THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933 | ☒ | |||
Pre‑Effective Amendment No. | ☐ | |||
Post‑Effective Amendment No. 70 | ☒ |
THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1940 | ☒ | |||
Amendment No. 71 | ☒ |
☒ | Immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b) of Rule 485 |
☐ | On (date) pursuant to paragraph (b)(1)(iii) of Rule 485 |
☐ | 60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) of Rule 485 |
☐ | On (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) of Rule 485 |
☐ | 75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of Rule 485 |
☐ | On (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of Rule 485 |
Table of Contents | Baron Funds® |
Baron Funds® | 3 | |||||
10 | ||||||
18 | ||||||
26 | ||||||
33 | ||||||
41 | ||||||
49 | ||||||
Information about the Funds | 56 | |||||
Additional Investment Strategies | 56 | |||||
59 | ||||||
60 | ||||||
66 | ||||||
67 | ||||||
Information about your Investment | 70 | |||||
How to Purchase Shares | 71 | |||||
74 | ||||||
76 | ||||||
79 | ||||||
79 | ||||||
81 | ||||||
81 | ||||||
82 | ||||||
83 | ||||||
85 | ||||||
87 | ||||||
108 | ||||||
Back Cover |
2 | www.BaronFunds.com |
Management Fee |
Distribution (12b-1) Fee |
Other Expenses |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses |
|||||||||||||
BARON ASSET FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares |
||||||||||||||||
Institutional Shares |
||||||||||||||||
R6 Shares |
YEAR | 1 | 3 | 5 | 10 | ||||||||||||
BARON ASSET FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Institutional Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
R6 Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ |
1-800-99BARON | 3 |
4 | www.BaronFunds.com |
1-800-99BARON |
5 |
|
|
1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Since Inception |
|||||||||||||
BARON ASSET FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares (Inception date: 1987-06-12) |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
Return after taxes on distributions |
||||||||||||||||
Return after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares |
6 | www.BaronFunds.com |
1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Since Inception |
|||||||||||||
Institutional Shares* (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
R6 Shares* (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
Russell Midcap® Growth Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes) |
† | |||||||||||||||
S&P 500 Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes) |
* |
† |
Minimum Initial Investment |
Minimum Subsequent Investment |
Maximum Subsequent Investment | ||||
Retail Shares |
$2,000 | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Automatic Investment Plan |
$500 (with subsequent minimum investments of $50 per month until your investment has reached $2,000.) | No Minimum | No Maximum |
1-800-99BARON |
7 |
Minimum Initial Investment |
Minimum Subsequent Investment |
Maximum Subsequent Investment | ||||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
$2,000 | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. | |||
Institutional Shares |
$1,000,000 (Employees of the Adviser and its affiliates and Trustees of the Baron Funds® and employer sponsored retirement plans (qualified and nonqualified) are not subject to the eligibility requirements for Institutional Shares.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
You may not make an initial purchase through the Baron Funds® website. | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. | |||
R6 Shares |
$5,000,000 (There is no minimum initial investment for qualified retirement plans; however, the shares must be held through plan-level or omnibus accounts held on the books of the Fund.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
You may not make an initial purchase through the Baron Funds® website. | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. |
8 | www.BaronFunds.com |
1. | Mailing a request to Baron Funds®, P.O. Box 219946, Kansas City, MO 64121-9946 or by overnight mail to: Baron Funds®, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105-1514; |
2. | Wire (Purchase Only); |
3. | Calling 1-800-442-3814; |
4. | Visiting the Baron Funds® website www.BaronFunds.com; or |
5. | Through a broker, dealer or other financial intermediary that may charge you a fee. |
1-800-99BARON |
9 |
Management Fee |
Distribution (12b-1) Fee |
Other Expenses |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses |
|||||||||||||
BARON GROWTH FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares |
||||||||||||||||
Institutional Shares |
||||||||||||||||
R6 Shares |
YEAR | 1 | 3 | 5 | 10 | ||||||||||||
BARON GROWTH FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Institutional Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
R6 Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ |
10 | www.BaronFunds.com |
1-800-99BARON |
11 |
12 | www.BaronFunds.com |
|
|
1-800-99BARON |
13 |
1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Since Inception |
|||||||||||||
BARON GROWTH FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares (Inception date: 12‑31‑94) |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
Return after taxes on distributions |
||||||||||||||||
Return after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares |
||||||||||||||||
Institutional Shares* (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
R6 Shares* (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
Russell 2000® Growth Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes) |
||||||||||||||||
S&P 500 Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes) |
* |
14 | www.BaronFunds.com |
Minimum Initial Investment |
Minimum Subsequent Investment |
Maximum Subsequent Investment | ||||
Retail Shares |
$2,000 | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Automatic Investment Plan |
$500 (with subsequent minimum investments of $50 per month until your investment has reached $2,000.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
$2,000 | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. | |||
Institutional Shares |
$1,000,000 (Employees of the Adviser and its affiliates and Trustees of the Baron Funds® and employer sponsored retirement plans (qualified and nonqualified) are not subject to the eligibility requirements for Institutional Shares.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
You may not make an initial purchase through the Baron Funds® website. | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. |
1-800-99BARON |
15 |
Minimum Initial Investment |
Minimum Subsequent Investment |
Maximum Subsequent Investment | ||||
R6 Shares |
$5,000,000 (There is no minimum initial investment for qualified retirement plans; however, the shares must be held through plan-level or omnibus accounts held on the books of the Fund.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
You may not make an initial purchase through the Baron Funds® website. | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. |
1. | Mailing a request to Baron Funds®, P.O. Box 219946, Kansas City, MO 64121-9946 or by overnight mail to: Baron Funds®, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105-1514; |
2. | Wire (Purchase Only); |
3. | Calling 1-800-442-3814; |
4. | Visiting the Baron Funds® website www.BaronFunds.com; or |
5. | Through a broker, dealer or other financial intermediary that may charge you a fee. |
16 | www.BaronFunds.com |
1-800-99BARON |
17 |
Management Fee |
Distribution (12b-1) Fee |
Other Expenses |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses |
|||||||||||||
BARON SMALL CAP FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares |
||||||||||||||||
Institutional Shares |
||||||||||||||||
R6 Shares |
YEAR | 1 | 3 | 5 | 10 | ||||||||||||
BARON SMALL CAP FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Institutional Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
R6 Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ |
18 | www.BaronFunds.com |
1-800-99BARON |
19 |
20 | www.BaronFunds.com |
|
|
1-800-99BARON |
21 |
1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Since Inception |
|||||||||||||
BARON SMALL CAP FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares (Inception date: 09‑30‑97) |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
Return after taxes on distributions |
||||||||||||||||
Return after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares |
||||||||||||||||
Institutional Shares* (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
R6 Shares* (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
Russell 2000® Growth Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes) |
||||||||||||||||
S&P 500 Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes) |
* |
22 | www.BaronFunds.com |
Minimum Initial Investment |
Minimum Subsequent Investment |
Maximum Subsequent Investment | ||||
Retail Shares |
$2,000 | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Automatic Investment Plan |
$500 (with subsequent minimum investments of $50 per month until your investment has reached $2,000.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
$2,000 | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. | |||
Institutional Shares |
$1,000,000 (Employees of the Adviser and its affiliates and Trustees of the Baron Funds® and employer sponsored retirement plans (qualified and nonqualified) are not subject to the eligibility requirements for Institutional Shares.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
You may not make an initial purchase through the Baron Funds® website. | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. |
1-800-99BARON |
23 |
Minimum Initial Investment |
Minimum Subsequent Investment |
Maximum Subsequent Investment | ||||
R6 Shares |
$5,000,000 (There is no minimum initial investment for qualified retirement plans; however, the shares must be held through plan-level or omnibus accounts held on the books of the Fund.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
You may not make an initial purchase through the Baron Funds® website. | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. |
1. | Mailing a request to Baron Funds®, P.O. Box 219946, Kansas City, MO 64121-9946 or by overnight mail to: Baron Funds®, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105-1514; |
2. | Wire (Purchase Only); |
3. | Calling 1-800-442-3814; |
4. | Visiting the Baron Funds® website www.BaronFunds.com; or |
5. | Through a broker, dealer or other financial intermediary that may charge you a fee. |
24 | www.BaronFunds.com |
1-800-99BARON |
25 |
Management Fee |
Distribution (12b-1) Fee |
Other Expenses |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses |
|||||||||||||
BARON OPPORTUNITY FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares |
||||||||||||||||
Institutional Shares |
||||||||||||||||
R6 Shares |
YEAR | 1 | 3 | 5 | 10 | ||||||||||||
BARON OPPORTUNITY FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Institutional Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
R6 Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ |
26 | www.BaronFunds.com |
1-800-99BARON |
27 |
28 | www.BaronFunds.com |
|
|
1 year |
5 years |
10 years |
Since Inception |
|||||||||||||
BARON OPPORTUNITY FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
Return after taxes on distributions |
||||||||||||||||
Return after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares |
1-800-99BARON |
29 |
1 year |
5 years |
10 years |
Since Inception |
|||||||||||||
Institutional Shares* (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
R6 Shares* (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
Russell 3000® Growth Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes) |
||||||||||||||||
S&P 500 Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes) |
* |
Minimum Initial Investment |
Minimum Subsequent Investment |
Maximum Subsequent Investment | ||||
Retail Shares |
$2,000 | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Automatic Investment Plan |
$500 (with subsequent minimum investments of $50 per month until your investment has reached $2,000.) | No Minimum | No Maximum |
30 | www.BaronFunds.com |
Minimum Initial Investment |
Minimum Subsequent Investment |
Maximum Subsequent Investment | ||||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
$2,000 | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. | |||
Institutional Shares |
$1,000,000 (Employees of the Adviser and its affiliates and Trustees of the Baron Funds® and employer sponsored retirement plans (qualified and nonqualified) are not subject to the eligibility requirements for Institutional Shares.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
You may not make an initial purchase through the Baron Funds® website. | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. | |||
R6 Shares |
$5,000,000 (There is no minimum initial investment for qualified retirement plans; however, the shares must be held through plan-level or omnibus accounts held on the books of the Fund.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
You may not make an initial purchase through the Baron Funds® website. | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. |
1-800-99BARON |
31 |
1. | Mailing a request to Baron Funds®, P.O. Box 219946, Kansas City, MO 64121-9946 or by overnight mail to: Baron Funds®, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105-1514; |
2. | Wire (Purchase Only); |
3. | Calling 1-800-442-3814; |
4. | Visiting the Baron Funds® website www.BaronFunds.com; or |
5. | Through a broker, dealer or other financial intermediary that may charge you a fee. |
32 | www.BaronFunds.com |
Management Fee |
Distribution (12b-1) Fee |
Other Expenses |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses |
Expense Reimbursements |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Expense Reimbursements1 |
|||||||||||||||||||
BARON FIFTH AVENUE GROWTH FUND |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares |
( |
)% | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Institutional Shares |
( |
)%2 | ||||||||||||||||||||||
R6 Shares |
( |
)%2 |
1 |
2 |
1-800-99BARON |
33 |
YEAR | 1 | 3 | 5 | 10 | ||||||||||||
BARON FIFTH AVENUE GROWTH FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Institutional Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
R6 Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ |
34 | www.BaronFunds.com |
1-800-99BARON |
35 |
|
|
36 | www.BaronFunds.com |
1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Since Inception |
|||||||||||||
BARON FIFTH AVENUE GROWTH FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
Return after taxes on distributions |
||||||||||||||||
Return after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares |
||||||||||||||||
Institutional Shares* (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
R6 Shares* (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
Russell 1000® Growth Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes) |
||||||||||||||||
S&P 500 Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes) |
* |
1-800-99BARON |
37 |
Minimum Initial Investment |
Minimum Subsequent Investment |
Maximum Subsequent Investment | ||||
Retail Shares |
$2,000 | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Automatic Investment Plan |
$500 (with subsequent minimum investments of $50 per month until your investment has reached $2,000.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
$2,000 | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. | |||
Institutional Shares |
$1,000,000 (Employees of the Adviser and its affiliates and Trustees of the Baron Funds® and employer sponsored retirement plans (qualified and nonqualified) are not subject to the eligibility requirements for Institutional Shares.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
You may not make an initial purchase through the Baron Funds® website. | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. |
38 | www.BaronFunds.com |
Minimum Initial Investment |
Minimum Subsequent Investment |
Maximum Subsequent Investment | ||||
R6 Shares |
$5,000,000 (There is no minimum initial investment for qualified retirement plans; however, the shares must be held through plan-level or omnibus accounts held on the books of the Fund.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
You may not make an initial purchase through the Baron Funds® website. | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. |
1. | Mailing a request to Baron Funds®, P.O. Box 219946, Kansas City, MO 64121-9946 or by overnight mail to: Baron Funds®, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105-1514; |
2. | Wire (Purchase Only); |
3. | Calling 1-800-442-3814; |
4. | Visiting the Baron Funds® website www.BaronFunds.com; or |
5. | Through a broker, dealer or other financial intermediary that may charge you a fee. |
1-800-99BARON |
39 |
40 | www.BaronFunds.com |
Management Fee |
Distribution (12b-1) Fee |
Other Expenses |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses |
|||||||||||||
BARON DISCOVERY FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares |
||||||||||||||||
Institutional Shares |
||||||||||||||||
R6 Shares |
YEAR | 1 | 3 | 5 | 10 | ||||||||||||
BARON DISCOVERY FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Institutional Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
R6 Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ |
1-800-99BARON |
41 |
42 | www.BaronFunds.com |
1-800-99BARON |
43 |
|
|
44 | www.BaronFunds.com |
1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Since Inception |
|||||||||||||
BARON DISCOVERY FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
Return after taxes on distributions |
||||||||||||||||
Return after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares |
||||||||||||||||
Institutional Shares (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
R6 Shares* (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
Russell 2000® Growth Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes) |
||||||||||||||||
S&P 500 Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes) |
* |
1-800-99BARON |
45 |
Minimum Initial Investment |
Minimum Subsequent Investment |
Maximum Subsequent Investment | ||||
Retail Shares |
$2,000 | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Automatic Investment Plan |
$500 (with subsequent minimum investments of $50 per month until your investment has reached $2,000.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
$2,000 | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. | |||
Institutional Shares |
$1,000,000 (Employees of the Adviser and its affiliates and Trustees of the Baron Funds® and employer sponsored retirement plans (qualified and nonqualified) are not subject to the eligibility requirements for Institutional Shares.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
You may not make an initial purchase through the Baron Funds® website. | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. |
46 | www.BaronFunds.com |
Minimum Initial Investment |
Minimum Subsequent Investment |
Maximum Subsequent Investment | ||||
R6 Shares |
$5,000,000 (There is no minimum initial investment for qualified retirement plans; however, the shares must be held through plan-level or omnibus accounts held on the books of the Fund.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
You may not make an initial purchase through the Baron Funds® website. | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. |
1. | Mailing a request to Baron Funds®, P.O. Box 219946, Kansas City, MO 64121-9946 or by overnight mail to: Baron Funds®, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105-1514; |
2. | Wire (Purchase Only); |
3. | Calling 1-800-442-3814; |
4. | Visiting the Baron Funds® website www.BaronFunds.com; or |
5. | Through a broker, dealer or other financial intermediary that may charge you a fee. |
1-800-99BARON |
47 |
48 | www.BaronFunds.com |
Management Fee |
Distribution (12b‑1) Fee |
Other Expenses1 |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses |
Expense Reimbursements |
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Expense Reimbursements1 |
|||||||||||||||||||
BARON DURABLE ADVANTAGE FUND |
||||||||||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares |
( |
)% | ||||||||||||||||||||||
Institutional Shares |
( |
)% | ||||||||||||||||||||||
R6 Shares |
( |
)% |
1 |
1-800-99BARON |
49 |
YEAR | 1 | 3 | 5 | 10 | ||||||||||||
BARON DURABLE ADVANTAGE FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
Institutional Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ | ||||||||||||
R6 Shares |
$ | $ | $ | $ |
50 | www.BaronFunds.com |
|
|
1-800-99BARON |
51 |
1 year | 5 years | 10 years | Since Inception |
|||||||||||||
BARON DURABLE ADVANTAGE FUND |
||||||||||||||||
Retail Shares (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
Return after taxes on distributions |
||||||||||||||||
Return after taxes on distributions and sale of Fund shares |
||||||||||||||||
Institutional Shares (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
R6 Shares (Inception date: |
||||||||||||||||
Return before taxes |
||||||||||||||||
S&P 500 Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses or taxes) |
52 | www.BaronFunds.com |
Minimum Initial Investment |
Minimum Subsequent Investment |
Maximum Subsequent Investment | ||||
Retail Shares |
$2,000 | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Automatic Investment Plan |
$500 (with subsequent minimum investments of $50 per month until your investment has reached $2,000.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
$2,000 | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. | |||
Institutional Shares |
$1,000,000 (Employees of the Adviser and its affiliates and Trustees of the Baron Funds® and employer sponsored retirement plans (qualified and nonqualified) are not subject to the eligibility requirements for Institutional Shares.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
You may not make an initial purchase through the Baron Funds® website. | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. |
1-800-99BARON |
53 |
Minimum Initial Investment |
Minimum Subsequent Investment |
Maximum Subsequent Investment | ||||
R6 Shares |
$5,000,000 (There is no minimum initial investment for qualified retirement plans; however, the shares must be held through plan-level or omnibus accounts held on the books of the Fund.) | No Minimum | No Maximum | |||
Baron Funds® website purchases |
You may not make an initial purchase through the Baron Funds® website. | $10 | $6,500 for retirement accounts and $250,000 for non‑retirement accounts. |
1. | Mailing a request to Baron Funds®, P.O. Box 219946, Kansas City, MO 64121-9946 or by overnight mail to: Baron Funds®, 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105-1514; |
2. | Wire (Purchase Only); |
3. | Calling 1‑800‑442‑3814; |
4. | Visiting the Baron Funds® website www.BaronFunds.com; or |
5. | Through a broker, dealer or other financial intermediary that may charge you a fee. |
54 | www.BaronFunds.com |
1-800-99BARON |
55 |
Information about the Funds | Baron Funds® |
Baron Asset Fund |
capital appreciation through long-term investments primarily in securities of mid-sized companies with undervalued assets or favorable growth prospects. |
Baron Growth Fund |
capital appreciation through long-term investments primarily in securities of small-sized growth companies. |
Baron Small Cap Fund |
capital appreciation through investments primarily in securities of small-sized growth companies. |
Baron Opportunity Fund |
capital appreciation through investments primarily in growth companies that benefit from technology advances. |
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund |
capital appreciation through investments primarily in securities of large-sized growth companies. |
Baron Discovery Fund |
capital appreciation through investments primarily in securities of small-sized growth companies. |
Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
capital appreciation through investments primarily in securities of large-sized companies. |
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1-800-99BARON | 57 |
Information about the Funds | Baron Funds® |
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Information about the Funds | Baron Funds® |
1. | significant opportunities for growth; |
2. | sustainable competitive advantages; |
3. | exceptional management; and |
4. | an attractive valuation. |
1-800-99BARON | 59 |
Information about the Funds | Baron Funds® |
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Information about the Funds | Baron Funds® |
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Information about the Funds | Baron Funds® |
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Information about the Funds | Baron Funds® |
1-800-99BARON | 63 |
Information about the Funds | Baron Funds® |
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Information about the Funds | Baron Funds® |
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Information about the Funds | Baron Funds® |
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Information about the Funds | Baron Funds® |
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Information about the Funds | Baron Funds® |
Fund | Retail Shares |
Institutional Shares |
R6 Shares |
|||||||||
Baron Asset Fund |
N/A | N/A | N/A | |||||||||
Baron Growth Fund |
N/A | N/A | N/A | |||||||||
Baron Small Cap Fund |
N/A | N/A | N/A | |||||||||
Baron Opportunity Fund |
1.50% | 1.25% | 1.24% | |||||||||
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund |
1.00% | 0.75% | 0.75% | |||||||||
Baron Discovery Fund |
1.35% | 1.10% | 1.09% | |||||||||
Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
0.95% | 0.70% | 0.70% |
1-800-99BARON | 69 |
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Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
1-800-99BARON | 71 |
Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
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Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
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Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
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Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
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Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
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Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
∎ | Written requests to wire redemption proceeds (if not previously authorized on the Account Application); |
∎ | Sending redemption proceeds to any person, address, or bank account not on record; |
∎ | Transferring redemption proceeds to a Baron Funds® account with a different registration (name/ownership) from yours; and |
∎ | If the address of record has been changed within 30 days of the redemption request. |
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Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
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Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
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Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
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Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
RETAIL SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 99.64 | $ | 82.28 | $ | 81.43 | $ | 70.87 | $ | 60.67 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(1.16 | )(1) | (0.72 | )(1) | (0.56 | )(1) | (0.59 | )(1) | (0.48 | )(1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
25.50 | 19.58 | 6.17 | 16.09 | 13.48 | |||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
24.34 | 18.86 | 5.61 | 15.50 | 13.00 | |||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(3.39 | ) | (1.50 | ) | (4.76 | ) | (4.94 | ) | (2.80 | ) | ||||||||||
Total distributions |
(3.39 | ) | (1.50 | ) | (4.76 | ) | (4.94 | ) | (2.80 | ) | ||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 120.59 | $ | 99.64 | $ | 82.28 | $ | 81.43 | $ | 70.87 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
24.96 | % | 23.22 | % | 7.82 | % | 23.11 | % | 22.41 | % | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 2,871.7 | $ | 2,498.6 | $ | 2,242.0 | $ | 2,259.7 | $ | 1,979.1 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.29 | %(2) | 1.31 | % | 1.30 | % | 1.30 | % | 1.31 | % | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(1.02 | )% | (0.82 | )% | (0.73 | )% | (0.79 | )% | (0.75 | )% | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
9.54 | % | 9.28 | % | 11.83 | % | 9.87 | % | 10.35 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
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Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
INSTITUTIONAL SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 104.08 | $ | 85.67 | $ | 84.36 | $ | 73.07 | $ | 62.30 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.91 | )(1) | (0.52 | )(1) | (0.38 | )(1) | (0.41 | )(1) | (0.33 | )(1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
26.69 | 20.43 | 6.45 | 16.64 | 13.90 | |||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
25.78 | 19.91 | 6.07 | 16.23 | 13.57 | |||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(3.39 | ) | (1.50 | ) | (4.76 | ) | (4.94 | ) | (2.80 | ) | ||||||||||
Total distributions |
(3.39 | ) | (1.50 | ) | (4.76 | ) | (4.94 | ) | (2.80 | ) | ||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 126.47 | $ | 104.08 | $ | 85.67 | $ | 84.36 | $ | 73.07 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
25.29 | % | 23.53 | % | 8.11 | % | 23.43 | % | 22.76 | % | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 3,108.2 | $ | 2,505.4 | $ | 1,979.7 | $ | 1,315.7 | $ | 1,021.0 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.03 | %(2) | 1.05 | % | 1.05 | % | 1.04 | % | 1.04 | % | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.76 | )% | (0.57 | )% | (0.48 | )% | (0.53 | )% | (0.50 | )% | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
9.54 | % | 9.28 | % | 11.83 | % | 9.87 | % | 10.35 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
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R6 SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 104.07 | $ | 85.65 | $ | 84.35 | $ | 73.06 | $ | 62.30 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.91 | )(1) | (0.52 | )(1) | (0.38 | )(1) | (0.41 | )(1) | (0.34 | )(1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
26.68 | 20.44 | 6.44 | 16.64 | 13.90 | |||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
25.77 | 19.92 | 6.06 | 16.23 | 13.56 | |||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(3.39 | ) | (1.50 | ) | (4.76 | ) | (4.94 | ) | (2.80 | ) | ||||||||||
Total distributions |
(3.39 | ) | (1.50 | ) | (4.76 | ) | (4.94 | ) | (2.80 | ) | ||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 126.45 | $ | 104.07 | $ | 85.65 | $ | 84.35 | $ | 73.06 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
25.28 | % | 23.55 | % | 8.09 | % | 23.43 | % | 22.74 | % | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 185.8 | $ | 147.3 | $ | 109.0 | $ | 73.5 | $ | 22.5 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.04 | %(2) | 1.05 | % | 1.05 | % | 1.04 | % | 1.04 | % | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.76 | )% | (0.57 | )% | (0.47 | )% | (0.54 | )% | (0.51 | )% | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
9.54 | % | 9.28 | % | 11.83 | % | 9.87 | % | 10.35 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
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RETAIL SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 90.65 | $ | 78.95 | $ | 80.68 | $ | 71.77 | $ | 67.13 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.81 | )(1) | (0.35 | )(1) | (0.16 | )(1) | (0.17 | )(1) | (0.16 | )(1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
32.65 | 15.10 | 3.56 | 16.98 | 12.44 | |||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
31.84 | 14.75 | 3.40 | 16.81 | 12.28 | |||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(4.85 | ) | (3.05 | ) | (5.13 | ) | (7.90 | ) | (7.64 | ) | ||||||||||
Total distributions |
(4.85 | ) | (3.05 | ) | (5.13 | ) | (7.90 | ) | (7.64 | ) | ||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 117.64 | $ | 90.65 | $ | 78.95 | $ | 80.68 | $ | 71.77 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
36.19 | %(3) | 19.08 | % | 5.09 | % | 25.55 | % | 20.47 | % | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 3,041.4 | $ | 2,535.3 | $ | 2,507.0 | $ | 2,747.8 | $ | 2,666.6 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.29 | %(2) | 1.30 | %(2) | 1.29 | %(2) | 1.29 | %(2) | 1.30 | %(2) | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.75 | )% | (0.44 | )% | (0.21 | )% | (0.24 | )% | (0.25 | )% | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
1.37 | % | 1.63 | % | 1.93 | % | 2.92 | % | 3.32 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
(3) | The Adviser made a voluntary payment to the Fund in the amount of $739,525 to compensate the Fund for a loss incurred due to a valuation error. The impact of this payment increased the Fund’s total return by 0.01%. |
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INSTITUTIONAL SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 94.15 | $ | 81.69 | $ | 83.09 | $ | 73.52 | $ | 68.42 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.56 | )(1) | (0.16 | )(1) | 0.03 | (1) | 0.01 | (1) | 0.00 | (1)(2) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
33.99 | 15.67 | 3.70 | 17.46 | 12.74 | |||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
33.43 | 15.51 | 3.73 | 17.47 | 12.74 | |||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(4.85 | ) | (3.05 | ) | (5.13 | ) | (7.90 | ) | (7.64 | ) | ||||||||||
Total distributions |
(4.85 | ) | (3.05 | ) | (5.13 | ) | (7.90 | ) | (7.64 | ) | ||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 122.73 | $ | 94.15 | $ | 81.69 | $ | 83.09 | $ | 73.52 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
36.55 | %(3) | 19.38 | % | 5.36 | % | 25.86 | % | 20.79 | % | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 5,934.8 | $ | 4,608.4 | $ | 4,150.9 | $ | 4,134.2 | $ | 3,433.5 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.03 | %(4) | 1.04 | %(4) | 1.04 | %(4) | 1.03 | %(4) | 1.04 | %(4) | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.50 | )% | (0.20 | )% | 0.03 | % | 0.01 | % | 0.00 | %(5) | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
1.37 | % | 1.63 | % | 1.93 | % | 2.92 | % | 3.32 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | Less than $0.01 per share. |
(3) | The Adviser made a voluntary payment to the Fund in the amount of $739,525 to compensate the Fund for a loss incurred due to a valuation error. The impact of this payment increased the Fund’s total return by 0.01%. |
(4) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
(5) | Less than 0.01%. |
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R6 SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 94.16 | $ | 81.70 | $ | 83.10 | $ | 73.52 | $ | 68.42 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.56 | )(1) | (0.17 | )(1) | 0.00 | (1)(2) | (0.00 | )(1)(2) | (0.11 | )(1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
34.00 | 15.68 | 3.73 | 17.48 | 12.85 | |||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
33.44 | 15.51 | 3.73 | 17.48 | 12.74 | |||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(4.85 | ) | (3.05 | ) | (5.13 | ) | (7.90 | ) | (7.64 | ) | ||||||||||
Total distributions |
(4.85 | ) | (3.05 | ) | (5.13 | ) | (7.90 | ) | (7.64 | ) | ||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 122.75 | $ | 94.16 | $ | 81.70 | $ | 83.10 | $ | 73.52 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
36.56 | %(3) | 19.38 | % | 5.36 | % | 25.88 | % | 20.79 | % | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 225.8 | $ | 167.8 | $ | 131.6 | $ | 107.4 | $ | 12.5 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.03 | %(4) | 1.04 | %(4) | 1.04 | %(4) | 1.04 | %(4) | 1.05 | %(4) | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.50 | )% | (0.20 | )% | 0.00 | %(5) | (0.00 | )%(5) | (0.15 | )% | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
1.37 | % | 1.63 | % | 1.93 | % | 2.92 | % | 3.32 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | Less than $0.01 per share. |
(3) | The Adviser made a voluntary payment to the Fund in the amount of $739,525 to compensate the Fund for a loss incurred due to a valuation error. The impact of this payment increased the Fund’s total return by 0.01%. |
(4) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
(5) | Less than 0.01%. |
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RETAIL SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 35.06 | $ | 29.44 | $ | 33.68 | $ | 30.64 | $ | 30.59 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.16 | )(1) | (0.29 | )(1) | (0.27 | )(1) | (0.32 | )(1) | (0.04 | )(1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
9.89 | 8.73 | (1.36 | ) | 7.21 | 5.77 | ||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
9.73 | 8.44 | (1.63 | ) | 6.89 | 5.73 | ||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(4.12 | ) | (2.82 | ) | (2.61 | ) | (3.85 | ) | (5.68 | ) | ||||||||||
Total distributions |
(4.12 | ) | (2.82 | ) | (2.61 | ) | (3.85 | ) | (5.68 | ) | ||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 40.67 | $ | 35.06 | $ | 29.44 | $ | 33.68 | $ | 30.64 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
29.77 | % | 30.60 | % | (4.17 | )% | 25.00 | % | 22.45 | % | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
|
|||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 1,829.5 | $ | 1,511.3 | $ | 1,451.9 | $ | 1,831.3 | $ | 1,730.3 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.29 | % | 1.31 | % | 1.31 | % | 1.30 | % | 1.31 | %(2) | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.40 | )% | (0.98 | )% | (0.95 | )% | (1.05 | )% | (0.15 | )% | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
15.70 | % | 16.93 | % | 13.44 | % | 14.19 | % | 28.95 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
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INSTITUTIONAL SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 36.86 | $ | 30.74 | $ | 34.95 | $ | 31.58 | $ | 31.29 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.06 | )(1) | (0.23 | )(1) | (0.21 | )(1) | (0.25 | )(1) | 0.02 | (1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
10.44 | 9.17 | (1.39 | ) | 7.47 | 5.95 | ||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
10.38 | 8.94 | (1.60 | ) | 7.22 | 5.97 | ||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(4.12 | ) | (2.82 | ) | (2.61 | ) | (3.85 | ) | (5.68 | ) | ||||||||||
Total distributions |
(4.12 | ) | (2.82 | ) | (2.61 | ) | (3.85 | ) | (5.68 | ) | ||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 43.12 | $ | 36.86 | $ | 30.74 | $ | 34.95 | $ | 31.58 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
30.11 | % | 30.96 | % | (3.91 | )% | 25.33 | % | 22.76 | % | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 3,214.2 | $ | 2,724.6 | $ | 2,267.3 | $ | 2,696.7 | $ | 2,404.6 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.03 | % | 1.05 | % | 1.05 | % | 1.04 | % | 1.05 | %(2) | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.15 | )% | (0.74 | )% | (0.69 | )% | (0.79 | )% | 0.06 | % | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
15.70 | % | 16.93 | % | 13.44 | % | 14.19 | % | 28.95 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
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Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
R6 SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 36.85 | $ | 30.73 | $ | 34.94 | $ | 31.57 | $ | 31.29 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.06 | )(1) | (0.23 | )(1) | (0.21 | )(1) | (0.26 | )(1) | (0.08 | )(1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
10.43 | 9.17 | (1.39 | ) | 7.48 | 6.04 | ||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
10.37 | 8.94 | (1.60 | ) | 7.22 | 5.96 | ||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(4.12 | ) | (2.82 | ) | (2.61 | ) | (3.85 | ) | (5.68 | ) | ||||||||||
Total distributions |
(4.12 | ) | (2.82 | ) | (2.61 | ) | (3.85 | ) | (5.68 | ) | ||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 43.10 | $ | 36.85 | $ | 30.73 | $ | 34.94 | $ | 31.57 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
30.09 | % | 30.97 | % | (3.91 | )% | 25.34 | % | 22.72 | % | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 272.8 | $ | 218.5 | $ | 161.9 | $ | 155.2 | $ | 101.8 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.04 | % | 1.05 | % | 1.05 | % | 1.05 | % | 1.06 | %(2) | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.16 | )% | (0.74 | )% | (0.70 | )% | (0.82 | )% | (0.28 | )% | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
15.70 | % | 16.93 | % | 13.44 | % | 14.19 | % | 28.95 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
1-800-99BARON |
95 |
Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
RETAIL SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 35.11 | $ | 21.53 | $ | 22.02 | $ | 18.53 | $ | 16.87 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.49 | )(1) | (0.30 | )(1) | (0.22 | )(1) | (0.22 | )(1) | (0.20 | )(1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
11.65 | 15.56 | 0.66 | 6.36 | 3.75 | |||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
11.16 | 15.26 | 0.44 | 6.14 | 3.55 | |||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(2.78 | ) | (1.68 | ) | (0.93 | ) | (2.65 | ) | (1.89 | ) | ||||||||||
Total distributions |
(2.78 | ) | (1.68 | ) | (0.93 | ) | (2.65 | ) | (1.89 | ) | ||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 43.49 | $ | 35.11 | $ | 21.53 | $ | 22.02 | $ | 18.53 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
33.58 | % | 75.25 | % | 2.51 | % | 37.41 | % | 24.32 | % | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 866.5 | $ | 644.9 | $ | 302.6 | $ | 363.6 | $ | 201.4 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.31 | %(2) | 1.34 | %(2) | 1.34 | %(2) | 1.37 | %(2) | 1.41 | %(2) | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(1.19 | )% | (1.14 | )% | (1.07 | )% | (1.13 | )% | (1.18 | )% | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
38.74 | % | 42.52 | % | 37.10 | % | 23.97 | % | 32.62 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
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INSTITUTIONAL SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 36.79 | $ | 22.42 | $ | 22.83 | $ | 19.08 | $ | 17.27 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.41 | )(1) | (0.25 | )(1) | (0.18 | )(1) | (0.18 | )(1) | (0.16 | )(1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
12.25 | 16.30 | 0.70 | 6.58 | 3.86 | |||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
11.84 | 16.05 | 0.52 | 6.40 | 3.70 | |||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(2.78 | ) | (1.68 | ) | (0.93 | ) | (2.65 | ) | (1.89 | ) | ||||||||||
Total distributions |
(2.78 | ) | (1.68 | ) | (0.93 | ) | (2.65 | ) | (1.89 | ) | ||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 45.85 | $ | 36.79 | $ | 22.42 | $ | 22.83 | $ | 19.08 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
33.91 | % | 75.82 | % | 2.78 | % | 37.73 | % | 24.65 | % | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 711.4 | $ | 409.5 | $ | 94.4 | $ | 96.4 | $ | 51.7 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.05 | %(2) | 1.08 | %(2) | 1.09 | %(2) | 1.11 | %(2) | 1.14 | %(2) | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.93 | )% | (0.88 | )% | (0.82 | )% | (0.88 | )% | (0.92 | )% | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
38.74 | % | 42.52 | % | 37.10 | % | 23.97 | % | 32.62 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
1-800-99BARON |
97 |
Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
R6 SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 36.82 | $ | 22.45 | $ | 22.86 | $ | 19.09 | $ | 17.28 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.41 | )(1) | (0.24 | )(1) | (0.18 | )(1) | (0.17 | )(1) | (0.16 | )(1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
12.27 | 16.29 | 0.70 | 6.59 | 3.86 | |||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
11.86 | 16.05 | 0.52 | 6.42 | 3.70 | |||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(2.78 | ) | (1.68 | ) | (0.93 | ) | (2.65 | ) | (1.89 | ) | ||||||||||
Total distributions |
(2.78 | ) | (1.68 | ) | (0.93 | ) | (2.65 | ) | (1.89 | ) | ||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 45.90 | $ | 36.82 | $ | 22.45 | $ | 22.86 | $ | 19.09 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
33.94 | % | 75.71 | % | 2.78 | % | 37.83 | % | 24.64 | % | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 36.1 | $ | 25.7 | $ | 14.5 | $ | 14.0 | $ | 1.0 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.05 | %(2) | 1.08 | %(2) | 1.08 | %(2) | 1.09 | %(2) | 1.12 | %(2) | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.93 | )% | (0.87 | )% | (0.81 | )% | (0.82 | )% | (0.89 | )% | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
38.74 | % | 42.52 | % | 37.10 | % | 23.97 | % | 32.62 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
98 | www.BaronFunds.com |
Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
RETAIL SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 46.62 | $ | 32.10 | $ | 31.02 | $ | 24.04 | $ | 19.35 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.46 | )(1) | (0.26 | )(1) | 0.07 | (1) | (0.17 | )(1) | (0.11 | )(1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
9.35 | 15.77 | 1.01 | 7.15 | 4.80 | |||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
8.89 | 15.51 | 1.08 | 6.98 | 4.69 | |||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(0.18 | ) | (0.99 | ) | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||
Total distributions |
(0.18 | ) | (0.99 | ) | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 55.33 | $ | 46.62 | $ | 32.10 | $ | 31.02 | $ | 24.04 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
19.13 | %(2) | 49.56 | %(2) | 3.48 | %(2) | 29.03 | %(2) | 24.24 | %(2) | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 187.8 | $ | 176.9 | $ | 115.5 | $ | 132.2 | $ | 87.5 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.02 | % | 1.05 | % | 1.06 | % | 1.09 | % | 1.12 | %(3) | ||||||||||
Less: Reimbursement of expenses by Adviser and/or offsets |
(0.02 | )% | (0.05 | )% | (0.06 | )% | (0.08 | )% | (0.02 | )% | ||||||||||
Ratio of net operating expenses to average net assets |
1.00 | % | 1.00 | % | 1.00 | % | 1.01 | % | 1.10 | % | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.88 | )% | (0.70 | )% | 0.23 | % | (0.61 | )% | (0.50 | )% | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
15.87 | % | 11.57 | % | 21.24 | % | 8.81 | % | 13.94 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | The total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced during the period shown. |
(3) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
1-800-99BARON |
99 |
Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
INSTITUTIONAL SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 47.75 | $ | 32.80 | $ | 31.62 | $ | 24.44 | $ | 19.62 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.34 | )(1) | (0.17 | )(1) | 0.17 | (1) | (0.10 | )(1) | (0.05 | )(1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
9.59 | 16.15 | 1.01 | 7.28 | 4.87 | |||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
9.25 | 15.98 | 1.18 | 7.18 | 4.82 | |||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | (0.04 | ) | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(0.18 | ) | (0.99 | ) | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||
Total distributions |
(0.18 | ) | (1.03 | ) | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 56.82 | $ | 47.75 | $ | 32.80 | $ | 31.62 | $ | 24.44 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
19.44 | %(2) | 49.93 | %(2) | 3.73 | %(2) | 29.38 | %(2) | 24.57 | % | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 609.8 | $ | 350.5 | $ | 170.4 | $ | 152.2 | $ | 89.5 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
0.75 | % | 0.78 | % | 0.80 | % | 0.82 | % | 0.84 | %(4) | ||||||||||
Less: Reimbursement of expenses by Adviser and/or offsets |
(0.00 | )%(3) | (0.03 | )% | (0.05 | )% | (0.06 | )% | 0.00 | % | ||||||||||
Ratio of net operating expenses to average net assets |
0.75 | % | 0.75 | % | 0.75 | % | 0.76 | % | 0.84 | % | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.63 | )% | (0.45 | )% | 0.56 | % | (0.36 | )% | (0.24 | )% | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
15.87 | % | 11.57 | % | 21.24 | % | 8.81 | % | 13.94 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | The total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced during the period shown. |
(3) | Less than 0.01%. |
(4) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
100 | www.BaronFunds.com |
Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
R6 SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 47.76 | $ | 32.81 | $ | 31.63 | $ | 24.45 | $ | 19.63 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.34 | )(1) | (0.17 | )(1) | 0.17 | (1) | (0.11 | )(1) | (0.06 | )(1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
9.60 | 16.15 | 1.01 | 7.29 | 4.88 | |||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
9.26 | 15.98 | 1.18 | 7.18 | 4.82 | |||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | (0.04 | ) | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(0.18 | ) | (0.99 | ) | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||
Total distributions |
(0.18 | ) | (1.03 | ) | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | |||||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 56.84 | $ | 47.76 | $ | 32.81 | $ | 31.63 | $ | 24.45 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
19.45 | %(2) | 49.92 | %(2) | 3.73 | %(2) | 29.37 | %(2) | 24.55 | % | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 39.6 | $ | 33.1 | $ | 22.5 | $ | 21.4 | $ | 4.7 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
0.75 | % | 0.78 | % | 0.79 | % | 0.80 | % | 0.84 | %(4) | ||||||||||
Less: Reimbursement of expenses by Adviser and/or offsets |
(0.00 | )%(3) | (0.03 | )% | (0.04 | )% | (0.05 | )% | 0.00 | % | ||||||||||
Ratio of net operating expenses to average net assets |
0.75 | % | 0.75 | % | 0.75 | % | 0.75 | % | 0.84 | % | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.63 | )% | (0.45 | )% | 0.54 | % | (0.37 | )% | (0.27 | )% | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
15.87 | % | 11.57 | % | 21.24 | % | 8.81 | % | 13.94 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | The total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced during the period shown. |
(3) | Less than 0.01%. |
(4) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
1-800-99BARON |
101 |
Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
RETAIL SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 28.17 | $ | 19.41 | $ | 23.77 | $ | 17.56 | $ | 13.40 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.43 | )(1) | (0.24 | )(1) | (0.22 | )(1) | 0.09 | (1) | (0.17 | )(1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
10.25 | 9.03 | (2.64 | ) | 6.13 | 4.33 | ||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
9.82 | 8.79 | (2.86 | ) | 6.22 | 4.16 | ||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | (0.01 | ) | 0.00 | ||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(1.06 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (1.50 | ) | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||
Total distributions |
(1.06 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (1.50 | ) | (0.01 | ) | 0.00 | |||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 36.93 | $ | 28.17 | $ | 19.41 | $ | 23.77 | $ | 17.56 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
35.61 | % | 45.33 | % | (11.93 | )%(2) | 35.41 | %(2) | 31.04 | %(2) | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 270.3 | $ | 165.2 | $ | 122.7 | $ | 108.2 | $ | 131.2 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.31 | % | 1.35 | % | 1.36 | % | 1.40 | %(3) | 1.47 | % | ||||||||||
Less: Reimbursement of expenses by Adviser and/or offsets |
0.00 | % | 0.00 | % | (0.01 | )% | (0.05 | )% | (0.12 | )% | ||||||||||
Ratio of net operating expenses to average net assets |
1.31 | % | 1.35 | % | 1.35 | % | 1.35 | % | 1.35 | % | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(1.20 | )% | (1.09 | )% | (1.10 | )% | 0.45 | % | (1.11 | )% | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
36.52 | % | 43.36 | % | 55.94 | % | 72.25 | % | 40.97 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | The total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced during the period shown. |
(3) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
102 | www.BaronFunds.com |
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INSTITUTIONAL SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 28.65 | $ | 19.68 | $ | 24.03 | $ | 17.74 | $ | 13.50 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.35 | )(1) | (0.19 | )(1) | (0.18 | )(1) | 0.01 | (1) | (0.13 | )(1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
10.44 | 9.19 | (2.67 | ) | 6.32 | 4.37 | ||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
10.09 | 9.00 | (2.85 | ) | 6.33 | 4.24 | ||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | (0.04 | ) | 0.00 | ||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(1.06 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (1.50 | ) | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||
Total distributions |
(1.06 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (1.50 | ) | (0.04 | ) | 0.00 | |||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 37.68 | $ | 28.65 | $ | 19.68 | $ | 24.03 | $ | 17.74 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
35.97 | % | 45.77 | % | (11.75 | )% | 35.74 | %(2) | 31.41 | %(2) | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 1,721.2 | $ | 759.2 | $ | 409.4 | $ | 280.2 | $ | 113.6 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.05 | % | 1.08 | % | 1.10 | % | 1.12 | %(3) | 1.23 | % | ||||||||||
Less: Reimbursement of expenses by Adviser and/or offsets |
0.00 | % | 0.00 | % | 0.00 | % | (0.02 | )% | (0.13 | )% | ||||||||||
Ratio of net operating expenses to average net assets |
1.05 | % | 1.08 | % | 1.10 | % | 1.10 | % | 1.10 | % | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.94 | )% | (0.82 | )% | (0.88 | )% | 0.05 | % | (0.85 | )% | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
36.52 | % | 43.36 | % | 55.94 | % | 72.25 | % | 40.97 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | The total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced during the period shown. |
(3) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
1-800-99BARON |
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Information about your Investment | Baron Funds® |
R6 SHARES | ||||||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018 | 2017 | ||||||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 28.65 | $ | 19.68 | $ | 24.03 | $ | 17.74 | $ | 13.50 | ||||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.35 | )(1) | (0.19 | )(1) | (0.18 | )(1) | 0.03 | (1) | (0.12 | )(1) | ||||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
10.44 | 9.19 | (2.67 | ) | 6.30 | 4.36 | ||||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
10.09 | 9.00 | (2.85 | ) | 6.33 | 4.24 | ||||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
| |||||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | (0.04 | ) | 0.00 | ||||||||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
(1.06 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (1.50 | ) | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||
Total distributions |
(1.06 | ) | (0.03 | ) | (1.50 | ) | (0.04 | ) | 0.00 | |||||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 37.68 | $ | 28.65 | $ | 19.68 | $ | 24.03 | $ | 17.74 | ||||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
35.97 | % | 45.77 | % | (11.75 | )% | 35.75 | %(2) | 31.41 | %(2) | ||||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
||||||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 38.1 | $ | 15.3 | $ | 6.8 | $ | 5.6 | $ | 3.2 | ||||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.05 | % | 1.08 | % | 1.09 | % | 1.10 | %(3) | 1.22 | % | ||||||||||
Less: Reimbursement of expenses by Adviser and/or offsets |
0.00 | % | 0.00 | % | 0.00 | % | (0.01 | )% | (0.13 | )% | ||||||||||
Ratio of net operating expenses to average net assets |
1.05 | % | 1.08 | % | 1.09 | % | 1.09 | % | 1.09 | % | ||||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.94 | )% | (0.83 | )% | (0.88 | )% | 0.15 | % | (0.79 | )% | ||||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
36.52 | % | 43.36 | % | 55.94 | % | 72.25 | % | 40.97 | % |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | The total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced during the period shown. |
(3) | Interest expense rounds to less than 0.01%. |
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RETAIL SHARES | ||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018(6) | |||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 14.47 | $ | 11.77 | $ | 10.74 | $ | 10.00 | ||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
|
|||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.05 | )(1) | (0.00 | )(1)(2) | 0.03 | (1) | 0.01 | (1) | ||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
4.06 | 2.72 | 1.03 | 0.73 | ||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
4.01 | 2.72 | 1.06 | 0.74 | ||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
|
|||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
(0.01 | ) | (0.02 | ) | (0.03 | ) | 0.00 | |||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||
Total distributions |
(0.01 | ) | (0.02 | ) | (0.03 | ) | 0.00 | |||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 18.47 | $ | 14.47 | $ | 11.77 | $ | 10.74 | ||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
27.70 | %(3) | 23.10 | %(3) | 9.97 | %(3) | 7.40 | %(3)(4) | ||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
|
|||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 9.8 | $ | 4.0 | $ | 1.9 | $ | 0.6 | ||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.91 | % | 2.80 | % | 6.22 | % | 7.45 | %(5) | ||||||||
Less: Reimbursement of expenses by Adviser and/or offsets |
(0.96 | )% | (1.85 | )% | (5.27 | )% | (6.50 | )%(5) | ||||||||
Ratio of net operating expenses to average net assets |
0.95 | % | 0.95 | % | 0.95 | % | 0.95 | %(5) | ||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.29 | )% | (0.01 | )% | 0.25 | % | 0.19 | %(5) | ||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
10.58 | % | 16.55 | % | 13.23 | % | 5.85 | %(4) |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | Less than $0.01 per share. |
(3) | The total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced during the period shown. |
(4) | Not annualized. |
(5) | Annualized. |
(6) | For the period January 2, 2018 (commencement of operations) to September 30, 2018. |
1-800-99BARON |
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INSTITUTIONAL SHARES | ||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018(5) | |||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 14.56 | $ | 11.82 | $ | 10.76 | $ | 10.00 | ||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.01 | )(1) | 0.03 | (1) | 0.06 | (1) | 0.04 | (1) | ||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
4.09 | 2.73 | 1.03 | 0.72 | ||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
4.08 | 2.76 | 1.09 | 0.76 | ||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
(0.01 | ) | (0.02 | ) | (0.03 | ) | 0.00 | |||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||
Total distributions |
(0.01 | ) | (0.02 | ) | (0.03 | ) | 0.00 | |||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 18.63 | $ | 14.56 | $ | 11.82 | $ | 10.76 | ||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
28.01 | %(2) | 23.34 | %(2) | 10.23 | %(2) | 7.60 | %(2)(3) | ||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 27.1 | $ | 8.0 | $ | 4.7 | $ | 3.0 | ||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.48 | % | 2.40 | % | 4.91 | % | 5.71 | %(4) | ||||||||
Less: Reimbursement of expenses by Adviser and/or offsets |
(0.78 | )% | (1.70 | )% | (4.21 | )% | (5.01 | )%(4) | ||||||||
Ratio of net operating expenses to average net assets |
0.70 | % | 0.70 | % | 0.70 | % | 0.70 | %(4) | ||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.05 | )% | 0.22 | % | 0.52 | % | 0.46 | %(4) | ||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
10.58 | % | 16.55 | % | 13.23 | % | 5.85 | %(3) |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | The total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced during the period shown. |
(3) | Not annualized. |
(4) | Annualized. |
(5) | For the period January 2, 2018 (commencement of operations) to September 30, 2018. |
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R6 SHARES | ||||||||||||||||
Year Ended September 30, | ||||||||||||||||
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | 2018(5) | |||||||||||||
Net asset value, beginning of year |
$ | 14.56 | $ | 11.82 | $ | 10.75 | $ | 10.00 | ||||||||
INCOME (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENT OPERATIONS: |
||||||||||||||||
Net investment income (loss) |
(0.01 | )(1) | 0.03 | (1) | 0.06 | (1) | 0.04 | (1) | ||||||||
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments |
4.09 | 2.73 | 1.04 | 0.71 | ||||||||||||
Total from investment operations |
4.08 | 2.76 | 1.10 | 0.75 | ||||||||||||
LESS DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM: |
||||||||||||||||
Net investment income |
(0.01 | ) | (0.02 | ) | (0.03 | ) | 0.00 | |||||||||
Net realized gain on investments |
0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | 0.00 | ||||||||||||
Total distributions |
(0.01 | ) | (0.02 | ) | (0.03 | ) | 0.00 | |||||||||
Net asset value, end of year |
$ | 18.63 | $ | 14.56 | $ | 11.82 | $ | 10.75 | ||||||||
TOTAL RETURN |
28.01 | %(2) | 23.34 | %(2) | 10.34 | %(2) | 7.50 | %(2)(3) | ||||||||
RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA: |
||||||||||||||||
Net assets (in millions), end of year |
$ | 4.3 | $ | 2.5 | $ | 0.5 | $ | 0.4 | ||||||||
Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets |
1.47 | % | 1.93 | % | 4.65 | % | 5.24 | %(4) | ||||||||
Less: Reimbursement of expenses by Adviser and/or offsets |
(0.77 | )% | (1.23 | )% | (3.95 | )% | (4.54 | )%(4) | ||||||||
Ratio of net operating expenses to average net assets |
0.70 | % | 0.70 | % | 0.70 | % | 0.70 | %(4) | ||||||||
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets |
(0.04 | )% | 0.23 | % | 0.53 | % | 0.46 | %(4) | ||||||||
Portfolio turnover rate |
10.58 | % | 16.55 | % | 13.23 | % | 5.85 | %(3) |
(1) | Based on average shares outstanding. |
(2) | The total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced during the period shown. |
(3) | Not annualized. |
(4) | Annualized. |
(5) | For the period January 2, 2018 (commencement of operations) to September 30, 2018. |
1-800-99BARON |
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Notes |
Notes |
Notes |
By telephone: | Call 1-800-99BARON (1-800-992-2766) | |||
By mail: | Write to: BARON FUNDS® 767 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10153 |
|||
By e-mail: | Send your request to: info@BaronFunds.com |
|||
On the Internet: | Text-only versions of Baron Funds® documents can be viewed online or downloaded from: www.BaronFunds.com or from the EDGAR database on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov. | |||
Ticker Symbols: | Baron Asset Fund | |||
Retail Shares |
BARAX | |||
Institutional Shares |
BARIX | |||
R6 Shares |
BARUX | |||
Baron Growth Fund | ||||
Retail Shares |
BGRFX | |||
Institutional Shares |
BGRIX | |||
R6 Shares |
BGRUX | |||
Baron Small Cap Fund | ||||
Retail Shares |
BSCFX | |||
Institutional Shares |
BSFIX | |||
R6 Shares |
BSCUX | |||
Baron Opportunity Fund | ||||
Retail Shares |
BIOPX | |||
Institutional Shares |
BIOIX | |||
R6 Shares |
BIOUX | |||
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund | ||||
Retail Shares |
BFTHX | |||
Institutional Shares |
BFTIX | |||
R6 Shares |
BFTUX | |||
Baron Discovery Fund | ||||
Retail Shares |
BDFFX | |||
Institutional Shares |
BDFIX | |||
R6 Shares |
BDFUX | |||
Baron Durable Advantage Fund | ||||
Retail Shares |
BDAFX | |||
Institutional Shares |
BDAIX | |||
R6 Shares |
BDAUX | |||
SEC file number: | 811-5032 |
BARON INVESTMENT FUNDS TRUST
Baron Asset Fund
Retail Shares: BARAX
Institutional Shares: BARIX
R6 Shares: BARUX
Baron Growth Fund
Retail Shares: BGRFX
Institutional Shares: BGRIX
R6 Shares: BGRUX
Baron Small Cap Fund
Retail Shares: BSCFX
Institutional Shares: BSFIX
R6 Shares:BSCUX
Baron Opportunity Fund
Retail Shares: BIOPX
Institutional Shares: BIOIX
R6 Shares: BIOUX
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund
Retail Shares: BFTHX
Institutional Shares: BFTIX
R6 Shares: BFTUX
Baron Discovery Fund
Retail Shares: BDFFX
Institutional Shares: BDFIX
R6 Shares: BDFUX
Baron Durable Advantage Fund
Retail Shares: BDAFX
Institutional Shares: BDAIX
R6 Shares: BDAUX
767 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10153
(800) 99Baron
212-583-2100
Statement of Additional Information
dated January 28, 2022
This Statement of Additional Information (“SAI”) is not a prospectus. This SAI should be read in conjunction with the Funds’ Prospectus, dated January 28, 2022, which may be obtained without charge by writing or calling the Funds at the address or telephone number above or by visiting www.BaronFunds.com.
The Funds’ audited financial statements for the year ended September 30, 2021 are incorporated by reference into this SAI, which accompany this SAI and also can be found at www.BaronFunds.com. You also may request a copy of the Annual and Semi-Annual Financial Reports at no charge by writing or calling the Funds at the address or telephone number above.
No person has been authorized to give any information or to make any representations other than those contained in this SAI or in the related Prospectus.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
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FUND HISTORY
Effective October 22, 2004, the name of Baron Asset Fund was changed to Baron Investment Funds Trust (the “Trust”). The Trust is an open-end, diversified management investment company originally organized and established under the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts on February 19, 1987. The Trust is structured to be able to issue shares in multiple series, each constituting a separate portfolio with separate assets and liabilities from any other series. There are seven series currently available (individually, a “Fund,” and collectively, the “Funds”):
Name of Series |
Date of First Public Offering | Date of Commencement of Investment Trading | ||
Baron Asset Fund |
June 11, 1987 | June 12, 1987 | ||
Baron Growth Fund |
December 31, 1994 | January 3, 1995 | ||
Baron Small Cap Fund |
September 30, 1997 | October 1, 1997 | ||
Baron Opportunity Fund |
February 29, 2000 | March 1, 2000 | ||
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund |
April 30, 2004 | May 1, 2004 | ||
Baron Discovery Fund |
September 30, 2013 | October 1, 2013 | ||
Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
December 29, 2017 | January 2, 2018 |
DESCRIPTION OF THE FUNDS AND THEIR INVESTMENTS AND RISKS
Investment Strategies and Risks.
• | Baron Asset Fund’s investment goal is to seek capital appreciation through long-term investments primarily in securities of mid-sized growth companies with undervalued assets or favorable growth prospects. Baron Asset Fund invests 65% of its net assets in equity securities in the form of common stock of mid-sized growth companies with market capitalizations above $2.5 billion or the smallest market cap stock in the Russell Midcap Growth Index at reconstitution, whichever is larger, and below the largest market cap stock in the Russell Midcap Growth Index at reconstitution. The 65% standard is measured at the time of purchase. |
• | Baron Growth Fund’s investment goal is to seek capital appreciation through long-term investments primarily in securities of small-sized growth companies. Baron Growth Fund invests 65% of its net assets in equity securities in the form of common stock of small-sized growth companies with market capitalizations up to the largest market cap stock in the Russell 2000 Growth Index at reconstitution, or companies with market capitalizations up to $2.5 billion, whichever is larger. The 65% standard is measured at the time of purchase. |
• | Baron Small Cap Fund’s investment goal is to seek capital appreciation through investments primarily in securities of small-sized growth companies. Baron Small Cap Fund invests 80% of its net assets in equity securities in the form of common stock of small-sized growth companies with market capitalizations up to the largest market cap stock in the Russell 2000 Growth Index at reconstitution, or companies with market capitalizations up to $2.5 billion, whichever is larger. The 80% standard is measured at the time of purchase. |
• | The investment goal of Baron Opportunity Fund is capital appreciation through investments primarily in growth companies that benefit from technology advances. Baron Opportunity Fund invests primarily in equity securities in the form of common stock of high growth businesses of any market capitalization selected for their capital appreciation potential. |
• | Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund’s investment goal is to seek capital appreciation through investments primarily in securities of large-sized growth companies. Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund invests 65% of its net assets in equity securities in the form of common stock of large-sized growth companies with market capitalizations no smaller than the top 85th percentile by total market capitalization of the Russell 1000 Growth Index at June 30, or companies with market capitalizations above $10 billion, whichever is smaller. The 65% standard is measured at the time of purchase. |
3
• | Baron Discovery Fund’s investment goal is to seek capital appreciation through investments primarily in securities of small-sized growth companies. Baron Discovery Fund invests 65% of its net assets in equity securities in the form of common stock of small-sized growth companies with market capitalizations up to the largest market cap stock in the Russell 2000 Growth Index at reconstitution, or companies with market capitalizations up to $2.5 billion, whichever is larger. The 65% standard is measured at the time of purchase. |
• | Baron Durable Advantage Fund’s investment goal is to seek capital appreciation through investments primarily in securities of large-sized companies. Baron Durable Advantage Fund invests primarily in equity securities in the form of common stock of large-sized companies. The Adviser defines large-sized companies as those, at the time of purchase, with market capitalizations no smaller than the top 90th percentile by total market capitalization of the S&P 500 Index at June 30, or companies with market capitalizations above $10 billion, whichever is smaller. |
Because Baron Asset Fund, Baron Growth Fund, Baron Small Cap Fund, Baron Opportunity Fund, Baron Discovery Fund and Baron Durable Advantage Fund invest for the long term, they may hold securities that have appreciated beyond their market capitalizations at the time of the Funds’ investments.
In addition to the investment strategies of the Funds described in each of their respective summary sections and in the Prospectus on pages 56-59, the Funds may use the additional strategies described below. These investment strategies are not fundamental policies and may be changed by the Trust’s Board of Trustees (the “Board”) without shareholder approval upon at least 60 days’ notice. Shareholders will be notified of any material changes. Some of the strategies discussed below are mentioned in the prospectus, but they are explained in more detail here.
Recent Market and Economic Developments
A outbreak of respiratory disease caused by a novel coronavirus was first detected in Wuhan City, Hubei Province, China and has spread internationally. The virus, named “SARS-CoV-2” (sometimes referred to as the “coronavirus”) and the resulting disease, which is referred to as “COVID-19,” has been declared a pandemic by the World Health Organization and has resulted in border closings, enhanced health screenings, healthcare service preparation and delivery, quarantines, cancellations, disruptions to supply chains and customer activity, as well as general concern and uncertainty.
The United States and many other developed and emerging market countries and global debt and equity capital markets have been materially and adversely affected by the impact of, and the significant uncertainty about the future caused by, the pandemic spread of COVID-19. As a result, certain financial institutions as well as the global financial system experienced severe economic distress. There have been material and adverse impacts on the broader financial and credit markets and the debt and equity capital for the market as a whole, and certain risks discussed in the Prospectus and elsewhere in this SAI may be exacerbated, such as credit risk, liquidity risk, interest rate risk and the risks of investing in certain sectors. Many interest rates are very low and in some cases yields are negative, and it is possible that, particularly during periods of low prevailing interest rates, the income from Fund securities will be reduced. These events have contributed, and may continue to contribute, to severe market volatility, which may adversely impact the Funds’ net asset values and result in heightened volatility in the performance of the Funds’ investments. In addition to these events having adverse consequences for the Funds and the Funds’ investments, the operations of the Adviser and its affiliates and the Funds’ other service providers have been impacted, and may continue to be impacted, perhaps significantly adversely impacted, as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, such as restrictions on certain business operations, which may have long-term negative impacts on such operations generally or the ability of such operations to remain viable; more limited resources as the result of adverse market conditions that may negatively impact the cash flow and/or profitability of such businesses; quarantine measures and travel restrictions imposed on such entities’ personnel based or temporarily located in affected regions; or any related health issues of such entities’ personnel.
4
Some sectors of the economy and individual issuers experienced particularly large losses. Many of them have recovered somewhat. For example, companies in the energy sector, including MLPs and energy infrastructure companies in which certain Funds invest, for a period were adversely impacted by reduced demand for oil and other energy commodities as a result of the slowdown in economic activity resulting from the pandemic spread of COVID-19 and by price competition among key oil producing countries.
The United States has responded to the COVID-19 pandemic and resulting economic distress with fiscal and monetary stimulus packages. In late March 2020, Congress passed, and President Trump signed, the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act (the “CARES Act”), a stimulus package providing for over $2.2 trillion in resources to small businesses, state and local governments, and individuals that have been adversely impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. During the Biden Administration, additional legislation in response to COVID-19 has been passed. The Federal Reserve also enacted various programs to support liquidity operations and funding in the financial markets, including massively expanding its reverse repurchase agreement operations, adding $1.5 trillion of liquidity to the banking system; establishing swap lines with other major central banks to provide dollar funding; establishing a program to support money market funds; easing various bank capital buffers; providing funding backstop for businesses to provide bridging loans for up to four years; and providing funding to help credit flow in asset-backed securities markets. Recently, the threat of inflation has caused the Federal Reserve to reconsider or reverse some of these actions and policies.
The current market conditions, as well as various social and political tensions in the United States and around the world, may continue to contribute to increased market volatility, may have long-term effects on the U.S. and global financial markets, and may cause further economic uncertainties or deterioration in the United States and worldwide. The prolonged continuation or further deterioration of the current U.S. and global economic downturn could adversely impact the Funds. The Adviser does not know how long the financial markets will continue to be affected by these events and cannot predict the effects of these or similar events in the future on the US economy, the securities markets and issuers held by a Fund. Fiscal stimulus packages such as the CARES Act serve to further increase the federal budget deficit, which could lead to the downgrading of the long-term sovereign credit rating for the United States. Federal Reserve policy in response to market conditions, including with respect to certain interest rates, may adversely affect the value, volatility and liquidity of dividend and interest paying securities. Market volatility, dramatic changes to interest rates and/or a return to unfavorable economic conditions may lower a Fund’s performance or impair a Fund’s ability to achieve its investment objective. The Adviser intends to monitor developments and seek to manage the Funds in a manner consistent with achieving each Fund’s investment objective, but there can be no assurance that it will be successful in doing so.
Non-U.S. Securities.
The Funds may invest without limitation in the securities of non-U.S. issuers in U.S. denominated form known as American Depository Receipts (“ADRs”). They may also invest up to 10% of the respective total assets of Baron Asset Fund, Baron Growth Fund and Baron Small Cap Fund, and up to 25% of the respective total assets of Baron Opportunity Fund, Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund, Baron Discovery Fund and Baron Durable Advantage Fund directly in the securities of non-U.S. issuers that are not publicly traded in the U.S. and in Global Depository Receipts (“GDRs”) and European Depository Receipts (“EDRs”).
ADRs are certificates issued by a U.S. bank or trust company and represent the right to receive securities of a foreign issuer deposited in a U.S. bank or foreign branch of a U.S. bank and traded on a U.S. exchange or in an over-the-counter market. EDRs and GDRs are receipts issued in Europe generally by a non-U.S. bank or trust company that evidence ownership of non-U.S. securities. There are no fees imposed on the purchase or sale of ADRs, EDRs or GDRs, although the issuing bank or trust company may impose fees on the purchase of dividends and the conversion of ADRs, EDRs and GDRs into the underlying securities. Investments in ADRs have certain advantages over direct investment in the underlying non-U.S. securities, since (i) ADRs are U.S. dollar denominated investments that are easily transferable and for which market quotations are readily available
5
and (ii) issuers whose securities are represented by ADRs are subject to the same auditing, accounting and financial reporting standards as U.S. issuers. EDRs and GDRs are not necessarily denominated in the currency of the underlying security. Issuers of non-U.S. securities are subject to different, often less detailed, accounting, reporting and disclosure requirements than are U.S. issuers. These securities may have exposure to developed countries and developing countries, which include countries in the MSCI Emerging Markets (EM) Index, countries in the MSCI Frontier Markets (FM) Index and other countries determined by the Adviser to be developing countries based on classifications made by the International Monetary Fund or on country characteristics similar to those of the countries in the EM and FM Indexes.
REITs.
The Funds may invest in the equity securities of real estate investment trusts (“REITs”). A REIT is a corporation or business trust that invests in real estate and derives its income from rents or sales of real property or interest on loans secured by mortgages on real property. The market value of REITs may be affected by numerous factors, including decreases in the value of real estate, vacancies, decreases in lease rates, defaults by lessees, changes in the tax laws or by their inability to qualify for the tax-free pass-through of their income.
Securities Lending.
The Funds may lend their portfolio securities to qualified institutions. By lending its portfolio securities, a Fund attempts to increase its income through the receipt of interest on the loan. Any gain or loss in the market price of the securities loaned that may occur during the term of the loan will be for the account of the Fund. A Fund may lend its portfolio securities so long as the terms and the structure of such loans are not inconsistent with the requirements of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), which currently provide that (a) the borrower pledges and maintains with the Fund collateral consisting of cash, a letter of credit issued by a domestic U.S. bank, or securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government having a value at all times not less than 100% of the value of the securities loaned, (b) the borrower adds to such collateral whenever the price of the securities loaned rises (i.e., the value of the loan is “marked to the market” on a daily basis), (c) the loan be made subject to termination by the Fund at any time and the loaned securities be subject to recall within the normal and customary settlement time for securities transactions and (d) the Fund receives reasonable interest on the loan (which may include the Fund’s investing any cash collateral in interest bearing short-term investments), any distributions on the loaned securities and any increase in their market value. If the borrower fails to maintain the requisite amount of collateral, the loan automatically terminates and the Fund could use the collateral to replace the securities while holding the borrower liable for any excess of replacement cost over the value of the collateral. As with any extension of credit, there are risks of delay in recovery and in some cases even loss of rights in collateral should the borrower of the securities fail financially.
A Fund will not lend portfolio securities if, as a result, the aggregate of such loans for Baron Asset Fund exceeds 10% and for Baron Growth Fund, Baron Small Cap Fund, Baron Opportunity Fund, Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund, Baron Discovery Fund and Baron Durable Advantage Fund exceeds 25% of the value of its total assets (including such loans). Loan arrangements made by a Fund will comply with all other applicable regulatory requirements. All relevant facts and circumstances, including the creditworthiness of the qualified institution, will be monitored by the Adviser, and will be considered in making decisions with respect to lending of securities, subject to review by the Trust’s Board of Trustees.
A Fund may pay reasonable negotiated fees in connection with loaned securities, so long as such fees are set forth in a written contract and approved by its Board of Trustees. In addition, a Fund shall, through the ability to recall securities prior to any required vote, retain voting rights over the loaned securities.
When-Issued and Delayed-Delivery Securities and Forward Commitments.
The Funds may purchase or sell securities on a when-issued or delayed-delivery basis. When-issued or delayed-delivery transactions arise when securities are purchased or sold with payment and delivery taking place
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in the future in order to secure what is considered to be an advantageous price at the time of entering into the transaction. While a Fund generally purchases securities on a when-issued basis with the intention of acquiring the securities, the Fund may sell the securities before the settlement date if the Adviser deems it advisable. Distributions attributable to any gains realized on such a sale are taxable to shareholders. When-issued and delayed-delivery securities and forward commitments involve the risk that the security a Fund buys will lose value prior to its delivery. There are also the risks that the security will never be issued or that the other party to the transaction will not meet its obligation. If this occurs, a Fund loses both the investment opportunity for the assets it set aside to pay for the security and any gain in the security’s price. The Funds do not anticipate investing more than 10% of their total assets in such securities.
Illiquid Securities.
Baron Asset Fund may invest up to 10% of its net assets, and Baron Growth Fund, Baron Small Cap Fund, Baron Opportunity Fund, Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund, Baron Discovery Fund and Baron Durable Advantage Fund may invest up to 15%, of their respective net assets in illiquid securities at the time of purchase. Subsequently, if as a result of changes in the portfolio, illiquid securities exceed 10 or 15% of net assets (as applicable), a Fund may not acquire any additional illiquid securities and the Adviser will take such steps as it considers appropriate to reduce the percentage within a reasonable period of time. An illiquid security is one that a Fund reasonably expects to be unable to sell or dispose of in current market conditions in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the security. Such investments may include private equity securities, private investments in public equity securities and other restricted securities. To the extent that there is no established market for some of the debt securities in which the Funds may invest, there may be thin or no trading in such securities, and the ability of the Adviser to value accurately such securities may be adversely affected. Further, it may be more difficult for the Funds to sell securities for which no established market exists. During periods of reduced market liquidity, and in the absence of readily available market quotations for securities held in the Funds’ portfolios, the responsibility of the Adviser to value the Funds’ securities becomes more difficult, and the Adviser’s judgment may play a greater role in the valuation of the Funds’ securities due to a reduced availability of reliable data.
To the extent that the Funds purchase illiquid securities or securities that are restricted as to resale, the Funds may incur additional risks and costs. Illiquid and restricted securities may be particularly difficult to value and their disposition may require greater effort and expense than more liquid securities. The Funds may be required to incur costs in connection with the registration of restricted securities in order to dispose of such securities.
If one or more instruments in a Fund’s portfolio become illiquid, the Fund may exceed its limit on illiquid instruments. If this occurs, the Fund must take steps to bring the aggregate amount of illiquid instruments back within the prescribed limitations as soon as reasonably practicable. However, this requirement will not force a Fund to liquidate any portfolio instrument where the Fund would suffer a loss on the sale of that instrument.
Debt Securities.
Debt securities have varying levels of sensitivity to changes in interest rates. In general, the price of a debt security can fall when interest rates rise and can rise when interest rates fall. Securities with longer maturities can be more sensitive to interest rate changes. The longer the maturity of a security, the greater the impact a change in interest rates could have on the security’s price. In addition, short-term and long-term interest rates do not necessarily move in the same amount or the same direction. Short-term securities tend to react to changes in short-term interest rates, and long-term securities tend to react to changes in long-term interest rates.
Debt securities, particularly mortgage-backed securities, are subject to prepayment risk. Prepayment risk occurs when the issuer of a security can repay principal prior to the security’s maturity. Securities subject to prepayment can offer less potential for gains during a declining interest rate environment and similar or greater potential for loss in a rising interest rate environment. In addition, the potential impact of prepayment features on
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the price of a debt security can be difficult to predict and result in greater volatility. The Funds do not anticipate investing more than 5% of their respective assets in mortgage-backed securities.
The Funds may invest in zero-coupon, step-coupon and pay-in-kind securities. These securities are debt securities that do not make regular interest payments. Zero-coupon and step-coupon securities are sold at a deep discount to their face value, and pay-in-kind securities pay interest through the issuance of additional securities.
The market value of these debt securities generally fluctuates in response to changes in interest rates to a greater degree than interest-paying securities of a comparable term and quality. The secondary market value of corporate debt securities structured as zero-coupon securities or pay-in-kind securities may be more volatile in response to changes in interest rates than debt securities that pay interest periodically in cash. Because such securities do not pay current interest but instead accrue such income, to the extent that the Funds do not have available cash to meet distribution requirements with respect to such income, they could be required to dispose of portfolio securities that they would not otherwise. Such disposition could be at a disadvantageous price. Investments in such securities also involve certain tax considerations.
The Funds from time to time may also purchase indebtedness and participations, both secured and unsecured, of debtor companies in reorganization or financial restructuring. Such indebtedness may be in the form of loans, notes, bonds or debentures. When the Funds purchase a participation interest they assume the credit risk associated with the bank or other financial intermediary as well as the credit risk associated with the issuer of any underlying debt instrument. The Funds may also purchase trade and other claims against, and other unsecured obligations of, such debtor companies, which generally represent money due a supplier of goods or services to such company. Some debt securities purchased by the Funds may have very long maturities. The length of time remaining until maturity is one factor that the Adviser considers in purchasing a particular debt security. The purchase of indebtedness of a troubled company always involves a risk as to the creditworthiness of the issuer and the possibility that the investment may be lost. The Adviser believes that the difference between perceived risk and actual risk creates the opportunity for profit, which can be realized through thorough analysis. There are no established markets for some of this indebtedness, and it is less liquid than more heavily traded securities. Indebtedness of the debtor company to a bank is not the security of the banks issuing or selling them. The Funds may purchase loans from national and state chartered banks as well as foreign ones. The Funds may invest in senior indebtedness of debtor companies, although on occasion subordinated indebtedness may also be acquired. The Funds may also invest in distressed first mortgage obligations and other debt secured by real property. The Funds do not currently anticipate investing more than 10% of their total assets in trade and other claims.
Repurchase and Reverse Repurchase Agreements.
The Funds may enter into repurchase agreements with certain banks or non-bank dealers. In a repurchase agreement, the Funds buy a security at one price, and at the time of sale, the seller agrees to repurchase that security at a mutually agreed upon time and price. Repurchase agreements could involve certain risks in the event of the failure of the seller to repurchase the securities as agreed, which may cause the Funds to suffer a loss, including loss of interest on, or principal of, the security and costs associated with delay and enforcement of the repurchase agreement. Repurchase agreements with a duration of more than seven days are considered illiquid securities. Repurchase agreements carry the risk that the market value of the securities declines below the repurchase price. Also a Fund could lose money if it is unable to recover the securities and the value of the collateral held by the Fund is less than the value of the securities. In the event the borrower commences bankruptcy proceedings, a court may characterize the transaction as a loan. If a Fund has not perfected a security interest in the underlying collateral, the Fund may be required to return the underlying collateral to the borrower’s estate and be treated as an unsecured creditor. As an unsecured creditor, the Fund could lose some or all of the principal and interest involved in the transaction.
The Funds may engage in reverse repurchase agreements with certain banks or non-bank dealers, where the Funds sell a security and simultaneously agree to buy it back at a mutually agreed upon time and price. To the
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extent that the Funds engage in reverse repurchase agreements, they will maintain a segregated account consisting of liquid assets or highly marketable securities to cover their obligations. Reverse repurchase agreements are a type of borrowing that may increase the possibility of fluctuation in a Fund’s net asset value.
The SEC recently adopted new Rule 18f-4 under the 1940 Act, which governs the use of derivative investments and certain financing transactions (e.g. reverse repurchase agreements) by registered investment companies. As the Fund comes into compliance, the approach to asset segregation and coverage requirements described in this SAI will be impacted. For more information, please see the “Use of Derivatives, Segregated Accounts and Other Special Accounts” section on page 12.
Medium And Lower-Rated Corporate Debt Securities.
The Funds may invest in debt securities that have a rating of, or equivalent to, at least “BBB” by Standard & Poor’s Corporation (“S&P”) or “Baa” by Moody’s Investors Services, Inc. (“Moody’s”), or if unrated, are judged by the Adviser to be of comparable quality. Baron Asset Fund, Baron Growth Fund, Baron Opportunity Fund, Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund, Baron Discovery Fund and Baron Durable Advantage Fund may invest up to 35% of their total assets in such securities. Baron Small Cap Fund may invest up to 20% of its total assets in such securities. Because the creditworthiness of an issuer may change more rapidly than is able to be timely reflected in changes in credit ratings, the Adviser monitors corporate debt securities of issuers held in the Funds’ equity portfolios. The Adviser could be wrong in its analysis. A general economic downturn or a significant increase in interest rates could severely disrupt the market for medium and lower grade corporate debt securities and adversely affect the market value of such securities and lead to increased incidences of default. Yields on debt securities in the portfolio that are interest rate sensitive can be expected to fluctuate over time.
Short Sales.
Baron Growth Fund, Baron Small Cap Fund, Baron Opportunity Fund, Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund, Baron Discovery Fund and Baron Durable Advantage Fund may sell securities short. The Funds may sell a security that the Funds do not own. In order to do so, the Funds must borrow a security to deliver it to the purchaser and later buy that security in the market and return it to the lender. The value of a security sold short could increase and the Funds would have to pay more to buy the security to return to the lender than it received from the purchaser in the short sale. The Funds’ risk of loss in these types of short sales is theoretically unlimited because there is no limit to the cost of replacing the borrowed security. The Funds may also sell a security short that the Funds own or a security equivalent in kind or amount to a security the Funds have a right to obtain (for example, a security convertible into the security sold short or a security that the Adviser believes will be deliverable upon the closing of a transaction). The Funds may also sell securities short when, in the opinion of the Adviser, the position is covered by owning a security that has ownership rights to assets that include all of the assets of the security shorted. If the value of the securities in these types of short sales increases, the Funds lose the opportunity to participate in the gain of the covered positions. The Funds may sell a security short only on a fully collateralized basis, which requires that the Funds establish and maintain a segregated account.
Options Transactions and Swaps.
Baron Asset Fund may write (sell) covered call options or purchase put options on equity and/or debt securities. Baron Growth Fund, Baron Small Cap Fund, Baron Opportunity Fund, Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund, Baron Discovery Fund and Baron Durable Advantage Fund may write (sell) put and covered call options and purchase put and call options on equity and/or debt securities. The Funds may also enter into equity swap transactions. All calls sold by the Funds must be “covered” (i.e., a Fund must own the underlying securities) or must meet the asset segregation requirements described below for as long as the call is outstanding. Even though the Funds will receive the option premium to help protect it against loss, a call sold by a Fund exposes the Funds during the term of the option to possible loss of opportunity to realize appreciation in the market price of the underlying security or instrument and may require the Fund to hold a security or instrument which it might otherwise have sold, and a put sold by a Fund exposes the Fund to potential loss in the amount of the difference between the exercise price and the market value of the underlying security.
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A put option gives the purchaser of the option, upon payment of a premium, the right to sell, and the writer, when exercised, the obligation to buy, the underlying security at the exercise price. A call option, upon payment of a premium, gives the purchaser of the option the right to buy, and the seller, if exercised, the obligation to sell, the underlying security at the exercise price. An American style put or call option may be exercised at any time during a fixed period, while a European style put or call option may be exercised only upon expiration or during a fixed period prior thereto. The Funds may engage in either style option. The Funds are authorized to engage in transactions with respect to exchange-listed options, over-the-counter options (“OTC options”) and other derivative investments. Exchange-listed options are issued by a regulated financial intermediary, such as the Options Clearing Corporation (“OCC”), which guarantees the performance of the obligations of the parties to such options. The discussion below uses the OCC as an example, but is also applicable to other financial intermediaries.
Rather than taking or making delivery of the underlying security through the process of exercising the option, listed options are usually closed by entering into offsetting purchase or sale transactions that do not result in ownership of the new option. The Funds’ ability to close out its position as a purchaser or seller of an OCC or exchange-listed put or call option is dependent, in part, upon the liquidity of the option market. Among the possible reasons for the absence of a liquid option market on an exchange are: (i) insufficient trading interest in certain options; (ii) restrictions on transactions imposed by an exchange; (iii) trading halts, suspensions or other restrictions imposed with respect to particular classes or series of options or underlying securities including reaching daily price limits; (iv) interruption of the normal operations of the OCC or an exchange; (v) inadequacy of the facilities of an exchange or OCC to handle current trading volume; or (vi) a decision by one or more exchanges to discontinue the trading of options (or a particular class or series of options), in which event the relevant market for that option on that exchange would cease to exist, although outstanding options on that exchange would generally continue to be exercisable in accordance with their terms. The hours of trading for listed options may not coincide with the hours during which the underlying instruments are traded. To the extent that the option markets close before the markets for the underlying instruments, significant price and rate movements can take place in the underlying markets that cannot be reflected in the option markets.
OTC options are purchased from or sold to securities dealers, financial institutions or other parties (“Counterparties”) through direct bilateral agreement with the Counterparty. In contrast to exchange-listed options, which generally have standardized terms and performance mechanics, all the terms of an OTC option are negotiated by the parties. The Funds generally expect to enter into OTC options that have cash settlement provisions, although they are not required to do so.
Equity swap transactions are entered into with financial intermediaries through a direct agreement with the Counterparty, generally an ISDA Master Agreement, the specific terms of which are negotiated by the parties. The Funds may use equity swaps, or other derivative instruments, for hedging purposes against potential adverse movements in security prices or for non-hedging purposes such as seeking to enhance return. The Funds may be required to post collateral for such transactions.
There is no central clearing or, unless the parties provide for it, guaranty function in an OTC option or derivative, including certain swaps. As a result, if the Counterparty fails to make or take delivery of the security or other instrument, or fails to make a cash settlement payment due in accordance with the option, the Funds will lose any premium they paid for the option as well as any anticipated benefit of the transaction. The Adviser must assess the creditworthiness of each Counterparty to determine the likelihood that the terms of the OTC option or the derivative will be satisfied. The Funds will engage in OTC option transactions and derivatives only with qualified Counterparties. The staff of the SEC currently takes the position that OTC options purchased by the Funds, and portfolio securities “covering” the amount of the Funds’ obligation pursuant to an OTC option sold by it (the cost of the sell-back plus any in-the-money amount) are illiquid and subject to the Funds’ limitations on investments in illiquid securities, unless the Funds have the legal right to terminate the option on not more than seven days notice and the Counterparty has a high credit quality rating.
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Foreign Currency Transactions.
The Funds that are permitted to invest in foreign currency-denominated securities also may purchase and sell foreign currency options and foreign currency futures contracts and futures options, and they may engage in foreign currency transactions either on a spot (cash) basis at prevailing currency exchange rates or through forward currency contracts. These Funds may engage in these transactions to hedge, directly or indirectly, against currency fluctuations, for other investment purposes and, with respect to certain Funds, to seek to enhance returns. A Fund may enter into currency transactions only with counterparties that the Adviser deems to be creditworthy. Certain of the foreign currency transactions the Funds may use are described below.
Forward Foreign Exchange Transactions. Certain Funds may enter into forward currency contracts (“forwards”) in connection with settling purchases or sales of securities, to hedge the currency exposure associated with some or all of the Fund’s investments or as part of its investment strategy. Forwards are OTC contracts to purchase or sell a specified amount of a specified currency or multinational currency unit at a set price on a future date. The market value of a forward fluctuates with changes in foreign currency exchange rates. Forwards are marked to market daily based upon foreign currency exchange rates from an independent pricing service, and the change in value is recorded as unrealized appreciation or depreciation. A Fund will record a realized gain or loss when the forward is closed. Forwards are highly volatile, involve substantial currency risk and may also involve credit and liquidity risks.
Currency Futures. A Fund may also seek to enhance returns or hedge against the decline in the value of a currency through use of currency futures or options thereon. Currency futures are similar to forward foreign exchange transactions except that futures are standardized, exchange-traded contracts while forward foreign exchange transactions are traded in the OTC market. Currency futures involve substantial currency risk, and also involve leverage risk.
Currency Options. A Fund may also seek to enhance returns or hedge against the decline in the value of a currency through the use of currency options. Currency options are similar to options on securities. For example, in consideration for an option premium the writer of a currency option is obligated to sell (in the case of a call option) or purchase (in the case of a put option) a specified amount of a specified currency on or before the expiration date for a specified amount of another currency. A Fund may engage in transactions in options on currencies either on exchanges or OTC markets. A Fund may write covered call options on up to 100% of the currencies in its portfolio. Currency options involve substantial currency risk, and may also involve credit, leverage or liquidity risk.
Currency Swaps. In order to protect against currency fluctuations, a Fund may enter into currency swaps. A Fund may also hedge portfolio positions through currency swaps, which are transactions in which one currency is simultaneously bought for a second currency on a spot basis and sold for the second currency on a forward basis. Currency swaps involve the exchange of the rights of a Fund and another party to make or receive payments in specified currencies. Because currency swaps usually involve the delivery of the entire principal value of one designated currency in exchange for the other designated currency, the entire principal value of a currency swap is subject to the risk that the other party to the swap will default on its contractual delivery obligations.
Limitations on Currency Transactions. A Fund will not hedge a currency in excess of the aggregate market value of the securities that it owns (including receivables for unsettled securities sales), or has committed to purchase or anticipates purchasing, which are denominated in such currency. Open positions in forward foreign exchange transactions used for non-hedging purposes will be covered by the segregation of liquid assets and are marked to market daily.
Risk Factors in Hedging Foreign Currency. Hedging transactions involving currency instruments involve substantial risks, including correlation risk. While a Fund’s use of currency instruments to effect hedging strategies is intended to reduce the volatility of the net asset value of the Fund’s shares, the net asset value of the Fund’s shares will fluctuate. Moreover, although currency instruments will be used with the intention of hedging against adverse currency movements, transactions in currency instruments involve the risk that anticipated
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currency movements will not be accurately predicted and that the Fund’s hedging strategies will be ineffective. To the extent that a Fund hedges against anticipated currency movements that do not occur, the Fund may realize losses and decrease its total return as the result of its hedging transactions. Furthermore, a Fund will only engage in hedging activities from time to time and may not be engaging in hedging activities when movements in currency exchange rates occur. In connection with its trading in forward foreign currency contracts, a Fund will contract with a foreign or domestic bank, or foreign or domestic securities dealer, to make or take future delivery of a specified amount of a particular currency. There are no limitations on daily price moves in such forward contracts, and banks and dealers are not required to continue to make markets in such contracts. There have been periods during which certain banks or dealers have refused to quote prices for such forward contracts or have quoted prices with an unusually wide spread between the price at which the bank or dealer is prepared to buy and that at which it is prepared.
Use of Derivatives, Segregated Accounts and Other Accounts.
Use of Derivatives.
Each Fund is operated by the Adviser in reliance on an exclusion, granted to operators of registered investment companies such as the Funds, from registration as a “commodity pool operator” (“CPO”), with respect to the Fund, under the Commodity Exchange Act (the “CEA”) and, therefore, is not subject to registration or regulation as a CPO under the CEA. The Funds may be limited in their ability to use commodity futures or options thereon, engage in certain swap transactions or make certain other investments (collectively, “commodity interests”) if the Adviser continues to claim the exclusion from the definition of CPO with respect to such Funds. In order for the Adviser to be eligible to continue to claimthis exclusion, if a Fund uses commodity interests other than for bona fide hedging purposes (as defined by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission (the “CFTC”)), the aggregate initial margin and premiums required to establish those positions (after taking into account unrealized profits and unrealized losses on any such positions and excluding the amount by which options are “in-the-money” at the time of purchase) may not exceed 5% of the Fund’s NAV, or, alternatively, the aggregate net notional value of those positions, as determined at the time the most recent position was established, may not exceed 100% of the Fund’s NAV (after taking into account unrealized profits and unrealized losses on any such positions). In addition to meeting one of the foregoing trading limitations, a Fund may not market itself as a commodity pool or otherwise as a vehicle for trading in the commodity futures, commodity options or swaps markets. Even if a Fund’s direct use of commodity interests complies with the trading limitations described above, the Fund may have indirect exposure to commodity interests in excess of such limitations. Such exposure may result from the Fund’s investment in other investment vehicles, including investment companies that are not managed by the Adviser or one of its affiliates, certain securitized vehicles that may invest in commodity interests and/or non-equity REITs that may invest in commodity interests (collectively, “underlying investment vehicles”). Because the Adviser may have limited or no information as to the commodity interests in which an underlying investment vehicle invests at any given time, the CFTC has issued temporary no-action relief permitting registered investment companies, such as the Funds, to continue to rely on the exclusion from the definition of CPO. The Adviser, on behalf of the Funds, has filed the required notice to claim this no-action relief. In order to rely on the temporary no-action relief, the Adviser must meet certain conditions and the Funds must otherwise comply with the trading and market limitations described above with respect to their direct investments in commodity interests.
Use of Segregated and Other Special Accounts.
Many hedging transactions require, among other things, that the Funds segregate liquid assets with their custodian to the extent Fund obligations are not otherwise “covered” through ownership of the underlying security or instrument. In general, either the full amount of any obligation by the Funds to pay or deliver securities or assets must be covered at all times by the securities or instruments required to be delivered, or, subject to any regulatory restrictions, an amount of cash or liquid securities at least equal to the current amount of the obligation must be segregated with the custodian. The segregated assets cannot be sold or transferred unless equivalent assets are substituted in their place or it is no longer necessary to segregate them.
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Recent Regulation Regarding Derivatives and Segregated Accounts.
In October 2020, the SEC adopted new Rule 18f-4 under the 1940 Act, which governs the use of derivative investments and certain financing transactions (e.g. reverse repurchase agreements) by registered investment companies. Among other things, Rule 18f-4 will require funds that invest in derivative instruments beyond a specified limited amount to apply a value-at-risk based limit to their use of certain derivative instruments and financing transactions and to adopt and implement a derivatives risk management program. A fund that uses derivative instruments in a limited amount will not be subject to the full requirements of Rule 18f-4. In connection with the adoption of Rule 18f-4, funds will no longer be required to comply with the asset segregation framework arising from prior SEC guidance for covering certain derivative instruments and related transactions. Compliance with Rule 18f-4 will not be required until August 2022. As a Fund comes into compliance, the approach to asset segregation and coverage requirements described in this SAI will be impacted. Compliance with the new rule by a Fund could, among other things, make derivatives more costly, limit their availability or utility, or otherwise adversely affect their performance.
Special Situations.
The Funds may invest in “special situations.” A special situation arises when, in the opinion of the Adviser, the securities of a company will be recognized and appreciate in value due to a specific anticipated development at that company. Such developments might include a new product, a management change, an acquisition or a technological advancement. The risk of investing in special situations is that the anticipated development does not occur or its impact is not what the Adviser expected.
International Sanctions.
From time to time, certain of the companies in which a Fund invests may operate in, or have dealings with, countries subject to sanctions or embargoes imposed by the U.S. government and the United Nations and/or countries identified by the U.S. government as state sponsors of terrorism. A company may suffer damage to its reputation if it is identified as a company which operates in, or has dealings with, countries subject to sanctions or embargoes imposed by the U.S. government and the United Nations and/or countries identified by the U.S. government as state sponsors of terrorism. As an investor in such companies, the Fund will be indirectly subject to those risks.
Real Estate Industry Risk.
In addition to general market conditions, the value of the Funds will be affected by the strength of the real estate markets. Factors that could affect the value of the Funds’ holdings include the following: overbuilding and increased competition; increases in property taxes and operating expenses; declines in the value of real estate; lack of availability of equity and debt financing to refinance maturing debt; vacancies due to economic conditions and tenant bankruptcies; losses due to costs resulting from environmental contamination and its related clean-up; changes in interest rates; changes in zoning laws; casualty or condemnation losses; variations in rental income; changes in neighborhood values; and functional obsolescence and appeal of properties to tenants.
Share Classes.
The Funds offer three classes of shares, Retail Shares, Institutional Shares and R6 Shares, which differ only in their ongoing fees and eligibility requirements. Retail Shares are available to all investors, and account minimums range from $500 to $2,000, depending on the account type. Institutional Shares are for accounts in the amount of $1,000,000 or more per Fund. Institutional Shares are intended for certain financial intermediaries that offer shares of the Baron Funds® through fee-based platforms, retirement platforms or other platforms for which the financial intermediary provides services and is not compensated by the Baron Funds® for those services. Shareholders meeting the eligibility requirements for the Institutional Shares may also purchase Institutional Shares directly without paying a sales charge or any other additional fees. Baron WealthBuilder Fund,
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employees/Directors of the Adviser and its affiliates and Trustees of the Baron Funds® are not subject to the eligibility requirements for Institutional Shares. R6 Shares are available only to qualified 401(a) plans (including 401(k) plans, Keogh plans, profit-sharing plans, money purchase pension plans, target benefit plans, defined benefit pension plans and Taft-Hartley multi-employer pension plans) (collectively, “Qualified Plans”), endowment funds and foundations, any state, county or city, or its instrumentality, department, authority, or agency, 403(b) plans, 457 plans, including 457(a) governmental entity plans and tax-exempt plans, accounts registered to insurance companies, trust companies and bank trust departments, investment companies, both affiliated and not affiliated with the Adviser, and any entity that is considered a corporation for tax purposes, including corporate non-qualified deferred compensation plans of such corporations. R6 Shares are not available to traditional and Roth Individual Retirement Accounts, SEPs, SARSEPs and individual 403(b) plans. Institutional Shares are available to such accounts or plans to the extent they are purchased through an eligible fee-based program. R6 Shares are also not available to retail, advisory fee-based wrap programs or to adviser-sold donor-advised funds. There is no minimum initial investment for Qualified Plans; however, the shares must be held through plan-level or omnibus accounts held on the books of the Funds. All other R6 eligible investors must meet a minimum initial investment of at least $5,000,000 per Fund. For more information, please see the “How to Purchase Shares” section on pages 71-73 of the Prospectus. The Funds reserve the right, without prior notice, to change the eligibility requirements of its share classes, including the types of investors who are eligible to purchase each share class.
Fund Policies.
The Funds have adopted investment restrictions, described below, which are fundamental policies of the Funds and may not be changed without the approval by a majority of the Funds’ shareholders or at least two-thirds of a quorum of a majority of the shareholders. Unless otherwise noted, all percentage restrictions are measured as of the time of the purchase.
Baron Asset Fund may not:
1. | Issue senior securities except in connection with any permitted borrowing where the Fund is deemed to have issued a senior security; |
2. | Borrow money except from banks for temporary purposes in an amount not exceeding 5% of the Fund’s net assets at the time the borrowing is made; |
3. | Purchase securities on margin except for short-term credit necessary for the clearance of portfolio transactions; |
4. | Make short sales of securities, maintain a short position, or write put options; |
5. | Purchase or sell commodities or commodity contracts; |
6. | Purchase or sell real estate or real estate mortgage loans or invest in the securities of real estate companies unless such securities are publicly traded; |
7. | Invest in oil, gas or mineral-related programs or leases; |
8. | Invest 25% or more of the value of its total assets in any particular GICS Sub-Industry. For purposes of this restriction, the percentage will be measured at the time of purchase; |
9. | Purchase the securities of any one issuer other than the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or instrumentalities, if immediately after such purchase more than 5% of the value of the Fund’s total assets would be invested in such issuer or the Fund would own more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, except that up to 25% of the value of the Fund’s total assets may be invested without regard to the 5% and 10% limitations; |
10. | Invest more than 10% of the value of the Fund’s net assets in securities which are restricted or illiquid or in repurchase agreements maturing or terminable in more than seven days; |
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11. | Invest in securities of other open end investment companies (except in connection with a merger, consolidation or other reorganization and except for the purchase of shares of registered open-end money market mutual funds if double advisory fees are not assessed), invest more than 5% of the value of the Fund’s total assets in more than 3% of the total outstanding voting securities of another investment company or more than 10% of the value of the Fund’s total assets in securities issued by other investment companies; |
12. | Participate on a joint, or a joint and several, basis in any securities trading account; |
13. | Underwrite securities of other issuers insofar as the Fund is the seller of such securities; |
14. | Make loans to other persons, except up to 10% of the value of the Fund’s total assets in loans of portfolio securities and except to the extent that the purchase of publicly traded debt securities and the entry into repurchase agreements in accordance with the Fund’s investment goal and policies may be deemed to be loans; |
15. | Mortgage, pledge or hypothecate any portfolio securities owned or held by the Fund, except as may be necessary in connection with permitted borrowing; |
16. | Invest more than 5% of its total assets in warrants to purchase common stock at market; |
17. | Purchase securities of any issuer with a record of less than three years’ continuous operation, including predecessors, except obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities, if such purchase would cause the investments of the Fund in all such issuers to exceed 5% of the value of the total assets of the Fund; or |
18. | Purchase or retain any securities of an issuer any of whose officers, directors, trustees or security holders is an officer or Trustee of the Trust, or is a member, officer or Director of the Adviser, if after the purchase of the securities of such issuer by the Fund one or more of such persons owns beneficially more than 1/2 of 1% of the shares or securities, or both, all taken at market value, of such issuer, and such persons owning more than 1/2 of 1% of such shares or securities together own beneficially more than 5% of such shares or securities, or both, all taken at market value. |
Baron Growth Fund, Baron Small Cap Fund and Baron Opportunity Fund may not:
1. | Issue senior securities or borrow money or utilize leverage in excess of 25% of its net assets (plus 5% for emergency or other short-term purposes) from banks from time to time. |
2. | Except as described in the prospectus or SAI, engage in short-sales, purchase securities on margin or maintain a net short position. |
3. | Purchase or sell commodities or commodity contracts unless in conformity with regulations of the Commodities Futures Trading Commission. |
4. | Purchase or sell oil and gas interests or real estate. Securities issued by companies engaged in the oil, gas or real estate business are not considered oil or gas interests or real estate for purposes of this restriction. First mortgage loans and other direct obligations secured by real estate are not considered real estate for purposes of this restriction. |
5. | Invest 25% or more of the value of its total assets in any particular GICS Sub-Industry. For purposes of this restriction, the percentage will be measured at the time of purchase. |
6. | Purchase the securities of any one issuer other than the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or instrumentalities, if immediately after such purchase more than 5% of the value of the Fund’s total assets would be invested in such issuer or the Fund would own more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, except that up to 25% of the value of the Fund’s total assets may be invested without regard to the 5% and 10% limitations. |
7. | Underwrite securities of other issuers insofar as the Fund is the seller of such securities. |
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8. | Make loans, except to the extent the purchase of debt obligations of any type (including repurchase agreements and corporate commercial paper) are considered loans and except that the Fund may lend portfolio securities to qualified institutional investors in compliance with requirements established from time to time by the SEC and the securities exchanges where such securities are traded. |
9. | Participate on a joint, or a joint and several, basis in any securities trading account. |
10. | Mortgage, pledge or hypothecate any of its assets, except as may be necessary in connection with options, loans of portfolio securities, or other permitted borrowings. |
11. | Purchase securities of any issuer with a record of less than three years’ continuous operations, including predecessors, except obligations issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities, if such purchase would cause the investments of the Fund in all such issuers to exceed 5% of the value of the total assets of the Fund. |
12. | Invest more than 15% of its net assets in restricted or illiquid securities, including repurchase agreements maturing in more than seven days. |
As a non-fundamental policy, Baron Growth Fund, Baron Small Cap Fund and Baron Opportunity Fund may not:
1. | Purchase more than 3% of the outstanding voting securities of another registered investment company except in connection with a merger, consolidation or other reorganization or as otherwise permitted by the 1940 Act. |
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund may not:
1. | Issue senior securities or borrow money in excess of amounts permitted by law (which currently requires asset coverage of 300% immediately after such borrowing, subject to exceptions for borrowings of up to 5% for short-term purposes). |
2. | Purchase or sell commodities or commodity contracts unless in conformity with regulations of the Commodities Futures Trading Commission. |
3. | Purchase or sell oil and gas interests or real estate. Securities issued by companies engaged in the oil, gas or real estate business or secured by oil and gas or real estate are not considered oil or gas interests or real estate for purposes of this restriction. |
4. | Underwrite securities of other issuers insofar as the Fund is the seller of such securities. |
5. | Make loans, except to the extent the purchase of debt obligations of any type (including loan participations, repurchase agreements and corporate commercial paper) are considered loans and except that the Fund may lend portfolio securities in compliance with requirements established from time to time by the SEC. |
6. | Mortgage, pledge or hypothecate any of its assets, except in connection with borrowings, loans of portfolio securities, or other permitted transactions. |
7. | Invest 25% or more of the value of its total assets in any particular GICS Sub-Industry. For purposes of this restriction, the percentage will be measured at the time of purchase. |
As a non-fundamental policy, Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund may not invest more than 15% of its net assets in restricted or illiquid securities, including repurchase agreements maturing in more than seven days.
Baron Discovery Fund and Baron Durable Advantage Fund may not:
1. | Issue senior securities or borrow money in excess of amounts permitted by law (which currently requires asset coverage of 300% immediately after such borrowing, subject to exceptions for borrowings of up to 5% for short-term purposes). |
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2. | Mortgage, pledge or hypothecate any of its assets, except in connection with borrowings, loans of portfolio securities or other permitted transactions; |
3. | Underwrite securities of other issuers insofar as the Fund is the seller of such securities; |
4. | Invest 25% or more of the value of its total assets in any particular GICS Sub-Industry. For purposes of the restriction, the percentage will be measured at the time of purchase; |
5. | Purchase or sell commodities or commodity contracts unless in conformity with regulations of the Commodities Futures Trading Commission or purchase or sell oil and gas interests or real estate. Securities issued by companies engaged in the oil, gas or real estate business or secured by oil and gas or real estate are not considered oil or gas interests or real estate for purposes of this restriction; |
6. | Make loans, except to the extent that the purchase of debt obligations of any type (including loan participations, repurchase agreements and corporate commercial paper) are considered loans, and except that the Fund may lend portfolio securities in compliance with requirements established from time to time by the SEC; or |
7. | Purchase the securities of any one issuer other than the U.S. Government or any of its agencies or instrumentalities, if immediately after such purchase more than 5% of the value of the Fund’s total assets would be invested in such issuer or the Fund would own more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, except that up to 25% of the value of the Fund’s total assets may be invested without regard to the 5% and 10% limitations. |
As a non-fundamental policy, Baron Discovery Fund and Baron Durable Advantage Fund may not invest more than 15% of their net assets in restricted or illiquid securities, including repurchase agreements maturing in more than seven days.
Temporary Defensive Position.
The Funds may, from time to time, take temporary defensive positions that are inconsistent with the Funds’ principal investment strategies in attempting to respond to adverse market, economic, political, or other conditions. In such circumstances, the Adviser may invest all or a portion of the Funds’ assets in cash or cash equivalents, such as money market instruments, which include U.S. Government securities, certificates of deposit, short-term investment grade corporate bonds and other short term debt instruments, and repurchase agreements. Taking such a temporary defensive position may cause the Funds not to achieve their investment goals.
Borrowing.
Baron Asset Fund, Baron Growth Fund, Baron Small Cap Fund, Baron Opportunity Fund, Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund, Baron Discovery Fund and Baron Durable Advantage Fund of Baron Investment Funds Trust and Baron Focused Growth Fund, Baron International Growth Fund, Baron Real Estate Fund, Baron Emerging Markets Fund, Baron Global Advantage Fund, Baron Real Estate Income Fund, Baron WealthBuilder Fund, Baron Health Care Fund, Baron FinTech Fund, Baron New Asia Fund and Baron Technology Fund of Baron Select Funds have entered into a committed line of credit facility with State Street Bank and Trust Company (“SSBT”) as lender pursuant to which the funds may borrow up to $200 million in order to provide them with temporary liquidity on a first-come, first-served basis. Interest is charged to the borrowing fund at a rate equal to the higher of the Overnight Bank Funding Rate plus 0.10% or the Overnight Federal Funds Rate plus 0.10%; plus a margin of 1.00%. An upfront fee of 0.05% is incurred on the commitment amount and a commitment fee of 0.20% per annum is incurred on the unused portion of the line of credit. Both fees are allocated to the participating funds based on their relative net assets.
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Portfolio Turnover.
Portfolio turnover rates fluctuate depending on market conditions. The turnover rates for the Funds for the past two years ended September 30 are:
Fund |
2021 | 2020 | ||||||
Baron Asset Fund |
9.54% | 9.28% | ||||||
Baron Growth Fund |
1.37% | 1.63% | ||||||
Baron Small Cap Fund |
15.70% | 16.93% | ||||||
Baron Opportunity Fund |
38.74% | 42.52% | ||||||
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund |
15.87% | 11.57% | ||||||
Baron Discovery Fund |
36.52% | 43.36% | ||||||
Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
10.58% | 16.55% |
Disclosure of Portfolio Holdings.
The Board has adopted policies and procedures governing the disclosure of each Fund’s portfolio holdings.
Quarterly: The Funds post on the Baron Funds® website, usually on the fifth business day after the quarter end, the top ten long positions held by each Fund, stated as a percentage of net assets (as a percentage of total long positions if the Fund is leveraged). In addition, the Funds post on the Baron Funds® website, usually on the fifth business day after the quarter end, all long securities positions of each Fund’s net assets (as a percentage of total long positions if the Fund is leveraged) and the cash position at the most recent quarter end. All of this information will remain on the Baron Funds® website until the next quarter end’s information is posted.
Monthly: In addition, the Funds post on the Baron Funds® website, usually the tenth business day after month end, the ten largest long positions of each Fund, stated as a percentage of net assets (as a percentage of total long positions if the Fund is leveraged). This information will remain on the Baron Funds® website until the next month end’s information is posted.
The Funds disclose portfolio holdings in connection with the day-to-day operations and management of the Funds, including to the Funds’ custodian (daily) and auditors (annually). Portfolio holdings may also be disclosed to other service providers of the Funds, including pricing services (daily), portfolio management and trading systems (daily) and proxy voting systems (quarterly). In these situations, the Funds, the Adviser or the Funds’ distributor, Baron Capital, Inc. (“BCI” or the “Distributor”), have entered into agreements with service providers whereby they agree to keep the information confidential and to refrain from trading on the basis of the information. When engaged in purchasing and selling securities for the Funds through brokers, dealers or other financial intermediaries, the Funds disclose certain information about one or more of the securities positions they own. The Funds do not have separate non-disclosure agreements with these entities, but the Funds would immediately cease doing business with any entity that the Adviser believes is misusing the information.
Other information that may be of interest to investors, such as industry breakdowns and a historical analysis of security impact, may be available on the Baron Funds® website. The website address is www.BaronFunds.com. The link to Fund information is www.BaronFunds.com/products. Holdings information for each Fund can be accessed from this link.
A Fund may release the portfolio information to persons earlier than the dates stated above only if certain members of senior management of the Fund determine that the release of such information is in the best interest of the Fund’s shareholders, that there is a legitimate business purpose and where the recipient agrees in writing to maintain the confidentiality of the information and not to trade on the information.
If the Funds inadvertently release the information prior to the dates stated above to any person, and there was no agreement as described, the Funds will promptly post the information to the website. A Fund may also release what the Adviser reasonably believes to be immaterial information as the Adviser deems appropriate.
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No employee of the Funds or the Adviser is allowed to accept compensation or consideration in any form with respect to the release of the of Funds’ portfolio holdings. “Consideration” includes any agreement to maintain assets in the Funds or in other investment companies or accounts managed by the Adviser. Any exceptions to any of the Funds’ disclosure policies are reported to the Board.
MANAGEMENT OF THE FUNDS
Board of Trustees and Officers.
The Board’s role in management of the Trust is oversight. As is the case with virtually all investment companies (as distinguished from operating companies), service providers to the Trust, primarily the Adviser and its affiliates, have responsibility for the day-to-day management of the Funds, which includes responsibility for risk management (including management of investment performance and investment risk, valuation risk, issuer and counterparty credit risk, cybersecurity risk, compliance risk and operational risk). As part of its oversight, the Board, acting at its scheduled meetings, regularly interacts with and receives reports from senior personnel of service providers, including the Adviser. The Board’s Audit Committee (which consists of three trustees who are not affiliated with the Adviser (“Independent Trustees”)) meets regularly with the Trust’s independent registered public accounting firm and the Trust’s Chief Financial Officer. The Board also receives periodic presentations from senior personnel of the Adviser or its affiliates regarding risk management generally, as well as periodic presentations regarding specific operational, compliance or investment areas, such as business continuity, anti-money laundering, personal trading, valuation, credit, investment research and securities lending. The Board has adopted policies and procedures designed to address certain risks to the Funds. In addition, the Adviser and other service providers to the Funds have adopted a variety of policies, procedures and controls designed to address particular risks to the Funds. However, it is not possible to eliminate all of the risks applicable to the Funds. The Board also receives reports from counsel to the Adviser and the Board’s own independent legal counsel regarding regulatory compliance and governance matters. The Board’s oversight role does not make the Board a guarantor of the Trust’s investments or activities.
The 1940 Act requires that at least 40% of the Funds’ trustees not be “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Funds, and to rely on certain exemptive rules under the 1940 Act, a majority of the Funds’ trustees must not be interested persons of the Funds. For certain important matters, such as the approval of investment advisory agreements or transactions with affiliates, the 1940 Act or the rules thereunder require the approval of a majority of the Trustees who are Independent Trustees. Currently, seven of the Trustees are not interested persons of the Trust (as such, the Trustees are not affiliated with the Adviser). The Chairman of the Board, Linda Martinson, is an interested person of the Trust (“Interested Trustee”), and the Independent Trustees have designated a lead Independent Trustee who chairs meetings or executive sessions of the Independent Trustees, reviews and comments on Board meeting agendas, represents the views of the Independent Trustees to management and facilitates communication among the Independent Trustees and their independent legal counsel. The Board has determined that its leadership structure, in which the Independent Trustees have designated a lead Independent Trustee to function as described above is appropriate in light of the services that the Adviser and its affiliates provide to the Trust and potential conflicts of interest that could arise from these relationships.
Trustees of the Trust, together with information as to their positions with the Trust, principal occupations and other board memberships and affiliations for the past five years, are shown below. Each Trustee serves as Trustee of a Fund until its termination; until the Trustee’s retirement, resignation or death; or as otherwise specified in the Trust’s organizational documents. Unless otherwise noted, the address of each Executive Officer and Trustee is Baron Investment Funds Trust, 767 Fifth Avenue, 49th Floor, New York, NY 10153. All Trustees listed below, whether Interested or Independent, serve as Trustees for the Trust.
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Name, Address & Age |
Position(s) Held With the Funds |
Term of |
Principal Occupation(s) |
Number of |
Other Directorships | |||||
Interested Trustees |
||||||||||
Ronald Baron(1),(2) 767 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10153 Age: 78 |
Chief Executive Officer, Trustee and Portfolio Manager | 35 years | Director, Chairman and CEO: the Firm* (1982-Present); Trustee: Baron Investment Funds Trust (1987-Present); Trustee: Baron Select Funds (2003-Present); Portfolio Manager: Baron USA Partners Fund, Ltd. (1994-Present). | 19 | None | |||||
Linda S. Martinson(1),(2) 767 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10153 Age: 66 |
Chairman, President, Chief Operating Officer and Trustee | 35 years | Director: the Firm* (2003-Present); President: the Firm* (2007-Present); Chief Operating Officer: the Firm (2006-Present); Chairman (2010-Present), President (2007-Present), Trustee (1987-Present): Baron Investment Funds Trust; Chairman (2010-Present), President (2007-Present), Trustee (2003-Present): Baron Select Funds; Director: Baron USA Partners Fund, Ltd. (2006-Present); Director of Baron Emerging Markets Fund Ltd. (2016-Present). | 19 | None | |||||
Peggy C. Wong(1) 767 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10153 Age: 60 |
Chief Financial Officer, Treasurer and Trustee |
35 years | Trustee (11/2021-Present): Baron Investment Funds Trust and Baron Select Funds; Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer: the Firm* (1987-Present), Baron Investment Funds Trust (1987-Present), Baron Select Funds (2003-Present); Baron USA Partners Fund Ltd. (1994-Present); Baron Emerging Markets Fund Ltd. (2016-Present). | 19 | None | |||||
Independent Trustees |
||||||||||
Thomas J. Folliard(3),(4),(5) 767 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10153 Age: 56 |
Trustee | 4 years | Non-Executive Chair of the Board: CarMax, Inc. (2016-Present); President and Chief Executive Officer: CarMax, Inc. (2006-2016); Trustee: Baron Investment Funds Trust (2017-Present), Baron Select Funds (2017-Present). | 19 | Director: PulteGroup, Inc. (2012-Present) | |||||
Abraham (Avi) Nachmany(4),(5) 767 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10153 Age: 68 |
Trustee | 2 years | Independent mutual fund industry consultant (2016-Present); Director of Research, E.V.P., Co-Founder: Strategic Insight (1986-2015); Advisory Board Member: Baron Investment Funds Trust and Baron Select Funds (5/2019-5/2020). Trustee: Baron Investment Funds Trust, Baron Select Funds (5/2020-Present) | 19 | None |
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Name, Address & Age |
Position(s) Held With the Funds |
Term of |
Principal Occupation(s) |
Number of |
Other Directorships | |||||
Independent Trustees (continued) |
||||||||||
Raymond Noveck(3),(4),(5) 767 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10153 Age: 78 |
Lead Trustee | 35 years | Private Investor (1999-Present); Trustee: Baron Investment Funds Trust (1987-Present), Baron Select Funds (2003-Present). | 19 | None | |||||
Anita Rosenberg(4),(5) 767 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10153 Age: 57 |
Trustee | 8 years | Advisory Board Member: Impala Asset Management, LLC (2014-Present); Advisory Board Member: ValueAct Capital, LLC (2014-Present); Trustee: Baron Investment Funds Trust, Baron Select Funds (2013-Present). | 19 | Director: Golub Capital BDC, Inc. (2011-Present) | |||||
David A. Silverman, MD(4),(5) 767 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10153 Age: 71 |
Trustee | 35 years | Physician and Faculty: New York University School of Medicine (1976-Present); Trustee: Baron Investment Funds Trust (1987-Present), Baron Select Funds (2003-Present). | 19 | None | |||||
Marvelle Sullivan(4),(5) 767 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10153 Age: 42 |
Trustee | 1 year | Founder and CEO: Marvelle Co. LLC (2019-Present); Managing Director: J.P. Morgan (2017-2019); Global Head of M&A: Novartis (2009-2017); Advisory Board Member: Baron Investment Funds Trust and Baron Select Funds (2/2020-5/2020). Trustee: Baron Investment Funds Trust, Baron Select Funds (5/2020-Present). | 19 | None | |||||
Errol Taylor(4),(5) 767 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10153 Age: 65 |
Trustee | 1 year | Partner: Milbank LLP (2003-2020); Partner and Member of Executive Committee: Fitzpatrick, Cella, Harper & Scinto (1987-2003); Senior Research Associate: Bristol-Myers Squibb Company (1977-1987). Trustee: Baron Investment Funds Trust and Baron Select Funds (12/2020-Present). | 19 | Trustee: New York Law School (2014-Present); Trustee: Clark Atlanta University (2017-Present) | |||||
Alejandro (Alex) Yemenidjian(3),(4),(5) 767 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10153 Age: 65 |
Trustee | 16 years | Chairman and CEO: Armenco Holdings, LLC (investment company) (2005-Present); Managing Partner: Armenco Capital LLC (investment company) (2013-Present); Chairman and CEO: Tropicana Las Vegas (gaming) (2009-2015); Trustee: Baron Investment Funds Trust (2006-Present), Baron Select Funds (2006-Present). | 19 | Director: Guess?, Inc. (2005-Present) |
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Name, Address & Age |
Position(s) Held With the Funds |
Term of |
Principal Occupation(s) |
Number of |
Other Directorships | |||||
Additional Officers of the Funds | ||||||||||
Louis Beasley 767 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10153 Age: 50 |
Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer | 7 years | Chief Compliance Officer: Baron Capital Group, Inc., BAMCO, Inc., Baron Capital Management Inc., Baron Investment Funds Trust, Baron Select Funds, Baron USA Partners Fund, Ltd (2014-Present), Baron Emerging Markets Fund Ltd. (2016-Present); Vice President: the Firm* (2014-Present) | N/A | N/A | |||||
Clifford Greenberg 767 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10153 Age: 62 |
Senior Vice President, Co-Chief Investment Officer | 25 years | Director, Senior Vice President and Co-Chief Investment Officer: the Firm*; Senior Vice President: Baron Investment Funds Trust, Baron Select Funds; Portfolio Manager: Baron Small Cap Fund. | N/A | N/A | |||||
Patrick M. Patalino 767 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10153 Age: 52 |
Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary | 14 years | Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary: the Firm*, Baron Investment Funds Trust, Baron Select Funds; General Counsel: Baron USA Partners Fund, Ltd.; Baron Emerging Markets Fund Ltd. | N/A | N/A | |||||
Andrew Peck 767 Fifth Avenue New York, NY 10153 Age: 52 |
Senior Vice President, Co-Chief Investment Officer | 19 years | Director, Senior Vice President and Co-Chief Investment Officer: the Firm*, Baron Investment Funds Trust, Baron Select Funds; Portfolio Manager: Baron Asset Fund. | N/A | N/A |
* | The “Firm” means Baron Capital Group, Inc. (“BCG”) along with its subsidiaries BCI, Baron Capital Management, Inc. (“BCM”) and BAMCO. |
(1) | Trustees deemed to be “Interested Trustees” by reason of their employment with the Adviser and BCI. |
(2) | Members of the Executive Committee, which is empowered to exercise all of the powers, including the power to declare dividends, of the full Board when the full Board is not in session. |
(3) | Members of the Audit Committee. |
(4) | Members of the Nominating Committee. |
(5) | Members of the Independent Trustees Committee. |
Each Trustee, except for Anita Rosenberg, who was appointed as a Trustee in May of 2013, Thomas J. Folliard, who was appointed as Trustee in August of 2017, Abraham (Avi) Nachmany and Marvelle Sullivan, who were appointed as Trustees in May of 2020, and Errol Taylor, who was appointed as Trustee in December of 2020, has been a Board member of the Trust and other Baron mutual funds for at least 16 years. In addition, the following are among some of the specific experiences, qualifications, attributes or skills that each Trustee possesses supplementing the information provided in the table above. The Board believes that the significance of each Trustee’s experience, qualifications, attributes or skills is an individual matter (meaning that experience that is important for one Trustee may not have the same value for another) and that these factors are best evaluated at the Board level, with no single Trustee, or particular factor, being indicative of Board effectiveness. However, the Board believes that Trustees need to have the ability to critically review, evaluate, question and discuss information provided to them, and to interact effectively with Adviser and Trust management, service providers and counsel, in order to exercise effective business judgment in the performance of their duties; the Board
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believes that its members satisfy this standard. Experience relevant to having this ability may be achieved through a Trustee’s educational background; business, professional practice (e.g., medicine, accounting or law), public service or academic positions; experience from service as a board member (including the Board of the Trust) or executive of investment funds, public companies or significant private or not-for-profit entities or other organizations; and/or other life experiences. To assist them in evaluating matters under federal and state law, the Trustees are counseled by their own independent legal counsel, who participates in Board meetings and interacts with the Adviser. The Trustees also may benefit from information provided by the Adviser’s counsel. Counsel to the Independent Trustees has significant experience advising funds and fund board members. The Audit Committee of the Board and their independent legal counsel meets regularly with the Trust’s independent registered public accounting firm, and the Board and its committees have the ability to engage other experts as appropriate. The Board evaluates its performance on an annual basis.
Ronald Baron – In addition to his tenure as a Trustee of the Trust, Mr. Baron is the Chief Executive Officer of the Trust, having served as Chief Investment Officer of the Trust since its inception in April 2003 to February 2020, as well as the portfolio manager of Baron Partners Fund, Baron Focused Growth Fund (formerly Baron Retirement Income Fund) and Baron WealthBuilder Fund, each a series of Baron Select Funds, and Baron Growth Fund, a series of Baron Investment Funds Trust. Mr. Baron was also the portfolio manager of Baron Asset Fund from its inception until 2003 and then the co-portfolio manager of Baron Asset Fund from 2003 until January of 2008. Mr. Baron has over 51 years of experience as a Wall Street analyst and has managed money for others for over 46 years.
Linda S. Martinson – In addition to serving as Chairman of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, Ms. Martinson is the President and Chief Operating Officer of the Trust. She has been with the Adviser for over 35 years, initially serving as the Adviser’s General Counsel until 2007 and its Corporate Secretary until 2008.
Peggy Wong – In addition to serving as a Trustee of the Trust, Ms. Wong is the Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer of the Trust. She has been with the Adviser for 35 years and has served as the CFO since 1987.
Thomas J. Folliard – Mr. Folliard has been a Trustee of the Trust and the Board of the mutual funds of Baron Select Funds for four years. In addition to his tenure as a Trustee of the Baron mutual funds, Mr. Folliard has served as the non-executive chair of the CarMax, Inc. board of directors since August 2016. He joined CarMax in 1993 as senior buyer and became director of purchasing in 1994. He was promoted to vice president of merchandising in 1996, senior vice president of store operations in 2000 and executive vice president of store operations in 2001. Mr. Folliard served as president and chief executive officer of CarMax from 2006 to February 2016 and retired as chief executive officer in August 2016. Mr. Folliard has served on the board of PulteGroup, Inc. from 2012 to the present.
Abraham (Avi) Nachmany – Mr. Nachmany was an Advisory Board Member of the Trust and the Board of the Baron mutual funds of Baron Select Funds Trust from May of 2019 to May of 2020 and has been a Trustee of the Trust and the Board of the Baron mutual funds of Baron Select Funds since May of 2020. In addition to his tenure as a Trustee of the Baron mutual funds, Mr. Nachmany is currently an independent mutual fund industry consultant and advisor. In 1986, he co-founded Strategic Insight, a thought leadership and business intelligence firm for mutual fund industry leaders, where he served in various capacities until his retirement in 2015 (including Director of Research for over 20 years).
Raymond Noveck – Mr. Noveck has been a Trustee of the Trust for over 35 years and of the Board of the mutual funds of the Baron Select Funds for over 18 years. Mr. Noveck currently serves as the lead Independent Trustee of the Board. Mr. Noveck was also employed by the Firm as a Managing Director from 1985 to 1987. From 1988 through 1989, Mr. Noveck was Executive Vice President of Lifetime Corp., one of America’s largest providers of home health care personnel, and from 1990 until his retirement in 1998, he was the founder, President and Chief Operating Officer of Strategic Systems. Inc., provider of The Medical Information Line, an automated nationwide provider of consumer health information via touch tone telephone networks. Mr. Noveck
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is a CPA and has experience preparing, auditing, analyzing and evaluating financial statements. Prior to joining Baron Capital in 1985, Mr. Noveck was the Strategic Business Unit Director for Mental Health and Aging Products, the largest prescription pharmaceutical division for Sandoz Pharmaceuticals, now part of Novartis. He also served on the Board of NYSE listed Horizon/CMS Healthcare, from 1987 until its 1998 merger with Healthsouth and, as a CPA, has audited public companies including mutual funds and brokerage firms.
Anita Rosenberg – Ms. Rosenberg has been a Trustee of the Trust and the Board of the mutual funds of Baron Select Funds for over seven years. In addition to her tenure as a Trustee of the Baron mutual funds, Ms. Rosenberg serves on the board of the Golub Capital BDC, Inc. She also serves as an Advisory Board Member of Impala Asset Management, LLC and Value Act Capital, LLC. Ms. Rosenberg was a senior advisor to Magnetar Capital, a multi-strategy hedge fund. Ms. Rosenberg was a partner and portfolio manager of Harris Alternatives, LLC, and its predecessor, Harris Alternatives, L.P., from 1999 until her retirement in 2009.
David A. Silverman, MD – Dr. Silverman has been a Trustee of the Trust for over 35 years and of the Board of the mutual funds of Baron Select Funds for over 18 years. In addition to his tenure as a Trustee of the Baron mutual funds, Dr. Silverman has been a Director of the New York Blood Center from 1999 to the present. He has also been a Physician and Faculty of New York University School of Medicine from 1976 to the present.
Marvelle Sullivan – Mrs. Sullivan was an Advisory Board Member of the Trust and the Board of the Baron mutual funds of Baron Select Funds from February of 2020 to May of 2020 and has been a Trustee of the Trust and the Board of the Baron mutual funds of Baron Select Funds since May of 2020. In addition to her tenure as a Trustee of the Baron mutual funds, Ms. Sullivan is the founder and CEO of Marvelle Co., a global firm that specializes in activating strategic imperatives and transformative growth through business model innovation and sophisticated deal-making, with a focus on healthcare and technology. Prior to launching MCo, Marvelle was a Managing Director at J.P. Morgan in New York, where she forged the U.S. healthcare venture, Haven, among J.P. Morgan, Berkshire Hathaway and Amazon. She previously spent over a decade with Novartis at its headquarters in Switzerland, where, as Global Head of M&A, she was responsible for over $100 billion of transactions, including Novartis’ large-scale and multi-transaction Portfolio Transformation, and represented Novartis on the Board of its Consumer Health JV with GSK. Earlier in her career, Marvelle specialized in capital markets and M&A as an associate at the London office of the “magic circle” law firm, Allen & Overy. Marvelle also currently serves as a Board member of the London School of Economics (LSE) North American Advisory Board.
Errol Taylor – Mr. Taylor has been a Trustee of the Trust and the Board of mutual funds of the Baron Select Funds since December of 2020. Mr. Taylor is a former Partner of Milbank LLP and an adjunct professor at New York Law School. Prior to joining Milbank LLP, Mr. Taylor was a Partner and Executive Committee Member at Fitzpatrick, Cella, Harper & Scinto from 1987 to 2003. From 1977 to 1987, Mr. Taylor was a Senior Research Associate at Bristol-Myers Squibb Company.
Alejandro (Alex) Yemenidjian – Mr. Yemenidjian has been a Trustee of the Trust for over 16 years and the Board of the mutual funds of Baron Select Funds for over 15 years. In addition to his tenure as a Trustee of the Baron mutual funds, Mr. Yemenidjian is Chairman of the Board and Chief Executive Officer of Oshidori International Development Ltd., is Non-Executive Chairman of the Board of Oshidori International Holdings, Ltd, is Non-Executive Chairman of the Board and chairman of the compensation committee of Guess?, Inc. (clothing retailer). He served as a Director of Regal Entertainment Group (movie theatre operator), a public company, from 2005 to 2018, and was the Chairman and CEO of Tropicana Las Vegas, a hotel and casino company, from 2009 to 2015. Mr. Yemenidjian is a CPA and has experience preparing, auditing, analyzing, and evaluating financial statements.
The Board believes that the foregoing specific experiences, qualifications, attributes and skills of each Trustee have prepared them to be effective Trustees. The Board also believes that such qualities demonstrate that its members have the ability to exercise effective business judgment in the performance of their duties.
24
Compensation.
Baron Investment Funds Trust and Baron Select Funds (the “Fund Complex”) pay each Independent Trustee annual compensation in addition to reimbursement of out-of-pocket expenses in connection with attendance at meetings of the Board. Specifically, each Independent Trustee receives an annual base compensation of $172,000 with the lead Independent Trustee receiving an additional $20,000. An additional $48,000 per annum is paid to each Independent Trustee for attendance at the quarterly meetings of the Board. Each member of the Audit Committee receives an additional $10,000 in annual compensation for serving on the Audit Committee. An additional $10,000 per annum is paid to the Audit Committee Chairperson. The Interested Trustees and Officers receive no direct remuneration in such capacity from the Funds.
The Trustees of the Funds received the following compensation from the Funds for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2021 and from the Fund Complex for the calendar year ended December 31, 2021:
Name |
Aggregate Compensation From the Funds |
Pension or Retirement Benefits Accrued As Part of Funds Expenses |
Estimated Annual Benefits Upon Retirement |
Total Compensation From Fund Complex Paid to Trustees |
||||||||||||
Interested Trustees: |
||||||||||||||||
Ronald Baron |
$ | 0 | N/A | N/A | $ | 0 | ||||||||||
Linda S. Martinson |
$ | 0 | N/A | N/A | $ | 0 | ||||||||||
Peggy Wong* |
N/A | N/A | N/A | $ | 0 | |||||||||||
Independent Trustees: |
||||||||||||||||
Raymond Noveck |
$ | 166,400 | N/A | N/A | $ | 260,000 | ||||||||||
Anita Rosenberg |
$ | 140,800 | N/A | N/A | $ | 220,000 | ||||||||||
David Silverman |
$ | 140,800 | N/A | N/A | $ | 220,000 | ||||||||||
Alex Yemenidjian |
$ | 147,200 | N/A | N/A | $ | 230,000 | ||||||||||
Thomas Folliard |
$ | 147,200 | N/A | N/A | $ | 230,000 | ||||||||||
Abraham (Avi) Nachmany |
$ | 140,800 | N/A | N/A | $ | 220,000 | ||||||||||
Marvelle Sullivan |
$ | 140,800 | N/A | N/A | $ | 220,000 | ||||||||||
Errol Taylor** |
$ | 105,600 | N/A | N/A | $ | 220,000 |
* | Peggy Wong was appointed Trustee in November of 2021. |
** | Errol Taylor was appointed Trustee in December of 2020. |
Board Committees.
The Board has established four committees: Audit; Executive; Nominating; and Independent. The Audit Committee recommends to the full Board the engagement or discharge of the Funds’ independent accountants; directs investigations into matters within the scope of the independent accountants’ duties; reviews with the independent accountants the results of the audit; and reviews the independence of the independent accountants. The Audit Committee is currently comprised of the following members: Raymond Noveck, Alex Yemenidjian, and Thomas Folliard. The Audit Committee met four times during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2021.
The Executive Committee is empowered to exercise all of the powers, including the power to declare dividends, of the full Board when the full Board is not in session. The Executive Committee is currently comprised of the following members: Ronald Baron and Linda Martinson. Members of the Executive Committee serve on the committee without compensation. The Executive Committee met four times during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2021.
25
The Nominating Committee recommends to the full Board those persons to be nominated for election as Trustees by shareholders and selects and proposes nominees for election by Trustees between shareholders’ meeting. The Nominating Committee does not normally consider candidates proposed by shareholders for election as Trustees. The Nominating Committee is currently comprised of all Independent Trustees. Members of the Nominating Committee serve on the committee without compensation. There was one meeting of the Nominating Committee during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2021.
The Independent Committee discusses various Fund matters, including the advisory contract and distribution plan. The Independent Committee is comprised of all Independent Trustees of the Funds. Members of the Independent Committee serve on the committee without compensation. The Independent Committee met four times during the fiscal year ended September 30, 2021.
Trustee Ownership of Fund Shares.
The following table shows the dollar range of shares beneficially owned by each Trustee as of December 31, 2021:
Name of Trustee |
Dollar Range of Equity |
Aggregate Dollar Range of Equity Securities in All Registered Investment Companies Overseen by Trustee in Family of Investment Companies |
||||||
Interested Trustees: |
||||||||
Ronald Baron |
Baron Asset Fund, Baron Growth Fund Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
>$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 |
>$100,000 | |||||
Linda S. Martinson |
Baron Asset Fund, Baron Growth Fund Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
>$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 |
>$100,000 | |||||
Peggy Wong* |
Baron Asset Fund, Baron Growth Fund Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
>$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 $10,001-$50,000 |
>$100,000 | |||||
Raymond Noveck |
Baron Asset Fund, Baron Growth Fund Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
>$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 >$100,000 $0 |
>$100,000 |
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Name of Trustee |
Dollar Range of Equity |
Aggregate Dollar Range of Equity Securities in All Registered Investment Companies Overseen by Trustee in Family of Investment Companies | ||||
David Silverman |
Baron Asset Fund, Baron Growth Fund Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 |
>$100,000 | |||
Alex Yemenidjian |
Baron Asset Fund, Baron Growth Fund Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 |
>$100,000 | |||
Anita Rosenberg |
Baron Asset Fund Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 |
>$100,000 | |||
Thomas Folliard |
Baron Asset Fund Baron Growth Fund Baron Small Cap Fund Baron Opportunity Fund Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund Baron Discovery Fund Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 |
>$100,000 | |||
Avi Nachmany |
Baron Asset Fund Baron Growth Fund Baron Small Cap Fund Baron Opportunity Fund Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund Baron Discovery Fund Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 >$100,000 $0 |
>$100,000 | |||
Marvelle Sullivan |
Baron Asset Fund Baron Growth Fund Baron Small Cap Fund Baron Opportunity Fund Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund Baron Discovery Fund Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
$0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 |
$0 | |||
Errol Taylor |
Baron Asset Fund Baron Growth Fund Baron Small Cap Fund Baron Opportunity Fund Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund Baron Discovery Fund Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
$0 >$100,000 $0 $0 $0 $0 $0 |
>$100,000 |
* | Ms. Wong was appointed Trustee in November of 2021. |
27
The Independent Trustees do not own any securities of the Adviser, the Distributor or any other entity controlling, controlled by or under common control with the Adviser or Distributor.
Code of Ethics.
The Funds, the Adviser and the Distributor have adopted a written Code of Ethics pursuant to Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act. The Code of Ethics prohibits employees from investing in securities held by the Funds.
Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures.
The Funds have delegated all decision making on proxy voting to the Adviser. The Adviser makes its own independent voting decisions, although it may consider recommendations from third parties in its decision-making process. The Adviser makes voting decisions solely in the best interests of the Funds and their shareholders. It is the policy of the Adviser in voting proxies to vote each proposal with the goal of maximizing long-term investment returns for the Funds.
The Adviser uses guidelines which are reviewed quarterly by a Proxy Review Committee established by the Adviser. While the Adviser makes investment decisions based, in part, on the strength of a company’s management team, it will not automatically support management proposals if such proposals are inconsistent with the Adviser’s Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures.
If it is determined that there is a potential material conflict of interest between the interests of the Adviser and the interests of a Fund, the Proxy Review Committee will review the matter and may either (i) request that the Fund consent to the Adviser’s vote, (ii) vote in accordance with the published recommendations of an independent proxy voting service, or (iii) appoint an independent third party to vote.
A full copy of the Adviser’s Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures is available on the Baron Funds® website, www.BaronFunds.com under “Legal Notices” link at the bottom left corner of the homepage. The Funds’ most current Proxy Voting Record on Form N-PX for the twelve months ended June 30, 2021 is also available on the Baron Funds® website or on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov.
CONTROL PERSONS AND PRINCIPAL HOLDERS OF SECURITIES
Control Persons.
As of December 31, 2021, the following persons were known to the Funds to be the record owners of more than 25% of the voting securities of the Funds:
Baron Asset Fund |
Baron Growth Fund |
Baron Small Cap Fund |
Baron Opportunity Fund |
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund |
Baron Discovery Fund |
Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
||||||||||||||||||||||
National Financial Services Corp., |
26.60 | % | 36.28 | % | — | 29.50 | % | — | — | 41.15 | % |
28
Principal Holders.
As of December 31, 2021, the following persons were known to the Funds to be the record owners of 5% or more of a class of the voting securities of each Fund:
Record Holders | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Baron Asset Fund (Retail Class) |
Baron Growth Fund (Retail Class) |
Baron Small Cap Fund (Retail Class) |
Baron Opportunity Fund (Retail Class) |
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund (Retail Class) |
Baron Discovery Fund (Retail Class) |
Baron Durable Advantage Fund (Retail Class) |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., |
29.99 | % | 22.20 | % | 32.21 | % | 27.59 | % | 21.84 | % | 29.94 | % | 18.33 | % | ||||||||||||||
National Financial Services Corp., |
22.11 | % | 35.89 | % | 21.99 | % | 33.45 | % | 28.18 | % | 31.41 | % | 31.44 | % | ||||||||||||||
TD Ameritrade Inc, |
— | — | 5.11 | % | 6.19 | % | 7.11 | % | 16.11 | % | 17.67 | % | ||||||||||||||||
Record Holders | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Baron Asset Fund (Institutional Class) |
Baron Growth Fund (Institutional Class) |
Baron Small Cap Fund (Institutional Class) |
Baron Opportunity Fund (Institutional Class) |
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund (Institutional Class) |
Baron Discovery Fund (Institutional Class) |
Baron Durable Advantage Fund (Institutional Class) |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Ronald Baron and related family accounts, |
— | — | — | — | 5.47 | % | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., |
6.81 | % | 12.40 | % | 10.66 | % | 12.02 | % | 20.33 | % | 21.51 | % | 8.74 | % | ||||||||||||||
National Financial Services Corp., |
30.95 | % | 37.27 | % | 19.94 | % | 26.38 | % | 16.26 | % | 19.19 | % | 48.70 | % | ||||||||||||||
TD Ameritrade Inc, |
— | — | — | — | — | — | 14.87 | % | ||||||||||||||||||||
UBS Financial Services Inc, |
— | — | — | — | — | 7.60 | % | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
Edward D Jones & Co, |
— | — | 10.02 | % | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney, |
— | 6.71 | % | — | — | 9.66 | % | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
First Clearing LLC, |
— | — | 20.91 | % | 11.55 | % | 5.91 | % | 5.52 | % | — | |||||||||||||||||
JP Morgan Securities LLC, |
— | — | — | — | 12.32 | % | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
LPL Financial, San Diego, CA |
6.50 | % | 5.18 | % | — | 7.26 | % | 5.66 | % | 5.17 | % | — | ||||||||||||||||
Pershing LLC, |
27.34 | % | — | — | 9.63 | % | — | 6.43 | % | — | ||||||||||||||||||
Saxon & Co, |
— | — | — | — | — | 5.97 | % | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
Currie & Co, |
— | — | — | — | 13.28 | % | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
Raymond James, |
— | — | — | 8.09 | % | — | 6.43 | % | — |
29
Record Holders | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Baron Asset Fund (R6 Class) |
Baron Growth Fund (R6 Class) |
Baron Small Cap Fund (R6 Class) |
Baron Opportunity Fund (R6 Class) |
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund (R6 Class) |
Baron Discovery Fund (R6 Class) |
Baron Durable Advantage Fund (R6 Class) |
||||||||||||||||||||||
BAMCO, Inc., |
24.73 | % | 24.40 | % | — | 10.60 | % | 71.01 | % | 5.65 | % | 65.49 | % | |||||||||||||||
Baron Capital Management, Inc., |
— | — | 6.62 | % | 70.34 | % | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||||||
Charles Schwab & Co., Inc., |
19.01 | % | 9.49 | % | 10.08 | % | 13.87 | % | 28.27 | % | 17.73 | % | 34.51 | % | ||||||||||||||
National Financial Services Corp., |
22.28 | % | 15.76 | % | 14.87 | % | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||
Ronald Baron and related family accounts, |
17.14 | % | 5.89 | % | — | — | 19.70 | % | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||
John Hancock Trust Co LLC, |
14.61 | % | — | 6.04 | % | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||||||
Saxon & Co, |
— | — | 46.57 | % | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
Great-West Trust Co LLC, |
— | 9.74 | % | 5.76 | % | — | — | 7.35 | % | — | ||||||||||||||||||
DCGT Trustee and/or Custodian, |
— | 24.50 | % | — | — | — | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
Mid Atlantic Trust Company, |
— | — | — | — | — | 5.98 | % | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
Principal Life Insurance Co, |
— | — | — | — | — | 12.93 | % | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
Ascensus Trust Co, |
— | — | — | — | — | 13.10 | % | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
Matrix Trust Company, |
— | — | — | — | — | 23.36 | % | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
A. Umansky, Scarsdale, NY |
— | — | — | — | — | — | 5.86 | % |
As of December 31, 2021, the following persons were known to the Funds to be the beneficial owners of 5% or more of a class of the voting securities of each Fund:
Beneficial Holders | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Baron Asset Fund (Institutional Class) |
Baron Growth Fund (Institutional Class) |
Baron Small Cap Fund (Institutional Class) |
Baron Opportunity Fund (Institutional Class) |
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund (Institutional Class) |
Baron Discovery Fund (Institutional Class) |
Baron Durable Advantage Fund (Institutional Class) |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Ronald Baron and related family accounts, |
— | — | — | — | 5.81 | % | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
Beneficial Holders | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
Baron Asset Fund (R6 Class) |
Baron Growth Fund (R6 Class) |
Baron Small Cap Fund (R6 Class) |
Baron Opportunity Fund (R6 Class) |
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund (R6 Class) |
Baron Discovery Fund (R6 Class) |
Baron Durable Advantage Fund (R6 Class) |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Ronald Baron and related family accounts, |
39.48 | % | 27.93 | % | 10.82 | % | 75.73 | % | 83.85 | % | 5.67 | % | 59.16 | % |
30
Management Ownership.
Except for Mr. Baron and related family accounts, A. Umansky, BCM and BAMCO, the above record owners are brokerage firms or other financial institutions that hold stock for the benefit of their respective customers. As of December 31, 2021, all of the Officers, Trustees and portfolio managers of Baron Investment Funds Trust as a group beneficially owned directly or indirectly 13.77% of Baron Durable Advantage Fund’s outstanding shares.
INVESTMENT ADVISORY AND OTHER SERVICES
Investment Adviser.
The Adviser to the Funds, BAMCO, is a New York corporation with its principal offices at 767 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10153 and a subsidiary of BCG. Mr. Baron is the controlling stockholder of BCG. Mr. Baron has over 51 years of experience as a Wall Street analyst and has managed money for others for over 46 years. Mr. Baron is the lead portfolio manager for Baron Growth Fund and was the co-portfolio manager of Baron Asset Fund until January 23, 2008. Mr. Baron is also the portfolio manager of Baron Partners Fund, Baron Focused Growth Fund and Baron WealthBuilder Fund, each a series of Baron Select Funds.
Pursuant to separate Advisory Agreements with each Fund (each an “Advisory Agreement,” and collectively the “Advisory Agreements”), the Adviser furnishes continuous investment advisory services and management to the Funds, including making the day-to-day investment decisions and arranging portfolio transactions for the Funds, subject to such policies as determined by the Board. For such services, the Adviser receives an annual fee from Baron Asset Fund, Baron Growth Fund, Baron Small Cap Fund, Baron Opportunity Fund and Baron Discovery Fund of 1% of the average daily net assets of the respective Fund. Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund pays the Adviser 0.70% for average daily net assets of the Fund. Baron Durable Advantage Fund pays the Adviser 0.65% for average daily net assets of the Fund. The Adviser has contractually agreed to limit the expense ratio (excluding portfolio transaction costs, interest, dividend and extraordinary expenses), for as long as the Adviser serves as investment adviser to the Funds, for each of the share classes as follows:
Fund |
Retail Shares | Institutional Shares | R6 Shares | |||||||||
Baron Asset Fund |
N/A | N/A | N/A | |||||||||
Baron Growth Fund |
N/A | N/A | N/A | |||||||||
Baron Small Cap Fund |
N/A | N/A | N/A | |||||||||
Baron Opportunity Fund |
1.50 | % | 1.25 | % | 1.24 | % | ||||||
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund |
1.00 | % | 0.75 | % | 0.75 | % | ||||||
Baron Discovery Fund |
1.35 | % | 1.10 | % | 1.09 | % | ||||||
Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
0.95 | % | 0.70 | % | 0.70 | % |
The following table discloses advisory fees received by BAMCO for the each of the years ended September 30:
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | ||||||||||
Baron Asset Fund |
$ | 59,622,517 | $ | 45,693,204 | $ | 38,528,799 | ||||||
Baron Growth Fund |
87,408,966 | 68,770,134 | 64,917,189 | |||||||||
Baron Small Cap Fund |
51,842,467 | 39,242,008 | 40,060,532 | |||||||||
Baron Opportunity Fund |
14,909,820 | 6,302,698 | 4,402,860 | |||||||||
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund |
5,287,943 | 2,618,135 | 2,031,243 | |||||||||
Baron Discovery Fund |
16,234,330 | 6,473,548 | 4,684,551 | |||||||||
Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
152,910 | 66,509 | 27,909 |
31
Under the Advisory Agreements, the Adviser, at its own expense and without reimbursement from the Funds, furnishes office space and all necessary office facilities, equipment and executive personnel for managing the Funds, and pays the salaries and fees of all Officers and Trustees who are interested persons of the Adviser.
The Adviser also uses a portion of its assets to pay all or a portion of the charges of third parties that distribute shares of the Funds to their customers.
The Funds pay all operating and other expenses not borne by the Adviser such as: audit, accounting and legal fees; custodian fees; expenses of registering and qualifying their shares with federal and state securities commissions; expenses in preparing shareholder reports and proxy solicitation materials; expenses associated with the Funds’ shares, such as dividend disbursing, transfer agent and registrar fees; certain insurance expenses; compensation of Independent Trustees and other miscellaneous business expenses. The Funds also pay the expenses of offering the shares of the Funds, including the registration and filing fees, legal and accounting fees and costs of printing the Prospectus and related documents. The Funds also pay all taxes imposed on them and all brokerage commissions and expenses incurred in connection with their portfolio transactions.
The Adviser utilizes the staffs of BCG and its subsidiary BCM to provide research. Directors, Officers or employees of the Adviser and/or its affiliates may also serve as Officers or Trustees of the Funds or of other funds managed by the Adviser. BCM is an investment adviser to institutional and individual accounts. Clients of BCM and the other funds managed by the Adviser have investment goals which may or may not vary from those of each other and of the Funds. BCM and the Adviser invest in substantially similar or the same securities as the Funds, other client accounts and in the accounts of principals and employees of BCM and its affiliates. When the same securities are purchased for or sold by the Funds and any of such other accounts, it is the policy of the Adviser and BCM to allocate such transactions in a manner deemed equitable by the Adviser. All personal trading by employees is subject to the Code of Ethics of the Funds and the Adviser. In certain circumstances, the Adviser may make investments for the Funds that conflict with investments being made by BCM. The Adviser may also make investment decisions for the Funds that are inconsistent with the investment decisions for other Funds it manages.
Each Advisory Agreement provides that the Funds may use “Baron” as part of its name for so long as the Adviser serves as the investment adviser to the Funds. The Funds acknowledge that the word “Baron” in its name is derived from the name of the entities controlling, directly or indirectly, the Adviser, which derive their name from Ronald Baron, that such name is the property of the Adviser and its affiliated companies for copyright and/or other purposes, and that if for any reason the Adviser ceases to be the Funds’ investment adviser, the Funds will promptly take all steps necessary to change their name to one that does not include “Baron,” unless they receive the Adviser’s written consent to continue using the name.
Each Advisory Agreement provides that the Adviser shall have no liability to the Funds or their shareholders for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Funds on account of any action taken in good faith, provided that the Adviser shall not be protected against liabilities arising by virtue of willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence, or reckless disregard of the Adviser’s obligations under the Advisory Agreements.
Each Advisory Agreement is terminable without penalty by the relevant Fund (when authorized by a majority vote of the shareholders or the Trustees) or the Adviser on 60 days’ written notice. The Advisory Agreements shall automatically terminate in the event of their “assignment” (as defined by the 1940 Act).
Principal Underwriter.
The Funds have a distribution agreement with BCI with its principal offices located at 767 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10153. BCI is an affiliate of BAMCO.
32
Distribution and Servicing Agreements.
The Funds and/or the Distributor have agreements with various financial intermediaries pursuant to which various services may be provided to the Funds or their shareholders. See “Distribution and Servicing Arrangements” in the Prospectus.
12b-1 Plan.1
The Distributor does not receive underwriting commissions, but the Funds’ distribution and servicing plan for Retail Shares adopted pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (the “12b-1 Plan”) authorizes the Funds to pay the Distributor a distribution and servicing fee equal to 0.25% per annum of each Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to the Retail Shares. The 12b-1 fees are paid to the Distributor in connection with (a) activities and expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of Retail Shares and/or the servicing of Retail Shares shareholder accounts and/or (b) providing services to holders of Retail Shares of the Funds and/or maintaining accounts in the Retail Shares of the Funds, including, but not limited to, (i) compensation to financial intermediaries (as described in the Prospectus) that have entered into an agreement with the Distributor; (ii) compensation to and expenses of registered representatives and/or employees of the Distributor who engage in or support distribution of Retail Shares or who service shareholder accounts; and (iii) printing of prospectuses and reports for other than existing holders of Retail Shares; preparation, printing and distribution of sales literature and advertising materials for Retail Shares; and telephone expenses and other identifiable expenses in connection with the foregoing. The total amount of the 12b-1 fee is payable to the Distributor, regardless of the actual expenses incurred, which expenses may be more or less than the 12b-1 fees received by the Distributor.
The 12b-1 Plan requires that the Trust will cause to be provided to the Board a written report, at least quarterly, of the amounts of all expenditures pursuant to the 12b-1 Plan and related agreements, and the purposes for which such expenditures were made for the preceding fiscal quarter.
For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2021, the Funds paid fees attributable to Retail Shares to the Distributor under the 12b-1 Plan as follows: Baron Asset Fund, $7,012,901; Baron Growth Fund, $7,259,067; Baron Small Cap Fund, $4,351,478; Baron Opportunity Fund, $2,109,557; Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund, $470,915; Baron Discovery Fund, $629,082 and Baron Durable Advantage Fund, $14,832.
The following table shows the amounts that were paid by the Distributor under the 12b-1 Plan for the fiscal year ended September 30, 2021. All amounts were paid to third parties for distribution and/or shareholder servicing.
Baron Asset Fund |
Baron Growth Fund |
Baron Small Cap Fund |
Baron Opportunity Fund |
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund |
Baron Discovery Fund |
Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
||||||||||||||||||||||
Distribution and Service Fees Paid to Third Parties |
$ | 7,012,901 | $ | 7,259,067 | $ | 4,351,478 | $ | 2,109,557 | $ | 470,915 | $ | 629,082 | $ | 14,832 | ||||||||||||||
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The Independent Trustees have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of the 12b-1 Plan or any agreement thereunder. The Interested Trustees have such an interest.
The 12b-1 Plan has been approved by the Board, including a majority of the Independent Trustees. In approving the 12b-1 Plan, the Board considered various factors and determined that there is a reasonable likelihood that the 12b-1 Plan will benefit the Funds and their Retail Shares shareholders. The anticipated benefits include the following: (i) the likelihood of attracting and retaining investments in the Retail Shares; (ii) the potential benefits of a larger asset base, including reduced expenses; and (iii) potential benefits to investors in the Retail Shares of the services to be provided pursuant to the 12b-1 Plan.
1 | The 12b-1 plan applies to Retail Shares only. It does not apply to Institutional Shares or R6 Shares. |
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Unless terminated in accordance with its terms, the 12b-1 Plan will continue in effect for a one year period, and from year to year thereafter if such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by the Board and by the Independent Trustees, with such votes being cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of such vote.
The 12b-1 Plan may be terminated at any time by the vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or by the vote of a majority of the outstanding Retail Shares. The 12b-1 Plan may not be amended to increase materially the amount of payments to be made without the approval of holders of the Funds’ Retail Shares. All material amendments must be approved by a vote of the Board and of the Independent Trustees, with such votes being cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of such vote. If the 12b-1 Plan is terminated, the Funds will owe no payments to the Distributor, other than any unpaid portion of the 12b-1 fee accrued through the effective date of termination.
Other Service Providers.
Custodian.
State Street Bank and Trust Company, One Lincoln Street, Boston, MA 02111 serves as the custodian for the Funds’ cash and securities.
SSBT provides certain accounting and bookkeeping services to include maintaining the books of each Fund, calculating daily the income and net asset value per share of each Fund and assisting in the preparation of tax returns and reports to shareholders. SSBT is compensated for fund accounting based on a percentage of each Fund’s net assets, subject to certain minimums plus fixed annual fees for the administrator services. For the fiscal year ended September 30, 2021, $773,636 was incurred for such services.
Transfer Agent and Dividend Agent.
DST Systems, Inc., 430 West 7th Street, Kansas City, MO 64105, is the Transfer Agent and Dividend Agent for the Funds.
Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm.
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, 300 Madison Avenue, New York, NY 10017, is the independent registered public accounting firm for the Funds.
These institutions are not responsible for investment decisions of the Funds.
Securities Lending.
SSBT, acting either directly or through any State Street Affiliates (collectively, “State Street”) serves as securities lending agent for each Fund and in that role administers each Fund’s securities lending program pursuant to the terms of a securities lending agency agreement entered into between the Trust and State Street. As administered by State Street, available securities from each Fund’s portfolio are furnished to borrowers through security-by-security loans effected by State Street as lending agent on behalf of each Fund.
State Street is responsible for the administration and management of each Fund’s securities lending program, including the preparation and execution of a participant agreement with each borrower governing the terms and conditions of any securities loan, ensuring that securities loans are properly coordinated and documented with the Funds’ custodian, ensuring that loaned securities are daily valued and that the corresponding required cash collateral is delivered by the borrower(s), and arranging for the investment of cash collateral received from borrowers in accordance with each Fund’s investment guidelines.
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State Street receives as compensation for its services a portion of the amount earned by each Fund for lending securities.
The table below sets forth, for each Fund’s most recently completed fiscal year ended September 30, 2018, the Fund’s gross income received from securities lending activities, the fees and/or other compensation paid by the Fund for securities lending activities, and the net income earned by the Fund for securities lending activities. The table below also discloses any other fees or payments incurred by each Fund resulting from lending securities.
Baron Asset Fund |
Baron Growth Fund |
Baron Small Cap Fund |
Baron Opportunity Fund |
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund |
Baron Discovery Fund |
Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
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Gross income from securities lending activities |
— | — | $ | — | — | $ | 84,394 | $ | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||
Fees and/or compensation for securities lending activities and related services |
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Fees paid to securities lending agent from a revenue split |
— | — | — | — | (8,439 | ) | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||||
Fees paid for any cash collateral management service (including fees deducted from a pooled cash collateral reinvestment vehicle) |
— | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||||||||
Administrative fees not included in revenue split |
— | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||||||||
Indemnification fee not included in revenue split |
— | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||||||||
Rebate (paid to borrower) |
— | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||||||||
Other fees not included in revenue split (specify) |
— | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||||||||
Aggregate fees/compensation for securities lending activities |
— | — | — | — | — | — | — | |||||||||||||||||||||
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Net income from securities lending activities |
— | — | $ | — | — | $ | 75,955 | $ | — | — | ||||||||||||||||||
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PORTFOLIO MANAGERS
Baron Asset Fund |
Andrew Peck | |
Baron Growth Fund |
Ronald Baron | |
Neal Rosenberg* | ||
Baron Small Cap Fund |
Clifford Greenberg | |
Baron Opportunity Fund |
Michael Lippert | |
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund |
Alex Umansky | |
Baron Discovery Fund |
Laird Bieger Randolph Gwirtzman | |
Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
Alex Umansky |
* | Neal Rosenberg is the co-manager of Baron Growth Fund. Ronald Baron serves as the Lead Portfolio Manager of Baron Growth Fund and has served as portfolio manager of the Fund since its inception. |
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Other Accounts Managed.
As of September 30, 2021:
Portfolio Manager |
Type of Account |
Number of Additional Accounts |
Total Assets (millions) |
Number of Additional Accounts Subject to a Performance Fee |
Total Assets Subject to a Performance Fee |
|||||||||||||
Ronald Baron |
Registered Investment Companies | 4 | $ | 9,515 | 0 | $ | 0 | |||||||||||
Other pooled investment vehicles | 3 | $ | 256 | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
Other Accounts | 26 | $ | 1,586 | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
Andrew Peck |
Registered Investment Companies | 0 | $ | 0 | 0 | $ | 0 | |||||||||||
Other pooled investment vehicles | 1 | $ | 301 | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
Other Accounts | 5 | $ | 459 | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
Clifford Greenberg |
Registered Investment Companies | 0 | $ | 0 | 0 | $ | 0 | |||||||||||
Other pooled investment vehicles | 0 | $ | 0 | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
Other Accounts | 2 | $ | 87 | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
Michael Lippert |
Registered Investment Companies | 0 | $ | 0 | 0 | $ | 0 | |||||||||||
Other pooled investment vehicles | 0 | $ | 0 | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
Other Accounts | 2 | $ | 84 | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
Alex Umansky |
Registered Investment Companies | 1 | $ | 2,769 | 0 | $ | 0 | |||||||||||
Other pooled investment vehicles | 0 | $ | 0 | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
Other Accounts | 6 | $ | 47 | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
Laird Bieger |
Registered Investment Companies | 0 | $ | 0 | 0 | $ | 0 | |||||||||||
Other pooled investment vehicles | 0 | $ | 0 | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
Other Accounts | 1 | $ | 156 | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
Randolph Gwirtzman |
Registered Investment Companies | 0 | $ | 0 | 0 | $ | 0 | |||||||||||
Other pooled investment vehicles | 0 | $ | 0 | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
Other Accounts | 1 | $ | 156 | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
Neal Rosenberg* |
Registered Investment Companies | 0 | $ | 0 | 0 | $ | 0 | |||||||||||
Other pooled investment vehicles | 0 | $ | 0 | 0 | $ | 0 | ||||||||||||
Other Accounts | 1 | $ | 34 | 0 | $ | 0 |
* | Neal Rosenberg is the co-manager of Baron Growth Fund. |
Potential Conflicts of Interest.
Conflicts of interest could arise in connection with managing the Funds along with other Baron Funds® and the accounts of other clients of the Adviser and of clients of the Adviser’s affiliated investment adviser, BCM. Because of market conditions, client investment restrictions, Adviser imposed investment guidelines and the consideration of factors such as cash availability and diversification considerations, not all investment opportunities will be available to the Funds and all clients at all times. The Adviser has joint trading policies and procedures designed to ensure that no Fund or client is systematically given preferential treatment over time. The Funds’ Chief Compliance Officer monitors allocations for consistency with this policy and reports to the Board annually. Because an investment opportunity may be suitable for multiple accounts, the Funds may not be able to take full advantage of that opportunity because the opportunity may be allocated among many or all of the Funds and accounts of clients managed by the Adviser and its affiliate.
To the extent that the Funds’ portfolio manager has responsibilities for managing other client accounts, the portfolio manager may have conflicts of interest with respect to his time and attention among relevant accounts. In addition, differences in the investment restrictions or strategies among a Fund and other accounts may cause
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the portfolio manager to take action with respect to another account that differs from the action taken with respect to the Funds. In some cases, another account managed by the portfolio manager may provide more revenue to the Adviser. While this may create additional conflicts of interest for the portfolio manager in the allocation of management time, resources and investment opportunities, the Adviser takes all necessary steps to ensure that the portfolio manager endeavors to exercise his discretion in a manner that is equitable to the Funds and other accounts.
The Adviser believes that it has policies and procedures in place that address the Funds’ potential conflicts of interest. Such policies and procedures address, among other things, trading practices (e.g., brokerage commissions, cross trading, aggregation and allocation of transactions, sequential transactions, allocations of orders for execution to brokers and portfolio performance dispersion review), disclosure of confidential information and employee trading.
Compensation.
Mr. Baron has an employment agreement that includes a fixed base salary and a performance bonus, the ultimate amount of which is determined by the Compensation Committee of the BCG Board of Directors, in its sole discretion. The terms of his contract are based on Mr. Baron’s role as the Firm’s Founder and Chief Executive Officer, and his position as portfolio manager for the majority of the Firm’s assets under management. Consideration is given to Mr. Baron’s reputation, the long-term performance records of the Funds under his management and the profitability of the Firm.
The compensation for Messrs. Greenberg, Peck, Lippert, Umansky, Bieger, Gwirtzman and Rosenberg includes a base salary and an annual bonus that is based, in part, on the amount of assets they manage, as well as their individual long-term investment performance, their overall contribution to the Firm and the Firm’s profitability. In addition, Messrs. Greenberg and Peck own equity in BCG. They are also eligible for special bonuses based on the Firm achieving its long-term growth and profitability goals.
Ownership of Portfolio Managers.
As of September 30, 2021, the Portfolio Manager ownership of Fund shares was:
Portfolio Manager |
Fund |
Dollar Range of Fund Shares Owned | ||
Andrew Peck |
Baron Asset Fund | Over $1,000,000 | ||
Ronald Baron |
Baron Growth Fund | Over $1,000,000 | ||
Clifford Greenberg |
Baron Small Cap Fund | Over $1,000,000 | ||
Michael Lippert |
Baron Opportunity Fund | Over $1,000,000 | ||
Alex Umansky |
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund | Over $1,000,000 | ||
Baron Durable Advantage Fund | Over $1,000,000 | |||
Laird Bieger |
Baron Discovery Fund | Over $1,000,000 | ||
Randolph Gwirtzman |
Baron Discovery Fund | Over $1,000,000 | ||
Neal Rosenberg* |
Baron Growth Fund | $500,001-$1,000,000 |
* | Neal Rosenberg is the co-manager of Baron Growth Fund. |
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BROKERAGE ALLOCATION AND OTHER PRACTICES
For the Fiscal Year Ended September 30, |
2021 | 2020 | 2019 | |||||||||
Total Commissions Paid by the Fund |
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Baron Asset Fund |
$ | 385,552 | $ | 224,801 | $ | 385,662 | ||||||
Baron Growth Fund |
320,141 | 413,337 | 458,483 | |||||||||
Baron Small Cap Fund |
1,361,760 | 1,344,815 | 1,098,049 | |||||||||
Baron Opportunity Fund |
677,592 | 274,551 | 179,803 | |||||||||
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund |
193,150 | 37,613 | 35,873 | |||||||||
Baron Discovery Fund |
1,663,908 | 657,207 | 820,295 | |||||||||
Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
1,640 | 434 | 339 |
The variation in the commissions paid by the Funds year-to-year are caused by fluctuating trading volume.
The Adviser is responsible for placing the portfolio brokerage business of the Funds. Purchase and sale orders are placed with brokers that the Adviser believes will achieve “best execution” of such orders. Best execution involves consideration of a number of factors, including direct net economic results to the Funds, the efficiency with which the transaction is executed, the ability to effect the transaction in the size and price range requested, the ability to effect the transaction with minimum impact on the market, the financial strength and stability of the broker, the broker’s familiarity with a particular security, the broker’s commitment of resources to executing the transaction and past experience with a broker.
Under the Advisory Agreements and as permitted by Section 28(e) of the Securities and Exchange Act of 1934, the Adviser may cause the Funds to pay a broker that provides brokerage and research services to the Adviser an amount of commission for effecting a securities transaction for the Funds in excess of the amount that other brokers would have charged for the transaction, if the Adviser determines in good faith that the greater commission is consistent with the Funds’ policies and is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by the executing broker or third party pursuant to a Commission Sharing Arrangement viewed in terms of either a particular transaction or the Adviser’s overall responsibilities to the Funds or to its other clients. The term “brokerage and research services” includes advice as to the value of securities, the advisability of investing in, purchasing, or selling securities, and the availability of securities or of purchasers or sellers of securities, furnishing analyses and reports concerning issuers, industries and securities, economic factors and trends, portfolio strategy and the performance of accounts; and effecting securities transactions and performing functions incidental thereto, such as clearance and settlement. Such services may be used by the Adviser or its affiliate to supplement the services it is required to perform pursuant to the Advisory Agreement in serving the Funds and/or other advisory clients of the affiliate.
Brokers may be willing to furnish statistical research and other factual information or services to the Adviser for no consideration other than brokerage or underwriting commissions. Research provided by brokers is used for the benefit of all of the Adviser’s or its affiliate’s clients and not solely or necessarily for the benefit of the Funds. The Adviser’s investment management personnel attempt to evaluate the quality of research provided by brokers. Results of this effort may be used by the Adviser as a consideration in the selection of brokers to execute portfolio transactions.
Investment decisions for the Funds and for other client accounts managed by BCM and the Adviser are made independent of each other in light of differing considerations for the various accounts. The same investment decision may, however, be made for two or more of the Adviser’s and/or BCM’s accounts. When this occurs, simultaneous transactions are inevitable. Purchases and sales are averaged as to price where possible and allocated to accounts in a manner deemed equitable by the Adviser in conjunction with BCM. This procedure could have a detrimental or beneficial effect upon the price or value of the security for the Funds, depending upon market conditions.
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CAPITAL STOCK AND OTHER SECURITIES
Baron Investment Funds Trust (formerly known as Baron Asset Fund) is an open-end investment company organized as a series fund and established under the business trust law of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The seven series currently available are Baron Asset Fund, Baron Growth Fund, Baron Small Cap Fund, Baron Opportunity Fund, Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund, Baron Discovery Fund and Baron Durable Advantage Fund. Shares entitle their holders to one vote per share on all matters submitted to a vote of shareholders. The Trust’s Declaration of Trust provides that no matters need be submitted to shareholders except as required by the 1940 Act. Consequently, matters such as mergers, acquisitions and sales of assets may not require shareholder approval. In the election of Trustees, shares have non-cumulative voting rights, which means that holders of more than 50% of the shares voting for the election of Trustees can elect all Trustees and, in such event, the holders of the remaining shares voting for the election of Trustees will not be able to elect any person or persons as Trustees. Shares have no preemptive or subscription rights and are transferable.
Under Massachusetts law, shareholders of a Massachusetts business trust may, under certain circumstances, be held personally liable as partners for the obligations of the trust. The Declaration of Trust contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts or obligations of the Fund or any series thereof. Notice of such disclaimer will normally be given in each agreement, obligation or instrument entered into or executed by the Funds or Trustees. The Declaration of Trust provides for indemnification by a Fund for any loss suffered by a shareholder as a result of an obligation of that Fund. The Declaration of Trust also provides that a Fund shall, upon request, assume the defense of any claim made against any shareholder for an act or obligation of that Fund and satisfy any judgment thereon. Thus, the risk of a shareholder incurring financial loss on account of shareholder liability is limited to circumstances in which the Fund itself would be unable to meet its obligations. The Trustees believe that, in view of the above, the risk of personal liability of shareholders is remote.
The Declaration of Trust further provides that the Trustees will not be liable for errors of judgment or mistakes of fact or law, but nothing in the Declaration of Trust protects a Trustee against liability to which he or she would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his or her office.
PURCHASE, REDEMPTION AND PRICING OF SHARES
The Funds expect to make all redemptions in cash but reserve the right to make payment, in whole or in part, in portfolio securities. Payment will be made other than all in cash if the Board determines that economic conditions exist which would make a cash payment detrimental to the Funds’ best interests. Portfolio securities to be so distributed, if any, would be selected in the discretion of the Board and priced as described under “How Your Shares are Priced” in the Prospectus.
Net Asset Value.
As more fully set forth in the Prospectus under “How Your Shares are Priced,” the net asset value per share (“NAV”) of each Fund is calculated as of the scheduled close of the regular trading session (usually 4 p.m. E.T. or such other time as of which the Funds’ NAV is calculated (the “NAV Calculation Time”)) on the New York Stock Exchange (the “Exchange”) on any day the Exchange is scheduled to be open. The Exchange is open all weekdays that are not holidays. Annually, the Exchange publishes the holidays on which it will be closed. The most recent announcement states it will not be open on New Year’s Day, Martin Luther King, Jr. Day, Presidents’ Day, Good Friday, Memorial Day, Independence Day, Labor Day, Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
Securities traded on more than one national securities exchange are valued at the last sale prices of the day as of which such value is being determined as reflected at the close of the exchange that is the principal market for such securities. For Securities traded on NASDAQ, the Funds use the NASDAQ Official Closing Price. If there are no sales on a given day, the value of the security may be the average of the most recent bid and asked quotations on such exchange or the last sale price from a prior day.
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U.S. Government obligations, money market instruments, and other debt instruments having 60 days or less remaining until maturity generally are valued at amortized cost. Debt instruments having a greater remaining maturity will be valued on the basis of prices obtained from an independent pricing service or at the mean between the bid and ask prices from a dealer maintaining an active market in that security. The value of the Funds’ investments in convertible bonds is determined primarily by obtaining valuations from independent pricing services based on readily available bid quotations or, if quotations are not available, by methods which include various considerations such as yields or prices of securities of comparable quality, coupon, maturity and type; indications as to values from dealers; and general market conditions. Other inputs used by an independent pricing service to value convertible bonds generally include underlying stock data, conversion premiums, listed bond and preferred stock prices and other market information which may include benchmark curves, trade execution data, and sensitivity analysis, when available. Money market instruments held by the Funds with a remaining maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair value, unless an independent pricing service provides a valuation for such security or in the opinion of the board or a committee or other persons designated by the board, the amortized cost method would not represent fair value. Open-end investment companies, including securities lending collateral invested in registered investment company money market funds, are valued at their NAV each day.
Non-U.S. equity securities are valued on the basis of their most recent closing market prices and translated into U.S. dollars at the NAV Calculation Time except under the circumstances described below. Most foreign markets close before the NAV Calculation Time. For securities primarily traded in the Far East, for example, the most recent closing prices may be as much as 15 hours old at the NAV Calculation Time. As a result, the Adviser uses a third-party pricing service to assist in determining fair value of foreign securities. This service utilizes a systematic methodology in making fair value estimates. The Adviser may also fair value securities in other situations, for example, when a particular foreign market is closed but the Funds are open. The Adviser cannot predict how often it will use closing prices and how often it will adjust those prices. As a means of evaluating its fair value process, the Adviser routinely compares closing market prices, the next day’s opening prices in the same markets, and the adjusted prices. Other mutual funds may adjust the prices of their securities by different amounts.
TAXATION OF THE FUNDS
The Prospectus contains information about the U.S. federal income tax consequences of ownership of shares. Certain supplementary information is presented below. References below to the “Fund” apply to each of the Funds described in the Prospectus.
U.S. Federal Income Taxation.
The following information is based on the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), Treasury Regulations, administrative rulings and judicial decisions as of the date hereof, all of which may be changed either retroactively or prospectively. This discussion does not address all aspects of U.S. federal income taxation that may be relevant to shareholders in light of their particular circumstances (such as alternative minimum tax consequences or Medicare contribution tax consequences) or to shareholders subject to special treatment under U.S. federal income tax laws (such as certain financial intermediaries, insurance companies, dealers in stock or securities, tax-exempt organizations, persons who have entered into hedging transactions with respect to shares of the Fund and persons who borrow in order to acquire shares). Prospective shareholders should consult their tax advisors with respect to the particular tax consequences to them of an investment in the Fund.
This discussion addresses only shareholders who hold Fund shares as capital assets within the meaning of Section 1221 of the Code (generally, for investment). Except where specifically addressing foreign shareholders, this discussion assumes that the shareholder is (i) an individual who is a citizen or resident of the United States; (ii) a corporation, or other entity treated as a corporation for U.S. federal income tax purposes, that was created or organized in or under the laws of the United States, any state therein or the District of Columbia; or (iii) an estate or trust the income of which is subject to U.S. federal income taxation regardless of its source. If an entity that is classified as a partnership for U.S. federal income tax purposes holds shares of the Fund, the U.S. federal income tax treatment of a partner will generally depend on the status of the partner and the activities of the
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partnership. Partnerships holding Fund shares and partners in such partnerships should consult their tax advisors as to the particular U.S. federal income tax consequences to them of holding and disposing of such shares.
Tax Status of the Funds.
The Fund has elected to qualify, and intends to remain qualified, as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Code. Qualification as a regulated investment company requires, among other things, that (a) at least 90% of the Fund’s annual gross income be derived from interest; dividends; payments with respect to certain securities loans; gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities or foreign currencies; other income (including gains from options, futures or forward contracts) derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities or currencies; and net income from interests in “qualified publicly traded partnerships,” as defined in the Code (any such income “Qualifying Income”); and (b) the Fund diversify its holdings so that, at the end of each quarter of the taxable year, (i) at least 50% of the market value of the Fund’s assets is represented by cash, U.S. government securities and other securities limited in respect of any one issuer to an amount not greater than 5% of the value of the Fund’s total assets and not more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer, and (ii) not more than 25% of the value of its total assets is invested in the securities of any one issuer (other than U.S. government securities and securities of other regulated investment companies), of two or more issuers that are controlled by the Fund and that are engaged in the same or similar trades or businesses or related trades or businesses, or of one or more “qualified publicly traded partnerships.”
Qualification and election as a “regulated investment company” involve no supervision of investment policy or management by any government agency. As a regulated investment company, the Fund generally will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on income that is distributed to shareholders, provided that the Fund distributes to its shareholders at least 90% of its “investment company taxable income” (determined prior to the deduction for dividends paid by the Fund) and 90% of its net tax-exempt interest income for each taxable year. The Fund’s “investment company taxable income” for any taxable year is its taxable income, determined without regard to net capital gain (that is, the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss) for such taxable year and with certain other adjustments. Assuming that the Fund meets the 90% distribution requirement, it will generally be subject to tax at regular U.S. federal corporate income tax rates only on any income or gain that it does not distribute in a timely manner.
The Fund intends to make sufficient distributions in a timely manner in order to ensure that it will not be subject to the nondeductible 4% U.S. federal excise tax that is imposed on certain undistributed income of regulated investment companies. In general, in order for the Fund to avoid the 4% U.S. federal excise tax, the Fund must distribute in each calendar year at least (i) 98% of its ordinary income for the calendar year, (ii) 98.2% of its capital gain net income for the one-year period ending on October 31 of the calendar year and (iii) any ordinary income and capital gains for previous years that were not distributed during those years. For purposes of determining whether the Fund has met this distribution requirement, (i) certain ordinary gains and losses that would otherwise be taken into account for the portion of the calendar year after October 31 will be treated as arising on January 1 of the following calendar year and (ii) the Fund will be deemed to have distributed any income or gains on which it paid U.S. federal income tax.
If for any taxable year the Fund did not qualify for the special U.S. federal income tax treatment afforded to regulated investment companies (for example, by not meeting the 90% distribution requirement described above), all of its taxable income would be subject to U.S. federal income tax at regular corporate rates (without any deduction for distributions to its shareholders) and all distributions out of its current or accumulated earnings and profits would be taxable as dividend income. In such event, provided that a shareholder satisfied the applicable holding period and other requirements with respect to his shares, dividend distributions would be eligible for the dividends-received deduction in the case of a corporate shareholder, and if received by a non-corporate shareholder, would be taxable to the shareholder as “qualified dividend income,” which is subject to tax at the rates applicable to long-term capital gain (currently, a maximum rate of 20%). In addition, the Fund could be required to recognize unrealized gains, pay taxes and make distributions (which could be subject to interest charges) before requalifying for taxation as a regulated investment company. However, if the Fund fails
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to satisfy the income test or diversification test described above, the Fund may be able to avoid losing its status as a regulated investment company by timely providing notice of such failure to the Internal Revenue Service (the “IRS”), curing such failure and possibly paying an additional tax.
The Fund may invest in shares of certain foreign corporations that may be classified under the Code as passive foreign investment companies (“PFICs”). In the absence of one of the elections described below, if the Fund receives certain distributions from a PFIC, or gain from the sale of PFIC stock, the Fund may be subject to a tax on such distributions or gain, as well as to interest charges. In order to mitigate these adverse consequences, the Fund will generally make an election to mark-to-market its shares of PFICs. At the end of each taxable year to which the election applies, the Fund will report as ordinary income the amount by which the fair market value of its shares in a PFIC for which the Fund has made a mark-to-market election exceeds the Fund’s adjusted basis in those shares. If the Fund’s adjusted basis in the shares of such a PFIC exceeds the shares’ fair market value at the end of a taxable year, the Fund will be entitled to a deduction equal to the lesser of (a) this excess and (b) the Fund’s aggregate income inclusions in respect of such stock under the mark-to-market rules that have not been previously offset by mark-to-market losses. As a result of a mark-to-market election, the Fund will not recognize any capital gains with respect to its investment in the relevant PFIC stock. Alternatively, the Fund may under certain circumstances elect to include as income and gain its share of the ordinary earnings and net capital gain of certain PFICs, without regard to whether it receives any distributions from these PFICs.
Certain other investments made by the Fund, such as investments in debt securities that have original issue discount, will cause the Fund to recognize income for U.S. federal income tax purposes prior to the Fund’s receipt of the corresponding distributable proceeds. In addition, some of the Fund’s investments, such as the Fund’s transactions in foreign currencies, forward contracts, options, and futures contracts (including options and futures contracts on foreign currencies) will be subject to special provisions of the Code that, among other things, may affect the character of gains and losses realized by the Fund (i.e., may affect whether gains or losses are ordinary or capital), accelerate recognition of income by the Fund or defer Fund losses. These provisions may result in the Fund’s “marking-to-market” certain types of positions in its portfolio (i.e., treating them as if they were sold at the end of each taxable year). The application of these rules to the Fund could affect the character, amount and timing of distributions to shareholders.
The Fund may thus recognize income without receiving cash with which to make distributions in amounts necessary to satisfy the distribution requirements for avoiding income and excise taxes. In that case, the Fund may have to dispose of other securities and use the proceeds to make distributions in order to satisfy these distribution requirements.
Foreign Taxes.
Dividends, interest and capital gains received by the Fund may give rise to withholding and other taxes imposed by foreign countries. Such taxes will reduce shareholders’ return. Income tax treaties between certain countries and the United States may reduce or eliminate such taxes, but there can be no guarantee that the Fund will qualify for treaty benefits.
Under the Code, if more than 50% of the value of the Fund’s total assets at the close of the taxable year consists of stock or securities of foreign corporations, the Fund may file an election with the IRS to “pass-through” to the Fund’s shareholders the amount of foreign income taxes paid by the Fund. Pursuant to this election, a shareholder would (a) include in gross income (in addition to dividends actually received) his pro rata share of the foreign income taxes paid by the Fund; (b) treat his pro rata share of such foreign income taxes as having been paid by him; and (c) subject to certain limitations, be entitled either to deduct his pro rata share of such foreign income taxes in computing his taxable income or to use it as a foreign tax credit against U.S. income taxes. Shortly after any year for which it makes such an election, the Fund will report to its shareholders, in writing, the amount per share of such foreign tax that must be included in each shareholder’s gross income and the amount which will be available for deduction or credit.
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Generally, a credit for foreign income taxes is subject to the limitation that it may not exceed the shareholder’s U.S. tax liability (before the credit) attributable to the shareholder’s total foreign-source taxable income. If the Fund makes the “pass-through” election, the portion of dividends paid by the Fund from its foreign-source income (e.g., dividends paid by foreign companies) will be treated as foreign-source income. The Fund’s gains and losses from the sale of securities, and its foreign currency gains and losses, will generally be treated as derived from U.S. sources. The limitation on the foreign tax credit is applied separately to foreign-source “passive income,” including the portion of dividends received from the Fund that qualifies as foreign- source income. Because of these limitations, a shareholder may be unable to claim a credit for the full amount of the shareholder’s pro rata share of the foreign income taxes paid by the Fund. A shareholder’s ability to claim a credit for foreign taxes paid by the Fund may also be limited by holding period requirements applicable both to the Fund’s investment in the foreign shares and to the shareholder’s investment in Fund shares.
If the Fund does not meet the requirements of the Code necessary to make the “pass-through” election or does not make the election, any foreign taxes paid or accrued will represent an expense to the Fund, which will reduce its investment company taxable income. Absent this election, shareholders will not be able to claim either a credit or deduction for their pro rata shares of such taxes paid by the Fund, nor will shareholders be required to treat their pro rata shares of such taxes as amounts distributed to them.
Distributions.
Distributions to shareholders of the Fund’s investment company taxable income (other than “qualified dividend income”), including distributions of net short-term capital gains, will be taxable as ordinary income to shareholders. Distributions (or deemed distributions, as described below) of the Fund’s net capital gains will be taxable to shareholders as long-term capital gains, regardless of the length of time the shares have been held by a shareholder. Long-term capital gains recognized by individuals and other non-corporate shareholders are currently subject to U.S. federal income tax at lower rates than the rates applicable to ordinary income. Distributions in excess of the Fund’s current and accumulated earnings and profits will, as to each shareholder, be treated as a tax-free return of capital to the extent of such shareholder’s adjusted basis in his shares, and as a capital gain thereafter. The ultimate tax characterization of the Fund’s distributions made in a taxable year cannot be determined until after the end of the taxable year. As a result, there is a possibility that the Fund may make total distributions during a taxable year in an amount that exceeds the current and accumulated earnings and profits of the Fund.
Provided that the shareholder satisfies the applicable holding period and other requirements with respect to his shares, (i) distributions of the Fund’s “qualified dividend income” will be treated as “qualified dividend income” received by an individual or other non-corporate shareholder and will therefore be subject to U.S. federal income tax at the rates applicable to long-term capital gain and (ii) shareholders that are corporations may be entitled to claim a dividends-received deduction for the portion of Fund distributions that is attributable to certain dividend income received by the Fund.
If the Fund retains any net capital gains for reinvestment, it may elect to treat such capital gains as having been distributed to its shareholders. If the Fund makes such an election, each shareholder will be required to include its share of such undistributed net capital gain in income as long-term capital gain and will be entitled to claim its share of the U.S. federal income taxes paid by the Fund on such undistributed net capital gain as a credit against its own U.S. federal income tax liability, if any, and to claim a refund on a properly-filed U.S. federal income tax return to the extent that the credit exceeds such liability. In addition, each shareholder will be entitled to increase the adjusted tax basis of its Fund shares by the difference between its share of such undistributed net capital gain and the related credit. There can be no assurance that the Fund will make this election if it retains all or a portion of its net capital gain for a taxable year. A shareholder’s tax liability for such distributions will depend on the shareholder’s particular tax situation.
Shareholders who instruct the Fund to reinvest distributions in additional shares will be treated for U.S. federal income tax purposes as receiving the relevant distributions and using them to purchase shares. Thus,
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distributions of investment company taxable income and net capital gains, whether received in cash or reinvested, must be reported by the shareholder on his U.S. federal income tax return.
Distributions by the Fund result in a reduction in the net asset value of the Fund’s shares. Should a distribution reduce the net asset value below a shareholder’s cost basis, such distribution could nevertheless be taxable to the shareholder as ordinary income or capital gain as described above, even though, from an investment standpoint, it may constitute a partial return of capital. In particular, investors should consider the tax implications of buying shares just prior to a distribution. Although the price of shares purchased at the time will include the amount of the forthcoming distribution, the distribution will nevertheless be taxable to the purchaser.
As of September 30, 2021, the Funds had no capital loss carryforwards.
Sale or Redemption of Shares.
A shareholder will recognize a taxable gain or loss, if any, if the shareholder sells or redeems his shares. Such gain or loss will be equal to the difference between his adjusted tax basis in the shares sold or redeemed and the amount of the cash or the fair market value of other property (including securities distributed by the Fund) received by him in payment therefor.
Any gain or loss arising from the sale or redemption of shares will be treated as capital gain or loss, and will generally be long-term capital gain or loss if the shareholder’s holding period for the shares is more than one year and short-term capital gain or loss if it is one year or less. Long-term capital gains recognized by individuals and other non-corporate shareholders on a sale or redemption of shares generally will be taxed at a maximum rate of 20%. Any loss realized on a sale or redemption will be disallowed to the extent the shares disposed of are replaced (including pursuant to our dividend reinvestment program) with substantially identical shares within a period beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the disposition of the shares. In such a case, the basis of the shares acquired will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss. Any loss arising from the sale or redemption of shares for which the shareholder has a holding period of six months or less will be treated for U.S. federal tax purposes as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any amount of capital gain dividends received by the shareholder with respect to such shares. For purposes of determining a shareholder’s holding period of shares, the holding period will be suspended for any periods during which the shareholder’s risk of loss is diminished as a result of holding one or more other positions in substantially similar or related property or through certain options or short sales.
A shareholder who recognizes a loss on a sale or other disposition of shares will be required to report the sale or other disposition on IRS Form 8886 if the loss exceeds an applicable threshold amount. Failure to comply with the reporting requirements gives rise to substantial penalties. Certain states, including New York, may also have similar disclosure requirements. Shareholders should consult their tax advisors to determine whether they are required to file IRS Form 8886 in connection with a sale or other disposition of shares.
Exchange or Conversion of Shares.
You may exchange all or a portion of your shares in one Fund for shares in another Fund. Exchanges will be executed on the basis of the relative net asset value of the shares exchanged. An exchange will be considered a sale for U.S. federal income tax purposes, and you may therefore realize a gain or loss for U.S. federal income tax purposes as a result of an exchange. The Funds offer three classes of shares, Retail Shares, Institutional Shares and R6 Shares, which differ only in their ongoing fees and eligibility requirements. You may convert Retail Shares into Institutional Shares if the value of your investment in a Fund is at least $1,000,000. If the value of your investment in a Fund falls below $1,000,000 because of redemptions, the Fund may convert your Institutional Shares into Retail Shares. You may convert Retail Shares or Institutional Shares into R6 Shares if you meet the eligibility requirements. The transaction will be based on the respective net asset value per share of each class on the trade date for the conversion. For U.S. federal income tax purposes, such a conversion will not be a taxable event. You should consult your own tax adviser regarding specific questions of federal, state, local or foreign tax law.
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Backup Withholding and Information Reporting.
Payments on the shares and proceeds from a redemption or other disposition of shares will generally be subject to information reporting. Such amounts will be subject to backup withholding at the rate of 28% if payable to shareholders who fail to provide the Fund (or other payor) with their correct taxpayer identification numbers or to make required certifications, or who have been notified by the IRS that they are subject to backup withholding. Certain types of shareholders are exempt from such backup withholding. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld may be credited against a shareholder’s U.S. federal income tax liability.
Foreign Shareholders.
A “foreign shareholder” is an investor that, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, is a nonresident alien individual, a foreign corporation, or a foreign estate or trust. This disclosure assumes that (i) a foreign shareholder’s ownership of shares in the Fund is not effectively connected with a trade or business conducted by such foreign shareholder in the United States, (ii) the foreign shareholder is not an expatriate of the United States, (iii) the foreign shareholder does not own, and has not owned, actually or constructively, more than 5% of the Fund’s shares and (iv) the foreign shareholder is not an individual who is present in the United States for 183 days or more in any taxable year. A distribution of the Fund’s investment company taxable income to a foreign shareholder, including a deemed distribution as a consequence of a Fund’s election to pass through foreign taxes paid by the Fund, will generally be subject to withholding tax at a 30% rate or such lower rate as may be specified by an applicable income tax treaty. Provided that certain requirements are satisfied, this withholding tax will not be imposed on dividends paid by the Fund to the extent that the underlying income out of which the dividends are paid consists of U.S.-source interest income or short-term capital gains that would not have been subject to U.S. withholding tax if received directly by the foreign shareholder (“interest-related dividends” and “short-term capital gain dividends,” respectively).
Foreign shareholders may be subject to an increased U.S. federal income tax on their income resulting from a Fund’s election (described above) to “pass-through” amounts of foreign taxes paid by the Fund, but may not be able to claim a credit or deduction with respect to the withholding tax for the foreign taxes treated as having been paid by them.
Information returns will be filed with the IRS in connection with certain payments on the shares. A foreign shareholder may be subject to U.S. backup withholding on distributions that are otherwise exempt from withholding tax or on the proceeds from a redemption or other disposition of shares if such foreign shareholder does not certify its non-U.S. status under penalties of perjury or otherwise establish an exemption. Backup withholding is not an additional tax. Any amounts withheld pursuant to the backup withholding rules will be allowed as a credit against the foreign shareholder’s U.S. federal income tax liability, if any, and may entitle the foreign shareholder to a refund, provided that the required information is furnished to the IRS on a timely basis.
In order to qualify for the exemption from U.S. withholding tax on “interest-related dividends” and “short-term capital gain dividends” (if any), to qualify for an exemption from U.S. backup withholding and to qualify for a reduced rate of U.S. withholding tax on Fund dividends under an income tax treaty, a foreign shareholder must generally deliver to the relevant Fund or other withholding agent a properly executed IRS form (generally, Form W-8BEN or Form W-8BEN-E, as applicable). In order to claim a refund of any Fund-level taxes imposed on undistributed net capital gains, any U.S. withholding taxes or any backup withholding on Fund distributions, a foreign shareholder must obtain a U.S. taxpayer identification number and file a U.S. federal income tax return.
None of the Funds expects to be a “United States real property holding corporation” for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Foreign shareholders should consult their tax advisors regarding the potential tax consequences to them if any relevant Fund is or was a “United States real property holding corporation.”
The tax consequences to a foreign shareholder entitled to claim the benefits of an applicable tax treaty may be different from those described herein. Foreign shareholders are advised to consult their own tax advisor with respect to the particular tax consequences to them of an investment in the Fund.
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Under Sections 1471 through 1474 of the Code (“FATCA”), a withholding tax at the rate of 30% will generally be imposed on payments to certain foreign entities (including financial intermediaries) of dividends on Fund shares and on gross proceeds from the sale or other disposition made to a foreign entity unless the foreign entity provides the withholding agent with certifications and other information (which may include information relating to ownership by U.S. persons of interests in, or accounts with, the foreign entity). If FATCA withholding is imposed, a beneficial owner of shares that is not a foreign financial institution (as specifically defined for purposes of FATCA) generally may obtain a refund of any amounts withheld by filing a U.S. federal income tax return (which may entail significant administrative burden). Foreign shareholders should consult their tax advisors regarding the possible implications of FATCA on their investment in the Fund.
State, Local and Foreign Taxes.
In addition to federal income taxes, shareholders of the Fund may be subject to state, local or foreign taxes on distributions from the Fund and on repurchases or redemptions of shares. Shareholders should consult their tax advisors as to the application of such taxes and as to the tax status of distributions from the Fund and repurchases or redemptions of shares in their own states and localities.
Cost Basis Information.
The Fund is required to report your cost basis, gain or loss, and holding period to the IRS on Form 1099 when “covered” shares of the Fund are redeemed. Covered shares are any shares acquired (including shares acquired through reinvestment of the Fund’s distributions) on or after January 1, 2012. The Fund has chosen the “average cost” method as its default method for reporting the cost basis of covered shares. The Fund will use this method for purposes of reporting your cost basis unless you instruct the Fund in writing to use a different calculation method. You may choose a method different from the Fund’s default method if you provide the Fund with timely notice. Please consult your tax advisor with regard to your particular circumstances.
UNDERWRITERS
BCI is the principal underwriter responsible for distributing the Funds’ securities. The Funds’ public offering of their securities is continuous, and BCI is obligated to distribute the Funds’ securities on a best efforts basis. BCI does not receive underwriting commissions from the Funds. The 12b-1 Plan authorizes the Funds to pay the Distributor a distribution fee equal to 0.25% per annum of each Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to the Retail Shares.
Compensation Table.
The following table discloses compensation received by BCI from the Funds for the year ended September 30, 2021.
Fund |
Net Underwriting Discounts and Commissions |
Compensation on Redemptions and Repurchases |
Brokerage Commissions |
Other Compensation* |
||||||||||||
Baron Asset Fund |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 7,012,901 | ||||||||
Baron Growth Fund |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 7,259,067 | ||||||||
Baron Small Cap Fund |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 4,351,478 | ||||||||
Baron Opportunity Fund |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 2,109,557 | ||||||||
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 470,915 | ||||||||
Baron Discovery Fund |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 629,082 | ||||||||
Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
$ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 0 | $ | 14,832 |
* | Fees received pursuant to the 12b-1 Plan. As discussed above, all of such amounts were paid to third parties for distribution and/or shareholder servicing. |
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FINANCIAL STATEMENTS
The Funds’ audited financial statements for the year ended September 30, 2021 and the report thereon of PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, appearing therein are incorporated by reference into this SAI.
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PART C: OTHER INFORMATION
Item 28. | Exhibits |
a. | Declaration of Trust of Registrant, dated February 19, 1987. Filed as Exhibit 1(a) to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 033-12112) and incorporated herein by reference thereto. |
b. |
c. | Specimen certificates of Shares of each Fund. Filed as Exhibit 4 to Post-Effective Amendment No. 5 to Registrant’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A (File No. 033-12112) and incorporated herein by reference thereto. |
d.1 |
d.2 |
d.3 |
d.4 |
d.5 |
d.6 |
d.7 |
d.8 |
d.9 |
e. |
f. | Not applicable. |
g.1 |
g.2 |
g.3 |
g.4 |
g.5 |
g.6 |
g.7 |
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Item 29. | Persons Controlled by or Under Common Control with the Fund |
The following diagram indicates the persons under common control with Registrant, all of which are incorporated in New York.
Ronald Baron
controls : | Baron Capital Group, Inc. | |
which owns 100% of: | Baron Capital, Inc. | |
BAMCO, Inc. | ||
Baron Capital Management, Inc. |
Baron Capital, Inc. serves as distributor of Registrant’s shares. BAMCO, Inc. serves as investment adviser to Registrant. Baron Capital Management, Inc. is an affiliated investment adviser. All of the above corporate entities file consolidated financial statements. Ronald Baron, Chairman and CEO of Registrant, is the controlling shareholder of Baron Capital Group, Inc. and serves as Chairman and CEO of all the above entities.
Item 30. | Indemnification |
Article IV of Registrant’s Declaration of Trust states as follows:
Section 4.1. No Personal Liability of Shareholders, Trustees, Etc.
No shareholder shall be subject to any personal liability whatsoever to any Person in connection with Trust Property or the acts, obligations or affairs of the Trust. No Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust shall be subject to any personal liability whatsoever to any Person, other than to the Trust of its shareholders, in connection with Trust Property of the affairs of the Trust, save only that arising from bad faith, willful misfeasance, gross negligence or reckless disregard of his duties with respect to such Person; and all such Persons shall look solely to the Trust Property, or to the Property of one or more specific series of the Trust if the claim arises from the conduct of such Trustee, officer, employee or agent with respect to only such Series, for satisfaction of claims of any nature arising in connection with the affairs of the Trust. If any shareholder, Trustee, officer, employee, or agent, as such, of the Trust, is made a party to any suit or proceeding to enforce any such liability of the Trust, he shall not, on account thereof, be held to any personal liability. The Trust shall indemnify and hold each shareholder harmless from and against all claims and liabilities, to which such shareholder may become subject by reason of his being or having been a shareholder, and shall reimburse such shareholder out of the Trust Property for all legal and other expenses reasonably incurred by him in connection with any such claim or liability. Indemnification and reimbursement required by the preceding sentence shall be made only out of assets of the one of more Series whose shares were held by said shareholder at the time the act or event occurred which gave rise to the claim against or liability of said shareholder. The rights accruing to a shareholder under this Section 4.1 be lawfully entitled, nor shall anything herein contained restrict the right of the Trust to indemnify or reimburse a shareholder in any appropriate situation even though not specifically provided herein.
Section 4.2. Non-Liability of Trustees, Etc.
No Trustee, officer, employee or agent of the Trust shall be liable to the Trust, its shareholders, or to any shareholder, Trustee, officer, employee, or agent thereof for any action or failure to act (including without limitation the failure to compel in any way any former or acting Trustee to redress any breach of trust) except for his own bad faith, willful misfeasance, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his office.
Section 4.3. Mandatory Indemnification.
(a) | Subject to the exceptions and limitations contained in paragraph (b) below: |
(i) every person who is, or has been, a Trustee or officer of the Trust shall be indemnified by the Trust, or by one or more Series thereof if the claim arises from his or her conduct with respect to only such Series to the fullest extent permitted by law against all liability and against all expenses reasonably incurred or paid by him in connection with any claim, action, suit or proceeding in which he becomes involved as a party or otherwise by virtue of his being or having been a Trustee or officer and against amounts paid or incurred by him in the settlement thereof;
(ii) the words “claim,” “action,” “suit,” or “proceeding” shall apply to all claims, actions, suits or proceedings (civil, criminal, or other, including appeals), actual or threatened; and the words “liability” and “expenses” shall include, without limitation, attorneys’ fees, costs, judgments, amounts paid in settlement, fines, penalties and other liabilities.
(b) | No indemnification shall be provided hereunder to a Trustee or officer: |
(i) against any liability to the Trust or a Series thereof or the shareholders by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his office;
(ii) with respect to any matter as to which he shall have been finally adjudicated not the have acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that his action was in the best interest of the Trust or a Series thereof;
(iii) in the event of a settlement or other disposition not involving a final adjudication as provided in paragraph (b)(ii) resulting in a payment by a Trustee or officer, unless there has been a determination that such Trustee or officer did not engage in willful misfeasance, bad faith, gross negligence or reckless disregard of the duties involved in the conduct of his office:
(A) by the court or other body approving the settlement or other disposition; or
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(B) based upon a review of readily available facts (as opposed to a full trial-type inquiry) by (x) vote of a majority of the Non-interested Trustees acting on the matter (provided that a majority of the Non-interested Trustees then in office act on the matter) or (y) written opinion of independent legal counsel.
(c) | The rights of indemnification herein provided may be insured against by policies maintained by the Trust, shall be severable, shall not affect any other rights to which any Trustee or officer may now or hereafter be entitled, shall continue as to a person who has ceased to be such Trustee or officer and shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors, administrators and assigns of such a person. Nothing contained herein shall affect any rights to indemnification to which personnel of the Trust other than Trustees and officers may be entitled by contract or otherwise under law. |
(d) | Expenses of preparation and presentation of a defense to any claim, action, suit or proceeding of the character described in paragraph (a) of this Section 4.3 may be advanced by the Trust or a Series thereof prior to final disposition thereof upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of the recipient to repay such amount if it is ultimately determined that he is not entitled to indemnification under this Section 4.3, provided that either: |
(i) such undertaking is secured by a surety bond or some other appropriate security provided by the recipient, or the Trust or Series thereof shall be insured against losses arising out of any such advances; or
(ii) a majority of the Non-interested Trustees acting on the matter (provided that a majority of the Non-interested Trustees act on the matter) or an independent legal counsel in a written opinion shall determine, based upon a review of readily available facts (as opposed to a full trial-type inquiry), that there is reason to believe that the recipient ultimately will be found entitles to indemnification.
As used in this Section 4.3, a “Non-interested Trustee” is one who is not (i) an “Interested Person” of the Trust (including anyone who has been exempted from being an “Interested Person” by any rule, regulation or order of the Commission), or (ii) involved in the claim, action, suit or proceeding.
Section 4.4. No Bond Required of Trustees.
No Trustee shall be obligated to give any bond or other security for the performance of any of his duties hereunder.
Section 4.5. No Duty of Investigation; Notice in Trust Instruments, Etc.
No purchaser, lender, transfer agent or other Person dealing with the Trustees or any officers, employee or agent of the Trust or a Series thereof shall be bound to make any inquiry concerning the validity of any transaction purporting to be made by the Trustees or by said officer, employee or agent or be liable for the application of money or property paid, loaned, or delivered to or on the order of the Trustees or of said officer, employee or agent. Every obligation, contract, instrument, certificate, Share, other security of the Trust or a Series thereof or undertaking, and every other act or thing whatsoever executed in connection with the Trust shall be conclusively presumed to have been executed or done by the executors thereof only in their capacity as Trustees under this Declaration or in their capacity as officers, employees or agents of the Trust or a Series thereof. Every written obligation, contract, instrument, certificate, Share, other security of the Trust or a Series thereof or undertaking made or issued by the Trustees may recite that the same is executed or made by them not individually, but as Trustees under the Declaration, and that the obligations of the Trust or a Series thereof under any such instrument are not binding upon any of the Trustees or Shareholders individually, but bind only the Trust Property or the Trust Property of the applicable Series, and may contain any further recital which they or he may deem appropriate, but the omission of such recital shall not operate to bind the Trustees individually. The Trustees shall at all times maintain insurance for the protection of the Trust Property or the Trust Property of the applicable Series, its Shareholders, Trustees, officers, employees and agents in such amount as the Trustees shall deem adequate to cover possible tort liability, and such other insurance as the Trustees in their sole judgment shall deem advisable.
Section 4.6. Reliance on Experts, Etc.
Each Trustee and officer of the Trust or employee of the Trust or a Series thereof shall, in the performance of his duties, be fully and completely justified and protected with regard to any act or any failure to act resulting from reliance in good faith upon the books of account or other records of the Trust or a Series thereof, upon an opinion of counsel, or upon reports made to the Trust or a Series thereof by any of its officers or employees or by the Investment Adviser, the Administrator, the Distributor, Transfer Agent, selected dealers, accountants, appraisers or other experts or consultants selected with reasonable care by the Trustees, officers or employees of the Trust, regardless of whether such counsel or expert may also be a Trustee.
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Insofar as the indemnification for liabilities arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, (the “1933 Act”) may be permitted to the officers, trustees or controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the Declaration of Trust of the Registrant or otherwise, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the 1933 Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by an officer or trustee or controlling person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such officer, trustee or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question of whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the 1933 Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.
Item 31. | Business and Other Connections of the Investment Adviser |
The business and other connections of BAMCO, Inc. is summarized under “Management of the Fund” in the Prospectus constituting Part A of the Registration Statement, which summary is incorporated herein by reference.
The business and other connections of the officers and directors of BAMCO, Inc. is currently listed in the investment adviser registration on Form ADV for BAMCO, Inc. (File No. 801-29080) and is incorporated herein by reference.
Item 32. | Principal Underwriters |
(a) Baron Select Funds
(b)
(1) NAME AND PRINCIPAL BUSINESS ADDRESS |
(2) POSITIONS AND OFFICES WITH UNDERWRITER |
(3) POSITIONS AND OFFICES WITH REGISTRANT | ||
Ronald Baron 767 Fifth Avenue New York, N.Y. 10153 |
Director, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer |
Trustee, Chief Executive Officer and Portfolio Manager | ||
Linda S. Martinson 767 Fifth Avenue New York, N.Y. 10153 |
Director, President and Chief Operating Officer |
Chairman, Trustee, President and Chief Operating Officer | ||
Clifford Greenberg 767 Fifth Avenue New York, N.Y. 10153 |
Director, Senior Vice President and Co-Chief Investment Officer | Senior Vice President, Portfolio Manager and Co-Chief Investment Officer | ||
Louis Beasley 767 Fifth Avenue New York, N.Y. 10153 |
Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer |
Vice President and Chief Compliance Officer | ||
Patrick M. Patalino 767 Fifth Avenue New York, N.Y. 10153 |
Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary |
Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary | ||
Andrew Peck 767 Fifth Avenue New York, N.Y. 10153 |
Director, Senior Vice President and Co-Chief Investment Officer | Senior Vice President, Portfolio Manager and Co-Chief Investment Officer | ||
Susan Robbins 767 Fifth Avenue New York, N.Y. 10153 |
Director, Vice President and Senior Analyst |
Vice President | ||
Peggy Wong 767 Fifth Avenue New York, N.Y. 10153 |
Vice President, Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer |
Treasurer and Chief Financial Officer |
(c) Inapplicable.
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Item 33. | Location of Accounts and Records |
Certain accounts, books and other documents required to be maintained by Section 31 (a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 and the Rules promulgated thereunder are maintained at the offices of the Registrant, BAMCO, Inc. and Baron Capital, Inc., 767 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10153. Records relating to the duties of the Registrant’s transfer agent are maintained by DST Systems, Inc., 330 West 9th Street, Pointdexter 1, Kansas City, MO 64105 and on or about May 11, 2007, of the Registrant’s custodian are maintained by State Street Bank and Trust Company, One Lincoln Street, Boston. MA 02111.
Item 34. | Management Services |
Inapplicable.
Item 35. | Undertakings |
Inapplicable.
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SIGNATURES
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 (the “Securities Act”) and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant certifies that it meets all of the requirements for effectiveness of this Registration Statement under Rule 485(b) under the Securities Act and has duly caused this Post-Effective Amendment No. 71 to the Registration Statement on Form N-1A to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized in the City of New York, and the State of New York, on this 28th day of January, 2022.
BARON INVESTMENT FUNDS TRUST | ||
By: | /s/ Ronald Baron | |
Ronald Baron | ||
Chief Executive Officer |
Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this Post-Effective Amendment No. 71 to the Registration Statement on Form N-1A has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities and on the dates indicated.
SIGNATURES |
TITLE |
DATE | ||
/s/ Ronald Baron Ronald Baron |
Chief Executive Officer and Trustee | January 28, 2022 | ||
/s/ Linda S. Martinson Linda S. Martinson |
Chairman, President, Chief Operating Officer and Trustee |
January 28, 2022 | ||
/s/ Patrick M. Patalino Patrick M. Patalino |
Vice President, General Counsel and Secretary |
January 28, 2022 | ||
/*s/ Raymond Noveck Raymond Noveck |
Trustee | January 28, 2022 |
/*s/ David A. Silverman David A. Silverman |
Trustee | January 28, 2022 | ||
/s/ Peggy Wong Peggy Wong |
Treasurer, Chief Financial Officer and Trustee | January 28, 2022 | ||
/*s/ Alex Yemenidjian Alex Yemenidjian |
Trustee | January 28, 2022 | ||
/*s/ Anita Rosenberg Anita Rosenberg |
Trustee | January 28, 2022 | ||
/*s/ Thomas J. Folliard Thomas J. Folliard |
Trustee | January 28, 2022 | ||
/*s/ Abraham Nachmany Abraham Nachmany |
Trustee | January 28, 2022 | ||
/*s/ Marvelle Sullivan Marvelle Sullivan |
Trustee | January 28, 2022 | ||
/*s/ Errol Taylor Errol Taylor |
Trustee | January 28, 2022 |
By: | /s/ Patrick M. Patalino | |
Patrick M. Patalino | ||
(Attorney-in-fact) |
* | Attorney-in-fact pursuant to a power of attorney previously filed. |
Dated: January 28, 2022
EXECUTION VERSION
Letter Amendment
December 9, 2021
Each of the Borrowers party to the Amended Loan Agreement (as defined below) (the Borrowers)
c/o 767 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10153
RE: | Eleventh Amendment to the Baron Family of Funds $200,000,000 Committed Line of Credit |
Ladies and Gentlemen:
State Street Bank and Trust Company (the Bank) has made available a $200,000,000 committed line of credit (the Credit Line) to each of the Borrowers each acting on its own behalf or, as applicable, on behalf of each of its respective Existing Funds (as defined below) as described in a letter agreement dated January 28, 2015 by and among the Borrowers and the Bank (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified from time to time prior to the date hereof, the Existing Loan Agreement). Capitalized terms used herein and not otherwise defined herein shall have the meanings set forth in the Existing Loan Agreement.
The Borrowers have requested, and the Bank has agreed, (a) to extend the term of the Credit Line, (b) to add additional borrowers and/or funds to the Credit Line, and (c) to make certain changes to the Credit Line. Therefore, for good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, each of the Borrowers and the Bank hereby agree as follows:
1. | Defined Terms. For purposes hereof, the following terms have the following meanings when used herein: |
Added Text means characters indicated textually in the same manner as the following example: double underlined text.
Amendment Fund means a Fund under the Amended Loan Agreement.
Existing Fund means a Fund under the Existing Loan Agreement.
Marked Loan Agreement means the copy of the Existing Loan Agreement attached hereto as Annex A.
New Fund means an Amendment Fund that is not an Existing Fund.
Stricken Text means characters indicated textually in the same manner as the following example: stricken
text.
2. | Amendments to Loan Documents |
(a) The Existing Loan Agreement is hereby amended to delete the Stricken Text and to add the Added Text, in each case as set forth in the Marked Loan Agreement (the Existing Loan Agreement, as so amended, the Amended Loan Agreement).
(b) The Bank and each Borrower acknowledge and agree that(i) each New Fund is (1) hereby added as a Fund for all purposes under the terms of the Loan Documents, and (2) is and shall be subject to and bound by, and shall be entitled to all the benefits of, the Loan Documents, and shall be a party thereto, all as if such New Fund had been a Fund party to the original execution and delivery thereof, and (ii) Appendix I to each of the Loan Documents, as applicable, is hereby amended to delete the Stricken Text and to add the Added Text, in each case as set forth in Appendix I to the Marked Loan Agreement.
3. | Miscellaneous |
(a) Other than as amended herein, all terms and conditions of the Amended Loan Agreement and each of the other Loan Documents are ratified and affirmed as of the date hereof in order to give effect to the terms hereof and thereof. This Letter Amendment shall constitute a Loan Document for all purposes of the Amended Loan Agreement.
(b) Each Borrower severally (and not jointly), for itself and severally (and not jointly) on behalf of each of its respective Amendment Funds, but not as to any other Borrower or Fund, represents and warrants as of the date hereof to the Bank as follows: (i) no Default or Event of Default with respect to such Borrower or any such Amendment Fund has occurred and is continuing on the date hereof under the Existing Loan Agreement after giving effect to the amendments herein contained; (ii) each of the representations and warranties of such Borrower, on behalf of each such Amendment Fund, contained in the Loan Documents is true and correct in all respects on and as of the date of this Letter Amendment (or, if any such representation or warranty is expressly stated to have been made as of a specific date, as of such specific date); (iii) the execution, delivery and performance by such Borrower and each such Amendment Fund of each of this Letter Amendment
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and of the other Loan Documents, as amended hereby (collectively, the Amended Loan Documents): (1) are, and will be, within such Borrowers or such Amendment Funds power and authority, (2) have been authorized by all necessary trust or corporate proceedings, as the case may be, of such Borrower, (3) do not, and will not, require the consent of any shareholders or other equity holders of such Borrower or such Amendment Fund or the approval or consent of, or any notice to or filing with, any governmental authority, other than those which have been received or made, (4) will not contravene any provision of, or exceed any limitation contained in, the certificate or articles of incorporation, agreement and declaration of trust, by-laws and/or other organizational documents of such Borrower or such Amendment Fund or its Prospectus or any judgment, decree or order or any law, rule or regulation applicable to such Borrower or such Fund, including, without limitation, the Investment Company Act, (5) are, and will be, in compliance with Regulations T, U and X and the Investment Company Act, (6) do not and will not constitute a violation of, or a default under, any other agreement, order or undertaking binding on such Borrower or such Amendment Fund, and (7) do not require the consent or approval of any obligee or holder of any instrument relating to any Material Indebtedness of such Borrower or such Amendment Fund or the consent or approval of any other party other than for those consents and approvals which have been received; and (iv) each of the Amended Loan Documents constitutes the legal, valid, binding and enforceable obligation of such Borrower, on behalf of its respective Amendment Funds, except as the same may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or other laws affecting the enforcement of creditors rights generally and by general equitable principles.
(c) Upon receipt of a fully executed copy of this Letter Amendment, this Letter Amendment shall be deemed to be an instrument under seal and an amendment to the Loan Documents to be governed by the laws of the State of New York without regard to conflict of laws principles that would require the application of the laws of another jurisdiction.
(d) This Letter Amendment may be executed in counterparts each of which shall be deemed to be an original document.
(e) Delivery of an executed counterpart of a signature page of this Letter Amendment by telecopy, emailed pdf. or any other electronic means that reproduces an image of the actual executed signature page shall be effective as delivery of a manually executed counterpart of this Letter Amendment. The words execution, signed, signature, delivery, and words of like import in or relating to any document to be signed in connection with this Letter Amendment and the transactions contemplated hereby shall be deemed to include electronic signatures, deliveries or the keeping of records in electronic form, each of which shall be of the same legal effect, validity or enforceability as a manually executed signature, physical delivery thereof or the use of a paper-based recordkeeping system, as the case may be, to the extent and as provided for in any applicable law, including the Federal Electronic Signatures in Global and National Commerce Act, or any other similar state laws based on the Uniform Electronic Transactions Act; provided that nothing herein shall require the Bank to accept electronic signatures in any form or format without its prior written consent. Without limiting the generality of the foregoing, each Borrower hereby (i) agrees that, for all purposes, including without limitation, in connection with any workout, restructuring, enforcement of remedies, bankruptcy proceedings or litigation between the Bank and such Borrower, electronic images of this Letter Amendment or any other Loan Documents (in each case, including with respect
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to any signature pages thereto) shall have the same legal effect, validity and enforceability as any paper original, and (ii) waives any argument, defense or right to contest the validity or enforceability of the Loan Documents based solely on the lack of paper original copies of any Loan Documents, including with respect to any signature pages thereto.
[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank]
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If the foregoing is acceptable to you, please have an authorized officer of each Borrower execute this Letter Amendment below where indicated and return the same to the undersigned.
Very truly yours, | ||
STATE STREET BANK AND TRUST COMPANY | ||
By: |
![]() | |
Name: | Brian Kociuba | |
Title: | Vice President |
Acknowledged and Accepted:
EACH OF THE BORROWERS, for | ||
By: | ||
Name: | ||
Title: |
Signature page to Eleventh Amendment to the Baron Family of Funds Committed Line of Credit
If the foregoing is acceptable to you, please have an authorized officer of each Borrower execute this Letter Amendment below where indicated and return the same to the undersigned.
Very truly yours, | ||
STATE STREET BANK AND TRUST COMPANY | ||
By: | ||
Name: | ||
Title: |
Acknowledged and Accepted:
EACH OF THE BORROWERS, for | ||
By: |
![]() | |
Name: | Patrick Patalino | |
Title: | General Counsel |
Signature page to Eleventh Amendment to the Baron Family of Funds Committed Line of Credit
Annex A
See attached
January 28, 2015
Each of the Borrowers listed
on Appendix I hereto
767 Fifth Avenue
New York, NY 10153
RE: $200,000,000 Committed Line of Credit
Ladies and Gentlemen:
State Street Bank and Trust Company (the Bank) has previously made available a $100,000,000 committed, unsecured revolving line of credit (the Committed Line) to Baron Investment Funds Trust, a Massachusetts business trust, and Baron Select Funds, a Delaware statutory trust, registered under the Investment Company Act (the Existing Borrower), on behalf of certain of their fund series, pursuant to that certain Committed Line of Credit Agreement, dated January 28, 2015, by and between the Existing Borrower and the Bank (as amended prior to the date hereof, the Existing Loan Agreement).
The parties hereto have agreed to amend the Existing Loan Agreement as set forth below. Therefore, for good and valuable consideration, the receipt of which is hereby acknowledged, the Bank is pleased to make available a $200,000,000 committed unsecured revolving line of credit (the Committed Line) on a several basis to each of the Borrowers, each acting separately on behalf of each of its respective Funds on a several, not joint and several, basis subject to terms of Section I(5)(c) hereof, on the following terms and conditions:
I. | Committed Line. |
1. Term. The Committed Line shall expire June 30, 2022 (the Expiration Date), unless extended by mutual agreement of the Bank and the Borrowers or, with respect to any Fund, terminated by the applicable Borrower on behalf of such Fund as provided herein. A Borrower, on behalf of a Fund, may terminate the Committed Line with respect to such Fund upon three (3) days prior written notice and payment of all outstanding principal, interest, fees, costs, expenses and other amounts owing by such Fund to the Bank hereunder on the effective date of termination.
2. Notice and Manner of Borrowings. Subject to the terms and conditions hereof, the Bank shall make revolving loans to a Borrower, on behalf of any Fund, under the Committed Line (each such loan, a Loan) up to a maximum aggregate principal amount outstanding at any one time equal to the Committed Line Amount; provided that, in each case after giving effect to the requested Loan, (i) the aggregate outstanding Indebtedness for borrowed money of such Fund (including the aggregate principal amount of all Loans outstanding to such Fund) shall not exceed the Maximum Amount applicable to such Fund, (ii) the aggregate principal amount of Loans outstanding to such Fund hereunder shall not exceed the Committed Line Amount, and (iii) the aggregate principal amount of Loans outstanding to all Borrowers on behalf of all Funds hereunder shall not exceed the Committed Line Amount. Each request for a Loan hereunder, shall be in a minimum amount of $100,000 or an integral of $100,000 in excess thereof and shall be made in writing by any Borrower, on behalf of a Fund, by delivering a completed loan request
January 28, 2015
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in the form of Exhibit B attached hereto and such other information or documentation as the Bank may reasonably request. Each such Loan request shall be made by any Borrower, on behalf of a Fund, and received by the Bank not later than 3:00 p.m., Boston time, on the Business Day on which such Loan is to be made. Each Loan request hereunder shall be deemed to be a confirmation by the applicable Borrower, on behalf of the applicable Fund, that no Default or Event of Default has occurred and is continuing hereunder with respect to such Borrower or such Fund, that the representations and warranties of the Borrower, on behalf of such Fund, described below remain true and correct, and that no borrowing limitations or restrictions applicable to such Fund or the Committed Line (including those set forth in the provisos above in this Section) will be exceeded after giving effect to the requested Loan, each of which shall be a precondition to the making of any Loan hereunder.
3. Evidence of Indebtedness.
(a) The Loans made by the Bank to the Borrowers shall be evidenced by one or more loan accounts or records maintained by the Bank in the ordinary course of business. Each Borrower, on behalf of its respective Funds, irrevocably authorizes the Bank to make or cause to be made, at or about the date of each Loan to such Borrower or at the time of receipt of any payment of principal of each such Loan, an appropriate notation on its loan accounts or records, including computer records, reflecting the making of such Loan or (as the case may be) the receipt of such payment. The outstanding amount of the Loans set forth in any such loan accounts or records, including any computer records, maintained by the Bank with respect to the Loans made by it shall, absent manifest error, be prima facie evidence of the principal amount thereof owing and unpaid to the Bank, but the failure to record, or any error in so recording, any such amount on any such loan account or record shall not limit or otherwise affect the obligation of each of the Borrowers, on behalf of each of its respective Funds, hereunder or under the other Loan Documents to make payments of principal of, and interest on, the Loans when due.
(b) Each Borrower hereby agrees that, upon request of the Bank, such Borrower shall promptly execute and deliver to the Bank, a promissory note (as amended, supplemented or otherwise modified, the Note) substantially in the form of Exhibit A attached hereto, payable to the Bank in an amount equal to the Committed Line Amount or, if less, the aggregate unpaid principal amount of the Banks Loans, plus interest thereon as provided below, which shall evidence the Banks Loans in addition to such records.
(c) In recognition of the Bank now evidencing the Loans by one or more loan accounts or records maintained by the Bank in the ordinary course of business in accordance with Section I(3)(a), after the effectiveness of this letter amendment, the Bank shall return to the Borrowers, if requested, the Amended and Restated Promissory Note, dated January 28, 2015, made by one or more of the Borrowers and payable to the Bank in its possession as of December 16, 2019 (the Existing Note), marked Cancelled. The cancellation of the original Existing Note shall not be deemed to evidence the repayment or satisfaction of any existing Loans or related Obligations, all of which shall thereafter be evidenced by one or more loan accounts or records maintained by the Bank as so described in Section I(3)(a) or, if requested by the Bank under Section I(3)(b), the Note.
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4. Interest Rate. Principal on each outstanding Loan shall bear interest at a variable rate per annum equal to the Applicable Rate plus the Applicable Margin, which rate shall be subject to change from time to time as and when the Applicable Rate changes. Interest on each Loan shall be calculated on the basis of a 360-day year for the actual number of days elapsed. Following and during the continuance of a Default or an Event of Default hereunder with respect to a Fund, unpaid principal on any Loan to such Fund, and to the extent permitted by applicable law, unpaid interest on any Loan to such Fund, shall thereafter bear interest, compounded monthly and payable on demand, until paid in full (after as well as before judgment) at a rate per annum equal to two percent (2%) above the rate otherwise applicable to such Loan hereunder, but not to exceed the maximum rate permitted by law.
5. Payments and Prepayments; Recourse.
(a) Subject to the terms of Section I.5(c), each of the Borrowers, on behalf of its respective Funds, hereby severally promises to pay accrued interest on all Loans made to such Fund monthly in arrears on the fifteenth day of each calendar month for the immediately preceding calendar month; provided, however, that in each such case if such day on which interest on any Loans is due is not a Business Day, interest shall be payable on the next preceding Business Day. Subject to the terms of Section I.5(c), each of the Borrowers, on behalf of its respective Funds, hereby severally promises to repay the principal amount of each outstanding Loan made to such Fund, together with all accrued and unpaid interest thereon, upon the earliest of (i) 60 days following the date on which such Loan is made, (ii) the date on which such Loan becomes due pursuant to Section II(4) below following the occurrence of an Event of Default with respect to such Fund, or (iii) the Expiration Date. Each of the Borrowers, on behalf of each of its respective Funds, further covenants and agrees to immediately repay (1) the outstanding aggregate principal amount of any Indebtedness for borrowed money of any such Fund at any time (including the then outstanding aggregate principal amount of all Loans to such Fund) to the extent such amount exceeds the Maximum Amount applicable to such Fund at such time, and (2) any amount by which the then outstanding aggregate principal amount of all Loans to any such Fund at any time exceeds the Committed Line Amount, in each case upon the earlier to occur of such Borrower first becoming aware of any such circumstance or demand by the Bank. Each of the Borrowers, on behalf of each of its respective Funds having Loans outstanding at any time, further covenants and agrees that it shall make such repayments of the Loans outstanding to each such Fund at any time to the extent required such that the then outstanding aggregate principal amount of all Loans to all Funds hereunder shall at no time exceed the Committed Line Amount upon the earlier to occur of such Borrower first becoming aware of any such circumstance or demand by the Bank. Loans may be prepaid at the option of the Borrowers without penalty or premium, and any amounts prepaid may be reborrowed. Notwithstanding the foregoing or any other provision of this Agreement, there shall be a period with respect to each Fund hereunder consisting of at least one Business Day during each sixty (60) day period during which this Agreement is in effect when no Loans are outstanding to such Fund. Each of the Borrowers, on behalf of its respective Funds, promises to make such payments of one or more Loans as are necessary to comply with the foregoing sentence.
January 28, 2015
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(b) All payments by the Borrowers on behalf of their respective Funds hereunder and under any of the other Loan Documents shall be made not later than 3:00 p.m. Boston time on the date due in immediately available United States dollars at the Banks office at One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111 or as otherwise directed in writing by the Bank. Each Borrower hereby authorizes and irrevocably directs the Bank, at the Banks option at any time upon and following the due date for payment by such Borrower of any amounts under the Loan Documents, and without any further notice to or consent of such Borrower, to debit any account(s) of such Borrower with the Bank and apply amounts so debited toward the payment of any such amounts due and owing by such Borrower under the Loan Documents. Notwithstanding such authorization and direction, each Borrower hereby further acknowledges and agrees that (i) the Bank shall have no obligation to so debit any such account(s) and shall have no liability whatsoever to such Borrower for any failure to do so, and (ii) such Borrower shall fully retain the obligation under the Loan Documents to make all payments thereunder when due. All such payments by the Borrowers on behalf of their respective Funds hereunder and under any of the other Loan Documents shall be made without recoupment, setoff or counterclaim and free and clear of and without deduction for any taxes, levies, imposts, duties, charges, fees, deductions, withholdings, compulsory loans, restrictions or conditions of any nature now or hereafter imposed or levied by any jurisdiction or any political subdivision thereof or taxing or other authority therein unless a Borrower is compelled by law to make such deduction or withholding. If any such obligation is imposed upon a Borrower with respect to any amount payable by it hereunder or under any of the Loan Documents, such Borrower will pay to the Bank, on the date on which such amount is due and payable hereunder or under the Loan Documents, such additional amount in United States dollars as shall be necessary to enable the Bank to receive the same net amount which the Bank would have received on such due date had no such obligation been imposed upon such Borrower. The applicable Borrower will deliver promptly to the Bank certificates or other valid vouchers for all taxes or other charges deducted from or paid with respect to payments made by such Borrower hereunder or under the Loan Documents.
(c) The Bank and each of the Borrowers acknowledge and agree that the Bank shall look solely to the property of each respective Fund for the enforcement of any claim against such Fund. None of the trustees, officers, employees, agents or shareholders of the Borrowers or any respective Fund assumes any personal liability for the obligations entered into by the Borrowers, on behalf of their respective Funds, with respect to the Committed Line. In addition, the principal amount of any Loan, and accrued interest thereon, and any fees, costs, expenses, indemnities or other amounts payable in connection with or relating to any Fund or any Loan pursuant to this Agreement (other than any fees, costs, expenses, indemnities or other amounts payable to the Bank pursuant to the terms hereof not specific or identifiable to any Fund or Funds or any particular Loan), shall be paid or repaid solely from the assets of such Fund (or, in the case of any Fund which is a series of a Borrower, the series to which such Loan is made), and the Bank shall have no right of recourse or offset against the assets of any other Fund or any other series of any Borrower for such amounts. Each Fund shall be severally (and not jointly) liable to the Bank hereunder for fees, costs, expenses, indemnities or other amounts owed to the Bank pursuant to the terms hereof that are not specific or identifiable to any Fund or Funds or any particular Loan in accordance with such Funds pro rata portion thereof based upon the relative Net Assets of each of the Funds or based upon such other method as the board of directors or trustees of the respective Borrowers, including a majority of the non-interested trustees, shall determine is fair and equitable and in the best interests of each of the participating Funds, in each case with prior written notice to the Bank.
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6. Use of Loan Proceeds. Proceeds of Loans may be used solely for temporary or emergency purposes, including, without limitation, to temporarily finance the redemption of the shares of an investor of a Fund, or to temporarily finance the purchase or sale of securities by a Fund for prompt delivery if the Loan is to be repaid promptly in the ordinary course of business upon completion of such purchase or sale transaction, or for other temporary and emergency purposes in each case consistent with the then current investment objectives/goals and investment restrictions of a Fund; provided that such use of proceeds of each such Loan (a) shall constitute an Exempted Transaction as described in section 221.6(f) of Regulation U, (b) shall otherwise constitute an Exempted Transaction under, or shall not constitute a purpose credit for purposes of, Regulation U, or (c) shall not otherwise cause such Loans to violate the provisions of Regulation U. In the event that the proposed use of proceeds of any Loan to any Fund shall not constitute an Exempted Transaction under Regulation U, but shall nonetheless constitute a purpose credit for purposes thereof, the Borrower, on behalf of such Fund, at the time of the request for such Loan is made, shall furnish the Bank with an updated statement in conformity with the requirements of Federal Reserve Form U-1 referred to in Regulation U. Each Loan shall be made in compliance with, and subject to, the applicable Funds Prospectus and Regulation U and no portion of any proceeds of any Loan shall be used directly or indirectly in violation of any provision of any statute, regulation, order or restriction applicable to the Bank, any Borrower or any Fund.
7. Addition of Borrowers and Funds. With the prior written consent of the Bank in its sole discretion and in any event no more than once per calendar quarter, any Borrower may request the addition to the terms of this Agreement of (a) one or more investment management companies registered under the Investment Company Act, with the same Investment Adviser as the Funds herein, as a Borrower hereunder or (b) any fund series of a Borrower. In no event will any such additional investment management company or fund series be added to the terms of this Agreement if such investment management company or fund series is advised or sub-advised by an affiliate of the Bank. The addition of any such investment management company or fund series shall be subject to consent by the Bank in its sole discretion, approval by the Board of trustees of the respective Borrowers, and completion of an appropriate amendment to this Agreement and such other documentation, and the collection of such fees or charges, as the Bank may require, including without limitation current prospectus and related information; corporate, trust or similar existence and authorization documentation; and appropriate legal opinions, in each case with respect to any proposed new Borrower or Fund, as the Bank may require.
8. Commitment Fee. Each of the Borrowers, on behalf of its respective Funds, shall pay to the Bank its ratable portion (calculated in accordance with Section I.5(c) above) of commitment fee accruing at the rate of 0.20% per annum on the unused portion of the Committed Line Amount. Such commitment fee shall accrue from and including the date hereof to but excluding the Expiration Date. Accrued commitment fees payable by each of the Borrowers, on behalf of its respective Funds, hereunder shall be payable quarterly in arrears on the fifteenth day of each April, July, October and January for the immediately preceding calendar quarter and on the Expiration Date or any earlier date upon which the Committed Line hereunder may be terminated (including pursuant to Section II(4) hereof upon the occurrence of an Event of Default). The commitment fee provided for in this paragraph shall be calculated on the basis of a 360-day year for the actual number of days elapsed.
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9. Additional Costs; Capital Adequacy.
(a) If any new law, rule or regulation, or any change after the date hereof in the interpretation or administration of any applicable law, rule or regulation by any governmental authority, central bank or comparable agency charged with the interpretation or administration thereof, or compliance by the Bank (or its applicable lending office) with any request or directive (whether or not having the force of law) of any such authority, central bank or comparable agency in connection therewith issued, promulgated or enacted after the date hereof shall:
(i) subject the Bank (or its applicable lending office) to any tax, duty or other charge with respect to the Loans, the Note or the Banks commitment hereunder, or shall change the basis of taxation of payments to the Bank (or its applicable lending office) of the principal of or interest on the Loans or any other amounts due under this Agreement or the Banks commitment hereunder, in each case, except for any tax on, or changes in the rate of tax on the overall net income of, or franchise taxes payable by, such Bank or its applicable lending office described in Section I(5)(b) above; or
(ii) impose, modify or deem applicable any reserve (including, without limitation, any such requirement imposed by the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System), special deposit, insurance assessment or similar requirement against assets of, deposits with or for the account of, or credit extended by, the Bank (or its applicable lending office) or shall impose on the Bank (or its applicable lending office) any other condition affecting the Loans, the Note or the Banks commitment hereunder; or
(iii) impose on the Bank any other conditions or requirements with respect to this Agreement, the other Loan Documents, the Loans or the Banks commitment hereunder;
and the result of any of the foregoing is to increase the cost to the Bank (or its applicable lending office) of making, funding, issuing, renewing, extending or maintaining any Loan or the Banks commitment hereunder, or to reduce the amount of any sum received or receivable by the Bank (or its applicable lending office) under this Agreement or under the Note with respect thereto, by an amount deemed by the Bank to be material, then, promptly upon demand by the Bank (and in any event within thirty (30) days after demand by the Bank) and delivery to the Borrowers of the certificate required by clause (c) of this Section I(9), each of the Borrowers, on behalf of its respective Funds, shall pay to the Bank its ratable portion (calculated in accordance with Section I(5)(c) above) of the additional amount or amounts as will compensate the Bank for such increased cost or reduction.
(b) If the Bank shall determine that any change after the date hereof in any existing applicable law, rule or regulation or any new law, rule or regulation regarding capital adequacy or liquidity, or any change therein, or any change after the date hereof in the interpretation or administration thereof by any governmental authority, central bank or comparable agency charged with the interpretation or administration thereof, or any new request or directive of general applicability regarding capital adequacy or liquidity (whether or not
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having the force of law) of any such authority, central bank or comparable agency issued, promulgated or enacted after the date hereof, has or would have the effect of reducing the rate of return on capital of the Bank (or its parent corporation) as a consequence of the Banks obligations hereunder to a level below that which the Bank (or its parent corporation) could have achieved but for such law, change, request or directive (taking into consideration its policies with respect to capital adequacy and liquidity) by an amount deemed by the Bank to be material, then from time to time, promptly upon demand by the Bank (and in any event within thirty (30) days after demand by the Bank), each of the Borrowers, on behalf of its respective Funds, shall pay to the Bank its ratable portion (calculated in accordance with Section I(5)(c) above) of such additional amount or amounts as will compensate the Bank (or its parent corporation) for such reduction.
(c) The Bank will promptly notify the Borrowers of any event of which it has knowledge, occurring after the date hereof, which will entitle the Bank to compensation pursuant to this Section. A certificate of the Bank claiming compensation under this Section and setting forth in reasonable detail the additional amount or amounts to be paid to it hereunder and the calculations used in determining such additional amount or amounts shall be conclusive in the absence of manifest error. In determining such amount, the Bank may use any reasonable averaging and attribution methods.
(d) For the avoidance of doubt and notwithstanding anything herein to the contrary, for the purposes of this Section I(9), (i) the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act and all requests, rules, regulations, guidelines, interpretations or directives thereunder or issued in connection therewith (whether or not having the force of law) and (ii) all requests, rules, regulations, guidelines, interpretations or directives promulgated by the Bank for International Settlements, the Basel Committee on Banking Supervision (or any successor or similar authority) or the United States or foreign regulatory authorities (whether or not having the force of law), in each case for this clause (ii) pursuant to Basel III, shall in each case be deemed to be a change in law regardless of the date enacted, adopted, issued, promulgated or implemented.
II. | General Loan Terms. |
1. Covenants. Until all obligations of the Borrowers, on behalf of, their respective Funds with respect to the Committed Line have been paid in full and the Committed Line has been terminated, unless otherwise consented to in writing by the Bank, each of the Borrowers hereby covenants and agrees as follows for itself (where applicable) and on behalf of each of its respective Funds, but not as to any other Borrower or Funds:
(a) not at any time to permit (i) the aggregate amount of Total Liabilities of any Fund that are Senior Securities Representing Indebtedness to exceed the Applicable Percentage of the Adjusted Net Assets of such Fund or (ii) the aggregate amount of the Funds outstanding Indebtedness to otherwise exceed for the Maximum Amount applicable to such Fund at such time;
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(b) not to issue any preferred stock or create, incur, assume, suffer to exist, or guarantee, any Indebtedness other than, to the extent permitted by the relevant Prospectus (i) Indebtedness owing to the Bank; (ii) Indebtedness owing to the Custodian of any Borrower or Fund incurred in connection with such custody relationship; (iii) other Indebtedness existing as of the date of this Agreement and disclosed on Exhibit C hereto; (iv) preferred stock or Indebtedness issued or incurred with the prior written consent of the Bank; (v) other Indebtedness incurred in the ordinary course of any Borrowers or Funds business in connection with portfolio investments and investment techniques permissible under the Investment Company Act (and not for the primary purpose of borrowing money), but only to the extent such Indebtedness is reflected as a liability in the calculation of such Borrowers or Funds Adjusted Net Assets;
(c) not to create, incur, assume or suffer to exist any mortgage, pledge, security interest, lien, hypothecation, or other charge or encumbrance upon any of its assets or properties, or enter into any agreement preventing it from encumbering any such assets or properties other than, to the extent permitted by the relevant Prospectus (i) those in favor of the Bank or its affiliates or subsidiaries; (ii) those existing on the date hereof and described on Exhibit D hereto; (iii) those in favor of the Custodian of any Borrower or Fund securing Indebtedness permitted by Section II(1)(b)(ii) above; (iv) those for which the Bank has given its prior written consent; (v) those arising in the ordinary course of any Borrowers or Funds business out of or in connection with portfolio investments and investment techniques securing Indebtedness permitted by Section II(1)(b)(v) above; and (vi) liens for taxes, fees, assessments and other governmental charges not yet due and payable or which are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and with respect to which reserves or other appropriate provisions as may be required by generally accepted accounting principles are being maintained;
(d) to (i) duly observe and comply in all material respects with all applicable laws, including, without limitation, the Investment Company Act and any asset coverage and borrowing restrictions and restrictions on Indebtedness and extensions of credit contained therein and applicable to any Borrower or Fund, and applicable securities laws and regulations; (ii) pay all taxes and governmental charges prior to the time they become delinquent, unless such taxes or charges are being contested in good faith by appropriate proceedings and as to which such reserves or other appropriate provisions as may be required by generally accepted accounting principles are being maintained; (iii) maintain in full force and effect all licenses and permits necessary in any material respect for the proper conduct of its business; (iv) maintain its legal existence and its status as an open-end investment management company registered under the Investment Company Act and its status as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code; (v) operate in compliance with its agreement and declaration of trust, by-laws and/or other organizational documents, its Prospectus and all applicable investment policies and restrictions and agreements relating thereto; (vi) (1) not divide (provided that this clause (1) shall not prohibit any Borrower from creating any new portfolio series thereof), or (2) except for Permitted Mergers, not merge or consolidate with or into any entity or purchase all or substantially all of the assets or stock of any entity or sell or otherwise transfer all or any substantial portion of such Borrowers or Funds assets (other than the sale of portfolio assets in the ordinary course of business as described in its Prospectus); (vii) not permit there to occur a change in the investment adviser from the Investment Adviser without the prior written
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consent of the Bank; (viii) not permit there to occur a change in the custodian of any Funds assets from the Custodian without the prior written consent of the Bank; (ix) not permit any change in the investment objectives/goals or in the fundamental investment policies or restrictions of any Borrower or Fund as described in its Prospectus, in any such case without the prior written consent of the Bank; (x) comply with all terms and provisions of all documents evidencing or securing any Indebtedness to or with the Bank; (xi) promptly notify the Bank of any event of default with respect to any Material Indebtedness and of any default under, or termination of, any agreement with the Custodian or with the Investment Adviser and provide to the Bank a copy of any notice or claim of any such default or termination; (xii) immediately notify the Bank of any material litigation or governmental proceeding or investigation commenced or threatened in writing against any Borrower or Fund; (xiii) immediately notify the Bank of the occurrence of any Default or Event of Default hereunder; and (xiv) maintain with financially sound and reputable insurance companies insurance in such amounts and covering such risks as is consistent with sound business practice and industry standards;
(e) to permit the Bank or its representatives and agents to visit and inspect the properties of each Borrower and its respective Funds and to make copies or abstracts from such Borrowers or Funds books and records at all such reasonable times and as often as may be reasonably requested;
(f) [reserved];
(g) to provide to the Bank: (i) within 60 days after the end of each semi-annual period in each fiscal year, each Borrowers or Funds semi-annual or annual, as the case may be, financial statements, including a statement of assets, liabilities and investments as of the end of each such period in a form that complies with requirements of the United States Securities and Exchange Commission and, in the case of annual statements, audited by a nationally recognized public accountant firm qualified to audit investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act; (ii) promptly, all proxy materials, reports to shareholders and other information delivered to shareholders of any Borrower or Fund; (iii) promptly, all material reports, documents or other information relating to the financial condition of any Borrower or Fund that are delivered to the United States Securities and Exchange Commission, including in any event, copies of any new Prospectus or registration statement or any material change to any Prospectus or registration statement; (iv) prior to any Loan request and daily not later than 3:00 p.m. (Boston time) on each Business Day during which any Loans shall have been outstanding to any Fund (or more frequently as and when requested by the Bank), a certificate in the form attached as Exhibit B showing compliance by each such Fund with the borrowing limitations in Section I(2) above; and (v) such other financial statements and information as to each Borrower, Fund or the Investment Adviser as the Bank may reasonably request from time to time (all financial statements required hereunder to be prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles consistently applied);
(h) execute and deliver such additional instruments and take such further actions as the Bank may from time to time reasonably request to effect the purpose of the Loan Documents and the Loans;
(i) not to at any time have any Subsidiaries;
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(j) a Borrower shall not, and shall not cause or permit any Affected Person to, (i) violate any Anti-Terrorism Law, (ii) engage in any transaction, investment, undertaking or activity that conceals the identity, source or destination of the proceeds from any category of prohibited offenses designated by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Developments Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering, (iii) use, directly or indirectly, the proceeds of any Loan, or lend, contribute or otherwise make available such proceeds to any other Person, (1) to fund any activities or business of or with any Sanctioned Person or in any Sanctioned Jurisdiction, (2) in any other manner that would result in a violation of Sanctions by any Person, or (3) in any way that would violate any Anti-Corruption Law, (iv) deal in, or otherwise engage in any transaction related to, any property or interests in property blocked pursuant to any Anti-Terrorism Law, or (v) engage in or conspire to engage in any transaction that evades or avoids, or has the purpose of evading or avoiding, or attempt to violate, any prohibition set forth in any Anti-Terrorism Law; and
(k) to provide such documents and information requested by the Bank that are reasonably required in order to comply with know-your-customer and other anti-terrorism, anti-money laundering and similar rules and regulations and related policies.
Notwithstanding anything to the contrary in Section II(1)(g) above, but without in any way limiting the rights of the Bank set forth therein, unless the Bank shall request paper copies of the financial and other information otherwise required to be furnished by the Borrowers to the Bank pursuant to subsections (i) and (ii) of such Section II(1)(g) above, the Borrowers may deliver all such information to the Bank in a printable format by electronic means. The Borrowers may make such electronic delivery by: (i) sending such information as an electronic mail attachment to such electronic mail addresses as shall be designated by the Bank, as applicable; or (ii) notifying the Bank by electronic mail (to such electronic mail addresses as shall be designated by the Bank, as applicable) that the documents are available on a website accessible to the Bank and further indicating a website hyperlink directing the user directly to the referenced documents posted thereon; provided that such information shall be made available on or before the dates specified in said subsections (i) and (ii) of such Section II(1)(g) above. Nothing contained in this paragraph shall require the Bank to maintain copies of the financial and other information referred to in this paragraph, and the Bank shall be solely responsible for requesting physical delivery of such information, or maintaining any such information, as applicable. Each of the Borrowers, on behalf of its respective Funds, acknowledges that the distribution of material through an electronic medium is not necessarily secure and that there may be confidentiality and other risks associated with such distribution. In no event shall the Bank or any of its officers, directors, employees, agents, advisors or representatives have any liability to the Borrowers or Funds for damages of any kind, including without limitation, direct or indirect, special, incidental or consequential damages, losses or expenses arising out of the Borrowers transmission of communications through the internet.
2. Representations and Warranties. Each of the Borrowers severally (and not jointly) represents and warrants to the Bank, both as to itself (where applicable) and severally (and not jointly) as to each of its respective Funds (but not as to any other Borrower or Fund) that:
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(a) each such Borrower (i) is duly organized, validly existing and in good standing under the laws of the jurisdiction of its organization; (ii) is registered as an open-end management investment company under the Investment Company Act; (iii) is qualified as a regulated investment company within the meaning of the Internal Revenue Code; (iv) has all requisite power and authority to own its property and conduct its business as is now conducted and is duly authorized to do business in each jurisdiction where the nature of its properties or business requires such qualification and where failure to be so qualified would, individually or in the aggregate, reasonably be expected to have a Material Adverse Effect; (v) is in compliance with its agreement and declaration of trust, by-laws and/or other organizational documents and applicable laws and regulations, including, without limitation, the Investment Company Act and Federal Reserve Regulations T, U and X; and (vi) has filed all required income tax returns and has paid all taxes due pursuant to such returns, and the charges, accruals and reserves on the books and records of such Borrower or Fund with respect to such taxes and charges are adequate;
(b) the execution, delivery and performance of each of the Loan Documents and the making of any Loan by the Bank to such Borrower, on behalf of its respective Funds, hereunder (i) are, and will be, within such Borrowers or Funds power and authority; (ii) have been authorized by all necessary trust proceedings of such Borrower; (iii) do not, and will not, require the consent of any shareholders or other equity holders of such Borrower or Fund or the approval or consent of, or any notice to or filing with (other than the filing of this Agreement with the next update to the Funds registration statement), any governmental authority, other than those which have been received; (iv) will not contravene any provision of, or exceed any limitation contained in, the agreement and declaration of trust, by-laws and/or other organizational documents of such Borrower or Fund or its Prospectus or any judgment, decree or order or any law, rule or regulation applicable to such Borrower or Fund, including, without limitation, the Investment Company Act; (v) are, and will be, in compliance with Regulations U and X and the Investment Company Act; (vi) do not and will not constitute a violation of, or a default under any other agreement, order or undertaking binding on such Borrower or Fund; and (vii) do not require the consent or approval of any obligee or holder of any instrument relating to any Indebtedness of the Borrower or the Fund or consent or approval of any other party other than those consents and approvals which have been received;
(c) no portion of any proceeds of any Loan shall be used directly or indirectly in violation of any provision of any statute, regulation, order or restriction applicable to the Bank or such Borrower or Fund, including Regulation U;
(d) each of the Loan Documents has been duly executed and delivered by each Borrower and constitutes the legal, valid, binding and enforceable obligation of each of the Borrowers, on behalf of its respective Funds, except as the same may be limited by bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, moratorium or other laws affecting the enforcement of creditors rights generally and by general equitable principles;
(e) all financial statements of the Funds previously furnished to the Bank by any Borrower or Fund were prepared in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles and present fairly and completely the financial position of such Fund; since the date of the most recent audited financial statements of each Fund furnished to the Bank prior to the date
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of this Agreement, there has been no material adverse change in the assets, liabilities, financial condition or business of any Borrower or any of its respective Funds, other than in the ordinary course of business; and each of the Borrowers has disclosed to the Bank any and all facts which, to the best of such Borrowers knowledge, after due inquiry, materially and adversely affect or could reasonably be expected to materially and adversely affect, the business, assets, operations or financial condition of such Borrower or any of its respective Funds or the ability of such Borrower or any of its respective Funds to perform its obligations under the Loan Documents;
(f) each of the Borrowers has good and marketable title to all its material properties, assets and rights of every name and nature purportedly owned by it on behalf of its respective Funds, except for encumbrances permitted by Section II(1)(c) above;
(g) there is no litigation, arbitration, proceeding or investigation pending or, to the best of each Borrowers knowledge, overtly threatened against, such Borrower or any of its respective Funds or the Investment Adviser which could reasonably be expected to result in a Material Adverse Effect, except those described on Exhibit E attached hereto;
(h) the shares of each Borrower and its respective Funds have been registered under the Securities Act of 1933 and are eligible for sale under applicable state and federal securities laws and regulations; each Fund which is a portfolio series of a Borrower has been duly established as a separate series of such Borrower and its assets and liabilities are segregated from the assets and liabilities of each other series or portfolios of such Borrower;
(i) with regard to the Employee Retirement Income Security Act of 1974, and the rules and regulations thereunder, collectively, as amended and in effect from time to time (ERISA), none of the Borrowers or their respective Funds is treated as a single employer with any other Person under ERISA, and none has any liability with respect to any benefit arrangement, plan or multi-employer plan subject to ERISA;
(j) none of the Borrowers or their respective Funds is an Affiliated Person, as defined in the Investment Company Act, of the Bank;
(k) the Investment Adviser serves as investment adviser to each of the Funds, and the Custodian serves as custodian for the assets of each of the Funds;
(l) each of the Borrowers and its respective Funds has complied with, and is in compliance with, the investment objectives/goals and policies and investment restrictions set forth in its Prospectus;
(m) (i) no Affected Person is or, to the knowledge of any Borrower, is owned or controlled (directly or indirectly) by one or more Persons that are, (A) Sanctioned Persons, or (B) located, organized or resident in a Sanctioned Jurisdiction;
(ii) no Affected Person or, to the knowledge of any Borrower, any Person that owns or controls (directly or indirectly) the Borrower or receives (directly or indirectly) any proceeds of any Loan (A) conducts any business or engages in making or receiving any contribution of goods, services or money to or for the benefit of any
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Sanctioned Person or in any Sanctioned Jurisdiction, (B) deals in, or otherwise engages in any transaction related to, any property or interests in property blocked pursuant to any Anti-Terrorism Law, or (C) engages in or conspires to engage in any transaction that evades or avoids, or has the purpose of evading or avoiding, or attempts to violate, any of the prohibitions set forth in any Anti-Terrorism Law;
(iii) no Affected Person or, to the knowledge of any Borrower, any Person that owns or controls (directly or indirectly) a Borrower, or receives (directly or indirectly) any proceeds of any Loan (A) has violated any Anti-Terrorism Law, or (B) has engaged in any transaction, investment, undertaking or activity that conceals the identity, source or destination of the proceeds from any category of prohibited offenses designated by the Organization for Economic Co-operation and Developments Financial Action Task Force on Money Laundering;
(iv) each Borrower thereof has implemented, maintains and complies with policies and procedures designed to ensure compliance, in all material respects, by each Affected Person with Anti-Corruption Laws and Sanctions; and
(n) no Borrower or Fund has any Subsidiaries.
The making of each Loan hereunder to any Borrower, on behalf of any Fund, shall be deemed to be a reaffirmation by such Borrower, on behalf of such Fund, as to the representations and warranties contained in this Section II(2) and confirmation that no Default or Event of Default with respect to such Fund has occurred hereunder or will occur after giving effect to the making of such Loan.
3. Default. It will be a default hereunder with respect to any Fund if any of the following events (each, an Event of Default) occurs with respect to such Fund, with respect to the applicable Borrower, acting on behalf of such Fund, or, as applicable, with respect to the Investment Adviser:
(a) such Borrower, acting on behalf of such Fund, fails (i) to pay when due any amount of principal of any Loan, whether at maturity, upon acceleration, pursuant to a mandatory repayment or prepayment provision hereof or otherwise, or (ii) to pay within three (3) Business Days of when due any amount of interest on any Loan or any fees or expenses or other amounts payable under any of the Loan Documents; or
(b) such Borrower or Fund, (i) shall fail to perform any term, covenant or agreement contained in any of Sections II.1(a)-(c) hereof or in any of Sections II.1(d)(iv)(xiii) hereof or Section II.1(j) hereof or Section II.1(k) hereof; or (ii) shall fail to perform any term, covenant or agreement contained in any of the Loan Documents (other than those specified elsewhere in this Section II.3)) or a default or event of default occurs thereunder and, in the case of this clause (ii), such failure or default or event of default shall continue for a period of thirty (30) days; or
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(c) any representation or warranty of such Borrower or Fund made in any of the Loan Documents or as an inducement for the Bank to make any Loan shall prove to have been false in any material respect upon the date when made or deemed to have been made; or
(d) such Borrower, acting on behalf of such Fund (i) fails to pay at maturity, or within any applicable period of grace, any obligations in respect of any Material Indebtedness, or (ii) any event or condition shall occur which results in the acceleration of the maturity of any Material Indebtedness or enables (or, with the giving of notice or lapse of time or both, would enable) the holder of such Material Indebtedness or any person or entity acting on such holders behalf to accelerate the maturity thereof or, in the case of a financial contract, enables (or, with the giving of notice or lapse of time or both, would enable) the non-defaulting party to terminate the contract evidencing such Material Indebtedness; or
(e) such Borrower or Fund or the Investment Adviser (i) applies for or consents to the appointment of, or the taking of possession by, a receiver, custodian, trustee, liquidator or similar official of itself or of all or a substantial part of its property; (ii) is generally not paying its debts as such debts become due; (iii) makes a general assignment for the benefit of its creditors; (iv) commences any case or proceeding under the Federal Bankruptcy Code or any other law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, winding-up or composition or adjustment of debts, or any other law providing for the relief of debtors; (v) fails to contest in a timely or appropriate manner, or acquiesces in writing to, any petition filed against it in an involuntary case under the Federal Bankruptcy Code or any other law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, winding-up or composition or adjustment of debts, or any other law providing for the relief of debtors; (vi) takes any action under the laws of its jurisdiction of incorporation or organization similar to any of the foregoing; (vii) takes any actions under state, federal of other applicable law in order to commence the liquidation of the Borrower or any Fund; or (viii) discontinues its business; or
(f) a proceeding or case shall be commenced against such Borrower or Fund or the Investment Adviser without the application or consent of such party, in any court of competent jurisdiction, seeking (i) the liquidation, reorganization, dissolution, winding-up, or composition or readjustment of its debts; (ii) the appointment of a trustee, receiver, custodian, liquidator or the like of it or of all or any substantial part of its assets; or (iii) similar relief in respect of it, under any law relating to bankruptcy, insolvency, reorganization, winding-up, or composition or adjustment of debts or any other law providing for the relief of debtors, and such proceeding or case shall continue undismissed, or unstayed and in effect, for a period of 60 days; or an order for relief shall be entered in an involuntary case under the Federal Bankruptcy Code, against such Borrower or Fund or the Investment Adviser or action under the laws of the jurisdiction of incorporation or organization of such Borrower or Fund or the Investment Adviser similar to any of the foregoing shall be taken with respect to such Borrower or Fund or the Investment Adviser and shall continue unstayed and in effect for any period of 60 days; or
(g) a final judgment or final order for the payment of money is entered against such Borrower or Fund by any court of competent jurisdiction, or an execution or similar process is issued or levied against property of such Borrower or Fund, that in the aggregate exceeds 5% of the value of the Net Assets of such Borrower or Fund and such judgment, order, warrant or process is not within 30 days after entry thereof discharged or stayed pending appeal or is not discharged within 30 days after the expiration of such stay; or
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(h) there occurs a change in the business, assets or financial condition of such Borrower or Fund resulting in a Material Adverse Effect (which shall not include a decline in the Net Assets of such Fund resulting from redemptions by shareholders of such Fund or a decline in market value of securities held by such Fund); or
(i) such Borrower or Fund shall challenge the validity or enforceability of any portion of any of the Loan Documents; or
(j) any investment advisory agreement which is in effect on the date hereof relating to such Fund shall terminate, or the Investment Adviser shall cease to serve as the investment adviser for such Fund, or the Custodian shall cease to serve as the custodian of such Funds assets, in each instance without the prior written consent of the Bank; or
(k) such Borrower or Fund shall violate, or take any action that would result in a material deviation from, its investment objective or any of its fundamental investment policies or restrictions as in effect from time to time, including those as set forth in its Prospectus.
4. Remedies. Upon the occurrence of an Event of Default described in Section II.3(e) or (f), immediately and automatically; and upon the occurrence of any other Event of Default at any time thereafter while such Event of Default is continuing, at the Banks option and upon the Banks declaration:
(a) the Committed Line established hereunder shall terminate with respect to the subject Fund;
(b) the unpaid principal amount of the Loans to the Borrower on behalf of the subject Fund, together with accrued and unpaid interest thereon, all fees, expenses and other Obligations of the subject Fund, shall become immediately due and payable without presentment, demand, protest or further notice of any kind, all of which are hereby expressly waived; and
(c) the Bank may exercise any and all rights it has under any of the Loan Documents and proceed to protect and enforce the Banks rights by any action at law, in equity or other appropriate proceeding as it relates to the subject Fund.
Each of the Borrowers, on behalf of each of its respective Funds, authorizes the Bank and the Custodian, following the occurrence and during the continuance of an Event of Default with respect to any such Fund to charge and setoff against any deposit account or other account maintained with either the Bank or the Custodian on behalf of such Borrower on behalf of each applicable Fund and apply the proceeds thereof against repayment of any unpaid Obligations of the Borrower on behalf of such Fund, as appropriate. In addition, the Custodian, following the occurrence and during the continuance of an Event of Default with respect to any such Fund, is hereby directed by each Borrower, on behalf of each of its respective Funds, to
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dispose of such Funds assets as selected by the Investment Adviser to the extent necessary to repay all amounts due to the Bank from such Borrower, on behalf of such Fund, to the extent that the Obligations of such Borrower, on behalf of such Fund, have not been paid when due or if any other Event of Default with respect to such Fund has occurred. If the Investment Adviser does not select a sufficient amount of assets to repay all amounts due to the Bank from such Borrower, on behalf of such Fund, within a reasonable time, the Custodian is hereby directed by such Borrower, on behalf of such Fund, upon one days prior written notice to such Borrower, on behalf of such Fund, and its Investment Adviser, to dispose of such Funds assets to the extent necessary to repay all amounts due to the Bank from such Borrower, on behalf of such Fund. The foregoing shall be deemed to be continuing and irrevocable proper instructions to the Custodian for all purposes under the applicable custody agreement between such Borrower, on behalf of such Fund, and the Custodian. The foregoing shall be in addition to any other rights or remedies the Bank and the Custodian may have against such Borrower, on behalf of such Fund, following the occurrence of an Event of Default hereunder.
No right of the Bank shall be exclusive of any other right of the Bank now or hereafter available under the Loan Documents, at law, in equity or otherwise, and no course of dealing or delay by the Bank in exercising any right shall operate as a waiver thereof or otherwise affect any rights or remedies of the Bank.
5. Notices, Electronic Communications, etc.
(a) Notices. Except as provided in paragraph (b) below, all notices and other communications provided for herein shall be in writing and shall be delivered by hand or overnight courier service, mailed by certified or registered mail or sent by facsimile as follows:
(i) if to any Borrower or Fund, to it at 767 Fifth Avenue, New York, NY 10153, Attention of: Chief Financial Officer (Facsimile No: 212-583-2014; Telephone No.: 212-583-2059), and
(ii) if to the Bank, to Brian Kociuba, Vice President or Fund Finance Lending Department Head at M/S SFC0310, State Street Bank and Trust Company, One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111.
Notices sent by hand or overnight courier service, or mailed by certified or registered mail, shall be deemed to have been given when received; notices sent by facsimile shall be deemed to have been given when sent (except that, if not given during normal business hours for the recipient, shall be deemed to have been given at the opening of business on the next business day for the recipient). Notices delivered through electronic communications, to the extent provided in paragraph (b) below, shall be effective as provided in said paragraph (b).
(b) Electronic Communications. Notices made by a Borrower or a Fund consisting of requests for loans or notices of repayments hereunder may be delivered or furnished by e-mail, facsimile or other electronic communication pursuant to procedures approved by the Bank, unless the Bank, in its discretion, notifies the Borrowers otherwise. Communications transmitted by a Borrower or a Fund consisting of financial information
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permitted to be delivered by electronic means pursuant to the last paragraph of Section II(1) above may be delivered or furnished by electronic means as provided in such Section. The Bank may, in its discretion, agree to accept other notices and communications to it hereunder by electronic communications pursuant to procedures approved by it; provided that approval of such procedures may be limited to particular notices or communications. Neither the Bank nor any of its directors, officers, employees, agents or Affiliates shall be liable for any damages arising from the use by unintended recipients of any information or other materials distributed through telecommunications, electronic or other information transmission systems in connection with this Agreement or the other Loan Documents or the transactions contemplated hereby or thereby.
Unless the Bank otherwise prescribes, (i) notices and other communications sent to an e-mail address shall be deemed to have been given when received by the Bank and (ii) financial information posted to an Internet or intranet website shall be deemed received upon the deemed receipt by the intended recipient, at its e-mail address as described in the foregoing clause (i), of notification that such notice or communication is available and identifying the website address therefor; provided that, for both clauses (i) and (ii) above, if such notice, email or other communication is not sent during the normal business hours of the recipient, such notice or communication shall be deemed to have been sent at the opening of business on the next Business Day for the recipient.
(c) Change of Address, etc. Any party hereto may change its address or facsimile number for notices and other communications hereunder by notice to the other parties hereto.
6. Amendments and Waivers. No waivers shall be effective unless in writing. No right of the Bank shall be exclusive of any other right of the Bank now or hereafter available under the Loan Documents, at law, in equity or otherwise; or by statute or any other provision of law; and no course of dealing or delay by the Bank in exercising any right hereunder shall operate as a waiver thereof or otherwise affect any rights or remedies of the Bank. All amendments hereto must be in writing signed by each of the Borrowers, on behalf of its respective Funds, and the Bank.
7. Assignments and Participations. No Borrower or Fund may assign or transfer or participate any of its rights or obligations under any of the Loan Documents without the prior written consent of the Bank. The Bank may assign or transfer its rights and obligations hereunder to any Person which constitutes a bank (as such term is used in Section 18(f)(1) of the Investment Company Act) in the reasonable judgment of the Bank with the prior consent of the Borrowers, such consent not to be unreasonably withheld, provided that such consent of the Borrowers shall not be required (i) if the assignee thereof is an Affiliate of the assignor or (ii) following the occurrence of an Event of Default. The Bank may also pledge or participate its rights hereunder to any Federal Reserve Bank or to any other Person without the consent of any Borrower or Fund; provided, however, that no such Person taking solely a participation interest in any of the Obligations, without the consent of the Borrowers, shall have any rights with respect to such participation other than the right to vote on changes in interest, fees, line amount, principal payments, maturity or other payment dates, and any advance rates or borrowing limitations described herein.
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8. Setoff. Any amounts owing from the Bank to any Borrower on behalf of any Fund, including deposits (general or special, time or demand, provisional or final), may, at any time following the occurrence and during the continuance of an Event of Default with respect to such Fund, be set off and applied against the obligations of such Borrower, on behalf of such Fund, to the Bank.
9. Expenses. Each of the Borrowers severally (and not jointly) agrees, on behalf of each of its respective Funds, to pay on demand all reasonable expenses of the Bank in connection with the preparation, negotiation, closing and administration of this Agreement and the other Loan Documents and all reasonable expenses of the Bank in connection with the amendment, waiver, default or collection of the Obligations of such Fund to the Bank or in connection with the Banks exercise or enforcement, following an Event of Default with respect to such Fund, of any of its rights, remedies or options thereunder, including, without limitation, reasonable fees of outside legal counsel or the allocated costs of in-house legal counsel, accounting, consulting, brokerage or other similar professional fees or expenses; and the amount of all such expenses shall, to the extent not paid within thirty (30) days after written demand therefore by the Bank, bear interest at the rate applicable to the Loans (including any default rate) until paid in full. The provisions of this Section II.9) shall survive the repayment of the Obligations and the termination of the Committed Line and this Agreement.
10. Indemnification. Each of the Borrowers severally (and not jointly) agrees, on behalf of each of its respective Funds, (a) to indemnify the Bank against any transfer taxes, documentary taxes, assessments or charges made by any governmental authority by reason of the execution and delivery of this Agreement and the Note; and (b) to indemnify and hold harmless the Bank and its directors, officers, employees, agents and Affiliates from and against any and all liabilities, losses, damages, costs, and expenses of any kind, including, without limitation, the reasonable fees and disbursements of counsel, which may be incurred by the Bank in connection with any civil, investigative, administrative or judicial proceeding (whether or not the Bank shall be a designated party thereto) relating to or arising out of this Agreement or any of the other Loan Documents or any actual or proposed use of proceeds of any Loans hereunder, provided that the Bank shall not have the right to be indemnified hereunder for its own gross negligence or willful misconduct as finally determined by a court of competent jurisdiction. To the extent permitted by applicable law, none of the Borrowers shall assert, and each of the Borrowers, on behalf of its respective Funds, hereby waives, any claim against the Bank or its directors, officers, employees, agents or Affiliates, on any theory of liability, for special, indirect, consequential or punitive damages (as opposed to direct or actual damages) arising out of, in connection with, or as a result of, this Agreement, any of the other Loan Documents or any Loan or the use of proceeds thereof. The provisions of this Section II.10) shall survive the repayment of the Obligations and the termination of the Committed Line and this Agreement.
11. Waiver of Jury Trial. Except as prohibited by law, neither any of the Borrowers or their respective Funds nor the Bank nor any assignee or successor of any of them, shall seek a jury trial in any lawsuit, proceeding, counterclaim or any other litigation procedure based upon or arising out of any of the Loan Documents. Neither any of the Borrowers or their respective Funds nor the Bank will seek to consolidate any such action in which a jury trial has been waived with any other action in which a jury trial has not been waived. THE PROVISIONS OF THIS
January 28, 2015
Page 19
SECTION HAVE BEEN FULLY DISCUSSED BY THE PARTIES HERETO, AND THE PROVISIONS HEREOF SHALL BE SUBJECT TO NO EXCEPTIONS. NO PARTY HERETO HAS IN ANY WAY AGREED WITH OR REPRESENTED TO ANY OTHER PARTY THAT THE PROVISIONS OF THIS SECTION WILL NOT BE FULLY ENFORCED IN ALL INSTANCES.
12. Jurisdiction. EACH OF THE LOAN DOCUMENTS SHALL BE CONSTRUED IN ACCORDANCE WITH AND GOVERNED BY THE LAWS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK (EXCLUDING THE LAWS APPLICABLE TO CONFLICTS OR CHOICE OF LAW. EACH BORROWER, ON BEHALF OF EACH OF ITS RESPECTIVE FUNDS, AND FUND AGREES THAT ANY SUIT FOR THE ENFORCEMENT OF ANY OF THE LOAN DOCUMENTS MAY BE BROUGHT IN THE COURTS OF THE STATE OF NEW YORK OR ANY FEDERAL COURT SITTING THEREIN AND CONSENTS TO THE NONEXCLUSIVE JURISDICTION OF SUCH COURT AND THE SERVICE OF PROCESS IN ANY SUCH SUIT BEING MADE UPON SUCH BORROWER OR FUND BY MAIL AT THE ADDRESS SPECIFIED ABOVE. EACH BORROWER, ON BEHALF OF EACH OF ITS RESPECTIVE FUNDS, HEREBY WAIVES ANY OBJECTION THAT IT MAY NOW OR HEREAFTER HAVE TO THE VENUE OF ANY SUCH SUIT OR ANY SUCH COURT OR THAT SUCH SUIT IS BROUGHT IN AN INCONVENIENT COURT.
13. Counterparts. This Agreement may be executed in any number of counterparts each of which shall be deemed to be an original document, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. Delivery of an executed counterpart of a signature page of this Agreement by telecopy, PDF or other electronic format shall be effective as delivery of a manually executed counterpart of this Agreement.
14. USA Patriot Act. The Bank hereby notifies each of the Borrowers that pursuant to the requirements of Title III of Patriot Act, it is required to obtain, verify and record information that identifies each Borrower, which information includes the name and address of each Borrower and other information that will allow the Bank to identify the Borrowers in accordance with the Patriot Act.
15. Definitions. Except as otherwise defined herein, all financial terms shall be defined in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles. The following defined terms as used herein shall have the following meanings:
Adjusted Net Assets shall mean, as applied to any Fund at any date of determination, an amount equal to (i) the value of the Total Assets of such Fund at such time, minus (ii) Total Liabilities of such Fund (excluding indebtedness for borrowed money) less (iii) without duplication, the value of any assets the sale of which by such Fund or the Bank is restricted by any contractual, statutory, regulatory or other similar restrictions under applicable law in any relevant jurisdictions. For purposes of calculating the Adjusted Net Assets of any Fund, (x) the amount of any liability included in Total Liabilities shall be equal to the greater of (i) the outstanding amount of such liability and (ii) the fair market value of all assets pledged, hypothecated or otherwise segregated to secure such liability, and (y) the liability in respect of any derivative or other financial contract shall be equal to the net amount, if any, that the relevant
January 28, 2015
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Fund would be obligated to pay to the relevant counterparty thereto if such financial contract and all transactions thereunder terminated at such time in accordance therewith on a complete no-fault basis.
Affected Person means any Borrower or Fund, or any officer, director, trustee, employee, broker or agent of such Borrower or Fund.
Affiliate of a Person shall mean (a) any other Person directly or indirectly owning, controlling, or holding with power to vote, greater than 50% of the outstanding voting securities of such Person, (b) any other Person greater than 50% of whose outstanding voting securities are directly or indirectly owned, controlled, or held with power to vote, by such Person, or (c) any Person directly or indirectly controlling, controlled by, or under common control with, such other Person. For purposes of this defined term, control means the power to exercise a controlling influence over the management or policies of a company, and controlling and controlled shall have correlative meanings.
Agreement shall mean this letter agreement and all appendices, exhibits and schedules attached hereto, as any of the same may be amended, restated, extended, replaced or otherwise modified and in effect from time to time.
Anti-Corruption Law means, with respect to any Person, any Law of any jurisdiction concerning or relating to bribery or corruption that is applicable to such Person.
Anti-Terrorism Law means any Law related to money laundering or financing terrorism including, without limitation (a) the Patriot Act, (b) The Currency and Foreign Transactions Reporting Act (31 U.S.C. §§ 5311-5330 and 12 U.S.C. §§ 1818(s), 1820(b) and 1951-1959) (also known as the Bank Secrecy Act), (c) the Trading With the Enemy Act (50 U.S.C. § 1 et seq.), and (d) Executive Order 13224 (effective September 24, 2001).
Applicable Margin means one percent (1.00%).
Applicable Percentage shall mean, with respect to any Fund, the percentage listed opposite such Fund on Appendix I attached hereto.
Applicable Rate means, for any day, a rate per annum equal to the sum of (a) 0.10%, plus (b) the higher of (i) the Federal Funds Effective Rate for such day, and (ii) the Overnight Bank Funding Rate for such day.
Authority means any governmental or quasi-governmental authority (including the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority, stock exchanges, the SEC and any accounting board or authority (whether or not a part of government) which is responsible for the establishment or interpretation of national or international accounting principles, in each case whether foreign or domestic), whether executive, legislative, judicial, administrative or other, or any combination thereof, including, without limitation, any Federal, state, territorial, county, municipal or other government or governmental or quasi-governmental agency, arbitrator, board, body, branch, bureau, commission, corporation, court, department, instrumentality, master, mediator, panel, referee, system or other political unit or subdivision or other entity of any of the foregoing, whether domestic or foreign.
January 28, 2015
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Bank shall have the meaning given to such term in the preamble hereto.
Borrower shall mean each of the investment companies registered under the Investment Company Act and listed from time to time on Appendix I attached hereto. For purposes of clarity, each Borrower from time to time party hereto is entering into this Agreement separately on behalf of each of its respective Funds on a several, not joint and several, basis subject to terms of Section I.5(c) hereof.
Business Day shall mean any day excluding Saturday and Sunday and excluding any other day which shall be in Boston, Massachusetts, a legal holiday or a day on which banking institutions are required or authorized by law to close.
Committed Line shall have the meaning given to such term in the preamble hereto.
Committed Line Amount shall mean $200,000,000.
Custodian shall mean State Street Bank and Trust Company, in its capacity as custodian of the assets of each Fund.
Default shall mean any event which, with the giving of notice or the lapse of time or both, would constitute an Event of Default.
ERISA shall have the meaning given to such term in Section II.2(i) hereof.
Event of Default shall have the meaning given to such term in Section II.3) hereof.
Executive Order shall have the meaning given to such term in Section II.2(m) hereof.
Existing Loan Agreement shall have the meaning given to such term in the preamble hereto.
Existing Note shall have the meaning given to such term in the preamble hereto.
Expiration Date shall have the meaning given to such term in Section I.1) hereof.
Fed Funds Business Day shall mean any day upon which overnight federal funds transactions are conducted.
Federal Funds Effective Rate shall mean, for any day, the rate per annum calculated by the FRBNY, based on such days overnight federal funds transactions (as determined in such manner as the FRBNY shall set forth on its public website from time to time), as the federal funds effective rate (which rate is, in general, published by the FRBNY on
January 28, 2015
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the FRBNY Business Day immediately succeeding such day), provided that if such day is not a Fed Funds Business Day, then the Federal Funds Effective Rate shall be such rate as in effect on the Fed Funds Business Day immediately preceding such day, provided further that if the Federal Funds Effective Rate as so determined for any day would be less than zero, such rate for such day shall be deemed to be zero for all purposes of this Agreement.
Financial Contracts means option contracts, options on futures contracts, futures contracts, forward contracts, options on foreign currencies, foreign currency contracts, repurchase agreements, reverse repurchase agreements, mortgage rolls, credit-linked notes, indexed securities, collateralized debt obligations, firm and standby commitment agreements, securities lending agreements, when-issued contracts and securities, swap, swaption, floor, cap, or collar agreements, other similar arrangements and other obligations that would be, but for the segregation of assets thereof, Senior Securities.
FRBNY shall mean the Federal Reserve Bank of New York, or any successor thereto that publishes the Federal Funds Effective Rate.
FRBNY Business Day shall mean each business day that is not included in the FRBNYs holiday schedule.
Fund shall mean each of the respective portfolio series of the Borrowers from time to time listed on Appendix I hereto, severally and not jointly, and if at any time any Borrower party hereto shall not have any portfolio series and shall be a party hereto and borrowing hereunder for itself and not on behalf of any such portfolio series, the term Fund shall also mean and refer to such Borrower in such capacity.
Indebtedness shall mean, as applied to any Borrower or Fund, (a) all obligations for borrowed money or extensions of credit; (b) all obligations evidenced by bonds, debentures, notes or other similar instruments; (c) all obligations to pay the deferred purchase price of property or services, except trade accounts payable arising in the ordinary course of business; (d) all obligations under any lease which are or should be capitalized in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles; (e) all guarantees, endorsements and other contingent obligations, whether direct or indirect, in respect of Indebtedness of others, including any obligation to supply funds to or in any manner to invest in, directly or indirectly, the debtor (whether by way of loan, stock purchase, capital contribution or otherwise), to purchase Indebtedness, or to assure the owner of Indebtedness against loss, through an agreement to purchase goods, supplies or services for the purpose of enabling the debtor to make payment of the Indebtedness held by such owner or otherwise, and the obligations to reimburse the issuer in respect of any letters of credit or performance or surety bonds, or other similar obligations; (f) all obligations in respect of judgments; (g) all obligations in respect of bankers acceptances and under reverse repurchase agreements; (h) all obligations in respect of swaps, futures contracts, options, options on futures contracts and other similar portfolio investments and investment techniques, including all liabilities secured by any mortgage, pledge, security interest, lien, charge or other encumbrance existing on property owned or acquired subject thereto, or with respect to which assets have been segregated, whether or not the liability secured thereby shall have been assumed, including without limitation, any cash or securities held or otherwise pledged as collateral in connection with any such portfolio investments or investment techniques, and (i) all obligations that are Senior Securities Representing Indebtedness of such Person.
January 28, 2015
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Internal Revenue Code shall mean the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, together with all related rules and regulations promulgated thereunder.
Investment Adviser shall mean BAMCO, Inc., a New York corporation.
Investment Company Act shall mean the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, together with all related rules, guidance, no-action relief and regulations promulgated by the United States Securities and Exchange Commission or its staff relating thereto.
Loan shall have the meaning given to such term in Section I.2 hereof.
Loan Documents shall mean this Agreement, the Note, if any, and any other documents executed in connection herewith, as any of the same may be amended, restated, extended, renewed, replaced or otherwise modified and in effect from time to time.
Material Adverse Effect shall mean a material adverse effect on (a) the business condition, financial or otherwise operations, performance or properties of a Borrower or Fund,
(b) the rights or remedies of the Bank under the Loan Documents, or (c) the ability of a Borrower or Fund to perform its obligations under the Loan Documents.
Material Indebtedness shall mean any Indebtedness of a Borrower, acting on behalf of any of its Funds (other than Indebtedness under the Loan Documents), in an aggregate principal amount equal to five percent (5%) or more of the Net Assets of such Fund.
Maximum Amount shall mean, at any time with respect to any Fund, the lesser of (a) the Applicable Percentage of the Adjusted Net Assets of such Fund at such time, and (b) the maximum amount which such Fund is permitted to borrow (after taking into account all then outstanding Indebtedness) pursuant to its Prospectus, the Investment Company Act or any registration made thereunder, any vote of the shareholders of the applicable Borrower or such Fund, any agreement of the applicable Borrower or such Fund with any foreign, federal, state or local securities division to which such Borrower or such Fund is subject, any other applicable agreement or document to which such Borrower or such Fund is a party or any law, rule or regulation applicable to such Borrower or such Fund.
Net Assets shall mean, with respect to any Fund at any time, the value of the Total Assets of such Fund at such time less the Total Liabilities of such Fund at such time.
Note shall have the meaning given to such term in Section I.3) hereof.
Obligations shall mean, with respect to any Borrower, any and all obligations of such Borrower, on behalf of itself or its applicable Funds, to the Bank of every kind and description, direct or indirect, absolute or contingent, primary or secondary, due or to become due, now existing or hereafter arising, regardless of how they arise or by what agreement or instrument, if any, and including obligations to perform acts or refrain from taking action as well as obligations to pay money.
January 28, 2015
Page 24
Overnight Bank Funding Rate shall mean, for any day, the rate per annum calculated by the FRBNY, based on such days overnight federal funds transactions, eurodollar transactions, and certain reported domestic deposits (as determined in such manner as the FRBNY shall set forth on its public website from time to time), as the overnight bank funding rate (which rate is, in general, published by the FRBNY on the FRBNY Business Day immediately succeeding such day), provided that if such day is not a Fed Funds Business Day, then the Overnight Bank Funding Rate shall be such rate as in effect on the Fed Funds Business Day immediately preceding such day, provided further that if the Overnight Bank Funding Rate as so determined for any day would be less than zero, such rate for such day shall be deemed to be zero for all purposes of this Agreement.
Permitted Merger(s) shall mean (a) the merger or reorganization of one or more Funds with and into any other Fund, or (b) the merger or reorganization of any fund series of any Borrower which is not a Fund hereunder with and into any Fund so long as the Fund is the survivor of such merger or reorganization; provided that, in the case of any such merger or reorganization pursuant to the foregoing clauses (a) or (b), (i) the relevant Borrower shall have provided written notice in reasonable detail to the Bank of its intention to effect such merger or reorganization, together with a revised Appendix I hereto reflecting such merger, at least ten (10) Business Days prior to the effectiveness of such merger or reorganization, and (ii) no Default or Event of Default shall exist or result from such merger or reorganization (including, without limitation, any failure to satisfy the borrowing limitations contained in Section I.2) as a result thereof).
Person means an individual, a corporation, a partnership, a limited liability company, an association, a trust (or series thereof) or any other entity or organization, including a government or political subdivision or an agency or instrumentality thereof.
Prospectus shall mean at any time the then current prospectus and statement of additional information of any Borrower or Fund.
Regulation U shall mean Regulation U of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System of the United States, as amended and in effect from time to time.
Regulation X shall mean Regulation X of the Board of Governors of the Federal Reserve System of the United States, as amended and in effect from time to time.
Sanction means, with respect to any Person, a sanction administered or enforced by any Sanctions Authority.
Sanctioned Jurisdiction means, at any time, a country or territory which is the subject or target of any Sanction.
Sanctioned Person means, at any time, any Person that is subject to or the target of any Sanction.
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Sanctions Authority means, with respect to any Person, (a) any Authority with jurisdiction over such Person or any property thereof, that may impose sanctions on such Person or any property thereof, (b) the US Department of the Treasurys Office of Foreign Assets Control, (c) the US Department of State, (d) the United Nations Security Council, (e) the European Union, and (f) Her Majestys Treasury of the United Kingdom.
Senior Securities Representing Indebtedness has the meaning set forth in the first sentence of Section 18(g) of the Investment Company Act.
Subsidiary of a Borrower means any corporation or other entity of which securities or other ownership interests having ordinary voting power to elect a majority of the board of directors or other persons performing similar functions are at the time directly or indirectly owned by such Borrower.
Total Assets shall mean, with respect to any Fund at any time, all assets of such Fund which in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles would be classified as assets on a balance sheet of such Fund at such time; provided, however, that Total Assets shall not include (a) equipment, (b) securities owned by such Fund which are in default (except to the extent that such Fund is required or permitted to attribute a value thereto pursuant to the Investment Company Act and its Prospectus) or determined to be worthless pursuant to any policy of such Funds board of trustees, and (c) deferred organizational and offering expenses. For purposes of this definition, the value of any Funds assets shall be determined based upon the current market value thereof with reference to daily prices provided by independent pricing sources and otherwise in accordance with the Investment Company Act.
Total Liabilities shall mean, with respect to any Fund at any time, the aggregate amount of all items which would be set forth as liabilities on a balance sheet of such Fund at such time in accordance with generally accepted accounting principles.
16. Amended and Restated Agreement. This Agreement amends, restates, supercedes and replaces in its entirety the Existing Loan Agreement. As a condition to the effectiveness hereof, the Existing Borrower, on behalf of its relevant fund series, shall have paid to the Bank the aggregate principal amount of all loans, and all accrued and unpaid interest, if any, outstanding under the Existing Loan Agreement through the date hereof.
[Remainder of Page Intentionally Left Blank]
Signature Page
If the foregoing satisfactorily sets forth the terms and conditions of the Committed Line, please execute and return to the undersigned each of the Loan Documents and such other documents and agreements as the Bank may request. We are pleased to provide the Committed Line hereunder and look forward to the ongoing development of our relationship.
Sincerely, | ||
STATE STREET BANK AND TRUST COMPANY, as Bank | ||
By: |
| |
Name: | ||
Title: |
Acknowledged and Accepted: | ||
EACH OF THE BORROWERS LISTED ON APPENDIX I HERETO, for itself or on behalf of each of its respective portfolio series listed on Appendix I hereto severally and not jointly | ||
By: | ||
Name: | ||
Title: | ||
Acknowledged: | ||
STATE STREET BANK AND TRUST COMPANY, as Custodian | ||
By: | ||
Name: | ||
Title: |
APPENDIX I
FUNDS AND BORROWING PERCENTAGES
Name |
Borrowing Percentage | |||
Baron Investment Funds Trust, on behalf of each of: |
||||
Baron Asset Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron Growth Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron Small Cap Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron Opportunity Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron Discovery Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron Durable Advantage Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron Select Funds, on behalf of each of: |
||||
Baron Focused Growth Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron International Growth Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron Real Estate Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron Emerging Markets Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron Global Advantage Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron Real Estate Income Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron Health Care Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron WealthBuilder Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron FinTech Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron New Asia Fund |
5.00 | % | ||
Baron Technology Fund |
5.00 | % |
EXHIBIT A
PROMISSORY NOTE
$200,000,000.00 | [Date] |
For value received, each of the undersigned hereby severally (and not jointly) promises to pay to STATE STREET BANK AND TRUST COMPANY (the Bank), or order, at the office of the Bank at One Lincoln Street, Boston Massachusetts 02111 in immediately available United States dollars, the principal amount of TWO HUNDRED MILLION DOLLARS ($200,000,000.00), or such lesser original principal amount as shall be outstanding hereunder and not have been prepaid as provided herein, together with interest thereon as provided below. Each Loan shall be payable upon the earliest to occur of (a) 60 calendar days following the date on which such Loan is made, (b) the Expiration Date, or (c) the date on which such Loan otherwise becomes due and payable under the terms of the Loan Agreement referred to below, whether following the occurrence of an Event of Default or otherwise. Interest on the unpaid principal amount outstanding hereunder shall be payable at the rates and at the times as set forth in the Loan Agreement and shall be computed as set forth in the Loan Agreement. Interest shall be computed on the basis of a 360-day year for the actual number of days elapsed, including holidays or other days on which the Bank is not open for the conduct of banking business.
All Loans hereunder and all payments on account of principal and interest hereof shall be recorded by the Bank. The entries on the records of the Bank (including any appearing on this Note), absent manifest error, shall govern and control as to amounts outstanding hereunder, provided that the failure by the Bank to make any such entry shall not affect the obligation of the undersigned to make payments of principal and interest on all Loans as provided herein and in the Loan Agreement.
Following the occurrence of a Default or an Event of Default with respect to any Fund, unpaid principal on any Loan to such Fund, and to the extent permitted by applicable law, unpaid interest on any Loan to such Fund, shall thereafter bear interest, compounded monthly and be payable on demand, until paid in full (after as well as before judgment) at a rate per annum equal to two percent (2%) above the rate otherwise applicable to such Loan under the Loan Agreement.
This Note is issued pursuant to, and entitled to the benefits of, and is subject to, the provisions of a certain letter agreement dated January 28, 2015 by and among the undersigned and the Bank (herein, as the same may from time to time be amended, restated, supplemented, modified or extended, referred to as the Loan Agreement), but neither this reference to the Loan Agreement nor any provision thereof shall affect or impair the absolute and unconditional obligation of the undersigned makers of this Note to pay the principal of and interest on this Note as herein provided. All terms not otherwise defined herein shall be used as defined in the Loan Agreement.
Any of the undersigned may at its option prepay all or any part of the principal of this Note subject to the terms of the Loan Agreement. Amounts prepaid may be reborrowed subject to the terms of the Loan Agreement.
Each of the undersigned makers and every endorser and guarantor hereof hereby waives presentment, demand, notice, protest and all other demands and notices in connection with the delivery, acceptance, performance, default or enforcement hereof and consents that this Note may be extended from time to time and that no such extension or other indulgence, and no substitution, release or surrender of collateral and no discharge or release of any other party primarily or secondarily liable hereon, shall discharge or otherwise affect the liability of any of the undersigned or any such endorser or guarantor. No delay or omission on the part of the Bank in exercising any right hereunder shall operate as a waiver of such right or of any other right hereunder, and a waiver of any such right on any one occasion shall not be construed as a bar to or waiver of any such right on any future occasion.
This instrument shall have the effect of an instrument executed under seal and shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of The State of New York (without giving effect to any conflicts of laws provisions contained therein).
EACH OF THE BORROWERS LISTED ON APPENDIX I HERETO, for itself or on behalf of each of its respective portfolio series listed on Appendix I hereto severally and not jointly | ||
By: | ||
Name: | ||
Title: |
SCHEDULE I TO NOTE DATED [DATE]
Date of |
Name of Fund |
Amount of |
Amount of |
Outstanding |
Notation |
APPENDIX I
FUNDS AND BORROWING PERCENTAGES
[To be completed at time of issuance]
EXHIBIT B
ADVANCE/PAYDOWN REQUEST FORM
DATE: |
||
TO: | STATE STREET BANK AND TRUST COMPANY | |
ATTN: | LOAN SERVICING UNIT | |
telephone 617-662-8577 or 617-662-8588; fax 617-988-6677; | ||
email ais-loanops-csu@statestreet.com | ||
FROM: | [Name of Baron Trust ] on behalf of [FUND] | |
(Fund # ) (DDA # ) |
In connection with the letter agreement dated January 28, 2015 and related documents currently in effect with State Street Bank and Trust Company (as amended, collectively, the Agreement), please increase/reduce (circle one) the outstanding balance on behalf of the above-indicated Fund by $__________. Any requested Loan should be recorded on the books of the Fund with the Bank and interest payable to the Bank should be recorded at the agreed upon rate.
1. | This request is (check one): |
Loan Advance1 | Paydown | Overnight Rollover |
2. | The proceeds of any requested Loan shall be used only to the extent consistent with and not prohibited by the applicable Prospectus, the terms of the Agreement and applicable laws and regulations, including, without limitation, Regulation U, and no Default or Event of Default with respect to the Fund has occurred under the Agreement. |
3. | All of the representations and warranties of the undersigned Borrower and Fund set forth in Section II.2) of the Agreement are true and correct on and as of the date hereof. |
4. | Each of the Borrower and the Fund is in compliance with all the terms and conditions in the Agreement (including the Maximum Amount and other borrowing limitations thereunder) and will remain in compliance therewith after giving effect to the making of any requested Loan. |
5. | The following amounts and statements are true in connection with any requested Loan: |
(a) | Adjusted Net Assets of the Fund2: |
1 | Loan requests must be in a minimum principal amount of $100,000 or an integral of $100,000 in excess thereof. |
2 | For purposes of calculating the Adjusted Net Assets of any Fund, (x) the amount of any liability included in Total Liabilities shall be equal to the greater of (i) the outstanding amount of such liability and (ii) the fair market value of all assets pledged, hypothecated or otherwise segregated to secure such liability and (y) the liability in respect of any derivative or other financial contract shall be equal to the net amount, if any, that the relevant Fund would be obligated to pay to the relevant counterparty thereto if such financial contract and all transactions thereunder terminated at such time in accordance therewith on a complete no-fault basis. |
(i) Total Assets of the Fund |
$ | |||
(ii) Total Liabilities (excluding debt for Borrowed money) of the Fund |
$ | |||
(iii) without duplication, the value of any assets the sale of which is restricted by any contractual, statutory, regulatory or other similar restrictions under applicable law |
$ | |||
(iv) item (a)(i) less item (a)(ii) less item (a)(iii) |
$ | |||
(b) Applicable Percentage (from Appendix I to Loan Agreement) times (a)(iv) |
$ | |||
(c) (i) Beginning Loan Balance: |
$ | |||
(ii) Paydown Amount (if any): |
$ | |||
(iii) Requested Loan (if any) |
$ | |||
(iv) Requested Loans Balance |
||||
((i) minus (ii) or (i) plus (iii)): |
$ | |||
(d) The aggregate outstanding principal amount of Indebtedness of the Fund other than the Loans as of the date hereof |
$ | |||
(e) Total Indebtedness ((c)(iv) plus (d)): |
$ |
6. | The amount set forth in 5(e) above does not exceed the lesser of (a) the amount set forth in 5(b) above, or (b) the maximum amount which the relevant Fund is permitted to borrow (after taking into account all outstanding Indebtedness) pursuant to its Prospectus, the Investment Company Act or any registration made thereunder, any vote of the shareholders of the applicable Borrower or such Fund, any agreement of such Borrower or Fund with any foreign, federal, state or local securities division to which such Borrower or Fund is subject, any other applicable agreement or document to which such Borrower or Fund is a party or any law, rule or regulation applicable to such Borrower or Fund. |
7. | The amount set forth in 5(c)(iv) above does not exceed the Committed Line Amount ($200,000,000), and the aggregate principal amount of Loans outstanding to all Borrowers on behalf of all Funds under the Agreement (after giving effect to the amount of any requested Loan) does not exceed the Committed Line Amount ($200,000,000). |
8. | The undersigned is a duly authorized officer of the Borrower identified above with authority to execute and deliver this document to the Bank and request the Loan described herein on behalf of the Fund identified above. |
[Name of Baron Trust], on behalf of [FUND] | ||
By: | ||
Name: | ||
Title: | ||
Date: |
EXHIBIT C
INDEBTEDNESS
None.
EXHIBIT D
ENCUMBRANCES
None.
EXHIBIT E
LITIGATION
None.
CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement on Form N-1A of Baron Investment Funds Trust of our report dated November 23, 2021, relating to the financial statements and financial highlights, which appears in Baron Asset Funds, Baron Growth Funds, Baron Small Cap Funds, Baron Opportunity Funds, Baron Fifth Avenue Growth Funds, Baron Discovery Funds, and Baron Durable Advantage Funds Annual Report on Form N-CSR for the year ended September 30, 2021. We also consent to the references to us under the headings Financial Highlights, Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm and Financial Statements in such Registration Statement.
/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
New York, New York
January 28, 2022
BARON INVESTMENT FUNDS TRUST
BARON SELECT FUNDS
BAMCO, INC.
BARON CAPITAL MANAGEMENT, INC.
BARON CAPITAL, INC.
CODE OF ETHICS
Amended and Restated
October 1, 2021
Introduction
This Code of Ethics (the Code) establishes rules of conduct for employees, officers, directors and trustees of Baron Investment Funds Trust and Baron Select Funds, registered investment companies, and their respective series (each, a Baron Fund and collectively, the Baron Funds), Baron Capital Group, Inc. (BCG), and its subsidiaries, Baron Capital, Inc. (BCI), the distributor of the Baron Funds, BAMCO, Inc. (BAMCO), a registered investment adviser that provides investment advisory services to the Baron Funds and sub-advisory services to unaffiliated registered investment companies, foreign investment companies and other pooled investment vehicles, and Baron Capital Management, Inc. (BCM), a registered investment adviser that provides investment advisory services to separately managed accounts, including wrap accounts, offshore funds and a private partnership (BAMCO and BCM, each, an Adviser and collectively, the Advisers and BCG, BCI, BAMCO and BCM, collectively, Baron or the Firm). In addition, certain provisions of the Code also apply to Immediate Family Member(s) living in the same household. The restrictions on personal investment transactions may also be applied to temporary personnel (i.e., interns, contractors, or consultants), whose tenure exceeds 90 days and/or who are deemed to have access to nonpublic systems. Capitalized terms not previously defined in the Code may be found in the Glossary of Terms at the end of this document
Statement of General Fiduciary Principles
The following general fiduciary principles will govern Personal Securities Transactions and the interpretation and administration of this Code:
| The interests of Clients must be placed first at all times; |
| All Personal Securities Transactions must be conducted consistent with this Code and in such a manner as to avoid any actual or potential conflicts of interest or any abuse of an individuals position of trust and responsibility; and |
| Persons subject to the Code should not take inappropriate advantage of their positions. |
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This Code does not attempt to identify all possible conflicts of interest, and literal compliance with each of its specific provisions will not shield persons subject to the Code from liability for Personal Securities Transactions or other conduct that violates a fiduciary duty to Clients.
The Code reinforces the Baron Principles:
| We are committed to complying with both the letter and spirit of the laws, regulations, and ethical standards that govern our industry; |
| Our actions must never be dictated by self-interest or perceived as such; |
| If we treat our Clients ethically and with respect, and provide them with high quality services, we will be successful; |
| We insist on honesty, integrity, and fair dealing; |
| We maintain high ethical standards in dealing with our Clients, the companies in which we invest on their behalf, our community, our regulators, our competitors, and our co-workers; and |
| Professionalism is critical to our business. |
We are proud of our reputation for hard work, the quality of the individuals who work at our Firm, and the quality of the investment research they produce, and the asset management services they provide. Our most important assets are our employees and our reputation. Although our business would be adversely affected if we lost either, our reputation would be more difficult to regain. The provisions of the Code are designed to help us safeguard our reputation.
Baron is committed to fostering a culture of compliance and therefore requires employees to contact the Chief Compliance Officer (CCO), General Counsel, or President (the Designated Persons) about any actual or suspected compliance matters. The CCO will receive reports on all violations of the Code reported to a Designated Person. Employees have the option of reporting compliance matters on a confidential basis by utilizing the Confidential Compliance Reporting email address, ComplianceReporting@Baronfunds.com. Retaliation against any employee for reporting compliance related issues is prohibited and cause for disciplinary action up to and including termination of employment.
If you have questions about any aspect of the Code, or if you have questions regarding application of the Code to a particular situation, contact one of the Designated Persons.
Prohibited Transactions and Other Restrictions on Personal Trading
Restrictions
Securities Issued by a Publicly Traded Company
| No Access Person may purchase Securities Issued by a Publicly Traded Company, including securities issued in an Initial Public Offering, options, warrants, and derivatives. |
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| An Access Person may sell Securities Issued by a Publicly Traded Company (i.e., those that were purchased prior to joining the Firm or prior to the institution of the Code) subject to the Pre-Clearance and Holding Period provisions below, provided that the Access Person first confirms, by consulting the appropriate Portfolio Managers, that such securities are not Covered Securities being considered for Purchase or Sale and indicates that such confirmation has been obtained in the Comments field in StarCompliance (STAR), the Firms automated system for administration of the Code. |
| No Access Person may sell Securities Issued by a Publicly Traded Company short. |
| No Research Analyst may recommend the purchase or sale of a Covered Security, to a Portfolio Manager without first disclosing his or her interest, if any, in the Covered Security to the Designated Persons. The disclosure should include the Research Analysts Beneficial Ownership, the potential impact that the recommended purchase or sale of a Covered Security may have on that Beneficial Ownership, and any other information that would be relevant in assessing whether such recommendation creates a conflict of interest. |
| These restrictions do not apply to Independent Trustees or Independent Directors, except as set forth below. |
Blackout Periods
A pre-clearance request will be denied if there has been a transaction by a Client of Baron within (15) calendar days. If a Client purchases a Covered Security within seven (7) calendar days after an Access Person purchases that security, or if a Client sells a Covered Security within seven (7) calendar days after an Access Person sells that security, the Client must receive the better price.
The Compliance Department will monitor trading activity for seven (7) calendar days following the pre-clearance approval date for conflicts of interests.
The total amount of the difference between the Access Persons price and the Clients price is calculated by multiplying the difference in price by the number of shares purchased or sold by the Access Person, not to exceed the number of shares purchased or sold by the Client. If the discrepancy is less than $250, the Designated Persons will decide how to resolve the situation.
Short Term Trading
The minimum holding period for Covered Securities is six (6) months. The holding period does not apply to Covered Securities owned by employees before they joined the Firm.
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The holding period described above does not apply to transactions to close a legitimate hedge, provided that the underlying security being hedged has been held for the required holding period.
Prohibition on Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) and Short Sales
Access Persons may not participate in IPOs or effect short sales.
Private Placements
An Access Person may purchase securities in a private placement transaction (Private Placements) only if approval of the CCO has been obtained. This approval will be based upon a determination that the investment opportunity need not be reserved for clients, that the Access Person is not being offered the investment opportunity due to his or her employment with Baron, and other relevant factors on a case-by-case basis.
Investment personnel who have been approved to acquire securities in a private placement are required to disclose that investment when they are involved in any Baron Funds subsequent consideration of an investment or divestment in the issuer. In such circumstances, the investment companys decision to purchase or sell securities of the issuer are subject to an independent review by investment personnel with no personal interest in the matter and at least one of the Designated Persons.
Because there is often no broker-dealer involved in a private placement, the employee must provide other evidence of the purchase or sale that is satisfactory to the CCO. The documentation must explain the circumstances surrounding the transaction, including the title of each security involved, the quantity of each security purchased or sold, the date of the transaction, and the price at which the transaction was executed.
Capital calls made pursuant to private investments that have already been approved do not require further pre-clearance.
Insider Trading
All Access Persons should pay particular attention to potential violations of insider trading laws. Insider trading is both unethical and illegal and would be cause for termination were it to occur. Employees are expected to familiarize themselves with the Insider Trading Policy adopted by Baron.
Exceptions to Code Restrictions
The Designated Persons may grant exemptions from the restrictions in this Code. The decision will be based on a determination that the transaction for which an exemption is requested would not result in a conflict with or violate any other policy embodied in this Code. Exceptions will likely be granted in the following cases:
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1. | The transaction would be very unlikely to affect a highly liquid market (de minimis exemption); |
2. | The transaction is clearly not related economically to Covered Securities being considered for Purchase or Sale or Covered Securities Held or to be Acquired; |
3. | Special circumstances exist and granting an exception would not be inconsistent with the provisions of the Code. |
Any exemption will be evidenced in writing and will be reported to the Board of Trustees of the Baron Funds and/or the Board of Directors of BCG, as necessary.
Outside Business Activities
From time to time, Baron employees are asked to serve as directors, advisory directors, trustees or officers of various corporations, charitable organizations and foundations (collectively, Outside Organizations). Other involvement with Outside Organizations may include part-time jobs, charitable work or voluntary commitments. Some of these outside activities may involve participation in, or knowledge of, proposed financial investments by the Outside Organization.
While there is no absolute prohibition on an employee participating in such activities with an Outside Organization, the proposed participation must comply with all applicable policies and procedures.
However, there may be circumstances in which it would not be in Barons best interests to allow an employee to participate in activities with an Outside Organization, even if the employees participation would not violate Barons policies and procedures. The initial consideration must be whether the activity will absorb so much of the employees time that it will affect his or her performance at Baron.
The most important consideration, however, is whether the outside activity will subject Baron and the employee to potential conflicts of interest. Barons business requires strict adherence to the highest ethical standards and the avoidance of an appearance of impropriety, conflicts of interest or the appearance of a conflict must be managed. It is impossible to anticipate every conflict of interest that may arise, but activities with Outside Organizations should be limited to those that either do not present or have the least potential of presenting conflicts of interest.
No Baron employee may be employed by, or accept compensation from, any other person as a result of any business activity, other than a passive investment, outside the scope of his or her relationship with the Firm, without the prior written approval from the Designated Persons.
Serving on Boards of Public Companies
No Access Person may serve on the board of directors of a Publicly Traded Company. This restriction does not apply to Independent Trustees or Independent Directors.
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Policies on Personal Securities Transactions
Pre-Clearance Policy and Procedures
All Access Persons (other than Independent Trustees and Independent Directors who are not employees of the Firm) must pre-clear their Personal Securities Transactions in Covered Securities prior to execution, except as specifically exempted in subsequent sections of the Code.
Transactions in Covered Securities in which Access Persons have Beneficial Ownership must be pre-cleared and reported. This includes transactions in the following:
| Stocks; |
| Preferred Stocks; |
| Convertible Securities; |
| ADRs and GDRs; |
| Fixed Income Securities; |
| Private Placements; |
| Exchange Traded Funds; |
| Exchange Traded Notes; |
| Closed- End Funds; |
| Shares issued by Unit Investment Trusts; |
| Derivatives (including options, futures, forwards, etc.); and |
| Limited partnerships and limited liability company interests. |
Spouses and dependent children living in the Access Persons household who make their own investment decisions are exempt from restrictions prohibiting purchases and sales of Securities Issued by Publicly Traded Companies, the pre-clearance requirements, the 6-month holding period, and the blackout periods. Compliance will review transactions in Covered Securities being considered for Purchase or Sale and Covered Securities Held or to be Acquired for activity that raises a question of impropriety.
All Personal Securities Transaction reporting and requests for pre-clearance must be processed through StarCompliance at: https://baronfunds.starcompliance.com/Auth/Login . The CCO or another Designated Person will evaluate and review each pre-clearance request and notification will be provided to employees through StarCompliance.
If an Access Persons proposed transaction is not approved on the day it is submitted, it may not be executed. If it is not executed on the day approval is given, the approval lapses. Approvals are only valid for the day they are given. In both cases, the proposed transaction would need to be re-entered in StarCompliance for pre-clearance.
Reporting, but not pre-clearance, is required for non-volitional investment activity in the following:
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| Transactions that result from corporate actions applicable to all similar security holders, such as splits, tender offers, mergers, stock dividends, etc.; or |
| Purchases which are part of an automatic dividend reinvestment plan; or |
| Purchases effected upon the exercise of rights issued by an issuer pro rata to all holders of a class of its securities, to the extent such rights were acquired from such issuer, and sales of such rights; and |
| Gifts of shares in Covered Securities over which the Access Person has no control. |
Reporting and Certification Requirements
All Access Persons Personal Securities Transactions and holdings reports will be reviewed by Compliance. The records and reports created or maintained pursuant to the Code are intended solely for internal use and are confidential unless required to be disclosed to a regulatory or governmental agency.
Initial Holdings Report
Within ten (10) calendar days of the start of employment, each Access Person must list all Baron Funds, Covered Accounts, and Covered Securities held at the time of hiring in which they have beneficial ownership. You are deemed to have beneficial ownership of securities held by members of your immediately family sharing the same household (e.g., your spouse and dependent children) or by certain partnerships, trusts, corporations, or other arrangements. Statement(s) must be current as of a date not more than 45 days prior to the Access Persons employment start date. Within ten (10) calendar days of the start of employment, each Access Person must request that all broker-dealers or banks with which he or she has managed and/or brokerage accounts send duplicate confirmations and statements of their transactions in Covered Securities to the Compliance Department. If the Access Person requests, the Compliance Department will send a standard letter to the broker-dealer or bank in question, making a request on the Access Persons behalf.
It remains the Access Persons responsibility, however, to ensure that the duplicate statements and confirmations are provided.
Access Persons who fail to submit the report within ten (10) calendar days of their employment start date will be prohibited from engaging in any Personal Securities Transactions until such report is submitted and may be subject to other sanctions.
New Accounts
All Access Persons must receive written permission from the Compliance Department prior to opening any new managed accounts, brokerage accounts, or any other types of accounts that may hold Covered Securities in which they have beneficial ownership. You are deemed to have beneficial ownership of securities held by members of your immediately family sharing the same household (e.g., your spouse and dependent children) or by certain partnerships, trusts, corporations, or other arrangements. Unless the account has been reported, the Access Person is prohibited from engaging in Personal Securities Transactions in the account.
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Managed Accounts
Personal Securities Transactions in Managed Accounts are excluded from the restrictions on purchasing Securities Issued by a Publicly Traded Company, as well pre-clearance, holding period, restricted period and quarterly transaction reporting. Each Managed Account (not the holdings) must be included in the Annual Holdings Report. On a quarterly basis, employees will need to certify that they do not have any trading discretion in any Managed Account, will not attempt to exercise any trading discretion in the future, and will not discuss any information or recommendation regarding any Covered Security with the person or persons trading discretion over the account or provide an explanation for why they cannot make such a certification. Employees also must inform the Compliance Department of any changes to their Managed Accounts (e.g., a change to the trading discretion over the account).
Quarterly Transaction Reports
Within twenty (20) days of the end of each calendar quarter, each Access Person must submit a quarterly transaction report indicating all Personal Securities Transactions in Covered Securities made during the previous quarter.
Annual Holdings Report
On an annual basis within 30 days after December 31st of each year and/or at any other time as requested by the Firm, all Access Persons will report through StarCompliance all holdings of Covered Securities and Baron Funds which such Access Person has direct or indirect Beneficial Ownership. You are deemed to have beneficial ownership of securities held by members of your immediately family sharing the same household (e.g., your spouse and dependent children) or by certain partnerships, trusts, corporations or other arrangements.
Certification Requirements
Access Persons are required to complete a Code certification upon commencement of their employment with Baron, and annually thereafter, to acknowledge and certify that they have received, reviewed, understand and will comply with the Code. In addition, all material amendments to, or any new interpretations of, the Code will be conveyed to Access Persons and require their acknowledgement of receipt and understanding. In addition, all Access Persons complete an annual compliance questionnaire, designed to identify potential conflicts of interest.
Gifts
During each calendar year, all Access Persons will report all gifts and entertainment through StarCompliance. No Access Person may accept any gift or other item of more than $100 in value from any person or entity that does business with the Firm without pre-approval of the CCO. Meals and
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entertainment that are attended by both the Access Person and a representative of the company providing the meal or entertainment are not subject to the $100 limit, however, meals and entertainment may neither be so frequent nor so extensive as to raise a question of impropriety. This restriction does not apply to Independent Trustees or Independent Directors. The Firms Policy Regarding Receipt of Goods and Services provides more details.
Sanctions
Depending on the severity of the infraction, Access Persons may be subject to certain sanctions for violating the Code. Sanctions may include, verbal or written warnings, letters of reprimand, suspension of personal trading activity, disgorgement and forfeiture of profits, and/or suspension or termination of employment. Material violations will be escalated to the General Counsel and subsequently reported to the Board of Trustees of the Baron Funds and or the Board of Directors of BCG, as necessary.
Communications with Independent Trustees and Independent Directors
As a regular business practice, we attempt to keep Independent Trustees and Independent Directors informed with respect to the Firms investment activities through reports and other information provided to them in connection with board meetings and other events.
Independent Trustees and Independent Directors do not have ongoing day to day involvement with the Baron Funds or their Adviser. Accordingly, Independent Trustees and Independent Directors are exempt from the Restrictions set forth in the Code, unless the Independent Trustee or Independent Director executed a Personal Securities Transaction involving a security about which he or she received non-public information in the course of fulfilling his or her official duties on the Fund or Firm Board indicating that such security was a Covered Security being considered for Purchase or Sale or a Covered Security Held or to be Acquired within a 15 day period of the transaction.
As a general matter, the Adviser does not provide the Independent Trustees or Independent Directors non-public information about Covered Securities being considered for Purchase or Sale or Covered Securities Held or to be acquired within 15 days of such transaction. However, in order to assist the Independent Trustees and Independent Directors in meeting their obligations pursuant to the Code, the Adviser will notify them whenever such non-public information is discussed at a meeting or in materials provided for a meeting.
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GLOSSARY OF TERMS
Access Person means any Firm employee. This includes all full-time and part-time employees, consultants and contract or temporary employees (including interns) if the duration of their employment with the firm is anticipated to be greater than 90 days. It does not include custodial staff. It also includes any Independent Trustees of the Baron Funds and any Independent Directors of the Firm Board.
Adviser and Advisers have the meanings given to them in the Introduction.
BAMCO has the meaning given to it in the Introduction.
Baron has the meaning given to it in the Introduction.
Baron Fund and Baron Funds have the meanings given to them in the Introduction.
BCI has the meaning given to it in the Introduction.
BCG has the meaning given to it in the Introduction.
BCM has the meaning given to it in the Introduction.
Beneficial Ownership means the Access Person has or shares a direct or indirect pecuniary interest in the securities held in the account. Employees have a pecuniary interest in securities if they have the ability to directly or indirectly profit from a securities transaction. You are deemed to have beneficial ownership of securities held by members of your immediately family sharing the same household (e.g., your spouse and dependent children) or by certain partnerships, trusts, corporations or other arrangements
Board of Directors means the Firms Board of Directors.
Board of Trustees means the Baron Funds Board of Trustees.
Client means any client of the Advisers, to include the Baron Funds.
Chief Compliance Officer means the Firms Chief Compliance Officer. Code has the meaning given to it in the Introduction.
Compliance Department means the Firms Compliance Department.
StarCompliance (STAR) means the Firms automated system for administration of the Code.
Confidential Compliance Reporting means an email address, ComplianceReporting@Baronfunds.com.
Covered Account means an account that holds Covered Securities in which Access Person has a beneficial ownership.
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Covered Security means any note, stock, treasury stock, security future, bond, debenture, exchange traded fund, evidence of indebtedness, certificate of interest or participation in any profit sharing agreement, collateral trust certificate, reorganization certificate or subscription, transferable share, investment contract, voting trust certificate, certificate of deposit for a security, fractional undivided interest in oil, gas, or other mineral rights, any put, call, straddle, option, or privilege on any security (including a certificate of deposit) or on any group or index of securities (including any interest therein or based on the value thereof or exchange traded fund), or any put, call, straddle, option, or privilege entered into on a national securities exchange relating to foreign currency, or, in general, any interest or instrument commonly known as a security, or any certificate of interest or participation in, temporary or interim certificate for, receipt for, guarantee of, warrant or right to subscribe to or purchase, any of the foregoing. Covered Security does not include: (i) Direct obligations of the Government of the United States; (ii) bankers acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper and high-quality short-term debt instruments, including repurchase agreements; and (iii) shares issued by open-end mutual funds.
Covered Security being considered for Purchase or Sale means a Covered Security that has been recommended for purchase or sale to a Portfolio Manager, and, with respect to the person making the recommendation, when such person decides to make the recommendation, notwithstanding whether such recommendation has been made to the Portfolio Manager.
Covered Security Held or to be Acquired means any Covered Security that, within the most recent 15 days, is or has been held by a Client and is or has been considered for purchase by a Client.
Designated Person means any of the Chief Compliance Officer, President and General Counsel.
Firm has the meaning given to it in the Introduction.
Firm Board means the Firms Board of Directors.
General Counsel means the Firms General Counsel.
Immediate Family Member of an Employee means any of the following person(s) sharing the same household with the employee: spouse, civil union or domestic partner, child, stepchild, grandchild, parent, stepparent, grandparent, sibling, mother-in-law, father-in-law, son-in-law, daughter-in-law, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, adoptive relationships and legal guardianships; someone who holds account(s) in which the employee is a joint owner, has trading authority, or Beneficial Ownership; and/or someone for whom the employee materially contributes to the maintenance of the household and the financial support of such person.
Independent Director means a director of the Firm who is not an employee of BCI, BAMCO or BCM.
Independent Trustee means a trustee of the Baron Funds who is not an interested person of the Baron Funds within the meaning of Section 2(a)(19) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the Investment Company Act).
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Initial Public Offering means an offering of securities registered under the Securities Act of 1933 (the Securities Act), the issuer of which, immediately before the registration, was not subject to the reporting requirements of Sections 13 or 15(d) of the Exchange Act.
Insider Trading Policy means the Firms Policy on Insider Trading.
Managed Account means an account over which the Beneficial Owner has no discretion or direct control over the trading activity in the account.
Personal Securities Transactions mean (i) transactions in securities for your own account, including IRAs, and (ii) transactions in securities for an account in which you have Beneficial Ownership, unless it is a Managed Account.
Portfolio Manager means the person (or one of the persons) primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of a Baron Funds portfolio, or a Managed Baron Funds portfolio.
President means the Firms President.
Publicly Traded Company means a company that has issued securities through an initial public offering (IPO) and is traded on at least one stock exchange or the over-the-counter market.
Research Analyst means the person (or one of the persons) primarily responsible for recommending the Purchase or Sale of a Covered Security to a Portfolio Manager.
Securities Issued by a Publicly Traded Company means securities that a company offers to the general public, typically through a stock exchange or through a market maker in the over-the-counter market.
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