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2015-Present); Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings Parent Inc., (2010-2015); Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2010-2015); Treasurer, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Treasurer and CFO, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Treasurer and CFO, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation, Ltd. (2017-2018); Treasurer, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); Director and Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd. (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Treasurer, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).
Terri L. McKinney (55)    VP since 2010    Vice President (2009-Present), Managing Director (2003-2009), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc (2018-Present); Vice President, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

74


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Jeffrey K. Ringdahl (44)    VP since 2010    Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Chief Operating Officer (2010-Present), Senior Vice President (2013-2018), Vice President (2010-2013), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Senior Vice Present (2015-2018), Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC; Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Senior Vice President (2015-2018), Resolute Topco, Inc.; Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Senior Vice President (2015-2018), Resolute Acquisition, Inc.; Director (2015-Present), President & COO (2018-Present), Senior Vice President (2015-2018), Resolute Investment Managers, Inc.; Director and Executive Vice President (2017-Present), Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc.; Director (2017-Present), President & COO (2018-Present), Executive Vice President (2017-2018), Resolute Investment Services, Inc.; Senior Vice President (2017-Present), Vice President (2012-2017), Manager (2015-Present), American Private Equity Management, LLC; Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2013-2015); Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2013-2015); Trustee, American Beacon NextShares Trust (2015-Present); Director, Executive Vice President & COO, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Director, Shapiro Capital Management, LLC (2017-Present); Director, Executive Vice President & COO, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Director and Vice President, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, Ltd., (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); Director and Vice President, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-2018); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Director, RSW Investments Holdings LLC, (2019-Present); Manager, SSI Investment Management, LLC (2019-Present), Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Samuel J. Silver (56)    VP Since 2011    Vice President (2011-Present), Chief Fixed Income Officer (2016-Present), American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2011-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Christina E. Sears (48)   

Chief Compliance

Officer since 2004

and Asst. Secretary since 1999

   Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2019-Present); Chief Compliance Officer, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2004-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Distributors (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2019-Present); Chief Compliance Officer, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Chief Compliance Officer (2016-2019) and Vice President, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Chief Compliance Officer (2004-Present) and Assistant Secretary (1999-Present), American Beacon Select Funds; Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

75


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Sonia L. Bates (62)   

Asst. Treasurer

since 2011

   Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-2018); Assistant Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings Parent Inc. (2011-2015); Assistant Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2011-2015); Assistant Treasurer, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, Ltd. (2017-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd. (2018-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Select Funds (2011-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Shelley D. Abrahams (44)    Assistant Secretary since 2008    Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2008-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Assistant Secretary, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).
Rebecca L. Harris (52)    Assistant Secretary since 2010    Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services (2015-Present); Vice President, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Teresa A. Oxford (61)    Assistant Secretary since 2015    Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2015-Present); Assistant Secretary, Resolute Investment Distributors (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, Resolute Investment Services (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2015-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Assistant Secretary, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).

* As of 11/12/2014, the Board adopted a retirement plan that requires Trustees, other than Messrs. Feld and Massman to retire no later than the last day of the calendar year in which they reach the age of 75. As of 11/7/17, the Board approved a waiver of the mandatory retirement policy with respect to Mr. Massman, who turned 75 in November 2018, to permit him to continue to serve on the Board as Chair Emeritus through 12/31/19.

** Mr. Feld is deemed to be an “interested person” of the Trusts, as defined by the 1940 Act. Mr. Feld’s law firm of Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld LLP has provided legal services within the past two fiscal years to one or more of the Trust’s sub-advisors.

 

 

76


American Beacon FundsSM

Privacy Policy

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

The American Beacon Funds recognize and respect the privacy of our shareholders. We are providing this notice to you so you will understand how shareholder information may be collected and used.

We may collect nonpublic personal information about you from one or more of the following sources:

 

   

information we receive from you on applications or other forms;

 

   

information about your transactions with us or our service providers; and

 

   

information we receive from third parties.

We do not disclose any nonpublic personal information about our customers or former customers to anyone, except as permitted by law.

We restrict access to your nonpublic personal information to those employees or service providers who need to know that information to provide products or services to you. To ensure the confidentiality of your nonpublic personal information, we maintain safeguards that comply with federal standards.

 

 

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80


LOGO

 

 

 

Delivery of Documents

eDelivery is NOW AVAILABLE - Stop traditional mail delivery and receive your

shareholder reports and summary prospectus on-line. Sign up at

www.americanbeaconfunds.com

If you invest in the Fund through a financial institution, you may be able to receive the Fund’s regulatory mailings, such as the Prospectus, Annual Report and Semi-Annual Report, by e-mail. If you are interested in this option, please go to www.icsdelivery.com and search for your financial institution’s name or contact your financial institution directly.

To obtain more information about the Fund:

 

LOGO   LOGO
 
By E-mail:   On the Internet:
american_beacon.funds@ambeacon.com   Visit our website at www.americanbeaconfunds.com
   
     
 

LOGO

By Telephone:

Call (800) 658-5811

 

LOGO

By Mail:

American Beacon Funds

P.O. Box 219643

Kansas City, MO 64121-9643

   
     
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedules   Availability of Proxy Voting Policy and Records
 
In addition to the Schedule of Investments provided in each semi-annual and annual report, the Fund files a complete schedule of its portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on Form N-PORT as of the first and third fiscal quarters. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Forms N-PORT may also be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Section, 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549-2736. Information regarding the operation of the SEC’s Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800)-SEC-0330. A complete schedule of the Fund’s portfolio holdings is also available at www.americanbeaconfunds.com approximately twenty days after the end of each month.   A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available in the Fund’s Statement of Additional Information, is available free of charge on the Fund’s website www.americanbeaconfunds.com and by calling 1-800-967-9009 or by accessing the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record for the most recent year ended June 30 is filed annually with the SEC on Form N-PX. The Fund’s Forms N-PX are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record may also be obtained by calling 1-800-967-9009.

Fund Service Providers:

 

CUSTODIAN

State Street Bank and Trust Company

Boston, Massachusetts

   

TRANSFER AGENT

DST Asset Manager Solutions, Inc.

Quincy, Massachusetts

   

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Ernst & Young LLP

Dallas, Texas

   

DISTRIBUTOR

Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc.

Irving, Texas

This report is prepared for shareholders of the American Beacon Funds and may be distributed to others only if preceded or accompanied by a current Prospectus or Summary Prospectus.

 

American Beacon Funds, American Beacon International Equity Fund and American Beacon Tocqueville International Value Fund are service marks of American Beacon Advisors, Inc.

AR 10/19


LOGO


About American Beacon Advisors

 

Since 1986, American Beacon Advisors has offered a variety of products and investment advisory services to numerous institutional and retail clients, including a variety of mutual funds, corporate cash management, and separate account management.

Our clients include defined benefit plans, defined contribution plans, foundations, endowments, corporations, financial planners, and other institutional investors. With American Beacon Advisors, you can put the experience of a multi-billion dollar asset management firm to work for your company.

LARGE CAP VALUE FUND RISKS

Investing in value stocks may limit downside risk over time; however, the Fund may produce more modest gains than riskier stock funds as a trade-off for this potentially lower risk. Investing in foreign securities may involve heightened risk due to currency fluctuations and economic and political risks. The use of futures contracts for cash management may subject the Fund to losing more money than invested. The Fund participates in a securities lending program. Please see the prospectus for a complete discussion of the Fund’s risks. There can be no assurances that the investment objectives of this Fund will be met.

Any opinions herein, including forecasts, reflect our judgment as of the end of the reporting period and are subject to change. Each advisor’s strategies and the Fund’s portfolio composition will change depending on economic and market conditions. This report is not a complete analysis of market conditions and therefore, should not be relied upon as investment advice. Although economic and market information has been compiled from reliable sources, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. makes no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of the statements contained herein.

 

American Beacon Funds

October 31, 2019


Contents

 

 

President’s Message

    1  

Market and Performance Overview

    2  

Expense Example

    6  

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

    8  

Schedule of Investments:

 

American Beacon Large Cap Value Fund

    9  

Financial Statements

    17  

Notes to Financial Statements

    20  

Financial Highlights:

 

American Beacon Large Cap Value Fund

    39  

Federal Tax Information

    46  

Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management  and Investment Advisory Agreements

    47  

Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon Funds

    52  

Privacy Policy

    59  

Additional Fund Information

    Back Cover  


President’s Message

 

 

LOGO  

Dear Shareholders,

 

In recent months, you’ve likely seen and heard news reports about disruptive headwinds in the global economy – including the U.S. trade war with China and its toll on the global economy, slowing global growth, the Federal Reserve’s series of rate cuts, Brexit, disruptions in the Middle East and protests in Hong Kong – and watched a flood of reaction in the world’s markets.

 

As Peter L. Bernstein said in his treatise on risk, Against the Gods: The Remarkable Story of Risk, published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. in September 1998, “Volatility is a proxy for uncertainty and must be accommodated in measuring investment risk.”

 

During times of economic uncertainty and market volatility, fear of loss can be a powerful emotion – one that drives many investors to making short-term decisions subject to a variety of potential error-leading biases. Unfortunately, some short-term investment decisions may create more volatility rather than mitigate it.

Instead of dwelling on the markets’ short-term reaction to waves of negative global news, we encourage investors to focus on the horizon instead. Long-term investing isn’t about identifying and anticipating the next big market move, it is about identifying the right investment products for riding out those moves. As a long-term investor, you should keep in mind the three Ds: direction, discipline and diversification.

 

u  

Direction: Achieving your long-term financial goals requires an individualized plan of action. You may want your plan to provide some measure of protection against periods of geopolitical turmoil, economic uncertainty, market volatility and job insecurity. Your plan should be reviewed annually and be adjusted in the event your long-range needs change.

 

u  

Discipline: Long-term, systematic participation in an investment portfolio requires your resolution to stay the course. Spending time in the market – rather than trying to time the market – may place you in a better position to reach your long-term financial goals.

 

u  

Diversification: By investing in different investment styles and asset classes, you may be able to help mitigate financial risks across your investment portfolio. By allocating your investment portfolio according to your risk-tolerance level, you may be better positioned to weather storms and achieve your long-term financial goals.

Since 1986, American Beacon has endeavored to provide investors with a disciplined approach to realizing long-term financial goals. As a manager of managers, we strive to provide investment products that may enable investors to participate during market upswings while potentially insulating against market downswings.

Many of the sub-advisors to our mutual funds pursue upside capture and/or downside protection using proprietary strategies. The investment teams behind our mutual funds seek to produce consistent, long-term results rather than focus only on short-term movements in the markets. In managing our investment products, we emphasize identifying opportunities that offer the potential for long-term rewards.

Our management approach is more than a concept; it’s the cornerstone of our culture. And we strive to apply it at every turn as we seek to provide a well-diversified line of investment solutions to help our shareholders seek long-term rewards while mitigating volatility and risk.

Thank you for your continued interest in American Beacon. For additional information about our investment products or to access your account information, please visit our website at www.americanbeaconfunds.com.

Best Regards,

 

LOGO

Gene L. Needles, Jr.

President

American Beacon Funds

 

 

1


Domestic Equity Market Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

For the 12-month period ended October 31, 2019, the U.S. equity markets rallied strongly after a depressed start to the period that saw market volatility spike to its highest level in seven years during the fourth quarter of 2018. The S&P 500 Index and the Dow Jones Industrial Average returned 14.33% and 10.32%, respectively, for the period. Growth broadly outperformed Value across all market caps; the Russell 1000 Growth Index and the Russell 1000 Value Index returned 17.10% and 11.21%, respectively, and the Russell Midcap Growth Index and the Russell Midcap Value Index returned 18.93% and 10.08%, respectively. Large and mid-cap stocks also did significantly better than small-cap stocks; the Russell 1000 Index returned 14.15% and the Russell Midcap Index returned 13.72%, compared to the Russell 2000 Index return of 4.90%.

All of this occurred in an environment that saw rising fears of economic recession as the current expansion entered its 11th year, intensified by the effects of an escalating trade war, as well as concerns over the ability of the Federal Reserve (the “Fed”) policy to forestall the effects of an economic downturn. Feeding these uncertainties, growth slowed during the period as the third quarter’s gross domestic product decelerated to 1.9% from its peak rate of 3.5% in the second quarter of 2018. Corporate earnings growth also slowed with profit growth.

The Fed did alter its policy course at year end 2018 and began lowering the federal funds rate in the third quarter of 2019. At the same time, the economic strength underlying the U.S. economy remained resilient with the September unemployment rate at 3.5%, a 40-year low. In addition, the consumer continued to show good strength with both income and expenditures growing at healthy rates. Also, ongoing tariff negotiations between the U.S. and China are providing hope to prospects of settlement. Collectively, all of these factors kept the markets positive going into the fiscal year end.

 

 

2


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

The Investor Class of the American Beacon Large Cap Value Fund (the “Fund”) returned 9.81% for the twelve months ended October 31, 2019, underperforming the Russell 1000® Value Index (the “Index”) return of 11.21% for the same period.

Comparison of Change in Value of a $10,000 Investment for the period from 10/31/2009 through 10/31/2019

 

LOGO

 

Total Returns for the Period ended October 31, 2019

 

                       
      

Ticker

    

1 Year

    

3 Years

    

5 Years

  

10 Years

  

Value of $10,000

10/31/2009-

10/31/2019

Institutional Class (1,6)

     AADEX          10.18 %          11.40 %          6.89 %        11.34 %      $ 29,271

Y Class (1,6)

     ABLYX          10.05 %          11.30 %          6.80 %        11.24 %      $ 29,011

Investor Class (1,6)

     AAGPX          9.81 %          11.03 %          6.53 %        10.96 %      $ 28,282

Advisor Class (1,6)

     AVASX          9.56 %          10.84 %          6.36 %        10.79 %      $ 27,870

A Class without sales charge (1,2,6)

     ALVAX          9.68 %          10.97 %          6.48 %        10.86 %      $ 28,046

A Class with sales charge (1,2,6)

     ALVAX          3.36 %          8.80 %          5.23 %        10.21 %      $ 26,427

C Class without sales charge (1,3,6)

     ALVCX          8.94 %          10.23 %          5.74 %        10.11 %      $ 26,202

C Class with sales charge (1,3,6)

     ALVCX          7.94 %          10.23 %          5.74 %        10.11 %      $ 26,202

R6 Class (1,4,6)

     AALRX          10.15 %          11.40 %          6.89 %        11.34 %      $ 29,273
                                   

Russell 1000® Value Index (5)

              11.21 %          10.51 %          7.61 %        11.96 %      $ 30,959

 

1.

Performance shown is historical and is not indicative of future returns. Investment returns and principal value will vary, and shares may be worth more or less at redemption than at original purchase. Performance shown is calculated based on the published end of day net asset values as of date indicated, and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. To obtain performance as of the most recent month end, please visit www.americanbeaconfunds.com or call 1-800-967-9009. Fund performance in the table above does not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder would pay on distributions or the redemption of shares. Generally accepted accounting principles require adjustments to be made to the net assets of the Fund at period end for financial reporting purposes only; and as such, the total return based on the unadjusted net asset value per share may differ from the total return reported in the financial highlights.

 

 

3


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

 

2.

Fund performance for the ten-year period represents the total returns achieved by the Investor Class from 10/31/09 through 5/17/10, the inception date of the A Class, and the returns of the A Class since its inception. Expenses of the A Class are higher than those of the Investor Class. As a result, total returns shown may be higher than they would have been had the A Class been in existence since 10/31/09. A Class shares have a maximum sales charge of 5.75%.

 

3.

Fund performance for the ten-year period represents the total returns achieved by the Investor Class from 10/31/09 through 9/1/10, the inception date of the C Class, and the returns of the C Class since its inception. Expenses of the C Class are higher than those of the Investor Class. As a result, total returns shown may be higher than they would have been had the C Class been in existence since 10/31/09. A portion of the fees charged to the C Class was waived from 2010 through 2012, partially recovered in 2013 and 2014, and waived in 2018. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than the actual returns shown for 2010 through 2012 and for 2018. C Class shares have a maximum contingent deferred sales charge of 1.00% for shares redeemed within one year of the date of purchase.

 

4.

Fund performance for the three-year, five-year and ten-year periods represents the returns achieved by the Institutional Class from 10/31/09 through 2/28/17, the inception date of the R6 Class, and the returns of the R6 Class since its inception. Expenses of the R6 Class are lower than those of the Institutional Class. As a result, total returns shown may be lower than they would have been had the R6 Class been in existence since 10/31/09. A portion of the fees charged to the R6 Class of the Fund was waived in 2017 and 2018 and partially recovered in 2019. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than the actual returns shown for 2017 and 2018.

 

5.

The Russell 1000 Value Index is an unmanaged index of those stocks in the Russell 1000 Index with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values. Russell 1000 Value Index and Russell 1000 Index are registered trademarks of Frank Russell Company. Frank Russell Company (“Russell”) is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks and copyrights related to the Russell Indexes. Russell® is a trademark of Frank Russell Company. Neither Russell nor its licensors accept any liability for any errors or omissions in the Russell Indexes and/or Russell ratings or underlying data, and no party may rely on any Russell Indexes and/or Russell ratings and/or underlying data contained in this communication. No further distribution of Russell Data is permitted without Russell’s express written consent. Russell does not promote, sponsor or endorse the content of this communication. One cannot directly invest in an index.

 

6.

The Total Annual Fund Operating Expense ratios set forth in the most recent Fund prospectus for the Institutional, Y, Investor, Advisor, A, C and R6 Class shares were 0.62%, 0.68%, 0.95%, 1.09%, 0.93%, 1.64% and 0.59%, respectively. The expense ratios above may vary from the expense ratios presented in other sections of this report that are based on expenses incurred during the period covered by this report.

The Fund underperformed the Index as sector allocation detracted more value than that gained by stock selection for the twelve month period.

The Fund’s investments in the Consumer Discretionary and Financials sectors helped the most with respect to stock selection. Positions in Dollar General Corp. (up 44.7%) and PulteGroup, Inc. (up 62.9%) added to the Fund’s returns in the Consumer Discretionary sector. Within Financials, positions in American International Group (up 33.1%) and The Blackstone Group LP (up 48.7%) contributed to the Fund’s relative performance. Meanwhile, in the Consumer Staples sector, the Fund’s positions in Altria Group, Inc. (down 26.2%) and Imperial Brands Plc. Sponsored ADR (down 29.3%) hurt the Fund’s performance the most for the period.

Sector allocation weighed on relative performance as an overweight to Energy (down 12.3%) and an underweight to Real Estate (up 25.2%) hurt relative performance compared to the Index. The Fund’s overweight position in the Industrials sector (up 16.8%) somewhat muted relative underperformance during the period.

The sub-advisors continue to invest in a broadly diversified portfolio of companies that they believe have attractive valuations and above-average earnings growth potential. This approach should allow the Fund to benefit over the longer term.

 

 

4


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

Top Ten Holdings (% Net Assets)

 

JPMorgan Chase & Co.           2.8  
Citigroup, Inc.           2.7  
Wells Fargo & Co.           2.4  
Medtronic PLC           2.3  
Comcast Corp., Class A           2.1  
Microsoft Corp.           1.9  
American International Group, Inc.           1.8  
Bank of America Corp.           1.8  
BP PLC, Sponsored ADR           1.7  
General Motors Co.           1.7  
Total Fund Holdings      190       
       
Sector Allocation (% Equities)

 

Financials           23.8  
Health Care           13.6  
Energy           11.6  
Industrials           11.0  
Information Technology           10.1  
Consumer Discretionary           8.5  
Communication Services           6.2  
Materials           5.7  
Consumer Staples           5.3  
Utilities           4.0  
Real Estate           0.2  

 

 

5


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Expense Example

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

Fund Expense Example

As a shareholder of a Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption fees if applicable, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees, distribution (12b-1) fees, sub-transfer agent fees, and other Fund expenses. The Examples are intended to help you understand the ongoing cost (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period in each Class and held for the entire period from May 1, 2019 through October 31, 2019.

Actual Expenses

The “Actual” lines of the table provide 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period. Shareholders of the Investor and Institutional Classes that invest in the Fund through an IRA or Roth IRA may be subject to a custodial IRA fee of $15 that is typically deducted each December. If your account was subject to a custodial IRA fee during the period, your costs would have been $15 higher.

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The “Hypothetical” lines of the table provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed 5% per year rate of return before expenses (not the Fund’s actual return). You may compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund with other funds by contrasting this 5% hypothetical example and the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. Shareholders of the Investor and Institutional Classes that invest in the Fund through an IRA or Roth IRA may be subject to a custodial IRA fee of $15 that is typically deducted each December. If your account was subject to a custodial IRA fee during the period, your costs would have been $15 higher.

You should also be aware that the expenses shown in the table highlight only your ongoing costs and do not reflect any transaction costs charged by the Fund, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption fees, as applicable. Similarly, the expense examples for other funds do not reflect any transaction costs charged by those funds, such as sales charges (loads), redemption fees or exchange fees. Therefore, the “Hypothetical” lines of the table are useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. If you were subject to any transaction costs during the period, your costs would have been higher.

 

 

6


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Expense Example

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

American Beacon Large Cap Value Fund            
    Beginning Account Value
5/1/2019
  Ending Account Value
10/31/2019
  Expenses Paid During
Period
5/1/2019-10/31/2019*
Institutional Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,025.30       $3.32
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,021.93       $3.31
Y Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,025.20       $3.62
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,021.63       $3.62
Investor Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,023.60       $5.00
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,020.27       $4.99
Advisor Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,023.10       $5.71
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,019.56       $5.70
A Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,023.50       $5.36
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,019.91       $5.35
C Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,019.60       $8.70
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,016.59       $8.69
R6 Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $1,025.40       $2.96
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,022.28       $2.96

 

*

Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratios for the six-month period of 0.65%, 0.71%, 0.98%, 1.12%, 1.05%, 1.71%, and 0.58% for the Institutional, Y, Investor, Advisor, A, C, and R6 Classes, respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number derived by dividing the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year (184) by days in the year (365) to reflect the half-year period.

**

5% return before expenses.

 

 

7


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

 

To the Shareholders and the Board of Trustees of

American Beacon Large Cap Value Fund

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of American Beacon Large Cap Value Fund (the “Fund”) (one of the funds constituting American Beacon Funds (the “Trust”)), including the schedule of investments, as of October 31, 2019, and the related statement of operations for the year then ended, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund at October 31, 2019, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended and its financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Basis for Opinion

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

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Trust is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of October 31, 2019, by correspondence with the custodian and brokers or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from brokers were not received. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

LOGO

We have served as the auditor of one or more American Beacon investment companies since 1987.

Dallas, Texas

December 30, 2019

 

 

8


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.86%            
Communication Services - 6.02%            
Diversified Telecommunication Services - 1.20%            
AT&T, Inc.       1,520,900         $ 58,539,441
Verizon Communications, Inc.       104,195           6,300,672
           

 

 

 
              64,840,113
           

 

 

 
           
Interactive Media & Services - 0.92%            
Alphabet, Inc., Class AA       15,700           19,763,160
Facebook, Inc., Class AA       157,200           30,127,380
           

 

 

 
              49,890,540
           

 

 

 
           
Media - 3.44%            
CBS Corp., Class B, NVDR       293,103           10,563,432
Comcast Corp., Class A       2,555,843           114,552,883
Discovery, Inc., Class CA       1,045,000           26,375,800
Interpublic Group of Cos., Inc.       300,000           6,525,000
News Corp., Class A       1,294,300           17,744,853
Omnicom Group, Inc.       135,427           10,453,610
           

 

 

 
              186,215,578
           

 

 

 
           
Wireless Telecommunication Services - 0.46%            
Vodafone Group PLC, Sponsored ADR       1,225,850           25,031,857
           

 

 

 
           

Total Communication Services

              325,978,088
           

 

 

 
           
Consumer Discretionary - 8.22%            
Auto Components - 1.37%            
Adient PLC       406,398           8,611,574
Aptiv PLC       131,226           11,751,288
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.       639,100           10,142,517
Lear Corp.       18,118           2,133,757
Magna International, Inc.       776,541           41,754,609
           

 

 

 
              74,393,745
           

 

 

 
           
Automobiles - 1.97%            
General Motors Co.       2,549,149           94,726,377
Harley-Davidson, Inc.B       304,968           11,866,305
           

 

 

 
              106,592,682
           

 

 

 
           
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 1.06%            
Aramark       998,367           43,688,540
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.A       265,600           13,481,856
           

 

 

 
              57,170,396
           

 

 

 
           
Household Durables - 1.29%            
DR Horton, Inc.       336,900           17,643,453
Mohawk Industries, Inc.A       191,100           27,399,918
PulteGroup, Inc.       627,300           24,615,252
           

 

 

 
              69,658,623
           

 

 

 
           
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 0.18%            
eBay, Inc.       278,700           9,824,175
           

 

 

 
           
Multiline Retail - 1.29%            
Dollar General Corp.       437,343           70,123,577
           

 

 

 
           

 

See accompanying notes

 

9


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.86% (continued)            
Consumer Discretionary - 8.22% (continued)            
Specialty Retail - 1.02%            
Advance Auto Parts, Inc.       119,974         $ 19,493,375
Lowe’s Cos., Inc.       321,867           35,923,576
           

 

 

 
              55,416,951
           

 

 

 
           
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 0.04%            
Hanesbrands, Inc.       138,581           2,107,817
           

 

 

 
           

Total Consumer Discretionary

              445,287,966
           

 

 

 
           
Consumer Staples - 5.16%            
Beverages - 1.02%            
Diageo PLC, Sponsored ADR       101,624           16,653,125
Molson Coors Brewing Co., Class B       585,750           30,880,740
PepsiCo, Inc.       54,566           7,484,818
           

 

 

 
              55,018,683
           

 

 

 
           
Food Products - 1.86%            
Archer-Daniels-Midland Co.       166,190           6,986,628
Danone S.A., Sponsored ADR       367,124           6,057,546
Ingredion, Inc.       262,500           20,737,500
JM Smucker Co.       43,889           4,638,189
Mondelez International, Inc., Class A       178,400           9,357,080
Nestle S.A., Sponsored ADR       215,893           23,135,094
Tyson Foods, Inc., Class A       361,040           29,890,501
           

 

 

 
              100,802,538
           

 

 

 
           
Household Products - 0.29%            
Colgate-Palmolive Co.       37,433           2,567,904
Kimberly-Clark Corp.       33,860           4,499,317
Procter & Gamble Co.       24,445           3,043,647
Reckitt Benckiser Group PLC, Sponsored ADRB       356,873           5,627,887
           

 

 

 
              15,738,755
           

 

 

 
           
Personal Products - 0.33%            
Unilever PLC, Sponsored ADR       299,300           17,990,923
           

 

 

 
           
Tobacco - 1.66%            
Altria Group, Inc.       614,525           27,524,575
Imperial Brands PLC, Sponsored ADR       628,767           13,832,874
Philip Morris International, Inc.       593,975           48,373,324
           

 

 

 
              89,730,773
           

 

 

 
           

Total Consumer Staples

              279,281,672
           

 

 

 
           
Energy - 11.24%            
Energy Equipment & Services - 1.81%            
Halliburton Co.       1,889,200           36,367,100
National Oilwell Varco, Inc.       1,083,200           24,501,984
Schlumberger Ltd.       1,145,217           37,437,144
           

 

 

 
              98,306,228
           

 

 

 
           
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 9.43%            
Apache Corp.       951,200           20,602,992
BP PLC, Sponsored ADR       2,481,676           94,080,337
Canadian Natural Resources Ltd.       2,115,703           53,358,030
Chevron Corp.       580,648           67,436,459
ConocoPhillips       1,291,845           71,309,844

 

See accompanying notes

 

10


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.86% (continued)            
Energy - 11.24% (continued)            
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 9.43% (continued)            
EOG Resources, Inc.       120,008         $ 8,317,754
Exxon Mobil Corp.       119,676           8,086,507
Hess Corp.       370,192           24,340,124
Kosmos Energy Ltd.       820,845           5,089,239
Marathon Oil Corp.       1,904,486           21,958,723
Marathon Petroleum Corp.       180,680           11,554,486
Murphy Oil Corp.B       765,760           15,797,629
Phillips 66       460,851           53,836,614
Pioneer Natural Resources Co.       36,196           4,452,832
Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class A, Sponsored ADR       337,322           19,554,556
Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class B, Sponsored ADR       349,100           20,349,039
Suncor Energy, Inc.       355,169           10,544,968
           

 

 

 
              510,670,133
           

 

 

 
           

Total Energy

              608,976,361
           

 

 

 
           
Financials - 23.03%            
Banks - 11.86%            
Banco Santander S.A., Sponsored ADRB       4,603,800           18,231,048
Bank of America Corp.       3,077,244           96,225,420
BB&T Corp.       368,827           19,566,272
CIT Group, Inc.       133,200           5,712,948
Citigroup, Inc.       1,999,421           143,678,393
Citizens Financial Group, Inc.       552,553           19,427,763
Fifth Third Bancorp       237,200           6,897,776
JPMorgan Chase & Co.       1,228,185           153,424,870
PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.       128,064           18,786,989
US Bancorp       513,032           29,253,085
Wells Fargo & Co.       2,538,882           131,082,478
           

 

 

 
              642,287,042
           

 

 

 
           
Capital Markets - 3.36%            
Bank of New York Mellon Corp.       371,627           17,373,562
BlackRock, Inc.       26,297           12,141,325
E*TRADE Financial Corp.       351,600           14,693,364
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.       285,762           60,975,895
Moody’s Corp.       52,168           11,512,956
Morgan Stanley       299,578           13,795,567
Nasdaq, Inc.       152,269           15,191,878
State Street Corp.       447,751           29,582,909
T Rowe Price Group, Inc.       56,031           6,488,390
           

 

 

 
              181,755,846
           

 

 

 
           
Consumer Finance - 1.50%            
American Express Co.       83,889           9,838,502
Capital One Financial Corp.       287,291           26,789,886
Discover Financial Services       147,600           11,846,376
Navient Corp.       833,622           11,478,975
SLM Corp.       2,547,596           21,501,710
           

 

 

 
              81,455,449
           

 

 

 
           
Diversified Financial Services - 1.66%            
AXA Equitable Holdings, Inc.       899,200           19,422,720
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class BA       331,337           70,435,619
           

 

 

 
              89,858,339
           

 

 

 
           

 

See accompanying notes

 

11


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.86% (continued)            
Financials - 23.03% (continued)            
Insurance - 3.97%            
American International Group, Inc.       1,842,468         $ 97,577,105
Aon PLC       157,591           30,440,278
Chubb Ltd.       172,858           26,347,016
Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.       169,133           17,525,562
Travelers Cos., Inc.       327,952           42,981,389
           

 

 

 
              214,871,350
           

 

 

 
           
Mortgage Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) - 0.68%            
Annaly Capital Management, Inc.       2,567,300           23,054,354
Two Harbors Investment Corp.       990,300           13,735,461
           

 

 

 
              36,789,815
           

 

 

 
           

Total Financials

              1,247,017,841
           

 

 

 
           
Health Care - 13.16%            
Biotechnology - 0.71%            
AbbVie, Inc.       202,000           16,069,100
Biogen, Inc.A       31,100           9,289,881
Gilead Sciences, Inc.       204,640           13,037,614
           

 

 

 
              38,396,595
           

 

 

 
           
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 3.50%            
Abbott Laboratories       202,263           16,911,209
Danaher Corp.       164,390           22,656,230
Medtronic PLC       1,151,442           125,392,034
Zimmer Biomet Holdings, Inc.       177,117           24,482,883
           

 

 

 
              189,442,356
           

 

 

 
           
Health Care Providers & Services - 3.06%            
Anthem, Inc.       192,900           51,905,532
Centene Corp.A       146,600           7,781,528
Cigna Corp.       140,554           25,083,267
CVS Health Corp.       776,490           51,551,171
HCA Healthcare, Inc.       50,900           6,797,186
McKesson Corp.       67,037           8,915,921
UnitedHealth Group, Inc.       53,500           13,519,450
           

 

 

 
              165,554,055
           

 

 

 
           
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 0.34%            
Thermo Fisher Scientific, Inc.       61,379           18,535,231
           

 

 

 
           
Pharmaceuticals - 5.55%            
AstraZeneca PLC, Sponsored ADR       328,400           16,101,452
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.       649,752           37,276,272
GlaxoSmithKline PLC, Sponsored ADR       457,934           20,973,377
Horizon Therapeutics PLCA       252,922           7,311,975
Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLCA       105,168           13,212,256
Johnson & Johnson       476,140           62,869,525
Merck & Co., Inc.       489,348           42,406,898
Mylan N.V.A       501,085           9,595,778
Novartis AG, Sponsored ADR       32,790           2,867,158
Pfizer, Inc.       1,357,548           52,089,117
Roche Holding AG, Sponsored ADR       156,197           5,876,131
Sanofi, ADR       651,882           30,038,722
           

 

 

 
              300,618,661
           

 

 

 

Total Health Care

              712,546,898
           

 

 

 
           

 

See accompanying notes

 

12


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.86% (continued)            
Industrials - 10.64%            
Aerospace & Defense - 2.17%            
Embraer S.A., Sponsored ADR       229,600         $ 3,988,152
General Dynamics Corp.       64,796           11,455,933
Lockheed Martin Corp.       38,973           14,680,349
Northrop Grumman Corp.       79,585           28,052,121
Raytheon Co.       124,737           26,470,439
United Technologies Corp.       229,881           33,006,314
           

 

 

 
              117,653,308
           

 

 

 
           
Air Freight & Logistics - 0.24%            
FedEx Corp.       86,900           13,266,154
           

 

 

 
           
Airlines - 0.64%            
American Airlines Group, Inc.       1,147,940           34,507,076
           

 

 

 
           
Building Products - 1.16%            
Johnson Controls International PLC       1,446,797           62,689,714
           

 

 

 
           
Construction & Engineering - 0.09%            
Fluor Corp.       316,800           5,103,648
           

 

 

 
           
Electrical Equipment - 0.48%            
Eaton Corp. PLC       295,485           25,739,698
           

 

 

 
           
Industrial Conglomerates - 2.71%            
3M Co.       68,267           11,263,372
General Electric Co.       7,914,772           78,989,425
Honeywell International, Inc.       326,667           56,425,191
           

 

 

 
              146,677,988
           

 

 

 
           
Machinery - 2.06%            
CNH Industrial N.V.       2,532,839           27,633,273
Cummins, Inc.       152,997           26,388,923
Illinois Tool Works, Inc.       132,393           22,318,812
Ingersoll-Rand PLC       109,064           13,839,131
PACCAR, Inc.       89,951           6,841,673
Stanley Black & Decker, Inc.       96,675           14,629,828
           

 

 

 
              111,651,640
           

 

 

 
           
Professional Services - 0.21%            
Equifax, Inc.       84,012           11,485,281
           

 

 

 
           
Road & Rail - 0.45%            
Canadian National Railway Co.       84,820           7,580,363
Union Pacific Corp.       100,100           16,562,546
           

 

 

 
              24,142,909
           

 

 

 
           
Trading Companies & Distributors - 0.43%            
AerCap Holdings N.V.A       405,600           23,476,128
           

 

 

 
           

Total Industrials

              576,393,544
           

 

 

 
           
Information Technology - 9.78%            
Communications Equipment - 0.25%            
Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson, Sponsored ADRB       1,567,020           13,664,415
           

 

 

 
           

 

See accompanying notes

 

13


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.86% (continued)            
Information Technology - 9.78% (continued)            
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 1.04%            
Corning, Inc.       998,440         $ 29,583,777
IPG Photonics Corp.A       127,800           17,160,984
TE Connectivity Ltd.       105,000           9,397,500
           

 

 

 
              56,142,261
           

 

 

 
           
IT Services - 1.39%            
Accenture PLC, Class A       181,763           33,702,495
Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., Class A       86,270           5,257,294
Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.       130,595           17,207,197
Fiserv, Inc.A       181,154           19,227,686
           

 

 

 
              75,394,672
           

 

 

 
           
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 2.83%            
Analog Devices, Inc.       89,026           9,492,842
Marvell Technology Group Ltd.       1,189,300           29,007,027
NVIDIA Corp.       110,300           22,172,506
NXP Semiconductors N.V.       51,089           5,807,797
QUALCOMM, Inc.       629,499           50,636,900
Texas Instruments, Inc.       308,125           36,355,669
           

 

 

 
              153,472,741
           

 

 

 
           
Software - 3.57%            
Microsoft Corp.       704,969           101,071,406
Oracle Corp.       1,617,414           88,132,889
Teradata Corp.A       134,394           4,022,412
           

 

 

 
              193,226,707
           

 

 

 
           
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 0.70%            
Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.       2,300,844           37,756,850
           

 

 

 
           

Total Information Technology

              529,657,646
           

 

 

 
           
Materials - 5.56%            
Chemicals - 3.84%            
Air Products & Chemicals, Inc.       256,947           54,796,517
Corteva, Inc.A       799,481           21,090,309
Dow, Inc.A       331,617           16,743,342
DuPont de Nemours, Inc.       633,089           41,726,896
Eastman Chemical Co.       255,026           19,392,177
Huntsman Corp.       597,400           13,220,462
PPG Industries, Inc.       205,067           25,657,983
Sherwin-Williams Co.       26,458           15,142,443
           

 

 

 
              207,770,129
           

 

 

 
           
Containers & Packaging - 0.93%            
Crown Holdings, Inc.A       464,700           33,848,748
International Paper Co.       383,786           16,763,773
           

 

 

 
              50,612,521
           

 

 

 
           
Metals & Mining - 0.79%            
Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.       1,047,100           10,282,522
Newmont Goldcorp Corp.       823,000           32,697,790
           

 

 

 
              42,980,312
           

 

 

 
           

Total Materials

              301,362,962
           

 

 

 
           

 

See accompanying notes

 

14


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.86% (continued)            
Real Estate - 0.22%            
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) - 0.22%            
Gaming and Leisure Properties, Inc.       172,600         $ 6,966,136
Public Storage       21,773           4,852,331
           

 

 

 
              11,818,467
           

 

 

 
           

Total Real Estate

              11,818,467
           

 

 

 
           
Utilities - 3.83%            
Electric Utilities - 3.10%            
Duke Energy Corp.       304,634           28,714,801
Entergy Corp.       396,426           48,157,830
FirstEnergy Corp.       375,368           18,137,782
PPL Corp.       855,254           28,642,456
Southern Co.       595,218           37,296,360
Xcel Energy, Inc.       105,186           6,680,363
           

 

 

 
              167,629,592
           

 

 

 
           
Multi-Utilities - 0.73%            
Dominion Energy, Inc.       480,590           39,672,705
           

 

 

 

Total Utilities

              207,302,297
           

 

 

 
           

Total Common Stocks (Cost $4,051,983,814)

              5,245,623,742
           

 

 

 
           
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS - 3.18%            
Investment Companies - 3.09%            
American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund, Select Class, 1.75%C D       167,279,955           167,279,955
           

 

 

 
    Principal Amount        
             
U.S. Treasury Obligations - 0.09%            
U.S. Treasury Bill, 1.87%, Due 2/13/2020E     $ 5,000,000           4,978,078
           

 

 

 
           

Total Short-Term Investments (Cost $172,253,522)

              172,258,033
           

 

 

 
    Shares        
             
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 0.38% (Cost $20,296,656)            
Investment Companies - 0.38%            
American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund, Select Class, 1.75%C D       20,296,656           20,296,656
           

 

 

 
           

TOTAL INVESTMENTS - 100.42% (Cost $4,244,533,992)

              5,438,178,431

LIABILITIES, NET OF OTHER ASSETS - (0.42%)

              (22,742,940 )
           

 

 

 

TOTAL NET ASSETS - 100.00%

            $ 5,415,435,491
           

 

 

 
             
Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.                  

A Non-income producing security.

B All or a portion of this security is on loan, collateralized by either cash and/or U.S. Treasuries, at October 31, 2019 (Note 9).

C The Fund is affiliated by having the same investment advisor.

D 7-day yield.

E This security or a piece thereof is held as segregated collateral.

ADR - American Depositary Receipt.

NVDR - Non Voting Depositary Receipt.

PLC - Public Limited Company.

 

See accompanying notes

 

15


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

 

Long Futures Contracts Open on October 31, 2019:

 

         
Equity Futures Contracts                                         
Description      Number of
Contracts
     Expiration Date      Notional Amount        Contract Value        Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
S&P 500 E-Mini Index Futures      1,063      December 2019      $ 158,748,860        $ 161,352,770        $ 2,603,910  
              

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 
               $ 158,748,860        $ 161,352,770        $ 2,603,910  
              

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

 

Index Abbreviations:
S&P 500    Standard & Poor’s U.S. Equity Large-Cap Index.

The Fund’s investments are summarized by level based on the inputs used to determine their values. As of October 31, 2019, the investments were classified as described below:

 

Large Cap Value Fund

  Level 1           Level 2           Level 3           Total  

Assets

             

Common Stocks

  $ 5,245,623,742       $ -       $ -       $ 5,245,623,742  

Short-Term Investments

    167,279,955         4,978,078         -         172,258,033  

Securities Lending Collateral

    20,296,656         -         -         20,296,656  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Investments in Securities - Assets

  $ 5,433,200,353       $ 4,978,078       $ -       $ 5,438,178,431  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Financial Derivative Instruments - Assets

             

Futures Contracts

  $ 2,603,910       $ -       $ -       $ 2,603,910  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Financial Derivative Instruments - Assets

  $ 2,603,910       $ -       $ -       $ 2,603,910  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

U.S. GAAP requires transfers between all levels to/from level 3 be disclosed. During the year ended October 31, 2019, there were no transfers into or out of Level 3.

 

See accompanying notes

 

16


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Statement of Assets and Liabilities

October 31, 2019

 

 

Assets:

 

Investments in unaffiliated securities, at fair value §

  $ 5,250,601,820  

Investments in affiliated securities, at fair value

    187,576,611  

Dividends and interest receivable

    5,580,380  

Receivable for investments sold

    631,038  

Receivable for fund shares sold

    2,179,647  

Receivable for tax reclaims

    578,349  

Receivable for expense reimbursement (Note 2)

    159,529  

Receivable for variation margin on open futures contracts (Note 5)

    2,606,286  

Prepaid expenses

    62,453  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    5,449,976,113  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payable for investments purchased

    4,213,207  

Payable for fund shares redeemed

    3,551,384  

Cash due to broker for futures contracts

    635,735  

Management and sub-advisory fees payable (Note 2)

    5,178,226  

Service fees payable (Note 2)

    192,735  

Transfer agent fees payable (Note 2)

    88,793  

Payable upon return of securities loaned (Note 9)§

    20,296,656  

Custody and fund accounting fees payable

    87,866  

Professional fees payable

    61,108  

Trustee fees payable (Note 2)

    37,815  

Payable for prospectus and shareholder reports

    103,885  

Other liabilities

    93,212  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    34,540,622  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 5,415,435,491  
 

 

 

 

Analysis of net assets:

 

Paid-in-capital

  $ 3,828,733,102  

Total distributable earnings (deficits)A

    1,586,702,389  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 5,415,435,491  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding at no par value (unlimited shares authorized):

 

Institutional Class

    110,804,834  
 

 

 

 

Y Class

    10,727,471  
 

 

 

 

Investor Class

    43,161,993  
 

 

 

 

Advisor Class

    2,573,552  
 

 

 

 

A Class

    1,526,109  
 

 

 

 

C Class

    267,848  
 

 

 

 

R6 Class

    26,120,435  
 

 

 

 

Net assets:

 

Institutional Class

  $ 3,137,789,485  
 

 

 

 

Y Class

  $ 301,457,382  
 

 

 

 

Investor Class

  $ 1,124,625,846  
 

 

 

 

Advisor Class

  $ 66,077,449  
 

 

 

 

A Class

  $ 39,157,098  
 

 

 

 

C Class

  $ 6,811,169  
 

 

 

 

R6 Class

  $ 739,517,062  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share:

 

Institutional Class

  $ 28.32  
 

 

 

 

Y Class

  $ 28.10  
 

 

 

 

Investor Class

  $ 26.06  
 

 

 

 

Advisor Class

  $ 25.68  
 

 

 

 

A Class

  $ 25.66  
 

 

 

 

A Class (offering price)

  $ 27.23  
 

 

 

 

C Class

  $ 25.43  
 

 

 

 

R6 Class

  $ 28.31  
 

 

 

 

Cost of investments in unaffiliated securities

  $ 4,056,957,381  

Cost of investments in affiliated securities

  $ 187,576,611  

§ Fair value of securities on loan

  $ 48,563,589  

A The Fund’s investments in affiliated securities did not have unrealized appreciation (depreciation) at year end.

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

17


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Statement of Operations

For the year ended October 31, 2019

 

 

Investment income:

 

Dividend income from unaffiliated securities (net of foreign taxes)

  $ 148,337,805  

Dividend income from affiliated securities (Note 8)

    3,661,511  

Interest income

    193,330  

Income derived from securities lending (Note 9)

    111,850  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    152,304,496  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Management and sub-advisory fees (Note 2)

    31,149,968  

Transfer agent fees:

 

Institutional Class (Note 2)

    1,094,270  

Y Class (Note 2)

    306,345  

Investor Class

    51,197  

Advisor Class

    3,261  

A Class

    2,298  

R6 Class

    19,962  

Custody and fund accounting fees

    636,870  

Professional fees

    273,021  

Registration fees and expenses

    136,955  

Service fees (Note 2):

 

Investor Class

    4,535,505  

Advisor Class

    164,549  

A Class

    72,845  

C Class

    6,803  

Distribution fees (Note 2):

 

Advisor Class

    164,038  

A Class

    117,558  

C Class

    66,992  

Prospectus and shareholder report expenses

    392,829  

Trustee fees (Note 2)

    428,587  

Other expenses

    637,734  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    40,261,587  
 

 

 

 

Net fees waived and expenses (reimbursed) (Note 2)

    (128,272
 

 

 

 

Net expenses

    40,133,315  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income

    112,171,181  
 

 

 

 

Realized and unrealized gain (loss) from investments:

 

Net realized gain (loss) from:

 

Investments in unaffiliated securitiesA

    361,981,952  

Commission recapture (Note 1)

    47,799  

Foreign currency transactions

    (1,788

Futures contracts

    4,328,396  

Change in net unrealized appreciation of:

 

Investments in unaffiliated securitiesB

    23,464,371  

Futures contracts

    14,221,296  
 

 

 

 

Net gain from investments

    404,042,026  
 

 

 

 

Net increase in net assets resulting from operations

  $ 516,213,207  
 

 

 

 

Foreign taxes

  $ 1,092,237  

A The Fund did not recognize net realized gains (losses) from the sale of investments in affiliated securities.

 

B The Fund’s investments in affiliated securities did not have a change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) at year end.

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

18


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Statement of Changes in Net Assets

 

 

    Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          Year Ended
October 31, 2018
 

Increase (decrease) in net assets:

     

Operations:

     

Net investment income

  $ 112,171,181       $ 120,020,703  

Net realized gain from investments in unaffiliated securities, commission recapture, foreign currency transactions, and futures contracts

    366,356,359         496,658,492  

Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments in unaffiliated securities, and futures contracts

    37,685,667         (479,861,151
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net increase in net assets resulting from operations

    516,213,207         136,818,044  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Distributions to shareholders:

     

Total retained earnings:

     

Institutional Class

    (307,696,338       (459,420,239

Y Class

    (24,499,396       (38,692,156

Investor Class

    (128,259,878       (196,784,505

Advisor Class

    (5,201,321       (8,664,880

A Class

    (4,356,396       (4,240,901

C Class

    (544,161       (808,195

R6 Class

    (48,893,430       (17,634,896
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net distributions to shareholders

    (519,450,920       (726,245,772
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Capital share transactions (Note 11):

     

Proceeds from sales of shares

    777,784,227         1,360,517,349  

Reinvestment of dividends and distributions

    486,264,603         686,933,740  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (2,033,070,711       (2,588,058,224
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net (decrease) in net assets from capital share transactions

    (769,021,881       (540,607,135
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net (decrease) in net assets

    (772,259,594       (1,130,034,863
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net assets:

     

Beginning of period

    6,187,695,085         7,317,729,948  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

End of period

  $ 5,415,435,491       $ 6,187,695,085  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

19


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

1.  Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

American Beacon Funds (the “Trust”) is organized as a Massachusetts business trust. The Fund, a series within the Trust, is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Act”), as a diversified, open-end management investment company. As of October 31, 2019, the Trust consists of thirty-two active series, one of which is presented in this filing: American Beacon Large Cap Value Fund (the “Fund”). The remaining thirty-one active series are reported in separate filings.

American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (the “Manager”) is a Delaware corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (“RIM”) organized in 1986 to provide business management, advisory, administrative, and asset management consulting services to the Trust and other investors. The Manager is registered as an investment advisor under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the “Advisers Act”). RIM is, in turn, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Acquisition, Inc., which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Topco, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC (“RIH”). RIH is owned primarily by Kelso Investment Associates VIII, L.P., KEP VI, LLC and Estancia Capital Partners L.P., investment funds affiliated with Kelso & Company, L.P. (“Kelso”) or Estancia Capital Management, LLC (“Estancia”), which are private equity firms.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2017-08, Premium Amortization of Purchased Callable Debt Securities. The amendments in the ASU shorten the premium amortization period on a purchased callable debt security from the security’s contractual life to the earliest call date. It is anticipated that this change will enhance disclosures by reducing losses recognized when a security is called on an earlier date. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. The Manager continues to evaluate the impact this ASU will have on the financial statements and other disclosures.

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (“Topic 820”). The amendments in the ASU impact disclosure requirements for fair value measurement. It is anticipated that this change will enhance the effectiveness of disclosures in the notes to the financial statements. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted and can include the entire standard or certain provisions that exclude or amend disclosures. For the year ended October 31, 2019, the Fund has chosen to adopt the standard. The adoption of this ASU guidance did not have a material impact on the financial statements and other disclosures.

Class Disclosure

The Fund has multiple classes of shares designed to meet the needs of different groups of investors. The following table sets forth the differences amongst the classes:

 

Class

  

Eligible Investors

   Minimum Initial
Investments
 
Institutional    Large institutional investors - sold directly or through intermediary channels.    $ 250,000  
Y Class    Large institutional retirement plan investors - sold directly or through intermediary channels.    $ 100,000  
Investor    All investors using intermediary organizations, such as broker-dealers or retirement plan sponsors.    $ 2,500  
Advisor Class    All investors who invest through intermediary organizations, such as broker-dealers or third party administrators.    $ 2,500  
A Class    All investors who invest through intermediary organizations, such as broker-dealers or third party administrator. Retail investors who invest directly through a financial intermediary such as a broker, bank, or registered investment advisor which may include a front-end sales charge and a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”).    $ 2,500  

 

 

20


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Class

  

Eligible Investors

   Minimum Initial
Investments
 
C Class    Retail investors who invest directly through a financial intermediary such as a broker or through employee directed benefit plans with applicable sales charges which may include CDSC.    $ 1,000  
R6 Class    Large institutional retirement plan investors—sold through retirement plan sponsors.      None  

Each class offered by the Trust has equal rights as to assets and voting privileges. Income and non-class specific expenses are allocated daily to each class based on the relative net assets. Realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of each class are allocated daily based on the relative net assets of each class of the respective Fund. Class specific expenses, where applicable, currently include service, distribution, transfer agent fees, and sub-transfer agent fees that vary amongst the classes as described more fully in Note 2.

Significant Accounting Policies

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies, consistently followed by the Fund in preparation of the financial statements. The Fund is considered an investment company and accordingly, follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946, Financial Services – Investment Companies, a part of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“U.S. GAAP”).

Security Transactions and Investment Income

Security transactions are recorded as of the trade date for financial reporting purposes. Securities purchased or sold on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis may be settled beyond a standard settlement period for the security after the trade date.

Dividend income, net of foreign taxes, is recorded on the ex-dividend date, except certain dividends from foreign securities which are recorded as soon as the information is available to the Fund. Interest income, net of foreign taxes, is earned from settlement date, recorded on the accrual basis, and adjusted, if necessary, for accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums. Realized gains (losses) from securities sold are determined based on specific lot identification.

Distributions to Shareholders

The Fund distributes most or all of its net earnings and realized gains, if any, each taxable year in the form of dividends from net investment income and distributions of realized net capital gains and net gains from foreign currency transactions on an annual basis. The Fund does not have a fixed dividend rate and does not guarantee that it will pay any distributions in any particular period. Dividends to shareholders are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ in amount and character from net investment income and realized gains recognized for purposes of U.S. GAAP. To the extent necessary to fully distribute capital gains, the Fund may designate earnings and profits distributed to shareholders on the redemption of shares.

Commission Recapture

The Fund has established brokerage commission recapture arrangements with certain brokers or dealers. If the Fund’s investment advisor chooses to execute a transaction through a participating broker, the broker rebates a portion of the commission back to the Fund. Any collateral benefit received through participation in the commission recapture program is directed exclusively to the Fund. This amount is reported with the net realized gain in the Fund’s Statement of Operations, if applicable.

 

 

21


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Allocation of Income, Trust Expenses, Gains, and Losses

Investment income, realized and unrealized gains and losses from investments of the Fund is allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class to the total net assets of the Fund. Expenses directly charged or attributable to the Fund will be paid from the assets of the Fund. Generally, expenses of the Trust will be allocated among and charged to the assets of the Fund on a basis that the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”) deems fair and equitable, which may be based on the relative net assets of the Fund or nature of the services performed and relative applicability to the Fund.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results may differ from those estimated.

Other

Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and trustees are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. In the normal course of business, the Trust enters into contracts that provide indemnification to the other party or parties against potential costs or liabilities. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made in the future and, therefore, cannot be estimated. The Trust has had no prior claims or losses pursuant to any such agreement.

2.  Transactions with Affiliates

Management and Investment Sub-Advisory Agreements

The Fund and the Manager are parties to a Management Agreement that obligates the Manager to provide the Fund with investment advisory and administrative services. As compensation for performing the duties under the Management Agreement, the Manager will receive an annualized management fee based on a percentage of the Fund’s average daily net assets that is calculated and accrued daily according to the following schedule:

 

First $15 billion

     0.35

Next $15 billion

     0.325

Over $30 billion

     0.30

The Trust, on behalf of the Fund, and the Manager have entered into Investment Advisory Agreements with Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss, LLC; Brandywine Global Investment Management, LLC; Hotchkis and Wiley Capital Management, LLC; and Massachusetts Financial Services Company (“Sub-Advisors”) pursuant to which the Fund has agreed to pay an annualized sub-advisory fee that is calculated and accrued daily based on the Fund’s average daily net assets.

The Management and Sub-Advisory Fees paid by the Fund for the year ended October 31, 2019 were as follows:

 

    Effective Fee Rate           Amount of Fees Paid  

Management Fees

    0.35     $ 19,827,185  

Sub-Advisor Fees

    0.20       11,322,783  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total

    0.55     $ 31,149,968  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

 

22


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

As compensation for services provided by the Manager in connection with securities lending activities conducted by the Fund, the lending Fund pays to the Manager, with respect to cash collateral posted by borrowers, a fee up to 10% of the net monthly interest income (the gross interest income earned by the investment of cash collateral, less the amount paid to borrowers and related expenses) from such activities and, with respect to loan fees paid by borrowers, a fee up to 10% of such loan fees. These fees are included in “Income derived from securities lending” and “Management and investment advisory fees” on the Statement of Operations. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Manager received securities lending fees of $15,156 for the securities lending activities of the Fund.

Distribution Plans

The Fund, except for the Advisor, A, and C Classes of the Fund, has adopted a “defensive” Distribution Plan (the “Plan”) in accordance with Rule 12b-1 under the Act, pursuant to which no separate fees may be charged to the Fund for distribution purposes. However, the Plan authorizes the management fee received by the Manager and the investment advisors hired by the Manager to be used for distribution purposes. Under this Plan, the Fund does not intend to compensate the Manager or any other party, either directly or indirectly, for the distribution of Fund shares.

Separate Distribution Plans (the “Distribution Plans”) have been adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act for the Advisor, A, and C Classes of the Fund. Under the Distribution Plans, as compensation for distribution and shareholder servicing assistance, the Manager receives an annual fee of 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Advisor and A Classes and 1.00% of the average daily net assets of the C Class. The fee will be payable without regard to whether the amount of the fee is more or less than the actual expenses incurred in a particular month by the Manager for distribution assistance.

Service Plans

The Manager and the Trust entered into a Service Plan that obligates the Manager to oversee additional shareholder servicing of the Investor, Advisor, A, and C Classes of the Fund. As compensation for performing the duties required under the Service Plan, the Manager receives an annualized fee up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the A and C Classes, up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Advisor Class, and up to 0.375% of the average daily net assets of the Investor Class of the Fund.

Sub-Transfer Agent Fees

The Manager has entered into agreements, which include servicing agreements, with financial intermediaries that provide recordkeeping, processing, shareholder communications and other services to customers of the intermediaries that hold positions in the Institutional and Y Classes of the Fund and has agreed to compensate the intermediaries for providing these services. Intermediaries transact with the Fund primarily through the use of omnibus accounts on behalf of its customers who hold positions in the Fund. Certain services would have been provided by the Fund’s transfer agent and other service providers if the shareholders’ accounts were maintained directly by the Fund’s transfer agent. Accordingly, the Fund, pursuant to Board approval, has agreed to reimburse the Manager for certain non-distribution shareholder services provided by financial intermediaries for the Institutional and Y Classes. The reimbursement amounts (sub-transfer agent fees) paid to the Manager are subject to a fee limit of up to 0.10% of an intermediary’s average net assets in the Institutional and Y Classes on an annual basis. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the sub-transfer agent fees, as reflected in “Transfer agent fees” on the Statement of Operations, were as follows:

 

Fund

   Sub-Transfer Agent Fees  

Large Cap Value

   $ 1,289,142  

 

 

23


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

As of October 31, 2019, the Fund owed the Manager the following reimbursement of sub-transfer agent fees, as reflected in “Transfer agent fees payable” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities:

 

Fund

   Reimbursement
Sub-Transfer Agent  Fees
 

Large Cap Value

   $ 41,540  

Investments in Affiliated Funds

The Fund may invest in the American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund (the “USG Select Fund”). Cash collateral received by the Fund in connection with securities lending may also be invested in the USG Select Fund. The Fund and the USG Select Fund have the same investment advisor and therefore, are considered to be affiliated. The Manager serves as investment advisor to the USG Select Fund and receives management fees and administrative fees totaling 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the USG Select Fund. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Manager earned fees on the Fund’s direct investments and securities lending collateral investments in the USG Select Fund as shown below:

 

Fund

   Direct Investments in
USG Select Fund
     Securities Lending
Collateral
Investments  in USG
Select Fund
     Total  

Large Cap Value

   $ 165,292      $ 33,248      $ 198,540  

Interfund Credit Facility

Pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the SEC, the Fund, along with other registered investment companies having management contracts with the Manager, may participate in a credit facility whereby each fund, under certain conditions, is permitted to lend money directly to and borrow directly from other participating funds for temporary purposes. The interfund credit facility is advantageous to the funds because it provides added liquidity and eliminates the need to maintain higher cash balances to meet redemptions. This situation could arise when shareholder redemptions exceed anticipated volumes and certain funds have insufficient cash on hand to satisfy such redemptions or when sales of securities do not settle as expected, resulting in a cash shortfall for a fund. When a fund liquidates portfolio securities to meet redemption requests, they often do not receive payment in settlement for up to two days (or longer for certain foreign transactions). Redemption requests normally are satisfied on the next business day. The credit facility provides a source of immediate, short-term liquidity pending settlement of the sale of portfolio securities. The credit facility is administered by a credit facility team consisting of professionals from the Manager’s asset management, compliance, and accounting areas who report the activities of the credit facility to the Board. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Fund participated as a lender by loaning an average amount of $6,352,992 for 131 days at an average interest rate of 2.96% with interest charges earned of $67,332. This amount is included in “Interest income” on the Statement of Operations.

Expense Reimbursement Plan

The Manager contractually agreed to reduce fees and/or reimburse expenses for the classes of the Fund to the extent that total operating expenses exceed the Fund’s expense cap. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Manager waived and/or reimbursed expenses as follows:

 

            Expense Cap                  Expiration of
Reimbursed
Expenses
 

Fund

   Class      11/1/2018 -
10/31/2019
    Reimbursed
Expenses
     (Recouped)
Expenses
 

Large Cap Value

     R6        0.58   $ 169,110      $ (40,838     2021 - 2022  

 

 

24


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Of these amounts, $159,529 was disclosed as a receivable from the Manager on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities at October 31, 2019.

The Fund has adopted an Expense Reimbursement Plan whereby the Manager may seek repayment of such fee or voluntary reductions and expense reimbursements. Under the policy, the Manager can be reimbursed by the Fund for any contractual or voluntary fee reductions or expense reimbursements if reimbursement to the Manager (a) occurs within three years after the date of the Manager’s waiver/reimbursement and (b) does not cause the Fund’s annual operating expenses to exceed the lesser of the contractual percentage limit in effect at the time of the waiver/reimbursement or time of recoupment. The reimbursed expenses listed above will expire in 2021 - 2022. The Fund did not record a liability for potential reimbursement due to the current assessment that a reimbursement is uncertain. The carryover of excess expenses potentially reimbursable to the Manager are as follows:

 

Fund

   Recouped
Expenses
     Excess Expense
Carryover
     Expired Expense
Carryover
     Expiration of
Reimbursed
Expenses
 

Large Cap Value

   $ 29,307      $ -      $ -        2020 – 2021  

Large Cap Value

     1,950        -        -        2019 - 2020  

Sales Commissions

The Fund’s Distributor, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (“RID” or “Distributor”), may receive a portion of Class A sales charges from broker dealers and it may be used to offset distribution related expenses. During the year ended October 31, 2019, RID collected $527 from the sale of Class A Shares of the Fund.

A CDSC of 0.50% will be deducted with respect to Class A Shares on certain purchases of $1,000,000 or more that are redeemed in whole or part within 18 months of purchase, unless waived as discussed in the Fund’s Prospectus. Any applicable CDSC will be 0.50% of the lesser of the original purchase price or the value of the redemption of the Class A Shares redeemed. During the year ended October 31, 2019, there were no CDSC fees collected for Class A Shares of the Fund.

A CDSC of 1.00% will be deducted with respect to Class C Shares redeemed within 12 months of purchase, unless waived as discussed in the Fund’s Prospectus. Any applicable CDSC will be 1.00% of the lesser of the original purchase price or the value of the redemption of the Class C Shares redeemed. During the year ended October 31, 2019, CDSC fees of $3,155 were collected for Class C Shares of the Fund.

Trustee Fees and Expenses

As compensation for their service to the Trusts, each Trustee receives an annual retainer of $120,000, plus $10,000 for each Board meeting attended in person or via teleconference, $2,500 for attendance by Committee members at meetings of the Audit Committee and the Investment Committee, and $1,500 for attendance by Committee members at meetings of the Nominating and Governance Committee, plus reimbursement of reasonable expenses incurred in attending Board meetings, Committee meetings, and relevant educational seminars. The Trustees also may be compensated for attendance at special Board and/or Committee meetings from time to time. The Board Chair receives an additional annual retainer of $50,000 as well as a $2,500 fee each quarter for attendance at the committee meetings. The Chairpersons of the Audit Committee and the Investment Committee each receive an additional annual retainer of $25,000 and the Chairman of the Nominating and Governance Committee receives an additional annual retainer of $10,000. These expenses are allocated on a prorated basis to each fund of the Trusts according to its respective net assets.

 

 

25


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

3.  Security Valuation and Fair Value Measurements

The price of the Fund’s shares is based on its net asset value (“NAV”) per share. The Fund’s NAV is computed by adding total assets, subtracting all the Fund’s liabilities, and dividing the result by the total number of shares outstanding.

The NAV of each class of the Fund’s shares is determined based on a pro rata allocation of the Fund’s investment income, expenses and total capital gains and losses. The Fund’s NAV per share is determined each business day as of the regular close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE” or “Exchange”), which is typically 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time (“ET”). However, if trading on the NYSE closes at a time other than 4:00 p.m. ET, the Fund’s NAV per share typically would still be determined as of the regular close of trading on the NYSE. The Fund does not price its shares on days that the NYSE is closed. Foreign exchanges may permit trading in foreign securities on days when the Fund is not open for business, which may result in the value of the Fund’s portfolio investments being affected at a time when you are unable to buy or sell shares.

Equity securities, including shares of closed-end funds and exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”), are valued at the last sale price or official closing price taken from the primary exchange in which each security trades. Investments in other mutual funds are valued at the closing NAV per share on the day of valuation. Debt securities are valued at bid quotes from broker/dealers or evaluated bid prices from pricing services, who may consider a number of inputs and factors, such as prices of comparable securities, yield curves, spreads, credit ratings, coupon rates, maturity, default rates, and underlying collateral. Futures are valued based on their daily settlement prices. Exchange-traded and over-the-counter (“OTC”) options are valued at the last sale price. Options with no last sale for the day are priced at mid quote. Swaps are valued at evaluated mid prices from pricing services.

The valuation of securities traded on foreign markets and certain fixed-income securities will generally be based on prices determined as of the earlier closing time of the markets on which they primarily trade unless a significant event has occurred. When the Fund holds securities or other assets that are denominated in a foreign currency, the Fund will normally use the currency exchange rates as of 4:00 p.m. ET.

Securities may be valued at fair value, as determined in good faith and pursuant to procedures approved by the Board, under certain limited circumstances. For example, fair value pricing will be used when market quotations are not readily available or reliable, as determined by the Manager, such as when (i) trading for a security is restricted or stopped; (ii) a security’s trading market is closed (other than customary closings); or (iii) a security has been de-listed from a national exchange. A security with limited market liquidity may require fair value pricing if the Manager determines that the available price does not reflect the security’s true market value. In addition, if a significant event that the Manager determines to affect the value of one or more securities held by the Fund occurs after the close of a related exchange but before the determination of the Fund’s NAV, fair value pricing may be used on the affected security or securities. Securities of small-capitalization companies are also more likely to require a fair value determination using these procedures because they are more thinly traded and less liquid than the securities of larger-capitalization companies. The Fund may fair value securities as a result of significant events occurring after the close of the foreign markets in which the Fund invests as described below. In addition, the Fund may invest in illiquid securities requiring these procedures.

The Fund may use fair value pricing for securities primarily traded in non-U.S. markets because most foreign markets close well before the Fund’s pricing time of 4:00 p.m. ET. The earlier close of these foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim and may materially affect the value of those securities. If the Manager determines that the last quoted prices of non-U.S. securities will, in its judgment, materially affect the value of some or all its portfolio securities, the Manager can adjust the previous closing prices to reflect what it believes to be the fair value of the securities as of the close of the Exchange. In deciding whether it is necessary to adjust closing prices to reflect fair value, the Manager reviews a variety of factors, including developments in foreign markets, the performance of U.S. securities markets, and the performance of instruments trading in U.S. markets that represent foreign securities

 

 

26


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

and baskets of foreign securities. These securities are fair valued using a pricing service, using methods approved by the Board, that considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to intraday trading in the U.S. markets, based on indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators such as prices of relevant American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”) and futures contracts. The Valuation Committee, established by the Board, may also fair value securities in other situations, such as when a particular foreign market is closed but the Fund is open. The Fund uses outside pricing services to provide closing prices and information to evaluate and/or adjust those prices. As a means of evaluating its security valuation process, the Valuation Committee routinely compares closing prices, the next day’s opening prices in the same markets and adjusted prices.

Attempts to determine the fair value of securities introduce an element of subjectivity to the pricing of securities. As a result, the price of a security determined through fair valuation techniques may differ from the price quoted or published by other sources and may not accurately reflect the market value of the security when trading resumes. If a reliable market quotation becomes available for a security formerly valued through fair valuation techniques, the Manager compares the new market quotation to the fair value price to evaluate the effectiveness of the Fund’s fair valuation procedures. If any significant discrepancies are found, the Manager may adjust the Fund’s fair valuation procedures.

Valuation Inputs

Various inputs may be used to determine the fair value of the Fund’s investments. These inputs are summarized in three broad levels for financial statement purposes. The inputs or methodologies used to value securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

Level 1   -   Quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
Level 2   -   Prices determined using other significant observable inputs. These may include quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, and others.
Level 3   -   Prices determined using other significant unobservable inputs. Unobservable inputs reflect the Fund’s own assumptions about the factors market participants would use in pricing an investment.

Level 1 and Level 2 trading assets and trading liabilities, at fair value

Common stocks, preferred securities and financial derivative instruments, such as futures contracts that are traded on a national securities exchange, are stated at the last reported sale or settlement price on the day of valuation. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized as Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Preferred securities and other equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Investments in registered open-end investment management companies will be valued based upon the NAVs of such investments and are categorized as Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

4.  Securities and Other Investments

American Depositary Receipts and Non-Voting Depositary Receipts

ADRs are depositary receipts for foreign issuers in registered form traded in U.S. securities markets. Non-Voting Depositary Receipts (“NVDRs”) represent financial interests in an issuer but the holder is not entitled to any voting rights. Depositary receipts may not be denominated in the same currency as the securities into which they may be converted. Investing in depositary receipts entails substantially the same risks as direct investment in foreign securities. There is generally less publicly available information about foreign companies and there may be less governmental regulation and supervision of foreign stock exchanges, brokers, and listed companies. In

 

 

27


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

addition, such companies may use different accounting and financial standards (and certain currencies may become unavailable for transfer from a foreign currency), resulting in the Fund possible inability to convert immediately into U.S. currency proceeds realized upon the sale of portfolio securities of the affected foreign companies. In addition, the Fund may invest in unsponsored depositary receipts, the issuers of which are not obligated to disclose material information about the underlying securities to investors in the United States. Ownership of unsponsored depositary receipts may not entitle the Fund to the same benefits and rights as ownership of a sponsored depositary receipt or the underlying security.

Common Stock

Common stock generally takes the form of shares in a corporation which represent an ownership interest. It ranks below preferred stock and debt securities in claims for dividends and for assets of the company in a liquidation or bankruptcy. The value of a company’s common stock may fall as a result of factors directly relating to that company, such as decisions made by its management or decreased demand for the company’s products or services. A stock’s value may also decline because of factors affecting not just the company, but also companies in the same industry or sector. The price of a company’s stock may also be affected by changes in financial markets that are relatively unrelated to the company, such as changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates or industry regulation. Companies that elect to pay dividends on their common stock generally only do so after they invest in their own business and make required payments to bondholders and on other debt and preferred stock. Therefore, the value of a company’s common stock will usually be more volatile than its bonds, other debt and preferred stock. Common stock may be exchange-traded or OTC. OTC stock may be less liquid than exchange-traded stock.

Other Investment Company Securities and Other Exchange-Traded Products

The Fund may invest in shares of other investment companies, including open-end funds, closed-end funds, business development companies, ETFs, unit investment trusts, and other investment companies of the Trust. The Fund may invest in investment company securities advised by the Manager or a sub-advisor. Investments in the securities of other investment companies may involve duplication of advisory fees and certain other expenses. By investing in another investment company, the Fund becomes a shareholder of that investment company. As a result, the Fund’s shareholders indirectly will bear the Fund’s proportionate share of the fees and expenses paid by shareholders of the other investment company, in addition to the fees and expenses the Fund’s shareholders directly bear in connection with the Fund’s own operations. These other fees and expenses are reflected as Acquired Fund Fees and Expenses and are included in the Fees and Expenses Table for the Fund in its Prospectus, if applicable. Investments in other investment companies may involve the payment of substantial premiums above the value of such issuer’s portfolio securities.

Publicly Traded Partnerships; Master Limited Partnerships

The Fund may invest in publicly traded partnerships such as master limited partnerships (“MLPs”). MLPs issue units that are registered with the SEC and are freely tradable on a securities exchange or in the OTC market. An MLP may have one or more general partners, who conduct the business, and one or more limited partners, who contribute capital. An MLP also may be an entity similar to a limited partnership, such as a limited liability company, which has a manager or managing member and non-managing members (who are like limited partners). The general partner or partners are jointly and severally responsible for the liabilities of the MLP. A Fund invests as a limited partner and normally would not be liable for the debts of an MLP beyond the amount the Fund has invested therein but it would not be shielded to the same extent that a shareholder of a corporation would be. In certain instances, creditors of an MLP would have the right to seek a return of capital that had been distributed to a limited partner. The right of an MLP’s creditors would continue even after a Fund had sold its investment in the partnership. MLPs typically invest in real estate and oil and gas equipment leasing assets, but they also finance entertainment, research and development, and other projects.

 

 

28


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Real Estate Investment Trusts

The Fund may own shares of real estate investment trusts (“REITs”) which report information on the source of their distributions annually. The Fund re-characterizes distributions received from REIT investments based on information provided by the REITs into the following categories: ordinary income, long-term capital gains, and return of capital. If information is not available on a timely basis from the REITs, the re-characterization will be estimated based on available information, which may include the previous year allocation. If new or additional information becomes available from the REITs at a later date, a re-characterization will be made the following year.

5.  Financial Derivative Instruments

The Fund may utilize derivative instruments to gain market exposure on cash balances to hedge foreign currency exposure or reduce market exposure in anticipation of liquidity needs. When considering the Fund’s use of derivatives, it is important to note that the Fund does not use derivatives for the purpose of creating financial leverage.

Futures Contracts

Futures contracts are contracts to buy or sell a standard quantity of securities at a specified price on a future date. The Fund may enter into financial futures contracts as a method for keeping assets readily convertible to cash if needed to meet shareholder redemptions or for other needs while maintaining exposure to the stock or bond market, as applicable. The primary risks associated with the use of futures contracts are the possibility of illiquid markets or imperfect correlation between the values of the contracts and the underlying securities or that the counterparty will fail to perform its obligations.

Upon entering into a futures contract, the Fund is required to set aside or deposit with a broker an amount, termed the initial margin, which typically represents a portion of the face value of the futures contract. The Fund usually reflects this amount on the Schedule of Investments as a U.S. Treasury Bill held as collateral for futures contracts or as cash deposited with broker on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Payments to and from the broker, known as variation margin, are required to be made on a daily basis as the price of the futures contract fluctuates. Changes in initial settlement values are accounted for as unrealized appreciation (depreciation) until the contracts are terminated, at which time realized gains and losses are recognized. Futures contracts are valued at the most recent settlement price established each day by the exchange on which they are traded.

During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Fund entered into futures contracts primarily for exposing cash to markets.

The Fund’s average futures contracts outstanding fluctuate throughout the operating year as required to meet strategic requirements. The following table illustrates the average quarterly volume of futures contracts. For the purpose of this disclosure, volume is measured by contracts outstanding at each quarter end.

 

Average Futures Contracts Outstanding

 

Fund

  Year Ended October 31, 2019  

Large Cap Value

    1,075  

 

 

29


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

The following is a summary of the fair valuations of the Fund’s derivative instruments categorized by risk exposure(1):

 

Fair values of financial instruments on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of October 31, 2019:

 

       
    Derivatives not accounted for as hedging instruments

Assets:

  Credit contracts       Foreign exchange
contracts
      Commodity
contracts
      Interest rate
contracts
      Equity contracts       Total
Receivable for variation margin from open futures contracts(2)     $ -         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ 2,603,910         $ 2,603,910
                                           
The effect of financial derivative instruments on the Statement of Operations as of October 31, 2019:

 

   
    Derivatives not accounted for as hedging instruments

Realized gain (loss) from derivatives
recognized as a result of operations

  Credit contracts       Foreign exchange
contracts
      Commodity
contracts
      Interest rate
contracts
      Equity contracts       Total
Futures contracts     $ -         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ 4,328,396         $ 4,328,396

Net change in unrealized appreciation
(depreciation) of derivatives recognized
as a result from operations:

  Credit contracts       Foreign exchange
contracts
      Commodity
contracts
      Interest rate
contracts
      Equity contracts       Total
Futures contracts     $ -         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ 14,221,296         $ 14,221,296

(1) See Note 3 in the Notes to Financial Statements for additional information.

(2) Includes cumulative appreciation (depreciation) of futures contracts as reported in the Fund’s Schedule of Investments footnotes. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Offsetting Assets and Liabilities

The Fund is a party to enforceable master netting agreements between brokers and counterparties which provide for the right to offset under certain circumstances. The Fund employs multiple money managers and counterparties and has elected not to offset qualifying financial and derivative instruments on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, as such all financial and derivative instruments are presented on a gross basis. The impacts of netting arrangements that provide the right to offset are detailed below, if applicable. The net amount represents the net receivable or payable that would be due from or to the counterparty in the event of default. Exposure from borrowings and other financing agreements such as repurchase agreements can only be netted across transactions governed by the same Master Agreement with the same legal entity. All amounts reported below represent the balance as of the report date, October 31, 2019.

 

Offsetting of Financial and Derivative Assets as of October 31, 2019:      
    Assets           Liabilities  
Futures Contracts(1)   $ 2,603,910       $ -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 
Total derivative assets and liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities   $ 2,603,910       $ -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 
Derivatives not subject to a Master Netting Agreement or similar agreement (“MNA”)   $ (2,606,910     $ -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements
As of October 31, 2019
 
    Overnight and
Continuous
          <30 days           Between
30 & 90 days
          >90 days           Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

                 

Common Stocks

  $ 20,296,656       $ -       $ -       $ -       $ 20,296,656  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Borrowings

  $ 20,296,656       $ -       $ -       $ -       $ 20,296,656  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Gross amount of recognized liabilities for securities lending transactions

 

    $ 20,296,656  
                 

 

 

 

(1) Includes cumulative appreciation or (depreciation) of futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments footnotes. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

 

30


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

6.  Principal Risks

Investing in the Fund may involve certain risks including, but not limited to, those described below.

Equity Investments Risk

Equity securities are subject to market risk. The Fund’s investments in equity securities may include common stocks, preferred stocks, securities convertible into or exchangeable for common stocks, REITs, depositary receipts, and U.S. dollar-denominated foreign stocks traded on U.S. exchanges. Such investments may expose the Fund to additional risk. The value of a company’s common stock may fall as a result of factors affecting the company, companies in the same industry or sector, or the financial markets overall. Common stock generally is subordinate to preferred stock upon the liquidation or bankruptcy of the issuing company. Preferred stocks and convertible securities are sensitive to movements in interest rates. Preferred stocks may be less liquid than common stocks and, unlike common stocks, participation in the growth of an issuer may be limited. Distributions on preferred stocks generally are payable at the discretion of an issuer and after required payments to bond holders. Convertible securities are subject to the risk that the credit standing of the issuer may have an effect on the convertible securities’ investment value. Investments in REITs are subject to the risks associated with investing in the real estate industry such as adverse developments affecting the real estate industry and real property values. Depositary receipts and U.S. dollar-denominated foreign stocks traded on U.S. exchanges are subject to certain of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities, including, but not limited to, currency fluctuations and political and financial instability in the home country of a particular depositary receipt or foreign stock.

Foreign Investing and Emerging Markets Risk

Non-U.S. investments carry potential risks not associated with U.S. investments. Such risks include, but are not limited to: (1) currency exchange rate fluctuations, (2) political and financial instability, (3) less liquidity, (4) lack of uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, (5) increased price volatility, (6) less government regulation and supervision of foreign stock exchanges, brokers and listed companies, and (7) delays in transaction settlement in some foreign markets. To the extent the Fund invests a significant portion of its assets in securities of a single country or region, it is more likely to be affected by events or conditions of that country or region. In addition, the economies and political environments of emerging market countries tend to be more unstable than those of developed countries, resulting in more volatile rates of return than the developed markets and substantially greater risk to investors. There may be very limited oversight of certain foreign banks or securities depositories that hold foreign securities and currency and the laws of certain countries may limit the ability to recover such assets if a foreign bank or depository or their agents goes bankrupt. When investing in emerging markets, the risks of investing in foreign securities are heightened. Emerging markets have unique risks that are greater than, or in addition to, investing in developed markets because emerging markets are generally smaller, less developed, less liquid and more volatile than the securities markets of the U.S. and other developed markets. There are also risks of: greater political uncertainties; an economy’s dependence on revenues from particular commodities or on international aid or development assistance; currency transfer restrictions; a limited number of potential buyers for such securities, resulting in increased volatility and limited liquidity for emerging market securities; trading suspensions; and delays and disruptions in securities settlement procedures. In addition, there may be less information available to make investment decisions and more volatile rates of return.

Futures Contracts Risk

Futures contracts are derivative instruments where one party pays a fixed price for an agreed amount of securities or other underlying assets at an agreed date. The use of such derivative instruments may expose the Fund to additional risks that it would not be subject to if it invested directly in the securities underlying those derivatives. Futures contracts may experience potentially dramatic price changes (losses) and imperfect correlation between the price of the contract and the underlying security or index, which will increase the volatility of the Fund and may involve a small investment of cash (the amount of initial and variation margin) relative to the magnitude of the risk assumed (the potential increase or decrease in the price of the futures contract).

 

 

31


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Market Risk

Since the financial crisis that started in 2008, the U.S. and many foreign economies continue to experience its after-effects. Conditions in the U.S. and many foreign economies have resulted, and may continue to result, in certain instruments experiencing unusual liquidity issues, increased price volatility and, in some cases, credit downgrades and increased likelihood of default. These events have reduced the willingness and ability of some lenders to extend credit, and have made it more difficult for some borrowers to obtain financing on attractive terms, if at all. In some cases, traditional market participants have been less willing to make a market in some types of debt instruments, which has affected the liquidity of those instruments. During times of market turmoil, investors tend to look to the safety of securities issued or backed by the U.S. Treasury, causing the prices of these securities to rise and the yields to decline. Reduced liquidity in fixed income and credit markets may negatively affect many issuers worldwide. In addition, global economies and financial markets are becoming increasingly interconnected, which increases the possibilities that conditions in one country or region might adversely impact issuers in a different country or region. A rise in protectionist trade policies, and the possibility of changes to some international trade agreements, could affect the economies of many nations in ways that cannot necessarily be foreseen at the present time.

In response to the financial crisis, the U.S. and other governments and the Federal Reserve and certain foreign central banks have taken steps to support financial markets. In some countries where economic conditions are recovering, they are nevertheless perceived as still fragile. Withdrawal of government support, failure of efforts in response to the crisis, or investor perception that such efforts are not succeeding, could adversely impact the value and liquidity of certain securities. The severity or duration of adverse economic conditions may also be affected by policy changes made by governments or quasi-governmental organizations, including changes in tax laws. The impact of new financial regulation legislation on the markets and the practical implications for market participants may not be fully known for some time. Regulatory changes are causing some financial services companies to exit long-standing lines of business, resulting in dislocations for other market participants. In addition, political and diplomatic events within the U.S. and abroad, such as the U.S. government’s inability at times to agree on a long-term budget and deficit reduction plan, the threat of a federal government shutdown and threats not to increase the federal government’s debt limit, may affect investor and consumer confidence and may adversely impact financial markets and the broader economy, perhaps suddenly and to a significant degree. The U.S. government has recently reduced federal corporate income tax rates, and future legislative, regulatory and policy changes may result in more restrictions on international trade, less stringent prudential regulation of certain players in the financial markets, and significant new investments in infrastructure and national defense. Markets may react strongly to expectations about the changes in these policies, which could increase volatility, especially if the markets’ expectations for changes in government policies are not borne out.

Changes in market conditions will not have the same impact on all types of securities. Interest rates have been unusually low in recent years in the U.S. and abroad. Because there is little precedent for this situation, it is difficult to predict the impact of a significant rate increase on various markets. For example, because investors may buy securities or other investments with borrowed money, a significant increase in interest rates may cause a decline in the markets for those investments. Because of the sharp decline in the worldwide price of oil, there is a concern that oil producing nations may withdraw significant assets now held in U.S. Treasuries, which could force a substantial increase in interest rates. Regulators have expressed concern that rate increases may cause investors to sell fixed income securities faster than the market can absorb them, contributing to price volatility. In addition, there is a risk that the prices of goods and services in the U.S. and many foreign economies may decline over time, known as deflation (the opposite of inflation). Deflation may have an adverse effect on stock prices and creditworthiness and may make defaults on debt more likely. If a country’s economy slips into a deflationary pattern, it could last for a prolonged period and may be difficult to reverse. The precise details and the resulting impact of the United Kingdom’s vote to leave the European Union (the “EU”), commonly referred to as “Brexit,” are not yet known. The effect on the United Kingdom’s economy will likely depend on the nature of trade relations with the EU and other major economies following its exit, which are matters to be negotiated. The outcomes may cause increased volatility and have a significant adverse impact on world financial markets, other international trade agreements, and the United Kingdom and European economies, as well as the broader global economy for some time, which could significantly adversely affect the value of the Fund’s investments in the United Kingdom and Europe.

 

 

32


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Multiple Sub-Advisor Risk

The Manager may allocate the Fund’s assets among multiple sub-advisors, each of which is responsible for investing its allocated portion of the Fund’s assets. To a significant extent, the Fund’s performance will depend on the success of the Manager in allocating the Fund’s assets to sub-advisors and its selection and oversight of the sub-advisors. Because each sub-advisor manages its allocated portion of the Fund independently from another sub-advisor, the same security may be held in different portions of the Fund, or may be acquired for one portion of the Fund at a time when a sub-advisor to another portion deems it appropriate to dispose of the security from that other portion, resulting in higher expenses without accomplishing any net result in the Fund’s holdings. Similarly, under some market conditions, one sub-advisor may believe that temporary, defensive investments in short-term instruments or cash are appropriate when another sub-advisor believes continued exposure to the equity or debt markets is appropriate for its allocated portion of the Fund. Because each sub-advisor directs the trading for its own portion of the Fund, and does not aggregate its transactions with those of the other sub-advisors, the Fund may incur higher brokerage costs than would be the case if a single sub-adviser were managing the entire Fund. In addition, while the Manager seeks to allocate the Fund’s assets among the Fund’s sub-advisors in a manner that it believes is consistent with achieving the Fund’s investment objective(s), the Manager may be subject to potential conflicts of interest in allocating the Fund’s assets among sub-advisors, due to factors that could impact the Manager’s revenues and profits.

Other Investment Companies Risk

The Fund may invest in shares of other registered investment companies, including money market funds that are advised by the Manager. To the extent that the Funds invests in shares of other registered investment companies, the Fund will indirectly bear fees and expenses, including for example, advisory and administrative fees, charged by those investment companies in addition to the Funds’ direct fees and expenses and will be subject to the risks associated with investments in those companies. For example, the Funds’ investments in money market funds are subject to interest rate risk, credit risk, and market risk. The Fund must rely on the investment company in which it invests to achieve its investment objective. If the investment company fails to achieve its investment objective, the value of the Funds’ investment will decline, adversely affecting the Funds’ performance. To the extent the Funds invest in other investment companies that invest in equity securities, fixed-income securities and/or foreign securities, or track an index, the Fund is subject to the risks associated with the underlying investments held by the investment company or the index fluctuations to which the investment company is subject.

Sector Risk

Sector risk is the risk associated with a Fund holding a significant amount of investments in similar businesses, which would be similarly affected by particular economic or market events, which may, in certain circumstances, cause the value of the equity and debt securities of companies in a particular sector of the market to change. To the extent a Fund has substantial holdings within a particular sector, the risks to a Fund associated with that sector increase.

To the extent a Fund invests significantly in the financial services sector, the value of the Fund’s shares may be particularly vulnerable to factors affecting that sector, such as the availability and cost of capital funds, changes in interest rates, the rate of corporate and consumer debt defaults, extensive government regulation and price competition. The value of a Fund’s shares could experience significantly greater volatility than investment companies investing more broadly.

Securities Lending Risk

A Fund may lend its portfolio securities to brokers, dealers and financial institutions to seek income. There is a risk that a borrower may default on its obligations to return loaned securities; however, a Fund’s securities lending agent indemnifies the Fund against that risk. There is a risk that the assets of a Fund’s securities lending

 

 

33


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

agent may be insufficient to satisfy any contractual indemnification requirements to the Fund. Borrowers of a Fund’s securities typically provide collateral in the form of cash that is reinvested in securities. A Fund will be responsible for the risks associated with the investment of cash collateral, including any collateral invested in an affiliated money market fund. A Fund may lose money on its investment of cash collateral or may fail to earn sufficient income on its investment to meet obligations to the borrower. In addition, delays may occur in the recovery of securities from borrowers, which could interfere with a Fund’s ability to vote proxies or to settle transactions and there is the risk of possible loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower fail financially. In any case in which the loaned securities are not returned to the Fund before an ex-dividend date, the payment in lieu of the dividend that the Fund receives from the securities’ borrower would not be treated as a dividend for federal income tax purposes and thus would not qualify for treatment as “qualified dividend income”.    

7.  Federal Income and Excise Taxes

It is the policy of the Fund to qualify as a regulated investment company (“RIC”), by complying with all applicable provisions of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended, and to make distributions of taxable income sufficient to relieve it from substantially all federal income and excise taxes. For federal income tax purposes, the Fund is treated as a single entity for the purpose of determining such qualification.

The Fund does not have any unrecorded tax liabilities in the accompanying financial statements. Each of the tax years in the four year period ended October 31, 2019 remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service. If applicable, the Fund recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in “Other expenses” on the Statement of Operations.

The Fund may be subject to taxes imposed by countries in which it invests. Such taxes are generally based on returns of income earned or gains realized or repatriated. Taxes are accrued and applied to net investment income, net realized capital gains and net unrealized appreciation (depreciation), as applicable, as the income is earned or capital gains are recorded.

Dividends are categorized in accordance with income tax regulations which may treat certain transactions differently than U.S. GAAP. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying financial statements.

The tax character of distributions paid were as follows:

 

    Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          Year Ended
October 31, 2018
 

Distributions paid from:

     

Ordinary income*

     

Institutional Class

  $ 82,267,452       $ 165,506,978  

Y Class

    6,344,886         13,806,107  

Investor Class

    30,326,749         66,628,592  

Advisor Class

    1,133,733         2,835,000  

A Class

    1,059,821         1,445,057  

C Class

    88,990         235,964  

R6 Class

    13,223,221         6,390,376  

Long-term capital gains

     

Institutional Class

    225,428,886         293,913,261  

Y Class

    18,154,510         24,886,049  

Investor Class

    97,933,129         130,155,913  

Advisor Class

    4,067,588         5,829,879  

A Class

    3,296,575         2,795,844  

C Class

    455,171         572,231  

R6 Class

    35,670,209         11,244,521  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions paid

  $ 519,450,920       $ 726,245,772  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

* For tax purposes, short-term gains are considered ordinary income distributions.

 

 

34


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

As of October 31, 2019 the components of distributable earnings (deficits) on a tax basis were as follows:

 

Fund

  Tax Cost         Unrealized
Appreciation
          Unrealized
(Depreciation)
          Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
Large Cap Value   $4,339,764,821     $ 1,344,205,897       $ (245,792,287     $ 1,098,413,610  

 

Fund

  Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
        Undistributed
Ordinary Income
          Undistributed
Long-Term
Capital Gains
          Accumulated
Capital and
Other (Losses)
          Other Temporary
Differences
          Distributable
Earnings
 
Large Cap Value   $1,098,413,610     $ 102,769,462       $ 385,519,316       $ -       $ 1       $ 1,586,702,389  

Financial reporting records are adjusted for permanent book/tax differences to reflect tax character. Financial records are not adjusted for temporary differences. The temporary differences between financial reporting and tax-basis reporting of unrealized appreciation (depreciation) are attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses from wash sales, the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains (losses) on certain derivative instruments, and reclassifications of income from investments in real estate investment securities and publicly traded partnerships.

Due to inherent differences in the recognition of income, expenses, and realized gains (losses) under U.S. GAAP and federal income tax regulations, permanent differences between book and tax reporting have been identified and appropriately reclassified on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Accordingly, the following amounts represent current year permanent differences derived from tax-exempt interest and nondeductible expenses from investments in publicly traded partnerships as of October 31, 2019:

 

Fund

  Paid-In-Capital           Distributable
Earnings/(Deficits)
 
Large Cap Value   $ 58,968       $ (58,968

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010 (“RIC MOD”), net capital losses recognized by the Fund in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 are carried forward indefinitely and retain their character as short-term and/or long-term losses.

As of October 31, 2019, the Fund did not have any capital loss carryforwards.

8.  Investment Transactions

The aggregate cost of purchases and proceeds from sales and maturities of investments, other than short-term obligations, for the year ended October 31, 2019 were as follows:

Fund

  Purchases (non-U.S.
Government
Securities)
          Sales (non-U.S.
Government
Securities)
 
Large Cap Value   $ 1,235,765,286       $ 2,270,634,320  

A summary of the Fund’s transactions in the USG Select Fund for the year ended October 31, 2019 were as follows:

 

Fund

 

Type of
Transaction

        October 31,
2018
Shares/Fair
Value
          Purchases           Sales           October 31,
2019
Shares/Fair
Value
          Dividend
Income
 
Large Cap Value   Direct     $ 266,324,811       $ 2,525,364,188       $ 2,624,409,044       $ 167,279,955       $ 3,661,511  
Large Cap Value   Securities Lending       17,240,346         447,522,595         444,466,285         20,296,656         N/A  

 

 

35


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

9.  Securities Lending

The Fund may lend its securities to qualified financial institutions, such as certain broker-dealers, to earn additional income. The borrowers are required to secure their loans continuously with collateral in an amount at least equal to the fair value of the securities loaned, initially in an amount at least equal to 102% of the fair value of domestic securities loaned and 105% of the fair value of international securities loaned. Collateral is monitored and marked-to-market daily. Daily mark-to-market amounts are required to be paid to the borrower or received from the borrower by the end of the following business day. This one day settlement for mark-to-market amounts may result in the collateral being temporarily less than the value of the securities on loan or temporarily more than the required minimum collateral.

To the extent that a loan is collateralized by cash, such cash collateral shall be invested by the securities lending agent (the “Agent”) in money market mutual funds and other short-term investments, provided the investments meet certain quality and diversification requirements. Securities purchased with cash collateral proceeds are listed in the Fund’s Schedule of Investments and the collateral is shown on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as a payable.

Securities lending income is generated from the demand premium (if any) paid by the borrower to borrow a specific security and from the return on investment of cash collateral, reduced by negotiated rebate fees paid to the borrower and transaction costs. To the extent that a loan is secured by non-cash collateral, securities lending income is generated as a demand premium reduced by transaction costs. The Fund, the Agent, and the Manager retained 80%, 10%, and 10%, respectively, of the income generated from securities lending.

While securities are on loan, the Fund continues to receive certain income associated with that security and any gain or loss in the market price that may occur during the term of the loan. In the case of domestic equities, the value of any dividend is received in the form of a substitute payment approximately equal to the dividend. In the case of foreign securities, a negotiated amount is received that is less than the actual dividend, but higher than the dividend amount minus the foreign tax that the Fund would be subject to on the dividend.

Securities lending transactions pose certain risks to the Fund, including that the borrower may not provide additional collateral when required or return the securities when due, that the value of the short-term investments will be less than the amount of cash collateral required to be returned to the borrower, that non-cash collateral may be subject to legal constraints in the event of a borrower bankruptcy, and that the cash collateral investments could become illiquid and unable to be used to return collateral to the borrower. The Fund could also experience delays and costs in gaining access to the collateral. The Fund bears the risk of any deficiency in the amount of the cash collateral available for return to the borrower and any action which impairs its ability to liquidate non-cash collateral to satisfy a borrower default.

As of October 31, 2019, the value of outstanding securities on loan and the value of collateral were as follows:

 

Fund

  Market Value of
Securities on Loan
          Cash Collateral
Received
          Non-Cash Collateral
Received
          Total Collateral
Received
 
Large Cap Value   $ 48,563,589       $ 20,296,656       $ 29,714,969       $ 50,011,625  

Cash collateral is listed on the Fund’s Schedule of Investments and is shown on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Income earned on these investments is included in “Income derived from securities lending” on the Statement of Operations.

Non-cash collateral received by the Fund may not be sold or re-pledged except to satisfy a borrower default. Therefore, non-cash collateral is not included on the Fund’s Schedule of Investments or Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

 

36


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

10.  Borrowing Arrangements

Effective November 15, 2018 (the “Effective Date”), the Fund, along with certain other funds managed by the Manager (“Participating Funds”), entered into a committed revolving line of credit (the “Committed Line”) agreement with State Street Bank and Trust Company (the “Bank”) to be used to facilitate portfolio liquidity. The maximum borrowing amount under the Committed Line is $250 million with interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) one-month London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 1.25% per annum or (b) the Federal Funds rate plus 1.25% per annum on amounts borrowed. Each of the Participating Funds paid a closing fee of $100,000 on the Effective Date and a quarterly commitment fee at a rate of 0.25% per annum on the unused portion of the Committed Line amount. The Committed Line expires November 14, 2019, unless extended by the Bank or terminated by the Participating Funds in accordance with the agreement.

On the Effective Date, the Fund, along with certain other Participating Funds managed by the Manager, also entered into an uncommitted discretionary demand revolving line of credit (the “Uncommitted Line”) agreement with the Bank to be used to facilitate portfolio liquidity. The maximum borrowing amount under the Uncommitted Line is $50 million with interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) one-month LIBOR plus 1.25% per annum or (b) the Federal Funds rate plus 1.25% per annum on each outstanding loan. Each of the Participating Funds paid a closing fee of $35,000 on the Effective Date. The Uncommitted Line expires November 14, 2019 unless extended by the Bank or terminated by the Participating Funds in accordance with the agreement.

The Participating Funds paid administration, legal and arrangement fees, which are recognized as a component of “Other expenses” on the Statement of Operations, along with commitment fees, that have been allocated among the Participating Funds based on average daily net assets.

During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Fund did not utilize this facility.

11.  Capital Share Transactions

The tables below summarize the activity in capital shares for each Class of the Fund:

 

    Institutional Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019     2018  

Large Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     12,472,307       $ 327,028,863         15,590,380       $ 461,010,040  
Reinvestment of dividends     12,176,926         280,069,287         14,507,737         424,641,445  
Shares redeemed     (44,099,255       (1,164,568,728       (53,655,757       (1,600,135,398
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net (decrease) in shares outstanding     (19,450,022     $ (557,470,578       (23,557,640     $ (714,483,913
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Y Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019     2018  

Large Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     2,802,221       $ 72,004,319         3,099,705       $ 91,175,749  
Reinvestment of dividends     1,034,674         23,631,954         1,294,567         37,646,020  
Shares redeemed     (3,676,176       (96,626,161       (6,308,043       (182,284,089
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding     160,719       $ (989,888       (1,913,771     $ (53,462,320
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Investor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019     2018  

Large Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     4,427,172       $ 107,951,684         6,511,604       $ 180,144,427  
Reinvestment of dividends     5,946,641         126,187,719         7,135,711         194,091,350  
Shares redeemed     (24,387,033       (587,725,924       (25,281,746       (699,918,301
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net (decrease) in shares outstanding     (14,013,220     $ (353,586,521       (11,634,431     $ (325,682,524
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 

 

 

37


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Advisor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019     2018  

Large Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     607,878       $ 13,597,178         327,661       $ 8,945,251  
Reinvestment of dividends     232,028         4,858,669         297,468         7,987,006  
Shares redeemed     (686,434       (16,861,299       (1,295,285       (35,519,351
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding     153,472       $ 1,594,548         (670,156     $ (18,587,094
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    A Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019     2018  

Large Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     993,379       $ 22,618,536         652,905       $ 17,333,416  
Reinvestment of dividends     206,632         4,320,676         156,140         4,195,476  
Shares redeemed     (1,316,813       (31,831,074       (567,054       (15,500,596
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding     (116,802     $ (4,891,862       241,991       $ 6,028,296  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    C Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019     2018  

Large Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     63,051       $ 1,486,421         28,678       $ 766,750  
Reinvestment of dividends     24,012         500,403         27,603         737,547  
Shares redeemed     (85,733       (2,081,682       (85,211       (2,307,165
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding     1,330       $ (94,858       (28,930     $ (802,868
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    R6 Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019     2018  

Large Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     8,939,449       $ 233,097,226         19,947,926       $ 601,141,716  
Reinvestment of dividends     2,031,139         46,695,895         602,696         17,634,896  
Shares redeemed     (4,956,502       (133,375,843       (1,767,061       (52,393,324
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase in shares outstanding     6,014,086       $ 146,417,278         18,783,561       $ 566,383,288  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

12.  Subsequent Events

At meetings held on November 11-12, 2019, the Board of the Trust approved the termination of Brandywine Global Investment Management, LLC on behalf of the Fund, effective on or about January 15, 2020.

Management has evaluated subsequent events for possible recognition or disclosure in the financial statements through the date the financial statements are issued. Management has determined that there are no additional material events that would require disclosure in the Fund’s financial statements through this date.

 

 

38


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Institutional ClassA  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 28.41       $ 30.98       $ 25.80       $ 28.38       $ 31.21  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.63         0.63         0.59         0.61         0.55  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    1.69         (0.07       5.41         (0.29       (0.70
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    2.32         0.56         6.00         0.32         (0.15
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.55       (0.55       (0.60       (0.52       (0.67

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.86       (2.58       (0.22       (2.38       (2.01
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (2.41       (3.13       (0.82       (2.90       (2.68
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 28.32       $ 28.41       $ 30.98       $ 25.80       $ 28.38  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    10.14       1.51       23.60       1.69       (0.76 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

                 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 3,137,789,485       $ 3,700,700,522       $ 4,765,771,483       $ 5,137,688,375       $ 6,198,883,300  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.63       0.62       0.60       0.60       0.58

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.63       0.62       0.60       0.60       0.58

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    2.07       1.83       1.78       2.16       1.88

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    2.07       1.83       1.78       2.16       1.88

Portfolio turnover rate

    23       23       25       25       32

 

A 

On May 31, 2016, the AMR Class closed and the assets were merged into the Institutional Class.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

39


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Y Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 28.20       $ 30.78       $ 25.64       $ 28.21       $ 31.04  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.56         0.57         0.48         0.59         0.56  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    1.72         (0.04       5.46         (0.29       (0.72
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    2.28         0.53         5.94         0.30         (0.16
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.52       (0.53       (0.58       (0.49       (0.66

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.86       (2.58       (0.22       (2.38       (2.01
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (2.38       (3.11       (0.80       (2.87       (2.67
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 28.10       $ 28.20       $ 30.78       $ 25.64       $ 28.21  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnA

    10.05       1.42       23.51       1.61       (0.80 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 301,457,382       $ 298,017,629       $ 384,155,569       $ 349,542,346       $ 419,096,844  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.70       0.68       0.67       0.67       0.67

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.70       0.68       0.67       0.67       0.67

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    1.98       1.77       1.69       2.08       1.80

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    1.98       1.77       1.69       2.08       1.80

Portfolio turnover rate

    23       23       25       25       32

 

A 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

40


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Investor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 26.33       $ 28.92       $ 24.13       $ 26.70       $ 29.51  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.41         0.41         0.40         0.46         0.45  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    1.63         0.02         5.12         (0.25       (0.68
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    2.04         0.43         5.52         0.21         (0.23
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.45       (0.44       (0.51       (0.40       (0.57

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.86       (2.58       (0.22       (2.38       (2.01
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (2.31       (3.02       (0.73       (2.78       (2.58
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 26.06       $ 26.33       $ 28.92       $ 24.13       $ 26.70  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnA

    9.77       1.18       23.20       1.33       (1.07 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

                 

Net assets, end of period

  $   1,124,625,846       $   1,505,354,807       $   1,990,199,621       $   2,245,534,741       $   3,167,585,961  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.96       0.95       0.92       0.93       0.93

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.96       0.95       0.92       0.93       0.93

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    1.74       1.50       1.46       1.84       1.54

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    1.74       1.50       1.46       1.84       1.54

Portfolio turnover rate

    23       23       25       25       32

 

A 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

41


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Advisor ClassA  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 25.95       $ 28.54       $ 23.82       $ 26.40       $ 29.24  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.47         0.28         0.21         0.40         0.40  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    1.52         0.10         5.20         (0.22       (0.66
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    1.99         0.38         5.41         0.18         (0.26
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.40       (0.39       (0.47       (0.38       (0.57

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.86       (2.58       (0.22       (2.38       (2.01
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (2.26       (2.97       (0.69       (2.76       (2.58
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 25.68       $ 25.95       $ 28.54       $ 23.82       $ 26.40  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    9.64       1.00       23.00       1.21       (1.19 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

                 

Net assets, end of period

  $   66,077,449       $   62,811,940       $   88,196,090       $   113,168,437       $   140,975,319  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.10       1.09       1.07       1.08       1.07

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    1.10       1.09       1.07       1.08       1.07

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    1.58       1.36       1.31       1.69       1.40

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    1.58       1.36       1.31       1.69       1.40

Portfolio turnover rate

    23       23       25       25       32

 

A 

On January 15, 2016, the Retirement Class closed and the assets were merged into the Advisor Class.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

42


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    A Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 26.00       $ 28.61       $ 23.90       $ 26.51       $ 29.38  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.40         0.48         0.28         0.42         0.47  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    1.59         (0.06       5.17         (0.21       (0.71
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    1.99         0.42         5.45         0.21         (0.24
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.47       (0.45       (0.52       (0.44       (0.62

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.86       (2.58       (0.22       (2.38       (2.01
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (2.33       (3.03       (0.74       (2.82       (2.63
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 25.66       $ 26.00       $ 28.61       $ 23.90       $ 26.51  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnA

    9.72       1.15       23.13       1.33       (1.14 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $   39,157,098       $   42,722,617       $   40,073,435       $   35,071,001       $   39,401,153  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.01       0.93       0.98       0.98       0.97

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    1.01       0.93       0.98       0.98       0.97

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    1.68       1.49       1.38       1.78       1.48

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    1.68       1.49       1.38       1.78       1.48

Portfolio turnover rate

    23       23       25       25       32

 

A 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

43


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    C Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019     2018           2017           2016           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 25.71       $ 28.27       $ 23.57       $ 26.17       $ 29.03  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.26         0.21         0.09         0.20         0.27  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    1.57         0.05         5.11         (0.19       (0.70
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    1.83         0.26         5.20         0.01         (0.43
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.25       (0.24       (0.28       (0.23       (0.42

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.86       (2.58       (0.22       (2.38       (2.01
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (2.11       (2.82       (0.50       (2.61       (2.43
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 25.43       $ 25.71       $ 28.27       $ 23.57       $ 26.17  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnA

    8.94       0.57       22.27       0.51       (1.83 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

    $6,811,169     $ 6,851,003       $ 8,351,349       $ 8,950,263       $ 12,389,141  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.70       1.64       1.72       1.74       1.73

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    1.70 %B        1.54       1.72       1.74       1.73

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    0.99       0.79       0.66       1.02       0.73

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    0.99       0.90       0.66       1.02       0.73

Portfolio turnover rate

    23       23       25       25       32

 

A 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

B 

This ratio does not include a voluntary reimbursement of service fees as included in the prior year.

 

See accompanying notes

 

44


American Beacon Large Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    R6 Class  
    Year Ended October 31,           February 28,
2017A to
October 31,
 
    2019           2018           2017  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 28.41       $ 30.98       $ 28.64  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income from investment operations:

         

Net investment income

    0.61         0.59         0.12  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    1.71         (0.02       2.22  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income from investment operations

    2.32         0.57         2.34  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

         

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.56       (0.56       -  

Distributions from net realized gains

    (1.86       (2.58       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (2.42       (3.14       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 28.31       $ 28.41       $ 30.98  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    10.15       1.54       8.17 %C 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 739,517,062       $ 571,236,567       $ 40,982,401  

Ratios to average net assets:

         

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.60       0.59       0.60 %D 

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.58       0.58       0.58 %D 

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    2.07       1.75       1.38 %D 

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    2.09       1.76       1.40 %D 

Portfolio turnover rate

    23       23       25 %E 

 

A 

Commencement of operations.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

C 

Not annualized.

D 

Annualized.

E 

Portfolio turnover rate is for the period from February 28, 2017 through October 31, 2017 and is not annualized.

 

See accompanying notes

 

45


American Beacon FundsSM

Federal Tax Information

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

Certain tax information regarding the Funds are required to be provided to shareholders based upon the Funds’ income and distributions for the taxable year ended October 31, 2019. The information and distributions reported herein may differ from information and distributions taxable to the shareholders for the calendar year ended December 31, 2019.

The Fund designated the following items with regard to distributions paid during the fiscal year ended October 31, 2019. All designations are based on financial information available as of this annual report and, accordingly, are subject to change. For each item, it is the intention of the Funds to designate the maximum amount permitted under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the regulations there under.

 

Corporate Dividends-Received Deduction:

 

Large Cap Value

    87.40

Qualified Dividend Income:

 

Large Cap Value

    100.00

Long-Term Capital Gain Distributions:

 

Large Cap Value

  $ 385,006,068  

Short-Term Capital Gain Distributions:

 

Large Cap Value

  $ 20,974,195  

Shareholders will receive notification in January 2020 of the applicable tax information necessary to prepare their 2019 income tax returns.

 

 

46


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

Renewal and Approval of Management Agreement and Investment Advisory Agreements

At in-person meetings held on May 9, 2019 and June 4-5, 2019 (collectively, the “Meetings”), the Board of Trustees (“Board” or “Trustees”) considered and then, at its June 5, 2019 meeting, approved the renewal of:

(1) the Management Agreement between American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (“Manager”) and the American Beacon Funds (“Trust”), on behalf of the American Beacon Large Cap Value Fund (“Fund”); and

(2) the Investment Advisory Agreements among the Manager, the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, and each of Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss, LLC (“Barrow”), Brandywine Global Investment Management, LLC (“Brandywine”), Hotchkis and Wiley Capital Management, LLC (“Hotchkis”) and Massachusetts Financial Services Company (“MFS”) (each, a “subadvisor” and collectively, the “subadvisors”).

The Management Agreement and the Investment Advisory Agreements are referred to herein individually as an “Agreement” and collectively as the “Agreements.” In preparation for its consideration of the renewal of the Agreements, the Board undertook steps to gather and consider information furnished by the Manager, the subadvisors, Broadridge, Inc. (“Broadridge”) and Morningstar, Inc. (“Morningstar”). The Board, with the assistance of independent legal counsel, requested and received certain relevant information from the Manager and the subadvisors.

In advance of the Meetings, the Board’s Investment Committee and/or the Manager coordinated the production of information from Broadridge and Morningstar regarding the performance, fees and expenses of the Fund as well as information from the Manager and the subadvisors. At the Meetings, the Board considered the information provided in connection with the renewal process, as well as information furnished to the Board throughout the year at regular meetings of the Board and its committees. In connection with the Board’s consideration of the Agreements, the Board received and evaluated such information as they deemed necessary. This information is described below in the section summarizing the factors the Board considered in connection with its renewal and approval of the Agreements, as well as the section describing additional Board considerations with respect to the Fund.

The Board noted that the Manager provides management and administrative services to the Fund pursuant to the Management Agreement. The Board considered that many mutual funds have separate contracts governing each type of service and observed that, with respect to such mutual funds, the actual management fee rates provided by Broadridge for peer group funds reflect the combined advisory and administrative expenses, reduced by any fee waivers and/or reimbursements.

A firm may not have been able to, or opted not to, provide information in response to certain information requests, in which case the Board conducted its evaluation of the firm based on information that was provided. In such cases, the Board determined that the omission of any such information was not material to its considerations. The class of shares used for comparative performance purposes was the share class with the lowest expenses available for purchase by the general public, which was the Institutional Class. The Board also considered that the use of Institutional Class performance generally facilitates a meaningful comparison for expense and performance purposes.

Provided below is an overview of certain factors the Board considered in connection with its renewal and approval of the Agreements. The Board did not identify any particular information that was most relevant to its consideration to renew or approve each Agreement, and each Trustee may have afforded different weight to the various factors. Legal counsel to the independent Trustees provided the Board with a memorandum regarding its responsibilities pertaining to the renewal and approval of investment advisory contracts, such as the Agreements. The memorandum explained the regulatory requirements surrounding the Board’s process for evaluating investment advisors and the terms of investment advisory contracts. Based on its evaluation, the Board unanimously concluded that the terms of each Agreement were reasonable and fair and that the renewal and approval of each Agreement was in the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders.

 

 

47


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

Considerations With Respect to the Renewal of the Management Agreement and the Investment Advisory Agreements

In determining whether to renew the Agreements, the Board considered the Fund’s investment management and subadvisory relationships separately. In each instance, the Board considered, among other things, the following factors: (1) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided; (2) the investment performance of the Fund; (3) the costs incurred by the Manager in rendering services to the Fund and its resulting profits or losses; (4) comparisons of services and fee rates with contracts entered into by the Manager or the subadvisors or their affiliates with other clients (such as pension funds and other institutional clients); (5) the extent to which economies of scale, if any, have been taken into account in setting each fee rate schedule; (6) whether fee rate levels reflect economies of scale, if any, for the benefit of Fund investors; and (7) any other benefits derived or anticipated to be derived by the Manager or the subadvisors from their relationships with the Fund.

Nature, Extent and Quality of Services. With respect to the renewal of the Management Agreement, the Board considered, among other factors: the Fund’s long-term performance; the length of service of key investment personnel at the Manager; the cost structure of the Fund; the Manager’s culture of compliance and support that reduce risks to the Fund; the Manager’s quality of services; the Manager’s active role in monitoring and, as appropriate, recommending additional or replacement subadvisors; and the Manager’s efforts to retain key employees and maintain staffing levels.

With respect to the renewal of the Investment Advisory Agreements, the Board considered the level of staffing and the size of the subadvisors. The Board also considered the adequacy of the resources committed to the Fund by the subadvisors, and whether those resources were commensurate with the needs of the Fund and are sufficient to sustain appropriate levels of performance and compliance needs. In this regard, the Board considered the financial stability of the subadvisors. The Board also considered each subadvisor’s representations regarding its compliance program and code of ethics. Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of the management and advisory services provided by the Manager and the subadvisors were appropriate for the Fund.

Investment Performance. The Board evaluated the comparative information provided by Broadridge and the Manager regarding the performance of the Fund relative to its Broadridge performance universe, Morningstar Category, and benchmark index, as well as the Fund’s Morningstar rating. The Board considered the information provided by Broadridge regarding Broadridge’s independent methodology for selecting the Fund’s Broadridge performance universe. The Board also considered that the performance universes selected by Broadridge may not provide appropriate comparisons for the Fund. In addition, the Board considered the performance reports and discussions with management at Board and Committee meetings throughout the year. The Board also evaluated the comparative information provided by each subadvisor regarding the performance of its portion of the Fund relative to the performance of similar accounts or a composite of similar accounts managed by the subadvisor and the Fund’s benchmark index. In addition, the Board considered the Manager’s recommendation to continue to retain each subadvisor. A discussion regarding the Board’s considerations with respect to the Fund’s performance appears below under “Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to the Fund.”

Costs of the Services Provided to the Fund and the Profits Realized by the Manager from its Relationship with the Fund. In analyzing the cost of services and profitability of the Manager, the Board considered the revenues earned and the expenses incurred by the Manager, before and after the payment of distribution-related expenses by the Manager. The profits or losses were noted at both an aggregate level for all funds within the group of mutual funds sponsored by the Manager (the “Fund Complex”) and at an individual Fund level, with the Manager earning a profit before and after the payment of distribution-related expenses by the Manager for the Fund. The Board also considered comparative information provided by the Manager regarding the Manager’s overall profitability with respect to the Fund Complex relative to the overall profitability of other firms in the mutual fund industry, as disclosed in publicly available sources. Although the Board noted that, in certain cases, the fee rates paid by other clients of the Manager are lower than the fee rates paid by the Fund, the Manager represented that,

 

 

48


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

among other matters, the difference is attributable to the fact that the Manager does not perform administrative services for non-investment company clients and reflects the greater level of responsibility and regulatory requirements associated with managing the Fund.

The Board also noted that the Manager proposed to continue the expense waivers and reimbursements for the Fund’s R6 Class shares that were in place during the last fiscal year. The Board further considered that, with respect to the Fund, the Management Agreement provides for the Manager to receive a management fee comprised of an annualized fee that is retained by the Manager. In addition, the Board considered that the Manager receives fees for overseeing the securities lending program on behalf of the Fund. The Board also noted that certain share classes of the Fund maintain higher expense ratios in order to compensate third-party financial intermediaries.

In analyzing the fee rates charged by each subadvisor in connection with its investment advisory services to the Fund, the Board considered representations made by each subadvisor that the fee rate negotiated by the Manager is favorable relative to the fee rates that the subadvisor charges for any comparable client accounts. The Board did not request profitability data from the subadvisors because the Board did not view this data as imperative to its deliberations given the arm’s-length nature of the relationship between the Manager and the subadvisors with respect to the negotiation of subadvisory fee rates. In addition, the Board considered that it was advised that the subadvisors may not account for their profits on an account-by-account basis and that different firms likely employ different methodologies in connection with these calculations.

Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the profitability levels of the Manager were reasonable in light of the services performed by the Manager. A discussion regarding the Board’s considerations with respect to the Fund’s fee rates is set forth below under “Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to the Fund.”

Economies of Scale. In considering the reasonableness of the management and investment advisory fees rates, the Board considered whether economies of scale will be realized as the Fund grows and whether fee rate levels reflect these economies of scale for the benefit of Fund shareholders. In this regard, the Board considered that, with respect to each subadvisor, the Manager has negotiated breakpoints in the subadvisory fee rate for the Fund. In addition, the Board noted the Manager’s representation that the Management Agreement contains fee schedule breakpoints at higher asset levels with respect to the Fund. Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the Manager and subadvisor fee rate schedules for the Fund provide for a reasonable sharing of benefits from any economies of scale with the Fund.

Benefits Derived from the Relationship with the Fund. The Board considered the “fall-out” or ancillary benefits that accrue to the Manager and/or the subadvisors as a result of the advisory relationships with the Fund, including greater exposure in the marketplace with respect to the Manager’s or a subadvisor’s investment process and expanding the level of assets under management by the Manager and the subadvisors. The Board also considered that the Manager may invest the Fund’s cash balances and cash collateral provided by the borrowers of the Fund’s securities in the American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund, which the Manager manages directly. In addition, the Board noted that each subadvisor benefits from soft dollar arrangements for proprietary and/or third-party research. Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the potential benefits accruing to the Manager and the subadvisors by virtue of their relationships with the Fund appear to be fair and reasonable.

Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to the Fund

The performance comparisons below were made in comparison to the Fund’s Broadridge performance universe and Morningstar Category. With respect to the Broadridge performance universe, the 1st Quintile represents the top 20 percent of the universe based on performance and the 5th Quintile representing the bottom 20 percent of the universe based on performance. References below to the Fund’s Broadridge performance universe are to the universe of mutual funds with a comparable investment classification/objective included in the

 

 

49


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

analysis provided by Broadridge. In reviewing the performance, the Trustees viewed longer-term performance over a full market cycle as the most important consideration, because relative performance over shorter periods may be significantly impacted by market or economic events and not necessarily reflective of manager skill.

The expense comparisons below were made in comparison to the Fund’s Broadridge expense universe and Broadridge expense group, with the 1st Quintile representing the lowest 20 percent of the universe or group based on lowest total expense and the 5th Quintile representing the highest 20 percent of the universe or group based on highest total expense. References below to the Fund’s expense group and expense universe are to the respective group or universe of comparable mutual funds included in the analysis by Broadridge. A Broadridge expense group consists of the Fund and a representative sample of funds with similar operating structures and asset sizes, as selected by Broadridge. A Broadridge expense universe includes all funds in the investment classification/objective with a similar operating structure as the share class of the Fund included in the Broadridge comparative information and provides a broader view of expenses across the Fund’s investment classification/objective. The Board also considered the Fund’s Morningstar fee level category. In reviewing expenses, the Board considered the positive impact of fee waivers where applicable and the Manager’s agreement to continue the fee waivers. In addition, information regarding the subadvisors’ use of soft dollars was requested from the Manager and was considered by the Board.

In considering the renewal of the Management Agreement for the Fund, the Board considered the following additional factors:

Broadridge Total Expenses Excluding 12b-1 Fees and Morningstar Fee Level Ranking

 

Compared to Broadridge Expense Group

  2nd Quintile

Compared to Broadridge Expense Universe

  2nd Quintile

Morningstar Fee Level Ranking – Institutional Class

  Below Average Expense Ratio

Broadridge and Morningstar Performance Analysis (five-year period ended December 31, 2018)

 

Compared to Broadridge Performance Universe

  4th Quintile

Compared to Morningstar Category

  4th Quintile

In considering the renewal of the Investment Advisory Agreements with each subadvisor, the Board considered that the diversification of investment strategies facilitated by the Fund’s multi-manager structure permits the Fund to mitigate the risks associated with a single subadvisor. The Board also considered the following additional factors:

Subadvisor Performance (compared to Broadridge Performance Universe for period indicated ended December 31, 2018)

 

Barrow

    5 Years       2 nd Quintile 

Brandywine

    5 Years       5 th Quintile 

Hotchkis

    5 Years       3 rd Quintile 

MFS

    5 Years       1 st Quintile 

The Board also considered: (1) Brandywine’s value-disciplined consistent process and consistent team; (2) the Manager’s explanation that Brandywine’s deep value investment style (in companies with more significant discounts to price-to-earnings and price-to book ratios relative to other investment managers) was out of favor for the latter part of 2018 but has rebounded in 2019; (3) information provided by each subadvisor regarding fee rates charged for managing assets in the same or a similar strategy as the subadvisor manages its allocation of the Fund; (4) Brandywine’s and Hotchkis’ improved recent short-term performance; (5) the Manager’s recommendation to continue to retain each subadvisor; and (6) the Manager’s representation that, while the Manager was recommending that the Board continue to retain Brandywine, the Manager continues to evaluate the performance of Brandywine’s portion of the Fund and whether to make any further recommendations with respect to that subadvisor.

 

 

50


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

Based on these and other considerations, the Board: (1) concluded that the fees paid to the Manager and the subadvisors under the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements are fair and reasonable; and (2) determined that the Fund and its shareholders would benefit from the Manager’s and subadvisors’ continued management of the Fund.

 

 

51


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

The Trustees and officers of the American Beacon Funds (the “Trust”) are listed below, together with their principal occupations during the past five years. The address of each person listed below is 220 Las Colinas Boulevard East, Suite 1200, Irving, Texas 75039. Each Trustee oversees thirty-six funds in the fund complex that includes the Trust, the American Beacon Select Funds, the American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust, the American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund and the American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund. The Trust’s Statement of Additional Information contains additional information about the Trustees and is available without charge by calling 1-800-658-5811.

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

INTERESTED TRUSTEES   

Term

  
  

Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or

retirement*

  
Alan D. Feld** (82)    Trustee since 1996    Partner in the law firm of Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld, LLP (law firm) (1960-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (1999-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
NON-INTERESTED TRUSTEES   

Term

  
  

Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or

retirement*

  
Gilbert G. Alvarado (49)    Trustee since 2015    Director, Kura MD, Inc. (local telehealth organization) (2015-present); Vice President & CFO, Sierra Health Foundation (health conversion private foundation) (2006-Present); Vice President & CFO, Sierra Health Foundation: Center for Health Program Management (California public benefit corporation) (2012-Present); Director, Innovative North State (2012-2015); Director, Sacramento Regional Technology Alliance (2011-2016); Director, Women’s Empowerment (2009-2014); Director, Valley Healthcare Staffing (2017-present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2015-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Joseph B. Armes (57)    Trustee since 2015    Chairman & CEO, CSW Industrials f/k/a Capital Southwest Corporation (investment company) (2015-Present); Chairman of the Board of Capital Southwest Corporation, predecessor to CSW Industrials, Inc. (2014-2017) (investment company); CEO, Capital Southwest Corporation (2013-2015); President & CEO, JBA Investment Partners (family investment vehicle) (2010-Present); Director and Chair of Audit Committee, RSP Permian (oil and gas producer) (2013-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2015-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Gerard J. Arpey (61)    Trustee since 2012    Director, The Home Depot, Inc. (2015-Present); Partner, Emerald Creek Group (private equity firm) (2011-Present); Director, S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. (privately held company) (2008-present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2012-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

52


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

NON-INTERESTED TRUSTEES (CONT.)   

Term

  
  

Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or

retirement*

  
Brenda A. Cline (58)   

Trustee since 2004

Chair since 2019

Vice Chair 2018

   Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Secretary, Kimbell Art Foundation (1993-Present); Director, Tyler Technologies, Inc. (public sector software solutions company) (2014-Present); Director, Range Resources Corporation (oil and natural gas company) (2015-Present); Trustee, Cushing Closed-End and Open-End Funds and ETFs (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2004-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Eugene J. Duffy (65)    Trustee since 2008    Managing Director, Global Investment Management Distribution, Mesirow Financial (2016-Present); Managing Director, Institutional Services, Intercontinental Real Estate Corporation (2014-Present); Principal and Executive Vice President, Paradigm Asset Management (1994-2014); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2008-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Claudia A. Holz (62)    Trustee since 2018    Partner, KPMG LLP (1990-2017); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Douglas A. Lindgren (57)    Trustee since 2018    CEO North America, Carne Global Financial Services (2016-2017); Managing Director, IPS Investment Management and Global Head, Content Management, UBS Wealth Management (2010-2016); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Richard A. Massman (76)   

Trustee since 2004

Chair 2008-2018

Chair Emeritus since 2019

   Consultant and General Counsel Emeritus, Hunt Consolidated, Inc. (holding company engaged in oil and gas exploration and production, refining, real estate, farming, ranching and venture capital activities) (2009-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2004-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Barbara J. McKenna, CFA (56)    Trustee since 2012    President/Managing Principal, Longfellow Investment Management Company (2005-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2012-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

53


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

NON-INTERESTED TRUSTEES (CONT.)   

Term

  
  

Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or

retirement*

  
R. Gerald Turner (73)    Trustee since 2001    President, Southern Methodist University (1995-Present); Director, J.C. Penney Company, Inc. (1996-Present); Director, Kronus Worldwide Inc. (chemical manufacturing) (2003-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2001-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
OFFICERS   

Term

  
   One Year   
Gene L. Needles, Jr. (64)    President since 2009    President (2009-2018), CEO and Director (2009-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), American Beacon Advisors, Inc., President (2015-2018), Director and CEO (2015-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC; President (2015-2018), Director and CEO (2015-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Topco, Inc.; President (2015-2018); Director, and CEO (2015-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Acquisition, Inc.; President (2015-2018), Director and CEO (2015-Present), Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Investment Managers, Inc.; Director, Chairman, President and CEO, Resolute Investment Distributors (2017-Present); Director, Chairman, President and CEO; Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2017-Present); President and CEO, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2009-2015); President, CEO and Director, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2009-2015); Manager, President and CEO, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Director, Chairman, President and CEO, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Director, ARK Investment Management LLC (2016-Present); Director, Shapiro Capital Management LLC (2017-Present); Director, Chairman and CEO, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); President, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Director and President, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, LTD., (2017-2018); President, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); President American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd. (2018-Present);Member, Investment Advisory Committee, Employees Retirement System of Texas (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon NextShares Trust (2015-Present); President, American Beacon Select Funds (2009-Present); President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Director, RSW Investments Holdings LLC, (2019-Present); Manager, SSI Investment Management, LLC (2019-Present); President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Director, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).

 

 

54


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Rosemary K. Behan (60)   

VP, Secretary and

Chief Legal Officer since 2006

   Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2006-Present); Secretary, Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC (2015-Present); Secretary, Resolute Topco, Inc. (2015-Present); Secretary, Resolute Acquisition, Inc. (2015-Present); Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2015-Present); Secretary, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President and Secretary, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2008-2015); Vice President and Secretary, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2008-2015); Secretary, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2008-Present); Secretary and General Counsel, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President and Secretary, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Secretary, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); Secretary, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, Ltd. (2017-2018); Secretary, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Secretary, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd (2018-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2006-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Secretary, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).
Brian E. Brett (59)    VP since 2004    Senior Vice President, Head of Distribution (2012-Present), Vice President, Director of Sales (2004-2012), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Senior Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Senior Vice President, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (2018-Present), Senior Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2018-Present); Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2008-2015); Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2008-2015); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2004-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Paul B. Cavazos (50)    VP since 2016    Chief Investment Officer and Senior Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2016-Present); Chief Investment Officer, DTE Energy (2007-2016); Vice President, American Private Equity Management, L.L.C. (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2016-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Erica Duncan (49)    VP Since 2011    Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers (2018-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2011-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

55


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Melinda G. Heika (58)    Treasurer since 2010    Treasurer and CFO (2010-Present), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Treasurer, Resolute Topco, Inc. (2015-Present); Treasurer, Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC. (2015-Present); Treasurer, Resolute Acquisition, Inc. (2015-Present); Treasurer and CFO, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Treasurer, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (2017-2017); Treasurer and CFO, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2015-Present); Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings Parent Inc., (2010-2015); Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2010-2015); Treasurer, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Treasurer and CFO, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Treasurer and CFO, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation, Ltd. (2017-2018); Treasurer, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); Director and Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd. (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Treasurer, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).
Terri L. McKinney (55)    VP since 2010    Vice President (2009-Present), Managing Director (2003-2009), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc (2018-Present); Vice President, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

56


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Jeffrey K. Ringdahl (44)    VP since 2010    Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Chief Operating Officer (2010-Present), Senior Vice President (2013-2018), Vice President (2010-2013), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Senior Vice Present (2015-2018), Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC; Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Senior Vice President (2015-2018), Resolute Topco, Inc.; Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Senior Vice President (2015-2018), Resolute Acquisition, Inc.; Director (2015-Present), President & COO (2018-Present), Senior Vice President (2015-2018), Resolute Investment Managers, Inc.; Director and Executive Vice President (2017-Present), Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc.; Director (2017-Present), President & COO (2018-Present), Executive Vice President (2017-2018), Resolute Investment Services, Inc.; Senior Vice President (2017-Present), Vice President (2012-2017), Manager (2015-Present), American Private Equity Management, LLC; Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2013-2015); Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2013-2015); Trustee, American Beacon NextShares Trust (2015-Present); Director, Executive Vice President & COO, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Director, Shapiro Capital Management, LLC (2017-Present); Director, Executive Vice President & COO, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Director and Vice President, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, Ltd., (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); Director and Vice President, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-2018); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Director, RSW Investments Holdings LLC, (2019-Present); Manager, SSI Investment Management, LLC (2019-Present), Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Samuel J. Silver (56)    VP Since 2011    Vice President (2011-Present), Chief Fixed Income Officer (2016-Present), American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2011-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Christina E. Sears (48)    Chief Compliance Officer since 2004 and Asst. Secretary since 1999    Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2019-Present); Chief Compliance Officer, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2004-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Distributors (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2019-Present); Chief Compliance Officer, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Chief Compliance Officer (2016-2019) and Vice President, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Chief Compliance Officer (2004-Present) and Assistant Secretary (1999-Present), American Beacon Select Funds; Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

57


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Sonia L. Bates (62)   

Asst. Treasurer

since 2011

   Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-2018); Assistant Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings Parent Inc. (2011-2015); Assistant Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2011-2015); Assistant Treasurer, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, Ltd. (2017-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd. (2018-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Select Funds (2011-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Shelley D. Abrahams (44)    Assistant Secretary since 2008    Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2008-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Assistant Secretary, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).
Rebecca L. Harris (52)    Assistant Secretary since 2010    Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services (2015-Present); Vice President, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Teresa A. Oxford (61)    Assistant Secretary since 2015    Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2015-Present); Assistant Secretary, Resolute Investment Distributors (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, Resolute Investment Services (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2015-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Assistant Secretary, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).

* As of 11/12/2014, the Board adopted a retirement plan that requires Trustees, other than Messrs. Feld and Massman to retire no later than the last day of the calendar year in which they reach the age of 75. As of 11/7/17, the Board approved a waiver of the mandatory retirement policy with respect to Mr. Massman, who turned 75 in November 2018, to permit him to continue to serve on the Board as Chair Emeritus through 12/31/19.

** Mr. Feld is deemed to be an “interested person” of the Trusts, as defined by the 1940 Act. Mr. Feld’s law firm of Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld LLP has provided legal services within the past two fiscal years to one or more of the Trust’s sub-advisors.

 

 

58


American Beacon FundsSM

Privacy Policy

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

The American Beacon Funds recognize and respect the privacy of our shareholders. We are providing this notice to you so you will understand how shareholder information may be collected and used.

We may collect nonpublic personal information about you from one or more of the following sources:

 

   

information we receive from you on applications or other forms;

 

   

information about your transactions with us or our service providers; and

 

   

information we receive from third parties.

We do not disclose any nonpublic personal information about our customers or former customers to anyone, except as permitted by law.

We restrict access to your nonpublic personal information to those employees or service providers who need to know that information to provide products or services to you. To ensure the confidentiality of your nonpublic personal information, we maintain safeguards that comply with federal standards.

 

 

59


  

 

 

 

 

 

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60


LOGO

 

 

 

Delivery of Documents

eDelivery is NOW AVAILABLE - Stop traditional mail delivery and receive your

shareholder reports and summary prospectus on-line. Sign up at

www.americanbeaconfunds.com

If you invest in the Fund through a financial institution, you may be able to receive the Fund’s regulatory mailings, such as the Prospectus, Annual Report and Semi-Annual Report, by e-mail. If you are interested in this option, please go to www.icsdelivery.com and search for your financial institution’s name or contact your financial institution directly.

To obtain more information about the Fund:

 

LOGO   LOGO
 
By E-mail:   On the Internet:
american_beacon.funds@ambeacon.com   Visit our website at www.americanbeaconfunds.com
   
     
 

LOGO

By Telephone:

Call (800) 658-5811

 

LOGO

By Mail:

American Beacon Funds

P.O. Box 219643

Kansas City, MO 64121-9643

   
     
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedules   Availability of Proxy Voting Policy and Records
 
In addition to the Schedule of Investments provided in each semi-annual and annual report, the Fund files a complete schedule of its portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on Form N-PORT as of the first and third fiscal quarters. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Forms N-PORT may also be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Section, 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520. Information regarding the operation of the SEC’s Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800)-SEC-0330. A complete schedule of the Fund’s portfolio holdings is also available at www.americanbeaconfunds.com approximately twenty days after the end of each month.   A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available in the Fund’s Statement of Additional Information, is available free of charge on the Fund’s website www.americanbeaconfunds.com and by calling 1-800-967-9009 or by accessing the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record for the most recent year ended June 30 is filed annually with the SEC on Form N-PX. The Fund’s Forms N-PX are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record may also be obtained by calling 1-800-967-9009.

Fund Service Providers:

 

CUSTODIAN

State Street Bank and Trust Company

Boston, Massachusetts

   

TRANSFER AGENT

DST Asset Manager Solutions, Inc.

Quincy, Massachusetts

   

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Ernst & Young LLP

Dallas, Texas

   

DISTRIBUTOR

Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc.

Irving, Texas

This report is prepared for shareholders of the American Beacon Funds and may be distributed to others only if preceded or accompanied by a current Prospectus or Summary Prospectus.

 

American Beacon Funds and American Beacon Large Cap Value Fund are service marks of American Beacon Advisors, Inc.

AR 10/19


LOGO


About American Beacon Advisors

 

Since 1986, American Beacon Advisors has offered a variety of products and investment advisory services to numerous institutional and retail clients, including a variety of mutual funds, corporate cash management, and separate account management.

Our clients include defined benefit plans, defined contribution plans, foundations, endowments, corporations, financial planners, and other institutional investors. With American Beacon Advisors, you can put the experience of a multi-billion dollar asset management firm to work for your company.

SMALL CAP VALUE FUND RISKS

Investing in small-capitalization stocks may involve greater volatility and lower liquidity than larger company stocks. Investing in value stocks may limit downside risk over time; however, the Fund may produce more modest gains than riskier stock funds as a trade-off for this potentially lower risk. Investing in foreign securities may involve heightened risk due to currency fluctuations and economic and political risks. The use of futures contracts for cash management may subject the Fund to losing more money than invested. The Fund participates in a securities lending program. Please see the prospectus for a complete discussion of the Fund’s risks. There can be no assurances that the investment objectives of this Fund will be met.

Any opinions herein, including forecasts, reflect our judgment as of the end of the reporting period and are subject to change. Each advisor’s strategies and the Fund’s portfolio composition will change depending on economic and market conditions. This report is not a complete analysis of market conditions and therefore, should not be relied upon as investment advice. Although economic and market information has been compiled from reliable sources, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. makes no representation as to the completeness or accuracy of the statements contained herein.

 

American Beacon Funds

October 31, 2019


Contents

 

 

President’s Message

    1  

Market and Performance Overview

    2  

Expense Example

    6  

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

    8  

Schedule of Investments:

 

American Beacon Small Cap Value Fund

    9  

Financial Statements

    27  

Notes to Financial Statements

    30  

Financial Highlights:

 

American Beacon Small Cap Value Fund

    49  

Federal Tax Information

    56  

Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements

    57  

Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon Funds

    62  

Privacy Policy

    69  

Additional Fund Information

    Back Cover  


President’s Message

 

 

LOGO  

Dear Shareholders,

 

In recent months, you’ve likely seen and heard news reports about disruptive headwinds in the global economy – including the U.S. trade war with China and its toll on the global economy, slowing global growth, the Federal Reserve’s series of rate cuts, Brexit, disruptions in the Middle East and protests in Hong Kong – and watched a flood of reaction in the world’s markets.

 

As Peter L. Bernstein said in his treatise on risk, Against the Gods: The Remarkable Story of Risk, published by John Wiley & Sons, Inc. in September 1998, “Volatility is a proxy for uncertainty and must be accommodated in measuring investment risk.”

 

During times of economic uncertainty and market volatility, fear of loss can be a powerful emotion – one that drives many investors to making short-term decisions subject to a variety of potential error-leading biases. Unfortunately, some short-term investment decisions may create more volatility rather than mitigate it.

Instead of dwelling on the markets’ short-term reaction to waves of negative global news, we encourage investors to focus on the horizon instead. Long-term investing isn’t about identifying and anticipating the next big market move, it is about identifying the right investment products for riding out those moves. As a long-term investor, you should keep in mind the three Ds: direction, discipline and diversification.

 

u  

Direction: Achieving your long-term financial goals requires an individualized plan of action. You may want your plan to provide some measure of protection against periods of geopolitical turmoil, economic uncertainty, market volatility and job insecurity. Your plan should be reviewed annually and be adjusted in the event your long-range needs change.

 

u  

Discipline: Long-term, systematic participation in an investment portfolio requires your resolution to stay the course. Spending time in the market – rather than trying to time the market – may place you in a better position to reach your long-term financial goals.

 

u  

Diversification: By investing in different investment styles and asset classes, you may be able to help mitigate financial risks across your investment portfolio. By allocating your investment portfolio according to your risk-tolerance level, you may be better positioned to weather storms and achieve your long-term financial goals.

Since 1986, American Beacon has endeavored to provide investors with a disciplined approach to realizing long-term financial goals. As a manager of managers, we strive to provide investment products that may enable investors to participate during market upswings while potentially insulating against market downswings.

Many of the sub-advisors to our mutual funds pursue upside capture and/or downside protection using proprietary strategies. The investment teams behind our mutual funds seek to produce consistent, long-term results rather than focus only on short-term movements in the markets. In managing our investment products, we emphasize identifying opportunities that offer the potential for long-term rewards.

Our management approach is more than a concept; it’s the cornerstone of our culture. And we strive to apply it at every turn as we seek to provide a well-diversified line of investment solutions to help our shareholders seek long-term rewards while mitigating volatility and risk.

Thank you for your continued interest in American Beacon. For additional information about our investment products or to access your account information, please visit our website at www.americanbeaconfunds.com.

Best Regards,

 

LOGO

Gene L. Needles, Jr.

President

American Beacon Funds

 

 

1


Domestic Equity Market Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

For the 12-month period ended October 31, 2019, the U.S. equity markets rallied strongly after a depressed start to the period that saw market volatility spike to its highest level in seven years during the fourth quarter of 2018. The S&P 500 Index and the Dow Jones Industrial Average returned 14.33% and 10.32%, respectively, for the period. Growth broadly outperformed Value across all market caps; the Russell 1000 Growth Index and the Russell 1000 Value Index returned 17.10% and 11.21%, respectively, and the Russell Midcap Growth Index and the Russell Midcap Value Index returned 18.93% and 10.08%, respectively. Large and mid-cap stocks also did significantly better than small-cap stocks; the Russell 1000 Index returned 14.15% and the Russell Midcap Index returned 13.72%, compared to the Russell 2000 Index return of 4.90%.

All of this occurred in an environment that saw rising fears of economic recession as the current expansion entered its 11th year, intensified by the effects of an escalating trade war, as well as concerns over the ability of the Federal Reserve (the “Fed”) policy to forestall the effects of an economic downturn. Feeding these uncertainties, growth slowed during the period as the third quarter’s gross domestic product decelerated to 1.9% from its peak rate of 3.5% in the second quarter of 2018. Corporate earnings growth also slowed with profit growth.

The Fed did alter its policy course at year end 2018 and began lowering the federal funds rate in the third quarter of 2019. At the same time, the economic strength underlying the U.S. economy remained resilient with the September unemployment rate at 3.5%, a 40-year low. In addition, the consumer continued to show good strength with both income and expenditures growing at healthy rates. Also, ongoing tariff negotiations between the U.S. and China are providing hope to prospects of settlement. Collectively, all of these factors kept the markets positive going into the fiscal year end.

 

 

2


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

The Investor Class of the American Beacon Small Cap Value Fund (the “Fund”) returned 1.67% for the twelve months ended October 31, 2019, underperforming the Russell 2000® Value Index (the “Index”) return of 3.22% for the same period.

Comparison of Change in Value of a $10,000 Investment for the period from 10/31/2009 through 10/31/2019

 

LOGO

 

Total Returns for the Period ended October 31, 2019

 

      

Ticker

    

1 Year

  

3 Years

    

5 Years

    

10 Years

  

Value of  $10,000
10/31/2009-
10/31/2019

Institutional Class (1,6)

     AVFIX          2.01 %        7.31 %          5.44 %          11.29 %      $ 29,154

Y Class (1,6)

     ABSYX          1.93 %        7.22 %          5.36 %          11.18 %      $ 28,864

Investor Class (1,6)

     AVPAX          1.67 %        6.96 %          5.10 %          10.91 %      $ 28,177

Advisor Class (1,6)

     AASSX          1.48 %        6.78 %          4.92 %          10.74 %      $ 27,740

A Class without sales charge (1,2,6)

     ABSAX          1.56 %        6.87 %          5.01 %          10.79 %      $ 27,854

A Class with sales charge (1,2,6)

     ABSAX          (4.26 )%        4.78 %          3.78 %          10.13 %      $ 26,246

C Class without sales charge (1,3,6)

     ASVCX          0.85 %        6.16 %          4.28 %          10.04 %      $ 26,035

C Class with sales charge (1,3,6)

     ASVCX          (0.15 )%        6.16 %          4.28 %          10.04 %      $ 26,035

R6 Class (1,4,6) . .

     AASRX          2.01 %        7.33 %          5.45 %          11.30 %      $ 29,164
                                   

Russell 2000® Value Index (5)

              3.22 %        8.60 %          6.24 %          11.08 %      $ 28,607

 

1.

Performance shown is historical and is not indicative of future returns. Investment returns and principal value will vary, and shares may be worth more or less at redemption than at original purchase. Performance shown is calculated based on the published end of day net asset values as of date indicated, and current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. To obtain performance as of the most recent month end, please visit www.americanbeaconfunds.com or call 1-800-967-9009. Fund performance in the table above does not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder would pay on distributions or the redemption of shares. Generally accepted accounting principles require adjustments to be made to the net assets of the Fund at period end for financial reporting purposes only; and as such, the total return based on the unadjusted net asset value per share may differ from the total return reported in the financial highlights.

 

2.

Fund performance for the ten-year period represents the total returns achieved by the Investor Class from 10/31/09 up to 5/17/10, the inception date of the A Class, and the returns of the A Class since its inception. Expenses of the A Class are higher than those of the Investor Class. As a result, total returns

 

 

3


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

  shown may be higher than they would have been had the A Class been in existence since 10/31/09. A portion of the fees charged to the A Class of the Fund was waived in 2010, 2012, 2013 and 2014 and fully recovered in 2015. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than the actual returns shown for 2010, 2012, 2013 and 2014. The maximum sales charge for A Class is 5.75%.

 

3.

Fund performance for the ten-year period represents the total returns achieved by the Investor Class from 10/31/09 up to 9/1/10, the inception date of the C Class, and the returns of the C Class since its inception. Expenses of the C Class are higher than those of the Investor Class. As a result, total returns shown may be higher than they would have been had the C Class been in existence since 10/31/09. A portion of the fees charged to the C Class of the Fund was waived in 2010, 2012 and 2013, fully recovered in 2015, and waived in 2018. Performance prior to waiving fees was lower than the actual returns shown in 2010, 2012, 2013 and 2018. The maximum contingent deferred sales charge for C Class is 1.00% for shares redeemed within one year of the date of purchase.

 

4.

Fund performance for the three-year, five-year and ten-year periods represents the returns achieved by the Institutional Class from 10/31/09 through 2/28/17, the inception date of the R6 Class, and the returns of the R6 Class since its inception. Expenses of the R6 Class are lower than those of the Institutional Class. As a result, total returns shown may be lower than they would have been had the R6 Class been in existence since 10/31/09.

 

5.

The Russell 2000 Value Index is an unmanaged index of those stocks in the Russell 2000 Index with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values. Russell 2000 Value Index and Russell 2000 Index are registered trademarks of Frank Russell Company. Frank Russell Company (“Russell”) is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks and copyrights related to the Russell Indexes. Russell® is a trademark of Frank Russell Company. Neither Russell nor its licensors accept any liability for any errors or omissions in the Russell Indexes and/or Russell ratings or underlying data, and no party may rely on any Russell Indexes and/or Russell ratings and/or underlying data contained in this communication. No further distribution of Russell Data is permitted without Russell’s express written consent. Russell does not promote, sponsor or endorse the content of this communication. One cannot directly invest in an index.

 

6.

The Total Annual Fund Operating Expense ratios set forth in the most recent Fund prospectus for the Institutional, Y, Investor, Advisor, A, C and R6 Class shares were 0.81%, 0.88%, 1.14%, 1.29%, 1.21%, 1.87% and 0.78%, respectively. The expense ratios above may vary from the expense ratios presented in other sections of this report that are based on expenses incurred during the period covered by this report

The Fund trailed the Index during the period due mainly to security selection, while sector allocation was slightly additive to relative performance.

Most of the Fund’s underperformance related to security selection was attributed to holdings in the Financials and Energy sectors. In the Financials sector, the Fund’s positions in Webster Financial Corp. (down 23.6%) and Texas Capital Bancshares, Inc. (down 16.7%) negatively impacted performance. In the Energy sector, detractors included Callon Petroleum Co. (down 62.9%) and Whiting Petroleum Corp. (down 82.8%). On the other hand, positive security selection in the Consumer Discretionary sector added relative value. In this sector, Sonic Automotive Inc. (up 75.9%) and an absence from Index-position Signet Jewelers Ltd. (down 68.9%) were the largest contributors.

From a sector allocation perspective, the Fund’s overweight positions in the Information Technology sector (up 26.3%) and the Industrials sector (up 9.2%) contributed to relative performance. This relative performance was partially offset by an underweight to the Real Estate sector (up 19.1%).

The sub-advisors continue to focus on uncovering investment opportunities through stock selection that should benefit the Fund’s performance over the longer term.

 

 

4


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Performance Overview

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

Top Ten Holdings (% Net Assets)

 

Diodes, Inc.           1.5  
Brooks Automation, Inc.           1.0  
Portland General Electric Co.           1.0  
Enstar Group Ltd.           0.9  
Federal Signal Corp.           0.9  
Seritage Growth Properties, Class A           0.9  
Vishay Intertechnology, Inc.           0.9  
MGIC Investment Corp.           0.7  
Simpson Manufacturing Co., Inc.           0.7  
Stifel Financial Corp.           0.6  
Total Fund Holdings      708       
       
Sector Allocation (% Equities)

 

Financials           28.0  
Industrials           21.1  
Information Technology           14.0  
Consumer Discretionary           13.0  
Real Estate           5.4  
Energy           4.4  
Materials           4.2  
Utilities           3.0  
Health Care           2.8  
Communication Services           2.1  
Consumer Staples           1.8  
Exchange-Traded Instruments           0.2  

 

 

5


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Expense Example

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

Fund Expense Example

As a shareholder of a Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including sales charges (loads) on purchase payments and redemption fees if applicable, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees, distribution (12b-1) fees, Sub-transfer agent fees, and other Fund expenses. The Examples are intended to help you understand the ongoing cost (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period in each Class and held for the entire period from May 1, 2019 through October 31, 2019.

Actual Expenses

The “Actual” lines of the table provide information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information on this page, 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 = $8.60), then multiply the result by the “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period. Shareholders of the Investor and Institutional Classes that invest in the Fund through an IRA or Roth IRA may be subject to a custodial IRA fee of $15 that is typically deducted each December. If your account was subject to a custodial IRA fee during the period, your costs would have been $15 higher.

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

The “Hypothetical” lines of the table provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed 5% per year rate of return before expenses (not the Fund’s actual return). You may compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund with other funds by contrasting this 5% hypothetical example and the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. Shareholders of the Investor and Institutional Classes that invest in the Fund through an IRA or Roth IRA may be subject to a custodial IRA fee of $15 that is typically deducted each December. If your account was subject to a custodial IRA fee during the period, your costs would have been $15 higher.

You should also be aware that the expenses shown in the table highlight only your ongoing costs and do not reflect any transaction costs charged by the Fund, such as sales charges (loads) or redemption fees, as applicable. Similarly, the expense examples for other funds do not reflect any transaction costs charged by those funds, such as sales charges (loads), redemption fees or exchange fees. Therefore, the “Hypothetical” lines of the table are useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. If you were subject to any transaction costs during the period, your costs would have been higher.

 

 

6


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Expense Example

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

American Beacon Small Cap Value Fund

 

    Beginning Account Value
5/1/2019
  Ending Account Value
10/31/2019
  Expenses Paid  During
Period

5/1/2019-10/31/2019*
Institutional Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $973.90       $4.13
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,021.02       $4.23
Y Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $973.50       $4.53
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,020.62       $4.63
Investor Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $972.30       $5.77
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,019.36       $5.90
Advisor Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $971.50       $6.61
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,018.50       $6.77
A Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $971.70       $6.36
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,018.75       $6.51
C Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $968.40       $9.77
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,015.28       $10.01
R6 Class            
Actual       $1,000.00       $973.90       $3.98
Hypothetical**       $1,000.00       $1,021.17       $4.08

 

*

Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratios for the six-month period of 0.83%, 0.91%, 1.16%, 1.33%, 1.28%, 1.97%, and 0.80% for the Institutional, Y, Investor, Advisor, A, C, and R6 Classes, respectively, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number derived by dividing the number of days in the most recent fiscal half-year (184) by days in the year (365) to reflect the half-year period.

**

5% return before expenses.

 

 

7


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

 

To the Shareholders and the Board of Trustees of

American Beacon Small Cap Value Fund

Opinion on the Financial Statements

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of American Beacon Small Cap Value Fund (the “Fund”) (one of the funds constituting American Beacon Funds (the “Trust”)), including the schedule of investments, as of October 31, 2019, and the related statement of operations for the year then ended, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund at October 31, 2019, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended and its financial highlights for each of the five years in the period then ended, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

Basis for Opinion

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

We conducted our audits in accordance with the standards of the PCAOB. Those standards require that we plan and perform the audit to obtain reasonable assurance about whether the financial statements are free of material misstatement, whether due to error or fraud. The Trust is not required to have, nor were we engaged to perform, an audit of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. As part of our audits, we are required to obtain an understanding of internal control over financial reporting, but not for the purpose of expressing an opinion on the effectiveness of the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting. Accordingly, we express no such opinion.

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of October 31, 2019, by correspondence with the custodian and brokers or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from brokers were not received. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

LOGO

We have served as the auditor of one or more American Beacon investment companies since 1987.

Dallas, Texas

December 30, 2019

 

 

8


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49%            
Communication Services - 2.07%            
Entertainment - 0.14%            
IMAX Corp.A       410,584         $ 8,765,968
           

 

 

 
           
Media - 1.93%            
AMC Networks, Inc., Class AA       126,981           5,530,023
Emerald Expositions Events, Inc.       80,092           778,494
Entravision Communications Corp., Class A       272,576           774,116
EW Scripps Co., Class A       63,919           858,752
Gannett Co., Inc.       303,388           3,291,760
Gray Television, Inc.A       1,244,556           20,423,164
John Wiley & Sons, Inc., Class A       137,610           6,339,693
Liberty Latin America Ltd., Class CA       144,525           2,660,705
MDC Partners, Inc., Class AA       1,749,072           5,474,595
Meredith Corp.       210,959           7,953,154
MSG Networks, Inc., Class AA       538,119           8,722,909
New Media Investment Group, Inc.B       288,258           2,539,553
Nexstar Media Group, Inc., Class A       120,325           11,706,419
Scholastic Corp.       308,791           11,888,453
TEGNA, Inc.       1,996,092           30,001,263
WideOpenWest, Inc.A       115,069           730,688
           

 

 

 
              119,673,741
           

 

 

 
           

Total Communication Services

              128,439,709
           

 

 

 
           
Consumer Discretionary - 12.57%            
Auto Components - 1.89%            
Adient PLC       1,454,292           30,816,447
American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc.A       3,289,883           27,503,422
Cooper Tire & Rubber Co.       378,145           10,678,815
Cooper-Standard Holdings, Inc.A       45,152           1,438,543
Dana, Inc.       383,253           6,220,196
Delphi Technologies PLC       137,299           1,676,421
Dorman Products, Inc.A       86,490           6,222,955
Gentherm, Inc.A       250,682           10,470,987
Goodyear Tire & Rubber Co.       122,300           1,940,901
Modine Manufacturing Co.A       156,297           1,786,475
Motorcar Parts of America, Inc.A       79,425           1,513,841
Stoneridge, Inc.A       278,155           8,589,426
Visteon Corp.A       89,727           8,346,406
           

 

 

 
              117,204,835
           

 

 

 
           
Automobiles - 0.36%            
Thor Industries, Inc.B       30,694           1,941,702
Winnebago Industries, Inc.       430,910           20,713,844
           

 

 

 
              22,655,546
           

 

 

 
           
Diversified Consumer Services - 0.50%            
Adtalem Global Education, Inc.A       326,864           9,734,010
American Public Education, Inc.A       38,661           839,717
Graham Holdings Co., Class B       11,623           7,318,538
H&R Block, Inc.B       495,992           12,394,840
WW International, Inc.       13,294           463,562
           

 

 

 
              30,750,667
           

 

 

 
           
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 1.24%            
BJ’s Restaurants, Inc.       172,445           6,827,098
Bloomin’ Brands, Inc.       666,066           13,194,767

 

See accompanying notes

 

9


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49% (continued)            
Consumer Discretionary - 12.57% (continued)            
Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure - 1.24% (continued)            
Brinker International, Inc.B       129,384         $ 5,751,119
Cheesecake Factory, Inc.B       380,779           15,912,754
Dave & Buster’s Entertainment, Inc.B       177,322           7,053,869
Hilton Grand Vacations, Inc.A       270,212           9,384,463
Ruth’s Hospitality Group, Inc.       198,207           4,079,100
Twin River Worldwide Holdings, Inc.B       49,600           1,244,960
Wyndham Destinations, Inc.       286,894           13,314,751
           

 

 

 
              76,762,881
           

 

 

 
           
Household Durables - 2.99%            
Beazer Homes USA, Inc.A       42,262           634,353
Cavco Industries, Inc.A       64,858           12,430,036
Century Communities, Inc.A       122,533           3,696,821
Ethan Allen Interiors, Inc.       211,476           4,168,192
Flexsteel Industries, Inc.       26,762           443,446
GoPro, Inc., Class AA B       149,996           623,983
Green Brick Partners, Inc.A       40,301           405,831
Helen of Troy Ltd.A       74,543           11,163,560
Hooker Furniture Corp.       59,847           1,416,578
KB Home       535,815           19,123,237
LGI Homes, Inc.A B       60,564           4,753,063
Lifetime Brands, Inc.       21,174           169,180
M/I Homes, Inc.A       256,970           11,352,935
MDC Holdings, Inc.       357,674           13,845,561
Meritage Homes Corp.A       124,772           8,994,813
Taylor Morrison Home Corp.A       692,631           17,350,407
Toll Brothers, Inc.       364,554           14,498,313
TRI Pointe Group, Inc.A       918,148           14,451,649
Tupperware Brands Corp.       245,469           2,363,866
Whirlpool Corp.       251,886           38,316,898
William Lyon Homes, Class AA       148,132           2,866,354
ZAGG, Inc.A B       275,962           2,033,840
           

 

 

 
              185,102,916
           

 

 

 
           
Internet & Direct Marketing Retail - 0.03%            
Groupon, Inc.A       205,596           571,557
Lands’ End, Inc.A B       45,043           543,669
PetMed Express, Inc.B       45,762           1,071,517
           

 

 

 
              2,186,743
           

 

 

 
           
Leisure Products - 0.41%            
American Outdoor Brands Corp.A       307,482           2,176,973
Brunswick Corp.       228,986           13,336,145
Johnson Outdoors, Inc., Class A       14,459           846,574
Malibu Boats, Inc., Class AA       248,323           8,100,296
Nautilus, Inc.A       442,744           730,528
           

 

 

 
              25,190,516
           

 

 

 
           
Multiline Retail - 0.28%            
Big Lots, Inc.B       111,361           2,413,193
Dillard’s, Inc., Class AB       215,135           14,840,012
           

 

 

 
              17,253,205
           

 

 

 
           
Specialty Retail - 3.94%            
Aaron’s, Inc.       248,106           18,590,583
Abercrombie & Fitch Co., Class A       537,204           8,697,333
Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.A       65,379           6,742,536

 

See accompanying notes

 

10


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49% (continued)            
Consumer Discretionary - 12.57% (continued)            
Specialty Retail - 3.94% (continued)            
AutoNation, Inc.A       273,564         $ 13,910,729
Barnes & Noble Education, Inc.A       293,209           1,205,089
Bed Bath & Beyond, Inc.B       478,961           6,561,766
Buckle, Inc.B       155,778           3,258,876
Caleres, Inc.       26,827           577,317
Camping World Holdings, Inc., Class AB       100,637           951,020
Children’s Place, Inc.B       113,441           9,291,952
Citi Trends, Inc.       35,118           626,856
Designer Brands, Inc., Class A       92,387           1,524,386
Dick’s Sporting Goods, Inc.B       502,803           19,574,121
Foot Locker, Inc.       236,400           10,285,764
Genesco, Inc.A       123,452           4,796,110
Group 1 Automotive, Inc.       310,825           30,908,438
Guess?, Inc.B       425,058           7,119,722
Haverty Furniture Cos, Inc.       44,191           801,625
Hibbett Sports, Inc.A       56,492           1,347,899
Lithia Motors, Inc., Class A       57,882           9,115,257
Lumber Liquidators Holdings, Inc.A B       56,719           523,516
MarineMax, Inc.A       32,160           496,872
Office Depot, Inc.       11,447,654           23,582,167
Party City Holdco, Inc.A B       66,255           372,353
Penske Automotive Group, Inc.       255,999           12,472,271
Sally Beauty Holdings, Inc.A B       209,513           3,247,452
Sonic Automotive, Inc., Class A       702,108           22,628,941
Sportsman’s Warehouse Holdings, Inc.A       79,620           542,212
Urban Outfitters, Inc.A B       450,972           12,942,896
Williams-Sonoma, Inc.B       163,128           10,895,319
Zumiez, Inc.A       13,541           432,093
           

 

 

 
              244,023,471
           

 

 

 
           
Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods - 0.93%            
G-III Apparel Group Ltd.A       591,611           14,855,352
Hanesbrands, Inc.       962,900           14,645,709
Movado Group, Inc.       243,906           6,353,751
Oxford Industries, Inc.       127,933           8,809,466
Unifi, Inc.A       20,918           571,062
Vera Bradley, Inc.A       180,930           1,946,807
Wolverine World Wide, Inc.       355,737           10,558,274
           

 

 

 
              57,740,421
           

 

 

 
           

Total Consumer Discretionary

              778,871,201
           

 

 

 
           
Consumer Staples - 1.74%            
Food & Staples Retailing - 0.37%            
Andersons, Inc.       100,932           1,859,167
Ingles Markets, Inc., Class A       37,700           1,486,511
Performance Food Group Co.A       318,534           13,572,734
SpartanNash Co.       189,556           2,482,236
Village Super Market, Inc., Class A       33,132           877,998
Weis Markets, Inc.       70,878           2,728,094
           

 

 

 
              23,006,740
           

 

 

 
           
Food Products - 1.07%            
Darling Ingredients, Inc.A       1,500,686           28,963,240
Flowers Foods, Inc.       368,002           7,993,003
Fresh Del Monte Produce, Inc.       418,645           13,354,776

 

See accompanying notes

 

11


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49% (continued)            
Consumer Staples - 1.74% (continued)            
Food Products - 1.07% (continued)            
Hain Celestial Group, Inc.A B       434,219         $ 10,264,937
SunOpta, Inc.A B       2,995,678           5,721,745
           

 

 

 
              66,297,701
           

 

 

 
Household Products - 0.10%            
Energizer Holdings, Inc.B       144,531           6,141,122
           

 

 

 
           
Metals & Mining - 0.00%            
Ferroglobe Representation & Warranty InsuranceC D       2,123,070           -
           

 

 

 
           
Personal Products - 0.11%            
Edgewell Personal Care Co.A       96,958           3,393,530
Nu Skin Enterprises, Inc., Class A       40,600           1,809,948
USANA Health Sciences, Inc.A       24,700           1,830,517
           

 

 

 
              7,033,995
           

 

 

 
           
Tobacco - 0.09%            
Universal Corp.       97,084           5,320,203
           

 

 

 
           

Total Consumer Staples

              107,799,761
           

 

 

 
           
Energy - 4.22%            
Energy Equipment & Services - 1.66%            
Apergy Corp.A       322,443           8,115,890
Archrock, Inc.       577,990           5,571,824
Cactus, Inc., Class AA       290,564           8,635,562
Dril-Quip, Inc.A       152,217           6,243,941
Frank’s International N.V.A       5,023,124           24,613,308
FTS International, Inc.A       153,534           233,372
Helix Energy Solutions Group, Inc.A       397,404           3,413,700
Key Energy Services, Inc.A B       301,510           359,792
Liberty Oilfield Services, Inc., Class AB       113,879           1,048,826
Mammoth Energy Services, Inc.       254,646           407,434
Matrix Service Co.A       51,116           958,936
McDermott International, Inc.A B       362,934           591,582
National Energy Services Reunited Corp.A       67,291           464,981
Newpark Resources, Inc.A       1,973,219           11,839,314
NexTier Oilfield Solutions, Inc.A       1,967,711           8,500,514
Nine Energy Service, Inc.A B       367,425           2,075,951
Oceaneering International, Inc.A       263,500           3,731,160
Patterson-UTI Energy, Inc.       954,287           7,939,668
ProPetro Holding Corp.A       145,426           1,127,051
Quintana Energy Services, Inc.A       290,256           484,728
RPC, Inc.B       103,250           427,455
SEACOR Holdings, Inc.A       53,432           2,292,767
Select Energy Services, Inc., Class AA       213,500           1,622,600
Solaris Oilfield Infrastructure, Inc., Class A       173,207           1,842,922
           

 

 

 
              102,543,278
           

 

 

 
           
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 2.56%            
Altus Midstream Co., Class AA B       1,425,176           3,135,387
Amplify Energy Corp.       66,805           484,336
Antero Resources Corp.A B       291,200           728,000
Arch Coal, Inc., Class AB       102,294           8,069,974
Berry Petroleum Corp.       552,813           5,190,914
Bonanza Creek Energy, Inc.A       343,432           6,119,958
Callon Petroleum Co.A B       3,925,972           14,918,694
Carrizo Oil & Gas, Inc.A B       1,121,060           8,251,002
CNX Midstream Partners LP, MLP       61,800           947,394
CONSOL Energy, Inc.A       17,937           237,306

 

See accompanying notes

 

12


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49% (continued)            
Energy - 4.22% (continued)            
Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels - 2.56% (continued)            
Contura Energy, Inc.A       60,561         $ 1,389,269
Delek US Holdings, Inc.       222,912           8,905,334
Diamond S Shipping Inc.A       35,284           515,146
Earthstone Energy, Inc., Class AA       369,337           1,433,028
Enerplus Corp.       474,054           2,858,546
Falcon Minerals Corp.B       97,032           597,717
Gran Tierra Energy, Inc.A B       2,072,611           2,238,420
Hess Midstream Partners LP       130,437           2,779,612
Hoegh LNG Partners LP       25,391           378,326
Kosmos Energy Ltd.       2,583,108           16,015,270
Murphy Oil Corp.       97,031           2,001,749
Noble Midstream Partners LP, MLP       33,921           818,174
Oasis Midstream Partners LP, MLP       44,978           775,421
Oasis Petroleum, Inc.A       641,244           1,673,647
Par Pacific Holdings, Inc.A       36,839           834,403
PBF Energy, Inc., Class A       86,076           2,778,533
PDC Energy, Inc.A       289,636           5,778,238
Peabody Energy Corp.       125,883           1,325,548
Penn Virginia Corp.A       145,812           3,470,326
QEP Resources, Inc.       478,769           1,594,301
Range Resources Corp.B       1,298,800           5,234,164
Renewable Energy Group, Inc.A B       54,412           889,092
REX American Resources Corp.A       16,401           1,327,169
SRC Energy, Inc.A       1,648,438           5,143,127
Talos Energy, Inc.A       225,257           4,849,783
W&T Offshore, Inc.A       1,163,186           4,687,640
Whiting Petroleum Corp.A B       700,854           4,443,414
World Fuel Services Corp.       355,419           14,845,852
WPX Energy, Inc.A       1,124,900           11,226,502
           

 

 

 
              158,890,716
           

 

 

 
           

Total Energy

              261,433,994
           

 

 

 
           
Financials - 27.09%            
Banks - 15.25%            
1st Source Corp.       19,656           1,005,994
Amalgamated Bank, Class A       58,334           1,062,262
Ameris Bancorp       71,720           3,073,202
Associated Banc-Corp       1,471,395           29,589,753
Atlantic Union Bankshares Corp.       365,486           13,471,814
Banc of California, Inc.       112,278           1,546,068
Bancorp, Inc.A       159,350           1,736,915
BancorpSouth Bank       162,769           4,992,125
Bank of NT Butterfield & Son Ltd.       973,033           32,061,437
BankUnited, Inc.       290,078           9,949,675
Banner Corp.       293,658           15,851,659
Bar Harbor Bankshares       37,094           929,205
Berkshire Hills Bancorp, Inc.       592,769           18,393,622
Boston Private Financial Holdings, Inc.       1,209,896           13,611,330
Bridge Bancorp, Inc.       31,190           1,010,556
Brookline Bancorp, Inc.       213,631           3,354,007
Bryn Mawr Bank Corp.       141,653           5,398,396
Cadence BanCorpB       350,340           5,388,229
Camden National Corp.       19,774           876,186
Carolina Financial Corp.       166,497           6,318,561
Cathay General Bancorp       496,830           17,672,243

 

See accompanying notes

 

13


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49% (continued)            
Financials - 27.09% (continued)            
Banks - 15.25% (continued)            
CenterState Bank Corp.       350,933         $ 8,899,661
Central Pacific Financial Corp.       261,098           7,550,954
CIT Group, Inc.       139,312           5,975,092
City Holding Co.       12,548           995,558
Columbia Banking System, Inc.       101,111           3,973,662
Community Trust Bancorp, Inc.       32,573           1,427,023
ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc.       59,892           1,454,178
Customers Bancorp, Inc.A       83,881           1,977,914
CVB Financial Corp.       173,800           3,611,564
Eagle Bancorp, Inc.       22,498           1,015,560
Enterprise Financial Services Corp.       51,694           2,264,197
Equity Bancshares, Inc., Class AA       49,400           1,371,344
Financial Institutions, Inc.       39,388           1,237,965
First BanCorp/Puerto Rico       175,651           1,847,849
First Bancorp/NC       24,800           936,200
First Business Financial Services, Inc.       21,559           524,315
First Citizens BancShares, Inc., Class A       11,841           5,824,825
First Commonwealth Financial Corp.       195,897           2,760,189
First Financial Bancorp       55,689           1,305,350
First Financial Corp.       85,021           3,729,871
First Hawaiian, Inc.       1,389,147           37,965,388
First Horizon National Corp.       1,380,806           22,051,472
First Internet Bancorp       38,952           885,768
First Interstate BancSystem, Inc., Class A       236,515           9,924,169
First Merchants Corp.       63,801           2,523,330
First Mid Bancshares, Inc.       12,252           427,595
First Midwest Bancorp, Inc.       1,081,430           22,212,572
First of Long Island Corp.       61,000           1,429,840
Flushing Financial Corp.       95,082           2,057,574
FNB Corp.       1,347,843           16,254,987
Franklin Financial Network, Inc.       58,947           1,961,167
Fulton Financial Corp.       1,778,190           30,335,921
Great Southern Bancorp, Inc.       29,538           1,784,686
Great Western Bancorp, Inc.       191,400           6,674,118
Hancock Whitney Corp.       965,862           37,668,618
Hanmi Financial Corp.       91,853           1,768,170
Heartland Financial USA, Inc.       42,433           1,985,016
Heritage Commerce Corp.       149,907           1,801,882
Heritage Financial Corp.       36,208           996,806
Hilltop Holdings, Inc.       147,125           3,436,840
Home BancShares, Inc.       187,635           3,467,495
HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc.       16,893           451,043
Hope Bancorp, Inc.       621,145           8,863,739
Horizon Bancorp, Inc.       124,862           2,279,356
IBERIABANK Corp.       253,866           18,631,226
International Bancshares Corp.       498,573           20,421,550
Investors Bancorp, Inc.       986,343           11,885,433
Lakeland Bancorp, Inc.       113,586           1,879,848
Live Oak Bancshares, Inc.       89,877           1,631,268
Metropolitan Bank Holding Corp.A       10,200           437,988
Midland States Bancorp, Inc.       61,970           1,660,796
MidWestOne Financial Group, Inc.       15,616           509,004
National Bank Holdings Corp., Class A       488,498           16,804,331
Northrim BanCorp, Inc.       12,286           478,540
OFG Bancorp       237,570           4,825,047
Old National Bancorp       1,941,390           34,935,313

 

See accompanying notes

 

14


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49% (continued)            
Financials - 27.09% (continued)            
Banks - 15.25% (continued)            
Opus Bank       40,460         $ 1,003,003
Orrstown Financial Services, Inc.       19,116           414,626
Pacific Premier Bancorp, Inc.       27,420           925,562
Park National Corp.       4,714           477,293
Peapack Gladstone Financial Corp.       63,422           1,851,922
Pinnacle Financial Partners, Inc.       64,495           3,793,596
Popular, Inc.       729,355           39,720,673
Preferred Bank       18,411           981,490
Prosperity Bancshares, Inc.B       570,914           39,404,484
RBB Bancorp       23,627           475,848
Renasant Corp.       117,355           4,072,218
Republic Bancorp, Inc., Class A       48,475           2,155,683
S&T Bancorp, Inc.       61,389           2,311,603
Sandy Spring Bancorp, Inc.       52,285           1,803,832
Seacoast Banking Corp. of FloridaA       733,393           20,535,004
Simmons First National Corp., Class A       235,001           5,621,224
South State Corp.       213,822           16,862,003
Southern National Bancorp of Virginia, Inc.       59,545           943,193
Sterling Bancorp       267,760           5,261,484
TCF Financial Corp.       523,203           20,713,607
Texas Capital Bancshares, Inc.A       589,657           31,876,857
Towne Bank       102,664           2,883,832
TriCo Bancshares       23,420           881,295
Triumph Bancorp, Inc.A       165,439           5,368,496
Trustmark Corp.       198,644           6,817,462
UMB Financial Corp.       405,072           26,434,999
Umpqua Holdings Corp.       1,690,268           26,740,040
United Bankshares, Inc.       184,733           7,304,343
United Community Banks, Inc.       431,470           13,034,709
Univest Financial Corp.       19,052           490,589
Valley National Bancorp       1,523,178           17,638,401
Veritex Holdings, Inc.       368,048           9,061,342
Webster Financial Corp.       499,472           22,026,715
WesBanco, Inc.       297,752           11,192,498
West Bancorp, Inc.       20,220           474,766
Westamerica Bancorp       19,168           1,265,471
Wintrust Financial Corp.       205,343           13,104,990
           

 

 

 
              945,209,559
           

 

 

 
           
Capital Markets - 2.96%            
AllianceBernstein Holding LP, MLP       512,246           15,039,543
Artisan Partners Asset Management, Inc., Class A       290,276           7,939,049
Blucora, Inc.A       533,037           11,529,590
BrightSphere Investment Group, Inc.A       438,692           4,307,955
Cowen, Inc., Class AA       116,156           1,738,855
Donnelley Financial Solutions, Inc.A       300,846           3,399,560
Evercore, Inc., Class A       486,377           35,816,802
Federated Investors, Inc., Class B       359,615           11,486,103
GAIN Capital Holdings, Inc.B       97,286           410,547
GAMCO Investors, Inc., Class A       24,607           387,806
Greenhill & Co., Inc.B       98,252           1,591,682
INTL. FCStone, Inc.A       73,481           2,939,240
Janus Henderson Group PLC       96,000           2,220,480
Lazard Ltd., Class A       115,000           4,292,950
Legg Mason, Inc.       47,946           1,786,468
Moelis & Co., Class A       106,451           3,798,172

 

See accompanying notes

 

15


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49% (continued)            
Financials - 27.09% (continued)            
Capital Markets - 2.96% (continued)            
Oppenheimer Holdings, Inc., Class A       47,588         $ 1,294,394
Piper Jaffray Cos.       82,301           6,463,920
Sculptor Capital Management, Inc.B       49,582           890,989
Stifel Financial Corp.       715,423           40,049,379
Victory Capital Holdings, Inc., Class A       87,066           1,354,747
Virtus Investment Partners, Inc.       17,194           1,865,205
Waddell & Reed Financial, Inc., Class AB       984,112           16,296,895
Westwood Holdings Group, Inc.       70,760           2,139,075
WisdomTree Investments, Inc.       856,845           4,378,478
           

 

 

 
              183,417,884
           

 

 

 
           
Consumer Finance - 1.55%            
Encore Capital Group, Inc.A B       51,449           1,707,592
Enova International, Inc.A       115,579           2,714,951
EZCORP, Inc., Class AA B       250,857           1,319,508
Green Dot Corp., Class AA       89,789           2,589,515
Navient Corp.       804,159           11,073,269
Nelnet, Inc., Class A       123,671           7,577,322
OneMain Holdings, Inc.       358,613           14,344,520
PRA Group, Inc.A       910,086           30,879,218
SLM Corp.       2,832,513           23,906,410
           

 

 

 
              96,112,305
           

 

 

 
           
Diversified Financial Services - 0.06%            
FGL Holdings       270,451           2,442,173
Jefferies Financial Group, Inc.       70,533           1,316,851
           

 

 

 
              3,759,024
           

 

 

 
           
Insurance - 4.06%            
Ambac Financial Group, Inc.A       189,038           3,875,279
American Equity Investment Life Holding Co.       658,233           16,245,190
Argo Group International Holdings Ltd.       311,488           19,271,763
Assured Guaranty Ltd.       279,021           13,091,665
Axis Capital Holdings Ltd.       220,671           13,114,477
Brighthouse Financial, Inc.A       97,000           3,662,720
CNO Financial Group, Inc.       2,366,308           37,032,720
Employers Holdings, Inc.       117,849           4,989,727
Enstar Group Ltd.A       271,002           54,444,302
FBL Financial Group, Inc., Class A       31,102           1,784,633
Global Indemnity Ltd.       392,528           9,718,993
Greenlight Capital Re Ltd., Class AA       117,597           1,270,048
Horace Mann Educators Corp.       306,911           13,369,043
Kemper Corp.       91,612           6,585,071
MBIA, Inc.A       360,095           3,345,283
National General Holdings Corp.       466,113           9,937,529
National Western Life Group, Inc., Class A       13,706           3,736,256
ProAssurance Corp.       42,767           1,677,322
Safety Insurance Group, Inc.       68,052           6,614,654
Selective Insurance Group, Inc.       139,108           9,615,145
Stewart Information Services Corp.       31,570           1,291,844
Third Point Reinsurance Ltd.A       131,897           1,251,702
United Fire Group, Inc.       62,552           2,847,367
White Mountains Insurance Group Ltd.       11,870           12,712,770
           

 

 

 
              251,485,503
           

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

16


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49% (continued)            
Financials - 27.09% (continued)            
Mortgage Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) - 0.34%            
Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance, Inc.       528,347         $ 9,668,750
Colony Credit Real Estate, Inc.       128,856           1,846,507
Ellington Financial, Inc.       100,351           1,848,465
Exantas Capital Corp.       156,891           1,845,038
Great Ajax Corp.       55,013           860,954
MFA Financial, Inc.       503,003           3,817,793
Ready Capital Corp.       80,722           1,277,829
           

 

 

 
              21,165,336
           

 

 

 
           
Thrifts & Mortgage Finance - 2.87%            
Axos Financial, Inc.A       51,642           1,500,200
Capitol Federal Financial, Inc.       349,997           4,994,457
Dime Community Bancshares, Inc.       140,215           2,704,747
Essent Group Ltd.       502,034           26,150,951
First Defiance Financial Corp.       15,700           485,444
Flagstar Bancorp, Inc.       152,230           5,532,038
FS Bancorp, Inc.       9,133           522,864
Hingham Institution for Savings       4,500           854,955
HomeStreet, Inc.A       62,643           1,879,916
Kearny Financial Corp.       240,327           3,371,788
Luther Burbank Corp.       325,813           3,769,656
Merchants Bancorp       54,330           887,209
Meridian Bancorp, Inc.       123,820           2,421,919
MGIC Investment Corp.       3,344,202           45,849,009
New York Community Bancorp, Inc.       53,914           628,098
Northfield Bancorp, Inc.       198,240           3,372,062
Northwest Bancshares, Inc.       250,011           4,217,686
OceanFirst Financial Corp.       165,572           3,962,138
Oritani Financial Corp.       93,948           1,753,070
PennyMac Financial Services, Inc.A       64,481           2,007,294
Provident Financial Services, Inc.       124,031           3,094,574
Radian Group, Inc.       706,940           17,744,194
Southern Missouri Bancorp, Inc.       12,578           457,965
Sterling Bancorp, Inc.       89,077           863,156
Territorial Bancorp, Inc.       15,826           467,817
TFS Financial Corp.       64,980           1,251,515
TrustCo Bank Corp.       210,387           1,817,744
United Financial Bancorp, Inc.       219,307           3,096,615
Walker & Dunlop, Inc.       82,480           5,195,415
Washington Federal, Inc.       711,149           25,928,493
Waterstone Financial, Inc.       52,215           972,765
           

 

 

 
              177,755,754
           

 

 

 
           

Total Financials

              1,678,905,365
           

 

 

 
           
Health Care - 2.71%            
Biotechnology - 0.15%            
Emergent BioSolutions, Inc.A       162,426           9,284,270
           

 

 

 
           
Health Care Equipment & Supplies - 0.36%            
Invacare Corp.B       1,055,934           8,151,811
Natus Medical, Inc.A       109,838           3,699,344
NuVasive, Inc.A       152,119           10,730,474
           

 

 

 
              22,581,629
           

 

 

 
           
Health Care Providers & Services - 1.79%            
Amedisys, Inc.A       56,508           7,262,408
AMN Healthcare Services, Inc.A       431,812           25,373,273

 

See accompanying notes

 

17


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49% (continued)            
Health Care - 2.71% (continued)            
Health Care Providers & Services - 1.79% (continued)            
Encompass Health Corp.       360,929         $ 23,106,675
Hanger, Inc.A       768,105           17,366,854
LHC Group, Inc.A       87,305           9,688,236
Magellan Health, Inc.A       27,934           1,812,917
MEDNAX, Inc.A       74,200           1,629,432
Patterson Cos., Inc.B       300,103           5,140,764
R1 RCM, Inc.A       897,426           9,539,638
Select Medical Holdings Corp.A       433,117           7,891,392
Tivity Health, Inc.A B       128,311           2,079,921
           

 

 

 
              110,891,510
           

 

 

 
           
Health Care Technology - 0.09%            
Computer Programs & Systems, Inc.       65,458           1,510,116
NextGen Healthcare, Inc.A       233,802           3,952,423
           

 

 

 
              5,462,539
           

 

 

 
           
Life Sciences Tools & Services - 0.20%            
Medpace Holdings, Inc.A       165,540           12,188,710
           

 

 

 
           
Pharmaceuticals - 0.12%            
Prestige Consumer Healthcare, Inc.A       52,682           1,868,104
Supernus Pharmaceuticals, Inc.A       143,550           3,989,255
Taro Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.       22,598           1,826,822
           

 

 

 
              7,684,181
           

 

 

 
           

Total Health Care

              168,092,839
           

 

 

 
           
Industrials - 20.41%            
Aerospace & Defense - 1.01%            
AAR Corp.       149,167           6,227,722
Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc.A       329,128           14,228,203
AeroVironment, Inc.A       124,465           7,216,481
Astronics Corp.A       295,491           8,551,509
Embraer S.A., Sponsored ADR       1,047,308           18,191,740
Moog, Inc., Class A       46,084           3,857,692
National Presto Industries, Inc.B       19,188           1,651,895
Triumph Group, Inc.B       26,079           541,661
Vectrus, Inc.A       40,163           1,835,851
           

 

 

 
              62,302,754
           

 

 

 
           
Air Freight & Logistics - 0.46%            
Air Transport Services Group, Inc.A       1,252,796           26,195,964
Hub Group, Inc., Class AA       55,210           2,528,618
           

 

 

 
              28,724,582
           

 

 

 
           
Airlines - 0.60%            
Hawaiian Holdings, Inc.       161,544           4,621,774
JetBlue Airways Corp.A       789,050           15,228,665
SkyWest, Inc.       137,004           8,158,588
Spirit Airlines, Inc.A       249,387           9,366,976
           

 

 

 
              37,376,003
           

 

 

 
           
Building Products - 3.14%            
Advanced Drainage Systems, Inc.       137,046           5,073,443
Apogee Enterprises, Inc.       33,612           1,261,794
Armstrong Flooring, Inc.A       591,570           3,632,240

 

See accompanying notes

 

18


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49% (continued)            
Industrials - 20.41% (continued)            
Building Products - 3.14% (continued)            
Builders FirstSource, Inc.A       789,307         $ 17,846,231
Caesarstone Ltd.B       102,448           1,730,347
Continental Building Products, Inc.A       35,400           1,058,814
Gibraltar Industries, Inc.A       692,401           36,856,505
Insteel Industries, Inc.       107,243           2,045,124
JELD-WEN Holding, Inc.A       79,572           1,359,885
Masonite International Corp.A       378,233           23,227,289
Patrick Industries, Inc.A       63,600           3,142,476
Resideo Technologies, Inc.A       1,903,984           18,144,968
Simpson Manufacturing Co., Inc.       517,759           42,787,604
Universal Forest Products, Inc.       721,053           36,312,229
           

 

 

 
              194,478,949
           

 

 

 
           
Commercial Services & Supplies - 1.98%            
ACCO Brands Corp.       656,083           6,003,159
Deluxe Corp.       404,461           20,963,214
Ennis, Inc.       64,295           1,259,539
Herman Miller, Inc.       256,716           11,937,294
HNI Corp.       86,345           3,281,110
Interface, Inc.       61,680           1,025,738
KAR Auction Services, Inc.B       338,200           8,407,652
Knoll, Inc.       973,955           26,043,557
Matthews International Corp., Class A       206,621           7,640,845
Mobile Mini, Inc.       739,725           27,828,455
Quad/Graphics, Inc.       694,831           3,147,584
Steelcase, Inc., Class A       254,348           4,443,460
Team, Inc.A       34,833           632,567
           

 

 

 
              122,614,174
           

 

 

 
           
Construction & Engineering - 1.80%            
Aegion Corp.A       222,980           4,831,977
Arcosa, Inc.       11,700           449,397
Construction Partners, Inc., Class AA       380,504           6,514,228
EMCOR Group, Inc.       307,901           27,005,997
Fluor Corp.       620,300           9,993,033
Granite Construction, Inc.       253,841           5,975,417
MasTec, Inc.A       6,678           420,313
MYR Group, Inc.A       26,150           899,822
Primoris Services Corp.       1,464,489           29,934,155
Quanta Services, Inc.       247,973           10,427,265
Tutor Perini Corp.A B       885,524           13,699,056
Valmont Industries, Inc.       9,034           1,239,374
           

 

 

 
              111,390,034
           

 

 

 
           
Electrical Equipment - 1.46%            
Atkore International Group, Inc.A       154,173           5,349,803
AZZ, Inc.       103,017           3,996,029
Encore Wire Corp.       395,969           22,253,458
EnerSys       309,744           20,709,484
Generac Holdings, Inc.A       39,125           3,778,693
GrafTech International Ltd.B       136,100           1,644,088
Preformed Line Products Co.       14,297           780,616
Regal Beloit Corp.       302,909           22,430,411
Thermon Group Holdings, Inc.A       66,478           1,584,171
TPI Composites, Inc.A B       373,684           7,671,733
           

 

 

 
              90,198,486
           

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

19


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49% (continued)            
Industrials - 20.41% (continued)            
Machinery - 6.26%            
Actuant Corp., Class A       1,106,239         $ 27,401,540
Allison Transmission Holdings, Inc.       305,300           13,314,133
Astec Industries, Inc.       263,921           9,260,988
Barnes Group, Inc.       412,292           24,098,467
Blue Bird Corp.A       205,636           4,018,127
Colfax Corp.A B       855,830           28,755,888
Columbus McKinnon Corp.       57,935           2,173,721
Commercial Vehicle Group, Inc.A       237,565           1,731,849
Energy Recovery, Inc.A B       438,982           4,086,922
EnPro Industries, Inc.       69,230           4,814,947
Federal Signal Corp.       1,663,086           53,950,510
Gorman-Rupp Co.       35,773           1,321,455
Graham Corp.       38,692           876,761
Greenbrier Cos., Inc.       413,374           12,107,724
Harsco Corp.A       506,957           10,276,018
Hillenbrand, Inc.       292,399           9,002,965
Hyster-Yale Materials Handling, Inc.       53,363           2,706,571
Kennametal, Inc.       765,620           23,695,939
Lindsay Corp.B       97,546           9,209,318
Manitowoc Co., Inc.A       155,651           1,986,107
Meritor, Inc.A       315,851           6,958,198
Miller Industries, Inc.       250,683           9,012,054
Mueller Industries, Inc.       21,684           667,217
Mueller Water Products, Inc., Class A       86,020           1,006,434
Navistar International Corp.A       499,630           15,628,426
Oshkosh Corp.       192,767           16,458,447
Park-Ohio Holdings Corp.       106,477           3,275,233
REV Group, Inc.B       111,707           1,389,635
Rexnord Corp.A       398,928           11,285,673
Spartan Motors, Inc.       30,400           531,088
Standex International Corp.       31,357           2,376,233
Terex Corp.       1,121,133           30,887,214
Timken Co.       415,152           20,342,448
TriMas Corp.A       277,168           8,958,070
Trinity Industries, Inc.B       331,032           6,547,813
Wabash National Corp.       561,739           8,010,398
           

 

 

 
              388,124,531
           

 

 

 
           
Marine - 0.38%            
Matson, Inc.       615,743           23,509,068
           

 

 

 
           
Professional Services - 0.88%            
BG Staffing, Inc.       40,100           767,113
GP Strategies Corp.A       74,099           822,499
Hudson Global, Inc.A       61,058           683,850
Huron Consulting Group, Inc.A       102,960           6,809,774
InnerWorkings, Inc.A       400,516           1,942,503
Kelly Services, Inc., Class A       250,567           6,016,114
Korn Ferry       376,469           13,812,648
ManpowerGroup, Inc.       159,352           14,488,284
Mistras Group, Inc.A       44,303           686,696
Resources Connection, Inc.       89,687           1,313,914
TrueBlue, Inc.A       309,317           7,083,359
           

 

 

 
              54,426,754
           

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

20


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49% (continued)            
Industrials - 20.41% (continued)            
Road & Rail - 0.69%            
ArcBest Corp.       408,386         $ 11,798,272
Avis Budget Group, Inc.A       202,292           6,010,095
Covenant Transportation Group, Inc., Class AA       92,170           1,416,653
Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings, Inc.       29,690           1,082,497
Landstar System, Inc.       41,774           4,726,728
Marten Transport Ltd.       360,570           7,809,946
Ryder System, Inc.       142,027           6,906,773
Schneider National, Inc., Class B       24,412           558,302
Universal Logistics Holdings, Inc.       97,438           1,837,194
Werner Enterprises, Inc.       24,900           908,850
           

 

 

 
              43,055,310
           

 

 

 
           
Trading Companies & Distributors - 1.75%            
Air Lease Corp.       297,483           13,083,302
Aircastle Ltd.       522,686           14,227,513
Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc.       54,327           3,250,928
BMC Stock Holdings, Inc.A       144,015           3,886,965
CAI International, Inc.A       54,483           1,295,061
DXP Enterprises, Inc.A       26,600           918,232
GATX Corp.       92,895           7,389,797
H&E Equipment Services, Inc.       90,700           3,078,358
Kaman Corp.       94,452           5,541,499
NOW, Inc.A       262,770           2,769,596
Rush Enterprises, Inc., Class A       589,613           25,760,192
Textainer Group Holdings Ltd.A       30,221           312,787
Titan Machinery, Inc.A       40,271           668,499
Triton International Ltd.       328,858           12,069,088
WESCO International, Inc.A       288,294           14,457,944
           

 

 

 
              108,709,761
           

 

 

 
           

Total Industrials

              1,264,910,406
           

 

 

 
           
Information Technology - 13.50%            
Communications Equipment - 0.98%            
Casa Systems, Inc.A       357,387           2,401,641
Ciena Corp.A       612,242           22,726,423
CommScope Holding Co., Inc.A B       579,043           6,485,281
EchoStar Corp., Class AA       104,000           4,056,000
Lumentum Holdings, Inc.A B       215,336           13,492,954
NETGEAR, Inc.A       345,329           9,382,589
Plantronics, Inc.       34,279           1,351,278
Ribbon Communications, Inc.A       207,611           890,651
           

 

 

 
              60,786,817
           

 

 

 
           
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 6.31%            
Anixter International, Inc.A       74,325           6,150,394
Avnet, Inc.       914,938           36,194,947
AVX Corp.       929,705           14,243,081
Belden, Inc.       139,398           7,148,329
Benchmark Electronics, Inc.       147,421           4,997,572
Celestica, Inc.A       842,355           6,081,803
Coherent, Inc.A       106,837           15,910,166
ePlus, Inc.A       9,800           765,674
FabrinetA       398,533           22,409,511
FARO Technologies, Inc.A       451,419           21,523,658
II-VI, Inc.A       995,440           32,998,836

 

See accompanying notes

 

21


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49% (continued)            
Information Technology - 13.50% (continued)            
Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components - 6.31% (continued)            
Insight Enterprises, Inc.A       179,807         $ 11,036,554
Itron, Inc.A       156,087           11,903,195
Jabil, Inc.       427,348           15,734,953
KEMET Corp.       848,271           18,441,412
Kimball Electronics, Inc.A       82,359           1,223,855
Methode Electronics, Inc.       240,231           8,263,946
MTS Systems Corp.       374,293           21,140,069
PC Connection, Inc.       41,104           2,007,519
Plexus Corp.A       36,165           2,674,040
Sanmina Corp.A       677,147           20,808,727
ScanSource, Inc.A       307,850           9,943,555
SYNNEX Corp.       136,006           16,013,346
Tech Data Corp.A       220,728           26,818,452
Vishay Intertechnology, Inc.       2,809,436           56,610,135
           

 

 

 
              391,043,729
           

 

 

 
           
IT Services - 1.38%            
Cass Information Systems, Inc.       15,700           899,767
CSG Systems International, Inc.       401,790           23,159,176
KBR, Inc.       1,170,917           32,973,023
NIC, Inc.       432,503           10,172,470
Sykes Enterprises, Inc.A       247,097           7,634,062
Virtusa Corp.A       294,133           10,965,278
           

 

 

 
              85,803,776
           

 

 

 
           
Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment - 4.06%            
Amkor Technology, Inc.A       518,840           6,449,181
Brooks Automation, Inc.       1,399,333           59,429,672
Cabot Microelectronics Corp.       76,326           11,534,385
ChipMOS Technologies, Inc., ADRB       173,401           3,405,596
Cohu, Inc.       1,048,360           17,423,743
Diodes, Inc.A       1,954,164           91,161,751
First Solar, Inc.A       167,488           8,674,204
MKS Instruments, Inc.       156,208           16,904,830
Photronics, Inc.A       1,858,166           21,926,359
Rambus, Inc.A       152,600           2,112,747
Semtech Corp.A       249,824           12,606,119
           

 

 

 
              251,628,587
           

 

 

 
           
Software - 0.62%            
Cision Ltd.A       70,898           713,943
CommVault Systems, Inc.A       42,238           2,097,961
Ebix, Inc.B       41,846           1,783,895
LogMeIn, Inc.       162,989           10,705,118
Verint Systems, Inc.A       505,973           22,966,114
           

 

 

 
              38,267,031
           

 

 

 
           
Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals - 0.15%            
3D Systems Corp.A B       70,011           664,404
NCR Corp.A       237,217           6,929,109
Super Micro Computer, Inc.A       91,700           1,896,356
           

 

 

 
              9,489,869
           

 

 

 
           

Total Information Technology

              837,019,809
           

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

22


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49% (continued)            
Materials - 4.04%            
Chemicals - 1.63%            
American Vanguard Corp.       62,496         $ 873,694
Cabot Corp.       723,541           31,539,152
FutureFuel Corp.       119,200           1,469,736
Huntsman Corp.       611,100           13,523,643
Innophos Holdings, Inc.       73,260           2,389,741
Koppers Holdings, Inc.A       15,594           500,568
Kraton Corp.A       340,849           7,641,835
Kronos Worldwide, Inc.       74,434           943,823
Livent Corp.A B       258,200           1,771,252
LSB Industries, Inc.A       67,493           285,495
Minerals Technologies, Inc.       128,036           6,331,380
PolyOne Corp.       732,090           23,463,485
Quaker Chemical Corp.       19,991           3,056,224
Stepan Co.       50,463           4,931,244
Trinseo S.A.       33,000           1,402,500
Valvoline, Inc.       38,041           811,795
           

 

 

 
              100,935,567
           

 

 

 
           
Containers & Packaging - 0.05%            
Greif, Inc., Class A       62,490           2,447,733
Silgan Holdings, Inc.       29,600           910,792
           

 

 

 
              3,358,525
           

 

 

 
           
Metals & Mining - 1.88%            
Allegheny Technologies, Inc.A       1,173,987           24,665,467
Carpenter Technology Corp.       424,782           20,822,814
Century Aluminum Co.A       126,600           738,078
Cleveland-Cliffs, Inc.B       1,610,480           11,643,770
Coeur Mining, Inc.A       2,316,442           12,786,760
Commercial Metals Co.       255,400           4,936,882
Elah Holdings, Inc.A       3,535           194,425
Ferroglobe PLC       2,803,168           1,732,919
Haynes International, Inc.       25,001           861,534
Kaiser Aluminum Corp.       13,047           1,397,073
Pan American Silver Corp.B       528,604           9,012,698
Schnitzer Steel Industries, Inc., Class A       807,271           17,227,163
Warrior Met Coal, Inc.       174,413           3,397,565
Worthington Industries, Inc.       194,562           7,161,827
           

 

 

 
              116,578,975
           

 

 

 
           
Paper & Forest Products - 0.48%            
Domtar Corp.       378,476           13,772,742
Louisiana-Pacific Corp.       277,873           8,122,228
Mercer International, Inc.       70,238           856,904
PH Glatfelter Co.       38,131           686,358
Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc.       156,007           6,316,723
           

 

 

 
              29,754,955
           

 

 

 
           

Total Materials

              250,628,022
           

 

 

 
           
Real Estate - 5.27%            
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) - 5.01%            
Agree Realty Corp.       190,278           14,988,198
Brandywine Realty Trust       1,297,697           19,828,810
CareTrust REIT, Inc.       190,812           4,625,283
Colony Capital, Inc.       1,778,255           9,958,228
CoreCivic, Inc.       406,668           6,205,754

 

See accompanying notes

 

23


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49% (continued)            
Real Estate - 5.27% (continued)            
Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) - 5.01% (continued)            
Cousins Properties, Inc.       185,543         $ 7,445,841
DiamondRock Hospitality Co.       728,830           7,273,723
Empire State Realty Trust, Inc., Class A       877,957           12,704,038
GEO Group, Inc.       1,077,373           16,397,617
Hersha Hospitality TrustB       493,144           6,805,387
Industrial Logistics Properties Trust       155,991           3,313,249
Kite Realty Group Trust       262,452           4,676,895
Lexington Realty Trust       2,837,900           30,876,352
Outfront Media, Inc.       413,953           10,891,103
Physicians Realty Trust       799,644           14,929,353
Piedmont Office Realty Trust, Inc., Class A       288,552           6,475,107
PotlatchDeltic Corp.       352,240           14,959,633
Preferred Apartment Communities, Inc., Class AB       717,541           10,275,187
Retail Opportunity Investments Corp.       202,994           3,788,883
Retail Properties of America, Inc., Class A       586,206           8,066,195
Ryman Hospitality Properties, Inc.       173,407           14,595,667
Seritage Growth Properties, Class AB       1,242,333           54,029,062
Sunstone Hotel Investors, Inc.       1,005,675           13,586,669
Urban Edge Properties       658,209           13,894,792
           

 

 

 
              310,591,026
           

 

 

 
           
Real Estate Management & Development - 0.26%            
Consolidated-Tomoka Land Co.       19,000           1,215,430
Five Point Holdings LLC, Class AA B       112,542           743,903
Marcus & Millichap, Inc.A       22,700           810,844
Newmark Group, Inc., Class A       1,255,407           13,332,422
           

 

 

 
              16,102,599
           

 

 

 
           

Total Real Estate

              326,693,625
           

 

 

 
           
Utilities - 2.87%            
Electric Utilities - 1.29%            
ALLETE, Inc.       167,085           14,379,335
El Paso Electric Co.       26,805           1,788,161
Otter Tail Corp.       25,682           1,455,656
PNM Resources, Inc.       25,601           1,335,092
Portland General Electric Co.       1,049,160           59,676,221
Spark Energy, Inc., Class AB       117,261           1,122,188
           

 

 

 
              79,756,653
           

 

 

 
           
Gas Utilities - 0.53%            
Chesapeake Utilities Corp.       117,186           11,109,233
Northwest Natural Holding Co.       25,369           1,759,594
South Jersey Industries, Inc.       51,994           1,672,127
Southwest Gas Holdings, Inc.       165,396           14,439,071
Spire, Inc.       19,299           1,622,274
Star Group LP       89,719           833,489
Suburban Propane Partners LP, MLP       72,371           1,751,378
           

 

 

 
              33,187,166
           

 

 

 
           
Independent Power & Renewable Electricity Producers - 0.21%            
Clearway Energy, Inc., Class A       83,226           1,428,990
Clearway Energy, Inc., Class C       643,592           11,668,323
           

 

 

 
              13,097,313
           

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

24


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

    Shares       Fair Value
             
COMMON STOCKS - 96.49% (continued)            
Utilities - 2.87% (continued)            
Multi-Utilities - 0.81%            
Avista Corp.       680,865         $ 32,701,946
NorthWestern Corp.       216,723           15,716,752
Unitil Corp.       26,288           1,636,954
           

 

 

 
              50,055,652
           

 

 

 
           
Water Utilities - 0.03%            
California Water Service Group       32,087           1,795,910
           

 

 

 
           

Total Utilities

              177,892,694
           

 

 

 
           

Total Common Stocks (Cost $5,433,853,703)

              5,980,687,425
           

 

 

 
           
EXCHANGE-TRADED INSTRUMENTS - 0.16% (Cost $9,961,777)            
Exchange-Traded Funds - 0.16%            
iShares Russell 2000 Value ETF       81,000           9,913,590
           

 

 

 
           
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS - 3.44%            
Investment Companies - 3.27%            
American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund, Select Class, 1.75%E F           202,748,699           202,748,699
           

 

 

 
             
    Principal Amount        
U.S. Treasury Obligations - 0.17%            
U.S. Treasury Bill, 1.87%, Due 2/13/2020G     $ 10,500,000           10,453,964
           

 

 

 
           

Total Short-Term Investments (Cost $213,193,189)

              213,202,663
           

 

 

 
             
    Shares      

 

             
SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL - 1.38% (Cost $85,718,589)            
Investment Companies - 1.38%            
American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund, Select Class, 1.75%E F       85,718,589           85,718,589
           

 

 

 
           

TOTAL INVESTMENTS - 101.47% (Cost $5,742,727,258)

              6,289,522,267

LIABILITIES, NET OF OTHER ASSETS - (1.47%)

              (91,252,111 )
           

 

 

 

TOTAL NET ASSETS - 100.00%

            $ 6,198,270,156
           

 

 

 
             
Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.                  

A Non-income producing security.

B All or a portion of this security is on loan, collateralized by either cash and/or U.S. Treasuries, at October 31, 2019 (Note 9).

C Value was determined using significant unobservable inputs.

D Fair valued pursuant to procedures approved by the Board of Trustees. At period end, the value of these securities amounted to $0 or 0.00% of net assets.

E The Fund is affiliated by having the same investment advisor.

F 7-day yield.

G This security or a piece thereof is held as segregated collateral.

ADR - American Depositary Receipt.

ETF - Exchange-Traded Fund.

LLC - Limited Liability Company.

LP - Limited Partnership.

MLP – Master Limited Partnership.

PLC - Public Limited Company.

 

See accompanying notes

 

25


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Schedule of Investments

October 31, 2019

 

 

 

Long Futures Contracts Open on October 31, 2019:

 

Equity Futures Contracts  
Description      Number of
Contracts
     Expiration Date      Notional
Amount
       Contract Value        Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 
Russell 2000 E-Mini Index Futures      2,454      December 2019      $ 190,666,103        $ 191,829,180        $ 1,163,077  
              

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 
     $   190,666,103        $   191,829,180        $ 1,163,077  
    

 

 

      

 

 

      

 

 

 

The Fund’s investments are summarized by level based on the inputs used to determine their values. As of October 31, 2019, the investments were classified as described below:

 

Small Cap Value Fund

  Level 1           Level 2           Level 3           Total  

Assets

             

Common Stocks

  $ 5,980,687,425       $ -       $ 0 (1)      $ 5,980,687,425  

Exchange-Traded Instruments

    9,913,590         -         -         9,913,590  

Short-Term Investments

    202,748,699         10,453,964         -         213,202,663  

Securities Lending Collateral

    85,718,589         -         -         85,718,589  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Investments in Securities - Assets

  $ 6,279,068,303       $ 10,453,964       $ -       $ 6,289,522,267  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Financial Derivative Instruments - Assets

             

Futures Contracts

  $ 1,163,077       $ -       $ -       $ 1,163,077  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Financial Derivative Instruments - Assets

  $ 1,163,077       $ -       $ -       $ 1,163,077  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

(1) Investment held in the Fund’s Portfolio with $0 fair value.

U.S. GAAP requires transfers between all levels to/from level 3 be disclosed. During the year ended October 31, 2019, there were no transfers into or out of Level 3.

The following table is a reconciliation of Level 3 assets within the Fund for which significant unobservable inputs were used to determine fair value. Transfers in or out of Level 3 represent the ending value of any security or instrument where a change in the level has occurred from the beginning to the end of the period:

 

Security Type   Balance as
of
10/31/2018
  Purchases   Sales   Accrued
Discounts
(Premiums)
    Realized
Gain (Loss)
    Change in
Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
    Transfer
into
Level 3
    Transfer
out of
Level 3
   

Balance as

of
10/31/2019

    Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
at Period end**
 
Common Stocks   $           0(1)   $            -   $      -   $           -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ -     $ 0 (1)    $ -  

 

**

Change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) attributable to Level 3 securities held at period end. This balance is included in the change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on the Statement of Operations.

(1) 

Investment held in the Fund’s Portfolio with $0 fair value.

The common stock, classified as Level 3, is beneficial interest units in a representation and warranty insurance trust. The shares have been fair valued at $0 due to limited market transparency.

 

See accompanying notes

 

26


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Statement of Assets and Liabilities

October 31, 2019

 

 

Assets:

 

Investments in unaffiliated securities, at fair value§

  $ 6,001,054,979  

Investments in affiliated securities, at fair value

    288,467,288  

Cash

    44,261  

Dividends and interest receivable

    2,336,273  

Receivable for investments sold

    29,788,890  

Receivable for fund shares sold

    3,573,905  

Receivable for variation margin on open futures contracts (Note 5)

    1,167,762  

Prepaid expenses

    63,159  
 

 

 

 

Total assets

    6,326,496,517  
 

 

 

 

Liabilities:

 

Payable for investments purchased

    30,210,282  

Payable for fund shares redeemed

    4,631,039  

Cash due to broker for futures contracts

    2,575,030  

Management and sub-advisory fees payable (Note 2)

    4,389,138  

Service fees payable (Note 2)

    173,987  

Transfer agent fees payable (Note 2)

    127,864  

Payable upon return of securities loaned (Note 9)§

    85,718,589  

Custody and fund accounting fees payable

    111,596  

Professional fees payable

    57,249  

Trustee fees payable (Note 2)

    42,010  

Payable for prospectus and shareholder reports

    108,863  

Other liabilities

    80,714  
 

 

 

 

Total liabilities

    128,226,361  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 6,198,270,156  
 

 

 

 

Analysis of net assets:

 

Paid-in-capital

  $ 5,650,193,108  

Total distributable earnings (deficits)A

    548,077,048  
 

 

 

 

Net assets

  $ 6,198,270,156  
 

 

 

 

Shares outstanding at no par value (unlimited shares authorized):

 

Institutional Class

    176,127,129  
 

 

 

 

Y Class

    11,186,081  
 

 

 

 

Investor Class

    19,195,024  
 

 

 

 

Advisor Class

    2,827,909  
 

 

 

 

A Class

    2,922,564  
 

 

 

 

C Class

    615,311  
 

 

 

 

R6 Class

    56,579,514  
 

 

 

 

Net assets:

 

Institutional Class

  $ 4,073,332,655  
 

 

 

 

Y Class

  $ 254,599,477  
 

 

 

 

Investor Class

  $ 424,569,237  
 

 

 

 

Advisor Class

  $ 61,618,406  
 

 

 

 

A Class

  $ 63,246,155  
 

 

 

 

C Class

  $ 12,619,613  
 

 

 

 

R6 Class

  $ 1,308,284,613  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share:

 

Institutional Class

  $ 23.13  
 

 

 

 

Y Class

  $ 22.76  
 

 

 

 

Investor Class

  $ 22.12  
 

 

 

 

Advisor Class

  $ 21.79  
 

 

 

 

A Class

  $ 21.64  
 

 

 

 

A Class (offering price)

  $ 22.96  
 

 

 

 

C Class

  $ 20.51  
 

 

 

 

R6 Class

  $ 23.12  
 

 

 

 

Cost of investments in unaffiliated securities

  $ 5,454,259,970  

Cost of investments in affiliated securities

  $ 288,467,288  

§ Fair value of securities on loan

  $ 333,549,228  
A The Fund’s investments in affiliated securities did not have unrealized appreciation (depreciation) at year end.  

 

See accompanying notes

 

27


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Statement of Operations

For the year ended October 31, 2019

 

 

Investment income:

 

Dividend income from unaffiliated securities (net of foreign taxes)

  $ 110,808,896  

Dividend income from affiliated securities (Note 8)

    4,990,046  

Interest income

    754,684  

Income derived from securities lending (Note 9)

    1,742,480  
 

 

 

 

Total investment income

    118,296,106  
 

 

 

 

Expenses:

 

Management and sub-advisory fees (Note 2)

    46,959,994  

Transfer agent fees:

 

Institutional Class (Note 2)

    1,321,729  

Y Class (Note 2)

    304,122  

Investor Class

    26,324  

Advisor Class

    6,632  

A Class

    14,641  

C Class

    4,212  

R6 Class

    36,790  

Custody and fund accounting fees

    619,663  

Professional fees

    287,927  

Registration fees and expenses

    151,214  

Service fees (Note 2):

 

Investor Class

    1,604,605  

Advisor Class

    194,862  

A Class

    125,754  

C Class

    16,284  

Distribution fees (Note 2):

 

Advisor Class

    172,147  

A Class

    163,376  

C Class

    127,208  

Prospectus and shareholder report expenses

    466,690  

Trustee fees (Note 2)

    474,848  

Other expenses

    629,605  
 

 

 

 

Total expenses

    53,708,627  
 

 

 

 

Net investment income

    64,587,479  
 

 

 

 

Realized and unrealized gain (loss) from investments:

 

Net realized gain (loss) from:

 

Investments in unaffiliated securitiesA

    (4,029,021

Redemption in kind (Note 7)

    1,590,938  

Commission recapture (Note 1)

    30,147  

Foreign currency transactions

    274  

Futures contracts

    (4,931,502

Change in net unrealized appreciation of:

 

Investments in unaffiliated securitiesB

    37,418,329  

Foreign currency transactions

    2,413  

Futures contracts

    23,713,219  
 

 

 

 

Net gain from investments

    53,794,797  
 

 

 

 

Net increase in net assets resulting from operations

  $ 118,382,276  
 

 

 

 

Foreign taxes

  $ 198,431  

A The Fund did not recognize net realized gains (losses) from the sale of investments in affiliated securities.

 

B The Fund’s investments in affiliated securities did not have a change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) at year end.

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

28


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Statement of Changes in Net Assets

 

 

    Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          Year Ended
October 31, 2018
 

Increase (decrease) in net assets:

 

Operations:

 

Net investment income

  $ 64,587,479       $ 44,003,539  

Net realized gain (loss) from investments in unaffiliated securities, redemption in kind, commission recapture, foreign currency transactions, and futures contracts

    (7,339,164       706,938,150  

Change in net unrealized appreciation (depreciation) of investments in unaffiliated securities, foreign currency transactions, and futures contracts

    61,133,961         (944,177,325
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net increase (decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    118,382,276         (193,235,636
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Distributions to shareholders:

 

Total retained earnings:

     

Institutional Class

    (510,792,954       (483,990,858

Y Class

    (37,948,891       (34,475,891

Investor Class

    (60,820,852       (58,686,508

Advisor Class

    (8,576,120       (8,714,846

A Class

    (8,031,568       (6,415,873

C Class

    (1,576,223       (1,398,033

R6 Class

    (107,632,048       (35,513,779
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net distributions to shareholders

    (735,378,656       (629,195,788
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Capital share transactions (Note 11):

 

Proceeds from sales of shares

    1,663,527,301         1,841,822,459  

Reinvestment of dividends and distributions

    708,177,544         608,543,857  

Cost of shares redeemed

    (2,101,711,543       (2,123,030,353
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net increase in net assets from capital share transactions

    269,993,302         327,335,963  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net (decrease) in net assets

    (347,003,078       (495,095,461
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net assets:

 

Beginning of period

    6,545,273,234         7,040,368,695  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

End of period

  $ 6,198,270,156       $ 6,545,273,234  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

See accompanying notes

 

29


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

1.  Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

American Beacon Funds (the “Trust”) is organized as a Massachusetts business trust. The Fund, a series within the Trust, is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Act”), as a diversified, open-end management investment company. As of October 31, 2019, the Trust consists of thirty-two active series, one of which is presented in this filing: American Beacon Small Cap Value Fund (the “Fund”). The remaining thirty-one active series are reported in separate filings.

American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (the “Manager”) is a Delaware corporation and a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (“RIM”) organized in 1986 to provide business management, advisory, administrative, and asset management consulting services to the Trust and other investors. The Manager is registered as an investment advisor under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the “Advisers Act”). RIM is, in turn, a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Acquisition, Inc., which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Topco, Inc., a wholly-owned subsidiary of Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC (“RIH”). RIH is owned primarily by Kelso Investment Associates VIII, L.P., KEP VI, LLC and Estancia Capital Partners L.P., investment funds affiliated with Kelso & Company, L.P. (“Kelso”) or Estancia Capital Management, LLC (“Estancia”), which are private equity firms.

Recent Accounting Pronouncements

In March 2017, the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2017-08, Premium Amortization of Purchased Callable Debt Securities. The amendments in the ASU shorten the premium amortization period on a purchased callable debt security from the security’s contractual life to the earliest call date. It is anticipated that this change will enhance disclosures by reducing losses recognized when a security is called on an earlier date. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2018. The Manager continues to evaluate the impact this ASU will have on the financial statements and other disclosures.

In August 2018, the FASB issued ASU 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (“Topic 820”). The amendments in the ASU impact disclosure requirements for fair value measurement. It is anticipated that this change will enhance the effectiveness of disclosures in the notes to the financial statements. This ASU is effective for fiscal years beginning after December 15, 2019. Early adoption is permitted and can include the entire standard or certain provisions that exclude or amend disclosures. For the year ended October 31, 2019, the Fund has chosen to adopt the standard. The adoption of this ASU guidance did not have a material impact on the financial statements and other disclosures.

Class Disclosure

The Fund has multiple classes of shares designed to meet the needs of different groups of investors. The following table sets forth the differences amongst the classes:

 

Class

  

Eligible Investors

   Minimum Initial
Investments
 
Institutional    Large institutional investors - sold directly or through intermediary channels.    $ 250,000  
Y Class    Large institutional retirement plan investors - sold directly or through intermediary channels.    $ 100,000  
Investor    All investors using intermediary organizations, such as broker-dealers or retirement plan sponsors.    $ 2,500  
Advisor Class    All investors who invest through intermediary organizations, such as broker-dealers or third party administrators.    $ 2,500  
A Class    All investors who invest through intermediary organizations, such as broker-dealers or third party administrator. Retail investors who invest directly through a financial intermediary such as a broker, bank, or registered investment advisor which may include a front-end sales charge and a contingent deferred sales charge (“CDSC”).    $ 2,500  

 

 

30


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Class

  

Eligible Investors

   Minimum Initial
Investments
 
C Class    Retail investors who invest directly through a financial intermediary, such as a broker or through employee directed benefit plans with applicable sales charges which may include CDSC.    $ 1,000  
R6 Class    Large institutional retirement plan investors - sold through retirement plan sponsors.      None  

Each class offered by the Trust has equal rights as to assets and voting privileges. Income and non-class specific expenses are allocated daily to each class based on the relative net assets. Realized and unrealized capital gains and losses of each class are allocated daily based on the relative net assets of each class of the respective Fund. Class specific expenses, where applicable, currently include service, distribution, transfer agent fees, and sub-transfer agent fees that vary amongst the classes as described more fully in Note 2.

Significant Accounting Policies

The following is a summary of significant accounting policies, consistently followed by the Fund in preparation of the financial statements. The Fund is considered an investment company and accordingly, follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946, Financial Services - Investment Companies, a part of Generally Accepted Accounting Principles (“U.S. GAAP”).

Security Transactions and Investment Income

Security transactions are recorded as of the trade date for financial reporting purposes. Securities purchased or sold on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis may be settled beyond a standard settlement period for the security after the trade date.

Dividend income, net of foreign taxes, is recorded on the ex-dividend date, except certain dividends from foreign securities which are recorded as soon as the information is available to the Fund. Interest income, net of foreign taxes, is earned from settlement date, recorded on the accrual basis, and adjusted, if necessary, for accretion of discounts and amortization of premiums. Realized gains (losses) from securities sold are determined based on specific lot identification.

Distributions to Shareholders

The Fund distributes most or all of its net earning and realized gains, if any, each taxable year in the form of dividends from net investment income and distributions of realized net capital gains and net gains from foreign currency translations on an annual basis. The Fund does not have a fixed dividend rate and does not guarantee that it will pay any distributions in any particular period. Dividends to shareholders are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ in amount and character from net investment income and realized gains recognized for purposes of U.S. GAAP. To the extent necessary to fully distribute capital gains, the Fund may designate earnings and profits distributed to shareholders on the redemption of shares.

Commission Recapture

The Fund has established brokerage commission recapture arrangements with certain brokers or dealers. If the Fund’s investment advisor chooses to execute a transaction through a participating broker, the broker rebates a portion of the commission back to the Fund. Any collateral benefit received through participation in the commission recapture program is directed exclusively to the Fund. This amount is reported with the net realized gain in the Fund’s Statement of Operations, if applicable.

 

 

31


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Allocation of Income, Trust Expenses, Gains, and Losses

Investment income, realized and unrealized gains and losses from investments of the Fund is allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class to the total net assets of the Fund. Expenses directly charged or attributable to the Fund will be paid from the assets of the Fund. Generally, expenses of the Trust will be allocated among and charged to the assets of the Fund on a basis that the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”) deems fair and equitable, which may be based on the relative net assets of the Fund or nature of the services performed and relative applicability to the Fund.

Use of Estimates

The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the amounts reported in the financial statements and accompanying notes. Actual results may differ from those estimated.

Other

Under the Trust’s organizational documents, its officers and trustees are indemnified against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Trust. In the normal course of business, the Trust enters into contracts that provide indemnification to the other party or parties against potential costs or liabilities. The Trust’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made in the future and, therefore, cannot be estimated. The Trust has had no prior claims or losses pursuant to any such agreement.

2.  Transactions with Affiliates

Management and Investment Sub-Advisory Agreements

The Fund and the Manager are parties to a Management Agreement that obligates the Manager to provide the Fund with investment advisory and administrative services. As compensation for performing the duties under the Management Agreement, the Manager will receive an annualized management fee based on a percentage of the Fund’s average daily net assets that is calculated and accrued daily according to the following schedule:

 

First $15 billion

     0.35

Next $15 billion

     0.325

Over $30 billion

     0.30

The Trust, on behalf of the Fund, and the Manager have entered into Investment Advisory Agreements with Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss, LLC; Brandywine Global Investment Management, LLC; Foundry Partners, LLC; Hillcrest Asset Management, LLC; Hotchkis and Wiley Capital Management, LLC; and Mellon Investments Corporation (“Sub-Advisors”) pursuant to which the Fund has agreed to pay an annualized sub-advisory fee that is calculated and accrued daily based on the Fund’s average daily net assets.

The Management and Sub-Advisory Fees paid by the Fund for the year ended October 31, 2019 were as follows:

 

    Effective Fee Rate           Amount of Fees Paid  

Management Fees

    0.35     $ 22,057,579  

Sub-Advisor Fees

    0.38       24,902,415  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total

    0.73     $ 46,959,994  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

As compensation for services provided by the Manager in connection with securities lending activities conducted by the Fund, the lending Fund pays to the Manager, with respect to cash collateral posted by borrowers, a fee up to 10% of the net monthly interest income (the gross interest income earned by the investment of cash

 

 

32


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

collateral, less the amount paid to borrowers and related expenses) from such activities and, with respect to loan fees paid by borrowers, a fee up to 10% of such loan fees. These fees are included in “Income derived from securities lending” and “Management and investment advisory fees” on the Statement of Operations. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Manager received securities lending fees of $212,913 for the securities lending activities of the Fund.

Distribution Plans

The Fund, except for the Advisor, A, and C Classes of the Fund, has adopted a “defensive” Distribution Plan (the “Plan”) in accordance with Rule 12b-1 under the Act, pursuant to which no separate fees may be charged to the Fund for distribution purposes. However, the Plan authorizes the management fee received by the Manager and the investment advisors hired by the Manager to be used for distribution purposes. Under this Plan, the Fund does not intend to compensate the Manager or any other party, either directly or indirectly, for the distribution of Fund shares.

Separate Distribution Plans (the “Distribution Plans”) have been adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Act for the Advisor, A, and C Classes of the Fund. Under the Distribution Plans, as compensation for distribution and shareholder servicing assistance, the Manager receives an annual fee of 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Advisor and A Classes and 1.00% of the average daily net assets of the C Class. The fee will be payable without regard to whether the amount of the fee is more or less than the actual expenses incurred in a particular month by the Manager for distribution assistance.

Service Plans

The Manager and the Trust entered into a Service Plan that obligates the Manager to oversee additional shareholder servicing of the Investor, Advisor, A, and C Classes of the Fund. As compensation for performing the duties required under the Service Plan, the Manager receives an annualized fee up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the A and C Classes, up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Advisor Class, and up to 0.375% of the average daily net assets of the Investor Class of the Fund.

Sub-Transfer Agent Fees

The Manager has entered into agreements, which include servicing agreements, with financial intermediaries that provide recordkeeping, processing, shareholder communications and other services to customers of the intermediaries that hold positions in the Institutional and Y Classes of the Fund and has agreed to compensate the intermediaries for providing these services. Intermediaries transact with the Fund primarily through the use of omnibus accounts on behalf of its customers who hold positions in the Fund. Certain services would have been provided by the Fund’s transfer agent and other service providers if the shareholders’ accounts were maintained directly by the Fund’s transfer agent. Accordingly, the Fund, pursuant to Board approval, has agreed to reimburse the Manager for certain non-distribution shareholder services provided by financial intermediaries for the Institutional and Y Classes. The reimbursement amounts (sub-transfer agent fees) paid to the Manager are subject to a fee limit of up to 0.10% of an intermediary’s average net assets in the Institutional and Y Classes on an annual basis. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the sub-transfer agent fees, as reflected in “Transfer agent fees” on the Statement of Operations, were as follows:

 

Fund

   Sub-Transfer Agent Fees  

Small Cap Value

   $ 1,463,002  

As of October 31, 2019, the Fund owed the Manager the following reimbursement of sub-transfer agent fees, as reflected in “Transfer agent fees payable” on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities:

 

Fund

   Reimbursement
Sub-Transfer Agent Fees
 

Small Cap Value

   $ 67,435  

 

 

33


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Brokerage Commissions

Affiliated entities of a sub-advisor to the Fund received commissions on purchases and sales of the Fund’s portfolio securities totaling $155,758 for the year ended October 31, 2019.

Investments in Affiliated Funds

The Fund may invest in the American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund (the “USG Select Fund”). Cash collateral received by the Fund in connection with securities lending may also be invested in the USG Select Fund. The Fund and the USG Select Fund have the same investment advisor and therefore, are considered to be affiliated. The Manager serves as investment advisor to the USG Select Fund and receives management fees and administrative fees totaling 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the USG Select Fund. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Manager earned fees on the Fund’s direct investments and securities lending collateral investments in the USG Select Fund as shown below:

 

Fund

   Direct Investments in
USG Select Fund
     Securities Lending
Collateral

Investments in USG
Select Fund
     Total  

Small Cap Value

   $ 224,988      $ 100,044      $ 325,032  

Interfund Credit Facility

Pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the SEC, the Fund, along with other registered investment companies having management contracts with the Manager, may participate in a credit facility whereby each fund, under certain conditions, is permitted to lend money directly to and borrow directly from other participating funds for temporary purposes. The interfund credit facility is advantageous to the Fund because it provides added liquidity and eliminates the need to maintain higher cash balances to meet redemptions. This situation could arise when shareholder redemptions exceed anticipated volumes and certain funds have insufficient cash on hand to satisfy such redemptions or when sales of securities do not settle as expected, resulting in a cash shortfall for a fund. When a fund liquidates portfolio securities to meet redemption requests, they often do not receive payment in settlement for up to two days (or longer for certain foreign transactions). Redemption requests normally are satisfied on the next business day. The credit facility provides a source of immediate, short-term liquidity pending settlement of the sale of portfolio securities. The credit facility is administered by a credit facility team consisting of professionals from the Manager’s asset management, compliance, and accounting areas who report the activities of the credit facility to the Board. During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Fund participated as a lender by loaning an average amount of $24,169,396 for 2 days at an average interest rate of 3.05% with interest charges earned of $4,035. This amount is included in “Interest income” on the Statement of Operations.

Expense Reimbursement Plan

The Fund has adopted an Expense Reimbursement Plan whereby the Manager may seek repayment of such fee or voluntary reductions and expense reimbursements. Under the policy, the Manager can be reimbursed by the Fund for any contractual or voluntary fee reductions or expense reimbursements if reimbursement to the Manager (a) occurs within three years after the date of the Manager’s waiver/reimbursement and (b) does not cause the Fund’s annual operating expenses to exceed the lesser of the contractual percentage limit in effect at the time of the waiver/reimbursement or time of recoupment. During the year ended October 31, 2019 there were no waived fees, expenses reimbursed, or recouped expenses.

Sales Commissions

The Fund’s Distributor, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (“RID” or “Distributor”), may receive a portion of Class A sales charges from broker dealers and it may be used to offset distribution related expenses. During the year ended October 31, 2019, RID collected $2,700 from the sale of Class A Shares.

 

 

34


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

A CDSC of 0.50% will be deducted with respect to Class A Shares on certain purchases of $1,000,000 or more that are redeemed in whole or part within 18 months of purchase, unless waived as discussed in the Fund’s Prospectus. Any applicable CDSC will be 0.50% of the lesser of the original purchase price or the value of the redemption of the Class A Shares redeemed. During the year ended October 31, 2019, CDSC fees of $50 were collected for Class A Shares of the Fund.

A CDSC of 1.00% will be deducted with respect to Class C Shares redeemed within 12 months of purchase, unless waived as discussed in the Fund’s Prospectus. Any applicable CDSC will be 1.00% of the lesser of the original purchase price or the value of the redemption of the Class C Shares redeemed. During the year ended October 31, 2019, CDSC fees of $254 were collected for Class C Shares of the Fund.

Trustee Fees and Expenses

As compensation for their service to the Trusts, each Trustee receives an annual retainer of $120,000, plus $10,000 for each Board meeting attended in person or via teleconference, $2,500 for attendance by Committee members at meetings of the Audit Committee and the Investment Committee, and $1,500 for attendance by Committee members at meetings of the Nominating and Governance Committee, plus reimbursement of reasonable expenses incurred in attending Board meetings, Committee meetings, and relevant educational seminars. The Trustees also may be compensated for attendance at special Board and/or Committee meetings from time to time. The Board Chair receives an additional annual retainer of $50,000 as well as a $2,500 fee each quarter for attendance at the committee meetings. The Chairpersons of the Audit Committee and the Investment Committee each receive an additional annual retainer of $25,000 and the Chairman of the Nominating and Governance Committee receives an additional annual retainer of $10,000. These expenses are allocated on a prorated basis to each fund of the Trusts according to its respective net assets.

3.  Security Valuation and Fair Value Measurements

The price of the Fund’s shares is based on its net asset value (“NAV”) per share. The Fund’s NAV is computed by adding total assets, subtracting all the Fund’s liabilities, and dividing the result by the total number of shares outstanding.

The NAV of each class of the Fund’s shares is determined based on a pro rata allocation of the Fund’s investment income, expenses and total capital gains and losses. The Fund’s NAV per share is determined each business day as of the regular close of trading on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE” or “Exchange”), which is typically 4:00 p.m. Eastern Time (“ET”). However, if trading on the NYSE closes at a time other than 4:00 p.m. ET, the Fund’s NAV per share typically would still be determined as of the regular close of trading on the NYSE. The Fund does not price its shares on days that the NYSE is closed. Foreign exchanges may permit trading in foreign securities on days when the Fund is not open for business, which may result in the value of the Fund’s portfolio investments being affected at a time when you are unable to buy or sell shares.

Equity securities, including shares of closed-end funds and exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”), are valued at the last sale price or official closing price taken from the primary exchange in which each security trades. Investments in other mutual funds are valued at the closing NAV per share on the day of valuation. Debt securities are valued at bid quotes from broker/dealers or evaluated bid prices from pricing services, who may consider a number of inputs and factors, such as prices of comparable securities, yield curves, spreads, credit ratings, coupon rates, maturity, default rates, and underlying collateral. Futures are valued based on their daily settlement prices. Exchange-traded and over-the-counter (“OTC”) options are valued at the last sale price. Options with no last sale for the day are priced at mid quote. Swaps are valued at evaluated mid prices from pricing services.

The valuation of securities traded on foreign markets and certain fixed-income securities will generally be based on prices determined as of the earlier closing time of the markets on which they primarily trade unless a significant event has occurred. When the Fund holds securities or other assets that are denominated in a foreign currency, the Fund will normally use the currency exchange rates as of 4:00 p.m. ET.

 

 

35


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Securities may be valued at fair value, as determined in good faith and pursuant to procedures approved by the Board, under certain limited circumstances. For example, fair value pricing will be used when market quotations are not readily available or reliable, as determined by the Manager, such as when (i) trading for a security is restricted or stopped; (ii) a security’s trading market is closed (other than customary closings); or (iii) a security has been de-listed from a national exchange. A security with limited market liquidity may require fair value pricing if the Manager determines that the available price does not reflect the security’s true market value. In addition, if a significant event that the Manager determines to affect the value of one or more securities held by the Fund occurs after the close of a related exchange but before the determination of the Fund’s NAV, fair value pricing may be used on the affected security or securities. Securities of small-capitalization companies are also more likely to require a fair value determination using these procedures because they are more thinly traded and less liquid than the securities of larger-capitalization companies. The Fund may fair value securities as a result of significant events occurring after the close of the foreign markets in which the Fund invests as described below. In addition, the Fund may invest in illiquid securities requiring these procedures.

The Fund may use fair value pricing for securities primarily traded in non-U.S. markets because most foreign markets close well before the Fund’s pricing time of 4:00 p.m. ET. The earlier close of these foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim and may materially affect the value of those securities. If the Manager determines that the last quoted prices of non-U.S. securities will, in its judgment, materially affect the value of some or all its portfolio securities, the Manager can adjust the previous closing prices to reflect what it believes to be the fair value of the securities as of the close of the Exchange. In deciding whether it is necessary to adjust closing prices to reflect fair value, the Manager reviews a variety of factors, including developments in foreign markets, the performance of U.S. securities markets, and the performance of instruments trading in U.S. markets that represent foreign securities and baskets of foreign securities. These securities are fair valued using a pricing service, using methods approved by the Board, that considers the correlation of the trading patterns of the foreign security to intraday trading in the U.S. markets, based on indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators such as prices of relevant American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”) and futures contracts. The Valuation Committee, established by the Board, may also fair value securities in other situations, such as when a particular foreign market is closed but the Fund is open. The Fund uses outside pricing services to provide closing prices and information to evaluate and/or adjust those prices. As a means of evaluating its security valuation process, the Valuation Committee routinely compares closing prices, the next day’s opening prices in the same markets and adjusted prices.

Attempts to determine the fair value of securities introduce an element of subjectivity to the pricing of securities. As a result, the price of a security determined through fair valuation techniques may differ from the price quoted or published by other sources and may not accurately reflect the market value of the security when trading resumes. If a reliable market quotation becomes available for a security formerly valued through fair valuation techniques, the Manager compares the new market quotation to the fair value price to evaluate the effectiveness of the Fund’s fair valuation procedures. If any significant discrepancies are found, the Manager may adjust the Fund’s fair valuation procedures.

Valuation Inputs

Various inputs may be used to determine the fair value of the Fund’s investments. These inputs are summarized in three broad levels for financial statement purposes. The inputs or methodologies used to value securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

Level 1   -   Quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
Level 2   -   Prices determined using other significant observable inputs. These may include quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, and others.
Level 3   -   Prices determined using other significant unobservable inputs. Unobservable inputs reflect the Fund’s own assumptions about the factors market participants would use in pricing an investment.

 

 

36


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Level 1 and Level 2 trading assets and trading liabilities, at fair value

Common stocks, ETFs, preferred securities, and financial derivative instruments, such as futures contracts that are traded on a national securities exchange, are stated at the last reported sale or settlement price on the day of valuation. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are categorized as Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Preferred securities and other equities traded on inactive markets or valued by reference to similar instruments are generally categorized as Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.

Investments in registered open-end investment management companies will be valued based upon the NAVs of such investments and are categorized as Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

Level 3 trading assets and trading liabilities, at fair value

The valuation techniques and significant inputs used in determining the fair values of financial instruments classified as Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy are as follows.

Securities and other assets for which market quotes are not readily available are valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Board or persons acting at their direction and may be categorized as Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.

Market quotes are considered not readily available in circumstances where there is an absence of current or reliable market-based data (e.g., trade information or broker quotes), including where events occur after the close of the relevant market, but prior to the Exchange close, that materially affect the values of the Fund’s securities or assets. In addition, market quotes are considered not readily available when, due to extraordinary circumstances, the exchanges or markets on which the securities trade, do not open for trading for the entire day and no other market prices are available. The Board has delegated to the Manager the responsibility for monitoring significant events that may materially affect the fair values of a Fund’s securities or assets and for determining whether the value of the applicable securities or assets should be re-evaluated in light of such significant events.

The Board has adopted methods for valuing securities and other assets in circumstances where market quotes are not readily available, and has delegated the responsibility for applying the valuation methods to the Manager. For instances in which daily market quotes are not readily available, investments may be valued pursuant to guidelines established by the Board. In the event that the security or asset cannot be valued, pursuant to one of the valuation methods established by the Board, the fair value of the security or asset will be determined in good faith by the Valuation Committee, generally based upon recommendations provided by the Manager.

When a Fund uses fair valuation methods applied by the Manager that use significant unobservable inputs to determine its NAV, the securities priced using this methodology are categorized as Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy. These methods may require subjective determinations about the value of a security. While the Trust’s policy is intended to result in a calculation of the Fund’s NAV that fairly reflects security values as of the time of pricing, the Trust cannot guarantee that values determined by the Board or persons acting at their direction would accurately reflect the price that a Fund could obtain for a security if it were to dispose of that security as of the time of pricing (for instance, in a forced or distressed sale). The prices used by a Fund may differ from the value that would be realized if the securities were sold.

4.  Securities and Other Investments

American Depositary Receipts

ADRs are depositary receipts for foreign issuers in registered form traded in U.S. securities markets. Depositary receipts may not be denominated in the same currency as the securities into which they may be

 

 

37


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

converted. Investing in depositary receipts entails substantially the same risks as direct investment in foreign securities. There is generally less publicly available information about foreign companies and there may be less governmental regulation and supervision of foreign stock exchanges, brokers, and listed companies. In addition, such companies may use different accounting and financial standards (and certain currencies may become unavailable for transfer from a foreign currency), resulting in the Fund’s possible inability to convert immediately into U.S. currency proceeds realized upon the sale of portfolio securities of the affected foreign companies. In addition, the Fund may invest in unsponsored depositary receipts, the issuers of which are not obligated to disclose material information about the underlying securities to investors in the United States. Ownership of unsponsored depositary receipts may not entitle the Fund to the same benefits and rights as ownership of a sponsored depositary receipt or the underlying security.

Common Stock

Common stock generally takes the form of shares in a corporation which represent an ownership interest. It ranks below preferred stock and debt securities in claims for dividends and for assets of the company in a liquidation or bankruptcy. The value of a company’s common stock may fall as a result of factors directly relating to that company, such as decisions made by its management or decreased demand for the company’s products or services. A stock’s value may also decline because of factors affecting not just the company, but also companies in the same industry or sector. The price of a company’s stock may also be affected by changes in financial markets that are relatively unrelated to the company, such as changes in interest rates, currency exchange rates or industry regulation. Companies that elect to pay dividends on their common stock generally only do so after they invest in their own business and make required payments to bondholders and on other debt and preferred stock. Therefore, the value of a company’s common stock will usually be more volatile than its bonds, other debt and preferred stock. Common stock may be exchange-traded or OTC. OTC stock may be less liquid than exchange-traded stock.

Other Investment Company Securities and Other Exchange-Traded Products

The Fund may invest in shares of other investment companies, including open-end funds, closed-end funds, business development companies, ETFs, unit investment trusts, and other investment companies of the Trust. The Fund may invest in securities of an investment company advised by the Manager or a sub-advisor. Investments in the securities of other investment companies may involve duplication of advisory fees and certain other expenses. By investing in another investment company, the Fund becomes a shareholder of that investment company. As a result, the Fund’s shareholders indirectly will bear the Fund’s proportionate share of the fees and expenses paid by shareholders of the other investment company, in addition to the fees and expenses the Fund’s shareholders directly bear in connection with the Fund’s own operations. Investments in other investment companies may involve the payment of substantial premiums above the value of such issuer’s portfolio securities.

Real Estate Investment Trusts

The Fund may own shares of real estate investment trusts (“REITs”) which report information on the source of their distributions annually. The Fund re-characterizes distributions received from REIT investments based on information provided by the REITs into the following categories: ordinary income, long-term capital gains, and return of capital. If information is not available on a timely basis from the REITs, the re-characterization will be estimated based on available information, which may include the previous year allocation. If new or additional information becomes available from the REITs at a later date, a re-characterization will be made the following year.

5.  Financial Derivative Instruments

The Fund may utilize derivative instruments to gain market exposure on cash balances or reduce market exposure in anticipation of liquidity needs. When considering the Fund’s use of derivatives, it is important to note that the Fund does not use derivatives for the purpose of creating financial leverage.

 

 

38


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Futures Contracts

Futures contracts are contracts to buy or sell a standard quantity of securities at a specified price on a future date. The Fund may enter into financial futures contracts as a method for keeping assets readily convertible to cash if needed to meet shareholder redemptions or for other needs while maintaining exposure to the stock or bond market, as applicable. The primary risks associated with the use of futures contracts are the possibility of illiquid markets or imperfect correlation between the values of the contracts and the underlying securities or that the counterparty will fail to perform its obligations.

Upon entering into a futures contract, the Fund is required to set aside or deposit with a broker an amount, termed the initial margin, which typically represents a portion of the face value of the futures contract. The Fund usually reflects this amount on the Schedule of Investments as a U.S. Treasury Bill held as collateral for futures contracts or as cash deposited with broker on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Payments to and from the broker, known as variation margin, are required to be made on a daily basis as the price of the futures contract fluctuates. Changes in initial settlement values are accounted for as unrealized appreciation (depreciation) until the contracts are terminated, at which time realized gains and losses are recognized. Futures contracts are valued at the most recent settlement price established each day by the exchange on which they are traded.

During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Fund entered into futures contracts primarily for exposing cash to markets.

The Fund’s average futures contracts outstanding fluctuate throughout the operating year as required to meet strategic requirements. The following table illustrates the average quarterly volume of futures contracts. For the purpose of this disclosure, volume is measured by contracts outstanding at each quarter end.

 

Average Futures Contracts Outstanding

 

Fund

  Year Ended October 31, 2019  

Small Cap Value

    2,749  

The following is a summary of the fair valuations of the Fund’s derivative instruments categorized by risk exposure(1):

 

Fair values of financial instruments on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of October 31, 2019:

 

    Derivatives not accounted for as hedging instruments

Assets:

  Credit contracts       Foreign exchange
contracts
      Commodity
contracts
      Interest rate
contracts
      Equity contracts       Total
Receivable for variation margin from open futures contracts(2)     $ -         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ 1,163,077         $ 1,163,077
                                           
The effect of financial derivative instruments on the Statement of Operations as of October 31, 2019:    

 

    Derivatives not accounted for as hedging instruments

Realized gain (loss) from derivatives
recognized as a result of operations

  Credit contracts       Foreign exchange
contracts
      Commodity
contracts
      Interest rate
contracts
      Equity contracts       Total
Futures contracts     $ -         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ (4,931,502 )         $ (4,931,502 )

Net change in unrealized appreciation
(depreciation) of derivatives
recognized as a result from operations:

  Credit contracts       Foreign exchange
contracts
      Commodity
contracts
      Interest rate
contracts
      Equity contracts       Total
Futures contracts     $ -         $ -         $ -         $ -         $ 23,713,219         $ 23,713,219

(1) See Note 3 in the Notes to Financial Statements for additional information.

(2) Includes cumulative appreciation (depreciation) of futures contracts as reported in the Fund’s Schedule of Investments footnotes. Only current day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

 

39


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Offsetting Assets and Liabilities

The Fund is a party to enforceable master netting agreements between brokers and counterparties which provide for the right to offset under certain circumstances. The Fund employs multiple money managers and counterparties and has elected not to offset qualifying financial and derivative instruments on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, as such all financial and derivative instruments are presented on a gross basis. The impacts of netting arrangements that provide the right to offset are detailed below. The net amount represents the net receivable or payable that would be due from or to the counterparty in the event of default. Exposure from borrowings and other financing agreements such as repurchase agreements can only be netted across transactions governed by the same Master Agreement with the same legal entity. All amounts reported below represent the balance as of the report date, October 31, 2019.

 

Offsetting of Financial and Derivative Assets as of October 31, 2019:      
    Assets           Liabilities  
Futures Contracts(1)   $ 1,163,077       $ -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 
Total derivative assets and liabilities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities   $ 1,163,077       $ -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 
Derivatives not subject to a Master Netting Agreement or similar agreement (“MNA”)   $ (1,163,077     $ -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

    Remaining Contractual Maturity of the Agreements
As of October 31, 2019
 
    Overnight and
Continuous
          <30 days           Between
30 & 90 days
          >90 days           Total  

Securities Lending Transactions

                 

Common Stocks

  $ 85,718,589       $ -       $ -       $ -       $ 85,718,589  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total Borrowings

  $ 85,718,589       $ -       $ -       $ -       $ 85,718,589  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Gross amount of recognized liabilities for securities lending transactions

 

  $ 85,718,589  
 

 

 

 

 

(1) 

Includes cumulative appreciation or (depreciation) of futures contracts as reported in the Schedule of Investments footnotes. Only current

day’s variation margin is reported within the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

6.  Principal Risks

Investing in the Fund may involve certain risks including, but not limited to, those described below.

Equity Investments Risk

Equity securities are subject to market risk. The Fund’s investments in equity securities may include common stocks, preferred stocks, securities convertible into or exchangeable for common stocks, REITs, depositary receipts, and U.S. dollar-denominated foreign stocks traded on U.S. exchanges. Such investments may expose the Fund to additional risk. The value of a company’s common stock may fall as a result of factors affecting the company, companies in the same industry or sector, or the financial markets overall. Common stock generally is subordinate to preferred stock upon the liquidation or bankruptcy of the issuing company. Preferred stocks and convertible securities are sensitive to movements in interest rates. Preferred stocks may be less liquid than common stocks and, unlike common stocks, participation in the growth of an issuer may be limited. Distributions on preferred stocks generally are payable at the discretion of an issuer and after required payments to bond holders. Convertible securities are subject to the risk that the credit standing of the issuer may have an effect on the convertible securities’ investment value. Investments in REITs are subject to the risks associated with investing in the real estate industry such as adverse developments affecting the real estate industry and real property values. Depositary receipts and U.S. dollar-denominated foreign stocks traded on U.S. exchanges are subject to certain of the risks associated with investing directly in foreign securities, including, but not limited to, currency fluctuations and political and financial instability in the home country of a particular depositary receipt or foreign stock.

Foreign Investing and Emerging Markets Risk

Non-U.S. investments carry potential risks not associated with U.S. investments. Such risks include, but are not limited to: (1) currency exchange rate fluctuations, (2) political and financial instability, (3) less liquidity,

 

 

40


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

(4) lack of uniform accounting, auditing and financial reporting standards, (5) increased price volatility, (6) less government regulation and supervision of foreign stock exchanges, brokers and listed companies, and (7) delays in transaction settlement in some foreign markets. To the extent the Fund invests a significant portion of its assets in securities of a single country or region, it is more likely to be affected by events or conditions of that country or region. In addition, the economies and political environments of emerging market countries tend to be more unstable than those of developed countries, resulting in more volatile rates of return than the developed markets and substantially greater risk to investors. There may be very limited oversight of certain foreign banks or securities depositories that hold foreign securities and currency and the laws of certain countries may limit the ability to recover such assets if a foreign bank or depository or their agents goes bankrupt. When investing in emerging markets, the risks of investing in foreign securities are heightened. Emerging markets have unique risks that are greater than, or in addition to, investing in developed markets because emerging markets are generally smaller, less developed, less liquid and more volatile than the securities markets of the U.S. and other developed markets. There are also risks of: greater political uncertainties; an economy’s dependence on revenues from particular commodities or on international aid or development assistance; currency transfer restrictions; a limited number of potential buyers for such securities, resulting in increased volatility and limited liquidity for emerging market securities; trading suspensions; and delays and disruptions in securities settlement procedures. In addition, there may be less information available to make investment decisions and more volatile rates of return.

Futures Contracts Risk

Futures contracts are derivative instruments where one party pays a fixed price for an agreed amount of securities or other underlying assets at an agreed date. The use of such derivative instruments may expose the Fund to additional risks that it would not be subject to if it invested directly in the securities underlying those derivatives. Futures contracts may experience potentially dramatic price changes (losses) and imperfect correlation between the price of the contract and the underlying security or index, which will increase the volatility of the Fund and may involve a small investment of cash (the amount of initial and variation margin) relative to the magnitude of the risk assumed (the potential increase or decrease in the price of the futures contract).

Market Risk

Conditions in the U.S. and many foreign economies have resulted, and may continue to result, in certain instruments experiencing unusual liquidity issues, increased price volatility and, in some cases, credit downgrades and increased likelihood of default. These events have reduced the willingness and ability of some lenders to extend credit, and have made it more difficult for some borrowers to obtain financing on attractive terms, if at all. In some cases, traditional market participants have been less willing to make a market in some types of debt instruments, which has affected the liquidity of those instruments. During times of market turmoil, investors tend to look to the safety of securities issued or backed by the U.S. Treasury, causing the prices of these securities to rise and the yields to decline. Reduced liquidity in fixed income and credit markets may negatively affect many issuers worldwide. In addition, global economies and financial markets are becoming increasingly interconnected, which increases the possibilities that conditions in one country or region might adversely impact issuers in a different country or region. A rise in protectionist trade policies, and the possibility of changes to some international trade agreements, could affect the economies of many nations, including the United States, in ways that cannot necessarily be foreseen at the present time.

In response to the financial crisis, the U.S. and other governments and the Federal Reserve and certain foreign central banks have taken steps to support financial markets. In some countries where economic conditions are recovering, they are nevertheless perceived as still fragile. Withdrawal of government support, failure of efforts in response to the crisis, or investor perception that such efforts are not succeeding, could adversely impact the value and liquidity of certain securities. The severity or duration of adverse economic conditions may also be affected by policy changes made by governments or quasi-governmental organizations, including changes in tax laws. The impact of new financial regulation legislation on the markets and the practical implications for market participants may not be fully known for some time. Regulatory changes are causing some financial services

 

 

41


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

companies to exit long-standing lines of business, resulting in dislocations for other market participants. In addition, political and governmental events within the U.S. and abroad, such as the United States government’s inability at times to agree on a long-term budget and deficit reduction plan, the threat of a federal government shutdown and threats not to increase the federal government’s debt limit, may affect investor and consumer confidence and may adversely impact financial markets and the broader economy, perhaps suddenly and to a significant degree. The U.S. government has reduced the federal corporate income tax rates, and future legislative, regulatory and policy changes may result in more restrictions on international trade, less stringent prudential regulation of certain players in the financial markets, and significant new investments in infrastructure and national defense. Markets may react strongly to expectations about the changes in these policies, which could increase volatility, especially if the markets’ expectations for changes in government policies are not borne out.

Changes in market conditions will not have the same impact on all types of securities. Interest rates have been unusually low in recent years in the United States and abroad. Because there is little precedent for this situation, it is difficult to predict the impact of a significant rate increase on various markets. For example, because investors may buy securities or other investments with borrowed money, a significant increase in interest rates may cause a decline in the markets for those investments. Because of the sharp decline in the worldwide price of oil, there is a concern that oil producing nations may withdraw significant assets now held in U.S. Treasuries, which could force a substantial increase in interest rates. Regulators have expressed concern that rate increases may cause investors to sell fixed income securities faster than the market can absorb them, contributing to price volatility. In addition, there is a risk that the prices of goods and services in the U.S. and many foreign economies may decline over time, known as deflation (the opposite of inflation). Deflation may have an adverse effect on stock prices and creditworthiness and may make defaults on debt more likely. If a country’s economy slips into a deflationary pattern, it could last for a prolonged period and may be difficult to reverse.

The precise timing and the resulting impact of the United Kingdom’s departure from the European Union (the “EU”), commonly referred to as “Brexit,” are not yet known. The effect on the United Kingdom’s economy will likely depend on the nature of trade relations with the EU and other major economies following its exit, which are matters to be negotiated. The outcomes may cause increased volatility and have a significant adverse impact on world financial markets, other international trade agreements, and the United Kingdom and European economies, as well as the broader global economy for some time, which could significantly adversely affect the value of the Fund’s investments in the United Kingdom and Europe.

Multiple Sub-Advisor Risk

The Manager may allocate the Fund’s assets among multiple sub-advisors, each of which is responsible for investing its allocated portion of the Fund’s assets. To a significant extent, the Fund’s performance will depend on the success of the Manager in allocating the Fund’s assets to sub-advisors and its selection and oversight of the sub-advisors. Because each sub-advisor manages its allocated portion of the Fund independently from another sub-advisor, the same security may be held in different portions of the Fund, or may be acquired for one portion of the Fund at a time when a sub-advisor to another portion deems it appropriate to dispose of the security from that other portion, resulting in higher expenses without accomplishing any net result in the Fund’s holdings. Similarly, under some market conditions, one sub-advisor may believe that temporary, defensive investments in short-term instruments or cash are appropriate when another sub-advisor believes continued exposure to the equity or debt markets is appropriate for its allocated portion of the Fund. Because each sub-advisor directs the trading for its own portion of the Fund, and does not aggregate its transactions with those of the other sub-advisors, the Fund may incur higher brokerage costs than would be the case if a single sub-adviser were managing the entire Fund. In addition, while the Manager seeks to allocate the Fund’s assets among the Fund’s sub-advisors in a manner that it believes is consistent with achieving the Fund’s investment objective(s), the Manager may be subject to potential conflicts of interest in allocating the Fund’s assets among sub-advisors, due to factors that could impact the Manager’s revenues and profits.

 

 

42


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Other Investment Companies Risk

The Fund may invest in shares of other registered investment companies, including money market funds, exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”). To the extent that the Fund invests in shares of other registered investment companies, the Fund will indirectly bear the fees and expenses, including for example, advisory and administrative fees, charged by those investment companies in addition to the Fund’s direct fees and expenses and will be subject to the risks associated with investments in those companies. For example, the Fund’s investments in money market funds are subject to interest rate risk, credit risk, and market risk. The Fund must rely on the investment company in which it invests to achieve its investment objective. If the investment company fails to achieve its investment objective, the value of the Fund’s investment may decline, adversely affecting the Fund’s performance. ETFs are subject to the following risks that do not apply to conventional funds: (1) the market price of an ETF’s shares may trade at a discount or premium to its NAV; (2) an active trading market for an ETF’s shares may not develop or be maintained; or (3) trading of an ETF’s shares may be halted if the listing exchange’s officials deem such action appropriate, the shares are delisted from the exchange, or the activation of market-wide “circuit breakers” (which are tied to large decreases in stock prices) halts stock trading generally. An ETF that tracks an index may not precisely replicate the returns of its benchmark index. To the extent the Fund invests in other investment companies that invest in equity securities, fixed-income securities and/or foreign securities, or that track an index, the Fund is subject to the risks associated with the underlying investments held by the investment company or the index fluctuations to which the investment company is subject. ETFs have expenses associated with their operation, typically including advisory fees. For example, the Funds’ investments in money market funds are subject to interest rate risk, credit risk, and market risk.

Sector Risk

Sector risk is the risk associated with a Fund holding a significant amount of investments in similar businesses, which would be similarly affected by particular economic or market events, which may, in certain circumstances, cause the value of the equity and debt securities of companies in a particular sector of the market to change. To the extent a Fund has substantial holdings within a particular sector, the risks to a Fund associated with that sector increase.

To the extent a Fund invests significantly in the financial services sector, the value of the Fund’s shares may be particularly vulnerable to factors affecting that sector, such as the availability and cost of capital funds, changes in interest rates, the rate of corporate and consumer debt defaults, extensive government regulation and price competition. The value of a Fund’s shares could experience significantly greater volatility than investment companies investing more broadly.

Securities Lending Risk

A Fund may lend its portfolio securities to brokers, dealers and financial institutions to seek income. There is a risk that a borrower may default on its obligations to return loaned securities; however, a Fund’s securities lending agent indemnifies the Fund against that risk. There is a risk that the assets of a Fund’s securities lending agent may be insufficient to satisfy any contractual indemnification requirements to the Fund. Borrowers of a Fund’s securities typically provide collateral in the form of cash that is reinvested in securities. A Fund will be responsible for the risks associated with the investment of cash collateral, including any collateral invested in an affiliated money market fund. A Fund may lose money on its investment of cash collateral or may fail to earn sufficient income on its investment to meet obligations to the borrower. In addition, delays may occur in the recovery of securities from borrowers, which could interfere with a Fund’s ability to vote proxies or to settle transactions and there is the risk of possible loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower fail financially. In any case in which the loaned securities are not returned to the Fund before an ex-dividend date, the payment in lieu of the dividend that the Fund receives from the securities’ borrower would not be treated as a dividend for federal income tax purposes and thus would not qualify for treatment as “qualified dividend income”.    

 

 

43


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

7.  Federal Income and Excise Taxes

It is the policy of the Fund to qualify as a regulated investment company (“RIC”), by complying with all applicable provisions of Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code, as amended, and to make distributions of taxable income sufficient to relieve it from substantially all federal income and excise taxes. For federal income tax purposes, the Fund is treated as a single entity for the purpose of determining such qualification.

The Fund does not have any unrecorded tax liabilities in the accompanying financial statements. Each of the tax years in the four year period ended October 31, 2019 remain subject to examination by the Internal Revenue Service. If applicable, the Fund recognizes interest accrued related to unrecognized tax benefits in interest expense and penalties in “Other expenses” on the Statement of Operations.

The Fund may be subject to taxes imposed by countries in which it invests. Such taxes are generally based on returns of income earned or gains realized or repatriated. Taxes are accrued and applied to net investment income, net realized capital gains and net unrealized appreciation (depreciation), as applicable, as the income is earned or capital gains are recorded.

Dividends are categorized in accordance with income tax regulations which may treat certain transactions differently than U.S. GAAP. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying financial statements.

The tax character of distributions paid were as follows:

 

    Year Ended
October 31, 2019
          Year Ended
October 31, 2018
 

Distributions paid from:

 

Ordinary income*

 

Institutional Class

  $ 91,820,913       $ 108,083,614  

Y Class

    6,588,024         7,511,690  

Investor Class

    9,370,479         11,549,809  

Advisor Class

    1,173,357         1,566,030  

A Class

    1,198,755         1,244,711  

C Class

    200,548         245,106  

R6 Class

    19,595,965         8,023,251  

Long-term capital gains

 

Institutional Class

    418,972,041         375,907,244  

Y Class

    31,360,867         26,964,201  

Investor Class

    51,450,373         47,136,699  

Advisor Class

    7,402,763         7,148,816  

A Class

    6,832,813         5,171,162  

C Class

    1,375,675         1,152,927  

R6 Class

    88,036,083         27,490,528  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions paid

  $ 735,378,656       $ 629,195,788  
 

 

 

     

 

 

 

* For tax purposes, short-term gains are considered ordinary income distributions.

As of October 31, 2019, the components of distributable earnings (deficits) on a tax basis were as follows:

 

Fund

   Tax Cost      Unrealized
Appreciation
     Unrealized
(Depreciation)
    Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
 

Small Cap Value

   $ 5,842,323,929      $ 923,554,132      $ (476,353,508   $ 447,200,624  

 

Fund

  Net Unrealized
Appreciation
(Depreciation)
          Undistributed
Ordinary Income
          Undistributed
Long-Term
Capital Gains
          Accumulated
Capital and
Other (Losses)
          Other Temporary
Differences
          Distributable
Earnings
 
Small Cap Value   $ 447,200,624       $ 58,096,707       $ 42,779,716       $       $ 1       $ 548,077,048  

 

 

44


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

Financial reporting records are adjusted for permanent book/tax differences to reflect tax character. Financial records are not adjusted for temporary differences. The temporary differences between financial reporting and tax-basis reporting of unrealized appreciation (depreciation) are attributable primarily to the tax deferral of losses from wash sales, the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains (losses) on certain derivative instruments, reclassifications of income from investments in real estate investment securities and publicly traded partnerships, and the realization for tax purposes of unrealized gains from passive foreign investment companies.

A shareholder of the Fund elected to receive securities rather than cash for their redemption proceeds. The Fund realized gains of $1,590,938 as a result of the in-kind distribution, as disclosed in the Statement of Operations for the year ended October 31, 2019. Those gains were not recognized for federal income tax purposes.

Due to inherent differences in the recognition of income, expenses, and realized gains (losses) under U.S. GAAP and federal income tax regulations, permanent differences between book and tax reporting have been identified and appropriately reclassified on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

Accordingly, the following amounts represent current year permanent differences derived from net realized gains from redemption of shares and tax-exempt interest and nondeductible expenses from investments in publicly traded partnerships as of October 31, 2019:

 

Fund

  Paid-In-Capital           Distributable
Earnings/(Deficits)
 
Small Cap Value   $ 953,988       $ (953,988

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010 (“RIC MOD”), net capital losses recognized by the Fund in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 are carried forward indefinitely and retain their character as short-term and/or long-term losses.

As of October 31, 2019, the Fund did not have any capital loss carryforwards.

8.  Investment Transactions

The aggregate cost of purchases and proceeds from sales and maturities of investments, other than short-term obligations, for the year ended October 31, 2019 were as follows:

 

Fund

  Purchases (non-U.S.
Government

Securities)
           Sales (non-U.S.
Government

Securities)
 

Small Cap Value

  $ 2,915,408,387        $ 3,143,849,969  

A summary of the Fund’s transactions in the USG Select Fund for the year ended October 31, 2019 were as follows:

 

Fund

  Type of
Transaction
        October 31,
2018
Shares/Fair
Value
          Purchases           Sales           October 31,
2019
Shares/Fair
Value
          Dividend
Income
 
Small Cap Value   Direct     $ 231,346,704       $   2,201,302,929       $   2,229,900,934       $ 202,748,699       $ 4,990,046  
Small Cap Value   Securities Lending       131,390,683         788,290,622         833,962,716         85,718,589         N/A  

9.  Securities Lending

The Fund may lend its securities to qualified financial institutions, such as certain broker-dealers, to earn additional income. The borrowers are required to secure their loans continuously with collateral in an amount at least equal to the fair value of the securities loaned, initially in an amount at least equal to 102% of the fair value

 

 

45


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

of domestic securities loaned and 105% of the fair value of international securities loaned. Collateral is monitored and marked-to-market daily. Daily mark-to-market amounts are required to be paid to the borrower or received from the borrower by the end of the following business day. This one day settlement for mark-to-market amounts may result in the collateral being temporarily less than the value of the securities on loan or temporarily more than the required minimum collateral.

To the extent that a loan is collateralized by cash, such cash collateral shall be invested by the securities lending agent (the “Agent”) in money market mutual funds and other short-term investments, provided the investments meet certain quality and diversification requirements. Securities purchased with cash collateral proceeds are listed in the Fund’s Schedule of Investments and the collateral is shown on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities as a payable.

Securities lending income is generated from the demand premium (if any) paid by the borrower to borrow a specific security and from the return on investment of cash collateral, reduced by negotiated rebate fees paid to the borrower and transaction costs. To the extent that a loan is secured by non-cash collateral, securities lending income is generated as a demand premium reduced by transaction costs. The Fund, the Agent, and the Manager retained 80%, 10%, and 10%, respectively, of the income generated from securities lending.

While securities are on loan, the Fund continues to receive certain income associated with that security and any gain or loss in the market price that may occur during the term of the loan. In the case of domestic equities, the value of any dividend is received in the form of a substitute payment approximately equal to the dividend. In the case of foreign securities, a negotiated amount is received that is less than the actual dividend, but higher than the dividend amount minus the foreign tax that the Fund would be subject to on the dividend.

Securities lending transactions pose certain risks to the Fund, including that the borrower may not provide additional collateral when required or return the securities when due, that the value of the short-term investments will be less than the amount of cash collateral required to be returned to the borrower, that non-cash collateral may be subject to legal constraints in the event of a borrower bankruptcy, and that the cash collateral investments could become illiquid and unable to be used to return collateral to the borrower. The Fund could also experience delays and costs in gaining access to the collateral. The Fund bears the risk of any deficiency in the amount of the cash collateral available for return to the borrower and any action which impairs its ability to liquidate non-cash collateral to satisfy a borrower default.

As of October 31, 2019, the value of outstanding securities on loan and the value of collateral were as follows:

 

Fund

   Market Value of
Securities on Loan
            Cash Collateral
Received
            Non-Cash Collateral
Received
            Total Collateral
Received
 

Small Cap Value

   $ 333,549,228         $ 85,718,589         $ 261,578,219         $ 347,296,808  

Cash collateral is listed on the Fund’s Schedule of Investments and is shown on the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Income earned on these investments is included in “Income derived from securities lending” on the Statement of Operations.

Non-cash collateral received by the Fund may not be sold or re-pledged except to satisfy a borrower default. Therefore, non-cash collateral is not included on the Fund’s Schedule of Investments or Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

10.  Borrowing Arrangements

Effective November 15, 2018 (the “Effective Date”), the Fund, along with certain other funds managed by the Manager (“Participating Funds”), entered into a committed revolving line of credit (the “Committed Line”) agreement with State Street Bank and Trust Company (the “Bank”) to be used to facilitate portfolio liquidity. The maximum borrowing amount under the Committed Line is $250 million with interest at a rate equal to the higher of

 

 

46


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

(a) one-month London Inter-Bank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) plus 1.25% per annum or (b) the Federal Funds rate plus 1.25% per annum on amounts borrowed. Each of the Participating Funds paid a closing fee of $100,000 on the Effective Date and a quarterly commitment fee at a rate of 0.25% per annum on the unused portion of the Committed Line amount. The Committed Line expires November 14, 2019, unless extended by the Bank or terminated by the Participating Funds in accordance with the agreement.

On the Effective Date, the Fund, along with certain other Participating Funds managed by the Manager, also entered into an uncommitted discretionary demand revolving line of credit (the “Uncommitted Line”) agreement with the Bank to be used to facilitate portfolio liquidity. The maximum borrowing amount under the Uncommitted Line is $50 million with interest at a rate equal to the higher of (a) one-month LIBOR plus 1.25% per annum or (b) the Federal Funds rate plus 1.25% per annum on each outstanding loan. Each of the Participating Funds paid a closing fee of $35,000 on the Effective Date. The Uncommitted Line expires November 14, 2019 unless extended by the Bank or terminated by the Participating Funds in accordance with the agreement.

The Participating Funds paid administration, legal and arrangement fees, which are recognized as a component of “Other expenses” on the Statement of Operations, along with commitment fees, that have been allocated among the Participating Funds based on average daily net assets.

During the year ended October 31, 2019, the Fund did not utilize this facility.

11.  Capital Share Transactions

The tables below summarize the activity in capital shares for each Class of the Fund:

 

    Institutional Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019     2018  

Small Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     40,786,232       $ 905,837,102         28,795,136       $ 813,629,911  
Reinvestment of dividends     25,003,927         493,827,557         16,834,084         466,809,134  
Shares redeemed     (65,827,022       (1,494,733,270       (56,760,794       (1,614,754,138
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net (decrease) in shares outstanding     (36,863     $ (95,068,611       (11,131,574     $ (334,315,093
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Y Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019     2018  

Small Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     4,930,647       $ 109,885,695         4,344,937       $ 121,072,021  
Reinvestment of dividends     1,746,520         33,969,817         1,202,236         32,893,173  
Shares redeemed     (8,766,203       (193,165,982       (5,295,216       (145,505,953
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding     (2,089,036     $ (49,310,470       251,957       $ 8,459,241  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Investor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019     2018  

Small Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     3,715,943       $ 80,851,925         3,480,761       $ 95,354,068  
Reinvestment of dividends     3,117,232         59,040,372         2,130,538         56,927,968  
Shares redeemed     (9,082,162       (197,139,665       (7,367,883       (200,093,625
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net (decrease) in shares outstanding     (2,248,987     $ (57,247,368       (1,756,584     $ (47,811,589
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    Advisor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019     2018  

Small Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     670,232       $ 14,157,059         690,534       $ 18,573,884  
Reinvestment of dividends     459,107         8,576,120         330,358         8,714,846  
Shares redeemed     (1,433,579       (31,013,154       (1,403,591       (37,945,197
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net (decrease) in shares outstanding     (304,240     $ (8,279,975       (382,699     $ (10,656,467
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

 

 

47


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Notes to Financial Statements

October 31, 2019

 

 

 

    A Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019     2018  

Small Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     951,880       $ 20,693,725         1,187,223       $ 32,064,750  
Reinvestment of dividends     428,578         7,950,119         241,813         6,345,165  
Shares redeemed     (1,150,666       (24,626,471       (1,004,403       (26,949,383
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase in shares outstanding     229,792       $ 4,017,373         424,633       $ 11,460,532  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    C Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019     2018  

Small Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     130,548       $ 2,643,117         94,040       $ 2,432,559  
Reinvestment of dividends     85,773         1,516,472         53,040         1,339,793  
Shares redeemed     (172,252       (3,441,752       (144,241       (3,717,938
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase in shares outstanding     44,069       $ 717,837         2,839       $ 54,414  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
 
    R6 Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019     2018  

Small Cap Value Fund

 

Shares

         

Amount

         

Shares

         

Amount

 
Shares sold     23,696,726       $ 529,458,678         26,568,807       $ 758,695,266  
Reinvestment of dividends     5,232,882         103,297,087         1,281,161         35,513,778  
Shares redeemed     (6,869,399       (157,591,249       (3,354,657       (94,064,119
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 
Net increase in shares outstanding     22,060,209       $ 475,164,516         24,495,311       $ 700,144,925  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

12.  Subsequent Events

Management has evaluated subsequent events for possible recognition or disclosure in the financial statements through the date the financial statements are issued. Management has determined that there are no material events that would require disclosure in the Fund’s financial statements through this date.

 

 

48


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Institutional Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016A           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 26.14       $ 29.51       $ 24.36       $ 24.69       $ 27.80  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.26         0.21         0.17         0.23         0.24  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    (0.25       (0.94       5.83         0.79         0.02  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.01         (0.73       6.00         1.02         0.26  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.18       (0.15       (0.23       (0.20       (0.19

Distributions from net realized gains

    (2.84       (2.49       (0.62       (1.15       (3.18
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (3.02       (2.64       (0.85       (1.35       (3.37
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 23.13       $ 26.14       $ 29.51       $ 24.36       $ 24.69  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    2.01       (2.96 )%        24.80       4.58       0.87
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

                 

Net assets, end of period

  $  4,073,332,655       $ 4,604,864,422       $ 5,527,380,111       $ 4,717,291,753       $ 4,313,522,956  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.83       0.80       0.82       0.83       0.81

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.83       0.80       0.82       0.83       0.81

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    1.07       0.66       0.58       1.01       0.99

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    1.07       0.66       0.58       1.01       0.99

Portfolio turnover rate

    48       69       48       53       47

 

A 

On June 20, 2016, Dreman Value Management, LLC was terminated and ceased managing assets of the Small Cap Value Fund, and was replaced by Foundry Partners, LLC.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

49


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Y Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016A           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 25.77       $ 29.13       $ 24.06       $ 24.41       $ 27.52  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.26         0.17         0.12         0.23         0.23  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    (0.27       (0.90       5.78         0.76         0.01  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    (0.01       (0.73       5.90         0.99         0.24  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.16       (0.14       (0.21       (0.19       (0.17

Distributions from net realized gains

    (2.84       (2.49       (0.62       (1.15       (3.18
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (3.00       (2.63       (0.83       (1.34       (3.35
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 22.76       $ 25.77       $ 29.13       $ 24.06       $ 24.41  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    1.93       (3.03 )%        24.70       4.49       0.79
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $  254,599,477       $ 342,125,601       $ 379,409,116       $ 296,082,333       $ 251,360,287  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.90       0.87       0.90       0.90       0.90

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.90       0.87       0.90       0.90       0.90

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    1.00       0.59       0.50       0.94       0.90

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    1.00       0.59       0.50       0.94       0.90

Portfolio turnover rate

    48       69       48       53       47

 

A 

On June 20, 2016, Dreman Value Management, LLC was terminated and ceased managing assets of the Small Cap Value Fund, and was replaced by Foundry Partners, LLC.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

50


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Investor Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016A           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 25.12       $ 28.46       $ 23.52       $ 23.86       $ 26.96  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.22         0.11         0.11         0.19         0.18  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    (0.29       (0.89       5.60         0.73         (0.02
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    (0.07       (0.78       5.71         0.92         0.16  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.09       (0.07       (0.15       (0.11       (0.08

Distributions from net realized gains

    (2.84       (2.49       (0.62       (1.15       (3.18
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (2.93       (2.56       (0.77       (1.26       (3.26
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 22.12       $ 25.12       $ 28.46       $ 23.52       $ 23.86  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    1.67       (3.28 )%        24.43       4.27       0.50
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 424,569,237       $ 538,602,473       $ 660,241,571       $ 617,552,712       $ 723,044,801  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.14       1.13       1.12       1.14       1.15

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    1.14       1.13       1.12       1.14       1.15

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    0.76       0.33       0.27       0.70       0.67

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    0.76       0.33       0.27       0.70       0.67

Portfolio turnover rate

    48       69       48       53       47

 

A 

On June 20, 2016, Dreman Value Management, LLC was terminated and ceased managing assets of the Small Cap Value Fund, and was replaced by Foundry Partners, LLC.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

51


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    Advisor ClassA  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016B           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 24.77       $ 28.09       $ 23.22       $ 23.60       $ 26.69  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.14         0.06         0.03         0.12         0.13  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    (0.25       (0.88       5.57         0.73         0.01  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    (0.11       (0.82       5.60         0.85         0.14  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.03       (0.01       (0.11       (0.08       (0.05

Distributions from net realized gains

    (2.84       (2.49       (0.62       (1.15       (3.18
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (2.87       (2.50       (0.73       (1.23       (3.23
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 21.79       $ 24.77       $ 28.09       $ 23.22       $ 23.60  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnC

    1.48       (3.44 )%        24.26       4.01       0.41
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 61,618,406       $ 77,578,775       $ 98,718,359       $ 110,205,158       $ 98,224,328  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.34       1.28       1.30       1.31       1.31

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    1.34       1.28       1.30       1.31       1.31

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    0.56       0.18       0.11       0.53       0.51

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    0.56       0.18       0.11       0.53       0.51

Portfolio turnover rate

    48       69       48       53       47

 

A 

On January 15, 2016, the Retirement Class closed and the assets were merged into the Advisor Class.

B 

On June 20, 2016, Dreman Value Management, LLC was terminated and ceased managing assets of the Small Cap Value Fund, and was replaced by Foundry Partners, LLC.

C 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

52


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    A Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016A           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 24.65       $ 27.99       $ 23.14       $ 23.54       $ 26.63  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income

    0.14         0.07         0.07         0.15         0.13  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    (0.24       (0.86       5.53         0.73         0.02  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    (0.10       (0.79       5.60         0.88         0.15  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.07       (0.06       (0.13       (0.13       (0.06

Distributions from net realized gains

    (2.84       (2.49       (0.62       (1.15       (3.18
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (2.91       (2.55       (0.75       (1.28       (3.24
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 21.64       $ 24.65       $ 27.99       $ 23.14       $ 23.54  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    1.56       (3.37 )%        24.36       4.17       0.45
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 63,246,155       $ 66,380,615       $ 63,481,305       $ 63,277,387       $ 54,815,183  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.26       1.20       1.20       1.21       1.21

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    1.26       1.20       1.20       1.21       1.22

Net investment income, before expense reimbursements

    0.64       0.25       0.20       0.64       0.56

Net investment income, net of reimbursements

    0.64       0.25       0.20       0.64       0.54

Portfolio turnover rate

    48       69       48       53       47

 

A 

On June 20, 2016, Dreman Value Management, LLC was terminated and ceased managing assets of the Small Cap Value Fund, and was replaced by Foundry Partners, LLC.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

 

See accompanying notes

 

53


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    C Class  
    Year Ended October 31,  
    2019           2018           2017           2016A           2015  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 23.60       $ 26.98       $ 22.39       $ 22.84       $ 26.05  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income (loss) from investment operations:

                 

Net investment income (loss)

    (0.01 )D        (0.08       (0.14       (0.02       0.03  

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    (0.24       (0.81       5.35         0.72         (0.06
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    (0.25       (0.89       5.21         0.70         (0.03
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

                 

Dividends from net investment income

    -         -         -         -         -  

Distributions from net realized gains

    (2.84       (2.49       (0.62       (1.15       (3.18
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (2.84       (2.49       (0.62       (1.15       (3.18
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 20.51       $ 23.60       $ 26.98       $ 22.39       $ 22.84  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnB

    0.85       (3.89 )%        23.39       3.42       (0.31 )% 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $ 12,619,613       $ 13,480,297       $ 15,335,554       $ 11,938,196       $ 11,718,580  

Ratios to average net assets:

                 

Expenses, before reimbursements

    1.95       1.86       1.96       1.96       1.97

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    1.95 %C        1.76       1.96       1.96       1.98

Net investment income (loss), before expense reimbursements

    (0.06 )%        (0.41 )%        (0.58 )%        (0.12 )%        (0.17 )% 

Net investment income (loss), net of reimbursements

    (0.06 )%        (0.31 )%        (0.58 )%        (0.12 )%        (0.17 )% 

Portfolio turnover rate

    48       69       48       53       47

 

A 

On June 20, 2016, Dreman Value Management, LLC was terminated and ceased managing assets of the Small Cap Value Fund, and was replaced by Foundry Partners, LLC.

B 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

C 

This ratio does not include a voluntary reimbursement of service fees as included in the prior year.

D 

Per share amounts have been calculated using the average shares method.

 

See accompanying notes

 

54


American Beacon Small Cap Value FundSM

Financial Highlights

(For a share outstanding throughout the period)

 

 

    R6 Class  
    Year Ended October 31,           February 28,
2017A to
October 31,
 
    2019           2018           2017  
 

 

 

 

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 26.14       $ 29.51       $ 28.03  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Income from investment operations:

         

Net investment income (loss)

    0.26         0.22         (0.00 )B 

Net gains (losses) on investments (both realized and unrealized)

    (0.25       (0.94       1.48  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total income (loss) from investment operations

    0.01         (0.72       1.48  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Less distributions:

         

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.19       (0.16       -  

Distributions from net realized gains

    (2.84       (2.49       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total distributions

    (3.03       (2.65       -  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 23.12       $ 26.14       $ 29.51  
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Total returnC

    2.01       (2.93 )%        5.28 %D 
 

 

 

     

 

 

     

 

 

 

Ratios and supplemental data:

 

Net assets, end of period

  $   1,308,284,613       $   902,241,051       $ 295,802,679  

Ratios to average net assets:

         

Expenses, before reimbursements

    0.80       0.77       0.80 %E 

Expenses, net of reimbursements

    0.80       0.77       0.80 %E 

Net investment income (loss), before expense reimbursements

    1.08       0.66       (0.04 )%E 

Net investment income (loss), net of reimbursements

    1.08       0.66       (0.04 )%E 

Portfolio turnover rate

    48       69       48 %F 

 

A 

Commencement of operations.

B 

Amount represents less than $0.01 per share.

C 

Based on net asset value, which does not reflect the sales charge, redemption fee, or contingent deferred sales charge, if applicable. May include adjustments in accordance with U.S. GAAP and as such, the net asset value for reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset value and returns for shareholder transactions.

D 

Not annualized.

E 

Annualized.

F 

Portfolio turnover rate is for the period from February 28, 2017 through October 31, 2017 and is not annualized.

 

See accompanying notes

 

55


American Beacon FundsSM

Federal Tax Information

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

Certain tax information regarding the Funds are required to be provided to shareholders based upon the Funds’ income and distributions for the taxable year ended October 31, 2019. The information and distributions reported herein may differ from information and distributions taxable to the shareholders for the calendar year ended December 31, 2019.

The Fund designated the following items with regard to distributions paid during the fiscal year ended October 31, 2019. All designations are based on financial information available as of this annual report and, accordingly, are subject to change. For each item, it is the intention of the Funds to designate the maximum amount permitted under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and the regulations there under.

 

Corporate Dividends-Received Deduction:

 

Small Cap Value

    59.18

Qualified Dividend Income:

 

Small Cap Value

    63.16

Long-Term Capital Gain Distributions:

 

Small Cap Value

  $ 605,430,615  

Short-Term Capital Gain Distributions:

 

Small Cap Value

  $ 88,241,641  

Shareholders will receive notification in January 2020 of the applicable tax information necessary to prepare their 2019 income tax returns.

 

 

56


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

Renewal and Approval of Management Agreement and Investment Advisory Agreements

At in-person meetings held on May 9, 2019 and June 4-5, 2019 (collectively, the “Meetings”), the Board of Trustees (“Board” or “Trustees”) considered and then, at its June 5, 2019 meeting, approved the renewal of:

(1) the Management Agreement between American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (“Manager”) and the American Beacon Funds (“Trust”), on behalf of the American Beacon Small Cap Value Fund (“Fund”); and

(2) the Investment Advisory Agreements among the Manager, the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, and each of Barrow, Hanley, Mewhinney & Strauss, LLC (“Barrow”), Brandywine Global Investment Management, LLC (“Brandywine”), Foundry Partners, LLC (“Foundry”), Hillcrest Asset Management LLC (“Hillcrest”), Hotchkis and Wiley Capital Management, LLC (“Hotchkis”), and Mellon Investments Corp. (“Mellon”) (each, a “subadvisor” and collectively, the “subadvisors”).

The Management Agreement and the Investment Advisory Agreements are referred to herein individually as an “Agreement” and collectively as the “Agreements.” In preparation for its consideration of the renewal of the Agreements, the Board undertook steps to gather and consider information furnished by the Manager, the subadvisors, Broadridge, Inc. (“Broadridge”) and Morningstar, Inc. (“Morningstar”). The Board, with the assistance of independent legal counsel, requested and received certain relevant information from the Manager and the subadvisors.

In advance of the Meetings, the Board’s Investment Committee and/or the Manager coordinated the production of information from Broadridge and Morningstar regarding the performance, fees and expenses of the Fund as well as information from the Manager and the subadvisors. At the Meetings, the Board considered the information provided in connection with the renewal process, as well as information furnished to the Board throughout the year at regular meetings of the Board and its committees. In connection with the Board’s consideration of the Agreements, the Board received and evaluated such information as they deemed necessary. This information is described below in the section summarizing the factors the Board considered in connection with its renewal and approval of the Agreements, as well as the section describing additional Board considerations with respect to the Fund.

The Board noted that the Manager provides management and administrative services to the Fund pursuant to the Management Agreement. The Board considered that many mutual funds have separate contracts governing each type of service and observed that, with respect to such mutual funds, the actual management fee rates provided by Broadridge for peer group funds reflect the combined advisory and administrative expenses, reduced by any fee waivers and/or reimbursements.

A firm may not have been able to, or opted not to, provide information in response to certain information requests, in which case the Board conducted its evaluation of the firm based on information that was provided. In such cases, the Board determined that the omission of any such information was not material to its considerations. The class of shares used for comparative performance purposes was the share class with the lowest expenses available for purchase by the general public, which was the Institutional Class. The Board also considered that the use of Institutional Class performance generally facilitates a meaningful comparison for expense and performance purposes.

Provided below is an overview of certain factors the Board considered in connection with its renewal and approval of the Agreements. The Board did not identify any particular information that was most relevant to its consideration to renew or approve each Agreement, and each Trustee may have afforded different weight to the various factors. Legal counsel to the independent Trustees provided the Board with a memorandum regarding its responsibilities pertaining to the renewal and approval of investment advisory contracts, such as the Agreements. The memorandum explained the regulatory requirements surrounding the Board’s process for evaluating investment advisors and the terms of investment advisory contracts. Based on its evaluation, the Board unanimously concluded that the terms of each Agreement were reasonable and fair and that the renewal and approval of each Agreement was in the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders.

 

 

57


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

Considerations With Respect to the Renewal of the Management Agreement and the Investment Advisory Agreements

In determining whether to renew the Agreements, the Board considered the Fund’s investment management and subadvisory relationships separately. In each instance, the Board considered, among other things, the following factors: (1) the nature, extent and quality of the services provided; (2) the investment performance of the Fund; (3) the costs incurred by the Manager in rendering services to the Fund and its resulting profits or losses; (4) comparisons of services and fee rates with contracts entered into by the Manager or the subadvisors or their affiliates with other clients (such as pension funds and other institutional clients); (5) the extent to which economies of scale, if any, have been taken into account in setting each fee rate schedule; (6) whether fee rate levels reflect economies of scale, if any, for the benefit of Fund investors; and (7) any other benefits derived or anticipated to be derived by the Manager or the subadvisors from their relationships with the Fund.

Nature, Extent and Quality of Services. With respect to the renewal of the Management Agreement, the Board considered, among other factors: the Fund’s long-term performance; the length of service of key investment personnel at the Manager; the cost structure of the Fund; the Manager’s culture of compliance and support that reduce risks to the Fund; the Manager’s quality of services; the Manager’s active role in monitoring and, as appropriate, recommending additional or replacement subadvisors; and the Manager’s efforts to retain key employees and maintain staffing levels.

With respect to the renewal of the Investment Advisory Agreements, the Board considered the level of staffing and the size of the subadvisors. The Board also considered the adequacy of the resources committed to the Fund by the subadvisors, and whether those resources were commensurate with the needs of the Fund and are sufficient to sustain appropriate levels of performance and compliance needs. In this regard, the Board considered the financial stability of the subadvisors. The Board also considered each subadvisor’s representations regarding its compliance program and code of ethics. Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the nature, extent and quality of the management and advisory services provided by the Manager and the subadvisors were appropriate for the Fund.

Investment Performance. The Board evaluated the comparative information provided by Broadridge and the Manager regarding the performance of the Fund relative to its Broadridge performance universe, Morningstar Category, and benchmark index, as well as the Fund’s Morningstar rating. The Board considered the information provided by Broadridge regarding Broadridge’s independent methodology for selecting the Fund’s Broadridge performance universe. The Board also considered that the performance universes selected by Broadridge may not provide appropriate comparisons for the Fund. In addition, the Board considered the performance reports and discussions with management at Board and Committee meetings throughout the year. The Board also evaluated the comparative information provided by each subadvisor regarding the performance of its portion of the Fund relative to the performance of similar accounts or a composite of similar accounts managed by the subadvisor and the Fund’s benchmark index. In addition, the Board considered the Manager’s recommendation to continue to retain each subadvisor. A discussion regarding the Board’s considerations with respect to the Fund’s performance appears below under “Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to the Fund.”

Costs of the Services Provided to the Fund and the Profits Realized by the Manager from its Relationship with the Fund. In analyzing the cost of services and profitability of the Manager, the Board considered the revenues earned and the expenses incurred by the Manager, before and after the payment of distribution-related expenses by the Manager. The profits or losses were noted at both an aggregate level for all funds within the group of mutual funds sponsored by the Manager (the “Fund Complex”) and at an individual Fund level, with the Manager earning a profit before and after the payment of distribution-related expenses by the Manager for the Fund. The Board also considered comparative information provided by the Manager regarding the Manager’s overall profitability with respect to the Fund Complex relative to the overall profitability of other firms in the mutual fund industry, as disclosed in publicly available sources. Although the Board noted that, in certain cases, the fee rates paid by other clients of the Manager are lower than the fee rates paid by the Fund, the Manager represented that,

 

 

58


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

among other matters, the difference is attributable to the fact that the Manager does not perform administrative services for non-investment company clients and reflects the greater level of responsibility and regulatory requirements associated with managing the Fund.

The Board further considered that, with respect to the Fund, the Management Agreement provides for the Manager to receive a management fee comprised of an annualized fee that is retained by the Manager. In addition, the Board considered that the Manager receives fees for overseeing the securities lending program on behalf of the Fund. The Board also noted that certain share classes of the Fund maintain higher expense ratios in order to compensate third-party financial intermediaries.

In analyzing the fee rates charged by each subadvisor in connection with its investment advisory services to the Fund, the Board considered representations made by each subadvisor that the fee rate negotiated by the Manager is favorable relative to the fee rates that the subadvisor charges for any comparable client accounts. The Board did not request profitability data from the subadvisors because the Board did not view this data as imperative to its deliberations given the arm’s-length nature of the relationship between the Manager and the subadvisors with respect to the negotiation of subadvisory fee rates. In addition, the Board considered that it was advised that the subadvisors may not account for their profits on an account-by-account basis and that different firms likely employ different methodologies in connection with these calculations.

Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the profitability levels of the Manager were reasonable in light of the services performed by the Manager. A discussion regarding the Board’s considerations with respect to the Fund’s fee rates is set forth below under “Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to the Fund.”

Economies of Scale. In considering the reasonableness of the management and investment advisory fees rates, the Board considered whether economies of scale will be realized as the Fund grows and whether fee rate levels reflect these economies of scale for the benefit of Fund shareholders. In this regard, the Board considered that, with respect to each subadvisor, the Manager has negotiated breakpoints in the subadvisory fee rate for the Fund. In addition, the Board noted the Manager’s representation that the Management Agreement contains fee schedule breakpoints at higher asset levels with respect to the Fund. Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the Manager and subadvisor fee rate schedules for the Fund provide for a reasonable sharing of benefits from any economies of scale with the Fund.

Benefits Derived from the Relationship with the Fund. The Board considered the “fall-out” or ancillary benefits that accrue to the Manager and/or the subadvisors as a result of the advisory relationships with the Fund, including greater exposure in the marketplace with respect to the Manager’s or a subadvisor’s investment process and expanding the level of assets under management by the Manager and the subadvisors. The Board also considered that the Manager may invest the Fund’s cash balances and cash collateral provided by the borrowers of the Fund’s securities in the American Beacon U.S. Government Money Market Select Fund, which the Manager manages directly. In addition, the Board noted that Barrow, Brandywine, Foundry, Hotchkis and Mellon benefit from soft dollar arrangements for proprietary and/or third-party research. Based on the foregoing information, the Board concluded that the potential benefits accruing to the Manager and the subadvisors by virtue of their relationships with the Fund appear to be fair and reasonable.

Additional Considerations and Conclusions with Respect to the Fund

The performance comparisons below were made in comparison to the Fund’s Broadridge performance universe and Morningstar Category. With respect to the Broadridge performance universe, the 1st Quintile represents the top 20 percent of the universe based on performance and the 5th Quintile representing the bottom 20 percent of the universe based on performance. References below to the Fund’s Broadridge performance universe are to the universe of mutual funds with a comparable investment classification/objective included in the analysis provided by Broadridge. In reviewing the performance, the Trustees viewed longer-term performance over

 

 

59


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

a full market cycle as the most important consideration, because relative performance over shorter periods may be significantly impacted by market or economic events and not necessarily reflective of manager skill.

The expense comparisons below were made in comparison to the Fund’s Broadridge expense universe and Broadridge expense group, with the 1st Quintile representing the lowest 20 percent of the universe or group based on lowest total expense and the 5th Quintile representing the highest 20 percent of the universe or group based on highest total expense. References below to the Fund’s expense group and expense universe are to the respective group or universe of comparable mutual funds included in the analysis by Broadridge. A Broadridge expense group consists of the Fund and a representative sample of funds with similar operating structures and asset sizes, as selected by Broadridge. A Broadridge expense universe includes all funds in the investment classification/objective with a similar operating structure as the share class of the Fund included in the Broadridge comparative information and provides a broader view of expenses across the Fund’s investment classification/objective. The Board also considered the Fund’s Morningstar fee level category. In reviewing expenses, the Board considered the positive impact of fee waivers where applicable and the Manager’s agreement to continue the fee waivers. In addition, information regarding the subadvisors’ use of soft dollars was requested from the Manager and was considered by the Board.

In considering the renewal of the Management Agreement for the Fund, the Board considered the following additional factors:

Broadridge Total Expense Analysis Excluding 12b-1 Fees and Morningstar Fee Level Ranking

 

Compared to Broadridge Expense Group

  2nd Quintile

Compared to Broadridge Expense Universe

  1st Quintile

Morningstar Fee Level Ranking – Institutional Class

  Low Expense Ratio

Broadridge and Morningstar Performance Analysis (five-year period ended December 31, 2018)

 

Compared to Broadridge Performance Universe

  2nd Quintile

Compared to Morningstar Category

  2nd Quintile

In considering the renewal of the Investment Advisory Agreements with each subadvisor, the Board considered that the diversification of investment strategies facilitated by the Fund’s multi-manager structure permits the Fund to mitigate the risks associated with a single subadvisor. The Board also considered the following additional factors:

Subadvisor Performance (compared to Broadridge Performance Universe for period indicated ended December 31, 2018)

 

Barrow (Fundamental Strategy)

  5 Years     2 nd Quintile 

Barrow (Diversified Strategy)*

  3 Years     2 nd Quintile 

Brandywine

  5 Years     3 rd Quintile 

Foundry

  5 Years     1 st Quintile 

Hillcrest*

  3 Years     5 th Quintile 

Hotchkis (Fundamental Strategy)

  5 Years     1 st Quintile 

Hotchkis (Diversified Strategy)*

  1 Year     2 nd Quintile 

Mellon

  5 Years     1 st Quintile 

*  Does not yet have a 5-year performance record.

 

The Board also considered: (1) that the three-year period was not long enough to fully evaluate the performance of Hillcrest, and the Manager was closely monitoring this performance; (2) that Hillcrest’s investment style, which favors low valuation companies (as measured by price-to-earnings and price-to-book) and sound financial health (as measured by expected earnings-per-share growth and return on equity), has not been rewarded in recent market conditions; (3) information provided by each subadvisor regarding fee rates charged for managing

 

 

60


Disclosure Regarding Approval of the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements (Unaudited)

 

 

assets in the same or a similar strategy as the subadvisor manages its allocation of the Fund; and (4) the Manager’s recommendation to continue to retain each subadvisor at the present time.

Based on these and other considerations, the Board: (1) concluded that the fees paid to the Manager and the subadvisors under the Management and Investment Advisory Agreements are fair and reasonable; and (2) determined that the Fund and its shareholders would benefit from the Manager’s and subadvisors’ continued management of the Fund.

 

 

61


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

The Trustees and officers of the American Beacon Funds (the “Trust”) are listed below, together with their principal occupations during the past five years. The address of each person listed below is 220 Las Colinas Boulevard East, Suite 1200, Irving, Texas 75039. Each Trustee oversees thirty-six funds in the fund complex that includes the Trust, the American Beacon Select Funds, the American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust, the American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund and the American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund. The Trust’s Statement of Additional Information contains additional information about the Trustees and is available without charge by calling 1-800-658-5811.

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

INTERESTED TRUSTEES   

Term

  
   Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or retirement*   
Alan D. Feld** (82)    Trustee since 1996    Partner in the law firm of Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld, LLP (law firm) (1960-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (1999-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
NON-INTERESTED TRUSTEES   

Term

  
   Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or retirement*   
Gilbert G. Alvarado (49)    Trustee since 2015    Director, Kura MD, Inc. (local telehealth organization) (2015-present); Vice President & CFO, Sierra Health Foundation (health conversion private foundation) (2006-Present); Vice President & CFO, Sierra Health Foundation: Center for Health Program Management (California public benefit corporation) (2012-Present); Director, Innovative North State (2012-2015); Director, Sacramento Regional Technology Alliance (2011-2016); Director, Women’s Empowerment (2009-2014); Director, Valley Healthcare Staffing (2017-present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2015-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Joseph B. Armes (57)    Trustee since 2015    Chairman & CEO, CSW Industrials f/k/a Capital Southwest Corporation (investment company) (2015-Present); Chairman of the Board of Capital Southwest Corporation, predecessor to CSW Industrials, Inc. (2014-2017) (investment company); CEO, Capital Southwest Corporation (2013-2015); President & CEO, JBA Investment Partners (family investment vehicle) (2010-Present); Director and Chair of Audit Committee, RSP Permian (oil and gas producer) (2013-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2015-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Gerard J. Arpey (61)    Trustee since 2012    Director, The Home Depot, Inc. (2015-Present); Partner, Emerald Creek Group (private equity firm) (2011-Present); Director, S.C. Johnson & Son, Inc. (privately held company) (2008-present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2012-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

62


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

NON-INTERESTED TRUSTEES (CONT.)   

Term

  
   Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or retirement*   
Brenda A. Cline (58)   

Trustee since 2004

Chair since 2019

Vice Chair 2018

   Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Secretary, Kimbell Art Foundation (1993-Present); Director, Tyler Technologies, Inc. (public sector software solutions company) (2014-Present); Director, Range Resources Corporation (oil and natural gas company) (2015-Present); Trustee, Cushing Closed-End and Open-End Funds and ETFs (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2004-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Eugene J. Duffy (65)    Trustee since 2008    Managing Director, Global Investment Management Distribution, Mesirow Financial (2016-Present); Managing Director, Institutional Services, Intercontinental Real Estate Corporation (2014-Present); Principal and Executive Vice President, Paradigm Asset Management (1994-2014); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2008-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Claudia A. Holz (62)    Trustee since 2018    Partner, KPMG LLP (1990-2017); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Douglas A. Lindgren (57)    Trustee since 2018    CEO North America, Carne Global Financial Services (2016-2017); Managing Director, IPS Investment Management and Global Head, Content Management, UBS Wealth Management (2010-2016); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Richard A. Massman (76)   

Trustee since 2004

Chair 2008-2018

Chair Emeritus since 2019

   Consultant and General Counsel Emeritus, Hunt Consolidated, Inc. (holding company engaged in oil and gas exploration and production, refining, real estate, farming, ranching and venture capital activities) (2009-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2004-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Barbara J. McKenna, CFA (56)    Trustee since 2012    President/Managing Principal, Longfellow Investment Management Company (2005-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2012-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

63


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

NON-INTERESTED TRUSTEES (CONT.)   

Term

  
   Lifetime of Trust until removal, resignation or retirement*   
R. Gerald Turner (73)    Trustee since 2001    President, Southern Methodist University (1995-Present); Director, J.C. Penney Company, Inc. (1996-Present); Director, Kronus Worldwide Inc. (chemical manufacturing) (2003-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Select Funds (2001-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Trustee, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
OFFICERS   

Term

  
   One Year   
Gene L. Needles, Jr. (64)    President since 2009    President (2009-2018), CEO and Director (2009-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), American Beacon Advisors, Inc., President (2015-2018), Director and CEO (2015-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC; President (2015-2018), Director and CEO (2015-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Topco, Inc.; President (2015-2018); Director, and CEO (2015-Present), and Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Acquisition, Inc.; President (2015-2018), Director and CEO (2015-Present), Chairman (2018-Present), Resolute Investment Managers, Inc.; Director, Chairman, President and CEO, Resolute Investment Distributors (2017-Present); Director, Chairman, President and CEO; Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2017-Present); President and CEO, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2009-2015); President, CEO and Director, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2009-2015); Manager, President and CEO, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Director, Chairman, President and CEO, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Director, ARK Investment Management LLC (2016-Present); Director, Shapiro Capital Management LLC (2017-Present); Director, Chairman and CEO, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); President, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Director and President, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, LTD., (2017-2018); President, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); President American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd. (2018-Present); Member, Investment Advisory Committee, Employees Retirement System of Texas (2017-Present); Trustee, American Beacon NextShares Trust (2015-Present); President, American Beacon Select Funds (2009-Present); President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Director, RSW Investments Holdings LLC, (2019-Present); Manager, SSI Investment Management, LLC (2019-Present); President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Director, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).

 

 

64


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Rosemary K. Behan (60)   

VP, Secretary and

Chief Legal Officer

since 2006

   Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2006-Present); Secretary, Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC (2015-Present); Secretary, Resolute Topco, Inc. (2015-Present); Secretary, Resolute Acquisition, Inc. (2015-Present); Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2015-Present); Secretary, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Secretary and General Counsel, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President and Secretary, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2008-2015); Vice President and Secretary, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2008-2015); Secretary, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2008-Present); Secretary and General Counsel, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President and Secretary, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Secretary, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); Secretary, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, Ltd. (2017-2018); Secretary, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Secretary, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd (2018-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2006-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Chief Legal Officer, Vice President and Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Secretary, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).
Brian E. Brett (59)    VP since 2004    Senior Vice President, Head of Distribution (2012-Present), Vice President, Director of Sales (2004-2012), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Senior Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Senior Vice President, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (2018-Present), Senior Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2018-Present); Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2008-2015); Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2008-2015); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2004-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Paul B. Cavazos (50)    VP since 2016    Chief Investment Officer and Senior Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2016-Present); Chief Investment Officer, DTE Energy (2007-2016); Vice President, American Private Equity Management, L.L.C. (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2016-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Erica Duncan (49)    VP Since 2011    Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers (2018-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2011-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

65


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Melinda G. Heika (58)    Treasurer since 2010    Treasurer and CFO (2010-Present), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Treasurer, Resolute Topco, Inc. (2015-Present); Treasurer, Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC. (2015-Present); Treasurer, Resolute Acquisition, Inc. (2015-Present); Treasurer and CFO, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Treasurer, Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc. (2017-2017); Treasurer and CFO, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2015-Present); Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings Parent Inc., (2010-2015); Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2010-2015); Treasurer, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Treasurer and CFO, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Treasurer and CFO, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation, Ltd. (2017-2018); Treasurer, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); Director and Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd. (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Treasurer, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).
Terri L. McKinney (55)    VP since 2010    Vice President (2009-Present), Managing Director (2003-2009), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc (2018-Present); Vice President, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

66


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Jeffrey K. Ringdahl (44)    VP since 2010    Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Chief Operating Officer (2010-Present), Senior Vice President (2013-2018), Vice President (2010-2013), American Beacon Advisors, Inc.; Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Senior Vice Present (2015-2018), Resolute Investment Holdings, LLC; Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Senior Vice President (2015-2018), Resolute Topco, Inc.; Director (2015-Present), President (2018-Present), Senior Vice President (2015-2018), Resolute Acquisition, Inc.; Director (2015-Present), President & COO (2018-Present), Senior Vice President (2015-2018), Resolute Investment Managers, Inc.; Director and Executive Vice President (2017-Present), Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc.; Director (2017-Present), President & COO (2018-Present), Executive Vice President (2017-2018), Resolute Investment Services, Inc.; Senior Vice President (2017-Present), Vice President (2012-2017), Manager (2015-Present), American Private Equity Management, LLC; Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings Parent, Inc. (2013-2015); Senior Vice President, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2013-2015); Trustee, American Beacon NextShares Trust (2015-Present); Director, Executive Vice President & COO, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Director, Shapiro Capital Management, LLC (2017-Present); Director, Executive Vice President & COO, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Director and Vice President, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, Ltd., (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Delaware Transformational Innovation Corporation (2017-2018); Director and Vice President, American Beacon Cayman Managed Futures Strategy Fund, Ltd. (2014-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-2018); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Director, RSW Investments Holdings LLC, (2019-Present); Manager, SSI Investment Management, LLC (2019-Present), Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Samuel J. Silver (56)    VP Since 2011    Vice President (2011-Present), Chief Fixed Income Officer (2016-Present), American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Select Funds (2011-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Vice President, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Christina E. Sears (48)   

Chief Compliance

Officer since 2004

and Asst. Secretary

since 1999

   Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2019-Present); Chief Compliance Officer, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2004-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Distributors (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services, Inc. (2019-Present); Chief Compliance Officer, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Chief Compliance Officer (2016-2019) and Vice President, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Chief Compliance Officer (2004-Present) and Assistant Secretary (1999-Present), American Beacon Select Funds; Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).

 

 

67


Trustees and Officers of the American Beacon FundsSM (Unaudited)

 

 

Name, Age

  

Position, Term of

Office and Length

of Time Served

with the Trust

  

Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years

and Current Directorships

OFFICERS (CONT.)   

Term

  
   One Year   
Sonia L. Bates (62)   

Asst. Treasurer

since 2011

   Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-2018); Assistant Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings Parent Inc. (2011-2015); Assistant Treasurer, Lighthouse Holdings, Inc. (2011-2015); Assistant Treasurer, American Private Equity Management, LLC (2012-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman Transformational Innovation Company, Ltd. (2017-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Cayman TargetRisk Company, Ltd. (2018-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Select Funds (2011-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Treasurer, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Shelley D. Abrahams (44)   

Assistant Secretary

since 2008

   Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2008-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Assistant Secretary, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).
Rebecca L. Harris (52)   

Assistant Secretary

since 2010

   Vice President, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2011-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Managers, Inc. (2017-Present); Vice President, Resolute Investment Services (2015-Present); Vice President, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Vice President, Continuous Capital, LLC (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2010-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present).
Teresa A. Oxford (61)   

Assistant Secretary

since 2015

   Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Advisors, Inc. (2015-Present); Assistant Secretary, Resolute Investment Distributors (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, Resolute Investment Services (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, Alpha Quant Advisors, LLC (2016-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Select Funds (2015-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Institutional Funds Trust (2017-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund (2018-Present); Assistant Secretary, American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund (2019-Present); Assistant Secretary, Green Harvest Asset Management (2019-Present).

* As of 11/12/2014, the Board adopted a retirement plan that requires Trustees, other than Messrs. Feld and Massman to retire no later than the last day of the calendar year in which they reach the age of 75. As of 11/7/17, the Board approved a waiver of the mandatory retirement policy with respect to Mr. Massman, who turned 75 in November 2018, to permit him to continue to serve on the Board as Chair Emeritus through 12/31/19.

** Mr. Feld is deemed to be an “interested person” of the Trusts, as defined by the 1940 Act. Mr. Feld’s law firm of Akin, Gump, Strauss, Hauer & Feld LLP has provided legal services within the past two fiscal years to one or more of the Trust’s sub-advisors.

 

 

68


American Beacon FundsSM

Privacy Policy

October 31, 2019 (Unaudited)

 

 

The American Beacon Funds recognize and respect the privacy of our shareholders. We are providing this notice to you so you will understand how shareholder information may be collected and used.

We may collect nonpublic personal information about you from one or more of the following sources:

 

   

information we receive from you on applications or other forms;

 

   

information about your transactions with us or our service providers; and

 

   

information we receive from third parties.

We do not disclose any nonpublic personal information about our customers or former customers to anyone, except as permitted by law.

We restrict access to your nonpublic personal information to those employees or service providers who need to know that information to provide products or services to you. To ensure the confidentiality of your nonpublic personal information, we maintain safeguards that comply with federal standards.

 

 

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72


LOGO

 

 

 

Delivery of Documents

eDelivery is NOW AVAILABLE - Stop traditional mail delivery and receive your

shareholder reports and summary prospectus on-line. Sign up at

www.americanbeaconfunds.com

If you invest in the Fund through a financial institution, you may be able to receive the Fund’s regulatory mailings, such as the Prospectus, Annual Report and Semi-Annual Report, by e-mail. If you are interested in this option, please go to www.icsdelivery.com and search for your financial institution’s name or contact your financial institution directly.

To obtain more information about the Fund:

 

LOGO   LOGO
 
By E-mail:   On the Internet:
american_beacon.funds@ambeacon.com   Visit our website at www.americanbeaconfunds.com
   
     
 

LOGO

By Telephone:

Call (800) 658-5811

 

LOGO

By Mail:

American Beacon Funds

P.O. Box 219643

Kansas City, MO 64121-9643

   
     
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedules   Availability of Proxy Voting Policy and Records
 
In addition to the Schedule of Investments provided in each semi-annual and annual report, the Fund files a complete schedule of its portfolio holdings with the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on Form N-PORT as of the first and third fiscal quarters. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Forms N-PORT may also be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Section, 100 F Street, NE, Washington, D.C. 20549-1520. Information regarding the operation of the SEC’s Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800)-SEC-0330. A complete schedule of the Fund’s portfolio holdings is also available at www.americanbeaconfunds.com approximately twenty days after the end of each month.   A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available in the Fund’s Statement of Additional Information, is available free of charge on the Fund’s website www.americanbeaconfunds.com and by calling 1-800-967-9009 or by accessing the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record for the most recent year ended June 30 is filed annually with the SEC on Form N-PX. The Fund’s Forms N-PX are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record may also be obtained by calling 1-800-967-9009.

Fund Service Providers:

 

CUSTODIAN

State Street Bank and Trust Company

Boston, Massachusetts

   

TRANSFER AGENT

DST Asset Manager Solutions, Inc.

Quincy, Massachusetts

   

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

Ernst & Young LLP

Dallas, Texas

   

DISTRIBUTOR

Resolute Investment Distributors, Inc.

Irving, Texas

This report is prepared for shareholders of the American Beacon Funds and may be distributed to others only if preceded or accompanied by a current Prospectus or Summary Prospectus.

 

American Beacon Funds and American Beacon Small Cap Value Fund are service marks of American Beacon Advisors, Inc.

AR 10/19


ITEM 2.

CODE OF ETHICS.

The Trust adopted a code of ethics that applies to its principal executive and financial officers (the “Code”). The Trust amended its code August 19, 2019 to disclose the addition of the American Beacon Sound Point Enhanced Income Fund, American Beacon Apollo Total Return Fund and American Beacon Sound Point Alternative Lending Fund and to disclose a change to limit the value of gifts received by the principal officer or financial officer to $100. The Trust did not grant any waivers to the provisions of the Code during the period covered by the shareholder reports presented in Item 1. The Code is filed herewith as Exhibit 99.CODE ETH.

 

ITEM 3.

AUDIT COMMITTEE FINANCIAL EXPERT.

The Trust’s Board of Trustees has determined that Gilbert G. Alvarado and Claudia Holz, members of the Trust’s Audit and Compliance Committee, are “audit committee financial experts” as defined in Form N-CSR. Mr. Gilbert Alvarado and Ms. Claudia Holz are “independent” as defined in Form N-CSR.

 

ITEM 4.

PRINCIPAL ACCOUNTANT FEES AND SERVICES.

 

(a)

Audit Fees

   Fiscal Year Ended  

$239,905

     10/31/2018  

$291,427

     10/31/2019  

(b)

Audit-Related Fees

   Fiscal Year Ended  

$10,000

     10/31/2018  

$0

     10/31/2019  

(c)

Tax Fees

   Fiscal Year Ended  

$25,859

     10/31/2018  

$43,525

     10/31/2019  

(d)

All Other Fees

   Fiscal Year Ended  

$0

     10/31/2018  

$0

     10/31/2019  

e)(1) Pursuant to its charter, the Trust’s Audit and Compliance Committee shall have the following duties and powers pertaining to pre-approval of audit and non-audit services provided by the Trust’s principal accountant:


• to approve, prior to appointment, the engagement of auditors to annually audit and provide their opinion on the Trusts’ financial statements, and, in connection therewith, reviewing and evaluating matters potentially affecting the independence and capabilities of the auditors;

• to approve, prior to appointment, the engagement of the auditors to provide non-audit services to the Trusts, an investment adviser to any series of the Trusts or any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with an investment adviser (“adviser affiliate”) that provides ongoing services to the Trusts, if the engagement relates directly to the operations and financial reporting of the Trusts;

• to consider whether the non-audit services provided by a Trust’s auditor to an investment adviser or any adviser affiliate that provides ongoing services to a series of the Trusts, which services were not pre-approved by the Committee, are compatible with maintaining the auditor’s independence;

• to review the arrangements for and scope of the annual audit and any special audits; and

• to review and approving the fees proposed to be charged to the Trusts by the auditors for each audit and non-audit service.

The Audit and Compliance Committee may delegate any portion of its authority, including the authority to grant pre-approvals of audit and permitted non-audit services, to a subcommittee of one or more members. Any decisions of the subcommittee to grant pre-approvals shall be presented to the full audit committee at its next regularly scheduled meeting.

(e)(2) None of the fees disclosed in paragraphs (b) through (d) above were approved by the audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X.

 

(f) Not applicable.
(g) Aggregate Non-Audit Fees for Services Rendered to the:

 

Registrant

   Adviser      Adviser’s Affiliates Providing
Ongoing Services to Registrant
   Fiscal Year Ended  

$35,859

   $ 391,405      N/A      10/31/2018  

$43,525

   $ 625,313      N/A      10/31/2019  

 

(h) Not applicable.

 

ITEM 5.

AUDIT COMMITTEE OF LISTED REGISTRANTS.

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 6.

SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS.

The schedules of investments for each series of the Trust are included in the shareholder reports presented in Item 1.

 

ITEM 7.

DISCLOSURE OF PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES FOR CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.

Not applicable.


ITEM 8.

PORTFOLIO MANAGERS OF CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES.

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 9.

PURCHASES OF EQUITY SECURITIES BY CLOSED-END MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANY AND AFFILIATED PURCHASERS.

Not applicable.

 

ITEM 10.

SUBMISSION OF MATTERS TO A VOTE OF SECURITY HOLDERS.

The Trust has made no material changes to the procedures by which shareholders may recommend nominees to the Trust’s Board of Trustees since the Trust last disclosed such procedures in Schedule 14A.

 

ITEM 11.

CONTROLS AND PROCEDURES.

(a) Based upon an evaluation within 90 days of the filing date of this report, the principal executive and financial officers concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures of the Trust are effective.

(b) There were no changes in the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting during the second fiscal quarter of the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Trust’s internal control over financial reporting.

 

ITEM 12.

EXHIBITS.

(a)(1) Filed herewith as EX-99.CODE ETH.

(a)(2) A separate certification for each principal executive officer and principal financial officer of the Trust as required by Rule 30a-2(a) under the Investment Company Act of 1940 is attached hereto as EX-99.CERT.

(a)(3) Not applicable.

(b) The certifications required by Rule 30a-2(b) under the Investment Company Act of 1940 are attached hereto as EX-99.906CERT.

 


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): American Beacon Funds

 

By  

/s/ Gene L. Needles, Jr.

Gene L. Needles, Jr.
President
American Beacon Funds

Date: January 9, 2020

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  

/s/ Gene L. Needles, Jr.

Gene L. Needles, Jr.
President
American Beacon Funds

Date: January 9, 2020

 

By  

/s/ Melinda G. Heika

Melinda G. Heika
Treasurer
American Beacon Funds

Date: January 9, 2020