N-CSR 1 fp0036817_ncsr.htm

As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on November 7, 2018

 

UNITED STATES
SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION
Washington, D.C. 20549

 

FORM N-CSR

 

CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED
MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES

 

811-05518

Investment Company Act file number

 

The RBB FUND, INC.
(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)

 

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)

 

Salvatore Faia, President

c/o U.S. Bank Global Fund Services

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
(Name and address of agent for service)

 

(414) 765-5366

Registrant's telephone number, including area code

 

Date of fiscal year end: August 31

 

Date of reporting period: August 31, 2018

 

 

 

Item 1. Reports to Stockholders.

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

of

 

THE RBB FUND, INC.

 

Annual Report

 

August 31, 2018 

 

This report is submitted for the general information of the shareholders of the Fund. It is not authorized for distribution unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus for the Fund.

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

The Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund (the “Fund”) Class I returned +1.34% net of fees for the 12-month fiscal year ended August 31, 2018. The positive performance was driven by trends in equities, energy and interest rates over the period, with some partially offsetting losses from trading in bonds, base metals and major currencies. The Fund’s non-trendfollowing allocation drove gains over the period, supported by the core allocation to trendfollowing systems. The Fund allocates to its underlying trading advisers through its investment in Abbey Capital Offshore Fund Limited (the “ACOF”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Fund. The Fund invests up to 25% of its assets into the ACOF and its remaining assets in a fixed income strategy consisting primarily of U.S. Treasury obligations.

 

Effective on or about October 1, 2018, the Fund may invest up to 25% of its assets in the newly created Abbey Capital Master Offshore Fund Limited, a wholly owned and controlled subsidiary of the Fund organized under the laws of the Cayman Islands (the “Cayman Subsidiary”). Additionally, the ACOF became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Cayman Subsidiary through a share exchange between the Fund and the Cayman Subsidiary and registered as a segregated portfolio company under the laws of the Cayman Islands under the name Abbey Capital Offshore Fund SPC (the “SPC”). The Cayman Subsidiary serves solely as an intermediate entity through which the Fund invests in the SPC and makes no independent investment decisions and has no investment or other discretion over the Fund’s investable assets.

 

The Fund may also invest a portion of its assets in segregated series of another new wholly-owned subsidiary of the Fund, the Abbey Capital Onshore Series LLC (the “Onshore Subsidiary”), which was formed on August 16, 2018.

 

 

2018
YTD

SEP. 1, 2017 TO
AUG. 31, 2018

SEP. 1, 2016 TO
AUG. 31, 2017

ANNUALIZED
SINCE
INCEPTION ON
JULY 1, 2014 TO
AUG. 31, 2018

Class I Shares

-2.15%

1.34%

-5.00%

3.66%

Class A Shares*

-2.34%

1.08%

-5.18%

3.41%

Class A Shares (max load)

-7.92%

-4.73%

-10.65%

1.95%

Class C Shares**

-2.81%

0.36%

-5.89%

2.66%

BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month T-Bill Index***

1.15%

1.52%

0.62%

0.57%

S&P 500® Total Return Index***

9.94%

19.66%

16.23%

12.16%

Barclay CTA Index***

-1.35%

-0.09%

-2.17%

0.80%

 

Barclay CTA numbers are based on the estimate available on the BarclayHedge website as of September 17th 2018

Source: Abbey Capital and Bloomberg

 

Performance quoted is past performance and does not guarantee future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the returns quoted. Visit www.abbeycapital.com for returns updated daily. Call (US Toll Free) 1-844-261-6484 or (international callers) + 1-508-871-3276 for returns current to the most recent month-end.

 

Please note the above is shown for illustrative purposes only

 

*

Class A Shares performance prior to its inception on August 29, 2014 is the performance of Class I Shares, adjusted for the Class A Shares expense ratio. There is a maximum sales charge (load) imposed on purchases (as a percentage of offering price) of 5.75% in Class A Shares.

 

**

Class C Shares performance prior to its inception on October 6, 2015 is the performance of Class I Shares, adjusted for the Class C Shares expense ratio.

 

1

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Continued)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

***

The Barclay CTA Index is derived from data which is self-reported by investment managers based on the performance of privately managed funds. In contrast, the S&P 500® Total Return Index and the Bank of America Merrill Lynch 3-Month T-Bill Index are comprised of publicly traded securities. As a result of these differences, these indices may not be directly comparable and the above is shown for illustrative purposes only.

 

Abbey Capital Limited (the “Adviser”) has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit total annual fund operating expenses (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) to 1.79%, 2.04% and 2.79% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class I Shares, Class A Shares, and Class C Shares, respectively. This contractual limitation is in effect until December 31, 2019, and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. In addition, the Adviser may recoup any waived or reimbursed amounts from the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made by the Adviser, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive its investment advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes. Without the limitation agreement, the expense ratios are 1.93%. 2.18% and 2.93% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class I Shares, Class A Shares, and Class C Shares, respectively, as stated in the current prospectus dated December 31, 2017 as supplemented (and which may differ from the actual expense ratios for the period covered by this report). The quoted performance would have been lower without the expense limitation.

 

Please refer to the prospectus for further information on expenses and fees.

 

Market Commentary

 

Overall, global economic data was positive over the twelve-month fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, although there were growing indications that the US economy was outperforming its peers. Optimism over US economic growth generally supported risk assets, despite periodic bouts of risk aversion as a result of heightened global trade tensions and geopolitical developments, with signs of accelerating inflation and tighter monetary policy in the US an added consideration.

 

In aggregate, global equities rallied over the period, driven by strong gains by US and Japanese indices. Solid returns over the first part of the period were pared in late January and February as worries that mounting inflationary pressures could lead to a more aggressive pace of central bank tightening weighed on risk appetite, creating a sharp reversal in many stock indices. Equities generally rebounded from Q2 2018 onwards, as strong earnings growth and accelerating US GDP growth supported risk appetite, and outweighed the negative impact of deteriorating relations between the US and many of its trade partners, particularly China. By region, US indices were positive for the one-year period, supported by strong earnings growth, signs of improving economic conditions and optimism following the passing of tax reform, with the S&P 500 reaching a new record high in August 2018. Eurozone equities were negative, as Italian stocks struggled on the back of heightened political concerns following the election of an anti-establishment government in May, with worries about global trade another concern for stocks in the region. Chinese equities also saw losses amid heightened trade tensions with the US.

 

Signs of a shift towards more hawkish policy amongst major global central banks was an important driver of moves in currency and bond markets. The Federal Reserve (“Fed”) hiked rates three times in the twelve months to August and US Treasury yields rose as a result, particularly at shorter maturities. Market forecasts of a faster pace of future US rate hikes on the back of solid economic data and rising inflation was another factor driving the increase in shorter maturity Treasury yields. Moves in eurozone bonds were more muted, despite the European Central Bank unveiling plans to end quantitative easing in December 2018. German 10-year Bund yields were slightly lower over the period, while yields in Italy rose on concerns over the new government formed in May, with moves higher resuming in August on reports that the government may run a larger budget deficit than allowed under EU rules. In Japan, government bond yields rose, but remained close to zero as the Bank of Japan continued with its yield targeting program, although there was increased speculation over the period that the central bank may begin to normalise its policies.

 

2

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Continued)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

In currencies, the USD weakened over the first part of the period before trading in a wide range between February and March. The greenback rallied from April onwards, with the widening yield differential between the US and other developed economies a key driver of the reversal. More recently, global trade fears, expectations of more hawkish Fed policy and signs of stronger US growth have all supported the USD, although comments from President Trump criticising the pace of Fed rate hikes and the strength of the USD have at times weighed on the US currency. EUR/USD declined over the period, while GBP/USD was roughly unchanged overall, with early-2018 gains in GBP/USD unwinding as the USD began to strengthen from April and talk of a ‘no-deal’ Brexit became more prevalent. AUD/USD was significantly lower over the period, as global trade war fears, signs of slower growth in China, political developments in Australia and a lack of policy action by the Reserve Bank of Australia all impacted sentiment. Emerging market currencies struggled later in the period amid USD strength, with the TRY and BRL notable underperformers.

 

In commodities, moves in the USD and developments on the global trade front were important factors that impacted prices over the period. Crude oil mostly trended higher, despite rising US production, as OPEC supply cuts helped to boost prices. The US withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal was another notable event in energy markets. Base metals prices generally rose over the first part of the period on the back of stronger economic data, however these trends reversed as worries about escalating global trade tensions weighed on the sector. Precious metals were also weaker, with gold in a downtrend since April, despite periods of heightened geopolitical risk, with the stronger USD a key driver. In agricultural commodities, weather developments and global trade were important themes that impacted the sector. Soybeans were lower as the imposition of Chinese tariffs on US imports impacted prices, with forecasts of a bumper US harvest also weighing on prices later in the period. Weakness in the BRL proved a headwind for coffee prices, with sugar another notable underperformer in the agricultural commodity space.

 

Performance Attribution

 

Returns for the ACOF were driven by gains from equities, energy and interest rates. The ACOF’s diversifying Global Macro and Value sub-advisers (sub-advisers are also known as “Trading Advisers”) were responsible for the majority of gains, although Diversified Trendfollowing (“Trendfollowing”) sub-advisers also contributed positive performance in aggregate over the period.

 

Within equities, strong gains were realised during the early part of the period from long positions, however these gains were pared in February as equity market volatility spiked amid the sharp reversal in the S&P 500 and other global indices. The largest gains over the year were realised from long positions in US indices, primarily the S&P 500 and NASDAQ 100, with further profits accruing from long exposure to the Nikkei 225. Trendfollowing sub-advisers captured practically all gains in the sector, while Value sub-advisers were slightly positive and Global Macro sub-advisers saw modest losses. In energy, long positions in crude oil maintained over the course of the year drove positive performance as prices trended higher, outweighing some losses from mostly short natural gas exposure. Trendfollowing sub-advisers were responsible for all performance in the sector. In interest rates, short positions in 3-month Eurodollar contracts proved profitable as the market revised higher its forecasts for interest rate hikes by the Fed in 2018 and 2019. Global Macro sub-advisers saw the largest gains in the sector, with Trendfollowing sub-advisers also positive over the period. Further, smaller gains were realised in soft commodities, largely from short positions in coffee.

 

On the negative side, bonds was the largest sectoral detractor, with losses from Trendfollowing sub-advisers in UK 10-year Gilt and US 30-year Treasury contracts outweighing gains realised by Value sub-advisers from a short position in US 10-year Treasury contracts early in the period. Base metals was also negative, with copper and aluminium both proving challenging for Trendfollowing sub-advisers as deteriorating global trade relations impacted sentiment in the sector. Major currencies was another difficult sector, with most of the losses occurring during a period of USD weakness in Q4 2017. Overall, losses from Trendfollowing sub-advisers outweighed gains by Global Macro sub-advisers in the sector, with trading in USD/JPY the Fund’s worst contract. In grains, mixed positions in wheat over the second half of the period drove the majority of losses amid choppy price action. Further, smaller losses were seen from trading in emerging market currencies, meats and precious metals.

 

3

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Concluded)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Key to Currency Abbreviations

AUD

Australian Dollar

BRL

Brazilian Real

EUR

Euro

GBP

British Pound Sterling

JPY

Japanese Yen

TRY

Turkish Lira

USD

US Dollar

 

An investment in the Fund is speculative and involves substantial risk. It is possible that an investor may lose some or all of their investment. The Fund may invest up to 25% of its total assets in Abbey Capital Offshore Fund Limited, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Fund that invests in managed futures and foreign exchange. All investments in securities involve risk of the loss of capital. An investment in the Fund includes the risks inherent in an investment in securities, as well as specific risks associated with this open-ended investment product. Among the risks associated with investing in this Fund are Commodity Sector Risk, Counter-Party Risk, Credit Risk, Currency Risk, Manager and Management Risks, Subsidiary Risk, Tax Risk, Emerging Markets Risk, Leveraging Risk, Foreign Investment Risk, Fixed Income Securities Risks, Short Sale Risk and Portfolio Turnover Risks. The Fund may invest in or utilize derivative investments, futures contracts, and hedging strategies. One or more Trading Advisors, from time to time, may invest a substantial portion of the assets managed in a specific industry sector. As a result, the Fund’s investment portfolio may be subject to greater risk and volatility than if investments had been made in the securities of a broader range of issuers. There can be no assurance that the Fund’s strategy (hedging or otherwise) will be successful or that it will employ such strategies with respect to all or any portion of its portfolio. The value of the Fund’s portfolio investments should be expected to fluctuate. Investing in managed futures is not suitable for all investors given its speculative nature and the high level of risk involved. The Fund is appropriate only for investors who can bear the risks associated with the product. This brief statement cannot disclose all of the risks and other factors necessary to evaluate a participation in the Fund. Investors are urged to take appropriate investment advice and to carefully consider their investment objectives, personal situation, and factors such as net worth, income, age, risk tolerance and liquidity needs before investing in the Fund. Before investing, investors should carefully consider the Fund’s investment objectives, risks, tax considerations, sales charges and expenses.

 

Fund holdings and sector allocations are subject to change and should not be considered recommendations to buy or sell any security. Please refer to the Consolidated Portfolio of Investments in this report for a complete list of Fund holdings.

 

The Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund is distributed by Quasar Distributions, LLC.

 

4

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Performance Data

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund - Class A Shares
vs. BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index, S&P 500® Total Return Index and Barclay CTA Index

 

 

The chart illustrates the performance of a hypothetical $10,000 initial investment in the Fund made on July 1, 2014 and reflects Fund expenses and reinvestment of dividends and distributions (performance shown prior to August 29, 2014 is Class I Shares performance adjusted for Class A shares expense ratio). Class A Shares growth of a hypothetical investment of $10,000 is adjusted for the maximum sales charge of 5.75%. This results in a net initial investment of $9,425. Performance does not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder may pay on dividends, distributions or redemptions.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the Periods Ended August 31, 2018

 
 

One
Year

Three
Years

Since
Inception†

 

Class A Shares (without sales charge) (Pro forma July 1, 2014 to August 29, 2014)

1.08%

-2.05%

3.41%*

 

Class A Shares (with sales charge) (Pro forma July 1, 2014 to August 29, 2014)

-4.73%

-3.96%

1.95%*

 

BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index

1.52%

0.79%

0.57%**

 

S&P 500® Total Return Index

19.66%

16.11%

12.16%**

 

Barclay CTA Index

-0.09%

-0.69%

0.80%**

 

 

Inception date of Class A Shares of the Fund was August 29, 2014.

 

*

Class A Shares performance prior to its inception on August 29, 2014 is the performance of Class I Shares, adjusted for the Class A Shares expense ratio.

 

**

Performance is from the inception date of the Fund and is not the inception date of the index itself. The above is shown for illustrative purposes only.

 

The Fund charges a 5.75% maximum sales charge on purchases (as a percentage of offering price) of Class A Shares. The performance data quoted reflects fee waivers in effect and would have been less in their absence. The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) to 2.04% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class A Shares. Without the limitation arrangement, the

 

5

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Performance Data (Continued)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

gross expense ratio is 2.18% for Class A Shares as stated in the current prospectus (and which may differ from the actual expense ratio for the period covered by this report). This contractual limitation is in effect until December 31, 2019 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. Please see the Consolidated Financial Highlights for current figures.

 

6

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Performance Data (Continued)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $1,000,000 Investment in Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund – Class I Shares
vs. BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index, S&P 500® Total Return Index and Barclay CTA Index

 

 

The chart illustrates the performance of a hypothetical $1,000,000 minimum initial investment in the Fund made on July 1, 2014 and reflects Fund expenses and reinvestment of dividends and distributions. Performance does not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder may pay on dividends, distributions or redemptions.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the Periods Ended August 31, 2018

 
 

One
Year

Three
Years

Since
Inception†

 

Class I Shares

1.34%

-1.81%

3.66%

 

BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index

1.52%

0.79%

0.57%*

 

S&P 500® Total Return Index

19.66%

16.11%

12.16%*

 

Barclay CTA Index

-0.09%

-0.69%

0.80%*

 

 

Inception date of Class I Shares of the Fund was July 1, 2014.

 

*

Performance is from the inception date of the Fund and is not the inception date of the index itself. The above is shown for illustrative purposes only.

 

The performance data quoted reflects fee waivers in effect and would have been less in their absence. The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) to 1.79% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class I Shares. Without the limitation arrangement, the gross expense ratio is 1.93% for Class I Shares, as stated in the current prospectus (and which may differ from the actual expense ratios for the period covered by this report). This contractual limitation is in effect until December 31, 2019 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. Please see the Consolidated Financial Highlights for current figures.

 

7

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Performance Data (Continued)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund – Class C Shares
vs. BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index, S&P 500® Total Return Index and Barclay CTA Index

 

 

The chart illustrates the performance of a hypothetical $10,000 minimum initial investment in the Fund made on July 1, 2014 and reflects Fund expenses and reinvestment of dividends and distributions (performance shown prior to October 6, 2015 is Class I Shares performance adjusted for Class C Shares expense ratio). Performance does not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder may pay on dividends, distributions or redemptions.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the Periods Ended August 31, 2018

 
 

One
Year

Three
Years

Since
Inception†

 

Class C Shares (Pro forma July 1, 2014 to October 6, 2015)

0.36%

-2.76%

2.66%*

 

BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index

1.52%

0.79%

0.57%**

 

S&P 500® Total Return Index

19.66%

16.11%

12.16%**

 

Barclay CTA Index

-0.09%

-0.69%

0.80%**

 

 

Inception date of Class C Shares of the Fund was October 6, 2015.

 

*

Class C Shares performance prior to its inception on October 6, 2015 is the performance of Class I Shares, adjusted for the Class C Shares expense ratio.

 

**

Performance is from the inception date of the Fund and is not the inception date of the index itself. The above is shown for illustrative purposes only.

 

The performance data quoted reflects fee waivers in effect and would have been less in their absence. The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) to 2.79% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class C Shares. Without the limitation arrangement, the gross expense ratio is 2.93% for Class C Shares, as stated in the current prospectus (and which may differ from the actual expense ratios for the period covered by this report). This contractual limitation is in effect until December 31, 2019 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. Please see the Consolidated Financial Highlights for current figures.

 

8

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Performance Data (Continued)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Performance quoted is past performance and does not guarantee future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the returns quoted. Visit www.abbeycapital.com for returns updated daily. Call (US Toll Free) 1-844-261-6484 or (international callers) + 1-508-871-3276 for returns current to the most recent month-end.

 

The Barclay CTA Index is derived from data which is self-reported by investment managers based on the performance of privately managed funds. In contrast, the S&P 500® Total Return Index and the BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index are comprised of publicly traded securities. As a result of these differences, these indices may not be directly comparable. Additionally, these indices are not available for direct investment and the above is shown for illustrative purposes only.

 

9

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Performance Data (Concluded)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

The S&P 500® Total Return Index

 

The S&P 500® Total Return Index is the total return version of the S&P 500® Index. Dividends are reinvested on a daily basis and all regular cash dividends are assumed reinvested in the index on the ex-dividend date.

 

S&P 500® Index

 

The S&P 500® Index is a market-capitalization-weighted index of 500 US stocks chosen for market size, liquidity and industry grouping, among other factors. The S&P 500® Index is designed to be a leading indicator of U.S. equities and is meant to reflect the risk/return characteristics of the large cap universe. The S&P 500® Index was first introduced on the 1st of January, 1923, though expanded to 500 stocks on March 4, 1957.

 

Nasdaq 100 Index

 

Launched in January 1985, the Nasdaq-100 Index includes 100 of the largest US domestic and international non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq stock market. The Nasdaq-100 Index is calculated under a modified capitalization-weighted methodology. The index reflects companies across major industry groups including computer hardware and software, telecommunications, retail/wholesale trade and biotechnology. It does not contain securities of financial companies including investment companies.

 

Barclay CTA Index

 

The Barclay CTA Index is a leading industry benchmark of representative performance of commodity trading advisors. There are currently 541 programs included in the calculation of the Barclay CTA Index for 2018. The Barclay CTA Index is equally weighted and rebalanced at the beginning of each year.

 

BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index

 

The BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index is an unmanaged market index of U.S. Treasury securities maturing in 90 days that assumes reinvestment of all income.

 

Hang Seng Index

 

The Hang Seng Index is a market capitalization-weighted index of 40 of the largest companies that trade on the Hong Kong Exchange. The Hang Seng Index is maintained by a subsidiary of Hang Seng Bank, and has been published since 1969.

 

Nikkei 225 Index

 

The Nikkei 225 Index is a price-weighted index comprised of Japan’s top 225 blue-chip companies traded on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

 

Portfolio composition is subject to change. It is not possible to invest directly in an index.

 

10

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Fund Expense Examples

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

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

 

These examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period from March 1, 2018 through August 31, 2018, and held for the entire period.

 

ACTUAL EXPENSES

 

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

 

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

 

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

 

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

 

 

Class A Shares

 

Beginning
Account Value
March 1, 2018

Ending
Account Value
August 31, 2018

Expenses Paid
During Period
*

Annualized
Expense Ratio

Actual Six-
Month Total
Investment
Return for the
Fund

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 998.20

$ 10.27

2.04%

-0.18%

Hypothetical
(5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,014.92

10.36

2.04

N/A

 

 

Class I Shares

 

Beginning
Account Value
March 1, 2018

Ending
Account Value
August 31, 2018

Expenses Paid
During Period
*

Annualized
Expense Ratio

Actual Six-
Month Total
Investment
Return for the
Fund

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 999.10

$ 9.02

1.79%

-0.09%

Hypothetical
(5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,016.18

9.10

1.79

N/A

 

11

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Fund Expense Examples (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

 

Class C Shares

 

Beginning
Account Value
March 1, 2018

Ending
Account Value
August 31, 2018

Expenses Paid
During Period
*

Annualized
Expense Ratio

Actual Six-
Month Total
Investment
Return for the
Fund

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 994.60

$ 14.03

2.79%

-0.54%

Hypothetical
(5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,011.14

14.14

2.79

N/A

 

 

*

Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized six-month expense ratio for the period March 1, 2018 to August 31, 2018, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days (184) in the most recent fiscal half-year, then divided by 365 to reflect the one half year period. The Fund’s ending account values on the first line in the tables is based on the actual six-month total investment return for the Fund.

 

12

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio Holdings Summary Table

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

The following table presents a consolidated summary of the portfolio holdings of the Fund at August 31, 2018.

 

 

 

% of Net
Assets

   

Value

 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS:

               

U.S. Treasury Obligations

    78.0 %   $ 730,931,640  

PURCHASED OPTIONS

    0.1       585,051  

OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES

               

(including futures, forward foreign currency contracts and written options)

    21.9       205,940,634  

NET ASSETS

    100.0 %   $ 937,457,325  

 

 

The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by allocating its assets between a “Managed Futures” strategy and a “Fixed Income” strategy.

 

As a result of the Fund’s use of derivatives, the Fund may hold significant amounts of U.S. Treasuries or short-term investments.

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

Refer to the Consolidated Portfolio of Investments for a detailed listing of the Fund’s holdings.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

13

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments

August 31, 2018

 

   

 

Coupon*

   

Maturity
Date

   

Par
(000’s)

   

Value

 

Short-Term Investments — 78.0%

                               

U.S. Treasury Obligations — 78.0%

                               

U.S. Treasury Bills

    1.928%       09/06/18     $ 7,186     $ 7,185,245  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    1.914%       09/13/18       24,316       24,304,420  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    1.912%       09/20/18       2,990       2,987,465  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    1.885%       09/27/18       21,930       21,903,379  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    1.923%       10/04/18       8,934       8,919,633  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    1.970%       10/11/18       14,656       14,626,476  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.010%       10/18/18       6,160       6,145,112  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.006%       10/25/18       2,590       2,582,703  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.038%       11/01/18       57,543       57,356,888  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.059%       11/08/18       66,186       65,942,962  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.074%       11/15/18       67,064       66,791,217  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.031%       11/23/18       8,649       8,609,551  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.096%       11/29/18       36,950       36,767,944  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.052%       12/06/18       69,086       68,715,465  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.093%       12/13/18       19,766       19,652,208  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.069%       12/20/18       5,015       4,983,996  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.069%       12/27/18       8,111       8,056,805  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.119%       01/03/19       68,100       67,614,749  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.137%       01/10/19       97,199       96,459,856  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.153%       01/17/19       43,645       43,291,885  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.195%       01/24/19       18,947       18,784,637  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.736%       01/31/19       26,209       25,972,251  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.205%       02/14/19       47,695       47,220,445  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.252%       02/21/19       6,120       6,056,348  
                              730,931,640  

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

                               

(Cost $730,901,168)

                            730,931,640  

Total Purchased Options — 0.1%**

                               

(Cost $1,694,333)

                            585,051  

Total Investments — 78.1%

                               

(Cost $732,595,501)

                            731,516,691  
                                 

Other Assets In Excess of Liabilities — 21.9%

                            205,940,634  

Net Assets — 100.0%

                          $ 937,457,325  

 

 

*

Short-term investments reflect the annualized effective yield on the date of purchase for discounted investments.

**

See page 22 for detailed information regarding the Purchased Options.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

14

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Futures contracts outstanding as of August 31, 2018 were as follows:

 

Long Contracts

 

Expiration
Date

   

Number of
Contracts

   

Notional
Amount

   

Value and
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

10-Year Mini Japanese Government Bond Futures

 

Sep-18

   

21

    $ 1,890,019     $ (4,509 )

2-Year Euro Swapnote Futures

 

Sep-18

   

27

      3,134,032       6,111  

3-Month Euro Euribor

 

Mar-19

   

3

      870,564       (73 )

3-Month Euro Euribor

 

Jun-19

   

1,304

      378,405,358       (42,759 )

3-Month Euro Euribor

 

Sep-19

   

17

      4,933,199       29  

3-Month Euro Euribor

 

Dec-19

   

1,475

      428,027,533       91,351  

3-Month Euro Euribor

 

Mar-20

   

19

      5,513,575       2,945  

3-Month Euro Euribor

 

Jun-20

   

13

      3,772,446       436  

3-Month Euro Euribor

 

Sep-20

   

15

      4,352,822       319  

3-Month Euro Euribor

 

Mar-21

   

9

      2,611,693       740  

3-Month Euro Euribor

 

Jun-21

   

6

      1,741,129       624  

5-Year Euro Swapnote Futures

 

Sep-18

   

4

      464,301       4,736  

90-DAY Bank Bill

 

Mar-19

   

35

      25,161,573       632  

90-DAY Bank Bill

 

Jun-19

   

632

      454,346,123       62,914  

90-DAY Bank Bill

 

Sep-19

   

32

      23,004,867       2,896  

90-DAY Bank Bill

 

Dec-19

   

133

      95,613,978       20,583  

90-DAY Bank Bill

 

Mar-20

   

29

      20,848,161       2,614  

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

 

Dec-18

   

763

      190,750,000       (721,038 )

90-DAY Sterling Futures

 

Jun-19

   

211

      34,193,741       (19,560 )

90-DAY Sterling Futures

 

Jun-20

   

155

      25,118,625       (10,661 )

90-DAY Sterling Futures

 

Jun-21

   

164

      26,577,126       (11,992 )

Amsterdam Index Futures

 

Sep-18

   

153

      19,826,723       (72,721 )

Australian 10-Year Bond Futures

 

Sep-18

   

620

      44,571,930       199,850  

Australian 3-Year Bond Futures

 

Sep-18

   

1,687

      121,278,783       276,366  

Bank Acceptance Futures

 

Sep-18

   

2

      383,142       (383 )

Bank Acceptance Futures

 

Dec-18

   

24

      4,597,701       (8,372 )

Brent Crude Futures

 

Nov-18

   

173

      13,431,720       535,140  

Brent Crude Futures

 

Dec-18

   

58

      4,489,200       155,910  

Brent Crude Futures

 

Jan-19

   

13

      1,002,690       29,780  

Brent Crude Futures

 

Feb-19

   

12

      922,560       38,900  

Brent Crude Futures

 

Mar-19

   

11

      842,930       31,740  

Brent Crude Futures

 

Apr-19

   

2

      152,760       2,290  

CAC40 10 Euro Futures

 

Sep-18

   

818

      51,324,988       127,294  

Cocoa Futures

 

Dec-18

   

10

      233,600       (24,000 )

Cocoa Futures

 

May-19

   

2

      46,960       (30 )

Cotton No.2 Futures

 

Dec-18

   

93

      3,823,230       (304,105 )

DAX Index Futures

 

Sep-18

   

33

      11,826,140       (189,130 )

DJIA Mini E-CBOT

 

Sep-18

   

361

      46,908,340       613,190  

Dollar Index

 

Sep-18

   

297

      29,700,000       442,957  

Euro BUXL 30-Year Bond Futures

 

Sep-18

   

87

      10,098,548       38,932  

Euro BUXL 30-Year Bond Futures

 

Dec-18

   

3

      348,226       2,577  

Euro STOXX 50

 

Sep-18

   

537

      21,124,456       (547,237 )

Euro/CHF 3-Month Futures ICE

 

Dec-18

   

6

      1,547,588       (26 )

Euro/CHF 3-Month Futures ICE

 

Mar-19

   

15

      3,868,971       567  

Euro/CHF 3-Month Futures ICE

 

Jun-19

   

13

      3,353,108       851  

Euro/CHF 3-Month Futures ICE

 

Sep-19

   

4

      1,031,726       361  

Euro-Bobl Futures

 

Sep-18

   

418

      48,519,460       33,232  

Euro-Bobl Futures

 

Dec-18

   

1,263

      146,603,057       406,496  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

15

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Long Contracts

 

Expiration
Date

   

Number of
Contracts

   

Notional
Amount

   

Value and
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

Euro-Bund Futures

 

Sep-18

   

785

    $ 91,119,082     $ 839,886  

Euro-Bund Futures

 

Dec-18

   

457

      53,046,395       430,883  

Euro-Oat Futures

 

Sep-18

   

260

      30,179,568       295,040  

Euro-Oat Futures

 

Dec-18

   

95

      11,027,150       23,261  

Euro-Schatz Futures

 

Sep-18

   

791

      91,815,533       (11,887 )

FTSE 100 Index Futures

 

Sep-18

   

661

      63,619,986       (1,464,782 )

FTSE 250 Index Futures

 

Sep-18

   

9

      481,597       (13,617 )

FTSE/JSE TOP 40

 

Sep-18

   

91

      3,232,714       4,028  

Gasoline RBOB Futures

 

Oct-18

   

191

      16,019,934       517,590  

Gasoline RBOB Futures

 

Nov-18

   

101

      8,390,252       (33,226 )

Gasoline RBOB Futures

 

Dec-18

   

7

      577,240       1,189  

Gasoline RBOB Futures

 

Jan-19

   

3

      247,023       861  

Hang Seng China Enterprises Index Futures

 

Sep-18

   

35

      2,418,060       (637 )

IBEX 35 Index Futures

 

Sep-18

   

13

      1,416,357       (13,075 )

JPN 10-Year Bond (Osaka Securities Exchange)

 

Sep-18

   

107

      96,300,963       (143,641 )

LME Aluminum Forward

 

Nov-18

   

20

      1,062,500       (49,250 )

LME Aluminum Forward

 

Jan-19

   

3

      159,900       (1,406 )

LME Nickel Forward

 

Sep-18

   

141

      10,761,120       (1,529,809 )

LME Nickel Forward

 

Oct-18

   

2

      153,012       (20,664 )

LME Nickel Forward

 

Nov-18

   

1

      76,740       (4,290 )

Long Gilt Futures

 

Dec-18

   

516

      66,896,570       (1,737 )

Low Sulphur Gasoil G Futures

 

Oct-18

   

184

      12,732,800       433,725  

Low Sulphur Gasoil G Futures

 

Nov-18

   

51

      3,517,725       112,350  

Low Sulphur Gasoil G Futures

 

Dec-18

   

19

      1,301,975       16,875  

Mill Wheat Euro

 

Dec-18

   

4

      47,707       (754 )

Mill Wheat Euro

 

Mar-19

   

1

      12,086       (116 )

MSCI Singapore Exchange ETS

 

Sep-18

   

5

      132,308       (2,131 )

MSCI Taiwan Index Futures

 

Sep-18

   

135

      5,568,750       43,365  

MXN Currency Futures

 

Sep-18

   

279

      7,301,658       (50,440 )

Nasdaq 100 E-Mini

 

Sep-18

   

631

      96,684,975       3,975,377  

Natural Gas Futures

 

Oct-18

   

120

      3,499,200       (24,490 )

Nikkei 225 (Chicago Mercantile Exchange)

 

Sep-18

   

41

      4,679,125       37,675  

Nikkei 225 (Singapore Exchange)

 

Sep-18

   

438

      45,008,235       544,852  

Nikkei 225 Mini

 

Sep-18

   

535

      11,007,200       152,412  

Nikkei 225 (Osaka Securities Exchange)

 

Sep-18

   

72

      14,813,428       102,601  

NY Harbor Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel Futures

 

Oct-18

   

385

      36,270,927       433,788  

NY Harbor Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel Futures

 

Nov-18

   

29

      2,735,628       44,743  

NY Harbor Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel Futures

 

Dec-18

   

59

      5,569,305       145,085  

NY Harbor Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel Futures

 

Jan-19

   

2

      188,958       811  

OMX Stockholm 30 Index Futures

 

Sep-18

   

1,734

      31,427,642       641,216  

Palladium Futures

 

Dec-18

   

6

      581,940       14,280  

Russell 2000 E-Mini

 

Sep-18

   

347

      30,199,410       909,165  

S&P 500 E-Mini Futures

 

Sep-18

   

758

      109,989,590       2,167,182  

S&P Mid 400 E-Mini Futures

 

Sep-18

   

116

      23,728,960       433,600  

S&P/TSX 60 IX Futures

 

Sep-18

   

239

      35,350,023       165,073  

SGX Nifty 50

 

Sep-18

   

181

      4,245,898       (26,441 )

SPI 200 Futures

 

Sep-18

   

341

      38,634,949       1,144,330  

Swiss Federal Bond Futures

 

Sep-18

   

5

      515,863       10,317  

Topix Index Futures

 

Sep-18

   

45

      7,020,745       (138,210 )

U.S. Treasury Long Bond (Chicago Board of Trade)

 

Dec-18

   

166

      20,145,788       (9,773 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

16

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Long Contracts

 

Expiration
Date

   

Number of
Contracts

   

Notional
Amount

   

Value and
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

USD/HUF Futures

 

Sep-18

   

3

    $ 300,000     $ (1,501 )

USD/NOK Futures

 

Sep-18

   

7

      700,000       28,065  

USD/SEK Futures

 

Sep-18

   

19

      1,900,000       24,711  

Wheat (Chicago Board of Trade)

 

Dec-18

   

203

      5,536,825       (478,788 )

WTI Crude Futures

 

Oct-18

   

493

      34,411,400       1,007,640  

WTI Crude Futures

 

Nov-18

   

35

      2,427,950       54,180  

WTI Crude Futures

 

Dec-18

   

31

      2,140,550       80,870  

WTI Crude Futures

 

Jan-19

   

7

      481,530       21,590  

WTI Crude Futures

 

Feb-19

   

6

      410,760       13,760  

WTI Crude Futures

 

Mar-19

   

11

      749,760       21,730  

WTI Crude Futures

 

Apr-19

   

2

      135,740       5,450  

WTI Crude Futures

 

May-19

   

1

      67,570       60  
                        $ 12,055,718  

 

Short Contracts

 

Expiration
Date

   

Number of
Contracts

   

Notional
Amount

   

Value and
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

3-Month Euro Euribor

 

Dec-20

   

353

    $ (102,436,420 )   $ (9,924 )

90-DAY Bank Bill

 

Dec-18

   

2

      (1,437,804 )     (18 )

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

 

Sep-18

   

218

      (54,500,000 )     (23,350 )

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

 

Mar-19

   

298

      (74,500,000 )     74,950  

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

 

Jun-19

   

2,587

      (646,750,000 )     1,866,946  

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

 

Sep-19

   

373

      (93,250,000 )     2,375  

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

 

Dec-19

   

1,956

      (489,000,000 )     1,030,375  

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

 

Mar-20

   

326

      (81,500,000 )     (65,188 )

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

 

Jun-20

   

365

      (91,250,000 )     (88,675 )

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

 

Sep-20

   

158

      (39,500,000 )     (39,288 )

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

 

Dec-20

   

126

      (31,500,000 )     (35,688 )

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

 

Mar-21

   

4

      (1,000,000 )     (463 )

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

 

Jun-21

   

100

      (25,000,000 )     (29,813 )

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

 

Sep-21

   

2

      (500,000 )     (150 )

90-DAY Sterling Futures

 

Mar-19

   

71

      (11,505,951 )     2,138  

90-DAY Sterling Futures

 

Sep-19

   

27

      (4,375,502 )     (146 )

90-DAY Sterling Futures

 

Dec-19

   

501

      (81,189,877 )     5,315  

90-DAY Sterling Futures

 

Mar-20

   

117

      (18,960,510 )     1,716  

90-DAY Sterling Futures

 

Sep-20

   

45

      (7,292,504 )     (1,766 )

90-DAY Sterling Futures

 

Dec-20

   

3

      (486,167 )     (502 )

90-DAY Sterling Futures

 

Mar-21

   

5

      (810,278 )     49  

AUD/USD Currency Futures

 

Sep-18

   

1,011

      (72,681,002 )     2,300,711  

Bank Acceptance Futures

 

Jun-19

   

2

      (383,142 )     (220 )

CAD Currency Futures

 

Sep-18

   

792

      (60,689,655 )     17,275  

Canadian 10-Year Bond Futures

 

Dec-18

   

248

      (19,003,831 )     (83,693 )

Cattle Feeder Futures

 

Oct-18

   

9

      (671,065 )     (2,863 )

Cattle Feeder Futures

 

Nov-18

   

6

      (447,000 )     400  

CHF Currency Futures

 

Sep-18

   

275

      (35,465,566 )     (723,131 )

Cocoa Futures

 

Mar-19

   

9

      (210,780 )     (21,720 )

Cocoa Futures ICE

 

Sep-18

   

1

      (21,197 )     (1,543 )

Cocoa Futures ICE

 

Dec-18

   

52

      (1,137,968 )     (51,404 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

17

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Short Contracts

 

Expiration
Date

   

Number of
Contracts

   

Notional
Amount

   

Value and
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

Cocoa Futures ICE

 

Mar-19

   

3

    $ (66,119 )   $ (3,267 )

Coffee 'C' Futures

 

Dec-18

   

487

      (18,591,225 )     1,571,981  

Coffee 'C' Futures

 

Mar-19

   

111

      (4,374,788 )     475,500  

Coffee 'C' Futures

 

May-19

   

72

      (2,901,150 )     197,175  

Coffee Robusta Futures

 

Nov-18

   

123

      (1,846,230 )     133,220  

Coffee Robusta Futures

 

Jan-19

   

42

      (630,000 )     35,140  

Coffee Robusta Futures

 

Mar-19

   

7

      (105,700 )     2,480  

Copper Futures

 

Dec-18

   

164

      (10,951,100 )     82,368  

Copper Futures

 

Mar-19

   

5

      (336,438 )     11,675  

Corn Futures

 

Dec-18

   

1,201

      (21,918,250 )     304,002  

Corn Futures

 

Mar-19

   

26

      (490,425 )     (6,350 )

Corn Futures

 

May-19

   

3

      (57,713 )     (713 )

Corn Futures

 

Jul-19

   

3

      (58,575 )     (513 )

Cotton No.2 Futures

 

Mar-19

   

2

      (82,580 )     (180 )

EUR Foreign Exchange Currency Futures

 

Sep-18

   

1,354

      (196,457,383 )     2,079,080  

Euro/JPY Futures

 

Sep-18

   

62

      (8,995,833 )     (160,550 )

Euro-BTP Futures

 

Dec-18

   

92

      (10,678,924 )     37,887  

Euro-Schatz Futures

 

Dec-18

   

2

      (232,151 )     (93 )

FTSE/MIB Index Futures

 

Sep-18

   

77

      (9,047,283 )     99,854  

GBP Currency Futures

 

Sep-18

   

909

      (73,654,290 )     381,751  

Gold 100 Oz Futures

 

Oct-18

   

7

      (841,120 )     11,990  

Gold 100 Oz Futures

 

Dec-18

   

789

      (95,208,630 )     1,573,160  

Hang Seng Index Futures

 

Sep-18

   

48

      (8,490,014 )     200,174  

ILS/USD Futures

 

Sep-18

   

13

      (3,606,103 )     (76,070 )

JPY Currency Futures

 

Sep-18

   

534

      (60,075,601 )     124,161  

Kansas City Hard Red Winter Wheat Futures

 

Dec-18

   

12

      (331,950 )     (169,613 )

Kansas City Hard Red Winter Wheat Futures

 

Mar-19

   

10

      (287,500 )     (4,263 )

Kansas City Hard Red Winter Wheat Futures

 

May-19

   

2

      (58,575 )     (425 )

Lean Hogs Futures

 

Oct-18

   

145

      (2,924,648 )     198,700  

Lean Hogs Futures

 

Dec-18

   

50

      (1,068,000 )     (56,450 )

Lean Hogs Futures

 

Feb-19

   

16

      (402,400 )     (1,230 )

Lean Hogs Futures

 

Apr-19

   

1

      (27,388 )     280  

Live Cattle Futures

 

Oct-18

   

98

      (4,263,984 )     (6,950 )

Live Cattle Futures

 

Dec-18

   

9

      (406,708 )     (2,290 )

Live Cattle Futures

 

Feb-19

   

8

      (374,000 )     (1,940 )

LME Aluminum Forward

 

Sep-18

   

11

      (580,113 )     (1,164,431 )

LME Aluminum Forward

 

Oct-18

   

19

      (1,006,169 )     (75,641 )

LME Aluminum Forward

 

Dec-18

   

140

      (7,458,500 )     (328,539 )

LME Copper Forward

 

Sep-18

   

1

      (149,350 )     (2,820,744 )

LME Copper Forward

 

Oct-18

   

19

      (2,838,244 )     57,339  

LME Copper Forward

 

Nov-18

   

1

      (149,413 )     5,669  

LME Copper Forward

 

Dec-18

   

133

      (19,876,019 )     368,714  

LME Lead Forward

 

Sep-18

   

3

      (154,838 )     28,991  

LME Lead Forward

 

Oct-18

   

18

      (933,300 )     24,111  

LME Lead Forward

 

Nov-18

   

7

      (363,563 )     (11,800 )

LME Nickel Forward

 

Sep-18

   

141

      (10,761,120 )     1,010,920  

LME Nickel Forward

 

Dec-18

   

37

      (2,846,484 )     228,403  

LME Zinc Forward

 

Sep-18

   

3

      (184,819 )     (205,519 )

LME Zinc Forward

 

Oct-18

   

19

      (1,169,213 )     61,181  

LME Zinc Forward

 

Nov-18

   

4

      (245,850 )     (10,250 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

18

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Short Contracts

 

Expiration
Date

   

Number of
Contracts

   

Notional
Amount

   

Value and
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

LME Zinc Forward

 

Dec-18

   

67

    $ (4,110,450 )   $ 249,607  

MSCI EAFE Index Futures

 

Sep-18

   

4

      (391,760 )     (68,210 )

MSCI Emerging Markets Index Futures

 

Sep-18

   

5

      (263,725 )     (7,385 )

Natural Gas Futures

 

Nov-18

   

77

      (2,263,000 )     6,260  

Natural Gas Futures

 

Dec-18

   

26

      (787,500 )     2,660  

Natural Gas Futures

 

Jan-19

   

17

      (529,400 )     2,250  

Natural Gas Futures

 

Feb-19

   

7

      (215,500 )     540  

Natural Gas Futures

 

Mar-19

   

10

      (297,000 )     1,090  

Natural Gas Futures

 

Apr-19

   

6

      (159,700 )     640  

Natural Gas Futures

 

May-19

   

1

      (26,300 )     (20 )

NZD Currency Futures

 

Sep-18

   

392

      (25,934,674 )     1,247,911  

Platinum Futures

 

Oct-18

   

37

      (1,456,135 )     56,575  

Rapeseed Euro

 

Nov-18

   

1

      (21,764 )     (29 )

Red Wheat Futures (Minneapolis Grain Exchange)

 

Dec-18

   

5

      (149,688 )     (3,075 )

RUB Currency Futures

 

Sep-18

   

1

      (37,040 )     213  

Silver Futures

 

Dec-18

   

432

      (31,443,100 )     545,076  

Silver Futures

 

Mar-19

   

6

      (440,000 )     28,540  

Soybean Futures

 

Nov-18

   

733

      (30,914,275 )     1,549,314  

Soybean Futures

 

Jan-19

   

38

      (1,627,825 )     18,225  

Soybean Futures

 

Mar-19

   

15

      (652,125 )     7,200  

Soybean Futures

 

May-19

   

9

      (396,675 )     1,300  

Soybean Meal Futures

 

Oct-18

   

20

      (609,200 )     12,130  

Soybean Meal Futures

 

Dec-18

   

216

      (6,635,520 )     297,740  

Soybean Meal Futures

 

Jan-19

   

8

      (246,160 )     2,480  

Soybean Oil Futures

 

Oct-18

   

88

      (1,505,328 )     (7,896 )

Soybean Oil Futures

 

Dec-18

   

93

      (1,605,366 )     51,150  

Soybean Oil Futures

 

Jan-19

   

7

      (121,758 )     (1,272 )

Sugar No. 11 (World)

 

Oct-18

   

166

      (1,970,752 )     10,562  

Sugar No. 11 (World)

 

Mar-19

   

516

      (6,599,846 )     134,333  

Sugar No. 11 (World)

 

May-19

   

125

      (1,610,000 )     (14,493 )

TRY/USD Futures

 

Sep-18

   

23

      (1,751,394 )     545,035  

U.S. Treasury 10-Year Notes (Chicago Board of Trade)

 

Dec-18

   

1,056

      (105,893,009 )     (2,031 )

U.S. Treasury 2-Year Notes (Chicago Board of Trade)

 

Dec-18

   

1,427

      (278,747,777 )     (137,079 )

U.S. Treasury 5-Year Notes (Chicago Board of Trade)

 

Dec-18

   

1,345

      (133,776,090 )     (1,251 )

U.S. Treasury Ultra Long Bond (Chicago Board of Trade)

 

Dec-18

   

11

      (1,217,070 )     1,453  

Wheat (Chicago Board of Trade)

 

Mar-19

   

20

      (565,500 )     (9,812 )

Wheat (Chicago Board of Trade)

 

May-19

   

6

      (173,325 )     (2,962 )

White Sugar ICE

 

Oct-18

   

10

      (162,950 )     (3,775 )

White Sugar ICE

 

Dec-18

   

10

      (161,700 )     (5,345 )

White Sugar ICE

 

Mar-19

   

5

      (80,800 )     (1,745 )
                        $ 12,826,694  

Total Futures Contracts

                      $ 24,882,412  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

19

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Forward foreign currency contracts outstanding as of August 31, 2018 were as follows:

 

Currency Purchased

 

Currency Sold

 

Expiration
Date

Counterparty

 

Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

AUD

    30,399,451    

USD

    21,843,354    

Sep 04 2018

BOA

  $ 10,740  

AUD

    30,864,572    

USD

    22,836,889    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (648,856 )

AUD

    14,797,000    

USD

    10,936,909    

Sep 21 2018

BOA

    (299,616 )

BRL

    38,919,493    

USD

    9,749,471    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (213,774 )

CAD

    26,771,850    

USD

    20,515,913    

Sep 04 2018

BOA

    262  

CAD

    35,957,895    

USD

    27,482,821    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    80,902  

CAD

    8,653,000    

USD

    6,595,832    

Sep 21 2018

BOA

    37,438  

CAD

    7,319,000    

USD

    5,670,298    

Sep 27 2018

BOA

    (58,981 )

CHF

    25,311,888    

USD

    26,113,360    

Sep 04 2018

BOA

    10,110  

CHF

    11,517,694    

USD

    11,888,373    

Sep 06 2018

BOA

    561  

CHF

    4,500,000    

USD

    4,559,420    

Sep 21 2018

BOA

    91,660  

CHF

    11,989,000    

USD

    12,312,764    

Sep 27 2018

BOA

    85,216  

CLP

    3,911,161,175    

USD

    5,961,598    

Sep 20 2018

BOA

    (218,383 )

CNH

    21,554,622    

USD

    3,350,000    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (201,100 )

COP

    7,108,020,694    

USD

    2,415,363    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (84,556 )

CZK

    101,754,837    

EUR

    3,950,000    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (7,397 )

EUR

    24,178,627    

USD

    28,299,673    

Sep 04 2018

BOA

    (226,541 )

EUR

    22,963,668    

USD

    26,650,829    

Sep 06 2018

BOA

    15,319  

EUR

    3,500,000    

CZK

    90,714,214    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (18,299 )

EUR

    11,900,000    

HUF

    3,805,103,037    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    294,325  

EUR

    33,450,000    

NOK

    323,318,187    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    297,997  

EUR

    6,000,000    

PLN

    26,171,348    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (88,641 )

EUR

    42,500,000    

SEK

    441,534,894    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    1,049,461  

EUR

    36,490,571    

USD

    42,658,792    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (243,431 )

EUR

    19,895,000    

USD

    23,217,762    

Sep 21 2018

BOA

    (89,016 )

GBP

    53,640,953    

USD

    69,538,323    

Sep 04 2018

BOA

    14,277  

GBP

    24,423,473    

USD

    32,053,322    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (365,651 )

GBP

    20,537,000    

USD

    27,244,517    

Sep 21 2018

BOA

    (597,020 )

GBP

    7,442,000    

USD

    9,640,749    

Sep 27 2018

BOA

    17,950  

HUF

    2,524,260,178    

EUR

    7,800,000    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (85,619 )

HUF

    614,387,522    

USD

    2,227,904    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (42,033 )

ILS

    6,220,250    

USD

    1,700,000    

Sep 20 2018

BOA

    27,930  

INR

    981,186,927    

USD

    14,190,723    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (388,294 )

JPY

    3,916,820,652    

USD

    35,306,891    

Sep 04 2018

BOA

    (46,412 )

JPY

    5,151,035,937    

USD

    46,730,607    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (310,227 )

JPY

    3,695,836,000    

USD

    33,613,135    

Sep 21 2018

BOA

    (301,958 )

JPY

    961,815,000    

USD

    8,684,191    

Sep 27 2018

BOA

    (11,410 )

KRW

    15,579,508,707    

USD

    14,328,597    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (327,138 )

KRW

    1,107,602,700    

USD

    1,000,000    

Dec 19 2018

BOA

    (1,365 )

MXN

    183,934,068    

USD

    9,429,712    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    168,168  

MXN

    194,095,000    

USD

    10,064,891    

Sep 21 2018

BOA

    59,958  

NOK

    313,608,560    

EUR

    33,000,000    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (933,629 )

NOK

    34,425,141    

USD

    4,258,525    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (150,408 )

NZD

    653,939    

USD

    433,313    

Sep 04 2018

BOA

    (668 )

NZD

    13,665,635    

USD

    9,258,274    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (217,138 )

NZD

    9,221,000    

USD

    6,334,958    

Sep 21 2018

BOA

    (234,380 )

PHP

    161,630,429    

USD

    3,047,895    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (27,253 )

PHP

    2,691,150    

USD

    50,000    

Dec 19 2018

BOA

    58  

PLN

    32,914,387    

EUR

    7,650,000    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (9,525 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

20

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Currency Purchased

 

Currency Sold

 

Expiration
Date

Counterparty

 

Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

PLN

    33,856,218    

USD

    9,231,151    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

  $ (94,413 )

RUB

    325,335,859    

USD

    4,997,770    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (187,263 )

SEK

    2,856,778    

USD

    312,497    

Sep 04 2018

BOA

    (23 )

SEK

    52,293,578    

EUR

    5,100,000    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (201,562 )

SEK

    71,522,625    

USD

    8,173,626    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (341,416 )

SGD

    25,142,415    

USD

    18,473,972    

Sep 10 2018

BOA

    (154,045 )

SGD

    10,399,170    

USD

    7,778,555    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (200,212 )

THB

    120,897,911    

USD

    3,800,000    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (104,401 )

TRY

    43,285,912    

USD

    8,448,522    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (1,931,303 )

TWD

    411,915,891    

USD

    13,500,000    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (72,965 )

USD

    22,190,369    

AUD

    30,399,451    

Sep 04 2018

BOA

    336,275  

USD

    20,361,145    

AUD

    28,350,322    

Sep 06 2018

BOA

    (19,773 )

USD

    34,777,706    

AUD

    47,066,733    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    942,206  

USD

    33,532,763    

AUD

    44,888,000    

Sep 21 2018

BOA

    1,263,599  

USD

    3,109,007    

AUD

    4,231,000    

Sep 27 2018

BOA

    67,441  

USD

    11,803,829    

BRL

    45,521,922    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    650,465  

USD

    5,100,000    

BRL

    21,416,869    

Dec 19 2018

BOA

    (100,387 )

USD

    20,601,499    

CAD

    26,771,850    

Sep 04 2018

BOA

    85,324  

USD

    19,927,311    

CAD

    26,001,793    

Sep 05 2018

BOA

    929  

USD

    30,730,060    

CAD

    40,132,590    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (33,798 )

USD

    29,752,610    

CAD

    38,744,000    

Sep 21 2018

BOA

    51,995  

USD

    5,602,050    

CAD

    7,319,000    

Sep 27 2018

BOA

    (9,267 )

USD

    26,095,979    

CHF

    25,311,888    

Sep 04 2018

BOA

    (27,491 )

USD

    20,405,176    

CHF

    20,147,000    

Sep 21 2018

BOA

    (418,227 )

USD

    6,283,334    

CLP

    4,075,790,578    

Sep 20 2018

BOA

    298,373  

USD

    2,500,000    

CLP

    1,690,121,250    

Dec 19 2018

BOA

    16,696  

USD

    7,100,000    

CNH

    47,549,705    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    153,497  

USD

    2,400,000    

COP

    7,108,020,694    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    69,192  

USD

    400,000    

COP

    1,219,476,400    

Dec 19 2018

BOA

    1,855  

USD

    28,063,391    

EUR

    24,178,627    

Sep 04 2018

BOA

    (9,742 )

USD

    55,878,738    

EUR

    47,699,953    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    433,984  

USD

    51,593,211    

EUR

    44,232,000    

Sep 21 2018

BOA

    171,715  

USD

    69,812,880    

GBP

    53,640,953    

Sep 04 2018

BOA

    260,279  

USD

    67,066,203    

GBP

    51,738,912    

Sep 06 2018

BOA

    (24,997 )

USD

    47,254,339    

GBP

    35,953,998    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    606,653  

USD

    55,490,017    

GBP

    42,215,000    

Sep 21 2018

BOA

    714,535  

USD

    2,462,557    

GBP

    1,909,000    

Sep 27 2018

BOA

    (15,064 )

USD

    3,770,701    

HUF

    1,034,237,286    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    91,086  

USD

    13,300,000    

ILS

    48,036,620    

Sep 20 2018

BOA

    (44,150 )

USD

    13,555,391    

INR

    942,781,051    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    293,220  

USD

    2,150,000    

INR

    154,200,039    

Dec 19 2018

BOA

    3,965  

USD

    35,107,502    

JPY

    3,916,820,651    

Sep 04 2018

BOA

    (152,977 )

USD

    28,260,700    

JPY

    3,134,436,630    

Sep 06 2018

BOA

    39,995  

USD

    65,031,678    

JPY

    7,180,942,328    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    318,079  

USD

    67,052,474    

JPY

    7,442,651,000    

Sep 21 2018

BOA

    (29,363 )

USD

    8,639,536    

JPY

    961,815,000    

Sep 27 2018

BOA

    (33,245 )

USD

    14,521,895    

KRW

    16,227,032,991    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (61,500 )

USD

    8,145,180    

MXN

    162,295,217    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (323,560 )

USD

    3,324,334    

MXN

    68,718,000    

Sep 21 2018

BOA

    (260,299 )

USD

    8,031,930    

NOK

    65,714,806    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    189,867  

USD

    434,843    

NZD

    653,939    

Sep 04 2018

BOA

    2,197  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

21

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Currency Purchased

 

Currency Sold

 

Expiration
Date

Counterparty

 

Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

USD

    15,745,100    

NZD

    23,082,022    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

  $ 474,114  

USD

    14,078,334    

NZD

    20,700,000    

Sep 21 2018

BOA

    383,294  

USD

    3,000,000    

PHP

    161,630,429    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (20,642 )

USD

    11,233,022    

PLN

    41,592,090    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    8,613  

USD

    4,950,000    

RUB

    325,335,859    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    139,493  

USD

    2,800,000    

RUB

    192,822,193    

Dec 19 2018

BOA

    (24,307 )

USD

    313,737    

SEK

    2,856,778    

Sep 04 2018

BOA

    1,264  

USD

    13,461,871    

SEK

    118,096,160    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    529,545  

USD

    18,324,000    

SGD

    25,142,415    

Sep 10 2018

BOA

    4,073  

USD

    12,272,066    

SGD

    16,700,907    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    101,364  

USD

    6,250,000    

THB

    206,593,305    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (65,130 )

USD

    9,230,583    

TRY

    45,826,760    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    2,330,808  

USD

    13,948,875    

TWD

    421,350,633    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    214,300  

USD

    12,850,000    

TWD

    391,321,483    

Dec 19 2018

BOA

    9,449  

USD

    8,614,637    

ZAR

    118,959,928    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    540,588  

ZAR

    94,746,277    

USD

    7,047,924    

Sep 19 2018

BOA

    (617,304 )

Total Forward Foreign Currency Contracts

  $ 2,035,114  

 

 

Put/Call

 

Counterparty

 

Number Of
Contracts

   

Notional
Amount

   

Value

 

Purchased Options — 0.1%

                             

3-Month Euro Euribor, Expires 12/16/19, Strike Price $99.50

Put

 

BAML

    4,356       EUR 174,457,800     $ 158,007  

IMM Eurodollar Futures, Expires 12/17/18, Strike Price $97.25

Put

 

BAML

    2,192       EUR 85,387,168       82,200  

IMM Eurodollar Futures, Expires 12/17/18, Strike Price $97.375

Put

 

BAML

    2,207       EUR 85,971,478       344,844  

TOTAL PURCHASED OPTIONS (COST $1,694,333)

                      $ 585,051  

 

Written Options — (0.0)%

                             

3-Month Euro Euribor, Expires 12/16/19, Strike Price $99.375

Put

 

BAML

    4,356       EUR 174,457,800     $ (126,406 )

IMM Eurodollar Futures, Expires 12/17/18, Strike Price $97.125

Put

 

BAML

    4,399       EUR 171,358,646       (27,494 )

TOTAL WRITTEN OPTIONS (PREMIUMS RECEIVED $951,080)

                  $ (153,900 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

22

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Concluded)

August 31, 2018

 

AUD Australian Dollar INR Indian Rupee
BAML Bank of America Merrill Lynch JPY Japanese Yen
BOA Bank of America KRW Korean Won
BRL Brazilian Real LME London Mercantile Exchange
CAD Canadian Dollar MXN Mexican Peso
CBOT Chicago Board of Trade NOK Norwegian Krone
CHF Swiss Franc NZD New Zealand Dollar
CLP Chilean Peso PHP Philippine Peso
CNH Chinese Yuan Renminbi PLN Polish Zloty
COP Colombian Peso RBOB Reformulated Blendstock for Oxygenate Blending
CZK Czech Koruna RUB Russian Ruble
DAX Deutscher Aktienindex SEK Swedish Krona
DJIA Dow Jones Industrial Average SGD Singapore Dollar
EUR Euro SGX Singapore Exchange
FTSE Financial Times Stock Exchange THB Thai Baht
GBP British Pound TRY Turkish Lira
HUF Hungarian Forint TSX Toronto Stock Exchange
IBEX Index of the Bolsa de Madrid TWD Taiwan Dollar
ICE Intercontinental Exchange USD United States Dollar
ILS Israeli New Shekel WTI West Texas Intermediate
IMM International Monetary Market ZAR South African Rand

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

23

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Statement of Assets And Liabilities

August 31, 2018

 

ASSETS

       

Investments, at value (cost $732,595,501)

  $ 731,516,691  

Cash

    66,245,427  

Deposits with broker for forward foreign currency contracts

    6,864,280  

Deposits with broker for futures contracts

    106,617,946  

Receivables for:

       

Capital shares sold

    3,400,643  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    14,062,659  

Unrealized appreciation on futures contracts

    37,413,419  

Prepaid expenses and other assets

    62,818  

Total assets

    966,183,883  
         

LIABILITIES

       

Options written, at value (premiums received $951,080)

    153,900  

Due to broker

    261,896  

Payables for:

       

Capital shares redeemed

    2,084,429  

Advisory fees

    1,381,349  

Administration and accounting services fees

    80,186  

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    12,027,545  

Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts

    12,531,007  

Other accrued expenses and liabilities

    206,246  

Total liabilities

    28,726,558  

Net assets

  $ 937,457,325  
         

NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:

       

Par value

  $ 82,536  

Paid-in capital

    927,485,043  

Accumulated net investment income/(loss)

    (16,745,577 )

Accumulated net realized gain/(loss) from investments, futures contracts, foreign currency transactions, forward foreign currency contracts and written options

    (6,346 )

Net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments, futures contracts, foreign currency translations, forward foreign currency contracts and written options

    26,641,669  

Net assets

  $ 937,457,325  
         

CLASS A SHARES:

       

Net assets

  $ 15,538,683  

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    1,377,842  

Net asset value and redemption price per share

  $ 11.28  

Maximum offering price per share (100/94.25 of $11.28)

  $ 11.97  
         

CLASS I SHARES:

       

Net assets

  $ 913,437,151  

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    80,391,088  

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share

  $ 11.36  
         

CLASS C SHARES:

       

Net assets

  $ 8,481,491  

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    767,083  

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share

  $ 11.06  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

24

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Statement of Operations

For the Year Ended August 31, 2018

 

INVESTMENT INCOME

       

Interest

  $ 12,879,592  

Total investment income

    12,879,592  

EXPENSES

       

Advisory fees (Note 2)

    16,454,372  

Administration and accounting services fees (Note 2)

    400,972  

Registration and filing fees

    122,659  

Legal fees

    92,671  

Printing and shareholder reporting fees

    85,513  

Transfer agent fees (Note 2)

    84,512  

Distribution fees (Class C Shares) (Note 2)

    68,748  

Distribution fees (Class A Shares) (Note 2)

    35,600  

Audit and tax service fees

    64,916  

Director’s fees

    56,510  

Officer’s fees

    33,100  

Custodian fees (Note 2)

    21,977  

Other expenses

    67,564  

Total expenses before waivers and/or reimbursements

    17,589,114  

Less: waivers and/or reimbursements (Note 2)

    (815,529 )

Net expenses after waivers and/or reimbursements

    16,773,585  

Net investment income/(loss)

    (3,893,993 )

NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) FROM INVESTMENTS

       

Net realized gain/(loss) from:

       

Investments

    3,629,872  

Futures contracts

    23,105,382  

Foreign currency transactions

    307,006  

Forward foreign currency contracts

    (11,429,103 )

Written options

    (5,460,038 )

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on:

       

Investments

    (857,236 )

Futures contracts

    2,188,372  

Foreign currency translations

    5,773  

Forward foreign currency contracts

    (277,940 )

Written options

    744,930  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    11,957,018  

NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS

  $ 8,063,025  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

25

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

INCREASE/(DECRASE) IN NET ASSET FROM OPERATIONS:

               

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ (3,893,993 )   $ (10,879,903 )

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments, futures contracts, foreign currency transactions, forward foreign currency contracts and written options

    10,153,119       (50,609,874 )

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments, futures contracts, foreign currency translations, forward foreign currency contracts and written options

    1,803,899       20,193,769  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    8,063,025       (41,296,008 )

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

               

Class A Shares

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    5,261,446       9,247,071  

Shares redeemed

    (5,290,537 )     (10,029,596 )

Total from Class A Shares

    (29,091 )     (782,525 )

Class I Shares

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    552,444,530       561,507,438  

Shares redeemed

    (419,282,057 )     (489,198,240 )

Total from Class I Shares

    133,162,473       72,309,198  

Class C Shares

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    1,216,630       6,146,653  

Shares redeemed

    (2,231,665 )     (4,447,796 )

Total from Class C Shares

    (1,015,035 )     1,698,857  

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

    132,118,347       73,225,530  

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    140,181,372       31,929,522  

NET ASSETS:

               

Beginning of period

    797,275,953       765,346,431  

End of period

  $ 937,457,325     $ 797,275,953  

Accumulated net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $ (16,745,577 )   $ (10,612,633 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

26

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Net Assets (Concluded)

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

               

Class A Shares

               

Shares sold

    467,333       807,849  

Shares redeemed

    (471,065 )     (881,702 )

Total Class A Shares

    (3,732 )     (73,853 )

Class I Shares

               

Shares sold

    48,188,097       49,037,837  

Shares redeemed

    (36,743,166 )     (42,813,179 )

Total Class I Shares

    11,444,931       6,224,658  

Class C Shares

               

Shares sold

    107,360       539,738  

Shares redeemed

    (199,506 )     (395,929 )

Total Class C Shares

    (92,146 )     143,809  

Net increase/(decrease) in shares outstanding

    11,349,053       6,294,614  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

27

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for Class A Shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the consolidated financial statements.

 

   

Class A Shares

 
   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2018

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2017

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2016

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2015
(1)

 

Per Share Operating Performance

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 11.15     $ 11.77     $ 12.01     $ 10.36  

Net investment income/(loss)(2)

    (0.07 )     (0.18 )     (0.24 )     (0.27 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss)
from investments

    0.20       (0.44 )     0.01       2.14  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting
from operations

    0.13       (0.62 )     (0.23 )     1.87  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                               

Net investment income

                (0.01 )     (0.21 )

Net realized capital gains

                      (0.01 )

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

                (0.01 )     (0.22 )

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 11.28     $ 11.15     $ 11.77     $ 12.01  

Total investment return(3)

    1.08 %     (5.18 )%     (1.94 )%     18.17 %

Ratios/Supplemental Data

                               

Net assets, end of period (000's omitted)

  $ 15,539     $ 15,401     $ 17,125     $ 11,013  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets with
waivers and/or reimbursements (including
interest expense)(4)

    2.04 %     2.14 %     2.26 %     2.28 %

Ratio of expenses to average net assets with
waivers and/or reimbursements (excluding
interest expense)(4)

    2.04 %     2.14 %     2.24 %     2.24 %

Ratio of expenses to average net assets without
waivers and/or reimbursements (including
interest expense)(4)

    2.13 %     2.28 %     2.42 %     2.71 %

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to
average net assets

    (0.65 )%     (1.60 )%     (2.01 )%     (2.23 )%

Portfolio turnover rate

    0 %     0 %     0 %     0 %

 

 

(1)

Inception date of Class A Shares of the Fund was August 29, 2014.

(2)

Calculated based on average shares outstanding for the period.

(3)

Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each year reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any. Total return does not reflect any applicable sales charge.

(4)

Effective February 28, 2017, the Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding acquired Fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) to 2.04% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class A Shares. Prior to February 28, 2017, the contractual fee waiver limited total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) to 2.24% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class A Shares.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

28

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Financial Highlights (Continued)

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for Class I Shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the consolidated financial statements.

 

   

Class I Shares

 
   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2018

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2017

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2016

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2015

   

For the
Period
Ended
August 31,
2014
(1)

 

Per Share Operating Performance

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 11.20     $ 11.80     $ 12.03     $ 10.36     $ 10.00  

Net investment income/(loss)(2)

    (0.05 )     (0.15 )     (0.21 )     (0.24 )     (0.03 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    0.21       (0.45 )     0.01       2.14       0.39  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    0.16       (0.60 )     (0.20 )     1.90       0.36  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                                       

Net investment income

                (0.03 )     (0.22 )      

Net realized capital gains

                      (0.01 )      

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

                (0.03 )     (0.23 )      

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 11.36     $ 11.20     $ 11.80     $ 12.03     $ 10.36  

Total investment return(3)

    1.34 %     (5.00 )%     (1.68 )%     18.46 %     3.60 %(4)

Ratios/Supplemental Data

                                       

Net assets, end of period (000's omitted)

  $ 913,437     $ 772,413     $ 739,842     $ 220,441     $ 24,349  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets
with waivers and/or reimbursements
(including interest expense)(6)

    1.79 %     1.89 %     2.01 %     2.03 %     2.01 %(5)

Ratio of expenses to average net assets
with waivers and/or reimbursements
(excluding interest expense)(6)

    1.79 %     1.89 %     1.99 %     1.99 %     1.99 %(5)

Ratio of expenses to average net assets
without waivers and/or reimbursements
(including interest expense)(6)

    1.88 %     2.03 %     2.17 %     2.46 %     4.71 %(5)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    (0.40 )%     (1.35 )%     (1.76 )%     (1.98 )%     (1.99 )%(5)

Portfolio turnover rate

    0 %     0 %     0 %     0 %     0 %(4)

 

 

(1)

Inception date of Class I Shares of the Fund was July 1, 2014.

(2)

Calculated based on average shares outstanding for the period.

(3)

Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

(4)

Not annualized.

(5)

Annualized.

(6)

Effective February 28, 2017, the Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding acquired Fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) to 1.79% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class I Shares. Prior to February 28, 2017, the contractual fee waiver limited total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) to 1.99% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class I Shares.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

29

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Consolidated Financial Highlights (Concluded)

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for Class C Shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the consolidated financial statements.

 

   

Class C Shares

 
   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2018

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2017

   

For the
Period
Ended
August 31,
2016
(1)

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 11.01     $ 11.71     $ 11.99  

Net investment income/(loss)(2)

    (0.16 )     (0.26 )     (0.30 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    0.21       (0.44 )     0.03  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    0.05       (0.70 )     (0.27 )

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                       

Net investment income

                (0.01 )

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

                (0.01 )

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 11.06     $ 11.01     $ 11.71  

Total investment return(3)

    0.36 %     (5.89 )%     (2.22 )%(4)

Ratios/Supplemental Data

                       

Net assets, end of period (000's omitted)

  $ 8,481     $ 9,462     $ 8,380  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets with waivers and/or reimbursements (including interest expense)(6)

    2.79 %     2.89 %     3.01 %(5)

Ratio of expenses to average net assets with waivers and/or reimbursements (excluding interest expense)(6)

    2.79 %     2.89 %     2.99 %(5)

Ratio of expenses to average net assets without waivers and/or reimbursements (including interest expense)(6)

    2.88 %     3.03 %     3.17 %(5)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    (1.40 )%     (2.35 )%     (2.76 )%(5)

Portfolio turnover rate

    0 %     0 %     0 %(7)

 

 

(1)

Inception date of Class C Shares of the Fund was October 6, 2015.

(2)

Calculated based on average shares outstanding for the period.

(3)

Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of the period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

(4)

Not annualized.

(5)

Annualized.

(6)

Effective February 28, 2017, the Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding acquired Fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) to 2.79% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class C Shares. Prior to February 28, 2017, the contractual fee waiver limited total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) to 2.99% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class C Shares.

(7)

Portfolio turnover rate is calculated for the Fund, as a whole, for the entire period.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

30

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements

August 31, 2018

 

1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

 

The RBB Fund, Inc. (“RBB” or the “Company”) was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on February 29, 1988 and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. RBB is a “series fund,” which is a mutual fund divided into separate portfolios. Each portfolio is treated as a separate entity for certain matters under the 1940 Act, and for other purposes, and a shareholder of one portfolio is not deemed to be a shareholder of any other portfolio. Currently, RBB has thirty active investment portfolios, including the Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund (the “Fund”), which commenced investment operations on July 1, 2014. The Fund is authorized to offer four classes of shares, Class A Shares, Class I Shares, Class C Shares and Class T Shares. Class A Shares are sold subject to a front-end maximum sales charge of 5.75%. Front-end sales charges may be reduced or waived under certain circumstances. Class T Shares are not currently available for sale.

 

RBB has authorized capital of one hundred billion shares of common stock of which 87.023 billion shares are currently classified into one hundred and eighty-one classes of common stock. Each class represents an interest in an active or inactive RBB investment portfolio.

 

The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by allocating its assets between a “Managed Futures” strategy and a “Fixed Income” strategy.

 

The Fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 – “Financial Services – Investment Companies.”

 

The end of the reporting period for the Fund is August 31, 2018, and the period covered by these Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements is the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018 (the “current fiscal period”).

 

Consolidation of Subsidiary — The Managed Futures strategy will be achieved by the Fund investing up to 25% of its total assets in Abbey Capital Offshore Fund Limited (the “Subsidiary”), a wholly-owned and controlled subsidiary of the Fund organized under the laws of the Cayman Islands. The consolidated financial statements of the Fund include the financial statements of the Subsidiary. The Fund consolidates the results of subsidiaries in which the Fund holds a controlling financial interest (greater than 50%). All inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated. As of the end of the reporting period, the net assets of the Subsidiary were $173,327,861, which represented 18.49% of the Fund’s net assets.

 

Portfolio Valuation — The Fund’s net asset value (“NAV”) is calculated once daily at the close of regular trading hours on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on each day the NYSE is open. Securities held by the Fund are valued using the closing price or the last sale price on a national securities exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automatic Quotation System (“NASDAQ”) market system where they are primarily traded. Fixed income securities are valued using an independent pricing service, which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings, and are deemed representative of market values at the close of the market. Forward exchange contracts are valued by interpolating between spot and forward currency rates as quoted by an independent pricing service. Futures contracts are generally valued using the settlement price determined by the relevant exchange. Options for which the primary market is a national securities exchange are valued at the last sale price on the exchange on which they are traded, or, in the absence of any sale, will be valued at the mean of the last bid and ask prices prior to the market close. Options not traded on a national securities exchange are valued at the last quoted bid price for long option positions and the closing ask price for short option positions. If market quotations are unavailable or deemed unreliable, securities will be valued in accordance with procedures adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”). Relying on prices supplied by pricing services or dealers or using fair valuation may result in values that are higher or lower than the values used by other investment companies and investors to price the same investments.

 

Fair Value Measurements — The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the Fund’s investments are summarized into three levels as described in the hierarchy below:

 

 

● Level 1 –

Prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

 

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Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

 

● Level 2 –

Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).

 

 

● Level 3 –

Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of the end of the reporting period, in valuing the Fund’s investments carried at fair value:

 

 

 

Total

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

 

Short-Term Investments

  $ 730,931,640     $ 730,931,640     $     $  

Commodity Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

    13,081,408       13,081,408              

Equity Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

    11,361,388       11,361,388              

Foreign Currency Contracts

                               

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts

    14,062,659             14,062,659        

Futures Contracts

    7,191,870       7,191,870              

Interest Rate Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

    5,778,753       5,778,753              

Purchased Options

    585,051       585,051              

Total Assets

  $ 782,992,769     $ 768,930,110     $ 14,062,659     $  

 

 

 

Total

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

 

Commodity Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

  $ (7,469,990 )   $ (7,469,990 )   $     $  

Equity Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

    (2,543,576 )     (2,543,576 )            

Foreign Currency Contracts

                               

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts

    (12,027,545 )           (12,027,545 )      

Futures Contracts

    (1,011,692 )     (1,011,692 )            

Interest Rate Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

    (1,505,749 )     (1,505,749 )            

Written Options

    (153,900 )     (153,900 )            

Total Liabilities

  $ (24,712,452 )   $ (12,684,907 )   $ (12,027,545 )   $  

 

At the end of each quarter, management evaluates the classification of Levels 1, 2 and 3 assets and liabilities. Various factors are considered, such as changes in liquidity from the prior reporting period; whether or not a broker is willing to execute at the quoted price; the depth and consistency of prices from third party pricing services; and the existence of contemporaneous, observable trades in the market. Additionally, management evaluates the classification of Level 1 and Level 2 assets and liabilities on a quarterly basis for changes in listings or delistings on national exchanges.

 

32

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Fund’s investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values the Fund may ultimately realize. Further, such investments may be subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities.

 

For fair valuations using significant unobservable inputs, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires the Fund to present a reconciliation of the beginning to ending balances for reported market values that presents changes attributable to total realized and unrealized gains or losses, purchase and sales, and transfers in and out of Level 3 during the period. Transfers in and out between levels are based on values at the end of the period. U.S. GAAP also requires the Fund to disclose amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements. A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented only when the Fund had an amount of Level 3 investments at the end of the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets. The amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of each level within the three-tier hierarchy are disclosed when the Fund had an amount of total transfers during the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets as of the end of the reporting period.

 

During the current fiscal period, the Fund had no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3.

 

Disclosures about Derivative instruments and Hedging Activities Derivative instruments are defined as financial instruments whose value and performance are based on the value and performance of another security or financial instrument. Derivative instruments that the Fund used during the period include options, forward foreign currency contracts and futures contracts.

 

During the current fiscal period, the Fund used long and short contracts on U.S. and foreign equity market indices, U.S. and foreign government bonds, foreign currencies, interest rates and commodities (through investment in the Subsidiary), to gain investment exposure in accordance with its investment objective.

 

The following tables provide quantitative disclosures about fair value amounts of, and gains and losses on, the Fund’s derivative instruments as of and for the current fiscal period.

 

The following tables list the fair values of the Fund’s derivative holdings as of the end of the reporting period, grouped by contract type and risk exposure category.

 

Derivative Type

Consolidated
Statement
of Assets and
Liabilities
Location

 

Equity
Contracts

   

Interest
Rate
Contracts

   

Foreign
Currency
Contracts

   

Commodity
Contracts

   

Total

 

Asset Derivatives

Purchased Options

Investments, at
value

  $     $ 585,051     $     $     $ 585,051  

Forward Contracts (a)

Unrealized
appreciation on
forward foreign currency contracts

                14,062,659             14,062,659  

Futures Contracts (a)

Unrealized
appreciation on
futures contracts

    11,361,388       5,778,753       7,191,870       13,081,408       37,413,419  

Total Value-
Assets

 

  $ 11,361,388     $ 6,363,804     $ 21,254,529     $ 13,081,408     $ 52,061,129  

 

(a)

This amount represents the cumulative appreciation/(depreciation) of forwards and futures contracts as reported on the Consolidated Portfolio of Investments.

 

33

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Derivative Type

Consolidated
Statement
of Assets and
Liabilities
Location

 

Equity
Contracts

   

Interest
Rate
Contracts

   

Foreign
Currency
Contracts

   

Commodity
Contracts

   

Total

 

Liability Derivatives

Written Options

Options written, at
value

  $     $ (153,900 )   $     $     $ (153,900 )

Forward Contracts (a)

Unrealized
depreciation on
forward foreign currency contracts

                (12,027,545 )           (12,027,545 )

Futures Contracts (a)

Unrealized
depreciation on
futures contracts

    (2,543,576 )     (1,505,749 )     (1,011,692 )     (7,469,990 )     (12,531,007 )

Total Value- Liabilities

 

  $ (2,543,576 )   $ (1,659,649 )   $ (13,039,237 )   $ (7,469,990 )   $ (24,712,452 )

 

(a)

This amount represents the cumulative appreciation/(depreciation) of forwards and futures contracts as reported on the Consolidated Portfolio of Investments.

 

The following table lists the amounts of realized gains/(losses) included in net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations during the current fiscal period, grouped by contract type and risk exposure.

 

Derivative Type

Consolidated
Statement of
Operations
Location

 

Equity
Contracts

   

Interest
Rate
Contracts

   

Foreign
Currency
Contracts

   

Commodity
Contracts

   

Total

 

Realized Gain/(Loss)

Purchased Options

Net realized
gain/(loss) from Investments

  $ (1,067,868 )   $ 5,476,912     $ (1,582,187 )   $ 812,323     $ 3,639,180  

Futures Contracts

Net realized
gain/(loss) from
Futures Contracts

    28,210,274       (6,187,910 )     (4,477,340 )     5,560,358       23,105,382  

Forward Contracts

Net realized
gain/(loss) from
Forward Foreign Currency Contracts

                (11,429,103 )           (11,429,103 )

Written Options

Net realized
gain/(loss) from
Written Options

          (3,295,197 )     (2,164,841 )           (5,460,038 )

Total Realized Gain/(Loss)

 

  $ 27,142,406     $ (4,006,195 )   $ (19,653,471 )   $ 6,372,681     $ 9,855,421  

 

34

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

The following table lists the amounts of change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) included in net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations during the current fiscal period, grouped by contract type and risk exposure.

 

Derivative Type

Consolidated
Statement of
Operations
Location

 

Equity
Contracts

   

Interest
Rate
Contracts

   

Foreign
Currency
Contracts

   

Commodity
Contracts

   

Total

 

Change in Unrealized Appreciation/(Depreciation)

Purchased Options

Net change in
unrealized
appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

  $ 26,260     $ (978,657 )   $ 199,102     $     $ (753,295 )

Futures Contracts

Net change in
unrealized
appreciation/(depreciation) on
futures contracts

    6,263,729       (3,160,593 )     4,585,681       (5,500,445 )     2,188,372  

Forward Contracts

Net change in
unrealized
appreciation/(depreciation) on forward foreign currency contracts

                (277,940 )           (277,940 )

Written Options

Net change in
unrealized
appreciation/(depreciation) on
written options

          744,930                   744,930  

Total Change in Unrealized Appreciation/(Depreciation)

 

  $ 6,289,989     $ (3,394,320 )   $ 4,506,843     $ (5,500,445 )   $ 1,902,067  

 

During the current fiscal period, the Fund’s quarterly average volume of derivatives was as follows:

 

 

Purchased
Options
(Cost)

   

Written
Options
(Proceeds)

   

Long Futures
Notional
Amount

   

Short Futures
Notional
Amount

   

Forward Foreign
Currency
Contracts — Payable
(Value at Trade Date)

   

Forward Foreign
Currency
Contracts —
Receivable
(Value at Trade Date)

 
  $ 2,518,280     $ (1,063,940 )   $ 3,169,513,516     $ (2,621,941,815 )   $ (1,992,170,099 )   $ 1,990,526,085  

 

For financial reporting purposes, the Fund does not offset fair value amounts recognized for derivative instruments and fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral (receivables) or the obligation to return cash collateral (payables) arising from derivative instruments recognized at fair value executed with the same counterparty under a master netting arrangement.

 

35

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

The following is a summary of financial and derivative instruments that are subject to enforceable master netting agreements (or similar arrangements) and collateral received and pledged in connection with the master netting agreements (or similar arrangements).

 

           

Gross Amount Not
Offset in Consolidated
Statement of
Assets and Liabilities

                     

Gross Amount Not
Offset in Consolidated
Statement of
Assets and Liabilities

         

Description

 

Gross Amount
Presented
in the
Consolidated
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities

   

Financial
Instruments

   

Collateral
Received

   

Net
Amount
(1)

     

Gross Amount
Presented
in the
Consolidated
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities

   

Financial
Instruments

   

Collateral
Pledged
(2)

   

Net
Amount
(3)

 
   

Assets

     

Liabilities

 

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts

  $ 14,062,659     $ (12,027,545 )   $     $ 2,035,114       $ 12,027,545     $ (12,027,545 )   $     $  

 

 
 

(1)

Net amount represents the net amount receivable from the counterparty in the event of default.

 

 

(2)

Actual collateral pledged may be more than the amount shown.

 

 

(3)

Net amount represents the net amount payable to the counterparty in the event of default.

 

Use of Estimates The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and those differences could be significant.

 

Investment Transactions, Investment Income and Expenses The Fund records security transactions based on trade date for financial reporting purposes. The cost of investments sold is determined by use of the specific identification method for both financial reporting and income tax purposes in determining realized gains and losses on investments. Interest income is accrued when earned. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The Fund’s investment income, expenses (other than class specific expenses) and unrealized and realized gains and losses are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class at the beginning of the day. Expenses incurred on behalf of a specific class, fund or fund family of the Company are charged directly to the class, fund or fund family (in proportion to net assets). Expenses incurred for all of the RBB funds (such as director or professional fees) are charged to all funds in proportion to their average net assets of RBB, or in such other manner as the Board deems fair or equitable. Expenses and fees, including investment advisory and administration fees, are accrued daily and taken into account for the purpose of determining the NAV of the Fund.

 

Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid at least annually to shareholders and recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income dividends and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. GAAP.

 

U.S. Tax Status No provision is made for U.S. income taxes as it is the Fund’s intention to continue to qualify for and elect the tax treatment applicable to regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and make the requisite distributions to its shareholders which will be sufficient to relieve it from U.S. income and excise taxes.

 

36

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

For tax purposes, the Subsidiary is an exempted Cayman Islands investment company. The Subsidiary has received an undertaking from the Government of the Cayman Islands exempting it from all local income, profits and capital gains taxes. No such taxes are levied in the Cayman Islands at the present time. For U.S. income tax purposes, the Subsidiary is a Controlled Foreign Corporation and as such is not subject to U.S. income tax.

 

Foreign Currency Translation Assets and liabilities initially expressed in non-U.S. currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the applicable exchange rates at the date of the last business day of the financial statement period. Purchases and sales of securities, interest income, dividends, variation margin received and expenses denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect on the transaction date.

 

The Fund does not separately report the effect of changes in foreign exchange rates from changes in market prices of securities held. Such changes are included with the net realized gain or loss and change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. Other foreign currency transactions resulting in realized and unrealized gain or loss are reported separately as net realized gain or loss and change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on foreign currencies in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

 

Currency Risk Investment in foreign securities involves currency risk associated with securities that trade or are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar and which may be affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates. An increase in the strength of the U.S. dollar relative to a foreign currency may cause the U.S. dollar value of an investment in that country to decline. Foreign currencies also are subject to risks caused by inflation, interest rates, budget deficits and low savings rates, political factors and government controls. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts may limit potential gains from a favorable change in value between the U.S. dollar and foreign currencies. Unanticipated changes in currency pricing may result in poorer overall performance for the Fund than if it had not engaged in these contracts.

 

Commodity Sector Risk Exposure to the commodities markets may subject the Fund to greater volatility than investments in traditional securities. The value of commodity-linked derivative instruments may be affected by changes in overall market movements, commodity index volatility, changes in interest rates or factors affecting a particular industry or commodity, such as drought, floods, weather, livestock disease, embargoes, tariffs and international economic, political and regulatory developments. The prices of energy, industrial metals, precious metals, agriculture and livestock sector commodities may fluctuate widely due to factors such as changes in value, supply and demand and governmental regulatory policies. The commodity-linked securities in which the Fund invests may be issued by companies in the financial services sector, and events affecting the financial services sector may cause the Fund’s share value to fluctuate.

 

Foreign Securities Market Risk A substantial portion of the trades of the Fund are expected to take place on markets or exchanges outside the United States. There is no limit to the amount of assets of the Fund that may be committed to trading on foreign markets. The risk of loss in trading foreign futures and options on futures contracts can be substantial. Participation in foreign futures and options on futures contracts involves the execution and clearing of trades on, or subject to the rules of, a foreign board of trade or exchange. Some of these foreign markets, in contrast to U.S. exchanges, are so-called principals’ markets in which performance is the responsibility only of the individual counterparty with whom the trader has entered into a commodity interest transaction and not of the exchange or clearing corporation. In these kinds of markets, there is risk of bankruptcy or other failure or refusal to perform by the counterparty.

 

Counterparty Risk The derivative contracts entered into by the Fund or its Subsidiary may be privately negotiated in the over-the-counter market. These contracts also involve exposure to credit risk, since contract performance depends in part on the financial condition of the counterparty. Relying on a counterparty exposes the Fund to the risk that a counterparty will not settle a transaction in accordance with its terms and conditions because of a dispute over the terms of the contract (whether or not bona fide) or because of a credit or liquidity problem, thus causing the Fund to suffer a loss. If a counterparty defaults on its payment obligations to the Fund, this default will cause the value of an investment in the Fund to decrease.

 

37

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Credit Risk Credit risk refers to the possibility that the issuer of the security or a counterparty in respect of a derivative instrument will not be able to satisfy its payment obligations to the Fund when due. Changes in an issuer’s credit rating or the market’s perception of an issuer’s creditworthiness may also affect the value of the Fund’s investment in that issuer. Securities rated in the four highest categories by the rating agencies are considered investment grade but they may also have some speculative characteristics. Investment grade ratings do not guarantee that bonds will not lose value or default. In addition, the credit quality of securities may be lowered if an issuer’s financial condition changes.

 

Options An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right, in exchange for a premium, to assume a position in a futures contract at a specified exercise price during the term of the option. The Fund may use futures contracts and related options for: bona fide hedging; attempting to offset changes in the value of securities held or expected to be acquired or be disposed of; attempting to minimize fluctuations in foreign currencies; attempting to gain exposure to a particular market, index or instrument; or other risk management purposes. The risk associated with purchasing an option is that the Fund pays a premium whether or not the option is exercised. Additionally, the Fund bears the risk of loss of premium and change in market value should the counterparty not perform under the contract. Put and call options are accounted for in the same manner as other securities owned. The cost of securities acquired through the exercise of call options is increased by the premiums paid. The proceeds from securities sold through the exercise of put options are decreased by the premiums paid.

 

Options Written The Fund may enter into options written for: bona fide hedging; attempting to offset changes in the value of securities held or expected to be acquired or be disposed of; attempting to minimize fluctuations in foreign currencies; attempting to gain exposure to a particular market, index or instrument; or other risk management purposes. Such options may relate to particular securities or domestic stock indices, and may or may not be listed on exchanges regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission or on other non-U.S. exchanges. An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right, in return for the premium paid, to assume a position in the contract (a long position if the option is a call and a short position if the option is a put) at a specified exercise price at any time during the option exercise period. The writer of the option is required upon exercise to assume a short futures position (if the option is a call) or a long futures position (if the option is a put). Upon exercise of the option, the accumulated cash balance in the writer’s futures margin account is delivered to the holder of the option. That balance represents the amount by which the market price of the futures contract at exercise exceeds, in the case of a call, or is less than, in the case of a put, the exercise price of the option. The maximum risk of loss associated with writing put options is limited to the exercised fair value of the option contract. The maximum risk of loss associated with writing call options is potentially unlimited. The Fund also has the additional risk of being unable to enter into a closing transaction at an acceptable price if a liquid secondary market does not exist. The Fund also may write over-the-counter options where completing the obligation depends upon the credit standing of the other party. Option contracts also involve the risk that they may result in loss due to unanticipated developments in market conditions or other causes. Written options are initially recorded as liabilities to the extent of premiums received and subsequently marked to market to reflect the current value of the option written. Gains or losses are realized when the option transaction expires or closes. When an option is exercised, the proceeds on sales for a written call option or the purchase cost for a written put option is adjusted by the amount of the premium received. Listed option contracts present minimal counterparty credit risk since they are exchange traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded options, guarantees the options against default. As of the end of the reporting period, all of the Fund’s written options are exchange-traded options.

 

Futures Contracts The Fund may use futures contracts in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. Upon entering into a futures contract, the Fund must deposit initial margin in addition to segregating cash or liquid assets sufficient to meet its obligation to purchase or provide securities, or to pay the amount owed at the expiration of an index-based futures contract. Such liquid assets may consist of cash, cash equivalents, liquid debt or equity securities or other acceptable assets. Pursuant to the futures contract, the Fund agrees to receive from, or pay to the broker, an amount of cash equal to the daily fluctuation in value of the contract. Such a receipt of payment is known as “variation margin” and is recorded by the Fund as an unrealized gain or loss. When the contract is closed, the Fund records a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the proceeds from (or cost of) the closing transactions and the Fund’s basis in the contract. Futures contracts have market risks, including the risk that the change in the value

 

38

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

of the contract may not correlate with changes in the value of the underlying securities. Use of long futures contracts subjects the Fund to risk of loss in excess of the amount shown on the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities, up to the notional value of the futures contract. Use of short futures contracts subjects the Fund to unlimited risk of loss.

 

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts In the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives, the Fund is subject to foreign investment and currency risk. The Fund uses forward foreign currency contracts (“forward contracts”) for purposes of hedging, duration management, as a substitute for securities, to increase returns, for currency hedging or risk management, or to otherwise help achieve the Fund’s investment goal. These contracts are marked-to-market daily at the applicable translation rates. The Fund records realized gains or losses at the time the forward contract is closed. A forward contract is extinguished through a closing transaction or upon delivery of the currency or entering an offsetting contract. Risks may arise upon entering these contracts from the potential inability of a counterparty to meet the terms of their contracts and from unanticipated movements in the value of a foreign currency relative to the U.S. dollar or other currencies. The Fund’s maximum risk of loss from counterparty credit risk related to forward foreign currency contracts is the fair value of the contract. The risk may be mitigated to some extent if a master netting arrangement between the Fund and the counterparty is in place and to the extent the Fund obtains collateral to cover the Fund’s exposure to the counterparty.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents Cash and cash equivalents are valued at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates market value.

 

Other In the normal course of business, the Fund may enter into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made against the Fund in the future, and, therefore, cannot be estimated; however, based on experience, the risk of material loss from such claims is considered remote.

 

2. Investment Adviser and Other Services

 

Abbey Capital Limited (“Abbey Capital” or the “Adviser”) serves as the investment adviser to the Fund and its Subsidiary. The Adviser allocates the assets of the Subsidiary to one or more Trading Advisers unaffiliated with the Adviser to manage. The Adviser also has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the Trading Advisers, and to recommend their hiring, termination and replacement, subject to approval by the Board. The Fund compensates the Adviser for its services at an annual rate based on the Fund’s average daily net assets (the “Advisory Fee”), payable on a monthly basis in arrears, as shown in the following table. The Adviser compensates the Trading Advisers out of the Advisory Fee.

 

The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) to the rates (“Expense Caps”) shown in the following table of the Fund’s average daily net assets. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed the Expense Caps as applicable: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary expenses, interest and taxes. This contractual limitation is in effect until December 31, 2019 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board. The Adviser may discontinue these arrangements at any time after December 31, 2019.

 

Advisory
Fee

Expense Caps

 

Class A

Class I

Class C

Class T

1.77%

2.04%

1.79%

2.79%

2.04%

 

39

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

During the current fiscal period, investment advisory fees accrued, waived and/or reimbursed were as follows:

 

Gross
Advisory
Fees

Waivers

Net
Advisory
Fees

$16,454,372

$(815,529)

$15,638,843

 

If at any time the Fund’s total annual fund operating expenses (not including acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) for a year are less than the relevant share class’s Expense Cap, the Adviser may recoup any waived or reimbursed amounts from the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement.

 

As of the end of the reporting period, the Fund had amounts available for recoupment as follows:

 

Expiration

August 31,
2019

August 31,
2020

August 31,
2021

Total

$801,204

$1,087,123

$815,529

$2,703,856

 

Altis Partners (Jersey) Limited, Aspect Capital Limited, Cantab Capital Partners LLP, Conquest Capital, LLC, Eclipse Capital Management, Inc., Graham Capital Management, LP, Harmonic Capital Partners LLP, P/E Global, LLC, Revolution Capital Management, LLC, Trigon Investment Advisors, LLC, Tudor Investment Corporation and Welton Investment Partners, LLC each served as a Trading Adviser to the Fund during the period.

 

Effective October 4, 2017, Conquest Capital LLC no longer serves as a Trading Adviser to the Fund. Effective February 8, 2018, Harmonic Capital Partners LLP no longer serves as a Trading Adviser to the Fund. Effective March 5, 2018, Tudor Investment Corporation serves as a Trading Adviser to the Fund.

 

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (“Fund Services”), doing business as U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, serves as administrator for the Fund. For providing administrative and accounting services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Fund Services serves as the Fund’s transfer and dividend disbursing agent. For providing transfer agent services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

U.S. Bank, N.A. (the “Custodian”) provides certain custodial services to the Fund. The Custodian is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Quasar Distributors, LLC serves as the principal underwriter and distributor of the Fund’s shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with RBB.

 

For compensation amounts paid to Fund Services and the Custodian, please refer to the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

 

The Board has adopted a Plan of Distribution for the Class A Shares, Class C Shares and Class T Shares (the “Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Under the Plan, the Fund’s distributor is entitled to receive from the Fund a distribution fee with respect to the Shares, which is accrued daily and paid monthly, of up to 0.25% on an annualized basis of the average daily net assets of the Class A Shares and Class T Shares and up to 1.00% of the Class C Shares. The actual amount of such compensation under the Plan is agreed upon by the Board and by the Distributor. Because these fees are paid out of the Fund’s assets on an ongoing basis, over time these fees will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other types of sales charges. Amounts paid to the Distributor under the Plan

 

40

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

may be used by the Distributor to cover expenses that are related to (i) the sale of the Shares, (ii) ongoing servicing and/or maintenance of the accounts of shareholders, and (iii) sub-transfer agency services, subaccounting services or administrative services related to the sale of the Shares, all as set forth in the Fund’s 12b-1 Plan.

 

3. Director’s And Officer’s Compensation

 

The Directors of the Company receive an annual retainer and meeting fees for meetings attended. Employees of Vigilant Compliance, LLC serve as President, Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Treasurer of the Company. Vigilant Compliance, LLC is compensated for the services provided to the Company. An employee of RBB serves as Treasurer and Secretary and is compensated for services provided. Certain employees of Fund Services serve as officers of the Company. They are not compensated by the Fund or the Company. For Director’s and Officer’s compensation amounts, please refer to the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

 

4. Purchases and Sales of Investment Securities

 

During the current fiscal period, aggregate purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding short-term investments and derivative transactions) of the Fund were as follows:

 

 

Purchases

Sales

Investments in Non U.S. Government Securities

$—

$—

Investments in U.S. Government Securities

$—

$—

 

5. Federal Income Tax Information

 

The Fund has followed the authoritative guidance on accounting for and disclosure of uncertainty in tax positions, which requires the Fund to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Fund has determined that there was no effect on the consolidated financial statements from following this authoritative guidance. In the normal course of business, the Fund is subject to examination by federal, state and local jurisdictions, where applicable, for tax years for which applicable statutes of limitations have not expired.

 

As of August 31, 2018, the federal tax cost and aggregate gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of investments held by the Fund were as follows:

 

Federal Tax
Cost

Unrealized
Appreciation

Unrealized
(Depreciation)

Net
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

$842,064,304

$31,931,094

$—

$31,931,094

 

Distributions to shareholders, if any, from net investment income and realized gains are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from net investment income and realized gains recognized for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. To the extent these differences are permanent, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts based on the tax treatment; temporary differences do not require such reclassification.

 

41

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

The following permanent differences as of August 31, 2018, primarily attributable to disallowed book income from Subsidiary, were reclassified to the following accounts:

 

Undistributed
Net Investment
Income/(Loss)

Accumulated
Net Realized
Gain/(Loss)

Paid-In
Capital

$(2,238,951)

$(10,155,021)

$12,393,972

 

As of August 31, 2018, the components of distributable earnings/(deficits) on a tax basis were as follows:

 

Undistributed
Ordinary
Income

Undistributed
Long-Term
Capital Gains

Net Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

Capital Loss
Carryforwards

Qualified
Late-Year
Losses

Other
Temporary
Differences

$1,066,640

$—

$8,829,452

$(6,346)

$—

$—

 

The differences between the book and tax basis components of distributable earnings/(deficits) relate principally to the timing of recognition of income and gains of the Subsidiary for federal income tax purposes.

 

The tax character of dividends and distributions paid during the fiscal years ended August 31, 2018 and 2017, were as follows:

 

 

Ordinary
Income

Long-Term
Gains

Total

2018

$—

$—

$—

2017

 

Accumulated capital losses represent net capital loss carry forwards as of August 31, 2018 that may be available to offset future realized capital gains and thereby reduce future capital gains distributions. Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010, the Fund is permitted to carry forward capital losses incurred in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 for an unlimited period. Additionally, capital losses that are carried forward will retain their character as either short-term or long-term capital losses rather than being considered all short-term as under the previous law. As of August 31, 2018, the Fund had unexpiring capital loss carryforwards of $6,346.

 

6. New Accounting Pronouncements

 

In August 2018, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”). The primary focus of ASU 2018-13 is to improve the effectiveness of the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The changes affect all companies that are required to include fair value measurement disclosures. In general, the amendments in ASU 2018-13 are effective for all affected entities for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. An affected entity is permitted to adopt the removed or modified disclosures upon the issuance of ASU 2018-13 and may delay adoption of the additional disclosures, which are required for public companies only, until their effective date. Management is currently evaluating the impact these changes will have on the Fund’s consolidated financial statements and disclosures.

 

42

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Concluded)

August 31, 2018

 

7. Subsequent Events

 

Management has evaluated the impact of all subsequent events on the Fund through the date the consolidated financial statements were issued and has determined that there was the following subsequent event:

 

A reorganization of the Fund’s use of subsidiary companies to achieve its Managed Futures investment strategy occurred on or about October 1, 2018. The reorganization did not give rise to any changes in the Fund’s investment strategy or exposures. The following is a summary of the key aspects of the reorganization. Shareholders should refer to the Fund’s prospectus, as supplemented on September 18, 2018, for additional information. Effective on or about October 1, 2018:

 

(i) The Fund may invest up to 25% of its assets in the newly created Abbey Capital Master Offshore Fund Limited, a wholly-owned and controlled subsidiary of the Fund organized under the laws of the Cayman Islands (the “Cayman Subsidiary”). The Fund’s current wholly-owned subsidiary, the Abbey Capital Offshore Fund Limited became a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Cayman Subsidiary through a share exchange between the Fund and the Cayman Subsidiary and registered as a segregated portfolio company under the laws of the Cayman Islands under the name Abbey Capital Offshore Fund SPC (the “SPC”). The Cayman Subsidiary serves solely as an intermediate entity through which the Fund invests in the SPC and makes no independent investment decisions and has no investment or other discretion over the Fund’s investable assets.

 

(ii) The Fund may also invest a portion of its assets in segregated series of another new wholly-owned subsidiary of the Fund, the Abbey Capital Onshore Series LLC (the “Onshore Subsidiary”), which was formed on August 16, 2018.

 

43

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

To the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. and
Shareholders of Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statement of assets and liabilities of Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund (the “Fund”) (one of the portfolios constituting The RBB Fund, Inc. (the “Company”)), including the consolidated portfolio of investments, as of August 31, 2018, and the related consolidated statement of operations for the year then ended, the consolidated statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, the consolidated financial highlights for each of the four years in the period then ended and the period July 1, 2014 (commencement of operations) to August 31, 2014 and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Fund (one of the portfolios constituting The RBB Fund, Inc.) at August 31, 2018, the consolidated results of its operations for the year then ended, the consolidated changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended and its consolidated financial highlights for each of the four years in the period then ended and the period July 1, 2014 (commencement of operations) to August 31, 2014, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

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

 

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

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2018, by correspondence with the custodian and brokers or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from brokers were not received. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

 

We have served as the auditor of one or more Abbey Capital investment companies since 2014.

 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 30, 2018

 

44

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Shareholder Tax Information

(Unaudited)

 

Certain tax information regarding the Fund is required to be provided to shareholders based upon the Fund’s income and distributions for the taxable year ended August 31, 2018. The information and distribution reported herein may differ from information and distributions taxable to the shareholders for the calendar year ended December 31, 2018. During the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, the Fund paid no ordinary income dividends to its shareholders. Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal income tax purposes.

 

Because the Fund’s fiscal year is not the calendar year, another notification will be sent with respect to calendar year 2018. The second notification, which will reflect the amount, if any, to be used by calendar year taxpayers on their U.S. federal income tax returns, will be made in conjunction with Form 1099-DIV and will be mailed in January 2019.

 

Foreign shareholders will generally be subject to U.S. withholding tax on the amount of their ordinary income dividends. They will generally not be entitled to a foreign tax credit or deduction for the withholding taxes paid by the Fund, if any.

 

In general, dividends received by tax exempt recipients (e.g., IRAs and Keoghs) need not be reported as taxable income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, some retirement trusts (e.g., corporate, Keogh and 403(b)(7) plans) may need this information for their annual information reporting.

 

Shareholders are advised to consult their own tax advisers with respect to the tax consequences of their investment in the Fund.

 

45

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Other Information

(Unaudited)

 

Proxy Voting

 

Policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities as well as information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities for the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 are available without charge, upon request, by calling (844) 261-6484 and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Quarterly Portfolio Schedules

 

The Company files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third fiscal quarters of each fiscal year (quarters ended November 30 and May 31) on Form N-Q. The Company’s Form N-Q is available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov and may be reviewed and copied at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the SEC Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.

 

Approval of Advisory Agreements and Trading Advisory Agreements

 

As required by the 1940 Act, the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Company, including all of the Directors who are not “interested persons” of the Company, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act (the “Independent Directors”), considered (1) the renewal of the investment advisory agreement between Abbey Capital and the Company on behalf of the Fund (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”), (2) the renewal of the investment advisory agreement between Abbey Capital and Abbey Capital Offshore Limited (“ACOL”) (together with the Investment Advisory Agreement, the “Advisory Agreements”), (3) the renewal of the trading advisory agreements among Abbey Capital and ACOL and each of the Trading Advisers, other than Tudor Investment Corporation (the “Trading Advisory Agreements”), at a meeting of the Board held on May 9-10, 2018 (the “May Meeting”). In addition, the Board, including all of the Independent Directors, considered the approval of a new Trading Advisory Agreement with Tudor Investment Corporation (“Tudor”) at a meeting of the Board held on February 7, 2018 (the “February Meeting” and together with the May Meeting, the “Meeting”). At the Meeting, the Board, including all of the Independent Directors, approved the Advisory Agreements and the Trading Advisory Agreements for an additional one year term and approved the new Trading Advisory Agreement with Tudor for an initial period ending August 16, 2019. The Board’s decision to approve the Advisory Agreements and the Trading Advisory Agreements reflects the exercise of its business judgment to continue the arrangements. In approving the Advisory Agreements and the Trading Advisory Agreements, the Board considered information provided by Abbey Capital and each of the Trading Advisers with the assistance and advice of counsel to the Independent Directors and the Company.

 

In considering the renewal and approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Company and Abbey Capital with respect to the Fund, the Advisory Agreement between ACOL and Abbey Capital, and the Trading Advisory Agreements between Abbey Capital and each Trading Adviser with respect to the Fund and the approval of the new Trading Advisory Agreement with Tudor, the Directors took into account all materials provided prior to and during the Meeting and at other meetings throughout the past year, the presentations made during the Meeting, and the discussions held during the Meeting. Among other things, the Directors considered (i) the nature, extent, and quality of services provided to the Fund by Abbey Capital and each Trading Adviser; (ii) descriptions of the experience and qualifications of the personnel providing those services; (iii) Abbey Capital’s and the Trading Advisers’ investment philosophies and processes; (iv) Abbey Capital’s and the Trading Advisers’ assets under management and client descriptions; (v) Abbey Capital’s and the Trading Advisers’ soft dollar commission and trade allocation policies, including information on the types of research and services obtained in connection with soft dollar commissions; (vi) Abbey Capital’s and the Trading Advisers’ advisory fee arrangements with the Company and other similarly managed clients, as applicable; (vii) Abbey Capital’s and the Trading Advisers’ compliance procedures; (viii) Abbey Capital’s and the Trading Advisers’ financial information and insurance coverage; (ix) the extent to which economies of scale are relevant to the Fund; (x) a report prepared by Broadridge/Lipper comparing the Fund’s management fees and total expense ratio to those of its Lipper Group and comparing the performance of the Fund to the performance of its Lipper Group; and (xi) a report comparing the performance of the Fund to the performance of its benchmark. With respect to the new Trading Advisory

 

46

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Other Information (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

Agreement with Tudor, the Directors considered, among other things, (i) the nature, extent, and quality of services to be provided to the Fund by Tudor; (ii) descriptions of the experience and qualifications of the personnel providing those services; (iii) Tudor’s investment philosophies and processes; (iv) Tudor’s assets under management and client descriptions; (v) Tudor’s soft dollar commission and trade allocation policies; (vi) Tudor’s advisory fee arrangements with the Company and other similarly managed clients, as applicable; (vii) Tudor’s compliance procedures; and (viii) Tudor’s financial information and insurance coverage.

 

As part of their review, the Directors considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by Abbey Capital and each Trading Adviser. The Directors concluded that Abbey Capital and each Trading Adviser had substantial resources to provide services to the Fund and the ACOL, as applicable.

 

The Directors also considered the investment performance of the Fund, noting that the Fund had underperformed its benchmark, the S&P 500® Total Return Index, for the year-to-date, one-year, three-year and since-inception periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors considered the Fund’s investment performance in light of its investment objective and investment strategies. The Directors noted that the Fund ranked in the 2nd quintile within its Lipper Performance Universe for the since-inception period ended December 31, 2017.

 

The Board also considered the advisory fee rate payable by the Fund under the Investment Advisory Agreement. In this regard, information on the fees paid by the Fund and the Fund’s total operating expense ratio (before and after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) were compared to similar information for mutual funds advised by other, unaffiliated investment advisory firms. The Directors also considered the fees payable to each Trading Adviser under the Trading Advisory Agreements and the information provided by Abbey Capital on the services provided by the different Trading Advisers. In this regard, the Directors noted that the fees for each Trading Adviser were payable by Abbey Capital.

 

After reviewing the information regarding Abbey Capital’s and the Trading Advisers’ costs, profitability and economies of scale, and after considering the services to be provided by Abbey Capital and each Trading Adviser, the Directors concluded that the investment advisory fees to be paid by the Fund to Abbey Capital and the trading advisory fees to be paid by Abbey Capital to each Trading Adviser were fair and reasonable and that the Investment Advisory Agreements and Trading Advisory Agreements should be approved and continued for additional one-year periods ending August 16, 2019 and the new Trading Advisory Agreement with Tudor should be approved for an initial period ending August 16, 2019.

 

47

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Company Management

(Unaudited)

 

Directors and Executive Officers

 

The business and affairs of the Company are managed under the direction of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company is organized under and managed pursuant to Maryland law. The Directors and executive officers of the Company, their ages, business addresses and principal occupations during the past five years are set forth below. The statement of additional information (“SAI”) includes additional information about the Directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling (844) 261-6484.

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

Independent Directors

Julian A. Brodsky

615 East Michigan Street Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 85

Director

1988 to present

From 1969 to 2011, Director and Vice Chairman, Comcast Corporation (cable television and communications).

30

AMDOCS Limited (service provider to telecommunications companies).

J. Richard Carnall

615 East Michigan Street Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 79

Director

2002 to present

Since 1984, Director of Haydon Bolts, Inc. (bolt manufacturer) and Parkway Real Estate Company (subsidiary of Haydon Bolts, Inc.); since 2004, Director of Cornerstone Bank.

30

None

Gregory P. Chandler

615 East Michigan Street Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 51

Director

2012 to present

Since 2009, Chief Financial Officer, Emtec, Inc. (information technology consulting/services); from 2003-2009, Managing Director, head of Business Services and IT Services Practice, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC (investment banking/brokerage).

30

Emtec, Inc.; FS Investment Corporation (business development company); FS Energy and Power Fund (business development company); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios)(registered investment company).

Nicholas A. Giordano

615 East Michigan Street Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 75

Director

2006 to present

Since 1997, Consultant, financial services organizations.

30

Kalmar Pooled Investment Trust (registered investment company) (until September 2017); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios) (registered investment company); Independence Blue Cross (healthcare insurance).

Arnold M. Reichman

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 70

Chairman

 

Director

2005 to present

 

1991 to present

Since 2006, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lifebooker, LLC (online beauty and health appointment booking service).

30

Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

 

48

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Company Management (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

Brian T. Shea

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 58

Director

2018 to present

From 2014-2017, Chief Executive Officer, BNY Mellon Investment Services (fund services, global custodian and securities clearing firm); from 1983-2014, Chief Executive Officer and various positions, Pershing LLC (broker dealer, clearing and custody firm).

30

WisdomTree Investments, Inc. (asset management company); Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (financial services technology company).

Robert A. Straniere

615 East Michigan Street Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 77

Director

2006 to present

Since 2009, Administrative Law Judge, New York City; since 1980, Founding Partner, Straniere Law Group (law firm).

30

Reich and Tang Group (asset management).

Interested Director2

Robert Sablowsky

615 East Michigan Street Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 80

Vice Chairman

 

Director

2016 to present

 

 

1991 to present

Since 2002, Senior Director – Investments and, prior thereto, Executive Vice President, of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. (a registered broker-dealer).

30

None

Officers

Salvatore Faia, JD, CPA, CFE

Vigilant Compliance, LLC

Gateway Corporate Center

Suite 216

223 Wilmington West Chester Pike

Chadds Ford, PA 19317

Age: 55

President

 

Chief Compliance Officer

2009 to present

 

2004 to present

Since 2004, President, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2005, Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

James G. Shaw

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 57

Treasurer and Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2016, Treasurer and Secretary of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 2005 to 2016, Assistant Treasurer of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 1995 to 2016, Senior Director and Vice President of BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (financial services company).

N/A

N/A

Robert Amweg

Vigilant Compliance, LLC

Gateway Corporate Center

Suite 216

223 Wilmington West

Chester Pike Chadds Ford, PA 19317

Age: 65

Assistant Treasurer

2016 to present

Since 2013, Compliance Director, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2012, Consultant to the financial services industry; from 2007 to 2012, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, Turner Investments, LP (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

Jennifer Witt

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 35

Assistant Treasurer

2018 to present

Since 2016, Assistant Vice President, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm); from 2007 to 2016, Supervisor, Nuveen Investments (investment company).

N/A

N/A

 

49

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Company Management (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

Edward Paz

615 East Michigan Street Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 47

Assistant Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2007, Vice President and Counsel, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm).

N/A

N/A

Michael P. Malloy

One Logan Square

Ste. 2000

Philadelphia, PA 19103
Age: 59

Assistant Secretary

1999 to present

Since 1993, Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm).

N/A

N/A

Jillian L. Bosmann
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Age: 39

Assistant Secretary

2017 to present

Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm) (2017-Present); Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (2006-Present).

N/A

N/A

 

*

Each Director oversees 30 portfolios of the Company.

 

1.

Subject to the Company’s Retirement Policy, each Director may continue to serve as a Director until the last day of the calendar year in which the applicable Director attains age 75 or until his successor is elected and qualified or his death, resignation or removal. The Board reserves the right to waive the requirements of the Policy with respect to an individual Director. The Board has approved waivers of the policy with respect to Messrs. Brodsky, Carnall, Giordano, Sablowsky and Straniere. Each officer holds office at the pleasure of the Board until the next special meeting of the Company or until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, or until he or she dies, resigns or is removed.

 

2.

Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “interested person” of the Company as that term is defined in the 1940 Act and is referred to as an “Interested Director.” Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “Interested Director” of the Company by virtue of his position as an employee of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc., a registered broker-dealer.

 

Director Experience, Qualifications, Attributes and/or Skills

 

The information above includes each Director’s principal occupations during the last five years. Each Director possesses extensive additional experience, skills and attributes relevant to his qualifications to serve as a Director. The cumulative background of each Director led to the conclusion that each Director should serve as a Director of the Company. Mr. Giordano has years of experience as a consultant to financial services organizations and also serves on the boards of other registered investment companies. Mr. Reichman brings decades of investment management experience to the Board, in addition to senior executive-level management experience. Mr. Straniere has been a practicing attorney for over 30 years and also serves on the boards of an asset management company and another registered investment company. Mr. Brodsky has over 40 years of senior executive level management experience in the cable television and communications industry. Mr. Sablowsky has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the financial services industry. Mr. Carnall has decades of senior executive-level management experience in the banking and financial services industry and also serves on the boards of various corporations and a bank. Mr. Chandler has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive level positions in the investment technology consulting/services and investment banking/brokerage industries, and also serves on various boards. Mr. Shea has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the investment services industry.

 

50

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Privacy Notice

(Unaudited)

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

FACTS

WHAT DOES THE ABBEY CAPITAL FUTURES STRATEGY FUND DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION?

Why?

Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.

What?

The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:

 

● Social Security number

● account balances

● account transactions

● transaction history

● wire transfer instructions

● checking account information

 

When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice.

How?

All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons the Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund chooses to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.

 

Reasons we can share your information

Does the Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund share?

Can you limit this sharing?

For our everyday business purpose —
such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court orders and legal
investigations, or report to credit bureaus

Yes

No

For our marketing purposes —
to offer our products and services to you

Yes

No

For joint marketing with other financial companies

No

We don’t share.

For affiliates’ everyday business purposes —
information about your transactions and experiences

Yes

No

For affiliates’ everyday business purposes —
information about your creditworthiness

No

We don’t share

For our affiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share

For nonaffiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share

 

Questions?

Call 1-844-261-6484 or go to www.abbeycapital.com

 

51

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Privacy Notice

(Unaudited)

 

What we do

 

How does the Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund protect my personal information?

To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.

How does the Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund collect my personal information?

We collect your personal information, for example, when you

 

● open an account

● provide account information

● give us your contact information

● make a wire transfer

● tell us where to send the money

 

We also collect your information from others, such as credit bureaus, affiliates, or other companies.

Why can’t I limit all sharing?

Federal law gives you the right to limit only

 

● sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes — information about your creditworthiness

● affiliates from using your information to market to you

● sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you

 

State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.

European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation

In addition to the above information, where applicable, you have the following rights under the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) and U.S. Privacy Laws, as applicable and to the extent permitted by law, to

 

● Check whether we hold personal information about you and to access such data (in accordance with our policy)

 

● Request the correction of personal information about you that is inaccurate

 

● Have a copy of the personal information we hold about you provided to you or another “controller” where technically feasible

 

● Request the erasure of your personal information

 

● Request the restriction of processing concerning you

 

The legal grounds for processing of your personal information is for contractual necessity and compliance with law.

 

If you wish to exercise any of your rights above, please call: 1-844-261-6484. You are required to ensure the personal information we hold about you is up-to-date and accurate and you must notify us of any changes to the personal data you provided to us.

 

52

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund

 

Privacy Notice

(Unaudited)

 

 

The Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund shall retain your personal data for as long as you are an investor in the Fund and thereafter as long as necessary to comply with applicable laws that require the Fund to retain your personal data, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission’s data retention rules. Your personal data will be transferred to the United States so that the Fund may provide the agreed upon services for you. No adequacy decision has been rendered by the European Commission as to the data protection of your personal data when transferring it to the United States. However, the Fund does take the security of your personal data seriously.

 

You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the appropriate regulatory authority with respect to issues you may have.

Definitions

 

Affiliates

Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

Our affiliates include Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund’s investment adviser, Abbey Capital Limited, and each sub-adviser.

Nonaffiliates

Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

The Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund doesn’t share with nonaffiliates so they can market to you.

Joint marketing

A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.

 

The Abbey Capital Futures Strategy Fund does not jointly market.

Controller

“Controller” means the natural or legal person, public authority, agency or other body which, alone or jointly with others, determines the purposes and means of the processing of personal data; where the purposes and means of such processing are determined by European Union or European Member State law, the controller or the specific criteria for its nomination may be provided for by European Union or European Member State law.

 

53

 

 

 

Investment Adviser
Abbey Capital Limited
1-2 Cavendish Row
Dublin 1, Ireland

 

Administrator and Transfer Agent
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, WI 53201

 

Principal Underwriter
Quasar Distributors, LLC
777 East Wisconsin Avenue, Floor 6
Milwaukee, WI 53202

 

Custodian
U.S. Bank, N.A.
1555 North Rivercenter Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, WI 53212

 

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Ernst & Young LLP
One Commerce Square
2005 Market Street, Suite 700
Philadelphia, PA 19103

 

Legal Counsel
Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
One Logan Square, Suite 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103-6996

 

AFS-AR18

 

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

of

 

THE RBB FUND, INC.

 

Annual Report

 

August 31, 2018

 

This report is submitted for the general information of the shareholders of the Fund. It is not authorized for distribution unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus for the Fund.

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

The Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund (the “Fund”) Class I Shares returned +6.50% net of fees for the period April 11, 2018, since inception, through August 31, 2018. The positive performance was driven largely by the equity allocation, although the managed futures component was also net positive amid trends in equities, energy and interest rates. The Fund allocates to its underlying trading advisers through its investment in Abbey Capital Multi Asset Offshore Fund Limited (the “ACMAOF”), a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Fund. The Fund invests up to 25% of its assets into the ACMAOF and invests its remaining assets in a long-only equity strategy consisting of S&P 500 futures only and a fixed income strategy consisting primarily of U.S. Treasury obligations.

 

Abbey Global, LP (the “LP”), the predecessor fund, transferred all of its assets to the Fund on April 11, 2018. The Fund allocates approximately 50% of its assets to S&P 500 futures and 100% of its assets to a managed futures strategy.

 

 

2018
YTD

SEP. 1, 2017 TO
AUG. 31, 2018

SEP. 1, 2016 TO
AUG. 31, 2017

ANNUALIZED
SINCE
INCEPTION ON
MAY 14, 2002 TO
AUG. 31, 2018

Class I Shares

4.12%

12.98%

3.89%

10.39%

Class A Shares

Class A Shares (max load)

Class C Shares

BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month T-Bill Index

1.15%

1.52%

0.62%

1.31%

S&P 500® Total Return Index

9.94%

19.66%

16.23%

8.47%

Barclay CTA Index

-1.35%

-0.09%

-2.17%

3.52%

 

Barclay CTA numbers are based on the estimate available on the BarclayHedge website as of September 17, 2018

Source: Abbey Capital and Bloomberg

 

Performance quoted is past performance and does not guarantee future results. Additionally, the LP was not registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (“1940 Act”), and thus was not subject to certain investment and operational restrictions that are imposed by the 1940 Act. If the LP had been registered under the 1940 Act, its performance may have been adversely affected. Accordingly, Fund performance may be different than the LP’s past performance, which is included in the table above for the period between inception of the LP on May 14, 2002 to April 11, 2018. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the returns quoted. Visit www.abbeycapital.com for returns updated daily. Call (US Toll Free) 1-844-261-6484 or (international callers) + 1-508-871-3276 for returns current to the most recent month-end.

 

Performance from May 14, 2002 to April 10, 2018 is performance of Abbey Global, LP (the “Predecessor Fund”). The Fund commenced operations as a series of The RBB Fund, Inc. on April 11, 2018, when all of the assets of Abbey Global, LP (the “Predecessor Fund”) transferred to Class I Shares of the Fund. The Fund’s objectives, policies, guidelines and restrictions are in all material respects equivalent to the Predecessor Fund. The Predecessor Fund was not registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (“1940 Act”), and thus was not subject to certain investment and operational restrictions that are imposed by the 1940 Act. If the Predecessor Fund had been registered under the 1940 Act, its performance may have been adversely affected. Accordingly, future Fund performance may be different than the Predecessor Fund’s past performance. Performance of the Predecessor Fund is not an indicator of future Fund results. Performance from April 2014 represents proprietary performance as the only investors for that period were Abbey Capital Limited and its officers.

 

Please note the above is shown for illustrative purposes only.

 

*

The Barclay CTA Index is derived from data which is self-reported by investment managers based on the performance of privately managed funds. In contrast, the S&P 500® Total Return Index and the Bank of America Merrill Lynch 3-Month T-Bill Index are comprised of publicly traded securities. As a result of these differences, these indices may not be directly comparable and the above is shown for illustrative purposes only.

 

1

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Continued)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Abbey Capital Limited (the “Adviser”) has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit total annual fund operating expenses (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) to 1.79%, 2.04% and 2.79% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class I Shares, Class A Shares, and Class C Shares, respectively. This contractual limitation is in effect until December 31, 2019, and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. In addition, the Adviser may recoup any waived or reimbursed amounts from the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made by the Adviser, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive its investment advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes. Without the limitation agreement, the expense ratios are 2.04%. 2.29% and 3.04% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class I Shares, Class A Shares, and Class C Shares, respectively, as stated in the current prospectus dated March 26, 2018 (and which may differ from the actual expense ratios for the period covered by this report). The quoted performance would have been lower without the expense limitation.

 

Please refer to the prospectus for further information on expenses and fees.

 

Market Commentary

 

Overall, global economic data was positive over the twelve-month fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, although there were growing indications that the US economy was outperforming its peers. Optimism over US economic growth generally supported risk assets, despite periodic bouts of risk aversion as a result of heightened global trade tensions and geopolitical developments, with signs of accelerating inflation and tighter monetary policy in the US an added consideration.

 

In aggregate, global equities rallied over the period, driven by strong gains by US and Japanese indices. Solid returns over the first part of the period were pared in late January and February as worries that mounting inflationary pressures could lead to a more aggressive pace of central bank tightening weighed on risk appetite, creating a sharp reversal in many stock indices. Equities generally rebounded from Q2 2018 onwards, as strong earnings growth and accelerating US GDP growth supported risk appetite, and outweighed the negative impact of deteriorating relations between the US and many of its trade partners, particularly China. By region, US indices were positive for the one-year period, supported by strong earnings growth, signs of improving economic conditions and optimism following the passing of tax reform, with the S&P 500 reaching a new record high in August 2018. Eurozone equities were negative, as Italian stocks struggled on the back of heightened political concerns following the election of an anti-establishment government in May, with worries about global trade another concern for stocks in the region. Chinese equities also saw losses amid heightened trade tensions with the US.

 

Signs of a shift towards more hawkish policy amongst major global central banks was an important driver of moves in currency and bond markets. The Federal Reserve (“Fed”) hiked rates three times in the twelve months to August and US Treasury yields rose as a result, particularly at shorter maturities. Market forecasts of a faster pace of future US rate hikes on the back of solid economic data and rising inflation was another factor driving the increase in shorter maturity Treasury yields. Moves in eurozone bonds were more muted, despite the European Central Bank unveiling plans to end quantitative easing in December 2018. German 10-year Bond yields were slightly lower over the period, while yields in Italy rose on concerns over the new government formed in May, with moves higher resuming in August on reports that the government may run a larger budget deficit than allowed under EU rules. In Japan, government bond yields rose, but remained close to zero as the Bank of Japan continued with its yield targeting program, although there was increased speculation over the period that the central bank may begin to normalise its policies.

 

In currencies, the USD weakened over the first part of the period before trading in a wide range between February and March. The greenback rallied from April onwards, with the widening yield differential between the US and other developed economies a key driver of the reversal. More recently, global trade fears, expectations of more hawkish Fed policy and signs of stronger US growth have all supported the USD, although comments from President Trump

 

2

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Continued)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

criticising the pace of Fed rate hikes and the strength of the USD have at times weighed on the US currency. EUR/USD declined over the period, while GBP/USD was roughly unchanged overall, with early-2018 gains in GBP/USD unwinding as the USD began to strengthen from April and talk of a ‘no-deal’ Brexit became more prevalent. AUD/USD was significantly lower over the period, as global trade war fears, signs of slower growth in China, political developments in Australia and a lack of policy action by the Reserve Bank of Australia all impacted sentiment. Emerging market currencies struggled later in the period amid USD strength, with the TRY and BRL notable underperformers.

 

In commodities, moves in the USD and developments on the global trade front were important factors that impacted prices over the period. Crude oil mostly trended higher, despite rising US production, as OPEC supply cuts helped to boost prices. The US withdrawal from the Iran nuclear deal was another notable event in energy markets. Base metals prices generally rose over the first part of the period on the back of stronger economic data, however these trends reversed as worries about escalating global trade tensions weighed on the sector. Precious metals were also weaker, with gold in a downtrend since April, despite periods of heightened geopolitical risk, with the stronger USD a key driver. In agricultural commodities, weather developments and global trade were important themes that impacted the sector. Soybeans were lower as the imposition of Chinese tariffs on US imports impacted prices, with forecasts of a bumper US harvest also weighing on prices later in the period. Weakness in the BRL proved a headwind for coffee prices, with sugar another notable underperformer in the agricultural commodity space.

 

Performance Attribution

 

The Fund’s returns were driven largely by the allocation to equities over the twelve-month fiscal year ended August 31 2018, although the allocation to managed futures was also positive over the period. For the period from September 1, 2017 to the April 10, 2018 conversion, Long-term Trendfollowing, Value and Global Macro were the best performing trading styles within the Fund’s managed futures component, whereas after the conversion, Diversified Trendfollowing was positive from April 11, 2018 to August 31, 2018.

 

By market sector, the managed futures allocation saw its largest gains in equities and energy over the twelve–month period. Long positions in the S&P 500 and NASDAQ 100 were the main drivers of equity gains, as the US stock market generally outperformed its peers, while a long Nikkei 225 position was also additive to performance. In energy, long crude oil positioning generated gains, as the market trended higher over the twelve–month period. Further sector-level gains were seen in interest rates due to short exposure to 3-month Eurodollar futures, while in soft commodities, short coffee and long cotton exposures contributed positively.

 

The managed futures allocation saw losses from trading in bonds, base metals and major currencies. In bonds, predominantly long exposure to German 10-year contracts, as well as mixed positioning in US 30-year Treasuries and UK 10-year Gilts, were amongst the main detractors over the twelve–month period. In base metals, corrections in copper and aluminium proved difficult as losses stemmed from both long and short positions at times. In major currencies, trading in USD/JPY and USD/CAD were the main detracting currency pairs. Smaller sector losses were seen in grains, emerging market currencies, meats and precious metals.

 

For the equity allocation, markets were generally supportive over the twelve–month period, although February was difficult as equity markets corrected sharply. In the period from September 2017 to February 2018, the S&P 500 had rallied as sentiment was buoyed by US tax reform. Concerns that building US inflationary pressures could lead to a faster pace of Fed monetary policy was a key driver of the February 2018 correction. The S&P 500 recovered to reach new record highs later in August 2018, with strong corporate earnings and GDP growth important factors in the rebound of the index.

 

3

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Concluded)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Key to Currency Abbreviations

AUD

Australian Dollar

BRL

Brazilian Real

GBP

British Pound Sterling

TRY

Turkish Lira

USD

US Dollar

EUR

Euro

JPY

Japanese Yen

CAD

Canadian Dollar

 

An investment in the Fund is speculative and involves substantial risk. It is possible that an investor may lose some or all of their investment. The Fund may invest up to 25% of its total assets in Abbey Capital Multi Asset Offshore Fund Limited, which is a wholly-owned subsidiary of the Fund that invests in managed futures and foreign exchange. All investments in securities involve risk of the loss of capital. An investment in the Fund includes the risks inherent in an investment in securities, as well as specific risks associated with this open-ended investment product. Among the risks associated with investing in this Fund are Commodity Sector Risk, Counter-Party Risk, Credit Risk, Currency Risk, Manager and Management Risks, Subsidiary Risk, Tax Risk, Emerging Markets Risk, Leveraging Risk, Foreign Investment Risk, Fixed Income Securities Risks, Short Sale Risk and Portfolio Turnover Risks. The Fund may invest in or utilize derivative investments, futures contracts, and hedging strategies. One or more Trading Advisors, from time to time, may invest a substantial portion of the assets managed in a specific industry sector. As a result, the Fund’s investment portfolio may be subject to greater risk and volatility than if investments had been made in the securities of a broader range of issuers. There can be no assurance that the Fund’s strategy (hedging or otherwise) will be successful or that it will employ such strategies with respect to all or any portion of its portfolio. The value of the Fund’s portfolio investments should be expected to fluctuate. Investing in managed futures is not suitable for all investors given its speculative nature and the high level of risk involved. The Fund is appropriate only for investors who can bear the risks associated with the product. This brief statement cannot disclose all of the risks and other factors necessary to evaluate a participation in the Fund. Investors are urged to take appropriate investment advice and to carefully consider their investment objectives, personal situation, and factors such as net worth, income, age, risk tolerance and liquidity needs before investing in the Fund. Before investing, investors should carefully consider the Fund’s investment objectives, risks, tax considerations, sales charges and expenses.

 

Fund holdings and sector allocations are subject to change and should not be considered recommendations to buy or sell any security. Please refer to the Schedule of Investments in this report for a complete list of Fund holdings.

 

The Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund is distributed by Quasar Distributions, LLC.

 

4

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Performance Data

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $1,000,000 Investment in Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund - Class I Shares
vs. S&P 500® Total Return Index.

 

 

The chart illustrates the performance of a hypothetical $1,000,000 initial investment in the Fund and reflects Fund expenses and reinvestment of dividends and distributions. Performance does not reflect the deduction of taxes a shareholder may pay on dividends, distributions or redemptions.

 

Total Returns for the Period Ended August 31, 2018

 

One
Year

Five
Years

Ten
Years

Since
Inception

Class I Shares*

12.98%

11.81%

9.11%

10.39%

BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month Treasury Bill Index**

1.52%

0.49%

0.36%

1.31%

S&P 500® Total Return Index**

19.66%

14.52%

10.86%

8.47%

Barclay CTA Index**

-0.09%

1.04%

1.07%

3.52%

 

*

Performance from May 14, 2002 to April 10, 2018 is performance of Abbey Global LP (the “Predecessor Fund”). The Fund commenced operations as a series of The RBB Fund, Inc. on April 11, 2018, when all of the assets of the Predecessor Fund transferred to Class I Shares of the Fund.

 

**

Performance is from the inception date of the Predecessor Fund only and is not the inception date of the benchmark itself.

 

The performance quoted reflects fee waivers in effect and would have been less in their absence. The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) to 1.79% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class I Shares. Without the limitation arrangement, the gross expense ratio is 2.04% for Class I Shares, as stated in the current prospectus (and which may differ from the actual expense ratio for the period covered by this report). This contractual limitation is in effect until December 31, 2019 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. Please see the Consolidated Financial Highlights for current figures.

 

Performance quoted is past performance and does not guarantee future results. Investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the returns quoted. Visit www.abbeycapital.com for returns updated daily. Call (US Toll Free) 1-844-261-6484 or (international callers) + 1-508-871-3276 for returns current to the most recent month-end.

 

5

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Performance Data (Concluded)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

The S&P 500® Total Return Index

 

The S&P 500® Total Return Index is the total return version of the S&P 500® Index. Dividends are reinvested on a daily basis and all regular cash dividends are assumed reinvested in the index on the ex-dividend date.

 

S&P 500® Index

 

The S&P 500® Index is a market-capitalization-weighted index of 500 US stocks chosen for market size, liquidity and industry grouping, among other factors. The S&P 500® Index is designed to be a leading indicator of U.S. equities and is meant to reflect the risk/return characteristics of the large cap universe. The S&P 500® Index was first introduced on the 1st of January, 1923, though expanded to 500 stocks on March 4, 1957.

 

Nasdaq 100 Index

 

Launched in January 1985, the Nasdaq-100 Index includes 100 of the largest US domestic and international non-financial companies listed on the Nasdaq stock market. The Nasdaq-100 Index is calculated under a modified capitalization-weighted methodology. The index reflects companies across major industry groups including computer hardware and software, telecommunications, retail/wholesale trade and biotechnology. It does not contain securities of financial companies including investment companies.

 

Barclay CTA Index

 

The Barclay CTA Index is a leading industry benchmark of representative performance of commodity trading advisors. There are currently 541 programs included in the calculation of the Barclay CTA Index for 2018. The Barclay CTA Index is equally weighted and rebalanced at the beginning of each year.

 

BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index

 

The BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index is an unmanaged market index of U.S. Treasury securities maturing in 90 days that assumes reinvestment of all income.

 

Nikkei 225 Index

 

The Nikkei 225 Index is a price-weighted index comprised of Japan’s top 225 blue-chip companies traded on the Tokyo Stock Exchange.

 

Portfolio composition is subject to change. It is not possible to invest directly in an index.

 

6

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Fund Expense Example

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

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

 

This example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period from March 1, 2018 through August 31, 2018, and held for the entire period. The actual values and expenses are based on the 143 day period from inception on April 11, 2018 through August 31, 2018.

 

ACTUAL EXPENSES

 

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

 

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

 

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

 

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

 

 

Class I Shares

 

Beginning
Account Value
March 1, 2018

Ending
Account Value
August 31, 2018

Expenses Paid
During Period *

Annualized
Expense Ratio

Actual
Total Investment
Return for
the Fund
Since Inception

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,065.00

$ 7.24

1.79%

6.50%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,016.18

9.10

1.79

N/A

 

*

Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized six-month expense ratio for the period March 1, 2018 to August 31, 2018, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days (184) in the most recent fiscal half-year, then divided by 365 to reflect the one half year period. The actual dollar amounts shown are expenses paid during the period for the Fund and multiplied by 143 days, which is based on the date of inception (April 11, 2018). The Fund’s ending account value on the first line in the table is based on the actual since inception total investment return for the Fund.

 

7

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio Holdings Summary Table

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

The following table presents a consolidated summary of the portfolio holdings of the Fund at August 31, 2018.

 

 

% of Net
Assets

 

Value

 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS:

               

U.S. Treasury Obligations

    67.3 %   $ 14,547,377  

OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES

               

(including futures and forward foreign currency contracts)

    32.7       7,060,647  

NET ASSETS

    100.0 %   $ 21,608,024  

 

 

The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by allocating its assets among a “Managed Futures” strategy, “Long U.S. Equity” strategy and a “Fixed Income” strategy.

 

As a result of the Fund’s use of derivatives, the Fund may hold significant amounts of U.S. Treasuries or short-term investments.

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

Refer to the Consolidated Portfolio of Investments for a detailed listing of the Fund’s holdings.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

8

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments

August 31, 2018

 

   

Coupon*

   

Maturity
Date

   

Par
(000’s)

   

Value

 

Short-Term Investments — 67.3%

                               

U.s. Treasury Obligations — 67.3%

                               

U.S. Treasury Bills

    1.958       09/20/18     $ 118     $ 117,900  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    1.969       09/27/18       2,300       2,297,208  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.022       10/18/18       2,421       2,415,148  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.072       11/15/18       2,354       2,344,425  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.098       12/13/18       2,134       2,121,715  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.069       12/20/18       630       626,105  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.153       01/17/19       2,319       2,300,238  

U.S. Treasury Bills

    2.205       02/14/19       2,348       2,324,638  
                              14,547,377  

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

                               

(Cost $14,546,424)

                            14,547,377  

Total Investments — 67.3%

                               

(Cost $14,546,424)

                            14,547,377  
                                 

Other Assets In Excess Of Liabilities — 32.7%

                            7,060,647  

Net Assets — 100.0%

                          $ 21,608,024  

 

 
*Short-term investments reflect the annualized effective yield on the date of purchase for discounted investments.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

9

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Futures contracts outstanding as of August 31, 2018 were as follows:

 

Long Contracts

 

Expiration
Date

   

Number of
Contracts

   

Notional
Amount

   

Value and
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

10-Year Mini Japanese Government Bond Futures

    Sep-18       3     $ 270,003     $ (2,403 )

3-Month Euro Euribor

    Jun-19       51       14,799,596       (1,785 )

3-Month Euro Euribor

    Dec-19       31       8,995,833       1,698  

90-DAY Bank Bill

    Jun-19       17       12,221,336       1,668  

90-DAY Bank Bill

    Sep-19       1       718,902       70  

90-DAY Bank Bill

    Dec-19       4       2,875,608       702  

90-DAY Bank Bill

    Mar-20       1       718,902       105  

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

    Dec-19       3       750,000       (1,875 )

90-DAY Sterling Futures

    Jun-19       5       810,278       (535 )

90-DAY Sterling Futures

    Jun-20       5       810,278       (194 )

90-DAY Sterling Futures

    Jun-21       5       810,278       (357 )

Amsterdam Index Futures

    Sep-18       4       518,346       (836 )

Australian 10-Year Bond Futures

    Sep-18       6       431,341       1,738  

Australian 3-Year Bond Futures

    Sep-18       64       4,600,973       11,857  

Brent Crude Futures

    Nov-18       3       232,920       5,840  

Brent Crude Futures

    Dec-18       1       77,400       (310 )

CAC40 10 Euro Futures

    Sep-18       20       1,254,890       1,695  

Cotton No.2 Futures

    Dec-18       4       164,440       (11,800 )

DJIA Mini E-CBOT

    Sep-18       16       2,079,040       9,730  

Dollar Index

    Sep-18       9       900,000       15,496  

Euro BUXL 30-Year Bond Futures

    Sep-18       1       116,075       (441 )

Euro STOXX 50

    Sep-18       1       39,338       (3,738 )

Euro-Bobl Futures

    Sep-18       2       232,151       522  

Euro-Bobl Futures

    Dec-18       37       4,294,785       14,974  

Euro-Bund Futures

    Sep-18       12       1,392,903       2,600  

Euro-Bund Futures

    Dec-18       14       1,625,054       16,193  

Euro-Oat Futures

    Sep-18       9       1,044,677       11,422  

Euro-Oat Futures

    Dec-18       2       232,151       511  

Euro-Schatz Futures

    Sep-18       22       2,553,656       (143 )

FTSE 100 Index Futures

    Sep-18       12       1,154,977       (25,521 )

FTSE/JSE TOP 40

    Sep-18       1       35,524       (1,020 )

Gasoline RBOB Futures

    Oct-18       5       419,370       19,156  

Gasoline RBOB Futures

    Nov-18       4       332,287       (2,953 )

LME Aluminum Forward

    Sep-18       17       896,538       (46,904 )

LME Copper Forward

    Sep-18       10       1,493,500       (226,034 )

LME Nickel Forward

    Sep-18       10       763,200       (99,828 )

Long Gilt Futures

    Dec-18       7       907,512       389  

Low Sulphur Gasoil G Futures

    Oct-18       2       138,400       1,150  

Low Sulphur Gasoil G Futures

    Nov-18       1       68,975       3,800  

MSCI EAFE Index Futures

    Sep-18       1       97,940       (460 )

MSCI Taiwan Index Futures

    Sep-18       2       82,500       790  

MXN Currency Futures

    Sep-18       8       209,367       (2,180 )

Nasdaq 100 E-Mini

    Sep-18       18       2,758,050       85,256  

Natural Gas Futures

    Oct-18       2       58,400       40  

Nikkei 225 (Osaka Securities Exchange)

    Sep-18       1       205,742       270  

Nikkei 225 (Singapore Exchange)

    Sep-18       16       1,644,136       17,501  

NY Harbor Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel Futures

    Oct-18       12       1,130,522       11,130  

NY Harbor Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel Futures

    Nov-18       1       94,332       (428 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

10

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Long Contracts

 

Expiration
Date

   

Number of
Contracts

   

Notional
Amount

   

Value and
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

NY Harbor Ultra-Low Sulfur Diesel Futures

    Dec-18       6     $ 566,370     $ 14,158  

OMX Stockholm 30 Index Futures

    Sep-18       58       1,051,213       21,730  

Russell 2000 E-Mini

    Sep-18       3       261,090       7,983  

S&P 500 E-Mini Futures

    Sep-18       100       14,510,500       490,778  

S&P Mid 400 E-Mini Futures

    Sep-18       1       204,560       3,610  

S&P/TSX 60 IX Futures

    Sep-18       4       591,632       7,480  

SGX Nifty 50

    Sep-18       5       117,290       (745 )

SPI 200 Futures

    Sep-18       9       1,019,691       26,797  

Topix Index Futures

    Sep-18       1       156,017       2,385  

U.S. Treasury Long Bond (Chicago Board of Trade)

    Dec-18       3       364,083       242  

U.S. Treasury Ultra Long Bond (Chicago Board of Trade)

    Dec-18       1       110,641       31  

Wheat (Chicago Board of Trade)

    Dec-18       9       245,475       (16,275 )

WTI Crude Futures

    Oct-18       8       558,400       18,520  

WTI Crude Futures

    Nov-18       9       624,330       (530 )
                            $ 382,722  

 

Short Contracts

 

Expiration
Date

   

Number of
Contracts

   

Notional
Amount

   

Value and
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

    Mar-19       5     $ (1,250,000 )   $ (250 )

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

    Jun-19       51       (12,750,000 )     (6,650 )

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

    Sep-19       9       (2,250,000 )     (1,138 )

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

    Mar-20       7       (1,750,000 )     (1,313 )

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

    Jun-20       9       (2,250,000 )     (2,125 )

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

    Sep-20       5       (1,250,000 )     (1,000 )

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

    Dec-20       4       (1,000,000 )     (1,263 )

90-DAY Eurodollar Futures

    Jun-21       3       (750,000 )     (875 )

90-DAY Sterling Futures

    Mar-19       2       (324,111 )     49  

90-DAY Sterling Futures

    Sep-19       1       (162,056 )     (16 )

90-DAY Sterling Futures

    Dec-19       4       (648,223 )     243  

90-DAY Sterling Futures

    Mar-20       4       (648,223 )     194  

90-DAY Sterling Futures

    Sep-20       1       (162,056 )      

AUD/USD Currency Futures

    Sep-18       24       (1,725,365 )     59,030  

CAD Currency Futures

    Sep-18       24       (1,839,080 )     1,960  

CHF Currency Futures

    Sep-18       3       (386,897) )     (16,356 )

Coffee 'C' Futures

    Dec-18       8       (305,400 )     32,606  

Coffee 'C' Futures

    Mar-19       2       (78,825 )     10,706  

Coffee 'C' Futures

    May-19       2       (80,588 )     5,719  

Copper Futures

    Dec-18       5       (333,875 )     2,813  

Corn Futures

    Dec-18       49       (894,250 )     2,788  

DAX Index Futures

    Sep-18       1       (358,368 )     (14,480 )

EUR Foreign Exchange Currency Futures

    Sep-18       22       (3,192,070 )     7,138  

Euro/JPY Futures

    Sep-18       1       (145,094 )     (2,554 )

Euro-BTP Futures

    Dec-18       2       (232,151 )     1,346  

FTSE/MIB Index Futures

    Sep-18       2       (234,994 )     2,031  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

11

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Short Contracts

 

Expiration
Date

   

Number of
Contracts

   

Notional
Amount

   

Value and
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

GBP Currency Futures

    Sep-18       29     $ (2,349,807 )   $ 400  

Gold 100 Oz Futures

    Dec-18       24       (2,896,080 )     41,540  

Hang Seng Index Futures

    Sep-18       3       (530,626 )     11,180  

JPY Currency Futures

    Sep-18       19       (2,137,521 )     5,631  

Lean Hogs Futures

    Oct-18       5       (100,852 )     16,740  

Lean Hogs Futures

    Dec-18       2       (42,720 )     (1,160 )

Lean Hogs Futures

    Feb-19       1       (25,152 )     420  

Live Cattle Futures

    Oct-18       6       (261,064 )     (40 )

LME Aluminum Forward

    Sep-18       17       (896,538 )     25,746  

LME Aluminum Forward

    Dec-18       2       (106,550 )     (7,019 )

LME Copper Forward

    Sep-18       10       (1,493,500 )     152,068  

LME Copper Forward

    Dec-18       4       (597,775 )     10,747  

LME Nickel Forward

    Sep-18       10       (763,200 )     60,091  

LME Nickel Forward

    Dec-18       5       (384,660 )     33,990  

Natural Gas Futures

    Nov-18       1       (29,400 )     110  

NZD Currency Futures

    Sep-18       11       (727,759 )     37,810  

Silver Futures

    Dec-18       13       (946,200 )     12,110  

Soybean Futures

    Nov-18       27       (1,138,725 )     38,800  

Soybean Meal Futures

    Dec-18       3       (92,160 )     6,590  

Sugar No. 11 (World)

    Oct-18       17       (201,824 )     (1,859 )

Sugar No. 11 (World)

    Mar-19       11       (140,694 )     4,805  

Sugar No. 11 (World)

    May-19       3       (38,640 )     (549 )

U.S. Treasury 10-Year Notes (Chicago Board of Trade)

    Dec-18       10       (1,002,770 )     2,172  

U.S. Treasury 2-Year Notes (Chicago Board of Trade)

    Dec-18       34       (6,641,505 )     (3,609 )

U.S. Treasury 5-Year Notes (Chicago Board of Trade)

    Dec-18       15       (1,491,921 )     1,476  
                            $ 526,793  

Total Futures Contracts

                          $ 909,515  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

12

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Forward foreign currency contracts outstanding as of August 31, 2018 were as follows:

 

Currency Purchased

   

    Currency Sold

   

   

  Expiration
Date
      Counterparty       Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)
 

AUD

    1,163,701          

USD

    836,003               Sep 04 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE     $ 579  

BRL

    814,217          

USD

    200,000               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (508 )

CAD

    1,067,301          

USD

    817,730               Sep 04 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       179  

CHF

    1,038,982          

USD

    1,071,880               Sep 04 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       415  

CHF

    472,769          

USD

    487,924               Sep 06 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       83  

CLP

    98,691,895          

USD

    150,000               Sep 20 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (5,079 )

CNH

    983,421          

USD

    150,000               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (6,333 )

COP

    147,192,806          

USD

    50,000               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (1,734 )

CZK

    3,858,095          

EUR

    150,000               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (552 )

EUR

    942,594          

USD

    1,102,955               Sep 04 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (8,535 )

EUR

    942,594          

USD

    1,093,852               Sep 06 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       718  

EUR

    150,000          

CZK

    3,875,683               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (241 )

EUR

    500,000          

HUF

    160,167,832               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       11,336  

EUR

    1,000,000          

NOK

    9,672,863               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       8,056  

EUR

    150,000          

PLN

    655,802               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (2,626 )

EUR

    1,200,000          

SEK

    12,466,622               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       29,659  

GBP

    2,123,743          

USD

    2,753,008               Sep 04 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       706  

HUF

    129,155,632          

EUR

    400,000               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (5,435 )

ILS

    362,438          

USD

    100,000               Sep 20 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       682  

INR

    6,997,282          

USD

    100,939               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (2,507 )

JPY

    142,975,160          

USD

    1,288,734               Sep 04 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (1,624 )

KRW

    334,899,719          

USD

    311,369               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (10,392 )

KRW

    55,494,435          

USD

    50,000               Dec 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       35  

NOK

    9,501,617          

EUR

    1,000,000               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (28,491 )

PHP

    2,703,000          

USD

    51,083               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (568 )

PLN

    860,237          

EUR

    200,000               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (322 )

RUB

    9,761,279          

USD

    151,131               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (6,798 )

SGD

    333,889          

USD

    250,000               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (6,680 )

THB

    3,181,190          

USD

    100,000               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (2,758 )

TRY

    1,609,625          

USD

    300,000               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (57,651 )

TWD

    13,718,940          

USD

    450,000               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (2,810 )

USD

    849,269          

AUD

    1,163,701               Sep 04 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       12,687  

USD

    835,980          

AUD

    1,163,701               Sep 06 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (600 )

USD

    215,033          

BRL

    814,217               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       15,541  

USD

    150,000          

BRL

    629,931               Dec 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (2,958 )

USD

    822,380          

CAD

    1,067,301               Sep 04 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       4,471  

USD

    817,736          

CAD

    1,067,301               Sep 05 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (186 )

USD

    1,070,913          

CHF

    1,038,982               Sep 04 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (1,382 )

USD

    152,509          

CLP

    98,691,895               Sep 20 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       7,588  

USD

    100,000          

CLP

    67,758,150               Dec 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       443  

USD

    250,000          

CNH

    1,677,243               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       4,973  

USD

    50,229          

COP

    147,192,806               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       1,962  

USD

    1,093,692          

EUR

    942,594               Sep 04 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (728 )

USD

    2,763,397          

GBP

    2,123,743               Sep 04 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       9,683  

USD

    2,753,199          

GBP

    2,123,743               Sep 06 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (714 )

USD

    500,000          

ILS

    1,804,832               Sep 20 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (1,367 )

USD

    100,000          

INR

    6,997,282               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       1,569  

USD

    50,000          

INR

    3,577,880               Dec 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       206  

USD

    1,280,646          

JPY

    142,975,160               Sep 04 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (6,462 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

13

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Concluded)

August 31, 2018

 

Currency Purchased

     

Currency Sold

 

        Expiration
Date
      Counterparty         Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)
 

USD

    1,159,965          

JPY

    128,659,810               Sep 06 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       1,584  

USD

    300,000          

KRW

    334,899,719               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (978 )

USD

    50,000          

PHP

    2,703,000               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (515 )

USD

    150,000          

RUB

    9,761,279               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       5,667  

USD

    100,000          

RUB

    6,883,760               Dec 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (828 )

USD

    350,000          

SGD

    476,738               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       2,580  

USD

    200,000          

THB

    6,607,749               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       (1,985 )

USD

    300,000          

TRY

    1,460,365               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       80,124  

USD

    454,504          

TWD

    13,718,940               Sep 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       7,313  

USD

    400,000          

TWD

    12,181,110               Dec 19 2018       SOCIETE GENERALE       298  

Total Forward Foreign Currency Contracts

                        $ 38,790  

 

AUD

Australian Dollar

BRL

Brazilian Real

CAD

Canadian Dollar

CBOT

Chicago Board of Trade

CHF

Swiss Franc

CLP

Chilean Peso

CNH

Chinese Yuan Renminbi

COP

Colombian Peso

CZK

Czech Koruna

DAX

Deutscher Aktienindex

DJIA

Dow Jones Industrial Average

EUR

Euro

FTSE

Financial Times Stock Exchange

GBP

British Pound

HUF

Hungarian Forint

ILS

Israeli New Shekel

INR

Indian Rupee

JPY

Japanese Yen

KRW

Korean Won

LME

London Mercantile Exchange

MXN

Mexican Peso

NOK

Norwegian Krone

NZD

New Zealand Dollar

PHP

Philippine Peso

PLN

Polish Zloty

RBOB

Reformulated Blendstock for Oxygenate Blending

RUB

Russian Ruble

SEK

Swedish Krona

SGD

Singapore Dollar

SGX

Singapore Exchange

THB

Thai Baht

TRY

Turkish Lira

TSX

Toronto Stock Exchange

TWD

Taiwan Dollar

USD

United States Dollar

WTI

West Texas Intermediate

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

14

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Consolidated Statement of Assets And Liabilities

August 31, 2018

 

ASSETS

       

Investments, at value (cost $14,546,424)

  $ 14,547,377  

Cash

    1,588,119  

Foreign currency deposits with broker for futures contracts (cost $135,082)

    134,767  

Deposits with broker for forward foreign currency contracts

    304,733  

Deposits with broker for futures contracts

    4,205,384  

Receivables for:

       

Variation margin receivable

    370  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    209,137  

Unrealized appreciation on futures contracts

    1,419,066  

Total assets

    22,408,953  
         

LIABILITIES

       

Payables for:

       

Advisory fees

    46,555  

Administration and accounting services fees

    9,000  

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    170,347  

Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts

    509,551  

Other accrued expenses and liabilities

    65,476  

Total liabilities

    800,929  

Net assets

  $ 21,608,024  
         

NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:

       

Par value

  $ 2,030  

Paid-in capital

    20,142,377  

Accumulated net investment income/(loss)

    (39,231 )

Accumulated net realized gain/(loss) from investments, futures contracts, foreign currency transactions and forward foreign currency contracts

    553,905  

Net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments, futures contracts, foreign currency translations and forward foreign currency contracts

    948,943  

Net assets

  $ 21,608,024  
         

CLASS I SHARES:

       

Net assets

  $ 21,608,024  

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    2,029,596  

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share

  $ 10.65  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

15

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Consolidated Statement of Operations

For the Year Ended August 31, 2018*

 

INVESTMENT INCOME

       

Interest

  $ 125,743  

Total investment income

    125,743  

EXPENSES

       

Advisory fees (Note 2)

    143,797  

Audit and tax service fees

    47,630  

Administration and accounting services fees (Note 2)

    15,653  

Registration and filing fees

    8,269  

Printing and shareholder reporting fees

    6,497  

Transfer agent fees (Note 2)

    5,271  

Legal fees

    425  

Custodian fees (Note 2)

    420  

Other expenses

    2,191  

Total expenses before waivers and/or reimbursements

    230,153  

Less: waivers and/or reimbursements (Note 2)

    (84,306 )

Net expenses after waivers and/or reimbursements

    145,847  

Net investment income/(loss)

    (20,104 )

NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) FROM INVESTMENTS

       

Net realized gain/(loss) from:

       

Investments

    3  

Futures contracts

    428,329  

Foreign currency transactions

    (1,241 )

Forward foreign currency contracts

    (46,175 )

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on:

       

Investments

    953  

Futures contracts

    909,515  

Foreign currency translations

    (315 )

Forward foreign currency contracts

    38,790  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    1,329,859  

NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS

  $ 1,309,755  

 

*

Inception date of the Fund was April 11, 2018.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

16

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Consolidated Statement of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018
*

 

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSET FROM OPERATIONS:

       

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ (20,104 )

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments, futures contracts, foreign currency transactions and forward foreign currency contracts

    380,916  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments, futures contracts, foreign currency translations and forward foreign currency contracts

    948,943  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    1,309,755  

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

       

Class I Shares

       

Proceeds from shares sold

    20,298,269  

Total from Class I Shares

    20,298,269  

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

    20,298,269  

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    21,608,024  

NET ASSETS:

       

Beginning of period

     

End of period

  $ 21,608,024  

Accumulated net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $ (39,231 )

SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

       

Class I Shares

       

Shares sold

    2,029,596  

Total Class I Shares

    2,029,596  

Net increase/(decrease) in shares outstanding

    2,029,596  

 

*

Inception date of the Fund was April 11, 2018.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

17

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Consolidated Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for Class I Shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the consolidated financial statements.

 

   

For the
Period
Ended
August 31,
2018
(1)

 

Per Share Operating Performance

       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 10.00  

Net investment income/(loss)(2)

    (0.01 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    0.66  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    0.65  

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.65  

Total investment return(3)

    6.50 %(4)

Ratios/Supplemental Data

       

Net assets, end of period (000's omitted)

  $ 21,608  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets with waivers and/or reimbursements(6)

    1.79 %(5)

Ratio of expenses to average net assets without waivers and/or reimbursements(6)

    2.84 %(5)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    (0.25 )%(5)

Portfolio turnover rate

    0 %(4)

 

 
(1)Inception date of Class I Shares of the Fund was April 11, 2018.

(2)

Calculated based on average shares outstanding for the period.

(3)

Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of the period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

(4)

Not annualized.

(5)

Annualized.

(6)

The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding acquired Fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) to 1.79% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class I Shares.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

18

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements

August 31, 2018

 

1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

 

The RBB Fund, Inc. (“RBB” or the “Company”) was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on February 29, 1988 and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. RBB is a “series fund,” which is a mutual fund divided into separate portfolios. Each portfolio is treated as a separate entity for certain matters under the 1940 Act, and for other purposes, and a shareholder of one portfolio is not deemed to be a shareholder of any other portfolio. Currently, RBB has thirty active investment portfolios, including the Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund (the “Fund”), which commenced investment operations on April 11, 2018. The Fund is authorized to offer three classes of shares, Class A Shares, Class I Shares and Class C Shares. Class A Shares will be sold subject to a front-end maximum sales charge of 5.75%. Front-end sales charges may be reduced or waived under certain circumstances. Class A Shares and Class C Shares have not yet commenced operations as of the end of the reporting period.

 

RBB has authorized capital of one hundred billion shares of common stock of which 87.023 billion shares are currently classified into one hundred and eighty-one classes of common stock. Each class represents an interest in an active or inactive RBB investment portfolio.

 

The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by allocating its assets between a “Managed Futures” strategy, a “Long U.S. Equity” strategy and a “Fixed Income” strategy.

 

The Fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 – “Financial Services – Investment Companies.”

 

The end of the reporting period for the Fund is August 31, 2018, and the period covered by these Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements is the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018 (the “current fiscal period”).

 

Consolidation of Subsidiary — The Managed Futures strategy will be achieved by the Fund investing up to 25% of its total assets in Abbey Capital Multi Asset Offshore Fund Limited (the “Subsidiary”), a wholly-owned and controlled subsidiary of the Fund organized under the laws of the Cayman Islands. The consolidated financial statements of the Fund include the financial statements of the Subsidiary. The Fund consolidates the results of subsidiaries in which the Fund holds a controlling financial interest (greater than 50%). All inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated. As of the end of the reporting period, the net assets of the Subsidiary were $3,740,831, which represented 17.31% of the Fund’s net assets.

 

Portfolio Valuation — The Fund’s net asset value (“NAV”) is calculated once daily at the close of regular trading hours on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on each day the NYSE is open. Securities held by the Fund are valued using the closing price or the last sale price on a national securities exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automatic Quotation System (“NASDAQ”) market system where they are primarily traded. Fixed income securities are valued using an independent pricing service, which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings, and are deemed representative of market values at the close of the market. Forward exchange contracts are valued by interpolating between spot and forward currency rates as quoted by an independent pricing service. Futures contracts are generally valued using the settlement price determined by the relevant exchange. If market quotations are unavailable or deemed unreliable, securities will be valued in accordance with procedures adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”). Relying on prices supplied by pricing services or dealers or using fair valuation may result in values that are higher or lower than the values used by other investment companies and investors to price the same investments.

 

Fair Value Measurements — The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the Fund’s investments are summarized into three levels as described in the hierarchy below:

 

 

● Level 1 –

Prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

 

 

● Level 2 –

Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).

 

19

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

 

● Level 3

– Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of the end of the reporting period, in valuing the Fund’s investments carried at fair value:

 

 

Total

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

 

Short-Term Investments

  $ 14,547,377     $ 14,547,377     $     $  

Commodity Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

    532,183       532,183              

Equity Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

    689,216       689,216              

Foreign Currency Contracts

                               

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts

    209,137             209,137        

Futures Contracts

    127,465       127,465              

Interest Rate Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

    70,202       70,202              

Total Assets

  $ 16,175,580     $ 15,966,443     $ 209,137     $  

 

 

Total

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

 

Commodity Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

  $ (415,689 )   $ (415,689 )   $     $  

Equity Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

    (46,800 )     (46,800 )            

Foreign Currency Contracts

                               

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts

    (170,347 )           (170,347 )      

Futures Contracts

    (21,090 )     (21,090 )            

Interest Rate Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

    (25,972 )     (25,972 )            

Total Liabilities

  $ (679,898 )   $ (509,551 )   $ (170,347 )   $  

 

At the end of each quarter, management evaluates the classification of Levels 1, 2 and 3 assets and liabilities. Various factors are considered, such as changes in liquidity from the prior reporting period; whether or not a broker is willing to execute at the quoted price; the depth and consistency of prices from third party pricing services; and the existence of contemporaneous, observable trades in the market. Additionally, management evaluates the classification of Level 1 and Level 2 assets and liabilities on a quarterly basis for changes in listings or delistings on national exchanges.

 

Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Fund’s investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values the Fund may ultimately realize. Further, such investments may be subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities.

 

20

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

For fair valuations using significant unobservable inputs, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires the Fund to present a reconciliation of the beginning to ending balances for reported market values that presents changes attributable to total realized and unrealized gains or losses, purchase and sales, and transfers in and out of Level 3 during the period. Transfers in and out between levels are based on values at the end of the period. U.S. GAAP also requires the Fund to disclose amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements. A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented only when the Fund had an amount of Level 3 investments at the end of the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets. The amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of each level within the three-tier hierarchy are disclosed when the Fund had an amount of total transfers during the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets as of the end of the reporting period.

 

During the current fiscal period, the Fund had no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3.

 

Disclosures about Derivative instruments and Hedging Activities — Derivative instruments are defined as financial instruments whose value and performance are based on the value and performance of another security or financial instrument. Derivative instruments that the Fund used during the period include forward foreign currency contracts and futures contracts.

 

During the current fiscal period, the Fund used long and short contracts on U.S. and foreign equity market indices, U.S. and foreign government bonds, foreign currencies, interest rates and commodities (through investment in the Subsidiary), to gain investment exposure in accordance with its investment objective.

 

The following tables provide quantitative disclosures about fair value amounts of, and gains and losses on, the Fund’s derivative instruments as of and for the current fiscal period.

 

The following tables list the fair values of the Fund’s derivative holdings as of the end of the reporting period, grouped by contract type and risk exposure category.

 

Derivative Type

 

Consolidated
Statement
of Assets and
Liabilities
Location

   

Equity
Contracts

   

Interest
Rate
Contracts

   

Foreign
Currency
Contracts

   

Commodity
Contracts

   

Total

 

Asset Derivatives

Forward Contracts (a)

    Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts     $     $     $ 209,137     $     $ 209,137  

Futures Contracts (a)

    Unrealized appreciation on futures contracts       689,216       70,202       127,465       532,183       1,419,066  

Total Value-Assets

          $ 689,216     $ 70,202     $ 336,602     $ 532,183     $ 1,628,203  

 

(a)

This amount represents the cumulative appreciation/(depreciation) of forwards and futures contracts as reported on the Consolidated Portfolio of Investments.

 

21

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Derivative Type

 

Consolidated
Statement
of Assets and
Liabilities
Location

   

Equity
Contracts

   

Interest
Rate
Contracts

   

Foreign
Currency
Contracts

   

Commodity
Contracts

   

Total

 

Liability Derivatives

Forward Contracts (a)

    Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts     $     $     $ (170,347 )   $     $ (170,347 )

Futures Contracts (a)

    Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts       (46,800 )     (25,972 )     (21,090 )     (415,689 )     (509,551 )

Total Value- Liabilities

          $ (46,800 )   $ (25,972 )   $ (191,437 )   $ (415,689 )   $ (679,898 )

 

(a)

This amount represents the cumulative appreciation/(depreciation) of forwards and futures contracts as reported on the Consolidated Portfolio of Investments.

 

The following table lists the amounts of realized gains/(losses) included in net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations during the current fiscal period, grouped by contract type and risk exposure.

 

Derivative Type

 

Consolidated
Statement of
Operations
Location

   

Equity
Contracts

   

Interest
Rate
Contracts

   

Foreign
Currency
Contracts

   

Commodity
Contracts

   

Total

 

Realized Gain/(Loss)

Futures Contracts

    Net realized gain/(loss) from futures contracts     $ 591,108     $ (285,801 )   $ (165,280 )   $ 288,302     $ 428,329  

Forward Contracts

    Net realized gain/(loss) from forward foreign currency contracts                   (46,175 )           (46,175 )

Total Realized Gain/(Loss)

          $ 591,108     $ (285,801 )   $ (211,455 )   $ 288,302     $ 382,154  

 

22

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

The following table lists the amounts of change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) included in net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations during the current fiscal period, grouped by contract type and risk exposure.

 

Derivative Type

 

Consolidated
Statement of
Operations
Location

   

Equity
Contracts

   

Interest
Rate
Contracts

   

Foreign
Currency
Contracts

   

Commodity
Contracts

   

Total

 

Change in Unrealized Appreciation/(Depreciation)

Futures Contracts

    Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on futures contracts     $ 642,416     $ 44,230     $ 106,375     $ 116,494     $ 909,515  

Forward Contracts

    Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on forward foreign currency contracts                   38,790             38,790  

Total Change in Unrealized Appreciation/(Depreciation)

          $ 642,416     $ 44,230     $ 145,165     $ 116,494     $ 948,305  

 

During the current fiscal period, the Fund’s quarterly average volume of derivatives was as follows:

 

 

Long Futures
Notional
Amount

   

Short Futures
Notional
Amount

   

Forward Foreign
Currency
Contracts — Payable
(Value at Trade Date)

   

Forward Foreign
Currency
Contracts —
Receivable
(Value at Trade Date)

 
$   91,111,845     $ (50,717,904 )   $ (39,996,649 )   $ 39,985,171  

 

For financial reporting purposes, the Fund does not offset fair value amounts recognized for derivative instruments and fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral (receivables) or the obligation to return cash collateral (payables) arising from derivative instruments recognized at fair value executed with the same counterparty under a master netting arrangement.

 

23

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

The following is a summary of financial and derivative instruments that are subject to enforceable master netting agreements (or similar arrangements) and collateral received and pledged in connection with the master netting agreements (or similar arrangements).

 

           

Gross Amount Not
Offset in Consolidated
Statement of
Assets and Liabilities

                           

Gross Amount Not
Offset in Consolidated
Statement of
Assets and Liabilities

         

Description

 

Gross Amount
Presented
in the
Consolidated
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities

   

Financial
Instruments

   

Collateral
Received

   

Net
Amount
(1)

           

Gross Amount
Presented
in the
Consolidated
Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities

   

Financial
Instruments

   

Collateral
Pledged
(2)

   

Net
Amount
(3)

 
   

Assets

           

Liabilities

 

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts

  $ 209,137     $ (170,347 )   $     $ 38,790             $ 170,347     $ (170,347 )   $     $  

 

 
 

(1)

Net amount represents the net amount receivable from the counterparty in the event of default.

 

 

(2)

Actual collateral pledged may be more than the amount shown.

 

 

(3)

Net amount represents the net amount payable to the counterparty in the event of default.

 

Use of Estimates — The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and those differences could be significant.

 

Investment Transactions, Investment Income and Expenses — The Fund records security transactions based on trade date for financial reporting purposes. The cost of investments sold is determined by use of the specific identification method for both financial reporting and income tax purposes in determining realized gains and losses on investments. Interest income is accrued when earned. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The Fund’s investment income, expenses (other than class specific expenses) and unrealized and realized gains and losses are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class at the beginning of the day. Expenses incurred on behalf of a specific class, fund or fund family of the Company are charged directly to the class, fund or fund family (in proportion to net assets). Expenses incurred for all of the RBB funds (such as director or professional fees) are charged to all funds in proportion to their average net assets of RBB, or in such other manner as the Board deems fair or equitable. Expenses and fees, including investment advisory and administration fees, are accrued daily and taken into account for the purpose of determining the NAV of the Fund.

 

Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders — Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid at least annually to shareholders and recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income dividends and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. GAAP.

 

U.S. Tax Status — No provision is made for U.S. income taxes as it is the Fund’s intention to qualify for and elect the tax treatment applicable to regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and make the requisite distributions to its shareholders which will be sufficient to relieve it from U.S. income and excise taxes.

 

24

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

For tax purposes, the Subsidiary is an exempted Cayman Islands investment company. The Subsidiary has received an undertaking from the Government of the Cayman Islands exempting it from all local income, profits and capital gains taxes. No such taxes are levied in the Cayman Islands at the present time. For U.S. income tax purposes, the Subsidiary is a Controlled Foreign Corporation and as such is not subject to U.S. income tax.

 

Foreign Currency Translation — Assets and liabilities initially expressed in non-U.S. currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the applicable exchange rates at the date of the last business day of the financial statement period. Purchases and sales of securities, interest income, dividends, variation margin received and expenses denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect on the transaction date.

 

The Fund does not separately report the effect of changes in foreign exchange rates from changes in market prices of securities held. Such changes are included with the net realized gain or loss and change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. Other foreign currency transactions resulting in realized and unrealized gain or loss are reported separately as net realized gain or loss and change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on foreign currencies in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

 

Currency Risk —Investment in foreign securities involves currency risk associated with securities that trade or are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar and which may be affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates. An increase in the strength of the U.S. dollar relative to a foreign currency may cause the U.S. dollar value of an investment in that country to decline. Foreign currencies also are subject to risks caused by inflation, interest rates, budget deficits and low savings rates, political factors and government controls. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts may limit potential gains from a favorable change in value between the U.S. dollar and foreign currencies. Unanticipated changes in currency pricing may result in poorer overall performance for the Fund than if it had not engaged in these contracts.

 

Commodity Sector Risk — Exposure to the commodities markets may subject the Fund to greater volatility than investments in traditional securities. The value of commodity-linked derivative instruments may be affected by changes in overall market movements, commodity index volatility, changes in interest rates or factors affecting a particular industry or commodity, such as drought, floods, weather, livestock disease, embargoes, tariffs and international economic, political and regulatory developments. The prices of energy, industrial metals, precious metals, agriculture and livestock sector commodities may fluctuate widely due to factors such as changes in value, supply and demand and governmental regulatory policies. The commodity-linked securities in which the Fund invests may be issued by companies in the financial services sector, and events affecting the financial services sector may cause the Fund’s share value to fluctuate.

 

Foreign Securities Market Risk — A substantial portion of the trades of the Fund are expected to take place on markets or exchanges outside the United States. There is no limit to the amount of assets of the Fund that may be committed to trading on foreign markets. The risk of loss in trading foreign futures and options on futures contracts can be substantial. Participation in foreign futures and options on futures contracts involves the execution and clearing of trades on, or subject to the rules of, a foreign board of trade or exchange. Some of these foreign markets, in contrast to U.S. exchanges, are so-called principals’ markets in which performance is the responsibility only of the individual counterparty with whom the trader has entered into a commodity interest transaction and not of the exchange or clearing corporation. In these kinds of markets, there is risk of bankruptcy or other failure or refusal to perform by the counterparty.

 

Counterparty Risk — The derivative contracts entered into by the Fund or its Subsidiary may be privately negotiated in the over-the-counter market. These contracts also involve exposure to credit risk, since contract performance depends in part on the financial condition of the counterparty. Relying on a counterparty exposes the Fund to the risk that a counterparty will not settle a transaction in accordance with its terms and conditions because of a dispute over the terms of the contract (whether or not bona fide) or because of a credit or liquidity problem, thus causing the Fund to suffer a loss. If a counterparty defaults on its payment obligations to the Fund, this default will cause the value of an investment in the Fund to decrease.

 

25

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Credit Risk — Credit risk refers to the possibility that the issuer of the security or a counterparty in respect of a derivative instrument will not be able to satisfy its payment obligations to the Fund when due. Changes in an issuer’s credit rating or the market’s perception of an issuer’s creditworthiness may also affect the value of the Fund’s investment in that issuer. Securities rated in the four highest categories by the rating agencies are considered investment grade but they may also have some speculative characteristics. Investment grade ratings do not guarantee that bonds will not lose value or default. In addition, the credit quality of securities may be lowered if an issuer’s financial condition changes.

 

Futures Contracts — The Fund may use futures contracts in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. Upon entering into a futures contract, the Fund must deposit initial margin in addition to segregating cash or liquid assets sufficient to meet its obligation to purchase or provide securities, or to pay the amount owed at the expiration of an index-based futures contract. Such liquid assets may consist of cash, cash equivalents, liquid debt or equity securities or other acceptable assets. Pursuant to the futures contract, the Fund agrees to receive from, or pay to the broker, an amount of cash equal to the daily fluctuation in value of the contract. Such a receipt of payment is known as “variation margin” and is recorded by the Fund as an unrealized gain or loss. When the contract is closed, the Fund records a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the proceeds from (or cost of) the closing transactions and the Fund’s basis in the contract. Futures contracts have market risks, including the risk that the change in the value of the contract may not correlate with changes in the value of the underlying securities. Use of long futures contracts subjects the Fund to risk of loss in excess of the amount shown on the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities, up to the notional value of the futures contract. Use of short futures contracts subjects the Fund to unlimited risk of loss.

 

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts — In the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives, the Fund is subject to foreign investment and currency risk. The Fund uses forward foreign currency contracts (“forward contracts”) for purposes of hedging, duration management, as a substitute for securities, to increase returns, for currency hedging or risk management, or to otherwise help achieve the Fund’s investment goal. These contracts are marked-to-market daily at the applicable translation rates. The Fund records realized gains or losses at the time the forward contract is closed. A forward contract is extinguished through a closing transaction or upon delivery of the currency or entering an offsetting contract. Risks may arise upon entering these contracts from the potential inability of a counterparty to meet the terms of their contracts and from unanticipated movements in the value of a foreign currency relative to the U.S. dollar or other currencies. The Fund’s maximum risk of loss from counterparty credit risk related to forward foreign currency contracts is the fair value of the contract. The risk may be mitigated to some extent if a master netting arrangement between the Fund and the counterparty is in place and to the extent the Fund obtains collateral to cover the Fund’s exposure to the counterparty.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents — Cash and cash equivalents are valued at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates market value.

 

Other — In the normal course of business, the Fund may enter into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made against the Fund in the future, and, therefore, cannot be estimated; however, based on experience, the risk of material loss from such claims is considered remote.

 

2. Investment Adviser and Other Services

 

Abbey Capital Limited (“Abbey Capital” or the “Adviser”) serves as the investment adviser to the Fund and its Subsidiary. The Adviser allocates the assets of the Subsidiary to one or more Trading Advisers unaffiliated with the Adviser to manage. The Adviser also has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the Trading Advisers, and to recommend their hiring, termination and replacement, subject to approval by the Board. The Fund compensates the Adviser for its services at an annual rate based on the Fund’s average daily net assets (the “Advisory Fee”), payable on a monthly basis in arrears, as shown in the following table. The Adviser compensates the Trading Advisers out of the Advisory Fee.

 

26

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) to the rates (“Expense Caps”) shown in the following table of the Fund’s average daily net assets. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed the Expense Caps as applicable: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary expenses, interest and taxes. This contractual limitation is in effect until December 31, 2019 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board. The Adviser may discontinue these arrangements at any time after December 31, 2019.

 

Advisory
Fee

Expense Caps

 

Class A

Class I

Class C

1.77%

2.04%

1.79%

2.79%

 

During the current fiscal period, investment advisory fees accrued, waived and/or reimbursed were as follows:

 

Gross
Advisory
Fees

Waivers

Net
Advisory
Fees

$143,797

$(84,306)

$59,491

 

If at any time the Fund’s total annual fund operating expenses (not including acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) for a year are less than the relevant share class’s Expense Cap, the Adviser may recoup any waived or reimbursed amounts from the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement.

 

As of the end of the reporting period, the Fund had amounts available for recoupment as follows:

 

Expiration

August 31,
2021

Total

$84,306

$84,306

 

Aspect Capital Limited, Eclipse Capital Management, Inc., Revolution Capital Management, LLC, Tudor Investment Corporation and Welton Investment Partners, LLC each served as a Trading Adviser to the Fund during the period.

 

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (“Fund Services”), doing business as U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, serves as administrator for the Fund. For providing administrative and accounting services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Fund Services serves as the Fund’s transfer and dividend disbursing agent. For providing transfer agent services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

U.S. Bank, N.A. (the “Custodian”) provides certain custodial services to the Fund. The Custodian is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Quasar Distributors, LLC serves as the principal underwriter and distributor of the Fund’s shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with RBB.

 

For compensation amounts paid to Fund Services and the Custodian, please refer to the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

 

27

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

The Board has adopted a Plan of Distribution for the Class A Shares and Class C Shares (the “Plan”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Under the Plan, the Fund’s distributor is entitled to receive from the Fund a distribution fee with respect to the Shares, which is accrued daily and paid monthly, of up to 0.25% on an annualized basis of the average daily net assets of the Class A Shares and up to 1.00% of the Class C Shares. The actual amount of such compensation under the Plan is agreed upon by the Board and by the Distributor. Because these fees are paid out of the Fund’s assets on an ongoing basis, over time these fees will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other types of sales charges. Amounts paid to the Distributor under the Plan may be used by the Distributor to cover expenses that are related to (i) the sale of the Shares, (ii) ongoing servicing and/or maintenance of the accounts of shareholders, and (iii) sub-transfer agency services, subaccounting services or administrative services related to the sale of the Shares, all as set forth in the Fund’s 12b-1 Plan.

 

3. Director’s And Officer’s Compensation

 

The Directors of the Company receive an annual retainer and meeting fees for meetings attended. Employees of Vigilant Compliance, LLC serve as President, Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Treasurer of the Company. Vigilant Compliance, LLC is compensated for the services provided to the Company. An employee of RBB serves as Treasurer and Secretary and is compensated for services provided. Certain employees of Fund Services serve as officers of the Company. They are not compensated by the Fund or the Company. For Director’s and Officer’s compensation amounts, please refer to the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

 

4. Purchases and Sales of Investment Securities

 

During the current fiscal period, aggregate purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding short-term investments and derivative transactions) of the Fund were as follows:

 

 

Purchases

Sales

Investments in Non U.S. Government Securities

$—

$—

Investments in U.S. Government Securities

$—

$—

 

5. Federal Income Tax Information

 

The Fund has followed the authoritative guidance on accounting for and disclosure of uncertainty in tax positions, which requires the Fund to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Fund has determined that there was no effect on the consolidated financial statements from following this authoritative guidance. In the normal course of business, the Fund is subject to examination by federal, state and local jurisdictions, where applicable, for tax years for which applicable statutes of limitations have not expired.

 

As of August 31, 2018, the federal tax cost and aggregate gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of investments held by the Fund were as follows:

 

Federal Tax
Cost

Unrealized
Appreciation

Unrealized
(Depreciation)

Net
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

$17,624,658 $— $(80,455) $(80,455)

 

Distributions to shareholders, if any, from net investment income and realized gains are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from net investment income and realized gains recognized for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes

 

28

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Concluded)

August 31, 2018

 

may differ from those reflected in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. To the extent these differences are permanent, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts based on the tax treatment; temporary differences do not require such reclassification.

 

The following permanent differences as of August 31, 2018, primarily attributable to disallowed book income from the Subsidiary were reclassified to the following accounts:

 

Undistributed
Net Investment
Income/(Loss)

Accumulated
Net Realized
Gain/(Loss)

Paid-In
Capital

$(19,127)

$172,989

$(153,862)

 

As of August 31, 2018, the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

 

Undistributed
Ordinary
Income

Undistributed
Long-Term
Capital Gains

Net Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

Capital Loss
Carryforwards

Qualified
Late-Year
Losses

Other
Temporary
Differences

$822,185

$486,928

$574,454

$—

$—

$(419,950)

 

The differences between the book and tax basis components of distributable earnings relate principally to the timing of recognition of income and gains of the Subsidiary for federal income tax purposes.

 

The tax character of dividends and distributions paid during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, were as follows:

 

Ordinary
Income

Long-Term
Gains

Total

$—

$—

$—

 

6. New Accounting Pronouncements

 

In August 2018, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”). The primary focus of ASU 2018-13 is to improve the effectiveness of the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The changes affect all companies that are required to include fair value measurement disclosures. In general, the amendments in ASU 2018-13 are effective for all affected entities for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. An affected entity is permitted to adopt the removed or modified disclosures upon the issuance of ASU 2018-13 and may delay adoption of the additional disclosures, which are required for public companies only, until their effective date. Management is currently evaluating the impact these changes will have on the Fund’s consolidated financial statements and disclosures.

 

7. Subsequent Events

 

Management has evaluated the impact of all subsequent events on the Fund through the date the consolidated financial statements were issued and has determined that there were no significant events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.

 

29

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

To the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. and
Shareholders of Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statement of assets and liabilities of Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund (the “Fund”) (one of the portfolios constituting The RBB Fund, Inc. (the “Company”)), including the consolidated portfolio of investments, as of August 31, 2018, and the related consolidated statement of operations, the consolidated statement of changes in net assets and the consolidated financial highlights for the period April 11, 2018 (commencement of operations) to August 31, 2018 and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Fund (one of the portfolios constituting The RBB Fund, Inc.) at August 31, 2018, and the consolidated results of its operations, the consolidated changes in its net assets and its consolidated financial highlights for the period April 11, 2018 (commencement of operations) to August 31, 2018, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

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

 

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

 

Our audit included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2018, by correspondence with the custodian and brokers or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from brokers were not received. Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

  

 

We have served as the auditor of one or more Abbey Capital investment companies since 2014.

 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 30, 2018

 

30

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Shareholder Tax Information

(Unaudited)

 

Certain tax information regarding the Fund is required to be provided to shareholders based upon the Fund’s income and distributions for the taxable year ended August 31, 2018. The information and distribution reported herein may differ from information and distributions taxable to the shareholders for the calendar year ended December 31, 2018. During the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, the Fund paid no ordinary income dividends to its shareholders. Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal income tax purposes.

 

Because the Fund’s fiscal year is not the calendar year, another notification will be sent with respect to calendar year 2018. The second notification, which will reflect the amount, if any, to be used by calendar year taxpayers on their U.S. federal income tax returns, will be made in conjunction with Form 1099-DIV and will be mailed in January 2019.

 

Foreign shareholders will generally be subject to U.S. withholding tax on the amount of their ordinary income dividends. They will generally not be entitled to a foreign tax credit or deduction for the withholding taxes paid by the Fund, if any.

 

In general, dividends received by tax exempt recipients (e.g., IRAs and Keoghs) need not be reported as taxable income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, some retirement trusts (e.g., corporate, Keogh and 403(b)(7) plans) may need this information for their annual information reporting.

 

Shareholders are advised to consult their own tax advisers with respect to the tax consequences of their investment in the Fund.

 

31

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Other Information

(Unaudited)

 

Proxy Voting

 

Policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities as well as information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities for the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 are available without charge, upon request, by calling (844) 261-6484 and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Quarterly Portfolio Schedules

 

The Company files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third fiscal quarters of each fiscal year (quarters ended November 30 and May 31) on Form N-Q. The Company’s Form N-Q is available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov and may be reviewed and copied at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the SEC Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.

 

Approval of Advisory Agreements and Trading Advisory Agreements

 

As required by the 1940 Act, the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Company, including all of the Directors who are not “interested persons” of the Company, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act (the “Independent Directors”), considered (1) the approval of the investment advisory agreement between Abbey Capital Limited (“Abbey Capital”) and the Company on behalf of the Fund (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”), (2) the approval of the investment advisory agreement between Abbey Capital and Abbey Capital Multi Asset Offshore Fund Limited (“ACMAF”) (together with the Investment Advisory Agreement, the “Advisory Agreements”), and (3) the approval of the trading advisory agreements among Abbey Capital, ACMAF and Aspect Capital Limited, Eclipse Capital Management, Inc., Revolution Capital Management, LLC, Tudor Investment Corporation and Welton Investment Partners LLC (each, a “Trading Adviser”)(the “Trading Advisory Agreements”) at a meeting of the Board held on February 7, 2018 (the “Meeting”). At the Meeting, the Board, including all of the Independent Directors, approved the Advisory Agreements and the Trading Advisory Agreements for an additional one year term ending August 16, 2019. The Board’s decision to approve the Advisory Agreements and the Trading Advisory Agreements reflects the exercise of its business judgment to continue the arrangements. In approving the Advisory Agreements and the Trading Advisory Agreements, the Board considered information provided by Abbey Capital and each of the Trading Advisers with the assistance and advice of counsel to the Independent Directors and the Company.

 

In considering the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Company and Abbey Capital, the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between Abbey Capital and ACMAF, and the approval of the Trading Advisory Agreements with respect to the Fund, the Directors took into account all materials provided prior to and during the Meeting and at other meetings throughout the past year, the presentations made during the Meeting, and the discussions held during the Meeting. Among other things, the Directors considered (i) the nature, extent, and quality of services to be provided to the Fund by Abbey Capital and each Trading Adviser; (ii) descriptions of the experience and qualifications of the personnel providing those services; (iii) Abbey Capital’s and the Trading Advisers’ investment philosophies and processes; (iv) Abbey Capital’s and the Trading Advisers’ assets under management and client descriptions; (v) Abbey Capital’s and the Trading Advisers’ soft dollar commission and trade allocation policies, including information on the types of research and services obtained in connection with soft dollar commissions; (vi) Abbey Capital’s and the Trading Advisers’ advisory fee arrangements and other similarly managed clients, as applicable; (vii) Abbey Capital’s and the Trading Advisers’ compliance procedures; (viii) Abbey Capital’s and the Trading Advisers’ financial information, insurance coverage and profitability analysis relating to providing services to the Fund; (ix) the extent to which economies of scale are relevant to the Fund; and (x) a report prepared by Broadridge/Lipper comparing the Fund’s proposed management fees and total expense ratio to those of its Lipper Group. The Directors noted that the Fund had not yet commenced operations, and consequently there was no performance information to review with respect to the Fund.

 

32

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Other Information (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

As part of their review, the Directors considered the nature, extent and quality of the services to be provided by Abbey Capital and each Trading Adviser. The Directors concluded that Abbey Capital and each Trading Adviser had substantial resources to provide services to the Fund.

 

The Board also considered the advisory fee rate payable by the Fund under the Investment Advisory Agreements and Trading Advisory Agreements. In this regard, information on the fees to be paid by the Fund and the Fund’s total operating expense ratio (before and after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) were compared to similar information for mutual funds advised by other, unaffiliated investment advisory firms. The Directors also considered that the total expenses of the Fund ranked in the fifth quintile of its Lipper Expense Universe, and the contractual advisor fee ranked in the fourth quintile in its Lipper Expense Group. The Directors also considered the fees payable to each Trading Adviser under the Trading Advisory Agreements. In this regard, the Directors noted that the fees for each Trading Adviser were payable by Abbey Capital.

 

After reviewing the information regarding Abbey Capital’s and the Trading Advisers’ costs, profitability and economies of scale, and after considering the services to be provided by Abbey Capital and Trading Advisers, the Directors concluded that the investment advisory fees to be paid by the Fund to Abbey Capital and the trading advisory fees to be paid to each Trading Adviser were fair and reasonable and that the Advisory Agreements and Trading Advisory Agreements should be approved for an initial period ending August 16, 2019.

 

33

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Company Management

(Unaudited)

 

Directors and Executive Officers

 

The business and affairs of the Company are managed under the direction of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company is organized under and managed pursuant to Maryland law. The Directors and executive officers of the Company, their ages, business addresses and principal occupations during the past five years are set forth below. The statement of additional information (“SAI”) includes additional information about the Directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling (844) 261-6484.

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

Independent Directors

Julian A. Brodsky

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 85

Director

1988 to present

From 1969 to 2011, Director and Vice Chairman, Comcast Corporation (cable television and communications).

30

AMDOCS Limited (service provider to telecommunications companies).

J. Richard Carnall

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 79

Director

2002 to present

Since 1984, Director of Haydon Bolts, Inc. (bolt manufacturer) and Parkway Real Estate Company (subsidiary of Haydon Bolts, Inc.); since 2004, Director of Cornerstone Bank.

30

None

Gregory P. Chandler

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 51

Director

2012 to present

Since 2009, Chief Financial Officer, Emtec, Inc. (information technology consulting/services); from 2003-2009, Managing Director, head of Business Services and IT Services Practice, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC (investment banking/brokerage).

30

Emtec, Inc.; FS Investment Corporation (business development company); FS Energy and Power Fund (business development company); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios)(registered investment company).

Nicholas A. Giordano

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 75

Director

2006 to present

Since 1997, Consultant, financial services organizations.

30

Kalmar Pooled Investment Trust (registered investment company) (until September 2017); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios) (registered investment company); Independence Blue Cross (healthcare insurance).

Arnold M. Reichman
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 70

Chairman

 

Director

2005 to present

 

1991 to present

Since 2006, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lifebooker, LLC (online beauty and health appointment booking service).

30

Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

 

34

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Company Management (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

Brian T. Shea

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 58

Director

2018 to present

From 2014-2017, Chief Executive Officer, BNY Mellon Investment Services (fund services, global custodian and securities clearing firm); from 1983-2014, Chief Executive Officer and various positions, Pershing LLC (broker dealer, clearing and custody firm).

30

WisdomTree Investments, Inc. (asset management company); Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (financial services technology company).

Robert A. Straniere

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 77

Director

2006 to present

Since 2009, Administrative Law Judge, New York City; since 1980, Founding Partner, Straniere Law Group (law firm).

30

Reich and Tang Group (asset management).

Interested Director2

Robert Sablowsky

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 80

Vice Chairman

 

Director

2016 to present

 

 

1991 to present

Since 2002, Senior Director – Investments and, prior thereto, Executive Vice President, of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. (a registered broker-dealer).

30

None

Officers

Salvatore Faia, JD,

CPA, CFE

Vigilant Compliance, LLC

Gateway Corporate Center

Suite 216

223 Wilmington West

Chester Pike

Chadds Ford, PA 19317

Age: 55

President

 

Chief Compliance Officer

2009 to present

 

2004 to present

Since 2004, President, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2005, Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

James G. Shaw

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 57

Treasurer and Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2016, Treasurer and Secretary of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 2005 to 2016, Assistant Treasurer of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 1995 to 2016, Senior Director and Vice President of BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (financial services company).

N/A

N/A

Robert Amweg

Vigilant Compliance, LLC

Gateway Corporate Center

Suite 216

223 Wilmington West

Chester Pike Chadds Ford, PA 19317

Age: 65

Assistant Treasurer

2016 to present

Since 2013, Compliance Director, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2012, Consultant to the financial services industry; from 2007 to 2012, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, Turner Investments, LP (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

Jennifer Witt

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 35

Assistant Treasurer

2018 to present

Since 2016, Assistant Vice President, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm); from 2007 to 2016, Supervisor, Nuveen Investments (investment company).

N/A

N/A

 

35

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Company Management (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

Edward Paz

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 47

Assistant Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2007, Vice President and Counsel, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm).

N/A

N/A

Michael P. Malloy

One Logan Square

Ste. 2000

Philadelphia, PA 19103

Age: 59

Assistant Secretary

1999 to present

Since 1993, Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm).

N/A

N/A

Jillian L. Bosmann

One Logan Square

Ste. 2000

Philadelphia, PA 19103

Age: 39

Assistant Secretary

2017 to present

Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm) (2017-Present); Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (2006-Present).

N/A

N/A

 

*

Each Director oversees 30 portfolios of the Company.

 

1.

Subject to the Company’s Retirement Policy, each Director may continue to serve as a Director until the last day of the calendar year in which the applicable Director attains age 75 or until his successor is elected and qualified or his death, resignation or removal. The Board reserves the right to waive the requirements of the Policy with respect to an individual Director. The Board has approved waivers of the policy with respect to Messrs. Brodsky, Carnall, Giordano, Sablowsky and Straniere. Each officer holds office at the pleasure of the Board until the next special meeting of the Company or until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, or until he or she dies, resigns or is removed.

 

2.

Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “interested person” of the Company as that term is defined in the 1940 Act and is referred to as an “Interested Director.” Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “Interested Director” of the Company by virtue of his position as an employee of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc., a registered broker-dealer.

 

Director Experience, Qualifications, Attributes and/or Skills

 

The information above includes each Director’s principal occupations during the last five years. Each Director possesses extensive additional experience, skills and attributes relevant to his qualifications to serve as a Director. The cumulative background of each Director led to the conclusion that each Director should serve as a Director of the Company. Mr. Giordano has years of experience as a consultant to financial services organizations and also serves on the boards of other registered investment companies. Mr. Reichman brings decades of investment management experience to the Board, in addition to senior executive-level management experience. Mr. Straniere has been a practicing attorney for over 30 years and also serves on the boards of an asset management company and another registered investment company. Mr. Brodsky has over 40 years of senior executive level management experience in the cable television and communications industry. Mr. Sablowsky has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the financial services industry. Mr. Carnall has decades of senior executive-level management experience in the banking and financial services industry and also serves on the boards of various corporations and a bank. Mr. Chandler has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive level positions in the investment technology consulting/services and investment banking/brokerage industries, and also serves on various boards. Mr. Shea has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the investment services industry.

 

36

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Privacy Notice

(Unaudited)

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

FACTS

WHAT DOES THE ABBEY CAPITAL MULTI ASSET FUND DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION?

Why?

Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.

What?

The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:

 

● Social Security number

● account balances

● account transactions

● transaction history

● wire transfer instructions

● checking account information

 

When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice.

How?

All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons the Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund chooses to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.

 

Reasons we can share your information

Does the Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund share?

Can you limit this sharing?

For our everyday business purpose —
such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court orders and legal
investigations, or report to credit bureaus

Yes

No

For our marketing purposes —
to offer our products and services to you

Yes

No

For joint marketing with other financial companies

No

We don’t share.

For affiliates’ everyday business purposes —
information about your transactions and experiences

Yes

No

For affiliates’ everyday business purposes —
information about your creditworthiness

No

We don’t share

For our affiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share

For nonaffiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share

 

Questions?

Call 1-844-261-6484 or go to www.abbeycapital.com

 

37

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Privacy Notice

(Unaudited)

 

What we do

How does the Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund protect my personal information?

To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.

How does the Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund collect my personal information?

We collect your personal information, for example, when you

 

● open an account

● provide account information

● give us your contact information

● make a wire transfer

● tell us where to send the money

 

We also collect your information from others, such as credit bureaus, affiliates, or other companies.

Why can’t I limit all sharing?

Federal law gives you the right to limit only

 

● sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes — information about your creditworthiness

● affiliates from using your information to market to you

● sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you

 

State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.

European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation

In addition to the above information, where applicable, you have the following rights under the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) and U.S. Privacy Laws, as applicable and to the extent permitted by law, to

 

● Check whether we hold personal information about you and to access such data (in accordance with our policy)

 

● Request the correction of personal information about you that is inaccurate

 

● Have a copy of the personal information we hold about you provided to you or another “controller” where technically feasible

 

● Request the erasure of your personal information

 

● Request the restriction of processing concerning you

 

The legal grounds for processing of your personal information is for contractual necessity and compliance with law.

 

If you wish to exercise any of your rights above, please call: 1-844-261-6484.

 

You are required to ensure the personal information we hold about you is up-to-date and accurate and you must notify us of any changes to the personal data you provided to us.

 

 

38

 

 

 

Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund

 

Privacy Notice

(Unaudited)

 

 

The Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund shall retain your personal data for as long as you are an investor in the Fund and thereafter as long as necessary to comply with applicable laws that require the Fund to retain your personal data, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission’s data retention rules. Your personal data will be transferred to the United States so that the Fund may provide the agreed upon services for you. No adequacy decision has been rendered by the European Commission as to the data protection of your personal data when transferring it to the United States. However, the Fund does take the security of your personal data seriously.

 

You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the appropriate regulatory authority with respect to issues you may have.

Definitions

Affiliates

Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

Our affiliates include Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund’s investment adviser, Abbey Capital Limited, and each sub-adviser.

Nonaffiliates

Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

The Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund doesn’t share with nonaffiliates so they can market to you.

Joint marketing

A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.

 

The Abbey Capital Multi Asset Fund does not jointly market.

Controller

“Controller” means the natural or legal person, public authority, agency or other body which, alone or jointly with others, determines the purposes and means of the processing of personal data; where the purposes and means of such processing are determined by European Union or European Member State law, the controller or the specific criteria for its nomination may be provided for by European Union or European Member State law.

 

 

39

 

 

 

 

 

 

[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

 

 

 

 

 

Investment Adviser
Abbey Capital Limited
1-2 Cavendish Row
Dublin 1, Ireland

 

Administrator and Transfer Agent
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, WI 53201

 

Principal Underwriter
Quasar Distributors, LLC
777 East Wisconsin Avenue, Floor 6
Milwaukee, WI 53202

 

Custodian
U.S. Bank, N.A.
1555 North Rivercenter Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, WI 53212

 

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Ernst & Young LLP
One Commerce Square
2005 Market Street, Suite 700
Philadelphia, PA 19103

 

Legal Counsel
Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
One Logan Square, Suite 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103-6996

 

AMA-AR18

 

 

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

of

 

The RBB Fund, Inc.

 

ANNUAL REPORT

 

August 31, 2018
 

This report is submitted for the general information of the shareholders of the Fund.
It is not authorized for distribution unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus for the Fund.

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

In the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, the Adara Smaller Companies Fund generated a net return of 34.54%. The Fund outperformed its benchmark Russell 2000 Index, which returned 25.45% over the same period.

 

The Fund continued to benefit from a robust U.S. equity market. Markets during the year were driven by strong corporate earnings growth and a growing economy. Small and microcap stocks in particular did well, outperforming their larger cap peers. Reasons included investors’ beliefs that small caps will see a bigger earnings boost from tax reform and that they are less vulnerable to trade conflicts and other geopolitical tensions given their more domestic focus. Even within the small-cap universe, microcap stocks as measured by the Russell Microcap Index outperformed the broader Russell 2000 Index by 2.30% during the Fund’s fiscal year. The Fund’s large exposure to microcap stocks was beneficial to its 2018 fiscal-year performance.

 

The Fund continues to have six underlying sub-advisers: microcap managers Driehaus, Granite and Pacific Ridge and small-cap managers Pier, River Road and Aperio. The top performers and their respective returns for the 2018 fiscal year were Driehaus +54.58%, Pier +44.62%, and Granite +41.47%. Those that underperformed relative to the benchmark were Pacific Ridge, with returns of +24.95 and River Road, with returns of +17.09%. Aperio, our tax-loss harvesting manager, generated a 28.41% return during the period.

 

Altair continues to believe that the small and microcap space of the market remains highly inefficient, with little analyst coverage or institutional ownership. We believe these inefficiencies provide opportunities for active managers to continue to generate meaningful outperformance in the future.

 

Sincerely,
Altair Advisers LLC

 

Opinions expressed are those of the Investment Adviser and are subject to change, are not guaranteed and should not be considered investment advice.

 

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

 

Russell 2000 Index is a small cap stock market index measuring the performance of the smallest 2000 stocks by market cap size within the Russell Microcap Index is a US microcap stock market index measuring the performance of the smallest 1000 stocks by market cap size within the Russell 2000 Index plus the next smallest 1000 stocks.

 

Please see the Schedule of Investments section in this report for a full list of Fund’s holdings.

 

Must be preceded or accompanied by a prospectus.

 

1

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Concluded)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible. Investing in micro-cap and small cap companies involve additional risks such as limited liquidity and greater volatility than large companies. Growth stocks typically are more volatile than value stocks; however, value stocks have a lower expected growth rate in earnings and sales. Investments in Real Estate Investment Trusts (REITs) involve additional risks such as declines in the value of real estate and increased susceptibility to adverse economic or regulatory developments. The Fund is non-diversified, meaning it may concentrate its assets in fewer individual holdings than a diversified fund. Therefore, the Fund is more exposed to individual stock volatility than a diversified fund. The Fund may invest in Illiquid securities which involve the risk that the securities will not be able to be sold at the time or prices desired by the fund, particularly during times of market turmoil. The Fund may participate in initial public offerings (“IPOs”) or Secondary offerings which may result in a magnified impact on the performance of the Fund. IPO’s and Secondary offerings are frequently volatile in price and may increase the turnover of the Fund, which may lead to increased expenses.

 

Quasar Distributors, LLC, distributor

 

2

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Annual Report

Performance Data

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Invested in
ADARA Smaller Companies Fund vs. Russell 2000
® Index

 

 

This chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 initial investment in the Fund made on October 21, 2014 (commencement of operations) and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the Russell 2000® Index is unmanaged, and does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the periods ended August 31, 2018

 
 

One
Year

Since
Inception

 

Adara Smaller Companies Fund

34.54%

15.44%*

 

Russell 2000® Index

25.45%

13.84%**

 

 

*The Fund commenced operations on October 21, 2014.

 

**Benchmark performance is from inception date of the Fund only and is not the inception date of the benchmark itself.

 

Performance quoted is past performance and does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment in the Fund will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the returns quoted. Returns shown do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Performance data current to the most recent month-end may be obtained by calling (844) 261-6482.

 

The Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses, as stated in the current prospectus dated December 31, 2017, are 0.95% of average daily net assets. This ratio may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report.

 

The Fund invests in common stocks, preferred stocks, warrants to acquire common stocks and securities convertible into common stocks. Portfolio composition is subject to change.

 

The Fund evaluates performance as compared to that of the Russell 2000® Index. The Russell 2000® Index is a widely-recognized, capitalization-weighted index that measures the performance of the smallest 2,000 companies in the Russell 3000® Index and is considered representative of small-cap stocks. It is impossible to invest directly in an index.

 

Investment Considerations

 

Investing in the Fund involves risk and an investor may lose money. The success of the Fund’s strategy depends on the Adviser’s ability to select Sub-Advisers and each manager’s ability to select investments for the Fund. The Fund may invest in riskier type investments including small and micro-cap stocks, IPOs, special situations and illiquid securities all of which may be more volatile and less liquid.

 

3

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Fund Expense Example

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees and other Fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

 

This example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period from March 1, 2018 through August 31, 2018 and held for the entire period.

 

Actual Expenses

 

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

 

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

 

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

 

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

 

   

Beginning
Account Value
March 1, 2018

 

Ending
Account Value
August 31, 2018

 

Expenses Paid
During Period
*

 

Annualized
Expense
Ratio

 

Actual Six-Month
Total Investment
Return for
the Fund

 

Actual

  $1,000.00   $1,224.30   $5.05   0.90%   22.43%  

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

  1,000.00   1,020.67   4.58   0.90   N/A  

 

 

*

Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized six-month expense ratio of 0.90%, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days (184) in the most recent fiscal half-year, then divided by 365 to reflect the one-half year period. The Fund’s ending account value on the first line in the table is based on the actual six-month total investment return for the Fund of 22.43%.

 

4

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Portfolio Holdings Summary Table

August 31, 2018 (UNAUDITED)

 

The following table presents a summary by security type of the portfolio holdings of the Fund:

 

   

% of Net
Assets

   

Value

 

COMMON STOCKS:

               

Software

    10.0 %   $ 34,908,526  

Healthcare-Products

    8.4       29,404,228  

Retail

    7.1       24,909,984  

Banks

    6.6       23,170,274  

Commercial Services

    5.2       18,161,929  

Internet

    4.6       15,899,393  

Biotechnology

    3.6       12,589,778  

Computers

    3.5       12,218,262  

Pharmaceuticals

    3.4       11,965,822  

Electronics

    2.4       8,466,031  

Semiconductors

    2.4       8,448,546  

Insurance

    2.3       8,189,338  

Transportation

    2.2       7,731,064  

Machinery-Diversified

    2.2       7,589,383  

Healthcare-Services

    2.1       7,401,968  

Telecommunications

    2.1       7,366,848  

Engineering & Construction

    1.8       6,206,081  

Miscellaneous Manufacturing

    1.7       5,872,061  

Oil & Gas

    1.6       5,615,364  

Diversified Financial Services

    1.5       5,304,298  

Food

    1.4       4,951,453  

REITS

    1.4       4,742,070  

Chemicals

    1.1       3,976,462  

Building Materials

    1.1       3,794,037  

Auto Parts & Equipment

    1.0       3,627,140  

Distribution/Wholesale

    1.0       3,586,200  

Oil & Gas Services

    1.0       3,557,585  

Aerospace/Defense

    1.0       3,456,582  

Leisure Time

    1.0       3,412,039  

Home Furnishings

    0.8       2,685,802  

Investment Companies

    0.8       2,648,029  

Lodging

    0.7       2,343,847  

Home Builders

    0.7       2,331,713  

Savings & Loans

    0.6       2,186,191  

Apparel

    0.6       1,995,026  

Beverages

    0.5 %   $ 1,909,845  

Electrical Components & Equipment

    0.5       1,856,862  

Entertainment

    0.5       1,843,661  

Textiles

    0.5       1,818,294  

Mining

    0.5       1,766,399  

Metal Fabricate/Hardware

    0.4       1,403,287  

Household Products/Wares

    0.4       1,373,647  

Advertising

    0.3       1,129,303  

Airlines

    0.3       1,121,134  

Media

    0.3       1,095,667  

Toys/Games/Hobbies

    0.3       1,040,517  

Agriculture

    0.3       980,084  

Housewares

    0.3       970,632  

Gas

    0.3       933,704  

Energy-Alternate Sources

    0.2       757,805  

Real Estate

    0.1       503,736  

Electric

    0.1       473,052  

Machinery-Construction & Mining

    0.1       456,728  

Environmental Control

    0.1       223,220  

Water

    0.1       187,260  

Trucking & Leasing

    0.1       186,876  

Forest Products & Paper

    0.1       163,813  

Packaging & Containers

    0.1       161,926  

Cosmetics/Personal Care

    0.1       149,472  

Coal

    0.1       126,148  

Hand/Machine Tools

    0.0       78,973  

Office Furnishings

    0.0       71,898  

Iron/Steel

    0.0       62,799  

Storage/Warehousing

    0.0       51,308  

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

    4.1       14,392,245  

OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES

    0.4       1,348,408  

NET ASSETS

    100.0 %   $ 349,352,057  

 

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

5

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Portfolio of Investments

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

COMMON STOCKS — 95.5%

               
                 

Advertising 0.3%

               

Telaria, Inc.*

    96,056     $ 394,790  

Trade Desk, Inc., (The), Class A*

    5,177       734,513  
              1,129,303  

Aerospace/Defense 1.0%

               

Aerojet Rocketdyne Holdings, Inc.*

    20,154       707,607  

Aerovironment, Inc.*

    1,433       126,047  

Cubic Corp.

    24,313       1,840,494  

Curtiss-Wright Corp.

    2,004       268,436  

Kaman Corp.

    2,787       181,740  

Moog, Inc., Class A

    1,762       139,039  

National Presto Industries, Inc.

    1,073       142,280  

Triumph Group, Inc.

    2,449       50,939  
              3,456,582  

Agriculture 0.3%

               

Andersons, Inc., (The)

    3,403       139,013  

Limoneira Co.

    19,980       616,383  

Phibro Animal Health Corp., Class A

    2,922       137,918  

Universal Corp.

    1,451       86,770  
              980,084  

Airlines 0.3%

               

Hawaiian Holdings, Inc.

    2,251       93,417  

Mesa Air Group, Inc.*

    35,995       496,371  

SkyWest, Inc.

    8,137       531,346  
              1,121,134  

Apparel 0.6%

               

Crocs, Inc.*

    41,942       866,522  

Lakeland Industries, Inc.*

    23,652       312,206  

Oxford Industries, Inc.

    1,483       138,052  

Skechers U.S.A., Inc., Class A*

    6,336       186,785  

Steven Madden, Ltd.

    3,222       187,359  

Unifi, Inc.*

    2,830       90,022  

Wolverine World Wide, Inc.

    5,464       214,080  
              1,995,026  

Auto Parts&Equipment 1.0%

               

American Axle & Manufacturing Holdings, Inc.*

    12,536       222,013  

Cooper Tire & Rubber Co.

    3,036       87,589  

Gentherm, Inc.*

    3,355       165,066  

Motorcar Parts of America, Inc.*

    33,326       884,472  

Spartan Motors, Inc.

    52,160       753,712  

Superior Industries International, Inc.

    3,595       78,012  

Titan International, Inc.

    3,958       29,606  

Unique Fabricating, Inc.

    82,960       663,680  

Westport Fuel Systems, Inc.*

    204,118       742,990  
              3,627,140  

Banks 6.6%

               

American River Bankshares

    45,180     $ 683,121  

Atlantic Capital Bancshares, Inc.*

    26,552     484,574  

Bank of Commerce Holdings

    57,490       741,621  

Banner Corp.

    1,722       110,776  

Baycom Corp.*

    7,498       196,448  

Boston Private Financial Holdings, Inc.

    14,098       203,716  

Byline Bancorp, Inc.*

    18,028       411,579  

Central Pacific Financial Corp.

    4,164       117,966  

City Holding Co.

    4,208       341,185  

Community Bank System, Inc.

    1,997       132,062  

CVB Financial Corp.

    8,715       209,596  

Esquire Financial Holdings, Inc.*

    51,542       1,340,092  

Farmers National Bancorp

    40,980       649,533  

Fidelity Southern Corp.

    2,341       56,886  

First BanCorp*

    46,257       404,749  

First Bancshares, Inc., (The)

    12,590       516,819  

First Business Financial Services, Inc.

    17,730       392,897  

First Citizens BancShares, Inc., Class A

    859       408,034  

First Commonwealth Financial Corp.

    11,374       190,514  

First Financial Bancorp

    7,350       230,790  

First Financial Bankshares, Inc.

    6,581       397,492  

First Merchants Corp.

    19,954       960,186  

First Northwest Bancorp*

    28,070       469,892  

Glacier Bancorp, Inc.

    3,879       177,193  

Heritage Commerce Corp.

    21,264       336,822  

Home BancShares, Inc.

    11,434       267,670  

Hope Bancorp, Inc.

    14,673       256,924  

Horizon Bancorp

    38,377       784,042  

Independent Bank Corp.

    1,226       111,689  

LCNB Corp.

    15,600       290,160  

Live Oak Bancshares, Inc.

    21,851       660,993  

MB Financial, Inc.

    6,569       318,334  

Metropolitan Bank Holding Corp.*

    11,610       478,796  

Midland States Bancorp, Inc.

    22,550       776,396  

Northeast Bancorp

    38,440       837,992  

Northrim BanCorp, Inc.

    13,010       579,595  

OFG Bancorp

    8,517       137,975  

OP Bancorp*

    41,190       498,399  

Opus Bank

    3,209       90,975  

Orrstown Financial Services, Inc.

    15,980       416,279  

Pacific City Financial Corp.

    24,090       482,041  

Parke Bancorp, Inc.

    17,072       393,510  

Premier Financial Bancorp, Inc.

    43,975       857,512  

Southside Bancshares, Inc.

    4,513       160,663  

Sterling Bancorp, Inc.

    21,362       261,684  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

6

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Banks (Continued)

               

Summit Financial Group, Inc.

    25,940     $ 653,688  

Texas Capital Bancshares, Inc.*

    1,396     124,104  

Tompkins Financial Corp.

    1,660       145,864  

TriState Capital Holdings, Inc.*

    14,512       431,732  

Triumph Bancorp, Inc.*

    14,288       606,526  

TrustCo Bank Corp.

    22,076       204,203  

UMB Financial Corp.

    3,746       281,849  

United Bankshares, Inc.

    5,943       234,154  

United Community Banks, Inc.

    29,244       887,263  

Walker & Dunlop, Inc.

    1,239       67,526  

West Bancorporation, Inc.

    22,130       534,440  

Westamerica Bancorp

    2,698       172,753  
              23,170,274  

Beverages 0.5%

               

Celsius Holdings, Inc.*

    87,352       399,199  

Farmer Brothers Co.*

    21,549       624,921  

MGP Ingredients, Inc.

    3,147       242,665  

Primo Water Corp.*

    32,153       643,060  
              1,909,845  

Biotechnology 3.6%

               

Acer Therapeutics, Inc.*

    13,967       448,061  

Acorda Therapeutics, Inc.*

    3,666       105,581  

Adaptimmune Therapeutics PLC, ADR*

    22,698       261,481  

Adverum Biotechnologies, Inc.*

    58,541       444,912  

Allakos, Inc.*

    8,794       341,559  

ANI Pharmaceuticals, Inc.*

    2,019       117,506  

Aratana Therapeutics, Inc.*

    35,099       186,025  

Argenx SE, ADR*

    4,032       378,323  

Atara Biotherapeutics, Inc.*

    7,712       315,806  

Avid Bioservices, Inc.*

    116,214       850,686  

Avrobio, Inc.*

    10,652       365,896  

Calyxt, Inc.*

    10,196       172,618  

Cambrex Corp.*

    1,154       77,780  

Champions Oncology, Inc.*

    122,421       1,079,753  

ChromaDex Corp.*

    78,373       355,030  

Deciphera Pharmaceuticals, Inc.*

    8,740       323,293  

Emergent BioSolutions, Inc.*

    13,919       862,978  

Innoviva, Inc.*

    9,226       133,962  

Ligand Pharmaceuticals, Inc.*

    1,187       308,252  

Loxo Oncology, Inc.*

    6,836       1,155,147  

Medicines Co., (The)*

    4,827       191,197  

Myriad Genetics, Inc.*

    2,083       103,713  

NeoGenomics, Inc.*

    75,842       1,050,412  

Ovid Therapeutics, Inc.*

    10,444       69,662  

REGENXBIO, Inc.*

    7,566       533,025  

Savara, Inc.*

    13,647       160,489  

SESEN BIO, Inc.*

    115,346       258,375  

Strongbridge Biopharma, PLC*

    46,097       253,534  

Veracyte, Inc.*

    42,566       538,034  

Biotechnology (Continued)

               

Vericel Corp.*

    29,845     $ 364,109  

Viking Therapeutics, Inc.*

    59,876       782,579  
              12,589,778  

Building Materials 1.1%

               

AAON, Inc.

    2,382       96,233  

American Woodmark Corp.*

    1,043       88,603  

Apogee Enterprises, Inc.

    1,956       96,274  

Armstrong Flooring, Inc.*

    30,872       540,569  

Armstrong World Industries, Inc.*

    19,738       1,377,712  

Boise Cascade Co.

    3,023       132,105  

Gibraltar Industries, Inc.*

    8,857       402,108  

Griffon Corp.

    6,183       112,840  

PGT Innovations, Inc.*

    17,852       433,804  

Quanex Building Products Corp.

    3,135       51,414  

Simpson Manufacturing Co., Inc.

    2,069       158,837  

Universal Forest Products, Inc.

    8,103       303,538  
              3,794,037  

Chemicals 1.1%

               

AdvanSix, Inc.*

    3,845       130,115  

Balchem Corp.

    1,142       126,636  

Chemours Co., (The)

    9,276       404,434  

Codexis, Inc.*

    35,534       611,185  

HB Fuller Co.

    4,743       270,304  

Ingevity Corp.*

    2,186       220,808  

Innophos Holdings, Inc.

    3,318       145,030  

Innospec, Inc.

    1,121       86,990  

Koppers Holdings, Inc.*

    2,012       71,325  

Kraton Corp.*

    2,728       128,298  

Landec Corp.*

    72,398       973,753  

Northern Technologies International Corp.

    11,849       424,194  

Rayonier Advanced Materials, Inc.

    6,815       142,434  

Stepan Co.

    2,701       240,956  
              3,976,462  

Coal 0.1%

               

CONSOL Energy, Inc.*

    1,657       71,085  

SunCoke Energy, Inc.*

    4,934       55,063  
              126,148  

Commercial Services 5.2%

               

ABM Industries, Inc.

    2,589       82,123  

Acacia Research Corp.*

    127,690       497,991  

AMN Healthcare Services, Inc.*

    3,294       192,040  

ARC Document Solutions, Inc.*

    128,170       412,707  

ASGN, Inc.*

    3,035       281,011  

AstroNova, Inc.

    11,221       248,545  

Barrett Business Services, Inc.

    17,979       1,348,964  

BG Staffing, Inc.

    40,680       990,965  

Bridgepoint Education, Inc.*

    71,694       843,121  

BrightView Holdings, Inc.*

    36,252       643,835  

Brink's Co., (The)

    4,054     304,455  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

7

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Commercial Services (Continued)

CAI International, Inc.*

    33,390     $ 901,196  

Cardtronics PLC, Class A*

    2,631       92,322  

Care.com, Inc.*

    30,887       600,135  

Career Education Corp.*

    25,227       402,371  

Civeo Corp.*

    97,393       383,728  

CRA International, Inc.

    8,340       476,714  

Everi Holdings, Inc.*

    51,204       443,939  

Green Dot Corp., Class A*

    4,948       423,895  

Hackett Group, Inc., (The)

    22,815       467,023  

Healthcare Services Group, Inc.

    3,392       139,784  

HealthEquity, Inc.*

    10,180       959,058  

Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc.

    8,329       368,142  

HMS Holdings Corp.*

    9,256       296,655  

I3 Verticals, Inc., Class A*

    27,137       505,291  

Insperity, Inc.

    2,292       274,696  

Kelly Services, Inc., Class A

    19,482       491,141  

Korn/Ferry International

    4,210       282,617  

MarketAxess Holdings, Inc.

    2,439       462,971  

Matthews International Corp., Class A

    1,608       83,455  

Medifast, Inc.

    6,418       1,468,118  

Monro Muffler Brake, Inc.

    1,316       93,370  

Navigant Consulting, Inc.

    3,071       73,366  

Resources Connection, Inc.

    46,446       768,681  

SP Plus Corp.*

    10,791       419,770  

Strategic Education, Inc.

    2,810       389,944  

Team, Inc.*

    24,586       572,854  

Viad Corp.

    7,710       474,936  
              18,161,929  

Computers 3.5%

               

3D Systems Corp.*

    5,865       119,353  

CACI International, Inc., Class A*

    1,145       223,275  

Computer Services, Inc.

    19,369       1,016,872  

Conduent, Inc.*

    43,966       1,019,132  

Endava PLC, SP ADR*

    20,593       539,948  

Engility Holdings, Inc.*

    3,736       129,677  

ExlService Holdings, Inc.*

    1,497       95,928  

Insight Enterprises, Inc.*

    2,176       119,985  

Kornit Digital, Ltd.*

    25,404       532,214  

Lumentum Holdings, Inc.*

    2,348       159,429  

MAXIMUS, Inc.

    1,853       123,225  

Mercury Systems, Inc.*

    8,036       438,042  

Mitek Systems, Inc.*

    80,435       583,154  

MTS Systems Corp.

    1,771       95,811  

NCR Corp.*

    27,902       792,696  

PAR Technology Corp.*

    48,139       1,236,210  

PlayAGS, Inc.*

    21,114       676,493  

Pure Storage, Inc., Class A*

    25,431       682,568  

Quantum Corp.*

    152,383     307,814  

Sykes Enterprises, Inc.*

    26,712       807,771  

Computers (Continued)

               

TTEC Holdings, Inc.

    3,501     $ 91,726  

USA Technologies, Inc.*

    32,607       529,864  

Virtusa Corp.*

    18,216       1,061,264  

WNS Holdings, Ltd., ADR*

    16,126       835,811  
              12,218,262  

Cosmetics/Personal Care 0.1%

Inter Parfums, Inc.

    2,289       149,472  

Distribution/Wholesale — 1.0%

Anixter International, Inc.*

    1,549       111,683  

EnviroStar, Inc.

    12,357       583,868  

Essendant, Inc.

    14,289       206,190  

Fossil Group, Inc.*

    7,293       165,332  

G-III Apparel Group, Ltd.*

    27,771       1,263,025  

Pool Corp.

    2,106       345,932  

ScanSource, Inc.*

    3,047       123,861  

SiteOne Landscape Supply, Inc.*

    8,701       786,309  
              3,586,200  

Diversified Financial Services 1.5%

       

Blucora, Inc.*

    3,569       129,198  

Encore Capital Group, Inc.*

    4,540       175,925  

Enova International, Inc.*

    21,642       718,514  

Evercore Partners, Inc., Class A

    8,471       899,197  

Greenhill & Co., Inc.

    3,731       102,602  

HomeStreet, Inc.*

    1,511       44,499  

Interactive Brokers Group, Inc., Class A

    3,063       190,396  

Investment Technology Group, Inc.

    2,378       52,031  

LendingTree, Inc.*

    3,358       850,749  

Moelis & Co., Class A

    10,819       628,043  

PRA Group, Inc.*

    3,304       120,761  

Silvercrest Asset Management Group, Inc., Class A

    65,382       1,036,305  

WageWorks, Inc.*

    1,878       100,473  

World Acceptance Corp.*

    2,155       255,605  
              5,304,298  

Electric 0.1%

               

ALLETE, Inc.

    4,232       317,739  

Avista Corp.

    1,395       71,577  

El Paso Electric Co.

    1,366       83,736  
              473,052  

Electrical Components & Equipment 0.5%

Encore Wire Corp.

    1,278       64,219  

EnerSys

    3,171       263,161  

Insteel Industries, Inc.

    2,584       99,096  

Littelfuse, Inc.

    3,936       879,932  

Powell Industries, Inc.

    10,135       396,785  

SPX Corp.*

    4,521       153,669  
              1,856,862  

Electronics 2.4%

               

Brady Corp., Class A

    2,928       118,438  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

8

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Electronics (Continued)

               

Coherent, Inc.*

    1,014     $ 193,268  

Control4 Corp.*

    17,144       555,637  

FARO Technologies, Inc.*

    2,255       153,791  

II-VI, Inc.*

    17,448       868,038  

IntriCon Corp.*

    8,393       620,243  

Itron, Inc.*

    4,655       309,092  

Ituran Location and Control, Ltd.

    23,093       787,471  

Methode Electronics, Inc.

    2,476       98,173  

Napco Security Technologies, Inc.*

    51,080       771,308  

NVE Corp.

    3,564       405,156  

OSI Systems, Inc.*

    8,106       631,376  

Plexus Corp.*

    2,641       167,149  

Sanmina Corp.*

    6,648       204,758  

ShotSpotter, Inc.*

    6,245       356,215  

SYNNEX Corp.

    1,652       160,194  

Tech Data Corp.*

    10,512       764,748  

TTM Technologies, Inc.*

    8,548       159,848  

ZAGG, Inc.*

    70,440       1,141,128  
              8,466,031  

Energy-Alternate Sources 0.2%

Green Plains, Inc.

    3,277       58,167  

Hydrogenics Corp.*

    39,346       226,239  

REX American Resources Corp.*

    893       71,958  

SolarEdge Technologies, Inc.*

    2,057       98,633  

TPI Composites, Inc.*

    10,803       302,808  
              757,805  

Engineering & Construction 1.8%

Aegion Corp.*

    5,582       139,327  

Argan, Inc.

    12,270       488,346  

Comfort Systems USA, Inc.

    4,006       229,944  

Dycom Industries, Inc.*

    2,682       225,047  

EMCOR Group, Inc.

    4,741       379,754  

Exponent, Inc.

    2,780       145,533  

Granite Construction, Inc.

    13,238       604,712  

MasTec, Inc.*

    15,301       670,184  

MYR Group, Inc.*

    4,168       144,921  

NV5 Global, Inc.*

    19,256       1,703,193  

Primoris Services Corp.

    21,599       541,271  

Sterling Construction Co., Inc.*

    52,595       765,257  

TopBuild Corp.*

    2,707       168,592  
              6,206,081  

Entertainment 0.5%

               

Eldorado Resorts, Inc.*

    7,857       377,529  

Golden Entertainment, Inc.*

    20,313       589,280  

Pinnacle Entertainment, Inc.*

    3,069       105,083  

Red Rock Resorts, Inc., Class A

    17,920       584,909  

Scientific Games Corp.*

    6,167       186,860  
              1,843,661  

Environmental Control 0.1%

               

Tetra Tech, Inc.

    3,198       223,220  

Food 1.4%

               

B&G Foods, Inc.

    2,659     $ 84,955  

Calavo Growers, Inc.

    5,818       615,835  

Cal-Maine Foods, Inc.

    1,158       57,263  

Chefs' Warehouse, Inc. (The)*

    20,071       590,087  

Darling Ingredients, Inc.*

    8,943       176,893  

Hostess Brands, Inc.*

    135,570       1,594,303  

Ingles Markets, Inc., Class A

    32,020       1,151,119  

J&J Snack Foods Corp.

    681       99,085  

John B Sanfilippo & Son, Inc.

    548       40,042  

Sanderson Farms, Inc.

    1,371       144,997  

SpartanNash Co.

    2,453       52,372  

SUPERVALU, Inc.*

    10,669       344,502  
              4,951,453  

Forest Products & Paper 0.1%

Clearwater Paper Corp.*

    1,455       42,268  

Neenah Paper, Inc.

    1,332       121,545  
              163,813  

Gas 0.3%

               

New Jersey Resources Corp.

    2,340       106,704  

Northwest Natural Gas Co.

    2,390       155,111  

South Jersey Industries, Inc.

    4,502       149,376  

Southwest Gas Holdings, Inc.

    1,612       124,640  

Spire, Inc.

    5,337       397,873  
              933,704  

Hand/Machine Tools — 0.0%

               

Franklin Electric Co., Inc.

    1,615       78,973  

Healthcare-Products — 8.4%

ABIOMED, Inc.*

    1,453       590,761  

Alpha Pro Tech, Ltd.*

    44,141       161,115  

AngioDynamics, Inc.*

    1,976       44,302  

AxoGen, Inc.*

    10,147       444,946  

BioLife Solutions, Inc.*

    117,084       2,805,333  

Cantel Medical Corp.

    1,814       175,958  

CareDx, Inc.*

    48,802       1,186,377  

Cerus Corp.*

    67,162       522,520  

CRH Medical Corp.*

    281,230       1,167,105  

CryoLife, Inc.*

    33,157       1,150,548  

Cutera, Inc.*

    12,654       430,236  

CytoSorbents Corp.*

    51,679       757,097  

Establishment Labs Holdings, Inc.*

    13,356       370,629  

Haemonetics Corp.*

    3,260       363,946  

ICU Medical, Inc.*

    578       176,868  

Inogen, Inc.*

    5,082       1,346,273  

Inspire Medical Systems, Inc.*

    24,848       1,366,392  

Insulet Corp.*

    7,247       755,645  

Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corp.*

    3,088       183,643  

Invacare Corp.

    5,623       85,470  

iRadimed Corp.*

    31,317       861,217  

iRhythm Technologies, Inc.*

    18,782       1,748,416  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

9

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Healthcare-Products — (Continued)

Masimo Corp.*

    3,409     $ 401,887  

Merit Medical Systems, Inc.*

    14,993       882,338  

Natus Medical, Inc.*

    2,393       89,259  

Novocure, Ltd.*

    22,309       1,005,021  

NuVasive, Inc.*

    1,651       115,884  

Nuvectra Corp.*

    66,753       1,558,015  

OraSure Technologies, Inc.*

    48,281       772,979  

OrthoPediatrics Corp.*

    21,320       742,362  

Patterson Cos, Inc.

    31,210       703,786  

Repligen Corp.*

    16,979       931,808  

Sientra, Inc.*

    37,963       953,631  

STAAR Surgical Co.*

    8,423       401,777  

Tactile Systems Technology, Inc.*

    21,881       1,480,687  

Tandem Diabetes Care, Inc.*

    10,320       471,521  

ViewRay, Inc.*

    121,792       1,227,663  

West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.

    8,294       970,813  
              29,404,228  

Healthcare-Services — 2.1%

               

Amedisys, Inc.*

    7,807       975,953  

Catalent, Inc.*

    15,887       664,077  

Chemed Corp.

    621       200,918  

Ensign Group, Inc., (The)

    2,070       80,875  

Joint Corp., (The)*

    69,711       597,423  

LHC Group, Inc.*

    9,570       946,760  

Magellan Health, Inc.*

    2,346       172,431  

Natera, Inc.*

    50,462       1,394,770  

Neuronetics, Inc.*

    23,774       785,731  

Providence Service Corp., (The)*

    2,212       148,514  

Psychemedics Corp.

    22,388       432,760  

Select Medical Holdings Corp.*

    2,823       55,895  

Teladoc, Inc.*

    10,207       791,553  

US Physical Therapy, Inc.

    1,232       154,308  
              7,401,968  

Home Builders 0.7%

               

Cavco Industries, Inc.*

    1,519       372,763  

M/I Homes, Inc.*

    4,319       111,905  

Meritage Homes Corp.*

    3,035       130,960  

Skyline Corp.

    48,309       1,396,613  

William Lyon Homes, Class A*

    6,448       126,187  

Winnebago Industries, Inc.

    5,231       193,285  
              2,331,713  

Home Furnishings 0.8%

               

Hooker Furniture Corp.

    8,270       347,753  

iRobot Corp.*

    968       109,868  

Roku, Inc.*

    11,126       661,886  

Sleep Number Corp.*

    28,299       953,676  

Universal Electronics, Inc.*

    14,181       612,619  
              2,685,802  

Household Products/Wares 0.4%

Acme United Corp.

    11,359     $ 248,989  

Rosetta Stone, Inc.*

    60,006       948,095  

WD-40 Co.

    995       176,563  
              1,373,647  

Housewares 0.3%

               

Lifetime Brands, Inc.

    55,410       645,527  

Toro Co., (The)

    5,348       325,105  
              970,632  

Insurance 2.3%

               

American Equity Investment Life Holding Co.

    11,107       411,959  

American National Insurance Co.

    4,400       564,696  

AMERISAFE, Inc.

    1,195       76,241  

Atlas Financial Holdings, Inc.*

    43,800       448,950  

Employers Holdings, Inc.

    3,729       170,975  

FGL Holdings*

    75,050       653,686  

Genworth Financial, Inc., Class A*

    115,950       539,167  

Goosehead Insurance, Inc., Class A*

    21,657       671,800  

HCI Group, Inc.

    2,004       81,162  

Heritage Insurance Holdings, Inc.

    46,130       675,804  

Horace Mann Educators Corp.

    2,570       118,991  

Kemper Corp.

    1,617       131,543  

Kinsale Capital Group, Inc.

    5,943       361,156  

NMI Holdings, Inc., Class A*

    18,048       389,837  

RLI Corp.

    1,478       113,762  

Safety Insurance Group, Inc.

    2,192       211,966  

Selective Insurance Group, Inc.

    3,866       248,197  

Stewart Information Services Corp.

    2,933       131,340  

White Mountains Insurance Group, Ltd.

    2,358       2,188,106  
              8,189,338  

Internet 4.6%

               

Aspen Group, Inc.*

    66,749       512,632  

Bandwidth, Inc., Class A*

    33,180       1,511,681  

Cardlytics, Inc.*

    10,732       218,825  

Cars.com, Inc.*

    45,008       1,211,165  

Carvana Co.*

    10,934       707,867  

Chegg, Inc.*

    29,560       957,153  

eGain Corp.*

    57,533       822,722  

Etsy, Inc.*

    14,579       709,851  

HealthStream, Inc.

    2,625       83,291  

Liberty Expedia Holdings, Inc., Class A*

    34,884       1,609,897  

magicJack VocalTec, Ltd.*

    121,490       1,044,814  

Mimecast, Ltd.*

    28,467       1,183,942  

New Media Investment Group, Inc.

    4,294       68,275  

OptimizeRx Corp.*

    40,000       510,400  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

10

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Internet (Continued)

               

Pandora Media, Inc.*

    81,128     $ 749,623  

Q2 Holdings, Inc.*

    5,144       320,471  

QuinStreet, Inc.*

    64,651       980,756  

Shutterfly, Inc.*

    8,945       694,848  

Stamps.com, Inc.*

    1,004       249,444  

Stitch Fix, Inc., Class A*

    9,327       378,490  

Zendesk, Inc.*

    10,515       724,378  

Zscaler, Inc.*

    15,164       648,868  
              15,899,393  

Investment Companies 0.8%

               

Alcentra Capital Corp.

    76,900       476,011  

Capital Southwest Corp.

    34,226       660,562  

Oaktree Specialty Lending Corp.

    167,830       852,577  

PennantPark Floating Rate Capital, Ltd.

    48,447       658,879  
              2,648,029  

Iron/Steel 0.0%

               

AK Steel Holding Corp.*

    14,144       62,799  

Leisure Time 1.0%

               

Callaway Golf Co.

    38,894       887,172  

LCI Industries

    1,629       151,416  

Lindblad Expeditions Holdings, Inc.*

    51,954       789,181  

Malibu Boats, Inc., Class A*

    20,186       973,167  

MCBC Holdings, Inc.*

    16,769       462,321  

Nautilus, Inc.*

    6,521       95,533  

Vista Outdoor, Inc.*

    2,883       53,249  
              3,412,039  

Lodging 0.7%

               

Belmond, Ltd., Class A*

    10,812       181,101  

Boyd Gaming Corp.

    27,041       984,833  

Century Casinos, Inc.*

    38,775       310,200  

ILG, Inc.

    8,186       279,388  

Marcus Corp., (The)

    6,804       276,242  

Monarch Casino & Resort, Inc.*

    6,633       312,083  
              2,343,847  

Machinery-Construction & Mining 0.1%

ASV Holdings, Inc.*

    85,690       456,728  

Machinery-Diversified 2.2%

               

Albany International Corp., Class A

    1,126       86,871  

Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc.

    1,045       80,517  

Briggs & Stratton Corp.

    2,086       42,054  

Cactus, Inc., Class A*

    14,480       494,926  

Chart Industries, Inc.*

    2,562       193,559  

Columbus McKinnon Corp.

    30,263       1,287,085  

DXP Enterprises, Inc.*

    1,117       51,259  

Hurco Cos., Inc.

    17,690       758,901  

Kadant, Inc.

    2,865       289,508  

Manitex International, Inc.*

    105,790       1,119,258  

Machinery-Diversified (Continued)

NN, Inc.

    42,580     $ 851,600  

SPX FLOW, Inc.*

    10,543       505,431  

Tennant Co.

    1,504       115,131  

Twin Disc, Inc.*

    40,960       1,046,528  

Welbilt, Inc.*

    30,129       666,755  
              7,589,383  

Media 0.3%

               

AMC Networks, Inc., Class A*

    9,542       599,333  

Dolphin Entertainment, Inc.*

    134,643       359,497  

Gannett Co., Inc.

    8,195       84,245  

Scholastic Corp.

    1,251       52,592  
              1,095,667  

Metal Fabricate/Hardware 0.4%

Atkore International Group, Inc.*

    11,636       318,594  

CIRCOR International, Inc.

    1,743       79,062  

Mueller Industries, Inc.

    4,223       135,009  

Northwest Pipe Co.*

    41,860       755,992  

TimkenSteel Corp.*

    8,182       114,630  
              1,403,287  

Mining 0.5%

               

Century Aluminum Co.*

    18,637       235,199  

Compass Minerals International, Inc.

    7,580       474,129  

Kaiser Aluminum Corp.

    1,039       113,864  

Luxfer Holdings PLC

    20,060       456,566  

Materion Corp.

    1,920       122,496  

United States Lime & Minerals, Inc.

    4,143       314,412  

US Silica Holdings, Inc.

    2,347       49,733  
              1,766,399  

Miscellaneous Manufacturing 1.7%

Actuant Corp., Class A

    1,678       49,417  

Axon Enterprise, Inc.*

    5,340       364,508  

EnPro Industries, Inc.

    2,498       187,525  

ESCO Technologies, Inc.

    1,920       129,888  

Fabrinet*

    3,054       146,195  

FreightCar America, Inc.*

    51,252       866,671  

Harsco Corp.*

    14,378       406,178  

Haynes International, Inc.

    19,234       757,820  

Hillenbrand, Inc.

    2,960       151,404  

John Bean Technologies Corp.

    9,788       1,157,920  

Lydall, Inc.*

    1,461       62,531  

Proto Labs, Inc.*

    5,740       892,283  

Rogers Corp.*

    4,609       636,365  

Sturm Ruger & Co., Inc.

    968       63,356  
              5,872,061  

Office Furnishings 0.0%

               

Interface, Inc.

    3,053       71,898  

Oil & Gas 1.6%

               

Berry Petroleum Corp.

    20,787       340,699  

Bonanza Creek Energy, Inc.*

    3,368       104,408  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

11

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Oil & Gas (Continued)

               

Denbury Resources, Inc.*

    47,546     $ 264,831  

Evolution Petroleum Corp.

    31,294       314,505  

Gran Tierra Energy, Inc.*

    92,840       320,298  

HighPoint Resources Corp.*

    13,256       73,041  

Matador Resources Co.*

    26,171       856,838  

Murphy USA, Inc.*

    15,134       1,255,819  

PBF Energy, Inc., Class A

    18,400       955,328  

PDC Energy, Inc.*

    2,353       123,980  

Penn Virginia Corp.*

    3,694       328,544  

QEP Resources, Inc.*

    20,000       199,400  

Ring Energy, Inc.*

    4,632       54,658  

SRC Energy, Inc.*

    19,542       181,936  

Unit Corp.*

    9,170       241,079  
              5,615,364  

Oil & Gas Services 1.0%

               

Archrock, Inc.

    12,215       154,520  

Bristow Group, Inc.*

    6,128       67,163  

C&J Energy Services, Inc.*

    5,114       107,138  

CARBO Ceramics, Inc.*

    4,304       37,230  

DMC Global, Inc.

    44,773       1,757,340  

Helix Energy Solutions Group, Inc.*

    31,897       298,556  

Matrix Service Co.*

    3,458       72,272  

Natural Gas Services Group, Inc.*

    26,450       584,545  

Profire Energy, Inc.*

    144,373       411,463  

TETRA Technologies, Inc.*

    14,675       67,358  
              3,557,585  

Packaging & Containers 0.1%

KapStone Paper and Packaging Corp.

    4,714       161,926  

Pharmaceuticals 3.4%

               

AcelRx Pharmaceuticals, Inc.*

    47,293       146,608  

Aclaris Therapeutics, Inc.*

    17,106       272,328  

Amneal Pharmaceuticals, Inc.*

    6,603       152,529  

Array BioPharma, Inc.*

    60,453       941,253  

Assertio Therapeutics, Inc.*

    10,628       67,807  

Clementia Pharmaceuticals, Inc.*

    20,892       202,235  

Coherus Biosciences, Inc.*

    33,356       672,123  

Collegium Pharmaceutical, Inc.*

    22,029       376,696  

Diplomat Pharmacy, Inc.*

    4,301       88,859  

Enanta Pharmaceuticals, Inc.*

    4,093       372,176  

Endo International PLC*

    10,783       184,928  

Foamix Pharmaceuticals, Ltd.*

    30,338       171,713  

Global Blood Therapeutics, Inc.*

    7,568       370,454  

Heron Therapeutics, Inc.*

    21,560       831,138  

Imprimis Pharmaceuticals, Inc.*

    216,279       657,488  

Melinta Therapeutics, Inc.*

    30,513       142,648  

Mirati Therapeutics, Inc.*

    16,248       918,824  

Momenta Pharmaceuticals, Inc.*

    8,455       224,058  

Pharmaceuticals (Continued)

MyoKardia, Inc.*

    9,537     $ 587,956  

Nektar Therapeutics*

    5,506       366,094  

Neogen Corp.*

    2,310       215,846  

Owens & Minor, Inc.

    10,072       171,023  

Premier, Inc., Class A*

    51,913       2,296,112  

Prestige Brands Holdings, Inc.*

    1,398       53,823  

Reata Pharmaceuticals, Inc., Class A*

    7,322       632,328  

Tilray, Inc.*

    5,581       363,881  

Tricida, Inc.*

    15,728       484,894  
              11,965,822  

Real Estate 0.1%

               

HFF, Inc., Class A

    2,032       92,273  

Newmark Group, Inc., Class A

    26,808       344,483  

RE/MAX Holdings, Inc., Class A

    1,360       66,980  
              503,736  

REITS 1.4%

               

Acadia Realty Trust

    4,655       132,761  

Agree Realty Corp.

    1,641       93,652  

Armada Hoffler Properties, Inc.

    9,535       148,651  

CareTrust REIT, Inc.

    3,664       67,601  

CBL & Associates Properties, Inc.

    37,238       166,082  

Cedar Realty Trust, Inc.

    13,675       61,127  

Chatham Lodging Trust

    2,865       61,454  

Community Healthcare Trust, Inc.

    2,769       85,922  

CoreSite Realty Corp.

    1,355       157,817  

DiamondRock Hospitality Co.

    8,155       97,534  

EastGroup Properties, Inc.

    2,590       251,929  

Getty Realty Corp.

    5,173       150,586  

Global Medical REIT, Inc.

    68,760       658,033  

Government Properties Income Trust

    3,430       58,001  

Great Ajax Corp.

    31,450       428,978  

Healthcare Realty Trust, Inc.

    7,137       220,962  

Hersha Hospitality Trust

    8,177       192,977  

Kite Realty Group Trust

    14,493       253,338  

Lexington Realty Trust

    12,112       113,126  

LTC Properties, Inc.

    1,853       86,072  

Manhattan Bridge Capital, Inc.

    55,566       369,514  

Medical Properties Trust, Inc.

    5,867       88,298  

PS Business Parks, Inc.

    1,242       161,994  

Retail Opportunity Investments Corp.

    3,666       72,367  

Summit Hotel Properties, Inc.

    6,963       95,602  

Universal Health Realty Income Trust

    3,469       264,511  

Urstadt Biddle Properties, Inc., Class A

    4,351       98,985  

Whitestone REIT

    7,639       104,196  
              4,742,070  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

12

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Retail 7.1%

               

Abercrombie & Fitch Co., Class A

    5,117     $ 110,885  

American Eagle Outfitters, Inc.

    25,287       656,450  

Asbury Automotive Group, Inc.*

    14,206       1,058,347  

Ascena Retail Group, Inc.*

    24,230       110,973  

At Home Group, Inc.*

    17,937       617,212  

Barnes & Noble, Inc.

    9,163       48,106  

Big 5 Sporting Goods Corp.

    75,037       427,711  

Biglari Holdings, Inc., Class A*

    230       220,368  

Biglari Holdings, Inc., Class B*

    2,300       454,365  

BJ's Restaurants, Inc.

    8,315       629,446  

Boot Barn Holdings, Inc.*

    31,092       930,584  

Buckle, Inc., (The)

    4,527       116,570  

Build-A-Bear Workshop, Inc.*

    70,840       651,728  

Cannae Holdings, Inc.*

    98,379       1,912,488  

Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.*

    25,006       395,095  

Casey's General Stores, Inc.

    9,068       1,035,294  

Cato Corp., (The), Class A

    6,451       138,374  

Children's Place, Inc., (The)

    1,027       144,550  

Chuy's Holdings, Inc.*

    4,399       127,351  

Conn's, Inc.*

    5,261       215,701  

Container Store Group, Inc., (The)*

    11,572       130,764  

Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.

    790       117,781  

Dave & Buster's Entertainment, Inc.*

    6,127       356,408  

DineEquity, Inc.

    3,392       282,961  

El Pollo Loco Holdings, Inc.*

    9,027       107,421  

Express, Inc.*

    20,245       227,149  

EZCORP, Inc., Class A*

    40,845       453,379  

FAT Brands, Inc.

    34,025       294,997  

FirstCash, Inc.

    2,930       238,209  

Five Below, Inc.*

    3,696       430,473  

Francesca's Holdings Corp.*

    51,234       321,750  

Freshpet, Inc.*

    18,370       682,445  

Gaia, Inc.*

    27,239       476,682  

Genesco, Inc.*

    4,461       226,842  

Group 1 Automotive, Inc.

    953       73,467  

Guess?, Inc.

    6,372       156,114  

Hibbett Sports, Inc.*

    6,047       124,266  

J Alexander's Holdings, Inc.*

    43,816       543,318  

Lovesac Co., (The)*

    12,278       253,418  

Lumber Liquidators Holdings, Inc.*

    5,091       88,736  

MarineMax, Inc.*

    4,583       103,117  

Movado Group, Inc.

    17,752       756,235  

Noodles & Co.*

    82,884       1,019,473  

Ollie's Bargain Outlet Holdings, Inc.*

    8,651       753,502  

PC Connection, Inc.

    13,120       520,864  

Retail (Continued)

               

PCM, Inc.*

    68,800     $ 1,568,640  

PetIQ, Inc.*

    14,804       579,725  

PetMed Express, Inc.

    3,582       131,424  

Potbelly Corp.*

    32,904       445,849  

Regis Corp.*

    8,392       179,505  

RH*

    2,622       416,898  

Shoe Carnival, Inc.

    2,090       92,921  

Tailored Brands, Inc.

    6,230       146,654  

Texas Roadhouse, Inc.

    8,294       571,871  

Tile Shop Holdings, Inc.

    59,489       455,091  

Vitamin Shoppe, Inc.*

    12,924       165,427  

Wingstop, Inc.

    7,057       472,466  

Winmark Corp.

    2,588       386,130  

World Fuel Services Corp.

    15,749       441,444  

Zumiez, Inc.*

    3,678       114,570  
              24,909,984  

Savings & Loans 0.6%

               

BofI Holding, Inc.*

    3,461       128,888  

Brookline Bancorp, Inc.

    9,875       179,231  

Dime Community Bancshares, Inc.

    9,884       179,394  

FS Bancorp, Inc.

    10,770       628,214  

Meta Financial Group, Inc.

    3,658       316,783  

Oritani Financial Corp.

    4,448       72,058  

Riverview Bancorp, Inc.

    41,720       410,942  

Sterling Bancorp

    11,846       270,681  
              2,186,191  

Semiconductors 2.4%

               

Advanced Energy Industries, Inc.*

    2,466       146,924  

Amtech Systems, Inc.*

    105,690       580,238  

AXT, Inc.*

    118,200       933,780  

Cabot Microelectronics Corp.

    1,581       178,226  

Cirrus Logic, Inc.*

    3,525       154,924  

Cohu, Inc.

    35,780       943,876  

Inphi Corp.*

    12,444       461,299  

Kulicke & Soffa Industries, Inc.

    6,419       165,546  

MKS Instruments, Inc.

    1,371       127,366  

Monolithic Power Systems, Inc.

    1,952       292,546  

Photronics, Inc.*

    9,882       105,737  

Power Integrations, Inc.

    3,164       232,079  

Rambus, Inc.*

    3,550       43,381  

Rudolph Technologies, Inc.*

    3,770       104,806  

Semtech Corp.*

    17,775       1,062,056  

Silicon Laboratories, Inc.*

    6,980       684,040  

Ultra Clean Holdings, Inc.*

    60,277       919,827  

Xcerra Corp.*

    87,390       1,265,407  

Xperi Corp.

    2,961       46,488  
              8,448,546  

Software 10.0%

               

ACI Worldwide, Inc.*

    25,270       717,921  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

13

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Software (Continued)

               

Acxiom Corp.*

    17,269     $ 789,021  

Altair Engineering, Inc., Class A*

    49,375       2,062,394  

Alteryx, Inc., Class A*

    22,952       1,332,364  

American Software, Inc., Class A

    41,399       744,354  

Apptio, Inc., Class A*

    18,919       734,057  

Asure Software, Inc.*

    66,660       1,001,900  

Avalara, Inc.*

    13,221       489,045  

Avaya Holdings Corp.*

    63,190       1,476,118  

Blackbaud, Inc.

    2,160       225,871  

Blackline, Inc.*

    6,719       354,495  

Bottomline Technologies de, Inc.*

    15,966       1,053,277  

Box, Inc., Class A*

    21,607       530,668  

Computer Programs & Systems, Inc.

    12,451       339,912  

Coupa Software, Inc.*

    5,194       372,462  

CSG Systems International, Inc.

    28,178       1,052,448  

Ebix, Inc.

    2,006       159,778  

Everbridge, Inc.*

    29,512       1,776,918  

Evolent Health, Inc., Class A*

    36,918       941,409  

Five9, Inc.*

    13,648       655,786  

GreenSky, Inc., Class A*

    15,894       321,854  

InnerWorkings, Inc.*

    78,830       616,451  

Instructure, Inc.*

    17,601       720,761  

j2 Global, Inc.

    1,848       152,589  

LivePerson, Inc.*

    36,352       977,869  

Manhattan Associates, Inc.*

    1,938       112,385  

ManTech International Corp., Class A

    13,126       870,516  

Materialise NV, ADR*

    32,354       490,163  

Medidata Solutions, Inc.*

    2,714       230,636  

MiX Telematics, Ltd., SP ADR

    29,769       498,333  

Omnicell, Inc.*

    15,027       1,033,106  

PDF Solutions, Inc.*

    2,888       25,183  

Pluralsight, Inc., Class A*

    19,812       676,976  

Progress Software Corp.

    5,306       217,175  

QAD, Inc., Class A

    21,362       1,295,605  

Quality Systems, Inc.*

    3,902       89,317  

SendGrid, Inc.*

    30,333       1,100,178  

SharpSpring, Inc.*

    118,088       1,675,669  

ShiftPixy, Inc.*

    131,037       437,664  

Simulations Plus, Inc.

    31,897       665,052  

Smartsheet, Inc., Class A*

    36,890       1,096,740  

Tabula Rasa HealthCare, Inc.*

    23,230       2,036,574  

Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc.*

    3,989       532,771  

Talend S.A., ADR*

    10,571       650,645  

TiVo Corp.

    7,248       98,935  

Upland Software, Inc.*

    21,993       818,579  

Yext, Inc.*

    26,412       656,602  
              34,908,526  

Storage/Warehousing 0.0%

               

Mobile Mini, Inc.

    1,196     $ 51,308  

Telecommunications 2.1%

               

8x8, Inc.*

    4,788       108,688  

ATN International, Inc.

    12,058       883,007  

CalAmp Corp.*

    4,959       116,536  

Cincinnati Bell, Inc.*

    4,212       54,756  

Comtech Telecommunications Corp.

    34,160       1,224,636  

Consolidated Communications Holdings, Inc.

    6,573       77,627  

ExOne Co., (The)*

    56,509       498,974  

Iridium Communications, Inc.*

    9,628       194,967  

Liberty Latin America, Ltd., Class C*

    71,542       1,404,369  

LogMeIn, Inc.

    1,382       118,783  

NETGEAR, Inc.*

    2,616       185,344  

One Stop Systems, Inc.*

    87,560       317,843  

ORBCOMM, Inc.*

    75,383       813,382  

RADCOM, Ltd.*

    2,622       47,983  

Sierra Wireless, Inc.*

    16,368       308,537  

Viavi Solutions, Inc.*

    23,640       264,768  

Vonage Holdings Corp.*

    52,655       746,648  
              7,366,848  

Textiles 0.5%

               

UniFirst Corp.

    9,818       1,818,294  

Toys/Games/Hobbies 0.3%

               

Funko, Inc., Class A*

    40,933       1,040,517  

Transportation 2.2%

               

Air Transport Services Group, Inc.*

    71,569       1,456,429  

ArcBest Corp.

    4,606       221,549  

CryoPort, Inc.*

    23,714       336,739  

Echo Global Logistics, Inc.*

    35,813       1,188,992  

Forward Air Corp.

    15,302       983,307  

Heartland Express, Inc.

    8,734       178,610  

Knight-Swift Transportation Holdings, Inc.

    3,275       111,776  

Marten Transport, Ltd.

    26,609       586,728  

PAM Transportation Services, Inc.*

    23,000       1,340,210  

Saia, Inc.*

    16,741       1,326,724  
              7,731,064  

Trucking & Leasing 0.1%

               

Greenbrier Cos, Inc., (The)

    3,222       186,876  

Water 0.1%

               

American States Water Co.

    1,758       106,236  

California Water Service Group

    1,969       81,024  
              187,260  

TOTAL COMMON STOCKS

               

(Cost $229,212,616)

            333,611,404  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

14

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Portfolio of Investments (Concluded)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS 4.1%

STIT-Treasury Portfolio, 1.85% (a)

    14,392,245     $ 14,392,245  

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

               

(Cost $14,392,245)

            14,392,245  

TOTAL INVESTMENTS 99.6%

               

(Cost $243,604,861)

            348,003,649  

OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES 0.4%

            1,348,408  

NET ASSETS 100.0%

          $ 349,352,057  

 

 
*Non-income producing security.

 

(a)Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.

 

ADRAmerican Depositary Receipt

 

PLCPublic Limited Company

 

REITReal Estate Investment Trust

 

SP ADRSponsored ADR

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

15

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

STATEMENT of Assets and Liabilities

August 31, 2018

 

ASSETS

       

Investments, at value (cost $229,212,616)

  $ 333,611,404  

Short-term investments, at value (cost $14,392,245)

    14,392,245  

Receivables for:

       

Investments sold

    2,686,482  

Dividends

    163,097  

Capital shares sold

    112,081  

Total assets

    350,965,309  
         

LIABILITIES

       

Payables for:

       

Investments purchased

    1,287,638  

Investment sub-advisory fees

    225,659  

Capital shares redeemed

    80,458  

Other accrued expenses and liabilities

    19,497  

Total liabilities

    1,613,252  

Net assets

  $ 349,352,057  
         

NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:

       

Par value

  $ 20,845  

Paid-in capital

    213,642,743  

Undistributed/(accumulated) net investment income/(loss)

     

Accumulated net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    31,289,681  

Net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    104,398,788  

Net assets

  $ 349,352,057  
         

CAPITAL SHARES:

       

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    20,845,390  

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share

  $ 16.76  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

16

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Statement of Operations

For the YEAR Ended August 31, 2018

 

INVESTMENT INCOME

       

Dividends (net of foreign taxes withheld of $6,421)

  $ 2,483,415  

Total investment income

    2,483,415  
         

EXPENSES

       

Sub-advisory fees (Note 2)

    2,287,023  

Administration and accounting services fees (Note 2)

    133,347  

Legal fees

    42,276  

Custodian fees (Note 2)

    41,144  

Transfer agent fees (Note 2)

    39,990  

Audit fees

    35,103  

Director’s fees

    26,146  

Registration and filing fees

    22,226  

Officer’s fees

    18,886  

Printing and shareholder reporting fees

    10,565  

Other expenses

    37,944  

Total expenses

    2,694,650  

Net investment income/(loss)

    (211,235 )
         

NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) FROM INVESTMENTS

       

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    38,840,504  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    51,272,470  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    90,112,974  

NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS

  $ 89,901,739  

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

17

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM OPERATIONS

               

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ (211,235 )   $ (377,926 )

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments and foreign currency transactions

    38,840,504       15,511,406  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments and foreign currency translation

    51,272,470       19,615,276  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    89,901,739       34,748,756  
                 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM:

               

Net realized capital gains

    (10,628,260 )      

Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (10,628,260 )      
                 

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    17,644,311       22,400,008  

Reinvestment of distributions

    9,704,541        

Shares redeemed

    (19,750,651 )     (19,769,132 )

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

    7,598,201       2,630,876  

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    86,871,680       37,379,632  
                 

NET ASSETS:

               

Beginning of period

    262,480,377       225,100,745  

End of period

  $ 349,352,057     $ 262,480,377  

Undistributed/(accumulated) net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $     $ (236,950 )
                 

SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

               

Shares sold

    1,198,238       1,796,443  

Shares reinvested

    714,620        

Shares redeemed

    (1,350,953 )     (1,617,798 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares

    561,905       178,645  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

18

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2018

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2017

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2016

   

For the
Period
October 21,
2014
(1)
to August 31,
2015

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                               

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.94     $ 11.20     $ 10.59     $ 10.00  

Net investment income/(loss)(2)

    (0.01 )     (0.02 )     (0.03 )     (0.04 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    4.36       1.76       0.64       0.63  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    4.35       1.74       0.61       0.59  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                               

Net realized capital gains

    (0.53 )            (3)      

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (0.53 )                  

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 16.76     $ 12.94     $ 11.20     $ 10.59  

Total investment return(4)

    34.54 %     15.54 %     5.76 %     5.90 %(5)
                                 

Ratios/Supplemental Data

                               

Net assets, end of period (000’s omitted)

  $ 349,352     $ 262,480     $ 225,101     $ 212,934  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets

    0.90 %     0.92 %     1.15 %     1.15 %(6)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    (0.07 )%     (0.15 )%     (0.26 )%     (0.41 )%(6)

Portfolio turnover rate

    86 %     88 %     101 %     95 %(5)

 

 

(1)

Commencement of operations.

 

(2)

Calculated based on average shares outstanding for the period.

 

(3)

Amount represents less than $0.005 per share.

 

(4)

Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

 

(5)

Not annualized.

 

(6)

Annualized.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

19

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

August 31, 2018

 

1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

 

The RBB Fund, Inc. (“RBB” or the “Company”) was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on February 29, 1988 and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. RBB is a “series fund,” which is a mutual fund divided into separate portfolios. Each portfolio is treated as a separate entity for certain matters under the 1940 Act, and for other purposes, and a shareholder of one portfolio is not deemed to be a shareholder of any other portfolio. Currently, RBB has thirty active investment portfolios, including the Adara Smaller Companies Fund (the “Fund”) (formerly the Altair Smaller Companies Fund), which commenced investment operations on October 21, 2014.

 

RBB has authorized capital of one hundred billion shares of common stock of which 87.023 billion shares are currently classified into one hundred and eighty-one classes of common stock. Each class represents an interest in an active or inactive RBB investment portfolio.

 

The Fund’s investment objective seeks capital appreciation.

 

The Fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services - Investment Companies”.

 

The end of the reporting period for the Fund is August 31, 2018, and the period covered by these Notes to Financial Statements is the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018 (the “current fiscal period”).

 

PORTFOLIO VALUATION – The Fund’s net asset value (“NAV”) is calculated once daily at the close of regular trading hours on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on each day the NYSE is open. Securities held by the Fund are valued using the closing price or the last sale price on a national securities exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automatic Quotation System (“NASDAQ”) market system where they are primarily traded. Equity securities traded in the over-the-counter (“OTC”) market are valued at their closing prices. If there were no transactions on that day, securities traded principally on an exchange or on NASDAQ will be valued at the mean of the last bid and ask prices prior to the market close. Fixed income securities are valued using an independent pricing service, which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings, and are deemed representative of market values at the close of the market. Foreign securities are valued based on prices from the primary market in which they are traded, and are translated from the local currency into U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. Investments in other open-end investment companies, if any, are valued based on the NAV of those investment companies (which may use fair value pricing as disclosed in their prospectuses). If market quotations are unavailable or deemed unreliable, securities will be valued in accordance with procedures adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”). Relying on prices supplied by pricing services or dealers or using fair valuation may result in values that are higher or lower than the values used by other investment companies and investors to price the same investments.

 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS – The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the Fund’s investments are summarized into three levels as described in the hierarchy below:

 

 

● Level 1 —

Prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

 

 

● Level 2 —

Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).

 

 

● Level 3 —

Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

20

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

August 31, 2018

 

The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of the end of the reporting period, in valuing the Fund’s investments carried at fair value:

 

   

Total

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

 

Common Stocks

  $ 333,611,404     $ 333,611,404     $     $  

Short-Term Investments

    14,392,245       14,392,245              

Total Investments*

  $ 348,003,649     $ 348,003,649     $     $  

 

*Please refer to the Portfolio of Investments for further details.

 

At the end of each quarter, management evaluates the classification of Levels 1, 2 and 3 assets and liabilities. Various factors are considered, such as changes in liquidity from the prior reporting period; whether or not a broker is willing to execute at the quoted price; the depth and consistency of prices from third party pricing services; and the existence of contemporaneous, observable trades in the market. Additionally, management evaluates the classification of Level 1 and Level 2 assets and liabilities on a quarterly basis for changes in listings or delistings on national exchanges.

 

Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Fund’s investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values the Fund may ultimately realize. Further, such investments may be subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities.

 

For fair valuations using significant unobservable inputs, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires the Fund to present a reconciliation of the beginning to ending balances for reported market values that presents changes attributable to total realized and unrealized gains or losses, purchase and sales, and transfers in and out of Level 3 during the period. Transfers in and out between levels are based on values at the end of the period. U.S. GAAP also requires the Fund to disclose amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements. A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented only when the Fund had an amount of Level 3 investments at the end of the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets. The amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of each level within the three-tier hierarchy are disclosed when the Fund had an amount of total transfers during the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets as of the end of the reporting period.

 

During the current fiscal period, the Fund had no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3.

 

USE OF ESTIMATES — The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and those differences could be significant.

 

INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS, INVESTMENT INCOME AND EXPENSES — The Fund records security transactions based on trade date for financial reporting purposes. The cost of investments sold is determined by use of the specific identification method for both financial reporting and income tax purposes in determining realized gains and losses on investments. Interest income is accrued when earned. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The Fund’s investment income, expenses (other than class specific expenses) and unrealized and realized gains and losses are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class at the beginning of the day. Expenses incurred on behalf of a specific class, fund or fund family of the Company are charged directly to the class, fund or fund family (in proportion to net assets). Expenses incurred for all of the RBB funds (such as director or professional fees) are charged to all funds in

 

21

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

August 31, 2018

 

proportion to their average net assets of RBB, or in such other manner as the Board deems fair or equitable. Expenses and fees, including investment advisory and administration fees, are accrued daily and taken into account for the purpose of determining the NAV of the Fund.

 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS — Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains (including net short-term capital gains), if any, are declared and paid at least annually to shareholders recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income dividends and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. GAAP.

 

U.S. TAX STATUS — No provision is made for U.S. income taxes as it is the Fund’s intention to continue to qualify for and elect the tax treatment applicable to regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and make the requisite distributions to its shareholders which will be sufficient to relieve it from U.S. income and excise taxes.

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — Cash and cash equivalents are valued at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates market value.

 

OTHER — In the normal course of business, the Fund may enter into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made against the Fund in the future, and, therefore, cannot be estimated; however, based on experience, the risk of material loss from such claims is considered remote.

 

2. Investment Adviser and Other Services

 

Altair Advisers, LLC (“Altair” or the “Adviser”) serves as the investment adviser to the Fund. Aperio Group, LLC, Driehaus Capital Management, LLC, Granite Investment Partners, LLC, Pacific Ridge Capital Partners, LLC, Pier Capital, LLC and River Road Asset Management, LLC each serve as an investment sub-adviser (“Sub-Adviser”) to the Fund.

 

The Fund is managed by the Adviser and one or more Sub-Advisers unaffiliated with the Adviser. The Adviser also has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the Sub-Advisers, and to recommend their hiring, termination and replacement, subject to approval by the Board. The Adviser has an investment team that is jointly responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund. The Sub-Advisers provide investment advisory services to the portion of the Fund’s portfolio allocated to them by the Adviser. The Adviser and the Fund have entered into sub-advisory agreements with the Sub-Advisers to manage the Fund, subject to supervision of the Adviser and the Board, and in accordance with the investment objective and restrictions of the Fund. The Fund compensates the Sub-Advisers for their services at an annual rate based on the Fund’s average daily net assets, (the “Sub-Advisory Fee”), not to exceed 1.00%, payable on a monthly basis in arrears.

 

During the current fiscal period, collectively, sub-advisory fees accrued were $2,287,023, or the rate of 0.76%.

 

The Fund is currently only available to clients of the Adviser and to other investors at the Fund’s discretion. The Adviser does not receive a separate management fee from the Fund. However, pursuant to the Fund’s investment advisory agreement with the Adviser, the Adviser is entitled to receive reimbursement for out-of-pocket expenses it incurs in connection with its compliance monitoring of Fund trading, up to 0.01% of the Fund’s average daily net assets.

 

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (“Fund Services”), doing business as U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, serves as administrator for the Fund. For providing administrative and accounting services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Fund Services serves as the Fund’s transfer and dividend disbursing agent. For providing transfer agent services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

22

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

August 31, 2018

 

U.S. Bank, N.A. (the “Custodian”) provides certain custodial services to the Fund. The Custodian is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Quasar Distributors, LLC serves as the principal underwriter and distributor of the Fund’s shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with RBB.

 

For compensation amounts paid to Fund Services and the Custodian, please refer to the Statement of Operations.

 

3. Director’s and Officer’s Compensation

 

The Directors of the Company receive an annual retainer and meeting fees for meetings attended. Employees of Vigilant Compliance, LLC serve as President, Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Treasurer of the Company. Vigilant Compliance, LLC is compensated for the services provided to the Company. An employee of RBB serves as Treasurer and Secretary, and is compensated for services provided. Certain employees of Fund Services serve as officers of the Company. They are not compensated by the Fund or the Company. For Director’s and Officer’s compensation amounts, please refer to the Statement of Operations.

 

4. Purchases and Sales of Investment Securities

 

During the current fiscal period, aggregate purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding short-term investments) of the Fund were as follows:

 

PURCHASES

SALES

$249,961,906 $242,078,936

 

There were no purchases or sales of long-term U.S. Government securities during the current fiscal period.

 

5. Federal Income Tax Information

 

The Fund has followed the authoritative guidance on accounting for and disclosure of uncertainty in tax positions, which requires the Fund to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Fund has determined that there was no effect on the financial statements from following this authoritative guidance. In the normal course of business, the Fund is subject to examination by federal, state and local jurisdictions, where applicable, for tax years for which applicable statutes of limitations have not expired.

 

As of August 31, 2018, the federal tax cost and aggregate gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of investments held by the Fund were as follows:

 

FEDERAL
TAX COST

UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION

UNREALIZED
(DEPRECIATION)

Net Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

$245,099,590 $110,894,165 $(7,990,106) $102,904,059

 

Distributions to shareholders, if any, from net investment income and realized gains are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from net investment income and realized gains recognized for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying financial statements. To the extent these differences are permanent, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts based on the tax treatment; temporary differences do not require such reclassification.

 

23

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONCLUDED)

August 31, 2018

 

The following permanent differences as of August 31, 2018, primarily attributable to current year write-off of net operating loss and was reclassified among the following accounts:

 

UNDISTRIBUTED
NET INVESTMENT
INCOME/(LOSS)

ACCUMULATED
NET REALIZED
GAIN/(LOSS)

PAID-IN
CAPITAL

$448,185 $(448,185) $—

 

As of August 31, 2018, the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

 

UNDISTRIBUTED
ORDINARY
INCOME

UNDISTRIBUTED
LONG-TERM
CAPITAL GAINS

CAPITAL LOSS
CARRYFORWARDS

NET UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION/
(DEPRECIATION)

QUALIFIED
LATE-YEAR
LOSSES

$9,398,378 $23,386,032 $— $102,904,059 $—

 

The differences between the book and tax basis components of distributable earnings relate primarily to the timing of recognition of income and gains for federal income tax purposes. Short-term and foreign currency gains are reported as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes.

 

The tax character of dividends and distributions paid during the fiscal years ended August 31, 2018 and 2017, were as follows:

 

   

ORDINARY
INCOME

   

LONG-TERM
GAINS

   

TOTAL

 

2018

  $ 1,402,124     $ 9,226,136     $ 10,628,260  

2017

                 

 

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010, the Fund is permitted to carry forward capital losses incurred in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 for an unlimited period. Additionally, capital losses that are carried forward will retain their character as either short-term or long-term capital losses rather than being considered all short-term as under the previous law. As of August 31, 2018, the Fund had no capital loss carryforwards.

 

6. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In August 2018, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”). The primary focus of ASU 2018-13 is to improve the effectiveness of the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The changes affect all companies that are required to include fair value measurement disclosures. In general, the amendments in ASU 2018-13 are effective for all affected entities for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. An affected entity is permitted to adopt the removed or modified disclosures upon the issuance of ASU 2018-13 and may delay adoption of the additional disclosures, which are required for public companies only, until their effective date. Management is currently evaluating the impact these changes will have on the Fund’s financial statements and disclosures.

 

7. Subsequent Events

 

Management has evaluated the impact of all subsequent events on the Fund through the date the financial statements were issued and has determined that there were no significant events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.

 

24

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

To the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. and Shareholders of Adara Smaller Companies Fund

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the portfolio of investments, of Adara Smaller Companies Fund (the “Fund”), a separately managed portfolio of The RBB Fund, Inc., as of August 31, 2018, the related statement of operations for the year ended August 31, 2018, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of August 31, 2018, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018 and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

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

 

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

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2018 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 25, 2018

 

We have served as the auditor of one or more Altair Advisers, LLC investment companies since 2015.

 

25

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Shareholder Tax Information (Unaudited)

 

Certain tax information regarding the Fund is required to be provided to shareholders based upon the Fund’s income and distributions for the taxable period ended August 31, 2018. The information and distributions reported herein may differ from information and distributions taxable to the shareholders for the calendar year ending December 31, 2019. During the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, the following dividends and distributions were paid by the Fund:

 

Ordinary
Income

Long-Term
Gains

$1,402,124 $9,226,136

 

Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal income tax purposes.

 

Under the Jobs and Growth Tax relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 the following percentages of ordinary dividends paid during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018 are designated as “qualified dividend income,” as defined in the Act, and are subject to reduced tax rates:

 

Adara Smaller Companies Fund

19.45%

 

The percentage of total ordinary income dividends paid qualifying for the corporate dividends received deduction for the Fund is as follows:

 

Adara Smaller Companies Fund

18.68%

 

The percentage of ordinary income distributions designated as qualified short-term gains pursuant to the American Job Creation Act of 2004 is as follows:

 

Adara Smaller Companies Fund

100.00%

 

Because the Fund’s fiscal year is not the calendar year, another notification will be sent with respect to calendar year 2018. The second notification, which will reflect the amount, if any, to be used by calendar year taxpayers on their U.S. federal income tax returns, will be made in conjunction with Form 1099-DIV and will be mailed in January 2019.

 

Foreign shareholders will generally be subject to U.S. withholding tax on the amount of their ordinary income dividends. They will generally not be entitled to a foreign tax credit or deduction for the withholding taxes paid by the Fund, if any.

 

In general, dividends received by tax-exempt recipients (e.g., IRAs and Keoghs) need not be reported as taxable income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, some retirement trusts (e.g., corporate, Keogh and 403(b)(7) plans) may need this information for their annual information reporting.

 

Shareholders are advised to consult their own tax advisers with respect to the tax consequences of their investment in the Fund.

 

26

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Other Information (Unaudited)

 

Proxy Voting

 

Policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities as well as information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities for the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 are available without charge, upon request, by calling (844) 261-6482 and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Quarterly Portfolio Schedules

 

The Company files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third fiscal quarters of each fiscal year (quarters ended November 30 and May 31) on Form N-Q. The Company’s Form N-Q is available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov and may be reviewed and copied at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the SEC Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.

 

Altair Advisers LLC - Adara Smaller Companies Fund

 

As required by the 1940 Act, the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Company, including all of the Directors who are not “interested persons” of the Company, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act (the “Independent Directors”), considered (1) the renewal of the investment advisory agreement between Altair and the Company (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund, and (2) the renewal of the sub-advisory agreements among Altair, the Company and each of Aperio Group, LLC, Driehaus Capital Management, LLC, Granite Investment Partners, LLC, Pacific Ridge Capital Partners, LLC, Pier Capital, LLC, and River Road Asset Management, LLC (collectively, the “Sub-Advisers”) (together, the “Sub-Advisory Agreements”), at a meeting of the Board held on May 9-10, 2018 (the “Meeting”). At the Meeting, the Board, including all of the Independent Directors, approved the Investment Advisory Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreements for an additional one-year term. The Board’s decision to approve the Investment Advisory Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreements reflects the exercise of its business judgment to continue the existing arrangements. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreements, the Board considered information provided by Altair and each of the Sub-Advisers with the assistance and advice of counsel to the Independent Directors and the Company.

 

In considering the renewal and approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreements between the Company and Altair with respect to the Fund, the Directors took into account all the materials provided prior to and during the Meeting and at other meetings throughout the past year, the presentations made during the Meeting, and the discussions held during the Meeting. Among other things, the Directors considered (i) the nature, extent, and quality of services provided to the Fund by Altair and each Sub-Adviser; (ii) descriptions of the experience and qualifications of the personnel providing those services; (iii) Altair’s and the Sub-Advisers’ investment philosophies and processes; (iv) Altair’s and the Sub-Advisers’ assets under management and client descriptions; (v) Altair’s and the Sub-Advisers’ soft dollar commission and trade allocation policies, including information on the types of research and services obtained in connection with soft dollar commissions; (vi) Altair’s and the Sub-Advisers’ advisory fee arrangements and other similarly managed clients, as applicable; (vii) Altair’s and the Sub-Advisers’ compliance procedures; (viii) Altair’s and the Sub-Advisers’ financial information and insurance coverage; (ix) the extent to which economies of scale are relevant to the Fund; (x) a report prepared by Broadridge/Lipper comparing the Fund’s management fees and total expense ratio to those of its Lipper Group and comparing the performance of the Fund to the performance of its Lipper Group; and (xi) a report comparing the performance of the Fund to the performance of its benchmark.

 

As part of their review, the Directors considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by Altair and each Sub-Adviser. The Directors concluded that Altair and each Sub-Adviser had substantial resources to provide services to the Fund, and that Altair’s and the Sub-Advisers’ services had been acceptable.

 

27

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Other Information (Unaudited) (Concluded)

 

The Directors also considered the investment performance of the Fund and considered the Fund’s investment performance in light of its investment objective and investment strategies. The Directors noted that the Fund had outperformed its primary benchmark for the year-to-date and one-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also considered the Fund’s 1st quintile ranking within its Performance Group for the one-year, two-year, three-year and since-inception periods ended December 31, 2017.

 

The Board also considered the advisory fee rate payable by the Fund under the Investment Advisory Agreement. In this regard, information on the fees paid by the Fund and the Fund’s total operating expense ratio (before and after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) were compared to similar information for mutual funds advised by other, unaffiliated investment advisory firms. The Directors noted that the Fund’s actual advisor fees were comparable to the median of its Lipper Expense Group. The Directors also considered that the total expenses of the Fund ranked in the 3rd quintile of its Lipper Expense Universe. The Directors considered that the Fund does not pay a contractual management fee to Altair, but instead reimburses for out-of-pocket expenses in connection with its compliance monitoring of Fund trading, up to 0.01%. The Directors also considered the fees payable to each Sub-Adviser under the Sub-Advisory Agreements.

 

After reviewing the information regarding Altair’s and the Sub-Advisers’ costs, profitability and economies of scale, and after considering the services to be provided by Altair and Sub-Adviser, the Directors concluded that the investment advisory fees to be paid by the Fund to Altair and the sub-advisory fees to be paid to each Sub-Adviser were fair and reasonable and that the Investment Advisory Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreements should be approved and continued for an additional one-year period ending August 16, 2019.

 

28

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Company Management (Unaudited)

 

Directors and Executive Officers

 

The business and affairs of the Company are managed under the direction of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company is organized under and managed pursuant to Maryland law. The Directors and executive officers of the Company, their ages, business addresses and principal occupations during the past five years are set forth below. The statement of additional information (“SAI”) includes additional information about the Directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling (844) 261-6482.

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office and
Length
of Time
Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex
Overseen
by Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS

Julian A. Brodsky
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 85

Director

1988 to present

From 1969 to 2011, Director and Vice Chairman, Comcast Corporation (cable television and communications).

30

AMDOCS Limited (service provider to telecommunications companies).

J. Richard Carnall
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 79

Director

2002 to present

Since 1984, Director of Haydon Bolts, Inc. (bolt manufacturer) and Parkway Real Estate Company (subsidiary of Haydon Bolts, Inc.); since 2004, Director of Cornerstone Bank.

30

None

Gregory P. Chandler
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 51

Director

2012 to present

Since 2009, Chief Financial Officer, Emtec, Inc. (information technology consulting/services); from 2003-2009, Managing Director, head of Business Services and IT Services Practice, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC (investment banking/brokerage).

30

Emtec, Inc.; FS Investment Corporation (business development company); FS Energy and Power Fund (business development company); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios)(registered investment company).

 

29

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Company Management (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office and
Length
of Time
Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex
Overseen
by Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

Nicholas A. Giordano
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 75

Director

2006 to present

Since 1997, Consultant, financial services organizations.

30

Kalmar Pooled Investment Trust (registered investment company) (until September 2017); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios) (registered investment company); Independence Blue Cross (healthcare insurance).

Arnold M. Reichman
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 70

Chairman

 

Director

2005 to present

1991 to present

Since 2006, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lifebooker, LLC (online beauty and health appointment booking service).

30

Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

Brian T. Shea
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 58

Director

2018 to present

From 2014-2017, Chief Executive Officer, BNY Mellon Investment Services (fund services, global custodian and securities clearing firm); from 1983-2014, Chief Executive Officer and various positions, Pershing LLC (broker dealer, clearing and custody firm).

30

WisdomTree Investments, Inc. (asset management company); Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (financial services technology company).

Robert A. Straniere
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 77

Director

2006 to present

Since 2009, Administrative Law Judge, New York City; since 1980, Founding Partner, Straniere Law Group (law firm).

30

Reich and Tang Group (asset management).

INTERESTED DIRECTOR2

Robert Sablowsky
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 80

Vice Chairman

 

Director

2016 to present

 

1991 to present

Since 2002, Senior Director - Investments and, prior thereto, Executive Vice President, of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. (a registered broker-dealer).

30

None

 

30

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Company Management (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office and
Length
of Time
Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex
Overseen
by Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

OFFICERS

Salvatore Faia, JD,
CPA, CFE
Vigilant Compliance, LLC
Gateway Corporate Center Suite 216
223 Wilmington West
Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Age: 55

President

 

 

Chief Compliance Officer

2009 to present

 

2004 to present

Since 2004, President, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2005, Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

James G. Shaw
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 57

Treasurer and Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2016, Treasurer and Secretary of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 2005 to 2016, Assistant Treasurer of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 1995 to 2016, Senior Director and Vice President of BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (financial services company).

N/A

N/A

Robert Amweg
Vigilant Compliance, LLC
Gateway Corporate Center Suite 216
223 Wilmington West Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Age: 65

Assistant Treasurer

2016 to present

Since 2013, Compliance Director, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2012, Consultant to the financial services industry; from 2007 to 2012, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, Turner Investments, LP (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

Jennifer Witt
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 35

Assistant Treasurer

2018 to present

Since 2016, Assistant Vice President, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm); from 2007 to 2016, Supervisor, Nuveen Investments (investment company).

N/A

N/A

 

31

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Company Management (Unaudited) (Concluded)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office and
Length
of Time
Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex
Overseen
by Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

Edward Paz
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 47

Assistant Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2007, Vice President and Counsel, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm).

N/A

N/A

Michael P. Malloy
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Age: 59

Assistant Secretary

1999 to present

Since 1993, Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm).

N/A

N/A

Jillian L. Bosmann
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103

Age: 39

Assistant Secretary

2017 to present

Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm) (2017-Present); Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (2006-Present).

N/A

N/A

 

*

Each Director oversees 30 portfolios of the Company.

 

1.

Subject to the Company’s Retirement Policy, each Director may continue to serve as a Director until the last day of the calendar year in which the applicable Director attains age 75 or until his successor is elected and qualified or his death, resignation or removal. The Board reserves the right to waive the requirements of the Policy with respect to an individual Director. The Board has approved waivers of the policy with respect to Messrs. Brodsky, Carnall, Giordano, Sablowsky and Straniere. Each officer holds office at the pleasure of the Board until the next special meeting of the Company or until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, or until he or she dies, resigns or is removed.

 

2.

Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “interested person” of the Company as that term is defined in the 1940 Act and is referred to as an “Interested Director.” Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “Interested Director” of the Company by virtue of his position as an employee of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc., a registered broker-dealer.

 

Director Experience, Qualifications, Attributes and/or Skills

 

The information above includes each Director’s principal occupations during the last five years. Each Director possesses extensive additional experience, skills and attributes relevant to his qualifications to serve as a Director. The cumulative background of each Director led to the conclusion that each Director should serve as a Director of the Company. Mr. Giordano has years of experience as a consultant to financial services organizations and also serves on the boards of other registered investment companies. Mr. Reichman brings decades of investment management experience to the Board, in addition to senior executive-level management experience. Mr. Straniere has been a practicing attorney for over 30 years and also serves on the boards of an asset management company and another registered investment company. Mr. Brodsky has over 40 years of senior executive level management experience in the cable television and communications industry. Mr. Sablowsky has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the financial services industry. Mr. Carnall has decades of senior executive-level management experience in the banking and financial services industry and also serves on the boards of various corporations and a bank. Mr. Chandler has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive level positions in the investment technology consulting/services and investment banking/brokerage industries, and also serves on various boards. Mr. Shea has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the investment services industry.

 

32

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Privacy Notice (Unaudited)

 

FACTS

WHAT DOES THE ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION?

Why?

Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.

What?

The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:

 

●    Social Security number

●    account balances

●    account transactions

●    transaction history

●    wire transfer instructions

●    checking account information

 

When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice.

How?

All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons the Adara Smaller Companies Fund chooses to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.

 

Reasons we can share your information

Does the Adara

Smaller Companies

Fund share?

Can you limit
this sharing?

For our everyday business purpose
such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court orders and legal
investigations, or report to credit bureaus

Yes

No

For our marketing purposes
to offer our products and services to you

Yes

No

For joint marketing with other financial companies

Yes

No

For affiliates’ everyday business purposes
information about your transactions and experiences

Yes

No

For affiliates’ everyday business purposes
information about your creditworthiness

No

We don’t share

For our affiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share

For nonaffiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share

 

Questions?

Call 1-844-261-6482

 

33

 

 

 

ADARA SMALLER COMPANIES FUND

 

Privacy Notice (Unaudited)

 

What we do

 

How does the Adara Smaller Companies Fund protect my personal information?

To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.

How does the Adara Smaller Companies Fund collect my personal information?

We collect your personal information, for example, when you

 

●    open an account

●    provide account information

●    give us your contact information

●    make a wire transfer

●    tell us where to send the money

 

We also collect your information from others, such as credit bureaus, affiliates, or other companies.

Why can’t I limit all sharing?

Federal law gives you the right to limit only

 

●    sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes — information about your creditworthiness

●    affiliates from using your information to market to you

●    sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you

 

State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.

Definitions

 

Affiliates

Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

●   Our affiliates include Altair Advisers, LLC, the investment adviser to the Adara Smaller Companies Fund.

Nonaffiliates

Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

●   Adara Smaller Companies Fund doesn’t share with nonaffiliates so they can market to you.

Joint marketing

A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.

 

●   Adara Smaller Companies Fund may share your information with other financial institutions with whom they have joint marketing arrangements who may suggest additional fund services or other investments products which may be of interest to you. We do not currently have any joint marketing arrangements with other financial institutions.

 

34

 

 

 

 

 

 

[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

 

 

 

 

 

Investment Adviser
Altair Advisers, LLC
303 West Madison Street, Suite 600
Chicago, IL 60606

 

Administrator and Transfer Agent
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, WI 53201

 

Principal Underwriter
Quasar Distributors, LLC
777 East Wisconsin Avenue, Floor 6
Milwaukee, WI 53202

 

Custodian
U.S. Bank, N.A.
1555 North Rivercenter Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, WI 53212

 

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Two Commerce Square
2001 Market Street, Suite 1800
Philadelphia, PA 19103

 

Legal Counsel
Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
One Logan Square, Suite 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103-6996

 

ADA-AR18

 

 

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND

 

of

 

The RBB Fund, Inc.

 

ANNUAL REPORT

 

August 31, 2018

 

This report is submitted for the general information of the shareholders of the Fund.
It is not authorized for distribution unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus for the Fund.

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

Altair launched the Aquarius International Fund on April 17, 2018 to provide clients with better access to top-tier managers in the international and emerging-markets equity asset classes. The Fund is managed by four underlying sub-advisers: international developed managers Mawer and Setanta, emerging markets manager Driehaus, and Aperio, a tax-loss harvesting manager. By pooling client assets into one commingled vehicle, Altair is able to maximize our “buying power” to source what we believe are the best investment managers at the lowest fees. Additionally, the Fund provides clients with access to certain emerging and frontier markets that are difficult to access outside of a commingled vehicle.

 

Altair believes international equities play an important role in a diversified portfolio. By investing directly in overseas companies, the potential exists to obtain exposure to economies with higher growth or companies trading at more attractive valuations than similar companies in the United States. International equities also help reduce the risks associated with investing only in U.S. companies and markets and the U.S. dollar.

 

The Fund’s initial performance over the four-month period was reflective of a difficult period for international equity markets. From inception to August 31, 2018, the Aquarius International Fund was down 3.90%, compared to the Fund’s benchmark MSCI ACWI ex USA Index, which was down 3.76% over the same period. Emerging markets in particular performed poorly, with the MSCI Emerging Markets Index down 7.84% over the same period. International markets have been hurt by the rising dollar, pockets of slower growth internationally and trade frictions with the United States. We continue to believe international equities represent an opportunity for U.S. investors to diversify their equity portfolios.

 

Sincerely,
Altair Advisers LLC

 

Opinions expressed are those of the Investment Adviser and are subject to change, are not guaranteed and should not be considered investment advice.

 

Diversification does not assure a profit or protect against a loss in a declining market.

 

Please see the Schedule of Investments section in this report for a full list of Fund’s holdings.

 

Past performance does not guarantee future results

 

MSCI ACWI ex USA Index is a stock market index measuring the performance of large and mid cap stocks across 22 of 23 Developed Markets (DM) countries (excluding the US) and 24 Emerging Markets countries. With 2,166 constituents, the index covers approximately 85% of the global equity opportunity set outside the US.

 

MSCI Emerging Markets Index is a stock market index measuring the performance of large and mid cap stocks across 24 Emerging Markets countries. With 1,151 constituents, the index covers approximately 85% of the free float-adjusted market capitalization in each country.

 

Must be preceded or accompanied by a prospectus.

 

1

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Concluded)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Investing involves Risks. Principal loss is possible. Small- and Medium-capitalization companies tend to have limited liquidity and greater price volatility than large-capitalization companies. Growth stocks typically are more volatile than value stocks; however, value stocks have a lower expected growth rate in earnings and sales. The Fund invests in foreign securities which involve greater volatility and political, economic and currency risks and differences in accounting methods. These risks are greater in emerging markets. Multi-investment management styles may lead to higher transaction expenses compared to single investment management styles. Outcomes depend on the skill of the sub-advisors and advisor and the allocation of assets amongst them. Sub-Advisers using different styles could experience overlapping security transactions as well as the risk of concentrations in certain stocks or sectors. Certain Sub-Advisers may be purchasing securities at the same time other Sub-Advisers may be selling those same securities, which may lead to higher transaction expenses compared to a Fund using a single investment management style.

 

Quasar Distributors, LLC, distributor

 

2

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND

 

Annual Report
Performance Data

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Invested in Aquarius International Fund
vs. MSCI ACWI EX USA INDEX

 

 

This chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 initial investment in the Fund made on April 17, 2018 (commencement of operations) and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the MSCI ACWI ex USA Index is unmanaged, and does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the period ended August 31, 2018

 
 

Since
Inception

 

Aquarius International Fund

-3.90%*

 

MSCI ACWI ex USA Index

-3.76%**

 

 

*

The Fund commenced operations on April 17, 2018.

**

Benchmark performance is from inception date of the Fund only and is not the inception date of the benchmark itself.

 

Performance quoted is past performance and does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment in the Fund will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the returns quoted. Returns shown do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Performance data current to the most recent month-end may be obtained by calling (844) 261-6482.

 

The Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses, as stated in the current prospectus dated February 21, 2018, are 0.73% of average daily net assets. This ratio may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report.

 

The Fund invests in common stocks, preferred stocks, warrants to acquire common stocks and securities convertible into common stocks. Portfolio composition is subject to change.

 

The MSCI ACWI ex USA Index captures large and mid cap representation across 22 of 23 Developed Markets (DM) countries (excluding the US) and 24 Emerging Markets (EM) countries. With 2,166 constituents, the index covers approximately 85% of the global equity opportunity set outside the US.

 

Investment Considerations

 

Investing in the Fund involves risk and an investor may lose money. The success of the Fund’s strategy depends on the Adviser’s ability to select Sub-Advisers and each manager’s ability to select investments for the Fund. The Fund may invest in riskier type investments including small, micro-cap and large cap stocks, IPOs, special situations, foreign markets, emerging markets and illiquid securities all of which may be more volatile and less liquid.

 

3

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Fund Expense Example

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees and other Fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

 

This example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period from March 1, 2018 through August 31, 2018 and held for the entire period. The actual values and expenses are based on the 136 day period from inception April 17, 2018 through August 31, 2018.

 

Actual Expenses

 

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

 

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

 

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

 

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

 

 

Beginning
Account Value
March 1, 2018

Ending
Account Value
August 31, 2018

Expenses Paid
During Period
*

Annualized
Expense
Ratio

Actual Six-Month
Total Investment
Return for
the Fund

Actual

$1,000.00

$ 961.00

$2.92

0.80%

-3.90%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,015.65

4.06

0.80

N/A

 

 

*

Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized since inception expense ratio of 0.80%, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days (184) in the most recent fiscal half-year, then divided by 365 to reflect the one-half year period. The actual dollar amounts shown as expenses paid during the period for the Fund and multiplied by 136 days, which is based on the date of inception (April 17, 2018). The Fund’s ending account value on the first line in the table is based on the actual since inception total investment return for the Fund.

 

4

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Portfolio Holdings Summary Table

August 31, 2018 (UNAUDITED)

 

The following table presents a summary by security type of the portfolio holdings of the Fund:

 

   

% of Net
Assets

   

Value

 

COMMON STOCKS:

               

Banks

    8.2 %   $ 14,626,274  

Pharmaceuticals

    7.1       12,769,115  

Insurance

    5.5       9,729,326  

Telecommunications

    4.8       8,497,986  

Oil & Gas

    4.5       7,979,500  

Commercial Services

    3.9       6,814,145  

Beverages

    3.6       6,295,953  

Internet

    3.5       6,113,903  

Chemicals

    3.4       6,030,412  

Investment Companies

    3.0       5,355,189  

Retail

    3.0       5,344,952  

Food

    2.8       4,967,281  

Semiconductors

    2.6       4,650,261  

Diversified Financial Services

    2.5       4,339,438  

Electronics

    2.0       3,561,457  

Building Materials

    2.0       3,477,191  

Software

    1.9       3,438,189  

Machinery-Diversified

    1.7       2,977,892  

Media

    1.6       2,807,196  

Cosmetics/Personal Care

    1.5       2,675,361  

Miscellaneous Manufacturing

    1.3       2,387,663  

Real Estate

    1.2       2,045,981  

REITS

    1.1       1,889,037  

Lodging

    0.9       1,625,006  

Agriculture

    0.9       1,575,781  

Airlines

    0.9       1,560,840  

Auto Manufacturers

    0.8       1,414,939  

Healthcare-Services

    0.8       1,369,538  

Mining

    0.8       1,348,467  

Apparel

    0.7       1,300,468  

Home Builders

    0.7       1,181,156  

Advertising

    0.6       1,055,131  

Water

    0.6       1,026,790  

Electric

    0.6       1,015,298  

Household Products/Wares

    0.6       1,001,970  

Computers

    0.6       992,009  

Auto Parts & Equipment

    0.5       972,642  

Healthcare-Products

    0.5       918,944  

Aerospace/Defense

    0.5       826,857  

Internet Software & Services

    0.4       703,666  

Transportation

    0.4       661,098  

Engineering & Construction

    0.4       649,409  

Iron/Steel

    0.3 %   $ 608,545  

Pipelines

    0.2       421,345  

Machinery-Construction & Mining

    0.2       407,558  

Biotechnology

    0.2       405,066  

Holding Companies- Diversified

    0.2       303,470  

Forest Products & Paper

    0.2       265,902  

Distribution/Wholesale

    0.1       261,643  

Home Furnishings

    0.1       260,061  

Leisure Time

    0.1       219,126  

Hand/Machine Tools

    0.1       211,116  

Food Service

    0.1       176,526  

Electrical Components & Equipment

    0.1       158,718  

Private Equity

    0.1       145,971  

Office/Business Equipment

    0.1       141,196  

Gas

    0.1       130,815  

Toys/Games/Hobbies

    0.1       110,397  

Entertainment

    0.0       85,675  

Trucking & Leasing

    0.0       76,055  

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS:

               

Other Investment Pools and Funds

    0.4       710,404  

Diversified Financial Services

    0.2       336,748  

PREFERRED STOCKS:

               

Cosmetics/Personal Care

    0.6       833,874  

Semiconductors

    0.4       771,988  

Chemicals

    0.4       676,465  

Auto Manufacturers

    0.3       529,224  

Banks

    0.2       427,428  

Food

    0.0       47,293  

Telecommunications

    0.0       26,723  

Electric

    0.0       21,283  

RIGHTS:

               

Transportation Infrastructure

    0.0        

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

    8.6       15,210,871  

OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES

    1.7       3,012,543  

NET ASSETS

    100.0 %   $ 176,967,740  

 

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


5

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Portfolio of Investments

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

COMMON STOCKS — 87.2%

               
                 

Advertising — 0.6%

               

Multiplus SA

    32,700     $ 195,328  

WPP PLC

    47,425       786,525  

WPP PLC, SP ADR

    885       73,278  
              1,055,131  

Aerospace/Defense — 0.5%

               

Airbus Group SE

    1,361       168,003  

CAE, Inc.

    3,531       70,479  

Rolls-Royce Holdings PLC*

    4,865       63,425  

Safran SA

    941       122,273  

Thales SA

    455       64,132  

Ultra Electronic Holdings PLC

    16,270       338,545  
              826,857  

Agriculture — 0.9%

               

British American Tabacco PLC, SP ADR

    5,168       250,028  

Imperial Brands PLC, SP ADR

    3,128       111,169  

Japan Tobacco, Inc.

    3,042       79,978  

Origin Enterprises PLC

    160,461       1,043,031  

Swedish Match AB

    1,713       91,575  
              1,575,781  

Airlines — 0.9%

               

Latam Airlines Group SA, SP ADR

    3,226       29,937  

Ryanair Holding PLC, SP ADR*

    15,028       1,530,903  
              1,560,840  

Apparel — 0.7%

               

Adidas AG, SP ADR

    1,018       126,507  

Burberry Group PLC

    1,718       49,930  

Gildan Activewear, Inc.

    2,385       70,238  

Hermes International, ADR

    910       59,150  

Kering SA

    220       119,829  

LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE

    440       154,243  

LVMH Moet Hennessy Louis Vuitton SE, ADR

    3,015       211,321  

NIKE, Inc., Class B

    2,717       223,337  

Puma SE

    148       81,078  

Shenzhou International Group Holdings, Ltd.

    15,595       204,835  
              1,300,468  

Auto Manufacturers — 0.8%

               

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG

    805       77,930  

Brilliance China Automotive Holdings, Ltd.

    36,000       57,126  

BYD Co., Ltd.

    6,500       38,320  

Daimler AG

    3,172       205,135  

Ferrari NV

    265       34,739  

Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV*

    2,037       34,853  

Auto Manufacturers — (Continued)

       

Honda Motor Ltd., SP ADR

    5,237     $ 155,172  

Hyundai Motor Co.

    1,343       150,817  

Nissan Motor Co., Ltd.

    6,400       59,953  

Peugeot SA

    5,677       156,427  

Renault SA

    476       41,113  

Subaru Corp.

    2,000       59,406  

Suzuki Motor Corp.

    1,200       78,013  

Tata Motors, Ltd., SP ADR*

    5,870       108,889  

Volkswagen AG, ADR*

    4,910       78,560  

Volvo AB, Class B

    4,556       78,486  
              1,414,939  

Auto Parts & Equipment — 0.5%

       

Bridgestone Corp.

    2,300       84,592  

Fuyao Glass Industrials Group, Ltd. (a)

    144,000       531,535  

Hyundai Mobis Co., Ltd.

    572       115,104  

Michelin

    548       64,861  

Sumitomo Electric Industries, Ltd.

    4,000       63,262  

Toyota Industries Corp.

    1,200       67,947  

Valeo SA

    999       45,341  
              972,642  

Banks — 8.2%

               

ABN AMRO Group NV (a)

    2,581       69,895  

Abu Dhabi Community Bank.

    43,022       83,159  

Australia & New Zealand Banking Group, Ltd.

    14,671       311,771  

Banco de Chile, ADR

    1,404       122,653  

Banco do Brasil SA, SP ADR

    12,560       93,007  

Banco Santander Brasil SA, ADR

    13,178       111,750  

Banco Santander Chile, ADR

    2,830       86,598  

Banco Santander Mexico SA Institucion de Banca Multiple Grupo Financiero Santand, ADR

    18,344       144,000  

Bangkok Bank

    124,200       789,826  

Bank Central Asia Tbk PT

    204,590       344,588  

Bank Leumi Le Israel

    190,182       1,277,517  

Bank Montreal

    1,318       108,023  

Bank of China, Ltd.

    129,000       57,967  

Bank of Ireland Group PLC

    175,976       1,441,689  

Bank of Nova Scotia, (The)

    221       12,796  

Bankia SA

    11,290       42,293  

Bankinter SA

    7,221       64,167  

Barclays PLC, SP ADR

    9,544       89,332  

BDO Unibank, Inc.

    53,361       129,915  

BNP Paribas SA, ADR

    4,986       146,140  

BOC Hong Kong Holdings, Ltd.

    15,000       73,257  

CaixaBank SA

    1,083       4,828  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


6

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Banks — (Continued)

               

Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce

    1,014     $ 94,992  

China Construction Bank Corp.

    631,688       556,351  

China Merchants Bank Co., Ltd.

    36,000       138,280  

CITIC, Ltd.

    93,000       132,395  

Commercial International Bank Egypt SAE

    21,519       105,797  

Commerzbank AG*

    740       6,999  

Commonweatlh Bank Of Australia, SP ADR

    627       32,203  

Credicorp, Ltd.

    1,431       311,987  

Credit Agricole SA

    493       6,745  

Credit Suisse Group AG, SP ADR*

    4,332       64,763  

Dah Sing Financial Holdings, Ltd.

    126,000       783,684  

Danske Bank

    3,058       90,123  

DBS Group Holdings, Ltd.

    72,700       1,321,616  

DNB ASA

    3,459       70,322  

Erste Group Bank AG*

    1,647       65,594  

FirstRand, Ltd.

    32,717       157,394  

Grupo Aval Acciones y Valores SA, ADR

    6,908       54,642  

Grupo Financiero Banorte SAB de CV

    24,582       167,665  

Hang Seng Bank, Ltd.

    4,000       108,516  

HDFC Bank, Ltd., ADR

    6,451       653,293  

ICICI Bank, Ltd., SP ADR

    34,546       332,678  

Industrial & Commerical Bank China, Ltd.

    542,655       400,804  

Intesa Sanpaolo SpA, ADR

    6,108       90,521  

Japan Post Bank Co., Ltd.

    6,222       72,692  

Kasikornbank PCL, NVDR

    32,636       210,456  

KBC Group NV

    1,317       93,639  

Macquarie Group, Ltd.

    1,304       121,968  

Mediobanca Banca di Credito Finanziario SpA

    18,475       172,033  

Mitsubishi UFJ Financial Group Inc., SP ADR

    30,785       185,941  

National Australia Bank, Ltd.

    8,668       177,260  

Natixis SA

    6,942       46,428  

Nordea Bank AB

    5,920       63,972  

OTP Bank PLC

    4,562       167,842  

Oversea-Chinese Bank Corp., Ltd.

    16,000       131,679  

Public Bank

    7,065       43,147  

Resona Holdings, Inc.

    11,400       64,663  

Royal Bank Canada

    3,328       264,643  

Royal Bank of Scotland Group PLC

    17,675       55,407  

Sberbank Russia, SP ADR

    15,549       169,795  

Banks — (Continued)

               

Skandinaviska Enskilda Banken AB

    14,374     $ 153,450  

Standard Chart PLC

    10,978       89,492  

Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group Inc., SP ADR

    21,505       169,029  

Sumitomo Mitsui Trust Holdings, Inc.

    2,000       80,250  

Svenska Handelsbanken AB, Class A

    9,880       119,801  

Swedbank AB, Class A

    3,683       85,756  

Toronto-Dominion Bank, (The)

    4,158       251,559  

UBS Group AG*

    9,499       148,754  

United Overseas Bank, Ltd.

    1,027       20,241  

Westpac Banking Corp.

    5,543       113,842  
              14,626,274  

Beverages — 3.6%

               

Ambev SA, ADR

    41,086       191,050  

Anheuser-Busch InBev SA NV

    10,866       1,013,181  

Arca Continental SAB de CV

    9,290       57,451  

Carlsberg A/S, SP ADR

    4,270       104,167  

Coca-Cola Amatil, Ltd.

    160,586       1,086,881  

Coca-Cola Femsa SA De CV, SP ADR

    634       38,306  

Coca-Cola HBC AG*

    1,383       47,354  

Compania Cervecerias Unidas SA, SP ADR

    2,714       71,650  

Diageo PLC

    59,775       2,090,594  

Diageo PLC, SP ADR

    1,819       253,587  

Fomento Economico Mexicano SAB de CV, SP ADR

    525       50,337  

Heineken Holding NV

    841       80,243  

Heineken NV

    1,965       194,393  

Kirin Holdings Co.

    3,000       74,137  

Pernod Ricard SA

    757       119,492  

Thai Beverage PLC

    1,823,600       823,130  
              6,295,953  

Biotechnology — 0.2%

               

CSL Ltd., SP ADR

    2,116       173,819  

Medy-Tox, Inc.

    162       97,516  

Shire PLC, ADR

    763       133,731  
              405,066  

Building Materials — 2.0%

               

AGC, Inc.

    2,000       80,010  

Anhui Conch Cement Co., Ltd.

    41,570       253,595  

China Resources Cement Holdings, Ltd.

    66,000       77,183  

Cie de Saint-Gobain

    2,555       110,169  

CRH PLC

    29,711       985,641  

CRH PLC, SP ADR

    2,676       88,629  

Daikin Industries, Ltd.

    800       101,935  

Geberit AG

    144       65,485  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


7

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Building Materials — (Continued)

       

HeidelbergCement AG

    1,078     $ 85,827  

LafargeHolcim, Ltd.*

    1,851       90,042  

Sika AG

    10,389       1,538,675  
              3,477,191  

Chemicals — 3.4%

               

Air Liquide SA

    14,092       1,773,511  

Akzo Nobel NV

    850       79,536  

Arkema SA

    452       56,702  

Asahi Kasei Corp.

    5,000       73,268  

Brenntag AG

    1,089       65,644  

Croda International, PLC

    26,665       1,764,707  

Formosa Plastic Corp.

    33,447       122,613  

Fuchs Petrolub SE

    13,875       745,105  

Givaudan SA

    35       85,118  

Hitachi Chemical Co., Ltd.

    4,000       83,851  

Indorama Ventures, NVDR

    59,574       109,270  

Israel Chemicals, Ltd.

    13,087       76,469  

Johnson Matthey PLC

    1,132       51,409  

Kuraray Co., Ltd.

    8,200       118,841  

LANXESS AG

    800       62,836  

LG Chem, Ltd.

    469       154,066  

Mexichem SAB de CV

    27,495       92,781  

Nitto Denko Corp.

    900       69,854  

Nutrien, Ltd.

    2,258       127,871  

Shin Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd., ADR

    956       22,428  

Shin-Etsu Chemical Co., Ltd.

    1,100       103,035  

Sinopec Shanghai Petrochemical Co., Ltd., SP ADR

    781       45,813  

Symrise AG

    924       86,281  

Teijin, Ltd.

    3,000       59,403  
              6,030,412  

Commercial Services — 3.9%

               

ALD SA (a)

    54,358       1,012,571  

Ashtead Group PLC

    2,350       72,113  

Bureau Veritas SA

    19,478       501,146  

Experian PLC

    3,178       79,143  

IHS Markit, Ltd.*

    10,800       594,000  

Intertek Group PLC

    33,097       2,206,177  

IWG PLC

    144,299       448,978  

Localiza Rent a Car SA

    10,890       57,938  

Recruit Holdings Co., Ltd.

    3,100       94,491  

RELX NV

    3,201       70,985  

RELX PLC

    59,168       1,314,152  

RELX PLC, SP ADR

    3,976       88,665  

Secom Co., Ltd.

    1,100       90,452  

Transurban Group

    9,742       84,363  

Wirecard AG

    445       98,971  
              6,814,145  

Computers — 0.6%

               

CGI Group, Inc., Class A*

    1,206     $ 79,077  

EPAM Systems, Inc.*

    1,541       220,255  

Genpact, Ltd.

    6,663       204,154  

Infosys Ltd., SP ADR

    13,998       290,738  

TDK Corp.

    700       78,511  

Wipro Ltd., ADR

    23,160       119,274  
              992,009  

Cosmetics/Personal Care — 1.5%

       

Beiersdorf AG

    769       89,512  

Essity AB

    2,405       62,332  

Kao Corp.

    2,000       155,198  

LG Household & Health Care, Ltd.

    44       49,992  

L'Oreal SA

    331       79,244  

Shiseido Co., Ltd.

    1,300       91,521  

Unicharm Corp.

    2,400       78,391  

Unilever NV

    3,639       209,170  

Unilever NV

    32,347       1,860,001  
              2,675,361  

Distribution/Wholesale — 0.1%

               

Itochu Corp.

    5,000       87,369  

Marubeni Corp.

    7,000       57,354  

Mitsubishi Corp.

    4,100       116,920  
              261,643  

Diversified Financial Services — 2.5%

       

ASX, Ltd.

    1,949       94,930  

B3 SA - Brasil Bolsa Balcao

    17,424       93,813  

Deutsche Boerse AG

    8,695       1,199,904  

Hargreaves Lansdown PLC

    2,199       62,810  

Hong Kong Exchange & Clearing, Ltd.

    5,000       142,459  

Japan Exchange Group, Inc.

    59,700       1,051,939  

KB Financial Group, Inc.

    5,175       239,269  

Noah Holdings, Ltd., SP ADR*

    3,483       163,840  

Old Mutual, Ltd.*

    36,770       75,220  

Pagseguro Digital, Ltd., Class A*

    4,568       131,969  

Partners Group Holding AG

    90       70,664  

Rathbone Brothers PLC

    21,352       729,136  

Shinhan Financial Group Co., Ltd., ADR

    3,478       137,103  

St James's Place PLC

    5,842       85,841  

Standard Life Aberdeen PLC

    14,713       60,541  
              4,339,438  

Electric — 0.6%

               

Chubu Electric Power Co., Inc.

    4,900       71,158  

CLP Holdings, Ltd.

    9,000       105,764  

E.ON SE

    6,331       67,588  

Endesa SA

    2,756       61,661  

Enel SpA

    17,216       85,115  

Fortis, Inc.

    3,234       105,817  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


8

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Electric — (Continued)

               

Iberdrola SA

    10,334     $ 76,786  

Korea Electric Power Corp., SP ADR

    9,820       133,748  

Red Electrica Corp. SA

    2,769       58,043  

RWE AG

    1,629       41,316  

Sembcorp Industries, Ltd.

    39,000       77,615  

Transmissora Alianca de Energia Eletrica SA

    26,417       130,687  
              1,015,298  

Electrical Components & Equipment — 0.1%

       

Brother Industries, Ltd.

    2,742       56,250  

Legrand SA*

    1,360       102,468  
              158,718  

Electronics — 2.0%

               

Assa Abloy AB, Class B

    63,356       1,291,996  

AU Optronics Corp., SP ADR

    23,945       105,597  

Chroma ATE, Inc.

    23,459       129,490  

Halma PLC

    82,901       1,541,127  

Hoya Corp.

    1,200       70,116  

Kyocera Corp.

    1,500       94,536  

LG Display Co., Ltd., ADR

    11,451       108,441  

Micro-Star International Co., Ltd.

    14,327       49,526  

Murata Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

    600       103,461  

Omron Corp.

    1,500       67,167  
              3,561,457  

Engineering & Construction — 0.4%

       

ACS Actividades de Construccion y Servicios SA

    1,686       70,142  

Bouygues SA

    1,700       75,147  

Eiffage SA

    637       71,764  

Ferrovial SA

    3,219       69,509  

Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico SAB de CV, ADR

    1,475       152,382  

Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste SAB de CV, ADR

    258       48,398  

Larsen & Toubro, Ltd., GDR

    6,080       117,402  

Taisei Corp.

    1,000       44,665  
              649,409  

Entertainment — 0.0%

               

Oriental Land Co., Ltd.

    800       85,675  

Food — 2.8%

               

Associated British Foods PLC

    2,243       66,679  

Bidvest Group, Ltd., (The)

    5,840       85,821  

Carrefour SA

    3,203       57,312  

Chr Hansen Holdings

    690       70,172  

Danone SA, SP ADR

    9,395       148,300  

Glanbia PLC

    67,383       1,134,780  

Kerry Group PLC, Class A

    748       85,261  

Kerry Group PLC, Class A

    6,113       697,151  

Koninklijke Ahold Delhaize NV

    4,294       104,600  

Food — (Continued)

               

Nestle SA, SP ADR

    6,309     $ 528,379  

Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd.

    41,300       1,679,431  

Tesco PLC

    27,440       87,688  

Wesfarmers, Ltd.

    3,360       124,670  

Woolworths Group, Ltd.

    4,754       97,037  
              4,967,281  

Food Service — 0.1%

               

Compass Group PLC

    4,590       98,828  

Sodexo SA

    745       77,698  
              176,526  

Forest Products & Paper — 0.2%

       

Mondi PLC

    6,976       194,394  

Stora Enso OYJ

    3,842       71,508  
              265,902  

Gas — 0.1%

               

China Gas Holdings, Ltd.

    18,200       57,886  

ENN Energy Holdings, Ltd.

    8,000       72,929  
              130,815  

Hand/Machine Tools — 0.1%

               

Disco Corp.

    300       53,641  

Schindler Holding AG

    377       87,069  

Techtronic Industrials Co., Ltd.

    11,500       70,406  
              211,116  

Healthcare-Products — 0.5%

               

Abbott Laboratories

    3,022       201,991  

Cochlear, Ltd.

    534       83,036  

Essilor International Cie Generale d'Opitque SA

    587       84,819  

Koninklijke Philips NV

    2,345       104,657  

Lifco AB, Class B

    4,789       200,580  

Lonza Group AG*

    310       99,782  

Smith & Nephew PLC, SP ADR

    2,021       72,412  

Terumo Corp.

    1,300       71,667  
              918,944  

Healthcare-Services — 0.8%

               

Bangkok Dusit Medical, NVDR

    226,446       181,683  

Fleury SA

    16,374       103,275  

Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co., KGaA

    9,780       989,843  

NMC Health PLC

    1,858       94,737  
              1,369,538  

Holding Companies-Diversified — 0.2%

       

CK Hutchison Holdings, Ltd.

    12,500       144,114  

Jardine Matheson Holdings, Ltd.

    1,000       63,156  

Swire Pacific, Ltd., Class A

    8,500       96,200  
              303,470  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


9

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Home Builders — 0.7%

               

Berkeley Group Holdings PLC

    998     $ 47,206  

Persimmon PLC

    2,237       70,772  

Sekisui Chemical Co., Ltd.

    61,200       1,063,178  
              1,181,156  

Home Furnishings — 0.1%

               

Panasonic Corp.

    7,500       89,344  

Sony Corp., SP ADR

    3,004       170,717  
              260,061  

Household Products/Wares — 0.6%

       

Henkel Ag & Co., KGaA

    753       84,024  

Reckitt Benckiser Group PLC, SP ADR

    9,280       158,502  

Societe BIC SA

    8,204       759,444  
              1,001,970  

Insurance — 5.5%

               

Aegon NV

    8,931       53,140  

AIA Group, Ltd.

    59,164       510,837  

AIA Group, Ltd., SP ADR

    7,059       243,253  

Allianz SE, SP ADR

    11,610       246,771  

Aon PLC

    16,800       2,445,408  

Aviva PLC

    16,541       104,066  

AXA SA

    4,600       115,924  

Baloise Holding AG

    512       78,685  

Cathay Financials Holdings Co., Ltd.

    173,192       296,853  

Dai-ichi Life Holdings, Inc.

    3,820       72,782  

Japan Post Holdings Co., Ltd.

    4,334       51,472  

Lancashire Holdings, Ltd.

    223,450       1,762,894  

Manulife Finanical Corp.

    5,727       104,804  

MS&AD Insurance Group Holdings, Inc.

    1,500       46,093  

Muenchener Rueckversicherungs-Gesellschaft AG

    495       106,640  

NN Group NV

    1,018       43,701  

PICC Property & Casualty Co., Ltd.

    54,000       60,889  

Ping An Insurance Group Co., of China Ltd.

    60,871       587,153  

Prudential PLC, ADR

    3,762       169,177  

Sampo PLC, Class A

    26,582       1,360,391  

SCOR SE

    1,276       51,583  

Sompo Holdings, Inc.

    1,000       42,673  

Sun Life Financial, Inc.

    687       27,301  

Suncorp Group, Ltd.

    6,502       72,508  

Swiss Life Holding AG*

    265       95,987  

Swiss Re AG

    702       63,159  

T&D Holdings, Inc.

    5,000       75,973  

Tokio Marine Holdings, Inc.

    1,900       89,531  

Topdanmark AS

    17,465       749,678  
              9,729,326  

Internet — 3.5%

               

51job, Inc., ADR*

    1,666     $ 128,799  

58.com, Inc., ADR*

    850       64,668  

Alibaba Group Holdings, Ltd., SP ADR*

    7,273       1,272,848  

Auto Trader Group PLC (a)

    105,485       615,021  

Autohome, Inc., ADR

    698       57,662  

Baidu, Inc., SP ADR*

    1,405       318,204  

Ctrip.com International, Ltd., ADR*

    3,454       135,224  

JD.com, Inc., ADR*

    17,700       554,010  

Mercadolibre, Inc.

    212       72,591  

Naver Corp.

    235       158,676  

Tencent Holdings, Ltd.

    47,229       2,030,241  

Tencent Holdings, Ltd., ADR

    4,888       210,868  

United Internet AG

    1,202       63,251  

Vipshop Holdings, Ltd., ADR*

    2,664       18,595  

Weibo Corp., ADR*

    774       59,397  

Yandex NV, Class A*

    11,013       353,848  
              6,113,903  

Internet Software & Services — 0.4%

       

Rightmove*

    110,100       703,666  

Investment Companies — 3.0%

               

EXOR NV

    871       56,675  

Groupe Bruxelles Lambert SA

    26,836       2,816,951  

Investor AB, Class B

    1,717       77,516  

Melrose Industries PLC

    830,649       2,404,047  
              5,355,189  

Iron/Steel — 0.3%

               

JFE Holdings, Inc.

    3,200       69,949  

Posco, SP ADR

    1,660       120,367  

thyssenkrupp AG

    1,756       40,577  

Vale SA, SP ADR

    28,610       377,652  
              608,545  

Leisure Time — 0.1%

               

Carnival PLC, ADR

    1,162       70,789  

Shimano, Inc.

    500       77,150  

TUI AG

    3,859       71,187  
              219,126  

Lodging — 0.9%

               

Accor SA

    1,280       64,108  

Huazhu Group, Ltd., ADR

    1,321       45,469  

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC

    19,789       1,222,035  

InterContinental Hotels Group PLC, ADR

    1,104       68,580  

Sands China, Ltd.

    32,259       157,627  

Whitbread PLC

    1,127       67,187  
              1,625,006  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


10

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Machinery-Construction & Mining — 0.2%

       

ABB Ltd., SP ADR

    3,884     $ 91,313  

Atlas Copco AB, Class A

    2,877       82,016  

Komatsu, Ltd.

    3,500       99,234  

Mitsubishi Electical Corp.

    10,000       134,995  
              407,558  

Machinery-Diversified — 1.7%

               

Amada Co., Ltd.

    73,900       789,793  

CNH Industrial NV

    4,464       53,523  

Deere & Co.

    1,325       190,535  

Fanuc Corp., ADR

    7,000       137,200  

Keyence Corp.

    300       169,833  

Kone Corp., Class B

    16,973       916,397  

Mitsubishi Heavy Industries, Ltd.

    2,000       74,209  

SMC Corp.

    200       66,632  

Spirax-Sarco Engineering PLC

    5,121       474,007  

Weir Group PLC, (The)

    2,277       55,402  

Yaskawa Electric Corp.

    1,500       50,361  
              2,977,892  

Media — 1.6%

               

Grupo Televisa SAB, ADR

    4,968       89,474  

Informa PLC

    7,235       71,541  

Naspers, Ltd.

    787       174,758  

Naspers, Ltd., SP ADR

    3,090       139,081  

Shaw Communications, Inc., Class B

    3,474       70,071  

Sky PLC

    4,730       94,466  

Thomson Reuters Corp.

    1,860       82,826  

Vivendi SA

    663       17,232  

Wolters Kluwer

    32,592       2,067,747  
              2,807,196  

Mining — 0.8%

               

Alrosa PJSC

    79,022       118,863  

Anglo American PLC

    4,509       90,546  

AngloGold Ashanti, Ltd., SP ADR

    3,200       25,312  

Antofagasta PLC

    3,186       33,373  

Barrick Gold Corp.

    1,489       15,515  

BHP Billiton Ltd., SP ADR

    5,150       247,406  

Cia de Minas Buenaventura, ADR

    3,537       44,531  

Glencore PLC*

    34,714       141,427  

Gold Fields, Ltd., SP ADR

    8,784       21,872  

Mitsubishi Materials Corp.

    2,000       54,080  

Norsk Hydro ASA

    5,861       32,316  

Randgold Resources, Ltd., ADR

    1,011       66,008  

Southern Copper Corp.

    5,029       219,466  

Teck Resources, Ltd., Class B

    2,264       51,483  

Vedanta, Ltd., ADR

    14,575       186,269  
              1,348,467  

Miscellaneous Manufacturing — 1.3%

       

Fujifilm Holdings Corp.

    2,100     $ 88,700  

Siemens AG, SP ADR

    2,906       188,323  

Smiths Group PLC

    100,808       2,110,640  
              2,387,663  

Office/Business Equipment — 0.1%

       

Canon, Inc., SP ADR

    4,400       141,196  

Oil & Gas — 4.5%

               

BP PLC, SP ADR

    10,791       462,718  

Canadian Natural Resources, Ltd.

    2,988       102,100  

Cenovus Energy, Inc.

    2,063       19,207  

China Petroleum & Chemical Corp., ADR

    1,114       110,631  

China Petroleum & Chemical Corp.

    119,843       120,584  

CNOOC, Ltd.

    209,229       371,250  

CNOOC, Ltd., SP ADR

    682       121,198  

DCC PLC

    37,089       3,348,284  

Ecopetrol SA, SP ADR

    5,171       116,865  

Encana Corp.

    5,478       72,693  

Eni SpA

    36,119       670,262  

Eni SpA, SP ADR

    3,482       129,356  

Equinor ASA, SP ADR

    3,682       94,885  

Galp Energia SGPS SA

    3,944       80,046  

Imperial Oil, Ltd.

    2,264       70,659  

JXTG Holdings, Inc.

    12,300       86,603  

Lukoil , PJSC, SP ADR

    4,935       340,811  

Neste Oyj

    608       52,788  

Novatek PJSC, GDR

    1,148       184,590  

OMV AG

    1,429       75,761  

PetroChina Co., Ltd., ADR

    692       51,250  

Petroleo Brasileiro, SP ADR

    3,767       40,947  

Reliance Industries, Ltd., GDR (a)

    4,942       173,031  

Repsol SA

    4,714       90,664  

Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class A, SP ADR

    1,990       129,808  

Sasol Ltd., SP ADR

    2,670       104,824  

Suncor Energy, Inc.

    4,158       171,226  

Tatneft PJSC, SP ADR

    1,630       113,367  

Total SA, SP ADR

    6,044       379,201  

Woodside Petroleum, Ltd.

    3,539       93,891  
              7,979,500  

Pharmaceuticals — 7.1%

               

Alfresa Holdings Corp.

    80,100       2,007,832  

Astellas Pharma, Inc.

    5,600       94,940  

AstraZeneca PLC, SP ADR

    5,836       223,752  

Bayer AG

    6,828       637,220  

CSPC Pharmaceutical Group, Ltd.

    39,539       99,864  

Daiichi Sankyo Co., Ltd.

    2,000       78,063  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


11

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Pharmaceuticals — (Continued)

       

Dr. Reddy's Laboratories, Ltd., ADR

    2,943     $ 103,417  

Eisai Co., Ltd.

    1,000       90,557  

Glaxosmithkline PLC

    98,574       1,996,401  

Glaxosmithkline PLC, SP ADR

    5,820       235,710  

Merck KGaA

    1,774       186,409  

Novartis AG

    22,784       1,890,210  

Novartis AG, SP ADR

    10,900       904,809  

Novo-Nordisk AS, SP ADR

    3,450       169,637  

Roche Holdings AG

    3,793       940,488  

Roche Holdings AG, SP ADR

    10,904       337,588  

Sanofi

    23,956       2,057,187  

Sanofi, ADR

    7,168       307,149  

Shionogi & Co., Ltd.

    1,400       81,365  

Sino Biopharmaceutical, Ltd.

    50,000       63,370  

Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd., SP ADR

    3,534       73,755  

Teva Pharmaceutical Industries, Ltd., SP ADR

    3,504       80,277  

UCB SA

    1,192       109,115  
              12,769,115  

Pipelines — 0.2%

               

APA Group

    11,153       80,170  

Enbridge, Inc.

    6,151       210,180  

TransCanada Corp.

    3,075       130,995  
              421,345  

Private Equity — 0.1%

               

3i Group PLC

    6,041       70,342  

Macquarie Korea Infrastructure Fund

    9,354       75,629  
              145,971  

Real Estate — 1.2%

               

British Land Co., PLC, (The)

    8,147       67,193  

CapitaLand, Ltd.

    26,000       64,989  

China Overseas Land & Investment, Ltd.

    94,394       299,184  

Deutsche Wohnen SE

    1,601       80,936  

Great Eagle Holdings, Ltd.

    211,662       1,042,767  

Henderson Land Development Co., Ltd

    300       1,587  

ICADE

    675       65,840  

Kerry Properties, Ltd.

    14,000       53,093  

SM Prime Holdings, Inc.

    182,176       132,968  

UOL Group, Ltd.

    18,000       90,612  

Vonovia SE

    1,638       84,021  

Wheelock & Co., Ltd.

    10,000       62,791  
              2,045,981  

REITS — 1.1%

               

Fonciere Des Regions

    650       67,986  

Goodman Group

    12,011       92,511  

Klepierre SA

    2,040       73,324  

REITS — (Continued)

               

Link

    11,500     $ 114,624  

Merlin Properties Socimi SA

    102,526       1,429,780  

Scentre Group

    24,524       72,607  

Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield*

    3,660       38,205  
              1,889,037  

Retail — 3.0%

               

Ace Hardware Indonesia Tbk PT

    1,009,659       93,220  

Aeon Co., Ltd.

    4,600       99,615  

Cie Financiere Richemont SA

    1,475       130,244  

Clicks Group, Ltd.

    44,871       619,714  

CP ALL PCL, NVDR

    54,849       113,133  

Fast Retailing Co., Ltd.

    200       93,217  

Industria de Diseno Textil SA

    3,055       92,318  

Li Ning Co., Ltd.*

    97,219       102,612  

Mr. Price Group, Ltd.

    13,912       213,272  

Next PLC

    681       48,623  

Nitori Holdings Co., Ltd.

    400       60,692  

Pandora A/S

    660       39,432  

Restaurant Brands International, Inc.

    1,377       79,040  

Swatch Group AG, (The)

    4,111       1,751,215  

Tsuruha Holdings

    13,200       1,506,625  

Wal-Mart de Mexico SAB de CV

    107,889       298,731  

Yum China Holdings, Inc.

    84       3,249  
              5,344,952  

Semiconductors — 2.6%

               

ASE Technology Holding Co., Ltd., ADR

    20,548       100,685  

ASML Holding NV

    123       25,221  

Chipbond Technology Corp.

    15,624       35,760  

Mediatek, Inc.

    15,000       122,885  

NXP Semiconductors NV*

    967       90,066  

Samsung Electronic Co., Ltd.

    469       500,819  

Samsung Electronic Co., Ltd.

    24,156       1,050,077  

Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp., ADR*

    6,576       38,864  

SK Hynix, Inc.

    1,904       142,000  

STMicroelectronics NV

    2,996       61,987  

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.

    93,000       779,218  

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd., SP ADR

    31,992       1,394,851  

Tokyo Electron, Ltd.

    600       102,150  

United Microelectronics Corp., SP ADR

    49,606       138,401  

Vanguard International Semiconductor Corp.

    27,724       67,277  
              4,650,261  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


12

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Software — 1.9%

               

Amadeus IT Holdings SA

    18,233     $ 1,690,806  

Dassault Systemes SE

    509       82,602  

Douzone Bizon Co., Ltd.

    1,637       83,807  

Kingdee International Software Group Co., Ltd.

    113,660       129,696  

Momo, Inc., ADR*

    2,841       131,510  

MSCI, Inc.

    1,009       181,882  

Onemarket, Ltd.*

    497       377  

Open Text Corp.

    2,156       84,623  

Playtech PLC

    100,121       691,282  

SAP SE, SP ADR

    2,544       304,618  

Sea, Ltd., ADR*

    3,999       56,986  
              3,438,189  

Telecommunications — 4.8%

               

America Movil SAB de CV, SP ADR

    2,704       45,346  

BCE, Inc.

    1,890       77,055  

Belgacom SA

    25,823       594,855  

BT Group PLC, ADR

    3,886       55,181  

China Mobile, Ltd.

    108,000       1,015,796  

China Mobile, Ltd., SP ADR

    9,200       441,508  

China Unicom Hong Kong, Ltd., ADR

    6,454       75,641  

Deutsche Telekom AG*

    9,609       154,961  

KDDI Corp.

    80,689       2,133,404  

MTN Group, Ltd.

    12,576       76,144  

Nice Sys Ltd., SP ADR*

    759       87,733  

NTT DOCOMO, Inc.

    3,762       97,495  

PLDT, Inc., SP ADR

    3,144       82,436  

Rogers Communications, Inc., Class B

    1,552       80,409  

SK Telecom Ltd., SP ADR

    5,716       148,673  

Softbank Group Corp., ADR

    3,570       165,166  

Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson

    221,832       1,871,775  

Telefonaktiebolaget LM Ericsson, SP ADR

    10,461       87,977  

Telefonica SA, SP ADR

    14,699       119,209  

Telekomunikasi Indonesia Persero Tbk PT

    556,504       132,183  

Telekomunikasi Indonesia Persero Tbk PT, SP ADR

    5,863       138,777  

Turkcell Iletisim Hizmetleri AS, ADR

    16,257       66,166  

Vodafone Group PLC

    324,719       691,922  

Vodafone Group PLC, SP ADR

    2,692       58,174  
              8,497,986  

Toys/Games/Hobbies — 0.1%

               

Nintendo, Ltd., ADR

    2,456       110,397  

Transportation — 0.4%

               

AP Moller-Maersk, Class B

    50     $ 77,490  

Canadian National Railway Co.

    1,594       141,723  

Canadian Pacific Railway, Ltd.

    424       89,273  

Central Japan Railway Co.

    419       84,126  

Deutsche Post AG, SP ADR

    2,115       76,944  

DSV AS

    876       82,260  

West Japan Railway Co.

    1,061       71,144  

ZTO Express Cayman, Inc., ADR

    2,066       38,138  
              661,098  

Trucking & Leasing — 0.0%

               

AerCap Holdings NV*

    1,335       76,055  

Water — 0.6%

               

Severn Trent PLC

    2,083       54,103  

United Utilities Group PLC

    101,060       972,687  
              1,026,790  

TOTAL COMMON STOCKS

               

(Cost $155,512,711)

            154,362,896  
         

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS — 0.6%

       
         

Diversified Financial Services — 0.2%

       

Ishares MSCI India ETF

    9,438       336,748  

Other Investment Pools and Funds — 0.4%

       

Invesco India Exchange-Traded Fund Trust

    23,070       607,202  

iShares MSCI South Korea ETF

    1,533       103,202  
              710,404  

TOTAL EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS

               

(Cost $1,012,643)

            1,047,152  
                 

PREFERRED STOCKS — 1.9%

               
                 

Auto Manufacturers — 0.3%

               

Bayerische Motoren Werke AG, 5.541%

    6,311       529,224  

Banks — 0.2%

               

Itau Unibanco Holdings, SP ADR, 9.556%

    41,020       427,428  

Chemicals — 0.4%

               

Braskem SA, SP ADR, 6.354%

    845       24,522  

Fuchs Petrolub SE, 1.786%

    11,135       651,943  
              676,465  

Cosmetics/Personal Care — 0.6%

       

LG Household & Health Care, Ltd., 1.235%

    1,240       833,874  

Electric — 0.0%

               

Cia Energetica de Minas Gerais, SP ADR, 9.463%

    11,890       21,283  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


13

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Portfolio of Investments (Concluded)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Food — 0.0%

               

Cia Brasileira de Distribuicao, SP ADR, 1.364%

    2,367     $ 47,293  

Semiconductors — 0.4%

               

Samsung Electronic Co., Ltd., 3.250%

    21,666       771,988  

Telecommunications — 0.0%

               

Telefonica Brasil SA, ADR, 7.653%

    2,702       26,723  
                 

TOTAL PREFERRED STOCKS

               

(Cost $3,392,827)

            3,334,278  
                 

RIGHTS – 0.0%

               
         

Transportation Infrastructure — 0.0%

       

Transurban Group*

    1,709       0  
                 

TOTAL RIGHTS

               

(Cost $1,337)

            0  
         

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 8.6%

       

First American Government Obligations Fund, 1.84% (b)

    15,210,871       15,210,871  

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

               

(Cost $15,210,871)

            15,210,871  

TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 98.3%

               

(Cost $175,130,389)

            173,955,197  

OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES — 1.7%

            3,012,543  

NET ASSETS — 100.0%

          $ 176,967,740  

 

 

*Non-income producing security.

 

(a)

Security exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional buyers. As of August 31, 2018, total market value of Rule 144A securities is $2,402,053 and represents 1.4% of net assets.

 

(b)Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.

 

ADRAmerican Depositary Receipt

 

GDRGlobal Depositary Receipt

 

NVDRNon-Voting Depository Receipt

 

PLCPublic Limited Company

 

REITReal Estate Investment Trust

 

SP ADRSponsored ADR

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


14

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


STATEMENT of Assets and Liabilities

August 31, 2018

 

ASSETS

       

Investments, at value (cost $159,919,518)

  $ 158,744,326  

Short-term investments, at value (cost $15,210,871)

    15,210,871  

Foreign currency at value (cost $881,726)

    876,373  

Receivables for:

       

Capital shares sold

    2,747,354  

Investments sold

    453,239  

Dividends

    414,923  

Total assets

    178,447,086  
         

LIABILITIES

       

Due to custodian

    77,245  

Payables for:

       

Investments purchased

    1,288,448  

Capital shares redeemed

    10,000  

Other accrued expenses and liabilities

    103,653  

Total liabilities

    1,479,346  

Net assets

  $ 176,967,740  
         

NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:

       

Par value

  $ 18,411  

Paid-in capital

    181,926,903  

Undistributed/(accumulated) net investment income/(loss)

    885,063  

Accumulated net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    (4,682,092 )

Net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    (1,180,545 )

Net assets

  $ 176,967,740  
         

CAPITAL SHARES:

       

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    18,410,537  

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share

  $ 9.61  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


15

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Statement of Operations

For the PERIOD Ended August 31, 2018*

 

INVESTMENT INCOME

       

Dividends (net of foreign taxes withheld of $150,059)

  $ 1,528,488  

Total investment Income

    1,528,488  
         

EXPENSES

       

Sub-advisory fees (Note 2)

    200,401  

Custodian fees (Note 2)

    85,373  

Administration and accounting services fees (Note 2)

    37,584  

Registration and filing fees

    34,713  

Audit fees

    28,570  

Transfer agent fees (Note 2)

    8,805  

Printing and shareholder reporting fees

    3,507  

Legal fees

    2,140  

Other expenses

    4,281  

Total expenses

    405,374  

Net investment income/(loss)

    1,123,114  
         

NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) FROM INVESTMENTS

       

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    (4,655,509 )

Foreign currency transactions

    (264,634 )

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    (1,180,545 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    (6,100,688 )

NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS

  $ (4,977,574 )

 

 

*

Inception date of the Fund was April 17, 2018

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


16

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

For the
Period Ended
August 31, 2018
*

 

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FORM OPERATIONS

       

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ 1,123,114  

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments and foreign currency transactions

    (4,920,143 )

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments and foreign currency translation

    (1,180,545 )

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (4,977,574 )
         

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

       

Proceeds from shares sold

    182,733,411  

Reinvestment of distributions

     

Shares redeemed

    (788,097 )

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

    181,945,314  

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    176,967,740  
         

NET ASSETS:

       

Beginning of period

     

End of period

  $ 176,967,740  

Undistributed/(accumulated) net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $ 885,063  
         

SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

       

Shares sold

    18,491,161  

Shares reinvested

     

Shares redeemed

    (80,624 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares

    18,410,537  

 

 

*

Inception date of the Fund was April 17, 2018.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


17

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

For the Period
April 17, 2018
(1) to
August 31, 2018

 

Per Share Operating Performance

       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 10.00  

Net investment income/(loss)(2)

    0.08  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    (0.47 )

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (0.39 )

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 9.61  

Total investment return(3)

    (3.90 )%
         

Ratios/Supplemental Data

       

Net assets, end of period (000's)

  $ 176,968  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets

    0.80 %(5)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    2.21 %(5)

Portfolio turnover rate

    36 %(4)

 

 

(1)

Commencement of operations.

 

(2)

Calculated based on average shares outstanding for the period.

 

(3)

Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

 

(4)

Not annualized.

 

(5)

Annualized.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


18

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

August 31, 2018

 

1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

 

The RBB Fund, Inc. (“RBB” or the “Company”) was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on February 29, 1988 and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. RBB is a “series fund,” which is a mutual fund divided into separate portfolios. Each portfolio is treated as a separate entity for certain matters under the 1940 Act, and for other purposes, and a shareholder of one portfolio is not deemed to be a shareholder of any other portfolio. Currently, RBB has thirty active investment portfolios, including the Aquarius International Fund (the “Fund”), which commenced investment operations on April 17, 2018.

 

RBB has authorized capital of one hundred billion shares of common stock of which 87.023 billion shares are currently classified into one hundred and eighty-one classes of common stock. Each class represents an interest in an active or inactive RBB investment portfolio.

 

The Fund’s investment objective seeks capital appreciation.

 

The Fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services - Investment Companies”.

 

The end of the reporting period for the Fund is August 31, 2018, and the period covered by these Notes to Financial Statements is the fiscal period April 17, 2018 through August 31, 2018 (the “current fiscal period”).

 

PORTFOLIO VALUATION – The Fund’s net asset value (“NAV”) is calculated once daily at the close of regular trading hours on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on each day the NYSE is open. Securities held by the Fund are valued using the closing price or the last sale price on a national securities exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automatic Quotation System (“NASDAQ”) market system where they are primarily traded. Equity securities traded in the over-the-counter (“OTC”) market are valued at their closing prices. If there were no transactions on that day, securities traded principally on an exchange or on NASDAQ will be valued at the mean of the last bid and ask prices prior to the market close. Fixed income securities are valued using an independent pricing service, which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings, and are deemed representative of market values at the close of the market. Foreign securities are valued based on prices from the primary market in which they are traded, and are translated from the local currency into U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. Investments in other open-end investment companies, if any, are valued based on the NAV of those investment companies (which may use fair value pricing as disclosed in their prospectuses). If market quotations are unavailable or deemed unreliable, securities will be valued in accordance with procedures adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”). Relying on prices supplied by pricing services or dealers or using fair valuation may result in values that are higher or lower than the values used by other investment companies and investors to price the same investments. Such procedures use fundamental valuation methods, which may include, but are not limited to, an analysis of the effect of any restrictions on the resale of the security, industry analysis and trends, significant changes in the issuer’s financial position, and any other event which could have a significant impact on the value of the security. Determination of fair value involves subjective judgment as the actual market value of a particular security can be established only by negotiations between the parties in a sales transaction, and the difference between the recorded fair value and the value that would be received in a sale could be significant. The Fund may use fair value pricing more frequently for securities traded primarily in non-U.S. markets because, among other things, most foreign markets close well before the Fund values its securities, generally as of 4:00 p.m. Eastern time. The earlier close of these foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, government actions or pronouncements, aftermarket trading, or news events may have occurred in the interim. To account for this, the Fund may value foreign securities using fair value prices based on third-party vendor modeling tools (international fair value pricing).

 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS – The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the Fund’s investments are summarized into three levels as described in the hierarchy below:

 

19

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

August 31, 2018

 

 

● Level 1

Prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

 

 

● Level 2

Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).

 

 

● Level 3

Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of the end of the reporting period, in valuing the Fund’s investments carried at fair value:

 

   

Total

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

 

Common Stocks

  $ 154,362,896     $ 37,556,030     $ 116,806,866     $  

Exchange Traded Funds

    1,047,152       1,047,152              

Preferred Stocks

    3,334,278       547,249       2,787,029        

Rights

                       

Short-Term Investments

    15,210,871       15,210,871              

Total Investments*

  $ 173,955,197     $ 54,361,302     $ 119,593,895     $  

 

*

Please refer to the Portfolio of Investments for further details.

 

At the end of each quarter, management evaluates the classification of Levels 1, 2 and 3 assets and liabilities. Various factors are considered, such as changes in liquidity from the prior reporting period; whether or not a broker is willing to execute at the quoted price; the depth and consistency of prices from third party pricing services; and the existence of contemporaneous, observable trades in the market. Additionally, management evaluates the classification of Level 1 and Level 2 assets and liabilities on a quarterly basis for changes in listings or delistings on national exchanges.

 

Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Fund’s investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values the Fund may ultimately realize. Further, such investments may be subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities.

 

For fair valuations using significant unobservable inputs, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires the Fund to present a reconciliation of the beginning to ending balances for reported market values that presents changes attributable to total realized and unrealized gains or losses, purchase and sales, and transfers in and out of Level 3 during the period. Transfers in and out between levels are based on values at the end of the period. U.S. GAAP also requires the Fund to disclose amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements. A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented only when the Fund had an amount of Level 3 investments at the end of the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets. The amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of each level within the three-tier hierarchy are disclosed when the Fund had an amount of total transfers during the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets as of the end of the reporting period.

 

During the current fiscal period, the Fund had no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3.

 

20

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

August 31, 2018

 

USE OF ESTIMATES — The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and those differences could be significant.

 

INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS, INVESTMENT INCOME AND EXPENSES — The Fund records security transactions based on trade date for financial reporting purposes. The cost of investments sold is determined by use of the specific identification method for both financial reporting and income tax purposes in determining realized gains and losses on investments. Interest income is accrued when earned. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The Fund’s investment income, expenses (other than class specific expenses) and unrealized and realized gains and losses are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class at the beginning of the day. Expenses incurred on behalf of a specific class, fund or fund family of the Company are charged directly to the class, fund or fund family (in proportion to net assets). Expenses incurred for all of the RBB funds (such as director or professional fees) are charged to all funds in proportion to their average net assets of RBB, or in such other manner as the Board deems fair or equitable. Expenses and fees, including investment advisory and administration fees, are accrued daily and taken into account for the purpose of determining the NAV of the Fund.

 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS — Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains (including net short-term capital gains), if any, are declared and paid at least annually to shareholders recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income dividends and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. GAAP.

 

U.S. TAX STATUS — No provision is made for U.S. income taxes as it is the Fund’s intention to continue to qualify for and elect the tax treatment applicable to regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and make the requisite distributions to its shareholders which will be sufficient to relieve it from U.S. income and excise taxes.

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — Cash and cash equivalents are valued at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates market value.

 

OTHER — In the normal course of business, the Fund may enter into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made against the Fund in the future, and, therefore, cannot be estimated; however, based on experience, the risk of material loss from such claims is considered remote.

 

2. Investment Adviser and Other Services

 

Altair Advisers, LLC (“Altair” or the “Adviser”) serves as the investment adviser to the Fund. Aperio Group, LLC, Driehaus Capital Management, LLC, Mawer Investment Management, Ltd. and Setanta Asset Management Limited each serve as an investment sub-adviser (“Sub-Adviser”) to the Fund.

 

The Fund is managed by the Adviser and one or more Sub-Advisers unaffiliated with the Adviser. The Adviser also has the ultimate responsibility to oversee the Sub-Advisers, and to recommend their hiring, termination and replacement, subject to approval by the Board. The Adviser has an investment team that is jointly responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund. The Sub-Advisers provide investment advisory services to the portion of the Fund’s portfolio allocated to them by the Adviser. The Adviser and the Fund have entered into sub-advisory agreements with the Sub-Advisers to manage the Fund, subject to supervision of the Adviser and the Board, and in accordance with the investment objective and restrictions of the Fund. The Fund compensates the Sub-Advisers for their services at an annual rate based on the Fund’s average daily net assets, (the “Sub-Advisory Fee”), not to exceed 0.90%, payable on a monthly basis in arrears.

 

21

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

August 31, 2018

 

During the current fiscal period, collectively, sub-advisory fees accrued were $200,401, or the rate of 0.39%.

 

The Fund is currently only available to clients of the Adviser and to other investors at the Fund’s discretion. The Adviser does not receive a separate management fee from the Fund. However, pursuant to the Fund’s investment advisory agreement with the Adviser, the Adviser is entitled to receive reimbursement for compliance expenses in connection with managing the Fund, up to 0.03% of the Fund’s average daily net assets.

 

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (“Fund Services”), doing business as U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, serves as administrator for the Fund. For providing administrative and accounting services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Fund Services serves as the Fund’s transfer and dividend disbursing agent. For providing transfer agent services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

U.S. Bank, N.A. (the “Custodian”) provides certain custodial services to the Fund. The Custodian is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Quasar Distributors, LLC serves as the principal underwriter and distributor of the Fund’s shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with RBB.

 

For compensation amounts paid to Fund Services and the Custodian, please refer to the Statement of Operations.

 

3. Director’s and Officer’s Compensation

 

The Directors of the Company receive an annual retainer and meeting fees for meetings attended. Employees of Vigilant Compliance, LLC serve as President, Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Treasurer of the Company. Vigilant Compliance, LLC is compensated for the services provided to the Company. An employee of RBB serves as Treasurer and Secretary, and is compensated for services provided. Certain employees of Fund Services serve as officers of the Company. They are not compensated by the Fund or the Company. For Director’s and Officer’s compensation amounts, please refer to the Statement of Operations.

 

4. Purchases and Sales of Investment Securities

 

During the current fiscal period, aggregate purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding short-term investments) of the Fund were as follows:

 

PURCHASES

SALES

$210,061,622

$45,395,547

 

There were no purchases or sales of long-term U.S. Government securities during the current fiscal period.

 

5. Federal Income Tax Information

 

The Fund has followed the authoritative guidance on accounting for and disclosure of uncertainty in tax positions, which requires the Fund to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Fund has determined that there was no effect on the financial statements from following this authoritative guidance. In the normal course of business, the Fund is subject to examination by federal, state and local jurisdictions, where applicable, for tax years for which applicable statutes of limitations have not expired.

 

22

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

August 31, 2018

 

As of August 31, 2018, the federal tax cost and aggregate gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of investments held by the Fund were as follows:

 

FEDERAL
TAX COST

UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION

UNREALIZED
(DEPRECIATION)

Net Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

$176,848,506 $4,626,864 $(7,520,173) $(2,893,309)

 

Distributions to shareholders, if any, from net investment income and realized gains are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from net investment income and realized gains recognized for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying financial statements. To the extent these differences are permanent, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts based on the tax treatment; temporary differences do not require such reclassification.

 

The following permanent differences as of August 31, 2018, primarily attributable to foreign currency and an adjustment for sale of PFIC, were reclassified among the following accounts:

 

UNDISTRIBUTED
NET INVESTMENT
INCOME/(LOSS)

ACCUMULATED
NET REALIZED
GAIN/(LOSS)

PAID-IN
CAPITAL

$(238,051) $238,051 $—

 

As of August 31, 2018, the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

 

UNDISTRIBUTED
ORDINARY
INCOME

UNDISTRIBUTED
LONG-TERM
CAPITAL GAINS

CAPITAL LOSS
CARRYFORWARDS

NET UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION/
(DEPRECIATION)

QUALIFIED
LATE-YEAR
LOSSES

$929,577 $— $(3,890,215) $(2,893,309) $—

 

The differences between the book and tax basis components of distributable earnings relate primarily to the timing of recognition of income and gains for federal income tax purposes. Short-term and foreign currency gains are reported as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes.

 

The tax character of dividends and distributions paid during the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018, were as follows:

 

ORDINARY
INCOME

LONG-TERM
GAINS

TOTAL

$— $— $—

 

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010, the Fund is permitted to carry forward capital losses incurred in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 for an unlimited period. Additionally, capital losses that are carried forward will retain their character as either short-term or long-term capital losses rather than being considered all short-term as under the previous law. As of August 31, 2018, the Fund had capital loss carryforwards of $3,890,215.

 

23

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONCLUDED)

August 31, 2018

 

6. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In August 2018, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”). The primary focus of ASU 2018-13 is to improve the effectiveness of the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The changes affect all companies that are required to include fair value measurement disclosures. In general, the amendments in ASU 2018-13 are effective for all affected entities for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. An affected entity is permitted to adopt the removed or modified disclosures upon the issuance of ASU 2018-13 and may delay adoption of the additional disclosures, which are required for public companies only, until their effective date. Management is currently evaluating the impact these changes will have on the Fund’s financial statements and disclosures.

 

7. Subsequent Events

 

Management has evaluated the impact of all subsequent events on the Fund through the date the financial statements were issued and has determined that there were no significant events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.

 

24

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

To the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. and Shareholders of Aquarius International Fund

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the portfolio of investments, of Aquarius International Fund (the “Fund”), a separately managed portfolio of The RBB Fund, Inc., as of August 31, 2018, the related statements of operations and changes in net assets, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for the period April 17, 2018 (commencement of operations) through August 31, 2018 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of August 31, 2018, and the results of its operations, changes in its net assets, and the financial highlights for the period April 17, 2018 (commencement of operations) through August 31, 2018 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

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

 

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

 

Our audit included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2018 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 25, 2018

 

We have served as the auditor of one or more Altair Advisers, LLC investment companies since 2015.

 

25

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Shareholder Tax Information (Unaudited)

 

Certain tax information regarding the Fund is required to be provided to shareholders based upon the Fund’s income and distributions for the taxable period ended August 31, 2018. The information and distributions reported herein may differ from information and distributions taxable to the shareholders for the calendar year ending December 31, 2019. During the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, the Fund did not pay ordinary income dividends nor long-term capital gain dividends to its shareholders.

 

Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal income tax purposes.

 

Because the Fund’s fiscal year is not the calendar year, another notification will be sent with respect to calendar year 2018. The second notification, which will reflect the amount, if any, to be used by calendar year taxpayers on their U.S. federal income tax returns, will be made in conjunction with Form 1099-DIV and will be mailed in January 2019.

 

Foreign shareholders will generally be subject to U.S. withholding tax on the amount of their ordinary income dividends. They will generally not be entitled to a foreign tax credit or deduction for the withholding taxes paid by the Fund, if any.

 

In general, dividends received by tax-exempt recipients (e.g., IRAs and Keoghs) need not be reported as taxable income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, some retirement trusts (e.g., corporate, Keogh and 403(b)(7) plans) may need this information for their annual information reporting.

 

Shareholders are advised to consult their own tax advisers with respect to the tax consequences of their investment in the Fund.

 

26

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Other Information (Unaudited)

 

Proxy Voting

 

Policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities as well as information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities for the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 are available without charge, upon request, by calling (844) 261-6482 and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Quarterly Portfolio Schedules

 

The Company files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third fiscal quarters of each fiscal year (quarters ended November 30 and May 31) on Form N-Q. The Company’s Form N-Q is available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov and may be reviewed and copied at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the SEC Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.

 

Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreements

 

As required by the 1940 Act, the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Company , including all of the Directors who are not “interested persons” of the Company, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act (the “Independent Directors”), considered (1) the approval of the investment advisory agreement between Altair and the Company (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund, and (2) the approval of sub-advisory agreements among Altair, the Company and each of Aperio Group, LLC, Driehaus Capital Management, LLC, Mawer Investment Management Ltd., and Setanta Asset Management Limited (collectively, the “Sub-Advisers”) (together, the “Sub-Advisory Agreements”), at a meeting of the Board held on December 7, 2017 (the “Meeting”). At the Meeting, the Board, including all of the Independent Directors, approved the Investment Advisory Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreements for an initial period ending August 16, 2019. The Board’s decision to approve the Investment Advisory Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreements reflects the exercise of its business judgment. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreement and the Sub-Advisory Agreements, the Board considered information provided by Altair and each of the Sub-Advisers with the assistance and advice of counsel to the Independent Directors and the Company.

 

In considering the approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Company and Altair with respect to the Fund and the approval of new Sub-Advisory Agreement between Altair and the Sub-Advisers, the Directors took into account all materials provided prior to and during the Meeting and at other meetings throughout the past year, the presentations made during the Meeting, and the discussions held during the Meeting. Among other things, the Directors considered (i) the nature, extent, and quality of services to be provided to the Fund by Altair and each Sub-Adviser; (ii) descriptions of the experience and qualifications of the personnel providing those services; (iii) Altair’s and the Sub-Advisers’ investment philosophies and processes; (iv) Altair’s and the Sub-Advisers’ assets under management and client descriptions; (v) Altair’s and the Sub-Advisers’ soft dollar commission and trade allocation policies, including information on the types of research and services obtained in connection with soft dollar commissions; (vi) Altair’s and the Sub-Advisers’ advisory fee arrangements and other similarly managed clients, as applicable; (vii) Altair’s and the Sub-Advisers’ compliance procedures; (viii) Altair’s and the Sub-Advisers’ financial information and insurance coverage; (ix) the extent to which economies of scale are relevant to the Fund; and (x) a report prepared by Broadridge/Lipper comparing the Fund’s proposed management fees and total expense ratio to those of its Lipper Group. The Directors noted that the Fund had not yet commenced operations, and consequently there was no performance information to review with respect to the Fund.

 

As part of their review, the Directors considered the nature, extent and quality of the services to be provided by Altair and each Sub-Adviser. The Directors concluded that Altair and each Sub-Adviser had substantial resources to provide services to the Fund.

 

The Board also considered the advisory fee rate payable by the Fund under the Investment Advisory Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreements. In this regard, information on the fees to be paid by the Fund and the Fund’s total operating expense ratio (before and after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) were compared to similar information for

 

27

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Other Information (Unaudited) (Concluded)

 

mutual funds advised by other, unaffiliated investment advisory firms. The Directors also considered that the total expenses of the Fund ranked in the first quintile of its Lipper Expense Universe. The Directors considered that the Fund does not pay a contractual management fee to Altair, but instead reimburses for compliance expenses in connection with managing the Fund up to 0.03% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. The Directors also considered the fees payable to each Sub-Adviser under the Sub-Advisory Agreements.

 

After reviewing the information regarding Altair’s and the Sub-Advisers’ costs, profitability and economies of scale, and after considering the services to be provided by Altair and Sub-Advisers, the Directors concluded that the investment advisory fees to be paid by the Fund to Altair and the sub-advisory fees to be paid to each Sub-Adviser were fair and reasonable and that the Investment Advisory Agreement and Sub-Advisory Agreements should be approved for an initial period ending August 16, 2019.

 

28

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Company Management (Unaudited)

 

Directors and Executive Officers

 

The business and affairs of the Company are managed under the direction of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company is organized under and managed pursuant to Maryland law. The Directors and executive officers of the Company, their ages, business addresses and principal occupations during the past five years are set forth below. The statement of additional information (“SAI”) includes additional information about the Directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling (844) 261-6482.

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office and
Length
of Time
Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex
Overseen
by Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS

Julian A. Brodsky
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 85

Director

1988 to present

From 1969 to 2011, Director and Vice Chairman, Comcast Corporation (cable television and communications).

30

AMDOCS Limited (service provider to telecommunications companies).

J. Richard Carnall
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 79

Director

2002 to present

Since 1984, Director of Haydon Bolts, Inc. (bolt manufacturer) and Parkway Real Estate Company (subsidiary of Haydon Bolts, Inc.); since 2004, Director of Cornerstone Bank.

30

None

Gregory P. Chandler
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 51

Director

2012 to present

Since 2009, Chief Financial Officer, Emtec, Inc. (information technology consulting/services); from 2003-2009, Managing Director, head of Business Services and IT Services Practice, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC (investment banking/brokerage).

30

Emtec, Inc.; FS Investment Corporation (business development company); FS Energy and Power Fund (business development company); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios)(registered investment company).

 

29

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Company Management (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office and
Length
of Time
Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex
Overseen
by Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

Nicholas A. Giordano
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 75

Director

2006 to present

Since 1997, Consultant, financial services organizations.

30

Kalmar Pooled Investment Trust (registered investment company) (until September 2017); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios) (registered investment company); Independence Blue Cross (healthcare insurance).

Arnold M. Reichman
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 70

Chairman

 

Director

2005 to present

1991 to present

Since 2006, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lifebooker, LLC (online beauty and health appointment booking service).

30

Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

Brian T. Shea
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 58

Director

2018 to present

From 2014-2017, Chief Executive Officer, BNY Mellon Investment Services (fund services, global custodian and securities clearing firm); from 1983-2014, Chief Executive Officer and various positions, Pershing LLC (broker dealer, clearing and custody firm).

30

WisdomTree Investments, Inc. (asset management company); Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (financial services technology company).

Robert A. Straniere
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 77

Director

2006 to present

Since 2009, Administrative Law Judge, New York City; since 1980, Founding Partner, Straniere Law Group (law firm).

30

Reich and Tang Group (asset management).

INTERESTED DIRECTOR2

Robert Sablowsky
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 80

Vice Chairman

 

Director

2016 to present

 

1991 to present

Since 2002, Senior Director - Investments and, prior thereto, Executive Vice President, of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. (a registered broker-dealer).

30

None

 

30

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Company Management (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office and
Length
of Time
Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex
Overseen
by Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

OFFICERS

Salvatore Faia, JD,
CPA, CFE
Vigilant Compliance, LLC
Gateway Corporate Center Suite 216
223 Wilmington West
Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Age: 55

President

 

 

Chief Compliance Officer

2009 to present

 

2004 to present

Since 2004, President, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2005, Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

James G. Shaw
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 57

Treasurer and Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2016, Treasurer and Secretary of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 2005 to 2016, Assistant Treasurer of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 1995 to 2016, Senior Director and Vice President of BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (financial services company).

N/A

N/A

Robert Amweg
Vigilant Compliance, LLC
Gateway Corporate Center Suite 216
223 Wilmington West Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Age: 65

Assistant Treasurer

2016 to present

Since 2013, Compliance Director, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2012, Consultant to the financial services industry; from 2007 to 2012, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, Turner Investments, LP (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

Jennifer Witt
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 35

Assistant Treasurer

2018 to present

Since 2016, Assistant Vice President, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm); from 2007 to 2016, Supervisor, Nuveen Investments (investment company).

N/A

N/A

 

31

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Company Management (Unaudited) (Concluded)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office and
Length
of Time
Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex
Overseen
by Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

Edward Paz
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 47

Assistant Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2007, Vice President and Counsel, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm).

N/A

N/A

Michael P. Malloy
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Age: 59

Assistant Secretary

1999 to present

Since 1993, Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm).

N/A

N/A

Jillian L. Bosmann
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103

Age: 39

Assistant Secretary

2017 to present

Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm) (2017-Present); Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (2006-Present).

N/A

N/A

 

*

Each Director oversees 30 portfolios of the Company.

 

1.

Subject to the Company’s Retirement Policy, each Director may continue to serve as a Director until the last day of the calendar year in which the applicable Director attains age 75 or until his successor is elected and qualified or his death, resignation or removal. The Board reserves the right to waive the requirements of the Policy with respect to an individual Director. The Board has approved waivers of the policy with respect to Messrs. Brodsky, Carnall, Giordano, Sablowsky and Straniere. Each officer holds office at the pleasure of the Board until the next special meeting of the Company or until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, or until he or she dies, resigns or is removed.

 

2.

Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “interested person” of the Company as that term is defined in the 1940 Act and is referred to as an “Interested Director.” Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “Interested Director” of the Company by virtue of his position as an employee of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc., a registered broker-dealer.

 

Director Experience, Qualifications, Attributes and/or Skills

 

The information above includes each Director’s principal occupations during the last five years. Each Director possesses extensive additional experience, skills and attributes relevant to his qualifications to serve as a Director. The cumulative background of each Director led to the conclusion that each Director should serve as a Director of the Company. Mr. Giordano has years of experience as a consultant to financial services organizations and also serves on the boards of other registered investment companies. Mr. Reichman brings decades of investment management experience to the Board, in addition to senior executive-level management experience. Mr. Straniere has been a practicing attorney for over 30 years and also serves on the boards of an asset management company and another registered investment company. Mr. Brodsky has over 40 years of senior executive level management experience in the cable television and communications industry. Mr. Sablowsky has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the financial services industry. Mr. Carnall has decades of senior executive-level management experience in the banking and financial services industry and also serves on the boards of various corporations and a bank. Mr. Chandler has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive level positions in the investment technology consulting/services and investment banking/brokerage industries, and also serves on various boards. Mr. Shea has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the investment services industry.

 

32

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Privacy Notice (Unaudited)

 

FACTS

WHAT DOES THE AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION?

Why?

Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.

What?

The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:

 

●  Social Security number

●  account balances

●  account transactions

●  transaction history

●  wire transfer instructions

●  checking account information

 

When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice.

How?

All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons the Aquarius International Fund chooses to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.

       

Reasons we can share your information

Does the Aquarius International Fund share?

Can you limit
this sharing?

For our everyday business purpose
such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court orders and legal
investigations, or report to credit bureaus

Yes

No

For our marketing purposes
to offer our products and services to you

Yes

No

For joint marketing with other financial companies

Yes

No

For affiliates’ everyday business purposes
information about your transactions and experiences

Yes

No

For affiliates’ everyday business purposes
information about your creditworthiness

No

We don’t share

For our affiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share

For nonaffiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share

 

Questions?

Call 1-844-261-6482

 

33

 

 

 

AQUARIUS INTERNATIONAL FUND


Privacy Notice (Unaudited)

 

What we do

 

How does the Aquarius International Fund protect my personal information?

To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.

How does the Aquarius International Fund collect my personal information?

We collect your personal information, for example, when you

 

●  open an account

●  provide account information

●  give us your contact information

●  make a wire transfer

●  tell us where to send the money

 

We also collect your information from others, such as credit bureaus, affiliates, or other companies.

Why can’t I limit all sharing?

Federal law gives you the right to limit only

 

●  sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes — information about your creditworthiness

●  affiliates from using your information to market to you

●  sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you

 

State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.

Definitions

 

Affiliates

Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

 Our affiliates include Altair Advisers, LLC, the investment adviser to the Aquarius International Fund.

Nonaffiliates

Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

 Aquarius International Fund doesn’t share with nonaffiliates so they can market to you.

Joint marketing

A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.

 

 Aquarius International Fund may share your information with other financial institutions with whom they have joint marketing arrangements who may suggest additional fund services or other investments products which may be of interest to you. We do not currently have any joint marketing arrangements with other financial institutions.

 

34

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

 

 

 

 

 

Investment Adviser
Altair Advisers, LLC
303 West Madison Street, Suite 600
Chicago, IL 60606

 

Administrator and Transfer Agent
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, WI 53201

 

Principal Underwriter
Quasar Distributors, LLC
777 East Wisconsin Avenue, Floor 6
Milwaukee, WI 53202

 

Custodian
U.S. Bank, N.A.
1555 North Rivercenter Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, WI 53212

 

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Two Commerce Square
2001 Market Street, Suite 1800
Philadelphia, PA 19103

 

Legal Counsel
Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
One Logan Square, Suite 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103-6996

 

AQU-AR18

 

 

 

 

 

Bogle Investment
Management

Small Cap
Growth Fund

 

of THE RBB FUND, INC.

 

Annual Report
August 31, 2018

 

This report is submitted for the general information of the shareholders of the Fund. It is not authorized for distribution unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus for the Fund.

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

 

Fellow Shareholder:

 

For the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, the Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund”) returned +21.77%, underperforming by -3.68% the unmanaged Russell 2000® Index of small cap stocks (the “Benchmark”), which returned +25.45% over the same period. The Fund’s periodic returns and returns since inception are shown in the chart on page five (returns are calculated as the growth of the dollar value of a minimum investment made at the inception of the Fund, compared to the same investment in the Benchmark). The following sections of this letter will provide background on the market environment, performance attribution, Fund characteristics as of its fiscal year end, and a Bogle Investment Management, L.P. business update.

 

Market Environment. U.S. small cap equity markets, as measured by the Benchmark, delivered strong performance for the fiscal year. Performance was relatively stable over the period, with the Benchmark delivering positive results in ten of the twelve months. The Benchmark started the fiscal year on a strong note, returning +15.02% from September 1, 2017 through January 26, 2018. Volatility picked up in February and March of 2018 amid fears of a global trade war between the U.S. and China. From January 29, 2018 through April 2, 2018, the Benchmark returned -6.92% as tariffs on steel and other imported goods announced by the Trump administration and counter-measures from China dominated headlines. Investor fear didn’t last long, however, and positive economic data outweighed concerns regarding trade for the balance of the fiscal year. From April 3, 2018 through August 31, 2018, the Benchmark returned +17.18%.

 

Small cap stocks outperformed large cap stocks for the fiscal year, with the Russell 2000® Index of small cap stocks beating the Russell 1000® Index of large cap stocks (up +25.45% versus +19.82%). Continuing a steady trend since late 2016, investors showed a preference for growth over value investments. For the fiscal year, the Russell 2000® Growth Index outperformed the Russell 2000® Value Index by approximately ten percentage points (up +30.72% versus +20.05%). Consistent with the relatively steady market gains, the volatility of the Fund and the volatility of the Benchmark for the fiscal year were significantly below longer term averages. Excepting a brief spike in volatility in February and March, the CBOE Volatility Index, which measures implied or expected market volatility, spent much of 2018 near historically low levels.

 

Performance Attribution. Although the Fund delivered positive performance for the fiscal year, it underperformed the Benchmark by -3.68%, net of all fees and expenses. Because we hold very little cash and tend to have limited sector deviations compared to the Benchmark, the majority of our performance relative to Benchmark is typically attributed to “stock selection,” which was the case for the fiscal year. Specific Fund holdings with significant negative contributions were Versartis, Inc. (VSAR), Pampa Energia S.A. (PAM), and Tailored Brands, Inc. (TLRD). Stocks with significant positive contributions included Etsy, Inc. (ETSY), Medifast, Inc. (MED), and Crocs, Inc. (CROX). Return differences between the Fund and Benchmark attributed to major risk factors such as growth, capitalization and beta were relatively small.

 

In addition to stock selection and common factor exposures, we also evaluate the effectiveness of the individual models that form our composite stock selection process. The investment process combines insights derived from a rigorous and systematic analysis of fundamental financial data and complementary sources of information that measure non-fundamental, often shorter-horizon data. This combination of signals can be thought of, conceptually, as the exploitation of investment opportunities created, primarily, by stocks with attractive fundamental financial characteristics whose appeal hasn’t yet been fully appreciated by the market, and secondarily, by opportunistically trading these securities when market data indicate that there is a statistical probability that their current prices will either revert toward, or start to diverge from, their short-term equilibrium price levels. Our fundamental models tend to work best when markets are focused more on discriminating between similar stocks than when investors are focused on broader macroeconomic themes, moving into or out of groups or portfolios of stocks in unison. During periods when investors are focused on macroeconomic themes, our non-fundamental signals are designed to try to add value by finding both a greater number of opportunities from, and greater likelihood of investment success with, short-term price movements caused by thematic trading. Consistent with model tendencies, our different model types contributed at different times during the fiscal year. For the full fiscal year, the Fund’s exposure to fundamentally attractive stocks that exhibited better potential for earnings growth relative to other stocks, were undervalued in comparison to other stocks, and exhibited stronger financial quality characteristics in comparison to

 

1

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

 

other stocks was not rewarded. Despite the fact that these exposures did not allow us to beat our benchmark over the fiscal year, we remain confident that these fundamental exposures should be rewarded over the long term. The non-fundamental signals contributed positively over the period, but their contribution was not enough to offset the negative performance from the fundamental models.

 

Clients often ask us how we spend our days. Our offices are generally quiet, as the five of us on the investment team spend most of our time analyzing myriad data that relate to our investment process. We often evaluate new signals to potentially add to the investment models, review existing models to see if there are ways to improve them, and assess trading data to understand how efficiently our trading models have been working. At the point when one of us has concluded that an idea has sufficient potential for improving the live model, that analyst circulates his or her analysis with, among other things, (i) background on the concept; (ii) a postulate of why this apparent inefficiency exists (in other words, why it has not been arbitraged away by other managers); (iii) test results that demonstrate how consistently the new idea has performed in varying market environments and across different types of companies; (iv) a discussion of how the idea is similar or dissimilar to existing models; (v) an estimate of the degree to which other managers appear to have used similar concepts; and (vi) the code used to build and test the idea so that the other analysts can efficiently build the same model and perform their own analyses on it.

 

Over time, sometimes months, and often longer, the team starts to develop a consensus on whether an idea should be considered for inclusion in the live model. The road to inclusion is usually fairly long and includes many hurdles. The greatest hurdle is generally the last one: an evaluation of how the idea has performed with new data that was collected after the code was finalized. This step is critical as it’s all too easy to “fit” a model to historical data to maximize its statistical significance (we call this “predicting the past”). We believe that the best way to avoid this trap is to test a model on data that does not exist at the time its code is written. Therefore, we test the model on data that we collect over subsequent days and months. If these future test results are comparable to the historical results, across many different types of analyses, we then make a final decision about whether and when to add an idea to the live model.

 

The timing of inclusion of a new idea in our live model can be critical. We tend to make fewer changes when our investment performance has recently been poor, believing that we should wait for existing models to experience a rebound in performance before making changes. We’ve seen enough ups and downs in model performance to have a strong conviction that poor performance should be followed by good, and good should, at some point, also cycle down. Most of our changes occur during periods of good performance with the objective of improving the model to limit underperformance during the next down cycle.

 

While we never lack for ideas to research, the last year or two we’ve had a greater number of what we believe are promising new investment ideas than usual. We expect to be rolling some of these ideas into the live investment process over the coming months or quarters. We thank you for your patience and long-term perspective in continuing to trust our stewardship of your investment.

 

Fund Characteristics. As of August 31, 2018, the Fund held 115 stocks, with the largest position representing 1.81% of net assets. As shown in the table [to the right], the Fund looks similar to the Benchmark across a variety of fundamental risk characteristics. As of August 31, 2018, the Fund’s median market capitalization was smaller than the Benchmark. The Fund’s median price-to-sales ratio was also below the Benchmark, reflecting the influence of our relative valuation model.

 

Fundamental Characteristics
August 31, 2018
Median   

BOGIX*

    

Russell 2000®
Index

 
Median Market Cap ($mil.)  $1,760   $2,305 
Price/Historical Earnings   28.9x   23.3x
Price/Forward Earnings   22.8x   19.6x
Price/Sales   2.3x   2.8x

 

*

The Fund’s median characteristics refer to the Fund’s holdings, not the Fund itself. Price/Historical Earnings is a measure of the price paid for a share relative to the last year of earnings per share. Price/Forward Earnings is a measure of the price paid for a share relative to the estimated future earnings (over the next one to two years) per share. Estimated future earnings come from the First Call database and actual earnings may vary from this figure. Price/Sales is a measure of the price paid for a share relative to the last year of revenues per share.

 

2

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

 

The Fund’s annualized active volatility (the variability of the difference between Fund and Benchmark performance, also called “tracking error”) was 6.0% in the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, slightly below the Fund’s long-term average of 6.4%. The Fund’s beta with the Benchmark was approximately 1.11.

 

Risk Statistics*
Fiscal Year Period

Measurement

BOGIX

Russell 2000®
Index

Standard Deviation

15.8%

13.2%

Active Volatility

6.0%

 

Beta with Russell 2000® Index

1.11

 

 

*

Risk statistics apply to the Fund and Benchmark. Standard deviation is a statistical measure of the range of performance. Active volatility is the standard deviation of the difference between the Fund and Benchmark performance. Beta is a measure of a portfolio’s sensitivity to market movements.

 

Self-Assessment. Despite returning more than +20% net of fees and expenses, the Fund underperformed the benchmark by -3.68%. We give ourselves a poor mark on relative performance. Although we know there will be environments in which our exposures are not rewarded, we remain confident in our potential to deliver over the long term. We have an experienced team of professionals who have worked together for many years. We focus on one core investment approach, and we strictly control the amount of capital we will accept to limit the erosion of our investment insights that inevitably comes from an asset base that has been allowed to grow too large. We maintain conviction that we have all of the elements required as we seek to deliver attractive long-term returns.

 

While investment results are our primary focus, our shareholder services are important as well. We work with U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (“Fund Services”), doing business as U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, to provide shareholder services, giving them feedback that we have received from you as well as feedback from us based on our own experiences as fellow shareholders. We encourage you to let us know how we can improve your shareholder experience.

 

Progress at Bogle Investment Management. At the end of August 2018, net assets in the Fund were $97 million. Our investment team remains unchanged; the same five investment professionals continue to work together to generate new ideas for improving our investment process. We appreciate you staying the course with your investments with us.

 

More information about the Fund, including sector allocation, fundamental characteristics, and top ten holdings, can be viewed on our website, www.boglefunds.com. The Fund’s net asset value is updated daily while other Fund information is updated quarterly. Fund information is also available on Morningstar.com and other internet-based financial data providers. We thank you for your ongoing support and, moreover, for the trust and confidence you have placed in us.

 

Respectfully,

 

Bogle Investment Management, L.P.
Management Office: 781-283-5000
Shareholder Services Toll Free: 1-877-BOGLEIM (264-5346)

 

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance and does not guarantee future results. Current performance may be lower or higher. Performance data current to the most recent month-end may be obtained at 1-877-264-5346. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance quoted reflects fee waivers in effect and would have been less in their absence.

 

The Fund’s investment adviser, Bogle Investment Management, L.P. (the “Adviser”), has contractually agreed to waive management fees and reimburse expenses through December 31, 2019 to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain expenses) exceed 1.25%. The Adviser, in its discretion, has the right to extend this waiver. The total expense ratio for the Fund, prior to fee waivers, as stated in the current prospectus dated December 31, 2017, is 1.35%.

  

3

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

 

The Russell 1000®Index is a market capitalization weighted index of approximately 1,000 of the largest companies in the U.S. equity markets. The Russell 2000® Index is an index of stocks 1001 through 3000 in the Russell 3000® Index, which is made up of 3,000 of the largest U.S. stocks ranked by market capitalization. The Russell 2000 Value®Index is a subset of the securities found in the Russell 2000®Index that exhibit a value probability using the price-to-book ratio. The Russell 2000 Growth®Index is a subset of the securities found in the Russell 2000®Index that exhibit a growth probability using the Institutional Brokers’ Estimate System (I/B/E/S) forecast medium-term growth (2-year) and sales per share historical growth (5-year). The indexes are published and maintained by FTSE Russell and a direct investment in the indexes is not possible. Frank Russell Company (“Russell”) is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks and copyrights related to the Russell Indexes. Russell®is a trademark of Frank Russell Company. Neither Russell nor its licensors accept any liability for any errors or omissions in the Russell Indexes and / or Russell ratings or underlying data and no party may rely on any Russell Indexes and / or Russell ratings and / or underlying data contained in this communication. No further distribution of Russell Data is permitted without Russell’s express written consent. Russell does not promote, sponsor or endorse the content of this communication. VIX is the ticker symbol for the Chicago Board Options Exchange (CBOE) Volatility Index, which shows the market’s expectation of 30-day volatility.

 

Investing in small companies can involve more volatility, less liquidity and less available information than investing in large companies. The Fund may invest in undervalued securities which may not appreciate in value as anticipated or may remain undervalued for long periods of time.

 

Portfolio composition is subject to change. The current and future portfolio holdings of the Fund are subject to investment risk.

 

Please refer to the Schedule of Investments in this report for a complete list of fund holdings.

 

4

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Performance Data

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund vs. Russell 2000® Index

 

 

This chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 initial investment in the Fund made on October 1, 1999 (commencement of operations) and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the Russell 2000® Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the Periods Ended August 31, 2018

 
 

One
Year

Five
Year

Ten
Year

Since
Inception*

 

Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Fund

21.77%

12.17%

11.68%

11.83%

 

Russell 2000® Index

25.45%

13.00%

10.46%

9.19%

 

 

 

*

For the period October 1, 1999 (commencement of operations) through August 31, 2018.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance and does not guarantee future results. Current performance may be lower or higher. Performance data current to the most recent month-end may be obtained at 1-877-264-5346. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance quoted reflects fee waivers in effect and would have been less in their absence. The total annual Fund operating expense ratio, as stated in the current prospectus dated December 31, 2017, is 1.35% for the Fund prior to fee waivers.

 

Bogle Investment Management, L.P. (the “Adviser” or “Bogle”) waived a portion of its advisory fee and agreed to reimburse a portion of the Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Fund’s (the “Fund”) operating expenses, if necessary, to maintain the expense limitation as set forth in the notes to the financial statements. Total returns shown include fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any; total returns would have been lower had there been no waivers and reimbursements of fees and expenses in excess of expense limitations. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions.

 

5

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Fund Expense Example

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees and other Fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

 

This example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period from March 1, 2018 through August 31, 2018 and held for the entire period.

 

Actual Expenses

 

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

 

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

 

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

 

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

 

  Beginning
Account Value
March 1, 2018
Ending
Account Value
August 31, 2018

Expenses Paid
During Period*

Annualized
Expense Ratio
Actual
Six-Month
Total Investment
Return for
the Fund
Actual $ 1,000.00 $ 1,129.50 $ 6.71 1.25% 12.95%
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses) $ 1,000.00 $ 1,018.90 $ 6.36 1.25%

N/A

 

*

Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized six-month expense ratio for the period March 1, 2018 to August 31, 2018, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days (184) in the most recent fiscal half-year, then divided by 365 to reflect the one half-year period. The Fund’s ending account value on the first line in the table is based on the actual six-month total investment return for the Fund.

 

6

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Portfolio Holdings Summary Table

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

The following table presents a summary by security type of the portfolio holdings of the Fund:

 

   

% of Net
Assets

   

Value

 

Common Stocks:

               

Finance

    21.4 %   $ 20,666,801  

Health Technology

    15.6       15,097,316  

Technology Services

    10.7       10,360,325  

Electronic Technology

    9.1       8,732,240  

Commercial Services

    7.0       6,725,944  

Producer Manufacturing

    6.8       6,569,070  

Consumer Services

    5.9       5,721,568  

Consumer Non-Durables

    5.5       5,312,647  

Consumer Durables

    2.9       2,829,521  

Health Services

    2.7       2,630,785  

Industrial Services

    2.6       2,529,309  

Transportation

    1.8       1,743,403  

Retail Trade

    1.8       1,733,239  

Energy Minerals

    1.0       996,368  

Distribution Services

    1.0       921,636  

Communications

    0.8       767,841  

Utilities

    0.5       466,767  

Process Industries

    0.4       407,200  

Short-Term Investments

    1.5       1,443,877  

Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities

    1.0       923,022  

Net Assets

    100.0 %   $ 96,578,879  

 

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


7

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Portfolio of Investments

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number
of Shares

   

Value

 

Common Stocks—97.5%

               

Commercial Services—7.0%

       

Etsy, Inc.*

    31,678     $ 1,542,402.00  

Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc.

    8,833       390,419  

ICF International, Inc.

    13,145       1,073,289  

Kforce, Inc.

    19,831       833,894  

Medpace Holdings, Inc.*

    14,360       858,584  

Providence Service Corp, (The)*

    12,717       853,820  

QuinStreet, Inc.*

    77,359       1,173,536  
              6,725,944  

Communications—0.8%

               

United States Cellular Corp.*

    17,957       767,841  
                 

Consumer Durables—2.9%

       

GoPro, Inc., Class A*

    201,657       1,292,621  

Movado Group, Inc.

    14,598       621,875  

Turtle Beach Corp.*

    39,940       915,025  
              2,829,521  

Consumer Non-Durables—5.5%

       

Crocs, Inc.*

    78,248       1,616,604  

Deckers Outdoor Corp.*

    11,723       1,428,330  

G-III Apparel Group Ltd.*

    22,243       1,011,612  

USANA Health Sciences, Inc.*

    6,121       807,666  

Vera Bradley, Inc.*

    30,589       448,435  
              5,312,647  

Consumer Services—5.9%

       

Bloomin' Brands, Inc.

    49,334       952,146  

Care.com, Inc.*

    52,875       1,027,361  

Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Co.*

    124,264       801,503  

Liberty TripAdvisor Holdings, Inc., Class A*

    53,209       843,363  

Weight Watchers International, Inc.*

    16,055       1,202,519  

XO Group, Inc.*

    29,763       894,676  
              5,721,568  

Distribution Services—1.0%

       

Performance Food Group Co.*

    27,844       921,636  
                 

Electronic Technology—9.1%

       

American Outdoor Brands Corp.*

    90,877       1,275,004  

CTS Corp.

    13,914       514,122  

Engility Holdings, Inc.*

    7,297       253,279  

Fortinet, Inc.*

    14,020       1,174,315  

Immersion Corp.*

    60,352       701,290  

Kemet Corp.*

    42,262       1,092,050  

Mellanox Technologies Ltd.*

    11,220     933,504  

Radware Ltd.*

    25,420       704,134  

ShotSpotter, Inc.*

    21,838       1,245,640  

Vishay Intertechnology, Inc.

    35,248       838,902  
              8,732,240  

Energy Minerals—1.0%

               

W&T Offshore, Inc.*

    147,174       996,368  
                 

Finance—21.4%

               

Ambac Financial Group, Inc.*

    40,167       848,729  

Assurant, Inc.

    6,927       712,234  

Athene Holding Ltd., Class A*

    13,900       690,274  

BGC Partners, Inc., Class A

    40,688       505,345  

BrightSphere Investment Group PLC

    60,825       771,869  

Cannae Holdings, Inc.*

    47,875       930,690  

East West Bancorp, Inc.

    10,390       658,622  

Enova International, Inc.*

    40,535       1,345,762  

Essent Group Ltd.*

    20,253       878,170  

Evercore, Inc., Class A

    5,597       594,122  

First BanCorp Puerto Rico*

    152,284       1,332,485  

Green Dot Corp., Class A*

    13,961       1,196,039  

Hamilton Lane, Inc., Class A

    19,653       958,673  

Health Insurance Innovations, Inc., Class A*

    33,050       1,748,345  

Hilltop Holdings, Inc.

    31,064       644,578  

Hilton Grand Vacations, Inc.*

    8,200       267,812  

INTL FCStone, Inc.*

    8,947       498,885  

Investment Technology Group, Inc.

    44,105       965,017  

Jefferies Financial Group, Inc.

    33,842       785,811  

LPL Financial Holdings, Inc.

    16,845       1,115,813  

Newmark Group, Inc., Class A

    30,657       393,942  

OneMain Holdings, Inc.*

    25,995       954,017  

Popular, Inc.

    18,226       917,497  

Radian Group, Inc.

    41,797       849,733  

United Community Banks, Inc.

    3,373       102,337  
              20,666,801  

Health Services—2.7%

               

R1 RCM, Inc.*

    94,568       942,843  

RadNet, Inc.*

    64,739       896,635  

Tenet Healthcare Corp.*

    23,467       791,307  
              2,630,785  

Health Technology—15.6%

       

Acorda Therapeutics, Inc.*

    6,447       185,674  

ArQule, Inc.*

    18,136       120,242  

BioLife Solutions, Inc.*

    43,946       1,052,946  

CareDx, Inc.*

    15,996       388,863  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


8

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Portfolio of Investments (Concluded)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number
of Shares

   

Value

 

Health Technology—(continued)

CytomX Therapeutics, Inc.*

    47,951     $ 1,078,418  

Enanta Pharmaceuticals, Inc.*

    8,529       775,542  

Five Prime Therapeutics, Inc.*

    46,067       644,938  

Haemonetics Corp.*

    13,611       1,519,532  

ICU Medical, Inc.*

    3,267       999,702  

IntriCon Corp.*

    582       43,010  

Luminex Corp.

    31,635       892,423  

Natera, Inc.*

    32,363       894,513  

NewLink Genetics Corp.*

    37,550       116,405  

Ophthotech Corp.*

    17,620       45,107  

Pieris Pharmaceuticals, Inc.*

    102,946       570,321  

PTC Therapeutics, Inc.*

    31,114       1,298,699  

QIAGEN NV*

    24,595       958,467  

REGENXBIO, Inc.*

    1,261       88,837  

Retrophin, Inc.*

    13,725       434,945  

STAAR Surgical Co.*

    31,913       1,522,250  

Surmodics, Inc.*

    18,622       1,466,482  
              15,097,316  

Industrial Services—2.6%

       

Basic Energy Services, Inc.*

    14,500       128,470  

Casella Waste Systems, Inc., Class A*

    34,254       972,128  

Ocean Rig UDW, Inc.*

    23,197       628,175  

Tetra Tech, Inc.

    11,469       800,536  
              2,529,309  

Process Industries—0.4%

       

Orion Engineered Carbons SA

    100       3,600  

Renewable Energy Group, Inc.*

    6,585       177,466  

Verso Corp.*

    7,204       226,134  
              407,200  

Producer Manufacturing—6.8%

       

DMC Global, Inc.

    23,631       927,517  

Harsco Corp.*

    52,764       1,490,583  

Integer Holdings Corp.*

    11,892       950,171  

ITT, Inc.

    13,133       776,292  

Milacron Holdings Corp.*

    51,943       1,101,191  

NCI Building Systems, Inc.*

    47,553       803,646  

SPX FLOW, Inc.*

    10,840       519,670  
              6,569,070  

Retail Trade—1.8%

               

Medifast, Inc.

    7,577       1,733,239  
                 

Technology Services—10.7%

       

AppFolio, Inc., Class A*

    1,085       92,659  

Bottomline Technologies de, Inc.*

    14,515       957,555  

Box, Inc., Class A*

    15,804       388,146  

CyberArk Software Ltd.*

    14,191       1,070,285  

eGain Corp.*

    63,483     907,807  

Everbridge, Inc.*

    2,077       125,056  

EVERTEC, Inc.

    34,603       832,202  

Mimecast Ltd.*

    20,311       844,735  

New Relic, Inc.*

    10,837       1,113,610  

Okta, Inc.*

    11,024       681,614  

SendGrid, Inc.*

    25,253       915,926  

Twilio, Inc., Class A*

    8,700       701,742  

Varonis Systems, Inc.*

    21,118       1,560,620  

Workiva, Inc., Class A*

    4,569       168,368  
              10,360,325  

Transportation—1.8%

               

ArcBest Corp.

    18,189       874,891  

Echo Global Logistics, Inc.*

    26,160       868,512  
              1,743,403  

Utilities—0.5%

               

Pampa Energia SA, SP ADR*

    15,334       466,767  
                 

Total Common Stocks

               

(Cost $78,703,485)

            94,211,980  
                 

Short-Term Investments—1.5%

       

Fidelity Investments Money Market Funds - Government Portfolio, 1.82% (a)

    1,443,877  

Total Short-Term Investments

       

(Cost $1,443,877)

    1,443,877  

Total Investments—99.0%

       

(Cost $80,147,362)

    95,655,857  

Other Assets In Excess Of Liabilities—1.0%

    923,022  

Net Assets—100.0%

  $ 96,578,879  

 

 

*

Non-income producing security.

 

(a)

Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.

 

ADR — American Depositary Receipt.

 

PLC — Public Limited Company.

 

SP ADR — Sponsored American Depositary Receipt.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


9

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Statement Of Assets And Liabilities

August 31, 2018

 

Assets

       

Investments, at value (cost $78,703,485)

  $ 94,211,980  

Short-term investments, at value (cost $1,443,877)

    1,443,877  

Receivables for:

       

Investments sold

    1,748,059  

Dividends

    28,288  

Capital shares sold

    8  

Prepaid expenses and other assets

    25,000  

Total assets

    97,457,212  
         

Liabilities

       

Payables for:

       

Investments purchased

    727,830  

Investment advisory fees

    75,266  

Other accrued expenses and liabilities

    75,237  

Total liabilities

    878,333  

Net assets

  $ 96,578,879  
         

Net Assets Consist of:

       

Par value

  $ 2,748  

Paid-in capital

    70,442,399  

Undistributed/(accumulated) net investment income/(loss)

     

Accumulated net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    10,625,237  

Net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    15,508,495  

Net assets

  $ 96,578,879  
         

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    2,748,211  

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share

  $ 35.14  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


10

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Statement Of Operations

For the Year Ended August 31, 2018

 

Investment Income

       

Dividends (net of foreign taxes withheld of $2,843)

  $ 729,020  

Total investment income

    729,020  
         

Expenses

       

Advisory fees (Note 2)

    1,072,909  

Transfer agent fees (Note 2)

    70,265  

Administration and accounting fees (Note 2)

    54,582  

Audit and tax service fees

    40,160  

Legal fees

    30,642  

Custodian fees (Note 2)

    30,105  

Registration and filing fees

    26,991  

Printing and shareholder reporting fees

    18,612  

Officer’s fees

    15,528  

Director’s fees

    14,233  

Other expenses

    12,944  

Total expenses before waivers

    1,386,971  

Less: waivers (Note 2)

    (45,835 )

Net expenses after waivers

    1,341,136  

Net investment income/(loss)

    (612,116 )
         

Net Realized and Unrealized Gain/(Loss) from Investments

       

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    13,872,196  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    7,823,184  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    21,695,380  

Net Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets Resulting from Operations

  $ 21,083,264  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


11

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets From Operations:

               

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ (612,116 )   $ (695,143 )

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    13,872,196       17,835,877  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    7,823,184       2,929,982  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    21,083,264       20,070,716  
                 

Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders From:

               

Net realized capital gains

               

Institutional Class

    (10,781,589 )      

Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (10,781,589 )      
                 

Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets Derived From Capital Share Transactions:

               

Institutional Class

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    1,934,636       2,362,029  

Proceeds from exchange of Investor Class(1)

          73,374,316  

Reinvestment of distributions

    10,427,402        

Distributions for shares redeemed

    (32,362,655 )     (36,837,782 )

Total from Institutional Class

    (20,000,617 )     38,898,563  

Investor Class

               

Proceeds from shares sold

          1,577,029  

Reinvestment of distributions

           

Distributions for shares redeemed

          (10,305,292 )

Distributions from exchange to Institutional Class(1)

          (73,374,316 )

Total from Investor Class

          (82,102,579 )

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

    (20,000,617 )     (43,204,016 )

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    (9,698,942 )     (23,133,300 )
                 

Net Assets:

               

Beginning of period

    106,277,821       129,411,121  

End of period

  $ 96,578,879     $ 106,277,821  

Undistributed/(accumulated) net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $     $ (127,947 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


12

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Statements of Changes in Net Assets (Concluded)

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

Increase/(Decrease) in Shares Outstanding Derived From Share Transactions:

               

Institutional Class

               

Shares sold

    59,630       78,894  

Shares exchanged from Investor Class (1)

          2,379,818  

Shares reinvested

    344,480        

Shares redeemed

    (973,282 )     (1,259,190 )

Total from Institutional Class

    (569,172 )     1,199,522  

Investor Class

               

Shares sold

          55,604  

Shares reinvested

           

Shares redeemed

          (357,393 )

Shares exchanged into Institutional Class (1)

          (2,439,606 )

Total from Investor Class

          (2,741,395 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares outstanding derived from share transactions

    (569,172 )     (1,541,873 )

 

 

(1)

Effective on April 28, 2017, the outstanding Investor Class Shares of the Fund were converted into Institutional Class Shares of the Fund.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


13

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2018

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2017

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2016

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2015

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2014

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 32.04     $ 27.00     $ 30.00     $ 38.07     $ 29.49  

Net investment income/(loss)(1)

    (0.19 )     (0.18 )     (0.13 )     (0.18 )     (0.23 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    6.63       5.22       1.21       (3.09 )     8.87  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    6.44       5.04       1.08       (3.27 )     8.64  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                                       

Net investment income

                            (0.06 )

Net realized capital gains

    (3.34 )           (4.08 )     (4.80 )      

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (3.34 )           (4.08 )     (4.80 )     (0.06 )

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 35.14     $ 32.04     $ 27.00     $ 30.00     $ 38.07  

Total investment return(2)

    21.77 %     18.69 %     4.37 %     (8.99 )%     29.34 %
                                         

Ratios/Supplemental Data

                                       

Net assets, end of period (000’s omitted)

  $ 96,579       $ 106,278     $ 57,180     $ 88,086     $ 117,923  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets
with waivers and reimbursements

    1.25 %     1.27 %     1.25 %     1.25 %     1.25 %

Ratio of expenses to average net assets without waivers and reimbursements(3)

    1.29 %     1.37 %     1.42 %     1.35 %     1.32 %

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    (0.57 )%     (0.61 )%     (0.50 )%     (0.53 )%     (0.66 )%

Portfolio turnover rate

    349 %     366 %     380 %     196 %     175 %

 

 

(1)

Calculated based on average shares outstanding for the period.

(2)

Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

(3)

During the current fiscal period, certain fees were waived and/or reimbursed. If such fee waivers and/or reimbursements had not occurred, the ratios would have been as indicated (See Note 2).

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


14

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Notes To Financial Statements

August 31, 2018

 

1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

 

The RBB Fund, Inc. (“RBB” or the “Company”) was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on February 29, 1988 and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. RBB is a “series fund,” which is a mutual fund divided into separate portfolios. Each portfolio is treated as a separate entity for certain matters under the 1940 Act, and for other purposes, and a shareholder of one portfolio is not deemed to be a shareholder of any other portfolio. Currently, RBB has thirty active investment portfolios, including the Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund”), which commenced investment operations on October 1, 1999.

 

RBB has authorized capital of one hundred billion shares of common stock of which 87.023 billion shares are currently classified into one hundred and eighty-one classes of common stock. Each class represents an interest in an active or inactive RBB investment portfolio.

 

The Fund’s investment objective is to provide long-term capital appreciation.

 

The Fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services - Investment Companies”.

 

The end of the reporting period for the Fund is August 31, 2018, and the period covered by these Notes to Financial Statements is the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018 (the “current fiscal period”).

 

Portfolio Valuation — The Fund’s net asset value (“NAV”) is calculated once daily at the close of regular trading hours on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on each day the NYSE is open. Securities held by the Fund are valued using the closing price or the last sale price on a national securities exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automatic Quotation System (“NASDAQ”) market system where they are primarily traded. Equity securities traded in the over-the-counter (“OTC”) market are valued at their closing prices. If there were no transactions on that day, securities traded principally on an exchange or on NASDAQ will be valued at the mean of the last bid and ask prices prior to the market close. Fixed income securities are valued using an independent pricing service, which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings, and are deemed representative of market values at the close of the market. Investments in other open-end investment companies, if any, are valued based on the NAV of those investment companies (which may use fair value pricing as discussed in their prospectuses). If market quotations are unavailable or deemed unreliable, securities will be valued in accordance with procedures adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”). Relying on prices supplied by pricing services or dealers or using fair valuation may result in values that are higher or lower than the values used by other investment companies and investors to price the same investments.

 

Fair Value Measurements — The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the Fund’s investments are summarized into three levels as described in the hierarchy below:

 

 

● Level 1

Prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

 

 

● Level 2

Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).

 

 

● Level 3

Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

15

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Notes To Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of the end of the reporting period, in valuing the Fund’s investments carried at fair value:

 

   

Total

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

 

Common Stocks

  $ 94,211,980     $ 94,211,980     $     $  

Short-Term Investments

    1,443,877       1,443,877              

Total Investments*

  $ 95,655,857     $ 95,655,857     $     $  

 

*

Please refer to the Portfolio of Investments for further details.

 

At the end of each quarter, management evaluates the classification of Levels 1, 2 and 3 assets and liabilities. Various factors are considered, such as changes in liquidity from the prior reporting period; whether or not a broker is willing to execute at the quoted price; the depth and consistency of prices from third party pricing services; and the existence of contemporaneous, observable trades in the market. Additionally, management evaluates the classification of Level 1 and Level 2 assets and liabilities on a quarterly basis for changes in listings or delistings on national exchanges.

 

Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Fund’s investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values the Fund may ultimately realize. Further, such investments may be subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities.

 

For fair valuations using significant unobservable inputs, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires the Fund to present a reconciliation of the beginning to ending balances for reported market values that presents changes attributable to total realized and unrealized gains or losses, purchase and sales, and transfers in and out of Level 3 during the period. Transfers in and out between levels are based on values at the end of the period. U.S. GAAP also requires the Fund to disclose amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements. A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented only when the Fund had an amount of Level 3 investments at the end of the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets. The amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of each level within the three-tier hierarchy are disclosed when the Fund had an amount of total transfers during the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets as of the end of the reporting period.

 

During the current fiscal period, the Fund had no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3.

 

Use of Estimates — The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and those differences could be significant.

 

Investment Transactions, Investment Income and Expenses — The Fund records security transactions based on trade date for financial reporting purposes. The cost of investments sold is determined by use of the specific identification method for both financial reporting and income tax purposes in determining realized gains and losses on investments. Interest income is accrued when earned. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or capital gains are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The Fund’s investment income, expenses (other than class specific distribution fees) and unrealized and realized gains and losses are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class at the beginning of the day. Expenses incurred on behalf of a specific class, fund or fund family of the Company are charged directly to the class, fund or fund family (in proportion to net assets). Expenses incurred for all of the RBB funds (such as director or professional fees) are charged to all funds in proportion to their average net assets of RBB, or in such other manner as the Board deems fair or equitable. Expenses and fees, including investment advisory and administration fees, are accrued daily and taken into account for the purpose of determining the NAV of the Fund.

 

16

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Notes To Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Dividends And Distributions To Shareholders — Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid at least annually to shareholders and recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income dividends and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. GAAP.

 

U.S. Tax Status — No provision is made for U.S. income taxes as it is the Fund’s intention to continue to qualify for and elect the tax treatment applicable to regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and make the requisite distributions to its shareholders which will be sufficient to relieve it from U.S. income and excise taxes.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents — Cash and cash equivalents are valued at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates market value.

 

Other — In the normal course of business, the Fund may enter into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made against the Fund in the future, and, therefore, cannot be estimated; however, based on experience, the risk of material loss from such claims is considered remote.

 

2. Investment Adviser and Other Services

 

Bogle Investment Management, L.P. (“Bogle” or the “Adviser”) serves as the investment adviser to the Fund. The Fund compensates the Adviser for its services at an annual rate based on the Fund’s average daily net assets (the “Advisory Fee”), payable on a monthly basis in arrears, as shown in the accompanying table.

 

The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent that total Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) exceed the rate (“Expense Cap”) shown in the accompanying table. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and certain of these expenses could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed the Expense Cap: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes. This contractual limitation is in effect until December 31, 2019 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board. The Adviser may discontinue these arrangements at any time after December 31, 2019. The Fund will not pay the Adviser at a later time for any amounts the Adviser may waive and/or any amounts that the Adviser has assumed. The contractual fee waiver does not provide for recoupment of fees that were waived and/or expenses that were reimbursed.

 

Advisory Fee

Expense Cap

1.00%

1.25%

 

During the current fiscal period, investment advisory fees accrued and waived were as follows:

 

Gross
Advisory Fees

Waivers

Net
Advisory Fees

$1,072,909 $(45,835) $1,027,074

 

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (“Fund Services”), doing business as U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, serves as administrator for the Fund. For providing administrative and accounting services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Fund Services serves as the Fund’s transfer and dividend disbursing agent. For providing transfer agent services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

17

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Notes To Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

U.S. Bank, N.A. (the “Custodian”) provides certain custodial services to the Fund. The Custodian is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Quasar Distributors, LLC serves as the principal underwriter and distributor of the Fund’s shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with RBB.

 

For compensation amounts paid to Fund Services and the Custodian, please refer to the Statement of Operations.

 

3. Director’s and Officer’s Compensation

 

The Directors of the Company receive an annual retainer and meeting fees for meetings attended. Employees of Vigilant Compliance, LLC serve as President, Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Treasurer of the Company. Vigilant Compliance, LLC is compensated for the services provided to the Company. An employee of RBB serves as Treasurer and Secretary, and is compensated for services provided. Certain employees of Fund Services serve as officers of the Company. They are not compensated by the Fund or the Company. For Director’s and Officer’s compensation amounts, please refer to the Statement of Operations.

 

4. Purchases and Sales of Investment Securities

 

During the current fiscal period, aggregate purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding short-term investments) of the Fund were as follows:

 

Purchases

Sales

$ 363,483,354 $ 395,523,539

 

There were no purchases or sales of long-term U.S. Government securities during the current fiscal period.

 

5. Federal Income Tax Information

 

The Fund has followed the authoritative guidance on accounting for and disclosure of uncertainty in tax positions, which requires the Fund to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Fund has determined that there was no effect on the financial statements from following this authoritative guidance. In the normal course of business, the Fund is subject to examination by federal, state and local jurisdictions, where applicable, for tax years for which applicable statutes of limitations have not expired.

 

As of August 31, 2018, the federal tax cost and aggregate gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of investments held by the Fund were as follows:

 

Federal Tax
Cost

Unrealized
Appreciation

Unrealized
(Depreciation)

Net
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

$ 80,394,761 $ 17,749,872 $ (2,488,776) $ 15,261,096

 

Distributions to shareholders, if any, from net investment income and realized gains are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from net investment income and realized gains recognized for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying financial statements. To the extent these differences are permanent, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts based on the tax treatment; temporary differences do not require such reclassification.

 

18

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Notes To Financial Statements (Concluded)

August 31, 2018

 

The following permanent differences as of August 31, 2018, primarily attributable to short-term capital gains netted against net operating loss, were reclassified among the following accounts:

 

Undistributed
Net Investment
Income/(Loss)

Accumulated
Net Realized
Gain/(Loss)

Paid-In
Capital

$ 740,063 $ (740,063) $ —

 

As of August 31, 2018, the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

 

Capital Loss
Carryforward

Undistributed
Ordinary Income

Undistributed
Long-Term
Capital Gains

Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

Qualified
Late-Year Loss
Deferral

$ — $ 8,238,874 $ 2,633,762 $ 15,261,096 $ —

 

The differences between the book and tax basis components of distributable earnings relate principally to the timing of recognition of income and gains for federal income tax purposes. Short-term and foreign currency gains are reported as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes.

 

The tax character of dividends and distributions paid during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018 and 2017 was as follows:

 

   

Ordinary
Income

   

Long-Term
Gains

   

Total

 

2018

  $ 10,781,589     $     $ 10,781,589  

2017

                 

 

Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal income tax purposes.

 

6. New Accounting Pronouncements

 

In August 2018, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”). The primary focus of ASU 2018-13 is to improve the effectiveness of the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The changes affect all companies that are required to include fair value measurement disclosures. In general, the amendments in ASU 2018-13 are effective for all affected entities for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. An affected entity is permitted to adopt the removed or modified disclosures upon the issuance of ASU 2018-13 and may delay adoption of the additional disclosures, which are required for public companies only, until their effective date. Management is currently evaluating the impact these changes will have on the Fund’s financial statements and disclosures.

 

7. Subsequent Events

 

Management has evaluated the impact of all subsequent events on the Fund through the date the financial statements were issued and has determined that there were no significant events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.

 

19

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

To the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. and Shareholders of Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Fund

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the portfolio of investments, of Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Fund (the “Fund”), a separately managed portfolio of The RBB Fund, Inc., as of August 31, 2018, the related statement of operations for the year ended August 31, 2018, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended August 31, 2018 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of August 31, 2018, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018 and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended August 31, 2018 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

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

 

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

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2018 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

October 25, 2018

 

We have served as the auditor of one or more Bogle Investment Management, L.P. investment companies since 2000.

 

20

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Shareholder Tax Information

(Unaudited)

 

Certain tax information regarding the Fund is required to be provided to shareholders based upon the Fund’s income and distributions for the taxable year ended August 31, 2018. The information and distributions reported herein may differ from information and distributions taxable to the shareholders for the calendar year ended December 31, 2018. During the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, the following dividends and distributions were paid by the Fund:

 

Ordinary
Income
Dividend

Long-Term
Capital Gain
Dividends

$ 10,781,589 $ —

 

Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal income tax purposes.

 

The percentage of ordinary income dividends qualifying for the 15% dividend tax rate is 5.58%.

 

The percentage of ordinary income dividends qualifying for the corporate dividends received deduction is 4.73%.

 

The Fund designates 100.00% of the ordinary income distributions as qualified short-term gain pursuant to the American Job Creation Act of 2004.

 

Because the Fund’s fiscal year is not the calendar year, another notification will be sent with respect to calendar year 2018. The second notification, which will reflect the amount, if any, to be used by calendar year taxpayers on their U.S. federal income tax returns, will be made in conjunction with Form 1099-DIV and will be mailed in January 2019.

 

Foreign shareholders will generally be subject to U.S. withholding tax on the amount of their ordinary income dividends. They will generally not be entitled to a foreign tax credit or deduction for the withholding taxes paid by the Fund, if any.

 

In general, dividends received by tax exempt recipients (e.g., IRAs and Keoghs) need not be reported as taxable income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, some retirement trusts (e.g., corporate, Keogh and 403(b)(7) plans) may need this information for their annual information reporting. Shareholders are advised to consult their own tax advisers with respect to the tax consequences of their investment in the Fund.

 

21

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Other Information
(Unaudited)

 

Proxy Voting

 

Policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities as well as information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities for the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 are available without charge, upon request, by calling (877) 264-5346 and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Quarterly Portfolio Schedules

 

The Company files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third fiscal quarters of each fiscal year (quarters ended November 30 and May 31) on Form N-Q. The Company’s Form N-Q is available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov and may be reviewed and copied at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the SEC Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.

 

Approval Of Investment Advisory Agreement

 

As required by the 1940 Act, the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Company, including all of the Directors who are not “interested persons” of the Company, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act (the “Independent Directors”), considered the renewal of the investment advisory agreement between Bogle and the Company (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund, at a meeting of the Board held on May 9-10, 2018 (the “Meeting”). At the Meeting, the Board, including all of the Independent Directors, approved the Investment Advisory Agreement for an additional one-year term. The Board’s decision to approve the Investment Advisory Agreement reflects the exercise of its business judgment to continue the existing arrangement. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Board considered information provided by Bogle with the assistance and advice of counsel to the Independent Directors and the Company.

 

In considering the renewal and approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Company and Bogle with respect to the Fund, the Directors took into account all the materials provided prior to and during the Meeting and at other meetings throughout the past year, the presentations made during the Meeting, and the discussions held during the Meeting. Among other things, the Directors considered (i) the nature, extent, and quality of Bogle’s services provided to the Fund; (ii) descriptions of the experience and qualifications of Bogle’s personnel providing those services; (iii) Bogle’s investment philosophies and processes; (iv) Bogle’s assets under management and client descriptions; (v) Bogle’s soft dollar commission and trade allocation policies, including information on the types of research and services obtained in connection with soft dollar commissions; (vi) Bogle’s current advisory fee arrangement with the Company and other similarly managed clients; (vii) Bogle’s compliance procedures; (viii) Bogle’s financial information, insurance coverage and profitability analysis related to providing advisory services to the Fund; (ix) the extent to which economies of scale are relevant to the Fund; (x) a report prepared by Broadridge/Lipper comparing the Fund’s management fees and total expense ratio to those of its Lipper Group and comparing the performance of the Fund to the performance of its Lipper Group; and (xi) a report comparing the performance of the Fund to the performance of its Benchmark.

 

As part of their review, the Directors considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by Bogle. The Directors concluded that Bogle had substantial resources to provide services to the Fund and that Bogle’s services had been acceptable.

 

The Directors also considered the investment performance of the Fund and Bogle. The Directors noted that the Fund had underperformed the Fund’s primary benchmark for the year-to-date and one-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also considered the Fund’s 1st quintile ranking within its Lipper Performance Group for the one-year period ended December 31, 2017, and 1st quintile ranking within its Lipper Performance Universe for the one-year period ended December 31, 2017.

 

22

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Other Information (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

The Board also considered the advisory fee rate payable by the Fund under the Investment Advisory Agreement. In this regard, information on the fees paid by the Fund and the Fund’s total operating expense ratio (before and after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) was compared to similar information for mutual funds advised by other, unaffiliated investment advisory firms. The Directors noted that the contractual advisory fees of the Fund were slightly above the peer group median, and the actual advisory fees of the Fund were slightly lower than the peer group median. In addition, the Directors noted that Bogle has contractually agreed to waive management fees and reimburse expenses through December 31, 2019 to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses exceed 1.25% for the Fund.

 

After reviewing the information regarding the Fund’s costs, profitability and economies of scale, and after considering Bogle’s services, the Directors concluded that the investment advisory fees paid by the Fund were fair and reasonable and that the Investment Advisory Agreement should be approved and continued for an additional one-year period ending August 16, 2019.

 

23

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

 Company Management

(Unaudited)

 

Directors and Executive Officers

 

The business and affairs of the Company are managed under the direction of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company is organized under and managed pursuant to Maryland law. The Directors and executive officers of the Company, their ages, business addresses and principal occupations during the past five years are set forth below. The statement of additional information (“SAI”) includes additional information about the Directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling (877) 264-5346.

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held
with Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS

Julian A. Brodsky
615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 85

Director

1988 to present

From 1969 to 2011, Director and Vice Chairman, Comcast Corporation (cable television and communications).

30

AMDOCS Limited (service provider to telecommunications companies).

J. Richard Carnall
615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 79

Director

2002 to present

Since 1984, Director of Haydon Bolts, Inc. (bolt manufacturer) and Parkway Real Estate Company (subsidiary of Haydon Bolts, Inc.); since 2004, Director of Cornerstone Bank.

30

None

Gregory P. Chandler
615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 51

Director

2012 to present

Since 2009, Chief Financial Officer, Emtec, Inc. (information technology consulting/services); from 2003-2009, Managing Director, head of Business Services and IT Services Practice, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC (investment banking/brokerage).

30

Emtec, Inc.; FS Investment Corporation (business development company); FS Energy and Power Fund (business development company); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios)(registered investment company).

Nicholas A. Giordano

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 75

Director

2006 to present

Since 1997, Consultant, financial services organizations.

30

Kalmar Pooled Investment Trust (registered investment company) (until September 2017); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios) (registered investment company); Independence Blue Cross (healthcare insurance).

 

24

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Company Management (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held
with Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS

Arnold M. Reichman

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 70

Chairman Director

2005 to present 1991 to present

Since 2006, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lifebooker, LLC (online beauty and health appointment booking service).

30

Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

Brian T. Shea

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 58

Director

2018 to present

From 2014-2017, Chief Executive Officer, BNY Mellon Investment Services (fund services, global custodian and securities clearing firm); from 1983-2014, Chief Executive Officer and various positions, Pershing LLC (broker dealer, clearing and custody firm).

30

WisdomTree Investments, Inc. (asset management company); Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (financial services technology company).

Robert A. Straniere
615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 77

Director

2006 to present

Since 2009, Administrative Law Judge, New York City; since 1980, Founding Partner, Straniere Law Group (law firm).

30

Reich and Tang Group (asset management).

INTERESTED DIRECTOR2

Robert Sablowsky
615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 80

Vice Chairman Director

2016 to present 1991 to present

Since 2002, Senior Director – Investments and, prior thereto, Executive Vice President, of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. (a registered broker-dealer).

30

None

OFFICERS

Salvatore Faia, JD,
CPA, CFE
Vigilant Compliance, LLC Gateway Corporate Center

Suite 216
223 Wilmington West Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Age: 55

President Chief Compliance Officer

2009 to present 2004 to present

Since 2004, President, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2005, Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

James G. Shaw
615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 57

Treasurer and Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2016, Treasurer and Secretary of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 2005 to 2016, Assistant Treasurer of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 1995 to 2016, Senior Director and Vice President of BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (financial services company).

N/A

N/A

 

25

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Company Management (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held
with Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

OFFICERS

Robert Amweg
Vigilant Compliance, LLC Gateway Corporate Center

Suite 216
223 Wilmington West Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317

Age: 65

Assistant Treasurer

2016 to present

Since 2013, Compliance Director, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2012, Consultant to the financial services industry; from 2007 to 2012, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, Turner Investments, LP (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

Jennifer Witt
615 East Michigan Street Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 35

Assistant Treasurer

2018 to present

Since 2016, Assistant Vice President, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm); from 2007 to 2016, Supervisor, Nuveen Investments (investment company).

N/A

N/A

Edward Paz
615 East Michigan Street Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 47

Assistant Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2007, Vice President and Counsel, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm).

N/A

N/A

Michael P. Malloy
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103

Age: 59

Assistant Secretary

1999 to present

Since 1993, Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm).

N/A

N/A

Jillian L. Bosmann
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103

Age: 39

Assistant Secretary

2017 to present

Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm) (2017-Present); Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (2006-Present).

N/A

N/A

 

*

Each Director oversees 30 portfolios of the Company.

 

1.

Subject to the Company’s Retirement Policy, each Director may continue to serve as a Director until the last day of the calendar year in which the applicable Director attains age 75 or until his successor is elected and qualified or his death, resignation or removal. The Board reserves the right to waive the requirements of the Policy with respect to an individual Director. The Board has approved waivers of the policy with respect to Messrs. Brodsky, Carnall, Giordano, Sablowsky and Straniere. Each officer holds office at the pleasure of the Board until the next special meeting of the Company or until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, or until he or she dies, resigns or is removed.

 

2.

Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “interested person” of the Company as that term is defined in the 1940 Act and is referred to as an “Interested Director.” Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “Interested Director” of the Company by virtue of his position as an employee of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc., a registered broker-dealer.

 

26

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Company Management (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

Director Experience, Qualifications, Attributes and/or Skills

 

The information above includes each Director’s principal occupations during the last five years. Each Director possesses extensive additional experience, skills and attributes relevant to his qualifications to serve as a Director. The cumulative background of each Director led to the conclusion that each Director should serve as a Director of the Company. Mr. Giordano has years of experience as a consultant to financial services organizations and also serves on the boards of other registered investment companies. Mr. Reichman brings decades of investment management experience to the Board, in addition to senior executive-level management experience. Mr. Straniere has been a practicing attorney for over 30 years and also serves on the boards of an asset management company and another registered investment company. Mr. Brodsky has over 40 years of senior executive-level management experience in the cable television and communications industry. Mr. Sablowsky has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the financial services industry. Mr. Carnall has decades of senior executive-level management experience in the banking and financial services industry and also serves on the boards of various corporations and a bank. Mr. Chandler has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive level positions in the investment technology consulting/services and investment banking/brokerage industries, and also serves on various boards. Mr. Shea has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the investment services industry.

 

27

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Privacy Notice

(Unaudited)

 

FACTS

WHAT DOES THE BOGLE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT SMALL CAP GROWTH FUND DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION?

Why?

Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.

What?

The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:

●  Social Security number

●  account balances

●  account transactions

●  transaction history

●  wire transfer instructions

●  checking account information

When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice.

How?

All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons the Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Fund chooses to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.

       

Reasons we can share your personal information

Does the Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Fund share?

Can you limit this
sharing?

For our everyday business purposes
such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court orders and legal investigations, or report to credit bureaus

Yes

No

For our marketing purposes
to offer our products and services to you

Yes

No

For joint marketing with other financial companies

No

We don’t share.

For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes
information about your transactions and experiences

Yes

No

For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes
information about your creditworthiness

No

We don’t share.

For our affiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share.

For nonaffiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share.

 

Questions?

Call (877) 264-5346 or go to www.boglefunds.com

 

28

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Privacy Notice (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

What we do

 

How does the Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Fund protect my personal information?

To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.

How does the Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Fund collect my personal information?

We collect your personal information, for example, when you

●   open an account

●   provide account information

●   give us your contact information

●   make a wire transfer

●   tell us where to send the money

We also collect your information from others, such as credit bureaus, affiliates, or other companies.

Why can’t I limit all sharing?

Federal law gives you the right to limit only

●   sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes – information about your creditworthiness

●   affiliates from using your information to market to you

●   sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you

State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.

European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation

In addition to the above information, where applicable, you have the following rights under the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) and U.S. Privacy Laws, as applicable and to the extent permitted by law, to

●   Check whether we hold personal information about you and to access such data (in accordance with our policy)

●   Request the correction of personal information about you that is inaccurate

●   Have a copy of the personal information we hold about you provided to you or another “controller” where technically feasible

●   Request the erasure of your personal information

●   Request the restriction of processing concerning you

The legal grounds for processing of your personal information is for contractual necessity and compliance with law.

If you wish to exercise any of your rights above, please call: 1-844-261-6484.

You are required to ensure the personal information we hold about you is up-to-date and accurate and you must notify us of any changes to the personal data you provided to us.

The Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Fund shall retain your personal data for as long as you are an investor in the Fund and thereafter as long as necessary to comply with applicable laws that require the Fund to retain your personal data, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission’s data retention rules. Your personal data will be transferred to the United States so that the Fund may provide the agreed upon services for you. No adequacy decision has been rendered by the European Commission as to the data protection of your personal data when transferring it to the United States. However, the Fund does take the security of your personal data seriously.

You also have the right to lodge a complaint with the appropriate regulatory authority with respect to issues you may have.

 

29

 

 

 

Bogle Investment Management
Small Cap Growth Fund

Privacy Notice (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

Definitions

 

Affiliates

Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

●    Our affiliates include Bogle Investment Management, L.P.

Nonaffiliates

Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

   The Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Fund doesn’t share with nonaffiliates so they can market to you. The Fund may share information with nonaffiliates that perform marketing services on our behalf.

Joint marketing

A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.

   The Bogle Investment Management Small Cap Growth Fund does not jointly market.

Controller

“Controller” means the natural or legal person, public authority, agency or other body which, alone or jointly with others, determines the purposes and means of the processing of personal data; where the purposes and means of such processing are determined by European Union or European Member State law, the Controller or the specific criteria for its nomination may be provided for by European Union or European Member State law.

 

30

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Investment Adviser
Bogle Investment Management, L.P.
2310 Washington Street
Suite 310
Newton Lower Falls, MA 02462

 

Administrator and Transfer Agent
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, WI 53201

 

Principal Underwriter
Quasar Distributors, LLC
777 East Wisconsin Avenue, Floor 6
Milwaukee, WI 53202

 

Custodian
U.S. Bank, N.A.
1555 North Rivercenter Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, WI 53212

 

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Two Commerce Square, Suite 1800
2001 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103-7042

 

Legal Counsel
Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
One Logan Square, Suite 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103-6996

 

BOG-AR18

 

 

 

Boston Partners Investment Funds

of The RBB Fund, Inc.

 

 

 

Annual Report
August 31, 2018

 

Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II

Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund

Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund

Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund

WPG Partners Small/Micro Cap Value Fund

Boston Partners Global Equity Fund

Boston Partners Global Long/Short Fund

Boston Partners Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund

Boston Partners Emerging Markets Fund

 

This report is submitted for the general information of the shareholders of the Funds. It is not authorized for distribution unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus for the Funds.

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

 

Table of Contents  
 
General Market Commentary 1
Fund Expense Examples 31
Portfolio Holdings Summary Tables 33
Portfolio of Investments 36
Statements of Assets and Liabilities 77
Statements of Operations 80
Statements of Changes in Net Assets 83
Financial Highlights 88
Notes to Financial Statements 94
Other Information 109
Privacy Notice 114
 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

GENERAL MARKET COMMENTARY

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

Aided by five consecutive monthly gains, the U.S. stock market (as measured by the S&P 500 Index) shook off the geopolitical angst associated with ongoing global trade/tariff skirmishes, three Federal Reserve (“Fed”) rate hikes and rising interest rates to gain 19.7% for the twelve-month period ended August 31, 2018. As of August 23, 2018, the bull market that began on March 9, 2009 became the longest on record at 3,453 days, surpassing the prior 1990 to 2000 record period. During the fiscal period, prices were supported by strong economic and earnings reports as well as record levels of share buybacks and M&A activity. Dovish comments out of the Jackson Hole Symposium by Fed Chairman Jay Powell and a breakthrough in NAFTA negotiations with Mexico and Canada helped the S&P 500, Russell 2000, NASDAQ and Wilshire 5000 indices to record closes during August.

 

Technology and Consumer Discretionary stocks raced to a “photo finish” for first place return results for the period, gaining 32.8% and 32.3%, respectively. Both sectors experienced strong top-line sales growth and positive earnings revisions during the year. Hampered by rising rates (the 10-year Treasury yield rose from 2.1% to 2.9%), the bond surrogate sectors (Utilities, Consumer Staples and Telecommunications) averaged a paltry return of 1.8% for the twelve months ended August 31, 2018.

 

From a style standpoint, small capitalization stocks led large-capitalization stocks, as the Russell 2000 Index gained 25.5% to the Russell 1000 Index return of 19.8%. The change in the corporate tax code has benefitted small-cap stocks, which tend to have higher effective tax rates than large cap stocks. A lower percentage of foreign sales also helped to insulate small caps from the tariff turmoil of the last several months.

 

Lower quality stocks (as ranked by Standard & Poor’s) continued their lead over high quality stocks as those ranked “B” down to “D” returned 35.3%, while those ranked “B+” through “A+” returned 16.9%.

 

Growth stocks continued to their lead over Value stocks, with the Russell 1000, Russell Midcap and Russell 2000 Growth indices beating their Value counterparts by an average of 12.6% across the three market capitalization segments.

 

From an MSCI factor standpoint, Momentum was a clear-cut winner, returning 26.8%, while Quality was a somewhat distant second at 18.9%. Like the fate endured by the bond surrogate sectors, the High Dividend factor was a laggard at 10.8%.

 

International markets lagged the U.S. as the sluggish economic results that were predominant outside the U.S. remained in place over the twelve-month period. Earnings growth, while generally positive, failed to keep pace with the stellar results seen in the U.S.

 

In local currency terms, the MSCI EAFE Index (“EAFE”) returned 6.9% through August 31, 2018, while the MSCI Emerging Markets Index (“EM Index”) Index gained 4.7%, hurt by a deceleration of growth in China and tariff pressures.

 

In U.S. dollar terms, the results worsened, with EAFE gaining just 4.9% while the EM Index dropped by 0.32%, all as the greenback surged on the back of the monetary tightening by the Fed, a fiscal stimulus and its “safe haven” status.

 

During the period, the dollar gained 2.6% versus the EURO, 4.9% versus the G10 currencies and 8.8% versus a basket of emerging market currencies.

 

Looking Ahead

 

At this juncture, it appears that the weakness emanating from the emerging markets is more idiosyncratic than systemic, as the majority of countries comprising the EM Index maintain current account and fiscal balances at manageable/desirable levels and currency reserve balances that appear adequate to defend against any contagion risk, a direct contrast to the conditions found during the Asian Crisis of 1997.

 

While it remains uncertain if the current tariff tensions will deteriorate into a full-blown global trade war, the U.S. seems to be operating from a position of strength over the near to mid-term, with third quarter 2018 GDP growth forecasted to be in excess of 4% for a second consecutive quarter. Analysts are projecting 21% earnings growth and 7.7% revenue growth during the third quarter of 2018 and estimates are similar for the fourth quarter as well.

 

History may also be on the market’s side.

 

Since 1928, there have been twelve years that have bucked the old adage of “Sell in May and go away” and produced positive returns for the S&P in each of the so-called “summer doldrum” months. 2018 was one of those periods.

 

In ten out of the eleven prior incidences when this happened (91%), the S&P produced an average return of 12.3% over the subsequent six-month period.

 

Through August, market leadership was still coming from Technology and Consumer Discretionary stocks and little evidence of late cycle positioning in defensive sectors. Market breadth (advancing stocks vs declining stocks) remained positive over the period.

 

Absent a policy error from Washington and/or the Fed, or from an unforeseen geopolitical event, we believe that the current macro, fundamental and technical backdrop for the U.S. market remains constructive, though we believe an increase in volatility should be expected heading into the mid-term elections this fall.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  1

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS SMALL CAP VALUE FUND II (UNAUDITED)

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

For the one year period ended August 31, 2018, the small cap value market as represented by the Russell 2000 Value Index (the “Index”) appreciated 20.05%. Aside from a negative first quarter and a 2% drop on trade concerns during the last week of June, small cap value stocks continued to post solid positive returns year-to-date, up 9.86% through August 2018. The Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II – Institutional Class (the “Fund”) returned 5.64% for the year-to-date 2018 and 16.25% for the year ended August 31, 2018, net of fees.

 

Growth stocks continued to outperform value stocks and the Russell 2000 Growth Index outperformed the Russell 2000 Value Index year-to-date. The ‘growthier’ stocks within the Russell 2000 Value Index seemed to also be winning. Companies selling at higher valuations (P/E, for example) outperformed those at more moderate price levels year-to-date. As the momentum of the market spilled into the value side of small cap stocks, attractively valued, more reasonably priced, stocks seemed to lose their appeal. In this environment, the Fund underperformed the Index primarily during a difficult 2nd quarter 2018, but produced strong absolute returns for the period.

 

For the one year period, almost all sectors in the Index posted strong positive returns, with most over 10%. The top performing sector was Health Care, rebounding after a few difficult years, followed by Energy and Consumer Services. Our overweight to the strong Consumer Services sector (+31.5% for the Index) as well as Capital Goods (+24.1% for the Index) and underweight to lagging REITs (+8.4%) added value. However, stock selection within several sectors detracted including Capital Goods, Basic Industries, Energy and Finance.

 

Many of our Capital Goods machinery and manufacturing holdings struggled in an environment of inflationary pressures, possible tariffs and rising input costs. LCI Industries’ first quarter earnings report disappointed as rising steel and aluminum costs offset stellar top-line growth from surging RV industry end-market demand and industry growth. Engineering & construction company Granite Construction posted positive quarterly earnings that were below expectations due to weaker margins from higher costs. Both industrial and commercial construction activity was strong particularly from higher-revenue projects at technology companies in California. Fuel logistics company World Fuel Services has struggled, but shedding unprofitable divisions reduced costs and improved margins. Further, record aviation volumes combined with better margins produced strong earnings for the second quarter and the stock price has come up more recently. Basic Industries positions also detracted led by glass container producer Owens-Illinois on the closure of its Atlanta plant as capacity reduction continues across the industry. This reduction should better balance supply and demand following recent weakness in the US beer market. Finally, stock specific disappointments in Energy and Finance also impacted recent returns, such as reinsurer Maiden Holdings. Reinsurance provider Maiden Holdings missed earnings driven by worse than expected reserve developments, and announced the CEO and CFO would retire. Collecting a solid dividend while patiently awaiting a turnaround was no longer palatable after a dividend cut, and the Fund sold the stock on these significant changes.

Top Ten Positions (as of 8/31/18)  % of Net Assets  
SLM Corp.   1.94%  
Two Harbors Investment Corp.   1.90%  
Assured Guaranty Ltd.   1.76%  
Brooks Automation, Inc.   1.69%  
Walker & Dunlop, Inc.   1.52%  
Lithia Motors, Inc. Class A   1.40%  
WESCO International, Inc.   1.39%  
Air Lease Corp.   1.38%  
Navient Corp.   1.34%  
Ciena Corp.   1.29%  

 

Portfolio Review (as of 8/31/18)       
P/E: Price/Earnings:   13.4x  
P/B: Price/Book:   1.7x  
Holdings:   158   
Weighted Average Market Capitalization (millions):   $2,711   
ROE: Return on Equity:   19.8%  
OROA: Operating Return on Operating Assets:   30.9%  

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

Small cap companies are those with a market capitalization similar to the Russell 2000® Value Index. These companies tend to be more volatile, less liquid, not as diversified in their business activities as companies with market capitalizations greater than the market capitalization of companies in the Russell 2000® Value Index, and they may fluctuate widely in market value. Small caps may be traded only in the over-the-counter market or on a regional securities exchange, may be listed only in the “pink sheets,” and may not be traded every day or in the volume typical of trading on a national securities exchange. Foreign securities may expose the Fund to currency and exchange rate fluctuations. Illiquid securities may be limited in resale and cause uncertainty in determining valuation. As a result, an investment in Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II should be part of a carefully diversified portfolio.

 

 

 

On the positive side, stock selection within Technology added to relative performance, with a broad range of electronics and computer equipment and services companies generating solid earnings. Brooks Automation, a provider of automation tools for the semiconductor industry as well as sample management systems for the life sciences industry, announced the sale of its life sciences business. Though a positive cash flow generator, the margins are generally lower than the semiconductor industry and the market reacted positively. Health Care was a bright spot as most of our positions performed well, though not as well as the very strong returns of those in the Index, returning over 41.5% for the year.

 

While stocks continued to be affected by policies coming out of Washington, the economy and company earnings have generally remained resilient. We look forward to a renewed focus on company valuations and fundamentals and, as always, we continue to seek to structure the Fund with better than market valuation, profitability and positive business momentum.

 

Sincerely,

 

David Dabora, CFA

Portfolio Manager, Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II


 

2  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS SMALL CAP VALUE FUND II (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $100,000 Investment in
Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II vs. Russell Indices

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $100,000 minimum initial investment in the Fund made on August 31, 2008 and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the Russell indices are unmanaged, do not incur expenses and are not available for investment.

 

For The Periods Ended August 31, 2018
               Gross  Net
   Average Annual Total Return  Expense  Expense
   1 Year  3 Year  5 Year  10 Year  Ratio  Ratio
Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II                              
Institutional Class   16.25%   12.58%   10.91%   10.93%   1.19%   1.10%
Russell 2000® Value Index   20.05%   15.73%   11.72%   9.27%   n/a    n/a 
Russell 2000® Index(1)   25.45%   16.11%   13.00%   10.46%   n/a    n/a 

 

(1) This is not a primary benchmark of the Fund. Results of the index performance are presented for general comparative purposes.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive all or a portion of its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in an aggregate amount equal to the amount by which the total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) for the Fund’s Institutional Class shares exceeds 1.10% of the average daily net assets attributable to the Fund’s Institutional Class shares. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed 1.10%: acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes. This contractual limitation is in effect until February 29, 2020 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. (the “Board of Directors” or the “Board”). If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses (not including acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expense, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) for a year are less than 1.10% or the expense cap then in effect, whatever is less, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees forgone and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement. Total returns shown include fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any; total returns would have been lower had there been no assumption of fees and expenses in excess of expense limitations. Annual operating expense ratios above are as stated in the current prospectus. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-888-261-4073 or visit our web site at www.boston-partners.com.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  3

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS SMALL CAP VALUE FUND II (UNAUDITED) (CONCLUDED)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in
Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II vs. Russell Indices

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 initial investment in the Fund made on August 31, 2008 and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the Russell indices are unmanaged, do not incur expenses and are not available for investment.

 

For The Periods Ended August 31, 2018
      Gross  Net
   Average Annual Total Return  Expense  Expense
   1 Year  3 Year  5 Year  10 Year  Ratio  Ratio
Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II                              
Investor Class   15.94%   12.30%   10.63%   10.66%   1.44%   1.35%
Russell 2000® Value Index   20.05%   15.73%   11.72%   9.27%   n/a    n/a 
Russell 2000® Index(1)   25.45%   16.11%   13.00%   10.46%   n/a    n/a 

 

(1) This is not a primary benchmark of the Fund. Results of the index performance are presented for general comparative purposes.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive all or a portion of its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in an aggregate amount equal to the amount by which the total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) for the Fund’s Investor Class shares exceeds 1.35% of the average daily net assets attributable to the Fund’s Investor Class shares. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed 1.35%: acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes. This contractual limitation is in effect until February 29, 2020 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors. If at any time, the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses (not including acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expense, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) for a year are less than 1.35% or the expense cap then in effect, whatever is less, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees forgone and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement. Total returns shown include fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any; total returns would have been lower had there been no assumption of fees and expenses in excess of expense limitations. The Fund’s annual operating expense ratios above are as stated in the current prospectus. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-888-261-4073 or visit our web site at www.boston-partners.com.

 

4  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT EQUITY FUND (UNAUDITED)

 

Dear Shareholder:

 

The Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund – Institutional Class returned -1.38% net of fees while averaging 59% net long exposure for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018. This compares to the 19.66% return posted by the S&P 500 Index during the same period.

 

On the back of strong earnings and economic reports, the U.S. stock market was able to look past heightened trade tensions between Washington and Beijing and post gains for the fiscal year. Inflows into stock mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) surged during the year, as a drop in unemployment claims to a 49-year low, an increase in productivity and a jump in both household and business confidence measures were able to offset wage/margin pressures, a spike in oil prices and the eight hikes in the federal funds rate during this cycle. Growth continued its dominance over value, with the Russell 3000 Growth Index returning 27.5% during the fiscal year, compared to the 13.0% return of the Russell 3000 Value Index; this was a significant headwind for our value-oriented investment approach, as the most expensive cohort of the S&P 500 Index led the Index’s return.

 

The Fund’s long holdings contributed approximately 16.1% to the Fund’s gross return during the year. Long holdings were driven by gains in the Finance, Technology, and Energy sectors. Finance gains were buoyed by positions in several large U.S. banks. Within Technology, gains were driven by several small- to mid-cap computer equipment holdings that benefitted from a strong IT spending environment. Energy gains were led by our E&P (exploration & production) and refining businesses; E&Ps have benefitted from strong production growth and attractive free cash flow profiles, while refiners have benefitted from healthy margins as well as mergers and acquisitions within the industry.

 

The Fund’s short holdings detracted approximately 14.7% from the Fund’s gross return during the year. Losses were most prominent in the Technology, Health Care, and Consumer Non-Durables sectors. Within Technology, several software-as-a-service businesses rose in price primarily due to topline multiple expansion. Medical supplies and devices within Health Care detracted, and we closed out several short positions due to improving business momentum. Consumer Non-Durables losses were primarily driven by food and recreational products, though we maintained many of these holdings as we believe fundamentals do not support current lofty valuations. Indeed, we believe many of these holdings rose merely as a result of sentiment and multiple expansion in lieu of fundamental business improvement, and we maintained positioning in many of these areas.

 

The Fund began the period with 66% net long exposure and ended the fiscal year with 56% net long exposure, with the reduction being primarily a result of adding shorts across the Technology and Health Care sectors. The Fund ended the fiscal year with largest long exposures to the Finance, Health Care, and Energy sectors and largest short exposures in the Technology, Health Care, and Consumer Services sectors.

 

The U.S. economy and stock market appear resilient with strong earnings and GDP growth expected for the foreseeable future. However, the “new normal” of low volatility and low growth appear to be over, with secularly low interest rates likely coming

Top Ten Positions (as of 8/31/18)  % of Net Assets  
Citigroup Inc.   1.72%  
Chevron Corp.   1.70%  
Comcast Corp., Class A   1.62%  
Schlumberger Ltd.   1.55%  
Bank of America Corp.   1.35%  
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B   1.20%  
Johnson & Johnson   1.18%  
UnitedHealth Group, Inc.   1.16%  
MetLife, Inc.   1.02%  
Cigna Corp.   0.95%  

 

Portfolio Review (as of 8/31/18)  Long    Short  
P/E: Price/Earnings:   16x   42.6x
P/B: Price/Book:   1.9x   5.9x
Holdings:   214    124 
Weighted Average Market Capitalization (millions):   $53,705    $12,382 
ROE: Return on Equity:   13.6%   –14.0%
OROA: Operating Return on Operating Assets:   37.3%   –61.7%

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

 

 

to an end and the U.S. Federal Reserve beginning the process of reducing its balance sheet. After a decade of near zero cost of capital, a lot of weak hands have been allowed to stay at the table: 35% of companies in the Russell 2000 Index generate negative earnings, a level normally indicative of a recession. While the odds of an imminent recession appear to be low, we expect a return to the “old normal” to be most unfavorable for certain pockets of the market where we see significant valuation risk and very low quality/unprofitable businesses. We welcome the end of the “new normal” with open arms, and believe this presents an opportunity for active management and, more specifically, for the relative prospects of stocks exhibiting attractive valuations, strong business fundamentals/high quality, and improving business momentum.

 

We continue to focus our efforts on purchasing shares of only those companies we deem most likely to appreciate on the long side, while selling short securities likely to fail due to a combination of valuation risk, earnings risk, and/or balance sheet risk. Our analysis process is bottom-up and rooted in the three circles framework of low valuation, positive momentum and strong business fundamentals that the portfolio managers of Boston Partners and its predecessors have been employing for over a quarter century.

 

Sincerely,

 

Robert Jones,

Portfolio Manager for the Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund


 

Annual Report 2018  |  5

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT EQUITY FUND (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $100,000 Investment in
Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund vs. S&P 500® Index

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $100,000 minimum initial investment in the Fund made on August 31, 2008 and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the S&P 500® Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

For The Periods Ended August 31, 2018
      Gross  Net
   Average Annual Total Return  Expense  Expense
   1 Year  3 Year  5 Year  10 Year  Ratio  Ratio
Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund                              
Institutional Class   –1.38%   5.88%   4.52%   10.64%   2.81%   2.81%
S&P 500® Index   19.66%   16.11%   14.52%   10.86%   n/a    n/a 

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive all or a portion of its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in an aggregate amount equal to the amount by which the total annual Fund operating expenses (other than acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) for the Fund’s Institutional Class exceeds 2.50% of the average daily net assets attributable to the Fund’s Institutional Class shares. Because dividend expenses on short sales, acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes are excluded from the expense limitation, total annual Fund operating expenses (after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) are expected to exceed 2.50%. This contractual limitation is in effect until February 29, 2020 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors. The Adviser may not recoup any of its waived investment advisory fees. Total returns shown include fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any; total returns would have been lower had there been no assumption of fees and expenses in excess of expense limitations. The Fund’s annual operating expense ratios above (including interest and dividend expense on short sales) are as stated in the current prospectus. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-888-261-4073 or visit our web site at www.boston-partners.com.

 

 

 

The Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund may be more volatile and risky than some other forms of investments. Since the Fund has both a long and a short portfolio, there is the risk that the portfolio managers may make more poor investment decisions than those of a fund with only a long portfolio. The Fund may have a high portfolio turnover rate that could increase transaction costs and cause short-term capital gains to be realized. Investments made in small or mid- capitalization companies may be more volatile, less liquid, not as diversified in their business activities as companies with greater market capitalizations, and they may fluctuate widely in market value. Small caps may be traded only in the over-the-counter market or on a regional securities exchange, may be listed only in the “pink sheets,” and may not be traded every day or in the volume typical of trading on a national securities exchange. Foreign securities may expose the Fund to currency and exchange rate fluctuations. Illiquid securities may be limited in resale and cause great uncertainty in determining valuation. High yield debt (also known as “junk bonds”), may be sensitive to changes in financial strength of an issuer or the debt’s credit rating;an issuer of high yield debt may default on its obligation to pay interest and principal. All of these factors may cause greater volatility and less liquidity.

 

6  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT EQUITY FUND (UNAUDITED) (CONCLUDED)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in
Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund vs. S&P 500® Index

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 initial investment in the Fund made on August 31, 2008 and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the S&P 500® Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

For The Periods Ended August 31, 2018
               Gross  Net
   Average Annual Total Return  Expense  Expense
   1 Year  3 Year  5 Year  10 Year  Ratio  Ratio
Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund                              
Investor Class   –1.65%   5.61%   4.26%   10.30%   3.06%   3.06%
S&P 500® Index   19.66%   16.11%   14.52%   10.86%   n/a    n/a 

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive all or a portion of its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in an aggregate amount equal to the amount by which the total annual Fund operating expenses (other than acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) for the Fund’s Investor Class shares exceeds 2.75% of the average daily net assets attributable to the Fund’s Investor Class shares. Because dividend expenses on short sales, acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes are excluded from the expense limitation, total annual Fund operating expenses (after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) are expected to exceed 2.75%. This contractual limitation is in effect until February 29, 2020 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors. The Adviser may not recoup any of its waived investment advisory fees. Total returns shown include fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any; total returns would have been lower had there been no assumption of fees and expenses in excess of expense limitations. The Fund’s annual operating expense ratios above (including interest and dividend expense on short sales) are as stated in the current prospectus. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-888-261-4073 or visit our web site at www.boston-partners.com.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  7

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT RESEARCH FUND (UNAUDITED)

 

Dear Shareholder:

 

The Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund – Institutional Class returned 2.27% net of fees while averaging 50% net long exposure for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018. This compares to the 19.66% return posted by the S&P 500 Index during the same period.

 

On the back of strong earnings and economic reports, the U.S. stock market was able to look past heightened trade tensions between Washington and Beijing and post gains for the fiscal year. Inflows into stock mutual funds and exchange-traded funds (ETFs) surged during the year, as a drop in unemployment claims to a 49-year low, an increase in productivity and a jump in both household and business confidence measures were able to offset wage/margin pressures, a spike in oil prices and the eight hikes in the Fed funds rate during this cycle. Growth continued its dominance over value, with the Russell 3000 Growth Index returning 27.5% during the fiscal year, compared to the 13.0% return of the Russell 3000 Value Index; this was a significant headwind for our value-oriented investment approach, as the most expensive cohort of the S&P 500 Index led the Index’s return.

 

The Fund’s long holdings were up approximately 14.3%, lagging the S&P 500 Index but well ahead of most domestic value indices. Longs were driven by gains in the Technology, Finance, and Energy sectors. Within Technology, gains were driven by mature large-cap incumbents in the computer equipment industry as well as several mid- to large-cap businesses that have benefitted from shifting to more attractive end markets such as autos, health care, and industrials. Finance gains were buoyed by positions in several large U.S. banks. Lastly, Energy performance was chiefly driven by E&P (exploration and production) companies that have benefitted from the rise in the price of oil during the year as well as strong production growth, capital expenditure discipline, and high free cash flow levels that are beginning to be returned to shareholders.

 

The Fund’s short holdings were up in price approximately 23.3%, more than our longs and less than most domestic growth indices. The market favored topline growth at any price, and many of our expensive, lower-quality shorts rose along with the market during the year. Gains were generated in the Communications sector as several Telecommunications companies declined due to poor business fundamentals and an increasingly competitive operating environment. However, those gains were offset by losses in the Technology, Finance, and Consumer Services sectors. Technology shorts within the electronics and software industries rose in price, while regional banks within Finance appreciated and detracted from returns. Additionally, several smaller e-commerce businesses rose in price along with the industry. However, we believe many of these holdings rose merely because of sentiment and multiple expansion in lieu of fundamental business improvement, and we maintained positioning in many of these areas.

 

The Fund began the period with 46% net long exposure and ended with 52% net long exposure, an increase attributable to covering several shorts amid the market decline early in 2018. At the end of the period, largest exposures in the long portfolio were in the Technology, Finance, and Consumer Services sectors, while largest short exposures were in the Technology, Finance,

Top Ten Positions (as of 8/31/18)  % of Net Assets  
Alphabet Inc., Class A   1.66%  
Johnson & Johnson   1.59%  
Microsoft Corp.   1.37%  
Comcast Corp., Class A   1.23%  
Bank of America Corp.   1.21%  
JPMorgan Chase & Co.   1.17%  
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.   1.14%  
Citigroup Inc.   1.12%  
Cisco Systems, Inc.   1.12%  
eBay, Inc.   1.01%  

 

Portfolio Review (as of 8/31/18)  Long    Short  
P/E: Price/Earnings:   17.2x   24.8x
P/B: Price/Book:   2.4x   2.9x
Holdings:   214    186 
Weighted Average Market Capitalization (millions):   $85,203    $8,964 
ROE: Return on Equity:   18.0%   7.8%
OROA: Operating Return on Operating Assets:   54.3%   24.5%

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund may be more volatile and risky than some other forms of investments. Fund will engage in short sales, which creates a form of investment leverage and means the Fund’s loss potential on a short sale is unlimited. Fluctuations in the market value of the Fund’s portfolio may have disproportionately large effects or cause the NAV of the Fund to decline faster than it would otherwise. Investments made in small or mid-capitalization companies may be more volatile, less liquid, not as diversified in their business activities as companies with greater market capitalizations, and they may fluctuate widely in market value. Small caps may be traded only in the over-the-counter market or on a regional securities exchange, may be listed only in the “pink sheets,” and may not be traded every day or in the volume typical of trading on a national securities exchange. Foreign securities may expose the Fund to currency and exchange rate fluctuations. Derivatives (futures, options, swaps) may be leveraged and result in losses exceeding the amounts invested. REITs include the risk of possible declines in the value of real estate, possible lack of availability of mortgage funds and unexpected vacancies of properties. Illiquid securities may be limited in resale and cause great uncertainty in determining valuation. High yield debt (also known as “junk bonds”) may be sensitive to changes in financial strength of an issuer or the debt’s credit rating; an issuer of high yield debt may default on its obligation to pay interest and principal. The Fund may experience high portfolio turnover which may result in higher costs and capital gains.

 

 

 

and Consumer Services sectors. We continue to favor large-caps on the long side and small- to mid-cap stocks on the short side of the portfolio.

 

The U.S. economy and stock market appear resilient, with strong earnings and GDP growth expected for the foreseeable future. However, the “new normal” of low volatility and low growth appear to be over, with secularly-low interest rates likely coming to an end and the U.S. Federal Reserve beginning the process of reducing its balance sheet. After a decade of near zero cost of capital, a lot of weak hands have been allowed to stay at the table: 35% of companies in the Russell 2000 Index generate negative earnings, a level normally indicative of a recession. While the odds of an imminent recession appear to be low, we


 

8  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT RESEARCH FUND (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED)

 

expect a return to the “old normal” to be most unfavorable for certain pockets of the market where we see significant valuation risk and very low quality/unprofitable businesses. We welcome the end of the “new normal” with open arms and believe this presents an opportunity for active management, and more specifically, for the relative prospects of stocks exhibiting attractive valuations, strong business fundamentals/high quality, and improving business momentum.

 

The portfolio managers managing the Fund continue to focus their efforts on purchasing shares of only those companies they deem most likely to appreciate on the long side, while selling short securities they deem likely to fail due to a combination of valuation risk, earnings risk, and/or balance sheet risk. Our analysis process is bottom-up and rooted in the three circles framework of low valuation, positive momentum and strong business fundamentals that the portfolio managers of Boston Partners and its predecessors have been employing for over a quarter century.

 

Sincerely,

 

Joseph Feeney, CFA & Eric Connerly, CFA

Portfolio Managers for the Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund


 

Annual Report 2018  |  9

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT RESEARCH FUND (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $100,000 Investment in
Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund vs. S&P 500® Index

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $100,000 minimum initial investment in the Fund made on September 30, 2010 and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the S&P 500® Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

For The Periods Ended August 31, 2018
               Gross  Net
   Average Annual Total Return  Since  Expense  Expense
   1 Year  3 Year  5 Year  Inception  Ratio  Ratio
Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund                              
Institutional Class(1)   2.27%   4.39%   5.75%   7.64%   2.24%   2.24%
S&P 500 Index   19.66%   16.11%   14.52%   14.90%(2)   n/a    n/a 

 

(1) Inception date of the Fund was September 30, 2010.
(2) Index performance is from inception date of the Class only and is not the inception date of the index itself.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The Adviser has contractually agreed to forgo all or a portion of its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in an aggregate amount equal to the amount by which the total annual Fund operating expenses (other than acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) exceeds 1.50% of the average daily net assets attributable to the Fund’s Institutional Class shares. Because acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes are excluded from the expense limitation, total annual Fund operating expenses (after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) are expected to exceed 1.50%. This contractual limitation is in effect until at least February 29, 2020 and may not be terminated without approval of the Board of Directors. If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses (not including acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expense, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) for a year are less than 1.50% or the expense cap then in effect, whatever is less, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees forgone and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement. Total returns shown include fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any; total returns would have been lower had there been no assumption of fees and expenses in excess of expense limitations. The Fund’s annual operating expense ratios above (including interest and dividend expense on short sales) are as stated in the current prospectus. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-888-261-4073 or visit our web site at www. boston-partners.com.

 

10  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT RESEARCH FUND (UNAUDITED) (CONCLUDED)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in
Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund vs. S&P 500® Index

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 initial investment in the Fund made on November 29, 2010 and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the S&P 500® Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

For The Periods Ended August 31, 2018
      Gross  Net
   Average Annual Total Return  Since  Expense  Expense
   1 Year  3 Year  5 Year  Inception  Ratio  Ratio
Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund                              
Investor Class(1)   2.00%   4.14%   5.48%   7.00%   2.49%   2.49%
S&P 500® Index   19.66%   16.11%   14.52%   14.57%(2)   n/a    n/a 

 

(1) Inception date of the Fund was November 29, 2010.
(2) Index performance is from inception date of the Class only and is not the inception date of the index itself.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The Adviser has contractually agreed to forgo all or a portion of its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in an aggregate amount equal to the amount by which the total annual Fund operating expenses (other than acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) exceeds 1.75% of the average daily net assets attributable to the Fund’s Investor Class shares. Because acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes are excluded from the expense limitation, total annual Fund operating expenses (after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) are expected to exceed 1.75%. This contractual limitation is in effect until at least February 29, 2020 and may not be terminated without approval of the Board of Directors. If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses (not including acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expense, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) for a year are less than 1.75% or the expense cap then in effect, whatever is less, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees forgone and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement. Total returns shown include fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any; total returns would have been lower had there been no assumption of fees and expenses in excess of expense limitations. The Fund’s annual operating expense ratios above (including interest and dividend expense on short sales) are as stated in the current prospectus. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-888-261-4073 or visit our web site at www.boston-partners.com.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  11

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS ALL-CAP VALUE FUND (UNAUDITED)

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

The Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund – Institutional Class (“Fund”) outperformed its benchmark, the Russell 3000® Value Index (“Benchmark”), for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018. The Fund generated a net return of 13.70% for its Institutional Class shares during the past year versus its Benchmark’s return of 13.04%.

 

During the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, sector allocation was primarily responsible for outperformance. The Fund’s overweight positioning within Technology and underweight to Consumer Non-Durables and Utilities contributed to relative returns. In Technology, an overweight position in Microsoft contributed meaningfully as the company has been beating revenue expectations and guidance on the company was raised. Computer equipment and services companies NetApp, DXC Technology and HP Inc. continued their strong long-term trends as robust cash flow growth and rising guidance pushed the shares upward. Positive selection within Consumer Durables and Energy also aided the portfolio. In Consumer Durables, owning diversified Japanese conglomerate Sony has helped our performance. At Sony, a decade long restructuring is largely behind the company and margin improvement is finally materializing as PlayStation 4 and the music divisions are rebounding in profitability. Strong Energy selection includes refiner Andeavor which appreciated after agreeing to be acquired by Marathon Petroleum at a significant premium in an accretive transaction. Phillips 66 has also performed well as abundant free cash flow is being returned to shareholders through increased dividends and share repurchases.

 

In terms of positioning, our underweight to the weak performing REITs and Utility sectors added value to relative return. These areas of the market have underperformed in this rising interest rate environment. As a result of our bottom-up stock selection process, we have been finding many opportunities in Technology and Finance sectors. Technology has continued to be one of the strongest areas of the market and we believe that we remain well positioned to capture this sector’s momentum.

 

During the period, we bought and sold companies when opportunities that fit our Three Circle criteria presented themselves or if our sell discipline triggered. In Consumer Non-Durables, we initiated a position in Ambev which is a Brazilian- based brewing company with consistent pricing power along with peer leading margins and return on invested capital. Within Capital Goods, we initiated a position in Masco. Masco is a strong cash generator and has returned significant cash to shareholders through share repurchases in the past. We also added a department store retailer Nordstrom to the portfolio. This high quality retailer appears poised to return to margin expansion following several years of heavy investments to broaden its digital offering and geographic footprint. We expect Nordstrom’s sales to accelerate and margins to expand over the next two years. Early in 2018, a take-private offer by the Nordstrom family was rejected by the Company’s board as inadequate, providing a reasonable floor for the stock. We exited our positions in video game producers, Activision and Electronic Arts, as strong price appreciation exceeded our target. In Consumer Services, we eliminated our position in Nielsen Holdings due to poor business momentum. Health Care positions in European pharmaceutical companies

Top Ten Positions (as of 8/31/18)  % of Net Assets  
iShares Russell 2000 Value ETF   3.23%  
SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust   3.23%  
JPMorgan Chase & Co.   3.07%  
Cisco Systems, Inc.   2.35%  
Bank of America Corp.   2.22%  
Citigroup, Inc.   1.91%  
Merck & Co., Inc.   1.82%  
Oracle Corp.   1.79%  
DXC Technology Co.   1.74%  
Medtronic PLC   1.70%  
        
Portfolio Review (as of 8/31/18)       
P/E: Price/Earnings:   16.7x  
P/B: Price/Book:   2.1x  
Holdings:   137   
Weighted Average Market Capitalization (millions):    $96,400   
ROE: Return on Equity:   16.2%  
OROA: Operating Return on Operating Assets:   64.3%  

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund may invest small cap companies. These companies may be more volatile, less liquid, not as diversified in their business activities as companies with greater market capitalizations, and they may fluctuate widely in market value. Small caps may be traded only in the over-the-counter market or on a regional securities exchange, may be listed only in the “pink sheets,” and may not be traded every day or in the volume typical of trading on a national securities exchange. Derivatives (futures, options, swaps) may be leveraged and result in losses exceeding the amounts invested. Foreign securities may expose the Fund to currency and exchange rate fluctuations. Illiquid securities may be limited in resale and cause great uncertainty in determining valuation. Options (a type of derivative) can be highly volatile and their use can result in loss if the portfolio manager is incorrect in its expectation of price fluctuations. All of these factors may cause greater volatility and less liquidity.

 

 

Sanofi and Shire were closed because of disappointing 2018 earnings guidance. Over the past year, we have increased our exposure to the Finance and Energy sectors and reduced our weighting to Health Care and Consumer Services.

 

Looking ahead, we will continue to invest your Fund on a stock-by-stock basis within our Three-Circle discipline of attractive valuation, sound fundamentals and a catalyst for improvement. We believe that the Fund’s valuation edge and quality advantage over the Benchmark has positioned it favorably for the longer term. We look forward to keeping you informed of the work we are doing on your Fund’s behalf.

 

Duilio Ramallo, CFA – Portfolio Manager

Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund


 

12  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS ALL-CAP VALUE FUND (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $100,000 Investment in

Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund vs. Russell Indices

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $100,000 minimum initial investment in the Fund made on August 31, 2008 and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the Russell indices are unmanaged, do not incur expenses and are not available for investment.

 

For The Periods Ended August 31, 2018

   Average Annual Total Return  Gross
Expense
  Net
Expense
   1 Year  3 Year  5 Year  10 Year  Ratio  Ratio
Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund                              
Institutional Class   13.70%   13.41%   12.88%   11.55%   0.89%   0.80%
Russell 3000® Value Index   13.04%   12.58%   11.25%   8.95%   n/a    n/a 
Russell 3000® Index(1)   20.25%   15.86%   14.25%   10.89%   n/a    n/a 
   
(1) This is not a primary benchmark of the Fund. Results of the index performance are presented for general comparative purposes.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive all or a portion of its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in an aggregate amount equal to the amount by which the total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) for the Fund’s Institutional Class shares exceeds 0.80% of the average daily net assets attributable to the Fund’s Institutional Class shares. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed 0.80%: acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes. This contractual limitation is in effect until February 29, 2020 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors. The Adviser may not recoup any of its waived investment advisory fees. Total returns shown include fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any; total returns would have been lower had there been no assumption of fees and expenses in excess of expense limitations. The Fund’s annual operating expense ratios above are as stated in the current prospectus. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-888-261-4073 or visit our web site at www.boston-partners.com.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  13

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS ALL-CAP VALUE FUND (UNAUDITED) (CONCLUDED)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in

Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund vs. Russell Indices

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 initial investment in the Fund made on August 31, 2008 and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the Russell indices are unmanaged, do not incur expenses and are not available for investment.

 

For The Periods Ended August 31, 2018

   Average Annual Total Return  Gross
Expense
  Net
Expense
   1 Year  3 Year  5 Year  10 Year  Ratio  Ratio
Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund                              
Investor Class   13.44%   13.12%   12.61%   11.29%   1.14%   1.05%
Russell 3000® Value Index   13.04%   12.58%   11.25%   8.95%   n/a    n/a 
Russell 3000® Index(1)   20.25%   15.86%   14.25%   10.89%   n/a    n/a 
   
(1) This is not a primary benchmark of the Fund. Results of the index performance are presented for general comparative purposes.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive all or a portion of its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in an aggregate amount equal to the amount by which the total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) for the Fund’s Investor Class shares exceeds 1.05% of the average daily net assets attributable to the Fund’s Investor Class shares. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed 1.05%: acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes. This contractual limitation is in effect until February 29, 2020 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors. The Adviser may not recoup any of its waived investment advisory fees. Total returns shown include fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any; total returns would have been lower had there been no assumption of fees and expenses in excess of expense limitations. The Fund’s annual operating expense ratios above are as stated in the current prospectus. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-888-261-4073 or visit our web site at www.boston-partners.com.

 

14  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

WPG PARTNERS SMALL/MICRO CAP VALUE FUND (UNAUDITED)

 

Dear Shareholder:

 

The Boston Partners WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund – Institutional Class underperformed its benchmark, the Russell 2000® Value Index, for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018. The Fund generated a net gain of 16.16% during the past year versus the Russell 2000® Value Index gain of 20.05%. A dominant theme in the markets was a focus on growth. Large-cap growth stocks (as measured by the Russell 1000® Growth Index) were up almost 26.9% and the Russell 2000® Growth was up about 30.5%. This divergence away from small-cap value investing has been a theme for several years but, as we have seen recently, rising interest rates tend to have a disproportionately negative impact on growth stocks. While we cannot predict when the climate for our style of investing will improve, we remain confident in our discipline and approach. Below we will provide further clarity about recent attribution and our constructive view going forward.

 

In the 2018 fiscal year, stock selection detracted from our results. The largest detractor from our returns was the Transportation sector. Despite healthy results from many of our Transportation holdings, fears of cyclical down-turns caused many names to sell off. Our view is that, after years of low utilization and pricing, the sector is just beginning to find its legs and has room to run as driver supply remains tight. The biggest contributors from stock selection were the Consumer Services and Technology sectors. The Consumer Services sector benefitted from positive performance in the food distribution and restaurant sub-sectors. After years of deflation in food pricing, we saw a normalization in food costs, helping suppliers and retailers in the sub-sector. Our Technology portfolio benefitted from positive results in our communications equipment names as well as select software names.

 

Last year, we discussed concerns regarding two major issues: A trade war and rising interest rates. As we begin the final quarter of the calendar year, rising interest rates are emerging as the more significant of the two concerns. The Federal Reserve has been deliberate in its moves to raise short-term interest rates. It has also started to shrink its balance sheet. Long-term interest rates have started to follow suit. We believe that rising interest rates are starting to put pressure on valuations. We are also starting to see pressure on emerging and non-emerging market currencies. Not surprisingly, economic weakness is starting to show up around the world.

 

In the meantime, we believe that the U.S. economy remains on its strong trajectory. The business and economic climate in the United States stands out as one of the most robust in the world. The tax cut of earlier this year is having its expected impact on consumer and capital spending. There seems to be enough slack in the work force that employment can grow without reigniting inflation. Productivity has also started to improve. With this backdrop, we expect value stocks to remain attractive. We

Top Ten Positions (as of 8/31/18)  % of Net Assets  
Allegheny Technologies, Inc.   2.53%  
Popular, Inc.   2.50%  
KBR, Inc.   2.45%  
Tutor Perini Corp.   2.11%  
HomeStreet, Inc.   2.02%  
FrieghtCar America, Inc.   1.92%  
Gulfport Energy Corp.   1.81%  
ICF International, Inc.   1.74%  
Kemper Corp.   1.73%  
United Financial Bancorp, Inc.   1.68%  
        
Portfolio Review (as of 8/31/18)       
P/E: Price/Earnings:   12.8x  
P/B: Price/Book:   1.5x  
Holdings:   106   
Weighted Average Market Capitalization (millions):   $1,740   
ROE: Return on Equity:   4.5%  
OROA: Operating Return on Operating Assets:   9.0%  

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

Value investing involves buying the stocks of companies that are out of favor or are undervalued. This may adversely affect The WPG Partners Small/ Micro Cap Value Fund’s value and return. Investments in REITs include the risk of possible declines in the value of real estate, possible lack of availability of mortgage funds and unexpected vacancies of properties. The purchase of rights and warrants involves risk that the Fund could lose the purchase value of the right or warrant if the right to subscribe to additional shares is not executed prior to the right’s or warrant’s expiration. The effective price paid for a right or warrant may exceed the value of the subscribed security’s market price. Investments made in small or micro-capitalization companies may be more volatile, less liquid, not as diversified in their business activities as companies with greater market capitalizations, and they may fluctuate widely in market value. Small and micro-caps may be traded only in the over-the-counter market or on a regional securities exchange, may be listed only in the “pink sheets,” and may not be traded every day or in the volume typical of trading on a national securities exchange.

 

 

believe the style and size headwinds we have seen for several years should, eventually, begin to abate. Rising interest rates have historically disproportionately impacted growth stocks. We favor real assets over financial assets. As of August 31, 2018, our portfolio continues to have an industrial-and energy-focused orientation, and we remain underweighted financial services and related stocks.

 

Sincerely,

 

Richard Shuster, CFA

Portfolio Manager, Boston Partners WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund


 

Annual Report 2018  |  15

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

WPG PARTNERS SMALL/MICRO CAP VALUE FUND (UNAUDITED) (CONCLUDED)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $100,000 Investment in

WPG Partners Small/Micro Cap Value Fund vs. Russell 2000® Value Index

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $100,000 minimum initial investment in the Fund made on August 31, 2008 and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the Russell 2000® Value Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

For The Periods Ended August 31, 2018

   Average Annual Total Return  Gross
Expense
  Net
Expense
   1 Year  3 Year  5 Year  10 Year  Ratio  Ratio
WPG Partners Small/Micro Cap Value Fund                              
Institutional Class   16.16%   7.99%   4.93%   7.24%   1.29%   1.10%
Russell 2000® Value Index   20.05%   15.73%   11.72%   9.27%   n/a    n/a 

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive all or a portion of its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in an aggregate amount equal to the amount by which the total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) for the Fund’s Institutional Class shares exceeds 1.10% of the average daily net assets attributable to the Fund’s Institutional Class shares. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed 1.10%: acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes. This contractual limitation is in effect until February 29, 2020 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors. If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses (not including acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expense, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) for a year are less than 1.10% or the expense cap then in effect, whatever is less, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees forgone and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement. Total returns shown include fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any; total returns would have been lower had there been no assumption of fees and expenses in excess of expense limitations. The Fund’s annual operating expense ratios above are as stated in the current prospectus. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-888-261-4073 or visit our web site at www.boston-partners.com.

 

16  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS GLOBAL EQUITY FUND (UNAUDITED)

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

The Boston Partners Global Equity Fund – Institutional Class returned 9.93% for the trailing year ended August 31, 2018. During that same period, the MSCI World Index returned 13.72%.

 

Except for one big interruption, equity markets moved steadily higher throughout much of the trailing year. The MSCI World Index sold-off nearly 10% in late January through early February after the Federal Reserve reiterated its commitment to further interest-rate increases (conjuring thoughts of slower growth). Various other concerns about a flattening yield curve, weakening commodity prices, Chinese economic stability, etc., were set-aside as sentiment remained positive, supported in part by US fiscal stimulus. The outperformance of Growth indices over Value indices accelerated during the period. Technology stocks and their Consumer Discretionary cousins, Amazon.com and Netflix, led the market higher. Energy stocks also outperformed as oil prices rose with the threat of US sanctions on Iran and deepening turmoil in Venezuela crimping global oil output. The biggest sector laggards were Consumer Staples, Utilities, and Telecommunications. Rising rates and a decent economy have also taken the wind out of the sails of defensive and higher yielding stocks.

 

Our strategy remains focused on identifying dislocations between underlying fundamentals and valuations on an individual company basis. Sector and Region allocation are the by-products of bottom-up stock selection. The fund earned positive relative performance from its underweight allocation to Consumer Staples, Utilities, and REITs. As mentioned above, these sectors are lagging the broader market in the face of a reasonably strong economy and rising rates. An underweight allocation to Tobacco stocks within the Consumer Staples sector was particularly beneficial to portfolio performance. Less people are smoking and new “Vaping” gadgets are failing to catch-on. The biggest drag on relative performance has been the outperformance of “growth” and expensive “momentum” stocks. In addition, two top performing stocks included in the Benchmark (Apple and Amazon.com), but not held in the portfolio, were the largest detractors from relative performance.

 

From a sector perspective, positioning in the Technology, Health Care, and Consumer Discretionary sectors were the largest performance detractors within the portfolio. Having no weight in Medical Device stocks, which are trading near record multiples, hurt relative performance as well. Amazon’s entry into Health Care (with its acquisition of PillPack) negatively impacted some of the portfolio’s Pharma Distribution holdings during the period.

 

Financials and Materials remain the most overweight sectors in the portfolio. The Financial sector overweight is led by Insurance and Diversified Financial Services companies. The Materials sector overweight is concentrated in Construction Materials stocks. The Consumer Discretionary and Technology sectors are underweight mainly because of valuations. The portfolio does not own the three largest benchmark positions: Apple, Amazon.com, and Facebook. The portfolio remains underweight the REITs and Utilities sectors. Stocks in these sectors became expensive because of low rates, and we believe that these valuations should be reasonably challenged as rates rise.

 

From a region perspective, the portfolio was overweight the United Kingdom, Emerging Markets and Japan at the expense of North America and the Pacific ex-Japan. The underlying rationale for all portfolio exposures is the dislocation between valuations and company fundamentals.

 

We believe that global fundamentals remain favorable from a macro-economic and corporate earnings perspective. Negative

Top Ten Positions (as of 8/31/18)  % of Net Assets  
Microsoft Corp.   3.46%  
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B   3.43%  
Bank of America Corp.   2.15%  
Anthem, Inc.   2.12%  
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.   1.72%  
Oracle Corp.   1.70%  
Verizon Communications, Inc.   1.64%  
Eaton Corp. PLC   1.58%  
Alphabet, Inc., Class C   1.49%  
CRH PLC   1.47%  
        
Portfolio Review (as of 8/31/18)       
P/E: Price/Earnings:   15.2x  
P/B: Price/Book:   1.9x  
Holdings:   109   
Weighted Average Market Capitalization (millions):   $119,482   
ROE: Return on Equity:   16.0%  
OROA: Operating Return on Operating Assets:   50.3%  

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

International investing is subject to special risks including, but not limited to, currency risk associated with securities denominated in other than US dollar, which may be affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates, political, social or economic instability, and differences in taxation, auditing and other financial practices. Investment in emerging market securities may increase these risks. Emerging markets investments are subject to the aforementioned risks, along with periods of high inflation, increased risk of default, less governmental supervision and regulation of securities markets, lack of liquidity in the markets and significantly smaller market capitalizations. The Fund may invest in small and mid-cap companies which may be more volatile, less liquid, not as diversified in their business activities as companies with greater market capitalizations, and they may fluctuate widely in market value. Small caps may be traded only in the over-the- counter market or on a regional securities exchange, may be listed only in the “pink sheets,” and may not be traded every day or in the volume typical of trading on a national securities exchange. Illiquid securities may be limited in resale and cause great uncertainty in determining valuation. An investment in the Fund should be part of a carefully diversified portfolio.

 

 

news tends to dominate the headlines, but the positives shouldn’t be overlooked. We expect that equity markets will benefit from lower global corporate tax rates, US fiscal stimulus, China stimulus, and declining global short rates that steepen the global yield curve. More important for bottom-up stock pickers, like ourselves, our investment universe contains many stocks with compelling “Three Circle” characteristics. Growth and Price Momentum investing have led the market over the past 12 months. As of August 31, 2018, the Boston Partners Global Equity Fund portfolio traded at 12.4 times 2018 earnings versus the MSCI World Index’s 15.1 times multiple. Despite this historically deep valuation discount, the Fund possessed a higher free-cash-flow yield, and fundamental metrics and earnings momentum indicators that are in-line with the MSCI World Index. For reasons inexplicable to us, the market has by-passed these stocks with attractive Three-Circle characteristics, instead favoring concept orientated growth stocks with what appear to be unrealistic valuation multiples. If history is any guide, we believe that this will not last and valuation will rotate into favor.

 

Sincerely,

 

Christopher K. Hart, CFA

Senior Portfolio Manager, Boston Partners Global Equity Fund


 

Annual Report 2018  |  17

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS GLOBAL EQUITY FUND (UNAUDITED) (CONCLUDED)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $100,000 Investment in

Boston Partners Global Equity Fund vs. MSCI World Index

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $100,000 minimum initial investment in the Fund made on December 30, 2011 and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the MSCI World Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

For The Periods Ended August 31, 2018

   Average Annual Total Return  Since  Gross
Expense
  Net
Expense
   1 Year  3 Year  5 Year  Inception  Ratio  Ratio
Boston Partners Global Equity Fund                              
Institutional Class(1)   9.93%   10.10%   10.10%   12.07%   1.05%   0.95%
MSCI World Index   13.72%   12.56%   10.85%   12.45%(2)   n/a    n/a 
   
(1) Inception date of the Fund was December 30, 2011.
(2) Index performance is from inception date of the Class only and is not the inception date of the index itself.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive all or a portion of its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in an aggregate amount equal to the amount by which the total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) for the Fund’s Institutional Class shares exceeds 0.95% of the average daily net assets attributable to the Fund’s Institutional Class shares. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed 0.95%: acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes. This contractual limitation is in effect until February 29, 2020 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors. If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses (not including acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expense, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) for a year are less than 0.95% or the expense cap then in effect, or whatever is less, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees waived and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement. Total returns shown include fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any; total returns would have been lower had there been no assumption of fees and expenses in excess of expense limitations. The Fund’s annual operating expense ratios above are as stated in the current prospectus. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-888-261-4073 or visit our web site at www.boston-partners.com.

 

18  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS GLOBAL LONG/SHORT FUND (UNAUDITED)

 

Dear Shareholder:

 

The Boston Partners Global Long/Short Fund – Institutional Class returned 1.59% net of fees while averaging 50% net long exposure for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018. This compares to the 13.72% return posted by the MSCI World Index during the same period.

 

On the back of strong earnings and economic reports, global equities were able to look past heightened trade tensions between Washington and Beijing and post gains for the fiscal year. Inflows into stock mutual funds and exchange traded funds (ETFs) surged during the year as a drop in U.S. unemployment claims to a 49-year low, an increase in productivity and a jump in both household and business confidence measures were able to offset wage/margin pressures, a spike in oil prices and the eight hike in the U.S. Fed funds rate during this cycle. Growth continued its dominance over value, with the MSCI World Growth NR Index returning 18.9% during the fiscal year, compared to the 7.3% return of the MSCI World Value NR Index; this was a significant headwind for our value-oriented investment approach, as the most expensive cohort of the MSCI World Index led the Index’s return.

 

The Fund’s long holdings were up 11.3%. Long gains were driven by holdings across the Information Technology, Financials, and Energy sectors. Within Technology, gains were driven by mature large-cap incumbents in the software industry as well as several mid- to large-cap semiconductor businesses that have benefitted from shifting to more attractive end markets such as autos, health care, and industrials. Financials gains were buoyed by positions in several large U.S. banks. Lastly, Energy performance was chiefly driven by E&P (exploration and production) companies that have benefitted from the rise in the price of oil during the year as well as strong production growth, capital expenditure discipline, and high free cash flow levels that have started to be returned to shareholders.

 

The Fund’s short holdings were up in price 17.6% and detracted from Fund performance. Losses were most pronounced in the Industrials, Consumer Discretionary, and Information Technology sectors. Technology shorts within the electronics and software industries rose in price, while several machinery shorts within Industrials appreciated in price during the period. Many shorts within Consumer Discretionary were seemingly beneficiaries of the market’s search for growth, yet we continue to have conviction in the forward prospects for many of those positions. We believe many of the holdings across the aforementioned sectors rose merely as a result of sentiment and multiple expansion in lieu of fundamental business improvement, and we maintained positioning in many of these areas.

 

The Fund began the fiscal year with 47% net long exposure and ended the period with 53% net long exposure, with the increase primarily attributable to a decrease in short exposure after covering several positions amid price declines early in 2018.

 

The global economy and stock markets appear resilient with strong earnings and GDP growth expected for the foreseeable future. However, the “new normal” of low volatility and low growth appear to be over, with secularly low interest rates likely coming to an end and the U.S. Federal Reserve beginning the process of reducing its balance sheet. After a decade of near zero cost

Top Ten Positions (as of 8/31/18)  % of Net Assets  
Microsoft Corp.   3.65%  
Anthem, Inc.   2.35%  
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B   2.22%  
Bank of America Corp.   2.22%  
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.   1.76%  
Oracle Corp.   1.72%  
Verizon Communications, Inc.   1.71%  
Eaton Corp. PLC   1.67%  
Alphabet Inc., Class C   1.64%  
Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings   1.55%  

 

Portfolio Review (as of 8/31/18)  Long    Short  
P/E: Price/Earnings:   15.1x   27x
P/B: Price/Book:   1.9x   3x
Holdings:   108    137 
Weighted Average Market Capitalization (millions):   $117,805    $11,838 
ROE: Return on Equity:   16.3%   8.9%
OROA: Operating Return on Operating Assets:   50.5%   12.1%

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The Fund will engage in short sales, which creates a form of investment leverage and means the Fund’s loss potential on a short sale is unlimited. Fluctuations in the market value of the Fund’s portfolio may have disproportionately large effects or cause the NAV of the Fund to decline faster than it would otherwise. The Fund may invest in small and mid-cap companies which may be more volatile, less liquid, not as diversified in their business activities as companies with greater market capitalizations, and they may fluctuate widely in market value. Small caps may be traded only in the over-the-counter market or on a regional securities exchange, may be listed only in the “pink sheets,” and may not be traded every day or in the volume typical of trading on a national securities exchange. Foreign securities may expose the Fund to currency and exchange rate fluctuations. Derivatives (futures, options, swaps) may be leveraged and result in losses exceeding the amounts invested. REITS include the risk of possible declines in the value of real estate, possible lack of availability of mortgage funds and unexpected vacancies of properties. Illiquid securities may be limited in resale and cause great uncertainty in determining valuation. High yield debt (also known as “junk bonds”) may be sensitive to changes in financial strength of an issuer or the debt’s credit rating; an issuer of high yield debt may default on its obligation to pay interest and principal. All of these factors may cause greater volatility and less liquidity. The Fund may experience high portfolio turnover which may result in higher costs and capital gains.

 

 

of capital, a lot of weak hands have been allowed to stay at the table. While the odds of an imminent recession appear to be low, we expect a return to the “old normal” to be most unfavorable for certain pockets of the market where we see significant valuation risk and very low quality/unprofitable businesses. We welcome the end of the “new normal” with open arms and believe this presents an opportunity for active management and, more specifically, for the relative prospects of stocks exhibiting attractive valuations, strong business fundamentals/high quality, and improving business momentum.

 

We continue to focus our efforts on purchasing shares of only those companies we deem most likely to appreciate on the long side, while selling short securities likely to fail due to a combination of valuation risk, earnings risk, and/or balance


 

Annual Report 2018  |  19

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS GLOBAL LONG/SHORT FUND (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED)

 

sheet risk. Our analysis process is bottom-up and rooted in the three circles framework of low valuation, positive momentum and strong business fundamentals that the portfolio managers of Boston Partners and its predecessors have been employing for over a quarter century.

 

Sincerely,

 

Josh Jones, CFA
Christopher Hart, CFA

Portfolio Managers for the Boston Partners Global Long/Short Fund


 

20  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS GLOBAL LONG/SHORT FUND (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $100,000 Investment in

Boston Partners Global Long/Short Fund vs. MSCI World Index

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $100,000 minimum initial investment in the Fund made on December 31, 2013 and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the MSCI World Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

For The Periods Ended August 31, 2018

 

   Average
Annual Total Return
  Since  Gross
Expense
  Net
Expense
   1 Year  3 Year  Inception  Ratio  Ratio
Boston Partners Global Long/Short Fund                         
Institutional Class(1)   1.59%   3.19%   3.22%   2.64%   2.64%
MSCI World Index   13.72%   12.56%   8.66%(2)   n/a    n/a 
   
(1) Inception date of the Fund was December 31, 2013.
(2) Index performance is from inception date of the Class only and is not the inception date of the index itself.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive all or a portion of its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in an aggregate amount equal to the amount by which the total annual Fund operating expenses (other than acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) for the Fund’s Institutional Class shares exceeds 2.00% of the average daily net assets attributable to the Fund’s Institutional Class shares. Because dividend expenses on short sales, acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes are excluded from the expense limitation, total annual Fund operating expenses (after fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements) are expected to exceed 2.00%. This contractual limitation is in effect until February 29, 2020 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors. If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses for a year are less than 2.00% or the expense cap then in effect, or whatever is less, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees waived and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made. Total returns shown include fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any; total returns would have been lower had there been no assumption of fees and expenses in excess of expense limitations. The Fund’s annual operating expense ratios above (including interest and dividend expense on short sales) are as stated in the current prospectus. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-888-261-4073 or visit our web site at www.boston-partners.com.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  21

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS GLOBAL LONG/SHORT FUND (UNAUDITED) (CONCLUDED)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in

Boston Partners Global Long/Short Fund vs. MSCI World Index

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 initial investment in the Fund made on April 11, 2014 and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the MSCI World Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

For The Periods Ended August 31, 2018

 

   Average Annual     Gross  Net
   Total Return  Since  Expense  Expense
   1 Year  3 Year  Inception  Ratio  Ratio
Boston Partners Global Long/Short Fund                         
Investor Class(1)   1.33%   2.93%   3.49%   2.89%   2.89%
MSCI World Index   13.72%   12.56%   9.13%(2)   n/a    n/a 
   
(1) Inception date of the Fund was April 11, 2014.
(2) Index performance is from inception date of the Class only and is not the inception date of the index itself.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive all or a portion of its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in an aggregate amount equal to the amount by which the total annual Fund operating expenses (other than acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) for the Fund’s Investor Class shares exceeds 2.25% of the average daily net assets attributable to the Fund’s Investor Class shares. Because dividend expenses on short sales, acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes are excluded from the expense limitation, total annual Fund operating expenses (after fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements) are expected to exceed 2.25%. This contractual limitation is in effect until February 29, 2020 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors. If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses for a year are less than 2.25% or the expense cap then in effect, or whatever is less, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees waived and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made. Total returns shown include fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any; total returns would have been lower had there been no assumption of fees and expenses in excess of expense limitations. The Fund’s annual operating expense ratios above (including interest and dividend expense on short sales) are as stated in the current prospectus. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-888-261-4073 or visit our web site at www.boston-partners.com.

 

22  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS LONG/SHORT FUND (UNAUDITED)

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

The Boston Partners Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund – Institutional Class returned -8.11% for the trailing year ended August 31, 2018. During that same period, the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, the Fund’s benchmark, returned -0.32% and the MSCI World Index returned 13.72%. Emerging markets performed admirably during the final four months of 2017, and a fourth quarter rally bolstered annual 2017 returns that were the best since 2009. The MSCI Emerging Markets Index went parabolic in January on expectations that the synchronized global recovery would continue. From August 31, 2017 through January 26, 2018, the MSCI Emerging Markets Index returned 17.6%. Since then, emerging markets have prodigiously sold-off. Escalating trade tensions between Washington and Beijing, and a tightening US Fed have been the root cause of depressed emerging market equities and currencies returns during 2018. The price of oil has also become dearer. Despite perceptions, most emerging countries are net importers of oil with even big oil producers like Brazil importing to meet domestic demand. Emerging market currency devaluations have occurred despite best efforts to defend currencies with interest rate hikes and the sale of foreign currency reserves.

 

Asia was the best performing region in the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, led higher by India, Taiwan, and Korea. The MSCI China Index also posted modestly positive performance. The mainland indices traded markedly lower, bearing the brunt of the tariff imbroglio. Energy was the best performing sector in the MSCI Emerging Markets Index. Oil prices rose with the threat of US sanctions on Iran and any country that imports oil from Iran. Ever deepening turmoil in Venezuela has also crimped global oil output. Latin America and the Middle East were the worst performing regions, led lower by Brazil and Turkey, respectively. With the resurgent dollar, sentiment turned particularly negative against countries, like Brazil and Turkey, with current account deficits, high dollar denominated debt, and political uncertainty.

 

As always, our strategy remains focused on identifying dislocations between underlying fundamentals and valuations on an individual company basis, and the changes in momentum – both price and fundamental – associated with each stock. During the period, the long book returned -6.5% and the short book returned -2.2%. The long book’s positioning in the Technology sector and China & Hong Kong region delivered strong relative performance. Asian Technology stocks have performed reasonably well over the trailing year. Performance benefitted from long positions in stocks integral to the mobile device supply chain and manufacturing, and Chinese internet service providers. The portfolio’s overweight position in shares of Chinese Baijiu (liquor) manufacturers also aided relative performance. Valuations in these stocks appear attractive, and we see pent-up demand following a several year down cycle due to a government anti-corruption campaign during Xi Jinping’s first years in power.

 

Positive contributors to performance from the short book included a short position in a large African wireless network operator. Shares of the company plunged after a foreign central bank demanded repayment of billions of dollars that the bank said was improperly repatriated. A shorted Korean Liquid Crystal Display (LCD) manufacturer was also a notable contributor to

Top Ten Positions (as of 8/31/18)  % of Net Assets  
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. – SP ADR   3.29%  
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.   2.88%  
Naspers Ltd.   2.17%  
Anheuser-Busch InBev SA – SP ADR   1.80%  
China Mobile Ltd. – SP ADR   1.66%  
Air Lease Corp.   1.49%  
Sberbank of Russia PJSC – SP ADR   1.31%  
Dish TV India Ltd.   1.16%  
KT Corp. – SP ADR   1.04%  
Adecoagro SA   1.01%  

 

Portfolio Review (as of 8/31/18)  Long   Short 
P/E: Price/Earnings:   11.9x   17.5x
P/B: Price/Book:   1.4x   1.4x
Holdings:   193    83 
Weighted Average Market Capitalization (millions):   $74,571    $8,016 
ROE: Return on Equity:   17.0%   12.0%
OROA: Operating Return on Operating Assets:   64.4%   19.3%

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The Fund will engage in short sales, which creates a form of investment leverage and means the Fund’s loss potential on a short sale is unlimited. Fluctuations in the market value of the Fund’s portfolio may have disproportionately large effects or cause the NAV of the Fund to decline faster than it would otherwise. The Fund may invest in small and mid-cap companies which may be more volatile, less liquid, not as diversified in their business activities as companies with greater market capitalizations, and they may fluctuate widely in market value. Small caps may be traded only in the over-the-counter market or on a regional securities exchange, may be listed only in the “pink sheets,” and may not be traded every day or in the volume typical of trading on a national securities exchange. Foreign and emerging market securities may expose the fund to currency and exchange rate fluctuations, high inflation, increased risk of default, less governmental supervision and regulation of securities markets, lack of liquidity in the markets, significantly smaller market capitalizations, political, social or economic instability, and differences in taxation, auditing and other financial practices. Derivatives (futures, options, swaps) may be leveraged and result in losses exceeding the amounts invested. REITS include the risk of possible declines in the value of real estate, possible lack of availability of mortgage funds and unexpected vacancies of properties. Illiquid securities may be limited in resale and cause great uncertainty in determining valuation. High yield debt (also known as “junk bonds”) may be sensitive to changes in financial strength of an issuer or the debt’s credit rating; an issuer of high yield debt may default on its obligation to pay interest and principal. All of these factors may cause greater volatility and less liquidity. The Fund may experience high portfolio turnover which may result in higher costs and capital gains.

 

 

performance. The flat panel display industry is a highly cyclical, capital intensive business offering little product differentiation, and facing increasing competitive pressure from China. Finally, short positions in numerous Turkish banks benefitted the portfolio performance. Rising US rates and threat of US sanctions against Turkey are exacerbating Turkey’s stock market decline and current account deficits.

 

Long positions in the Financials and Consumer Discretionary sectors, as well holdings in Africa, Middle East, and Latin America were among the larger detractors from relative performance. The long book’s Turkish positions traded lower due to Turkey’s com-


 

Annual Report 2018  |  23

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS LONG/SHORT FUND (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED)

 

promised economic position and US sanctions on Turkey for not releasing a US pastor. The long book’s Materials stocks, led by an African diamond miner, declined on rising labor costs and reduced guidance. Long positions in Latin America broadly traded lower because of macroeconomic troubles. In Brazil a nationwide trucker’s strike choked activity, grounded flights and prompted a run on gasoline. Brazil analysts raised their 2018 inflation forecast and cut growth forecasts. Capital flight in Argentina caused the peso to lose more than a third of its value against the dollar, prompting the need for a $50 billion bailout from the International Monetary Fund. Individual detractors from the short book’s performance included a Taiwanese athletic footwear manufacturer and Korean biosimilar company. Shares of the footwear manufacturer rose in price following positive earnings from Nike. As of August 31, 2018, the fund remained short the stock because of weakening fundamentals due to a maturing athleisure trend and growing pressure from Nike’s supply chain improvement initiatives. The biosimilar company appeared a very richly priced with constrained margins.

 

Our target for net exposure is 50%, the midpoint of our 30-70% range. As of August 31, 2018, the long book was fully invested, and on a stock-by-stock basis we look to build 30-70 percentage points of shorts. The long percentage (approximately 100%) minus the short percentage is referred to as “net exposure.” Over the trailing year, the emerging market opportunity set has not offered as many compelling fundamental shorts, and the average net exposure was 65% during the period. The Fund maintained 151 long positions and 74 short positions.

 

Since the strategy’s inception, the team managing the Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund purchases shares of only those companies they deem most likely to appreciate on the long side, while selling short securities likely to fail due to valuation risk, earnings risk, and/or balance sheet risk. Our investment process is rooted in the three circles framework of low valuation, positive business momentum and strong business fundamentals that the portfolio managers of Boston Partners and its predecessors have been employing for over a quarter century.

 

Sincerely,

 

Paul Korngiebel, CFA

Portfolio Manager – Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund


 

24  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS LONG/SHORT FUND (UNAUDITED) (CONTINUED)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $100,000 Investment in
Boston Partners Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund vs. MSCI Emerging Markets Index

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $100,000 minimum initial investment in the Fund made on March 1, 2015 and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the MSCI Emerging Markets Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

Total Return for the Period Ended August 31, 2018
 
   Average Annual
Total Return
  Since  Gross
Expense
  Net
Expense
   1 Year  3 Year  Inception  Ratio  Ratio
Boston Partners Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund
Institutional Class(1)   –8.11%   5.02%   3.81%   2.98%   2.07%
MSCI World Index(2)   13.72%   12.56%   8.79%(3)   n/a    n/a 
MSCI Emerging Markets Index   –0.32%   11.82%   4.78%(3)   n/a    n/a 

 

(1) Inception date of the Fund was March 1, 2015.
The Fund commenced operations as a series of The RBB Fund, Inc. on December 15, 2015, when substantially all of the assets of Boston Partners Emerging Market Long/Short Equity (the “Prior Account”) transferred to the Fund. The Fund is managed in all material respects in a manner equivalent to the management of the Prior Account. Accordingly, the performance information shown above for periods prior to December 15, 2015 is that of the Prior Account.
(2) This is not a primary benchmark of the Fund. Results of the index performance are presented for general comparative purposes.
(3) Index performance is from inception date of the Class only and is not the inception date of the index itself.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The Adviser has agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) to 2.00% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Institutional Class shares. This contractual limitation is in effect until February 29, 2020, and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors. Because acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes are excluded from the expense limitation, total annual Fund operating expenses (after fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements) are expected to exceed 2.00%. This contractual limitation is in effect until February 29, 2020 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors. If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses (not including acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expense, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) for a year are less than 2.00% or the expense cap then in effect, whatever is less, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees forgone and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement. Total returns shown include fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any; total returns would have been lower had there been no assumption of fees and expenses in excess of expense limitations. The Fund’s annual operating expense ratios above (including interest and dividend expense on short sales) are as stated in

 

Annual Report 2018  |  25

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS LONG/SHORT FUND (UNAUDITED) (CONCLUDED)

 

the current prospectus. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-888-261-4073 or visit our web site at www.boston-partners.com.

 

26  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS FUND (UNAUDITED)

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

The Boston Partners Emerging Markets Fund – Institutional Class returned -8.11% since the Fund’s inception on October 17, 2017 through August 31, 2018. During that same period, the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, the Fund’s benchmark, returned -4.40% and the MSCI World Index returned 9.50%. Emerging markets performed admirably during the final four months of 2017, and a fourth quarter rally bolstered annual 2017 returns that were the best since 2009. The MSCI Emerging Markets Index went parabolic in January on expectations the synchronized global recovery would continue. From August 31, 2017 through January 26, 2018, the MSCI Emerging Markets Index returned 17.6%. Since then, emerging markets have prodigiously sold-off. Escalating trade tensions between Washington and Beijing, and a tightening US Fed have been the root cause of depressed emerging market equities and currencies returns during 2018. The price of oil has also become dearer. Despite perceptions, most emerging countries are net importers of oil with even big oil producers like Brazil importing to meet domestic demand. Emerging market currency devaluations have occurred despite best efforts to defend currencies with interest rate hikes and the sale of foreign currency reserves.

 

Asia was the best performing region in the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, led higher by India, Taiwan, and Korea. The MSCI China Index also posted modestly positive performance. The mainland indices traded markedly lower, bearing the brunt of the tariff imbroglio. Energy was the best performing sector in the MSCI Emerging Markets Index. Oil prices rose with the threat of US sanctions on Iran and any country that imports oil from Iran. Ever deepening turmoil in Venezuela has also crimped global oil output. Latin America and the Middle East were the worst performing regions, led lower by Brazil and Turkey, respectively. With the resurgent dollar, sentiment turned particularly negative against countries, like Brazil and Turkey, with current account deficits, high dollar denominated debt, and political uncertainty.

 

As always, our strategy remains focused on identifying dislocations between underlying fundamentals and valuations on an individual company basis, and the changes in momentum – both price and fundamental – associated with each stock. During the period, positioning in the Technology sector and China & Hong Kong region delivered strong relative performance. Asian Technology stocks have performed reasonably well over the trailing year. Performance benefitted from long positions in stocks integral to the mobile device supply chain and internet service providers. The portfolio’s overweight position in shares of Chinese Baijiu (liquor) manufacturers also aided relative performance. Valuations in these stocks appear attractive, and we see pent-up demand following a several year down cycle due to a government anti-corruption campaign during Xi Jinping’s first years in power.

 

Long positions in the Financials and Materials sectors, as well as holdings from Africa, Middle East, and Latin America, were among the larger detractors from relative performance. Turkish positions traded lower due to Turkey’s compromised economic position and US sanctions on Turkey for not releasing a U.S. pastor. The portfolio’s Materials stocks, led by an African diamond miner, declined on rising labor costs and reduced guidance. Long positions in Latin America broadly traded lower because of macroeconomic troubles. In Brazil a nationwide

Top Ten Positions (as of 8/31/18)  % of Net Assets  
Tencent Holdings Ltd.   3.83%  
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. – SP ADR   3.29%  
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd.   3.13%  
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.   2.94%  
Naspers Ltd.   2.21%  
Baidu Inc. – SP ADR   1.89%  
Anheuser-Busch InBev SA – SP ADR   1.82%  
China Mobile Ltd. – SP ADR   1.66%  
Air Lease Corp.   1.49%  
Sberbank of Russia PJSC – SP ADR   1.39%  
        
Portfolio Review (as of 8/31/18)       
P/E: Price/Earnings:   11.9x  
P/B: Price/Book:   1.4x  
Holdings:   187   
Weighted Average Market Capitalization (millions):   $75,851   
ROE: Return on Equity:   17.0%  
OROA: Operating Return on Operating Assets:   35.6%  

 

The Fund may invest in small and mid-cap companies which may be more volatile, less liquid, not as diversified in their business activities as companies with greater market capitalizations, and they may fluctuate widely in market value. Small caps may be traded only in the over-the-counter market or on a regional securities exchange, may be listed only in the “pink sheets,” and may not be traded every day or in the volume typical of trading on a national securities exchange. Foreign and emerging market securities may expose the fund to currency and exchange rate fluctuations, high inflation, increased risk of default, less governmental supervision and regulation of securities markets, lack of liquidity in the markets, significantly smaller market capitalizations, political, social or economic instability, and differences in taxation, auditing and other financial practices. Derivatives (futures, options, swaps) may be leveraged and result in losses exceeding the amounts invested. REITS include the risk of possible declines in the value of real estate, possible lack of availability of mortgage funds and unexpected vacancies of properties. Illiquid securities may be limited in resale and cause great uncertainty in determining valuation. High yield debt (also known as “junk bonds”) may be sensitive to changes in financial strength of an issuer or the debt’s credit rating; an issuer of high yield debt may default on its obligation to pay interest and principal. All of these factors may cause greater volatility and less liquidity. The Fund may experience high portfolio turnover which may result in higher costs and capital gains

 

 

trucker’s strike choked activity, grounded flights and prompted a run on gasoline, which led to Brazil analysts raising their 2018 inflation forecast and cutting growth forecasts.

 

Since the strategy’s inception, the team managing the Boston Partners Emerging Markets Fund purchases shares of only those companies they deem most likely to appreciate based on our Three Circles framework of low valuation, positive business momentum and strong business fundamentals that the portfolio managers of Boston Partners and its predecessors have been employing for over three decades. As of August 31, 2018, we believe the portfolio remains well positioned with holdings that reflect our Three Circle characteristics.

 

Sincerely,

 

Paul Korngiebel, CFA

Portfolio Manager – Emerging Markets Fund


 

Annual Report 2018  |  27

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS FUND (UNAUDITED) (CONCLUDED)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $100,000 Investment in
Boston Partners Emerging Markets Fund vs. MSCI World Index

 

 

Total Return for the Period Ended August 31, 2018
 
   Since
Inception(1)
  Gross
Expense
Ratio
  Net
Expense
Ratio
Boston Partners Emerging Markets Fund               
Institutional Class(1)(2)   –8.11%   1.34%   1.10%
MSCI World Index(2)(3)   9.50%   n/a    n/a 
MSCI Emerging Markets Index(2)   –4.40%   n/a    n/a 

 

(1) Inception date of the Fund was October 17, 2017.
(2) Not annualized.
(3) This is not a primary benchmark of the Fund. Results of the index performance are presented for general comparative purposes.
(4) Index performance is from inception date of the Class only and is not the inception date of the index itself.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive all or a portion of its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in an aggregate amount equal to the amount by which the total annual Fund operating expenses (other than acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) for the Fund’s Institutional Class shares exceeds 1.10% of the average daily net assets attributable to the Fund’s Institutional Class shares. Because dividend expenses on short sales, acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes are excluded from the expense limitation, total annual Fund operating expenses (after fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements) are expected to exceed 1.10%. This contractual limitation is in effect until February 29, 2020 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors. If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses for a year are less than 1.10% or the expense cap then in effect, or whatever is less, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees waived and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made. Total returns shown include fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any; total returns would have been lower had there been no assumption of fees and expenses in excess of expense limitations. The Fund’s annual operating expense ratios above (including interest and dividend expense on short sales) are as stated in the current prospectus. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-888-261-4073 or visit our web site at www.boston-partners.com.

 

28  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

DEFINITIONS (UNAUDITED)

 

Past Performance is not a guarantee of future results.

 

Opinions expressed herein are as of August 31, 2018 and are subject to change at any time, are not guaranteed and should not be considered investment advice. This report is for the information of shareholders of the Funds. It may also be used as sales literature when preceded or accompanied by the current prospectus.

 

Earnings per share: Is the portion of a company’s profit allocated to each outstanding share of common stock.

 

Free cash flow yield is an indicator that compare free cash flow and market cap. It is a representation of the income created by an investment.

 

High Dividend: The MSCI High Dividend Yield Factor aims to capture the high dividend yield equity opportunity set within a standard MSCI parent index (U.S.) by including only securities that offer a higher than average dividend yield (i.e. at least 30% higher) relative to that of the parent index and that pass dividend sustainability and persistence screens.

 

Mergers and Acquisitions (M&A) is a general term that refers to the consolidation of companies or assets through various types of financial transactions.

 

Momentum: High Momentum companies are characterized in the literature as companies with high price performance in the recent history, up to 12-months. High Momentum companies tend to continue their high price performance over the near term, typically over a 6 – 12 month period.

 

MSCI China Index is used as a common benchmark for world or global stock funds intended to represent a broad cross-section of global markets.

 

MSCI EAFE (EAFE) Index is a stock market index that is designed to measure the equity market performance of developed markets outside of the U.S. & Canada. It is maintained by MSCI Inc., a provider of investment decision support tools; the EAFE acronym stands for Europe, Australasia and Far East.

 

MSCI Emerging Markets (EM) Index is an index created by Morgan Stanley Capital International (MSCI) designed to measure equity market performance in global emerging markets.

 

MSCI World Index is an unmanaged index that measures the equity market performance of developed markets.

 

MSCI World Growth Index captures large and mid-cap securities exhibiting overall growth style characteristics across 23 Developed Markets Countries.

 

MSCI World Value NR Index is an index tracking value stocks, which are stocks with prices lower than their intrinsic values.

 

Wilshire 5000 Total Market Index® is a market-capitalization-weighted index of the market value of all stocks actively traded in the United States.

 

NASDAQ Composite Index is a stock market index of the common stocks and similar securities listed on the NASDAQ stock market.

 

OROA: Operating Return on Operating Assets

 

P/B: Price/Book: A valuation ratio of a company’s current share price compared to its book value.

 

P/E: Price/Earnings: A valuation ratio of a company’s current share price compared to its per-share earnings.

 

Quality has long been established as an investment approach, dating back to Benjamin Graham, but it is less well accepted as a factor, especially when compared with value, size, yield, momentum and low volatility. By “factor”, we mean any characteristic that helps explain the risk and returns of a group of securities.

 

ROE: Return on Equity: measures a corporation’s profitability by revealing how much profit a company generates with the money invested.

 

Russell 1000® Index measures the performance of the 1,000 largest companies in the Russell 3000® Index, which represents approximately 92% of the total market capitalization of the Russell 3000 Index. You cannot invest directly in an index.

 

Russell 1000® Growth Index is an index of approximately 1,000 of the largest companies in the U.S. equity market. It represents the top companies by market capitalization. The Russell 1000 typically comprises approximately 90% of the total market capitalization of all listed U.S. stocks.

 

Russell 1000® Value Index measures the performance of those Russell 1000 companies with lower price/book ratios and lower forecasted growth values. The Russell 1000® Value Index refers to a composite of large and mid-cap companies located in the United States that also exhibit a value probability.

 

Russell 2000® Index measures the performance of the 2,000 smallest companies in the Russell 3000(r) Index, which represents approximately 8% of the total market capitalization of the Russell 3000® Index and is considered representative of small-cap stocks.

 

Russell 2000® Growth Index is an unmanaged index that measures the performance of Russell 2000 companies with higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth values.

 

Russell 2000® Value Index is an unmanaged index that measures the performance of the small-cap value segment of the U.S. equity universe. It includes those Russell 2000® Index companies with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  29

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

DEFINITIONS (UNAUDITED) (CONCLUDED)

 

Russell 3000® Index measures the performance of the largest 3,000 U.S. companies representing approximately 98% of the investable U.S. equity market.

 

Russell 3000® Growth Index is a market capitalization weighted index based on the Russell 3000® Index. It includes companies that display signs of above average growth.

 

Russell 3000® Value Index is an unmanaged index that measures the performance of the broad value segment of the U.S. equity value universe. It includes those Russell 3000® Index companies with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values.

 

Russell Midcap® Index is a market capitalization weighted index comprised of 800 publicly traded U.S. companies with market caps of between $2 and $10 billion. The average Russell Midcap Index member has a market cap of $8 billion to $10 billion, with a median value of $4 billion to $5 billion.

 

Russell Midcap® Growth Index measures the performance of the mid-capitalization growth sector of the U.S. equity market.

 

Russell Midcap® Value Index measures the performance of the mid-capitalization value sector of the U.S. equity market.

 

S&P 500® Index is an unmanaged index that measures the performance of 500 large-cap stocks.

 

30  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

FUND EXPENSE EXAMPLES

AUGUST 31, 2018 (unaudited)

 

As a shareholder of the Fund(s), you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, if any, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees, distribution and/or service (12b-1) fees, and other Fund expenses. These examples are intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund(s) and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

 

These examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period from March 1, 2018 through August 31, 2018, and held for the entire period.

 

ACTUAL EXPENSES

 

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

 

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLES FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

 

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

 

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

 

   BEGINNING ACCOUNT
VALUE
MARCH 1, 2018
     ENDING ACCOUNT
VALUE
AUGUST 31, 2018
  EXPENSES
PAID DURING
PERIOD*
  ANNUALIZED
EXPENSE
RATIO
  ACTUAL
SIX-MONTH
TOTAL INVESTMENT
RETURN FOR THE FUND
Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II                         
Institutional                         
Actual           $1,000.00          $1,091.30       $5.80       1.10%   9.13%          
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)   1,000.00    1,019.66    5.60    1.10    N/A 
Investor                         
Actual  $1,000.00   $1,090.40   $7.11    1.35%   9.04% 
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)   1,000.00    1,018.40    6.87    1.35    N/A 
Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund                         
Institutional                         
Actual  $1,000.00   $952.20   $14.17    2.88%(1)   –4.78% 
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)   1,000.00    1,010.69    14.60    2.88(1)   N/A 
Investor                         
Actual  $1,000.00   $950.70   $15.44    3.13%(1)   –4.93% 
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)   1,000.00    1,009.38    15.90    3.13(1)   N/A 
Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund                         
Institutional                         
Actual  $1,000.00   $966.30   $11.00    2.22%(1)   –3.37% 
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)   1,000.00    1,014.01    11.27    2.22(1)   N/A 
Investor                         
Actual  $1,000.00   $965.10   $12.23    2.47%(1)   –3.49% 
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)   1,000.00    1,012.75    12.53    2.47(1)   N/A 
Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund                         
Institutional                         
Actual  $1,000.00   $1,030.70   $4.09    0.80%   3.07% 
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)   1,000.00    1,021.17    4.08    0.80    N/A 
Investor                         
Actual  $1,000.00   $1,029.40   $5.37    1.05%   2.94% 
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)   1,000.00    1,019.91    5.35    1.05    N/A 

 

Annual Report 2018  |  31

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

FUND EXPENSE EXAMPLES (CONCLUDED)

AUGUST 31, 2018 (unaudited)

 

   BEGINNING ACCOUNT
VALUE
MARCH 1, 2018
     ENDING ACCOUNT
VALUE
AUGUST 31, 2018
  EXPENSES
PAID DURING
PERIOD*
  ANNUALIZED
EXPENSE
RATIO
  ACTUAL
SIX-MONTH
TOTAL INVESTMENT
RETURN FOR THE FUND
WPG Partners Small/Micro Cap Value Fund                         
Institutional                         
Actual           $1,000.00          $1,115.90         $5.87       1.10%   11.59%          
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)   1,000.00    1,019.66    5.60    1.10    N/A 
Boston Partners Global Equity Fund                         
Institutional                         
Actual  $1,000.00   $1,008.10   $4.81    0.95%   0.81% 
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)   1,000.00    1,020.42    4.84    0.95    N/A 
Boston Partners Global Long/Short Fund                         
Institutional                         
Actual  $1,000.00   $975.40   $11.85    2.38%(1)   –2.46% 
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)   1,000.00    1,013.21    12.08    2.38(1)   N/A 
Investor                         
Actual  $1,000.00   $973.50   $13.08    2.63%(1)   –2.65% 
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)   1,000.00    1,011.95    13.34    2.63(1)   N/A 
Boston Partners Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund                         
Institutional                         
Actual  $1,000.00   $886.00   $9.56    2.01%(1)   –11.40% 
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)   1,000.00    1,015.07    10.21    2.01(1)   N/A 
Boston Partners Emerging Markets Fund                         
Institutional                         
Actual  $1,000.00   $866.20   $5.17    1.10%(1)   –13.38% 
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)   1,000.00    1,019.66    5.60    1.10(1)   N/A 

 

* Expenses are equal to each Fund’s annualized six-month expense ratios in the table above, which include waived fees or reimbursed expenses, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days (184) in the most recent fiscal half-year, then divided by 365 to reflect the one-half year period.
(1) These amounts include dividends paid on securities which the Funds have sold short (“Short-sale dividends”) and related interest expense. The amount of short-sale dividends and related interest expense was 0.50% of average net assets for the six-month period ended August 31, 2018 for both the Institutional Class and Investor Class of the Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund, 0.87% of average net assets for the Institutional Class and Investor Class of the Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund, 0.73% of average net assets of the Institutional Class and Investor Class of the Boston Partners Global Long/Short Fund and 0.01% of average net assets for the Institutional Class of the Boston Partners Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund.

 

32  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
Portfolio Holdings Summary Tables (unaudited)  

 

BOSTON PARTNERS

SMALL CAP VALUE FUND II

SECURITY TYPE/SECTOR CLASSIFICATION  % OF NET
ASSETS
     VALUE 
COMMON STOCK          
Finance   29.9%  $185,627,163 
Consumer Services   11.7    72,560,856 
Technology   11.4    70,883,948 
Capital Goods   10.5    64,976,337 
Basic Industries   7.5    46,636,031 
Energy   6.6    40,845,624 
Real Estate Investment Trusts   6.3    39,012,938 
Health Care   6.2    38,199,187 
Consumer Non-Durables   3.7    23,067,207 
Consumer Durables   2.2    13,789,018 
Communications   0.9    5,548,259 
Utilities   0.6    3,715,626 
INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL   24.8    154,014,226 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS   2.4    14,935,192 
LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS   (24.7)   (153,318,097)
NET ASSETS   100.0%  $620,493,515 

 

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

BOSTON PARTNERS

LONG/SHORT EQUITY FUND

SECURITY TYPE/SECTOR CLASSIFICATION  % OF NET
ASSETS
     VALUE 
LONG POSITIONS:          
COMMON STOCK          
Energy   17.4%  $122,846,293 
Finance   17.1    120,678,929 
Consumer Services   13.4    94,340,245 
Technology   12.9    91,043,596 
Health Care   12.1    85,053,394 
Capital Goods   8.0    56,171,789 
Transportation   4.6    32,394,027 
Basic Industries   3.7    26,307,397 
Communications   3.6    25,635,473 
Consumer Non-Durables   2.9    20,211,935 
Utilities   2.5    17,635,001 
Real Estate Investment Trusts   1.2    8,749,855 
Consumer Durables   0.4    2,837,339 
PURCHASED OPTIONS   0.0    20,368 
INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL   10.1    71,065,241 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS   0.2    1,607,812 
           
SHORT POSITIONS:          
COMMON STOCK          
Technology   (13.6)   (96,212,237)
Health Care   (7.8)   (55,006,795)
Consumer Services   (7.4)   (52,179,106)
Consumer Durables   (4.3)   (30,110,203)
Consumer Non-Durables   (3.4)   (23,812,358)
Capital Goods   (2.8)   (20,125,518)
Utilities   (2.6)   (18,133,680)
Finance   (2.3)   (16,036,433)
Communications   (1.7)   (12,267,275)

BOSTON PARTNERS

LONG/SHORT EQUITY FUND (continued)

SECURITY TYPE/SECTOR CLASSIFICATION  % OF NET
ASSETS
     VALUE 
Basic Industries   (0.7)  $(4,732,635)
Energy   (0.0)   (7)
EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS   (0.3)   (2,581,784)
OPTIONS WRITTEN   (0.1)   (524,797)
OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES   36.9    260,615,471 
NET ASSETS   100.0%  $705,491,337 

 

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

BOSTON PARTNERS

LONG/SHORT RESEARCH FUND

SECURITY TYPE/SECTOR CLASSIFICATION  % OF NET
ASSETS
     VALUE 
LONG POSITIONS:          
COMMON STOCK          
Technology   21.8%  $1,475,568,521 
Finance   19.3    1,304,729,044 
Consumer Services   10.4    699,458,203 
Health Care   10.3    695,742,017 
Capital Goods   9.9    665,540,107 
Energy   9.4    634,352,983 
Basic Industries   5.1    343,248,990 
Consumer Non-Durables   4.9    332,044,886 
Communications   3.0    205,790,912 
Consumer Durables   1.4    95,082,274 
Transportation   1.1    75,927,918 
Real Estate Investment Trusts   0.2    10,455,869 
WARRANTS   0.0    245,943 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS   2.4    164,671,025 
           
SHORT POSITIONS:          
COMMON STOCK          
Technology   (8.6)   (580,550,166)
Consumer Services   (7.1)   (477,944,878)
Finance   (6.3)   (425,656,695)
Energy   (4.5)   (307,075,940)
Capital Goods   (4.2)   (283,048,463)
Consumer Non-Durables   (3.9)   (261,050,130)
Basic Industries   (3.3)   (221,835,571)
Real Estate Investment Trusts   (1.8)   (122,039,716)
Consumer Durables   (1.6)   (109,886,398)
Health Care   (1.4)   (96,112,752)
Utilities   (1.1)   (71,855,915)
Communications   (0.9)   (64,153,488)
Transportation   (0.7)   (47,907,402)
OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES   46.2    3,122,060,968 
NET ASSETS   100.0%  $6,755,802,146 

 

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  33

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
Portfolio Holdings Summary Tables (unaudited) (continued)  

 

BOSTON PARTNERS

ALL-CAP VALUE FUND

SECURITY TYPE/SECTOR CLASSIFICATION  % OF NET
ASSETS
     VALUE 
COMMON STOCK          
Finance   28.8%  $680,575,389 
Technology   22.7    536,199,434 
Health Care   15.0    355,696,201 
Capital Goods   7.4    174,488,840 
Energy   6.8    162,153,126 
Consumer Services   5.7    135,775,819 
Basic Industries   1.5    34,937,212 
Consumer Non-Durables   1.5    34,608,418 
Consumer Durables   1.1    27,377,714 
Transportation   0.7    15,619,306 
Communications   0.4    9,502,731 
EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS   6.5    152,699,950 
RIGHTS   0.0     
INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL   11.3    267,098,957 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS   2.0    46,593,663 
LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS   (11.4)   (268,614,236)
NET ASSETS   100.0%  $2,364,712,524 

 

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

WPG PARTNERS

SMALL/MICRO CAP VALUE FUND

SECURITY TYPE/SECTOR CLASSIFICATION  % OF NET
ASSETS
     VALUE 
COMMON STOCK          
Finance   26.3%  $8,538,949 
Capital Goods   14.7    4,764,207 
Energy   11.9    3,846,067 
Real Estate Investment Trusts   10.3    3,359,367 
Technology   9.1    2,939,903 
Transportation   6.5    2,124,043 
Consumer Services   5.7    1,864,089 
Basic Industries   5.2    1,681,751 
Consumer Durables   3.5    1,142,569 
Utilities   2.9    929,485 
Health Care   2.0    636,386 
Consumer Non-Durables   0.6    212,790 
Communications   0.6    184,000 
WARRANTS   0.1    15,922 
INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL   25.0    8,119,241 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS   0.7    211,260 
LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS   (25.1)   (8,134,281)
NET ASSETS   100.0%  $32,435,748 

 

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

BOSTON PARTNERS

GLOBAL EQUITY FUND

SECURITY TYPE/SECTOR CLASSIFICATION  % OF NET
ASSETS
     VALUE 
COMMON STOCK          
Financials   22.4%  $149,355,490 
Information Technology   16.5    110,193,808 
Industrials   11.7    77,629,846 
Health Care   9.6    63,867,275 
Consumer Discretionary   7.9    52,976,064 
Energy   7.9    52,935,829 
Materials   7.8    51,998,673 
Consumer Staples   6.4    42,587,429 
Telecommunication Services   4.4    29,131,367 
Utilities   0.9    5,706,379 
PREFERRED STOCK   0.7    4,187,890 
INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL   6.2    41,687,430 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS   4.0    26,580,592 
LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS   (6.4)   (42,567,171)
NET ASSETS   100.0%  $666,270,901 

 

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

BOSTON PARTNERS

GLOBAL LONG/SHORT FUND

SECURITY TYPE/SECTOR CLASSIFICATION  % OF NET
ASSETS
     VALUE 
LONG POSITIONS:          
COMMON STOCK          
Financials   21.5%  $201,584,426 
Information Technology   17.9    168,169,668 
Industrials   11.7    109,440,778 
Health Care   10.6    99,384,132 
Energy   8.5    79,455,974 
Consumer Discretionary   8.4    78,610,834 
Materials   8.2    77,228,542 
Consumer Staples   6.4    59,701,804 
Telecommunication Services   4.6    43,422,594 
Utilities   0.9    8,166,638 
PREFERRED STOCK   0.7    6,359,401 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS   0.2    2,291,298 
           
SHORT POSITIONS:          
COMMON STOCK          
Information Technology   (7.9)   (74,447,513)
Industrials   (7.6)   (71,366,910)
Consumer Discretionary   (7.4)   (69,600,160)
Materials   (6.4)   (59,737,984)
Financials   (6.4)   (59,689,454)
Energy   (4.3)   (40,020,168)
Health Care   (2.4)   (22,955,846)
Consumer Staples   (2.3)   (21,653,233)
Utilities   (1.0)   (9,104,142)
Real Estate   (0.3)   (3,092,189)
OPTIONS WRITTEN   (0.2)   (1,779,584)
OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES   46.6    436,854,677 
NET ASSETS   100.0%  $937,223,583 

 

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

34  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
Portfolio Holdings Summary Tables (unaudited) (concluded)  

 

BOSTON PARTNERS

EMERGING MARKETS LONG/SHORT FUND*

SECURITY TYPE/SECTOR CLASSIFICATION  % OF NET
ASSETS
     VALUE 
LONG POSITIONS:          
COMMON STOCK          
Consumer Discretionary   9.8%  $5,714,755 
Information Technology   8.9    5,208,723 
Financials   8.9    5,155,683 
Consumer Staples   6.6    3,869,220 
Industrials   6.1    3,574,439 
Materials   5.4    3,122,085 
Telecommunication Services   4.0    2,300,433 
Real Estate   2.9    1,713,246 
Energy   2.7    1,553,261 
Health Care   1.7    998,179 
Utilities   0.9    535,374 
WARRANTS   0.0    2,681 
PREFERRED STOCK   3.7    2,151,451 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS   32.9    19,150,354 
OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES   5.5    3,195,188 
NET ASSETS   100.0%  $58,245,072 

 

* Fund has short exposure in Contracts For Difference.

 

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

BOSTON PARTNERS

EMERGING MARKETS FUND

SECURITY TYPE/SECTOR CLASSIFICATION  % OF NET
ASSETS
     VALUE 
COMMON STOCK          
Information Technology   18.1%  $1,503,153 
Consumer Discretionary   15.0    1,243,207 
Financials   14.2    1,175,169 
Consumer Staples   6.9    577,457 
Industrials   6.0    496,287 
Materials   5.7    471,797 
Telecommunication Services   4.9    406,497 
Real Estate   4.0    330,879 
Health Care   3.2    265,759 
Energy   2.2    185,212 
Utilities   0.9    77,421 
PREFERRED STOCK   0.6    47,176 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS   16.1    1,335,874 
OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES   2.2    179,723 
NET ASSETS   100.0%  $8,295,611 

 

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  35

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS SMALL CAP VALUE FUND II Portfolio Of Investments

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
COMMON STOCKS—97.5%          
Basic Industries—7.5%          
Cambrex Corp.(a)*   58,278   $3,927,937 
Ferro Corp.*   97,524    2,140,652 
Graphic Packaging Holding Co.   408,543    5,809,481 
Innophos Holdings, Inc.   74,188    3,242,758 
Orion Engineered Carbons SA   135,081    4,862,916 
Owens-Illinois, Inc.*   199,683    3,528,399 
PolyOne Corp.   36,322    1,534,968 
PQ Group Holdings, Inc.*   234,994    4,182,893 
Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc.   131,399    5,346,625 
SunCoke Energy, Inc.*   513,017    5,725,270 
Valvoline, Inc.(a)   294,337    6,334,132 
         46,636,031 
Capital Goods—10.5%          
Aegion Corp.(a)*   117,769    2,939,514 
Ampco-Pittsburgh Corp.*   34,636    261,502 
BMC Stock Holdings, Inc.*   301,872    6,792,120 
Cabot Corp.   27,386    1,777,899 
Continental Building Products, Inc.*   74,538    2,780,267 
Engility Holdings, Inc.*   72,315    2,510,054 
Ferroglobe PLC(a)   306,619    2,538,805 
Ferroglobe Representation & Warranty Insurance*‡   276,005    0 
Foundation Building Materials, Inc.*   109,881    1,517,457 
Granite Construction, Inc.   66,790    3,050,967 
Hillenbrand, Inc.   41,944    2,145,436 
LCI Industries(a)   51,490    4,785,995 
Minerals Technologies, Inc.   78,723    5,286,249 
Orion Group Holdings, Inc.*   255,868    2,205,582 
Timken Co., (The)   65,641    3,193,435 
Trinseo SA   49,898    3,849,631 
Tutor Perini Corp.(a)*   147,112    2,993,729 
WESCO International, Inc.*   141,391    8,646,060 
World Fuel Services Corp.   274,764    7,701,635 
         64,976,337 
Communications—0.9%          
AMC Networks, Inc. Class A(a)*   88,334    5,548,259 
Consumer Durables—2.2%          
Cooper Tire & Rubber Co.(a)   124,134    3,581,266 
La-Z-Boy, Inc.   102,656    3,413,312 
Standard Motor Products, Inc.(a)   36,037    1,829,599 
Strattec Security Corp.   17,901    614,004 
Tower International, Inc.   128,723    4,350,837 
         13,789,018 
Consumer Non-Durables—3.7%          
Energizer Holdings, Inc.(a)   54,520    3,466,927 
Fresh Del Monte Produce, Inc.(a)   87,460    3,274,502 
Skechers U.S.A., Inc. Class A*   175,051    5,160,504 
Steven Madden Ltd.(a)   134,486    7,820,361 
Universal Corp.   55,935    3,344,913 
         23,067,207 
Consumer Services—11.7%          
ABM Industries, Inc.(a)   83,219    2,639,707 
ACCO Brands Corp.(a)   311,092    3,857,541 
ASGN, Inc.*   70,276    6,506,855 
Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corp.   42,830    2,191,183 
CBIZ, Inc.*   117,581    2,810,186 
Civeo Corp.*   419,919    1,654,481 
Ennis, Inc.(a)   46,883    1,022,049 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Consumer Services—(continued)          
Entercom Communications Corp. Class A(a)   270,322   $2,122,028 
FTI Consulting, Inc.(a)*   73,630    5,612,079 
Group 1 Automotive, Inc.   22,541    1,737,686 
Huron Consulting Group, Inc.*   82,060    4,061,970 
ICF International, Inc.   61,087    4,987,753 
Lithia Motors, Inc. Class A(a)   100,552    8,687,693 
MAXIMUS, Inc.   42,829    2,848,128 
Navigant Consulting, Inc.   130,033    3,106,488 
PRA Group, Inc.(a)*   80,959    2,959,051 
Scholastic Corp.(a)   56,780    2,387,031 
Tetra Tech, Inc.   112,138    7,827,232 
TravelCenters of America LLC*   171,814    747,391 
Viad Corp.   32,128    1,979,085 
XO Group, Inc.*   93,654    2,815,239 
         72,560,856 
Energy—6.6%          
Cactus, Inc., Class A*   93,710    3,203,008 
Dril-Quip, Inc.(a)*   82,105    4,322,828 
Enerplus Corp.   463,730    5,736,340 
Extraction Oil & Gas, Inc.(a)*   244,971    2,829,415 
Forum Energy Technologies, Inc.(a)*   211,799    2,530,998 
Gulfport Energy Corp.*   156,032    1,834,936 
Jagged Peak Energy, Inc.(a)*   253,875    3,353,689 
Key Energy Services, Inc.*   112,851    1,507,689 
Kosmos Energy Ltd.*   388,665    3,513,532 
Nine Energy Service, Inc.(a)*   135,941    4,075,511 
ProPetro Holding Corp.(a)*   107,849    1,641,462 
Superior Energy Services, Inc.*   256,685    2,310,165 
WildHorse Resource Development Corp.(a)*   183,351    3,986,051 
         40,845,624 
Finance—29.9%          
Air Lease Corp.(a)   185,970    8,593,674 
AMERISAFE, Inc.   40,544    2,586,707 
Aspen Insurance Holdings Ltd.   57,701    2,374,396 
Assured Guaranty Ltd.   267,613    10,902,554 
Axis Capital Holdings Ltd.   35,058    2,016,536 
BankUnited, Inc.   143,324    5,559,538 
Cadence BanCorp(a)   143,851    4,063,791 
CenterState Banks, Inc.   119,995    3,674,247 
Columbia Banking System, Inc.   24,177    1,021,478 
Essent Group Ltd.*   172,716    7,488,966 
FCB Financial Holdings, Inc., Class A*   73,945    3,830,351 
Federal Agricultural Mortgage Corp., Class C   49,609    3,823,366 
First Citizens BancShares Inc., Class A   7,236    3,437,172 
First Merchants Corp.   80,517    3,874,478 
First Midwest Bancorp Inc.   98,952    2,689,515 
FirstCash, Inc.   69,426    5,644,334 
Flushing Financial Corp.   58,864    1,525,755 
Gladstone Capital Corp.   33,694    327,843 
Global Indemnity Ltd. Class A   31,389    1,237,668 
Greenhill & Co, Inc.(a)   63,804    1,754,610 
Hanmi Financial Corp.   121,046    3,159,301 
Hanover Insurance Group Inc., (The)   34,603    4,238,521 
Heritage Financial Corp.   75,722    2,748,709 
Hope Bancorp, Inc.(a)   121,146    2,121,266 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

36  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS SMALL CAP VALUE FUND II Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Finance—(continued)          
James River Group Holdings Ltd.   91,184   $3,733,985 
Luther Burbank Corp.(a)   193,899    2,210,449 
Maiden Holdings Ltd.(a)   605,400    2,300,520 
Merchants Bancorp(a)   87,018    2,272,040 
National General Holdings Corp.   220,485    6,021,445 
Navient Corp.   610,554    8,327,957 
Navigators Group, Inc. (The)   39,093    2,736,510 
Nelnet, Inc., Class A   138,489    7,983,891 
NMI Holdings, Inc. Class A*   129,342    2,793,787 
Peapack Gladstone Financial Corp.   69,906    2,335,559 
PennyMac Financial Services, Inc. Class A   160,363    3,391,677 
Preferred Bank(a)   27,655    1,692,763 
ProAssurance Corp.(a)   74,596    3,606,717 
Radian Group, Inc.   267,283    5,433,863 
RBB Bancorp   66,066    1,892,791 
Silvercrest Asset Management Group, Inc. Class A   174,484    2,765,571 
SLM Corp.(a)*   1,027,040    12,036,909 
South State Corp.(a)   13,445    1,108,540 
State Auto Financial Corp.   49,309    1,547,810 
Stewart Information Services Corp.   38,048    1,703,789 
Stifel Financial Corp.   118,686    6,630,987 
Walker & Dunlop, Inc.   173,383    9,449,373 
Washington Federal, Inc.   62,867    2,143,765 
White Mountains Insurance Group Ltd.   3,030    2,811,689 
         185,627,163 
Health Care—6.2%          
Chemed Corp.   15,985    5,171,787 
Envision Healthcare Corp.(a)*   135,074    6,126,957 
ICON PLC*   40,010    5,962,290 
Integra LifeSciences Holdings Corp.(a)*   33,779    2,008,837 
LHC Group, Inc.(a)*   37,903    3,749,744 
LifePoint Health, Inc.(a)*   112,618    7,252,599 
Patterson Cos, Inc.   81,326    1,833,901 
Select Medical Holdings Corp.*   111,405    2,205,819 
Syneos Health, Inc.(a)*   77,979    3,887,253 
         38,199,187 
Real Estate Investment Trusts—6.3%          
Ares Commercial Real Estate Corp.   292,082    4,270,239 
Blackstone Mortgage Trust, Inc. Class A(a)   182,804    6,226,304 
Chatham Lodging Trust   76,770    1,646,716 
Front Yard Residential Corp.   56,805    694,157 
Gladstone Commercial Corp.(a)   39,642    789,272 
MFA Financial, Inc.   632,098    4,841,871 
Realogy Holdings Corp.(a)   227,208    4,859,979 
Starwood Property Trust, Inc.(a)   175,436    3,864,855 
Two Harbors Investment Corp.(a)   756,693    11,819,545 
         39,012,938 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Technology—11.4%          
Bel Fuse, Inc., Class B(a)   126,733   $3,630,901 
Belden, Inc.(a)   89,574    6,513,821 
Brooks Automation, Inc.(a)   266,194    10,490,706 
Ciena Corp.(a)*   253,265    7,998,109 
Convergys Corp.(a)   106,233    2,627,142 
EnerSys   71,022    5,894,116 
EVERTEC, Inc.   92,415    2,222,581 
Insight Enterprises, Inc.*   70,779    3,902,754 
NCR Corp.(a)*   122,486    3,479,827 
NETGEAR, Inc.*   57,248    4,056,021 
PC Connection, Inc.   28,612    1,135,896 
SMART Global Holdings, Inc.(a)*   104,670    3,453,063 
Sykes Enterprises, Inc.*   155,040    4,688,410 
SYNNEX Corp.   43,485    4,216,740 
TTEC Holdings, Inc.   155,597    4,076,641 
Versum Materials, Inc.(a)   62,760    2,497,220 
         70,883,948 
Utilities—0.6%          
Portland General Electric Co.   34,697    1,609,941 
Pure Cycle Corp.(a)*   187,172    2,105,685 
         3,715,626 
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Cost $455,381,163)
        604,862,194 
INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL—24.8%                
Mount Vernon Liquid Assets Portfolio, LLC, 2.15%(b)   154,014,226    154,014,226 
TOTAL INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL
(Cost $154,014,226)
        154,014,226 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS—2.4%
Fidelity Investments Money Market Funds – Government Portfolio, 1.82%(b)   14,935,192    14,935,192 
TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
(Cost $14,935,192)
        14,935,192 
TOTAL INVESTMENTS—124.7%
(Cost $624,330,581)
        773,811,612 
LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS—(24.7)%        (153,318,097)
NET ASSETS—100.0%       $620,493,515 

 

 
PLC Public Limited Company
* Non-income producing.
(a) All or a portion of the security is on loan. At August 31, 2018, the market value of securities on loan was $151,106,889.
(b) Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.
Security has been valued at fair market value using significant unobservable inputs as determined in good faith by or under the direction of The RBB Fund, Inc.’s Board of Directors. As of August 31, 2018, these securities amounted to $0 or 0.0% of net assets.


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  37

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS SMALL CAP VALUE FUND II Portfolio Of Investments (concluded)

 

A summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments carried at fair value as of August 31, 2018 is as follows (see Notes to Portfolio of Investments):

 

   TOTAL   LEVEL 1   LEVEL 2   LEVEL 3   INVESTMENTS
MEASURED
AT NET
ASSET VALUE*
 
Common Stock                         
Basic Industries  $46,636,031   $46,636,031   $   $   $ 
Capital Goods   64,976,337    64,976,337             
Communications   5,548,259    5,548,259             
Consumer Durables   13,789,018    13,789,018             
Consumer Non-Durables   23,067,207    23,067,207             
Consumer Services   72,560,856    72,560,856             
Energy   40,845,624    40,845,624             
Finance   185,627,163    185,627,163             
Health Care   38,199,187    38,199,187             
Real Estate Investment Trusts   39,012,938    39,012,938             
Technology   70,883,948    70,883,948             
Utilities   3,715,626    3,715,626             
Investments Purchased with Proceeds                         
from Securities Lending Collateral   154,014,226                154,014,226 
Short-Term Investments   14,935,192    14,935,192             
Total Assets  $773,811,612   $619,797,386   $   $   $154,014,226 

 

* Certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amount presented in the table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

38  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT EQUITY FUND Portfolio Of Investments

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
LONG POSITIONS—110.1%          
COMMON STOCKS—99.8%          
Basic Industries—3.7%          
BHP Billiton Ltd. - SP ADR(a)   48,943   $2,351,222 
CF Industries Holdings, Inc.   49,724    2,583,162 
Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.†   217,986    3,062,703 
Mosaic Co., (The)   133,033    4,159,942 
Nutrien Ltd.   70,761    4,007,195 
POSCO - SP ADR†   46,879    3,399,196 
Rio Tinto PLC - SP ADR†   69,690    3,347,211 
Tahoe Resources, Inc.(a)*   415,054    1,427,786 
Ternium SA - SP ADR   69,822    1,968,980 
         26,307,397 
Capital Goods—8.0%          
Argan, Inc.   65,412    2,603,398 
Builders FirstSource, Inc.*   166,230    2,596,513 
CECO Environmental Corp.   278,755    2,352,692 
Colfax Corp.(a)*   64,751    2,261,105 
Columbus McKinnon Corp.†   1,543    65,624 
Daqo New Energy Corp. - ADR*†   49,729    1,773,833 
DMC Global, Inc.(a)   79,713    3,128,735 
Ferroglobe Representation & Warranty Insurance*‡   386,647    0 
Fluor Corp.†   74,239    4,262,061 
FreightCar America, Inc.*   141,522    2,393,137 
General Electric Co.†   263,225    3,406,131 
Graham Corp.   82,099    2,283,173 
Harsco Corp.*   67,005    1,892,891 
Hexcel Corp.(a)   28,644    1,893,941 
Jacobs Engineering Group, Inc.†   53,784    3,909,559 
KBR, Inc.   202,751    4,253,716 
Manitex International, Inc.*   270,943    2,866,577 
NOW, Inc.(a)*   162,210    2,788,390 
Quanta Services, Inc.*   65,015    2,248,869 
Safran SA - ADR†   131,783    4,282,289 
Tutor Perini Corp.(a)*   82,191    1,672,587 
World Fuel Services Corp.(a)†   115,468    3,236,568 
         56,171,789 
Communications—3.6%          
Charter Communications, Inc.*†   17,041    5,289,526 
Comcast Corp., Class A†   309,711    11,456,210 
KT Corp. - SP ADR   187,609    2,590,880 
Liberty Latin America Ltd. Class C*   194,181    3,811,773 
Mobile TeleSystems PJSC - SP ADR   320,914    2,487,084 
         25,635,473 
Consumer Durables—0.4%          
Honda Motor Co., Ltd. - SP ADR†   95,759    2,837,339 
Consumer Non-Durables—2.9%          
Coca-Cola Co., (The)   79,783    3,555,929 
Coca-Cola European Partners PLC   74,839    3,191,135 
Hasbro, Inc.   23,452    2,329,018 
Hostess Brands, Inc.(a)*   178,743    2,102,018 
Kellogg Co.(a)   46,709    3,353,239 
Molson Coors Brewing Co., Class B   34,672    2,314,009 
Nomad Foods Ltd.*†   161,467    3,366,587 
         20,211,935 
Consumer Services—13.4%          
ACCO Brands Corp.(a)   207,788    2,576,571 
Barrett Business Services, Inc.†   28,073    2,106,317 
CDK Global, Inc.(a)   25,160    1,567,971 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Consumer Services—(continued)          
Civeo Corp.(a)*   545,501   $2,149,274 
comScore, Inc.*   30,244    571,309 
Conduent, Inc.*   106,124    2,459,954 
Constellium NV, Class A*   189,023    2,202,118 
Ctrip.com International Ltd. - ADR*   33,057    1,294,182 
CVS Health Corp.†   87,345    6,571,838 
Dollar Tree, Inc.*   33,171    2,670,597 
Drive Shack, Inc.*†   360,643    2,235,987 
eBay, Inc.*†   123,855    4,286,622 
Francesca’s Holdings Corp.(a)*   304,215    1,910,470 
Hackett Group Inc., (The)   126,314    2,585,648 
Heidrick & Struggles International, Inc.   48,315    2,135,523 
ICF International, Inc.   52,112    4,254,945 
IHS Markit Ltd.*   59,447    3,269,585 
International Game Technology PLC(a)†   223,343    4,699,137 
JD.com, Inc. - ADR(a)*   69,010    2,160,013 
Jones Lang LaSalle, Inc.   9,223    1,406,692 
KAR Auction Services, Inc.   45,936    2,879,728 
Korn/Ferry International   43,880    2,945,664 
Kroger Co., (The)†   123,932    3,903,858 
Liquidity Services, Inc.*   175,700    1,265,040 
ManpowerGroup, Inc.   17,832    1,671,393 
Perficient, Inc.(a)*   87,147    2,503,733 
Sirius XM Holdings, Inc.(a)   284,826    2,022,265 
Stars Group Inc., (The)*   151,544    4,303,617 
Tailored Brands, Inc.†   105,849    2,491,686 
Tetra Tech, Inc.   46,256    3,228,669 
Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc., Class A†   55,691    2,528,371 
Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.   56,143    3,849,164 
Walt Disney Co. (The)   40,945    4,586,659 
Wyndham Destinations, Inc.   68,906    3,045,645 
         94,340,245 
Energy—17.4%          
Anadarko Petroleum Corp.†   77,281    4,976,896 
Andeavor†   23,508    3,591,787 
Andeavor Logistics LP(a)   65,374    3,175,869 
Apergy Corp.*   58,000    2,622,760 
Archrock, Inc.   378,420    4,787,015 
Baker Hughes a GE Co.(a)†   188,998    6,231,264 
Canadian Natural Resources Ltd.†   116,754    3,989,484 
Chevron Corp.†   101,115    11,978,083 
CNX Resources Corp.*   151,912    2,421,477 
Dawson Geophysical Co.(a)*   200,362    1,242,244 
Dril-Quip, Inc.(a)*   51,557    2,714,476 
Energen Corp.*   43,149    3,346,205 
Enerplus Corp.   180,778    2,236,224 
EOG Resources, Inc.   41,807    4,942,842 
EQT Corp.(a)†   121,196    6,183,420 
Halliburton Co.(a)†   152,008    6,063,599 
Key Energy Services, Inc.*   126,488    1,689,880 
LUKOIL PJSC - SP ADR   24,337    1,680,713 
Marathon Oil Corp.   168,917    3,633,405 
Mitcham Industries, Inc.*   372,478    1,489,912 
National Oilwell Varco, Inc.(a)   58,502    2,753,689 
Oceaneering International, Inc.(a)   122,552    3,464,545 
Parsley Energy, Inc., Class A(a)*   83,956    2,331,458 
PetroChina Co., Ltd. - ADR   20,364    1,508,158 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  39

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT EQUITY FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Energy—(continued)          
Phillips 66(a)†   43,437   $5,147,719 
Pioneer Natural Resources Co.†   25,264    4,413,621 
ProPetro Holding Corp.(a)*   124,880    1,900,674 
SandRidge Energy, Inc.(a)*   92,372    1,465,020 
Schlumberger Ltd.†   173,248    10,942,344 
Superior Energy Services, Inc.*   251,820    2,266,380 
Tidewater, Inc.(a)*   49,467    1,582,944 
Valero Energy Corp.†   26,195    3,087,867 
Viper Energy Partners LP†   76,698    2,984,319 
         122,846,293 
Finance—17.1%          
AerCap Holdings NV*†   66,488    3,787,821 
Affiliated Managers Group, Inc.†   15,189    2,218,961 
AMERCO   7,704    2,888,153 
American International Group, Inc.(a)†   85,138    4,526,787 
Arthur J Gallagher & Co.   46,550    3,358,117 
Banco Macro SA - ADR   40,318    1,759,478 
Bank of America Corp.†   306,933    9,493,438 
Bank OZK(a)   107,988    4,369,194 
Bar Harbor Bankshares   19,354    569,975 
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B*†#   40,579    8,469,649 
BGC Partners, Inc., Class A   346,891    4,308,386 
Century Bancorp, Inc., Class A†   10,446    744,277 
Citigroup, Inc.†   170,281    12,130,818 
Discover Financial Services(a)†   65,387    5,108,032 
Fanhua, Inc. - SP ADR(a)   55,400    1,289,712 
FedNat Holding Co.(a)   123,406    3,245,578 
Fortress Transportation & Infrastructure Investors LLC   102,021    1,846,580 
GAIN Capital Holdings, Inc.(a)   249,767    1,840,783 
Jefferies Financial Group, Inc.†   116,308    2,700,672 
JPMorgan Chase & Co.†   58,012    6,647,015 
Lazard Ltd., Class A†   63,390    3,051,595 
Loews Corp.   73,494    3,697,483 
Maiden Holdings Ltd.†   93,498    355,292 
MetLife, Inc.†   157,113    7,209,916 
Morgan Stanley†   136,349    6,657,922 
Oaktree Capital Group LLC(a)   60,188    2,446,642 
Sandstorm Gold Ltd.(a)*   351,867    1,358,207 
State Street Corp.†   32,025    2,783,293 
Stifel Financial Corp.   70,769    3,953,864 
Travelers Cos., Inc., (The)†   35,508    4,672,853 
White Mountains Insurance Group Ltd.   3,436    3,188,436 
         120,678,929 
Health Care—12.1%          
Allergan PLC   16,465    3,156,505 
Anthem, Inc.†   23,594    6,246,040 
Carriage Services, Inc.   91,295    2,078,787 
Cigna Corp.†   35,515    6,688,895 
DaVita, Inc.*   41,815    2,897,361 
Five Star Senior Living, Inc.*   555,741    550,184 
Fresenius Medical Care AG & Co. KGaA - ADR†   70,780    3,575,806 
HCA Healthcare, Inc.†   44,839    6,013,358 
Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC*   21,147    3,614,445 
Johnson & Johnson†   61,677    8,307,275 
Keryx Biopharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)*   230,277    785,245 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Health Care—(continued)          
Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings*†   38,344   $6,628,527 
LHC Group, Inc.(a)*†   35,796    3,541,298 
Medtronic PLC†#   51,579    4,972,731 
Novartis AG - SP ADR†   76,030    6,311,250 
Paratek Pharmaceuticals, Inc.(a)*   95,448    978,342 
Quest Diagnostics, Inc.   49,464    5,440,051 
Stericycle, Inc.(a)*   49,626    3,061,428 
Taro Pharmaceutical Industries Ltd.*   19,467    2,056,494 
UnitedHealth Group, Inc.†   30,356    8,149,372 
         85,053,394 
Real Estate Investment Trusts—1.2%          
CatchMark Timber Trust, Inc., Class A   187,337    2,349,206 
Marcus & Millichap, Inc.*   31,805    1,158,020 
MedEquities Realty Trust, Inc.   301,462    3,228,658 
Wheeler Real Estate Investment Trust, Inc.(a)   365,512    2,013,971 
         8,749,855 
Technology—12.9%          
Avnet, Inc.(a)   74,160    3,589,344 
Baidu, Inc. - SP ADR*   26,790    6,067,399 
Capgemini SE - ADR   137,149    3,512,386 
Casa Systems, Inc.*   98,494    1,446,877 
CDW Corp.   40,328    3,531,120 
Citrix Systems, Inc.*   26,851    3,061,551 
Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., Class A†#   48,260    3,785,032 
Dolby Laboratories, Inc. Class A†   51,991    3,649,248 
Electronics For Imaging, Inc.(a)*   72,760    2,531,320 
Euronet Worldwide, Inc.(a)*   29,589    2,893,804 
EVERTEC, Inc.   147,259    3,541,579 
First Data Corp., Class A*   170,585    4,387,446 
Flex Ltd.*†   175,173    2,415,636 
Generac Holdings, Inc.*   56,484    3,134,297 
Infosys Ltd. - SP ADR(a)   156,128    3,242,779 
Insight Enterprises, Inc.*†   91,750    5,059,095 
InterDigital Inc.   50,993    4,212,022 
Net 1 UEPS Technologies, Inc.*   163,997    1,187,338 
PayPal Holdings, Inc.*†   31,204    2,881,065 
Powell Industries, Inc.(a)   56,981    2,230,806 
Rubicon Project Inc., (The)*   469,206    1,867,440 
Sabre Corp.   119,494    3,119,988 
SINA Corp.*   17,927    1,272,100 
SMART Global Holdings, Inc.*   54,885    1,810,656 
SYNNEX Corp.   35,307    3,423,720 
Tencent Holdings Ltd. - ADR(a)   82,556    3,561,466 
VeriSign, Inc.*   21,412    3,396,157 
YY, Inc. - ADR*   28,827    2,203,248 
Zebra Technologies Corp., Class A*   23,458    4,028,677 
         91,043,596 
Transportation—4.6%          
AP Moller - Maersk A/S - ADR   155,007    1,202,854 
Daseke, Inc.(a)*   269,208    2,420,180 
Dorian LPG Ltd.*   198,522    1,512,738 
Expeditors International of Washington, Inc.   31,460    2,305,389 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

40  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT EQUITY FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

        NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Transportation—(continued)               
Forward Air Corp.(a)        35,195   $2,261,631 
Golar LNG Partners LP        95,063    1,285,252 
Overseas Shipholding Group, Inc., Class A*    482,883    1,656,289 
Ryanair Holdings PLC - SP ADR*        16,595    1,690,533 
Safe Bulkers, Inc.*        852,974    2,379,797 
Scorpio Bulkers, Inc.(a)        244,544    1,662,899 
SEACOR Marine Holdings, Inc.(a)*    71,179    1,457,746 
Teekay LNG Partners LP        138,508    2,181,501 
Teekay Offshore Partners LP        942,280    2,138,975 
United Parcel Service, Inc., Class B†    47,726    5,864,571 
XPO Logistics, Inc.*        22,288    2,373,672 
              32,394,027 
Utilities—2.5%               
Cheniere Energy, Inc.*        66,697    4,464,030 
Enterprise Products Partners LP        143,666    4,108,848 
EQT Midstream Partners LP        41,701    2,383,629 
MPLX LP        112,500    3,990,375 
TerraForm Power, Inc.        240,440    2,688,119 
              17,635,001 
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Cost $534,461,148)
             703,905,273 
    NUMBER OF
CONTRACTS
   NOTIONAL
AMOUNT
      
PURCHASED OPTIONS††—0.0%           
Put Purchased Options—(0.0%)           
Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.               
Expiration: 01/18/2019, Exercise Price: 17.00   536    1,349,112    20,368 
TOTAL PUT PURCHASED OPTIONS
(Cost $142,580)
         20,368 
TOTAL PURCHASED OPTIONS
(Cost $142,580)
         20,368 
        NUMBER OF
SHARES
      
INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL—10.1%                 
Mount Vernon Liquid Assets Portfolio, LLC, 2.15%(b)    71,065,241    71,065,241 
TOTAL INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL
(Cost $71,065,241)
         71,065,241 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS—0.2%           
Morgan Stanley Institutional Liquidity Funds – Treasury Portfolio, 1.85%(b)    1,607,812    1,607,812 
TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
(Cost $1,607,812)
         1,607,812 
TOTAL LONG POSITIONS—110.1%
(Cost $607,276,781)
         776,598,694 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
SECURITIES SOLD SHORT—(46.9%)          
COMMON STOCKS—(46.6%)          
Basic Industries—(0.7%)          
Mountain Province Diamonds, Inc.*   (41,726)  $(86,648)
Quaker Chemical Corp.   (17,475)   (3,147,947)
Tanzanian Royalty Exploration Corp.*   (160,240)   (58,087)
Uranium Energy Corp.*   (842,078)   (1,439,953)
         (4,732,635)
Capital Goods—(2.8%)          
AAON, Inc.   (67,002)   (2,706,881)
Applied Energetics, Inc.*   (363,725)   (27,279)
Axon Enterprise, Inc.*   (46,058)   (3,143,919)
Blue Bird Corp.*   (163,378)   (3,749,525)
DynaMotive Energy Systems Corp.*‡   (72,185)   (7)
KeyW Holding Corp., (The)*   (267,749)   (2,278,544)
SiteOne Landscape Supply, Inc.*   (36,147)   (3,266,604)
WD-40 Co.   (20,308)   (3,603,655)
ZAGG, Inc.*   (83,278)   (1,349,104)
         (20,125,518)
Communications—(1.7%)          
CTC Communications Group, Inc.*‡   (98,900)   0 
Netflix, Inc.*   (33,364)   (12,267,275)
         (12,267,275)
Consumer Durables—(4.3%)          
Ferrari NV   (26,085)   (3,419,483)
iRobot Corp.*   (45,084)   (5,117,034)
Qsound Labs, Inc.*‡   (4,440)   0 
Sharp Corp.   (77,600)   (1,840,532)
Tesla, Inc.*   (57,680)   (17,399,749)
Universal Electronics, Inc.*   (54,014)   (2,333,405)
         (30,110,203)
Consumer Non-Durables—(3.4%)          
Amish Naturals, Inc.*‡   (25,959)   0 
Canada Goose Holdings, Inc.*   (27,085)   (1,648,664)
Crocs, Inc.*   (106,033)   (2,190,642)
elf Beauty, Inc.*   (160,445)   (2,228,581)
Freshpet, Inc.*   (80,171)   (2,978,352)
MGP Ingredients, Inc.   (29,800)   (2,297,878)
Monster Beverage Corp.*   (55,379)   (3,372,027)
National Beverage Corp.*   (34,569)   (4,073,611)
Primo Water Corp.*   (251,130)   (5,022,600)
Valence Technology, Inc.*‡   (27,585)   (3)
         (23,812,358)
Consumer Services—(7.4%)          
ADT, Inc.   (234,874)   (2,102,122)
Brink’s Co. (The)   (41,137)   (3,089,389)
Carvana Co.*   (38,456)   (2,489,641)
Chegg, Inc.*   (76,950)   (2,491,641)
Chuy’s Holdings, Inc.*   (92,630)   (2,681,639)
Cimpress NV*   (29,006)   (4,060,840)
Corporate Resource Services, Inc.*   (218,896)   (263)
HelloFresh SE*   (163,183)   (2,320,335)
Jamba, Inc.*   (104,377)   (1,354,813)
K12, Inc.*   (132,261)   (2,190,242)
Lands’ End, Inc.*   (102,897)   (2,644,453)
Noodles & Co.*   (229,843)   (2,827,069)
Red Robin Gourmet Burgers, Inc.*   (88,235)   (3,644,106)
Shake Shack, Inc. Class A*   (69,973)   (4,229,868)


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  41

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT EQUITY FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Consumer Services—(continued)          
Stitch Fix, Inc., Class A*   (43,924)  $(1,782,436)
TransEnterix, Inc.*   (457,289)   (2,652,276)
TripAdvisor, Inc.*   (89,942)   (4,884,750)
Wayfair, Inc. Class A*   (49,813)   (6,733,223)
         (52,179,106)
Energy—0.0%          
Beard Co.*   (9,710)   (7)
Finance—(2.3%)          
Farmers & Merchants Bancorp Inc.   (78,158)   (3,555,408)
RLI Corp.   (65,854)   (5,068,782)
Trupanion, Inc.*   (107,879)   (4,119,899)
Willscot Corp.*   (188,673)   (3,292,344)
         (16,036,433)
Health Care—(7.8%)          
AtriCure, Inc.*   (165,598)   (5,721,411)
AxoGen, Inc.*   (89,743)   (3,935,231)
BodyTel Scientific, Inc.*‡   (4,840)   0 
CareView Communications, Inc.*   (207,165)   (5,925)
Corindus Vascular Robotics, Inc.*   (626,010)   (682,351)
Cross Country Healthcare, Inc.*   (358,872)   (3,592,309)
Endologix, Inc.*   (205,148)   (471,840)
Exact Sciences Corp.*   (24,302)   (1,819,977)
Heska Corp.*   (43,100)   (4,611,700)
Illumina, Inc.*   (5,000)   (1,774,150)
Invacare Corp.   (201,007)   (3,055,306)
iRhythm Technologies, Inc.*   (20,181)   (1,878,649)
Mazor Robotics Ltd.*   (67,155)   (3,209,337)
Momenta Pharmaceuticals, Inc.*   (179,241)   (4,749,887)
Quidel Corp.*   (70,062)   (5,386,367)
Surgery Partners, Inc.*   (206,435)   (3,581,647)
Tactile Systems Technology, Inc.*   (83,990)   (5,683,603)
ViewRay, Inc.*   (308,691)   (3,111,605)
Vital Therapies, Inc.*   (215,590)   (1,735,500)
         (55,006,795)
Technology—(13.6%)          
2U, Inc.*   (30,197)   (2,698,404)
500.com Ltd.*   (93,947)   (1,225,069)
8x8, Inc.*   (182,428)   (4,141,116)
Advanced Micro Devices, Inc.*   (89,697)   (2,257,674)
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Technology—(continued)          
Alarm.com Holdings, Inc.*   (78,644)  $(4,426,871)
ANTs Software, Inc.*‡   (10,334)   (1)
Benefitfocus, Inc.*   (36,224)   (1,597,478)
Box, Inc.*   (106,141)   (2,606,823)
Capstone Turbine Corp.*   (28,762)   (32,213)
Carbonite, Inc.*   (92,727)   (3,852,807)
Cloudera, Inc.*   (121,891)   (1,829,584)
Consygen, Inc.*‡   (200)   0 
Ellie Mae, Inc.*   (34,937)   (3,681,312)
Ener1, Inc.*‡   (102,820)   (10)
Enphase Energy, Inc.*   (818,969)   (4,004,758)
EverQuote, Inc.*   (142,765)   (1,891,636)
FireEye, Inc.*   (160,649)   (2,666,773)
GrubHub, Inc.*   (13,557)   (1,953,699)
Harmonic, Inc.*   (803,113)   (4,376,966)
Inseego Corp.*   (717,092)   (2,244,498)
Interliant, Inc.*‡   (600)   0 
LivePerson, Inc.*   (93,815)   (2,523,624)
Manhattan Associates, Inc.*   (71,166)   (4,126,916)
Match Group, Inc.*   (51,525)   (2,578,826)
Materialise NV - ADR*   (174,607)   (2,645,296)
Medidata Solutions, Inc.*   (42,422)   (3,605,022)
Nestor, Inc.*‡   (15,200)   (2)
NetScout Systems, Inc.*   (144,992)   (3,624,800)
New Relic, Inc.*   (27,602)   (2,836,382)
Proofpoint, Inc.*   (24,626)   (2,921,875)
PROS Holdings, Inc.*   (127,121)   (4,688,223)
Shopify, Inc.*   (16,891)   (2,460,512)
Snap, Inc. Class A*   (212,686)   (2,318,277)
Spotify Technology SA*   (20,891)   (3,959,262)
SunPower Corp.*   (237,362)   (1,595,073)
Tiger Telematics, Inc.*‡   (6,510)   0 
TrueCar, Inc.*   (312,124)   (4,013,915)
Uni-Pixel, Inc.*   (19,665)   (35)
Vicor Corp.*   (70,163)   (4,381,679)
Worldgate Communications, Inc.*‡   (582,655)   (58)
Xybernaut Corp.*‡   (34,156)   0 
Zendesk, Inc.*   (35,488)   (2,444,768)
         (96,212,237)


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

42  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT EQUITY FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

        NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Utilities—(2.6%)               
Cadiz, Inc.*        (96,066)  $(922,234)
California Water Service Group        (71,573)   (2,945,229)
Chesapeake Utilities Corp.        (33,689)   (2,897,254)
El Paso Electric Co.        (62,946)   (3,858,590)
MGE Energy, Inc.        (35,449)   (2,320,137)
New Jersey Resources Corp.        (38,067)   (1,735,855)
ONE Gas, Inc.        (22,911)   (1,799,201)
PNM Resources, Inc.        (42,495)   (1,655,180)
              (18,133,680)
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Proceeds $(266,744,156))
         (328,616,247)
EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS—-(0.3%)           
Finance—(0.3%)               
Direxion Daily Financial Bear 3X    (280,020)   (2,581,784)
TOTAL EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS
(Proceeds $(3,092,938))
         (2,581,784)
TOTAL SECURITIES SOLD SHORT—(46.9%)
(Proceeds $(269,837,094))
    (331,198,031)
                
   NUMBER OF
CONTRACTS
   NOTIONAL
AMOUNT
      
OPTIONS WRITTEN††—(0.1%)               
Call Options Written—(0.1%)               
Energous Corp.               
Expiration: 01/17/2020, Exercise Price: 20.00   (679)   (870,478)   (133,084)
Sears Holdings Corp.               
Expiration: 01/18/2019, Exercise Price: 10.00   (3,091)   (414,194)   (10,818)
Tesla, Inc.               
Expiration: 08/16/2019, Exercise Price: 365.00   (76)   (2,292,616)   (263,530)
TOTAL CALL OPTIONS WRITTEN
(Premiums received $(1,634,224))
         (407,432)
Put Options Written—(0.0%)           
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B               
Expiration: 01/17/2020, Exercise Price: 185.00   (131)   (2,734,232)   (86,460)
Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., Class A               
Expiration: 01/18/2019, Exercise Price: 45.00   (647)   (5,074,421)   (3,235)
        NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Put Options Written—(continued)           
Medtronic PLC               
Expiration: 01/18/2019, Exercise Price: 70.00   (648)   (6,247,368)  $(14,256)
Wells Fargo & Co.               
Expiration: 01/18/2019, Exercise Price: 40.00   (1,578)   (9,228,144)   (13,414)
TOTAL PUT OPTIONS WRITTEN
(Premiums received $(1,990,503))
         (117,365)
TOTAL OPTIONS WRITTEN
(Premiums received $(3,624,727))
         (524,797)
OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES—36.9%         260,615,471 
NET ASSETS—100.0%        $705,491,337 

 

 
ADR     American Depositary Receipt
PLC     Public Limited Company
SP ADR     Sponsored American Depositary Receipt
*     Non-income producing.
(a)     All or a portion of the security is on loan. At August 31, 2018, the market value of securities on loan was $69,016,996.
(b)     Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.
    Security position is either entirely or partially held in a segregated account as collateral for securities sold short.
#     Security segregated as collateral for options written.
††     Primary risk exposure is equity contracts.
    Security has been valued at fair market value using significant unobservable inputs as determined in good faith by or under the direction of The RBB Fund, Inc.’s Board of Directors. As of August 31, 2018, long securities and short securities amounted to $0 and $(81) or 0.0% and (0.0%), respectively, of net assets.


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  43

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT EQUITY FUND Portfolio Of Investments (concluded)

 

A summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments carried at fair value as of August 31, 2018 is as follows (see Notes to Portfolio of Investments):

 

   TOTAL   LEVEL 1   LEVEL 2   LEVEL 3   INVESTMENTS
MEASURED
AT NET
ASSET VALUE*
 
Common Stock                         
Basic Industries  $26,307,397   $26,307,397   $   $   $ 
Capital Goods   56,171,789    56,171,789             
Communications   25,635,473    25,635,473             
Consumer Durables   2,837,339    2,837,339             
Consumer Non-Durables   20,211,935    20,211,935             
Consumer Services   94,340,245    94,340,245             
Energy   122,846,293    122,846,293             
Finance   120,678,929    120,678,929             
Health Care   85,053,394    85,053,394             
Real Estate Investment Trusts   8,749,855    8,749,855             
Technology   91,043,596    91,043,596             
Transportation   32,394,027    32,394,027             
Utilities   17,635,001    17,635,001             
Purchased Options   20,368    20,368             
Investments Purchased with Proceeds                         
from Securities Lending Collateral   71,065,241                71,065,241 
Short-Term Investments   1,607,812    1,607,812             
Total Assets  $776,598,694   $705,533,453   $   $   $71,065,241 
                     
   TOTAL   LEVEL 1   LEVEL 2   LEVEL 3   INVESTMENTS
MEASURED
AT NET
ASSET VALUE*
 
Securities Sold Short                         
Basic Industries  $(4,732,635)  $(4,732,635)  $   $   $ 
Capital Goods   (20,125,518)   (20,125,511)       (7)    
Communications   (12,267,275)   (12,267,275)            
Consumer Durables   (30,110,203)   (28,269,671)   (1,840,532)        
Consumer Non-Durables   (23,812,358)   (23,812,355)       (3)    
Consumer Services   (52,179,106)   (52,179,106)            
Energy   (7)       (7)        
Finance   (16,036,433)   (16,036,433)            
Health Care   (55,006,795)   (55,000,870)   (5,925)        
Technology   (96,212,237)   (96,212,166)       (71)    
Utilities   (18,133,680)   (18,133,680)            
Exchange Traded Funds   (2,581,784)   (2,581,784)            
Options Written                         
Equity Contracts   (524,797)   (133,084)   (391,713)        
Total Liabilities  $(331,722,828)  $(329,484,570)  $(2,238,177)  $(81)  $ 

 

* Certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amount presented in the table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

44  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT RESEARCH FUND Portfolio Of Investments

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
LONG POSITIONS—99.2%          
COMMON STOCKS—96.8%          
Basic Industries—5.1%          
Celanese Corp., Series A   346,738   $40,509,401 
DowDuPont, Inc.   251,034    17,605,014 
FMC Corp.   237,008    20,252,334 
Glencore PLC*   7,732,711    31,503,514 
Graphic Packaging Holding Co.†   3,912,322    55,633,219 
Mexichem SAB de CV   3,608,700    12,177,432 
Mosaic Co., (The)   1,414,465    44,230,321 
Nutrien Ltd.   772,264    43,733,310 
Peabody Energy Corp.   377,766    15,605,513 
Rio Tinto PLC - SP ADR   239,273    11,492,282 
Steel Dynamics, Inc.   220,896    10,101,574 
Stornoway Diamond Corp.*   26,913,645    7,218,219 
WestRock Co.†   602,521    33,186,857 
         343,248,990 
Capital Goods—9.9%          
AMETEK, Inc.   628,574    48,375,055 
Boeing Co., (The)   127,752    43,792,108 
Caterpillar, Inc.   130,427    18,109,789 
Cemex SAB de CV - SP ADR*   3,843,495    27,250,380 
CRH PLC   626,353    20,807,733 
Cummins, Inc.   190,877    27,066,359 
Curtiss-Wright Corp.   282,084    37,785,152 
Dover Corp.   247,950    21,291,467 
HD Supply Holdings, Inc.*   566,748    25,838,041 
Honeywell International, Inc.†   110,619    17,595,058 
ITT, Inc.   584,880    34,572,257 
Masco Corp.†   1,058,851    40,204,572 
Northrop Grumman Corp.†   84,598    25,251,657 
Owens Corning   610,796    34,583,270 
PACCAR, Inc.   275,176    18,827,542 
Parker-Hannifin Corp.   232,989    40,912,868 
Raytheon Co.†   88,221    17,594,796 
Textron, Inc.†   255,116    17,610,657 
Timken Co., (The)   477,513    23,231,007 
Trinseo SA   597,065    46,063,565 
Tutor Perini Corp.*   679,911    13,836,189 
United Technologies Corp.†   198,680    26,166,156 
Weichai Power Co. Ltd.   19,623,000    20,811,433 
WESCO International, Inc.*   293,753    17,962,996 
         665,540,107 
Communications—3.0%          
China Mobile Ltd. - SP ADR   381,957    18,330,116 
Comcast Corp., Class A†   2,244,044    83,007,188 
Liberty Global PLC, Series C*†   1,529,752    39,605,279 
Liberty Latin America Ltd. Class C*†   570,715    11,203,135 
Verizon Communications, Inc.†   986,669    53,645,194 
         205,790,912 
Consumer Durables—1.4%          
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV*   639,832    10,947,526 
Lear Corp.   156,966    25,459,885 
Persimmon PLC   562,159    17,784,937 
Sony Corp.   719,100    40,889,926 
         95,082,274 
Consumer Non-Durables—4.9%          
Altria Group, Inc.†   628,352    36,771,159 
Ambev SA - ADR   8,084,512    37,592,981 
Anheuser-Busch InBev - SP ADR   285,317    26,600,104 
Asahi Group Holdings Ltd.   629,300    28,417,480 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Consumer Non-Durables—(continued)          
Coca-Cola European Partners PLC   1,007,455   $42,957,881 
Heineken Holding NV   420,247    40,097,314 
Imperial Brands PLC   786,561    28,024,643 
Nintendo Co., Ltd.   30,300    10,906,491 
Nomad Foods Ltd.*†   2,651,533    55,284,463 
PepsiCo, Inc.   91,459    10,244,323 
Philip Morris International, Inc.   194,480    15,148,047 
         332,044,886 
Consumer Services—10.4%          
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. - SP ADR*    75,864    13,276,959 
CDK Global, Inc.   513,829    32,021,823 
CVS Health Corp.†   655,978    49,355,785 
Dun & Bradstreet Corp. (The)   228,844    32,706,384 
eBay, Inc.*†   1,980,318    68,538,806 
Equiniti Group PLC   2,371,153    6,824,243 
GVC Holdings Plc   1,511,767    21,597,679 
Hays PLC   10,236,440    27,069,222 
Interpublic Group of Cos., Inc., (The)    892,990    20,851,316 
KAR Auction Services, Inc.   494,552    31,003,465 
Lowe’s Cos., Inc.   363,281    39,506,809 
ManpowerGroup, Inc.   144,426    13,537,049 
Moody’s Corp.   143,579    25,559,934 
Nordstrom, Inc.   401,531    25,236,223 
Omnicom Group, Inc.†   251,657    17,444,863 
Robert Half International, Inc.†   365,546    28,578,386 
S&P Global, Inc.   137,256    28,418,855 
ServiceMaster Global Holdings, Inc.*   535,535    32,276,694 
Six Flags Entertainment Corp.†   606,513    40,969,953 
Teleperformance   121,336    23,330,049 
Tesco PLC   6,724,813    21,489,934 
Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc., Class A†   567,750    25,775,850 
Western Union Co. (The)   1,113,086    21,059,587 
Wyndham Destinations, Inc.   563,991    24,928,402 
Wyndham Hotels & Resorts, Inc.   495,153    28,099,933 
         699,458,203 
Energy—9.4%          
Anadarko Petroleum Corp.   597,198    38,459,551 
Andeavor†   413,124    63,121,216 
Apergy Corp.*   455,209    20,584,551 
Cactus, Inc., Class A*   880,095    30,081,647 
Chevron Corp.†   287,257    34,028,464 
Cimarex Energy Co.   341,195    28,824,154 
ConocoPhillips   518,550    38,077,127 
Energen Corp.*   190,539    14,776,300 
Enerplus Corp.   2,755,543    34,080,049 
EQT Corp.†   746,768    38,100,103 
Hurricane Energy PLC*   26,219,805    16,737,926 
Marathon Oil Corp.   1,333,780    28,689,608 
Marathon Petroleum Corp.   112,942    9,293,997 
Noble Energy, Inc.   1,114,625    33,126,655 
Parsley Energy, Inc., Class A*†   562,855    15,630,483 
Pioneer Natural Resources Co.†   282,427    49,339,997 
Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class A   1,464,997    47,661,866 
Superior Energy Services, Inc.*   2,584,281    23,258,529 
Targa Resources Corp.   200,411    11,036,634 
TechnipFMC PLC   575,707    17,633,905 
Viper Energy Partners LP†   478,193    18,606,490 
Vista Oil & Gas SAB de CV*   2,686,746    23,203,731 
         634,352,983 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  45

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT RESEARCH FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Finance—19.3%          
Air Lease Corp.   220,112   $10,171,376 
Alleghany Corp.   59,810    37,786,762 
Allstate Corp., (The)†   476,558    47,927,438 
American Express Co.   143,696    15,228,902 
American International Group, Inc.   758,788    40,344,758 
Ameriprise Financial, Inc.   136,624    19,395,143 
Aon PLC†   229,281    33,374,142 
Aviva PLC   5,153,036    32,419,761 
Bank of America Corp.†   2,651,136    81,999,636 
BB&T Corp.†   289,308    14,945,651 
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B*†   241,671    50,441,571 
Capital One Financial Corp.†   145,790    14,446,331 
Charles Schwab Corp., (The)   322,551    16,382,365 
Chubb Ltd.†   329,593    44,574,157 
Citigroup, Inc.†   1,062,662    75,704,041 
Citizens Financial Group, Inc.†   742,573    30,564,305 
Discover Financial Services†   658,974    51,479,049 
DNB ASA   1,151,152    23,402,950 
East West Bancorp, Inc.   326,284    20,683,143 
Everest Re Group Ltd.   113,474    25,306,971 
Fifth Third Bancorp†   627,688    18,472,858 
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., (The)†   86,263    20,514,204 
Huntington Bancshares, Inc.†   2,292,843    37,166,985 
JPMorgan Chase & Co.†   686,927    78,708,096 
KeyCorp   1,668,592    35,157,233 
Lloyds Banking Group PLC   21,349,544    16,445,936 
Marsh & McLennan Cos., Inc.   415,902    35,197,786 
Morgan Stanley   341,698    16,685,113 
Navient Corp.†   1,069,923    14,593,750 
Raymond James Financial, Inc.   351,722    32,724,215 
Regions Financial Corp.   1,691,012    32,907,094 
SLM Corp.*   2,630,185    30,825,768 
Sompo Holdings, Inc.   658,400    28,095,588 
State Street Corp.†   165,712    14,402,030 
Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.   319,400    12,556,719 
SunTrust Banks, Inc.†   247,985    18,241,777 
Swiss Re AG   277,210    24,940,699 
Synchrony Financial   957,195    30,314,366 
TD Ameritrade Holding Corp.†   513,425    30,071,302 
Travelers Cos., Inc., (The)†   202,177    26,606,493 
United Overseas Bank Ltd.   737,300    14,531,077 
Wells Fargo & Co.†   837,748    48,991,503 
         1,304,729,044 
Health Care—10.3%          
Abbott Laboratories   212,808    14,224,087 
Anthem, Inc.†   191,674    50,741,858 
Biogen, Inc.*   69,550    24,585,229 
Cardinal Health, Inc.†   341,357    17,815,422 
Cigna Corp.†   267,397    50,361,551 
Fresenius SE & Co. KGaA   242,413    18,513,267 
Gilead Sciences, Inc.   380,602    28,822,989 
ICON PLC*   118,393    17,642,925 
IQVIA Holdings, Inc.*   254,202    32,306,532 
Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC*   133,315    22,786,200 
Johnson & Johnson†   796,953    107,341,600 
Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings*†   197,633    34,164,817 
McKesson Corp.   240,519    30,966,821 
Merck & Co., Inc.   389,554    26,719,509 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Health Care—(continued)          
Novartis AG - SP ADR   488,951   $40,587,823 
Novo Nordisk A/S   691,986    34,063,828 
Pfizer, Inc.†   1,021,899    42,429,246 
Roche Holding AG   65,884    16,336,179 
UnitedHealth Group, Inc.   131,541    35,313,497 
Universal Health Services, Inc., Class B   211,049    27,470,138 
Waters Corp.*   119,002    22,548,499 
         695,742,017 
Real Estate Investment Trusts—0.2%          
SL Green Realty Corp.   100,152    10,455,869 
Technology—21.8%          
ABB Ltd.   1,382,581    32,504,479 
Alliance Data Systems Corp.   61,935    14,776,452 
Alphabet, Inc., Class A*†   90,930    112,007,574 
Alphabet, Inc., Class C*   12,296    14,978,864 
Amdocs Ltd.†   523,221    34,155,867 
Arrow Electronics, Inc.*†   540,024    41,868,061 
Atos SE   159,939    19,206,001 
Avnet, Inc.   631,041    30,542,384 
Baidu, Inc. - SP ADR*†   271,470    61,482,526 
Belden, Inc.   500,940    36,428,357 
Booking Holdings, Inc.*   9,692    18,914,423 
Capgemini SA   318,685    41,077,431 
CDW Corp.†   265,040    23,206,902 
Cisco Systems, Inc.†   1,579,529    75,454,100 
DXC Technology Co.†   740,762    67,476,011 
Eaton Corp. PLC   517,765    43,046,982 
EnerSys   388,872    32,272,487 
Flex Ltd.*†   2,991,471    41,252,385 
GrafTech International Ltd.   2,174,136    40,178,033 
Harris Corp.   106,802    17,356,393 
Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.†   2,029,357    33,545,271 
HP, Inc.†   1,674,164    41,268,143 
Jabil, Inc.†   332,971    9,842,623 
KLA-Tencor Corp.   292,222    33,959,119 
Leidos Holdings, Inc.†   542,505    38,393,079 
Marvell Technology Group Ltd.†   2,336,340    48,315,511 
Micro Focus International PLC - SP ADR†   364,398    6,205,698 
Microsoft Corp.†   825,284    92,704,152 
NetApp, Inc.†   697,026    60,508,827 
ON Semiconductor Corp.*†   1,417,264    30,244,414 
Oracle Corp.†   1,319,299    64,091,545 
Qorvo, Inc.*   126,477    10,129,543 
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.   1,771,850    77,023,481 
TE Connectivity Ltd.†   396,283    36,331,225 
Versum Materials, Inc.   783,465    31,174,072 
Xerox Corp.   1,308,745    36,461,636 
YY, Inc. - ADR*   355,678    27,184,470 
         1,475,568,521 
Transportation—1.1%          
Copa Holdings SA   187,080    14,955,175 
Delta Air Lines, Inc.†   407,660    23,839,957 
Southwest Airlines Co.   278,605    17,078,486 
Union Pacific Corp.   133,145    20,054,300 
         75,927,918 
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Cost $5,266,863,316)
        6,537,941,724 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

46  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT RESEARCH FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
WARRANTS—0.0%          
Energy—0.0%          
Vista Oil & Gas SAB de CV*‡   1,204,819   $245,943 
TOTAL WARRANTS
(Cost $0)
        245,943 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS—2.4%          
Morgan Stanley Institutional
Liquidity Funds – Treasury
Portfolio, 1.85%(a)
   164,671,025    164,671,025 
TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
(Cost $164,671,025)
        164,671,025 
TOTAL LONG POSITIONS—99.2%
(Cost $5,431,534,341)
        6,702,858,692 
SECURITIES SOLD SHORT—(45.4%)          
COMMON STOCKS—(45.4%)          
Basic Industries—(3.3%)          
Air Liquide SA   (135,080)   (17,000,134)
Amcor Ltd.   (1,712,270)   (17,618,594)
Antofagasta PLC   (1,129,904)   (11,835,728)
AptarGroup, Inc.   (91,891)   (9,621,907)
Balchem Corp.   (241,772)   (26,810,097)
Boliden AB   (506,202)   (13,255,801)
Compass Minerals International, Inc.   (245,246)   (15,340,137)
First Quantum Minerals Ltd.   (712,321)   (8,935,398)
Franco-Nevada Corp.   (202,552)   (12,947,807)
LyondellBasell Industries NV   (77,706)   (8,763,683)
NewMarket Corp.   (53,751)   (21,556,301)
Quaker Chemical Corp.   (105,731)   (19,046,382)
Sonoco Products Co.   (309,309)   (17,333,676)
Yara International ASA   (473,122)   (21,769,926)
         (221,835,571)
Capital Goods—(4.2%)          
AAON, Inc.   (613,434)   (24,782,734)
Boral Ltd.   (1,475,075)   (7,466,703)
Flowserve Corp.   (254,584)   (13,268,918)
GCP Applied Technologies, Inc.*   (324,015)   (8,165,178)
HB Fuller Co.   (342,043)   (19,493,030)
James Hardie Industries PLC   (2,239,042)   (34,091,214)
John Bean Technologies Corp.   (246,883)   (29,206,259)
Manitowoc Co. Inc. (The)*   (949,004)   (22,007,403)
Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.   (85,552)   (17,000,893)
Rolls-Royce Holdings PLC*   (11,165)   (145,558)
SiteOne Landscape Supply, Inc.*   (226,546)   (20,472,962)
Sun Hydraulics Corp.   (222,217)   (11,186,404)
TransDigm Group, Inc.   (87,608)   (30,662,800)
US Concrete, Inc.*   (143,196)   (6,902,047)
Wabtec Corp.   (242,984)   (26,320,027)
Wesco Aircraft Holdings, Inc.*   (977,476)   (11,876,333)
         (283,048,463)
Communications—(0.9%)          
Cogent Communications Holdings, Inc.   (515,751)   (28,211,580)
SES SA   (1,025,922)   (20,577,744)
Telefonica SA   (962,899)   (7,790,519)
Telefonica SA - SP ADR   (933,865)   (7,573,645)
         (64,153,488)
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Consumer Durables—(1.6%)          
Brembo SpA   (1,575,804)  $(21,082,718)
Harley-Davidson, Inc.   (325,891)   (13,889,474)
Leggett & Platt, Inc.   (383,613)   (17,431,375)
LKQ Corp.*   (530,782)   (18,322,595)
Spectrum Brands Holdings, Inc.   (178,432)   (15,496,819)
Tesla Motors, Inc.*   (78,444)   (23,663,417)
         (109,886,398)
Consumer Non-Durables—(3.9%)          
Aryzta AG*   (594,216)   (5,562,090)
B&G Foods, Inc.   (518,263)   (16,558,503)
Calbee, Inc.   (476,600)   (15,160,098)
Cal-Maine Foods, Inc.   (264,420)   (13,075,569)
Campbell Soup Co.   (355,063)   (14,007,235)
China Resources Beer Holdings Co., Ltd.   (2,528,000)   (10,769,434)
Coty, Inc. Class A   (500,089)   (6,181,100)
Fitbit, Inc.*   (2,190,950)   (13,189,519)
General Mills, Inc.   (331,773)   (15,264,876)
Hain Celestial Group Inc., (The)*   (497,684)   (14,213,855)
Hormel Foods Corp.   (465,152)   (18,210,701)
Kimberly-Clark de Mexico SAB de CV, Class A*   (4,644,700)   (8,175,829)
Lancaster Colony Corp.   (116,184)   (18,156,074)
Marine Harvest ASA   (796,260)   (17,197,401)
Mattel, Inc.   (551,194)   (8,504,923)
Nissin Foods Holdings Co. Ltd.   (170,200)   (10,853,803)
Societe BIC SA   (149,259)   (13,816,909)
Treasury Wine Estates Ltd.   (1,076,400)   (15,130,582)
Tsingtao Brewery Co., Ltd. Class H   (1,456,000)   (6,924,248)
Under Armour, Inc., Class A*   (982,757)   (20,097,381)
         (261,050,130)
Consumer Services—(7.1%)          
Acxiom Corp.*   (785,364)   (35,883,281)
ASOS Plc*   (156,168)   (12,400,326)
At Home Group, Inc.*   (272,829)   (9,388,046)
CarMax, Inc.*   (212,941)   (16,620,045)
Carvana Co.*   (296,502)   (19,195,540)
Casey’s General Stores, Inc.   (196,147)   (22,394,103)
Chegg, Inc.*   (556,664)   (18,024,780)
Chipotle Mexican Grill, Inc.*   (27,444)   (13,040,840)
Cimpress NV*   (53,068)   (7,429,520)
Cracker Barrel Old Country Store, Inc.   (110,774)   (16,515,296)
Evoqua Water Technologies Corp.*   (929,846)   (18,020,416)
FactSet Research Systems, Inc.   (56,754)   (13,018,800)
Jack in the Box, Inc.   (126,146)   (11,433,873)
Just Eat PLC*   (1,628,166)   (16,211,526)
L Brands, Inc.   (519,272)   (13,724,359)
Meredith Corp.   (326,391)   (16,858,095)
Multi-Color Corp.   (251,351)   (15,520,924)
Norwegian Cruise Line Holdings Ltd.*   (266,422)   (14,282,883)
Ocado Group PLC*   (1,176,993)   (16,399,693)
Pearson PLC   (2,719,835)   (32,344,457)
Rollins, Inc.   (277,590)   (16,677,607)
SeaWorld Entertainment, Inc.*   (441,215)   (12,936,424)
Shake Shack, Inc. Class A*   (235,539)   (14,238,333)
Sodexo SA   (91,254)   (9,517,126)
Stitch Fix, Inc., Class A*   (378,580)   (15,362,776)
Thomson Reuters Corp.   (383,371)   (17,071,511)


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  47

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT RESEARCH FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Consumer Services—(continued)          
Wayfair, Inc. Class A*   (244,767)  $(33,085,155)
Zalando SE*   (386,864)   (20,349,143)
         (477,944,878)
Energy—(4.5%)          
Antero Resources Corp.*   (962,581)   (17,817,374)
Apache Corp.   (651,607)   (28,559,935)
Cenovus Energy, Inc.   (3,021,117)   (28,126,599)
Continental Resources, Inc.*   (446,069)   (29,418,251)
Core Laboratories NV   (109,837)   (12,581,829)
Helmerich & Payne, Inc.   (370,796)   (24,313,094)
Hess Corp.   (398,773)   (26,853,374)
Imperial Oil Ltd.   (416,643)   (12,984,575)
Murphy Oil Corp.   (1,098,240)   (33,858,739)
National Oilwell Varco, Inc.   (510,290)   (24,019,350)
Oasis Petroleum, Inc.*   (1,843,437)   (24,812,662)
PrairieSky Royalty Ltd.   (1,322,172)   (24,315,807)
Range Resources Corp.   (1,182,360)   (19,414,351)
         (307,075,940)
Finance-—(6.3%)          
Aozora Bank Ltd.   (264,600)   (9,346,411)
Bank of East Asia Ltd., (The)   (3,033,526)   (11,239,472)
Bankinter SA   (1,497,065)   (13,303,201)
Canadian Western Bank   (561,522)   (15,275,119)
Cincinnati Financial Corp.   (134,836)   (10,337,876)
Cohen & Steers, Inc.   (144,861)   (6,021,872)
Commonwealth Bank of Australia   (163,869)   (8,402,054)
Community Bank System, Inc.   (350,852)   (23,201,843)
Credit Suisse Group AG*   (867,338)   (12,988,014)
Cullen/Frost Bankers, Inc.   (82,533)   (9,152,084)
CVB Financial Corp.   (711,691)   (17,116,169)
Erie Indemnity Co. Class A   (6,826)   (843,216)
First Financial Bankshares, Inc.   (763,107)   (46,091,663)
First Republic Bank   (142,997)   (14,527,065)
Glacier Bancorp, Inc.   (441,956)   (20,188,550)
Independent Bank Corp.   (122,290)   (11,140,619)
Investors Bancorp, Inc.   (632,019)   (8,089,843)
LendingClub Corp.*   (1,966,310)   (7,098,379)
MarketAxess Holdings, Inc.   (87,244)   (16,560,656)
Mercury General Corp.   (289,532)   (15,605,775)
Metro Bank PLC*   (259,698)   (9,392,856)
People’s United Financial, Inc.   (584,727)   (10,823,297)
Prosperity Bancshares, Inc.   (245,968)   (18,408,245)
RLI Corp.   (169,372)   (13,036,563)
Standard Chartered PLC   (807,450)   (6,582,300)
Trupanion, Inc.*   (312,442)   (11,932,160)
Trustmark Corp.   (494,555)   (17,546,811)
UMB Financial Corp.   (133,147)   (10,017,980)
United Bankshares, Inc.   (374,899)   (14,771,021)
Westamerica Bancorporation   (465,289)   (29,792,455)
WisdomTree Investments, Inc.   (830,064)   (6,823,126)
         (425,656,695)
Health Care—(1.4%)          
Genmab A/S*   (102,086)   (17,717,636)
Glaukos Corp.*   (241,341)   (16,500,484)
Healthcare Services Group, Inc.   (431,097)   (17,765,507)
Insulet Corp.*   (146,294)   (15,254,075)
West Pharmaceutical Services, Inc.   (123,217)   (14,422,550)
Wright Medical Group NV*   (498,706)   (14,452,500)
         (96,112,752)
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Real Estate Investment Trusts—(1.8%)          
Extra Space Storage, Inc.   (298,031)  $(27,481,439)
Iron Mountain, Inc.   (490,582)   (17,710,010)
Lamar Advertising Co. Class A   (228,130)   (17,577,416)
Public Storage   (87,318)   (18,562,060)
Redfin Corp.*   (794,733)   (15,743,661)
Washington Prime Group, Inc.   (3,225,469)   (24,965,130)
         (122,039,716)
Technology—(8.6%)          
2U, Inc.*   (254,912)   (22,778,936)
ACI Worldwide, Inc.*   (1,118,625)   (31,780,136)
Blackbaud, Inc.   (235,492)   (24,625,398)
CoStar Group, Inc.*   (85,001)   (37,584,042)
Cree, Inc.*   (567,774)   (27,315,607)
Ellie Mae, Inc.*   (281,785)   (29,691,686)
Guidewire Software, Inc.*   (166,259)   (16,720,668)
HubSpot, Inc.*   (224,937)   (32,323,447)
Infineon Technologies AG   (659,102)   (16,760,414)
Inovalon Holdings, Inc.*   (860,044)   (9,460,484)
Knowles Corp.*   (1,329,493)   (24,103,708)
Manhattan Associates, Inc.*   (481,730)   (27,935,523)
Medidata Solutions, Inc.*   (413,413)   (35,131,837)
MercadoLibre, Inc.   (90,402)   (30,954,549)
MINDBODY, Inc. Class A*   (576,199)   (21,376,983)
National Instruments Corp.   (449,952)   (21,485,208)
Oracle Corp.   (223,100)   (18,698,144)
Proofpoint, Inc.*   (117,926)   (13,991,920)
Pure Storage, Inc., Class A*   (818,552)   (21,969,936)
Shopify, Inc.*   (151,070)   (22,006,367)
Ultimate Software Group Inc., (The)*    (103,987)   (32,201,654)
ViaSat, Inc.*   (200,601)   (12,601,755)
Workday, Inc., Class A*   (193,189)   (29,855,428)
Zendesk, Inc.*   (278,652)   (19,196,336)
         (580,550,166)
Transportation—(0.7%)          
Atlas Air Worldwide Holdings, Inc.*    (250,254)   (15,240,469)
Heartland Express, Inc.   (570,632)   (11,669,424)
Panalpina Welttransport Holding AG    (140,280)   (20,997,509)
         (47,907,402)
Utilities—(1.1%)          
El Paso Electric Co.   (262,029)   (16,062,378)
IDACORP, Inc.   (247,680)   (24,235,488)
Keyera Corp.   (663,470)   (18,282,284)
Kinder Morgan Canada Ltd.   (140,745)   (1,852,873)
TransCanada Corp.   (268,143)   (11,422,892)
         (71,855,915)
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Proceeds $(2,670,922,791))
        (3,069,117,514)
TOTAL SECURITIES SOLD SHORT—(45.4%)
(Proceeds $(2,670,922,791))
        (3,069,117,514)
OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES—46.2%        3,122,060,968 
NET ASSETS—100.0%       $6,755,802,146 

 

 

 

ADR American Depositary Receipt
PLC Public Limited Company
SP ADR  Sponsored American Depositary Receipt
* Non-income producing.
(a) Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

48  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT RESEARCH FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

  Security position is either entirely or partially held in a segregated account as collateral for securities sold short or contract for differences.
  Security has been valued at fair market value using significant unobservable inputs as determined in good faith by or under the direction of The RBB Fund, Inc.’s Board of Directors. As of August 31, 2018, these securities amounted to $245,943 or 0.0% of net assets.


 

Contracts For Difference held by the Fund at August 31, 2018, are as follows:

 

REFERENCE
COMPANY    
  COUNTERPARTY  EXPIRATION
DATE
  FINANCING
RATE
  PAYMENT
FREQUENCY
  NUMBER OF
CONTRACTS
LONG/
(SHORT)
   NOTIONAL
AMOUNT
   UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION
(DEPRECIATION)
 
Long                             
China                             
Jiangsu Yanghe Brewery Joint-Stock Co., Ltd., Class A  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07%  Monthly   1,816,000   $30,687,307   $494,158 
Kweichow Moutai  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   225,800    21,803,129    (387,914)
Qingdao Haier Co. Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   2,180,244    4,764,021    (201,090)
Wuliangye Yibin Co., Ltd., Class A  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021   2.07   Monthly   4,113,812    37,369,264    (1,323,054)
                       94,623,721    (1,417,900)
Total Long                      94,623,721    (1,417,900)
Short                             
Brazil                             
Raia Drogasil SA  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.92%  Monthly   (455,400)  $(8,632,598)  $(60,081)
China                             
Semiconductor Manufacturing  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021   0.84   Monthly   (19,013,600)   (22,392,191)   (980,580)
Indonesia                             
Unilever Indonesia TBK PT  Macquarie  9/19/2018   1.92   Monthly   (4,217,100)   (12,548,937)   (229,533)
South Korea                             
Amorepacific Corp.  Macquarie  9/15/2020   1.92   Monthly   (63,347)   (14,961,906)   (320,243)
Celltrion Inc.  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.92   Monthly   (98,720)   (23,965,463)   (308,676)
                       (38,927,369)   (628,919)
Taiwan                             
AU Optronics Corp.  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.92   Monthly   (50,614,000)   (21,954,842)   (464,494)
Eclat Textile Co., Ltd.  Macquarie  12/31/2021   1.92   Monthly   (869,000)   (10,547,397)   690,932 
Feng Tay Enterprise  Macquarie  9/15/2020   1.92   Monthly   (2,344,000)   (14,217,076)   46,901 
Innolux Corp.  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.92   Monthly   (34,122,000)   (12,722,238)   (228,698)
                       (59,441,553)   44,641 
United States                             
CarMax, Inc.  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.92   Monthly   (173,557)   (13,546,124)   (381,538)
Total Short                      (155,488,772)   (2,236,010)
Net unrealized gain/(loss) on Contracts For Difference            $(3,653,910)

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  49

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS LONG/SHORT RESEARCH FUND Portfolio Of Investments (concluded)

 

A summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments carried at fair value as of August 31, 2018 is as follows (see Notes to Portfolio of Investments):

 

   TOTAL   LEVEL 1   LEVEL 2   LEVEL 3 
Common Stock                    
Basic Industries  $343,248,990   $311,745,476   $31,503,514   $ 
Capital Goods   665,540,107    623,920,941    41,619,166     
Communications   205,790,912    205,790,912         
Consumer Durables   95,082,274    36,407,411    58,674,863     
Consumer Non-Durables   332,044,886    224,598,958    107,445,928     
Consumer Services   699,458,203    599,147,076    100,311,127     
Energy   634,352,983    563,487,386    70,865,597     
Finance   1,304,729,044    1,152,336,314    152,392,730     
Health Care   695,742,017    626,828,743    68,913,274     
Real Estate Investment Trusts   10,455,869    10,455,869         
Technology   1,475,568,521    1,338,261,608    137,306,913     
Transportation   75,927,918    75,927,918         
Warrants   245,943            245,943 
Short-Term Investments   164,671,025    164,671,025         
Contracts For Difference                     
Equity Contracts   1,231,992        1,231,992     
Total Assets  $6,704,090,684   $5,933,579,637   $770,265,104   $245,943 
                     
   TOTAL   LEVEL 1   LEVEL 2   LEVEL 3 
Securities Sold Short                    
Basic Industries  $(221,835,571)  $(140,355,388)  $(81,480,183)  $ 
Capital Goods   (283,048,463)   (248,811,691)   (34,236,772)    
Communications   (64,153,488)   (56,362,969)   (7,790,519)    
Consumer Durables   (109,886,398)   (88,803,680)   (21,082,718)    
Consumer Non-Durables   (261,050,130)   (179,452,474)   (81,597,656)    
Consumer Services   (477,944,878)   (370,722,607)   (107,222,271)    
Energy   (307,075,940)   (307,075,940)        
Finance   (425,656,695)   (354,402,387)   (71,254,308)    
Health Care   (96,112,752)   (78,395,116)   (17,717,636)    
Real Estate Investment Trusts   (122,039,716)   (122,039,716)        
Technology   (580,550,166)   (545,091,608)   (35,458,558)    
Transportation   (47,907,402)   (26,909,893)   (20,997,509)    
Utilities   (71,855,915)   (71,855,915)        
Contracts For Difference                     
Equity Contracts   (4,885,902)       (4,885,902)    
Total Liabilities  $(3,074,003,416)  $(2,590,279,384)  $(483,724,032)  $ 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

50  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS ALL-CAP VALUE FUND Portfolio Of Investments

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
COMMON STOCKS—91.6%          
Basic Industries—1.5%          
Crown Holdings, Inc.*   143,416   $6,139,639 
FMC Corp.   78,171    6,679,712 
Graphic Packaging Holding Co.   975,461    13,871,055 
Mosaic Co., (The)   263,729    8,246,806 
         34,937,212 
Capital Goods—7.4%          
AMETEK, Inc.   153,705    11,829,137 
Cemex SAB de CV - SP ADR*   1,191,917    8,450,692 
CRH PLC - SP ADR   275,508    9,124,825 
Cummins, Inc.   132,627    18,806,509 
Dover Corp.(a)   168,512    14,470,125 
General Dynamics Corp.   81,981    15,855,125 
Masco Corp.   181,076    6,875,456 
Owens Corning   86,813    4,915,352 
PACCAR, Inc.   230,605    15,777,994 
Spirit AeroSystems Holdings, Inc. Class A(a)   79,661    6,811,015 
Textron, Inc.(a)   102,589    7,081,719 
Trinseo SA   118,666    9,155,082 
United Technologies Corp.   177,643    23,395,583 
WESCO International, Inc.*   211,210    12,915,491 
World Fuel Services Corp.(a)   321,967    9,024,735 
         174,488,840 
Communications—0.4%          
Comcast Corp., Class A   256,900    9,502,731 
Consumer Durables—1.1%          
Fiat Chrysler Automobiles NV*   148,557    2,541,810 
Lear Corp.   70,897    11,499,494 
Sony Corp.   234,672    13,336,410 
         27,377,714 
Consumer Non-Durables—1.5%          
Altria Group, Inc.   109,420    6,403,258 
Ambev SA - ADR   1,585,852    7,374,212 
PepsiCo, Inc.   185,974    20,830,948 
         34,608,418 
Consumer Services—5.7%          
CVS Health Corp.(a)   202,050    15,202,242 
Dick’s Sporting Goods, Inc.   336,040    12,581,338 
eBay, Inc.*   526,418    18,219,327 
Huron Consulting Group, Inc.*   123,545    6,115,477 
Interpublic Group of Cos., Inc., (The)(a)   769,533    17,968,596 
KAR Auction Services, Inc.   120,037    7,525,119 
Lowe’s Cos., Inc.   174,567    18,984,161 
ManpowerGroup, Inc.   107,415    10,068,008 
Nordstrom, Inc.(a)   128,836    8,097,343 
Omnicom Group, Inc.(a)   102,306    7,091,852 
Robert Half International, Inc.(a)   112,773    8,816,593 
Wyndham Destinations, Inc.   115,515    5,105,763 
         135,775,819 
Energy—6.8%          
Anadarko Petroleum Corp.   131,241    8,451,920 
Andeavor   177,549    27,127,712 
Apergy Corp.*   84,257    3,810,101 
Cimarex Energy Co.(a)   85,033    7,183,588 
Diamondback Energy, Inc.(a)   93,949    11,375,345 
Energen Corp.*   120,121    9,315,384 
EQT Corp.   192,217    9,806,911 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Energy—(continued)          
Gulfport Energy Corp.*   278,043   $3,269,786 
Marathon Oil Corp.   1,145,721    24,644,459 
Newfield Exploration Co.*   210,413    5,740,067 
Parsley Energy, Inc., Class A*   609,859    16,935,784 
Phillips 66(a)   147,996    17,539,006 
Pioneer Natural Resources Co.   97,041    16,953,063 
         162,153,126 
Finance—28.8%          
Aflac, Inc.   517,445    23,926,657 
Air Lease Corp.   393,831    18,198,931 
Alleghany Corp.(a)   36,452    23,029,645 
Allstate Corp., (The)   210,108    21,130,562 
American International Group, Inc.(a)   507,998    27,010,254 
Aon PLC   134,382    19,560,644 
Bank of America Corp.   1,695,893    52,453,970 
BB&T Corp.   511,873    26,443,359 
Capital One Financial Corp.   204,835    20,297,100 
Charles Schwab Corp., (The)(a)   92,591    4,702,697 
Chubb Ltd.   203,784    27,559,748 
Citigroup, Inc.   632,538    45,062,007 
Discover Financial Services   175,045    13,674,515 
FCB Financial Holdings, Inc., Class A*   100,933    5,228,329 
Fifth Third Bancorp   386,633    11,378,609 
Goldman Sachs Group, Inc., (The)(a)   73,667    17,518,749 
Huntington Bancshares, Inc.(a)   1,217,176    19,730,423 
JPMorgan Chase & Co.   632,966    72,525,244 
KeyCorp(a)   1,179,397    24,849,895 
Loews Corp.   482,865    24,292,938 
MetLife, Inc.(a)   289,052    13,264,596 
Navient Corp.   548,926    7,487,351 
Prudential Financial, Inc.   181,752    17,857,134 
Raymond James Financial, Inc.   150,454    13,998,240 
SLM Corp.(a)*   381,329    4,469,176 
State Street Corp.   101,970    8,862,213 
Synchrony Financial   234,835    7,437,224 
TD Ameritrade Holding Corp.(a)   177,495    10,395,882 
Torchmark Corp.   114,356    10,054,180 
Travelers Cos., Inc., (The)   127,475    16,775,710 
Wells Fargo & Co.   200,677    11,735,591 
White Mountains Insurance Group Ltd.   23,482    21,790,122 
WR Berkley Corp.(a)   158,738    12,422,836 
XL Group Ltd.   443,472    25,450,858 
         680,575,389 
Health Care—15.0%          
Abbott Laboratories(a)   394,358    26,358,889 
Anthem, Inc.   98,276    26,016,605 
Cardinal Health, Inc.   139,376    7,274,033 
Cigna Corp.   72,138    13,586,471 
Gilead Sciences, Inc.   371,422    28,127,788 
Jazz Pharmaceuticals PLC*   78,758    13,461,317 
Johnson & Johnson   182,678    24,604,900 
Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings*   128,367    22,190,803 
McKesson Corp.   164,551    21,185,941 
Medtronic PLC   415,995    40,106,078 
Merck & Co., Inc.   626,808    42,992,761 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  51

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS ALL-CAP VALUE FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Health Care—(continued)          
Novartis AG - SP ADR   354,360   $29,415,424 
Pfizer, Inc.   684,862    28,435,470 
Roche Holding AG - SP ADR   156,505    4,845,395 
UnitedHealth Group, Inc.   100,925    27,094,326 
         355,696,201 
Technology—22.7%          
Alliance Data Systems Corp.(a)   68,550    16,354,659 
Alphabet, Inc., Class A*   15,140    18,649,452 
Amdocs Ltd.   156,076    10,188,641 
Analog Devices, Inc.   128,997    12,751,353 
Arrow Electronics, Inc.*   201,445    15,618,031 
Baidu, Inc. - SP ADR*   20,499    4,642,614 
Belden, Inc.(a)   153,861    11,188,772 
Booking Holdings, Inc.(a)*   5,482    10,698,397 
Cisco Systems, Inc.   1,164,104    55,609,248 
Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., Class A   85,249    6,686,079 
DXC Technology Co.   452,389    41,208,114 
EnerSys   194,971    16,180,643 
Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.   67,678    7,320,729 
Flex Ltd.*   809,485    11,162,798 
Fortive Corp.(a)   170,096    14,284,662 
GrafTech International Ltd.(a)   544,083    10,054,654 
Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.   1,314,140    21,722,734 
HP, Inc.   988,247    24,360,289 
Jabil, Inc.(a)   477,253    14,107,599 
KLA-Tencor Corp.   109,929    12,774,849 
Leidos Holdings, Inc.   106,695    7,550,805 
Microsoft Corp.   225,469    25,326,933 
Momo, Inc. - SP ADR*   269,558    12,477,840 
NetApp, Inc.(a)   138,485    12,021,883 
NetEase, Inc. - ADR   17,798    3,518,843 
ON Semiconductor Corp.(a)*   430,163    9,179,678 
Oracle Corp.(a)   869,032    42,217,575 
Qorvo, Inc.(a)*   300,082    24,033,567 
Symantec Corp.   561,525    11,320,344 
TE Connectivity Ltd.   265,190    24,312,619 
Versum Materials, Inc.(a)   234,006    9,311,099 
Xerox Corp.   275,483    7,674,956 
YY, Inc. - ADR*   152,937    11,688,975 
         536,199,434 
Transportation—0.7%          
Delta Air Lines, Inc.(a)   267,088    15,619,306 
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Cost $1,619,638,726)
        2,166,934,190 
EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS—6.5%          
Finance—6.5%          
iShares Russell 2000 Value ETF(a)   558,184    76,398,644 
SPDR S&P 500 ETF Trust   262,827    76,301,306 
         152,699,950 
TOTAL EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS
(Cost $152,469,097)
        152,699,950 
RIGHTS—0.0%          
Technology—0.0%          
CVR Banctec Inc. - Escrow Shares*‡    14,327    0 
TOTAL RIGHTS
(Cost $0)
        0 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL—11.3%          
Mount Vernon Liquid Assets Portfolio, LLC, 2.15%(b)   267,098,957   $267,098,957 
TOTAL INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL
(Cost $267,098,957)
        267,098,957 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS—2.0%          
Morgan Stanley Institutional Liquidity Funds – Treasury Portfolio, 1.85%(b)   46,593,663    46,593,663 
TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
(Cost $46,593,663)
        46,593,663 
TOTAL INVESTMENTS—111.4%
(Cost $2,085,800,443)
        2,633,326,760 
LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS—(11.4)%        (268,614,236)
NET ASSETS—100.0%       $2,364,712,524 

 

 

 

ADR —  American Depositary Receipt
PLC Public Limited Company
SP ADR  Sponsored American Depositary Receipt
* Non-income producing.
(a) All or a portion of the security is on loan. At August 31, 2018, the market value of securities on loan was $260,924,700.
(b) Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.
Security has been valued at fair market value using significant unobservable inputs as determined in good faith by or under the direction of The RBB Fund, Inc.’s Board of Directors. As of August 31, 2018, these securities amounted to $0 or 0.0% of net assets.


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

52  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS ALL-CAP VALUE FUND Portfolio Of Investments (concluded)

 

A summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments carried at fair value as of August 31, 2018 is as follows (see Notes to Portfolio of Investments):

 

   TOTAL   LEVEL 1   LEVEL 2   LEVEL 3   INVESTMENTS
MEASURED
AT NET
ASSET VALUE*
 
Common Stock                         
Basic Industries  $34,937,212   $34,937,212   $   $   $ 
Capital Goods   174,488,840    174,488,840             
Communications   9,502,731    9,502,731             
Consumer Durables   27,377,714    27,377,714             
Consumer Non-Durables   34,608,418    34,608,418             
Consumer Services   135,775,819    135,775,819             
Energy   162,153,126    162,153,126             
Finance   680,575,389    680,575,389             
Health Care   355,696,201    355,696,201             
Technology   536,199,434    536,199,434             
Transportation   15,619,306    15,619,306             
Exchange Traded Funds   152,699,950    152,699,950             
Rights                    
Investments Purchased with Proceeds from Securities Lending Collateral   267,098,957                267,098,957 
Short-Term Investments   46,593,663    46,593,663             
Total Assets  $2,633,326,760   $2,366,227,803   $   $   $267,098,957 

 

*Certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amount presented in the table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  53

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
WPG PARTNERS SMALL/MICRO CAP VALUE FUND Portfolio Of Investments

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
COMMON STOCKS—99.3%          
Basic Industries—5.2%          
Allegheny Technologies, Inc.(a)*   30,400   $821,712 
Green Plains, Inc.   10,900    193,475 
Haynes International, Inc.(a)   13,200    520,080 
Schweitzer-Mauduit International, Inc.   3,600    146,484 
         1,681,751 
Capital Goods—14.7%          
Astec Industries, Inc.   3,300    160,545 
BMC Stock Holdings, Inc.(a)*   14,300    321,750 
Carpenter Technology Corp.   3,100    184,977 
Core-Mark Holding Co., Inc.   1,700    60,809 
Ferroglobe PLC   15,900    131,652 
FreightCar America, Inc.*   36,800    622,288 
Granite Construction, Inc.   4,300    196,424 
Great Lakes Dredge & Dock Corp.*   79,600    435,810 
KBR, Inc.   37,900    795,142 
KeyW Holding Corp., (The)(a)*   40,900    348,059 
Matrix Service Co.*   10,300    215,270 
Orion Group Holdings, Inc.*   53,800    463,756 
Smart Sand, Inc.(a)*   28,500    141,930 
Tutor Perini Corp.*   33,700    685,795 
         4,764,207 
Communications—0.6%          
Ooma, Inc.*   11,500    184,000 
Consumer Durables—3.5%          
Century Communities, Inc.*   8,100    236,925 
LGI Homes, Inc.(a)*   2,200    126,720 
Libbey, Inc.(a)   36,500    358,795 
Tower International, Inc.(a)   8,100    273,780 
TRI Pointe Group, Inc.(a)*   10,100    146,349 
         1,142,569 
Consumer Non-Durables—0.6%          
Matthews International Corp., Class A(a)   4,100    212,790 
Consumer Services—5.7%          
Covanta Holding Corp.(a)   17,900    315,935 
Del Taco Restaurants, Inc.*   12,300    159,039 
Hibbett Sports, Inc.(a)*   16,200    332,910 
ICF International, Inc.   6,900    563,385 
MDC Partners, Inc., Class A*   67,700    328,345 
Tile Shop Holdings, Inc.   21,500    164,475 
         1,864,089 
Energy—11.9%          
Eclipse Resources Corp.(a)*   99,700    142,571 
Extraction Oil & Gas, Inc.(a)*   15,200    175,560 
Flotek Industries, Inc.(a)*   29,500    73,455 
Gulfport Energy Corp.(a)*   50,000    588,000 
HighPoint Resources Corp.*   91,600    504,716 
Mammoth Energy Services, Inc.(a)   17,300    475,404 
McDermott International, Inc.(a)*   26,000    502,840 
NCS Multistage Holdings, Inc.(a)*   8,800    143,176 
Nine Energy Service, Inc.(a)*   6,500    194,870 
Resolute Energy Corp.(a)*   5,100    168,096 
Select Energy Services, Inc. Class A*   9,000    122,850 
Solaris Oilfield Infrastructure, Inc. Class A(a)*   21,000    361,620 

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Energy—(continued)          
TETRA Technologies, Inc.*   42,500   $195,075 
WildHorse Resource Development Corp.(a)*   9,100    197,834 
         3,846,067 
Finance—26.3%          
Ameris Bancorp   9,500    471,675 
Banner Corp.   7,500    482,475 
Central Pacific Financial Corp.   12,900    365,457 
CNO Financial Group, Inc.   9,500    205,295 
Essent Group Ltd.*   7,700    333,872 
First Foundation, Inc.*   21,000    339,780 
Fulton Financial Corp.   24,600    447,720 
Hanover Insurance Group Inc., (The)   1,800    220,482 
HomeStreet, Inc.*   22,200    653,790 
Kearny Financial Corp.   10,000    137,000 
Kemper Corp.   6,900    561,315 
Kennedy-Wilson Holdings, Inc.(a)   23,800    510,510 
Meridian Bancorp, Inc.   9,400    168,260 
MGIC Investment Corp.*   38,400    488,448 
National Bank Holdings Corp., Class A(a)   9,200    369,380 
Northfield Bancorp, Inc.   19,500    317,460 
Origin Bancorp, Inc.   5,500    222,860 
Peapack Gladstone Financial Corp.(a)   9,500    317,395 
Popular, Inc.   16,100    810,474 
State Bank Financial Corp.   9,200    299,736 
United Community Banks, Inc.   8,900    270,026 
United Financial Bancorp, Inc.   30,700    545,539 
         8,538,949 
Health Care—2.0%          
Accuray, Inc.*   106,300    425,200 
LifePoint Health, Inc.(a)*   1,300    83,720 
Trinity Biotech PLC - SP ADR*   32,600    127,466 
         636,386 
Real Estate Investment Trusts—10.3%          
Brixmor Property Group, Inc.   15,300    278,766 
Cedar Realty Trust, Inc.   54,900    245,403 
GEO Group Inc., (The)   13,000    329,810 
Getty Realty Corp.   17,800    518,158 
Industrial Logistics Properties Trust   8,300    199,781 
Investors Real Estate Trust   39,800    216,910 
Ladder Capital Corp.   22,800    396,036 
LTC Properties, Inc.   3,500    162,575 
NexPoint Residential Trust, Inc.(a)   5,600    180,880 
Piedmont Office Realty Trust, Inc.   9,600    190,464 
Seritage Growth Properties, Class A(a)   7,700    396,396 
UMH Properties, Inc.(a)   15,300    244,188 
         3,359,367 
Technology—9.1%          
Acacia Communications, Inc.(a)*   8,700    354,699 
Aerohive Networks, Inc.*   30,200    127,444 
CommVault Systems, Inc.*   2,700    188,055 
Generac Holdings, Inc.*   8,900    493,861 
NeoPhotonics Corp.(a)*   58,900    517,731 
NetScout Systems, Inc.(a)*   7,000    175,000 
OneSpan, Inc.*   7,400    138,750 
QAD, Inc., Class A   4,400    266,860 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

54  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
WPG PARTNERS SMALL/MICRO CAP VALUE FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Technology—(continued)          
Quantenna Communications, Inc.*   7,500   $137,025 
Ribbon Communications, Inc.*   33,000    228,360 
ServiceSource International, Inc.*   45,100    143,869 
SMART Global Holdings, Inc.*   5,100    168,249 
         2,939,903 
Transportation—6.5%          
Ardmore Shipping Corp.*   65,100    455,700 
Mesa Air Group, Inc.*   25,500    351,645 
Scorpio Tankers, Inc.   116,600    223,872 
Spirit Airlines, Inc.(a)*   9,700    460,944 
StealthGas, Inc.*   53,300    189,748 
YRC Worldwide, Inc.*   46,200    442,134 
         2,124,043 
Utilities—2.9%          
ALLETE, Inc.   2,600    195,207 
El Paso Electric Co.(a)   2,400    147,120 
NorthWestern Corp.   3,300    197,868 
PNM Resources, Inc.   3,800    148,010 
Portland General Electric Co.(a)   5,200    241,280 
         929,485 
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Cost $27,668,298)
        32,223,606 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
WARRANTS—0.1%          
Energy—0.1%          
TETRA Technologies, Inc.*‡   20,950   $15,922 
TOTAL WARRANTS
(Cost $4,475)
        15,922 
INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL—25.0%          
Mount Vernon Liquid Assets Portfolio, LLC, 2.15%(b)   8,119,241    8,119,241 
TOTAL INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL
(Cost $8,119,241)
        8,119,241 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS—0.7%          
Morgan Stanley Institutional Liquidity Funds – Treasury Portfolio, 1.85%(b)   211,260    211,260 
TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
(Cost $211,260)
        211,260 
TOTAL INVESTMENTS—125.1%
(Cost $36,003,274)
        40,570,029 
LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS—(25.1)%        (8,134,281)
NET ASSETS—100.0%       $32,435,748 

 

 

 

PLC   — Public Limited Company
SP ADR    — Sponsored American Depositary Receipt
*   — Non-income producing.
(a)   — All or a portion of the security is on loan. At August 31, 2018, the market value of securities on loan was $7,941,707.
(b)   — Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.
  — Security has been valued at fair market value using significant unobservable inputs as determined in good faith by or under the direction of The RBB Fund, Inc.’s Board of Directors. As of August 31, 2018, these securities amounted to $15,922 or 0.1% of net assets.
 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  55

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
WPG PARTNERS SMALL/MICRO CAP VALUE FUND Portfolio Of Investments (concluded)

 

A summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments carried at fair value as of August 31, 2018 is as follows (see Notes to Portfolio of Investments):

 

   TOTAL   LEVEL 1   LEVEL 2   LEVEL 3   INVESTMENTS
MEASURED
AT NET
ASSET VALUE*
 
Common Stock                         
Basic Industries  $1,681,751   $1,681,751   $   $   $ 
Capital Goods   4,764,207    4,764,207             
Communications   184,000    184,000             
Consumer Durables   1,142,569    1,142,569             
Consumer Non-Durables   212,790    212,790             
Consumer Services   1,864,089    1,864,089             
Energy   3,846,067    3,846,067             
Finance   8,538,949    8,538,949             
Health Care   636,386    636,386             
Real Estate Investment Trusts   3,359,367    3,359,367             
Technology   2,939,903    2,939,903             
Transportation   2,124,043    2,124,043             
Utilities   929,485    929,485             
Warrants   15,922            15,922     
Investments Purchased with Proceeds from Securities Lending Collateral   8,119,241                8,119,241 
Short-Term Investments   211,260    211,260             
Total Assets  $40,570,029   $32,434,866   $   $15,922   $8,119,241 

 

*Certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amount presented in the table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

56  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS GLOBAL EQUITY FUND Portfolio Of Investments

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
COMMON STOCKS—95.5%          
Australia—0.7%          
Woodside Petroleum Ltd.   165,545   $4,391,948 
Bermuda—1.5%          
Everest Re Group Ltd.   25,505    5,688,125 
RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd.   31,202    4,148,618 
         9,836,743 
Canada—1.0%          
Nutrien Ltd.   114,501    6,484,192 
Denmark—1.1%          
Novo Nordisk A/S Class B   142,161    6,998,043 
France—4.3%          
Capgemini SA   64,421    8,303,652 
Danone SA   70,653    5,563,929 
Teleperformance SA   12,065    2,319,815 
TOTAL SA   151,526    9,501,891 
Vinci SA   34,456    3,292,437 
         28,981,724 
Germany—0.3%          
Siemens AG   17,966    2,332,063 
Hong Kong—0.8%          
CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd.   467,000    5,384,087 
Ireland—2.0%          
Bank of Ireland Group PLC   407,363    3,337,334 
CRH PLC   294,705    9,790,235 
         13,127,569 
Japan—9.6%          
Asahi Group Holdings Ltd.   118,300    5,342,107 
Fuji Electric Co., Ltd.   1,114,000    8,973,718 
Haseko Corp.   251,600    3,259,445 
KDDI Corp.   272,500    7,204,856 
Matsumotokiyoshi Holdings Co., Ltd.   89,200    3,370,302 
Mitsubishi Electric Corp.   200,400    2,705,295 
Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp.   105,800    4,707,147 
Nomura Holdings, Inc.   694,900    3,183,423 
Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd.   147,600    6,002,035 
Sony Corp.   162,400    9,234,493 
SUMCO Corp.   144,900    2,588,091 
Sumitomo Electric Industries Ltd.   220,100    3,481,012 
Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.   106,600    4,190,815 
         64,242,739 
Luxembourg—0.3%          
Ternium SA - SP ADR   65,402    1,844,336 
Mexico—0.7%          
Cemex SAB de CV - SP ADR*   655,806    4,649,665 
Netherlands—1.4%          
Koninklijke Ahold NV   112,842    2,748,769 
Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class A   201,142    6,543,906 
         9,292,675 
Singapore—0.8%          
Flex Ltd.*   395,051    5,447,753 
South Korea—1.4%          
KT Corp. - SP ADR   116,031    1,602,388 
LG Uplus Corp.   120,477    1,698,728 
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.   138,085    6,002,646 
         9,303,762 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Switzerland—4.0%          
ABB Ltd.   318,961   $7,512,059 
Glencore PLC*   971,569    3,958,229 
Roche Holding AG   35,211    8,730,697 
Swiss Re AG   73,891    6,648,004 
         26,848,989 
United Kingdom—5.5%          
Aviva PLC   715,693    4,502,704 
Coca-Cola European Partners PLC(a)   132,813    5,663,146 
Direct Line Insurance Group PLC   1,084,843    4,660,537 
Imperial Brands PLC   133,428    4,753,950 
Lloyds Banking Group PLC   6,143,362    4,732,342 
Nomad Foods Ltd.*   179,875    3,750,394 
Tullow Oil PLC*   616,058    1,862,440 
Vodafone Group PLC   1,414,837    3,014,780 
WPP PLC   219,492    3,640,187 
         36,580,480 
United States—60.1%          
Advance Auto Parts, Inc.   21,953    3,600,951 
Air Lease Corp.(a)   102,390    4,731,442 
Allstate Corp. (The)   75,777    7,620,893 
Alphabet, Inc., Class C*   8,156    9,935,558 
American Express Co.   75,147    7,964,079 
American International Group, Inc.(a)   87,944    4,675,982 
Andeavor   22,005    3,362,144 
Anthem, Inc.   53,448    14,149,289 
Apergy Corp.(a)*   93,269    4,217,624 
Bank of America Corp.   464,133    14,355,634 
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B*   109,449    22,844,195 
Biogen, Inc.*   7,252    2,563,509 
Booking Holdings, Inc.(a)*   1,499    2,925,373 
Chubb Ltd.   62,326    8,428,968 
Cigna Corp.   19,450    3,663,213 
Cisco Systems, Inc.   191,150    9,131,235 
Citigroup, Inc.   89,227    6,356,531 
Comcast Corp., Class A   234,825    8,686,177 
DowDuPont, Inc.   98,849    6,932,280 
DXC Technology Co.   93,307    8,499,335 
Eaton Corp. PLC   126,433    10,511,640 
EQT Corp.   89,368    4,559,555 
Goldman Sachs Group Inc., (The)(a)   48,223    11,467,912 
GrafTech International Ltd.(a)   170,076    3,143,004 
HP, Inc.   200,803    4,949,794 
Jagged Peak Energy, Inc.(a)*   154,922    2,046,520 
Johnson & Johnson   61,567    8,292,459 
Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings*   49,953    8,635,375 
Leidos Holdings, Inc.(a)   42,070    2,977,294 
Loews Corp.(a)   65,879    3,314,372 
Lowe’s Cos., Inc.   66,005    7,178,044 
Marvell Technology Group Ltd.   221,667    4,584,074 
Masco Corp.   161,161    6,119,283 
McKesson Corp.   42,046    5,413,423 
Microsoft Corp.   205,362    23,068,313 
Morgan Stanley   157,324    7,682,131 
Mosaic Co. (The)(a)   118,234    3,697,177 
NetApp, Inc.(a)   56,064    4,866,916 
Nordstrom, Inc.(a)   64,185    4,034,027 
Northrop Grumman Corp.   10,672    3,185,485 
Oracle Corp.(a)   232,726    11,305,829 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  57

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS GLOBAL EQUITY FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
United States—(continued)          
Owens Corning(a)   93,272   $5,281,061 
Parsley Energy, Inc., Class A(a)*   204,207    5,670,828 
Peabody Energy Corp.   92,344    3,814,731 
Pfizer, Inc.   130,570    5,421,266 
Pioneer Natural Resources Co.(a)   39,864    6,964,241 
Raytheon Co.   16,548    3,300,333 
Steel Dynamics, Inc.   118,186    5,404,646 
SunTrust Banks, Inc.   66,087    4,861,360 
SYNNEX Corp.(a)   29,293    2,840,542 
TE Connectivity Ltd.   62,094    5,692,778 
TJX Cos. Inc., (The)   24,595    2,704,712 
Trinseo SA   79,895    6,163,899 
Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc. Class A   93,208    4,231,643 
United Technologies Corp.   67,108    8,838,124 
Verizon Communications, Inc.   200,542    10,903,468 
Vistra Energy Corp.*   242,412    5,706,378 
Walmart, Inc.   56,257    5,392,796 
Wells Fargo & Co.   148,624    8,691,532 
WestRock Co.   55,810    3,074,015 
         400,635,392 
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Cost $558,314,586)
        636,382,160 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
PREFERRED STOCKS—0.7%          
Germany—0.7%          
Volkswagen AG, 2.784%   25,619   $4,187,890 
TOTAL PREFERRED STOCKS
(Cost $4,454,293)
        4,187,890 
INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL—6.2%          
Mount Vernon Liquid Assets Portfolio, LLC, 2.15%(b)   41,687,430    41,687,430 
TOTAL INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL
(Cost $41,687,430)
        41,687,430 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS—4.0%      
Morgan Stanley Institutional Liquidity Funds – Treasury Portfolio, 1.85%(b)   26,580,592    26,580,592 
TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
(Cost $26,580,592)
        26,580,592 
TOTAL INVESTMENTS—106.4%
(Cost $631,036,901)
        708,838,072 
LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS—(6.4)%        (42,567,171)
NET ASSETS—100.0%       $666,270,901 

 

 
PLC Public Limited Company
SP ADR Sponsored American Depositary Receipt
* Non-income producing.
(a)   All or a portion of the security is on loan. At August 31, 2018, the market value of securities on loan was $40,626,730.
(b) Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

58  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS GLOBAL EQUITY FUND Portfolio Of Investments (concluded)

 

A summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments carried at fair value as of August 31, 2018 is as follows (see Notes to Portfolio of Investments):

 

   TOTAL   LEVEL 1   LEVEL 2   LEVEL 3   INVESTMENTS
MEASURED
AT NET
ASSET VALUE*
 
Common Stock                         
Australia  $4,391,948   $   $4,391,948   $   $ 
Bermuda   9,836,743    9,836,743             
Canada   6,484,192    6,484,192             
Denmark   6,998,043        6,998,043         
France   28,981,724        28,981,724         
Germany   2,332,063        2,332,063         
Hong Kong   5,384,087        5,384,087         
Ireland   13,127,569        13,127,569         
Japan   64,242,739        64,242,739         
Luxembourg   1,844,336    1,844,336             
Mexico   4,649,665    4,649,665             
Netherlands   9,292,675        9,292,675         
Singapore   5,447,753    5,447,753             
South Korea   9,303,762    1,602,388    7,701,374         
Switzerland   26,848,989        26,848,989         
United Kingdom   36,580,480    9,413,540    27,166,940         
United States   400,635,392    400,635,392             
Preferred Stock                         
Germany   4,187,890        4,187,890         
Investments Purchased with Proceeds from Securities Lending Collateral   41,687,430                41,687,430 
Short-Term Investments   26,580,592    26,580,592             
Total Assets  $708,838,072   $466,494,601   $200,656,041   $   $41,687,430 

 

* Certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amount presented in the table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  59

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS GLOBAL LONG/SHORT FUND Portfolio Of Investments

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
LONG POSITIONS—99.6%          
COMMON STOCKS—98.7%          
Australia—0.7%           
Woodside Petroleum Ltd.   247,777   $6,573,582 
Bermuda—1.3%           
Everest Re Group Ltd.†   29,080    6,485,422 
RenaissanceRe Holdings Ltd.   45,243    6,015,509 
         12,500,931 
Canada—1.0%           
Nutrien Ltd.†   171,558    9,715,329 
Denmark—1.1%           
Novo Nordisk A/S Class B   208,619    10,269,517 
France—4.4%           
Capgemini SA    92,626    11,939,181 
Danone SA    102,894    8,102,911 
Teleperformance SA   10,371    1,994,098 
TOTAL SA    231,628    14,524,927 
Vinci SA    51,153    4,887,916 
         41,449,033 
Germany—0.4%           
Siemens AG    25,136    3,262,759 
Hong Kong—0.9%           
CK Hutchison Holdings Ltd.   699,500    8,064,602 
Ireland—2.0%           
Bank of Ireland Group PLC   591,269    4,843,990 
CRH PLC    426,837    14,179,720 
         19,023,710 
Japan—10.1%           
Asahi Group Holdings Ltd.   175,500    7,925,104 
Fuji Electric Co., Ltd.   1,630,000    13,130,305 
Haseko Corp.    393,900    5,102,924 
KDDI Corp.    399,700    10,568,004 
Matsumotokiyoshi Holdings Co., Ltd.   136,300    5,149,913 
Nippon Telegraph & Telephone Corp.   .158,500    7,051,822 
Nomura Holdings, Inc.   946,500    4,336,033 
Seven & i Holdings Co., Ltd.   214,500    8,722,469 
Sony Corp.    237,500    13,504,878 
SUMCO Corp.    208,800    3,729,423 
Sumitomo Electric Industries Ltd.   341,000    5,393,116 
Sumitomo Mitsui Financial Group, Inc.   143,500    5,641,482 
Ulvac, Inc.    106,300    4,402,624 
         94,658,097 
Luxembourg—0.3%          
Ternium SA - SP ADR†   102,318    2,885,368 
Mexic—0.8%           
Cemex SAB de CV - SP ADR*   1,000,771    7,095,466 
Netherlands—1.0%          
Royal Dutch Shell PLC, Class A   297,525    9,679,608 
Singapore—0.9%           
Flex Ltd.*#    624,911    8,617,523 
South Korea—1.6%          
KT Corp. - SP ADR   177,901    2,456,813 
LG Uplus Corp.    206,385    2,910,032 
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.   218,736    9,508,597 
         14,875,442 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Switzerland—4.2%          
ABB Ltd.   468,523   $11,034,492 
Glencore PLC*   1,386,269    5,647,741 
Roche Holding AG   56,482    14,004,919 
Swiss Re AG   99,920    8,989,844 
         39,676,996 
United Kingdom—5.9%          
Aviva PLC   1,050,431    6,608,672 
Coca-Cola European Partners PLC†   198,055    8,445,065 
Direct Line Insurance Group PLC   1,563,988    6,718,966 
Imperial Brands PLC   196,363    6,996,283 
Lloyds Banking Group PLC   8,936,769    6,884,153 
Nomad Foods Ltd.*†   315,448    6,577,091 
Tullow Oil PLC*   920,494    2,782,798 
Vodafone Group PLC   2,076,879    4,425,480 
WPP PLC   344,674    5,716,280 
         55,154,788 
United States—62.1%          
Advance Auto Parts, Inc.   32,048    5,256,833 
Air Lease Corp.†   164,786    7,614,761 
Allstate Corp. (The)†   106,818    10,742,686 
Alphabet, Inc., Class C*†   12,623    15,377,212 
American Express Co.†   109,131    11,565,703 
American International Group, Inc.#   119,021    6,328,347 
Andeavor†   31,794    4,857,805 
Anthem, Inc.†   83,155    22,013,623 
Apergy Corp.*    136,947    6,192,743 
Bank of America Corp.†   671,998    20,784,898 
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B*†   99,821    20,834,639 
Biogen, Inc.*†   10,549    3,728,966 
Booking Holdings, Inc.*   2,350    4,586,143 
Chubb Ltd.†#    91,673    12,397,857 
Cigna Corp.†   28,968    5,455,833 
Cisco Systems, Inc.†   279,438    13,348,753 
Citigroup, Inc.†   124,959    8,902,079 
Comcast Corp., Class A†   336,061    12,430,896 
DowDuPont, Inc.†   149,832    10,507,718 
DXC Technology Co.†   136,805    12,461,568 
Eaton Corp. PLC†   188,186    15,645,784 
EQT Corp.†   137,673    7,024,077 
Goldman Sachs Group Inc., (The)   69,420    16,508,770 
GrafTech International Ltd.   259,021    4,786,708 
HP, Inc.†   292,813    7,217,841 
Jagged Peak Energy, Inc.*   247,106    3,264,270 
Johnson & Johnson†   93,158    12,547,451 
Laboratory Corp. of America Holdings*†   84,269    14,567,582 
Leidos Holdings, Inc.   60,934    4,312,299 
Loews Corp.    90,521    4,554,112 
Lowe’s Cos., Inc.†   96,907    10,538,636 
Marvell Technology Group Ltd.   324,866    6,718,229 
Masco Corp.†   239,813    9,105,700 
McKesson Corp.†   62,882    8,096,058 
Microsoft Corp.†   304,920    34,251,664 
Morgan Stanley   226,501    11,060,044 
Mosaic Co. (The)   168,367    5,264,836 
NetApp, Inc.   80,680    7,003,831 
Nordstrom, Inc.    93,386    5,869,310 
Northrop Grumman Corp.†#   15,910    4,748,976 
Oracle Corp.#   331,224    16,090,862 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

60  |  Annual Report 2018

   
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS GLOBAL LONG/SHORT FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
United States—(continued)          
Owens Corning   130,728   $7,401,819 
Parsley Energy, Inc., Class A*†   303,033    8,415,226 
Peabody Energy Corp.   140,180    5,790,836 
Pfizer, Inc.†   209,542    8,700,184 
Pioneer Natural Resources Co.†   59,245    10,350,102 
Raytheon Co.    24,642    4,914,601 
Steel Dynamics, Inc.†   177,021    8,095,170 
SunTrust Banks, Inc.   117,402    8,636,091 
SYNNEX Corp.    43,910    4,257,953 
TE Connectivity Ltd.†   97,427    8,932,107 
TJX Cos. Inc., (The)   35,929    3,951,112 
Trinseo SA†   122,229    9,429,967 
Twenty-First Century Fox, Inc. Class A    137,901    6,260,705 
United Technologies Corp.†   97,557    12,848,257 
Verizon Communications, Inc.†   294,472    16,010,443 
Vistra Energy Corp.*†   346,926    8,166,638 
Walmart, Inc.    81,191    7,782,969 
Wells Fargo & Co.†   217,940    12,745,130 
WestRock Co.†   80,015    4,407,226 
         581,662,639 
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Cost $811,517,097)
        925,165,390 
PREFERRED STOCKS—0.7%          
Germany—0.7%          
Volkswagen AG, 2.784%   38,903    6,359,401 
TOTAL PREFERRED STOCKS
(Cost $6,761,990)
        6,359,401 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS—0.2%          
Morgan Stanley Institutional Liquidity Funds – Treasury Portfolio, 1.85%(a)   2,291,298    2,291,298 
TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
(Cost $2,291,298)
        2,291,298 
TOTAL INVESTMENTS—99.6%
(Cost $820,570,385)
        933,816,089 
SECURITIES SOLD SHORT—(46.0%)          
COMMON STOCK—(46.0%)          
Argentina—(0.3%)          
MercadoLibre, Inc.   (9,042)   (3,096,071)
Australia—(1.0%)          
Challenger Ltd.   (363,142)   (2,830,582)
Treasury Wine Estates Ltd.   (177,840)   (2,499,835)
WiseTech Global Ltd.   (235,271)   (3,621,398)
         (8,951,815)
Canada—(1.6%)          
First Quantum Minerals Ltd.   (127,196)   (1,595,554)
PrairieSky Royalty Ltd.   (220,360)   (4,052,598)
Ritchie Bros. Auctioneers, Inc.   (100,365)   (3,824,910)
Shopify, Inc.*   (17,581)   (2,561,024)
Thomson Reuters Corp.   (73,964)   (3,293,617)
         (15,327,703)
Chile—(0.7%)          
Latam Airlines Group SA - SP ADR   (416,355)   (3,863,775)
Sociedad Quimica y Minera de Chile SA - SP ADR   (52,492)   (2,236,684)
         (6,100,459)
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
    VALUE 
China—(0.5%)          
Pinduoduo, Inc.*   (165,129)  $(3,195,246)
Semiconductor Manufacturing International Corp.*   (1,241,000)   (1,461,518)
         (4,656,764)
Denmark—(0.3%)          
Genmab A/S*   (18,387)   (3,191,174)
Finland—(0.5%)          
Cargotec OYJ   (50,445)   (2,442,445)
Huhtamaki OYJ   (53,244)   (1,907,584)
         (4,350,029)
France—(1.4%)          
Air Liquide SA   (26,595)   (3,347,043)
Credit Agricole SA   (208,038)   (2,846,495)
Edenred   (60,493)   (2,311,568)
Sodexo SA   (22,149)   (2,309,979)
Vallourec SA*   (383,915)   (2,198,826)
         (13,013,911)
Germany—(1.6%)          
Infineon Technologies AG   (117,579)   (2,989,936)
Jenoptik AG   (50,521)   (1,987,588)
MTU Aero Engines AG   (16,153)   (3,547,908)
Siemens Healthineers AG*   (60,370)   (2,743,772)
Zalando SE*   (65,256)   (3,432,482)
         (14,701,686)
Hong Kong—(1.1%)          
Bank of East Asia Ltd., (The)   (707,400)   (2,620,977)
China Resources Beer Holdings Co. Ltd.   (584,000)   (2,487,875)
Hang Seng Bank Ltd.   (73,000)   (1,980,423)
Hong Kong & China Gas Co. Ltd.   (1,684,200)   (3,469,876)
         (10,559,151)
India—(0.3%)          
State Bank of India*   (72,485)   (3,150,311)
Italy—(0.5%)          
Brembo SpA   (339,419)   (4,541,095)
Japan—(4.3%)          
Aozora Bank Ltd.   (73,200)   (2,585,628)
Asics Corp.   (263,700)   (3,942,137)
FamilyMart UNY Holdings Co., Ltd.   (35,000)   (3,049,684)
FANUC Corp.   (12,000)   (2,353,017)
Ito En, Ltd.   (85,200)   (3,740,351)
JINS, Inc.   (54,200)   (2,783,014)
MISUMI Group, Inc.   (129,100)   (3,326,352)
Nidec Corp.   (15,300)   (2,214,848)
Nippon Paint Holdings Co., Ltd.   (67,500)   (2,668,074)
Nippon Paper Industries Co., Ltd.   (197,600)   (3,594,735)
Olympus Corp.   (82,500)   (3,356,504)
Renesas Electronics Corp.*   (266,600)   (2,013,913)
Sharp Corp.   (91,300)   (2,165,472)
Toyo Suisan Kaisha Ltd.   (79,800)   (2,939,201)
         (40,732,930)
Mexico—(0.3%)          
Kimberly-Clark de Mexico SAB de CV, Class A*   (1,738,400)   (3,060,017)
Netherlands—(0.3%)          
Cimpress NV*   (21,161)   (2,962,540)


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  61

   
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS GLOBAL LONG/SHORT FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Norway—(0.6%)          
Marine Harvest ASA   (108,596)  $(2,345,426)
Yara International ASA   (76,191)   (3,505,803)
         (5,851,229)
Singapore—(0.5%)          
Golden Agri-Resources Ltd.   (7,373,600)   (1,530,843)
SATS Ltd.   (724,500)   (2,675,200)
         (4,206,043)
South Africa—(0.3%)          
Mediclinic International PLC   (416,280)   (2,665,805)
Spain—(0.2%)          
Bankinter SA   (245,116)   (2,178,147)
Sweden—(1.4%)          
Autoliv, Inc.   (31,234)   (2,782,637)
Boliden AB   (104,827)   (2,745,082)
Epiroc AB*   (408,282)   (4,241,242)
Lundin Petroleum AB   (102,324)   (3,556,988)
         (13,325,949)
Switzerland—(2.3%)          
Credit Suisse Group AG*   (349,244)   (5,229,779)
Georg Fischer AG   (2,156)   (2,821,992)
Givaudan SA   (1,217)   (2,959,686)
LafargeHolcim, Ltd.*   (83,288)   (4,051,529)
Panalpina Welttransport Holding AG   (20,559)   (3,077,330)
Temenos AG*   (20,392)   (3,680,565)
         (21,820,881)
United Kingdom—(3.5%)          
Antofagasta PLC   (223,352)   (2,339,609)
ASOS PLC*   (47,015)   (3,733,168)
Bodycote PLC   (257,825)   (3,178,561)
LyondellBasell Industries NV   (30,816)   (3,475,428)
Metro Bank PLC*   (85,433)   (3,089,973)
Ocado Group PLC*   (166,266)   (2,316,676)
Pearson PLC   (351,033)   (4,174,508)
Pennon Group PLC   (278,439)   (2,775,310)
Renishaw PLC   (41,517)   (2,945,247)
Severn Trent PLC   (110,072)   (2,858,956)
Standard Chartered PLC   (237,557)   (1,936,555)
         (32,823,991)
United States—(22.5%)          
2U, Inc.*   (45,022)   (4,023,166)
AAON, Inc.   (168,370)   (6,802,148)
Antero Midstream GP LP   (198,491)   (3,352,513)
Antero Resources Corp.*   (108,322)   (2,005,040)
Apache Corp.   (93,215)   (4,085,613)
Badger Meter, Inc.   (64,579)   (3,548,616)
Balchem Corp.   (29,071)   (3,223,683)
Blackbaud, Inc.   (32,398)   (3,387,859)
CarMax, Inc.*   (35,203)   (2,747,594)
Carvana Co.*   (60,025)   (3,886,019)
Chegg, Inc.*   (73,217)   (2,370,767)
Community Bank System, Inc.   (60,406)   (3,994,649)
Compass Minerals International, Inc.   (46,969)   (2,937,911)
Continental Resources, Inc.*   (83,676)   (5,518,432)
Cree, Inc.*   (83,084)   (3,997,171)
Cullen/Frost Bankers, Inc.   (24,627)   (2,730,888)
Ellie Mae, Inc.*   (42,346)   (4,461,998)
First Financial Bankshares, Inc.   (124,867)   (7,541,967)
Flowserve Corp.   (32,803)   (1,709,692)
GCP Applied Technologies, Inc.*   (114,206)   (2,877,991)
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
    VALUE 
United States—(continued)          
Glaukos Corp.*   (83,338)  $(5,697,819)
Greif, Inc.   (48,547)   (2,678,823)
HB Fuller Co.   (33,517)   (1,910,134)
Healthcare Services Group, Inc.   (95,140)   (3,920,719)
Heartland Express, Inc.   (116,408)   (2,380,544)
Hess Corp.   (35,907)   (2,417,977)
Inovalon Holdings, Inc.*   (153,487)   (1,688,357)
IPG Photonics Corp.*   (8,650)   (1,517,902)
iRobot Corp.*   (24,108)   (2,736,258)
John Bean Technologies Corp.   (20,806)   (2,461,350)
Leggett & Platt, Inc.   (62,262)   (2,829,185)
Manhattan Associates, Inc.*   (56,821)   (3,295,050)
MarketAxess Holdings, Inc.   (14,493)   (2,751,061)
Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.   (15,917)   (3,163,026)
Matador Resources Co.*   (121,216)   (3,968,612)
Mattel, Inc.   (218,974)   (3,378,769)
Medidata Solutions, Inc.*   (42,509)   (3,612,415)
MINDBODY, Inc., Class A*   (66,474)   (2,466,185)
Multi-Color Corp.   (28,986)   (1,789,886)
National Instruments Corp.   (80,536)   (3,845,594)
National Oilwell Varco, Inc.   (50,707)   (2,386,779)
Netflix, Inc.*   (5,182)   (1,905,318)
NewMarket Corp.   (9,256)   (3,712,026)
Oasis Petroleum, Inc.*   (257,926)   (3,471,684)
Power Integrations, Inc.   (47,630)   (3,493,661)
Prosperity Bancshares, Inc.   (39,600)   (2,963,664)
Public Storage   (14,546)   (3,092,189)
Pure Storage, Inc.*   (137,113)   (3,680,113)
Quaker Chemical Corp.   (26,688)   (4,807,576)
Range Resources Corp.   (183,015)   (3,005,106)
RLI Corp.   (66,473)   (5,116,427)
Rollins, Inc.   (49,449)   (2,970,896)
SiteOne Landscape Supply, Inc.*   (32,852)   (2,968,835)
Tesla, Inc.*   (23,561)   (7,107,411)
TransDigm Group, Inc.   (9,326)   (3,264,100)
Ultimate Software Group Inc. (The)*   (10,322)   (3,196,414)
Under Armour, Inc., Class A*   (106,623)   (2,180,440)
Wabtec Corp.   (29,723)   (3,219,595)
Wayfair, Inc. Class A*   (37,597)   (5,081,987)
Westamerica Bancorporation   (44,484)   (2,848,311)
Workday, Inc., Class A*   (26,732)   (4,131,163)
Zendesk, Inc.*   (30,234)   (2,082,820)
         (210,399,898)
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Proceeds $(402,357,927))
        (431,667,599)
TOTAL SECURITIES SOLD SHORT—46.0%)
(Proceeds $(402,357,927))
        (431,667,599)


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

62  |  Annual Report 2018

   
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS GLOBAL LONG/SHORT FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

   NUMBER OF
CONTRACTS
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
OPTIONS WRITTEN††—(0.2%)            
Call Options Written—(0.2%)               
American International Group, Inc.                
Expiration: 01/18/2019, Exercise Price: 50.00   (1,028)   (5,465,876)  $(414,284)
Chubb Ltd.                
Expiration: 02/15/2019, Exercise Price: 130.00   (615)   (8,317,260)   (562,725)
Flex Ltd.                
Expiration: 01/18/2019, Exercise Price: 15.00   (5,710)   (7,874,090)   (245,530)
Northrop Grumman Corp.                
Expiration: 01/18/2019, Exercise Price: 300.00   (152)   (4,537,048)   (221,920)
Oracle Corp.                
Expiration: 12/21/2018, Exercise Price: 50.00   (1,915)   (9,303,070)   (335,125)
TOTAL CALL OPTIONS WRITTEN
(Premiums received $(2,203,545))
   (1,779,584)
TOTAL OPTIONS WRITTEN
(Premiums received $(2,203,545))
    (1,779,584)
OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES—46.6%   436,854,677 
NET ASSETS—100.0%            $937,223,583 

 

 

 

PLC — Public Limited Company
SP ADR — Sponsored American Depositary Receipt
* — Non-income producing.
(a) — Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.
†   — Security position is either entirely or partially held in a segregated account as collateral for securities sold short.
# — Security segregated as collateral for options written.
†† — Primary risk exposure is equity contracts.


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  63

   
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS GLOBAL LONG/SHORT FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

Contracts For Difference held by the Fund at August 31, 2018, are as follows:

 

REFERENCE
COMPANY 
  COUNTERPARTY  EXPIRATION
DATE
  FINANCING
RATE
  PAYMENT
FREQUENCY
  NUMBER OF
CONTRACTS
LONG/
(SHORT)
  NOTIONAL
AMOUNT
   UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION
(DEPRECIATION)
Short                                 
Indonesia                               
Unilever Indonesia TBK PT  Macquarie  9/19/2018   1.91%  Monthly   (1,235,100)  $(3,675,320)            $(67,226)
Poland                               
KGHM Polska Miedz  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.92   Monthly   (116,352)   (2,846,583)     (139,727)
South Korea                               
Celltrion Inc.  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.92   Monthly   (17,772)   (4,314,366)     (55,569)
LG Chem Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021   1.92   Monthly   (9,899)   (3,251,821)     (29,904)
Samsung BioLogics  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.92   Monthly   (7,080)   (2,944,984)     (71,729)
                       (10,511,171)     (157,202)
Taiwan                               
Cheng Shin Rubber  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.92   Monthly   (2,059,000)   (3,145,092)     35,834 
Total Short                      (20,178,166)     (328,321)
Net unrealized gain/(loss) on Contracts For Difference                        $(328,321)

 

A summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments carried at fair value as of August 31, 2018 is as follows (see Notes to Portfolio of Investments):

 

   TOTAL   LEVEL 1   LEVEL 2   LEVEL 3 
Common Stock                    
Australia  $6,573,582   $   $6,573,582   $ 
Bermuda   12,500,931    12,500,931         
Canada   9,715,329    9,715,329         
Denmark   10,269,517        10,269,517     
France   41,449,033        41,449,033     
Germany   3,262,759        3,262,759     
Hong Kong   8,064,602        8,064,602     
Ireland   19,023,710        19,023,710     
Japan   94,658,097        94,658,097     
Luxembourg   2,885,368    2,885,368         
Mexico   7,095,466    7,095,466         
Netherlands   9,679,608        9,679,608     
Singapore   8,617,523    8,617,523         
South Korea   14,875,442    2,456,813    12,418,629     
Switzerland   39,676,996        39,676,996     
United Kingdom   55,154,788    15,022,156    40,132,632     
United States   581,662,639    581,662,639         
Preferred Stock                    
Germany   6,359,401        6,359,401     
Short-Term Investments   2,291,298    2,291,298         
Contracts For Difference                    
Equity Contracts   35,834        35,834     
Total Assets  $933,851,923   $642,247,523   $291,604,400   $ 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

64  |  Annual Report 2018

   
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS GLOBAL LONG/SHORT FUND Portfolio Of Investments (concluded)

 

   TOTAL   LEVEL 1   LEVEL 2   LEVEL 3 
Securities Sold Short                    
Argentina  $(3,096,071)  $(3,096,071)  $   $ 
Australia   (8,951,815)       (8,951,815)    
Canada   (15,327,703)   (15,327,703)        
Chile   (6,100,459)   (6,100,459)        
China   (4,656,764)   (3,195,246)   (1,461,518)    
Denmark   (3,191,174)       (3,191,174)    
Finland   (4,350,029)       (4,350,029)    
France   (13,013,911)       (13,013,911)    
Germany   (14,701,686)   (2,743,772)   (11,957,914)    
Hong Kong   (10,559,151)       (10,559,151)    
India   (3,150,311)       (3,150,311)    
Italy   (4,541,095)       (4,541,095)    
Japan   (40,732,930)       (40,732,930)    
Mexico   (3,060,017)   (3,060,017)        
Netherlands   (2,962,540)   (2,962,540)        
Norway   (5,851,229)       (5,851,229)    
Singapore   (4,206,043)       (4,206,043)    
South Africa   (2,665,805)       (2,665,805)    
Spain   (2,178,147)       (2,178,147)    
Sweden   (13,325,949)   (7,023,879)   (6,302,070)    
Switzerland   (21,820,881)       (21,820,881)    
United Kingdom   (32,823,991)   (3,475,428)   (29,348,563)    
United States   (210,399,898)   (210,399,898)        
Options Written                    
Equity Contracts   (1,779,584)   (1,312,134)   (467,450)    
Contracts For Difference                    
Equity Contracts   (364,155)       (364,155)    
Total Liabilities  $(433,811,338)  $(258,697,147)  $(175,114,191)  $ 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  65

   
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS LONG/SHORT FUND Portfolio Of Investments

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
LONG POSITIONS—94.5%          
COMMON STOCKS—57.9%          
Argentina—0.6%          
Banco Macro SA - ADR   1,332   $58,129 
Grupo Financiero Galicia SA - ADR   2,692    60,570 
Grupo Supervielle SA - SP ADR   3,136    21,450 
Pampa Energia SA - SP ADR*   2,980    90,711 
YPF SA - SP ADR†   7,965    120,510 
         351,370 
Australia—0.3%          
Syrah Resources Ltd.*   80,525    147,157 
Belgium—1.8%          
Anheuser-Busch InBev SA - SP ADR   11,260    1,049,770 
Brazil—4.3%          
Ambev SA   124,800    578,791 
BK Brasil Operacao e Assessoria a Restaurantes SA*   107,018    379,664 
Cia de Saneamento Basico do Estado de Sao Paulo   15,000    89,269 
Localiza Rent a Car SA   59,300    315,492 
Minerva SA*   297,300    428,458 
Qualicorp SA   133,400    515,835 
Transmissora Alianca de Energia Eletrica SA   15,100    74,701 
Tupy SA   25,300    147,895 
         2,530,105 
Canada—0.8%          
Ivanhoe Mines Ltd., Class A*   57,558    102,325 
Lundin Mining Corp.   71,807    342,253 
         444,578 
China—9.6%          
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. - SP ADR*   10,954    1,917,060 
BEST, Inc. - ADR*   8,659    64,423 
China Construction Bank Corp., Class H   263,000    231,634 
China Meidong Auto Holdings Ltd.   992,000    437,535 
Country Garden Holdings Co. Ltd.   81,000    120,755 
Fosun International Ltd.   159,500    288,986 
Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd.   242,000    178,741 
Momo, Inc. - SP ADR*   6,675    308,986 
Ping An Insurance Group Co. of China Ltd., Class H   24,500    236,323 
Tencent Holdings Ltd.   7,300    313,806 
Tencent Holdings Ltd. - ADR   10,225    441,106 
West China Cement Ltd.   2,014,000    372,367 
Yangzijiang Shipbuilding Holdings Ltd.   143,800    112,133 
YY, Inc. - ADR*   4,293    328,114 
Zhongsheng Group Holdings Ltd.   89,000    195,432 
ZTO Express Cayman, Inc. - ADR   3,598    66,419 
         5,613,820 
Hong Kong—4.2%          
China Mobile Ltd. - SP ADR   20,109    965,031 
Galaxy Entertainment Group Ltd.   16,000    118,513 
K Wah International Holdings Ltd.   520,000    286,431 
Melco Resorts & Entertainment Ltd. - ADR   20,625    492,525 
Swire Pacific Ltd.   28,500    322,554 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Hong Kong—(continued)          
Xinyi Glass Holdings Ltd.   224,000   $280,027 
         2,465,081 
Hungary—0.9%          
OTP Bank PLC   10,280    378,215 
Waberer’s International Nyrt*   13,850    127,962 
         506,177 
India—4.1%          
Bharti Airtel Ltd.   34,624    187,599 
Dilip Buildcon Ltd.   11,790    139,526 
Dish TV India Ltd.*   703,154    675,309 
Graphite India Ltd.   3,643    52,172 
Gujarat State Petronet Ltd.   103,250    280,693 
HEG Ltd.   1,230    73,698 
Infosys Ltd.   25,501    518,356 
NIIT Technologies   4,410    87,614 
Tata Consultancy Services Ltd.   6,509    190,856 
Westlife Development Ltd.*   11,371    63,553 
Yes Bank Ltd.   30,179    146,535 
         2,415,911 
Indonesia—0.8%          
Bank Danamon Indonesia Tbk PT   432,800    199,816 
Bank Rakyat Indonesia Persero Tbk PT   859,700    185,752 
Bukit Asam Tbk PT   260,100    71,531 
         457,099 
Israel—0.1%          
Plus500 Ltd.   3,266    65,248 
Luxembourg—1.0%          
Adecoagro SA*   73,104    585,563 
Malaysia—0.3%          
Astro Malaysia Holdings Bhd   136,800    57,922 
Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd   43,300    98,517 
         156,439 
Mexico—3.7%          
Alfa SAB de CV   76,200    100,389 
Alpek SAB de CV   170,100    250,539 
Bolsa Mexicana de Valores SAB de CV   162,500    327,292 
CFE Capital S de RL de CV   102,354    92,575 
Concentradora Fibra Danhos SA de CV   61,000    101,085 
Concentradora Hipotecaria SAPI de CV   61,600    57,037 
Credito Real SAB de CV SOFOM ER   165,000    213,405 
Macquarie Mexico Real Estate Management SA de CV*   91,400    100,512 
Mexichem SAB de CV   104,300    351,957 
Nemak SAB de CV   124,700    103,845 
Vista Oil & Gas SAB de CV*   41,729    360,387 
Wal-Mart de Mexico SAB de CV   33,000    91,373 
         2,150,396 
Netherlands—0.6%          
DP Eurasia NV*   151,143    176,354 
Heineken Holding NV   1,826    174,225 
         350,579 
Philippines—0.7%          
Melco Resorts And Entertainment          
Philippines Corp.*   3,022,900    385,580 
Portugal—0.6%          
Jeronimo Martins SGPS SA   24,018    359,403 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

66  |  Annual report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS LONG/SHORT FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Russia—3.2%          
Gazprom Neft PJSC   50,010   $249,031 
Lukoil PJSC - SP ADR   6,442    444,885 
Mobile TeleSystems PJSC - SP ADR   19,834    153,714 
Moscow Exchange MICEX-RTS PJSC   195,950    284,615 
Sberbank of Russia PJSC - SP ADR   69,721    761,353 
         1,893,598 
Singapore—0.5%          
United Overseas Bank Ltd.   7,600    149,785 
Venture Corp Ltd.   8,600    113,539 
         263,324 
South Africa—4.6%          
Absa Group Ltd.   7,055    78,029 
Adcock Ingram Holdings Ltd.   83,191    403,416 
Barloworld Ltd.   22,983    195,471 
Clover Industries Ltd.   255,439    297,245 
Fortress REIT Ltd.   103,825    116,502 
Naspers Ltd., Class N   5,703    1,266,384 
Telkom SA SOC Ltd.   79,450    271,852 
Vukile Property Fund Ltd.   54,572    74,644 
         2,703,543 
South Korea—5.8%          
Daelim Industrial Co. Ltd.   1,005    73,934 
DGB Financial Group, Inc.   32,530    299,486 
Hanwha Corp.   12,890    368,837 
Hyundai Mobis Co. Ltd.   1,577    317,341 
Industrial Bank of Korea   10,910    146,042 
KB Financial Group, Inc.   7,990    369,422 
Kia Motors Corp.   4,150    119,512 
KT Corp. - SP ADR†   43,926    606,618 
LG Uplus Corp.   8,200    115,620 
Lotte Chemical Corp.   1,022    290,124 
LS Industrial Systems Co. Ltd.   3,120    200,419 
Meritz Fire & Marine Insurance Co. Ltd.   6,870    112,626 
NCSoft Corp.   289    100,571 
SFA Engineering Corp.   2,648    90,851 
SK Holdings Co. Ltd.   650    153,628 
         3,365,031 
Switzerland—0.8%          
Glencore PLC*   120,773    492,036 
Taiwan—1.0%          
Acer, Inc.*   89,000    74,579 
Hon Hai Precision Industry Co., Ltd.*   55,000    144,487 
Pegatron Corp.   136,000    293,131 
TaiDoc Technology Corp.   14,000    78,928 
         591,125 
Thailand-0.4%          
Krungthai Card PCL   94,000    91,227 
Tisco Financial Group PCL   48,200    120,796 
         212,023 
Turkey—0.7%          
Mavi Giyim Sanayi Ve Ticaret AS, Class B   71,045    274,066 
Turk Traktor ve Ziraat Makineleri AS   18,672    129,533 
         403,599 
United Arab Emirates—1.1%          
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank PJSC   179,320    346,616 
Emaar Malls PJSC   539,802    293,917 
         640,533 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
United Kingdom—2.1%          
Atrium European Real Estate Ltd.*   39,543   $176,255 
Cairn Energy PLC*   98,865    306,916 
Petra Diamonds Ltd.*   667,909    297,699 
Rio Tinto PLC   8,896    422,491 
         1,203,361 
United States—3.3%          
Air Lease Corp.   18,719    865,005 
Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.   3,782    53,137 
Lam Research Corp.   863    149,377 
Liberty Latin America Ltd., Class C*†   22,147    434,747 
Micron Technology, Inc.*   2,595    136,289 
Philip Morris International, Inc.   3,908    304,394 
         1,942,949 
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Cost $36,630,286)
        33,745,398 
PREFERRED STOCKS—3.7%          
Brazil—0.6%          
Banco do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul SA, 7.337%   14,600    52,907 
Itau Unibanco Holding SA, 7.918%   26,300    273,842 
         326,749 
Russia—0.2%          
Sberbank of Russia PJSC, 7.669%   62,000    147,109 
South Korea—2.9%          
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd., 3.250%   47,082    1,677,593 
TOTAL PREFERRED STOCKS
(Cost $1,896,125)
        2,151,451 
WARRANTS—0.0%          
Mexico—0.0%          
Vista Oil & Gas SAB de CV*‡   13,133    2,681 
TOTAL WARRANTS
(Cost $0)
        2,681 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS—32.9%          
Morgan Stanley Institutional Liquidity Funds – Treasury Portfolio, 1.85%(a)   19,150,354    19,150,354 
TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
(Cost $19,150,354)
        19,150,354 
TOTAL INVESTMENTS—94.5%
(Cost $57,676,765)
        55,049,884 
OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES—5.5%        3,195,188 
NET ASSETS—100.0%       $58,245,072 

 

 

ADR  American Depositary Receipt
PLC  Public Limited Company
NVDR  Non-Voting Depository Receipt
SP ADR   Sponsored American Depositary Receipt
*  Non-income producing.
(a)  Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.
 Security position is either entirely or partially held in a segregated account as collateral for securities sold short or contract for differences.
 Security has been valued at fair market value using significant unobservable inputs as determined in good faith by or under the direction of The RBB Fund, Inc.’s Board of Directors. As of August 31, 2018, these securities amounted to $2,681 or 0.0% of net assets.


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

ANNUAL REPORT 2018  |  67

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS LONG/SHORT FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

Contracts For Difference held by the Fund at August 31, 2018, are as follows:

 

REFERENCE
COMPANY   
  COUNTERPARTY  EXPIRATION
DATE
  FINANCING
RATE
   PAYMENT
FREQUENCY
  NUMBER OF
CONTRACTS
LONG/
(SHORT)
   NOTIONAL
AMOUNT
    UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION
(DEPRECIATION)
 
Long                                 
Brazil                                 
Mahle Metal Leve SA  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   2.07%    Monthly   10,600   $65,660     $(5,802)  
China                                 
Agricultural Bank of China  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   921,000    446,295      11,949   
Anhui Conch Cement  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   32,900    179,223      4,364   
Baidu Inc. - SP ADR  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021   2.07   Monthly   4,852    1,098,881      12,339   
China Comm Service  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   124,000    102,733      9,800   
China International Travel  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   7,300    67,756      2,128   
China Lesso Group  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   407,000    234,879      3,510   
China National, Class H  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   170,000    159,293      (12,751)  
China Telecom Corp. Ltd., Class H  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021   1.45   Monthly   1,218,000    572,829      (12,241)  
China Vanke Co., Class H  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   35,100    121,776      12,055   
Daqin Railway Co., Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   61,000    77,123      (2,923)  
Dongfeng Motor  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   60,000    67,073      7,958   
Henan Shuang Inv.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   96,100    327,388      8,990   
Huayu Automotive  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   35,800    107,296      1,054   
Jiangsu Yanghe Brewery Joint-Stock Co., Ltd., Class A  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   37,600    635,376      10,180   
Kweichow Moutai  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   8,200    791,788      (14,153)  
Qingdao Haier Co., Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   48,400    105,758      (5,398)  
Shanghai Haohai Biological                                 
Technology Co., Ltd., Class H  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021   1.45   Monthly   51,500    385,385      17,462   
Shenzhen Overseas  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   78,600    72,362      (1,439)  
SINOPEC Engineering  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   322,000    335,789      42,749   
Suning.com  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   31,900    57,905      1,075   
TCL Electronics  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   153,000    74,332      5,493   
Tencent Holdings Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021   1.45   Monthly   42,100    1,809,760      (71,586)  
Wangfujing Group  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   28,200    66,501      (614)  
Weichai Power Co.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   135,000    143,176      (5,840)  
Wuliangye Yibin Co., Ltd., Class A  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   101,300    920,194      (33,642)  
                       8,960,871      (9,481)  
Egypt                                 
Commercial International Bank Egypt SAE  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021   2.06   Monthly   27,797    136,663      8,341   
Hong Kong                                 
AIA Group Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   31,800    274,569      (2,267)  
China South City  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   372,000    65,458      26   
Haier Electronics Group Co. Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   115,000    299,903      (7,913)  
Hysan Development NPV  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   14,000    71,838      (272)  
Link Real Estate I NPV  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   21,500    214,298      2,193   
Tianneng Power International Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   54,000    67,121      (1,155)  
WH Group Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.44   Monthly   228,000    172,192      (5,469)  
Wharf Real Estate  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   1.48   Monthly   35,000    232,220      8   
                       1,397,599      (14,849)  
Israel                                 
Gazit Globe Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   0.10   Monthly   46,228    424,385      (2,170)  
Tamar Petroleum Ltd. NPV  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   0.10   Monthly   147,152    733,636      34,909   
                       1,158,021      32,739   
Japan                                 
Suzuki Motor Co.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   -0.08   Monthly   2,700    175,529      (6,006)  
Mexico                                 
Grupo GicSA SA de CV  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021   2.07   Monthly   1,134,100    532,465      (35,970)  
South Africa                                 
Massmart Holdings  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   6.74   Monthly   8,533    64,315      (2,735)  
Pick’n Pay Stores Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020   6.74   Monthly   16,867    83,216      (259)  
                       147,531      (2,994)  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

68  |  ANNUAL REPORT 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS LONG/SHORT FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

REFERENCE
COMPANY   
  COUNTERPARTY  EXPIRATION
DATE
  FINANCING
RATE
    PAYMENT
FREQUENCY
  NUMBER OF
CONTRACTS
LONG/
(SHORT)
   NOTIONAL
AMOUNT
    UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION
(DEPRECIATION)
 
South Korea                                   
Bnk Financial Group  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    2.07    Monthly   44,200   $331,302     $3,951   
Eugene Technology  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    2.07    Monthly   12,318    176,561      5,846   
FILA Korea Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    2.07    Monthly   4,178    156,629      5,394   
Hana Financial Group, Inc.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    2.07    Monthly   15,100    579,022      (11,882)  
Handsome Corp.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    2.07    Monthly   2,250    78,628      1,896   
KGInicis Co. Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    2.07    Monthly   4,395    73,200      2,060   
Kiwoom Securities  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    2.07    Monthly   1,912    158,184      4,949   
KT Corp.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    2.07    Monthly   2,504    65,007      1,511   
LS Corp.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    2.07    Monthly   908    54,780      (1,941)  
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    2.07    Monthly   39,003    1,695,486      132,562   
SK Hynix Inc.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    2.07    Monthly   4,720    352,016      21,022   
                         3,720,815      165,368   
Taiwan                                   
Arcadyan Technology  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    2.07    Monthly   33,000    64,606      (1,913)  
Chlitina Holding  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    2.07    Monthly   7,000    62,646      2,249   
Giga-byte Tech  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    2.07    Monthly   40,000    68,251      486   
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    2.07    Monthly   215,251    1,803,522      113,472   
Yageo Corp.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    2.07    Monthly   3,000    68,355      2,738   
                         2,067,380      117,032   
Turkey                                   
Yatas  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    2.07    Monthly   221,392    126,277      (17,150)  
United Kingdom                                   
Georgia Capital  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    0.72    Monthly   34,463    458,768      (3,789)  
Georgia Healthcare Group PLC  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.72    Monthly   18,888    56,127      (7,262)  
Petra Diamonds Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.72    Monthly   369,376    164,637      (10,156)  
TBC Bank Group PLC  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    0.72    Monthly   15,663    325,867      (7,730)  
                         1,005,399      (28,937)  
Total Long                        19,494,210      202,291   
Short                                   
Brazil                                   
Raia Drogasil SA  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92%   Monthly   (9,200)  $(174,396)    $(5,269)  
Canada                                   
Franco Nevada Corp. Com.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.48    Monthly   (4,558)   (291,363)     12,545   
Chile                                   
Sociedad Quimica Mineral  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (7,782)   (331,591)     15,085   
China                                   
China Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Class H  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.84    Monthly   (89,000)   (201,568)     9,786   
China Modern Dairy  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    0.84    Monthly   (163,000)   (24,945)     (76)  
China Pacific Insurance Group, Ltd., Class H  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.84    Monthly   (51,400)   (191,815)     8,240   
Cosco Shipping Holdings Co., Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    0.84    Monthly   (469,500)   (195,793)     (513)  
Dongfang Electric Corp. Ltd., Class H  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.84    Monthly   (524,600)   (290,985)     8,271   
Huadian Power International Corp. Ltd., Class H  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.84    Monthly   (912,000)   (339,314)     24,010   
Huaneng Power International Inc., Class H  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.84    Monthly   (414,000)   (266,089)     10,292   
Maanshan Iron & Steel  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    0.84    Monthly   (614,000)   (321,985)     (5,253)  
New China Life Insurance Co., Ltd., Class H  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.84    Monthly   (41,500)   (188,223)     (5,550)  
Parkson Retail Group Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.84    Monthly   (1,269,000)   (137,539)     11,163   
Pinduoduo Inc. - SP ADR  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (8,180)   (158,283)     (4,973)  
Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2020    0.84    Monthly   (131,000)   (154,278)     (6,720)  
Shanhai Electric, Class H  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    0.84    Monthly   (1,176,000)   (368,713)     (10,916)  
Tian Ge Interactive Holdings Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.84    Monthly   (375,000)   (249,050)     (9,287)  

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

ANNUAL REPORT 2018  |  69

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS LONG/SHORT FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

REFERENCE
COMPANY   
  COUNTERPARTY  EXPIRATION
DATE
  FINANCING
RATE
    PAYMENT
FREQUENCY
    NUMBER OF
CONTRACTS
LONG/
(SHORT)
    NOTIONAL
AMOUNT
    UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION
(DEPRECIATION)
 
Tsingtao Brewery Co., Ltd., Class H  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.84      Monthly   (54,000)  $(256,806)    $(1,569)  
Zhaojin Mining  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    0.84    Monthly   (199,500)   (155,604)     1,510   
Zhaojin Mining  Morgan Stanley  09/15/2020    0.63    Monthly   (43,500)   (33,928)     (48)  
                         (3,534,918)     28,367   
France                                   
Edenred  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    -0.36    Monthly   (5,795)   (221,439)     11,714   
Hong Kong                                   
Bank Of East Asia Ltd. (The)  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.84    Monthly   (57,109)   (211,594)     (4,234)  
China Power International  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    0.84    Monthly   (1,563,000)   (340,778)     11,550   
China Resources Beer Holdings Co., Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.84    Monthly   (88,000)   (374,885)     18,074   
China Taiping Insurance Holdings Co., Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.84    Monthly   (82,800)   (263,065)     4,350   
Fullshare Holdings  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    0.84    Monthly   (757,500)   (303,048)     (10,281)  
HK Electric Investments & HK Electric Investments Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.84    Monthly   (410,000)   (414,244)     (48)  
Hong Kong & China Gas Co., Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.84    Monthly   (114,320)   (235,528)     (5,116)  
Lee & Man Paper  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    0.84    Monthly   (205,000)   (196,697)     (2,300)  
Nine Dragons Paper  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    0.84    Monthly   (118,000)   (134,000)     6,864   
                         (2,473,839)     18,859   
India                                   
Dr. Reddys Labs Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (10,401)   (365,491)     (4,886)  
State Bank of India  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (4,113)   (178,758)     1,055   
                         (544,249)     (3,831)  
Indonesia                                   
Jasa Marga  Macquarie  09/18/2018    1.92    Monthly   (620,900)   (191,114)     8,162   
Unilever Indonesia TBK PT  Macquarie  09/19/2018    1.92    Monthly   (121,600)   (361,848)     (6,729)  
                         (552,962)     1,433   
Italy                                   
Prada S.P.A.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.84    Monthly   (27,800)   (125,530)     3,037   
Malaysia                                   
Gamuda Berhad  Morgan Stanley  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (130,100)   (117,052)     3,245   
Maxis Bhd  Morgan Stanley  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (199,700)   (280,438)     159   
MISC Berhad  Morgan Stanley  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (54,100)   (77,984)     1,020   
PPB Group Berhad  Morgan Stanley  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (45,180)   (184,700)     (41)  
Telekom Malaysia Berhad  Morgan Stanley  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (85,300)   (68,650)     6,434   
                         (728,824)     10,817   
Mexico                                   
El Puerto de Liver  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (58,300)   (411,467)     11,304   
Fresnillo PLC  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.70    Monthly   (9,641)   (112,214)     2,447   
Grupo Carso SAB de CV  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (34,100)   (126,635)     4,171   
Grupo Televisa SAB - SP ADR  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (4,857)   (87,474)     2,018   
Hoteles City Express SAB  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (76,000)   (91,056)     (1,835)  
Kimberly-Clark MXC  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (129,000)   (227,072)     726   
Regional SAB de CV  Morgan Stanley  09/15/2020    1.91    Monthly   (27,500)   (168,524)     946   
Telesites SAB CV  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (286,500)   (224,788)     (4,631)  
                         (1,449,230)     15,146   
Norway                                   
Yara International  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    0.49    Monthly   (8,853)   (407,356)     (13,314)  
Philippines                                   
BDO Unibank Inc.  Macquarie  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (119,780)   (291,622)     (8,826)  
Poland                                   
KGHM Polska Miedz  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (7,539)   (184,444)     (8,951)  
Orange Polska SA  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (60,684)   (79,653)     (831)  
                         (264,097)     (9,782)  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

70  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS LONG/SHORT FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

REFERENCE
COMPANY   
  COUNTERPARTY  EXPIRATION
DATE
  FINANCING
RATE
    PAYMENT
FREQUENCY
    NUMBER OF
CONTRACTS
LONG/
(SHORT)
    NOTIONAL
AMOUNT
    UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION
(DEPRECIATION)
 
Singapore                                    
Golden Agri-Resources  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.46      Monthly   (1,145,100)   $(237,736)    $(7,148)  
Sats Ltd. NPV  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.46    Monthly   (92,700)    (342,293)     2,552   
SembCorp. Marine Ltd.  Morgan Stanley  12/31/2021    1.41    Monthly   (197,100)    (241,032)     2,353   
Singapore Press Holdings Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.46    Monthly   (79,400)    (162,045)     2,480   
                          (983,106)     237   
South Africa                                    
MTN Group Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    6.35    Monthly   (42,657)    (258,277)     40,434   
South Korea                                    
Amorepacific Group  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (3,377)    (292,409)     (2,525)  
Celltrion Health  Macquarie  09/19/2018    1.92    Monthly   (2,471)    (200,794)     5,945   
Celltrion Inc.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (669)    (162,408)     (2,092)  
CJ CGV Co., Ltd.  Morgan Stanley  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (2,199)    (104,659)     (2,076)  
Doosan Heavy Industries & Construction  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (14,870)    (188,887)     8,455   
Hanwha Aerospace  Morgan Stanley  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (3,580)    (80,388)     (3,311)  
Hyundai Motor Co.  Morgan Stanley  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (1,846)    (207,303)     (1,284)  
Kakao Corp.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    1.92    Monthly   (1,123)    (126,012)     (1,528)  
LG Display Co., Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (2,960)    (56,430)     5,107   
Lotte Confect  Morgan Stanley  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (1,578)    (68,323)     712   
Paradise Co. Ltd.  Morgan Stanley  12/31/2021    1.92    Monthly   (18,760)    (340,982)     2,230   
Samsung BioLogics  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (709)    (294,915)     (6,855)  
SK Networks Co. Ltd.  Morgan Stanley  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (16,756)    (67,412)     1,661   
                          (2,190,922)     4,439   
Switzerland                                    
Cie Financiere Richemont SA  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    6.35    Monthly   (17,361)    (154,250)     (5,468)  
Taiwan                                    
AU Optronics Corp.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (741,000)    (321,424)     (6,801)  
Casetek Holdings  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (34,000)    (66,140)     (4,975)  
Cheng Shin Rubber  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (226,000)    (345,212)     3,933   
China Airlines  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (389,000)    (119,247)     (1,755)  
Eclat Textile Co., Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    1.92    Monthly   (28,500)    (345,916)     22,720   
Feng Tay Enterprise  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (67,000)    (406,375)     1,405   
Ginko International  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (22,000)    (148,263)     (15,194)  
Innolux Corp.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (734,000)    (273,669)     (4,919)  
Nien Made Enterprise Co., Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (43,000)    (333,505)     16,354   
United Microelectronics Corp. - SP ADR  Goldman Sachs  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (105,305)    (293,801)     8,448   
                          (2,653,552)     19,216   
Thailand                                    
Airports of Thailand PCL  Morgan Stanley  09/15/2020    1.92    Monthly   (126,400)    (257,784)     (4,729)  
United Kingdom                                    
Antofagasta PLC  Goldman Sachs  12/31/2021    0.70    Monthly   (14,204)    (148,787)     1,674   
Total Short                         (18,038,094)     131,784   
Net unrealized gain/(loss) on Contracts For Difference                     $ 334,075    

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  71

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS LONG/SHORT FUND Portfolio Of Investments (concluded)

 

A summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments carried at fair value as of August 31, 2018 is as follows (see Notes to Portfolio of Investments):

 

   TOTAL   LEVEL 1   LEVEL 2   LEVEL 3 
Common Stock                    
Argentina  $351,370   $351,370   $   $ 
Australia   147,157        147,157     
Belgium   1,049,770    1,049,770         
Brazil   2,530,105    2,530,105         
Canada   444,578    444,578         
China   5,613,820    3,126,108    2,487,712     
Hong Kong   2,465,081    1,457,556    1,007,525     
Hungary   506,177    127,962    378,215     
India   2,415,911        2,415,911     
Indonesia   457,099        457,099     
Israel   65,248        65,248     
Luxembourg   585,563    585,563         
Malaysia   156,439    156,439         
Mexico   2,150,396    1,790,009    360,387     
Netherlands   350,579    176,354    174,225     
Philippines   385,580    385,580         
Portugal   359,403        359,403     
Russia   1,893,598    1,359,952    533,646     
Singapore   263,324        263,324     
South Africa   2,703,543    775,305    1,928,238     
South Korea   3,365,031    923,959    2,441,072     
Switzerland   492,036        492,036     
Taiwan   591,125        591,125     
Thailand   212,023        212,023     
Turkey   403,599        403,599     
United Arab Emirates   640,533    640,533         
United Kingdom   1,203,361    473,954    729,407     
United States   1,942,949    1,942,949         
Preferred Stock                    
Brazil   326,749    326,749         
Russia   147,109        147,109     
South Korea   1,677,593        1,677,593     
Warrants   2,681            2,681 
Short-Term Investments   19,150,354    19,150,354         
Contracts For Difference                    
Equity Contracts   819,358        819,358     
Total Assets  $55,869,242   $37,775,149   $18,091,412   $2,681 
                     
    TOTAL    LEVEL 1    LEVEL 2    LEVEL 3 
Contracts For Difference                    
Equity Contracts  $(485,283)  $   $(485,283)  $ 
Total Liabilities  $(485,283)  $   $(485,283)  $ 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

72  |  Annual report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS FUND Portfolio Of Investments

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
COMMON STOCKS—81.1%          
Argentina—0.6%          
Banco Macro SA - ADR   195   $8,510 
Grupo Financiero Galicia SA - ADR   387    8,707 
Grupo Supervielle SA - SP ADR   451    3,085 
Pampa Energia SA - SP ADR*   422    12,846 
YPF SA - SP ADR   1,128    17,066 
         50,214 
Australia—0.3%          
Syrah Resources Ltd.*   11,847    21,650 
Belgium—1.8%          
Anheuser-Busch InBev SA - SP ADR   1,619    150,939 
Brazil—4.4%          
Ambev SA   17,800    82,552 
BK Brasil Operacao e Assessoria a Restaurantes SA*   15,450    54,811 
Cia de Saneamento Basico do Estado de Sao Paulo   2,200    13,093 
Localiza Rent a Car SA   8,500    45,222 
Mahle-Metal Leve SA   1,500    9,291 
Minerva SA*   43,700    62,979 
Qualicorp SA   17,100    66,123 
Transmissora Alianca de Energia Eletrica SA   2,200    10,884 
Tupy SA   3,600    21,044 
         365,999 
Canada—0.8%          
Ivanhoe Mines Ltd., Class A*   8,468    15,054 
Lundin Mining Corp.   10,564    50,351 
         65,405 
China—19.0%          
Agricultural Bank of China Ltd.   134,000    64,933 
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. - SP ADR*   1,560    273,016 
Baidu, Inc. - SP ADR*   692    156,724 
BEST, Inc. - ADR*   1,232    9,166 
China Construction Bank Corp., Class H   71,000    62,532 
China Lesso Group Holdings Ltd.   58,000    33,472 
China Meidong Auto Holdings Ltd.   140,000    61,749 
China Telecom Corp. Ltd.   172,000    80,892 
China Vanke Co. Ltd.   5,000    17,347 
Country Garden Holdings Co. Ltd.   12,000    17,890 
Fosun International Ltd.   23,000    41,672 
Industrial & Commercial Bank of China Ltd.   63,000    46,532 
Momo, Inc. - SP ADR*   950    43,975 
Ping An Insurance Group Co. of China Ltd., Class H   4,000    38,583 
Shanghai Haohai Biological Technology Co., Ltd., Class H   7,400    55,376 
Sinopec Engineering Group Co. Ltd.   46,500    48,491 
Tencent Holdings Ltd.   7,400    318,105 
Tencent Holdings Ltd. - ADR   1,083    46,721 
Weichai Power Co. Ltd.   20,000    21,211 
West China Cement Ltd.   252,000    46,592 
Yangzijiang Shipbuilding Holdings Ltd.   20,500    15,986 
YY, Inc. - ADR*   487    37,221 
Zhongsheng Group Holdings Ltd.   13,000    28,546 
ZTO Express Cayman, Inc. - ADR   517    9,544 
         1,576,276 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Egypt—0.2%          
Commercial International Bank          
Egypt SAE   3,936   $19,351 
Hong Kong—5.5%          
AIA Group Ltd.   4,600    39,718 
China Mobile Ltd. - SP ADR   2,865    137,491 
Galaxy Entertainment Group Ltd.   2,000    14,814 
Haier Electronics Group Co. Ltd.*   16,000    41,726 
K Wah International Holdings Ltd.   75,000    41,312 
Melco Resorts & Entertainment Ltd. - ADR   2,938    70,159 
Swire Pacific Ltd.   4,000    45,271 
WH Group Ltd.   32,500    24,545 
Xinyi Glass Holdings Ltd.   32,000    40,004 
         455,040 
Hungary—0.8%          
OTP Bank PLC   1,487    54,709 
Waberer’s International Nyrt*   1,739    16,067 
         70,776 
India—4.2%          
Bharti Airtel Ltd.   5,008    27,134 
Dilip Buildcon Ltd.   1,705    20,177 
Dish TV India Ltd.*   100,099    96,135 
Graphite India Ltd.   524    7,504 
Gujarat State Petronet Ltd.   14,934    40,599 
HEG Ltd.   177    10,605 
Infosys Ltd. - SP ADR   3,563    74,004 
NIIT Technologies Ltd.   638    12,675 
Tata Consultancy Services Ltd.   940    27,563 
Westlife Development Ltd.*   1,644    9,189 
Yes Bank Ltd.   4,365    21,195 
         346,780 
Indonesia—0.8%          
Bank Danamon Indonesia Tbk PT   62,400    28,809 
Bank Rakyat Indonesia Persero Tbk PT   126,400    27,311 
Bukit Asam Tbk PT   37,500    10,313 
         66,433 
Israel—0.1%          
Plus500 Ltd.   471    9,410 
Japan—0.3%          
Suzuki Motor Corp.   400    26,004 
Luxembourg—1.0%          
Adecoagro SA*   10,361    82,992 
Malaysia—0.3%          
Astro Malaysia Holdings Bhd   19,700    8,341 
Malaysia Airports Holdings Bhd   6,200    14,107 
         22,448 
Mexico—4.6%          
Alfa SAB de CV   10,800    14,228 
Alpek SAB de CV   24,200    35,644 
Bolsa Mexicana de Valores SAB de CV   23,400    47,130 
CFE Capital S de RL de CV   14,475    13,092 
Concentradora Fibra Danhos SA de CV   8,600    14,251 
Concentradora Hipotecaria SAPI de CV   8,800    8,148 
Credito Real SAB de CV SOFOM ER   24,200    31,299 
Grupo GICSA SA de CV*   167,200    78,501 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  73

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
Mexico—(continued)          
Macquarie Mexico Real Estate Management SA de CV*   12,900   $14,186 
Mexichem SAB de CV   14,900    50,280 
Nemak SAB de CV   17,600    14,657 
Vista Oil & Gas SAB de CV*   5,724    49,435 
Wal-Mart de Mexico SAB de CV   4,800    13,291 
         384,142 
Netherlands—0.6%          
DP Eurasia NV*   21,720    25,343 
Heineken Holding NV   264    25,189 
         50,532 
Philippines—0.7%          
Melco Resorts And Entertainment Philippines Corp.*   428,200    54,618 
Portugal—0.6%          
Jeronimo Martins SGPS SA   3,422    51,206 
Russia—2.4%          
LUKOIL PJSC - SP ADR   929    64,157 
Mobile TeleSystems PJSC - SP ADR   2,918    22,614 
Sberbank of Russia PJSC - SP ADR   10,576    115,490 
         202,261 
Singapore—0.4%          
United Overseas Bank Ltd.   1,100    21,679 
Venture Corp Ltd.   1,200    15,843 
         37,522 
South Africa—5.0%          
Absa Group Ltd.   1,018    11,259 
Adcock Ingram Holdings Ltd.   11,978    58,085 
Barloworld Ltd.   3,299    28,058 
Clover Industries Ltd.   37,581    43,732 
Fortress REIT Ltd.   14,790    16,596 
Massmart Holdings   1,230    9,271 
Naspers Ltd.   825    183,196 
Pick n Pay Stores Ltd.   2,405    11,865 
Telkom SA SOC Ltd.   11,689    39,996 
Vukile Property Fund Ltd.   7,842    10,726 
         412,784 
South Korea—11.9%          
BNK Financial Group, Inc.   5,960    44,673 
Daelim Industrial Co. Ltd.   145    10,667 
DGB Financial Group, Inc.   4,650    42,810 
Eugene Technology Co. Ltd.   1,804    25,858 
Fila Korea Ltd.   599    22,456 
Hana Financial Group, Inc.   1,970    75,541 
Handsome Co. Ltd.   320    11,183 
Hanwha Corp.   1,830    52,364 
Hyundai Mobis Co. Ltd.   176    35,416 
Industrial Bank of Korea   1,240    16,599 
KB Financial Group, Inc.   1,150    53,171 
Kginicis Co. Ltd.   632    10,526 
Kia Motors Corp.   590    16,991 
KIWOOM Securities Co. Ltd.   196    16,215 
KT Corp. - SP ADR   7,123    98,369 
LG Uplus Corp.   1,170    16,497 
Lotte Chemical Corp.   147    41,730 
LS Corp.   130    7,843 
LS Industrial Systems Co. Ltd.   440    28,264 
Meritz Fire & Marine Insurance Co., Ltd.   730    11,967 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
South Korea—(continued)          
NCSoft Corp.   45   $15,660 
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.   5,613    244,001 
SFA Engineering Corp.   377    12,935 
SK Holdings Co. Ltd.   93    21,981 
SK Hynix, Inc.   680    50,714 
         984,431 
Switzerland—0.8%          
Glencore PLC*   17,427    70,999 
Taiwan—4.4%          
Acer, Inc.*   13,000    10,894 
Arcadyan Technology Corp.   5,000    9,789 
Giga-byte Technology Co. Ltd.   6,000    10,238 
Hon Hai Precision Industry Co. Ltd.*   8,000    21,016 
Pegatron Corp.   19,000    40,952 
TaiDoc Technology Corp.   2,000    11,275 
Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co. Ltd.   31,000    259,739 
         363,903 
Thailand—0.4%          
Krungthai Card PCL   13,500    13,102 
Tisco Financial Group PCL   6,900    17,292 
         30,394 
Turkey—0.9%          
Mavi Giyim Sanayi Ve Ticaret AS, Class B   10,222    39,433 
Turk Traktor ve Ziraat Makineleri AS   2,683    18,613 
Yatas Yatak ve Yorgan Sanayi ve Ticaret AS*   31,604    18,026 
         76,072 
United Arab Emirates—1.0%          
Abu Dhabi Commercial Bank PJSC   20,949    40,493 
Emaar Malls PJSC   75,543    41,133 
         81,626 
United Kingdom—3.9%          
Atrium European Real Estate Ltd.*   5,725    25,518 
Cairn Energy PLC*   14,251    44,241 
Georgia Capital PLC*   4,987    66,386 
Georgia Healthcare Group PLC*   2,865    8,514 
Petra Diamonds Ltd.*   156,348    69,687 
Rio Tinto PLC   1,309    62,167 
TBC Bank Group PLC   2,246    46,728 
         323,241 
United States—3.4%          
Air Lease Corp.   2,667    123,242 
Freeport-McMoRan, Inc.   544    7,643 
Lam Research Corp.   126    21,810 
Liberty Latin America Ltd. Class C*   3,205    62,914 
Micron Technology, Inc.*   375    19,695 
Philip Morris International, Inc.   566    44,086 
         279,390 
TOTAL COMMON STOCKS
(Cost $7,553,362)
        6,732,838 


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

74  |  Annual report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS FUND Portfolio Of Investments (continued)

 

   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
PREFERRED STOCKS—0.6%          
Brazil—0.6%          
Banco do Estado do Rio Grande do Sul SA, 7.337%   2,100   $7,610 
Itau Unibanco Holding SA, 7.918%   3,800    39,566 
         47,176 
TOTAL PREFERRED STOCKS
(Cost $58,847)
        47,176 
   NUMBER OF
SHARES
   VALUE 
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS—16.1%          
Morgan Stanley Institutional Liquidity
Funds - Treasury Portfolio, 1.85%(a)
   1,335,874   $1,335,874 
TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS
(Cost $1,335,874)
        1,335,874 
TOTAL INVESTMENTS—97.8%
(Cost $8,948,083)
        8,115,888 
OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES—2.2%        179,723 
NET ASSETS—100.0%       $8,295,611 
 
ADR — American Depositary Receipt
PLC — Public Limited Company
SP ADR — Sponsored American Depositary Receipt
* — Non-income producing.
(a) — Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.


 

Contracts For Difference held by the Fund at August 31, 2018, are as follows:

 

REFERENCE
COMPANY   
  COUNTERPARTY  EXPIRATION
DATE
  FINANCING
RATE
  PAYMENT
FREQUENCY
  NUMBER OF
CONTRACTS
LONG/
(SHORT)
  NOTIONAL
AMOUNT
   UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION
(DEPRECIATION)
 
Long                                 
China                                 
Anhui Conch Cement  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07%  Monthly   4,700   $25,603        $86   
China Comm Service  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   18,000    14,913      1,423   
China International Travel  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   1,100    10,210      328   
China National, Class H  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   24,000    22,488      (1,801)  
Daqin Railway Co., Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   8,800    11,126      (402)  
Dongfeng Motor  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   8,000    8,943      1,062   
Henan Shuang Inv.  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   13,700    46,673      1,287   
Huayu Automotive  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   5,200    15,585      180   
Jiangsu Yanghe Brewery Joint-Stock Co., Ltd., Class A  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   5,400    91,251      1,462   
Kweichow Moutai  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   1,200    115,871      (2,071)  
Qingdao Haier Co. Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   7,000    15,296      (647)  
Shenzhen Overseas  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   11,300    10,403      (216)  
Suning.com  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   4,600    8,350      163   
TCL Electronics  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   22,000    10,688      790   
Wangfujing Group  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   4,000    9,433      (227)  
Wuliangye Yibin Co., Ltd., Class A  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   14,600    132,624      (4,849)  
                       549,457      (3,432)  
Hong Kong                                 
China South City  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   54,000    9,502      4   
Hysan Development NPV  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   2,000    10,262      (44)  
Link Real Estate I NPV  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   3,000    29,902      307   
Tianneng Power International  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.45   Monthly   8,000    9,944      (170)  
Wharf Real Estate  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   1.48   Monthly   5,000    33,174      2   
                       92,784      99   
Israel                                 
Gazit-Globe Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   0.10   Monthly   6,202    56,936      (291)  
Tamar Petroleum Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   0.10   Monthly   21,288    106,133      5,050   
                       163,069      4,759   
Russia                                 
Moscow Exchange  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   28,160    40,902      (900)  
Sberbank of Russia PJSC  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   9,500    22,541      (701)  
                       63,443      (1,601)  
South Korea                                 
Samsung Electronics Co., Ltd.  Goldman Sachs  9/15/2020   2.07   Monthly   6,776    241,438      17,191   
Total Long                      1,110,191      17,016   
Net unrealized gain/(loss) on Contracts For Difference                      $17,016   

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  75

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
BOSTON PARTNERS EMERGING MARKETS FUND Portfolio Of Investments (concluded)

 

A summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s investments carried at fair value as of August 31, 2018 is as follows (see Notes to Portfolio of Investments):

 

   TOTAL   LEVEL 1   LEVEL 2   LEVEL 3 
Common Stock                    
Argentina  $50,214   $50,214   $   $ 
Australia   21,650        21,650     
Belgium   150,939    150,939         
Brazil   365,999    365,999         
Canada   65,405    65,405         
China   1,576,276    576,367    999,909     
Egypt   19,351        19,351     
Hong Kong   455,040    207,650    247,390     
Hungary   70,776    16,067    54,709     
India   346,780        346,780     
Indonesia   66,433        66,433     
Israel   9,410        9,410     
Japan   26,004        26,004     
Luxembourg   82,992    82,992         
Malaysia   22,448    22,448         
Mexico   384,142    334,707    49,435     
Netherlands   50,532    25,343    25,189     
Philippines   54,618    54,618         
Portugal   51,206        51,206     
Russia   202,261    202,261         
Singapore   37,522        37,522     
South Africa   412,784    124,408    288,376     
South Korea   984,431    144,968    839,463     
Switzerland   70,999        70,999     
Taiwan   363,903        363,903     
Thailand   30,394        30,394     
Turkey   76,072        76,072     
United Arab Emirates   81,626    81,626         
United Kingdom   323,241    161,591    161,650     
United States   279,390    279,390         
Preferred Stock                    
Brazil   47,176    47,176         
Short-Term Investments   1,335,874    1,335,874         
Contracts For Difference                    
Equity Contracts   29,335        29,335     
Total Assets  $8,145,223   $4,330,043   $3,815,180   $ 
                     
   TOTAL   LEVEL 1   LEVEL 2   LEVEL 3 
Contracts For Difference                    
Equity Contracts  $(12,319)  $   $(12,319)  $ 
Total Liabilities  $(12,319)  $   $(12,319)  $ 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

76  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
STATEMENTS OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES  

 

   Boston
Partners
Small Cap
Value Fund II
   Boston
Partners
Long/Short
Equity Fund
   Boston
Partners
Long/Short
Research Fund
 
ASSETS               
Investments in securities, at value † ^  $604,862,194   $703,905,273   $6,538,187,667 
Investments purchased with proceeds from securities lending collateral, at value *   154,014,226    71,065,241     
Short-term investments, at value **   14,935,192    1,607,812    164,671,025 
Purchased options, at value o        20,368     
Cash           135,690 
Receivables               
Investments sold       14,834,563    95,576,470 
Foreign currency deposits with brokers for securities sold short #       5,801,312    614,663,473 
Deposits with brokers for contracts for difference           10,210,000 
Deposits with brokers for securities sold short       318,054,183    2,431,443,209 
Capital shares sold   2,860,372    615,232    6,054,897 
Dividends and interest   498,639    842,899    15,632,079 
Due from advisor            
Unrealized appreciation on contracts for difference            1,231,992 
Prepaid expenses and other assets   40,913    32,048    156,084 
Total assets   777,211,536    1,116,778,931    9,877,962,586 
LIABILITIES               
Securities sold short, at fair value ‡       331,198,031    3,069,117,514 
Options written, at value +        524,797     
Due to custodian            
Payables               
Securities lending collateral   154,014,226    71,065,241     
Investments purchased   1,845,530    5,676,301    24,803,281 
Capital shares redeemed   166,961    1,149,062    8,321,832 
Due to prime broker           2,967,391 
Investment advisory fees   494,269    1,426,859    7,249,102 
Custodian fees   5,557    23,371    61,491 
Distribution and service fees   111,270    22,863    12,243 
Dividends on securities sold short       43,162    3,940,241 
Administration and accounting fees   25,491    50,856    325,348 
Transfer agent fees   5,898    33,822    251,292 
Unrealized depreciation on contracts for difference            4,885,902 
Other accrued expenses and liabilities   48,819    73,229    224,803 
Total liabilities   156,718,021    411,287,594    3,122,160,440 
Net Assets  $620,493,515   $705,491,337   $6,755,802,146 
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:               
Par value  $22,603   $34,627   $406,129 
Paid-in Capital   442,966,351    568,116,863    5,635,524,100 
Undistributed net investment income/(accumulated net investment loss)   881,294    (9,628,861)   286,748 
Accumulated net realized gain/(loss) from investments and foreign currency   27,142,262    35,844,293    266,237,147 
Net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments and foreign currency translation   149,481,005    111,124,415    853,348,022 
Net Assets  $620,493,515   $705,491,337   $6,755,802,146 
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS               
Net assets  $476,178,549   $651,324,750   $6,636,897,394 
Shares outstanding   17,162,692    31,758,116    398,839,052 
Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share  $27.74   $20.51   $16.64 
INVESTOR CLASS               
Net assets  $144,314,966   $54,166,587   $118,904,752 
Shares outstanding   5,440,055    2,868,629    7,290,058 
Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share  $26.53   $18.88   $16.31 
Investments in securities, at cost  $455,381,163   $534,543,304   $5,266,863,316 
^ Includes market value of securities on loan  $151,106,889   $69,016,996   $ 
* Investments purchased with proceeds from securities lending collateral, at cost  $154,014,226   $71,065,241   $ 
** Short-term investments, at cost  $14,935,192   $1,607,812   $164,671,025 
o Purchased options, at cost  $   $142,580   $ 
# Foreign currency, at cost  $   $5,738,081   $630,791,169 
Proceeds received, securities sold short  $   $269,837,094   $2,670,922,791 
+ Premiums received, options written  $   $3,624,727   $ 
Primary risk exposure is equity contracts               

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  77

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
STATEMENTS OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES (CONTINUED)  

 

   Boston
Partner
All-Cap
Value Fund
   WPG Partners
Small/Micro Cap
Value Fund
   Boston
Partners Global
Equity Fund
 
ASSETS               
Investments in securities, at value † ^  $2,319,634,140   $32,239,528   $640,570,050 
Investments purchased with proceeds from securities lending collateral, at value *   267,098,957    8,119,241    41,687,430 
Short-term investments, at value **   46,593,663    211,260    26,580,592 
Purchased options, at value o             
Cash            
Receivables               
Investments sold       49,849    3,086,566 
Foreign currency deposits with brokers for securities sold short #           906,858 
Deposits with brokers for contracts for difference            
Deposits with brokers for securities sold short            
Capital shares sold   3,394,164        662,457 
Dividends and interest   3,653,144    24,497    2,006,486 
Due from advisor            
Unrealized appreciation on contracts for difference ◊            
Prepaid expenses and other assets   76,192    12,918    20,805 
Total assets   2,640,450,260    40,657,293    715,521,244 
LIABILITIES               
Securities sold short, at fair value ‡            
Options written, at value + ◊            
Due to custodian            
Payables               
Securities lending collateral   267,098,957    8,119,241    41,687,430 
Investments purchased   4,410,250    32,267    3,960,101 
Capital shares redeemed   2,470,887        3,006,461 
Due to prime broker             
Investment advisory fees   1,380,215    21,987    430,799 
Custodian fees   9,793    3,686    16,417 
Distribution and service fees   150,665         
Dividends on securities sold short            
Administration and accounting fees   82,871    2,809    32,183 
Transfer agent fees   43,251    2,001    71,473 
Unrealized depreciation on contracts for difference             
Other accrued expenses and liabilities   90,847    39,554    45,479 
Total liabilities   275,737,736    8,221,545    49,250,343 
Net Assets  $2,364,712,524   $32,435,748   $666,270,901 
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:               
Par value  $84,979   $1,852   $35,569 
Paid-in Capital   1,739,879,193    27,186,914    546,699,790 
Undistributed net investment income/(accumulated net investment loss)   11,901,867    84,436    5,216,327 
Accumulated net realized gain/(loss) from investments and foreign currency   65,320,050    595,791    36,515,584 
Net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments and foreign
currency translation
 
 
 
 
 
547,526,435
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
4,566,755
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
77,803,631
 
 
Net Assets  $2,364,712,524   $32,435,748   $666,270,901 
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS               
Net assets  $1,853,975,699   $32,435,748   $666,270,901 
Shares outstanding   66,536,427    1,851,700    35,569,297 
Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share  $27.86   $17.52   $18.73 
INVESTOR CLASS               
Net assets  $510,736,825   $   $ 
Shares outstanding   18,442,349         
Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share  $27.69   $   $ 
Investments in securities, at cost  $1,772,107,823   $27,672,773   $562,768,879 
^ Includes market value of securities on loan  $260,924,700   $7,941,707   $40,626,730 
* Investments purchased with proceeds from securities lending collateral, at cost  $267,098,957   $8,119,241   $41,687,430 
** Short-term investments, at cost  $46,593,663   $211,260   $26,580,592 
o Purchased options, at cost  $   $   $ 
# Foreign currency, at cost  $   $   $907,634 
Proceeds received, securities sold short  $   $   $ 
+ Premiums received, options written  $   $   $ 
Primary risk exposure is equity contracts               

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

78  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS August 31, 2018
STATEMENTS OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES (CONCLUDED)  

 

     Boston
Partners Global
Long/Short Fund
   Boston
Partners
Emerging Markets
Long/Short Fund
   Boston
Partners
Emerging
Markets Fund
 
ASSETS               
Investments in securities, at value † ^  $931,524,791   $35,899,530   $6,780,014 
Investments purchased with proceeds from securities lending collateral, at value *            
Short-term investments, at value **   2,291,298    19,150,354    1,335,874 
Purchased options, at value o             
Cash            
Receivables               
Investments sold   9,636,413    462,587    78,501 
Foreign currency deposits with brokers for securities sold short #       36,026    102,643 
Deposits with brokers for contracts for difference   1,070,000    2,479,844     
Deposits with brokers for securities sold short   435,116,312         
Capital shares sold   1,742,349    4,300     
Dividends and interest   3,641,399    61,397    4,745 
Due from advisor           16,210 
Unrealized appreciation on contracts for difference ◊   35,834    819,358    29,335 
Prepaid expenses and other assets   33,248    7,695    19,316 
Total assets   1,385,091,644    58,921,091    8,366,638 
LIABILITIES               
Securities sold short, at fair value ‡   431,667,599         
Options written, at value +    1,779,584         
Due to custodian   74,852         
Payables               
Securities lending collateral            
Investments purchased   10,783,862         
Capital shares redeemed   686,494         
Due to prime broker   435,688    47,029     
Investment advisory fees   1,215,413    68,091     
Custodian fees   64,506    23,247    12,396 
Distribution and service fees   291         
Dividends on securities sold short   595,166         
Administration and accounting fees   50,042    9,588    7,205 
Transfer agent fees   61,057    3,341    515 
Unrealized depreciation on contracts for difference    364,155    485,283    12,319 
Other accrued expenses and liabilities   89,352    39,440    38,592 
Total liabilities   447,868,061    676,019    71,027 
Net Assets  $937,223,583   $58,245,072   $8,295,611 
NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:               
Par value  $81,402   $5,554   $909 
Paid-in Capital   843,831,995    61,640,468    9,308,482 
Undistributed net investment income/(accumulated net investment loss)   334,771    (645,034)   (28,752)
Accumulated net realized gain/(loss) from investments and foreign currency   8,931,796    (439,905)   (168,539)
Net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments and foreign currency translation     84,043,619       (2,316,011 )       (816,489 )
Net Assets  $937,223,583   $58,245,072   $8,295,611 
INSTITUTIONAL CLASS               
Net assets  $913,236,607   $58,245,072   $8,295,611 
Shares outstanding   79,299,161    5,554,310    908,977 
Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share  $11.52   $10.49   $9.13 
INVESTOR CLASS               
Net assets  $23,986,976   $   $ 
Shares outstanding   2,103,271         
Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share  $11.40   $   $ 
Investments in securities, at cost  $818,279,087   $38,526,411   $7,612,209 
^ Includes market value of securities on loan  $   $   $ 
* Investments purchased with proceeds from securities lending collateral, at cost  $   $   $ 
** Short-term investments, at cost  $2,291,298   $19,150,354   $1,335,874 
o Purchased options, at cost  $   $   $ 
# Foreign currency, at cost  $   $36,102   $102,454 
Proceeds received, securities sold short  $402,357,927   $   $ 
+ Premiums received, options written  $2,203,545   $   $ 
Primary risk exposure is equity contracts               

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  79

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS For the Year Ended August 31, 2018
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS  

 

   Boston
Partners
Small Cap
Value Fund II
   Boston
Partners
Long/Short
Equity Fund
   Boston
Partners
Long/Short
Research Fund
 
Investment Income               
Dividends †  $10,303,874   $11,764,047   $109,974,014 
Interest   207,209    76,534    4,012,267 
Income from securities loaned (Note 8)   409,286    731,268     
Prime broker interest income           19,378,573 
Total investment income   10,920,369    12,571,849    133,364,854 
                
Expenses               
Advisory fees (Note 2)   5,803,994    20,267,197    86,450,170 
Distribution fees (Investor Class) (Note 2)   370,187    193,526    403,348 
Transfer agent fees (Note 2)   427,600    473,975    3,017,909 
Administration and accounting fees (Note 2)   155,602    265,121    1,831,904 
Audit and tax service fees   35,765    55,672    67,123 
Custodian fees (Note 2)   24,793    79,799    346,200 
Printing and shareholder reporting fees   47,858    56,273    438,533 
Legal fees   27,805    49,868    222,897 
Director’s fees   27,806    48,486    348,318 
Officer’s fees   17,978    26,129    177,030 
Other expenses   58,146    82,782    136,499 
Dividend expense on securities sold short       1,414,497    51,513,922 
Prime broker interest expense       4,322,477     
Total expenses before waivers and/or reimbursements   6,997,534    27,335,802    144,953,853 
Less: waivers and/or reimbursements net of amounts recouped (Note 2)   (242,966)        
Net expenses after waivers and/or reimbursements net of amounts recouped   6,754,568    27,335,802    144,953,853 
Net investment income/(loss)   4,165,801    (14,763,953)   (11,588,999)
                
Net realized gain/(loss) from:               
Investment securities   35,653,989    141,061,404    790,890,129 
Purchased options **       (343)    
Securities sold short       (93,810,139)   (453,605,005)
Options written **       200,063     
Contracts for difference **           21,072,131 
Foreign currency transactions   (234)   83,705    39,516,673 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on:               
Investment securities   45,398,596    (1,966,754)   (35,561,389)
Purchased options **       (122,212)    
Securities sold short       (36,247,107)   (144,125,645)
Options written **       1,293,529     
Contracts for difference **           406,625 
Foreign currency translation   (26)   (216,590)   (61,210,459)
Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss)   81,052,325    10,275,556    157,383,060 
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations  $85,218,126   $(4,488,397)  $145,794,061 
†  Net of foreign withholding taxes of  $(20,933)  $(216,727)  $(2,643,595)

 

** Primary risk exposure is equity contracts.               

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

80  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS For the Year Ended August 31, 2018
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (CONTINUED)  

 

   Boston
Partners
All-Cap
Value Fund
   WPG Partners
Small/Micro Cap
Value Fund
   Boston
Partners Global
Equity Fund
 
Investment Income               
Dividends †  $32,512,665   $335,665   $11,353,567 
Interest   943,975    6,783    280,402 
Income from securities loaned (Note 8)   499,930    83,578    98,869 
Prime broker interest income            
Total investment income   33,956,570    426,026    11,732,838 
                
Expenses               
Advisory fees (Note 2)   14,590,790    257,215    5,763,735 
Distribution fees (Investor Class) (Note 2)   1,226,757         
Transfer agent fees (Note 2)   952,927    9,115    362,270 
Administration and accounting fees (Note 2)   542,628    12,991    196,517 
Audit and tax service fees   38,872    31,728    45,577 
Custodian fees (Note 2)   61,189    14,129    101,272 
Printing and shareholder reporting fees   115,385    719    11,931 
Legal fees   108,663    1,322    32,062 
Director’s fees   104,953    1,708    32,287 
Officer’s fees   53,619    1,377    15,679 
Other expenses   176,837    25,001    45,856 
Dividend expense on securities sold short            
Prime broker interest expense            
Total expenses before waivers and/or reimbursements   17,972,620    355,305    6,607,186 
Less: waivers and/or reimbursements net of amounts recouped (Note 2)   (89,619)   (3,881)   (523,243)
Net expenses after waivers and/or reimbursements net of amounts recouped   17,883,001    351,424    6,083,943 
Net investment income/(loss)   16,073,569    74,602    5,648,895 
                
Net realized gain/(loss) from:               
Investment securities   86,287,963    2,043,762    46,662,760 
Purchased options **            
Securities sold short            
Options written **            
Contracts for difference **            
Foreign currency transactions       (4,961)   (238,056)
Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on:               
Investment securities   157,628,684    2,659,733    7,299,804 
Purchased options **            
Securities sold short            
Options written **            
Contracts for difference **            
Foreign currency translation   (303)       (18,368)
Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss)   243,916,344    4,698,534    53,706,140 
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations  $259,989,913   $4,773,136   $59,355,035 
†  Net of foreign withholding taxes of  $(191,090)  $(1,653)  $(619,655)

 

** Primary risk exposure is equity contracts.


 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  81

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS For the Year Ended August 31, 2018
STATEMENTS OF OPERATIONS (CONCLUDED)  

 

   Boston
Partners Global
Long/Short Fund
   Boston
Partners
Emerging Markets
Long/Short Fund
   Boston
Partners
Emerging
Markets Fund*
 
Investment Income               
Dividends †  $18,908,248   $737,498   $97,773 
Interest   360,696    280,980    25,140 
Income from securities loaned (Note 8)            
Prime broker interest income   3,264,663         
Total investment income   22,533,607    1,018,478    122,913 
                
Expenses               
Advisory fees (Note 2)   15,045,899    1,225,057    62,077 
Distribution fees (Investor Class) (Note 2)   79,947         
Transfer agent fees (Note 2)   580,664    24,724    2,240 
Administration and accounting fees (Note 2)   290,758    63,360    26,755 
Audit and tax service fees   61,370    65,908    39,455 
Custodian fees (Note 2)   215,087    125,831    54,929 
Printing and shareholder reporting fees   78,970    11,793    701 
Legal fees   55,695    11,684    1,260 
Director’s fees   54,148    3,734     
Officer’s fees   28,762    1,273     
Other expenses   118,467    36,337    28,248 
Dividend expense on securities sold short   6,920,193         
Prime broker interest expense       2,304     
Total expenses before waivers and/or reimbursements   23,529,960    1,572,005    215,665 
Less: waivers and/or reimbursements net of amounts recouped (Note 2)       (245,314)   (135,327)
Net expenses after waivers and/or reimbursements net of amounts recouped   23,529,960    1,326,691    80,338 
Net investment income/(loss)   (996,353)   (308,213)   42,575 
                
Net realized gain/(loss) from:               
Investment securities   102,652,030    891,028    (120,482)
Purchased options **            
Securities sold short   (67,411,158)   (31,887)    
Options written **   948,514         
Contracts for difference **   10,800    (763,404)   (84,056)
Foreign currency transactions   (578,973)   (87,145)   2,026 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on:               
Investment securities   (9,623,235)   (6,196,894)   (832,195)
Purchased options **            
Securities sold short   (7,734,939)        
Options written **   218,500         
Contracts for difference **   18,687    366,308    17,016 
Foreign currency translation   39,287    (38,206)   (1,310)
Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss)   18,539,513    (5,860,200)   (1,019,001)
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations  $17,543,160   $(6,168,413)  $(976,426)
†  Net of foreign withholding taxes of  $(953,622)  $(89,143)  $(11,414)

 

* The Fund commenced operations on October 17, 2017.
** Primary risk exposure is equity contracts.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

82  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

 

   Boston Partners
Small Cap Value Fund II
   Boston Partners
Long/Short Equity Fund
 
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017
 
Increase/(decrease) in net assets from operations:                    
Net investment income/(loss)  $4,165,801   $2,215,474   $(14,763,953)  $(11,541,965)
Net realized gain/(loss) from investments and foreign currency   35,653,755    24,012,473    47,534,690    3,350,098 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on
investments and foreign currency translation
 
 
 
 
 
45,398,570
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
20,433,718
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
(37,259,134
 
)
 
 
 
 
 
42,340,418
 
 
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations   85,218,126    46,661,665    (4,488,397)   34,148,551 
                     
Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:                    
Net investment income                    
Institutional Class   (3,131,857)   (2,781,092)        
Investor Class   (786,948)   (870,239)        
Net realized capital gains                    
Institutional Class   (15,168,411)   (4,527,424)   (6,788,431)    
Investor Class   (5,613,779)   (1,908,313)   (720,622)    
Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders  
 
 
 
 
(24,700,995
 
)
 
 
 
 
 
(10,087,068
 
)
 
 
 
 
 
(7,509,053
 
)
 
 
 
 
 
 
 
                     
Capital transactions:                    
Institutional Class                    
Proceeds from shares sold   137,345,450    143,360,524    102,603,910    251,115,617 
Reinvestment of distributions   18,092,538    7,224,434    5,867,217     
Shares redeemed   (86,288,343)   (93,047,367)   (304,621,729)   (154,556,632)
Investor Class                    
Proceeds from shares sold   30,319,317    55,351,017    4,713,036    28,174,624 
Reinvestment of distributions   6,316,311    2,742,456    716,185     
Shares redeemed   (67,753,640)   (35,771,687)   (38,713,922)   (41,269,077)
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets from capital transactions   38,031,633    79,859,377    (229,435,303)   83,464,532 
Total increase/(decrease) in net assets   98,548,764    116,433,974    (241,432,753)   117,613,083 
                     
Net assets:                    
Beginning of period   521,944,751    405,510,777    946,924,090    829,311,007 
End of period  $620,493,515   $521,944,751   $705,491,337   $946,924,090 
Undistributed net investment income/(accumulated net investment loss), end of period  
 
 
$
 
881,294
 
 
 
 
$ 620,877  
 
 
 
$ (9,628,861 )   $ (8,214,908)
                     
Share transactions:                    
Institutional Class                    
Shares sold   5,166,089    5,859,848    4,718,662    11,819,997 
Shares reinvested   703,990    286,570    270,753     
Shares redeemed   (3,235,880)   (3,750,327)   (14,202,057)   (7,287,722)
Net increase/(decrease)   2,634,199    2,396,091    (9,212,642)   4,532,275 
Investor Class                    
Shares sold   1,188,640    2,326,311    235,731    1,428,241 
Shares reinvested   256,656    113,325    35,827     
Shares redeemed   (2,664,694)   (1,512,331)   (1,953,565)   (2,116,120)
Net increase/(decrease)   (1,219,398)   927,305    (1,682,007)   (687,879)

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  83

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS (CONTINUED)

 

   Boston Partners
Long/Short Research Fund
   Boston Partners
All-Cap Value Fund
 
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017
 
Increase/(decrease) in net assets from operations:                    
Net investment income/(loss)  $(11,588,999)  $(48,540,573)  $16,073,569   $12,034,291 
Net realized gain/(loss) from investments and foreign currency   397,873,928    82,068,221    86,287,963    68,705,899 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments and foreign currency translation       (240,490,868 )       395,642,097         157,628,381         127,436,220  
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations   145,794,061    429,169,745    259,989,913    208,176,410 
                     
Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:                    
Net investment income                    
Institutional Class           (10,210,846)   (11,995,129)
Investor Class           (2,182,624)   (3,222,915)
Net realized capital gains                  
Institutional Class           (52,523,501)   (28,594,882)
Investor Class           (16,724,996)   (9,675,303)
Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders       —         —       (81,641,967 )     (53,488,229 )
                     
Capital transactions:                    
Institutional Class                    
Proceeds from shares sold   1,725,502,798    1,410,703,594    566,133,074    407,408,037 
Reinvestment of distributions           52,423,689    33,690,794 
Shares redeemed   (1,590,765,868)   (1,867,016,913)   (272,556,668)   (202,947,193)
Investor Class                    
Proceeds from shares sold   41,658,580    50,886,104    167,523,956    142,238,260 
Reinvestment of distributions           18,427,873    12,755,592 
Shares redeemed   (139,470,682)   (113,462,680)   (142,782,079)   (114,699,120)
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets from capital transactions   36,924,828    (518,889,895)   389,169,845    278,446,370 
Total increase/(decrease) in net assets   182,718,889    (89,720,150)   567,517,791    433,134,551 
                     
Net assets:                    
Beginning of period   6,573,083,257    6,662,803,407    1,797,194,733    1,364,060,182 
End of period  $6,755,802,146   $6,573,083,257   $2,364,712,524   $1,797,194,733 
Undistributed net investment income/(accumulated net investment loss), end of period   $ 286,748     $ (20,802,139 )   $ 11,901,867     $ 8,202,762  
                     
Share transactions:                    
Institutional Class                    
Shares sold   102,372,358    89,651,745    21,023,815    16,593,193 
Shares reinvested           2,009,340    1,413,797 
Shares redeemed   (94,541,695)   (119,188,304)   (10,090,987)   (8,365,867)
Net increase/(decrease)   7,830,663    (29,536,559)   12,942,168    9,641,123 
Investor Class                    
Shares sold   2,523,186    3,295,129    6,274,736    5,824,450 
Shares reinvested           709,583    537,530 
Shares redeemed   (8,459,226)   (7,364,065)   (5,334,043)   (4,701,396)
Net increase/(decrease)   (5,936,040)   (4,068,936)   1,650,276    1,660,584 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

84  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS (CONTINUED)

 

   WPG Partners
Small/Micro Cap Value Fund
   Boston Partners
Global Equity Fund
 
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017
 
Increase/(decrease) in net assets from operations:                    
Net investment income/(loss)  $74,602   $102,865   $5,648,895   $3,974,180 
Net realized gain/(loss) from investments and foreign currency   2,038,801    3,354,776    46,424,704    29,126,368 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments and foreign currency translation   2,659,733    (1,846,986)   7,281,436    26,459,740 
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations   4,773,136    1,610,655    59,355,035    59,560,288 
                     
Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:                    
Net investment income                    
Institutional Class   (107,927)   (151,830)   (4,011,353)   (8,112,334)
Investor Class                
Net realized capital gains                    
Institutional Class   (2,015,406)       (8,902,218)    
Investor Class                
Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders   (2,123,333)   (151,830)   (12,913,571)   (8,112,334)
                     
Capital transactions:                    
Institutional Class                    
Proceeds from shares sold   504,946    386,144    46,439,179    132,357,913 
Reinvestment of distributions   2,038,894    140,330    12,899,308    8,098,384 
Shares redeemed   (3,539,266)   (5,133,072)   (30,033,769)   (17,378,631)
Investor Class                    
Proceeds from shares sold                
Reinvestment of distributions                
Shares redeemed                
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets from capital transactions   (995,426)   (4,606,598)   29,304,718    123,077,666 
Total increase/(decrease) in net assets   1,654,377    (3,147,773)   75,746,182    174,525,620 
                     
Net assets:                    
Beginning of period   30,781,371    33,929,144    590,524,719    415,999,099 
End of period  $32,435,748   $30,781,371   $666,270,901   $590,524,719 
Undistributed net investment income/(accumulated net investment loss), end of period  $84,436   $101,663   $5,216,327   $2,907,337 
                     
Share transactions:                    
Institutional Class                    
Shares sold   29,909    23,570    2,527,611    7,816,097 
Shares reinvested   123,869    8,279    711,097    514,837 
Shares redeemed   (210,808)   (312,202)   (1,624,118)   (1,040,014)
Net increase/(decrease)   (57,030)   (280,353)   1,614,590    7,290,920 
Investor Class                    
Shares sold                
Shares reinvested                
Shares redeemed                
Net increase/(decrease)                

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  85

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS (CONTINUED)

 

   Boston Partners
Global Long/Short Fund
   Boston Partners
Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund
 
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017
 
Increase/(decrease) in net assets from operations:                    
Net investment income/(loss)  $(996,353)  $(8,659,447)  $(308,213)  $(156,422)
Net realized gain/(loss) from investments and foreign currency   35,621,213    17,879,108    8,592    2,821,322 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments and foreign currency translation   (17,081,700)   28,183,947    (5,868,792)   3,250,607 
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations   17,543,160    37,403,608    (6,168,413)   5,915,507 
                     
Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:                    
Net investment income                    
Institutional Class       (1,846,463)   (1,225,534)   (801,763)
Investor Class       (41,737)        
Net realized capital gains                    
Institutional Class           (2,134,264)   (96,418)
Investor Class                
Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders       (1,888,200)   (3,359,798)   (898,181)
                     
Capital transactions:                    
Institutional Class                    
Proceeds from shares sold   287,667,267    509,043,085    28,375,843    41,751,644 
Reinvestment of distributions       1,628,987    3,358,724    898,183 
Shares redeemed   (399,562,572)   (390,372,329)   (20,790,252)   (1,776,494)
Investor Class                    
Proceeds from shares sold   11,181,778    13,182,670         
Reinvestment of distributions       41,560         
Shares redeemed   (21,869,620)   (11,692,134)        
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets from capital transactions   (122,583,147)   121,831,839    10,944,315    40,873,333 
Total increase/(decrease) in net assets   (105,039,987)   157,347,247    1,416,104    45,890,659 
                     
Net assets:                    
Beginning of period   1,042,263,570    884,916,323    56,828,968    10,938,309 
End of period  $937,223,583   $1,042,263,570   $58,245,072   $56,828,968 
Undistributed net investment income/(accumulated net investment loss), end of period  $334,771   $(7,496,257)  $(645,034)  $1,100,262 
Share transactions:                    
Institutional Class                    
Shares sold   24,582,710    45,625,568    2,360,400    3,775,651 
Shares reinvested       147,420    294,625    90,179 
Shares redeemed   (34,220,197)   (35,115,302)   (1,789,266)   (158,221)
Net increase/(decrease)   (9,637,487)   10,657,686    865,759    3,707,609 
Investor Class                    
Shares sold   967,934    1,192,120         
Shares reinvested       3,782         
Shares redeemed   (1,888,526)   (1,057,685)        
Net increase/(decrease)   (920,592)   138,217         

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

86  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS (CONCLUDED)

 

   Boston
Partners
Emerging
Markets Fund
 
   For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018*
 
Increase/(decrease) in net assets from operations:     
Net investment income/(loss)  $42,575 
Net realized gain/(loss) from investments and foreign currency   (202,512)
Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments and foreign currency translation   (816,489)
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations   (976,426)
      
Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:     
Net investment income     
Institutional Class   (37,354)
Net realized capital gains     
Institutional Class    
Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders   (37,354)
      
Capital transactions:     
Institutional Class     
Proceeds from shares sold   9,272,037 
Reinvestment of distributions   37,354 
Shares redeemed    
Net increase/(decrease) in net assets from capital transactions   9,309,391 
Total increase/(decrease) in net assets   8,295,611 
      
Net assets:     
Beginning of period    
End of period  $8,295,611 
Undistributed net investment income/(accumulated net investment loss), end of period  $(28,752)
      
Share transactions:     
Institutional Class     
Shares sold   905,226 
Shares reinvested   3,751 
Shares redeemed    
Net increase/(decrease)   908,977 

 

* The Fund commenced operations on October 17, 2017.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  87

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS  
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS Per Share Operating Performance

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for each class of shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   Net Asset
Value,
Beginning
of Period
  Net
Investment
Income/
(Loss)*
  Net Realized
and
Unrealized
Gain/
(Loss) on
Investments
  Net Increase/
(Decrease)
in Net Assets
Resulting
from
Operations
  Dividends to
Shareholders
from Net
Investment
Income
  Distributions
to
Shareholders
from Net
Realized
Gains
  Total
Dividend and
Distributions
to
Shareholders
  Redemption
Fees*^
Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II
Institutional Class                                        
8/31/18     $24.96         $0.21          $3.75             $3.96              $(0.20)              $(0.98)              $(1.18)               $     
8/31/17   23.00    0.13    2.38    2.51    (0.21)   (0.34)   (0.55)    
8/31/16   21.89    0.18    2.00    2.18    (0.12)   (0.95)   (1.07)   3
8/31/15   22.65    0.21    (0.54)   (0.33)   (0.15)   (0.28)   (0.43)    
8/31/14   19.06    0.15    3.53    3.68    (0.09)       (0.09)   3
Investor Class                                        
8/31/18  $23.92   $0.14   $3.59   $3.73   $(0.14)  $(0.98)  $(1.12)  $ 
8/31/17   22.06    0.07    2.29    2.36    (0.16)   (0.34)   (0.50)    
8/31/16   21.04    0.12    1.92    2.04    (0.07)   (0.95)   (1.02)   3
8/31/15   21.79    0.14    (0.51)   (0.37)   (0.10)   (0.28)   (0.38)    
8/31/14   18.35    0.09    3.40    3.49    (0.05)       (0.05)   3
Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund
Institutional Class                                        
8/31/18  $20.96   $(0.35)  $0.07   $(0.28)  $   $(0.17)  $(0.17)  $ 
8/31/17   20.09    (0.26)   1.13    0.87                 
8/31/16   19.04    (0.35)   3.04    2.69        (1.64)   (1.64)   3
8/31/15   22.65    (0.84)   (1.01)   (1.85)       (1.77)   (1.77)   0.01 
8/31/14   20.94    (0.63)   3.57    2.94        (1.24)   (1.24)   0.01 
Investor Class                                        
8/31/18  $19.36   $(0.38)  $0.07   $(0.31)  $   $(0.17)  $(0.17)  $ 
8/31/17   18.60    (0.29)   1.05    0.76                 
8/31/16   17.79    (0.37)   2.82    2.45        (1.64)   (1.64)   3
8/31/15   21.33    (0.84)   (0.94)   (1.78)       (1.77)   (1.77)   0.01 
8/31/14   19.84    (0.65)   3.37    2.72        (1.24)   (1.24)   0.01 
Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund
Institutional Class                                        
8/31/18  $16.27   $(0.03)  $0.40   $0.37   $   $   $   $ 
8/31/17   15.23    (0.12)   1.16    1.04                 
8/31/16   15.20    (0.06)4   0.67    0.61        (0.58)   (0.58)   3
8/31/15   15.14    (0.14)   0.40    0.26        (0.20)   (0.20)   3
8/31/14   13.30    (0.12)   2.02    1.90        (0.06)   (0.06)   3
Investor Class                                        
8/31/18  $15.99   $(0.08)  $0.40   $0.32   $   $   $   $ 
8/31/17   15.00    (0.15)   1.14    0.99                 
8/31/16   15.01    (0.09)4   0.66    0.57        (0.58)   (0.58)   3
8/31/15   15.00    (0.18)   0.39    0.21        (0.20)   (0.20)   3
8/31/14   13.21    (0.15)   2.00    1.85        (0.06)   (0.06)   3
* Calculated based on average shares outstanding for the period.
^ Effective January 1, 2016, the Funds do not impose a redemption fee. Prior to January 1, 2016, there was a 1.00% redemption fee on shares redeemed that were held 60 days or less on BP Small Cap Value Fund II and BP Long/Short Research Fund. There was a 2.00% redemption fee on shares redeemed that were held 365 days or less on the BP Long/Short Equity Fund. The redemption fees were retained by the Funds for the benefit of the remaining shareholders and recorded as paid-in capital.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

88  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS  
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (CONTINUED) Per Share Operating Performance

 

  Net Asset
Value, End
of Period
  Total
Investment
Return1,2
  Net Assets,
End of Period
(000)
  Ratio of Expenses
to Average
Net Assets
With Waivers,
Reimbursements
and Recoupment
if any
  Ratio of Expenses
to Average
Net Assets
With Waivers,
Reimbursements
and Recoupments
if any (Excluding
Dividend and
Interest Expense)
  Ratio of Expenses
to Average Net
Assets Without
Waivers,
Reimbursements
and Recoupments
if any
  Ratio of Net
Investment
Income/(Loss)
to Average Net
Assets With
Waivers and
Reimbursements
  Portfolio
Turnover
Rate
 
                          
        $27.74          16.25%      $476,179        1.10%   N/A    1.14%   0.78%   40%  
   24.96    10.92    362,674    1.10    N/A    1.18    0.53    24   
   23.00    10.67    279,049    1.10    N/A    1.22    0.86    29   
   21.89    (1.45)   180,057    1.10    N/A    1.23    0.91    14   
   22.65    19.33    102,112    1.21    N/A    1.23    0.68    16   
                                          
  $26.53    15.94%  $144,315    1.35%   N/A    1.39%   0.53%   40%  
   23.92    10.68    159,271    1.35    N/A    1.43    0.28    24   
   22.06    10.38    126,461    1.35    N/A    1.47    0.61    29   
   21.04    (1.68)   129,474    1.35    N/A    1.48    0.66    14   
   21.79    19.01    112,417    1.46    N/A    1.48    0.43    16   
                                          
  $20.51    (1.38%)  $651,325    3.01%   2.37%   3.01%   (1.62%)   58%  
   20.96    4.33    858,821    2.80    2.39    2.80    (1.21)   63   
   20.09    15.36    731,894    3.57    2.46    3.57    (1.79)   72   
   19.04    (8.35)   493,751    5.64    2.47    5.64    (4.22)   75   
   22.65    14.72    676,756    4.33    2.42    4.33    (2.93)   65   
                                          
  $18.88    (1.65%)  $54,167    3.26%   2.62%   3.26%   (1.87%)   58%  
   19.36    4.09    88,103    3.05    2.64    3.05    (1.46)   63   
   18.60    15.07    97,417    3.82    2.71    3.82    (2.04)   72   
   17.79    (8.55)   94,459    5.89    2.72    5.89    (4.47)   75   
   21.33    14.41    211,372    4.57    2.66    4.57    (3.18)   65   
                                          
  $16.64    2.27%  $6,636,897    2.09%   1.34%   2.09%   (0.19%)   60%  
   16.27    6.83    6,361,628    2.23    1.37    2.23    (0.75)   54   
   15.23    4.10    6,403,404    2.51    1.41    2.51    (0.38)4   53   
   15.20    1.73    6,738,894    2.43    1.39    2.43    (0.92)   62   
   15.14    14.28    5,054,388    2.52    1.39    2.52    (0.81)   57   
                                          
  $16.31    2.00%  $118,905    2.34%   1.59%   2.34%   (0.44%)   60%  
   15.99    6.60    211,455    2.48    1.63    2.48    (1.00)   54   
   15.00    3.88    259,400    2.76    1.66    2.76    (0.63)4   53   
   15.01    1.41    300,586    2.68    1.64    2.68    (1.17)   62   
   15.00    13.99    294,249    2.77    1.64    2.77    (1.06)   57   
1 Total return is calculated by assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of the period and is not annualized if period is less than one year.
2 Redemption fees, if any, are reflected in total return calculations.
3 Amount is less than $0.005 per share.
4 Includes a non-recurring dividend. Without this dividend, net investment loss per share would have been $(0.10) and $(0.13) for Institutional Class and Investor Class, respectively. The ratio of net investment loss would have been (0.66)% and (0.91)% for Institutional Class and Investor Class, respectively.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  89

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS  
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (CONTINUED) Per Share Operating Performance

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for each class of shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   Net Asset
Value,
Beginning
of Period
  Net
Investment
Income/
(Loss)*
  Net Realized
and
Unrealized
Gain/
(Loss) on
Investments
  Net Increase/
(Decrease)
in Net Assets
Resulting
from
Operations
  Dividends to
Shareholders
from Net
Investment
Income
  Distributions
to
Shareholders
from Net
Realized
Gains
  Total
Dividend and
Distributions
to
Shareholders
  Redemption
Fees*^

Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund

Institutional Class                                        
8/31/18     $25.57           $0.22            $3.20             $3.42               $(0.18)             $(0.95)           $(1.13)            $     
8/31/17   23.12    0.20    3.17    3.37    (0.27)   (0.65)   (0.92)    
8/31/16   22.08    0.30    2.15    2.45    (0.30)   (1.11)   (1.41)    
8/31/15   23.00    0.30    (0.08)   0.22    (0.22)   (0.92)   (1.14)    
8/31/14   19.19    0.22    4.39    4.61    (0.18)   (0.62)   (0.80)    
Investor Class                                        
8/31/18  $25.42   $0.16   $3.18   $3.34   $(0.12)  $(0.95)  $(1.07)  $ 
8/31/17   23.00    0.14    3.15    3.29    (0.22)   (0.65)   (0.87)    
8/31/16   21.98    0.25    2.13    2.38    (0.25)   (1.11)   (1.36)    
8/31/15   22.90    0.25    (0.08)   0.17    (0.17)   (0.92)   (1.09)    
8/31/14   19.12    0.17    4.38    4.55    (0.15)   (0.62)   (0.77)    
WPG Partners Small/Micro Cap Value Fund
Institutional Class                                        
8/31/18  $16.13   $0.04   $2.50   $2.54   $(0.06)  $(1.09)  $(1.15)  $ 
8/31/17   15.50    0.05    0.65    0.70    (0.07)       (0.07)    
8/31/16   15.40    0.07    0.46    0.53    (0.10)   (0.33)   (0.43)    
8/31/15   20.42    0.13    (2.84)   (2.71)   (0.13)   (2.18)   (2.31)   4
8/31/14   19.06    0.07    3.16    3.23    (0.02)   (1.85)   (1.87)    
Boston Partners Global Equity Fund
Institutional Class                                        
8/31/18  $17.39   $0.16   $1.56   $1.72   $(0.12)  $(0.26)  $(0.38)  $ 
8/31/17   15.60    0.14    1.95    2.09    (0.30)       (0.30)    
8/31/16   14.66    0.355   0.66    1.01    (0.05)   (0.02)   (0.07)    
8/31/15   15.59    0.13    (0.40)   (0.27)   (0.14)   (0.52)   (0.66)    
8/31/14   12.97    0.18    2.82    3.00    (0.02)   (0.36)   (0.38)    
* Calculated based on average shares outstanding, unless otherwise noted.
^ Effective January 1, 2016, the Funds do not impose a redemption fee. Prior to January 1, 2016, there was a 1.00% redemption fee on shares redeemed that were held 60 days or less on BP Global Equity Fund. The WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund had a 2.00% redemption fee on shares redeemed within 60 days of purchase. The redemption fees were retained by the Funds for the benefit of the remaining shareholders and recorded as paid-in capital.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

90  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS  
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (CONTINUED) Per Share Operating Performance

 

  Net Asset
Value, End
of Period
  Total
Investment
Return1,2
  Net Assets,
End of Period
(000)
  Ratio of Expenses
to Average
Net Assets
With Waivers,
Reimbursements
and Recoupment
if any
  Ratio of Expenses
to Average
Net Assets
With Waivers,
Reimbursements
and Recoupments
if any (Excluding
Dividend and
Interest Expense)
  Ratio of Expenses
to Average Net
Assets Without
Waivers,
Reimbursements
and Recoupments
if any
  Ratio of Net
Investment
Income/(Loss)
to Average Net
Assets With
Waivers and
Reimbursements
  Portfolio
Turnover
Rate
 
                                          
        $27.86          13.70%      $1,853,976        0.80%   N/A    0.80%   0.83%   33%  
   25.57    14.88    1,370,288    0.80    N/A    0.88    0.83    27   
   23.12    11.68    1,016,106    0.77    N/A    0.96    1.41    303  
   22.08    0.88    793,098    0.70    N/A    0.95    1.32    33   
   23.00    24.52    736,475    0.70    N/A    0.94    1.05    26   
                                          
  $27.69    13.44%  $510,737    1.05%   N/A    1.05%   0.58%   33%  
   25.42    14.56    426,904    1.05    N/A    1.13    0.58    27   
   23.00    11.39    347,954    1.02    N/A    1.21    1.16    303  
   21.98    0.66    248,643    0.95    N/A    1.20    1.07    33   
   22.90    24.29    217,590    0.95    N/A    1.20    0.80    26   
                                          
  $17.52    16.16%  $32,436    1.09%   N/A    1.11%   0.23%   80%  
   16.13    4.50    30,781    1.10    N/A    1.29    0.30    78   
   15.50    3.74    33,929    1.10    N/A    1.55    0.47    62   
   15.40    (14.01)   36,461    1.10    N/A    1.41    0.78    80   
   20.42    17.46    46,008    1.36    N/A    1.42    0.35    75   
                                          
  $18.73    9.93%  $666,271    0.95%   N/A    1.03%   0.88%   80%  
   17.39    13.59    590,525    0.95    N/A    1.04    0.84    83   
   15.60    6.90    415,999    0.95    N/A    1.10    2.385   80   
   14.66    (1.75)   279,978    0.95    N/A    1.24    0.86    98   
   15.59    23.39    60,087    0.96    N/A    1.39    1.20    136   
1 Total return is calculated by assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of the period and is not annualized if period is less than one year.
2 Redemption fees, if any, are reflected in total return calculations.
3 Portfolio turnover rate excludes securities delivered/received from processing redemptions/subscriptions in-kind.
4 Amount is less than $0.005.
5 Includes a non-recurring dividend. Without this dividend, net investment income per share would have been $0.18. The ratio of net investment income would have been 1.25%.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  91

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS  
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (CONTINUED) Per Share Operating Performance

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for each class of shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   Net Asset
Value,
Beginning
of Period
  Net
Investment
Income/
(Loss)*
  Net Realized
and
Unrealized
Gain/
(Loss) on
Investments
  Net Increase/
(Decrease)
in Net Assets
Resulting
from
Operations
  Dividends to
Shareholders
from Net
Investment
Income
  Distributions
to
Shareholders
from Net
Realized
Gains
  Total
Dividend and
Distributions
to
Shareholders
Boston Partners Global Long/Short Fund
Institutional Class                                   
8/31/18     $11.34          $(0.01)          $0.19           $0.18            $             $             $      
8/31/17   10.90    (0.11)   0.57    0.46    (0.02)       (0.02)
8/31/16   10.55    0.057   0.34    0.39        (0.04)   (0.04)
8/31/15   10.30    (0.13)   0.38    0.25             
12/31/13** through 8/31/14   10.00    (0.14)   0.44    0.30             
Investor Class                                   
8/31/18  $11.25   $(0.04)  $0.19   $0.15   $   $   $ 
8/31/17   10.85    (0.13)   0.54    0.41    (0.01)       (0.01)
8/31/16   10.51    0.027   0.36    0.38        (0.04)   (0.04)
8/31/15   10.29    (0.16)   0.38    0.22             
4/11/14** through 8/31/14   9.86    (0.09)   0.52    0.43             
Boston Partners Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund
Institutional Class                                   
8/31/18  $12.12   $(0.05)  $(0.87)  $(0.92)  $(0.26)  $(0.45)  $(0.71)
8/31/17   11.15    (0.07)   1.96    1.89    (0.82)   (0.10)   (0.92)
12/15/15** through 8/31/16   10.00    (0.09)   1.24    1.15             
Boston Partners Emerging Markets Fund
Institutional Class                                   
10/17/17** through 8/31/18  $10.00   $0.05   $(0.86)  $(0.81)  $(0.06)  $   $(0.06)
* Calculated based on average shares outstanding, unless otherwise noted.
** Commencement of operations.
^ Effective January 1, 2016, the Funds do not impose a redemption fee. Prior to January 1, 2016, there was a 1.00% redemption fee on shares redeemed that were held 60 days or less on BP Global Long/Short Fund. The redemption fees were retained by the Funds for the benefit of the remaining shareholders and recorded as paid-in capital.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

92  |  Annual Report 2018

 
BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS  
FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS (CONCLUDED) Per Share Operating Performance

 

  Redemption
Fees*^
  Net Asset
Value, End
of Period
  Total
Investment
Return1,2
  Net Assets,
End of Period
(000)
  Ratio of Expenses
to Average
Net Assets
With Waivers,
Reimbursements
and Recoupment
if any
  Ratio of Expenses
to Average
Net Assets
With Waivers,
Reimbursements
and Recoupments
if any (Excluding
Dividend and
Interest Expense)
  Ratio of Expenses
to Average Net
Assets Without
Waivers,
Reimbursements
and Recoupments
if any
  Ratio of Net
Investment
Income/(Loss)
to Average Net
Assets With
Waivers and
Reimbursements
  Portfolio
Turnover
Rate
 
                                                 
      $       $11.52    1.59%     $913,237       2.34%   1.65%   2.34%   (0.11%)     85%  
       11.34    4.26    1,008,234    2.63    1.70    2.63    (0.94)     109   
   4   10.90    3.74    853,621    2.99    1.74    2.99    0.477     137   
   4   10.55    2.43    317,600    3.09    1.96    3.05    (1.27)     132   
   4   10.30    3.00    37,403    3.885   2.005   4.895   (2.04)5     726  
                                                 
  $   $11.40    1.33%  $23,987    2.59%   1.90%   2.59%   (0.36%)     85%  
       11.25    3.92    34,030    2.88    1.95    2.88    (1.17)     109   
   4   10.85    3.66    31,294    3.24    1.99    3.24    0.227     137   
   4   10.51    2.14    59,919    3.34    2.21    3.30    (1.52)     132   
   4   10.29    4.36    2,841    4.125   2.255   4.445   (2.28)5     726  
                                                 
  $   $10.49    (8.11%)  $58,245    2.00%   2.00%   2.37%   (0.47%)     222%  
       12.12    18.71    56,829    2.13    2.06    2.99    (0.60)     184   
       11.15    11.50    10,938    3.875   2.105   7.825   (1.26)5     2293,6  
                                                 
  $   $9.13    (8.11%)  $8,296    1.10%5   N/A    2.95%5   0.58%5     146%6  

 

1 Total return is calculated by assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of the period and is not annualized if period is less than one year.
2 Redemption fees, if any, are reflected in total return calculations.
3 Portfolio turnover rate excludes securities delivered/received from processing redemptions/subscriptions in-kind.
4 Amount is less than $0.005.
5 Annualized.
6 Not Annualized.
7 Includes a non-recurring dividend. Without this dividend, net investment income (loss) per share would have been $(0.09) and $(0.12) for Institutional Class and Investor Class, respectively. The ratio of net investment income (loss) would have been (0.88)% and (1.13)% for Institutional Class and Investor Class, respectively.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  93

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 

August 31, 2018

 

1. ORGANIZATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

The RBB Fund, Inc (“RBB” or the “Company”) was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on February 29, 1988 and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. RBB is a “series fund,” which is a mutual fund divided into separate portfolios. Each portfolio is treated as a separate entity for certain matters under the 1940 Act, and for other purposes, and a shareholder of one portfolio is not deemed to be a shareholder of any other portfolio. Currently, RBB has thirty active investment portfolios, including Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II (“BP Small Cap Value Fund II”), Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund (“BP Long/Short Equity Fund”), Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund (“BP Long/Short Research Fund”), Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund (“BP All-Cap Value Fund”), Boston Partners Global Equity Fund (“BP Global Equity Fund”), Boston Partners Global Long/Short Fund (“BP Global Long/Short Fund”), Boston Partners Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund (“BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund”) and Boston Partners Emerging Markets Fund (“BP Emerging Markets Fund”) (collectively the “BP Funds”), and WPG Partners Small/Micro Cap Value Fund (“WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund” and, collectively with the BP Funds, the “Funds”). As of the end of the reporting period, the Funds (other than the WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund, BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund, and BP Emerging Markets Fund) each offer two classes of shares, Institutional Class and Investor Class. As of the end of the reporting period, Investor Class shares of the BP Global Equity Fund have not been issued. The WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund, BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund, and BP Emerging Markets Fund are single class funds, offering only the Institutional Class of shares.

 

RBB has authorized capital of one hundred billion shares of common stock of which 87.023 billion shares are currently classified into one hundred and eighty-one classes of common stock. Each class represents an interest in an active or inactive RBB investment portfolio.

 

The investment objective of BP Small Cap Value Fund II and BP All-Cap Value Fund is to seek long-term growth of capital primarily through investment in equity securities. The investment objective of BP Global Equity Fund, BP Global/Long Short Fund, BP Emerging Markets Fund and BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund is to seek long-term capital growth. The investment objective of BP Long/Short Equity Fund is to seek long-term capital appreciation while reducing exposure to general equity market risk. The investment objective of WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund is to seek appreciation by investing primarily in common stocks, securities convertible into common stocks and in special situations. The investment objective of BP Long/Short Research Fund is to seek long-term total return.

 

The Funds are investment companies and follow accounting and reporting guidance in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 - “Financial Services-Investment Companies.”

 

The end of the reporting period for the Funds is August 31, 2018, and the period covered by these Notes to Financial Statements is the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018 (the “current fiscal period”).

 

PORTFOLIO VALUATION —Each Fund’s net asset value (“NAV”) is calculated once daily at the close of regular trading hours on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m Eastern time) on each day the NYSE is open. Securities held by a Fund are valued using the closing price or the last sale price on a national securities exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automatic Quotation System (“NASDAQ”) market system where they are primarily traded. Equity securities traded in the over-the-counter (“OTC”) market are valued at their closing prices. If there were no transactions on that day, securities traded principally on an exchange or on NASDAQ will be valued at the mean of the last bid and ask prices prior to the market close. Fixed income securities are valued using an independent pricing service, which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings, and are deemed representative of market values at the close of the market. Foreign securities are valued based on prices from the primary market in which they are traded, and are translated from the local currency into U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. Investments in other open-end investment companies, if any, are valued based on the NAV of the investment companies (which may use fair value pricing as disclosed in their prospectuses). Options for which the primary market is a national securities exchange are valued at the last sale price on the exchange on which they are traded, or, in the absence of any sale, will be valued at the mean of the last bid and ask prices prior to the market close. Options not traded on a national securities exchange are valued at the last quoted bid price for long option positions and the closing ask price for short option positions. If market quotations are unavailable or deemed unreliable, securities will be valued in accordance with procedures adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”). Relying on prices supplied by pricing services or dealers or using fair valuation may result in values that are higher or lower than the values used by other investment companies and investors to price the same investments Such procedures use fundamental valuation methods, which may include, but are not limited to, an analysis of the effect of any restrictions on the resale of the security, industry analysis and trends, significant changes in the issuer’s financial position, and any other event which could have a significant impact on the value of the security. Determination of fair value involves subjective judgment as the actual market value of a particular security can be established only by negotiations between the parties in a sales transaction, and the difference between the recorded fair value and the value that would be received in a sale could be significant. The Funds may use fair value pricing more frequently for securities traded primarily in non-U.S. markets because, among other things, most foreign markets close well before the Funds value their securities, generally as of 4:00 p.m. Eastern time. The earlier close of these foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, government actions or pronouncements, aftermarket trading, or news events may have occurred in the interim. To account for this, the Funds may value foreign securities using fair value prices based on third-party vendor modeling tools (international fair value pricing).

 

94  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

 

August 31, 2018

 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS — The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the Funds’ investments are summarized into three levels as described in the hierarchy below:

 

  Level 1 —  Prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.
  Level 2 — Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).
  Level 3 — Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including the Funds’ own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

A summary of the inputs used to value each Fund’s investments as of the end of the reporting period is included in each Fund’s Portfolio of Investments.

 

At the end of each quarter, management evaluates the classification of Levels 1, 2 and 3 assets and liabilities. Various factors are considered, such as changes in liquidity from the prior reporting period; whether or not a broker is willing to execute at the quoted price; the depth and consistency of prices from third party pricing services; and the existence of contemporaneous, observable trades in the market. Additionally, management evaluates the classification of Level 1 and Level 2 assets and liabilities on a quarterly basis for changes in listings or delistings on national exchanges.

 

Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Funds’ investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values the Funds may ultimately realize. Further, such investments may be subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities.

 

For fair valuations using significant unobservable inputs, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires each Fund to present a reconciliation of the beginning to ending balances for reported market values that presents changes attributable to total realized and unrealized gains or losses, purchase and sales, and transfers in and out of Level 3 during the period. Transfers in and out between levels are based on values at the end of the period. U.S. GAAP also requires the Funds to disclose amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements. A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented only when a Fund had an amount of Level 3 investments at the end of the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets. The amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of each level within the three-tier hierarchy are disclosed when a Fund had an amount of total transfers during the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets as of the end of the reporting period.

 

Foreign securities that utilize international fair pricing are categorized as Level 2 in the hierarchy. For the BP Global Equity Fund, a security held as a long position with an end of period value of $6,998,043 transferred from Level 1 into Level 2. For the BP Global Long/Short Fund, a security held as a long position with an end of period value of $10,269,517 transferred from Level 1 into Level 2. These transfers occurred as a result of these securities being valued utilizing the international fair value pricing at August 31, 2018.

 

USE OF ESTIMATES — The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and those differences could be significant.

 

INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS, INVESTMENT INCOME AND EXPENSES — The Funds record security transactions based on trade date for financial reporting purposes. The cost of investments sold is determined by use of the specific identification method for both financial reporting and income tax purposes in determining realized gains and losses on investments. Interest income is accrued when earned. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The Funds’ investment income, expenses (other than class specific expenses) and unrealized and realized gains and losses are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class at the beginning of the day. Expenses incurred on behalf of a specific class, fund or fund family of the Company are charged directly to the class, fund or fund family (in proportion to net assets). Expenses incurred for all of the RBB funds (such as director or professional fees) are charged to all funds in proportion to their average net assets of RBB, or in such other manner as the Board deems fair or equitable. Expenses and fees, including investment advisory and administration fees, are accrued daily and taken into account for the purpose of determining the NAV of the Funds.

 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS — Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid at least annually to shareholders and recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income dividends and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations which may differ from U.S. GAAP.

 

U.S. TAX STATUS — No provision is made for U.S. income taxes as it is each Fund’s intention to qualify or continue to qualify for and elect the tax treatment applicable to regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and make the requisite distributions to its shareholders which will be sufficient to relieve it from U.S. income and excise taxes.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  95

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

 

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION — Assets and liabilities initially expressed in non-U.S. currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the applicable exchange rates at the date of the last business day of the financial statement period. Purchases and sales of securities, interest income, dividends, variation margin received and expenses denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect on the transaction date.

 

The Funds do not separately report the effect of changes in foreign exchange rates from changes in market prices of securities held. Such changes are included with the net realized gain or loss and change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments in the Statements of Operations. Other foreign currency transactions resulting in realized and unrealized gain or loss are reported separately as net realized gain or loss and change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on foreign currencies in the Statements of Operations.

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — Cash and cash equivalents are valued at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates market value.

 

OTHER — In the normal course of business, the Funds may enter into contracts that provide general indemnifications. Each Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made against the Funds in the future, and, therefore, cannot be estimated; however, based on experience, the risk of material loss from such claims is considered remote.

 

CURRENCY RISK — The Funds invest in securities of foreign issuers, including American Depositary Receipts. These markets are subject to special risks associated with foreign investments not typically associated with investing in U.S. markets. Because the foreign securities in which the Funds may invest generally trade in currencies other than the U.S. dollar, changes in currency exchange rates will affect the Funds’ NAV, the value of dividends and interest earned and gains and losses realized on the sale of securities. Because the NAV for the Funds are determined on the basis of U.S. dollars, the Funds may lose money by investing in a foreign security if the local currency of a foreign market depreciates against the U.S. dollar, even if the local currency value of the Funds’ holdings goes up. Generally, a strong U.S. dollar relative to these other currencies will adversely affect the value of the Funds’ holdings in foreign securities.

 

EMERGING MARKETS RISK — The BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund and the BP Emerging Markets Fund invest in emerging market instruments which are subject to certain credit and market risks. The securities and currency markets of emerging market countries are generally smaller, less developed, less liquid and more volatile than the securities and currency markets of the United States and other developed markets. Disclosure and regulatory standards in many respects are less stringent than in other developed markets. There also may be a lower level of monitoring and regulation of securities markets in emerging market countries and the activities of investors in such markets and enforcement of existing regulations may be extremely limited. Political and economic structures in many of these countries may be in their infancy and developing rapidly, and such countries may lack the social, political and economic stability characteristics of more developed countries.

 

FOREIGN SECURITIES MARKET RISK — Securities of many non-U.S. companies may be less liquid and their prices more volatile than securities of comparable U.S. companies. Securities of companies traded in many countries outside the U.S., particularly emerging markets countries, may be subject to further risks due to the inexperience of local investment professionals and financial institutions, the possibility of permanent or temporary termination of trading and greater spreads between bid and asked prices of securities. In addition, non-U.S. stock exchanges and investment professionals are subject to less governmental regulation, and commissions may be higher than in the United States. Also, there may be delays in the settlement of non-U.S. stock exchange transactions.

 

OPTIONS WRITTEN — The Funds may enter into options written for: bona fide hedging; attempting to offset changes in the value of securities held or expected to be acquired or be disposed of; attempting to minimize fluctuations in foreign currencies; attempting to gain exposure to a particular market, index or instrument; or other risk management purposes. Such options may relate to particular securities or domestic stock indices, and may or may not be listed on exchanges regulated by the Commodity Futures Trading Commission or on other non-U.S. exchanges. An option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right, in return for the premium paid, to assume a position in the contract (a long position if the option is a call and a short position if the option is a put) at a specified exercise price at any time during the option exercise period. The writer of the option is required upon exercise to assume a short futures position (if the option is a call) or a long futures position (if the option is a put). Upon exercise of the option, the accumulated cash balance in the writer’s futures margin account is delivered to the holder of the option. That balance represents the amount by which the market price of the futures contract at exercise exceeds, in the case of a call, or is less than, in the case of a put, the exercise price of the option. The maximum risk of loss associated with writing put options is limited to the exercised fair value of the option contract. The maximum risk of loss associated with writing call options is potentially unlimited. The Funds also have the additional risk of being unable to enter into a closing transaction at an acceptable price if a liquid secondary market does not exist. The Funds also may write OTC options where completing the obligation depends upon the credit standing of the other party. Option contracts also involve the risk that they may result in loss due to unanticipated developments in market conditions or other causes. Written options are initially recorded as liabilities to the extent of premiums received and subsequently marked to market to reflect the current value of the option written. Gains or losses are realized when the option transaction expires or closes. When an option is exercised, the proceeds on sales for a written call option or the purchase cost for a written put option is adjusted by the amount of the premium received. Listed option contracts present minimal counterparty credit risk since they are exchange traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded options, guarantees the options against default. As of the end of the reporting period, all of the Funds’ written options are exchange-traded options.

 

96  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

 

August 31, 2018

 

During the current fiscal period, the Funds’ average quarterly volume of options transactions was as follows:

 

FUND  PURCHASED OPTIONS
(COST)
   WRITTEN OPTIONS
(PROCEEDS)
 
BP Long/Short Equity Fund  $35,645   $3,059,717 
BP Global Long/Short Fund       1,228,849 

 

SHORT SALES — When the investment adviser believes that a security is overvalued, the BP Long/Short Equity Fund, the BP Long/Short Research Fund, the BP Global Long/Short Fund and the BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund may sell the security short by borrowing the same security from a broker or other institution and selling the security. A Fund will incur a loss as a result of a short sale if the price of the borrowed security increases between the date of the short sale and the date on which the Fund buys and replaces such borrowed security. A Fund will realize a gain if there is a decline in price of the security between those dates where the decline in price exceeds the costs of borrowing the security and other transaction costs. There can be no assurance that a Fund will be able to close out a short position at any particular time or at an acceptable price. Although a Fund’s gain is limited to the amount at which it sold a security short, its potential loss is unlimited. Until a Fund replaces a borrowed security, it will maintain at all times cash, U.S. Government securities, or other liquid securities in an amount which, when added to any amount deposited with a broker as collateral, will at least equal the current market value of the security sold short. Depending on arrangements made with brokers, a Fund may not receive any payments (including interest) on collateral deposited with them.

 

In accordance with the terms of its prime brokerage agreements, a Fund may receive rebate income or be charged a fee for borrowed securities. Such income or fee is calculated on a daily basis based upon the market value of each borrowed security and a variable rate that is dependent upon the availability of such security. The Funds record these prime broker charges on a net basis as interest income or interest expense. During the current fiscal period, the BP Long/Short Equity Fund, the BP Long/Short Research Fund, the BP Global Long/Short Fund and the BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund had net income/(charges) of $(4,273,138), $19,815,201, $3,272,939 and $(497) respectively, on borrowed securities. Such amounts are included in prime broker interest income and prime broker interest expense on the Statements of Operations.

 

As of the end of the reporting period, BP Long/Short Equity Fund, BP Long/Short Research Fund and BP Global Long/Short Fund had securities sold short valued at $331,198,031, $3,069,117,514 and $431,667,599, respectively, for which securities of $229,487,356, $1,778,649,456 and $306,876,150 and deposits of $323,855,495, $3,046,106,682 and $435,116,312, respectively, were pledged as collateral.

 

In accordance with Special Custody and Pledge Agreements with Goldman Sachs & Co. (“Goldman Sachs”) (the Funds’ prime broker), BP Long/Short Equity Fund, BP Long/Short Research Fund, BP Global Long/Short Fund and BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund may borrow from Goldman Sachs to the extent necessary to maintain required margin cash deposits on short positions. Interest on such borrowings is charged to the Fund based on the LIBOR rate plus an agreed upon spread.

 

The BP Long/Short Equity Fund, BP Long/Short Research Fund, BP Global Long/Short Fund and BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund utilized cash borrowings from Goldman Sachs to meet required margin cash deposits as follows during the current fiscal period:

 

BP LONG/SHORT EQUITY FUND  BP LONG/SHORT RESEARCH FUND
DAYS
UTILIZED
  AVERAGE DAILY
BORROWINGS
  WEIGHTED AVERAGE
INTEREST RATE
  DAYS
UTILIZED
  AVERAGE DAILY
BORROWINGS
  WEIGHTED AVERAGE
INTEREST RATE
 281   EUR 667,019     0.02%   269   AUD 10,728,675     1.97%
 54   JPY 13,586,371     0.42    249   CAD 6,109,705     1.65 
 345   USD 2,575,820     1.99    187   CHF 1,694,226     0.32 
                181   DKK 5,712,645     0.06 
                232   EUR 10,867,457     0.03 
                213   GBP 7,101,964     0.86 
                145   HKD 24,018,133     0.75 
                228   JPY 868,107,281     0.41 
                93   MXN 37,176,878     8.07 
                196   NOK 56,577,421     0.97 
                115   SEK 7,416,741     0.06 
                365   SGD 1.76     0.00 
                128   USD 15,191,871     1.97 

 

Annual Report 2018  |  97

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

 

August 31, 2018

 

BP GLOBAL LONG/SHORT FUND  BP EMERGING MARKETS LONG/SHORT FUND
DAYS
UTILIZED
  AVERAGE DAILY
BORROWINGS
  WEIGHTED AVERAGE
INTEREST RATE
  DAYS
UTILIZED
  AVERAGE DAILY
BORROWINGS
  WEIGHTED AVERAGE
INTEREST RATE
 140   AUD 180,213     1.95%   55   DKK 38,190     0.06%
 328   CAD 19,800     1.63    71   EUR 14,104     0.03 
 32   CHF 78,080     0.31    143   GBP 18,895     0.87 
 27   DKK 270,778     0.05    143   HKD 565,143     0.75 
 240   EUR 60,424     0.02    78   ILS 119,761     0.57 
 230   GBP 33,772     0.79    67   JPY 72,509     0.43 
 39   HKD 283,401     1.02    93   NOK 159,796     0.94 
 289   JPY 18,570,800     0.40    88   SGD 18,549     0.94 
 50   MXN 585,074     8.12    201   USD 109,988     2.15 
 74   SEK 530,632     0.05    89   ZAR 44,875     7.19 
 61   SGD 62,657     1.50                
 62   USD 1,784,039     1.87                

 

The BP Long/Short Equity Fund, BP Long/Short Research Fund, BP Global Long/Short Fund and BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund incurred interest expense during the current fiscal period on such borrowings, in the amount of $49,339, $436,628, $8,276 and $1,807, respectively.

 

CONTRACTS FOR DIFFERENCE — The BP Global Long/Short Fund, BP Long/Short Research Fund, BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund and BP Emerging Markets Fund (for this section only, each a “Fund”) may enter into Contracts for Differences (“CFDs”). CFDs are leveraged derivative instruments that allow a Fund to take a position on the change in the market price of an underlying asset, such as a stock, or the value of an index or currency exchange rate. With a short CFD, a Fund is seeking to profit from falls in the market price of the asset. CFDs are subject to liquidity risk because the liquidity of CFDs is based on the liquidity of the underlying instrument, and are subject to counterparty risk, i.e., the risk that the counterparty to the CFD transaction may be unable or unwilling to make payments or to otherwise honor its financial obligations under the terms of the contract. It is also possible that the market price of the CFD will move between the time the order is placed by a Fund and when it is executed by the issuer, which can result in the trade being executed at a less favorable price. CFDs, like many other derivative instruments, involve the risk that, if the derivative security declines in value, additional margin would be required to maintain the margin level. The seller may require a Fund to deposit additional sums to cover this decline in value, and the margin call may be at short notice. If additional margin is not provided in time, the seller may liquidate the positions at a loss for which a Fund is liable. The potential for margin calls and large losses are much greater in CFDs than in other leveraged products. Most CFDs are traded OTC. CFDs are not registered with the Securities Exchange Commission or any U.S. regulator, and are not subject to U.S. regulation. In a short position, the Fund will receive or pay an amount based upon the amount, if any, by which the notional amount of the CFD would have decreased or increased in value had it sold the particular stocks short, less the dividends that would have been paid on those stocks, plus a floating rate of interest on the notional amount of the CFD. All of these components are reflected in the market value of the CFD.

 

CFDs are marked-to-market daily based upon quotations from market makers and the resulting changes in market values, if any, are recorded as an unrealized gain or loss in the Statements of Operations. Periodic payments made or received are recorded as realized gains or losses. Entering into CFDs involves, to varying degrees, elements of credit and market risk in excess of the amounts recognized on the Statements of Assets and Liabilities. Such risks involve the possibility that there will be no liquid market for these contracts, that the counterparty to the contract may default on its obligation to perform and that there may be unfavorable changes in market conditions. CFDs outstanding at period end, if any, are listed on the Portfolio of Investments. As of the end of the reporting period, BP Long/Short Research Fund, BP Global Long/Short Fund and BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund had cash deposits for contracts for difference of $10,210,000, $1,070,000 and $2,479,844, respectively, which were pledged as collateral. In connection with CFDs, cash or securities may be segregated as collateral by the Funds’ custodian. As of the end of the reporting period, the BP Long/Short Research Fund, BP Global Long/Short Fund, BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund and the BP Emerging Markets Fund held CFDs.

 

During the current fiscal period, the average volume of CFDs was as follows:

 

FUND  NOTIONAL AMOUNT
LONG
   NOTIONAL AMOUNT
SHORT
 
BP Long/Short Research Fund  $137,941,814   $116,897,279 
BP Global Long/Short Fund       17,296,802 
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund   23,425,424    20,703,886 
BP Emerging Markets Fund   2,050,138    N/A 

 

98  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

 

August 31, 2018

 

The following is a summary of CFD’s that are subject to enforceable master netting agreements (or similar arrangements) and collateral received and pledged in connection with the master netting agreements (or similar arrangements) as of the end of the reporting period:

 

       GROSS AMOUNT
NOT OFFSET IN
THE STATEMENT OF
ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
           GROSS AMOUNT
NOT OFFSET IN
THE STATEMENT OF
ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
     
FUND  GROSS
AMOUNTS OF
RECOGNIZED
ASSETS
   FINANCIAL
INSTRUMENTS
   CASH
COLLATERAL
RECEIVED
   NET  
AMOUNT1
   GROSS
AMOUNTS OF
RECOGNIZED
LIABILITIES
   FINANCIAL
INSTRUMENTS
   CASH
COLLATERAL
PLEDGED2
   NET
AMOUNT3
 
BP Long/Short Research Fund                
Goldman Sachs  $494,158   $(494,158)  $   $   $4,336,126   $(494,158)  $(1,190,000)  $2,651,968 
Macquarie   737,834    (549,776)       188,058    549,776    (549,776)        
Total  $1,231,992   $(1,043,934)  $   $188,058   $4,885,902   $(1,043,934)  $(1,190,000)  $2,651,968 
BP Global Long/Short Fund                
Goldman Sachs  $35,834   $(35,834)  $   $   $296,929   $(35,834)  $(150,000)  $111,095 
Macquarie                   67,226        (67,226)    
Total  $35,834   $(35,834)  $   $   $364,155   $(35,834)  $(217,226)  $111,095 
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund                 
Goldman Sachs  $786,491   $(458,240)  $   $328,251   $458,240   $(458,240)  $   $ 
Macquarie   14,107    (14,107)           15,555    (14,107)   (1,448)    
Morgan Stanley   18,760    (11,488)       7,272    11,488    (11,488)        
Total  $819,358   $(483,835)  $   $335,523   $485,283   $(483,835)  $(1,448)  $ 
BP Emerging Markets Fund           
Goldman Sachs  $29,335   $(12,319)  $   $17,016   $12,319   $(12,319)  $   $ 
Total  $29,335   $(12,319)  $   $17,016   $12,319   $(12,319)  $   $ 

 

1 Net amount represents the net amount receivable from the counterparty in the event of default.
2 Actual collateral pledged may be more than the amount shown.
3 Net amount represents the net amount payable to the counterparty in the event of default.

 

2. INVESTMENT ADVISERS AND OTHER SERVICES

 

Boston Partners Global Investors, Inc. (“Boston Partners” or the “Adviser”) serves as the investment adviser to each Fund. Each Fund compensates the Adviser for its services at an annual rate based on each Fund’s average daily net assets (the “Advisory Fee”), payable on a monthly basis in arrears, as shown in the following table.

 

The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) exceed the rates (“Expense Caps”) shown in the following table of each Fund’s average daily net assets. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed the Expense Caps as applicable: acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expense, brokerage commissions, extraordinary expenses, interest and taxes. This contractual limitation is in effect until February 29, 2020 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board. The Adviser may discontinue these arrangements at any time after this date.

 

      EXPENSE CAPS
FUND  ADVISORY FEE  INSTITUTIONAL
CLASS
  INVESTOR
CLASS
BP Small Cap Value Fund II        1.00%               1.10%        1.35%
BP Long/Short Equity Fund   2.25    2.50    2.75 
BP Long/Short Research Fund   1.25    1.50    1.75 
BP All-Cap Value Fund   0.70    0.80    1.05 
WPG Partners Small/Micro Cap Value Fund*   0.80    1.10    N/A 
BP Global Equity Fund   0.90    0.95    1.20 
BP Global Long/Short Fund   1.50    2.00    2.25 
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund   1.85    2.00    N/A 
BP Emerging Markets Fund   0.85    1.10    N/A 

 

* 0.80% of net asset up to $500 million, 0.75% of net assets in excess of $500 million.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  99

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

 

August 31, 2018  

 

The Adviser may recoup from each Fund (except BP Long/Short Equity Fund and BP All-Cap Value Fund) fees and expenses previously paid, waived, or absorbed for a period of three years after such fees or expenses were incurred, provided that the repayments do not cause the Funds’ operating expenses (excluding brokerage commissions, short sale dividend expense, taxes, interest expense, acquired fund fees and expenses, and any extraordinary expenses) to exceed the Expense Caps of each class of each Fund that were in effect at the time the fees and expenses were paid, waived, or absorbed by the Adviser, as well as the Expense Caps that are currently in effect, if different.

 

During the current fiscal period, investment advisory fees accrued, waived and/or reimbursed were as follows:

 

FUND  GROSS
ADVISORY FEES
   WAIVERS AND/OR
REIMBURSEMENTS
   RECOUPMENTS   NET
ADVISORY FEES
BP Small Cap Value Fund II  $5,803,994   $(242,966)  $   $5,561,028 
BP Long/Short Equity Fund   20,267,197            20,267,197 
BP Long/Short Research Fund   86,450,170            86,450,170 
BP All-Cap Value Fund   14,590,790    (89,619)       14,501,171 
WPG Partners Small/Micro Cap Value Fund   257,215    (5,324)   1,443    253,334 
BP Global Equity Fund   5,763,735    (523,243)       5,240,492 
BP Global Long/Short Fund   15,045,899            15,045,899 
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund   1,225,057    (245,314)       979,743 
BP Emerging Markets Fund   62,077    (135,327)       (73,250)

 

As of the end of the reporting period, the Funds had amounts available for recoupment as follows:

 

   EXPIRATION     
FUND  AUGUST 31, 2019   AUGUST 31, 2020   AUGUST 31, 2021   TOTAL 
BP Small Cap Value Fund II  $404,770   $374,241   $242,966   $1,021,977 
WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund   149,394    64,536    5,324    219,254 
BP Global Equity Fund   502,669    407,721    523,243    1,433,633 
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund   192,417    220,693    245,314    658,424 
BP Emerging Markets Fund           135,327    135,327 

 

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (“Fund Services”), doing business as U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, serves as administrator for the Funds. For providing administrative and accounting services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Fund Services serves as the Funds’ transfer and dividend disbursing agent. For providing transfer agent services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

U.S. Bank, N.A. (the “Custodian”) provides certain custodial services to the Funds. The Custodian is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Quasar Distributors, LLC serves as the principal underwriter and distributor of the Funds’ shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with RBB.

 

For compensation amounts paid to Fund Services, please refer to the Statements of Operations.

 

The Board has approved a Distribution Agreement for the Funds and adopted separate Plans of Distribution for the Investor Class Shares of each BP Fund (the “Plans”) pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Under the Plans, Quasar Distributors, LLC (the “Underwriter”) is entitled to receive from each Fund a distribution fee with respect to the Investor Class Shares, which is accrued daily and paid monthly, of up to 0.25% on an annualized basis of the average daily net assets of the Investor Class Shares. Amounts paid to the Distributor under the Plans may be used by the Distributor to cover expenses that are related to (i) the sale of the Investor Class Shares, (ii) ongoing servicing and/or maintenance of the accounts of shareholders, and (iii) sub-transfer agency services, subaccounting services or administrative services related to the sale of the Investor Class Shares, all as set forth in the Plans.

 

3. DIRECTOR’S AND OFFICER’S COMPENSATION

 

The Directors of the Company receive an annual retainer and meeting fees for meetings attended. Employees of Vigilant Compliance, LLC serve as President, Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Treasurer of the Company. Vigilant Compliance, LLC is compensated for the services provided to the Company. An employee of RBB serves as Treasurer and Secretary, and is compensated for services provided. Certain employees of Fund Services serve as officers of the Company. They are not compensated by the Funds or the Company. For Director’s and Officer’s compensation amounts, please refer to the Statement of Operations.

 

100  |  Annual Report 2018  

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

 

August 31, 2018

 

4. PURCHASES AND SALES OF INVESTMENT SECURITIES

 

During the current fiscal period, aggregate purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding short-term investments and derivative transactions) of the Funds were as follows:

 

FUND  PURCHASES   SALES 
BP Small Cap Value Fund II  $239,844,891   $223,697,649 
BP Long/Short Equity Fund   507,915,019    879,816,058 
BP Long/Short Research Fund   3,893,744,712    4,303,003,447 
BP All-Cap Value Fund   1,003,361,187    670,846,904 
WPG Partners Small/Micro Cap Value Fund   25,258,295    27,443,090 
BP Global Equity Fund   506,635,857    491,103,803 
BP Global Long/Short Fund   830,402,192    1,004,865,132 
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund   96,150,037    92,263,418 
BP Emerging Markets Fund   16,716,783    8,973,919 

 

There were no purchases or sales of long-term U.S. Government securities during the current fiscal period.

 

5. CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS

 

As of the end of the reporting period, each class of each Fund has 100,000,000 shares of $0.001 par value common stock authorized except for the Institutional Class Shares of the BP Long/Short Research Fund, BP Global Long/Short Fund and WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund, which have 750,000,000 shares, 300,000,000 shares and 50,000,000 shares, respectively, of $0.001 par value common stock authorized.

 

6. RESTRICTED SECURITIES

 

A restricted security is a security which has been purchased through a private offering and cannot be resold to the general public without prior registration under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “1933 Act”), or pursuant to the resale limitations provided by Rule 144 under the 1933 Act, or an exemption from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act. Certain restricted securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration, normally to qualified institutional buyers, and may be deemed liquid by Boston Partners as applicable, based on policies and procedures established by the Board. Therefore, not all restricted securities are considered illiquid.

 

As of the end of the reporting period, the Funds did not hold any restricted securities that were illiquid.

 

7. FEDERAL INCOME TAX INFORMATION

 

The Funds have followed the authoritative guidance on accounting for and disclosure of uncertainty in tax positions, which requires the Funds to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Funds have determined that there was no effect on the financial statements from following this authoritative guidance. In the normal course of business, the Funds are subject to examination by federal, state and local jurisdictions, where applicable, for tax years for which applicable statutes of limitations have not expired.

 

As of August 31, 2018, the federal tax cost and aggregate gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of investments held by each Fund were as follows:

 

FUND  FEDERAL
TAX COST
   UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION
   UNREALIZED
(DEPRECIATION)
   NET UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION/
(DEPRECIATION)
 
BP Small Cap Value Fund II  $626,858,092   $173,769,964   $(26,816,444)  $146,953,520 
BP Long/Short Equity Fund   612,710,757    205,685,159    (103,468,570)   102,216,589 
BP Long/Short Research Fund   5,453,989,806    1,575,171,648    (733,158,149)   842,013,499 
BP All-Cap Value Fund   2,092,707,225    580,503,030    (39,883,495)   540,619,535 
WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund   37,144,732    6,214,986    (2,789,689)   3,425,297 
BP Global Equity Fund   632,629,566    96,189,115    (19,980,609)   76,208,506 
BP Global Long/Short Fund   823,961,746    152,994,198    (76,229,099)   76,765,099 
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund   58,478,537    2,282,339    (5,710,992)   (3,428,653)
BP Emerging Markets Fund   9,020,703    188,345    (1,093,160)   (904,815)

 

Distributions to shareholders, if any, from net investment income and realized gains are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from net investment income and realized gains recognized for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying

 

Annual Report 2018  |  101

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

 

August 31, 2018

 

financial statements. To the extent these differences are permanent, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts based on the tax treatment; temporary differences do not require such reclassification.

 

The following permanent differences as of August 31, 2018 were reclassified among the following accounts. They are primarily attributable to net investment loss, gains and losses on foreign currency transactions, tax reclassification of distributions received, capitalization of short sale dividends, investments in contract for differences and investments in partnerships and passive foreign investment companies.

 

FUND  UNDISTRIBUTED
NET INVESTMENT
INCOME/(LOSS)
   ACCUMULATED
NET REALIZED
GAIN/(LOSS) ON
INVESTMENTS
   PAID-IN
CAPITAL
 
BP Small Cap Value Fund II  $13,421   $6,009   $(19,430)
BP Long/Short Equity Fund   13,350,000    (2,678,350)   (10,671,650)
BP Long/Short Research Fund   32,677,886    (32,659,078)   (18,808)
BP All-Cap Value Fund   19,006    (696)   (18,310)
WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund   16,098    (20,224)   4,126 
BP Global Equity Fund   671,448    (646,266)   (25,182)
BP Global Long/Short Fund   8,827,381    (3,255,805)   (5,571,576)
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund   (127,221)   211,548    (84,327)
BP Emerging Markets Fund   (33,973)   33,973     

 

As of August 31, 2018, the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

 

FUND  UNDISTRIBUTED
ORDINARY
INCOME
   UNDISTRIBUTED
LONG-TERM
CAPITAL GAINS
   CAPITAL LOSS
CARRYFORWARDS
   QUALIFIED
LATE-YEAR
LOSS DEFERRAL
   OTHER
UNREALIZED
   UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION/
(DEPRECIATION)
 
BP Small Cap Value Fund II  $10,264,510   $20,286,557   $   $   $   $146,953,494 
BP Long/Short Equity Fund       43,198,509        (7,983,334)   (155,425)   102,280,097 
BP Long/Short Research Fund   4,550,093    289,436,021                825,885,803 
BP All-Cap Value Fund   12,186,352    71,942,347                540,619,653 
WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund   1,613,852    207,833                3,425,297 
BP Global Equity Fund   15,726,403    27,598,173                76,210,966 
BP Global Long/Short Fund       16,526,690                76,783,496 
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund       318,894        (267,985)       (3,451,859)
BP Emerging Markets Fund           (101,624)   (6,031)       (906,125)

 

The differences between the book and tax basis components of distributable earnings relate principally to the timing of recognition of income and gains for federal income tax purposes.

 

The tax character of dividends and distributions paid during the fiscal years ended August 31, 2018 and 2017 was as follows:

 

   2018   2017 
FUND  ORDINARY INCOME   LONG-TERM GAINS   TOTAL   ORDINARY INCOME   LONG-TERM GAINS   TOTAL 
BP Small Cap Value Fund II  $8,031,025   $16,669,970   $24,700,995   $3,651,331   $6,435,737   $10,087,068 
BP Long/Short Equity Fund       7,509,053    7,509,053             
BP Long/Short Research Fund                        
BP All-Cap Value Fund   25,614,028    56,027,939    81,641,967    24,914,603    28,573,626    53,488,229 
WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund   1,314,493    808,840    2,123,333    151,830        151,830 
BP Global Equity Fund   5,246,460    7,667,111    12,913,571    8,112,334        8,112,334 
BP Global Long/Short Fund                   1,888,200    1,888,200 
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund   3,252,965    106,833    3,359,798    898,181        898,181 
BP Emerging Markets Fund   37,354        37,354             

 

Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal income tax purposes.

 

Pursuant to federal income tax rules applicable to regulated investment companies, the Funds may elect to treat certain capital losses between November 1 and August 31 and late year ordinary losses ((i) ordinary losses between January 1 and August 31, and (ii) specified ordinary and currency losses between November 1 and August 31) as occurring on the first day of the following tax year. For the year ended August 31, 2018, any amount of losses elected within the tax return will not be recognized for federal income tax purposes until September 1, 2018.

 

102  |  Annual Report 2018  

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONTINUED)

 

August 31, 2018

 

For the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, the following Funds deferred to September 1, 2018, the following qualified late year losses.

 

FUND  LATE-YEAR
ORDINARY LOSS
DEFERRAL
  POST-OCTOBER
CAPITAL LOSS
DEFERRAL
BP Small Cap Value Fund II  $   $ 
BP Long/Short Equity Fund   7,983,334     
BP Long/Short Research Fund        
BP All-Cap Value Fund        
WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund        
BP Global Equity Fund        
BP Global Long/Short Fund        
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund   267,985     
BP Emerging Markets Fund   6,031     

 

Accumulated capital losses represent net capital loss carryforwards as of August 31, 2018 that may be available to offset future realized capital gains and thereby reduce future capital gains distributions. Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010, the Funds are permitted to carry forward capital losses incurred in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 for an unlimited period. Any losses incurred during those future taxable years will be required to be utilized prior to any losses incurred in pre-enactment taxable years. Additionally, post-enactment capital losses that are carried forward will retain their character as either short-term or long-term capital losses rather than being considered all short-term as under the previous law.

 

As of August 31, 2018, the BP Emerging Markets Fund had short-term post-enactment capital losses of $101,624. The capital losses can be carried forward for an unlimited period.

 

8. SECURITIES LENDING

 

Securities may be loaned to financial institutions, such as broker-dealers, and are required to be secured continuously by collateral in cash, cash equivalents, letter of credit or U.S. Government securities maintained on a current basis at an amount at least equal to the market value of the securities loaned. Cash collateral received, pursuant to investment guidelines established by the Funds and approved by the Board, is invested in short-term investments. All such investments are made at the risk of the Funds and, as such, the Funds are liable for investment losses. Such loans would involve risks of delay in receiving additional collateral in the event the value of the collateral decreased below the value of the securities loaned or of delay in recovering the securities loaned or even loss of rights in the collateral should the borrower of the securities fail financially. However, loans will be made only to borrowers deemed by Boston Partners to be of good standing and only when, in Boston Partners’ judgment, the income to be earned from the loans justifies the attendant risks. Any loans of a Fund’s securities will be fully collateralized and marked to market daily. Investments purchased with proceeds from securities lending are overnight and continuous. During the current fiscal period, the Funds participated in securities lending. The market value of securities on loan and collateral as of the end of the reporting period and the income generated from the program during the current fiscal period with respect to such loans were as follows:

 

FUND  MARKET VALUE
OF SECURITIES
LOANED
  MARKET VALUE
OF COLLATERAL
  INCOME RECEIVED
FROM SECURITIES
LENDING
BP Small Cap Value Fund II  $151,106,889   $154,014,226   $409,286 
BP Long/Short Equity Fund   69,016,996    71,065,241    731,268 
BP All-Cap Value Fund   260,924,700    267,098,957    499,930 
WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund   7,941,707    8,119,241    83,578 
BP Global Equity Fund   40,626,730    41,687,430    98,869 

 

Annual Report 2018  |  103

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

NOTES TO FINANCIAL STATEMENTS (CONCLUDED)

 

August 31, 2018

 

Securities lending transactions are entered into by the Funds under a Master Securities Lending Agreement (“MSLA”) which permits the Funds, under certain circumstances including an event of default (such as bankruptcy or insolvency), to offset amounts payable by the Funds to the same counterparty against amounts to be received and create one single net payment due to or from the Funds. The following table is a summary of the Funds’ open securities lending transactions which are subject to a MSLA as of the end of the reporting period:

 

               GROSS AMOUNT NOT OFFSET IN THE
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES
 
FUND  GROSS AMOUNT
OF RECOGNIZED
ASSETS
   GROSS AMOUNT
OFFSET IN
THE STATEMENT
OF ASSETS
AND LIABILITIES
   NET AMOUNT
OF ASSETS
PRESENTED IN
THE STATEMENT
OF ASSETS
AND LIABILITIES
   FINANCIAL
INSTRUMENTS1
   CASH
COLLATERAL
RECEIVED
   NET AMOUNT2 
BP Small Cap Value Fund II  $151,106,889    $—   $151,106,889   $(151,106,889)   $—    $— 
BP Long/Short Equity Fund   69,016,996        69,016,996    (69,016,996)        
BP All-Cap Value Fund   260,924,700        260,924,700    (260,924,700)        
WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund   7,941,707        7,941,707    (7,941,707)        
BP Global Equity Fund   40,626,730        40,626,730    (40,626,730)        
   
1 Amount disclosed is limited to the amount of assets presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Actual collateral received may be more than the amount shown.
2 Net amount represents the net amount receivable from the counterparty in the event of default.

 

9. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In August 2018, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update (“ASU”) 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”). The primary focus of ASU 2018-13 is to improve the effectiveness of the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The changes affect all companies that are required to include fair value measurement disclosures. In general, the amendments in ASU 2018-13 are effective for all affected entities for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. An affected entity is permitted to adopt the removed or modified disclosures upon the issuance of ASU 2018-13 and may delay adoption of the additional disclosures, which are required for public companies only, until their effective date. Management is currently evaluating the impact these changes will have on the Funds’ financial statements and disclosures.

 

10. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

Management has evaluated the impact of all subsequent events on the Funds through the date the financial statements were issued and has determined that there were no significant events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.

 

104  |  Annual Report 2018  

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. and Shareholders of Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II, Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund, Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund, Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund, WPG Partners Small/Micro Cap Value Fund, Boston Partners Global Equity Fund, Boston Partners Global Long/Short Fund, Boston Partners Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund and Boston Partners Emerging Markets Fund

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities of Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II, Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund, Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund, Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund, WPG Partners Small/Micro Cap Value Fund, Boston Partners Global Equity Fund, Boston Partners Global Long/Short Fund, Boston Partners Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund and Boston Partners Emerging Markets Fund (collectively referred to as the “Funds”) (nine of the portfolios constituting The RBB Fund, Inc. (the “Company”)), including the portfolios of investments, as of August 31, 2018, and the related statements of operations, the statements of changes in net assets, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated in the table below and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds (nine of the portfolios constituting The RBB Fund, Inc.) at August 31, 2018, and the results of their operations, changes in net assets and financial highlights for each of the periods indicated in the table below, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

Individual portfolio constituting
The RBB Fund, Inc.
Statements of operations Statements of changes
in net assets
Financial highlights
Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II
Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund
For the year ended August 31, 2018 For each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018 For each of the five years in the period ended August 31, 2018
Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund      
Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund      
WPG Partners Small/Micro Cap Value Fund      
Boston Partners Global Equity Fund      
Boston Partners Global Long/Short Fund For the year ended August 31, 2018 For each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018 For each of the four years in the period ended August 31, 2018 and the period December 31, 2013 (commencement of operations) to August 31, 2014
Boston Partners Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund For the year ended August 31, 2018 For each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018 For each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018 and the period December 15, 2015 (commencement of operations) to August 31, 2016
Boston Partners Emerging Markets Fund For the period October 17, 2017 (commencement of operations) to August 31, 2018 For the period October 17, 2017 (commencement of operations) to August 31, 2018 For the period October 17, 2017 (commencement of operations) to August 31, 2018

 

Basis for Opinion

 

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

 

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

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2018, by correspondence with the custodian and brokers or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from brokers were not received. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by

 

Annual Report 2018  |  105

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM (CONCLUDED)

 

management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

We have served as the auditor of one or more Boston Partners investment companies since 2007.

 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania

October 30, 2018

 

106  |  Annual Report 2018  

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

SHAREHOLDER TAX INFORMATION

(UNAUDITED)

 

Certain tax information regarding each Fund is required to be provided to shareholders based upon each Fund’s income and distributions for the taxable year ended August 31, 2018. The information and distributions reported herein may differ from information and distributions taxable to the shareholders for the calendar year ending December 31, 2018. During the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, the following dividends and distributions were paid by each of the Funds:

 

   ORDINARY
INCOME
   LONG-TERM
CAPITAL GAINS
BP Small Cap Value Fund II  $8,031,025   $16,669,970 
BP Long/Short Equity Fund       7,509,053 
BP Long/Short Research Fund        
BP All-Cap Value Fund   25,614,028    56,027,939 
WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund   1,314,493    808,840 
BP Global Equity Fund   5,246,460    7,667,111 
BP Global Long/Short Fund        
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund   3,252,965    106,833 
BP Emerging Markets Fund   37,354     

 

Distributions from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes.

 

Under the Jobs and Growth Tax relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 the following percentages of ordinary dividends paid during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018 are designated as “qualified dividend income,” as defined in the Act, and are subject to reduced tax rates:

 

BP Small Cap Value Fund II   62.66%        
BP Long/Short Equity Fund   0.00%        
BP Long/Short Research Fund   0.00%        
BP All-Cap Value Fund   100.00%        
WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund   25.55%        
BP Global Equity Fund   86.46%        
BP Global Long/Short Fund   0.00%        
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund   21.78%        
BP Emerging Markets Fund   100.00%        

 

The percentage of total ordinary income dividends paid qualifying for the corporate dividends received deduction for each Fund is as follows:

 

BP Small Cap Value Fund II   60.38%        
BP Long/Short Equity Fund   0.00%        
BP Long/Short Research Fund   0.00%        
BP All-Cap Value Fund   95.86%        
WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund   24.04%        
BP Global Equity Fund   57.82%        
BP Global Long/Short Fund   0.00%        
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund   0.00%        
BP Emerging Markets Fund   6.10%        

 

The percentage of qualified interest income related dividends not subject to withholding tax for non-resident aliens and foreign corporations is as follows:

 

BP Small Cap Value Fund II   0.00%        
BP Long/Short Equity Fund   0.00%        
BP Long/Short Research Fund   0.00%        
BP All-Cap Value Fund   0.00%        
WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund   0.00%        
BP Global Equity Fund   0.91%        
BP Global Long/Short Fund   0.00%        
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund   5.12%        
BP Emerging Markets Fund   19.49%        

 

Annual Report 2018  |  107

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

SHAREHOLDER TAX INFORMATION (CONCLUDED)

(UNAUDITED)

 

The percentage of ordinary income distributions designated as qualified short-term gains pursuant to the American Job Creation Act of 2004 is as follows:

 

BP Small Cap Value Fund II   51.20%        
BP Long/Short Equity Fund   0.00%        
BP Long/Short Research Fund   0.00%        
BP All-Cap Value Fund   51.61%        
WPG Small/Micro Cap Value Fund   91.79%        
BP Global Equity Fund   23.54%        
BP Global Long/Short Fund   0.00%        
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund   70.39%        
BP Emerging Markets Fund   0.00%        

 

Pursuant to Section 853 of the Internal Revenue Code, the following Portfolios elect to pass-through to shareholders the credit for taxes paid to eligible foreign countries, which may be less than the actual amount paid for financial statement purposes.

 

           PER SHARE     
FUND  GROSS FOREIGN
SOURCE INCOME
   FOREIGN TAXES
PASSTHROUGH
   GROSS FOREIGN
SOURCE INCOME
   FOREIGN TAXES
PASSTHROUGH
   SHARES
OUTSTANDING
AT 8/31/2018
 
BP Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund  $771,328   $135,564    0.1388701747    0.0244069920    5,554,310 
BP Emerging Markets Fund   106,189    11,414    0.1168230769    0.0125569730    908,977 

 

Because each Fund’s fiscal year is not the calendar year, another notification will be sent with respect to calendar year 2018. The second notification, which will reflect the amount, if any, to be used by calendar year taxpayers on their U.S. federal income tax returns, will be made in conjunction with Form 1099-DIV and will be mailed in January 2019.

 

In general, dividends received by tax exempt recipients (e.g., IRAs and Keoghs) need not be reported as taxable income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, some retirement trusts (e.g., corporate, Keogh and 403(b)(7) plans) may need this information for their annual information reporting.

 

Shareholders are advised to consult their own tax advisers with respect to the tax consequences of their investment in the Funds.

 

108  |  Annual Report 2018  

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

OTHER INFORMATION

(UNAUDITED)

 

Proxy Voting

 

Policies and procedures that the Funds use to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities as well as information regarding how the Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities for the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 are available without charge, upon request, by calling (888) 261-4073 and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Quarterly Portfolio Schedule

 

The Company files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third fiscal quarters of each fiscal year (quarters ended November 30 and May 31) on Form N-Q. The Company’s Form N-Q is available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov and may be reviewed and copied at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the SEC Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.

 

Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement

 

As required by the 1940 Act, the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Company, including all of the Directors who are not “interested persons” of the Company, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act (the “Independent Directors”), considered the renewal of the investment advisory agreement between Boston Partners and the Company (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II, Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund, Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund, Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund, WPG Partners Small/Micro Cap Value Fund, Boston Partners Global Equity Fund, Boston Partners Global Long/Short Fund, Boston Partners Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund, and the Boston Partners Emerging Markets Fund (each a “Fund” and together the “Funds”), at a meeting of the Board held on May 9-10, 2018 (the “Meeting”). At the Meeting, the Board, including all of the Independent Directors, approved the Investment Advisory Agreement for an additional one-year term. The Board’s decision to approve the Investment Advisory Agreement reflects the exercise of its business judgment to continue the existing arrangements. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Board considered information provided by Boston Partners with the assistance and advice of counsel to the Independent Directors and the Company.

 

In considering the renewal and approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Company and Boston Partners, with respect to the Funds, the Directors took into account all the materials provided prior to and during the Meeting and at other meetings throughout the past year, the presentations made during the Meeting, and the discussions held during the Meeting. Among other things, the Directors considered (i) the nature, extent, and quality of Boston Partners’ services provided to the Funds; (ii) descriptions of the experience and qualifications of Boston Partners personnel providing those services; (iii) Boston Partners’ investment philosophies and processes; (iv) Boston Partners’ assets under management and client descriptions; (v) Boston Partners’ soft dollar commission and trade allocation policies, including information on the types of research and services obtained in connection with soft dollar commissions; (vi) Boston Partners’ current advisory fee arrangements with the Company and other similarly managed clients; (vii) Boston Partners’ compliance procedures; (viii) Boston Partners’ financial information, insurance coverage and profitability analysis related to providing advisory services to the Funds; (ix) the extent to which economies of scale are relevant to the Funds; (x) report prepared by Broadridge/Lipper comparing each Fund’s management fees and total expense ratio to those each Fund’s respective Lipper Group and comparing the performance of each Fund to the performance of each Fund’s respective Lipper Group; and (xi) a report comparing the performance of each Fund to the performance of its benchmark.

 

As part of their review, the Directors considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by Boston Partners. The Directors concluded that Boston Partners had substantial resources to provide services to the Funds and that Boston Partners’ services had been acceptable.

 

The Directors also considered the investment performance of the Funds. Information on the Funds’ investment performance was provided for the one-, three-, and five-year periods ended March 31, 2018, as applicable. The Directors considered the Funds’ investment performance in light of their investment objectives and investment strategies. The Directors concluded that the investment performance of each of the Funds as compared to their respective benchmarks and Lipper Groups was acceptable.

 

In reaching this conclusion, the Directors noted that the Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund outperformed its benchmark, the Russell 3000 Value Index for the year-to-date and one-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also noted that the Boston Partners All-Cap Value Fund ranked in the 1st quintile in both its Lipper Performance Group and Lipper Performance Universe for the, three- and five-year periods ended December 31, 2017.

 

The Directors noted that the Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund underperformed its primary benchmark, the S&P 500 Index, for the year-to-date and one-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors noted that the Boston Partners Long/Short Equity Fund’s performance ranked in the 1st quintile in its Lipper Performance Group for the two-, three-, and four-year periods ended December 31, 2017, and ranked in the 1st quintile in its Lipper Performance Universe for the two- and three-year periods ended December 31, 2017.

Annual Report 2018  |  109

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

OTHER INFORMATION (CONCLUDED)

(UNAUDITED)

 

The Directors noted that the WPG Partners Small/Micro Cap Value Fund underperformed its primary benchmark, the Russell 2000 Value Index, for the year-to-date and one-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors noted that the WPG Partners Small/Micro Cap Value Fund’s performance ranked in the 5th quintile in its Lipper Performance Universe for the two-, three-, four-year and five-year periods ended December 31, 2017.

 

Next, the Directors also reviewed the performance of the Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund, noting that the Fund had underperformed its benchmark for the year-to-date, one-, three-, five- and since inception periods ended March 31, 2018. However, the Directors noted that the Boston Partners Long/Short Research Fund ranked within the 1st quintile in its Lipper Performance Group for each of the one-, three- and four-year periods ended December 31, 2017. In addition, the Directors noted that the Fund ranked in the 2nd quintile for the four- and five-year periods ended December 31, 2017 in its Lipper Performance Universe.

 

The Directors next reviewed the performance of the Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund II, which outperformed its benchmark, the Russell 2000 Value Index, for the year-to-date, one-, three, five-, and since-inception periods ended March 31, 2018. In addition, the Directors noted that the Boston Partners Small Cap Value Fund ranked within the 1st quintile in its Lipper Performance Group for each of the three-, four-, and five-year periods ended December 31, 2017. In addition, the Directors noted that the Fund ranked in the 2nd quintile for the three-, four- and five-year periods ended December 31, 2017 in its Lipper Performance Universe.

 

The Directors also considered the performance of the Boston Partners Global Equity Fund, which outperformed its benchmark, the MSCI World Index, for the year-to-date, five-year and since- inception periods ended March 31, 2018. They also noted that Fund ranked in the 1st quintile for the three- and four-year periods ended December 31, 2017 in its Lipper Performance Group, and ranked in the 1st quintile for the three-year, four-year and five-year periods ended December 31, 2017 in its Lipper Performance Universe.

 

The Directors noted that the Boston Partners Global Long/Short Fund had underperformed its benchmark, the MSCI World Index, for the year-to-date, one-year, three-year, and since inception periods ended March 31, 2018. They noted that for the three-year, four-year and since-inception periods ended December 31, 2017, the Fund ranked in the 1st quintile in its Lipper Performance Group and ranked in the 3rd quintile for the three-year period ended December 31, 2017 in its Performance Universe.

 

The Directors then reviewed the performance of the Boston Partners Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund, which underperformed its benchmark, the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, for the year-to-date, one-year and three-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also noted that the Boston Partners Emerging Markets Long/Short Fund ranked in the 1st quintile in both its Lipper Performance Group and Lipper Performance Universe for the one-year, two-year and since-inception periods ended December 31, 2017.

 

Finally, the Directors noted that the Boston Partners Emerging Markets Equity Fund had underperformed its benchmark, the MSCI Emerging Markets Index, for the year-to-date and since inception periods ended March 31, 2018. They also noted that Fund ranked in the 4th quintile for the since-inception period ended December 31, 2017 in its Lipper Performance Group, and ranked in the 3rd quintile for the since-inception period ended December 31, 2017 in its Lipper Performance Universe.

 

The Board also considered the advisory fee rates payable by the Funds under the Investment Advisory Agreement. In this regard, information on the fees paid by the Funds and the Funds’ total operating expense ratios (before and after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) were compared to similar information for mutual funds advised by other, unaffiliated investment advisory firms. The Directors noted that Boston Partners had contractually agreed to waive management fees and reimburse expenses through at least February 28, 2019 to limit total annual operating expenses to agreed upon levels for each Fund.

 

After reviewing the information regarding the Funds’ costs, profitability and economies of scale, and after considering Boston Partners’ services, the Directors concluded that the investment advisory fees paid by the Funds were fair and reasonable and that the Investment Advisory Agreements should be approved and continued for an additional one-year period ending August 16, 2019.

 

110  |  Annual Report 2018  

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

COMPANY MANAGEMENT

(UNAUDITED)

 

The business and affairs of the Company are managed under the direction of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company is organized under and managed pursuant to Maryland law. The Directors and executive officers of the Company, their ages, business addresses and principal occupations during the past five years are set forth below. The statement of additional information (“SAI”) includes additional information about the Directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-888-261-4073.

 

Name, Address, and Age Position(s)
Held with
Company
Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served1
Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years
Number of
Portfolios in Fund
Complex Overseen
by Director*
Other Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past 5 Years
INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS        
Julian A. Brodsky
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 85
Director 1988 to present From 1969 to 2011, Director and Vice Chairman, Comcast Corporation (cable television and communications). 30 AMDOCS Limited (service provider to telecommunications companies).
J. Richard Carnall
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 79
Director 2002 to present Since 1984, Director of Haydon Bolts, Inc. (bolt manufacturer) and Parkway Real Estate Company (subsidiary of Haydon Bolts, Inc.); since 2004, Director of Cornerstone Bank. 30 None
Gregory P. Chandler
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 51
Director 2012 to present Since 2009, Chief Financial Officer, Emtec, Inc. (information technology consulting/services); from 2003-2009, Managing Director, head of Business Services and IT Services Practice, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC (investment banking/brokerage). 30 Emtec, Inc.; FS Investment Corporation (business development company); FS Energy and Power Fund (business development company); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios) (registered investment company).
Nicholas A. Giordano
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 75
Director 2006 to present Since 1997, Consultant, financial services organizations. 30 Kalmar Pooled Investment Trust (registered investment company) (until September 2017); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios) (registered investment company); Independence Blue Cross (healthcare insurance).
Arnold M. Reichman
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 70
Chairman

 

Director

2005 to present

 

1991 to present

Since 2006, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lifebooker, LLC (online beauty and health appointment booking service). 30 Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).
Brian T. Shea
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 58
Director 2018 to present From 2014-2017, Chief Executive Officer, BNY Mellon Investment Services (fund services, global custodian and securities clearing firm); from 1983-2014, Chief Executive Officer and various positions, Pershing LLC (broker dealer, clearing and custody firm). 30 WisdomTree Investments, Inc. (asset management company); Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (financial services technology company).
Robert A. Straniere
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 77
Director 2006 to present Since 2009, Administrative Law Judge, New York City; since 1980, Founding Partner, Straniere Law Group (law firm). 30 Reich and Tang Group (asset management).
INTERESTED DIRECTOR2        
Robert Sablowsky
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 80
Vice Chairman 

 

Director

2016 to present

 

1991 to present

Since 2002, Senior Director – Investments and, prior thereto, Executive Vice President, of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. (a registered broker-dealer). 30 None

 

Annual Report 2018  |  111

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS (CONTINUED)

 

OFFICERS

 

Name, Address, and Age Position(s)
Held with
Company
Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served1
Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years
Number of
Portfolios in Fund
Complex Overseen
by Director*
Other Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past 5 Years
Salvatore Faia, JD,
CPA, CFE
Vigilant Compliance, LLC
Gateway Corporate
Center Suite 216
223 Wilmington
West Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Age: 55
President

Chief Compliance Officer

2009 to present

 

2004 to present

Since 2004, President, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2005, Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company). N/A N/A
James G. Shaw
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 57
Treasurer and Secretary 2016 to present Since 2016, Treasurer and Secretary of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 2005 to 2016, Assistant Treasurer of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 1995 to 2016, Senior Director and Vice President of BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (financial services company). N/A N/A
Robert Amweg
Vigilant Compliance, LLC
Gateway Corporate
Center Suite 216
223 Wilmington
West Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Age: 65
Assistant Treasurer 2016 to present Since 2013, Compliance Director, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2012, Consultant to the financial services industry; from 2007 to 2012, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, Turner Investments, LP (registered investment company). N/A N/A
Jennifer Witt
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 35
Assistant Treasurer 2018 to present Since 2016, Assistant Vice President, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm); from 2007 to 2016, Supervisor, Nuveen Investments (investment company). N/A N/A
Edward Paz
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 47
Assistant Secretary 2016 to present Since 2007, Vice President and Counsel, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm). N/A N/A
Michael P. Malloy
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Age: 59
Assistant Secretary 1999 to present Since 1993, Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm). N/A N/A
Jillian L. Bosmann
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Age: 39
Assistant Secretary 2017 to present Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm) (2017-Present); Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (2006-Present). N/A N/A

 

* Each Director oversees 30 portfolios of the Company.
1. Subject to the Company’s Retirement Policy, each Director may continue to serve as a Director until the last day of the calendar year in which the applicable Director attains age 75 or until his successor is elected and qualified or his death, resignation or removal. The Board reserves the right to waive the requirements of the Policy with respect to an individual Director. The Board has approved waivers of the policy with respect to Messrs. Brodsky, Carnall, Giordano, Sablowsky and Straniere. Each officer holds office at the pleasure of the Board until the next special meeting of the Company or until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, or until he or she dies, resigns or is removed.
2. Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “interested person” of the Company as that term is defined in the 1940 Act and is referred to as an “Interested Director.” Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “Interested Director” of the Company by virtue of his position as an employee of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc., a registered broker-dealer.

 

112  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

DIRECTORS AND EXECUTIVE OFFICERS (CONCLUDED)

 

Director Experience, Qualifications, Attributes and/or Skills

 

The information above includes each Director’s principal occupations during the last five years. Each Director possesses extensive additional experience, skills and attributes relevant to his qualifications to serve as a Director. The cumulative background of each Director led to the conclusion that each Director should serve as a Director of the Company. Mr. Giordano has years of experience as a consultant to financial services organizations and also serves on the boards of other registered investment companies. Mr. Reichman brings decades of investment management experience to the Board, in addition to senior executive-level management experience. Mr. Straniere has been a practicing attorney for over 30 years and also serves on the boards of an asset management company and another registered investment company. Mr. Brodsky has over 40 years of senior executive level management experience in the cable television and communications industry. Mr. Sablowsky has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the financial services industry. Mr. Carnall has decades of senior executive-level management experience in the banking and financial services industry and also serves on the boards of various corporations and a bank. Mr. Chandler has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive level positions in the investment technology consulting/services and investment banking/brokerage industries, and also serves on various boards. Mr. Shea has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the investment services industry.

 

Annual Report 2018  |  113

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

PRIVACY NOTICE

(UNAUDITED)

 

FACTS WHAT DO THE BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION?
Why? Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.
What?

The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:

 

•     Social Security number

•     account balances

•     account transactions

•     transaction history

•     wire transfer instructions

•     checking account information

 

When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice.

How? All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons the Boston Partners Investment Funds chooses to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.

 

Reasons we can share your personal information Do the Boston
Partners Investment
Funds share?
Can you limit
this sharing?
For our everyday business purposes – such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court orders and legal investigations, or report to credit bureaus Yes No
For our marketing purposes – to offer our products and services to you No No
For joint marketing with other financial companies No We don’t share
For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes – information about your transactions and experiences Yes No
For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes – information about your creditworthiness No We don’t share
For our affiliates to market to you No Yes
For nonaffiliates to market to you No We don’t share

 

Questions? Call (888) 261-4073 or go to www.boston-partners.com  

 

114  |  Annual Report 2018

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

PRIVACY NOTICE (CONTINUED)

(UNAUDITED)

 

What we do  
How do the Boston Partners Investment Funds protect my personal information? To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.
How do the Boston Partners Investment Funds collect my personal information?

We collect your personal information, for example, when you

 

•     open an account

•     provide account information

•     give us your contact information

•     make a wire transfer

•     tell us where to send the money

 

We also collect your information from others, such as credit bureaus, affiliates, or other companies.

Why can’t I limit all sharing?

Federal law gives you the right to limit only

 

•     sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes-information about your creditworthiness

•     affiliates from using your information to market to you

•     sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you

 

State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.

European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation

In addition to the above information, where applicable, you have the following rights under the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) and U.S. Privacy Laws, as applicable and to the extent permitted by law, to

 

•     Check whether we hold personal information about you and to access such data (in accordance with our policy)

•     Request the correction of personal information about you that is inaccurate

•     Have a copy of the personal information we hold about you provided to you or another “controller” where technically feasible

•     Request the erasure of your personal information

•     Request the restriction of processing concerning you

 

The legal grounds for processing of your personal information is for contractual necessity and compliance with law.

 

If you wish to exercise any of your rights above, please call: 1-888-261-4073.

 

You are required to ensure the personal information we hold about you is up-to-date and accurate and you must notify us of any changes to the personal data you provided to us.

   

 

Annual Report 2018  |  115

 

BOSTON PARTNERS INVESTMENT FUNDS

PRIVACY NOTICE (CONCLUDED)

(UNAUDITED)

 

What we do (continued)  
European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (continued) The Boston Partners Investment Funds shall retain your personal data for as long as you are an investor in the Funds and thereafter as long as necessary to comply with applicable laws that require the Funds to retain your personal data, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission’s data retention rules. Your personal data will be transferred to the United States so that the Funds may provide the agreed upon services for you. No adequacy decision has been rendered by the European Commission as to the data protection of your personal data when transferring it to the United States. However, the Funds do take the security of your personal data seriously.
Definitions  
Affiliates

Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies. Our affiliates include:

 

•     ORIX Corporation.

•     Robeco Investment Management, Inc.

•     Robeco Securities, LLC

Nonaffiliates

Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

•     The Boston Partners Investment Funds don’t share with nonaffiliates so they can market to you. The Boston Partners Investment Funds may share information with nonaffiliates that perform marketing services on our behalf.

Joint marketing

A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.

 

•     The Boston Partners Investment Funds may share your information with other financial institutions with whom we have joint marketing arrangements who may suggest additional fund services or other investment products which may be of interest to you.

Controller “Controller” means the natural or legal person, public authority, agency or other body which, alone or jointly with others, determines the purposes and means of the processing of personal data; where the purposes and means of such processing are determined by European Union or European Member State law, the controller or the specific criteria for its nomination may be provided for by European Union or European Member State law.
   

 

116  |  Annual Report 2018

 

 

INVESTMENT ADVISER
Boston Partners Global Investors, Inc.
909 Third Avenue, 32nd Floor
New York, NY 10022
 
ADMINISTRATOR AND TRANSFER AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, WI 53201
 
PRINCIPAL UNDERWRITER
Quasar Distributors, LLC
777 East Wisconsin Avenue, Floor 6
Milwaukee, WI 53202
CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank, N.A.
1555 North Rivercenter Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, WI 53212
 
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Ernst & Young LLP
One Commerce Square
2005 Market Street, Suite 700
Philadelphia, PA 19103
 
LEGAL COUNSEL
Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
OneLogan Square, Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103-6996


 

BOS-AR18
 

 

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

of

 

THE RBB FUND, INC.

 

Annual Report

 

August 31, 2018

 

This report is submitted for the general information of the shareholders of the Fund. It is not authorized for distribution unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus for the Fund.

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report

(Unaudited)

 

The Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund’s primary objective is to seek capital appreciation by exploiting the tendency of asset markets to exhibit persistent trends. The Fund trades across global futures and forward markets and can be either long or short, which may result in a low long-term correlation to traditional investments.

 

PERFORMANCE OF THE FUND

 

Name

12 Month Return
September 1, 2017
Through
August 31, 2018

Inception-
To-Date
Annualized
Return*

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund - Institutional

2.01%

-1.92%

 

Bank of America Merrill Lynch 3-Month Treasury Bill Index

1.52%

0.61%

 

Barclay BTOP50 Index

-1.10%

-2.42%

 

SG Trend Index

2.08%

-1.73%

 

MSCI World Index

13.66%

9.50%

 

 

*

Inception date of the Fund is December 31, 2014.

 

PAST PERFORMANCE IS NOT INDICATIVE OF FUTURE RESULTS

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance and does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher. Performance data current to the most recent month-end may be obtained at 1-800-698-7235. Performance would have been lower without fee waivers in effect. As of the most recent prospectus, the gross expense ratio for the Fund is 3.47%.

 

Returns of the Fund’s shares for fiscal year ended August 31, 2018 are shown in the table above, along with the performance of several industry benchmarks, the 3-month Treasury-Bill Index and the MSCI World Index. The Dynamic Trend Program* (the “Program”) portion of the Fund uses trend following techniques across multiple time horizons to trade approximately 80 markets in four major asset classes. The Program seeks to identify trends as measured by the historical movement of prices over a given time period and establish positions to profit from their continuation. The Program finished its fiscal year with positive performance in Equity Indices and Commodities and negative performance in Fixed Income and Foreign Exchange (FX).

 

The rally in global stocks led to sizable gains for the Program, which maintained a net long position throughout the fiscal year and profited as prices moved higher. Net long exposure to energies also led to profits, as the portfolio was well-positioned for price appreciation across the crude complex. On the negative side, a lack of persistent trends in FX and long-term fixed income throughout the year created a difficult environment for trend strategies and led to losses in the Program.

 

Contrary to the prior fiscal year, where Medium-Term (1-3 months) and Long-Term (greater than 3 months) strategies struggled in the Program, this fiscal year saw gains across time horizons, with both Medium-Term and Long-Term profiting.

 

FISCAL YEAR 2018 HIGHLIGHTS

 

Trend following continues to be in focus for our research team, with additional focus on continued enhancements to the risk framework. As you may recall, in November 2016, the risk targeting methodology of the Program changed from constant risk targeting to dynamic risk targeting. This new risk management method is designed specifically

 

1

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

to complement long exposure to equities, represented by the S&P 500 Index. The new system allows the Program to quickly respond to changing volatility environments by aligning portfolio volatility with equity volatility. The idea is that the framework will increase the portfolio’s target risk level during equity crises and help to maximize trend’s impact on investors’ portfolios when it’s needed the most.

 

So far in 2018, risk in the Program has been on the lower end of the volatility band, which is set at approximately 5% annual volatility, due to the relatively high correlation between the Program’s trend strategy and the S&P 500. This is a good example of the more “defensive” risk posture of the dynamic targeting system, where the lower volatility of the Program recognizes that trend is contributing less diversification benefit due to the high correlation with equities.

 

This new framework has been a very active area of research for Campbell over the past few years and we have been implementing variations of the system across both institutional and private investor channels. Should you have any questions on these developments or anything else regarding the Fund, please feel free to reach out; we welcome the opportunity to share further details and look forward to speaking with you during the coming year.

 

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

 

Opinions expressed are subject to change at any time, are not guaranteed and should not be considered investment advice.

 

RISK CONSIDERATIONS

 

Managed futures employ leverage; they are speculative investments that are subject to a significant amount of market risk and they are not appropriate for all investors. Although adding managed futures to a portfolio may provide diversification, managed futures are not a perfect hedging mechanism; there is no guarantee that managed futures will appreciate during periods of inflation or stock and bond market declines.

 

*The Fund pursues its investment objective by (i) investing its assets pursuant to the Campbell Dynamic Trend Program; (ii) allocating up to 25% of its assets in its wholly-owned subsidiary, Campbell Dynamic Offshore Limited (the “Subsidiary”), which is organized under the laws of the Cayman Islands and employs the Manager’s Campbell Dynamic Trend Program (as described below), and (iii) allocating the remainder of its assets directly in a portfolio of investment grade securities (including government securities) for cash management purposes. Securities rated in the four highest categories by the ratings agencies are considered investment grade. The Fund is non-diversified which means it may be invested in fewer securities at any one time than a diversified fund.

 

The Fund’s investment activities involve a significant degree of risk and are suitable only for investors with a high tolerance for investment risk including the possible loss of principal. The Fund may invest in commodities, futures, forwards, options, swaps and other derivatives based on fixed income securities which are subject to credit and interest rate risk. Foreign currencies and emerging markets involves certain risks such as currency volatility, political and social instability and reduced market liquidity.

 

To the extent that the investment advisor misjudges current market conditions, the Fund’s volatility may be amplified by its use of derivatives, and its ability to anticipate price movements in relevant markets, underlying derivative instruments and futures contracts.

 

The Fund intends to elect to be treated and to qualify each year, as a regulated investment company (“RIC”) under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code. To maintain qualification for federal income tax purposes as a regulated investment company under the Code, the Fund must meet certain source-of-income, asset diversification and distribution of its income requirements. If the Fund were to fail to qualify as a RIC and became subject to federal income tax, shareholders of the Fund would be subject to diminished returns.

 

2

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

The BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index is an unmanaged market index of U.S. Treasury securities maturing in 90 days that assumes reinvestment of all income.

 

The Barclay BTOP50 Index (“BTOP50”) seeks to replicate the overall composition of the managed futures industry with regard to trading style and overall market exposure. The BTOP50 employs a top-down approach in selecting its constituents. The largest investable trading advisor programs, as measured by assets under management, are selected for inclusion in the BTOP50. The index portfolio is equally weighted among the selected programs at the beginning of each calendar year and rebalanced annually.

 

The SG Trend Index is equal-weighted and reconstituted annually. The index calculates the net daily rate of return for a pool of trend following based hedge fund managers.

 

The MSCI World Index captures large and mid-cap representation across 23 developed markets countries.

 

S&P 500 Index (total return): The 500 stocks in the S&P 500 are chosen by Standard & Poor’s based on industry representation, liquidity and stability. The stocks in the S&P 500 are not the 500 largest companies, rather the Index is designed to capture the returns of many different sectors of the U.S. economy. This calculation includes reinvestment of dividends and distributions.

 

Each index is unmanaged and not available for direct investment.

 

Volatility (Standard Deviation): Standard Deviation is a risk statistic used to measure the degree of variation of returns around the mean return.

 

The Fund is distributed by Quasar Distributors, LLC.

 

3

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Annual Report
Performance Data
August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in
Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund vs. Barclay BTOP50 Index

 

 

This chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 initial investment in the Fund is made on December 31, 2014 (commencement of operations) and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the Barclay BTOP50 Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the periods Ended august 31, 2018

 
 

ONE
YEAR

THREE
YEAR

SINCE
INCEPTION*

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

2.01%

-1.38%

-1.92%

 

Barclay BTOP50 Index**

-1.10%

-2.07%

-2.42%

 

 

*

Inception date of the Fund is December 31, 2014.

 

**

Benchmark performance is from inception date of the Fund only and is not the inception date of the benchmark itself.

 

Performance data quoted is past performance and does not guarantee future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher than the returns quoted above. Returns shown do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Call the Fund at 1-844-261-6488 for returns current to the most recent month-end.

 

The performance data quoted reflects fee waivers in effect and would have been less in their absence. The Fund’s total annual operating expense ratio, as stated in the current prospectus dated December 31, 2017, is 3.47% and the Fund’s net operating expense ratio is 1.27%. Campbell & Company Investment Adviser LLC has contractually agreed to waive its advisory fee and/or reimburse expenses in order to limit total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes) to 1.25%

 

4

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Annual Report
Performance Data (Concluded)
August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

of the Fund’s average daily net assets. This contractual limitation is in effect until December 31, 2019 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. Please see the Consolidated Financial Highlights for current figures.

 

An investment in the Fund is speculative and involves substantial risk. The Fund is not suitable for all investors. It is possible that an investor may lose some or all of its investment. The Fund invests in long and short positions in futures, forwards and spot contracts, each of which may be tied to commodities, financial indices and instruments, foreign currencies, or equity indices. The Fund also invests in investment grade fixed income securities of all durations and maturities. The Fund may be more volatile than investments in traditional securities. Losses on futures and other derivatives can be caused by unanticipated market movements and may be potentially unlimited. Commodities, currencies, foreign investments, and interest rate-linked instruments each entail special risks. The Fund is non-diversified; therefore gains or losses on a single holding may have a relatively great impact on the Fund. A more complete description of the Fund’s risks can be found in its prospectus, which should be read carefully before investing.

 

The Fund intends to elect to be treated and to qualify each year, as a regulated investment company (“RIC”) under the U.S. Internal Revenue Code (“Code”). To maintain qualification for federal income tax purposes as a RIC under the Code, the Fund must meet certain source-of-income, asset diversification and distribution of its income requirements. If the Fund were to fail to qualify as a RIC and became subject to federal income tax, shareholders of the Fund would be subject to diminished returns.

 

The Barclay BTOP50 Index (“BTOP50”) seeks to replicate the overall composition of the managed futures industry with regard to trading style and overall market exposure. The BTOP50 employs a top-down approach in selecting its constituents. The largest investable trading adviser programs, as measured by assets under management, are selected for inclusion in the BTOP50. The index portfolio is equally weighted among the selected programs at the beginning of each calendar year and rebalanced annually. It is impossible to invest directly in an index.

 

Portfolio composition is subject to change.

 

5

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Fund Expense Examples

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees and other Fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

 

This example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period from March 1, 2018 through August 31, 2018, and held for the entire period.

 

Actual Expenses

 

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

 

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

 

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

 

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

 

 

Beginning
Account Value
March 1, 2018

Ending
Account Value
August 31, 2018

Expenses
Paid During
Period
*

Annualized
Expense
Ratio

Actual Six-
Month Total
Investment
Return for
the Fund

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,007.80

$ 6.33

1.25%

0.78%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,018.90

6.36

1.25

N/A

 

 

*

Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized six-month expense ratio for the period March 1, 2018 to August 31, 2018, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days (184) in the most recent fiscal half-year, then divided by 365 to reflect the one half year period. The Fund’s ending account values on the first line in the tables is based on the actual six-month total investment return for the Fund.

 

6

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio Holdings Summary Table

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

The following table presents a consolidated summary of the portfolio holdings of the Fund at August 31, 2018:

 

   

% of Net
Assets

   

Value

 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS:

               

U.S. Treasury Obligations

    80.7%     $ 19,288,210  

OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES (including futures and forward foreign currency contracts)

    19.3       4,618,031  

NET ASSETS

    100.0%     $ 23,906,241  

 

 

The Fund seeks to achieve its investment objective by allocating its assets among derivatives and fixed income securities.

 

As a result of the Fund’s use of derivatives, the Fund may hold significant amounts of U.S. Treasuries or short-term investments.

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

Refer to the Consolidated Portfolio of Investments for a detailed listing of the Fund’s holdings.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

7

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments

August 31, 2018

 

   

Coupon*

 

Maturity
Date

 

Par

   

Value

 

Short-Term Investments — 80.7%

                         

U.S. Treasury Obligations — 80.7%

                         

United States Treasury Bill

    1.874%  

09/27/18

  $ 3,315,000     $ 3,310,976  

United States Treasury Bill

    1.947%  

10/25/18

    3,185,000       3,176,026  

United States Treasury Bill

    2.034%  

11/23/18

    3,875,000       3,857,326  

United States Treasury Bill

    2.070%  

12/20/18

    2,815,000       2,797,597  

United States Treasury Bill

    2.112%  

01/17/19

    2,520,000       2,499,612  

United States Treasury Bill

    2.167%  

02/21/19

    3,685,000       3,646,673  
                        19,288,210  

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

                         

(Cost $19,288,693)

    19,288,210  
                           

Total Investments — 80.7%

                         

(Cost $19,288,693)

    19,288,210  
                           

Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities — 19.3%

    4,618,031  

Net Assets — 100.0%

  $ 23,906,241  

 

 

*

Short-term investments reflect the annualized yield on the date of purchase for discounted investments.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

8

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Futures contracts outstanding as of August 31, 2018 were as follows:

 

Long Contracts

 

Expiration
Date

   

Number of
Contracts

   

Notional
Amount

   

Value and
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

10 Year Mini Japanese Government Bond

    Sep-18       59     $ 5,310,053     $ (31,755 )

3-Month Euro Euribor

    Sep-19       177       51,363,304       (3,673 )

90-DAY Bank Bill

    Dec-18       47       33,788,398       805  

Amsterdam Index

    Sep-18       7       907,105       (8,042 )

Australian 10-Year Bond

    Sep-18       14       1,006,463       3,307  

Australian 3-Year Bond

    Sep-18       64       4,600,973       7,086  

Brent Crude

    Dec-18       7       541,800       9,648  

CAC40 10 Euro

    Sep-18       11       690,189       (3,108 )

Canadian 10-Year Bond

    Dec-18       2       153,257       793  

Cattle Feeder Futures

    Oct-18       1       74,565       247  

DAX Index

    Sep-18       1       358,368       (11,522 )

DJIA Mini E-CBOT

    Sep-18       6       779,640       28,887  

Euro BUXL 30-Year Bond Futures

    Dec-18       3       348,226       9,050  

Euro Stoxx 50

    Sep-18       13       511,393       (6,924 )

Euro-Bobl

    Dec-18       18       2,089,355       7,082  

Euro-Bund

    Dec-18       10       1,160,753       7,881  

Euro-Oat

    Dec-18       22       2,553,656       3,804  

Euro-Schatz

    Dec-18       45       5,223,387       1,252  

FTSE 100 Index

    Sep-18       7       673,737       (7,942 )

FTSE/JSE TOP 40

    Sep-18       7       248,670       1,391  

Gasoline RBOB

    Oct-18       5       419,370       16,885  

Hang Seng Index

    Sep-18       1       176,875       (723 )

IBEX 35 Index

    Sep-18       2       217,901       (3,593 )

London Metals Exchange Aluminum

    Sep-18       3       158,213       (46 )

London Metals Exchange Aluminum

    Dec-18       1       53,275       (693 )

London Metals Exchange Copper

    Sep-18       5       746,750       (81,722 )

London Metals Exchange Nickel

    Sep-18       7       534,240       (89,705 )

London Metals Exchange Nickel

    Dec-18       3       230,796       (21,770 )

London Metals Exchange Zinc

    Sep-18       7       431,244       (42,863 )

London Metals Exchange Zinc

    Dec-18       2       122,700       (4,443 )

Long Gilt

    Dec-18       7       907,512       (553 )

Low Sulphur Gasoil G Futures

    Oct-18       10       692,000       23,583  

MSCI Taiwan Index

    Sep-18       22       907,500       15,418  

Nasdaq 100 E-Mini

    Sep-18       4       612,900       41,667  

Natural Gas

    Oct-18       1       29,200       (332 )

Nikkie 225 (Osaka Securities Exchange)

    Sep-18       7       719,310       5,081  

OMX Stockholm 30 Index

    Sep-18       41       743,099       18,227  

Russell 2000 E-Mini

    Sep-18       10       870,300       39,669  

S&P 500 E-Mini

    Sep-18       7       1,015,735       43,020  

S&P Mid 400 E-Mini

    Sep-18       4       818,240       27,902  

S&P/TSX 60 Index

    Sep-18       6       887,448       (1,161 )

SPI 200 Index

    Sep-18       9       1,019,691       23,745  

Topix Index

    Sep-18       3       468,050       (13,339 )

U.S. Treasury Long Bond (Chicago Board of Trade)

    Dec-18       3       364,083       (1,614 )

U.S. Treasury Ultra Long Bond (Chicago Board of Trade)

    Dec-18       4       442,570       (2,788 )

WTI Crude

    Oct-18       7       488,600       24,063  
                            $ 22,182  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

9

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Short Contracts

 

Expiration
Date

   

Number of
Contracts

   

Notional
Amount

   

Value and
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

90-Day Euro

    Sep-19       144     $ (36,000,000 )   $ (8,600 )

90-Day Sterling

    Sep-19       9       (1,458,501 )     (76 )

Cocoa

    Dec-18       6       (140,160 )     (12,128 )

Coffee

    Dec-18       18       (687,150 )     69,527  

Corn

    Dec-18       16       (292,000 )     10,904  

Cotton No.2

    Dec-18       1       (41,110 )     67  

Gold 100 Oz

    Dec-18       7       (844,690 )     17,893  

Lean Hogs

    Oct-18       8       (161,360 )     4,606  

Live Cattle

    Oct-18       5       (217,552 )     (2,065 )

London Metals Exchange Aluminum

    Sep-18       3       (158,213 )     (4,818 )

London Metals Exchange Aluminum

    Dec-18       5       (266,375 )     (4,041 )

London Metals Exchange Copper

    Sep-18       5       (746,750 )     61,457  

London Metals Exchange Copper

    Dec-18       2       (298,888 )     14,316  

London Metals Exchange Nickel

    Sep-18       7       (534,240 )     53,299  

London Metals Exchange Zinc

    Sep-18       7       (431,244 )     46,842  

London Metals Exchange Zinc

    Dec-18       6       (368,100 )     16,993  

MSCI Singapore Exchange ETS

    Sep-18       3       (79,385 )     386  

Platinum

    Oct-18       10       (393,550 )     25,926  

Silver

    Dec-18       5       (363,900 )     3,938  

Soybean

    Nov-18       12       (506,100 )     14,303  

Sugar No. 11 (World)

    Oct-18       35       (415,520 )     10,635  

U.S. Treasury 10-Year Notes

    Dec-18       23       (2,306,383 )     (554 )

U.S. Treasury 5-Year Notes

    Dec-18       62       (6,166,627 )     (2,034 )

U.S. Treasury 2-Year Notes

    Dec-18       107       (20,901,208 )     (5,121 )

Wheat

    Dec-18       4       (109,100 )     690  
                            $ 312,345  

Total Futures Contracts

                          $ 334,527  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

10

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Consolidated Portfolio of Investments (Concluded)

August 31, 2018

 

Forward foreign currency contracts outstanding as of August 31, 2018 were as follows:

 

Currency Purchased

 

 

 

Currency Sold

 

 

 

Expiration
Date

 

Counterparty

   

Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

AUD

    2,250,000          

USD

    1,662,720          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS     $ (45,232 )

CAD

    3,550,000          

USD

    2,724,421          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       (3,149 )

CHF

    950,000          

USD

    966,082          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       15,642  

EUR

    1,700,000          

USD

    1,990,726          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       (14,705 )

GBP

    800,000          

USD

    1,045,221          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       (7,279 )

JPY

    157,500,000          

USD

    1,422,755          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       (3,388 )

NOK

    10,500,000          

USD

    1,296,982          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       (43,967 )

NZD

    2,400,000          

USD

    1,626,549          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       (38,718 )

SEK

    4,800,000          

USD

    545,801          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       (20,168 )

USD

    2,933,047          

AUD

    3,950,000          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       93,457  

USD

    4,624,045          

CAD

    6,050,000          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       (13,616 )

USD

    1,572,874          

CHF

    1,550,000          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       (28,886 )

USD

    2,750,425          

EUR

    2,350,000          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       18,868  

USD

    3,683,046          

GBP

    2,800,000          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       50,251  

USD

    3,788,355          

JPY

    418,500,000          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       16,894  

USD

    2,265,111          

NOK

    18,750,000          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       27,584  

USD

    3,177,216          

NZD

    4,650,000          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       100,792  

USD

    2,322,124          

SEK

    20,550,000          

Sep 19 2018

    UBS       71,760  

Total Forward Foreign Currency Contracts

  $ 176,140  

 

AUD

Australian Dollar

 

JPY

Japanese Yen

CAD

Canadian Dollar

 

NOK

Norwegian Krone

CHF

Swiss Franc

 

NZD

New Zealand Dollar

EUR

Euro

 

SEK

Swedish Krona

GBP

British Pound

 

USD

United States Dollar

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

11

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities

August 31, 2018

 

ASSETS

       

Investments, at value (cost $19,288,693)

  $ 19,288,210  

Cash

    2,022,743  

Deposits with brokers:

       

Forward foreign currency contracts

    1,060,000  

Futures contracts

    1,139,375  

Unrealized appreciation on futures contracts

    712,275  

Unrealized appreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    395,248  

Prepaid expenses and other assets

    11,215  

Total assets

    24,629,066  

LIABILITIES

       

Due to broker

    39,534  

Payables for:

       

Advisory fees

    10,857  

Unrealized depreciation on futures contracts

    377,748  

Unrealized depreciation on forward foreign currency contracts

    219,108  

Other accrued expenses and liabilities

    75,578  

Total liabilities

    722,825  

Net assets

  $ 23,906,241  

NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:

       

Par value

  $ 2,660  

Paid-in capital

    23,467,549  

Accumulated net investment income/(loss)

    (107,454 )

Accumulated net realized gain/(loss) from investments, futures contracts, foreign
currency transactions and forward foreign currency contracts

    33,782  

Net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments, futures contracts,
foreign currency translations and forward foreign currency contracts

    509,704  

Net assets

  $ 23,906,241  

CAPITAL SHARES:

       

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    2,660,126  

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share

  $ 8.99  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

12

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Consolidated Statement of Operations

For The year Ended

August 31, 2018

 

INVESTMENT INCOME

       

Interest

  $ 163,671  

Total investment income

    163,671  

EXPENSES

       

Advisory fees (Note 2)

    129,888  

Audit and tax service fees

    54,015  

Administration and accounting services fees (Note 2)

    44,647  

Registration and filing fees

    22,581  

Legal fees

    19,977  

Officer’s fees

    8,798  

Director’s fees

    6,565  

Transfer agent fees (Note 2)

    4,236  

Printing and shareholder reporting fees

    2,958  

Custodian fees (Note 2)

    2,284  

Other expenses

    9,612  

Total expenses before waivers and reimbursements

    305,561  

Less: waivers and reimbursements (Note 2)

    (149,574 )

Net expenses after waivers and reimbursements

    155,987  

Net investment income/(loss)

    7,684  

NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) FROM INVESTMENTS

       

Net realized gain/(loss) from:

       

Investments

    (149 )

Futures contracts

    244,169  

Foreign currency transactions

    (715 )

Forward foreign currency contracts

    (216,763 )

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on:

       

Investments

    (639 )

Futures contracts

    223,740  

Foreign currency translations

    (465 )

Forward foreign currency contracts

    159,398  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    408,576  

NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS

  $ 416,260  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

13

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Consolidated Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

Increase/(Decrease) in Net Assets From Operations:

               

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ 7,684     $ (72,695 )

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments, futures contracts, foreign currency transactions and forward foreign currency contracts

    26,542       (215,793 )

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments, future contracts, foreign currency translation and forward foreign currency contracts

    382,034       35,318  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    416,260       (253,170 )
                 

Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders From:

               

Net realized capital gains

    (204,171 )      

Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (204,171 )      
                 

Capital Share Transactions:

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    14,357,238        

Proceeds from reinvestment of distributions

    204,171        

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

    14,561,409        

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    14,773,498       (253,170 )
                 

Net Assets:

               

Beginning of period

    9,132,743       9,385,913  

End of period

  $ 23,906,241     $ 9,132,743  

Accumulated net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $ (107,454 )   $ (27,702 )
                 

Share Transactions:

               

Shares sold

    1,624,061        

Shares reinvested

    22,660        

Net increase/(decrease) in shares outstanding

    1,646,721        

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

14

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Consolidated Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the consolidated financial statements.

 

 

   

For the
year
ended
august 31, 2018

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31, 2017

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31, 2016

   

For the
Period
Ended
August 31, 2015
(1)

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                               

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 9.01     $ 9.26     $ 9.71     $ 10.00  

Net investment income/(loss)(2)

    0.01       (0.07 )     (0.11 )     (0.08 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    0.17       (0.18 )     (0.21 )     (0.21 )

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    0.18       (0.25 )     (0.32 )     (0.29 )

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                               

Net realized capital gains

    (0.20 )           (0.13 )      

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (0.20 )           (0.13 )      

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 8.99     $ 9.01     $ 9.26     $ 9.71  

Total investment return(3)

    2.01 %     (2.70 )%     (3.36 )%     (2.90 )%(6)

Ratios/Supplemental Data

                               

Net assets, end of period (000’s)

  $ 23,906     $ 9,133     $ 9,386     $ 9,715  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets with waivers and reimbursements

    1.25 %(4)     1.27 %(4)     1.25 %     1.26 %(4)(5)

Ratio of expenses to average net assets without waivers and reimbursements

    2.46 %     3.47 %     4.04 %     4.39 %(5)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    0.06 %     (0.80 )%     (1.13 )%     (1.25 )%(5)

Portfolio turnover rate

    0.00 %     0.00 %     0.00 %     0.00 %(6)

 

 

(1)

The Fund commenced investment operations on December 31, 2014.

(2)

Calculated based on average shares outstanding for the period.

(3)

Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

(4)

Expense ratio includes interest expense. Excluding such interest expense, the ratio of expenses to average net assets would be 1.25%.

(5)

Annualized.

(6)

Not annualized.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the consolidated financial statements.

 

15

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements

August 31, 2018

 

1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

 

The RBB Fund, Inc. (“RBB” or the “Company”) was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on February 29, 1988 and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. RBB is a “series fund,” which is a mutual fund divided into separate portfolios. Each portfolio is treated as a separate entity for certain matters under the 1940 Act, and for other purposes, and a shareholder of one portfolio is not deemed to be a shareholder of any other portfolio. Currently, RBB has thirty active investment portfolios, including the Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund (the “Fund”), which commenced investment operations on December 31, 2014.

 

RBB has authorized capital of one hundred billion shares of common stock of which 87.023 billion shares are currently classified into one hundred and eighty-one classes of common stock. Each class represents an interest in an active or inactive RBB investment portfolio.

 

The Fund’s investment objective is to seek capital appreciation.

 

The Fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services - Investment Companies.”

 

The end of the reporting period for the Fund is August 31, 2018, and the period covered by these Notes to Consolidated Financial Statements is the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018 (the “current fiscal period”).

 

Consolidation of Subsidiary The Adviser’s Campbell Dynamic Trend Program will be achieved by the Fund investing up to 25% of its total assets in the Campbell Core Offshore Limited (the “Subsidiary”), a wholly-owned and controlled subsidiary for the Fund organized under the laws of the Cayman Islands. The consolidated financial statements of the Fund include the financial statements of the Subsidiary. The Fund consolidates the results of subsidiaries in which the Fund holds a controlling financial interest (greater than 50%). All inter-company accounts and transactions have been eliminated. As of the end of the reporting period, the net assets of the Subsidiary were $963,542, which represented 4.03% of the Fund’s net assets.

 

Portfolio Valuation — The Fund’s net asset value (“NAV”) is calculated once daily at the close of regular trading hours on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on each day the NYSE is open. Securities held by the Fund are valued using the closing price or the last sales price on a national securities exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automatic Quotation System (“NASDAQ”) market system where they are primarily traded. Fixed income securities are valued using an independent pricing service, which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings, and are deemed representative of market values at the close of the market. Investments in other open-end investment companies are valued based on the NAV of those investment companies (which may use fair value pricing as discussed in their prospectuses). Forward currency exchange contracts are valued by interpolating between spot and forward currency rates as quoted by an independent pricing service. Futures contracts are generally valued using the settlement price determined by the relevant exchange. If market quotations are unavailable or deemed unreliable, securities will be valued in accordance with procedures adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”). Relying on prices supplied by pricing services or dealers or using fair valuation may result in values that are higher or lower than the values used by other investment companies and investors to price the same investments.

 

Fair Value Measurements — The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the Fund’s investments are summarized into three levels as described in the hierarchy below:

 

 

Level 1 – Prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

 

 

Level 2 – Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).

 

16

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

 

Level 3 – Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of the end of the reporting period, in valuing the Fund’s investments carried at fair value:

 

 

 

Total

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

 

Short-Term Investments

  $ 19,288,210     $ 19,288,210     $     $  

Commodity Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

    425,821       425,821              

Equity Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

    245,394       245,394              

Interest Rate Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

    41,060       41,060              

Foreign Exchange Contracts

                               

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts

    395,248             395,248        

Total Assets

  $ 20,395,733     $ 20,000,485     $ 395,248     $  

 

 

 

Total

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

 

Short-Term Investments

  $     $     $     $  

Commodity Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

    (264,626 )     (264,626 )            

Equity Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

    (56,354 )     (56,354 )            

Interest Rate Contracts

                               

Futures Contracts

    (56,768 )     (56,768 )            

Foreign Exchange Contracts

                               

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts

    (219,108 )           (219,108 )      

Total Liabilities

  $ (596,856 )   $ (377,748 )   $ (219,108 )   $  

 

At the end of each quarter, management evaluates the classification of Levels 1, 2 and 3 assets and liabilities. Various factors are considered, such as changes in liquidity from the prior reporting period; whether or not a broker is willing to execute at the quoted price; the depth and consistency of prices from third party pricing services; and the existence of contemporaneous, observable trades in the market. Additionally, management evaluates the classification of Level 1 and Level 2 assets and liabilities on a quarterly basis for changes in listings or delistings on national exchanges.

 

Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Fund’s investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values the Fund may ultimately realize. Further, such investments may be subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities.

 

For fair valuations using significant unobservable inputs, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires the Fund to present a reconciliation of the beginning to ending balances for reported market values that presents changes attributable to total realized and unrealized gains or losses, purchase and sales, and transfers in and out of Level 3 during the period. Transfers in and out between levels are based on values at the end of the period. U.S. GAAP also requires the Fund to disclose amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2

 

17

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

fair value measurements. A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented only when the Fund had an amount of Level 3 investments at the end of the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets. The amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of each level within the three-tier hierarchy are disclosed when the Fund had an amount of total transfers during the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets as of the end of the reporting period.

 

During the current fiscal period, the Fund had no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3.

 

Disclosures about Derivative Instruments and Hedging Activities — Derivative instruments are defined as financial instruments whose value and performance are based on the value and performance of another security or financial instrument. Derivative instruments that the Fund used during the period include forward foreign currency contracts and futures contracts.

 

During the current fiscal period, the Fund used long and short contracts on U.S. and foreign equity market indices, U.S. and foreign government bonds, foreign currencies and commodities (through investment in the Subsidiary), to gain investment exposure in accordance with its investment objective.

 

The following tables provide quantitative disclosures about fair value amounts of, and gains and losses on, the Fund’s derivative instruments as of and for the current fiscal period.

 

The following table lists the fair values of the Fund’s derivative holdings as of the end of the reporting period, grouped by contract type and risk exposure category.

 

Derivative Type

Consolidated
Statement
of Assets and
Liabilities
Location

 

Commodity
Contracts

   

Equity
Contracts

   

Interest
Rate
Contracts

   

Foreign
Currency
Contracts

   

Total

 

Asset Derivatives

Futures Contracts (a)

Unrealized
appreciation on
futures contracts

  $ 425,821     $ 245,394     $ 41,060     $     $ 712,275  

Forward Contracts (a)

Unrealized
appreciation on
forward foreign currency contracts

                      395,248       395,248  

Total Value -
Assets

 

  $ 425,821     $ 245,394     $ 41,060     $ 395,248     $ 1,107,523  

 

Liability Derivatives

Futures Contracts (a)

Unrealized
depreciation on
futures contracts

  $ (264,626 )   $ (56,354 )   $ (56,768 )   $     $ (377,748 )

Forward Contracts (a)

Unrealized
depreciation on
forward foreign currency contracts

                      (219,108 )     (219,108 )

Total Value - Liabilities

 

  $ (264,626 )   $ (56,354 )   $ (56,768 )   $ (219,108 )   $ (596,856 )

 

(a)

This amount represents the cumulative appreciation/(depreciation) of forward and futures contracts as reported in the Consolidated Portfolio of Investments.

 

18

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

The following table lists the amounts of realized gains/(losses) included in net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations during the current fiscal period, grouped by contract type and risk exposure.

 

Derivative Type

Consolidated
Statement of
Operations
Location

 

Commodity
Contracts

   

Equity
Contracts

   

Interest
Rate
Contracts

   

Foreign
Currency
Contracts

   

Total

 

Realized Gain/(Loss)

Futures Contracts

Net realized gain/
(loss) from futures contracts

  $ (31,229 )   $ 329,391     $ (53,993 )   $     $ 244,169  

Forward Contracts

Net realized gain/
(loss) from
forward foreign currency contracts

                      (216,763 )     (216,763 )

Total Realized
Gain/(Loss)

 

  $ (31,229 )   $ 329,391     $ (53,993 )   $ (216,763 )   $ 27,406  

 

The following table lists the amounts of change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) included in net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations during the current fiscal period, grouped by contract type and risk exposure.

 

Derivative Type

Consolidated
Statement of
Operations
Location

 

Commodity
Contracts

   

Equity
Contracts

   

Interest
Rate
Contracts

   

Foreign
Currency
Contracts

   

Total

 

Change in Unrealized Appreciation/(Depreciation)

Futures Contracts

Net change in
unrealized
appreciation/(depreciation) on
futures contracts

  $ 101,363     $ 156,302     $ (33,925 )   $     $ 223,740  

Forward Contracts

Net change in
unrealized
appreciation/(depreciation) on forward foreign currency contracts

                      159,398       159,398  

Total Change in
Unrealized Appreciation/(Depreciation)

 

  $ 101,363     $ 156,302     $ (33,925 )   $ 159,398     $ 383,138  

 

During the current fiscal period, the Fund’s quarterly average volume of derivatives was as follows:

 

Long Futures
Notional
Amount

Short Futures
Notional
Amount

Forward Foreign
Currency
Contracts — Payable
(Value at Trade Date)

Forward Foreign
Currency
Contracts —
Receivable
(Value at Trade Date)

$62,394,699

$(26,120,024)

$(16,840,071)

$16,831,137

 

19

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

For financial reporting purposes, the Fund does not offset fair value amounts recognized for derivative instruments and fair value amounts recognized for the right to reclaim cash collateral (receivables) or the obligation to return cash collateral (payables) arising from derivative instruments recognized at fair value executed with the same counterparty under a master netting arrangement.

 

The following is a summary of financial and derivative instruments that are subject to enforceable master netting agreements (or similar arrangements) and collateral received and pledged in connection with the master netting agreements (or similar arrangements).

 

           

Gross Amount
Not Offset in
Consolidated
Statement of Assets
and Liabilities

                   

Gross Amount
Not Offset in
Consolidated
Statement of Assets
and Liabilities

         

Description

 

Gross
Amount
Presented
in the
Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities

   

Financial
Instruments

   

Collateral
Received

   

Net
Amount
(1)

   

Gross
Amount
Presented
in the
Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities

   

Financial
Instruments

   

Collateral
Pledged
(2)

   

Net
Amount
(3)

 
   

Assets

   

Liabilities

 

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts

  $ 395,248     $ (219,108 )   $     $ 176,140     $ 219,108     $ (219,108 )   $     $  

 

 

(1)

Net amount represents the net amount receivable from the counterparty in the event of default.

 

(2)

Actual collateral pledged may be more than the amount shown.

 

(3)

Net amount represents the net amount payable to the counterparty in the event of default.

 

Use of Estimates — The preparation of consolidated financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the consolidated financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and those differences could be significant.

 

Investment Transactions, Investment Income and Expenses — The Fund records security transactions based on trade date for financial reporting purposes. The cost of investments sold is determined by use of the specific identification method for both financial reporting and income tax purposes in determining realized gains and losses on investments. Interest income is accrued when earned. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The Fund’s investment income, expenses (other than class specific expenses) and unrealized and realized gains and losses are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class at the beginning of the day. Expenses incurred on behalf of a specific class, fund or fund family are charged directly to the class, fund or fund family (in proportion to net assets). Expenses incurred for all the RBB funds (such as director or professional fees) are charged to all funds in proportion to their average net assets of RBB, or in such other manner as the Board deems fair or equitable. Expenses and fees, including investment advisory and administration fees, are accrued daily and taken into account for the purpose of determining the NAV of the Fund.

 

Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders — Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid at least annually to shareholders and recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income dividends and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. GAAP.

 

20

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

U.S. Tax Status — No provision is made for U.S. income taxes as it is the Fund’s intention to continue to qualify for and elect the tax treatment applicable to regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and make the requisite distributions to its shareholders which will be sufficient to relieve it from U.S. income and excise taxes.

 

For tax purposes, the Subsidiary is an exempted Cayman Islands investment company. The Subsidiary has received an undertaking from the Government of the Cayman Islands exempting it from all local income, profits and capital gains taxes. No such taxes are levied in the Cayman Islands at the present time. For U.S. income tax purposes, the Subsidiary is a Controlled Foreign Corporation and as such is not subject to U.S. income tax.

 

Foreign Currency Translation — Assets and liabilities initially expressed in non-U.S. currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the applicable exchange rates at the date of the last business day of the consolidated financial statement period. Purchases and sales of securities, interest income, dividends, variation margin received and expenses denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect on the transaction date.

 

The Fund does not separately report the effect of changes in foreign exchange rates from changes in market prices of securities held. Such changes are included with the net realized gain or loss and change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments in the Consolidated Statement of Operations. Other foreign currency transactions resulting in realized and unrealized gain or loss are reported separately as net realized gain or loss and change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on foreign currencies in the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

 

Currency Risk — Investment in foreign securities involves currency risk associated with securities that trade or are denominated in currencies other than the U.S. dollar and which may be affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates. An increase in the strength of the U.S. dollar relative to a foreign currency may cause the U.S. dollar value of an investment in that country to decline. Foreign currencies also are subject to risks caused by inflation, interest rates, budget deficits and low savings rates, political factors and government controls. Forward foreign currency exchange contracts may limit potential gains from a favorable change in value between the U.S. dollar and foreign currencies. Unanticipated changes in currency pricing may result in poorer overall performance for the Fund than if it had not engaged in these contracts.

 

Commodity Sector Risk — Exposure to the commodities markets may subject the Fund to greater volatility than investments in traditional securities. The value of commodity-linked derivative instruments may be affected by changes in overall market movements, commodity index volatility, changes in interest rates or factors affecting a particular industry or commodity, such as drought, floods, weather, livestock disease, embargoes, tariffs and international economic, political and regulatory developments. The prices of energy, industrial metals, precious metals, agriculture and livestock sector commodities may fluctuate widely due to factors such as changes in value, supply and demand and governmental regulatory policies. The commodity-linked securities in which the Fund invests may be issued by companies in the financial services sector, and events affecting the financial services sector may cause the Fund’s share value to fluctuate.

 

Foreign Securities Market Risk — A substantial portion of the trades of the Fund are expected to take place on markets or exchanges outside the United States. There is no limit to the amount of assets of the Fund that may be committed to trading on foreign markets. The risk of loss in trading foreign futures and options on futures contracts can be substantial. Participation in foreign futures and options on futures contracts involves the execution and clearing of trades on, or subject to the rules of, a foreign board of trade or exchange. Some of these foreign markets, in contrast to U.S. exchanges, are so-called principals’ markets in which performance is the responsibility only of the individual counterparty with whom the trader has entered into a commodity interest transaction and not of the exchange or clearing corporation. In these kinds of markets, there is risk of bankruptcy or other failure or refusal to perform by the counterparty.

 

21

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Counterparty Risk — The derivative contracts entered into by the Fund or its Subsidiary may be privately negotiated in the over-the-counter market. These contracts also involve exposure to credit risk, since contract performance depends in part on the financial condition of the counterparty. Relying on a counterparty exposes the Fund to the risk that a counterparty will not settle a transaction in accordance with its terms and conditions because of a dispute over the terms of the contract (whether or not bona fide) or because of a credit or liquidity problem, thus causing the Fund to suffer a loss. If a counterparty defaults on its payment obligations to the Fund, this default will cause the value of an investment in the Fund to decrease.

 

Credit Risk — Credit risk refers to the possibility that the issuer of the security or a counterparty in respect of a derivative instrument will not be able to satisfy its payment obligations to the Fund when due. Changes in an issuer’s credit rating or the market’s perception of an issuer’s creditworthiness may also affect the value of the Fund’s investment in that issuer. Securities rated in the four highest categories by the rating agencies are considered investment grade but they may also have some speculative characteristics. Investment grade ratings do not guarantee that bonds will not lose value or default. In addition, the credit quality of securities may be lowered if an issuer’s financial condition changes.

 

Futures Contracts — The Fund uses futures contracts in the normal course of pursuing its investment objective. Upon entering into a futures contract, the Fund must deposit initial margin in addition to segregating cash or liquid assets sufficient to meet its obligation to purchase or provide securities, or to pay the amount owed at the expiration of an index-based futures contract. Such liquid assets may consist of cash, cash equivalents, liquid debt or equity securities or other acceptable assets. Pursuant to the futures contract, the Fund agrees to receive from, or pay to the broker, an amount of cash equal to the daily fluctuation in value of the contract. Such a receipt of payment is known as “variation margin” and is recorded by the Fund as an unrealized gain or loss. When the contract is closed, the Fund records a realized gain or loss equal to the difference between the proceeds from (or cost of) the closing transactions and the Fund’s basis in the contract. Futures contracts have market risks, including the risk that the change in the value of the contract may not correlate with changes in the value of the underlying securities. Use of long futures contracts subjects the Fund to risk of loss in excess of the amount shown on the Consolidated Statement of Assets and Liabilities, up to the notional value of the futures contract. Use of short futures contracts subjects the Fund to unlimited risk of loss.

 

Forward Foreign Currency Contracts — The Fund uses forward foreign currency contracts (“forward contracts”) in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. These contracts are marked-to-market daily at the applicable translation rates. The Fund records realized gains or losses at the time the forward contract is closed. A forward contract is extinguished through a closing transaction or upon delivery of the currency or entering an offsetting contract. Risks may arise upon entering these contracts from the potential inability of a counterparty to meet the terms of their contracts and from unanticipated movements in the value of a foreign currency relative to the U.S. dollar or other currencies. The Fund’s maximum risk of loss from counterparty credit risk related to forward foreign currency contracts is the fair value of the contract. The risk may be mitigated to some extent if a master netting arrangement between the Fund and the counterparty is in place and to the extent the Fund obtains collateral to cover the Fund’s exposure to the counterparty.

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents — Cash and cash equivalents are valued at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates market value.

 

Other — In the normal course of business, the Fund may enter into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made against the Fund in the future, and, therefore, cannot be estimated; however, based on experience, the risk of material loss from such claims is considered remote.

 

22

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

2. Investment Adviser and Other Services

 

Campbell & Company Investment Adviser LLC (“Campbell” or the “Adviser”) serves as the investment adviser to the Fund. The Adviser is a wholly-owned subsidiary of Campbell & Company, L.P. The Fund compensates the Adviser for its services at an annual rate based on the Fund’s average daily net assets (the “Advisory Fee”), payable on a monthly basis in arrears, as shown in the following table.

 

The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) exceed the rate (“Expense Cap”) shown in the following table of the Fund’s average daily net assets. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed the Expense Cap as applicable: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary expenses, interest and taxes. This contractual limitation is in effect until December 31, 2019 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board. The Adviser may discontinue this arrangement at any time after December 31, 2019.

 

Advisory Fee

Expense Cap

1.05%

1.25%

 

During the current fiscal period, investment advisory fees accrued, waived and/or reimbursed were as follows:

 

Gross
Advisory Fees

Waivers and/or
Reimbursements

Net
Advisory Fees

$129,888

$(149,574)

$(19,686)

 

If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses for a year are less than the Expense Cap, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees forgone and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed the Expense Cap that was in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement.

 

As of the end of the reporting period, the Fund had amounts available for recoupment as follows:

 

Expiration

August 31,
2019

August 31,
2020

August 31,
2021

Total

$265,599

$199,666

$149,574

$614,839

 

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (“Fund Services”), doing business as U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, serves as administrator for the Fund. For providing administrative and accounting services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Fund Services serves as the Fund’s transfer and dividend disbursing agent. For providing transfer agent services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

U.S. Bank, N.A. (the “Custodian”) provides certain custodial services to the Fund. The Custodian is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Quasar Distributors, LLC serves as the principal underwriter and distributor of the Fund’s shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with RBB.

 

23

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

For compensation amounts paid to Fund Services and the Custodian, please refer to the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

 

3. Director’s and Officer’s Compensation

 

The Directors of the Company receive an annual retainer and meeting fees for meetings attended. Employees of Vigilant Compliance, LLC serve as President, Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Treasurer of the Company. Vigilant Compliance, LLC is compensated for the services provided to the Company. An employee of RBB serves as Treasurer and Secretary and is compensated for services provided. Certain employees of Fund Services serve as officers of the Company. They are not compensated by the Fund or the Company. For Director’s and Officer’s compensation amounts, please refer to the Consolidated Statement of Operations.

 

4. Purchases and Sales of Investment Securities

 

During the current fiscal period, aggregate purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding short-term investments and derivative transactions) of the Fund were as follows:

 

Purchases

Sales

$—

$—

 

There were no purchases or sales of long-term U.S. Government securities during the current fiscal period.

 

5. Federal Income Tax Information

 

The Fund has followed the authoritative guidance on accounting for and disclosure of uncertainty in tax positions, which requires the Fund to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Fund has determined that there was no effect on the consolidated financial statements from following this authoritative guidance. In the normal course of business, the Fund is subject to examination by federal, state and local jurisdictions, where applicable, for tax years for which applicable statutes of limitations have not expired.

 

As of August 31, 2018, the federal tax cost and aggregate gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of investments held by the Fund were as follows(a):

 

Federal Tax
Cost

Unrealized
Appreciation

Unrealized
(Depreciation)

Net
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

$20,683,243

$15,197

$(432,168)

$(416,971)

 

 

(a)

The difference between the book basis and tax basis cost and aggregate gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of investments is attributable primarily to non-1256 futures and timing difference related to taxable income from a wholly owned controlled foreign corporation.

 

Distributions to shareholders, if any, from net investment income and realized gains are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from net investment income and realized gains recognized for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying consolidated financial statements. To the extent these differences are permanent, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts based on the tax treatment; temporary differences do not require such reclassification.

 

24

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

The following permanent differences as of August 31, 2018, primarily attributable to investments in wholly-owned controlled foreign corporation and reclassifications for treatment of certain foreign currency transactions were reclassified among the following accounts:

 

UNDISTRIBUTED
NET INVESTMENT
INCOME/(Loss)

ACCUMULATED
NET REALIZED
GAIN/(Loss)

PAID-IN
CAPITAL

$(87,436)

$117,699

$(30,263)

 

As of August 31, 2018, the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

 

Undistributed
Ordinary
Income

Undistributed
Long-Term
Capital Gains

Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

Qualified
Late-Year
Losses

Capital Loss
Carryforwards

Other
Temporary
Differences

$297,385

$178,895

$(40,248)

 

The differences between the book and tax basis components of distributable earnings relate principally to the timing of recognition of income and gains of the Subsidiary for federal income tax purposes. Short-term and foreign currency gains are reported as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes.

 

The tax character of dividends and distributions paid during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, were as follows:

 

Ordinary
Income

Long-Term
Gains

Total

$204,171

$204,171

 

Pursuant to federal income tax rules applicable to regulated investment companies, the Fund may elect to treat certain capital losses between November 1 and August 31 and late year ordinary losses ((i) ordinary losses between January 1 and August 31, and (ii) specified ordinary and currency losses between November 1 and August 31) as occurring on the first day of the following tax year. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, any amount of losses elected within the tax return will not be recognized for federal income tax purposes until September 1, 2018. As of August 31, 2018, the Fund had no tax basis qualified late-year losses.

 

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010, the Fund is permitted to carry forward capital losses for an unlimited period. Additionally, capital losses that are carried forward will retain their character as either short-term or long-term capital losses rather than being considered all short-term as under the previous law. As of August 31, 2018, the Fund had no tax basis capital loss carryovers to offset future capital gains.

 

6. New Accounting Pronouncements

 

In August 2018, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”). The primary focus of ASU 2018-13 is to improve the effectiveness of the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The changes affect all companies that are required to include fair value measurement disclosures. In general, the amendments in ASU 2018-13 are effective for all affected entities for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. An affected entity is permitted to adopt the removed or modified disclosures upon the issuance of ASU 2018-13 and may delay adoption of the additional disclosures, which are required for public companies only, until their effective date. Management is currently evaluating the impact these changes will have on the Fund’s consolidated financial statements and disclosures.

 

25

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Notes To Consolidated Financial Statements (Concluded)

August 31, 2018

 

7. Subsequent Events

 

Management has evaluated the impact of all subsequent events on the Fund through the date the consolidated financial statements were issued and has determined that there were no significant events requiring recognition or disclosure in the consolidated financial statements.

 

26

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

To the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. and
Shareholders of Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying consolidated statement of assets and liabilities of Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund (the “Fund”) (one of the portfolios constituting The RBB Fund, Inc. (the “Company”)), including the consolidated portfolio of investments, as of August 31, 2018, and the related consolidated statement of operations for the year then ended, the consolidated statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended, the consolidated financial highlights for each of the three years in the period then ended and the period December 31, 2014 (commencement of operations) to August 31, 2015 and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the consolidated financial position of the Fund (one of the portfolios constituting The RBB Fund, Inc.) at August 31, 2018, the consolidated results of its operations for the year then ended, the consolidated changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period then ended and its consolidated financial highlights for each of the three years in the period then ended and the period December 31, 2014 (commencement of operations) to August 31, 2015, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

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

 

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

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2018, by correspondence with the custodian and brokers or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from brokers were not received. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

 

We have served as the auditor of one or more Campbell & Company investment companies since 2015.

 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 30, 2018

 

27

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Shareholder Tax Information

(Unaudited)

 

Certain tax information regarding the Fund is required to be provided to shareholders based upon the Fund’s income and distributions for the taxable year ended August 31, 2018. The information and distributions reported herein may differ from information and distributions taxable to the shareholders for the calendar year ended December 31, 2018. During the period ended August 31, 2018, the Fund paid $204,171 of ordinary income distributions to its shareholders. Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal tax purposes.

 

The percentage of ordinary income dividends qualifying for the 15% dividend tax rate is 0.00%.

 

The percentage of ordinary income dividends qualifying for the corporate dividends received deduction is 0.00%.

 

The Fund designates 100.00% of the ordinary income distributions as qualified short-term gain pursuant to the American Job Creation Act of 2004.

 

Because the Fund’s fiscal year is not the calendar year, another notification will be sent with respect to calendar year 2018. The second notification, which will reflect the amount, if any, to be used by calendar year taxpayers on their U.S. federal income tax returns, will be made in conjunction with Form 1099-DIV and will be mailed in January 2019.

 

Foreign shareholders will generally be subject to U.S. withholding tax on the amount of their ordinary income dividends. They will generally not be entitled to a foreign tax credit or deduction for the withholding taxes paid by the Fund, if any.

 

In general, dividends received by tax exempt recipients (e.g., IRAs and Keoghs) need not be reported as taxable income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, some retirement trusts (e.g., corporate, Keogh and 403(b)(7) plans) may need this information for their annual information reporting.

 

Shareholders are advised to consult their own tax advisers with respect to the tax consequences of their investment in the Fund.

 

28

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Other Information

(Unaudited)

 

Proxy Voting

 

Policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities as well as information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities for the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 are available without charge, upon request, by calling (844) 261-6488 and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Quarterly Portfolio Schedules

 

The Company files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third fiscal quarters of each fiscal year (quarters ended November 30 and May 31) on Form N-Q. The Company’s Form N-Q is available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov and may be reviewed and copied at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the SEC Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.

 

Campbell & Company Investment Adviser LLC

 

As required by the 1940 Act, the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Company, including all of the Directors who are not “interested persons” of the Company, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act (the “Independent Directors”), considered the renewal of the investment advisory agreement between Campbell and the Company (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund, at a meeting of the Board held on May 9-10, 2018 (the “Meeting”). At the Meeting, the Board, including all of the Independent Directors, approved the Investment Advisory Agreement for an additional one-year term. The Board’s decision to approve the Investment Advisory Agreement reflects the exercise of its business judgment to continue the existing arrangement. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Board considered information provided by Campbell with the assistance and advice of counsel to the Independent Directors and the Company.

 

In considering the renewal and approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Company and Campbell with respect to the Fund, the Directors took into account all the materials provided prior to and during the Meeting and at other meetings throughout the past year, the presentations made during the Meeting, and the discussions held during the Meeting. Among other things, the Directors considered (i) the nature, extent, and quality of Campbell’s services to be provided to the Fund; (ii) descriptions of the experience and qualifications of Campbell’s personnel providing those services; (iii) Campbell’s investment philosophies and processes; (iv) Campbell’s assets under management and client descriptions; (v) Campbell’s soft dollar commission and trade allocation policies, including information on the types of research and services obtained in connection with soft dollar commissions; (vi) Campbell’s advisory fee arrangement with the Company and other similarly managed clients; (vii) Campbell’s compliance policies and procedures; (viii) Campbell’s financial information, insurance coverage and profitability analysis related to providing advisory services to the Fund; (ix) the extent to which economies of scale are relevant to the Fund; (x) a report prepared by Broadridge/Lipper comparing the Fund’s management fees and total expense ratio to those of its Lipper peer group; and (xi) a report comparing the performance of the Fund to the performance of its benchmark.

 

As part of their review, the Directors considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by Campbell. The Directors concluded that Campbell had substantial resources to provide services to the Fund and that Campbell’s services had been acceptable.

 

The Directors also considered the investment performance of the Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund. The Directors noted that the Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund had underperformed its benchmark index (BofA Merrill Lynch 3-Month T-Bill Index) for the year-to-date, one-year, three-year, and since inception periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors noted that the Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund ranked in the 4th quintile within its Lipper Performance Group for the two-year, three-year and since-inception periods ended December 31, 2017.

 

29

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Other Information (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

The Board also considered the advisory fee rate payable by the Fund under the Investment Advisory Agreement. In this regard, information on the fees to be paid by the Fund and the Fund’s total operating expense ratio (before and after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) was compared to similar information for mutual funds advised by other, unaffiliated investment advisory firms. The Directors noted that the actual advisor fee of the Fund ranked in the 1st quintile of the Fund’s Lipper Expense Group and Lipper Expense Universe. In addition, the Directors noted that Campbell has contractually agreed to waive management fees and reimburse expenses through at least December 31, 2018 to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses exceed 1.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets.

 

After reviewing the information regarding the Fund’s costs, Campbell’s estimated profitability and economies of scale, and after considering Campbell’s services, the Directors concluded that the investment advisory fees to be paid by the Fund were fair and reasonable and that the Investment Advisory Agreement should be approved for an additional annual period ending August 16, 2019.

 

30

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Affirmation of the Commodity Pool Operator

August 31, 2018

 

To the best of the knowledge and belief of the undersigned, the information contained in the Annual Report for the year ended August 31, 2018 is accurate and complete.

 

 

 

 

G. William Andrews, Chief Executive Officer
Campbell & Company, LP
CAMPBELL DYNAMIC TREND FUND

 

31

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Company Management

(Unaudited)

 

Directors and Executive Officers

 

The business and affairs of the Company are managed under the direction of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company is organized under and managed pursuant to Maryland law. The Directors and executive officers of the Company, their ages, business addresses and principal occupations during the past five years are set forth below. The statement of additional information (“SAI”) includes additional information about the Directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling (844)-261-6488.

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS

Julian A. Brodsky
615 East Michigan Street Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 85

Director

1988 to present

From 1969 to 2011, Director and Vice Chairman, Comcast Corporation (cable television and communications).

30

AMDOCS Limited (service provider to telecommunications companies).

J. Richard Carnall
615 East Michigan Street Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 79

Director

2002 to present

Since 1984, Director of Haydon Bolts, Inc. (bolt manufacturer) and Parkway Real Estate Company (subsidiary of Haydon Bolts, Inc.); since 2004, Director of Cornerstone Bank.

30

None

Gregory P. Chandler
615 East Michigan Street Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 51

Director

2012 to present

Since 2009, Chief Financial Officer, Emtec, Inc. (information technology consulting/services); from 2003-2009, Managing Director, head of Business Services and IT Services Practice, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC (investment banking/brokerage).

30

Emtec, Inc.; FS Investment Corporation (business development company); FS Energy and Power Fund (business development company); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios)(registered investment company).

Nicholas A. Giordano
615 East Michigan Street Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 75

Director

2006 to present

Since 1997, Consultant, financial services organizations.

30

Kalmar Pooled Investment Trust (registered investment company) (until September 2017); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios) (registered investment company); Independence Blue Cross (healthcare insurance).

Arnold M. Reichman
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 70

Chairman

 

Director

2005 to present

 

1991 to present

Since 2006, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lifebooker, LLC (online beauty and health appointment booking service).

30

Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

 

32

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Company Management (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

Brian T. Shea
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 58

Director

2018 to present

From 2014-2017, Chief Executive Officer, BNY Mellon Investment Services (fund services, global custodian and securities clearing firm); from 1983-2014, Chief Executive Officer and various positions, Pershing LLC (broker dealer, clearing and custody firm).

30

WisdomTree Investments, Inc. (asset management company); Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (financial services technology company).

Robert A. Straniere
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 77

Director

2006 to present

Since 2009, Administrative Law Judge, New York City; since 1980, Founding Partner, Straniere Law Group (law firm).

30

Reich and Tang Group (asset management).

INTERESTED DIRECTOR2

Robert Sablowsky
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 80

Vice Chairman

 

Director

2016 to present

 

1991 to present

Since 2002, Senior Director – Investments and, prior thereto, Executive Vice President, of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. (a registered broker-dealer).

30

None

OFFICERS

Salvatore Faia, JD, CPA, CFE
Vigilant Compliance, LLC
Gateway Corporate
Center Suite 216
223 Wilmington West
Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Age: 55

President

 

Chief Compliance Officer

2009 to present

 

2004 to present

Since 2004, President, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2005, Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

James G. Shaw
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 57

Treasurer and Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2016, Treasurer and Secretary of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 2005 to 2016, Assistant Treasurer of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 1995 to 2016, Senior Director and Vice President of BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (financial services company).

N/A

N/A

Robert Amweg
Vigilant Compliance, LLC
Gateway Corporate Center Suite 216
223 Wilmington West Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Age: 65

Assistant Treasurer

2016 to present

Since 2013, Compliance Director, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2012, Consultant to the financial services industry; from 2007 to 2012, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, Turner Investments, LP (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

 

 

33

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Company Management (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

Jennifer Witt
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 35

Assistant Treasurer

2018 to present

Since 2016, Assistant Vice President, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm); from 2007 to 2016, Supervisor, Nuveen Investments (investment company).

N/A

N/A

Edward Paz
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 47

Assistant Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2007, Vice President and Counsel, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm).

N/A

N/A

Michael P. Malloy
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Age: 59

Assistant Secretary

1999 to present

Since 1993, Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm).

N/A

N/A

Jillian L. Bosmann
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Age: 39

Assistant Secretary

2017 to present

Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm) (2017-Present); Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (2006-Present).

N/A

N/A

 

*

Each Director oversees 30 portfolios of the Company.

 

1

Subject to the Company’s Retirement Policy, each Director may continue to serve as a Director until the last day of the calendar year in which the applicable Director attains age 75 or until his successor is elected and qualified or his death, resignation or removal. The Board reserves the right to waive the requirements of the Policy with respect to an individual Director. The Board has approved waivers of the policy with respect to Messrs. Brodsky, Carnall, Giordano, Sablowsky and Straniere. Each officer holds office at the pleasure of the Board until the next special meeting of the Company or until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, or until he or she dies, resigns or is removed.

 

2

Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “interested person” of the Company as that term is defined in the 1940 Act and is referred to as an “Interested Director.” Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “Interested Director” of the Company by virtue of his position as an employee of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc., a registered broker-dealer.

 

Director Experience, Qualifications, Attributes and/or Skills

 

The information above includes each Director’s principal occupations during the last five years. Each Director possesses extensive additional experience, skills and attributes relevant to his qualifications to serve as a Director. The cumulative background of each Director led to the conclusion that each Director should serve as a Director of the Company. Mr. Giordano has years of experience as a consultant to financial services organizations and also serves on the boards of other registered investment companies. Mr. Reichman brings decades of investment management experience to the Board, in addition to senior executive-level management experience. Mr. Straniere has been a practicing attorney for over 30 years and also serves on the boards of an asset management company and another registered investment company. Mr. Brodsky has over 40 years of senior executive level management experience in the cable television and communications industry. Mr. Sablowsky has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the financial services industry. Mr. Carnall has decades of senior executive-level management experience in the banking and financial services industry and also serves on the boards of various corporations and a bank. Mr. Chandler has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive level positions in the investment technology consulting/services and investment banking/brokerage industries, and also serves on various boards. Mr. Shea has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the investment services industry.

 

34

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Privacy Notice

(Unaudited)

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

FACTS

WHAT DOES THE Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION?

Why?

Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.

What?

The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:

●    Social Security number

●    account balances

●    account transactions

●    transaction history

●    wire transfer instructions

●    checking account information

When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice.

How?

All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons the Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund chooses to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.

 

Reasons we can share your personal information

Does the Campbell
Dynamic Trend Fund share?

Can you limit this sharing?

For our everyday business purposes —
such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court orders and legal investigations, or report to credit bureaus

Yes

No

For our marketing purposes —
to offer our products and services to you

Yes

No

For joint marketing with other financial companies

No

We do not share.

For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes —
information about your transactions and experiences

Yes

No

For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes —
information about your creditworthiness

No

We do not share.

For our affiliates to market to you

No

We do not share.

For nonaffiliates to market to you

No

We do not share.

 

Questions?

Call 1-844-261-6488

 

35

 

 

 

Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund

 

Privacy Notice (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

What we do

 

How does the Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund protect my personal information?

To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.

How does the Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund collect my personal information?

We collect your personal information, for example, when you

●    open an account

●    provide account information

●    give us your contact information

●    make a wire transfer

●    tell us where to send the money

We also collect your information from others, such as credit bureaus, affiliates, or other companies.

Why can’t I limit all sharing?

Federal law gives you the right to limit only

●    sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes – information about your creditworthiness

●    affiliates from using your information to market to you

●    sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you

State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.

Definitions

 

Affiliates

Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

●    Our affiliates include Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund’s investment adviser, Campbell & Company Investment Adviser LLC.

Nonaffiliates

Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

●    The Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund doesn’t share with nonaffiliates so they can market to you.

Joint marketing

A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.

●    The Campbell Dynamic Trend Fund does not jointly market.

 

36

 

 

 

Investment Adviser
Campbell & Company Investment Adviser LLC
2850 Quarry Lake Drive
Baltimore, Maryland 21209

 

Administrator and Transfer Agent
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, WI 53201

 

Principal Underwriter
Quasar Distributors, LLC
777 East Wisconsin Avenue, Floor 6
Milwaukee, WI 53202

 

Custodian
U.S. Bank, N.A.
1555 North Rivercenter Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, WI 53212

 

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm
Ernst & Young LLP
One Commerce Square
2005 Market Street, Suite 700
Philadelphia, PA 19103

 

Legal Counsel
Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
One Logan Square, Suite 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103-6996

 

CADT-AR18

 

 

 

FREE MARKET U.S. EQUITY FUND
FREE MARKET INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND
FREE MARKET FIXED INCOME FUND

 

of

 

The RBB Fund, Inc.

 

Annual Report

 

August 31, 2018

 

This report is submitted for the general information of the shareholders of the Funds. It is not authorized for distribution unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus for the Funds.

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

August 31, 2018

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

The Free Market Funds (the “Funds”) have continued to gain assets and have surpassed $8.5 billion. We would like to extend a warm and grateful thank you to all investors who have embraced our Free Market Portfolio Strategies.

 

Over the past twelve months ended August 31st, 2018, investors experienced assorted positive returns in the equity markets. The Free Market U.S. Equity Fund (FMUEX) returned 20.11%, while the Free Market International Equity Fund (FMNEX) returned 0.98%. On the fixed income side, the Free Market Fixed Income Fund (FMFIX) returned -0.35%.

 

FMUEX was buoyed by the strength of Micro Cap stocks which led the way with a return of 30.25% as measured by the CRSP U.S. Micro Cap Index. Small cap companies also contributed to the positive performance with the Russell 2000® Index, which consists of the smallest 2,000 U.S. companies, returning 25.45%. International stocks over the past twelve months saw mixed performance. The MSCI EAFE Small Cap Index, which captures small cap companies across Developed Market countries, returned 7.46%, while international large cap companies, as represented by the MSCI EAFE Index, returned 4.39%. Dragging down the performance of the Free Market International Fund was the emerging markets allocation of the portfolio, which returned -0.68% over the last twelve months as measured by the MSCI Emerging Markets Index. The bond markets also had mixed returns over the last twelve months with shorter duration holdings doing better than extended maturity. The FTSE World Government Bond Index 1-5 Years Currency Hedged U.S. Dollar posted a gain of 0.50% while on the flip side, the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Government/Credit Intermediate Bond Index posted a loss of -1.01%.

 

Matson Money, Inc. (“Matson Money”) strives to deliver the performance of capital markets and add value through Free Market Investment strategies and Structured Market Portfolios. Grounded in the conviction that Free Markets work, Matson Money avoids the cost-generating activity of stock picking and market timing. Instead, we focus on the dimensions of capital markets that we believe reward investors as intelligently and effectively as possible. Our disciplined approach to life-long investing aims to provide both the individual investor and the financial professional with the academic foundation upon which to help achieve investment goals.

 

In the landmark study done by Eugene Fama and Kenneth French and published in “The Cross-Section of Expected Stock Returns”1 it is documented that, over the long term, investors could have received a premium for investing in small cap stocks and value stocks. These returns seem to be compensation for risk. In fixed income, risk as measured by volatility can be well described by bond maturity and credit quality. Matson Money’s vehicles deliberately seek to target specific risk and return tradeoffs. The Funds are broadly diversified and designed to work together in your total investment plan.

 

We invite you to contact your financial professional or explore our website, www.MatsonMoney.com, to learn more about the concepts and strategies of Matson Money’s investing.

 

We appreciate your support and confidence in our firm’s investment philosophy, process and people.

 

 

Sean T. Babin
Portfolio Manager
Matson Money, Inc.

 

1

Fama, E.F. and K. R. French. 1992. “The Cross-section of Expected Stock Returns”. The Journal of Finance. 47: 427–465.

 

1

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (CONTINUED)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

The CRSP U.S. Micro Cap Index includes the smallest U.S. companies, with a target of including the bottom 2% of investable market capitalization.

 

The Russell 2000® Index consists of the smallest 2,000 companies in a group of 3,000 U.S. companies in the Russell 3000® Index, as ranked by market capitalization.

 

The MSCI EAFE Small Cap Index is an equity index which captures small cap representation across Developed Markets countries around the world, excluding the US and Canada. With 2,356 constituents, the index covers approximately 14% of the free float-adjusted market capitalization in each country.

 

The MSCI EAFE Index captures large and mid-cap securities across 21 developed markets in Europe, Australasia, and Far East, excluding the U.S. and Canada. With 900 constituents, the index covers approximately 85% of the free float-adjusted market capitalization in each country.

 

The MSCI Emerging Markets Index captures large and mid-cap representation across 24 Emerging Markets (EM) countries. With 830 constituents, the index covers approximately 85% of the free float-adjusted market capitalization in each country.

 

The FTSE World Government Bond Index 1-5 Year Currency Hedged U.S. Dollar (WGBI) measures the performance of fixed-rate, local currency, investment grade sovereign bonds. The WGBI is a widely used benchmark that currently comprises sovereign debt from over 20 countries, denominated in a variety of currencies, and has more than 25 years of history available. The WGBI provides a broad benchmark for the global sovereign fixed income market. Sub-indices are available in any combination of currency, maturity, or rating.

 

The Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Government/Credit Intermediate Bond Index is a broad-based flagship benchmark that measures the non-securitized component of the U.S. Aggregate Index. It includes investment grade, U.S. dollar-denominated, fixed-rate Treasuries, government-related and corporate securities.

 

One cannot invest directly in an index.

 

Must be preceded or accompanied by a prospectus.

 

Mutual fund investing involves risk Principal loss is possible. Investing in micro-cap or small cap companies involve additional risks such as limited liquidity and greater volatility than large companies. The Fund invests in foreign securities which involve greater volatility and political, economic and currency risks and differences in accounting methods. These risks are greater in emerging markets. Investments in debt securities typically decrease in value when interest rates rise. This risk is usually greater for longer-term debt securities.

 

Shares of the Funds are distributed by Quasar Distributors, LLC.

 

2

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (CONTINUED)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Free Market U.S. Equity Fund—Investment Review

 

The twelve-month period ended August 31, 2018, saw some short periods of noticeable volatility in domestic equity markets while on their way to reaching record highs. The late part of 2017 saw domestic stocks hit all-time highs but as the new year started, they began to reverse course. In the early months of 2018, the Trump administration vocalized their intention on levying trading tariffs on China. The market quickly saw this as a negative and U.S. stocks slid hard and fast during the month of January and into early February. The possible implementation of tariffs on China and other countries kept the markets nervous. Whenever there was new detail released on the size of possible tariffs, this news would send the markets into a tumble. Then the next day the tariffs weren’t as bad as expected and the markets would push higher. After continuous back and forth on whether tariffs would be implemented, the market pushed these dialogs to the back burner and investors watched as U.S. indexes pushed their way to all-time highs again.

 

For the twelve months ended August 31, 2018, the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund provided a total return of 20.10% at net asset value. This compares with a return of 23.33% for the Fund’s benchmark, the Russell 2500 Index, which consist of the smallest 2,500 companies in a group of 3,000 U.S. companies.

 

As a result of the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund’s diversified investment approach, performance principally was determined by broad structural trends in equity markets, rather than the behavior of a limited number of stocks. Among the most important factors explaining differences in the behavior of diversified equity funds, like the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, are company size and company value/growth characteristics of the underlying fund holdings. Size is measured by market capitalization and “value” classification is a function of stock price relative to one or more fundamental characteristics.

 

U.S. Small Company Stocks performed better than that of U.S. Large Company Stocks. The Russell 2000 Index, which consists of the smallest, 2,000 companies in a group of 3,000 U.S. companies, has returned 25.44% while the S&P 500 Index, which consist of the largest 500 U.S. companies by market cap, was up 19.66% for the year ended August 31. Furthermore, for the same time-period, the Russell 2000 Value Index, which consist of the smallest 2,000 companies in a group of 3,000 U.S. and ranked by market capitalization, with relatively low price-to-book rations, returned 20.05% and the Russell 1000 Value Index, which consist of the largest 1,000 companies in a group of 3,000 and ranked by market capitalization, with relatively low price-to-book rations, returned 12.47%.

 

In summary, U.S. small cap stocks performed better than large cap ones and U.S. growth stocks outperformed U.S. value stocks, which also contributed to returns of the Fund.

 

Today’s environment underscores that markets are highly unpredictable over the short term. In other words, anything can happen, so a balanced, diversified, long-term approach is favored.

 

3

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (CONTINUED)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Free Market International Equity Fund—Investment Review

 

The global markets experienced a roller coaster ride during the twelve-month period ended August 31, 2018. 2017 ended with international equity markets making and incredible comeback and outpacing the performance of the U.S. markets. However, once the Trump administration’s tariff talks began hitting the news cycle in the early months of 2018, along with a strengthening U.S. dollar, international stocks started a massive sell off. Emerging markets, which were one of the top performing asset classes in 2017, have been hit the hardest thus far in 2018.

 

For the twelve months ended August 31, 2018, the Free Market International Equity Fund was up 0.97%. This compares with a return of 4.51% for the Fund’s benchmark, the MSCI World (ex USA) Index, which captures large and mid-cap representation across 22 of 23 Developed Markets (DM) countries excluding the United States.

 

As a result of the Free Market International Equity Fund’s diversified investment approach, performance principally was determined by broad structural trends in global equity markets, rather than the behavior of a limited number of stocks. Among the most important factors explaining differences in the behavior of diversified international equity funds, like the Free Market International Equity Fund, are company size and company value/growth characteristics of the underlying fund holdings and broad exposure to emerging market equities.

 

International Small Company Stocks fared better than International Large Company Stocks. The MSCI EAFE Small Cap Index (net of dividends), which captures small cap representation across Developed Markets countries* around the world, excluding the US and Canada, returned 7.46% from September 1, 2017 through August 31, 2018, while the MSCI EAFE Index, which captures large and mid-cap representation across Developed Markets countries around the world, excluding the US and Canada, was up 4.39% for the same period. Furthermore, for the same time period, the MSCI EAFE Value Index (net of dividends), which captures large and mid-cap securities exhibiting overall value style characteristics across Developed Markets countries around the world, excluding the US and Canada, increased by 0.63% while the MSCI EAFE Small Cap Value Index, which captures small cap securities exhibiting overall value style characteristics across Developed Markets countries around the world, excluding the US and Canada, was up 4.01% and the MSCI Emerging Markets Index (net of dividends), which captures large and mid-cap representation across 24 Emerging Markets (EM) countries was down -0.68%.

 

In summary, factors that contributed to the Fund’s underperformance compared to its benchmark can largely be explained by its exposure in emerging markets, as well as its tilt toward large cap value and small cap value stocks.

 

Today’s environment underscores that markets are highly unpredictable over the short term. In other words, anything can happen, so a balanced, diversified, long-term approach is favored.

 

4

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (CONtinued)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Free Market Fixed Income Fund—Investment Review

 

The U.S. economy grew modestly during the past twelve-months ended August 31, 2018. Total unemployment continued its decline, after reaching 2009 highs of 10%, it has now dipped all the way down to 3.9% as of August 2018, which many economists consider at or near full employment. Monetary policy remains accommodative, and while the Fed made a few small rate hikes, they did not make any drastic changes or indications that they would sway from their policy of keeping the target for the federal funds rate very low. While rates did rise slightly over the previous twelve months, overall, they remained low which in turn has kept the return of fixed income low relative to historic norms on both domestic and foreign issues. The broad proxy for the U.S. bond market, the Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index, which is a broad-based flagship benchmark that measures the investment grade, US dollar-denominated, fixed-rate taxable bond market, lost 1.05%, while the Barclays Global Aggregate Bond Index (hedged), which is a a flagship measure of global investment grade debt from twenty-four local currency markets, returned 0.74% for the twelve-month period ended August 31, 2018. As a result of the increase in interest rates, short-term bonds outperformed ones with a longer maturity. The Bloomberg Barclays U.S Gov/Credit index 1-3 Years, which includes all medium and larger issues of U.S. government, investment-grade corporate, and investment-grade international dollar-denominated bonds that have maturities of between 1 and 3 years and are publicly issued, returned 0.59% while Long-Term Government bonds, which is defined as U.S. government issued debt with 10+ year maturity, lost 3.58%.

 

The Free Market Fixed Income Fund focuses on mutual funds that invest in global high quality and shorter-term Government and Corporate fixed income assets. For the twelve-months ended August 31, 2018, The Free Market Fixed Income Fund lost 0.35%. This compares with a return of 0.50% for the fund’s benchmark, the FTSE World Government Bond 1 - 5 Year Currency Hedged US Dollar Index, which measures the performance of fixed-rate, local currency, investment-grade sovereign bonds.

 

The Free Market Fixed Income Fund performed as expected, and slightly underperformed its benchmark for the period. A contributing factor to the performance of the Fund compared to its benchmark was the Fund’s slightly lower exposure to certain global markets but additional corporate exposure within the U.S.

 

Opinions expressed are subject to change at any time, are not guaranteed and should not be considered investment advice.

 

Must be preceded or accompanied by a prospectus.

 

Mutual fund investing involves risk Principal loss is possible. Investing in micro-cap or small cap companies involve additional risks such as limited liquidity and greater volatility than large companies. The Fund invests in foreign securities which involve greater volatility and political, economic and currency risks and differences in accounting methods. These risks are greater in emerging markets. Investments in debt securities typically decrease in value when interest rates rise. This risk is usually greater for longer-term debt securities.

 

Diversification does not assure a profit nor protect against loss in a declining market.

 

One cannot invest directly in an index.

 

Shares of the Funds are distributed by Quasar Distributors, LLC.

 

The Russell 2500® Index consists of the smallest 2,500 companies in a group of 3,000 U.S. companies in the Russell 3000® Index, as ranked by market capitalization.

 

The Russell 2000® Index consists of the smallest 2,000 companies in a group of 3,000 U.S. companies in the Russell 3000® Index, as ranked by market capitalization.

 

Russell 2000® Value Index consists of the smallest 2,000 companies in a group of 3,000 U.S. companies in the Russell 3000®Index, as ranked by market capitalization, with relatively low price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values.

 

Russell 1000® Value Index consists of the largest 1,000 companies in a group of 3,000 U.S. companies in the Russell 3000®Index, as ranked by market capitalization, with relatively low price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values.

 

The S&P 500® Index is a broad based unmanaged index of 500 stocks, which is widely recognized as representative of the equity market in general.

 

5

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (CONCLUDED)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

The MSCI Emerging Markets Index captures large and mid cap representation across 24 Emerging Markets (EM) countries*. With 842 constituents, the index covers approximately 85% of the free float-adjusted market capitalization in each country.

 

*

EM countries include: Brazil, Chile, China, Colombia, Czech Republic, Egypt, Greece, Hungary, India, Indonesia, Korea, Malaysia, Mexico, Pakistan, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Russia, Qatar, South Africa, Taiwan, Thailand, Turkey and United Arab Emirates.

 

The MSCI World ex USA Index captures large and mid cap representation across 22 of 23 Developed Markets (DM) countries*--excluding the United States. With 1,018 constituents, the index covers approximately 85% of the free float-adjusted market capitalization in each country.

 

*

DM countries include: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK.

 

MSCI EAFE Index is an equity index which captures large and mid cap representation across Developed Markets countries* around the world, excluding the US and Canada. With 926 constituents, the index covers approximately 85% of the free float-adjusted market capitalization in each country.

 

*

Developed Markets countries include: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK.

 

MSCI EAFE Small Cap Index is an equity index which captures small caprepresentation across Developed Markets countries* around the world, excluding the US and Canada. With 2,252 constituents, the index covers approximately 14% of the free float-adjusted market capitalization in each country.

 

*

Developed Markets countries include: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK.

 

MSCI EAFE Small Cap Value Index captures small cap securities exhibiting overall value style characteristics across Developed Markets countries* around the world, excluding the US and Canada. * Developed Markets countries include: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK.

 

MSCI EAFE Value Index captures large and mid cap securities exhibiting overall value style characteristics across Developed Markets countries* around the world, excluding the US and Canada. The value investment style characteristics for index construction are defined using three variables: book value to price, 12-month forward earnings to price and dividend yield. * Developed Markets countries include: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK.

 

Bloomberg Barclays US Aggregate Bond Index is a broad-based flagship benchmark that measures the investment grade, US dollar-denominated, fixed-rate taxable bond market.

 

Bloomberg Barclays Global Aggregate Bond Index is a flagship measure of global investment grade debt from twenty-four local currency markets.

 

Bloomberg Barclay US Government/Credit Bond Index is a broad-based flagship benchmark that measures the non-securitized component of the US Aggregate Index.

 

6

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

PERFORMANCE DATA

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Free Market U.S. Equity Fund

 

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in
Free Market U.S. Equity Fund vs. Russell 2500® Index and Composite Index

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 minimum initial investment in the Fund made on December 31, 2007 (commencement of operations) and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is a professionally managed mutual fund while the Russell 2500® Index and Composite Index are unmanaged, do not incur sales charges and/or expenses and are not available for investment.

 

Total Returns for the Periods Ended August 31, 2018

 

Average Annual

 

1 Year

3 Years

5 Years

Since
Inception
*

Free Market U.S. Equity Fund

20.11%

14.31%

12.03%

9.88%

Russell 2500® Index

23.33%

14.96%

12.96%

9.79%

Composite Index**

19.43%

15.17%

12.72%

8.61%

 

*

The Fund commenced operations on December 31, 2007.

**

The Composite Index is comprised of the S&P 500® Index, Russell 1000® Value Index, Russell 2000® Index and Russell 2000® Value Index, weighted 25%, 25%, 25% and 25%, respectively.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-866-780-0357 ext. 3863. The Fund’s annual operating expense ratio, as stated in the current prospectus, is 0.85% (included in the ratio is 0.29% attributable to acquired fund fees and expenses).

 

The Fund’s aggregate total return since inception is based on an increase in net asset value from $10.00 per share on December 31, 2007 (commencement of operations) to $20.37 per share on August 31, 2018.

 

Portfolio composition is subject to change.

 

The Free Market U.S. Equity Fund’s underlying funds invest in small-cap and micro-cap stocks, large-cap stocks and other equity securities. In addition to the ordinary risks of equity investing, small companies entail special risk. Small companies tend to have more risk than large companies. An investor in the Fund will incur the expenses of the underlying funds in addition to the Fund’s expenses.

 

7

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

PERFORMANCE DATA (CONTINUED)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Free Market International Equity Fund

 

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in
Free Market International Equity Fund vs. MSCI World (excluding U.S.) Index and Composite Index

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 minimum initial investment in the Fund made on December 31, 2007 (commencement of operations) and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is a professionally managed mutual fund while the MSCI World (excluding U.S.) Index and Composite Index are unmanaged, do not incur sales charges and/or expenses and are not available for investment.

 

Total Returns for the Periods Ended August 31, 2018

 

Average Annual

 

1 Year

3 Years

5 Years

Since
Inception
*

Free Market International Equity Fund

0.98%

8.45%

6.41%

3.36%

MSCI World (excluding U.S.) Index

4.51%

7.17%

5.51%

1.53%

Composite Index**

2.97%

8.81%

6.35%

2.19%

 

*

The Fund commenced operations on December 31, 2007.

**

The Composite Index is comprised of the MSCI EAFE Index, MSCI EAFE Value Index, MSCI EAFE Small Company Index and MSCI Emerging Markets Free Index, weighted 25%, 25%, 25% and 25%, respectively.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-866-780-0357 ext. 3863. The Fund’s annual operating expense ratio, as stated in the current prospectus, is 1.01% (included in the ratio is 0.43% attributable to acquired fund fees and expenses).

 

The Fund’s aggregate total return since inception is based on an increase in net asset value from $10.00 per share on December 31, 2007 (commencement of operations) to $10.72 per share on August 31, 2018.

 

Portfolio composition is subject to change.

 

The Free Market International Equity Fund’s underlying funds invest in common stock, preferred stock, securities convertible into stocks and other equity securities issued by foreign companies. In addition to the ordinary risks of equity investing, foreign and small companies entail special risk. The return on foreign equities may be adversely affected by currency fluctuations. Emerging markets may be subject to social instability and lack of market liquidity. Small companies tend to have more risk than large companies. An investor in the Fund will incur the expenses of the underlying funds in addition to the Fund’s expenses.

 

8

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

PERFORMANCE DATA (CONCLUDED)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Free Market Fixed Income Fund

 

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in
Free Market Fixed Income Fund vs. FTSE World Government Bond Index 1-5 Years and Composite Index

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 minimum initial investment in the Fund made on December 31, 2007 (commencement of operations) and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is a professionally managed mutual fund while the FTSE World Government Bond Index 1-5 Years and Composite Index are unmanaged, do not incur sales charges and/or expenses and are not available for investment.

 

Total Returns for the Periods Ended August 31, 2018

 

Average Annual

 

1 Year

3 Years

5 Years

Since
Inception
*

Free Market Fixed Income Fund

-0.35%

0.76%

0.79%

1.45%

FTSE World Government Bond Index 1-5 Years

-0.35%

0.75%

0.79%

1.45%

Composite Index**

-0.14%

1.01%

1.27%

2.11%

 

*

The Fund commenced operations on December 31, 2007.

**

The Composite Index is comprised of the Three-Month Treasury Bill Index, Bloomberg Barclays Intermediate Government/Credit Bond Index, BofA Merrill Lynch 1-3 Year US Government/Corporate Index and Barclays Capital Aggregate Bond Index, weighted 25%, 25%, 25% and 25%, respectively.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-866-780-0357 ext. 3863. The Fund’s annual operating expense ratio, as stated in the current prospectus, is 0.74% (included in the ratio is 0.18% attributable to acquired fund fees and expenses).

 

The Fund’s aggregate total return since inception is based on an increase in net asset value from $10.00 per share on December 31, 2007 (commencement of operations) to $10.22 per share on August 31, 2018.

 

Portfolio composition is subject to change.

 

The Free Market Fixed Income Fund’s underlying funds invest in fixed income securities. The underlying funds may invest their assets in bonds and other debt securities issued by domestic and foreign governments and companies. Debt instruments involve the risk that their prices will fall when interest rates rise, and they are subject to the risk that the borrower may default. In addition, the return on foreign debt securities may be adversely affected by currency fluctuations. An investor in the Fund will incur expenses of the underlying funds in addition to the Fund’s expenses.

 

9

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Fund Expense Example

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

As a shareholder of the Fund(s), you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees and other Fund expenses. These examples are intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund(s) and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

 

These examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period from March 1, 2018 through August 31, 2018, and held for the entire period.

 

Actual Expenses

 

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

 

Hypothetical ExampleS for Comparison Purposes

 

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

 

Please note that the expenses shown in the accompanying tables are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs. Therefore, the second line of the accompanying tables is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

 

Free Market U.S. Equity Fund

 

Beginning
Account Value
March 1, 2018

Ending
Account Value
August 31, 2018

Expenses Paid
During Period
*

Annualized
Expense Ratio
*

Actual Six-Month
Total Investment
Return for the Fund

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,099.90

$ 2.91

0.55%

9.99%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,022.43

2.80

0.55

N/A

 

 

Free Market International Equity Fund

 

Beginning
Account Value
March 1, 2018

Ending
Account Value
August 31, 2018

Expenses Paid
During Period
*

Annualized
Expense Ratio
*

Actual Six-Month
Total Investment
Return for the Fund

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 940.40

$ 2.79

0.57%

-5.96%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,022.33

2.91

0.57

N/A

 

 

10

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Fund Expense Example (Concluded)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

 

Free Market Fixed Income Fund

 

Beginning
Account Value
March 1, 2018

Ending
Account Value
August 31, 2018

Expenses Paid
During Period
*

Annualized
Expense Ratio
*

Actual Six-Month
Total Investment
Return for the Fund

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,009.10

$ 2.79

0.55%

0.91%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,022.43

2.80

0.55

N/A

 

*

Expenses are equal to each Fund’s annualized six-month expense ratio for the period March 1, 2018 to August 31, 2018, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days (184) in the most recent fiscal half-year, then divided by 365 to reflect the one half year period. The annualized expense ratios do not reflect fees and expenses associated with the underlying funds. If such fees and expenses had been included, the expenses would have been higher. Each Fund’s ending account values on the first line in the tables is based on the actual six-month total investment return for each Fund for the period March 1, 2018 through August 31, 2018. The range of weighted expense ratios of the underlying funds held by the Funds, as stated in the underlying funds’ current prospectuses, were as follows:

 

 

Free Market U.S.
Equity Fund

Free Market International
Equity Fund

Free Market Fixed
Income Fund

 

0.00%-0.13%

0.00%-0.27%

0.01%-0.07%

 

11

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

FREE MARKET U.S. EQUITY FUND

 

Portfolio of Investments

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number
of Shares

   

Value

 

DOMESTIC EQUITY FUNDS — 99.9%

       

iShares Core S&P 500 ETF

    136,881     $ 40,029,480  

U.S. Large Cap Value Portfolio III (a)

    36,069,212       999,117,168  

U.S. Large Cap Value Series (b)

    92,449       4,755,575  

U.S. Large Company Portfolio (a)

    21,177,969       478,410,328  

U.S. Micro Cap Portfolio (c)

    20,753,517       520,290,671  

U.S. Small Cap Portfolio (c)

    12,926,302       516,276,486  

U.S. Small Cap Value Portfolio (c)

    20,470,627       851,782,796  

TOTAL DOMESTIC EQUITY FUNDS

       

(Cost $2,283,131,828)

            3,410,662,504  
                 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 0.1%

       

STIT-Government & Agency Portfolio, 1.85%*

    2,669,151       2,669,151  

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

       

(Cost $2,669,151)

            2,669,151  

TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 100.0%

       

(Cost $2,285,800,979)

            3,413,331,655  

OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES — 0.0%

            227,532  

NET ASSETS — 100.0%

          $ 3,413,559,187  

  

Portfolio Holdings Summary Table

 

   

% of
Net Assets

   

Value

 

Domestic Equity Funds

    99.9 %   $ 3,410,662,504  

Short-Term Investments

    0.1       2,669,151  

Other Assets In Excess Of Liabilities

    0.0       227,532  

NET ASSETS

    100.0 %   $ 3,413,559,187  

 

 

*

Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.

(a)

A portfolio of Dimensional Investment Group Inc.

(b)

A portfolio of DFA Investment Trust Company.

(c)

A portfolio of DFA Investment Dimensions Group Inc.

 

ETF

 Exchange-Traded Fund

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


12

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

FREE MARKET INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND

 

Portfolio of Investments

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number
of Shares/
Beneficial
Interest

   

Value

 

INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUNDS — 99.9%

       

Asia Pacific Small Company Portfolio (a)

    1,309,892     $ 29,931,037  

Canadian Small Company Series (b)

    2,609,326       29,028,127  

Continental Small Company Portfolio (a)

    1,120,343       31,011,097  

Continental Small Company Series (b)

    462,465       44,063,770  

DFA International Small Cap Value Portfolio (a)

    43,290,875       924,693,097  

DFA International Value Portfolio III (c)

    32,500,315       526,505,102  

DFA International Value Series (b)

    6,586,197       161,032,527  

Emerging Markets Portfolio (a)

    4,310,168       122,408,771  

Emerging Markets Small Cap Portfolio (a)

    5,281,836       113,876,391  

Emerging Markets Value Portfolio (a)

    3,889,613       115,093,660  

Japanese Small Company Portfolio (a)

    1,908,141       53,370,703  

Large Cap International Portfolio (a)

    4,988,036       115,423,162  

United Kingdom Small Company Portfolio (a)

    139,396       4,215,332  

United Kingdom Small Company Series (b)

    546,843       39,276,091  

TOTAL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUNDS

       

(Cost $2,012,405,462)

            2,309,928,867  
         

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 0.1%

       

STIT-Government & Agency Portfolio, 1.85%*

    2,350,592       2,350,592  

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

       

(Cost $2,350,592)

            2,350,592  

TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 100.0%

       

(Cost $2,014,756,054)

            2,312,279,459  

OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES — 0.0%

            583,424  

NET ASSETS — 100.0%

          $ 2,312,862,883  

 

Portfolio Holdings Summary Table

 

   

% of
Net Assets

   

Value

 

International Equity Funds

    99.9 %   $ 2,309,928,867  

Short-Term Investments

    0.1       2,350,592  

Other Assets In Excess Of Liabilities

    0.0       583,424  

NET ASSETS

    100.0 %   $ 2,312,862,883  

 

 

*

Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.

(a)

A portfolio of DFA Investment Dimensions Group Inc.

(b)

A portfolio of DFA Investment Trust Company.

(c)

A portfolio of Dimensional Investment Group Inc.

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


13

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

FREE MARKET FIXED INCOME FUND

 

Portfolio of Investments

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number
of Shares

   

Value

 

FIXED INCOME FUNDS — 99.3%

       

DFA Five-Year Global Fixed Income Portfolio (a)

    65,450,544     $ 716,683,460  

DFA Inflation-Protected Securities Portfolio (a)

    12,332,295       143,177,948  

DFA Intermediate Government Fixed Income Portfolio (a)

    14,233,155       171,936,515  

DFA One-Year Fixed Income Portfolio (a)

    40,400,785       414,512,057  

DFA Short-Term Government Portfolio (a)

    10,986,955       114,703,808  

DFA Two-Year Global Fixed Income Portfolio (a)

    43,136,698       429,210,147  

iShares Short-Term Corporate Bond ETF

    13,220,954       687,357,399  

iShares Intermediate-Term Corporate Bond ETF

    3,216,055       171,865,979  

TOTAL FIXED INCOME FUNDS

       

(Cost $2,877,032,412)

            2,849,447,313  
         

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 0.6%

       

STIT-Government & Agency Portfolio, 1.85%*

    16,504,845       16,504,845  

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

       

(Cost $16,504,845)

            16,504,845  

TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 99.9%

       

(Cost $2,893,537,257)

            2,865,952,158  

OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES — 0.1%

            1,669,185  

NET ASSETS — 100.0%

          $ 2,867,621,343  

 

Portfolio Holdings Summary Table

 

   

% of
Net Assets

   

Value

 

Fixed Income Funds

    99.3 %   $ 2,849,447,313  

Short-Term Investments

    0.6       16,504,845  

Other Assets In Excess Of Liabilities

    0.1       1,669,185  

NET ASSETS

    100.0 %   $ 2,867,621,343  

 

 

*

Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.

(a)

A portfolio of DFA Investment Dimensions Group Inc.

 

ETF

 Exchange-Traded Fund

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


14

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Statements of Assets and Liabilities

August 31, 2018

 

   

Free Market
U.S. Equity
Fund

   

Free Market
International
Equity Fund

   

Free Market
Fixed Income
Fund

 

ASSETS

                       

Investments in non-affiliated funds, at value *

  $ 3,410,662,504     $ 2,309,928,867     $ 2,849,447,313  

Short-term investments, at value *

    2,669,151       2,350,592       16,504,845  

Receivables

                       

Receivable for capital shares sold

    2,900,707       2,349,197       5,090,662  

Dividends receivable

    4,091       3,767       23,316  

Prepaid expenses and other assets

    29,210       20,714       25,042  

Total assets

    3,416,265,663       2,314,653,137       2,871,091,178  

LIABILITIES

                       

Payables

                       

Advisory fees

    1,402,414       968,558       1,195,007  

Capital shares redeemed

    1,083,039       631,057       554,036  

Administration and accounting fees

    138,067       99,622       119,219  

Transfer agent fees

    18,782       15,477       13,663  

Investments purchased

                1,499,915  

Other accrued expenses and liabilities

    64,174       75,540       87,995  

Total liabilities

    2,706,476       1,790,254       3,469,835  

Net assets

  $ 3,413,559,187     $ 2,312,862,883     $ 2,867,621,343  
                         

NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:

                       

Par value

  $ 167,595     $ 215,802     $ 280,615  

Paid-in capital

    2,161,979,267       1,978,063,868       2,888,469,856  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss)

    6,007,061       8,072,040       6,289,498  

Accumulated net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    117,874,588       28,987,768       166,473  

Net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    1,127,530,676       297,523,405       (27,585,099 )

Net assets

  $ 3,413,559,187     $ 2,312,862,883     $ 2,867,621,343  

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 700,000,000 shares authorized)

    167,594,724       215,801,886       280,615,006  

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share

  $ 20.37     $ 10.72     $ 10.22  

*Identified Cost:

                       

Investments in non-affiliated funds, at cost

  $ 2,283,131,828     $ 2,012,405,462     $ 2,877,032,412  

Short-term investments, at cost

    2,669,151       2,350,592       16,504,845  

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


15

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Statements of Operations

For the YEAR Ended August 31, 2018

 

   

Free Market
U.S. Equity
Fund

   

Free Market
International
Equity Fund

   

Free Market
Fixed Income
Fund

 

INVESTMENT INCOME

                       

Dividends from non-affiliated funds

  $ 40,596,024     $ 58,173,741     $ 42,169,721  

Total investment income

    40,596,024       58,173,741       42,169,721  
                         

EXPENSES

                       

Advisory fees (Note 2)

    15,280,222       11,506,137       13,306,555  

Administration and accounting fees (Note 2)

    782,581       596,966       683,041  

Legal fees

    167,718       135,047       146,129  

Director's fees

    152,883       118,120       133,588  

Printing and shareholder reporting fees

    106,115       102,667       93,140  

Transfer agent fees (Note 2)

    98,029       76,743       87,499  

Officer's fees

    80,002       69,446       75,835  

Custodian fees (Note 2)

    79,078       64,458       76,951  

Audit fees

    34,586       36,568       35,688  

Registration expense

    23,223       16,109       37,034  

Other expenses

    115,311       493,723       118,149  

Total expenses

    16,919,748       13,215,984       14,793,609  

Net investment income/(loss)

    23,676,276       44,957,757       27,376,112  
                         

NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) FROM INVESTMENTS

                       

Net realized gain/(loss) from:

                       

Non-affiliated funds

    3,432,519       10,532,142       (77,550 )

Capital gain distributions from non-affiliated fund investments

    128,381,141       32,041,601       591,205  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on:

                       

Non-affiliated funds

    405,839,915       (67,682,280 )     (36,113,722 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    537,653,575       (25,108,537 )     (35,600,067 )

NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS

  $ 561,329,851     $ 19,849,220     $ (8,223,955 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


16

 

 

 

FREE MARKET U.S. EQUITY FUND

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM OPERATIONS:

               

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ 23,676,276     $ 18,308,432  

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    131,813,660       79,067,501  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    405,839,915       224,766,196  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    561,329,851       322,142,129  
                 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM:

               

Net investment income

    (30,989,004 )     (21,140,849 )

Net realized capital gains

    (80,730,468 )     (96,166,053 )

Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (111,719,472 )     (117,306,902 )
                 

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    601,886,011       558,348,603  

Reinvestment of distributions

    111,642,406       117,302,124  

Shares redeemed

    (474,574,738 )     (458,532,319 )

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets from capital shares

    238,953,679       217,118,408  

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    688,564,058       421,953,635  
                 

NET ASSETS:

               

Beginning of period

    2,724,995,129       2,303,041,494  

End of period

  $ 3,413,559,187     $ 2,724,995,129  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $ 6,007,061     $ 6,546,513  
                 

SHARES TRANSACTIONS:

               

Shares sold

    31,610,207       32,332,187  

Dividends and distributions reinvested

    5,913,263       6,792,248  

Shares redeemed

    (24,797,240 )     (26,556,984 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares outstanding

    12,726,230       12,567,451  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


17

 

 

 

FREE MARKET INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM OPERATIONS:

               

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ 44,957,757     $ 27,075,677  

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    42,573,743       24,654,989  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    (67,682,280 )     342,963,709  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    19,849,220       394,694,375  
                 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM:

               

Net investment income

    (52,597,992 )     (34,715,335 )

Net realized capital gains

    (22,848,638 )     (19,714,628 )

Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (75,446,630 )     (54,429,963 )
                 

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    490,778,322       425,920,465  

Reinvestment of distributions

    75,430,897       54,427,744  

Shares redeemed

    (387,816,762 )     (302,997,096 )

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets from capital shares

    178,392,457       177,351,113  

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    122,795,047       517,615,525  
                 

NET ASSETS:

               

Beginning of period

    2,190,067,836       1,672,452,311  

End of period

  $ 2,312,862,883     $ 2,190,067,836  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $ 8,072,040     $ 13,415,211  
                 

SHARES TRANSACTIONS:

               

Shares sold

    43,547,885       42,918,842  

Dividends and distributions reinvested

    6,687,136       5,909,636  

Shares redeemed

    (34,040,963 )     (30,251,372 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares outstanding

    16,194,058       18,577,106  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


18

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FIXED INCOME FUND

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM OPERATIONS:

               

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ 27,376,112     $ 21,480,464  

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    513,655       2,877,926  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    (36,113,722 )     (11,573,635 )

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (8,223,955 )     12,784,755  
                 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM:

               

Net investment income

    (23,965,853 )     (23,810,742 )

Net realized capital gains

    (2,540,339 )      

Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (26,506,192 )     (23,810,742 )
                 

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    738,587,984       670,140,283  

Reinvestment of distributions

    26,506,000       23,810,100  

Shares redeemed

    (365,774,582 )     (306,349,610 )

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets from capital shares

    399,319,402       387,600,773  

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    364,589,255       376,574,786  
                 

NET ASSETS:

               

Beginning of period

    2,503,032,088       2,126,457,302  

End of period

  $ 2,867,621,343     $ 2,503,032,088  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $ 6,289,498     $ 2,879,239  
                 

SHARES TRANSACTIONS:

               

Shares sold

    72,300,803       65,004,040  

Dividends and distributions reinvested

    2,596,009       2,313,401  

Shares redeemed

    (35,849,154 )     (29,673,279 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares outstanding

    39,047,658       37,644,162  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


19

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

FREE MARKET U.S. EQUITY FUND

 

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for each share outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2016

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2015

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2014

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 17.60     $ 16.18     $ 16.08     $ 17.37     $ 14.66  

Net investment income/(loss)(1)

    0.15       0.12       0.18       0.13       0.09  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    3.34       2.13       1.18       (0.71 )     3.18  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    3.49       2.25       1.36       (0.58 )     3.27  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                                       

Net investment income

    (0.20 )     (0.15 )     (0.15 )     (0.11 )     (0.10 )

Net realized capital gains

    (0.52 )     (0.68 )     (1.11 )     (0.60 )     (0.46 )

Total dividends and distributions to
shareholders

    (0.72 )     (0.83 )     (1.26 )     (0.71 )     (0.56 )

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 20.37     $ 17.60     $ 16.18     $ 16.08     $ 17.37  

Total investment return(2)

    20.11 %     13.97 %     9.10 %     (3.55 )%     22.49 %
                                         

Ratio/Supplemental Data

                                       

Net assets, end of period (000’s omitted)

  $ 3,413,559     $ 2,724,995     $ 2,303,041     $ 1,971,430     $ 1,943,442  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets(3)

    0.55 %     0.56 %     0.59 %     0.60 %     0.60 %

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average
net assets(3)

    0.76 %     0.72 %     1.15 %     0.74 %     0.54 %

Portfolio turnover rate

    2 %     5 %     1 %     6 %     3 %

 

 

(1)

The selected per share data is calculated using the average shares outstanding method for the period.

(2)

Total investment return is calculated by assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

(3)

The Fund also will indirectly bear its prorated share of expenses of the underlying funds. Such expenses are not included in the calculation of this ratio.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


20

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

FREE MARKET INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND

 

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for each share outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2016

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2015

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2014

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 10.97     $ 9.24     $ 9.28     $ 10.92     $ 9.36  

Net investment income/(loss)(1)

    0.22       0.14       0.23       0.17       0.19  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    (0.10 )     1.89       0.05       (1.39 )     1.71  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    0.12       2.03       0.28       (1.22 )     1.90  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                                       

Net investment income

    (0.26 )     (0.19 )     (0.16 )     (0.22 )     (0.19 )

Net realized capital gains

    (0.11 )     (0.11 )     (0.16 )     (0.20 )     (0.15 )

Total dividends and distributions to
shareholders

    (0.37 )     (0.30 )     (0.32 )     (0.42 )     (0.34 )

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.72     $ 10.97     $ 9.24     $ 9.28     $ 10.92  

Total investment return(2)

    0.98 %     22.50 %     3.13 %     (11.25 )%     20.49 %
                                         

Ratio/Supplemental Data

                                       

Net assets, end of period (000’s omitted)

  $ 2,312,863     $ 2,190,068     $ 1,672,452     $ 1,443,094     $ 1,414,618  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets(3)

    0.57 %     0.58 %     0.63 %     0.64 %     0.62 %

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average
net assets(3)

    1.93 %     1.42 %     2.60 %     1.72 %     1.84 %

Portfolio turnover rate

    3 %     2 %     1 %     3 %     2 %

 

 

(1)

The selected per share data is calculated using the average shares outstanding method for the period.

(2)

Total investment return is calculated by assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

(3)

The Fund also will indirectly bear its prorated share of expenses of the underlying funds. Such expenses are not included in the calculation of this ratio.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


21

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

FREE MARKET FIXED INCOME FUND

 

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for each share outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2016

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2015

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2014

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 10.36     $ 10.43     $ 10.25     $ 10.31     $ 10.24  

Net investment income/(loss)(1)

    0.10       0.10       0.06       0.06       0.04  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    (0.14 )     (0.06 )     0.17       (0.02 )     0.09  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (0.04 )     0.04       0.23       0.04       0.13  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                                       

Net investment income

    (0.09 )     (0.11 )     (0.03 )     (0.07 )     (0.04 )

Net realized capital gains

    (0.01 )           (0.02 )     (0.03 )     (0.02 )

Total dividends and distributions to
shareholders

    (0.10 )     (0.11 )     (0.05 )     (0.10 )     (0.06 )

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 10.22     $ 10.36     $ 10.43     $ 10.25     $ 10.31  

Total investment return(2)

    (0.35 )%     0.39 %     2.26 %     0.37 %     1.34 %
                                         

Ratio/Supplemental Data

                                       

Net assets, end of period (000’s omitted)

  $ 2,867,621     $ 2,503,032     $ 2,126,457     $ 2,004,504     $ 1,824,633  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets(3)

    0.55 %     0.56 %     0.59 %     0.60 %     0.61 %

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average
net assets(3)

    1.02 %     0.94 %     0.54 %     0.55 %     0.37 %

Portfolio turnover rate

    0 %     0 %     31 %     2 %     0 %

 

 

(1)

The selected per share data is calculated using the average shares outstanding method for the period.

(2)

Total investment return is calculated by assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

(3)

The Fund also will indirectly bear its prorated share of expenses of the underlying funds. Such expenses are not included in the calculation of this ratio.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


22

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements

August 31, 2018

 

1.

Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

 

The RBB Fund, Inc. (“RBB” or the “Company”) was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on February 29, 1988 and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. RBB is a “series fund,” which is a mutual fund divided into separate portfolios. Each portfolio is treated as a separate entity for certain matters under the 1940 Act, and for other purposes, and a shareholder of one portfolio is not deemed to be a shareholder of any other portfolio. Currently, RBB has thirty active investment portfolios, including the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, the Free Market International Equity Fund and the Free Market Fixed Income Fund (each a “Fund,” collectively the “Funds”). Each Fund operates as a “fund of funds” and commenced investment operations on December 31, 2007.

 

RBB has authorized capital of one hundred billion shares of common stock of which 87.023 billion shares are currently classified into one hundred and eighty-one classes of common stock. Each class represents an interest in an active or inactive RBB investment portfolio.

 

Free Market U.S. Equity and Free Market International Equity’s investment objective is to seek long-term capital appreciation. Free Market Fixed Income’s investment objective is to seek total return (consisting of current income and capital appreciation).

 

The Funds are investment companies and follow accounting and reporting guidance in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (FASB) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services - Investment Companies”.

 

The end of the reporting period for the Funds is August 31, 2018, and the period covered by these Notes to Financial Statements is the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018 (the “current fiscal period”).

 

PORTFOLIO VALUATION — Investments in the underlying funds are valued at each Fund’s net asset value (“NAV”) determined as of the close of business on the New York Stock Exchange (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time). As required, some securities and assets may be valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”). Direct investments in fixed income securities are valued using an independent pricing service, which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings, and are deemed representative of market values at the close of the market.

 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS — The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the Funds’ investments are summarized into three levels as described in the hierarchy below:

 

 

Level 1 —

Prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

 

 

Level 2 —

Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).

 

 

Level 3 —

Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including the Funds’ own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

23

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of the end of the reporting period, in valuing the Funds’ investments carried at fair value:

 

FREE MARKET U.S. EQUITY FUND

 

   

TOTAL

   

LEVEL 1

   

LEVEL 2

   

LEVEL 3

   

INVESTMENTS
MEASURED AT NET
ASSET VALUE*

 

Domestic Equity Funds

  $ 3,410,662,504     $ 3,405,906,929     $     $     $ 4,755,575  

Short-Term Investments

    2,669,151       2,669,151                    

Total Investments**

  $ 3,413,331,655     $ 3,408,576,080     $     $     $ 4,755,575  

 

*

Certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amounts presented in the table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

**

Please refer to the Portfolio of Investments for further details.

 

FREE MARKET INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUND

 

   

TOTAL

   

LEVEL 1

   

LEVEL 2

   

LEVEL 3

   

INVESTMENTS
MEASURED AT NET
ASSET VALUE*

 

International Equity Funds

  $ 2,309,928,867     $ 2,036,528,352     $     $     $ 273,400,515  

Short-Term Investments

    2,350,592       2,350,592                    

Total Investments**

  $ 2,312,279,459     $ 2,038,878,944     $     $     $ 273,400,515  

 

*

Certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amounts presented in the table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

**

Please refer to the Portfolio of Investments for further details.

 

FREE MARKET FIXED INCOME FUND

 

   

TOTAL

   

LEVEL 1

   

LEVEL 2

   

LEVEL 3

   

INVESTMENTS
MEASURED AT NET
ASSET VALUE*

 

Fixed Income Funds

  $ 2,849,447,313     $ 2,849,447,313     $     $     $  

Short-Term Investments

    16,504,845       16,504,845                    

Total Investments**

  $ 2,865,952,158     $ 2,865,952,158     $     $     $  

 

*

Certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amounts presented in the table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

**

Please refer to the Portfolio of Investments for further details.

 

24

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

At the end of each quarter, management evaluates the classification of Levels 1, 2 and 3 assets and liabilities. Various factors are considered, such as changes in liquidity from the prior reporting period; whether or not a broker is willing to execute at the quoted price; the depth and consistency of prices from third party pricing services; and the existence of contemporaneous, observable trades in the market. Additionally, management evaluates the classification of Level 1 and Level 2 assets and liabilities on a quarterly basis for changes in listings or delistings on national exchanges.

 

Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Funds’ investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values the Funds may ultimately realize. Further, such investments may be subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities.

 

For fair valuations using significant unobservable inputs, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires each Fund to present a reconciliation of the beginning to ending balances for reported market values that presents changes attributable to total realized and unrealized gains or losses, purchase and sales, and transfers in and out of Level 3 during the period. Transfers in and out between levels are based on values at the end of the period. U.S. GAAP also requires the Funds to disclose amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements. A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented only when a Fund had an amount of Level 3 investments at the end of the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets. The amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of each level within the three-tier hierarchy are disclosed when a Fund had an amount of total transfers during the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets as of the end of the reporting period.

 

During the current fiscal period, the Funds had no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3.

 

USE OF ESTIMATES — The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and those differences could be significant.

 

INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS, INVESTMENT INCOME AND EXPENSES — The Funds record security transactions based on trade date for financial reporting purposes. The cost of investments sold is determined by use of the specific identification method for both financial reporting and income tax purposes in determining realized gains and losses on investments. Interest income is accrued when earned. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The Funds estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered return of capital distributions or capital gain distributions. Each Fund’s investment income, expenses (other than class specific expenses) and unrealized and realized gains and losses are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class at the beginning of the day. Expenses incurred on behalf of a specific class, fund or fund family of the Company are charged directly to the class, fund or fund family (in proportion to net assets). Expenses incurred for all of the RBB funds (such as director or professional fees) are charged to all funds in proportion to their average net assets of RBB, or in such other manner as the Board deems fair or equitable. Expenses and fees, including investment advisory and administration fees, are accrued daily and taken into account for the purpose of determining the NAV of the Funds. In addition to the net annual operating expenses that the Funds bear directly, the shareholders indirectly bear the Funds’ pro-rata expenses of the underlying mutual funds in which each Fund invests.

 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS — Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid at least annually to shareholders recorded on the ex-dividend date for each Fund with the exception of the Free Market Fixed Income Fund which declares and pays quarterly dividends from net investment income. Income dividends and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. GAAP.

 

25

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

U.S. TAX STATUS — No provision is made for U.S. income taxes as it is each Fund’s intention to continue to qualify for and elect the tax treatment applicable to regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and make the requisite distributions to its shareholders which will be sufficient to relieve it from U.S. income and excise taxes.

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — Cash and cash equivalents are valued at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates market value.

 

OTHER — In the normal course of business, the Funds may enter into contracts that provide general indemnifications. Each Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made against the Funds in the future, and, therefore, cannot be estimated; however, based on experience, the risk of material loss for such claims is considered remote.

 

2.

Investment Adviser and Other Services

 

Matson Money, Inc. (“Matson Money” or the “Adviser”), serves as the investment adviser to each Fund. Each Fund compensates the Adviser for its services at an annual rate based on each Fund’s average daily net assets (the “Advisory Fee”), payable on a monthly basis in arrears, as shown in the following tables.

 

For the period September 1, 2017 through February 28, 2018:

 

average daily net assets

advisory fee

For the first $1 billion

0.50%

Over $1 billion to $5 billion

0.49

Over $5 billion

0.47

 

For the period March 1, 2018 through the end of the reporting period:

 

AVERAGE DAILY NET ASSETS

ADVISORY FEE

For the first $1 billion

0.50%

Over $1 billion to $3 billion

0.49

Over $3 billion to $5 billion

0.48

Over $5 billion

0.47

 

The Adviser has voluntarily agreed to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses exceed the rates (“Expense Caps”) shown in the following table annually of each Fund’s average daily net assets. The Adviser may not recoup waived advisory fees or reimbursed expenses. The Adviser may discontinue these arrangements at any time.

 

FUND

EXPENSE CAPS

Free Market U.S. Equity Fund

1.13%

Free Market International Equity Fund

1.35

Free Market Fixed Income Fund

1.00

 

During the current fiscal period, investment advisory fees accrued were as follows:

 

FUND

ADVISORY FEES

 

Free Market U.S. Equity Fund

$ 15,280,222  

Free Market International Equity Fund

  11,506,137  

Free Market Fixed Income Fund

  13,306,555  

 

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (“Fund Services”), doing business as U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, serves as administrator for the Funds. For providing administrative and accounting services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

26

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Fund Services serves as the Funds’ transfer and dividend disbursing agent. For providing transfer agent services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

U.S. Bank, N.A. (the “Custodian”) provides certain custodial services to the Funds. The Custodian is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Quasar Distributors, LLC serves as the principal underwriter and distributor of the Funds’ shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with RBB.

 

For compensation amounts paid to Fund Services and the Custodian, please refer to the Statements of Operations.

 

3.

Director’s and Officer’s Compensation

 

The Directors of the Company receive an annual retainer and meeting fees for meetings attended. Employees of Vigilant Compliance, LLC serve as President, Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Treasurer of the Company. Vigilant Compliance, LLC is compensated for the services provided to the Company. An employee of RBB serves as Treasurer and Secretary and is compensated for services provided. Certain employees of Fund Services serve as officers of the Company. They are not compensated by the Funds or the Company. For Director’s and Officer’s compensation amounts, please refer to the Statement of Operations.

 

4.

Purchases and Sales of Investment Securities

 

During the current fiscal period, aggregate purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding short-term investments) of the Funds were as follows:

 

   

Purchases

   

Sales

 

Free Market U.S. Equity Fund

  $ 330,598,581     $ 49,400,000  

Free Market International Equity Fund

    255,322,706       79,527,508  

Free Market Fixed Income Fund

    400,838,328       3,999,936  

 

There were no purchases or sales of long-term U.S. Government securities during the current fiscal period.

 

5.

Federal Income Tax Information

 

The Funds have followed the authoritative guidance on accounting for and disclosure of uncertainty in tax positions, which requires the Funds to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Funds have determined that there was no effect on the financial statements from following this authoritative guidance. In the normal course of business, the Funds are subject to examination by federal, state and local jurisdictions, where applicable, for tax years for which applicable statutes of limitations have not expired.

 

As of August 31, 2018, the federal tax cost and aggregate gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of investments held by each Fund were as follows:

 

   

Federal
Tax Cost

   

Unrealized
Appreciation

   

Unrealized
(Depreciation)

   

Net Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

Free Market U.S. Equity Fund

  $ 2,292,056,658     $ 1,127,546,706     $ (6,271,709 )   $ 1,121,274,997  

Free Market International Equity Fund

    2,014,246,817       363,712,750       (65,680,108 )     298,032,642  

Free Market Fixed Income Fund

    2,893,959,472       3,290,124       (31,297,438 )     (28,007,314 )

 

27

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Distributions to shareholders, if any, from net investment income and realized gains are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from net investment income and realized gains recognized for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying financial statements. To the extent these differences are permanent, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts based on the tax treatment; temporary differences do not require such reclassification.

 

The following permanent differences as of August 31, 2018, primarily attributable to redesignation of dividends paid and reclassifications of short-term capital gain distributions, were reclassified to the following accounts:

 

   

Undistributed
Net Investment
Income/(Loss)

   

Accumulated
Net Realized
Gain/(Loss)

   

Paid-In
Capital

 

Free Market U.S. Equity Fund

  $ 6,773,276     $ (6,773,276 )   $  

Free Market International Equity Fund

    2,297,064       (2,297,064 )      

Free Market Fixed Income Fund

                 

 

As of August 31, 2018, the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

 

   

Undistributed
Ordinary Income

   

Undistributed
Long-Term
Capital Gains

   

Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

Free Market U.S. Equity Fund

  $ 6,056,454     $ 124,080,874     $ 1,121,274,997  

Free Market International Equity Fund

    4,133,163       32,417,408       298,032,642  

Free Market Fixed Income Fund

    6,289,498       588,688       (28,007,314 )

 

The differences between the book and tax basis components of distributable earnings relate primarily to the timing of recognition of income and gains for federal income tax purposes. Short-term and foreign currency gains are reported as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes.

 

The tax character of distributions paid during the fiscal years ended August 31, 2018 and 2017, were as follows:

 

           

Ordinary
Income

   

Long-Term
Gains

   

Total

 

Free Market U.S. Equity Fund

    2018     $ 30,989,004     $ 80,730,468     $ 111,719,472  
      2017       21,140,849       96,166,053       117,306,902  

Free Market International Equity Fund

    2018       53,071,580       22,375,050       75,446,630  
      2017       34,715,335       19,714,628       54,429,963  

Free Market Fixed Income Fund

    2018       23,965,853       2,540,339       26,506,192  
      2017       23,810,742             23,810,742  

 

Distributions from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes.

 

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010, the Funds are permitted to carry forward capital losses incurred in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 for an unlimited period. Additionally, capital losses that are carried forward will retain their character as either short-term or long-term capital losses rather than being considered all short-term as under the previous law. As of the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, the Funds did not have any capital loss carryforwards.

 

28

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (Concluded)

August 31, 2018

 

6.

NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In August 2018, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”). The primary focus of ASU 2018-13 is to improve the effectiveness of the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The changes affect all companies that are required to include fair value measurement disclosures. In general, the amendments in ASU 2018-13 are effective for all affected entities for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. An affected entity is permitted to adopt the removed or modified disclosures upon the issuance of ASU 2018-13 and may delay adoption of the additional disclosures, which are required for public companies only, until their effective date. Management is currently evaluating the impact these changes will have on the Funds’ financial statements and disclosures.

 

7.

Subsequent Events

 

Management has evaluated the impact of all subsequent events on the Funds through the date the financial statements were issued and has determined that there were no significant events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.

 

29

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

 

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. and Shareholders of Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, and Free Market Fixed Income Fund

 

Opinions on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities, including the portfolios of investments, of Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund, and Free Market Fixed Income Fund (the “Funds”), three separately managed portfolios of The RBB Fund, Inc., as of August 31, 2018, the related statements of operations for the year ended August 31, 2018, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended August 31, 2018 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds as of August 31, 2018, the results of each of their operations for the year then ended, the changes in each of their net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018 and each of the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended August 31, 2018 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

Basis for Opinions

 

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

 

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

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2018 by correspondence with the custodian, transfer agent and broker; when replies were not received from the broker, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

 

 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 25, 2018

 

We have served as the auditor of one or more Matson Money, Inc. investment companies since 2008.

 

30

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

SHAREHOLDER TAX INFORMATION

(UNAUDITED)

 

The tax character of dividends and distributions paid during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018 were as follows:

 

   

Ordinary
Income

   

Long-Term
Gains

   

Total

 

Free Market U.S. Equity Fund

  $ 23,965,853     $ 2,540,339     $ 26,506,192  

Free Market International Equity Fund

    53,071,580       22,375,050       75,446,630  

Free Market Fixed Income Fund

    30,989,004             30,989,004  

 

Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal income tax purposes.

 

The percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that are designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Internal Revenue Section 871(k)(2)(c) is 0.89% for the Free Market International Equity Fund.

 

The percentage of total ordinary income dividends qualifying for the 15% dividend income tax rate is 100% for the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund and 81.65% for the Free Market International Equity Fund.

 

The percentage of total ordinary dividends qualifying for the corporate dividends received deduction is 100% for the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund.

 

The percentage of qualified interest income related dividends not subject to withholding tax for non-resident aliens and foreign corporations is 36.32% for the Free Market Fixed Income Fund. A total of 22.01% of the dividend distributed during the fiscal year was derived from U.S. Government securities, which is generally exempt from state income tax for the Free Market Fixed Income Fund.

 

Because each Fund’s fiscal year is not the calendar year, another notification will be sent with respect to calendar year 2018. The second notification, which will reflect the amount, if any, to be used by calendar year taxpayers on their U.S. federal income tax returns, will be made in conjunction with Form 1099-DIV and will be mailed in January 2019.

 

Foreign shareholders will generally be subject to U.S. withholding tax on the amount of their ordinary income dividends. They will generally not be entitled to a foreign tax credit or deduction for the withholding taxes paid by the Funds, if any. The Free Market International Equity Fund passed through foreign tax credits of $3,040,494 and earned $640,155,066 of gross foreign source income during the fiscal year.

 

In general, dividends received by tax-exempt recipients (e.g., IRAs and Keoghs) need not be reported as taxable income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, some retirement trusts (e.g., corporate, Keogh and 403(b)(7) plans) may need this information for their annual information reporting.

 

Shareholders are advised to consult their own tax advisers with respect to the tax consequences of their investment in the Funds.

 

31

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Other Information

(Unaudited)

 

Proxy Voting

 

Policies and procedures that the Funds use to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities as well as information regarding how the Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities for the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 are available without charge, upon request, by calling Free Market Funds at (866) 780-0357, ext. 3863 and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Quarterly Portfolio Schedules

 

The Company files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third fiscal quarters of each fiscal year (quarters ended November 30 and May 31) on Form N-Q. The Company’s Form N-Q is available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov and may be reviewed and copied at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the SEC Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.

 

Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement

 

As required by the 1940 Act, the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Company, including all of the Directors who are not “interested persons” of the Company, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act (the “Independent Directors”), considered the renewal of the investment advisory agreements between Matson Money and the Company (the “Investment Advisory Agreements”) on behalf of the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund and Free Market Fixed Income Fund (each a “Fund” and collectively the “Funds”), at a meeting of the Board held on May 9-10, 2018 (the “Meeting”). At the Meeting, the Board, including all of the Independent Directors, approved the Investment Advisory Agreements for an additional one-year term. The Board’s decision to approve the Investment Advisory Agreements reflects the exercise of its business judgment to continue the existing arrangements. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreements, the Board considered information provided by Matson Money with the assistance and advice of counsel to the Independent Directors and the Company.

 

In considering the renewal and approval of the Investment Advisory Agreements between the Company and Matson Money with respect to the Funds, the Directors took into account all the materials provided prior to and during the Meeting and at other meetings throughout the past year, the presentations made during the Meeting, and the discussions held during the Meeting. Among other things, the Directors considered (i) the nature, extent, and quality of Matson Money’s services provided to the Funds; (ii) descriptions of the experience and qualifications of Matson Money’s personnel providing those services; (iii) Matson Money’s investment philosophies and processes; (iv) Matson Money’s assets under management and client descriptions; (v) Matson Money’s current advisory fee arrangements with the Company and other similarly managed clients; (vi) Matson Money’s compliance procedures; (vii) Matson Money’s financial information, insurance coverage and profitability analysis related to providing advisory services to the Funds; (viii) the extent to which economies of scale are relevant to the Funds; (ix) a report prepared by Broadridge/Lipper comparing each Fund’s management fees and total expense ratio to those of its respective Lipper Group and comparing the performance of each Fund to the performance of its respective Lipper Group; and (x) a report comparing the performance of each Fund to the performance of its primary and composite benchmarks.

 

As part of their review, the Directors considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by Matson Money. The Directors concluded that Matson Money had substantial resources to provide services to the Funds and that Matson Money’s services had been acceptable.

 

The Directors also considered the investment performance of the Funds and Matson Money. Information on the Funds’ investment performance was provided for the since inception and for one, three- and five-year periods, and for the quarter ended March 31, 2018. The Directors considered the Funds’ investment performance in light of their investment objectives and investment strategies. The Directors concluded that the investment performance of each of the Funds as compared to their respective benchmarks and Lipper Groups was acceptable.

 

32

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

Other Information (CONCLUDED)

(Unaudited)

 

In reaching this conclusion, the Directors observed that the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund had underperformed its benchmark for the year-to-date and one-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also noted that the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund ranked in the 1st quintile in its Performance Universe and Performance Group for the two-year period ended December 31, 2017.

 

The Directors noted the Free Market International Equity Fund had outperformed its benchmark for the one-year period ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also noted that the Free Market International Equity Fund ranked in the 1st quintile in its Performance Universe for the one-, two-, three-, four- and five-year periods ended December 31, 2017.

 

The Directors noted the Free Market Fixed Income Fund had underperformed its benchmark for the year-to-date and one-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also noted that the Free Market Fixed Income Fund ranked in the 5th quintile in both its Performance Universe and Performance Group for the one-, two-, three-, four- and five-year periods ended December 31, 2017.

 

The Board also considered the advisory fee rates payable by the Funds under the Investment Advisory Agreements. In this regard, information on the fees paid by the Funds and the Funds’ total operating expense ratios (before and after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) were compared to similar information for mutual funds advised by other, unaffiliated investment advisory firms. The Directors noted that Matson Money had recently implemented a new breakpoint for the Funds, under which it was entitled to an advisory fee at the annual rate of 0.50% of the first $1 billion of each Fund’s average daily net assets, 0.49% of each Fund’s average daily net assets over $1 billion to $3 billion, 0.48% of each Fund’s average daily net assets over $3 billion to $5 billion, and 0.47% of each Fund’s average daily net assets over $5 billion. The Directors noted that the contractual advisor fee of the Free Market International Equity Fund ranked in the 1st quintile of its Lipper Expense Group, and the contractual advisor fee of each of the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund and Free Market Fixed Income Fund ranked in the 2nd quintile of each Fund’s respective Lipper Expense Group. In addition, the Directors took note that Matson Money had voluntarily agreed to waive its advisory fee and reimburse expenses in order to limit total annual Fund operating expenses to 1.13%, 1.35% and 1.00% of the average daily net assets of the Free Market U.S. Equity Fund, Free Market International Equity Fund and Free Market Fixed Income Fund, respectively.

 

After reviewing the information regarding the Funds’ costs, profitability and economies of scale, and after considering Matson Money’s services, the Directors concluded that the investment advisory fees paid by the Funds were fair and reasonable and that the Investment Advisory Agreements should be approved and continued for an additional one year period ending August 16, 2019.

 

33

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

COMPANY MANAGEMENT

(UNAUDITED)

 

Directors and Executive Officers

 

The business and affairs of the Company are managed under the direction of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company is organized under and managed pursuant to Maryland law. The Directors and executive officers of the Company, their ages, business addresses and principal occupations during the past five years are set forth below. The statement of additional information (“SAI”) includes additional information about the Directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 866-780-0357, ext. 3863.

 

Name, Address, and Age

Position(s) Held
with Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS

Julian A. Brodsky

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 85

Director

1988 to present

From 1969 to 2011, Director and Vice Chairman, Comcast Corporation (cable television and communications).

30

AMDOCS Limited (service provider to telecommunications companies).

J. Richard Carnall

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 79

Director

2002 to present

Since 1984, Director of Haydon Bolts, Inc. (bolt manufacturer) and Parkway Real Estate Company (subsidiary of Haydon Bolts, Inc.); since 2004, Director of Cornerstone Bank.

30

None

Gregory P. Chandler

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 51

 

Director

2012 to present

Since 2009, Chief Financial Officer, Emtec, Inc. (information technology consulting/services); from 2003-2009, Managing Director, head of Business Services and IT Services Practice, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC (investment banking/brokerage).

30

Emtec, Inc.; FS Investment Corporation (business development company); FS Energy and Power Fund (business development company); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios)(registered investment company).

Nicholas A. Giordano

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 75

Director

2006 to present

Since 1997, Consultant, financial services organizations.

30

Kalmar Pooled Investment Trust (registered investment company) (until September 2017); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios) (registered investment company); Independence Blue Cross (healthcare insurance).

 

34

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

COMPANY MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

(UNAUDITED)

 

Name, Address, and Age

Position(s) Held
with Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS

Arnold M. Reichman

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 70

Chairman

Director

2005 to present

1991 to present

Since 2006, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lifebooker, LLC (online beauty and health appointment booking service).

30

Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

Brian T. Shea

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 58

Director

2018 to present

From 2014-2017, Chief Executive Officer, BNY Mellon Investment Services (fund services, global custodian and securities clearing firm); from 1983-2014, Chief Executive Officer and various positions, Pershing LLC (broker dealer, clearing and custody firm).

30

WisdomTree Investments, Inc. (asset management company); Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (financial services technology company).

Robert A. Straniere

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 77

Director

2006 to present

Since 2009, Administrative Law Judge, New York City; since 1980, Founding Partner, Straniere Law Group (law firm).

30

Reich and Tang Group (asset management).

INTERESTED DIRECTOR2

Robert Sablowsky

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 80

Vice Chairman

Director

2016 to present

1991 to present

Since 2002, Senior Director – Investments and, prior thereto, Executive Vice President, of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. (a registered broker-dealer).

30

None

OFFICERS

Salvatore Faia, JD,

CPA, CFE

Vigilant Compliance, LLC

Gateway Corporate

Center Suite 216

223 Wilmington West

Chester Pike

Chadds Ford, PA 19317

Age: 55

President

Chief Compliance Officer

2009 to present

2004 to present

Since 2004, President, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2005, Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

James G. Shaw

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 57

Treasurer
and
Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2016, Treasurer and Secretary of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 2005 to 2016, Assistant Treasurer of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 1995 to 2016, Senior Director and Vice President of BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (financial services company).

N/A

N/A

 

35

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

COMPANY MANAGEMENT (CONTINUED)

(UNAUDITED)

 

Name, Address, and Age

Position(s) Held
with Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

OFFICERS

Robert Amweg

Vigilant Compliance, LLC

Gateway Corporate Center Suite 216

223 Wilmington West Chester Pike

Chadds Ford, PA 19317

Age: 65

Assistant
Treasurer

2016 to present

Since 2013, Compliance Director, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2012, Consultant to the financial services industry; from 2007 to 2012, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, Turner Investments, LP (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

Jennifer Witt

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 35

Assistant Treasurer

2018 to present

Since 2016, Assistant Vice President, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm); from 2007 to 2016, Supervisor, Nuveen Investments (investment company).

N/A

N/A

Edward Paz

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 47

Assistant Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2007, Vice President and Counsel, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm).

N/A

N/A

Michael P. Malloy

One Logan Square

Ste. 2000

Philadelphia, PA 19103

Age: 59

Assistant
Secretary

1999 to present

Since 1993, Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm).

N/A

N/A

Jillian L. Bosmann

One Logan Square

Ste. 2000

Philadelphia, PA 19103

Age: 39

Assistant Secretary

2017 to present

Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm) (2017-Present); Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (2006-Present).

N/A

N/A

 

*

Each Director oversees 30 portfolios of the Company.

 

1.

Subject to the Company’s Retirement Policy, each Director may continue to serve as a Director until the last day of the calendar year in which the applicable Director attains age 75 or until his successor is elected and qualified or his death, resignation or removal. The Board reserves the right to waive the requirements of the Policy with respect to an individual Director. The Board has approved waivers of the policy with respect to Messrs. Brodsky, Carnall, Giordano, Sablowsky and Straniere. Each officer holds office at the pleasure of the Board until the next special meeting of the Company or until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, or until he or she dies, resigns or is removed.

 

2.

Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “interested person” of the Company as that term is defined in the 1940 Act and is referred to as an “Interested Director.” Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “Interested Director” of the Company by virtue of his position as an employee of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc., a registered broker-dealer.

 

36

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

COMPANY MANAGEMENT (CONCLUDED)

(UNAUDITED)

 

Director Experience, Qualifications, Attributes and/or Skills

 

The information above includes each Director’s principal occupations during the last five years. Each Director possesses extensive additional experience, skills and attributes relevant to his qualifications to serve as a Director. The cumulative background of each Director led to the conclusion that each Director should serve as a Director of the Company. Mr. Giordano has years of experience as a consultant to financial services organizations and also serves on the boards of other registered investment companies. Mr. Reichman brings decades of investment management experience to the Board, in addition to senior executive-level management experience. Mr. Straniere has been a practicing attorney for over 30 years and also serves on the boards of an asset management company and another registered investment company. Mr. Brodsky has over 40 years of senior executive level management experience in the cable television and communications industry. Mr. Sablowsky has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the financial services industry. Mr. Carnall has decades of senior executive-level management experience in the banking and financial services industry and also serves on the boards of various corporations and a bank. Mr. Chandler has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive level positions in the investment technology consulting/services and investment banking/brokerage industries, and also serves on various boards. Mr. Shea has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the investment services industry.

 

37

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

PRIVACY NOTICE

(UNAUDITED)

 

FACTS

WHAT DO THE FREE MARKET FUNDS DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION?

Why?

Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.

What?

The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:

 

   Social Security number

   account balances

   account transactions

   transaction history

   wire transfer instructions

   checking account information

 

When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice.

How?

All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons the Free Market Funds choose to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.

       

Reasons we can share your information

Do the Free Market Funds share?

Can you limit this sharing?

For our everyday business purposes
such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court orders and legal
investigations, or report to credit bureaus

Yes

No

For our marketing purposes
to offer our products and services to you

Yes

No

For joint marketing with other financial companies

Yes

No

For affiliates’ everyday business purposes
information about your transactions and experiences

Yes

No

For affiliates’ everyday business purposes
information about your creditworthiness

No

We don’t share

For our affiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share

For nonaffiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share

 

Questions?

Call (866) 573-2152 or go to www.MatsonMoney.com

 

38

 

 

 

FREE MARKET FUNDS

PRIVACY NOTICE (CONCLUDED)

(UNAUDITED)

 

What we do

 

How does the Free Market Funds protect my personal information?

To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.

How does the Free Market Funds collect my personal information?

We collect your personal information, for example, when you

 

   open an account

   provide account information

   give us your contact information

   make a wire transfer

   tell us where to send the money

 

We also collect your information from others, such as credit bureaus, affiliates, or other companies.

Why can’t I limit all sharing?

Federal law gives you the right to limit only

 

   sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes — information about your creditworthiness

   affiliates from using your information to market to you

   sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you

 

State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.

Definitions

 

Affiliates

Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

  Our affiliates include McGriff Video Productions and Matson Money, Inc.

Nonaffiliates

Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

   The Free Market Funds don’t share with nonaffiliates so they can market to you. The Funds may share information with nonaffiliates that perform marketing services on our behalf.

Joint marketing

A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.

 

  The Free Market Funds may share your information with other financial institutions with whom we have joint marketing arrangements who may suggest additional fund services or other investment products which may be of interest to you.

 

39

 

 

 

 

 

 

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[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

 

 

 

 

 

Investment Adviser

Matson Money, Inc.
5955 Deerfield Blvd.
Mason, OH 45040

 

Administrator and Transfer Agent

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, WI 53201

 

Principal Underwriter

Quasar Distributors, LLC
777 East Wisconsin Avenue, Floor 6
Milwaukee, WI 53202

 

Custodian

U.S. Bank, N.A.
1555 North Rivercenter Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, WI 53212

 

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Two Commerce Square, Suite 1800
2001 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103-7042

 

Legal Counsel

Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
One Logan Square, Suite 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103-6996

 

FMFI-AR18

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY U.S. EQUITY VI PORTFOLIO
MATSON MONEY INTERNATIONAL EQUITY VI PORTFOLIO
MATSON MONEY FIXED INCOME VI PORTFOLIO

 

of

 

The RBB Fund, Inc.

 

Annual Report

 

August 31, 2018

 

This report is submitted for the general information of the shareholders of the Portfolios. It is not authorized for distribution unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus for the Portfolios.

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

The Matson Money VI Portfolios (the “Portfolios”) have continued to gain assets since their launch in February 2014 and have surpassed $74 million mark. We would like to extend a warm and grateful thank you to all investors who have embraced our Free Market Portfolio Strategies.

 

Over the past twelve months ended August 31st, 2018, investors experienced assorted positive returns in the equity markets. The Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio (FMVUX) returned 19.56%, while the Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio (FMVIX) returned 1.13%. On the fixed income side, the Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio (FMVFX) returned -0.50%.

 

FMVUX was buoyed by the strength of Micro Cap stocks which led the way with a return of 30.25% as measured by the CRSP U.S. Micro Cap Index. Small cap companies also contributed to the positive performance with the Russell 2000® Index, which consists of the smallest 2,000 U.S. companies, returning 25.45%. International stocks over the past twelve months saw mixed performance. The MSCI EAFE Small Cap Index, which captures small cap companies across Developed Market countries, returned 7.46%, while international large cap companies, as represented by the MSCI EAFE Index, returned 4.39%. Dragging down the performance of the Matson Money International VI Portfolio was the emerging markets allocation of the portfolio, which returned -0.68% over the last twelve months as measured by the MSCI Emerging Markets Index. The bond markets also had mixed returns over the last twelve months with shorter duration holdings doing better than extended maturity. The FTSE World Government Bond Index 1-5 Years Currency Hedged U.S. Dollar posted a gain of 0.50% while on the flip side, the Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Government/Credit Intermediate Bond Index posted a loss of -1.01%.

 

Matson Money, Inc. (“Matson Money”) strives to deliver the performance of capital markets and add value through Free Market Investment strategies and Structured Market Portfolios. Grounded in the conviction that Free Markets work, Matson Money avoids the cost-generating activity of stock picking and market timing. Instead, we focus on the dimensions of capital markets that we believe reward investors as intelligently and effectively as possible. Our disciplined approach to life-long investing aims to provide both the individual investor and the financial professional with the academic foundation upon which to help achieve investment goals.

 

In the landmark study done by Eugene Fama and Kenneth French and published in “The Cross-Section of Expected Stock Returns”1 it is documented that, over the long term, investors could have received a premium for investing in small cap stocks and value stocks. These returns seem to be compensation for risk. In fixed income, risk as measured by volatility can be well described by bond maturity and credit quality. Matson Money’s vehicles deliberately seek to target specific risk and return tradeoffs. The Funds are broadly diversified and designed to work together in your total investment plan.

 

We invite you to contact your financial professional or explore our website, www.MatsonMoney.com, to learn more about the concepts and strategies of Matson Money’s investing.

 

We appreciate your support and confidence in our firm’s investment philosophy, process and people.

 

 

Sean T. Babin
Portfolio Manager
Matson Money, Inc.

 

1

Fama, E.F. and K. R. French. 1992. “The Cross-section of Expected Stock Returns”. The Journal of Finance. 47: 427–465.

 

1

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Continued)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

The CRSP U.S. Micro Cap Index includes the smallest U.S. companies, with a target of including the bottom 2% of investable market capitalization.

 

The Russell 2000® Index consists of the smallest 2,000 companies in a group of 3,000 U.S. companies in the Russell 3000® Index, as ranked by market capitalization.

 

The MSCI EAFE Small Cap Index is an equity index which captures small cap representation across Developed Markets countries around the world, excluding the US and Canada. With 2,356 constituents, the index covers approximately 14% of the free float-adjusted market capitalization in each country.

 

The MSCI EAFE Index captures large and mid-cap securities across 21 developed markets in Europe, Australasia, and Far East, excluding the U.S. and Canada. With 900 constituents, the index covers approximately 85% of the free float-adjusted market capitalization in each country.

 

The MSCI Emerging Markets Index captures large and mid-cap representation across 24 Emerging Markets (EM) countries. With 830 constituents, the index covers approximately 85% of the free float-adjusted market capitalization in each country.

 

The FTSE World Government Bond Index 1-5 Year Currency Hedged U.S. Dollar (WGBI) measures the performance of fixed-rate, local currency, investment grade sovereign bonds. The WGBI is a widely used benchmark that currently comprises sovereign debt from over 20 countries, denominated in a variety of currencies, and has more than 25 years of history available. The WGBI provides a broad benchmark for the global sovereign fixed income market. Sub-indices are available in any combination of currency, maturity, or rating.

 

The Bloomberg Barclays U.S. Government/Credit Intermediate Bond Index is a broad-based flagship benchmark that measures the non-securitized component of the U.S. Aggregate Index. It includes investment grade, U.S. dollar-denominated, fixed-rate Treasuries, government-related and corporate securities.

 

One cannot invest directly in an index.

 

Must be preceded or accompanied by a prospectus.

 

Mutual fund investing involves risk Principal loss is possible. Investing in micro-cap or small cap companies involve additional risks such as limited liquidity and greater volatility than large companies. The Fund invests in foreign securities which involve greater volatility and political, economic and currency risks and differences in accounting methods. These risks are greater in emerging markets. Investments in debt securities typically decrease in value when interest rates rise. This risk is usually greater for longer-term debt securities.

 

Shares of the Funds are distributed by Quasar Distributors, LLC.

 

2

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Continued)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio—Investment Review

 

The twelve-month period ended August 31, 2018, saw some short periods of noticeable volatility in domestic equity markets while on their way to reaching record highs. The late part of 2017 saw domestic stocks hit all-time highs but as the new year started, they began to reverse course. In the early months of 2018, the Trump administration vocalized their intention on levying trading tariffs on China. The market quickly saw this as a negative and U.S. stocks slid hard and fast during the month of January and into early February. The possible implementation of tariffs on China and other countries kept the markets nervous. Whenever there was new detail released on the size of possible tariffs, this news would send the markets into a tumble. Then the next day the tariffs weren’t as bad as expected and the markets would push higher. After continuous back and forth on whether tariffs would be implemented, the market pushed these dialogs to the back burner and investors watched as U.S. indexes pushed their way to all-time highs again.

 

For the twelve months ended August 31, 2018, the Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio provided a total return of 19.60% at net asset value. This compares with a return of 23.33% for the Fund’s benchmark, the Russell 2500 Index , which consist of the smallest 2,500 companies in a group of 3,000 U.S. companies.

 

As a result of the Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio’s diversified investment approach, performance principally was determined by broad structural trends in equity markets, rather than the behavior of a limited number of stocks. Among the most important factors explaining differences in the behavior of diversified equity funds, like the Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio, are company size and company value/growth characteristics of the underlying fund holdings. Size is measured by market capitalization and “value” classification is a function of stock price relative to one or more fundamental characteristics.

 

U.S. Small Company Stocks performed better than that of U.S. Large Company Stocks. The Russell 2000 Index, which consists of the smallest, 2,000 companies in a group of 3,000 U.S. companies, has returned 25.44% while the S&P 500 Index, which consist of the largest 500 U.S. companies by market cap, was up 19.66% for the year ended August 31. Furthermore, for the same time-period, the Russell 2000 Value Index, which consist of the smallest 2,000 companies in a group of 3,000 U.S. and ranked by market capitalization, with relatively low price-to-book rations, returned 20.05% and the Russell 1000 Value Index , which consist of the largest 1,000 companies in a group of 3,000 and ranked by market capitalization, with relatively low price-to-book rations, returned 12.47%.

 

In summary, U.S. small cap stocks performed better than large cap ones and U.S. growth stocks outperformed U.S. value stocks, which also contributed to returns of the Fund.

 

Today’s environment underscores that markets are highly unpredictable over the short term. In other words, anything can happen, so a balanced, diversified, long-term approach is favored.

 

The Russell 2500® Index consists of the smallest 2,500 companies in a group of 3,000 U.S. companies in the Russell 3000® Index, as ranked by market capitalization.

 

The S&P 500® Index is a broad based unmanaged index of 500 stocks, which is widely recognized as representative of the equity market in general.

 

The Russell 2000® Index consists of the smallest 2,000 companies in a group of 3,000 U.S. companies in the Russell 3000® Index, as ranked by market capitalization.

 

Russell 2000® Value Index consists of the smallest 2,000 companies in a group of 3,000 U.S. companies in the Russell 3000®Index, as ranked by market capitalization, with relatively low price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values.

 

Russell 1000® Value Index consists of the largest 1,000 companies in a group of 3,000 U.S. companies in the Russell 3000®Index, as ranked by market capitalization, with relatively low price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values.

 

3

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Continued)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio—Investment Review

 

The global markets experienced a roller coaster ride during the twelve-month period ended August 31, 2018. 2017 ended with international equity markets making and incredible comeback and outpacing the performance of the U.S. markets. However, once the Trump administration’s tariff talks began hitting the news cycle in the early months of 2018, along with a strengthening U.S. dollar, international stocks started a massive sell off. Emerging markets, which were one of the top performing asset classes in 2017, have been hit the hardest thus far in 2018.

 

For the twelve months ended August 31, 2018, the Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio was up 1.13%. This compares with a return of 4.51% for the Fund’s benchmark, the MSCI World (ex USA) Index , which captures large and mid-cap representation across 22 of 23 Developed Markets (DM) countries excluding the United States.

 

As a result of the Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio’s diversified investment approach, performance principally was determined by broad structural trends in global equity markets, rather than the behavior of a limited number of stocks. Among the most important factors explaining differences in the behavior of diversified international equity funds, like the Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio, are company size and company value/growth characteristics of the underlying fund holdings and broad exposure to emerging market equities.

 

International Small Company Stocks fared better than International Large Company Stocks. The MSCI EAFE Small Cap Index (net of dividends), which captures small cap representation across Developed Markets countries* around the world, excluding the US and Canada, returned 7.46% from September 1, 2017 through August 31, 2018, while the MSCI EAFE Index, which captures large and mid-cap representation across Developed Markets countries around the world, excluding the US and Canada, was up 4.39% for the same period. Furthermore, for the same time period, the MSCI EAFE Value Index (net of dividends) , which captures large and mid-cap securities exhibiting overall value style characteristics across Developed Markets countries around the world, excluding the US and Canada, increased by 0.63% while the MSCI EAFE Small Cap Value Index, which captures small cap securities exhibiting overall value style characteristics across Developed Markets countries around the world, excluding the US and Canada, was up 4.01% and the MSCI Emerging Markets Index (net of dividends), which captures large and mid-cap representation across 24 Emerging Markets (EM) countries was down -0.68%.

 

In summary, factors that contributed to the Fund’s underperformance compared to its benchmark can largely be explained by its exposure in emerging markets, as well as its tilt toward large cap value and small cap value stocks.

 

Today’s environment underscores that markets are highly unpredictable over the short term. In other words, anything can happen, so a balanced, diversified, long-term approach is favored.

 

MSCI EAFE Index is an equity index which captures large and mid-cap representation across Developed Markets countries* around the world, excluding the US and Canada. With 926 constituents, the index covers approximately 85% of the free float-adjusted market capitalization in each country.

 

* Developed Markets countries include: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK.

 

MSCI EAFE Small Cap Index is an equity index which captures small cap representation across Developed Markets countries* around the world, excluding the US and Canada. With 2,252 constituents, the index covers approximately 14% of the free float-adjusted market capitalization in each country.

 

* Developed Markets countries include: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK.

 

4

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Continued)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

MSCI EAFE Small Cap Value Index is captures small cap securities exhibiting overall value style characteristics across Developed Markets countries* around the world, excluding the US and Canada. * Developed Markets countries include: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK.

 

MSCI EAFE Value Index is captures large and mid-cap securities exhibiting overall value style characteristics across Developed Markets countries* around the world, excluding the US and Canada. The value investment style characteristics for index construction are defined using three variables: book value to price, 12-month forward earnings to price and dividend yield. * Developed Markets countries include: Australia, Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Hong Kong, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland and the UK.

 

5

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Concluded)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio—Investment Review

 

The U.S. economy grew modestly during the past twelve-months ended August 31, 2018. Total unemployment continued its decline, after reaching 2009 highs of 10%, it has now dipped all the way down to 3.9% as of August 2018, which many economists consider at or near full employment. Monetary policy remains accommodative, and while the Fed made a few small rate hikes, they did not make any drastic changes or indications that they would sway from their policy of keeping the target for the federal funds rate very low. While rates did rise slightly over the previous twelve months, overall, they remained low which in turn has kept the return of fixed income low relative to historic norms on both domestic and foreign issues. The broad proxy for the U.S. bond market, the Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index , which is a broad-based flagship benchmark that measures the investment grade, US dollar-denominated, fixed-rate taxable bond market, lost 1.05%, while the Barclays Global Aggregate Bond Index (hedged), which is a a flagship measure of global investment grade debt from twenty-four local currency markets, returned 0.74% for the twelve-month period ended August 31, 2018. As a result of the increase in interest rates, short-term bonds outperformed ones with a longer maturity. The Bloomberg Barclays U.S Gov/Credit index 1-3 Years , which includes all medium and larger issues of U.S. government, investment-grade corporate, and investment-grade international dollar-denominated bonds that have maturities of between 1 and 3 years and are publicly issued, returned 0.59% while Long-Term Government bonds, which is defined as U.S. government issued debt with 10+ year maturity, lost 3.58%.

 

The Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio focuses on mutual funds that invest in global high quality and shorter-term Government and Corporate fixed income assets. For the twelve-months ended August 31, 2018, The Free Market Fixed Income Fund lost 0.50%. This compares with a return of 0.50% for the fund’s benchmark, the FTSE World Government Bond 1 - 5 Year Currency Hedged US Dollar Index , which measures the performance of fixed-rate, local currency, investment-grade sovereign bonds.

 

The Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio performed as expected, and slightly underperformed its benchmark for the period. A contributing factor to the performance of the Fund compared to its benchmark was the Fund’s slightly lower exposure to certain global markets but additional corporate exposure within the U.S.

 

Bloomberg Barclays US Aggregate Bond Index a broad-based flagship benchmark that measures the investment grade, US dollar-denominated, fixed-rate taxable bond market.

 

Bloomberg Barclays Global Aggregate Bond Index a flagship measure of global investment grade debt from twenty-four local currency markets.

 

Bloomberg Barclay US Government/Credit Bond Index a broad-based flagship benchmark that measures the non-securitized component of the US Aggregate Index.

 

Opinions expressed are subject to change at any time, are not guaranteed and should not be considered investment advice.

 

Must be preceded or accompanied by a prospectus.

 

Mutual fund investing involves risk Principal loss is possible. Investing in micro-cap or small cap companies involve additional risks such as limited liquidity and greater volatility than large companies. The Fund invests in foreign securities which involve greater volatility and political, economic and currency risks and differences in accounting methods. These risks are greater in emerging markets. Investments in debt securities typically decrease in value when interest rates rise. This risk is usually greater for longer-term debt securities.

 

Diversification does not assure a profit nor protect against loss in a declining market.

 

One cannot invest directly in an index.

 

Shares of the Funds are distributed by Quasar Distributors, LLC.

 

6

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Performance Data

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio


 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in
Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio vs. Russell 2500® Index and Composite Index

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 minimum initial investment in the Portfolio made on February 18, 2014 (commencement of operations) and reflects Portfolio expenses. Investors should note that the Portfolio is a professionally managed mutual fund while the Russell 2500® Index and Composite Index are unmanaged, do not incur sales charges and/or expenses and are not available for investment.

 

Total Returns for the Periods Ended August 31, 2018

 

Average Annual

 

1 Year

3 Year

Since
Inception

Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio

19.56%

13.80%

9.64%*

Russell 2500® Index

23.33%

14.96%

10.73%***

Composite Index**

19.43%

15.17%

11.47%***

 

*

The Portfolio commenced operations on February 18, 2014.

**

The Composite Index is comprised of the S&P 500® Index, Russell 1000® Value Index, Russell 2000® Index and Russell 2000® Value Index, weighted 25%, 25%, 25% and 25%, respectively.

***

Index information is not available as of the date of the inception of the Portfolio. The average annual returns for the Russell 2500® Index and the Composite Index are presented as of March 1, 2014. If the Portfolio had commenced operations on March 1, 2014, its average annual return since inception would have been 9.44%.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Portfolio distributions or on the redemption of Portfolio shares. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-866-780-0357 ext. 3863. The Portfolio’s annual operating expense ratio, as stated in the current prospectus is 1.08% (included in the ratio is 0.27% attributable to acquired fund fees and expenses).

 

The Portfolio’s aggregate total return since inception is based on an increase in net asset value from $25.00 per share on February 18, 2014 (commencement of operations) to $33.12 per share on August 31, 2018.

 

Portfolio composition is subject to change.

 

The Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio’s underlying funds invest in small-cap and micro-cap stocks, large-cap stocks and other equity securities. In addition to the ordinary risks of equity investing, small companies entail special risk. Small companies tend to have more risk than large companies. An investor in the Portfolio will incur the expenses of the underlying funds in addition to the Portfolio’s expenses.

 

7

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Performance Data (Continued)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio


 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in
Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio vs. MSCI World (excluding U.S.) Index and Composite Index

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 minimum initial investment in the Portfolio made on February 18, 2014 (commencement of operations) and reflects Portfolio expenses. Investors should note that the Portfolio is a professionally managed mutual fund while the MSCI World (excluding U.S.) Index and Composite Index are unmanaged, do not incur sales charges and/or expenses and are not available for investment.

 

Total Returns for the Periods Ended August 31, 2018

 

Average Annual

 

1 Year

3 Year

Since
Inception

Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio

1.13%

8.10%

3.16%*

MSCI World (excluding U.S.) Index

4.51%

7.17%

3.19%***

Composite Index**

2.97%

8.81%

5.05%***

 

*

The Portfolio commenced operations on February 18, 2014.

**

The Composite Index is comprised of the MSCI EAFE Index, MSCI EAFE Value Index, MSCI EAFE Small Company Index, and MSCI Emerging Markets Index, weighted 25%, 25%, 25% and 25%, respectively.

***

Index information is not available as of the date of the inception of the Portfolio. The average annual returns for the MSCI World (excluding U.S.) Index and the Composite Index are presented as of March 1, 2014. If the Portfolio had commenced operations on March 1, 2014, its average annual return since inception would have been 3.41%.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Portfolio distributions or on the redemption of Portfolio shares. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-866-780-0357 ext. 3863. The Portfolio’s annual operating expense ratio, as stated in the current prospectus is 1.32% (included in the ratio is 0.44% attributable to acquired fund fees and expenses).

 

The Portfolio’s aggregate total return since inception is based on an increase in net asset value from $25.00 per share on February 18, 2014 (commencement of operations) to $26.16 per share on August 31, 2018.

 

Portfolio composition is subject to change.

 

The Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio’s underlying funds invest in common stock, preferred stock, securities convertible into stocks and other equity securities issued by foreign companies. In addition to the ordinary risks of equity investing, foreign and small companies entail special risk. The return on foreign equities may be adversely affected by currency fluctuations. Emerging markets may be subject to social instability and lack of market liquidity. Small companies tend to have more risk than large companies. An investor in the Portfolio will incur the expenses of the underlying funds in addition to the Portfolio’s expenses.

 

8

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Performance Data (Concluded)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio


 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in
Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio vs. FTSE World Government Bond Index 1-5 Years and Composite Index

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 minimum initial investment in the Portfolio made on February 18, 2014 (commencement of operations) and reflects Portfolio expenses. Investors should note that the Portfolio is a professionally managed mutual fund while the FTSE World Government Bond Index 1-5 years and Composite Index are unmanaged, do not incur sales charges and/or expenses and are not available for investment.

 

Total Returns for the Periods Ended August 31, 2018

 

Average Annual

 

1 Year

3 Year

Since
Inception

Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio

-0.50%

0.44%

0.35%*

FTSE World Government Bond Index 1-5 Years

-0.50%

0.44%

0.32%***

Composite Index**

-0.14%

1.01%

1.16%***

 

*

The Portfolio commenced operations on February 18, 2014.

**

The Composite Index is comprised of the Three-Month Treasury Bill Index, Barclays Capital Intermediate Government Bond Index, BofA Merrill Lynch 1-3 Year US Government/Corporate Index and Bloomberg Barclays Aggregate Bond Index, weighted 25%, 25%, 25% and 25%, respectively.

***

Index information is not available as of the date of the inception of the Portfolio. The average annual returns for the FTSE World Government Bond Index 1-5 Years (formerly known as the Citigroup World Govt. Bond 1-5 Year Currency Hedged U.S. Dollar Index), and the Composite Index are presented as of March 1, 2014. If the Portfolio had commenced operations on March 1, 2014, its average annual return since inception would have been 0.32%.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Portfolio distributions or on the redemption of Portfolio shares. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-866-780-0357 ext. 3863. The Portfolio’s annual operating expense ratio, as stated in the current prospectus is 0.95% (included in the ratio is 0.18% attributable to acquired fund fees and expenses).

 

The Portfolio’s aggregate total return since inception is based on a decrease in net asset value from $25.00 per share on February 18, 2014 (commencement of operations) to $24.74 per share on August 31, 2018.

 

Portfolio composition is subject to change.

 

The Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio’s underlying funds invest in fixed income securities. The underlying funds may invest their assets in bonds and other debt securities issued by domestic and foreign governments and companies. Debt instruments involve the risk that their prices will fall when interest rates rise, and they are subject to the risk that the borrower may default. In addition, the return on foreign debt securities may be adversely affected by currency fluctuations. An investor in the Portfolio will incur expenses of the underlying funds in addition to the Portfolio’s expenses.

 

9

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Fund Expense ExampleS

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

As a shareholder of the Portfolio(s), you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees and other Portfolio expenses. These examples are intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Portfolio(s) and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

 

These examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period from March 1, 2018 through August 31, 2018, and held for the entire period.

 

ACTUAL EXPENSES

 

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

 

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLES FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

 

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

 

Please note that the expenses shown in the accompanying tables are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs, such as redemption fees. Therefore, the second line of the accompanying tables is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

 

Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio

 

Beginning

Account Value

March 1, 2018

Ending

Account Value

August 31, 2018

Expenses Paid
During Period
*

Annualized
Expense Ratio
*

Actual Six-Month
Total Investment
Return for
the Portfolio

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,094.90

$3.70

0.70%

9.49%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,021.68

3.57

0.70

N/A

 

 

Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio

 

Beginning

Account Value

March 1, 2018

Ending

Account Value

August 31, 2018

Expenses Paid
During Period
*

Annualized
Expense Ratio
*

Actual Six-Month
Total Investment
Return for
the Portfolio

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 941.30

$3.57

0.73%

-5.87%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,021.53

3.72

0.73

N/A

 

10

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Fund Expense ExampleS (Concluded)

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

 

Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio

 

Beginning

Account Value

March 1, 2018

Ending

Account Value

August 31, 2018

Expenses Paid
During Period
*

Annualized
Expense Ratio
*

Actual Six-Month
Total Investment
Return for
the Portfolio

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,009.00

$3.39

0.67%

0.90%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,021.83

3.41

0.67

N/A

 

*

Expenses are equal to each Portfolio’s annualized six-month expense ratio for the period March 1, 2018 to August 31, 2018, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days (184) in the most recent fiscal half-year, then divided by 365 to reflect the one half year period. The annualized expense ratios do not reflect fees and expenses associated with the underlying funds. If such fees and expenses had been included, the expenses would have been higher. Each Portfolio’s ending account values on the first line in the tables is based on the actual six-month total investment return for each Portfolio. The range of weighted expense ratios of the underlying funds held by the Portfolios, as stated in the underlying funds’ current prospectuses, were as follows:

 

 

Matson Money
U.S. Equity VI Portfolio

Matson Money
International
Equity VI Portfolio

Matson Money Fixed
Income VI Portfolio

 

0.01%-0.07%

0.01%-0.11%

0.01%-0.04%

 

11

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

MATSON MONEY U.S. EQUITY VI PORTFOLIO

 

Portfolio of Investments

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number
of Shares

   

Value

 

DOMESTIC EQUITY FUNDS — 99.3%

U.S. Large Cap Value Portfolio III (a)

    245,518     $ 6,800,845  

U.S. Large Company Portfolio (a)

    159,231       3,597,027  

U.S. Micro Cap Portfolio (b)

    158,453       3,972,409  

U.S. Small Cap Portfolio (b)

    99,481       3,973,280  

U.S. Small Cap Value Portfolio (b)

    63,751       2,652,687  

VA U.S. Large Value Portfolio (b)

    38,238       1,063,018  

VA U.S. Targeted Value Portfolio (b)

    184,448       3,941,654  

TOTAL DOMESTIC EQUITY FUNDS

       

(Cost $21,782,421)

            26,000,920  
 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 0.9%

STIT-Government & Agency Portfolio, 1.85%*

    234,592       234,592  

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

       

(Cost $234,592)

            234,592  

TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 100.2%

       

(Cost $22,017,013)

            26,235,512  

LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS — (0.2)%

            (54,846 )

NET ASSETS — 100.0%

          $ 26,180,666  

 

Portfolio Holdings Summary Table

   

% of
Net Assets

   

Value

 

Domestic Equity Funds

    99.3 %   $ 26,000,920  

Short-Term Investments

    0.9       234,592  

Liabilities In Excess Of Other Assets

    (0.2 )     (54,846 )

NET ASSETS

    100.0 %   $ 26,180,666  

 


*

Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.

(a)

A portfolio of Dimensional Investment Group Inc.

(b)

A portfolio of DFA Investment Dimensions Group Inc.

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

12

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

MATSON MONEY INTERNATIONAL EQUITY VI PORTFOLIO

 

Portfolio of Investments

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number
of Shares

   

Value

 

INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUNDS — 99.2%

DFA International Small Cap Value Portfolio (a)

    235,793     $ 5,036,529  

DFA International Value Portfolio III (b)

    332,139       5,380,651  

Emerging Markets Portfolio (a)

    33,401       948,594  

Emerging Markets Small Cap Portfolio (a)

    40,990       883,740  

Emerging Markets Value Portfolio (a)

    29,993       887,493  

Large Cap International Portfolio (a)

    30,947       716,111  

VA International Small Portfolio (a)

    225,980       3,068,807  

VA International Value Portfolio (a)

    68,836       895,557  

TOTAL INTERNATIONAL EQUITY FUNDS

       

(Cost $16,538,744)

            17,817,482  
 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 1.0%

STIT-Government & Agency Portfolio, 1.85%*

    176,889       176,889  

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

       

(Cost $176,889)

            176,889  

TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 100.2%

       

(Cost $16,715,633)

            17,994,371  

LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS — (0.2)%

            (43,998 )

NET ASSETS — 100.0%

          $ 17,950,373  

 

Portfolio Holdings Summary Table

   

% of
Net Assets

   

Value

 

International Equity Funds

    99.2 %   $ 17,817,482  

Short-Term Investments

    1.0       176,889  

Liabilities In Excess Of Other Assets

    (0.2 )     (43,998 )

NET ASSETS

    100.0 %   $ 17,950,373  

 


*

Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.

(a)

A portfolio of DFA Investment Dimensions Group Inc.

(b)

A portfolio of Dimensional Investment Group Inc.

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

13

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

MATSON MONEY FIXED INCOME VI PORTFOLIO

 

Portfolio of Investments

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number
of Shares

   

Value

 

FIXED INCOME FUNDS — 99.1%

       

DFA Five-Year Global Fixed Income Portfolio (a)

    279,487     $ 3,060,382  

DFA Inflation Protected Securities Portfolio (a)

    131,615       1,528,045  

DFA Intermediate Government Fixed Income Portfolio (a)

    151,060       1,824,800  

DFA One-Year Fixed Income Portfolio (a)

    341,401       3,502,769  

DFA Short-Term Government Portfolio (a)

    117,522       1,226,930  

DFA Two-Year Global Fixed Income Portfolio (a)

    458,351       4,560,589  

iShares 1-3 Year Credit Bond ETF

    142,074       7,386,427  

iShares Intermediate Credit Bond ETF

    34,394       1,838,015  

VA Global Bond Portfolio (a)

    428,411       4,588,279  

VA Short-Term Fixed Income Portfolio (a)

    59,510       610,575  

TOTAL FIXED INCOME FUNDS

       

(Cost $30,473,188)

            30,126,811  
 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 1.1%

STIT-Government & Agency Portfolio, 1.85%*

    335,387       335,387  

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

       

(Cost $335,387)

            335,387  

TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 100.2%

       

(Cost $30,808,575)

            30,462,198  

LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS — (0.2)%

            (56,992 )

NET ASSETS — 100.0%

          $ 30,405,206  

 

Portfolio Holdings Summary Table

   

% of
Net Assets

   

Value

 

Fixed Income Funds

    99.1 %   $ 30,126,811  

Short-Term Investments

    1.1       335,387  

Liabilities In Excess Of Other Assets

    (0.2 )     (56,992 )

NET ASSETS

    100.0 %   $ 30,405,206  

 


*Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.
(a)A portfolio of DFA Investment Dimensions Group Inc.
ETFExchange-Traded Fund

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

14

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Statements of Assets and Liabilities

August 31, 2018

 

   

Matson Money
U.S. Equity
VI Portfolio

   

Matson Money
International Equity
VI Portfolio

   

Matson Money
Fixed Income
VI Portfolio

 

ASSETS

                       

Investments in non-affiliated funds, at value *

  $ 26,000,920     $ 17,817,482     $ 30,126,811  

Short-term investments, at value *

    234,592       176,889       335,387  

Receivables

                       

Dividends receivable

    331       272       646  

Prepaid expenses and other assets

    60       45       79  

Total assets

    26,235,903       17,994,688       30,462,923  
                         

LIABILITIES

                       

Payables

                       

Advisory fees

    10,892       7,562       12,812  

Capital shares redeemed

    3,952       2,610       6,413  

Transfer agent fees

    3,485       95       146  

Administration and accounting fees

    1,216       1,409       1,430  

Other accrued expenses and liabilities

    35,692       32,639       36,916  

Total liabilities

    55,237       44,315       57,717  

Net assets

  $ 26,180,666     $ 17,950,373     $ 30,405,206  
                         

NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:

                       

Par Value

  $ 790     $ 686     $ 1,229  

Paid-in capital

  20,920,443     16,645,287     30,684,319  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss)

    2,903       24,686       81,787  

Accumulated net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    1,038,031       976       (15,752 )

Net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    4,218,499       1,278,738       (346,377 )

Net assets

  $ 26,180,666     $ 17,950,373     $ 30,405,206  

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 300,000,000 shares authorized)

    790,490       686,249       1,229,159  
    $ 33.12     $ 26.16     $ 24.74  

*Identified Cost:

                       

Investments in non-affiliated funds, at cost

  21,782,421     16,538,744     30,473,188  

Short-term investments, at cost

  $ 234,592     $ 176,889     $ 335,387  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

15

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Statements of Operations

For the year ended August 31, 2018

 

   

Matson Money
U.S. Equity
VI Portfolio

   

Matson Money
International Equity
VI Portfolio

   

Matson Money
Fixed Income
VI Portfolio

 

INVESTMENT INCOME

                       

Dividends from non-affiliated funds

  $ 302,447     $ 409,208     $ 461,766  

Total investment income

    302,447       409,208       461,766  
                         

EXPENSES:

                       

Advisory fees (Note 2)

    115,317       82,214       140,316  

Audit fees

    30,189       26,940       29,948  

Administration and accounting fees (Note 2)

    8,178       7,146       9,640  

Printing and shareholder reporting fees

    5,251       3,170       7,098  

Custodian fees (Note 2)

    3,984       3,736       4,260  

Legal fees

    1,276       802       1,594  

Officer’s fees

    287       270       437  

Director’s fees

    256       724       1,390  

Transfer agent fees (Note 2)

    158       691       849  

Other expenses

    4,087       3,841       4,515  

Total expenses

    168,983       129,534       200,047  

Net investment income/(loss)

    133,464       279,674       261,719  
                         

NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN (LOSS) FROM INVESTMENTS

                       

Net realized gain/(loss) from:

                       

Non-affiliated funds

    357,667       101,466       (3,277 )

Capital gain distributions from non-affiliated fund investments

    964,245       225,081       5,387  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on:

                       

Non-affiliated funds

    2,620,038       (522,361 )     (387,918 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    3,941,950       (195,814 )     (385,808 )

NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS

  $ 4,075,414     $ 83,860     $ (124,089 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

16

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY U.S. EQUITY VI PORTFOLIO

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM OPERATIONS:

               

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ 133,464     $ 93,335  

Net realized gain/(loss) on investments

    1,321,912       789,365  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    2,620,038       1,460,177  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    4,075,414       2,342,877  
                 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM:

               

Net investment income

    (231,177 )     (135,895 )

Net realized capital gains

    (885,944 )     (659,715 )

Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (1,117,121 )     (795,610 )
                 

CAPTIAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    5,389,578       4,474,773  

Reinvestment of distributions

    1,117,121       795,610  

Shares redeemed

    (3,377,340 )     (4,215,874 )

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets from capital shares

    3,129,359       1,054,509  

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

  6,087,652       2,601,776  
                 

NET ASSETS:

               

Beginning of period

  20,093,014       17,491,238  

End of period

  $ 26,180,666     $ 20,093,014  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $ 2,903     $ (5,639 )
                 

SHARES TRANSACTIONS:

               

Shares sold

    173,254       154,697  

Dividends and distributions reinvested

    36,235       27,789  

Shares redeemed

    (108,191 )     (146,000 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares outstanding

    101,298       36,486  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

17

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY INTERNATIONAL EQUITY VI PORTFOLIO

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM OPERATIONS:

               

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ 279,674     $ 167,928  

Net realized gain/(loss) on investments

    326,547       (14,898 )

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    (522,361 )     2,625,450  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    83,860       2,778,480  
                 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM:

               

Net investment income

    (308,131 )     (247,347 )

Net realized capital gains

    (135,929 )     (166,208 )

Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (444,060 )     (413,555 )
                 

CAPTIAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    4,595,893       2,990,019  

Reinvestment of distributions

    444,060       413,555  

Shares redeemed

    (1,748,286 )     (3,317,091 )

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets from capital shares

    3,291,667       86,483  

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

  2,931,467       2,451,408  
                 

NET ASSETS:

               

Beginning of period

  15,018,906       12,567,498  

End of period

  $ 17,950,373     $ 15,018,906  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $ 24,686     $ 32,429  
                 

SHARES TRANSACTIONS:

               

Shares sold

    168,646       122,875  

Dividends and distributions reinvested

    16,147       18,446  

Shares redeemed

    (63,221 )     (134,269 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares outstanding

    121,572       7,052  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

18

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY FIXED INCOME VI PORTFOLIO

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM OPERATIONS:

               

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ 261,719     $ 168,173  

Net realized gain/(loss) on investments

    2,110       31,054  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    (387,918 )     (115,652 )

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (124,089 )     83,575  
                 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM:

               

Net investment income

    (240,545 )     (107,491 )

Net realized capital gains

    (35,480 )     (106,213 )

Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (276,025 )     (213,704 )
                 

CAPTIAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    6,535,549       6,706,632  

Reinvestment of distributions

    276,025       213,703  

Shares redeemed

    (2,023,015 )     (2,700,382 )

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets from capital shares

    4,788,559       4,219,953  

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

  4,388,445       4,089,824  
                 

NET ASSETS:

               

Beginning of period

    26,016,761       21,926,937  

End of period

  $ 30,405,206     $ 26,016,761  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $ 81,787     $ 60,613  
                 

SHARES TRANSACTIONS:

               

Shares sold

    264,067       268,602  

Dividends and distributions reinvested

    11,180       8,634  

Shares redeemed

    (81,618 )     (108,026 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares outstanding

    193,629       169,210  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

19

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

MATSON MONEY U.S. EQUITY VI PORTFOLIO

 

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for each share outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2016

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2015

   

For the Period
February 18, 2014
(1)
through
August 31, 2014

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 29.15     $ 26.80     $ 25.65     $ 26.79     $ 25.00  

Net investment income/(loss)(2)

    0.18       0.14       0.19       0.03       (0.06 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    5.40       3.44       1.96       (1.07 )     1.85  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    5.58       3.58       2.15       (1.04 )     1.79  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                                       

Net investment income

    (0.33 )     (0.21 )     (0.15 )     (0.10 )      

Net realized capital gains

    (1.28 )     (1.02 )     (0.85 )            

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (1.61 )     (1.23 )     (1.00 )     (0.10 )      

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 33.12     $ 29.15     $ 26.80     $ 25.65     $ 26.79  

Total investment return(3)

    19.56 %     13.42 %     8.68 %     (3.92 )%     7.16 %(4)
                                         

Ratio/Supplemental Data

                                       

Net assets, end of period (000’s omitted)

  $ 26,181     $ 20,093     $ 17,491     $ 13,598     $ 7,816  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets with waivers, if any(5)

    0.73 %     0.81 %     0.93 %     1.13 %     1.13 %(6)

Ratio of expenses to average net assets without waivers, if any(5)

    0.73 %     0.81 %     0.93 %     1.44 %     4.07 %(6)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets with waivers(5)

    0.58 %     0.49 %     0.74 %     0.12 %     (0.47 )%(6)

Portfolio turnover rate

    12 %     21 %     7 %     14 %     1 %(4)

 


(1)

Commencement of operations.

(2)

The selected per share data is calculated using the average shares outstanding method for the period.

(3)

Total investment return is calculated by assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

(4)

Not annualized.

(5)

The Portfolio also will indirectly bear its prorated share of expenses of the underlying funds. Such expenses are not included in the calculation of this ratio.

(6)

Annualized.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

20

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

MATSON MONEY INTERNATIONAL EQUITY VI PORTFOLIO

 

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for each share outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2016

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2015

   

For the Period
February 18, 2014
(1)
through
August 31, 2014

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 26.60     $ 22.54     $ 22.48     $ 25.82     $ 25.00  

Net investment income/(loss)(2)

    0.47       0.29       0.44       0.22       0.07  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    (0.13 )     4.51       0.10       (3.26 )     0.75  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    0.34       4.80       0.54       (3.04 )     0.82  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                                       

Net investment income

    (0.54 )     (0.44 )     (0.24 )     (0.30 )      

Net realized capital gains

    (0.24 )     (0.30 )     (0.24 )     (3)       

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (0.78 )     (0.74 )     (0.48 )     (0.30 )      

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 26.16     $ 26.60     $ 22.54     $ 22.48     $ 25.82  

Total investment return(4)

    1.13 %     21.90 %     2.47 %     (11.77 )%     3.28 %(5)
                                         

Ratio/Supplemental Data

                                       

Net assets, end of period (000’s omitted

  $ 17,950     $ 15,019     $ 12,567     $ 9,641     $ 5,408  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets with waivers, if any(6)

    0.79 %     0.88 %     1.02 %     1.35 %     1.35 %(7)

Ratio of expenses to average net assets without waivers, if any(6)

    0.79 %     0.88 %     1.02 %     1.67 %     5.07 %(7)

Ratio of net investment income to average net assets with waivers(6)

    1.70 %     1.22 %     2.03 %     0.91 %     0.49 %(7)

Portfolio turnover rate

    8 %     21 %     5 %     15 %     2 %(5)

 


(1)

Commencement of operations.

(2)

The selected per share data is calculated using the average shares outstanding method for the period.

(3)

Amount less than $(0.005) per share.

(4)

Total investment return is calculated by assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

(5)

Not annualized.

(6)

The Portfolio also will indirectly bear its prorated share of expenses of the underlying funds. Such expenses are not included in the calculation of this ratio.

(7)

Annualized.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

21

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

MATSON MONEY FIXED INCOME VI PORTFOLIO

 

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for each share outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2016

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2015

   

For the Period
February 18, 2014
(1)
through
August 31, 2014

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 25.12     $ 25.31     $ 24.93     $ 25.08     $ 25.00  

Net investment income/(loss)(2)

    0.23       0.18       0.05       0.03       (0.05 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    (0.36 )     (0.13 )     0.36       (0.04 )     0.13  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (0.13 )     0.05       0.41       (0.01 )     0.08  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                                       

Net investment income

    (0.22 )     (0.12 )           (0.14 )      

Net realized capital gains

    (0.03 )     (0.12 )     (0.03 )            

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (0.25 )     (0.24 )     (0.03 )     (0.14 )      

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 24.74     $ 25.12     $ 25.31     $ 24.93     $ 25.08  

Total investment return(3)

    (0.50 )%     0.19 %     1.66 %     (0.06 )%     0.32 %(4)
                                         

Ratio/Supplemental Data

                                       

Net assets, end of period (000’s omitted)

  $ 30,405     $ 26,017     $ 21,927     $ 18,098     $ 9,927  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets with waivers, if any(5)

    0.71 %     0.77 %     0.85 %     1.00 %     1.00 %(6)

Ratio of expenses to average net assets without waivers, if any(5)

    0.71 %     0.77 %     0.85 %     1.37 %     3.40 %(6)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets with waivers(5)

    0.93 %     0.70 %     0.21 %     0.10 %     (0.40 )%(6)

Portfolio turnover rate

    2 %     11 %     40 %     11 %     1 %(4)

 


(1)

Commencement of operations.

(2)

The selected per share data is calculated using the average shares outstanding method for the period.

(3)

Total investment return is calculated by assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

(4)

Not annualized.

(5)

The Portfolio also will indirectly bear its prorated share of expenses of the underlying funds. Such expenses are not included in the calculation of this ratio.

(6)

Annualized.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.

 

22

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Notes to Financial Statements

August 31, 2018

 

1.

Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

 

The RBB Fund, Inc. (“RBB” or the “Company”) was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on February 29, 1988 and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. RBB is a “series fund,” which is a mutual fund divided into separate portfolios. Each portfolio is treated as a separate entity for certain matters under the 1940 Act, and for other purposes, and a shareholder of one portfolio is not deemed to be a shareholder of any other portfolio. Currently, RBB has thirty active investment portfolios, including the Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio, the Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio and the Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio (each a “Portfolio,” collectively the “Portfolios”). Each Portfolio operates as a “fund of funds” and commenced investment operations on February 18, 2014. Shares of the Portfolios are offered to separate accounts of participating life insurance companies for the purpose of funding variable annuity contracts and variable life insurance policies.

 

RBB has authorized capital of one hundred billion shares of common stock of which 87.023 billion shares are currently classified into one hundred and eighty-one classes of common stock. Each class represents an interest in an active or inactive RBB investment portfolio.

 

Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio and Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio’s investment objective is to seek long-term capital appreciation. Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio’s investment objective is to seek total return (consisting of current income and capital appreciation).

 

The Portfolios are investment companies and follow accounting and reporting guidance in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services - Investment Companies”.

 

The end of the reporting period for the Portfolios is August 31, 2018, and the period covered by these Notes to Financial Statements is the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018 (the “current fiscal period”).

 

PORTFOLIO VALUATION — Investments in the underlying funds are valued at each Portfolio’s net asset value (“NAV”) determined as of the close of business on the New York Stock Exchange (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time). As required, some securities and assets may be valued at fair value as determined in good faith by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”). Direct investments in fixed income securities are valued using an independent pricing service, which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings, and are deemed representative of market values at the close of the market.

 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS — The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the Portfolios’ investments are summarized into three levels as described in the hierarchy below:

 

Level 1  — Prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

 

Level 2  —

Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).

 

Level 3  —

Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including the Portfolios’ own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

23

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

August 31, 2018

 

The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of the end of the reporting period, in valuing the Portfolios’ investments carried at fair value:

 

MATSON MONEY U.S. EQUITY VI PORTFOLIO

 

   

TOTAL

   

LEVEL 1

   

LEVEL 2

   

LEVEL 3

 

Domestic Equity Funds

  $ 26,000,920     $ 26,000,920     $     $  

Short-Term Investments

    234,592       234,592              

Total Investments*

  $ 26,235,512     $ 26,235,512     $     $  

 

*

Please refer to the Portfolio of Investments for further details.

 

MATSON MONEY INTERNATIONAL EQUITY VI PORTFOLIO

 

   

TOTAL

   

LEVEL 1

   

LEVEL 2

   

LEVEL 3

 

International Equity Funds

  $ 17,817,482     $ 17,817,482     $     $  

Short-Term Investments

    176,889       176,889              

Total Investments*

  $ 17,994,371     $ 17,994,371     $     $  

 

*

Please refer to the Portfolio of Investments for further details.

 

MATSON MONEY FIXED INCOME VI PORTFOLIO

 

   

TOTAL

   

LEVEL 1

   

LEVEL 2

   

LEVEL 3

 

Fixed Income Funds

  $ 30,126,811     $ 30,126,811     $     $  

Short-Term Investments

    335,387       335,387              

Total Investments*

  $ 30,462,198     $ 30,462,198     $     $  

 

*

Please refer to the Portfolio of Investments for further details.

 

At the end of each quarter, management evaluates the classification of Levels 1, 2 and 3 assets and liabilities. Various factors are considered, such as changes in liquidity from the prior reporting period; whether or not a broker is willing to execute at the quoted price; the depth and consistency of prices from third party pricing services; and the existence of contemporaneous, observable trades in the market. Additionally, management evaluates the classification of Level 1 and Level 2 assets and liabilities on a quarterly basis for changes in listings or delistings on national exchanges.

 

Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Portfolios’ investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values the Portfolios may ultimately realize. Further, such investments may be subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities.

 

For fair valuations using significant unobservable inputs, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires each Portfolio to present a reconciliation of the beginning to ending balances for reported market values that presents changes attributable to total realized and unrealized gains or losses, purchases and sales, and transfers in and out of Level 3 during the period. Transfers in and out between levels are based on values at the end of the period. U.S. GAAP also requires the Portfolios to disclose amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements. A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented only when a Portfolio had an amount of Level 3 investments at the end of the

 

24

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets. The amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of each level within the three-tier hierarchy are disclosed when a Portfolio had an amount of total transfers during the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets as of the end of the reporting period.

 

During the current fiscal period, the Portfolios had no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3.

 

USE OF ESTIMATES — The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and those differences could be significant.

 

INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS, INVESTMENT INCOME AND EXPENSES — The Portfolios record security transactions based on trade date for financial reporting purposes. The cost of investments sold is determined by use of the specific identification method for both financial reporting and income tax purposes in determining realized gains and losses on investments. Interest income is accrued when earned. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The Portfolios estimate the components of distributions received that may be considered return of capital distributions or capital gain distributions. Each Portfolio’s investment income, expenses (other than class specific expenses) and unrealized and realized gains and losses are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class at the beginning of the day. Expenses incurred on behalf of a specific class, fund or fund family of the Company are charged directly to the class, fund or fund family (in proportion to net assets). Expenses incurred for all of the RBB funds (such as director or professional fees) are charged to all funds in proportion to their average net assets of RBB, or in such other manner as the Board deems fair or equitable. Expenses and fees, including investment advisory and administration fees, are accrued daily and taken into account for the purpose of determining the NAV of the Portfolios. In addition to the net annual operating expenses that the Portfolios bear directly, the shareholders indirectly bear the Portfolios’ pro-rata expenses of the underlying mutual funds in which each Portfolio invests.

 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS — Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid at least annually to shareholders recorded on the ex-dividend date for each Portfolio. Income dividends and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. GAAP.

 

U.S. TAX STATUS — No provision is made for U.S. income taxes as it is each Portfolio’s intention to continue to qualify for and elect the tax treatment applicable to regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and make the requisite distributions to its shareholders which will be sufficient to relieve it from U.S. income and excise taxes.

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — Cash and cash equivalents are valued at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates market value.

 

OTHER — In the normal course of business, the Portfolios may enter into contracts that provide general indemnifications. Each Portfolio’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made against the Portfolios in the future, and, therefore, cannot be estimated; however, based on experience, the risk of material loss for such claims is considered remote.

 

2.

Investment Adviser and Other Services

 

Matson Money, Inc. (“Matson Money” or the “Adviser”), serves as the investment adviser to each Portfolio. Each Portfolio compensates the Adviser for its services at an annual rate based on each Portfolio’s average daily net assets (the “Advisory Fee”), payable on a monthly basis in arrears, as shown in the following table.

 

25

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

AVERAGE DAILY NET ASSETS ADVISORY FEE
For the first $1 billion 0.50%
Over $1 billion to $5 billion 0.49
Over $5 billion 0.47

 

The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent that total annual Portfolio operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) exceed the rates (“Expense Caps”) shown in the following table of each Portfolio’s average daily net assets. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and certain of these expenses could cause total annual Portfolio operating expenses to exceed the Expense Caps: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes. The Adviser may not recoup waived management fees or reimbursed expenses. This contractual limitation is in effect until December 31, 2018 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board. The Adviser may discontinue these arrangements at any time after December 31, 2018.

 

PORTFOLIO EXPENSE CAPS
Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio 1.13%
Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio 1.35
Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio 1.00

 

During the current fiscal period, investment advisory fees accrued were as follows:

 

PORTFOLIO

 

ADVISORY FEES

 

Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio

  $ 115,317  

Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio

    82,214  

Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio

    140,316  

 

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (“Fund Services”), doing business as U.S. Bank Global Fund Services serves as administrator for the Portfolios. For providing administrative and accounting services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Fund Services serves as the Portfolios’ transfer and dividend disbursing agent. For providing transfer agent services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

U.S. Bank, N.A. (the “Custodian”) provides certain custodial services to the Portfolios. The Custodian is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Quasar Distributors, LLC serves as the principal underwriter and distributor of the Portfolios’ shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with RBB.

 

For compensation amounts paid to Fund Services and the Custodian, please refer to the Statements of Operations.

 

3.

Director’s and Officer’s Compensation

 

The Directors of the Company receive an annual retainer and meeting fees for meetings attended. Employees of Vigilant Compliance, LLC serve as President, Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Treasurer of the Company. Vigilant Compliance, LLC is compensated for the services provided to the Company. An employee of RBB serves as Treasurer and Secretary and is compensated for services provided. Certain employees of Fund Services serve as officers of the Company. They are not compensated by the Portfolios or the Company. For Director’s and Officer’s compensation amounts, please refer to the Statement of Operations.

 

26

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

4.

Purchases and Sales of Investment Securities

 

During the current fiscal period, aggregate purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding short-term investments) of the Portfolios were as follows:

 

   

PURCHASES

   

SALES

 

Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio

  $ 5,834,270     $ 2,646,995  

Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio

    4,832,621       1,365,622  

Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio

    5,481,098       598,585  

 

There were no purchases or sales of long-term U.S. Government securities during the current fiscal period.

 

5.

Federal Income Tax Information

 

The Portfolios have followed the authoritative guidance on accounting for and disclosure of uncertainty in tax positions, which requires the Portfolios to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Portfolios have determined that there was no effect on the financial statements from following this authoritative guidance. In the normal course of business, the Portfolios are subject to examination by federal, state and local jurisdictions, where applicable, for tax years for which applicable statutes of limitations have not expired.

 

As of August 31, 2018, the federal tax cost and aggregate gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of investments held by each Portfolio were as follows:

 

   

FEDERAL TAX
COST

   

UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION

   

UNREALIZED
(DEPRECIATION)

   

NET
UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION/
(DEPRECIATION)

 

Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio

  $ 22,086,913     $ 4,219,049     $ (70,450 )   $ 4,148,599  

Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio

    17,003,555       1,488,286       (497,470 )     990,816  

Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio

    30,829,706       30,964       (398,472 )     (367,508 )

 

Distributions to shareholders from net investment income and realized gains are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from net investment income and realized gains recognized for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying financial statements. To the extent these differences are permanent, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts based on the tax treatment; temporary differences do not require such reclassification.

 

The following permanent differences as of August 31, 2018, primarily attributable to reclassifications of short-term capital gain distributions, were reclassified among the following accounts:

 

   

UNDISTRIBUTED
NET INVESTMENT
INCOME

   

ACCUMULATED
NET REALIZED
GAIN/(LOSS)

   

PAID-IN
CAPITAL

 

Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio

  $ 106,255     $ (106,255 )   $  

Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio

    20,714       (20,714 )      

Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio

                 

 

27

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Notes to Financial Statements (concluded)

August 31, 2018

 

As of August 31, 2018, the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

 

   

Undistributed
Ordinary Income

   

Undistributed
Long-Term
Capital Gains

   

Net
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

   

Qualified
Late-Year
Losses

 

Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio

  $ 2,903     $ 1,107,931     $ 4,148,599     $  

Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio

    24,686       288,898       990,816        

Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio

    81,787       5,379       (367,508 )      

 

The differences between the book and tax basis components of distributable earnings relate primarily to the timing of recognition of income and gains for federal income tax purposes. Short-term and foreign currency gains are reported as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes.

 

The tax character of distributions paid during the fiscal years ended August 31, 2018 and 2017 were as follows:

 

     

ORDINARY
INCOME

   

LONG-TERM
GAINS

   

TOTAL

 

Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio

2018

  $ 231,177     $ 885,944     $ 1,117,121  
 

2017

    135,895       659,715       795,610  

Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio

2018

    308,131       135,929       444,060  
 

2017

    247,347       166,208       413,555  

Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio

2018

    240,545       35,480       276,025  
 

2017

    107,491       106,213       213,704  

 

Distributions from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes.

 

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010, the Portfolios are permitted to carry forward capital losses incurred in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 for an unlimited period. Additionally, capital losses that are carried forward will retain their character as either short-term or long-term capital losses rather than being considered all short-term as under the previous law. As of the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, the Portfolios did not have any capital loss carryforwards.

 

6.

New Accounting Pronouncements

 

In August 2018, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”). The primary focus of ASU 2018-13 is to improve the effectiveness of the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The changes affect all companies that are required to include fair value measurement disclosures. In general, the amendments in ASU 2018-13 are effective for all affected entities for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. An affected entity is permitted to adopt the removed or modified disclosures upon the issuance of ASU 2018-13 and may delay adoption of the additional disclosures, which are required for public companies only, until their effective date. Management is currently evaluating the impact these changes will have on the Funds’ financial statements and disclosures.

 

7.

Subsequent Events

 

Management has evaluated the impact of all subsequent events on the Portfolios through the date the financial statements were issued and has determined that there were no significant events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.

 

28

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

To the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. and Shareholders of Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio, Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio, and Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio

 

Opinions on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities, including the portfolios of investments, of Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio, Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio, and Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio (the “Portfolios”), three separately managed portfolios of The RBB Fund, Inc., as of August 31, 2018, the related statements of operations for the year ended August 31, 2018, the statements of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Portfolios as of August 31, 2018, the results of each of their operations for the year then ended, the changes in each of their net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018 and each of the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated therein in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

Basis for Opinions

 

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

 

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

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2018 by correspondence with the custodian and transfer agent. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinions.

 

 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 25, 2018

 

We have served as the auditor of one or more Matson Money, Inc. investment companies since 2008.

 

29

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Shareholder Tax Information

(Unaudited)

 

The tax character of dividends and distributions paid during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018 were as follows:

 

   

Ordinary
Income

   

Long-Term
Gains

   

Total

 

Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio

  $ 231,177     $ 885,944     $ 1,117,121  

Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio

    308,131       135,929       444,060  

Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio

    240,545       35,480       276,025  

 

Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal income tax purposes.

 

The percentage of total ordinary income dividends qualifying for the 15% dividend income tax rate is 100% for the Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio and 74.06% for the Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio.

 

The percentage of total ordinary dividends qualifying for the corporate dividends received deduction is 100% for the Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio and 3.84% for Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio.

 

The percentage of qualified interest income related dividends not subject to withholding tax for non-resident aliens and foreign corporations is 40.92% for the Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio.

 

Because each Portfolio’s fiscal year is not the calendar year, another notification will be sent with respect to calendar year 2017. The second notification, which will reflect the amount, if any, to be used by calendar year taxpayers on their U.S. federal income tax returns, will be made in conjunction with Form 1099-DIV and will be mailed in January 2019.

 

Foreign shareholders will generally be subject to U.S. withholding tax on the amount of their ordinary income dividends. They will generally not be entitled to a foreign tax credit or deduction for the withholding taxes paid by the Portfolios, if any. The Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio passed through foreign tax credits of $20,373 and earned $376,202 of gross foreign source income during the fiscal year.

 

In general, dividends received by tax-exempt recipients (e.g., IRAs and Keoghs) need not be reported as taxable income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, some retirement trusts (e.g., corporate, Keogh and 403(b)(7) plans) may need this information for their annual information reporting.

 

Shareholders are advised to consult their own tax advisers with respect to the tax consequences of their investment in the Portfolios.

 

30

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Other Information

(Unaudited)

 

Proxy Voting

 

Policies and procedures that the Portfolios use to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities as well as information regarding how the Portfolios voted proxies relating to portfolio securities for the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 are available without charge, upon request, by calling Matson Money VI Portfolios at (866) 780-0357, ext. 3863 and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Quarterly Portfolio Schedules

 

The Company files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third fiscal quarters of each fiscal year (quarters ended November 30 and May 31) on Form N-Q. The Company’s Form N-Q is available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov and may be reviewed and copied at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the SEC Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.

 

Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement

 

Matson Money, Inc. –VI Portfolio Funds

 

As required by the 1940 Act, the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Company, including all of the Directors who are not “interested persons” of the Company, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act (the “Independent Directors”), considered the renewal of the investment advisory agreements between Matson Money and the Company (the “Investment Advisory Agreements”) on behalf of the Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio, Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio and Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio (each a “Fund” and collectively the “Funds”), at a meeting of the Board held on May 9-10, 2018 (the “Meeting”). At the Meeting, the Board, including all of the Independent Directors, approved the Investment Advisory Agreements for an additional one-year term. The Board’s decision to approve the Investment Advisory Agreements reflects the exercise of its business judgment to continue the existing arrangements. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreements, the Board considered information provided by Matson Money with the assistance and advice of counsel to the Independent Directors and the Company.

 

In considering the renewal and approval of the Investment Advisory Agreements between the Company and Matson Money with respect to the Funds, the Directors took into account all the materials provided prior to and during the Meeting and at other meetings throughout the past year, the presentations made during the Meeting, and the discussions held during the Meeting. Among other things, the Directors considered (i) the nature, extent, and quality of Matson Money’s services provided to the Funds; (ii) descriptions of the experience and qualifications of Matson Money’s personnel providing those services; (iii) Matson Money’s investment philosophies and processes; (iv) Matson Money’s assets under management and client descriptions; (v) Matson Money’s current advisory fee arrangements with the Company and other similarly managed clients; (vi) Matson Money’s compliance procedures; (vii) Matson Money’s financial information, insurance coverage and profitability analysis related to providing advisory services to the Funds; (viii) the extent to which economies of scale are relevant to the Funds; (ix) a report prepared by Broadridge/Lipper comparing each Fund’s management fees and total expense ratio to those of its respective Lipper Group and comparing the performance of each Fund to the performance of its respective Lipper Group; and (x) a report comparing the performance of each Fund to the performance of its primary and composite benchmarks.

 

As part of their review, the Directors considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by Matson Money. The Directors concluded that Matson Money had substantial resources to provide services to the Funds and that Matson Money’s services had been acceptable.

 

31

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Other Information (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

The Directors also considered the investment performance of the Funds and Matson Money. Information on the Funds’ investment performance was provided for the since inception and for one, three- and five-year periods, and for the quarter ended March 31, 2018. The Directors considered the Funds’ investment performance in light of their investment objectives and investment strategies. The Directors concluded that the investment performance of each of the Funds as compared to their respective benchmarks and Lipper Groups was acceptable.

 

The Directors considered that the Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio had outperformed its benchmark for the year-to-date and one-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also noted that the Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio ranked in the 1st quintile in its Performance Universe for the one-year, two-year, three-year and since inception periods ended December 31, 2017.

 

The Directors noted the Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio had underperformed its benchmark for the year-to-date and one-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also noted that the Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio ranked in the 5th quintile in its Performance Group for the one-year, two-year, three-year and since inception periods ended December 31, 2017.

 

The Directors noted the Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio had underperformed its benchmark for the year-to-date and one-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also noted that the Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio ranked in the 1st quintile in its Performance Group for the two-year period ended December 31, 2017, and the 2nd quintile in its Performance Universe for the two- and three-year periods ended December 31, 2017.

 

The Board also considered the advisory fee rates payable by the Funds under the Investment Advisory Agreements. In this regard, information on the fees paid by the Funds and the Funds’ total operating expense ratios (before and after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) were compared to similar information for mutual funds advised by other, unaffiliated investment advisory firms. The Directors noted that the contractual advisor fee of each of the Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio, Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio, and Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio ranked in the 1st quintile of its Lipper Expense Group. In addition, the Directors noted that Matson Money had contractually agreed to waive management fees and reimburse expenses through at least December 31, 2018 to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses exceed 1.13%, 1.35% and 1.00% for the Matson Money U.S. Equity VI Portfolio, Matson Money International Equity VI Portfolio, and Matson Money Fixed Income VI Portfolio, respectively.

 

After reviewing the information regarding the Funds’ costs, profitability and economies of scale, and after considering Matson Money’s services, the Directors concluded that the investment advisory fees paid by the Funds were fair and reasonable and that the Investment Advisory Agreements should be approved and continued for an additional one year period ending August 16, 2019.

 

32

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Company Management

(Unaudited)

 

Directors and Executive Officers

 

The business and affairs of the Company are managed under the direction of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company is organized under and managed pursuant to Maryland law. The Directors and executive officers of the Company, their ages, business addresses and principal occupations during the past five years are set forth below. The statement of additional information (“SAI”) includes additional information about the Directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling 866-780-0357, ext. 3863.

 

Name, Address, and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS

Julian A. Brodsky

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 85

Director

1988 to present

From 1969 to 2011, Director and Vice Chairman, Comcast Corporation (cable television and communications).

30

AMDOCS Limited (service provider to telecommunications companies).

J. Richard Carnall

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 79

Director

2002 to present

Since 1984, Director of Haydon Bolts, Inc. (bolt manufacturer) and Parkway Real Estate Company (subsidiary of Haydon Bolts, Inc.); since 2004, Director of Cornerstone Bank.

30

None

Gregory P. Chandler

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 51

Director

2012 to present

Since 2009, Chief Financial Officer, Emtec, Inc. (information technology consulting/services); from 2003-2009, Managing Director, head of Business Services and IT Services Practice, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC (investment banking/brokerage).

30

Emtec, Inc.; FS Investment Corporation (business development company); FS Energy and Power Fund (business development company); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios)(registered investment company).

Nicholas A. Giordano

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 75

Director

2006 to present

Since 1997, Consultant, financial services organizations.

30

Kalmar Pooled Investment Trust (registered investment company) (until September 2017); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios)_(registered investment company); Independence Blue Cross (healthcare insurance).

 

33

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Company Management (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Name, Address, and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

Arnold M. Reichman

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 70

Chairman

 

Director

2005 to present

 

1991 to present

Since 2006, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lifebooker, LLC (online beauty and health appointment booking service).

30

Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

Brian T. Shea 615

East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 58

Director

2018 to present

From 2014-2017, Chief Executive Officer, BNY Mellon Investment Services (fund services, global custodian and securities clearing firm); from 1983-2014, Chief Executive Officer and various positions, Pershing LLC (broker dealer, clearing and custody firm).

30

WisdomTree Investments, Inc. (asset management company); Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (financial services technology company).

Robert A. Straniere

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 77

Director

2006 to present

Since 2009, Administrative Law Judge, New York City; since 1980, Founding Partner, Straniere Law Group (law firm).

30

Reich and Tang Group (asset management).

INTERESTED DIRECTOR2

Robert Sablowsky

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 80

Vice Chairman

 

Director

2016 to present

 

 

1991 to present

Since 2002, Senior Director - Investments and, prior thereto, Executive Vice President, of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. (a registered broker-dealer).

30

None

OFFICERS

Salvatore Faia, JD,

CPA, CFE

Vigilant Compliance, LLC

Gateway Corporate

Center Suite 216

223 Wilmington West

Chester Pike

Chadds Ford, PA 19317

Age: 55

President

 

Chief Compliance Officer

2009 to present

 

2004 to present

Since 2004, President, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2005, Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

James G. Shaw

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 57

Treasurer and Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2016, Treasurer and Secretary of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 2005 to 2016, Assistant Treasurer of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 1995 to 2016, Senior Director and Vice President of BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (financial services company).

N/A

N/A

 

34

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Company Management (CONTINUED)

(Unaudited)

 

Name, Address, and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

Robert Amweg

Vigilant Compliance, LLC

Gateway Corporate Center Suite 216

223 Wilmington West

Chester Pike

Chadds Ford, PA 19317

Age: 65

Assistant Treasurer

2016 to present

Since 2013, Compliance Director, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2012, Consultant to the financial services industry; from 2007 to 2012, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, Turner Investments, LP (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

Jennifer Witt

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 35

Assistant Treasurer

2018 to present

Since 2016, Assistant Vice President, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm); from 2007 to 2016, Supervisor, Nuveen Investments (investment company).

N/A

N/A

Edward Paz

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 47

Assistant Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2007, Vice President and Counsel, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm).

N/A

N/A

Michael P. Malloy

One Logan Square

Ste. 2000

Philadelphia, PA 19103

Age: 59

Assistant Secretary

1999 to present

Since 1993, Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm).

N/A

N/A

Jillian L. Bosmann

One Logan Square

Ste. 2000

Philadelphia, PA 19103

Age: 39

Assistant Secretary

2017 to present

Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm) (2017-Present); Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (2006-Present).

N/A

N/A

 

*

Each Director oversees 30 portfolios of the Company.

 

1.

Subject to the Company’s Retirement Policy, each Director may continue to serve as a Director until the last day of the calendar year in which the applicable Director attains age 75 or until his successor is elected and qualified or his death, resignation or removal. The Board reserves the right to waive the requirements of the Policy with respect to an individual Director. The Board has approved waivers of the policy with respect to Messrs. Brodsky, Carnall, Giordano, Sablowsky and Straniere. Each officer holds office at the pleasure of the Board until the next special meeting of the Company or until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, or until he or she dies, resigns or is removed.

 

2.

Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “interested person” of the Company as that term is defined in the 1940 Act and is referred to as an “Interested Director.” Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “Interested Director” of the Company by virtue of his position as an employee of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc., a registered broker-dealer.

 

Director Experience, Qualifications, Attributes and/or Skills

 

The information above includes each Director’s principal occupations during the last five years. Each Director possesses extensive additional experience, skills and attributes relevant to his qualifications to serve as a Director. The cumulative background of each Director led to the conclusion that each Director should serve as a Director of the Company. Mr. Giordano has years of experience as a consultant to financial services organizations and also serves on the boards of other registered

 

35

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Company Management (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

investment companies. Mr. Reichman brings decades of investment management experience to the Board, in addition to senior executive-level management experience. Mr. Straniere has been a practicing attorney for over 30 years and also serves on the boards of an asset management company and another registered investment company. Mr. Brodsky has over 40 years of senior executive level management experience in the cable television and communications industry. Mr. Sablowsky has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the financial services industry. Mr. Carnall has decades of senior executive-level management experience in the banking and financial services industry and also serves on the boards of various corporations and a bank. Mr. Chandler has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive level positions in the investment technology consulting/services and investment banking/brokerage industries, and also serves on various boards. Mr. Shea has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the investment services industry.

 

36

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Privacy Notice

(Unaudited)

 

FACTS

WHAT DO THE MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION?

Why?

Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.

What?

The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:

  

●     Social Security number

    account balances

    account transactions

    transaction history

    wire transfer instructions

    checking account information

 

When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice.

How?

All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons the Matson Money VI Portfolios choose to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.

       

Reasons we can share your personal information

Do the Matson Money VI Portfolios share?

Can you limit this sharing?

For our everyday business purposes —
such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court orders and legal investigations, or report to credit bureaus

Yes

No

For our marketing purposes —
to offer our products and services to you

Yes

No

For joint marketing with other financial companies

Yes

No

For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes —
information about your transactions and experiences

Yes

No

For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes —
information about your creditworthiness

No

We don’t share.

For our affiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share.

For nonaffiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share.

 

Questions?

Call (866) 573-2152 or go to www.MatsonMoney.com

 

37

 

 

 

MATSON MONEY VI PORTFOLIOS

Privacy Notice (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

What we do

 

 

How do the Matson Money VI Portfolios protect my personal information?

To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.

How do the Matson Money VI Portfolios collect my personal information?

We collect your personal information, for example, when you

 

    open an account

    provide account information

    give us your contact information

    make a wire transfer

    tell us where to send the money

 

We also collect your information from others, such as credit bureaus, affiliates, or other companies.

Why can’t I limit all sharing?

Federal law gives you the right to limit only

 

 sharing for affiliates' everyday business purposes – information about your  creditworthiness

    affiliates from using your information to market to you

    sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you

 

State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.

Definitions

Affiliates

Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

    Our affiliates include McGriff Video Productions and Matson Money, Inc.

Nonaffiliates

Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

  The Matson Money VI Portfolios don’t share with nonaffiliates so they can   market to you. The Portfolios may share information with nonaffiliates that   perform marketing services on our behalf.

Joint marketing

A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.

 

  The Matson Money VI Portfolios may share your information with other     financial institutions with whom we have joint marketing arrangements who     may suggest additional fund services or other investment products which may     be of interest to you.

 

38

 

 

 

Investment Adviser

Matson Money, Inc.
5955 Deerfield Blvd.
Mason, OH 45040

 

Administrator and Transfer Agent

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, WI 53201

 

Principal Underwriter

Quasar Distributors, LLC
777 East Wisconsin Avenue, Floor 6
Milwaukee, WI 53202

 

Custodian

U.S. Bank, N.A.
1555 North Rivercenter Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, WI 53212

 

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Two Commerce Square, Suite 1800
2001 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103-7042

 

Legal Counsel

Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
One Logan Square, Suite 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103-6996

 

MMFI-AR18

 

 

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund (FOOLX)

This past year went very well for the Global Opportunities Fund. Of the 40 companies we held throughout the entire year, 9 gained more than 50% (including 3 that doubled).

 

We began the year with 48 companies in the portfolio and ended with 50. This includes new investments in Atlassian, GrubHub, Gentera, and Yum China.

 

We still own all the companies that were in our Top 10 largest holdings a year ago. But a few have fallen off that list, replaced by high-growth companies that had a great year. Joining our Top 10 are Align Technology, Paycom Software, SoftBank Group, and Splunk, which have leapfrogged Bank of Georgia, Douzone Bizon, Starbucks, and Tencent.

Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund (TMFGX)

This year was extraordinary for our companies. Four investments in the Fund more than doubled, and another nine returned between 50% and 99%. We think that’s a pretty good success rate given that we started and ended the year with 43 holdings.

 

Although we began and ended the year with the same number of companies in the Fund, we said goodbye to nine companies and welcomed nine new ones.

 

Every company currently among the Top 10 largest holdings was in the Fund a year ago. But four of those companies began the year outside the Top 10 and grew into their current positions. GrubHub, Paycom Software, ResMed, and Splunk are new to the Top 10, replacing IPG Photonics, Markel, SBA Communications, and Thor Industries.

Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund (TMFEX)

 

Emerging markets generally were largely flat the past 12 months, with our Fund losing 1.61%. We had a few nice winners like Top Glove (+110%), Douzone Bizon (+75%), and NMC Health (+46%), but they couldn’t overcome the broad weakness in practically every market outside the United States.

 

The silver lining is that we didn’t need to make many changes to the portfolio. We sold out of one company (Almarai), added two new (Vodacom and Yum China), and gained one new position through a spin-out (we now hold Georgia Capital in addition to our investment in Bank of Georgia).

 

The 32 companies held in the Emerging Markets Fund are headquartered in 18 different countries.

 

Table of Contents

 

Letter from the President

1

Letter to Shareholders

2

Portfolio Characteristics

5

Fund Expense Examples

14

Schedules of Investments

16

Financial Statements

26

Notes to Financial Statements

39

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

52

Shareholder Tax Information

53

Notice to Shareholders

54

 

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Letter FROM THE PRESIDENT

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

 

President
Denise H. Coursey

 

Dear Fellow Shareholders,

 

We have a big announcement. Are you sitting down?

 

Motley Fool Funds is now Motley Fool Asset Management.

 

You may be thinking, “Hmm, is that really a change?”

 

Truth be told, we have always been Motley Fool Asset Management, LLC. That’s our legal name… and we’re taking it back.

 

Why? Because our mission is to help the world invest better — effortlessly. It turns out mutual funds are just one way to invest better and effortlessly — and the world requires more. In January, we expanded our offerings with the launch of our first ETF, The Motley Fool 100 Index ETF (CBOE: TMFC). It was met with great excitement. Based on your reaction and the demand for the product, we realized we could, and should, do more to fulfill our mission — and that our name should reflect that.

 

So we’re going back to our roots. We’re re-christening ourselves Motley Fool Asset Management (MFAM, for short) because we aspire to be more than a mutual fund company. In fact, we hope that in the minds of our longtime shareholders we already are. But we will be actively looking at more ways — new products and strategies, new investment vehicles, new insights — to help you invest better.

 

You’ll soon see our not-so-new name roll out everywhere, including:

 

 

In our spiffy new logo.

 

 

On your brokerage statements. (We’ll be MFAM — because there’s only so much room on those statements.)

 

 

In our regular email updates with monthly performance numbers, market commentary, and team insights. (If you don’t receive these yet, email us at help@mfamfunds.com.)

 

 

On our brand-new website! Check it out at www.mfamfunds.com. We’ve spent the past few months upgrading our look and our content. We’re pretty proud of what we’ve created and would love for you to look it over and give us your feedback.

 

While we’re doubling down on our efforts to fulfill our mission, we want you to know that our commitment to delivering great returns for our shareholders and our commitment to our mutual funds hasn’t changed. In fact, it’s only gotten stronger.

 

Thank you, as always, for the trust you place in us. My team and I at Motley Fool Asset Management will continue to work hard every day to earn your trust — and to help you invest better.

 

Foolish best,

 

 

Denise H. Coursey
President, Motley Fool Asset Management

 

1

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Letter to Shareholders

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

 

The Quest for Investing Nirvana

 

“Today’s headlines and history’s judgment are rarely the same.”

 

— Condoleezza Rice

 

Dear Fellow Shareholder,

 

That quote is a nice reminder that we shouldn’t get wrapped up in the spicy headlines of the day. Seen in the proper context, they often prove shortsighted, insignificant, or simply wrong. Our headline for fiscal 2018, the 12 months ended Aug. 31, is that our investing performance was excellent, and our long-term performance remains very good. But although we’re proud of our one-year performance, our focus remains on healthy performance over longer periods.

 

During the fiscal year, our flagship strategy, the Global Opportunities Fund, returned 22.32%, versus 11.87% for its benchmark. Our Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund returned 30.88%, against 30.18% for its benchmark. And our Emerging Markets Fund returned -1.54%, which was still better than a -2.66% loss for its benchmark. Outperforming our benchmarks is satisfying, but what we really want is for your and your clients’ accounts to continue achieving your and their financial goals.

 

You probably noticed the disparity in our returns. Over the past year, U.S. stocks strongly outperformed foreign ones. Our U.S.-only fund, the Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund, was our strongest performer, while our Global Opportunities Fund lagged a bit, since nearly half of its assets are invested in foreign companies. Meanwhile, our Emerging Markets Fund clung to slightly positive returns as emerging-market stock returns lagged behind those from developed foreign markets. Still, in our two funds with investments in foreign companies, we did well to outperform our benchmarks.

 

Our strong results came from growth stocks’ outperformance of value stocks and from good stock selection. We look to invest in the highest-quality growth businesses on the planet, because we believe that’s the most reliable way to compound capital at healthy rates over the long term. Our focus on long-term ownership of great businesses points us toward companies that can sustain healthy growth rates while helping solve meaningful problems. It also means we tend to own growth stocks instead of value stocks, even though the distinction we make is to own businesses that adeptly pursue profitable growth for the balanced benefit of stakeholders.

 

Regarding stock selection, we encourage you to visit www.mfamfunds.com and read our quarterly updates, where we outline stock-specific contributions and the reasons behind our investments. You can also find our investments detailed later in this annual report. You’ll see many of the same businesses you’ve seen in past years. That’s by design, and it suggests our research process is working. Once we find high-quality growth businesses, we hold on to them tenaciously.

 

Headlines du Jour

 

Coming into the year, not many people expected strong U.S. stock market returns. A common refrain was that the bull market was long in the tooth and due for a correction. Whether you believed it or not, there were enough cautionary headlines heading into 2018 to give anyone pause. September 2017 brought the destruction of hurricanes Irma and Maria, and October gave us the tragic Las Vegas concert shooting. With terrorism and safety on everyone’s mind, January arrived with a false missile alert in Hawaii. Then came talk of a government shutdown and the firing of Secretary of State Rex Tillerson in March. As for the nation’s financial health, it seemed not a week went by without a few articles declaring that rising interest rates would knock the economy off course and stall an improving employment picture. Even with the passage of the tax reform bill, stocks sold off in February, and they did so with a daily volatility that investors haven’t seen in a while. In short, the year was off to an inauspicious start.

 

In the face of those headlines, your investment in our funds sprinted forward anyway. We benefited by not reacting to the headlines and allowing the high-quality growth businesses in which we were already invested to play out their strategies and grow business value. But don’t be fooled: Doing little isn’t as easy as it sounds. You probably had a visceral reaction to at least one of those headlines. The ability to not react results from ongoing effort, not unlike the Buddhist pursuit of nirvana.

 

2

 

 

 

The Journey to Clarity

 

The Sanskrit word samsara refers to the swirl of life. This cycle is endless, filled with noise and temptation, and constantly challenges one’s ability to find a state of peace, awareness, and the absence of distraction. It keeps us from achieving the peace of nirvana.

 

Likewise in investing, the constant swirl of noise that comes from news headlines, daily price swings, market commentators, and latent fear are obstacles to the peace and focus we need to make consistently good investing decisions. The samsara of an investor’s life is a recipe for bad decisions and poor outcomes.

 

Our team’s path to investing nirvana begins with a philosophy that clearly defines what matters — and, therefore, what doesn’t. That philosophy states that independent thinking with a long-term mindset is the key to winning investing. Independent thought pays homage to the unique definition of business quality that guides our research process. A long-term mindset provides the right lens through which to filter information and reduces the need for constant activity. The combination, provided we stay true, helps the noise and temptation of modern-day samsara fall away. What is left, ideally, is a peaceful stillness in which our assessment of business quality can come into clearer focus.

 

Put the Headline in Context

 

History is a better gauge than today’s headlines, so let’s take a look back. Since inception, our funds have grown nicely in value while taking an acceptable level of risk. Our Global Opportunities Fund, which has been around since 2009, has achieved a compound annual growth rate of 14%. Our Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund has grown at 15% per year since it began in 2010, and our Emerging Markets Fund has grown at 6% per year since its inception in 2011. That puts two of our three funds ahead of their respective benchmarks. We continue to judge ourselves on this longer-term performance and encourage you to do the same with all of your investments.

 

Our goal remains to focus on what we can control: to search for high quality businesses — which we define as having special management teams, attractive business economics, durable competitive advantages, and sustainable growth — that we can patiently own for years, and to monitor the businesses we already own with a long-term, business owner’s mindset.

 

Thank you for your continued trust.

 

Onward,

 

 

Bryan Hinmon
Chief Investment Officer, Motley Fool Asset Management

 

3

 

 

 

Past performance does not guarantee future results. There can be no guarantee that any strategy (risk management or otherwise) will be successful. All investing involves risk, including potential loss of principal. Securities in a Fund may not match those in an index and performance of the Fund will be different. You cannot invest directly into an index.

 

The Letter to Shareholders seeks to describe some of the Adviser’s current opinions and views of the financial markets. Although the Adviser believes it has a reasonable basis for any opinions or views expressed, actual results may differ, sometimes significantly so, from those expected or expressed. The securities held by the Funds that are discussed in the Letter to Shareholders were held during the period covered by the annual report. They do not comprise the entire investment portfolio of the Funds, may be sold at any time, and may no longer be held by the Funds. The opinions of the Adviser with respect to those securities may change at any time.

 

New to investing? Reading your first mutual fund annual report?

 

Welcome! Here are some important things you need to know. Mutual fund investing offers many potential benefits. But there also are risks. Financial gain is not guaranteed when it comes to investing in equity securities. It’s possible to lose money, including your principal — especially during the short term.

 

We focus on the stocks of high quality businesses. Even the best businesses in the world fall in price — and sometimes a lot. Over the longer term, stock prices usually reflect business values, but the relationship is much more tenuous in the short term.

 

We also construct focused portfolios. This means we’re likely to own far fewer securities than are in the “market” or our benchmark. This could result in higher volatility or performance that is worse from the market and benchmark. To be fair, it could also result in lower volatility and performance that is better.

 

Our funds may invest in foreign companies and in companies with small market capitalization. There are certain risks associated with these types of investments. The risks are described on pages 5, 8 and 11 of this report. Additional risk information is provided in section 2 of the Notes to Financial Statements.

 

4

 

 

 

Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund
Portfolio Characteristics
(Unaudited)

 

The Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund operated as a series of The Motley Fool Funds Trust (the “Predecessor Fund”) prior to December 21, 2016, at which time the Predecessor Fund was reorganized into the Fund. The performance shown for periods prior to December 21, 2016 represents the performance of the Predecessor Fund.

 

At August 31, 2018, the Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund Investor Shares had an audited net asset value of $25.91 per share attributed to 15,178,397 shares outstanding, and the Institutional Shares had an audited net asset value of $25.97 per share attributed to 3,041,446 shares outstanding. This compares with an unaudited net asset value as of June 16, 2009 for the Investor Shares of $10.00 per share attributed to 100,000 shares outstanding and as of June 17, 2014 for the Institutional Shares of $20.36 per share attributed to 1 share outstanding. From the Investor Shares launch on June 16, 2009 to August 31, 2018, the Investor Shares had an average annual total return of 13.73% versus a return of 11.62% over the same period for its benchmark, FTSE Global All Cap Net Tax Index. From the Institutional Shares launch on June 17, 2014 to August 31, 2018, the Institutional Shares returned 10.71% versus a return of 7.58% over the same period for the FTSE Global All Cap Net Tax Index.

 

The graph below shows the performance of $10,000 invested in the Investor Shares at inception. The results shown below do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the periods ended AUGUST 31, 2018

 

One
Year

Five
Year

Since
Inception

Inception
Date

Investor Shares*

22.32%

12.26%

13.73%

6/16/2009

Institutional Shares*

22.48%

N/A

10.71%

6/17/2014

FTSE Global All Cap Net Tax Index**

11.87%

10.18%

(1)

Fund Expense Ratios(2): Investor Shares: Gross 1.15% and Net 1.15%; Institutional Shares: Gross 1.17% and Net 0.95%

 

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance and does not guarantee future results. Current performance may be lower or higher. Performance data current to the most recent month-end may be obtained at www.mfamfunds.com. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.

 

(1)

The index returned 11.62% from the inception date of the Investor Shares and 7.58% from the inception date of the Institutional Shares.

 

(2)

The expense ratios of the Fund are set forth according to the December 31, 2017 Prospectus for the Fund and may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in the Financial Highlights tables in this report. See the Financial Highlights for more current expense ratios.

 

*

These returns reflect expense waivers by the Fund’s investment adviser. Without these waivers, returns would have been lower.

 

5

 

 

 

Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund
Portfolio Characteristics (Continued)
(Unaudited)

 

**

The FTSE Global All Cap Net Tax Index is a market-capitalization weighted index representing the performance of large, mid and small cap companies in Developed and Emerging markets. The index is comprised of approximately 7,600 securities from 47 countries and captures 98% of the world’s investable market capitalization. Fair value prices and foreign exchange as of 4 pm ET are used in the calculation of this index, and returns are adjusted for withholding taxes applicable to dividends received by a U.S. Regulated Investment Company domiciled in the United States. The index is unmanaged and not available for direct investments. Its performance does not reflect deductions for fees, expenses or taxes.

 

The investment objective of the Global Opportunities Fund is to achieve long-term capital appreciation, and it pursues this objective by investing primarily in common stocks of companies located anywhere in the world. The Fund seeks long-term growth by identifying and acquiring securities of companies that are, in the view of Motley Fool Asset Management, LLC (the “Adviser”), high quality. To identify these high-quality businesses, the Adviser engages in research to evaluate each company under consideration using four criteria: management, culture, and incentives; the economics of the business; competitive advantage; and the durability of its competitive advantage period. The Adviser’s approach prizes a long-term mindset and a balance of qualitative and quantitative factors.

 

The Fund will invest in areas of the market, that, in the view of the Adviser, offer the greatest potential for long-term capital appreciation, and it does not attempt to match the allocations of its benchmark. As such, significant deviation from the benchmark is expected from time to time, especially over shorter time frames.

 

The allocations to various sectors, countries, or any other macro-economic designation, are the byproduct of rigorous bottom-up analysis rather than an intentional top-down opinion of asset classes. While market conditions are constantly changing, exposure to equity market risk is needed to consistently achieve equity-like returns.

 

The following tables show the top ten holdings, sector allocations, and top ten countries in which the Fund was invested in as of August 31, 2018. Portfolio holdings are subject to change without notice.

 

Top Ten Holdings

% OF NET
Assets

Amazon.com, Inc.

6.4%

NMC Health, PLC

4.7

Align Technology, Inc.

4.3

Mastercard, Inc., Class A

4.3

XPO Logistics, Inc.

4.2

Medtronic, PLC

4.2

SoftBank Group Corp.

3.1

Paycom Software, Inc.

3.1

IPG Photonics Corp.

2.7

Splunk, Inc.

2.5

 

39.5%

 

6

 

 

 

Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund
Portfolio Characteristics (Concluded)
(Unaudited)

 

The Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund uses the Global Industry Classification StandardSM (“GICS SM”) as the basis for the classification of securities on the Schedule of Investments (“SOI”).We believe that this makes the SOI classifications more standard with the rest of the industry.

 

Sector Allocation

% OF Net
Assets

Information Technology

32.7%

Consumer Discretionary

17.1

Health Care

16.9

Industrials

10.5

Financials

7.0

Consumer Staples

5.4

Real Estate

5.0

Telecommunication Services

3.1

 

97.7%

 

Top ten Countries

% OF Net
Assets

United States *

53.4%

United Kingdom

9.7

United Arab Emirates

5.7

Panama

4.6

China

4.1

Belgium

3.8

Mexico

3.5

India

2.7

Sweden

1.7

Switzerland

1.5

 

90.7%

 

*

As of the date of this report, the Fund had a holding of 2.2% in the U.S. Bank Money Market Deposit Account.

 

7

 

 

 

Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund
Portfolio Characteristics
(Unaudited)

 

The Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund operated as a series of The Motley Fool Funds Trust (the “Predecessor Fund”) prior to December 21, 2016, at which time the Predecessor Fund was reorganized into the Fund. The performance shown for periods prior to December 21, 2016 represents performance of the Predecessor Fund.

 

At August 31, 2018, the Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund Investor Shares had an audited net asset value of $27.32 per share attributed to 11,116,961 shares outstanding and the Institutional Shares had an audited net asset value of $27.50 per share attributed to 1,111,393 shares outstanding. This compares with an unaudited net asset value as of November 1, 2010 for the Investor Shares of $10.00 per share attributed to 102,000 shares outstanding and as of June 17, 2014 for the Institutional Shares of $17.94 per share attributed to 1 share outstanding. From the Investor Shares launch on November 1, 2010 to August 31, 2018, the Investor Shares had an average annual total return of 14.81% versus a return of 15.50% over the same period for its benchmark, the Russell 2500 Growth Index. From the Institutional Shares launch on June 17, 2014 to August 31, 2018, the Institutional Shares returned 12.28% versus a return of 13.05% over the same period for the Russell 2500 Growth Index.

 

The graph below shows the performance of $10,000 invested in the Investor Shares at inception. The results shown below do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the periods ended AUGUST 31, 2018

 

One
Year

Five
Year

Since
Inception

Inception
Date

Investor Shares*

30.88%

13.37%

14.81%

11/1/2010

Institutional Shares*

31.10%

N/A

12.28%

6/17/2014

Russell 2500 Growth Index**

30.18%

14.63%

(1)

Fund Expense Ratios(2): Investor Shares: Gross 1.16% and Net 1.15%; Institutional Shares: Gross 1.47% and Net 0.95%

 

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance and does not guarantee future results. Current performance may be lower or higher. Performance data current to the most recent month-end may be obtained at www.mfamfunds.com. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.

 

(1)

The index returned 15.50% from the inception date of the Investor Shares and 13.05% from the inception date of the Institutional Shares.

 

(2)

The expense ratios of the Fund are set forth according to the December 31, 2017 Prospectus for the Fund and may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in the Financial Highlights tables in this report. See the Financial Highlights for more current expense ratios.

 

*

These returns reflect expense waivers by the Fund’s investment adviser. Without these waivers, returns would have been lower.

 

**

The Russell 2500 Growth Index is an unmanaged, free float-adjusted, market capitalization weighted index that is designed to measure the performance of the small and mid-cap growth segment of the U.S. stock market. The Russell 2500 Growth Index is a subset of the Russell 3000® Index. It includes approximately 2,500 of the smallest securities based on a combination of their market cap and current index membership. The

 

8

 

 

 

Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund
Portfolio Characteristics (Continued)
(Unaudited)

 

Fund may invest in companies that are not included within the Russell 2500 Growth Index and its investment portfolio is not weighted in terms of issuers the same as the Russell 2500 Growth Index. For this reason, the Fund’s investment performance should not be expected to track, and may exceed or trail, the Russell 2500 Growth Index. The index is unmanaged and not available for direct investment. Its performance does not reflect deductions for fees, expenses or taxes.

 

The investment objective of the Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund is to achieve long-term capital appreciation, and it pursues this objective by investing primarily in common stocks of companies organized in the United States. The Fund seeks long-term growth by identifying and acquiring securities of companies that are, in the view of Motley Fool Asset Management, LLC (the “Adviser”), high quality. To identify these high-quality businesses, the Adviser engages in research to evaluate each company under consideration using four criteria: management, culture, and incentives; the economics of the business; competitive advantage; and the durability of its competitive advantage period. The Adviser’s approach prizes a long-term mindset and a balance of qualitative and quantitative factors.

 

The Fund will invest in areas of the market, that, in the view of the Adviser, offer the greatest potential for long-term capital appreciation, and it does not attempt to match the allocations of its benchmark. As such, significant deviation from the benchmark is expected from time to time, especially over shorter time frames.

 

The allocations to various sectors, or any other macro-economic designation, are the byproduct of rigorous bottom-up analysis rather than an intentional top-down opinion of asset classes. While market conditions are constantly changing, exposure to equity market risk is needed to consistently achieve equity-like returns. The Adviser views its time as best spent focused on evaluating businesses and seeking to minimize company-specific risk in order to pursue its objective of long-term capital appreciation.

 

Although the Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund may invest in companies with any market capitalization, the Adviser expects that investments in the securities of companies having smaller- and mid-market capitalizations will be important components of the Fund’s investment program. Investments in securities of these companies may involve greater risk than do investments in larger, more established companies. Small- and mid-cap stocks tend to be more volatile and less liquid than their large-cap counterparts.

 

9

 

 

 

Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund
Portfolio Characteristics (concluded)
(Unaudited)

 

The following tables show the top ten holdings, and sector allocations in which the Fund was invested in as of August 31, 2018. Portfolio holdings are subject to change without notice.

 

Top ten Holdings

% OF Net
Assets

XPO Logistics, Inc.

6.9%

Align Technology, Inc.

4.7

Paycom Software, Inc.

4.0

GrubHub, Inc.

3.9

Texas Roadhouse, Inc.

3.8

Cooper Companies, Inc. (The)

3.6

LCI Industries

3.5

Splunk, Inc.

3.3

Jones Lang LaSalle, Inc.

3.3

ResMed, Inc.

3.3

 

40.3%

 

The Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund uses the Global Industry Classification StandardSM (“GICS SM”) as the basis for the classification of securities on the Schedule of Investments (“SOI”).We believe that this makes the SOI classifications more standard with the rest of the industry.

 

Sector Allocation

% OF Net
Assets

Information Technology

25.7%

Health Care

18.8

Consumer Discretionary

16.6

Industrials

14.9

Real Estate

9.4

Financials

9.4

Consumer Staples

3.7

Materials

1.2

 

99.7%

 

10

 

 

 

Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund
Portfolio Characteristics
(Unaudited)

 

The Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund operated as a series of The Motley Fool Funds Trust (the “Predecessor Fund”) prior to December 21, 2016, at which time the Predecessor Fund was reorganized into the Fund. The performance shown for periods prior to December 21, 2016 represents the performance of the Predecessor Fund.

 

At August 31, 2018, the Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund Investor Shares had an audited net asset value of $14.01 per share attributed to 2,663,640 shares outstanding. This compares with an unaudited net asset value as of November 1, 2011 for the Investor Shares of $10.00 per share attributed to 106,350 shares outstanding. From the Investor Shares launch on November 1, 2011 to August 31, 2018, the Investor Shares had an average annual total return of 6.05% versus a return of 3.80% over the same period for its benchmark, the FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A Inclusion Net Tax Index.

 

The graph below shows the performance of $10,000 invested in the Investor Shares at inception. The results shown below do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for periods ended AUGUST 31, 2018

 

One
Year

Five
Year

SINCE
Inception

Inception
Date

Investor Shares*

-1.54%

4.74%

6.05%

11/1/2011

FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A Inclusion Net Tax Index**

-2.66%

5.14%

3.80%(1)

Fund Expense Ratios(2): Investor Shares: Gross 2.00% and Net 1.15%

 

 

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance and does not guarantee future results. Current performance may be lower or higher. Performance data current to the most recent month-end may be obtained at www.mfamfunds.com. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost.

 

(1)

Benchmark performance is from inception date of the Investor Shares only and is not the inception date of the benchmark itself.

 

(2)

The expense ratios of the Fund are set forth according to the December 31, 2017 Prospectus for the Fund and may differ from the expense ratios disclosed in the Financial Highlights table in this report. See the Financial Highlights for more current expense ratios.

 

*

These returns reflect expense waivers by the Fund’s investment adviser. Without these waivers, returns would have been lower.

 

**

The FTSE Emerging Markets All Cap China A Inclusion Net Tax Index is a market-capitalization weighted index representing the performance of large, mid and small cap companies in Emerging markets. The index is comprised of approximately 3,350 securities from 22 countries, and is part of the FTSE China A Inclusion Indexes which contain FTSE China A All Cap Index securities adjusted for the aggregate approved QFII and RQFII quotas available to international investors. Fair value prices and foreign exchange as of 4 pm EST are used in the calculation of this index, and returns are adjusted for withholding taxes applicable to dividends received by a U.S. Regulated Investment Company domiciled in the United States.

 

11

 

 

 

Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund
Portfolio Characteristics (Continued)
(Unaudited)

 

The investment objective of the Emerging Markets Fund is to achieve long-term capital appreciation, and it pursues this objective by investing primarily in common stocks of companies organized in emerging market foreign countries. In prior years, the Fund’s strategy included investments in both developed and emerging markets countries. Along with a name change effective August 31, 2017, the Fund has been focused on emerging economies.

 

The Fund seeks long-term growth by identifying and acquiring securities of companies that are, in the view of Motley Fool Asset Management, LLC (the “Adviser”), high quality. To identify these high-quality businesses, the Adviser engages in research to evaluate each company under consideration using four criteria: management, culture, and incentives; the economics of the business; competitive advantage; and the durability of its competitive advantage period. The Adviser’s approach prizes a long-term mindset and a balance of qualitative and quantitative factors.

 

The Fund will invest in areas of the market, that, in the view of the Adviser, offer the greatest potential for long-term capital appreciation, and it does not attempt to match the allocations of its benchmark. As such, significant deviation from the benchmark is expected from time to time, especially over shorter time frames.

 

The allocations to various sectors, countries, or any other macro-economic designation, are the byproduct of rigorous bottom-up analysis rather than an intentional top-down opinion of asset classes. While market conditions are constantly changing, exposure to equity market risk is needed to consistently achieve equity-like returns. The Adviser views its time as best spent focused on evaluating businesses and seeking to minimize company-specific risk in order to pursue its objective of long-term capital appreciation.

 

Because the Emerging Markets Fund is free to invest in companies of any size around the world, investments in companies with smaller market capitalizations will be an important component of the Fund’s investment program. Small-cap stocks tend to be more volatile and less liquid than their large-cap counterparts. In addition to company risk, fluctuations in currency exchange rates can cause losses when investing in foreign securities, with emerging markets presenting additional risks of illiquidity, political instability, and lax regulation. Please refer to the prospectus for a more detailed discussion of the Fund’s strategies and risks.

 

While investing in a particular sector is not a principal investment strategy of the Emerging Markets Fund, the portfolio may be significantly invested in a sector as a result of the portfolio management decisions made pursuant to its principal investment strategy.

 

The following tables show the top ten holdings, sector allocations, and top ten countries in which the Fund was invested in as of August 31, 2018. Portfolio holdings are subject to change without notice.

 

Top ten Holdings

% OF Net
Assets

NMC Health PLC

6.8%

Top Glove Corp., Bhd

5.8

Tencent Holdings Ltd.

5.3

Douzone Bizon Co., Ltd.

5.2

MercadoLibre, Inc.

4.6

Yum China Holdings, Inc.

4.5

Credicorp Ltd.

4.4

Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., SP ADR

3.8

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd., SP ADR

3.8

Gentera SAB de CV

3.7

 

47.9%

 

12

 

 

 

Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund
Portfolio Characteristics (Concluded)
(Unaudited)

 

The Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund uses the Global Industry Classification StandardSM (“GICS SM”) as the basis for the classification of securities on the Schedule of Investments (“SOI”).We believe that this makes the SOI classifications more standard with the rest of the industry.

 

Sector Allocation

% OF Net
Assets

Information Technology

22.1%

Financials

17.0

Consumer Discretionary

16.4

Health Care

16.3

Industrials

13.1

Telecommunication Services

5.1

Consumer Staples

3.7

Real Estate

0.6

 

94.3%

 

Top ten Countries

% OF Net
Assets

China

20.3%

Mexico

10.1

United Arab Emirates

9.2

Indonesia

6.0

Malaysia

5.8

South Korea

5.2

Argentina

4.6

Peru

4.4

Brazil

4.0

Taiwain

3.8

 

73.4%

 

13

 

 

 

Motley Fool Funds
Fund Expense Examples
AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

As a shareholder of the Funds, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, and (2) ongoing costs, including advisory fees and other Fund expenses. These examples are intended to help you to understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund(s) and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

 

These examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period from March 1, 2018 to August 31, 2018, and held for the entire period.

 

Actual Expenses

 

The first section of the accompanying tables provide information about actual account values and actual expenses. You may use the information in this section, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you incurred over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first section under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses attributable to your investment during this period.

 

Hypothetical EXAMPLES for Comparison Purposes

 

The second section of the accompanying tables provide information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on each Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. Thus, you should not use the hypothetical account values and expenses to estimate the actual ending account balance or your expenses for the period. Rather, these figures are provided to enable you to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund as compared to the costs of investing in other funds. To do so, compare these 5% hypothetical examples with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only and do not reflect any transactional costs. Therefore, the second section of the accompanying table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds. In addition, if these transactional costs were included, your costs would have been higher.

 

Do you know how many times a fund, or the market, has returned a smooth 5% over a long period of time? Never. But we have to pick some example. In reality, the market’s returns are always far bumpier, with the market returning 20% one year, followed by a loss of 10% the next year, followed by a 3% gain, etc. These variations affect actual expenses as well. Happily, over almost all time periods of 20 years or longer, according to the research of University of Pennsylvania’s Jeremy Siegel and others, the domestic market’s returns have been at least 5% per year on average.

 

 

Beginning
Account
Value
March 1,
2018

Ending
Account
Value
august 31,
2018

Expenses
Paid During
Period
(1)

Annualized
Expense
Ratio
(2)

Actual
Six-Month
Total
Investment
Returns
for the
Funds

Global Opportunities Fund - Investor Shares

       

Actual

$1,000.00

$1,051.10

$5.43

1.05%

5.11%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,019.91

5.35

1.05

N/A

Global Opportunities Fund - Institutional Shares

       

Actual

$1,000.00

$1,051.80

$4.91

0.95%

5.18%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,020.42

4.84

0.95

N/A

 

14

 

 

 

Motley Fool Funds
Fund Expense Examples (Concluded)
AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

 

Beginning
Account
Value
March 1,
2018

Ending
Account
Value
august 31,
2018

Expenses
Paid During
Period
(1)

Annualized
Expense
Ratio
(2)

Actual
Six-Month
Total
Investment
Returns
for the
Funds

Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund - Investor Shares

       

Actual

$1,000.00

$1,083.30

$5.78

1.10%

8.33%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,019.66

5.60

1.10

N/A

Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund - Institutional Shares

       

Actual

$1,000.00

$1,084.40

$4.99

0.95%

8.44%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,020.42

4.84

0.95

N/A

Emerging Markets Fund - Investor Shares

         

Actual

$1,000.00

$909.70

$5.54

1.15%

-9.03%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,019.41

5.85

1.15

N/A

 

(1)

Expenses are equal to each Fund’s annualized expense ratio for the period March 1, 2018 to August 31, 2018, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days (184) in the most recent fiscal half-year, then divided by 365 to reflect the one-half year period.

 

(2)

These ratios reflect expenses waived by the Funds’ investment adviser. Without these waivers, the Funds’ expenses would have been higher and the ending account values would have been lower.

 

15

 

 

 

Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund
Schedule of Investments
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value
(Note 2)

 

 

               

Common Stocks — 96.9%

               

Air Freight & Logistics — 4.2%

               

XPO Logistics, Inc. (United States)*

    186,000     $ 19,809,000  

Auto Components — 1.0%

               

Gentex Corp. (United States)

    200,000       4,676,000  

Banks — 4.8%

               

Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior SA, Class E (Panama)

    343,129       7,092,476  

Bank of Georgia Group PLC (Georgia)

    263,132       5,638,982  

HDFC Bank Ltd., ADR (India)

    100,000       10,127,000  
              22,858,458  

Beverages — 1.4%

               

Anheuser-Busch InBev SA/NV, SP ADR (Belgium) (a)

    70,500       6,572,715  

Capital Markets — 0.7%

               

Georgia Capital PLC (Georgia)*

    263,132       3,502,787  

Commercial Services & Supplies — 1.6%

               

KAR Auction Services, Inc. (United States)

    117,708       7,379,114  

Communications Equipment — 1.3%

               

Infinera Corp. (United States)*

    661,100       5,916,845  

Consumer Finance — 1.5%

               

Gentera SAB de CV (Mexico)

    7,200,000       7,307,311  

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 2.7%

               

IPG Photonics Corp. (United States)*

    72,000       12,634,560  

Lagercrantz Group AB, Class B (Sweden)

    19,591       194,160  
              12,828,720  

Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts — 4.0%

               

American Tower Corp. (United States)

    64,000       9,543,680  

SBA Communications Corp. (United States)*

    60,000       9,313,800  
              18,857,480  

Food & Staples Retailing — 2.0%

               

Costco Wholesale Corp. (United States)

    40,000       9,325,200  

Food Products — 2.0%

               

Nestle SA (Switzerland)

    68,694       5,758,422  

Nippon Indosari Corpindo Tbk PT (Indonesia)

    54,234,800       3,589,940  
              9,348,362  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

16

 

 

 

Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund
Schedule of Investments (continued)
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value
(Note 2)

 

 

               

Common Stocks (continued)

               

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 10.9%

               

Align Technology, Inc. (United States)*

    53,000     $ 20,483,970  

Medtronic PLC (Ireland)

    205,272       19,790,273  

ResMed, Inc. (United States)

    102,000       11,363,820  
              51,638,063  

Health Care Providers & Services — 4.7%

               

NMC Health PLC (United Arab Emirates)

    435,482       22,204,581  

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 3.6%

               

Starbucks Corp. (United States)

    195,000       10,422,750  

Yum China Holdings, Inc. (China)

    171,251       6,623,989  
              17,046,739  

Household Durables — 0.8%

               

Tupperware Brands Corp. (United States)

    120,000       3,902,400  

Internet & Direct Marketing Retail — 9.3%

               

Amazon.com, Inc. (United States)*

    15,100       30,391,921  

Ctrip.com International Ltd., ADR (China)*

    200,752       7,859,441  

Zooplus AG (Germany)*

    33,200       5,456,832  
              43,708,194  

Internet Software & Services — 7.2%

               

Alphabet, Inc., Class C (United States)*

    9,024       10,992,947  

GrubHub, Inc. (United States) (a)*

    50,000       7,205,500  

MercadoLibre, Inc. (Argentina)

    23,287       7,973,702  

Tencent Holdings Ltd. (China)

    180,000       7,737,691  
              33,909,840  

IT Services — 6.1%

               

Mastercard, Inc., Class A (United States)

    93,300       20,111,748  

PayPal Holdings, Inc. (United States)*

    94,900       8,762,117  
              28,873,865  

Life Sciences Tools & Services — 1.3%

               

Horizon Discovery Group PLC (United Kingdom)*

    2,135,499       5,993,927  

Machinery — 0.6%

               

Fanuc Corp. (Japan)

    16,000       3,137,356  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

17

 

 

 

Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund
Schedule of Investments (continued)
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value
(Note 2)

 

 

               

Common Stocks (continued)

               

Media — 0.8%

               

Multiplus SA (Brazil)

    278,600     $ 1,664,172  

System1 Group PLC (United Kingdom)

    700,000       2,132,652  
              3,796,824  

Multiline Retail — 1.5%

               

Mitra Adiperkasa Tbk PT (Indonesia)

    123,010,000       6,976,581  

Real Estate Management & Development — 1.0%

               

Jones Lang LaSalle, Inc. (United States)

    30,000       4,575,600  

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 2.0%

               

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd., SP ADR (Taiwan)

    215,000       9,374,000  

Software — 11.3%

               

Atlassian Corp., PLC, Class A (Australia)*

    132,000       11,881,320  

Douzone Bizon Co., Ltd. (South Korea)

    149,798       7,668,953  

Paycom Software, Inc. (United States)*

    93,230       14,461,838  

Splunk, Inc. (United States)*

    93,300       11,956,395  

Ultimate Software Group, Inc. (The) (United States)*

    24,450       7,571,431  
              53,539,937  

Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals — 2.2%

               

Apple, Inc. (United States)

    45,000       10,243,350  

Trading Companies & Distributors — 1.9%

               

Watsco, Inc. (United States)

    50,000       8,749,500  

Transportation Infrastructure — 1.4%

               

International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (Philippines)

    3,750,000       6,568,181  

Wireless Telecommunication Services — 3.1%

               

SoftBank Group Corp. (Japan)

    160,000       14,813,974  

Total Common Stocks (Cost $270,737,184)

            457,434,904  
                 

Participatory Notes — 0.8%

               

Air Freight & Logistics — 0.8%

               

Aramex PJSC (United Arab Emirates) (b)*

    3,134,000       3,754,162  

Total Participatory Notes (Cost $2,790,802)

            3,754,162  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

18

 

 

 

Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund
Schedule of Investments (concluded)
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value
(Note 2)

 

 

               

Investment Purchased with Proceeds From Securities Lending Collateral — 1.5%

               

Mount Vernon Liquid Assets Portfolio, LLC, 2.15%

    7,205,183     $ 7,205,183  

Total Investment Purchased with Proceeds From Securities Lending Collateral (Cost $7,205,183)

            7,205,183  
                 

Short-Term Investments — 2.2%

               

U.S. Bank Money Market Deposit Account, 1.92% (United States) (c)

    10,459,861       10,459,861  

Total Short-Term Investments (Cost $10,459,861)

            10,459,861  
                 

Total Investments (Cost $291,193,030) — 101.4%

            478,854,110  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (1.4)%

            (6,669,395 )

NET ASSETS — 100.0%

               

(Applicable to 18,219,843 shares outstanding)

          $ 472,184,715  

 

*

Non-income producing security.

 

ADR — American Depositary Receipt

PLC — Public Limited Company

SP ADR — Sponsored ADR

 

(a)

All or a portion of the security is on loan. At August 31, 2018, the market value of securities on loan was $7,136,242.

(b)

Security exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional buyers. As of August 31, 2018, the total market value of Rule 144A securities was $3,754,162 and represents 0.8% of net assets.

(c)

Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

19

 

 

 

Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund
Schedule of Investments
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value
(Note 2)

 

 

               

Common Stocks — 97.7%

               

Air Freight & Logistics — 8.2%

               

CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc. (United States)

    46,000     $ 4,419,680  

XPO Logistics, Inc. (United States)*

    215,000       22,897,500  
              27,317,180  

Auto Components — 5.6%

               

Gentex Corp. (United States)

    300,000       7,014,000  

LCI Industries (United States)

    124,670       11,588,077  
              18,602,077  

Automobiles — 3.3%

               

Thor Industries, Inc. (United States) (a)

    115,000       10,975,600  

Banks — 3.9%

               

Access National Corp. (United States)

    124,832       3,387,940  

Carter Bank & Trust (United States)*

    199,600       3,493,000  

Lakeland Financial Corp. (United States)

    60,000       2,956,200  

SVB Financial Group (United States)*

    10,000       3,227,500  
              13,064,640  

Biotechnology — 1.2%

               

Ionis Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (United States)*

    89,100       4,070,979  

Capital Markets — 2.5%

               

Diamond Hill Investment Group, Inc. (United States)

    43,959       8,202,310  

Commercial Services & Supplies — 1.6%

               

KAR Auction Services, Inc. (United States)

    85,000       5,328,650  

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 4.8%

               

IPG Photonics Corp. (United States)*

    49,500       8,686,260  

NLight, Inc. (United States) (a)*

    235,000       7,240,350  
              15,926,610  

Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts — 4.2%

               

SBA Communications Corp. (United States)*

    55,000       8,537,650  

STAG Industrial, Inc. (United States)

    195,000       5,629,650  
              14,167,300  

Food Products — 1.3%

               

McCormick & Co., Inc. (United States) (a)

    34,000       4,245,920  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

20

 

 

 

Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund
Schedule of Investments (continued)
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value
(Note 2)

 

 

               

Common Stocks (continued)

               

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 15.6%

               

Align Technology, Inc. (United States)*

    41,000     $ 15,846,090  

Cooper Companies, Inc. (The) (United States)

    46,400       11,868,192  

NuVasive, Inc. (United States)*

    81,549       5,723,924  

ResMed, Inc. (United States)

    99,000       11,029,590  

Varian Medical Systems, Inc. (United States)*

    67,000       7,505,340  
              51,973,136  

Health Care Technology — 1.7%

               

Teladoc, Inc. (United States) (a)*

    75,000       5,816,250  

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 3.8%

               

Texas Roadhouse, Inc. (United States)

    184,929       12,750,855  

Household Durables — 0.4%

               

TRI Pointe Group, Inc. (United States)*

    120,000       1,738,800  

Household Products — 2.4%

               

Church & Dwight Co., Inc. (United States)

    141,600       8,011,728  

Insurance — 2.9%

               

Markel Corp. (United States)*

    7,900       9,549,520  

Internet Software & Services — 5.2%

               

Alarm.com Holdings, Inc. (United States)*

    80,000       4,503,200  

GrubHub, Inc. (United States) (a)*

    90,000       12,969,900  
              17,473,100  

IT Services — 1.6%

               

Broadridge Financial Solutions, Inc. (United States)

    40,000       5,405,600  

Leisure Products — 2.0%

               

Hasbro, Inc. (United States)

    68,615       6,814,156  

Machinery — 1.9%

               

Proto Labs, Inc. (United States)*

    40,000       6,218,000  

Paper & Forest Products — 1.1%

               

KapStone Paper and Packaging Corp. (United States)

    110,400       3,792,240  

Real Estate Management & Development — 5.0%

               

Jones Lang LaSalle, Inc. (United States)

    72,500       11,057,700  

Newmark Group, Inc., Class A (United States)

    437,237       5,618,495  
              16,676,195  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

21

 

 

 

Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund
Schedule of Investments (concluded)
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value
(Note 2)

 

 

               

Common Stocks (continued)

               

Software — 13.4%

               

Everbridge, Inc. (United States)*

    60,000     $ 3,612,600  

Paycom Software, Inc. (United States)*

    85,000       13,185,200  

Paylocity Holding Corp. (United States)*

    131,000       10,406,640  

Splunk, Inc. (United States)*

    87,000       11,149,050  

Ultimate Software Group, Inc. (The) (United States)*

    21,000       6,503,070  
              44,856,560  

Specialty Retail — 1.2%

               

Tractor Supply Co. (United States)

    44,800       3,954,944  

Trading Companies & Distributors — 2.9%

               

Fastenal Co. (United States) (a)

    76,750       4,479,130  

Watsco, Inc. (United States)

    30,250       5,293,447  
              9,772,577  

Total Common Stocks (Cost $185,194,988)

            326,704,927  
                 

Investments Purchased with Proceeds From Securities Lending Collateral — 7.2%

               

Mount Vernon Liquid Assets Portfolio, LLC, 2.15%

    24,035,200       24,035,200  

Total Investment Purchased with Proceeds From Securities Lending Collateral (Cost $24,035,200)

            24,035,200  
                 

Short-Term Investments — 2.1%

               

U.S. Bank Money Market Deposit Account, 1.92% (United States) (b)

    6,993,504       6,993,504  

Total Short-Term Investments (Cost $6,993,504)

            6,993,504  
                 

Total Investments (Cost $216,223,692) — 107.0%

            357,733,631  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (7.0)%

            (23,502,867 )

NET ASSETS — 100.0%

               

(Applicable to 12,228,354 shares outstanding)

          $ 334,230,764  

 

*

Non-income producing security.

 

(a)

All or a portion of the security is on loan. At August 31, 2018, the market value of securities on loan was $24,073,751.

(b)

Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

22

 

 

 

Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund
Schedule of Investments
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value
(Note 2)

 

 

               

Common Stocks — 94.3%

               

Banks — 12.2%

               

Banco Latinoamericano de Comercio Exterior SA, Class E (Panama)

    45,000     $ 930,150  

Bank of Georgia Group PLC (Georgia)

    30,000       642,907  

Credicorp Ltd. (Peru)

    7,500       1,635,150  

HDFC Bank Ltd., ADR (India)

    13,350       1,351,955  
              4,560,162  

Beverages — 0.9%

               

Coca-Cola Icecek AS (Turkey)

    75,000       326,943  

Capital Markets — 1.1%

               

Georgia Capital PLC (Georgia)*

    30,000       399,357  

Consumer Finance — 3.7%

               

Gentera SAB de CV (Mexico)

    1,350,000       1,370,121  

Diversified Telecommunication Services — 0.9%

               

Telkom SA SOC Ltd. (South Africa)

    100,000       342,168  

Food & Staples Retailing — 1.0%

               

CP ALL PCL, NVDR (Thailand)

    190,000       391,899  

Food Products — 1.8%

               

Nippon Indosari Corpindo Tbk PT (Indonesia)

    10,022,700       663,428  

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 5.8%

               

Top Glove Corp., Bhd (Malaysia)

    800,000       2,167,564  

Health Care Providers & Services — 10.5%

               

Georgia Healthcare Group PLC (Georgia) (a)*

    90,000       267,441  

NMC Health, PLC (United Arab Emirates)

    50,000       2,549,426  

Odontoprev SA (Brazil)

    350,000       1,118,804  
              3,935,671  

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 4.5%

               

Yum China Holdings, Inc. (China)

    43,500       1,682,580  

Internet & Direct Marketing Retail — 3.5%

               

Ctrip.com International Ltd., ADR (China)*

    33,300       1,303,695  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

23

 

 

 

Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund
Schedule of Investments (continued)
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value
(Note 2)

 

 

               

Common Stocks (continued)

               

Internet Software & Services — 16.9%

               

Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., SP ADR (China)*

    8,200     $ 1,435,082  

Baidu, Inc., SP ADR (China)*

    5,250       1,189,020  

MercadoLibre, Inc. (Argentina)

    5,000       1,712,050  

Tencent Holdings Ltd. (China)

    45,600       1,960,215  
              6,296,367  

Media — 1.0%

               

Multiplus SA (Brazil)

    60,000       358,400  

Multiline Retail — 3.6%

               

Mitra Adiperkasa Tbk PT (Indonesia)

    23,420,000       1,328,278  

Real Estate Management & Development — 0.6%

               

Lippo Karawaci Tbk PT (Indonesia)

    10,000,000       241,553  

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 3.8%

               

Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Co., Ltd., SP ADR (Taiwan)

    32,500       1,417,000  

Software — 5.2%

               

Douzone Bizon Co., Ltd. (South Korea)

    38,000       1,945,421  

Transportation Infrastructure — 13.1%

               

DP World Ltd. (United Arab Emirates)

    42,000       898,800  

Grupo Aeroportuario del Pacifico SAB de CV, ADR (Mexico)

    11,500       1,188,065  

Grupo Aeroportuario del Sureste SAB de CV, ADR (Mexico)

    6,400       1,200,576  

International Container Terminal Services, Inc. (Philippines)

    645,000       1,129,727  

TAV Havalimanlari Holding AS (Turkey)

    95,000       477,979  
              4,895,147  

Wireless Telecommunication Services — 4.2%

               

Safaricom Ltd. (Kenya)

    4,000,000       1,122,583  

Vodacom Group Ltd. (South Africa)

    50,000       430,013  
              1,552,596  

Total Common Stocks (Cost $27,987,159)

            35,178,350  

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

24

 

 

 

Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund
Schedule of Investments (concluded)
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value
(Note 2)

 

 

               

Short-Term Investments — 2.4%

               

U.S. Bank Money Market Deposit Account, 1.92% (United States) (b)

    913,233     $ 913,233  

Total Short-Term Investments (Cost $913,233)

            913,233  
                 

Total Investments (Cost $28,900,392) — 96.7%

            36,091,583  

Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities — 3.3%

            1,238,813  

NET ASSETS — 100.0%

               

(Applicable to 2,663,640 shares outstanding)

          $ 37,330,396  

 

*

Non-income producing security.

 

ADR — American Depositary Receipt

NVDR — Non-Voting Depository Receipt

PLC — Public Limited Company

SP ADR — Sponsored ADR

 

(a)

Security exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional buyers. As of August 31, 2018, the total market value of Rule 144A securities was $267,441 and represents 0.7% of net assets.

(b)

Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.

 

See Notes to Financial Statements.

 

25

 

 

 

Motley Fool Funds
STATEMENTS of Assets and Liabilities
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Motley
Fool Global
Opportunities
Fund

   

Motley Fool
Small-Mid
Cap Growth
Fund

   

Motley Fool
Emerging
Markets
Fund

 

ASSETS

                       

Investments in securities of unaffiliated issuers, at value (cost $273,527,986, $185,194,988 and $27,987,159, respectively)

  $ 461,189,066     $ 326,704,927     $ 35,178,350  

Investments purchased with proceeds from securities lending collateral (cost $7,205,183, $24,035,200 and $0, respectively)

    7,205,183       24,035,200        

Short-term investments, at value (cost $10,459,861, $6,993,504 and $913,233, respectively)

    10,459,861       6,993,504       913,233  

Foreign currency, at value (cost $392,573, $0 and $32,189, respectively)

    390,242             31,889  

Receivables for:

                       

Dividends and tax reclaims

    406,666       232,266       39,776  

Shares of beneficial interest sold

    314,228       671,394       1,329,083  

Prepaid expenses and other assets

    28,362       18,941       9,898  

Total assets

    479,993,608       358,656,232       37,502,229  
                         

LIABILITIES

                       

Payables for:

                       

Securities lending collateral

    7,205,183       24,035,200        

Advisory fees

    321,131       227,175       25,522  

Shares of beneficial interest redeemed

    113,128       39,397       103,272  

Audit and tax service fees

    21,000       21,000       21,000  

Other accrued expenses and liabilities

    148,451       102,696       22,039  

Total liabilities

    7,808,893       24,425,468       171,833  

Net assets

  $ 472,184,715     $ 334,230,764     $ 37,330,396  
                         

NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:

                       

Par value

  $ 18,220     $ 12,228     $ 2,664  

Paid-in-capital

    259,252,863       182,064,131       30,411,939  

Undistributed/(accumulated) net investment income/(loss)

          (438,175 )     177,371  

Accumulated net realized gain/(loss) from investments and foreign currency transactions

    25,262,838       11,082,641       (450,746 )

Net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments, foreign currencies, and assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    187,650,794       141,509,939       7,189,168  

Net assets

  $ 472,184,715     $ 334,230,764     $ 37,330,396  
                         

NET ASSET VALUE:

                       

Investor Shares:

                       

Net assets applicable to capital shares outstanding

  $ 393,197,341     $ 303,668,741     $ 37,330,396  

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    15,178,397       11,116,961       2,663,640  

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share

  $ 25.91     $ 27.32     $ 14.01  
                         

Institutional Shares:

                       

Net assets applicable to capital shares outstanding

  $ 78,987,374     $ 30,562,023       N/A  

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    3,041,446       1,111,393       N/A  

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share

  $ 25.97     $ 27.50       N/A  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

26

 

 

 

Motley Fool Funds
Statements of Operations
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Motley
Fool Global
Opportunities
Fund

   

Motley Fool
Small-Mid
Cap Growth
Fund

   

Motley Fool
Emerging
Markets
Fund

 

INVESTMENT INCOME

                       

Dividends

  $ 4,631,488     $ 2,571,528     $ 688,686  

Less foreign taxes withheld

    (209,616 )           (56,964 )

Securities lending income

    36       514        

Total investment income

    4,421,908       2,572,042       631,722  
                         

EXPENSES

                       

Advisory fees

    3,746,542       2,426,207       316,375  

Transfer agent fees and shareholder service fees- Investor Shares

    400,507       243,365       80,038  

Transfer agent fees and shareholder service fees - Institutional Shares

    64,829       51,267       N/A  

Administration and accounting services fees

    194,399       123,848       9,033  

Custodian fees

    45,249       10,770       26,225  

Registration and filing fees - Investor Shares

    40,527       42,707       31,231  

Registration and filing fees - Institutional Shares

    13,877       12,589       N/A  

Legal fees

    38,952       29,767       3,889  

Printing and shareholder reporting fees - Investor Shares

    38,348       30,168       6,692  

Printing and shareholder reporting fees - Institutional Shares

    4,746       2,037       N/A  

Director’s fees

    35,206       25,975       1,499  

Officer’s fees

    21,798       17,729       2,208  

Audit and tax service fees

    21,000       21,000       21,000  

Other expenses

    17,093       26,200       2,409  

Total expenses

    4,683,073       3,063,629       500,599  

Expense fees waived/reimbursed net of amount recaptured - Investor Shares

          146,709       (72,562 )

Expense fees waived/reimbursed net of amount recaptured - Institutional Shares

    (80,089 )     (56,058 )     N/A  

Net expenses after waivers/reimbursements

    4,602,984       3,154,280       428,037  

Net investment income/(loss)

    (181,076 )     (582,238 )     203,685  
                         

NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) FROM INVESTMENTS

                       

Net realized gain/(loss) from:

                       

Investments

    28,058,262       13,478,362       1,095,168  

Foreign currency transactions

    (23,121 )           3,937  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on:

                       

Investments

    59,951,499       60,454,237       (2,149,169 )

Foreign currency translation

    (7,270 )           (1,261 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss)

    87,979,370       73,932,599       (1,051,325 )

NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS

  $ 87,798,294     $ 73,350,361     $ (847,640 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

27

 

 

 

Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund
Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

 

 

FOR THE
YEAR ENDED
AUGUST 31,
2018

   

For the
Fiscal
Period Ended
August 31,
2017
(1)

   

For the
Year Ended
October 31,
2016

 

OPERATIONS

                       

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ (181,076 )   $ 657,803     $ 747,966  

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments and foreign currency transactions

    28,035,141       47,847,421       9,546,196  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments, foreign currency translation, and assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    59,944,229       24,608,203       (10,795,721 )

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    87,798,294       73,113,427       (501,559 )

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:

                       

Dividends from net investment income

                       

Investor Shares

    (740,296 )     (604,493 )     (34,910 )

Institutional Shares

    (84,137 )     (186,098 )     (13,802 )

Distributions from net realized capital gains

                       

Investor Shares

    (42,375,430 )     (8,485,045 )     (166,111 )

Institutional Shares

    (7,912,272 )     (1,167,344 )     (3,300 )

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (51,112,135 )     (10,442,980 )     (218,123 )

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

                       

Investor Shares

                       

Proceeds from shares sold

    42,484,213       22,119,265       32,544,953  

Reinvestment of dividends

    42,328,884       8,937,049       197,667  

Shares redeemed

    (60,158,888 )     (100,374,196 )     (72,564,161 )

Redemption fees (2)

    8,008       33,388       38,069  

Total from Investor Shares

    24,662,217       (69,284,494 )     (39,783,472 )

Institutional Shares

                       

Proceeds from shares sold

    11,443,903       46,460,601       876,179  

Reinvestment of dividends

    7,910,044       1,333,174       16,889  

Shares redeemed

    (6,961,572 )     (3,097,677 )     (1,365,672 )

Redemption fees (2)

    262       519       20  

Total from Institutional Shares

    12,392,637       44,696,617       (472,584 )

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

    37,054,854       (24,587,877 )     (40,256,056 )

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    73,741,013       38,082,570       (40,975,738 )

NET ASSETS:

                       

Beginning of period

  $ 398,443,702       360,361,132       401,336,870  

End of period (3)

  $ 472,184,715     $ 398,443,702     $ 360,361,132  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss)

  $     $ 814,529     $ (760,546 )

 

(1)

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31 during the period.

(2)

Effective December 31, 2017, the Fund eliminated the redemption fee.

(3)

Including undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss).

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

28

 

 

 

Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund
Statements of Changes in Net Assets (CONCLUDED)

 

 

 

FOR THE
YEAR ENDED
AUGUST 31,
2018

   

For the
Fiscal
Period Ended
August 31,
2017
(1)

   

For the
Year Ended
October 31,
2016

 

SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

                       

Investor Shares

                       

Shares sold

    1,726,902       1,001,231       1,642,369  

Shares reinvested

    1,874,618       449,511       9,795  

Shares redeemed

    (2,447,827 )     (4,767,676 )     (3,682,983 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares

    1,153,693       (3,316,934 )     (2,030,819 )
                         

Institutional Shares

                       

Shares sold

    458,054       2,235,895       44,003  

Shares reinvested

    349,692       66,891       837  

Shares redeemed

    (282,356 )     (141,726 )     (69,455 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares

    525,390       2,161,060       (24,615 )

 

(1)

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31 during the period.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

29

 

 

 

Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund
Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

 

 

FOR THE
YEAR ENDED
AUGUST 31,
2018

   

For the
Fiscal
Period Ended
August 31,
2017
(1)

   

For the
Year Ended
October 31,
2016

 

OPERATIONS

                       

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ (582,238 )   $ (537,448 )   $ (653,431 )

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments and foreign currency transactions

    13,478,362       15,186,364       (2,484,075 )

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments, foreign currency translation, and assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    60,454,237       26,696,119       (1,992,860 )

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    73,350,361       41,345,035       (5,130,366 )

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:

                       

Dividends from net investment income

                       

Investor Shares

                (349,750 )

Institutional Shares

                (20,359 )

Distributions from net realized capital gains

                       

Investor Shares

    (12,858,211 )            

Institutional Shares

    (1,293,569 )            

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (14,151,780 )           (370,109 )

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

                       

Investor Shares

                       

Proceeds from shares sold

    69,130,104       18,375,235       21,811,467  

Reinvestment of dividends

    12,578,509             343,728  

Shares redeemed

    (42,324,699 )     (52,151,022 )     (50,140,829 )

Redemption fees (2)

    3,475       22,135       24,628  

Total from Investor Shares

    39,387,389       (33,753,652 )     (27,961,006 )

Institutional Shares

                       

Proceeds from shares sold

    5,927,695       16,606,797       1,388,492  

Reinvestment of dividends

    1,293,568             20,358  

Shares redeemed

    (2,345,507 )     (4,083,956 )     (2,787,636 )

Redemption fees (2)

          3,350       175  

Total from Institutional Shares

    4,875,756       12,526,191       (1,378,611 )

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

    44,263,145       (21,227,461 )     (29,339,617 )

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    103,461,726       20,117,574       (34,840,092 )

NET ASSETS:

                       

Beginning of period

  $ 230,769,038       210,651,464       245,491,556  

End of period (3)

  $ 334,230,764     $ 230,769,038     $ 210,651,464  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss)

  $ (438,175 )   $ (544,611 )   $ (639,202 )

 

(1)

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31 during the period.

(2)

Effective December 31, 2017, the Fund eliminated the redemption fee.

(3)

Including undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss).

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

30

 

 

 

Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund
Statements of Changes in Net Assets (CONCLUDED)

 

 

 

FOR THE
YEAR ENDED
AUGUST 31,
2018

   

For the
Fiscal
Period Ended
August 31,
2017
(1)

   

For the
Year Ended
October 31,
2016

 

SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

                       

Investor Shares

                       

Shares sold

    2,730,967       894,155       1,202,801  

Shares reinvested

    520,849             18,293  

Shares redeemed

    (1,683,331 )     (2,559,950 )     (2,748,791 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares

    1,568,485       (1,665,795 )     (1,527,697 )
                         

Institutional Shares

                       

Shares sold

    230,304       818,234       77,879  

Shares reinvested

    53,255             1,083  

Shares redeemed

    (92,122 )     (198,206 )     (152,821 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares

    191,437       620,028       (73,859 )

 

(1)

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31 during the period.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

31

 

 

 

Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund
Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

 

 

FOR THE
YEAR ENDED
AUGUST 31,
2018

   

For the
Fiscal
Period Ended
August 31,
2017
(1)

   

For the
Year Ended
October 31,
2016

 

OPERATIONS

                       

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ 203,685     $ 310,507     $ 200,032  

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments and foreign currency transactions

    1,099,105       (1,181,087 )     638,236  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments, foreign currency translation, and assets and liabilities denominated in foreign currencies

    (2,150,430 )     6,836,590       2,234,424  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (847,640 )     5,966,010       3,072,692  

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:

                       

Dividends from net investment income

                       

Investor Shares

    (314,358 )     (150,543 )     (300,972 )

Institutional Shares

          (27,959 )     (18,444 )

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (314,358 )     (178,502 )     (319,416 )

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

                       

Investor Shares

                       

Proceeds from shares sold

    11,167,842       6,665,378       2,517,000  

Reinvestment of dividends

    313,688       150,020       300,095  

Shares redeemed

    (7,446,112 )     (6,442,570 )     (7,766,303 )

Redemption fees (2)

    1,145       1,728       3,403  

Total from Investor Shares

    4,036,563       374,556       (4,945,805 )

Institutional Shares

                       

Proceeds from shares sold (3)

          1,528,574       147,950  

Reinvestment of dividends (3)

          27,959       18,444  

Shares redeemed (3)

          (4,132,249 )     (4,349 )

Redemption fees (2)

          61        

Total from Institutional Shares

          (2,575,655 )     162,045  

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

    4,036,563       (2,201,099 )     (4,783,760 )

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    2,874,565       3,586,409       (2,030,484 )

NET ASSETS:

                       

Beginning of period

  $ 34,455,831       30,869,422       32,899,906  

End of period (3)

  $ 37,330,396     $ 34,455,831     $ 30,869,422  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss)

  $ 177,371     $ 284,107     $ 178,488  

 

(1)

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31 during the period.

(2)

Effective December 31, 2017, the Fund eliminated the redemption fee.

(3)

Effective on May 2, 2017, the Institutional Shares closed to all new and existing shareholders. Any Institutional Shares that were not exchanged for Investor Shares, or redeemed, by June 30, 2017, were liquidated and the proceeds returned to the shareholder.

(4)

Including undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss).

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

32

 

 

 

Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund
Statements of Changes in Net Assets (CONCLUDED)

 

 

 

FOR THE
YEAR ENDED
AUGUST 31,
2018

   

For the
Fiscal
Period Ended
August 31,
2017
(1)

   

For the
Year Ended
October 31,
2016

 

SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

                       

Investor Shares

                       

Shares sold

    756,831       508,484       228,294  

Shares reinvested

    22,185       13,160       27,787  

Shares redeemed

    (514,436 )     (534,316 )     (709,020 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares

    264,580       (12,672 )     (452,939 )

Institutional Shares

                       

Shares sold

          132,224       13,740  

Shares reinvested

          2,448       1,705  

Shares redeemed

          (309,403 )     (387 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares

          (174,731 )     15,058  

 

(1)

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31 during the period.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

33

 

 

 

Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund
Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

 

 

YEAR ENDED
AUGUST 31,

   

Fiscal
Period
Ended
August 31,

   

Years Ended October 31,

 

Investor Shares

 

2018

   

2017(1)(2)

   

2016

   

2015

   

2014

   

2013

 

PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE

                                               

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 24.09     $ 20.36     $ 20.32     $ 21.00     $ 19.24     $ 15.48  

Net investment income/(loss)(3)

    (0.02 )     0.03       0.04       0.05       0.11       0.07  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    4.94       4.30       0.01       (0.29 )     1.87       3.79  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    4.92       4.33       0.05       (0.24 )     1.98       3.86  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                                               

Net investment income

    (0.05 )     (0.04 )      *     (0.11 )     (0.04 )     (0.11 )

Net realized capital gains

    (3.05 )     (0.56 )     (0.01 )     (0.33 )     (0.18 )      

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (3.10 )     (0.60 )     (0.01 )     (0.44 )     (0.22 )     (0.11 )

Redemption and small-balance account fees

     *      *      *      *      *     0.01  

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 25.91     $ 24.09     $ 20.36     $ 20.32     $ 21.00     $ 19.24  

Total investment return(4)

    22.32 %     21.91 %(5)     0.25 %     (1.13 )%     10.43 %     25.14 %

RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA

                                               

Net assets, end of period (thousands)

  $ 393,197     $ 337,821     $ 353,118     $ 393,611     $ 413,624     $ 354,081  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets

    1.06 %     1.15 %(6)     1.14 %     1.15 %     1.26 %     1.36 %

Ratio of expenses to average net assets (before waivers and reimbursement of expenses and/or recapture of previously waived fees)

    1.06 %     1.15 %(6)     1.14 %     1.13 %     1.23 %     1.37 %

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    (0.06 )%     0.18 %(6)     0.20 %     0.23 %     0.55 %     0.44 %

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets (before waivers and reimbursement of expenses and/or recapture of previously waived fees)

    (0.06 )%     0.18 %(6)     0.20 %     0.25 %     0.59 %     0.43 %

Portfolio turnover rate

    15 %     38 %(5)     26 %     21 %     24 %     22 %

 

*

Amount represents less than $0.005 per share.

(1)

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31 during the period.

(2)

Effective as of December 21, 2016, the Fund acquired all the assets and liabilities of the Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund, a series of The Motley Fool Funds Trust (the “Predecessor Fund”). The financial highlights for the periods prior to that date reflect the performances of the Predecessor Fund.

(3)

Per share data calculated using average shares outstanding method.

(4)

Total investment return reflects the rate an investor would have earned on an investment in the Fund during the period. During the year ended October 31, 2013, 0.06% of the Fund’s total investment return was attributable to redemption and small-balance account fees received. Excluding this item, the total return would have been 25.08%. For the year ended August 31, 2018, the fiscal period ended August 31, 2017 and the years ended October 31, 2016, October 31, 2015 and October 31, 2014, redemption and small-balance account fees received had no effect on the Fund’s Investor Shares total investment return.

(5)

Not annualized.

(6)

Annualized.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

34

 

 

 

Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund
Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

 

 

YEAR ENDED
AUGUST 31,

   

Fiscal
Period
Ended
August 31,

   

Years Ended
October 31,

   

Period
Ended
October 31,

 

Institutional Shares

 

2018

   

2017(1)(2)

   

2016

   

2015

   

2014(3)

 

PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE

                                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 24.09     $ 20.40     $ 20.35     $ 21.01     $ 20.36  

Net investment income/(loss)(4)

    0.02       0.09       0.08       0.10       0.03  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    4.94       4.25       0.02       (0.31 )     0.62  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    4.96       4.34       0.10       (0.21 )     0.65  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                                       

Net investment income

    (0.03 )     (0.09 )     (0.04 )     (0.12 )      

Net realized capital gains

    (3.05 )     (0.56 )     (0.01 )     (0.33 )      

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (3.08 )     (0.65 )     (0.05 )     (0.45 )      

Redemption and small-balance account fees

     *      *      *      *      *

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 25.97     $ 24.09     $ 20.40     $ 20.35     $ 21.01  

Total investment return(5)

    22.48 %     21.97 %(6)     (0.47 )%     (0.97 )%     3.19 %(6)

RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA

                                       

Net assets, end of period (thousands)

  $ 78,987     $ 60,623     $ 7,243     $ 7,726     $ 4,038  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets

    0.95 %     0.95 %(7)     0.95 %     0.95 %     0.95 %(7)

Ratio of expenses to average net assets (before waivers and reimbursement of expenses and/or recapture of previously waived fees)

    1.06 %     1.17 %(7)     2.12 %     2.14 %     3.78 %(7)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    0.07 %     0.48 %(7)     0.39 %     0.46 %     0.39 %(7)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets (before waivers and reimbursement of expenses and/or recapture of previously waived fees)

    (0.04 )%     0.26 %(7)     (0.78 )%     0.73 %     (2.43 )%(7)

Portfolio turnover rate

    15 %     38 %(6)     26 %     21 %     24 %(6)

 

*

Amount represents less than $0.005 per share.

(1)

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31 during the period.

(2)

Effective as of December 21, 2016, the Fund acquired all the assets and liabilities of the Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund, a series of The Motley Fool Funds Trust (the “Predecessor Fund”). The financial highlights for the periods prior to that date reflect the performances of the Predecessor Fund.

(3)

Commenced operations on June 17, 2014. Because of commencement of operations and related preliminary transaction costs, these ratios are not necessarily indicative of future ratios.

(4)

Per share data calculated using average shares outstanding method.

(5)

Total investment return reflects the rate an investor would have earned on an investment in the Fund during the period. Redemption and small-balance account fees received had no effect on the Fund’s Institutional Shares total investment return.

(6)

Not annualized.

(7)

Annualized.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

35

 

 

 

Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund
Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

 

 

YEAR ENDED
AUGUST 31,

   

Fiscal
Period
Ended
August 31,

   

Years Ended October 31,

 

Investor Shares

 

2018

   

2017(1)(2)

   

2016

   

2015

   

2014

   

2013

 

PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE

                                               

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 22.04     $ 18.29     $ 18.72     $ 18.59     $ 17.25     $ 12.58  

Net investment income/ (loss)(3)

    (0.06 )     (0.05 )     (0.05 )     0.03       0.07        *

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    6.69       3.80       (0.35 )     0.14       1.51       4.69  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    6.63       3.75       (0.40 )     0.17       1.58       4.69  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                                               

Net investment income

                (0.03 )     (0.04 )     (0.03 )     (0.03 )

Net realized capital gains

    (1.35 )                       (0.22 )      

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (1.35 )           (0.03 )     (0.04 )     (0.25 )     (0.03 )

Redemption and small-balance account fees

     *      *      *      *     0.01       0.01  

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 27.32     $ 22.04     $ 18.29     $ 18.72     $ 18.59     $ 17.25  

Total investment return(4)

    30.88 %     20.50 %(5)     (2.15 )%     0.91 %     9.35 %     37.44 %

RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA

                                               

Net assets, end of period (thousands)

  $ 303,669     $ 210,404     $ 205,149     $ 238,482     $ 231,600     $ 162,336  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets

    1.12 %     1.15 %(6)     1.15 %     1.15 %     1.27 %     1.38 %

Ratio of expenses to average net assets (before waivers and reimbursement of expenses and/or recapture of previously waived fees)

    1.06 %     1.16 %(6)     1.17 %     1.16 %     1.30 %     1.54 %

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    (0.22 )%     (0.30 )%(6)     (0.29 )%     0.17 %     0.38 %     0.03 %

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets (before waivers and reimbursement of expenses and/or recapture of previously waived fees)

    (0.16 )%     (0.31 )%(6)     (0.31 )%     0.17 %     0.36 %     (0.13 )%

Portfolio turnover rate

    19 %     24 %(5)     21 %     30 %     18 %     24 %

 

*

Amount represents less than $0.005 per share.

(1)

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31 during the period.

(2)

Effective as of December 21, 2016, the Fund acquired all the assets and liabilities of the Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund, a series of The Motley Fool Funds Trust (the “Predecessor Fund”). The financial highlights for the periods prior to that date reflect the performances of the Predecessor Fund.

(3)

Per share data calculated using average shares outstanding method.

(4)

Total investment return reflects the rate an investor would have earned on an investment in the Fund during the period. For the years ended October 31, 2014 and October 31, 2013, 0.06% and 0.08%, respectively, of the Fund’s Investor Shares total investment return was attributable to redemption and small-balance account fees received. Excluding this item, the total investment return would have been 9.29% and 37.36%, respectively. For the year ended August 31, 2018, the fiscal period ended August 31, 2017 and years ended October 31, 2016 and October 31, 2015, redemption and small-balance account fees received had no effect on the Fund’s Investor Shares total investment return.

(5)

Not annualized.

(6)

Annualized.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

36

 

 

 

Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund
Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

 

 

YEAR ENDED
AUGUST 31,

   

Fiscal
Period
Ended
August 31,

   

Years Ended
October 31,

   

Period
Ended
October 31,

 

Institutional Shares

 

2018

   

2017(1)(2)

   

2016

   

2015

   

2014(3)

 

PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE

                                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 22.14     $ 18.34     $ 18.75     $ 18.61     $ 17.94  

Net investment income/(loss)(4)

    (0.01 )     (0.03 )     (0.02 )     0.07       0.02  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    6.72       3.83       (0.33 )     0.13       0.65  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    6.71       3.80       (0.35 )     0.20       0.67  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                                       

Net investment income

                (0.06 )     (0.06 )      

Net realized capital gains

    (1.35 )                        

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (1.35 )           (0.06 )     (0.06 )      

Redemption and small-balance account fees

     *      *      *      *      *

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 27.50     $ 22.14     $ 18.34     $ 18.75     $ 18.61  

Total investment return(5)

    31.10 %     20.72 %(6)     (1.89 )%     1.04 %     3.73 %(6)

RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA

                                       

Net assets, end of period (thousands)

  $ 30,562     $ 20,365     $ 5,502     $ 7,010     $ 2,798  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets

    0.95 %     0.95 %(7)     0.95 %     0.95 %     0.95 %(7)

Ratio of expenses to average net assets (before waivers and reimbursement of expenses and/or recapture of previously waived fees)

    1.17 %     1.47 %(7)     2.40 %     2.45 %     4.93 %(7)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    (0.05 )%     (0.15 )%(7)     (0.08 )%     0.35 %     0.27 %(7)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets (before waivers and reimbursement of expenses and/or recapture of previously waived fees)

    (0.26 )%     (0.67 )%(7)     (1.53 )%     (1.15 )%     (3.71 )%(7)

Portfolio turnover rate

    19 %     24 %(6)     21 %     30 %     18 %(6)

 

*

Amount represents less than $0.005 per share.

(1)

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31 during the period.

(2)

Effective as of December 21, 2016, the Fund acquired all the assets and liabilities of the Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund, a series of The Motley Fool Funds Trust (the “Predecessor Fund”). The financial highlights for the periods prior to that date reflect the performances of the Predecessor Fund.

(3)

Commenced operations on June 17, 2014. Because of commencement of operations and related preliminary transaction costs, these ratios are not necessarily indicative of future ratios.

(4)

Per share data calculated using average shares outstanding method.

(5)

Total investment return reflects the rate an investor would have earned on an investment in the Fund during the period. Redemption and small-balance account fees received had no effect on the Fund’s Institutional Shares total investment return.

(6)

Not annualized.

(7)

Annualized.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

37

 

 

 

Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

 

 

YEAR ENDED
AUGUST 31,

   

Fiscal
Period
Ended
August 31,

   

Years Ended October 31,

 

Investor Shares

 

2018

   

2017(1)(2)

   

2016

   

2015

   

2014

   

2013

 

PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE

                                               

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 14.36     $ 11.93     $ 10.88     $ 12.61     $ 12.66     $ 10.94  

Net investment income/ (loss)(3)

    0.08       0.12       0.07       0.09       0.16       0.13  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    (0.30 )     2.38       1.09       (1.63 )     (0.12 )     1.73  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    (0.22 )     2.50       1.16       (1.54 )     0.04       1.86  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                                               

Net investment income

    (0.13 )     (0.07 )     (0.11 )     (0.19 )     (0.08 )     (0.15 )

Net realized capital gains

                            (0.02 )      

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (0.13 )     (0.07 )     (0.11 )     (0.19 )     (0.10 )     (0.15 )

Redemption and small-balance account fees

     *      *      *      *     0.01       0.01  

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 14.01     $ 14.36     $ 11.93     $ 10.88     $ 12.61     $ 12.66  

Total investment return(4)

    (1.54 )%     21.06 %(5)     (10.76 )%     (12.33 )%     0.47 %     17.32 %

RATIOS/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA

                                               

Net assets, end of period (thousands)

  $ 37,330     $ 34,456     $ 28,776     $ 31,160     $ 47,566     $ 40,119  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets

    1.15 %     1.15 %(6)     1.15 %     1.13 %     1.24 %     1.35 %

Ratio of expenses to average net assets (before waivers and reimbursement of expenses and/or recapture of previously waived fees)

    1.34 %     2.00 %(6)     2.09 %     1.84 %     1.88 %     2.60 %

Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets

    0.54 %     1.17 %(6)     0.64 %     0.80 %     1.29 %     1.15 %

Ratio of net investment income/ (loss) to average net assets (before waivers and reimbursement of expenses and/or recapture of previously waived fees)

    0.35 %     0.32 %(6)     (0.30 )%     0.09 %     0.66 %     (0.10 )%

Portfolio turnover rate

    7 %     21 %(5)     54 %     20 %     25 %     26 %

 

*

Amount represents less than $0.005 per share.

(1)

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31 during the period.

(2)

Effective as of December 21, 2016, the Fund acquired all the assets and liabilities of the Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund, a series of The Motley Fool Funds Trust (the “Predecessor Fund”). The financial highlights for the periods prior to that date reflect the performances of the Predecessor Fund.

(3)

Per share data calculated using average shares outstanding method.

(4)

Total investment return reflects the rate an investor would have earned on an investment in the Fund during the period. During the years ended October 31, 2014 and October 31, 2013, 0.08% and 0.09%, respectively of the Fund’s Investor Shares total investment return was attributable to redemption and small-balance account fees received as reference in Note 3. Excluding this item, total investment return would have been 0.39% and 17.23%, respectively. For the year ended August 31, 2018, the fiscal period ended August 31, 2017, years ended October 31, 2016 and October 31, 2015, redemption and small-balance account fees received had no effect on the Fund’s Investor Shares total investment return.

(5)

Not annualized.

(6)

Annualized.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

38

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

1. Organization AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

The RBB Fund, Inc. (“RBB” or the “Company”) was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on February 29, 1988 and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. RBB is a “series fund,” which is a mutual fund divided into separate portfolios. Each portfolio is treated as a separate entity for certain matters under the 1940 Act, and for other purposes, and a shareholder of one portfolio is not deemed to be a shareholder of any other portfolio. Currently, RBB has thirty active investment portfolios, including the Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund (“Global Opportunities Fund”) (formerly known as Motley Fool Independence Fund), Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund (“Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund”) (formerly known as Motley Fool Great America Fund) and Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund (“Emerging Markets Fund”) (formerly known as Motley Fool Epic Voyage Fund) (each a “Fund” and together the “Funds”), which became series of RBB at the close of business on December 21, 2016. As of August 31, 2018, Global Opportunities Fund and Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund each offer two classes of shares, Investor and Institutional. Emerging Markets Fund offered one class of shares, Investor.

 

RBB has authorized capital of one hundred billion shares of common stock of which 87.023 billion shares are currently classified into one hundred and eighty-one classes of common stock. Each class represents an interest in an active or inactive RBB investment portfolio.

 

Prior to December 21, 2016, the Funds were diversified series (the “Predecessor Funds”) of The Motley Fool Funds Trust (the “Trust”), an open-end management investment company (or mutual fund) organized on November 7, 2008, as a statutory trust under the laws of the State of Delaware. Each of the Predecessor Funds was reorganized into a corresponding Fund on December 21, 2016 (the “Reorganization”). As a result of the Reorganization, the performance and accounting history of each Predecessor Fund was assumed by its corresponding Fund. Performance and accounting information prior to December 21, 2016 included herein is that of the relevant Predecessor Fund.

 

The investment objective of each Fund is to achieve long-term capital appreciation. The Global Opportunities Fund pursues its objective by investing primarily in common stocks of United States companies and of companies that are organized under the laws of other countries around the world. The Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund pursues its objective by investing primarily in common stocks of companies that are organized in the United States and that are engaged in a broad range of industries. The Emerging Markets Fund pursues its objective by investing primarily in common stocks of companies organized in emerging market foreign countries.

 

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

 

The end of the reporting period for the Funds is August 31, 2018, and the period covered by these Notes to Financial Statements is the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018 (the “current fiscal period”).

 

PORTFOLIO VALUATION — Each Fund’s net asset value (“NAV”) is calculated once daily at the close of regular trading hours on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on each day the NYSE is open. Securities held by a Fund are valued using the closing price or the last sale price on a national securities exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automatic Quotation System (“NASDAQ”) market system where they are primarily traded. Equity securities traded in the over-the-counter (“OTC”) market are valued at their closing prices. If there were no transactions on that day, securities traded principally on an exchange or on NASDAQ will be valued at the mean of the last bid and ask prices prior to the market close. Fixed income securities are valued using an independent pricing service, which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings, and are deemed representative of market values at the close of the market. Foreign securities are valued based on prices from the primary market in which they are traded, and are translated from the local currency into U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. If market quotations are unavailable or deemed unreliable, securities will be valued in accordance with procedures adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”). Relying on prices supplied by pricing services or dealers or using fair valuation may result in values that are higher or lower than the values used by other investment companies and investors to price the same investments. Such procedures use fundamental valuation methods, which may include, but are not limited to, an analysis of the effect of any restrictions on the resale of the security, industry analysis and trends, significant changes in the issuer’s financial position, and any other event which could have a significant impact on the value of the security. Determination of fair value involves subjective judgment as the actual market value of a particular security can be

 

39

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

established only by negotiations between the parties in a sales transaction, and the difference between the recorded fair value and the value that would be received in a sale could be significant. The Funds may use fair value pricing more frequently for securities traded primarily in non-U.S. markets because, among other things, most foreign markets close well before the Funds value their securities, generally as of 4:00 p.m. Eastern time. The earlier close of these foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, government actions or pronouncements, aftermarket trading, or news events may have occurred in the interim. To account for this, the Funds may value foreign securities using fair value prices based on third-party vendor modeling tools (international fair value pricing).

 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS — The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the Funds’ investments are summarized into three levels as described in the hierarchy below:

 

 

Level 1 – Prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

 

 

Level 2 – Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).

 

 

Level 3 – Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including the Funds’ own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

You’d think that it would be easy to determine what a share of the Fund is worth – just add up the value of everything it holds, and then divide by the number of shares. It’s not that simple, though. Some foreign markets have different operating hours (when it’s daytime in Chicago, for example, it is night in Shanghai). That means that when we calculate a Fund’s value at the end of the day, the market quotations for some of the securities held by the Fund could be several hours old, and intervening events may have affected what the stocks are worth. In addition, characteristics of the relevant markets and stocks might, in some cases, cast doubt on a particular valuation. For these reasons, we may rely on a pricing service to determine the value of particular securities. It is possible that when a Fund buys or sells the securities, the price on the real market will be different from the value used for the fair-value pricing.

 

The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of the end of the reporting period, in valuing the Funds’ investments carried at fair value:

 

GLOBAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND

 

 

 

TOTAL

   

LEVEL 1

   

LEVEL 2

   

LEVEL 3

   

INVESTMENT
MEASURED
AT NET ASSET
VALUE^

 

Common Stocks

  $ 457,434,904     $ 379,896,413     $ 77,538,491     $     $  

Participatory Notes

    3,754,162       3,754,162                    

Investments Purchased with Proceeds From Securities Lending Collateral

    7,205,183       7,205,183                    

Short-Term Investments

    10,459,861       10,459,861                    

Total Investments*

  $ 478,854,110     $ 401,315,619     $ 77,538,491     $     $  

 

40

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

SMALL-MID CAP GROWTH FUND

 

 

 

TOTAL

   

LEVEL 1

   

LEVEL 2

   

LEVEL 3

   

INVESTMENT
MEASURED
AT NET ASSET
VALUE^

 

Common Stocks

  $ 326,704,927     $ 326,704,927     $     $     $  

Investments Purchased with Proceeds From Securities Lending Collateral

    24,035,200       24,035,200                    

Short-Term Investments

    6,993,504       6,993,504                    

Total Investments*

  $ 357,733,631     $ 357,733,631     $     $     $  

 

EMERGING MARKETS FUND

 

 

 

TOTAL

   

LEVEL 1

   

LEVEL 2

   

LEVEL 3

   

INVESTMENT
MEASURED
AT NET ASSET
VALUE^

 

Common Stocks

  $ 35,178,350     $ 20,963,439     $ 14,214,911     $     $  

Short-Term Investments

    913,233       913,233                    

Total Investments*

  $ 36,091,583     $ 21,876,672     $ 14,214,911     $     $  

 

*

Please refer to the Schedule of Investments for further details.

^

Certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amounts presented in the table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

At the end of each quarter, management evaluates the classification of Levels 1, 2 and 3 assets and liabilities. Various factors are considered, such as changes in liquidity from the prior reporting period; whether or not a broker is willing to execute at the quoted price; the depth and consistency of prices from third party pricing services; and the existence of contemporaneous, observable trades in the market. Additionally, management evaluates the classification of Level 1 and Level 2 assets and liabilities on a quarterly basis for changes in listings or delistings on national exchanges.

 

Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Funds’ investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values the Fund may ultimately realize. Further, such investments may be subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities.

 

For fair valuations using significant unobservable inputs, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires each Fund to present a reconciliation of the beginning to ending balances for reported market values that presents changes attributable to total realized and unrealized gains or losses, purchase and sales, and transfers in and out of Level 3 during the period. Transfers in and out between levels are based on values at the end of the period. U.S. GAAP also requires each Fund to disclose amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements. A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented only when a Fund had an amount of Level 3 investments at the end of the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets. The amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of each level within the three-tier hierarchy are disclosed when a Fund had an amount of total transfers during the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets as of the end of the reporting period.

 

41

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

The Global Opportunities Fund and the Emerging Markets Fund had significant transfers between Level 1 to Level 2 of $10,566,521 and $5,624,021 respectively, during the current fiscal period due to fair value pricing.

 

The Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund did not have any transfers between Level 1 and Level 2 during the current fiscal period.

 

USE OF ESTIMATES — The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and those differences could be significant.

 

INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS, INVESTMENT INCOME AND EXPENSES — The Funds record security transactions based on trade date for financial reporting purposes. The cost of investments sold is determined by use of the specific identification method for both financial reporting and income tax purposes in determining realized gains and losses on investments. Interest income is accrued when earned. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or capital gains are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The Funds’ investment income, expenses (other than class specific expenses) and unrealized and realized gains and losses are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class at the beginning of the day. Expenses incurred on behalf of a specific class, fund or fund family of the Company are charged directly to the class, fund or fund family (in proportion to net assets). Expenses incurred for all of the RBB funds (such as director or professional fees) are charged to all funds in proportion to their average net assets of RBB, or in such other manner as the Board deems fair or equitable. Expenses and fees, including investment advisory and administration fees, are accrued daily and taken into account for the purpose of determining the NAV of the Funds.

 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS — Each Fund pays dividends from its net investment income and distributes any net capital gains that it realizes. Dividends and capital gains distributions are generally paid once a year and as required to comply with federal excise tax requirements. Distributions to shareholders are determined in accordance with tax regulations and recorded on ex dividend date. All dividends and other distributions will be reinvested in Fund shares unless a shareholder chooses either to (1) receive dividends in cash, while reinvesting capital gains distributions in additional Fund shares; or (2) receive all distributions in cash. Additionally, each Fund reports details of distribution-related transactions on quarterly account statements. You may not receive a separate confirmation statement for these transactions.

 

When a Fund pays a dividend or other distribution, its net asset value (NAV) per share will decline by the per-share amount of the distribution. Investors are no poorer for this “distribution drop,” however. As this section explains, investors may elect to reinvest their dividend and distribution payments. Doing so would allow them to acquire additional shares at the post-distribution NAV per share. They may also choose to receive a check in the amount of their portion of the dividend or distribution.

 

U.S. TAX STATUS — No provision is made for U.S. income taxes as it is each Fund’s intention to continue to qualify for and elect the tax treatment applicable to regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and make the requisite distributions to its shareholders which will be sufficient to relieve it from U.S. income and excise taxes.

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — Cash and cash equivalents are valued at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates market value.

 

OTHER — In the normal course of business, the Funds may enter into contracts that provide general indemnifications. Each Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made against the Funds in the future, and, therefore, cannot be estimated; however, based on experience, the risk of material loss from such claims is considered remote.

 

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION — The books and records of the Funds are maintained in U.S. dollars as follows: (1) the values of investment securities and other assets and liabilities stated in foreign currencies are translated at the exchange rates prevailing at the end of the period; and (2) purchases, sales and income are translated at the rates of exchange prevailing on the

 

42

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

respective dates of such transactions. Transaction gains or losses resulting from changes in exchange rates during the reporting period or upon settlement from foreign currency transactions are reported in the Statements of Operations for the current period. The Funds do not isolate the portion of gains and losses on investments.

 

2. Investment Policies and Practices

 

The sections below describe some of the different types of investments that may be made by the Funds and the investment practices in which the Funds may engage.

 

When we say that the Funds may invest in other types of securities and in other asset classes, the “may” is well worth emphasizing, as the Funds’ primary focus is the common stocks of companies that the Adviser believes are both high-quality and available at a reasonable price.

 

FOREIGN SECURITIES — The Global Opportunities Fund and Emerging Markets Fund invest, and the Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund may invest, in equity and fixed-income securities of foreign companies, including companies located in both developed and emerging-market countries. Investment in foreign securities may include the purchase of American Depositary Receipts (“ADRs”) and other depositary receipts (European Depositary Receipts (“EDRs”) and Global Depositary Receipts (“GDRs”)) that represent indirect interests in securities of foreign issuers. A significant portion of a Fund’s exposure to foreign investments may be composed of such investments. Investments in foreign securities are affected by risk factors generally not associated with investments in the securities of U.S. companies in the U.S. With respect to such securities, there may be more limited information publicly available concerning the issuer than would be the case with respect to domestic securities, foreign issuers may use different accounting standards, and foreign trading markets may not be as liquid as are U.S. markets. Foreign securities also involve such risks as currency risks, possible imposition of withholding or confiscatory taxes, possible currency transfer restrictions, expropriation or other adverse political or economic developments, and the difficulty of enforcing obligations in other countries. These risks may be greater in emerging-market countries and in less-developed countries.

 

If a Fund holds a foreign stock, and the stock is traded on a foreign exchange, with its price denominated in that foreign currency, the value of the stock will change, for the Fund, whenever the relative value of the U.S. dollar and that foreign currency change. To take an imaginary example, if the Fund holds shares in Ruritania Telecom, traded on the Ruritanian Stock Exchange, those shares will be worth more to the Fund if the value of the Ruritanian ploof increases against the U.S. dollar, and vice versa, all other things being equal.

 

The purchase of securities denominated in foreign currencies will subject the value of the Funds’ investments in those securities to fluctuations caused by changes in foreign exchange rates. To hedge against the effects of changes in foreign exchange rates, the Funds may enter into forward foreign currency exchange contracts (“forward contracts”). These contracts represent agreements to exchange an amount of currency at an agreed-upon future date and rate. The Funds will generally use forward contracts only to “lock in” the price in U.S. dollars of a foreign security that a Fund plans to purchase or to sell. In certain limited cases, it may use such contracts to hedge against an anticipated substantial decline in the price of a foreign currency against the U.S. dollar that would adversely affect the U.S. dollar value of foreign securities held by the Fund. Forward contracts will not be used in all cases and, in any event, cannot completely protect the Funds against all changes in the values of foreign securities resulting from fluctuations in foreign exchange rates. The Funds will not enter into a forward contract if, as a result, forward contracts would represent more than 20% of a Fund’s total assets. For hedging purposes, the Funds may also use options on foreign currencies, which expose the Funds to certain risks.

 

Some foreign securities are traded in the U.S. in the form of ADRs. ADRs are receipts typically issued by a U.S. bank or company evidencing ownership of the underlying securities of foreign issuers. EDRs and GDRs are receipts typically issued by foreign banks or trust companies, evidencing ownership of underlying securities issued by either a foreign or U.S. issuer. Generally, depositary receipts in registered form are designed for use in the U.S. and depositary receipts in bearer form are designed for use in securities markets outside the U.S. Depositary receipts may not necessarily be denominated in the same currency as the underlying

 

43

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

securities into which they may be converted. Depositary receipts generally involve the same risks as other investments in foreign securities. However, holders of ADRs and other depositary receipts may not have all the legal rights of shareholders and may experience difficulty in receiving shareholder communications.

 

TYPES OF FIXED-INCOME SECURITIES — A Fund may invest in bonds and other types of debt obligations of U.S. and foreign issuers. Fixed income securities purchased by a Fund may include, among others, bonds, notes, and debentures issued by corporations; debt securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or one of its agencies or instrumentalities (“U.S. Government Securities”); municipal securities; mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities; and debt securities issued or guaranteed by foreign governments, their agencies, instrumentalities, or political subdivisions, or by government-owned, -controlled, or -sponsored entities, including central banks. These investments also include money market instruments and other types of obligations. Investors should recognize that, although securities ratings issued by Standard & Poor’s® Ratings Services (“S&P”), a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc., and Moody’s Investors Services©, Inc. (“Moody’s”), provide a generally useful guide as to credit risks, they do not offer any criteria to evaluate interest rate risk. Changes in interest rate levels generally cause fluctuations in the prices of fixed-income securities and will, therefore, cause fluctuations in the NAV per share of a Fund. Subsequent to the purchase of a fixed-income security by a Fund, the ratings or credit quality of such security may deteriorate. Any such subsequent adverse changes in the rating or quality of a security held by a Fund would not require a Fund to sell the security.

 

PARTICIPATORY NOTES — A participatory note, as used by a Fund, is an instrument used by investors to obtain exposure to an equity investment, including common stocks and warrants, in a local market where direct ownership is not permitted (or is impractical.) In countries where direct ownership by a foreign investor, such as a Fund, is not allowed by local law, such as Saudi Arabia, an investor may gain exposure to the market through a participatory note, which derives its value from a group of underlying equity securities. A participatory note is intended (disregarding the effect of any fees and expenses) to reflect the performance of the underlying equity securities on a one-to-one basis so that investors will not normally gain more in absolute terms than they would have made had they invested in the underlying securities directly, and will not normally lose more than they would have lost had they invested in the underlying securities directly.

 

In addition to providing access to otherwise closed markets, participatory notes can also provide a less expensive option to direct investment (where ownership by foreign investors is permitted) by reducing registration and transaction costs in acquiring and selling local registered shares. The Funds’ investment manager also believes that participatory notes can offer greater liquidity in markets that restrict the ability of the Funds to dispose of an investment by either restricting transactions by size or requiring registration and/or regulatory approvals.

 

The purchase of participatory notes involves risks that are in addition to the risks normally associated with a direct investment in the underlying securities. The Fund is subject to the risk that the issuer of the participatory note (i.e., the issuing bank or broker-dealer), which is the only responsible party under the note, is unable or refuses to perform under the terms of the participatory note, also known as counterparty risk.

 

While the holder of a participatory note is entitled to receive from the bank or broker-dealer any dividends or other distributions paid on the underlying securities, the holder is not entitled to the same rights as an owner of the underlying securities, such as voting rights.

 

Participatory notes may not be traded on exchanges, are privately issued, and may be illiquid. To the extent a participatory note is determined to be illiquid, it would be subject to the Fund’s limitation on investments in illiquid securities. There can be no assurance that the trading price or value of participatory notes will equal the value of the underlying value of the equity securities they seek to replicate.

 

REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS — Real estate investment trusts (“REITs”) are pooled investment vehicles that manage a portfolio of real estate or real estate-related loans to earn profits for their shareholders. REITs are generally classified as equity REITs, mortgage REITs, or a combination of equity and mortgage REITs. Investing in REITs involves certain unique risks in addition to those risks associated with investing in the real estate industry in general. Equity REITs may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property owned by the REITs, while mortgage REITs may be affected by the quality of the borrower on any credit extended. REITs are dependent upon management skills, may not be diversified geographically or by property type, and are subject to heavy cash-flow dependency, default by borrowers, and self-liquidation. REITs must also meet certain requirements under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), to avoid entity level tax and be eligible to pass through certain

 

44

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

tax attributes of their income to shareholders. REITs are consequently subject to the risk of failing to meet these requirements for favorable tax treatment and of failing to maintain their exemptions from registration under the 1940 Act. REITs are also subject to the risks of changes in the Code, affecting their tax status.

 

REITs (especially mortgage REITs) are also subject to interest rate risks. When interest rates decline, the value of a REIT’s investment in fixed-rate obligations can be expected to rise. Conversely, when interest rates rise, the value of a REIT’s investment in fixed-rate obligations can be expected to decline. In contrast, as interest rates on adjustable-rate mortgage loans are reset periodically, yields on a REIT’s investments in such loans will gradually align themselves to reflect changes in market interest rates, causing the value of such investments to fluctuate less dramatically in response to interest rate fluctuations than would investments in fixed-rate obligations.

 

The management of a REIT may be subject to conflicts of interest with respect to the operation of the business of the REIT and may be involved in real estate activities competitive with the REIT. REITs may own properties through joint ventures or in other circumstances in which a REIT may not have control over its investments. REITs may use significant amounts of leverage.

 

REITs often do not provide complete tax information until after the end of the calendar year. Consequently, because of the delay, it may be necessary for a Fund, if invested in REITs, to request permission to extend the deadline for issuance of Forms 1099-DIV beyond January 31. Alternatively, amended Forms 1099-DIV may be sent. During the current fiscal period, the Global Opportunities Fund, Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund and Emerging Markets Fund invested in REITs.

 

TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS — During periods of adverse market or economic conditions, a Fund may temporarily invest all or a substantial portion of its assets in high-quality, fixed-income securities, money market instruments, and shares of money market mutual funds, or it may hold cash. At such times, a Fund would not be pursuing its stated investment objective with its usual investment strategies. A Fund may also hold these investments for liquidity purposes. Fixed-income securities will be deemed to be of high quality if they are rated “A” or better by S&P or Moody’s or, if unrated, are determined to be of comparable quality by the Adviser. Money market instruments are high-quality, short-term fixed income obligations (which generally have remaining maturities of one year or less), and may include U.S. Government Securities, commercial paper, certificates of deposit and banker’s acceptances issued by domestic branches of United States banks that are members of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and repurchase agreements for US. Government Securities. In lieu of purchasing money market instruments, a Fund may purchase shares of money market mutual funds that invest primarily in U.S. Government Securities and repurchase agreements involving those securities, subject to certain limitations imposed by the 1940 Act. A Fund, as an investor in a money market fund, will indirectly bear the fees and expenses of the money market fund. These indirect fees and expenses will be in addition to the fees and expenses of the Funds. Repurchase agreements involve certain risks not associated with direct investments in debt securities.

 

3. INVESTMENT adviser and other services

 

Each Fund pays all of its expenses other than those expressly assumed by Motley Fool Asset Management (the “Adviser”). Expenses of each Fund are deducted from the Funds’ total income before dividends are paid. Subject to the supervision of the Board, the Adviser manages the overall investment operations of the Funds in accordance with the Funds’ investment objective and policies and formulates a continuing investment strategy for the Funds pursuant to the terms of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Adviser and the Company on behalf of the Funds. The Adviser is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Motley Fool Holdings Inc. (“TMF Holdings”), a multimedia financial-services holding company that also owns The Motley Fool, LLC, which publishes investment information and analysis across a wide range of media, including investment newsletter services, websites, and books. TMF Holdings is controlled by David Gardner and Tom Gardner, along with other private shareholders. Each Fund compensates the Adviser for its services at an annual rate based on each Fund’s average daily net assets (the “Advisory Fee”), payable on a monthly basis in arrears, as shown in the following table.

 

45

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

The Adviser has contractually agreed to pay, waive or absorb a portion of the operating expenses of each Fund’s share classes to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses of the Investor and Institutional Shares of each Fund (as applicable) (excluding certain items discussed below) exceed the rates (“Expense Caps”) shown in the following table of each Fund’s average daily net assets. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed the Expense Caps as applicable: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes. This contractual limitation is in effect until December 31, 2019 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board. The Adviser may discontinue these arrangements at any time after December 31, 2019.

 

           

EXPENSE CAPS

 

FUND

 

ADVISORY
FEE

   

INVESTOR
CLASS

   

INSTITUTIONAL
CLASS

 

Global Opportunities Fund

    0.85 %     1.15 %     0.95 %

Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund

    0.85 %     1.15 %     0.95 %

Emerging Markets Fund

    0.85 %     1.15 %     N/A  

 

During the current fiscal period, investment advisory fees accrued and waived were as follows:

 

FUND

 

GROSS
ADVISORY FEES

   

RECOUPMENT/
WAIVERS

   

NET
ADVISORY FEES

 

Global Opportunities Fund

  $ 3,746,542     $     $ 3,746,542  

Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund

    2,426,207             2,426,207  

Emerging Markets Fund

    316,375       (72,562 )     243,813  

 

The Adviser may recover from the Investor and Institutional Shares of each Fund fees and expenses previously paid, waived, or absorbed for a period of three years after such fees or expenses were incurred, provided that the repayments do not cause the Funds’ operating expenses (excluding brokerage commissions, taxes, interest expense, acquired fund fees and expenses, and any extraordinary expenses) to exceed the expense limits of the Investor and Institutional Class, respectively, of each Fund that were in effect at the time the fees and expenses were paid, waived, or absorbed by the Adviser, as well as the expense limits that are currently in effect, if different. The Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund Institutional Class had expense fees waived in the amount of $80,089. The Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund Institutional Class had expense fees waived in the amount of $56,058, and the Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund Investor Class had expense fees reimbursed in the amount of $146,709. Previously waived fees subject to future recovery by the Adviser are as follows:

 

   

EXPIRATION

         

FUND

 

OCTOBER 31,
2018
*

   

OCTOBER 31,
2019

   

AUGUST 31,
2020

   

AUGUST 31,
2021

   

TOTAL

 

Global Opportunities Fund - Investor Class

  $     $     $     $     $  

Global Opportunities Fund - Institutional Class

    16,108       85,311       83,548       80,089       265,056  

Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund - Investor Class

                             

Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund - Institutional Class

    17,968       88,812       73,109       56,058       235,947  

Emerging Markets Fund - Investor Class

    26,921       271,449       202,227       72,562       573,159  

 

*

September 1, 2018 to October 31, 2018

 

46

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (“BNY Mellon”) served as administrator for the Funds through December 3, 2017. Effective December 4, 2017, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (“Fund Services”), doing business as U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, serves as administrator for the Funds. For providing administrative and accounting services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

In addition, BNY Mellon served as the Funds’ transfer and dividend disbursing agent through December 3, 2017. Effective December 4, 2017, Fund Services serves as the Funds’ transfer and dividend disbursing agent. For providing transfer agent services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

The Bank of New York Mellon provided certain custodial services to the Funds through December 3, 2017. Effective December 4, 2017, U.S. Bank, N.A. (the “Custodian”) provides certain custodial services to the Funds. The Custodian is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Foreside Funds Distributors, LLC served as the principal underwriter and distributor of the Funds’ shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with RBB.

 

For compensation amounts paid to Fund Services, BNY Mellon, and the Custodian, please refer to the Statements of Operations.

 

DIRECTOR’S AND OFFICER’S COMPENSATION — The Directors of the Company receive an annual retainer and meeting fees for meetings attended. Employees of Vigilant Compliance, LLC serve as President, Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Treasurer of the Company. Vigilant Compliance, LLC is compensated for these services provided to the Company. An employee of RBB serves as Treasurer and Secretary, and is compensated for services provided. Certain employees of Fund Services serve as officers of the Company. They are not compensated by the Funds or the Company. The same individual serves as President and Chief Compliance Officer of the Company and also serves as the Chief Compliance Officer of the Adviser. Neither the Funds nor the Company compensate him or Vigilant Compliance, LLC for services provided to Motley Fool Asset Management. For Director’s and Officer’s compensation amounts, please refer to the Statement of Operations.

 

SHAREHOLDER ACCOUNT-RELATED SERVICES — The Company’s Board has authorized it to pay fees to financial intermediaries, including securities dealers, that provide shareholder account-related services to their customers who own shares of the Company’s Funds, or to reimburse the Adviser for such expenses it paid on the Company’s behalf. These financial intermediaries generally have omnibus accounts with the Company’s Transfer Agent and provide shareholder services or sub-transfer agent services to the shareholders who are their customers. The fees paid by the Funds for these services will not exceed the fees they would have incurred if customers of the financial intermediaries maintained their accounts directly with the Company.

 

During the current fiscal period, the amounts paid by the Funds for third-party shareholder account-related services were as follows:

 

FUND

 

INVESTOR CLASS

   

INSTITUTIONAL CLASS

   

TOTAL

 

Global Opportunities Fund

  $ 138,353     $ 2,025     $ 140,378  

Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund

    80,913       1,911       82,824  

Emerging Markets Fund

    18,086       N/A       18,086  

 

REDEMPTION FEE — Prior to January 1, 2018, the Funds imposed a redemption fee of 2.00% on redemptions/exchanges of Fund shares held less than 90 days. The redemption fee is calculated as a percentage of the net asset value of the total redemption proceeds and is retained by the Funds and accounted for as additional paid-in capital. Certain exceptions to the imposition of the redemption fee exist. Effective January 1, 2018, the Funds have eliminated their redemption fees. Please see the Funds’ prospectus for more information.

 

SMALL-BALANCE ACCOUNT FEE — The Funds charge a small-balance account fee of $24 annually if the value of an account is less than $10,000. The fee is assessed by redeeming shares from that account. Certain exceptions to the imposition of the small-balance account fee exist. Please see the Funds’ prospectus for more information.

 

47

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES — Advisers to investment companies, including Motley Fool Funds, are permitted under 17a-7 of the 1940 Act to purchase or sell securities directly between affiliated clients. When affecting these “cross” transactions, Rule 17a-7 imposes restrictions on how the trades are processed and reported. The specified conditions within Rule 17a-7 are outlined in procedures established by or under the direction of the Board of Directors. The procedures have been designed to provide assurance that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 under the 1940 Act.

 

During the current fiscal period, the Funds did not engage in any security transactions with affiliates.

 

4. PURCHASES AND SALES OF INVESTMENT SECURITIES

 

During the current fiscal period, aggregate purchases and sales and maturities of investment securities of the Funds were as follows:

 

FUND

 

PURCHASES

   

SALES

 

Global Opportunities Fund

  $ 61,998,271     $ 76,547,771  

Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund

    86,741,478       52,282,728  

Emerging Markets Fund

    5,798,515       2,510,479  

 

There were no purchases or sales of long-term U.S. Government Securities during the current fiscal period.

 

5. Federal Income tax information

 

The Funds have followed the authoritative guidance on accounting for and disclosure of uncertainty in tax positions, which requires the Funds to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Funds have determined that there was no effect on the financial statements from following this authoritative guidance. In the normal course of business, the Funds are subject to examination by federal, state and local jurisdictions, where applicable, for tax years for which applicable statutes of limitations have not expired.

 

As of August 31, 2018, the federal tax cost, aggregate gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of securities held by each Fund were as follows:

 

FUND

 

FEDERAL
TAX COST

   

UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION

   

UNREALIZED
(DEPRECIATION)

   

NET UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION/
(DEPRECIATION)

 

Global Opportunities Fund

  $ 291,350,893     $ 199,808,596     $ (12,315,665 )   $ 187,492,931  

Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund

    216,223,692       142,977,535       (1,467,596 )     141,509,939  

Emerging Markets Fund

    28,900,392       10,898,044       (3,708,876 )     7,189,168  

 

Distributions to shareholders, if any, from net investment income and realized gains are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from net investment income and realized gains recognized for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying financial statements. To the extent these differences are permanent, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts based on the tax treatment; temporary differences do not require such reclassification.

 

48

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

The following permanent differences as of August 31, 2018, primarily attributable to net operating loss adjustments, foreign currency transactions, and investments in partnerships and PFICs, were reclassified among the following accounts:

 

FUND

 

UNDISTRIBUTED
NET INVESTMENT
INCOME/(LOSS)

   

ACCUMULATED
NET REALIZED
GAIN/(LOSS)

   

PAID-IN
CAPITAL

 

Global Opportunities Fund

  $ 190,980     $ 13,219     $ (204,199 )

Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund

    688,674       (144,613 )     (544,061 )

Emerging Markets Fund

    3,937       (3,937 )      

 

As of August 31, 2018, the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

 

FUND

 

UNDISTRIBUTED
ORDINARY
INCOME

   

UNDISTRIBUTED
LONG-TERM
CAPITAL GAINS

   

CAPITAL
LOSS
CARRYOVER

   

QUALIFIED
LATE-YEAR LOSS
DEFERRAL

   

UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION/
(DEPRECIATION)

 

Global Opportunities Fund

  $     $ 25,420,701     $     $     $ 187,492,931  

Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund

          11,082,641             (438,175 )     141,509,939  

Emerging Markets Fund

    177,371             450,746             7,189,168  

 

The differences between the book and tax basis components of distributable earnings relate primarily to the timing of recognition of income and gains for federal income tax purposes.

 

The tax character of dividends and distributions paid during the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018 and 2017 were as follows:

 

FUND

TAX YEAR
END

 

ORDINARY
INCOME

   

LONG-TERM
CAPITAL GAIN

   

TOTAL

 

Global Opportunities Fund

2018

  $ 2,302,285     $ 48,809,850     $ 51,112,135  

Global Opportunities Fund

2017

    799,221       9,643,760       10,442,981  

Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund

2018

          14,151,780       14,151,780  

Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund

2017

                 

Emerging Markets Fund

2018

    314,358             314,358  

Emerging Markets Fund

2017

    178,502             178,502  

 

Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal income tax purposes.

 

Pursuant to federal income tax rules applicable to regulated investment companies, the Funds may elect to treat certain capital losses between November 1 and August 31 and late year ordinary losses ((i) ordinary losses between January 1 and August 31, and (ii) specified ordinary and currency losses between November 1 and August 31) as occurring on the first day of the following tax year. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, any amount of losses elected within the tax return will not be recognized for federal income tax purposes until September 1, 2018. The Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund deferred qualified late-year losses of $438,175 which will be treated as arising on the first business day of the following fiscal year.

 

49

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010, the Funds are permitted to carry forward capital losses incurred in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 for an unlimited period. Additionally, capital losses that are carried forward will retain their character as either short-term or long-term capital losses rather than being considered all short-term as under the previous law. As of August 31, 2018, the Emerging Markets Fund had unexpiring short-term losses of $450,746.

 

6. SECURITIES LENDING

 

The Funds may make secured loans of its portfolio securities to brokers, dealers and other financial institutions to earn additional income and receive cash collateral equal to at least 100% of the current market value of the loaned securities, as marked to market each day that the NAV of the Funds are determined. When the collateral falls below specified amounts, the lending agent will use its best effort to obtain additional collateral on the next business day to meet required amounts under the security lending agreement. The Funds will pay administrative and custodial fees in connection with the loan of securities. Collateral is invested in short-term investments and the Funds will bear the risk of loss of the invested collateral. Investments purchased with proceeds from securities lending are overnight and continuous. Securities lending will expose the Funds to the risk of loss should a borrower default on its obligation to return the borrowed securities. The market value of the securities on loan and collateral as of the end of the reporting period and the income generated from the program during the current fiscal period with respect to such secured loans were as follows:

 

FUND

 

MARKET VALUE
OF SECURITIES
LOANED

   

MARKET VALUE
OF COLLATERAL

   

INCOME
RECEIVED FROM
SECURITIES
LENDING

 

Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund

  $ 7,136,242     $ 7,205,183     $ 36  

Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund

    24,073,751       24,035,200       514  

 

Securities lending transactions are entered into by the Funds under a Master Securities Lending Agreement (“MSLA”) which permits the Funds, under certain circumstances including an event of default (such as bankruptcy or insolvency), to offset amounts payable by the Funds to the same counterparty against amounts to be received and create one single net payment due to or from the Funds. The following table is a summary of the Funds open securities lending transactions which are subject to a MSLA as of the end of the reporting period:

 

           

GROSS
AMOUNTS
OFFSET IN

   

NET AMOUNT
OF ASSETS
PRESENTED IN

   

GROSS AMOUNT NOT OFFSET IN THE
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

 

 

 

GROSS
AMOUNTS OF
RECOGNIZED
ASSETS

   

THE

STATEMENT
OF ASSETS
AND
LIABILITIES

   

THE

STATEMENT
OF ASSETS
AND
LIABILITIES

   

FINANCIAL
I
NSTRUMENTS1

   

CASH
COLLATERAL
RECEIVED

   

NET AMOUNT2

 

Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund

  $ 7,136,242     $     $ 7,136,242     $ (7,136,242 )   $     $  

Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund

    24,073,751             24,073,751       (24,073,751 )            

 

1

Amount disclosed is limited to the amount of assets presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Actual collateral received may be more than the amount shown.

2

Net amount represents the net amount receivable from the counterparty in the event of default.

 

50

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Notes to Financial Statements (CONCLUDED)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

7. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In August 2018, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”). The primary focus of ASU 2018-13 is to improve the effectiveness of the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The changes affect all companies that are required to include fair value measurement disclosures. In general, the amendments in ASU 2018-13 are effective for all affected entities for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. An affected entity is permitted to adopt the removed or modified disclosures upon the issuance of ASU 2018-13 and may delay adoption of the additional disclosures, which are required for public companies only, until their effective date. Management is currently evaluating the impact these changes will have on the Funds’ financial statements and disclosures.

 

8. Subsequent Events

 

Management has evaluated the impact of all subsequent events on the Funds through the date the financial statements were issued and has determined that there were no significant events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.

 

51

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Report of Independent Registered
Public Accounting Firm

 

To the Board of Directors of
The RBB Fund, Inc.
and the Shareholders of the Motley Fool Funds

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities of the Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund, Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund, and Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund (the “Funds”), each a series of The RBB Fund, Inc. (the “Trust”), including the schedules of investments, as of August 31, 2018, the related statements of operations for the year then ended, the statements of changes in net assets for the year then ended, for the period ended August 31, 2017, and for the year ended October 31, 2016, financial highlights for the year then ended, for the period ended August 31, 2017 and for each of the four years in the period ended October 31, 2016, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Funds as of August 31, 2018, the results of their operations, the changes in their net assets, and their financial highlights for the periods indicated above, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Funds’ management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Funds’ financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Funds in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB. We have served as the auditor of one or more of the funds in the Trust since 2011.

 

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

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2018 by correspondence with the custodian. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

 

TAIT, WELLER & BAKER LLP

 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 26, 2018

 

52

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

SHAREHOLDER TAX INFORMATION (Unaudited)

 

Certain tax information regarding the Funds is required to be provided to shareholders based upon the Funds’ income and distributions for the taxable period ended August 31, 2018. The information and distributions reported herein may differ from information and distributions taxable to the shareholders for the calendar year ending December 31, 2018. During the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, the following dividends and distributions were paid by the Funds:

 

FUND  ORDINARY
INCOME
   LONG-TERM
GAINS
 
Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund  $2,273,455   $48,838,670 
Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund       11,082,641 
Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund   314,358     

 

Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal income tax purposes.

 

Under the Jobs and Growth Tax relief Reconciliation Act of 2003 the following percentages of ordinary dividends paid during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018 are designated as “qualified dividend income,” as defined in the Act, and are subject to reduced tax rates:

 

Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund   100.00%
Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund   0.00%
Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund   100.00%

 

The percentage of total ordinary income dividends paid qualifying for the corporate dividends received deduction for the Funds are as follows:

 

Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund   2.00%
Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund   0.00%
Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund   6.30%

 

Because the Funds’ fiscal year is not the calendar year, another notification will be sent with respect to calendar year 2018. The second notification, which will reflect the amount, if any, to be used by calendar year taxpayers on their U.S. federal income tax returns, will be made in conjunction with Form 1099-DIV and will be mailed in January 2019.

 

Foreign shareholders will generally be subject to U.S. withholding tax on the amount of their ordinary income dividends. They will generally not be entitled to a foreign tax credit or deduction for the withholding taxes paid by the Funds, if any.

 

In general, dividends received by tax-exempt recipients (e.g., IRAs and Keoghs) need not be reported as taxable income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, some retirement trusts (e.g., corporate, Keogh and 403(b)(7) plans) may need this information for their annual information reporting.

 

Shareholders are advised to consult their own tax advisers with respect to the tax consequences of their investment in the Funds.

 

53

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Notice to Shareholders (Unaudited)

 

Information on Proxy Voting

 

Policies and procedures that the Funds use to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities as well as information regarding how the Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 are available (i) without charge, upon request, by calling (888) 863-8803; and (ii) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Quarterly Schedule of Investments

 

The Company files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. Shareholders can obtain the Form N-Q (i) without charge, upon request, by calling(888) 863-8803; (ii) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov; and (iii) on the Funds website at http://www.mfamfunds.com. The Form N-Q may be reviewed or copied at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.

 

APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

 

As required by the 1940 Act, the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Company, including all of the Directors who are not “interested persons” of the Company, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act (the “Independent Directors”), considered the renewal of the investment advisory agreements between the Adviser and the Company (the “Investment Advisory Agreements”) on behalf of the Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund, the Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund, and the Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund (each a “Fund” and together the “Funds”), at a meeting of the Board held on May 9-10, 2018 (the “Meeting”). At the Meeting, the Board, including all of the Independent Directors, approved the Investment Advisory Agreements for an additional one-year term. The Board’s decision to approve the Investment Advisory Agreements reflects the exercise of its business judgment to continue the existing arrangements. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreements, the Board considered information provided by the Adviser with the assistance and advice of counsel to the Independent Directors and the Company.

 

In considering the renewal and approval of the Investment Advisory Agreements between the Company and the Adviser with respect to the Funds, the Directors took into account all the materials provided prior to and during the Meeting and at other meetings throughout the past year, the presentations made during the Meeting, and the discussions held during the Meeting. Among other things, the Directors considered (i) the nature, extent, and quality of the Adviser’s services provided to the Funds; (ii) descriptions of the experience and qualifications of the Adviser’s personnel providing those services; (iii) the Adviser’s investment philosophies and processes; (iv) the Adviser’s assets under management and client descriptions; (v) the Adviser’s soft dollar commission and trade allocation policies, including information on the types of research and services obtained in connection with soft dollar commissions; (vi) the Adviser’s advisory fee arrangement with the Company and other similarly managed clients; (vii) the Adviser’s compliance policies and procedures; (viii) the Adviser’s financial information, insurance coverage and profitability analysis related to providing advisory services to the Funds; (ix) the extent to which economies of scale are relevant to the Funds; (x) a report prepared by Broadridge/Lipper comparing each Fund’s management fees and total expense ratio to those of its Lipper peer group; and (xi) a report comparing the performance of the Funds to the performance of their respective benchmark.

 

As part of their review, the Directors considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by the Adviser. The Directors concluded that the Adviser had substantial resources to provide services to the Funds and that the Adviser’s services had been acceptable.

 

The Directors also considered the investment performance of the Funds and the Adviser The Directors considered the Funds’ investment performance in light of their investment objectives and investment strategies. The Directors concluded that the investment performance of each of the Funds as compared to their respective benchmarks and Lipper Groups was acceptable.

 

In reaching this conclusion, the Directors observed that the Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund had outperformed its benchmark for the year-to-date and one-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also noted that the Motley Fool Global Opportunities Fund ranked in the 2nd quintile in its Performance Universe and Performance Group for the one- and two-year periods ended December 31, 2017.

 

54

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

Notice to Shareholders (Concluded) (Unaudited)

 

The Directors noted the Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund had outperformed its benchmark for the year-to-date and one-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also noted that the Motley Fool Small-Mid Cap Growth Fund ranked in the 1st quintile in its Performance Group for the one-, two-, three-, four- and five-year periods ended December 31, 2017.

 

The Directors noted the Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund had outperformed its benchmark for the year-to-date and one-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also noted that the Motley Fool Emerging Markets Fund ranked in the 4th quintile in its Performance Group for the one- and two-year periods ended December 31, 2017, and in the 5th quintile in its Performance Universe for the one- and two-year periods ended December 31, 2017.

 

The Board also considered the advisory fee rates payable by the Funds under the Investment Advisory Agreements. In this regard, information on the fees paid by the Funds and the Funds’ total operating expense ratios (before and after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) were compared to similar information for mutual funds advised by other, unaffiliated investment advisory firms. The Directors noted that the Adviser had contractually agreed to waive management fees and reimburse expenses through at least December 31, 2018 to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses exceed 1.15% and 0.95% for Investor Shares and Institutional Shares, respectively, of the Funds.

 

After reviewing the information regarding the Funds’ costs, profitability and economies of scale, and after considering the Adviser’s services, the Directors concluded that the investment advisory fees paid by the Funds were fair and reasonable and that the Investment Advisory Agreements should be approved and continued for an additional one year period ending August 16, 2019.

 

55

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

PRIVACY NOTICE (Unaudited)

 

What Does Motley Fool Funds Do With Your Personal Information?

 

Why?: Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information.

 

Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.

 

What?: The type of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:

 

Social Security number and transaction history

 

Account balances and checking account information

 

Account transactions and wire transfer instructions

 

When you are no longer a customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice.

 

How?: All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons Motley Fool Asset Management chooses to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.

 

Reasons we share your personal information

Does Motley Fool Asset Management share?

Can you limit this sharing?

For our everyday business purposes
such as to process your transaction, maintain your account(s), provide you with necessary information, respond to court orders and legal investigation, or report to credit bureaus

Yes

No

For our marketing purposes —
to offer our products and services to you

Yes

Yes

For joint marketing with other financial companies

No

We don’t share

For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes
information about your transactions and experiences

Yes

No

For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes — information about your creditworthiness

No

We don’t share

For our affiliates to market to you

Yes

Yes

For nonaffiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share

 

Visit us online: http://www.mfamfunds.com/website-privacy-policy/

 

Please note:

 

 

If you are a new customer, we can begin sharing your information 30 days from the days from the date we sent this notice. When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice.

 

56

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

PRIVACY NOTICE (Continued) (Unaudited)

 

However, you can contact us at any time to limit our sharing.

 

Questions: Call 1-888-863-8803 or go to www.mfamfunds.com

 

What we do:

 

How does Motley Fool Asset Management protect my personal information?

 

We collect your personal information, for example, when you:

 

Open an account or provide account information

 

Make deposits or withdrawals from your account

 

Make a wire transfer or tell us where to send the money

 

We also collect your personal information from other companies.

 

Why can’t I limit all sharing?

 

Federal law gives you the right to limit only:

 

Sharing for affiliates everyday business purposes – information about your creditworthiness

 

Make deposits or withdrawals from your account

 

Sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you

 

State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.

 

What happens when I limit sharing for an account I hold jointly with someone else?

 

Your choices will apply to everyone on your account.

 

EUROPEAN UNION’S GENERAL DATA PROTECTION REGULATION

 

In addition to the above information, where applicable, you have the following rights under the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) and U.S. Privacy Laws, as applicable and to the extent permitted by law, to

 

Check whether we hold personal information about you and to access such data (in accordance with our policy)

 

Request the correction of personal information about you that is inaccurate

 

Have a copy of the personal information we hold about you provided to you or another “controller” where technically feasible

 

Request the erasure of your personal information

 

Request the restriction of processing concerning you

 

The legal grounds for processing of your personal information is for contractual necessity and compliance with law.

 

If you wish to exercise any of your rights above, please call: 1-888-863-8803.

 

You are required to ensure the personal information we hold about you is up-to-date and accurate and you must notify us of any changes to the personal data you provided to us.

 

The Motley Fool Funds shall retain your personal data for as long as you are an investor in the Funds and thereafter as long as necessary to comply with applicable laws that require the Funds to retain your personal data, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission’s data retention rules. Your personal data will be transferred to the United States so that the Funds may provide the agreed upon services for you. No adequacy decision has been rendered by the European Commission as to the data protection of your personal data when transferring it to the United States. However, the Funds do take the security of your personal data seriously.

 

Definitions:

 

Affiliates - Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

Our affiliates include companies with a Motley Fool name; financial companies such as Motley Fool Asset Management, LLC; and nonfinancial companies such as The Motley Fool, LLC and The Motley Fool Holdings, Inc.

 

57

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

PRIVACY NOTICE (Concluded) (Unaudited)

 

Nonaffiliates - Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

Motley Fool Asset Management does not share with nonaffiliates so they can market to you.

 

Joint marketing - A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.

Motley Fool Asset Management doesn’t jointly market.

 

Controller - “Controller” means the natural or legal person, public authority, agency or other body which, alone or jointly with others, determines the purposes and means of the processing of personal data; where the purposes and means of such processing are determined by European Union or European Member State law, the controller or the specific criteria for its nomination may be provided for by European Union or European Member State law.

 

58

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS (Unaudited)

 

Directors and Executive Officers

 

The business and affairs of the Company are managed under the direction of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company is organized under and managed pursuant to Maryland law. The Directors and executive officers of the Company, their ages, business addresses and principal occupations during the past five years are set forth below. The statement of additional information (“SAI”) includes additional information about the Directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling (888) 863-8803.

 

Name, Address,
AND AGE

Positions(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office
and
Length of
TIME
Served
(1)

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex
Overseen by
Director
(*)

Other
Directorships
Held by
Director
in the Past
5 Years

INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS

Julian A. Brodsky
615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 85

Director

1988 to present

From 1969 to 2011, Director and Vice Chairman, Comcast Corporation (cable television and communications).

30

AMDOCS Limited (service provider to telecommunications companies).

J. Richard Carnall
615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 79

Director

2002 to present

Since 1984, Director of Haydon Bolts, Inc. (bolt manufacturer) and Parkway Real Estate Company (subsidiary of Haydon Bolts, Inc.); since 2004, Director of Cornerstone Bank.

30

None

Gregory P. Chandler
615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 51

Director

2012 to present

Since 2009, Chief Financial Officer, Emtec, Inc. (information technology consulting/services); from 2003-2009, Managing Director, head of Business Services and IT Services Practice, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC (investment banking/brokerage).

30

Emtec, Inc.; FS Investment Corporation (business development company); FS Energy and Power Fund (business development company); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios)(registered investment company).

Nicholas A. Giordano 615

East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 75

Director

2006 to present

Since 1997, Consultant, financial services organizations.

30

Kalmar Pooled Investment Trust (registered investment company) (until September 2017); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios) (registered investment company); Independence Blue Cross (healthcare insurance).

Arnold M. Reichman 615

East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 70

Chairman

Director

2005 to present

1991 to present

Since 2006, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lifebooker, LLC (online beauty and health appointment booking service).

30

Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

 

59

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS (CONTINUED) (Unaudited)

 

Name, Address,
AND AGE

Positions(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office
and
Length of
TIME
Served
(1)

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex
Overseen by
Director
(*)

Other
Directorships
Held by
Director
in the Past
5 Years

Brian T. Shea
615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 58

Director

2018 to present

From 2014-2017, Chief Executive Officer, BNY Mellon Investment Services (fund services, global custodian and securities clearing firm); from 1983-2014, Chief Executive Officer and various positions, Pershing LLC (broker dealer, clearing and custody firm).

30

WisdomTree Investments, Inc. (asset management company); Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (financial services technology company).

Robert A. Straniere
615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 77

Director

2006 to present

Since 2009, Administrative Law Judge, New York City; since 1980, Founding Partner, Straniere Law Group (law firm).

30

Reich and Tang Group (asset management).

INTERESTED DIRECTOR2

Robert Sablowsky
615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 80

Vice Chairman Director

2016 to present

1991 to present

Since 2002, Senior Director – Investments and, prior thereto, Executive Vice President, of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. (a registered broker-dealer).

30

None

OFFICERS

Salvatore Faia, JD, CPA, CFE Vigilant Compliance, LLC Gateway Corporate Center Suite 216
223 Wilmington West Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Age: 55

President

Chief Compliance Officer

2009 to present

2004 to present

Since 2004, President, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2005, Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

James G. Shaw
615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 57

Treasurer and Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2016, Treasurer and Secretary of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 2005 to 2016, Assistant Treasurer of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 1995 to 2016, Senior Director and Vice President of BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (financial services company).

N/A

N/A

Robert Amweg
Vigilant Compliance, LLC Gateway Corporate Center Suite 216
223 Wilmington West Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317 Age: 65

Assistant Treasurer

2016 to present

Since 2013, Compliance Director, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2012, Consultant to the financial services industry; from 2007 to 2012, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, Turner Investments, LP (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

 

 

60

 

 

 

 

MOTLEY FOOL FUNDS

DIRECTORS AND OFFICERS (CONCLUDED) (Unaudited)

 

Name, Address,
AND AGE

Positions(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office
and
Length of
TIME
Served
(1)

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex
Overseen by
Director
(*)

Other
Directorships
Held by
Director
in the Past
5 Years

Jennifer Witt
615 East Michigan Street Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 35

Assistant Treasurer

2018 to present

Since 2016, Assistant Vice President, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm); from 2007 to 2016, Supervisor, Nuveen Investments (investment company).

N/A

N/A

Edward Paz
615 East Michigan Street Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 47

Assistant Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2007, Vice President and Counsel, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm).

N/A

N/A

Michael P. Malloy
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Age: 59

Assistant Secretary

1999 to present

Since 1993, Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm).

N/A

N/A

Jillian L. Bosmann
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Age: 39

Assistant Secretary

2017 to present

Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm) (2017-Present); Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (2006-Present).

N/A

N/A

 

*

Each Director oversees 30 portfolios of the Company.

 

1.

Subject to the Company’s Retirement Policy, each Director may continue to serve as a Director until the last day of the calendar year in which the applicable Director attains age 75 or until his successor is elected and qualified or his death, resignation or removal. The Board reserves the right to waive the requirements of the Policy with respect to an individual Director. The Board has approved waivers of the policy with respect to Messrs. Brodsky, Carnall, Giordano, Sablowsky and Straniere. Each officer holds office at the pleasure of the Board until the next special meeting of the Company or until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, or until he or she dies, resigns or is removed.

 

2 .

Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “interested person” of the Company as that term is defined in the 1940 Act and is referred to as an “Interested Director.” Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “Interested Director” of the Company by virtue of his position as an employee of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc., a registered broker-dealer.

 

Director Experience, Qualifications, Attributes and/or Skills

 

The information above includes each Director’s principal occupations during the last five years. Each Director possesses extensive additional experience, skills and attributes relevant to his qualifications to serve as a Director. The cumulative background of each Director led to the conclusion that each Director should serve as a Director of the Company. Mr. Giordano has years of experience as a consultant to financial services organizations and also serves on the boards of other registered investment companies. Mr. Reichman brings decades of investment management experience to the Board, in addition to senior executive-level management experience. Mr. Straniere has been a practicing attorney for over 30 years and also serves on the boards of an asset management company and another registered investment company. Mr. Brodsky has over 40 years of senior executive level management experience in the cable television and communications industry. Mr. Sablowsky has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the financial services industry. Mr. Carnall has decades of senior executive-level management experience in the banking and financial services industry and also serves on the boards of various corporations and a bank. Mr. Chandler has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive level positions in the investment technology consulting/services and investment banking/brokerage industries, and also serves on various boards. Mr. Shea has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the investment services industry.

 

 

61

 

 

 

Investment Adviser

Motley Fool Asset Management, LLC
2000 Duke Street
Suite 275
Alexandria, VA 22314

 

Administrator and Transfer Agent

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, WI 53201

 

Custodian

U.S. Bank, N.A.
1555 North Rivercenter Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, WI 53212

 

Distributor

Foreside Funds Distributors LLC
899 Cassatt Road
400 Berwyn Park, Suite 110
Berwyn, PA 19312

 

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
1818 Market Street, Suite 2400
Philadelphia, PA 19103

 

Legal Counsel

Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
One Logan Square, Suite 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103-6996

 

62

 

 

 

 

 

 

(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)

 

 

 

 

 

questions for the motley

fool funds team?

Stay informed about your investment!

 

Shareholders like you are very important to us, and we’re committed to communicating with you about important matters. The best way to stay “in the know” is to sign up for our free email newsletter. You’ll get quarterly performance updates, insights about the stock market and investing, and more.

 

Simply send an email to help@mfamfunds.com today to sign up!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF (TMFC)

Welcome to the very first Annual Report for the Motley Fool 100 Index ETF! This report only covers a partial year, from our January 29 inception through our fiscal year end of August 31. Next year’s report will cover a full 12 months.

 

As you may have surmised from the name (or from dutifully reading the prospectus), the ETF is normally invested in 100 different companies. But since it’s weighted by market capitalization – and businesses like Apple and Amazon.com continue to be awesome – the Top Ten largest holdings in the Fund as of its year-ended accounted for more than 50% of net assets.

 

The Motley Fool’s approach to stock picking has historically identified a lot of technology and consumer-focused companies. It should come as no surprise that the Information Technology and Consumer Discretionary sectors are by far the most represented sectors in the Fund.

 

Several individual companies had high-flying returns since inception: 14 companies have gained at least 30% for us, led by a remarkable increase of 95% by the plucky little payments company Square.

 

Did you know that we publish the full list of holdings of the Motley Fool 100 Index ETF every day?
You can always see that full list at www.fool100etf.com.

 

  Table of Contents  

Letter from the President

3

Letter to Shareholders

4

Portfolio Characteristics

6

Fund Expense Example

8

Schedule of Investments

9

Financial Statements

15

Notes to Financial Statements

19

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

27

Notice to Shareholders

28

Directors and Officers

32

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Letter FROM THE PRESIDENT
AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

 

  President
Denise H. Coursey

 

Dear Fellow Shareholders,

 

We have a big announcement. Are you sitting down?

 

Motley Fool Funds is now Motley Fool Asset Management.

 

You may be thinking, “Hmm, is that really a change?”

 

Truth be told, we have always been Motley Fool Asset Management, LLC. That’s our legal name... and we’re taking it back.

 

Why? Because our mission is to help the world invest better – effortlessly. Until very recently, we provided only mutual funds as a way to achieve that mission. As you know — because you’re among our very first investors - we launched our first ETF, The Motley Fool 100 ETF (CBOE: TMFC), in January. It was met with great excitement. Based on your reaction and the demand for the product, we realized we could, and should, do more to fulfill our mission — and that our name should reflect that.

 

So we’re going back to our roots. We’re re-christening ourselves Motley Fool Asset Management (MFAM, for short) because we aspire to be more than a mutual fund company. In fact, we hope that in the minds of our longtime shareholders we already are. But we will be actively looking at more ways — new products and strategies, new investment vehicles, new insights — to help you invest better.

 

You’ll soon see our not-so-new name roll out everywhere, including:

 

 

In our spiffy new logo.

 

 

On your brokerage statements. (We’ll be MFAM — because there’s only so much room on those statements.)

 

 

In our regular email updates with monthly performance numbers, market commentary, and team insights. (If you don’t receive these yet, email us at help@mfamfunds.com.)

 

 

On our brand-new website! Check it out at www.mfamfunds.com. We’ve spent the past few months upgrading our look and our content. We’re pretty proud of what we’ve created and would love for you to look it over and give us your feedback.

 

While we’re doubling down on our efforts to fulfill our mission, we want you to know that our commitment to delivering great returns for our shareholders hasn’t changed. In fact, it’s only gotten stronger. Thank you, as always, for the trust you place in us. My team and I at Motley Fool Asset Management will continue to work hard every day to earn and deserve your trust.

 

Foolish best,

 

 

Denise Coursey
President, Motley Fool Asset Management

 

 

3

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Letter to Shareholders
AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

 

“Simple can be harder than complex. You have to work hard to get your thinking clean to make it simple. But it’s worth it in the end, because once you get there, you can move mountains.”

 

— Steve Jobs

 

Our sister company, The Motley Fool, LLC had existed for nearly 25 years before it published its first index, the Fool 100. In getting there, the company’s crack Investing Intelligence unit wrestled with the same tension Steve Jobs talked about. Getting to “simple” was a challenging task. It took a while.

 

One of the creators of the index, Tim Hanson, set out the principles to guide its construction. Any index would need to be proven, include only the stocks that anaylsts at The Motley Fool truly like, reflect the historical preference for technology and consumer companies that’s synonymous with the company’s recommendations, embrace the core investing tenets of diversification and low turnover, and be simple.

 

On January 29, 2018, our company, Motley Fool Asset Management, rolled out the Fool 100 ETF, an investable product based on the Fool 100 Index. The timing, at first, seemed poor. The S&P 500 and the Fool 100 ETF both tumbled over the next month. From there, however, the Fool 100 Index hasn’t looked back. From launch, on January 29 through August 31, the net asset value of the ETF increased 10.49% (the market price of the ETF increased 10.65%), while the S&P 500 has returned 2.91%.

 

Returns of the Fool 100 ETF got a boost from the relative outperformance of the technology sector, where the Fool 100 Index is heavily overweight. A look at the top holdings proves it: Apple, Amazon.com, Google parent Alphabet, and Facebook are four of the top five holdings and make up around 35% of total assets. Three of those four securities outperformed the S&P 500, with Apple and Amazon rising in value more than 35%.

 

Also contributing to results from Jan. 29 to Aug. 31 was the outperformance of growth stocks over value stocks. The S&P 500 Growth Index returned 8%, while the S&P 500 Value Index lost nearly 3%. The stocks that made up the Fool 100 Index over that period skewed toward the growth side and benefited from the tailwind.

 

With only seven months under its belt, the Fool 100 ETF is still young. However, the 25-year foundation on which the index methodology pulls from is a proven one. We’d like to thank the analysts at The Motley Fool for providing the investing insights used to construct the index. We’d also like to thank you for your support of our first ETF. We hope you find this ETF a simple investing solution, like we do. And most of all, we hope it helps simplify your financial plan so you achieve the freedom and resources you need to move the investing mountains in your life.

 

Onward,

 

 

Bryan Hinmon
Chief Investment Officer, Motley Fool Asset Management

 

4

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Letter to Shareholders (concluded)
AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

 

This report is submitted for general information to the shareholders of the Fund. It is not authorized for distribution unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus for the Fund.

 

The value of the Fund’s investments may decrease, which will cause the value of the Fund’s shares to decrease. As a result, you may lose money on your investment in the Fund, and there can be no assurance that the Fund will achieve its investment objective. Investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible. The Fund is non-diversified, which means its NAV, market price and total returns may fluctuate or fall more than a diversified fund. Gains or losses on a single stock may have a greater impact on the Fund. The Fund is not actively managed and the Adviser does not attempt to take defensive positions in any market conditions, including adverse markets. The Index is comprised of the 100 largest U.S. companies that are either active recommendations of The Motley Fool LLC’s newsletter or are among the 150 highest rated U.S. companies in The Motley Fool LLC’s analyst opinion database, and are weighted based on their market value relative to the total market value of other companies in the Index. Changes in The Motley Fool LLC’s recommendations or rankings methodologies may have an adverse effect on the Fund. Factors that affect a security’s value can change over time, and these changes may not be reflected in the Index methodology. The Fund is recently organized, with no operating history. As a result, prospective investors have a limited track record on which to base their investment decision. In addition, there can be no assurance that the Fund will grow to, or maintain, an economically viable size.

 

As with all ETFs, shares of the Fund may be bought and sold in the secondary market at market prices. Although it is expected that the market price of shares will approximate the Fund’s NAV, there may be times when the market price of shares is more than the NAV intra-day (premium) or less than the NAV intra-day (discount) due to supply and demand of shares or during periods of market volatility. Shares are not individually redeeming from the Fund and brokerage commissions will reduce returns.

 

Fund holdings and/or security allocations are subject to change at any time and are not recommendations to buy or sell any security. Please see the schedule of investments in this report for a full list of Fund holdings.

 

Diversification does not assure a profit nor protect against loss in a declining market.

 

The Motley Fool 100 Index was established by The Motley Fool in 2017 and is a proprietary, rules-based index designed to track the performance of the 100 largest, most liquid U.S. companies that have been recommended by The Motley Fool’s analysts and newsletters.

 

The S&P 500 is an American stock market index based on the market capitalizations of 500 large companies having common stock listed on the NYSE or NASDAQ. The S&P 500 index components and their weightings are determined by S&P Dow Jones Indices. It is not possible to invest directly in an index.

 

The S&P 500 Growth consists of stocks within the S&P 500 Index that exhibit strong growth characteristics. It is not possible to invest directly in an index.

 

The S&P 500 Value consists of stocks within the S&P 500 Index that exhibit strong value characteristics. It is not possible to invest directly in an index.

 

The Motley Fool 100 Index ETF is distributed by Quasar Distributors, LLC.

 

Opinions expressed are subject to change at any time, are not guaranteed, and should not be considered investment advice.

 

 

5

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Portfolio Characteristics
(Unaudited)

 

At August 31, 2018, the Fund had an unaudited net asset value of $22.10 per share attributed to 6,325,000 shares outstanding. This compares with an unaudited net asset value as of January 29, 2018 of $20.00 per share attributed to 100,000 shares outstanding. From the Fund launch on January 29, 2018 to August 31, 2018, the Fund had an average annual total return of 10.49% versus a return of 10.72% over the same period for its benchmark, the Motley Fool 100 Index.

 

AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURNS FOR THE PERIOD ENDED AUGUST 31, 2018

 

Since
Inception

Inception
Date

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF

10.49%

1/29/18

Motley Fool 100 Index*

10.72%(1)

 

S&P 500® Total Return Index**

2.91%(1)

 

Fund Expense Ratio(2)

0.50%

 

 

The graph below shows the performance of $10,000 invested in the Fund at inception. The results shown below do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on fund distributions or the redemption of fund shares. Fund returns are based on the net asset value and do not include brokerage commissions that may be payable on secondary market transactions.

 

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance and does not guarantee future results. Current performance may be lower or higher. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed or sold, may be worth more or less than their original cost.

 

(1)

Benchmark performance is from inception date of the Fund only and is not the inception date of the benchmark itself.

 

(2)

The expense ratios of the Fund are set forth according to the January 22, 2018 Prospectus for the Fund and may differ from the expense ratio disclosed in the Financial Highlights table in this report. See the Financial Highlights for most current expense ratio.

 

*

The Motley Fool 100 Index was developed by The Motley Fool, LLC (“The Motley Fool”), an affiliate of the Adviser, in 2017 and is a proprietary, rules-based index designed to track the performance of the 100 largest, most liquid U.S. companies that have been recommended by The Motley Fool’s analysts and newsletters or the highest-rated stocks in Fool IQ, the company’s analyst opinion database. Every company included in the Index is incorporated and listed in the U.S. The Index is calculated and administered by Solactive AG (the “Index Calculation Agent”), which is not affiliated with the Fund, the Adviser or The Motley Fool. Additional information regarding the Index, including its value, is available on the websites of the Fund at www.mfamfunds.com and the Index Calculation Agent, at www.solactive.com. You cannot invest directly in an index.

 

**

The S&P 500® Total Return Index is the total return version of the S&P 500® Index. Dividends are reinvested on a daily basis and all regular cash dividends are assumed reinvested in the index on the ex-dividend date. The S&P 500® Index is a market-capitalization-weighted index of 500 US stocks chosen for market size, liquidity and industry grouping, among other factors. The S&P 500® Index is designed to be a leading indicator of U.S. equities and is meant to reflect the risk/return characteristics of the large cap universe. The S&P 500® Index was first introduced on the 1st of January, 1923, though expanded to 500 stocks on March 4, 1957.

 

6

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Portfolio Characteristics (Continued)
(Unaudited)

 

The investment objective of the Fund is to seek investment results that correspond (before fees and expenses) generally to the total return performance of the Motley Fool 100 Index.

 

The following tables show the top ten holdings and sector allocations, in which the Fund was invested in as of August 31, 2018. Portfolio holdings are subject to change without notice.

 

Top TEN Holdings

% of Net
Assets

Apple, Inc.

9.6%

Amazon.com, Inc.

8.3

Alphabet, Inc., Class C

7.5

Microsoft Corp.

7.4

Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B

4.4

Facebook, Inc., Class A

4.4

JPMorgan Chase & Co.

3.4

Johnson & Johnson

3.1

Visa, Inc., Class A

2.8

Bank of America Corp.

2.7

 

53.6%

 

The Fund uses the Global Industry Classification StandardSM (“GICSSM”) as the basis for the classification of securities on the Schedule of Investments (“SOI”). We believe that this makes the SOI classifications more standard with the rest of the industry.

 

Sector Allocation

% of Net Assets

Information Technology

46.3%

Consumer Discretionary

20.1

Financials

13.2

Health Care

11.1

Industrials

4.3

Consumer Staples

1.9

Real Estate

1.2

Materials

0.9

Telecommunication Services

0.5

Energy

0.3

 

99.8%

 

 

7

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
fund expense example
AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including brokerage commissions on purchases and sales of Fund shares, and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other ETFs.

 

This example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period from March 1, 2018 through August 31, 2018, and held for the entire period.

 

Actual Expenses

 

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

 

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

 

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

 

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

 

Do you know how many times a fund, or the market, has returned a smooth 5% over a long period of time? Never. But we have to pick some example. In reality, the market’s returns are always far bumpier, with the market returning 20% one year, followed by a loss of 10% the next year, followed by a 3% gain,etc. These variations affect actual expenses as well. Happily, over almost all time periods of 20 years or longer, according to the research of University of Pennsylvania’s Jeremy Siegel and others, the domestic market’s returns have been at least 5% per year on average.

 

 

Beginning
Account Value
MARCH 1,
2018

Ending
Account Value
AUGUST 31,
2018

Expenses
Paid During
Period
*

Annualized
Expense
Ratio

ACTUAL SIX-MONTH TOTAL INVESTMENT RETURN FOR THE FUND

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,133.90

$2.69

0.50%

13.39%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,022.68

2.55

0.50

N/A

 

*

Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized six-month expense ratio for the period March 1, 2018 through August 31, 2018, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days (184) in the most recent fiscal half-year, then divided by 365 to reflect the one-half year period. The Fund’s ending account value on the first line in the table is based on the actual six-month total investment return for the Fund.

 

8

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Schedule of Investments
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value
(Note 2)

 
                 

Common Stocks — 99.9%

               

Aerospace & Defense — 0.3%

               

Textron, Inc. (United States)

    3,145     $ 217,099  

TransDigm Group, Inc. (United States)

    625       218,750  
              435,849  

Air Freight & Logistics — 0.8%

               

FedEx Corp. (United States)

    3,665       894,077  

XPO Logistics, Inc. (United States)*

    1,620       172,530  
              1,066,607  

Airlines — 1.1%

               

American Airlines Group, Inc. (United States)

    6,180       250,166  

Delta Air Lines, Inc. (United States)

    9,123       533,513  

Southwest Airlines Co. (United States)

    7,089       434,556  

United Continental Holdings, Inc. (United States) (a)*

    3,415       298,539  
              1,516,774  

Automobiles — 0.8%

               

Ford Motor Co. (United States) (a)

    51,069       484,134  

Tesla, Inc. (United States) (a)*

    2,150       648,569  
              1,132,703  

Banks — 6.3%

               

Bank of America Corp. (United States)

    125,059       3,868,075  

JPMorgan Chase & Co. (United States)

    42,029       4,815,683  

SVB Financial Group (United States)*

    672       216,888  
              8,900,646  

Beverages — 0.3%

               

Monster Beverage Corp. (United States)*

    6,506       396,150  

Biotechnology — 2.5%

               

Biogen, Inc. (United States)*

    2,493       881,251  

BioMarin Pharmaceutical, Inc. (United States)*

    2,129       212,857  

Celgene Corp. (United States)*

    8,380       791,491  

Gilead Sciences, Inc. (United States)

    14,982       1,134,587  

Vertex Pharmaceuticals, Inc. (United States)*

    2,675       493,270  
              3,513,456  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

 

9

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Schedule of Investments (continued)
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value
(Note 2)

 
                 

Common Stocks (continued)

               

Capital Markets — 1.3%

               

CME Group, Inc. (United States) (a)

    4,185     $ 731,245  

Intercontinental Exchange, Inc. (United States) (a)

    6,990       532,848  

Moody's Corp. (United States)

    2,328       414,430  

Nasdaq, Inc. (United States)

    1,999       190,785  
              1,869,308  

Chemicals — 0.7%

               

Ecolab, Inc. (United States) (a)

    3,514       528,787  

Sherwin-Williams Co. (The) (United States)

    1,070       487,470  
              1,016,257  

Commercial Services & Supplies — 0.2%

               

Cintas Corp. (United States)

    1,302       277,808  

Communications Equipment — 0.4%

               

Arista Networks, Inc. (United States)*

    924       276,257  

Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (United States)*

    1,117       258,195  
              534,452  

Consumer Finance — 0.8%

               

American Express Co. (United States)

    10,264       1,087,779  

Diversified Financial Services — 4.4%

               

Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B (United States)*

    29,943       6,249,703  

Electronic Equipment, Instruments & Components — 0.2%

               

Corning, Inc. (United States)

    10,306       345,354  

Equity Real Estate Investment Trusts — 1.2%

               

American Tower Corp. (United States)

    4,992       744,407  

Crown Castle International Corp. (United States) (a)

    4,597       524,196  

Equinix, Inc. (United States)

    865       377,252  
              1,645,855  

Food & Staples Retailing — 1.5%

               

Costco Wholesale Corp. (United States)

    5,119       1,193,392  

CVS Health Corp. (United States)

    12,757       959,837  
              2,153,229  

Food Products — 0.1%

               

McCormick & Co., Inc. (United States)

    1,400       174,832  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

10

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Schedule of Investments (continued)
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value
(Note 2)

 
                 

Common Stocks (continued)

               

Health Care Equipment & Supplies — 1.9%

               

ABIOMED, Inc. (United States)*

    567     $ 230,531  

Align Technology, Inc. (United States)*

    1,023       395,379  

Becton Dickinson and Co. (United States)

    3,021       791,109  

IDEXX Laboratories, Inc. (United States)*

    1,066       270,807  

Intuitive Surgical, Inc. (United States)*

    1,372       768,320  

ResMed, Inc. (United States)

    1,708       190,288  
              2,646,434  

Health Care Providers & Services — 2.9%

               

HCA Healthcare, Inc. (United States)

    4,216       565,408  

McKesson Corp. (United States) (a)

    2,607       335,651  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc. (United States)

    11,805       3,169,170  
              4,070,229  

Health Care Technology — 0.2%

               

Cerner Corp. (United States)*

    3,998       260,310  

Hotels, Restaurants & Leisure — 1.1%

               

Marriott International, Inc., Class A (United States)

    4,551       575,565  

Starbucks Corp. (United States)

    19,251       1,028,966  
              1,604,531  

Industrial Conglomerates — 1.4%

               

3M Co. (United States)

    7,335       1,547,098  

Roper Technologies, Inc. (United States)

    1,221       364,310  
              1,911,408  

Insurance — 0.5%

               

Aflac, Inc. (United States) (a)

    9,460       437,430  

Markel Corp. (United States)*

    167       201,870  
              639,300  

Internet & Direct Marketing Retail — 10.6%

               

Amazon.com, Inc. (United States)*

    5,816       11,705,922  

Booking Holdings, Inc. (United States)*

    598       1,167,027  

Expedia, Inc. (United States)

    1,848       241,164  

Netflix, Inc. (United States)*

    5,124       1,883,992  
              14,998,105  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

 

11

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Schedule of Investments (continued)
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value
(Note 2)

 
                 

Common Stocks (continued)

               

Internet Software & Services — 12.9%

               

Alphabet, Inc., Class C (United States)*

    8,682     $ 10,576,326  

Altaba, Inc. (United States)*

    10,547       733,544  

eBay, Inc. (United States)*

    12,595       435,913  

Facebook, Inc., Class A (United States)*

    34,962       6,143,872  

Twitter, Inc. (United States)*

    9,289       326,787  
              18,216,442  

IT Services — 6.4%

               

Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., Class A (United States)

    7,014       550,108  

Mastercard, Inc., Class A (United States)

    12,651       2,727,050  

PayPal Holdings, Inc. (United States)*

    14,538       1,342,293  

Square, Inc., Class A (United States)*

    5,079       450,203  

Visa, Inc., Class A (United States) (a)

    27,236       4,000,696  
              9,070,350  

Life Sciences Tools & Services — 0.5%

               

Illumina, Inc. (United States)*

    1,799       638,339  

Machinery — 0.2%

               

Cummins, Inc. (United States)

    2,080       294,944  

Media — 3.0%

               

Comcast Corp., Class A (United States)

    54,386       2,011,738  

Discovery, Inc., Class A (United States)*

    8,019       223,169  

Walt Disney Co. (The) (United States)

    18,112       2,028,906  
              4,263,813  

Metals & Mining — 0.2%

               

Nucor Corp. (United States)

    4,015       250,938  

Oil, Gas & Consumable Fuels — 0.3%

               

Kinder Morgan, Inc. (United States)

    25,348       448,660  

Pharmaceuticals — 3.1%

               

Johnson & Johnson (United States)

    31,924       4,299,844  

Professional Services — 0.3%

               

CoStar Group, Inc. (United States)*

    439       194,108  

Verisk Analytics, Inc. (United States) (a)*

    1,990       236,989  
              431,097  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

12

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Schedule of Investments (continued)
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value
(Note 2)

 
                 

Common Stocks (continued)

               

Semiconductors & Semiconductor Equipment — 2.8%

               

Broadcom, Inc. (United States)

    5,555     $ 1,216,712  

Lam Research Corp. (United States)

    1,972       341,333  

NVIDIA Corp. (United States)

    8,023       2,251,896  

Skyworks Solutions, Inc. (United States)

    2,187       199,673  
              4,009,614  

Software — 14.0%

               

Activision Blizzard, Inc. (United States)

    9,220       664,762  

Adobe Systems, Inc. (United States)*

    6,086       1,603,722  

Electronic Arts, Inc. (United States)*

    3,720       421,885  

Intuit, Inc. (United States)

    3,077       675,309  

Microsoft Corp. (United States)

    93,308       10,481,288  

Oracle Corp. (United States) (a)

    51,182       2,486,421  

Red Hat, Inc. (United States)*

    2,746       405,667  

Salesforce.com, Inc. (United States)*

    8,988       1,372,288  

Splunk, Inc. (United States)*

    1,967       252,071  

Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (United States)*

    1,402       187,251  

VMware, Inc., Class A (United States)*

    4,940       757,104  

Workday, Inc., Class A (United States)*

    2,744       424,058  
              19,731,826  

Specialty Retail — 3.5%

               

Home Depot, Inc. (The) (United States)

    14,104       2,831,660  

Lowe's Cos, Inc. (United States)

    9,953       1,082,389  

TJX Cos, Inc. (The) (United States)

    7,452       819,496  

Ulta Beauty, Inc. (United States) (a)*

    749       194,740  
              4,928,285  

Technology Hardware, Storage & Peripherals — 9.6%

               

Apple, Inc. (United States)

    59,487       13,541,026  

Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods — 1.1%

               

NIKE, Inc., Class B (United States)

    18,072       1,485,518  

Wireless Telecommunication Services — 0.5%

               

T-Mobile US, Inc. (United States) (a)*

    10,230       675,589  

Total Common Stocks (Cost $124,790,261)

            140,733,364  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

 

13

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Schedule of Investments (concluded)
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

 

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value
(Note 2)

 
                 

Investments Purchased with Proceeds from Securities Lending Collateral — 8.5%

               

Mount Vernon Liquid Assets Portfolio, LLC, 2.15%

    11,914,270     $ 11,914,270  

Total Investments Purchased with Proceeds from Securities Lending Collateral (Cost $11,914,270)

            11,914,270  
                 

Short-Term Investments — 0.1%

               

First American Treasury Obligations Fund Class X, 1.87% (United States) (b)

    124,175       124,175  

Total Short-Term Investments (Cost $124,175)

            124,175  
                 

Total Investments (Cost $136,828,706) — 108.5%

            152,771,809  

Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets — (8.5)%

            (11,892,412 )

NET ASSETS — 100.0%

               

(Applicable to 6,375,000 shares outstanding)

          $ 140,879,397  

 

*

Non-income producing security.

 

(a)

All or a portion of the security is on loan. At August 31, 2018, the market value of securities on loan was $11,679,186

 

(b)

Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

14

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
AUGUST 31, 2018

 

ASSETS

       

Investments in securities, at value (cost $124,790,261)

  $ 140,733,364  

Investments purchased with proceeds from securities lending collateral, at value (cost $11,914,270)

    11,914,270  

Short-term investments, at value (cost $124,175)

    124,175  

Receivables for:

       

Capital shares sold

    1,104,935  

Dividends

    130,971  

Total assets

    154,007,715  
         

LIABILITIES

       

Payables for:

       

Securities lending collateral

    11,914,270  

Investments purchased

    1,157,917  

Advisory fees

    56,131  

Total liabilities

    13,128,318  

Net assets

  $ 140,879,397  
         

NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:

       

Par value

  $ 6,375  

Paid-in capital

    124,877,158  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss)

    408,899  

Accumulated net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    (356,138 )

Net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    15,943,103  

Net assets

  $ 140,879,397  
         

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    6,375,000  

Net asset value, price per share

  $ 22.10  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

 

15

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Statement of Operations
for the PERIOD ended AUGUST 31, 2018*

 

INVESTMENT INCOME

       

Dividends

  $ 712,358  

Securities lending income

    115  

Total investment income

    712,473  
         

EXPENSES

       

Advisory fees (Note 3)

    301,147  

Total expenses

    301,147  

Net investment income/(loss)

    411,326  
         

NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) FROM INVESTMENTS

       

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    (364,453 )

Net realized gain from redemption in-kind

    561,538  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    15,943,103  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    16,140,188  

NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS

  $ 16,551,514  

 

*

Inception date of the Fund was January 29, 2018.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

16

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Statement of Changes in Net Assets

 

 

 

For the
PERIOD Ended
august 31, 2018*

 

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM OPERATIONS:

       

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ 411,326  

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    197,085  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    15,943,103  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    16,551,514  
         

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

       

Proceeds from shares sold

    131,864,333  

Shares redeemed

    (7,536,450 )

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

    124,327,883  

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    140,879,397  
         

NET ASSETS:

       

Beginning of period

     

End of period

  $ 140,879,397  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $ 408,899  
         

SHARES TRANSACTIONS:

       

Shares sold

    6,750,000  

Shares redeemed

    (375,000 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares outstanding

    6,375,000  

 

*

Inception date of the Fund was January 29, 2018.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

 

17

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective period. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

 

 

for the
Period
Ended
august
31,

 

 

 

2018(1)

 

PER SHARE OPERATING PERFORMANCE

       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 20.00  

Net investment income/(loss) (2)

    0.08  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    2.02  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    2.10  

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 22.10  

Market value, end of period

  $ 22.13  

Total investment return on net asset value(3)

    10.49 %(4)

Total investment return on market price (6)

    10.65 %(4)

RATIO/SUPPLEMENTAL DATA

       

Net assets, end of period (000's omitted)

  $ 140,879  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets

    0.50 %(5)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    0.68 %(5)

Portfolio turnover rate

    10 %(4)

 

(1)

Inception date of the Fund was January 29, 2018.

 

(2)

Calculated based on average shares outstanding for the period.

 

(3)

Total investment return on net asset value is calculated assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

 

(4)

Not annualized.

 

(5)

Annualized.

 

(6)

Total investment return on market price is calculated assuming an initial investment made at the market price on the first day of the period, reinvestment of dividends and distributions at market price during the period, and redemption at market price on the last day of the period.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

18

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Notes to Financial Statements

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

1. Organization AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES

 

The RBB Fund, Inc. (“RBB” or the “Company”) was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on February 29, 1988 and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. RBB is a “series fund,” which is a mutual fund divided into separate portfolios. Each portfolio is treated as a separate entity for certain matters under the 1940 Act, and for other purposes, and a shareholder of one portfolio is not deemed to be a shareholder of any other portfolio. Currently, RBB has thirty active investment portfolios, including the Motley Fool 100 Index ETF (the “Fund”), which commenced investment operations on January 29, 2018.

 

RBB has authorized capital of one hundred billion shares of common stock of which 87.023 billion shares are currently classified into one hundred and eighty-one classes of common stock. Each class represents an interest in an active or inactive RBB investment portfolio.

 

The investment objective of the Fund is to achieve investment results that correspond (before fees and expenses) generally to the total return performance of the Motley Fool 100 Index (the “Index”). The Index was developed by The Motley Fool, LLC (“The Motley Fool”), an affiliate of the Adviser, in 2017 and is a proprietary, rules-based index designed to track the performance of the 100 largest, most liquid U.S. companies that have been recommended by The Motley Fool’s analysts and newsletters or the highest-rated stocks in Fool IQ, the company’s analyst opinion database. Every company include in the Index is incorporated and listed in the U.S.

 

The Fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services - Investment Companies”.

 

The end of the reporting period for the Fund is August 31, 2018, and the period covered by these Notes to Financial Statements is the fiscal period January 29, 2018 through August 31, 2018 (the “current fiscal period”).

 

PORTFOLIO VALUATION — The Fund’s net asset value (“NAV”) is calculated once daily at the close of regular trading hours on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on each day the NYSE is open. Securities held by the Fund are valued using the closing price or the last sale price on a national securities exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automatic Quotation System (“NASDAQ”) market system where they are primarily traded. Equity securities traded in the over-the-counter (“OTC”) market are valued at their closing prices. If there were no transactions on that day, securities traded principally on an exchange or on NASDAQ will be valued at the mean of the last bid and ask prices prior to the market close. Fixed income securities are valued using an independent pricing service, which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings, and are deemed representative of market values at the close of the market. Foreign securities are valued based on prices from the primary market in which they are traded, and are translated from the local currency into U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. If market quotations are unavailable or deemed unreliable, securities will be valued in accordance with procedures adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”). Relying on prices supplied by pricing services or dealers or using fair valuation may result in values that are higher or lower than the values used by other investment companies and investors to price the same investments. Such procedures use fundamental valuation methods, which may include, but are not limited to, an analysis of the effect of any restrictions on the resale of the security, industry analysis and trends, significant changes in the issuer’s financial position, and any other event which could have a significant impact on the value of the security. Determination of fair value involves subjective judgment as the actual market value of a particular security can be established only by negotiations between the parties in a sales transaction, and the difference between the recorded fair value and the value that would be received in a sale could be significant.

 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS — The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the Fund’s investments are summarized into three levels as described in the hierarchy below:

 

 

Level 1 – Prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

 

 

Level 2 – Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).

 

 

Level 3 – Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

 

19

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of the end of the reporting period, in valuing the Fund’s investments carried at fair value:

 

 

 

TOTAL

   

LEVEL 1

   

LEVEL 2

   

LEVEL 3

   

INVESTMENTS
MEASURED
AT NET ASSET
VALUE^

 

Common Stocks

  $ 140,733,364     $ 140,733,364     $     $     $  

Investments Purchased with Proceeds from Securities Lending Collateral

    11,914,270       11,914,270                    

Short-Term Investments

    124,175       124,175                    

Total Investments*

  $ 152,771,809     $ 152,771,809     $     $     $  

 

*

Please refer to the Schedule of Investments for further details.

 

^

Certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amounts presented in the table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

At the end of each quarter, management evaluates the classification of Levels 1, 2 and 3 assets and liabilities. Various factors are considered, such as changes in liquidity from the prior reporting period; whether or not a broker is willing to execute at the quoted price; the depth and consistency of prices from third party pricing services; and the existence of contemporaneous, observable trades in the market. Additionally, management evaluates the classification of Level 1 and Level 2 assets and liabilities on a quarterly basis for changes in listings or delistings on national exchanges.

 

Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Fund’s investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values the Fund may ultimately realize. Further, such investments may be subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities.

 

For fair valuations using significant unobservable inputs, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires the Fund to present a reconciliation of the beginning to ending balances for reported market values that presents changes attributable to total realized and unrealized gains or losses, purchase and sales, and transfers in and out of Level 3 during the period. Transfers in and out between levels are based on values at the end of the period. U.S. GAAP also requires the Fund to disclose amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements. A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented only when the Fund had an amount of Level 3 investments at the end of the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets. The amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of each level within the three-tier hierarchy are disclosed when the Fund had an amount of total transfers during the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets as of the end of the reporting period.

 

During the current fiscal period, the Fund had no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3.

 

USE OF ESTIMATES — The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and those differences could be significant.

 

INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS, INVESTMENT INCOME AND EXPENSES — The Fund records security transactions based on trade date for financial reporting purposes. The cost of investments sold is determined by use of the specific identification method for both financial reporting and income tax purposes in determining realized gains and losses on investments. Interest

 

20

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

income is accrued when earned. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or capital gains are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. Expenses and fees, including investment advisory fees, are accrued daily and taken into account for the purpose of determining the NAV of the Fund.

 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS — The Fund pays dividends from its net investment income and distributes any net capital gains that it realizes. Dividends and capital gains distributions are generally paid once a year and as required to comply with federal excise tax requirements. Distributions to shareholders are determined in accordance with tax regulations and recorded on ex dividend date. Additionally, each Fund reports details of distribution-related transactions on quarterly account statements. You may not receive a separate confirmation statement for these transactions.

 

U.S. TAX STATUS — No provision is made for U.S. income taxes as it is the Fund’s intention to continue to qualify for and elect the tax treatment applicable to regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and make the requisite distributions to its shareholders which will be sufficient to relieve it from U.S. income and excise taxes.

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — Cash and cash equivalents are valued at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates market value.

 

OTHER — In the normal course of business, the Fund may enter into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made against the Fund in the future, and, therefore, cannot be estimated; however, based on experience, the risk of material loss from such claims is considered remote.

 

2. Investment Policies and Practices

 

The sections below describe some of the different types of investments that may be made by the Fund and the investment practices in which the Fund may engage.

 

When we say that the Fund may invest in other types of securities and in other asset classes, the “may” is well worth emphasizing, as the Fund’s primary focus is to track the makeup and returns of the Motley Fool 100 Index.

 

TYPES OF FIXED-INCOME SECURITIES — The Fund may invest in bonds and other types of debt obligations of U.S. and foreign issuers. Fixed income securities purchased by the Fund may include, among others, bonds, notes, and debentures issued by corporations; debt securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or one of its agencies or instrumentalities (“U.S. Government Securities”); municipal securities; mortgage-backed and asset-backed securities; and debt securities issued or guaranteed by foreign governments, their agencies, instrumentalities, or political subdivisions, or by government-owned, -controlled, or -sponsored entities, including central banks. These investments also include money market instruments and other types of obligations. Investors should recognize that, although securities ratings issued by Standard & Poor’s® Ratings Services (“S&P”), a division of The McGraw-Hill Companies, Inc., and Moody’s Investors Services©, Inc. (“Moody’s”), provide a generally useful guide as to credit risks, they do not offer any criteria to evaluate interest rate risk. Changes in interest rate levels generally cause fluctuations in the prices of fixed-income securities and will, therefore, cause fluctuations in the NAV per share of the Fund. Subsequent to the purchase of a fixed-income security by the Fund, the ratings or credit quality of such security may deteriorate. Any such subsequent adverse changes in the rating or quality of a security held by the Fund would not require the Fund to sell the security.

 

REAL ESTATE INVESTMENT TRUSTS — Real estate investment trusts (“REITs”) are pooled investment vehicles that manage a portfolio of real estate or real estate-related loans to earn profits for their shareholders. REITs are generally classified as equity REITs, mortgage REITs, or a combination of equity and mortgage REITs. Investing in REITs involves certain unique risks in addition to those risks associated with investing in the real estate industry in general. Equity REITs may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property owned by the REITs, while mortgage REITs may be affected by the quality of the borrower on any credit extended. REITs are dependent upon management skills, may not be diversified geographically or by property type, and are subject to heavy cash-flow dependency, default by borrowers, and self-liquidation. REITs must also meet certain requirements under the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended (the “Code”), to avoid entity level tax and be eligible to pass through certain

 

 

21

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

tax attributes of their income to shareholders. REITs are consequently subject to the risk of failing to meet these requirements for favorable tax treatment and of failing to maintain their exemptions from registration under the 1940 Act. REITs are also subject to the risks of changes in the Code, affecting their tax status.

 

REITs (especially mortgage REITs) are also subject to interest rate risks. When interest rates decline, the value of a REIT’s investment in fixed-rate obligations can be expected to rise. Conversely, when interest rates rise, the value of a REIT’s investment in fixed-rate obligations can be expected to decline. In contrast, as interest rates on adjustable-rate mortgage loans are reset periodically, yields on a REIT’s investments in such loans will gradually align themselves to reflect changes in market interest rates, causing the value of such investments to fluctuate less dramatically in response to interest rate fluctuations than would investments in fixed-rate obligations.

 

The management of a REIT may be subject to conflicts of interest with respect to the operation of the business of the REIT and may be involved in real estate activities competitive with the REIT. REITs may own properties through joint ventures or in other circumstances in which a REIT may not have control over its investments. REITs may use significant amounts of leverage.

 

REITs often do not provide complete tax information until after the end of the calendar year. Consequently, because of the delay, it may be necessary for the Fund, if invested in REITs, to request permission to extend the deadline for issuance of Forms 1099-DIV beyond January 31. Alternatively, amended Forms 1099-DIV may be sent.

 

TEMPORARY INVESTMENTS — The Fund may hold these investments for liquidity purposes. Fixed-income securities will be deemed to be of high quality if they are rated “A” or better by S&P or Moody’s or, if unrated, are determined to be of comparable quality by the Adviser. Money market instruments are high-quality, short-term fixed income obligations (which generally have remaining maturities of one year or less), and may include U.S. Government Securities, commercial paper, certificates of deposit and banker’s acceptances issued by domestic branches of United States banks that are members of the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation, and repurchase agreements for U.S. Government Securities. In lieu of purchasing money market instruments, the Fund may purchase shares of money market mutual funds that invest primarily in U.S. Government Securities and repurchase agreements involving those securities, subject to certain limitations imposed by the 1940 Act. The Fund, as an investor in a money market fund, will indirectly bear the fees and expenses of the money market fund. These indirect fees and expenses will be in addition to the fees and expenses of the Fund. Repurchase agreements involve certain risks not associated with direct investments in debt securities.

 

3. INVESTMENT adviser and other services

 

The Fund pays all of its expenses other than those expressly assumed by Motley Fool Asset Management (the “Adviser”). Expenses of the Fund are deducted from the Fund’s total income before dividends are paid. Subject to the supervision of the Board, the Adviser manages the overall investment operations of the Fund in accordance with the Fund’s investment objective and policies and formulates a continuing investment strategy for the Fund pursuant to the terms of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Adviser and the Company on behalf of the Fund. The Adviser is a wholly owned subsidiary of The Motley Fool Holdings Inc. (“TMF Holdings”), a multimedia financial-services holding company that also owns The Motley Fool, which publishes investment information and analysis across a wide range of media, including investment newsletter services, websites, and books. TMF Holdings is controlled by David Gardner and Tom Gardner, along with other private shareholders. The Fund compensates the Adviser a unitary management fee for its services at an annual rate of 0.50% based on the Fund’s average daily net assets (the “Advisory Fee”), payable on a monthly basis in arrears. From the Advisory Fee, the Adviser pays most of the expenses of the Fund, including the cost of transfer agency, custody, fund administration, legal, audit and other services. However, the Adviser is not responsible for interest expenses, brokerage commissions and other trading expenses, fees and expenses of independent directors and their independent counsel, taxes and other extraordinary costs such as litigation and other expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of business.

 

22

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

During the current fiscal period, investment advisory fees accrued were as follows:

 

ADVISORY FEES

$ 301,147

 

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (“Fund Services”), doing business as U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, serves as administrator for the Fund. For providing administrative and accounting services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Fund Services serves as the Fund’s transfer and dividend disbursing agent. For providing transfer agent services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

U.S. Bank, N.A. (the “Custodian”) provides certain custodial services to the Fund. The Custodian is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Quasar Distributors, LLC serves as the principal underwriter and distributor of the Fund’s shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with RBB.

 

Under the Fund’s unitary fee, the Adviser compensates Fund Services and the Custodian for its services provided.

 

DIRECTOR’S AND OFFICER’S COMPENSATION — The Directors of the Company receive an annual retainer and meeting fees for meetings attended. Employees of Vigilant Compliance, LLC serve as President, Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Treasurer of the Company. Vigilant Compliance, LLC is compensated for these services provided to the Company. An employee of RBB serves as Treasurer and Secretary, and is compensated for services provided. Under the Fund’s unitary fee, the Adviser compensates the Directors and Officers for their services. Certain employees of Fund Services serve as officers of the Company. They are not compensated by the Fund or the Company. The same individual serves as President and Chief Compliance Officer of the Company and also serves as Chief Compliance Officer of the Adviser. Neither the Fund nor the Company compensate him or Vigilant Compliance, LLC for the services provided to Motley Fool Asset Management.

 

4. PURCHASES AND SALES OF INVESTMENT SECURITIES

 

During the current fiscal period, aggregate purchases and sales and maturities of investment securities (excluding in-kind transactions and short-term investments) of the Fund were as follows:

 

PURCHASES

SALES

$ 13,069,781 $ 9,782,748

 

There were no purchases or sales of long-term U.S. Government Securities during the current fiscal period.

 

During the current fiscal period, aggregate purchases and sales and maturities of in-kind transactions of the Fund were as follows:

 

PURCHASES

SALES

$ 129,042,568 $ 7,309,184

 

5. Federal Income tax information

 

The Fund follows the authoritative guidance on accounting for and disclosure of uncertainty in tax positions, which requires the Fund to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Fund has determined that there was no

 

 

23

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

effect on the financial statements from following this authoritative guidance. In the normal course of business, the Fund is subject to examination by federal, state and local jurisdictions, where applicable, for tax years for which applicable statutes of limitations have not expired.

 

As of August 31, 2018, the federal tax cost, aggregate gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of securities held by the Fund is as follows:

 

FEDERAL
TAX COST

UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION

UNREALIZED
(DEPRECIATION)

NET UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION/
(DEPRECIATION)

$ 137,030,382 $ 17,486,173 $ (1,744,766) $ 15,741,427

 

Distributions to shareholders, if any, from net investment income and realized gains are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from net investment income and realized gains recognized for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying financial statements. To the extent these differences are permanent, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts based on the tax treatment; temporary differences do not require such reclassification.

 

The following permanent differences as of August 31, 2018, primarily attributable to foreign currency transactions and in-kind redemptions gains, were reclassified among the following accounts:

 

UNDISTRIBUTED
NET INVESTMENT
INCOME/(LOSS)

ACCUMULATED
NET REALIZED
GAIN/(LOSS)

PAID-IN
CAPITAL

$ (2,427) $ (553,223) $ 555,650

 

As of August 31, 2018, the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

 

UNDISTRIBUTED
ORDINARY
INCOME

UNDISTRIBUTED
LONG-TERM
CAPITAL GAINS

CAPITAL
LOSS
CARRYOVER

OTHER

UNREALIZED
APPRECIATION/
(DEPRECIATION)

$ 408,899 $ — $ (154,462) $ — $ 15,741,427

 

The differences between the book and tax basis components of distributable earnings relate primarily to the timing of recognition of income and gains for federal income tax purposes.

 

The tax character of dividends and distributions paid during the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018, were as follows:

 

TAX YEAR
END

 

ORDINARY
INCOME

   

LONG-TERM
CAPITAL GAIN

   

TOTAL

 

2018

  $     $     $  

 

Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal income tax purposes.

 

24

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Notes to Financial Statements (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

Pursuant to federal income tax rules applicable to regulated investment companies, the Fund may elect to treat certain capital losses between November 1 and August 31 and late year ordinary losses ((i) ordinary losses between January 1 and August 31, and (ii) specified ordinary and currency losses between November 1 and August 31) as occurring on the first day of the following tax year. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, any amount of losses elected within the tax return will not be recognized for federal income tax purposes until September 1, 2018.

 

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010, the Fund is permitted to carry forward capital losses incurred in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 for an unlimited period. Additionally, capital losses that are carried forward will retain their character as either short-term or long-term capital losses rather than being considered all short-term as under the previous law. As of August 31, 2018, the Fund had unexpiring short-term losses of $154,462.

 

6. SHARE TRANSACTIONS

 

Shares of the Fund are listed and trade on the Cboe BZX Exchange, Inc. (the “Exchange”). Market prices for the shares may be different from their NAV. The Fund issues and redeems shares on a continuous basis at NAV only in blocks of 25,000 shares, called “Creation Units.” Creation Units are issued and redeemed principally in-kind for securities included in a specified universe. Once created, shares generally trade in the secondary market at market prices that change throughout the day. Except when aggregated in Creation Units, shares are not redeemable securities of the Fund. Creation Units may only be purchased or redeemed by certain financial institutions (“Authorized Participants”). An Authorized Participant is either (i) a broker-dealer or other participant in the clearing process through the Continuous Net Settlement System of the National Securities Clearing Corporation or (ii) a Depository Trust Company participant and, in each case, must have executed a Participant Agreement with the Distributor. Most retail investors do not qualify as Authorized Participants nor have the resources to buy and sell whole Creation Units. Therefore, they are unable to purchase or redeem shares directly from the Fund. Rather, most retail investors may purchase shares in the secondary market with the assistance of a broker and are subject to customary brokerage commissions or fees.

 

The Fund currently offers one class of shares, which has no front-end sales load, no deferred sales charge, and no redemption fee. A fixed transaction fee is imposed for the transfer and other transaction costs associated with the purchase or sale of Creation Units. The standard fixed transaction fee for the Fund is $250, payable to the custodian. In addition, a variable fee may be charged on all cash transactions or substitutes for Creation Units of up to a maximum of 2% as a percentage of the value of the Creation Units subject to the transaction. Variable fees are imposed to compensate the Fund for the transaction costs associated with the cash transactions. Variable fees received by the Fund, if any, are displayed in the capital shares transactions section of the Statement of Changes in Net Assets. The Fund may issue an unlimited number of shares of beneficial interest, with $0.001 par value per share. Shares of the Fund have equal rights and privileges.

 

7. SECURITIES LENDING

 

The Fund may make secured loans of its portfolio securities to brokers, dealers and other financial institutions to earn additional income and receive cash collateral equal to at least 100% of the current market value of the loaned securities, as marked to market each day that the NAV of the Fund is determined. When the collateral falls below specified amounts, the lending agent will use its best effort to obtain additional collateral on the next business day to meet required amounts under the security lending agreement. The Fund will pay administrative and custodial fees in connection with the loan of securities. Collateral is invested in short-term investments and the Fund will bear the risk of loss of the invested collateral. Investments purchased with proceeds from securities lending are overnight and continuous. Securities lending will expose the Fund to the risk of loss should a borrower default on its obligation to return the borrowed securities. The market value of the securities on loan and collateral as of the end of the reporting period and the income generated from the program during the current fiscal period with respect to such secured loans were as follows:

 

 

MARKET VALUE OF
SECURITIES LOANED

   

MARKET VALUE OF
COLLATERAL

   

INCOME RECEIVED FROM
SECURITIES LENDING

 
  $ 11,679,186     $ 11,914,270     $ 115  

 

 

25

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Notes to Financial Statements (concluded)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

Securities lending transactions are entered into by the Fund under a Master Securities Lending Agreement (“MSLA”) which permits the Fund, under certain circumstances including an event of default (such as bankruptcy or insolvency), to offset amounts payable by the Fund to the same counterparty against amounts to be received and create one single net payment due to or from the Fund. The following table is a summary of the Fund’s open securities lending transactions which are subject to a MSLA as of the end of the reporting period:

 

     

GROSS AMOUNT NOT OFFSET IN THE
STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

GROSS
AMOUNTS OF
RECOGNIZED
ASSETS

GROSS
AMOUNTS
OFFSET IN THE
STATEMENT OF
ASSETS AND
LIABILITIES

NET AMOUNT
OF ASSETS
PRESENTED IN
THE STATEMENT
OF ASSETS AND
LIABILITIES

FINANCIAL
INSTRUMENTS
1

CASH
COLLATERAL
RECEIVED

NET
AMOUNT
2

$ 11,679,186

$ —

$ 11,679,186

$ (11,679,186)

$ —

$ —

 

1

Amount disclosed is limited to the amount of assets presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Actual collateral received may be more than the amount shown.

 

2

Net amount represents the net amount receivable from the counterparty in the event of default.

 

8. New accounting pronouncements

 

In August 2018, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”). The primary focus of ASU 2018-13 is to improve the effectiveness of the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The changes affect all companies that are required to include fair value measurement disclosures. In general, the amendments in ASU 2018-13 are effective for all affected entities for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. An affected entity is permitted to adopt the removed or modified disclosures upon the issuance of ASU 2018-13 and may delay adoption of the additional disclosures, which are required for public companies only, until their effective date. Management is currently evaluating the impact these changes will have on the Fund’s financial statements and disclosures.

 

9. Subsequent Events

 

Management has evaluated the impact of all subsequent events on the Fund through the date the financial statements were issued and has determined that there were no significant events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.

 

26

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Board of Directors of
The RBB Fund, Inc.
and the Shareholders of the Motley Fool 100 Index ETF

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of the Motley Fool 100 Index ETF (the “Fund”), a series of The RBB Fund, Inc., including the schedule of investments, as of August 31, 2018, the related statement of operations, the statements of changes in net assets, financial highlights for the period January 29, 2018 (commencement of operations) through August 31, 2018, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of August 31, 2018, the results of its operations, the changes in its net assets, and the financial highlights for the period indicated above, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB. We have served as the auditor of one or more of the funds in the Trust since 2011.

 

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

 

Our audit included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audit also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2018 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audit provides a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

 

TAIT, WELLER & BAKER LLP

 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October
26, 2018

 

 

27

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Notice to Shareholders

(Unaudited)

 

Information on Proxy Voting

 

Policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities as well as information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 are available (i) without charge, upon request, by calling (888) 863-8803; and (ii) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Quarterly Schedule of Investments

 

The Company files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year (quarters ended November 30 and May 31) on Form N-Q. Shareholders can obtain the Form N-Q (i) without charge, upon request, by calling (888) 863-8803; and (ii) on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. The Form N-Q may be reviewed or copied at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.

 

Frequency Distributions of Premiums and Discounts

 

Premium - The amount the Fund is trading above the reported NAV expressed as a percentage of the NAV. Discount - The amount the Fund is trading below the reported NAV expressed as a percentage of NAV.

 

Shares of the Fund trade based on market prices rather than the Fund’s net asset value per share (“NAV”). Consequently, shares of the Fund may trade at a price greater than (premium) or less than (discount) the Fund’s NAV. The below chart presents information for the period indicated about how often the most recent market closing price for shares of the Fund reflected a premium or discount to the Fund’s NAV for each trading day and the amount of each such premium or discount, expressed as a percentage of that day’s NAV.

 

Shareholders may pay more than NAV when they buy Fund shares and receive less than NAV when they sell those shares, because shares are bought and sold at current market prices. The data presented represents past performance and cannot be used to predict future results.

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF

 

Period Covered January 29, 2018 through August 31, 2018

 

Premium/
Discount Range

Number of
Trading Days

% of Total
Trade Days

1.00% or more

0

0.00%

0.75% to 0.999%

0

0.00%

0.50% to 0.749%

1

0.66%

0.25% to 0.499%

22

14.57%

0.00% to 0.249%

100

66.23%

-0.001% to -0.249%

26

17.22%

-0.25% to -0.499%

2

1.32%

-0.50% to -0.749%

0

0.00%

-0.75% to -0.999%

0

0.00%

-1.00% or more

0

0.00%

 

151

100.00%

 

28

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF

PRIVACY NOTICE (Unaudited)

 

What Does Motley Fool Funds Do With Your Personal Information?

 

Why?: Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information.

 

Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.

 

What?: The type of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:

 

Social Security number and transaction history

 

Account balances and checking account information

 

Account transactions and wire transfer instructions

 

When you are no longer a customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice.

 

How?: All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons Motley Fool Asset Management chooses to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.

 

Reasons we share your personal information

Does Motley Fool Asset Management share?

Can you limit this sharing?

For our everyday business purposes
such as to process your transaction, maintain your account(s), provide you with necessary information, respond to court orders and legal investigation, or report to credit bureaus

Yes

No

For our marketing purposes —
to offer our products and services to you

Yes

Yes

For joint marketing with other financial companies

No

We don’t share

For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes
information about your transactions and experiences

Yes

No

For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes —
information about your creditworthiness

No

We don’t share

For our affiliates to market to you

Yes

Yes

For nonaffiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share

 

Visit us online: https://www.mfamfunds.com/website-privacy-policy/

 

Please note:

 

 

If you are a new customer, we can begin sharing your information 30 days from the days from the date we sent this notice. When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice.

 

 

29

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF

PRIVACY NOTICE (Continued) (Unaudited)

 

However, you can contact us at any time to limit our sharing.

 

Questions: Call 1-888-863-8803 or go to www.mfamfunds.com

 

What we do:

 

How does Motley Fool Asset Management protect my personal information?

 

We collect your personal information, for example, when you:

 

Open an account or provide account information

 

Make deposits or withdrawals from your account

 

Make a wire transfer or tell us where to send the money

 

We also collect your personal information from other companies.

 

Why can’t I limit all sharing?

 

Federal law gives you the right to limit only:

 

Sharing for affiliates everyday business purposes – information about your creditworthiness

 

Make deposits or withdrawals from your account

 

Sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you

 

State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.

 

What happens when I limit sharing for an account I hold jointly with someone else?

 

Your choices will apply to everyone on your account.

 

EUROPEAN UNION’S GENERAL DATA PROTECTION REGULATION

 

In addition to the above information, where applicable, you have the following rights under the European Union’s General Data Protection Regulation (“GDPR”) and U.S. Privacy Laws, as applicable and to the extent permitted by law, to

 

Check whether we hold personal information about you and to access such data (in accordance with our policy)

 

Request the correction of personal information about you that is inaccurate

 

Have a copy of the personal information we hold about you provided to you or another “controller” where technically feasible

 

Request the erasure of your personal information

 

Request the restriction of processing concerning you

 

The legal grounds for processing of your personal information is for contractual necessity and compliance with law.

 

If you wish to exercise any of your rights above, please call: 1-888-863-8803.

 

You are required to ensure the personal information we hold about you is up-to-date and accurate and you must notify us of any changes to the personal data you provided to us.

 

The Motley Fool Funds shall retain your personal data for as long as you are an investor in the Funds and thereafter as long as necessary to comply with applicable laws that require the Funds to retain your personal data, such as the Securities and Exchange Commission’s data retention rules. Your personal data will be transferred to the United States so that the Funds may provide the agreed upon services for you. No adequacy decision has been rendered by the European Commission as to the data protection of your personal data when transferring it to the United States. However, the Funds do take the security of your personal data seriously.

 

Definitions:

 

Affiliates - Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

Our affiliates include companies with a Motley Fool name; financial companies such as Motley Fool Asset Management, LLC; and nonfinancial companies such as The Motley Fool, LLC and The Motley Fool Holdings, Inc.

 

30

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF

PRIVACY NOTICE (Concluded) (Unaudited)

 

Nonaffiliates - Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

Motley Fool Asset Management does not share with nonaffiliates so they can market to you.

 

Joint marketing - A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.

Motley Fool Asset Management doesn’t jointly market.

 

Controller - “Controller” means the natural or legal person, public authority, agency or other body which, alone or jointly with others, determines the purposes and means of the processing of personal data; where the purposes and means of such processing are determined by European Union or European Member State law, the controller or the specific criteria for its nomination may be provided for by European Union or European Member State law.

 

 

31

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Directors AND OFFICERS
(Unaudited)

 

Directors and Executive Officers

 

The business and affairs of the Company are managed under the direction of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company is organized under and managed pursuant to Maryland law. The Directors and executive officers of the Company, their ages, business addresses and principal occupations during the past five years are set forth below. The statement of additional information (“SAI”) includes additional information about the Directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling (888) 863-8803.

 

Name, Address,
AND AGE

Positions(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office
and
Length of
Time
Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by
Director
in the Past
5 Years

INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS

Julian A. Brodsky
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 85

Director

1988 to present

From 1969 to 2011, Director and Vice Chairman, Comcast Corporation (cable television and communications).

30

AMDOCS Limited (service provider to telecommunications companies).

J. Richard Carnall
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 79

Director

2002 to present

Since 1984, Director of Haydon Bolts, Inc. (bolt manufacturer) and Parkway Real Estate Company (subsidiary of Haydon Bolts, Inc.); since 2004, Director of Cornerstone Bank.

30

None

Gregory P. Chandler
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 51

Director

2012 to present

Since 2009, Chief Financial Officer, Emtec, Inc. (information technology consulting/services); from 2003-2009, Managing Director, head of Business Services and IT Services Practice, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC (investment banking/brokerage).

30

Emtec, Inc.; FS Investment Corporation (business development company); FS Energy and Power Fund (business development company); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios)(registered investment company).

Nicholas A. Giordano
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 75

Director

2006 to present

Since 1997, Consultant, financial services organizations.

30

Kalmar Pooled Investment Trust (registered investment company) (until September 2017); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios) (registered investment company); Independence Blue Cross (healthcare insurance).

Arnold M. Reichman
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 70

Chairman Director

2005 to present 1991 to present

Since 2006, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lifebooker, LLC (online beauty and health appointment booking service).

30

Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

 

32

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Directors AND OFFICERS (CONTINUED)
(Unaudited)

 

Name, Address,
AND AGE

Positions(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office
and
Length of
Time
Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by
Director
in the Past
5 Years

Brian T. Shea
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 58

Director

2018 to present

From 2014-2017, Chief Executive Officer, BNY Mellon Investment Services (fund services, global custodian and securities clearing firm); from 1983-2014, Chief Executive Officer and various positions, Pershing LLC (broker dealer, clearing and custody firm).

30

WisdomTree Investments, Inc. (asset management company); Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (financial services technology company).

Robert A. Straniere
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 77

Director

2006 to present

Since 2009, Administrative Law Judge, New York City; since 1980, Founding Partner, Straniere Law Group (law firm).

30

Reich and Tang Group (asset management).

INTERESTED DIRECTOR2

Robert Sablowsky
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 80

Vice Chairman Director

2016 to present 1991 to present

Since 2002, Senior Director – Investments and, prior thereto, Executive Vice President, of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. (a registered broker-dealer).

30

None

OFFICERS

Salvatore Faia, JD, CPA, CFE
Vigilant Compliance, LLC
Gateway Corporate Center Suite 216
223 Wilmington West Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Age: 55

President Chief Compliance Officer

2009 to present 2004 to present

Since 2004, President, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2005, Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

James G. Shaw
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 57

Treasurer and Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2016, Treasurer and Secretary of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 2005 to 2016, Assistant Treasurer of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 1995 to 2016, Senior Director and Vice President of BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (financial services company).

N/A

N/A

Robert Amweg
Vigilant Compliance, LLC
Gateway Corporate Center Suite 216
223 Wilmington West Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Age: 65

Assistant Treasurer

2016 to present

Since 2013, Compliance Director, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2012, Consultant to the financial services industry; from 2007 to 2012, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, Turner Investments, LP (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

 

 

 

33

 

 

 

 

Motley Fool 100 Index ETF
Directors AND OFFICERS (concluded)
(Unaudited)

 

Name, Address,
AND AGE

Positions(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office
and
Length of
Time
Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios
in Fund
Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by
Director
in the Past
5 Years

Jennifer Witt
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 35

Assistant Treasurer

2018 to present

Since 2016, Assistant Vice President, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm); from 2007 to 2016, Supervisor, Nuveen Investments (investment company).

N/A

N/A

Edward Paz
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 47

Assistant Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2007, Vice President and Counsel, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm).

N/A

N/A

Michael P. Malloy
One Logan Square Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Age: 59

Assistant Secretary

1999 to present

Since 1993, Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm).

N/A

N/A

Jillian L. Bosmann
One Logan Square Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Age: 39

Assistant Secretary

2017 to present

Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm) (2017-Present); Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (2006-Present).

N/A

N/A

 

*

Each Director oversees 30 portfolios of the Company.

 

1.

Subject to the Company’s Retirement Policy, each Director may continue to serve as a Director until the last day of the calendar year in which the applicable Director attains age 75 or until his successor is elected and qualified or his death, resignation or removal. The Board reserves the right to waive the requirements of the Policy with respect to an individual Director. The Board has approved waivers of the policy with respect to Messrs. Brodsky, Carnall, Giordano, Sablowsky and Straniere. Each officer holds office at the pleasure of the Board until the next special meeting of the Company or until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, or until he or she dies, resigns or is removed.

 

2.

Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “interested person” of the Company as that term is defined in the 1940 Act and is referred to as an “Interested Director.” Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “Interested Director” of the Company by virtue of his position as an employee of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc., a registered broker-dealer.

 

Director Experience, Qualifications, Attributes and/or Skills

 

The information above includes each Director’s principal occupations during the last five years. Each Director possesses extensive additional experience, skills and attributes relevant to his qualifications to serve as a Director. The cumulative background of each Director led to the conclusion that each Director should serve as a Director of the Company. Mr. Giordano has years of experience as a consultant to financial services organizations and also serves on the boards of other registered investment companies. Mr. Reichman brings decades of investment management experience to the Board, in addition to senior executive-level management experience. Mr. Straniere has been a practicing attorney for over 30 years and also serves on the boards of an asset management company and another registered investment company. Mr. Brodsky has over 40 years of senior executive level management experience in the cable television and communications industry. Mr. Sablowsky has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the financial services industry. Mr. Carnall has decades of senior executive-level management experience in the banking and financial services industry and also serves on the boards of various corporations and a bank. Mr. Chandler has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive level positions in the investment technology consulting/services and investment banking/brokerage industries, and also serves on various boards. Mr. Shea has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the investment services industry.

 

34

 

 

 

 

Investment Adviser

Motley Fool Asset Management, LLC
2000 Duke Street
Suite 275
Alexandria, VA 22314

 

Administrator and Transfer Agent

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, WI 53201

 

Custodian

U.S. Bank, N.A.
1555 North Rivercenter Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, WI 53212

 

Principal Underwriter

Quasar Distributors, LLC
777 East Wisconsin Avenue, Floor 6
Milwaukee, WI 53202

 

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
1818 Market Street, Suite 2400
Philadelphia, PA 19103

 

Legal Counsel

Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
One Logan Square, Suite 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103-6996

 

 

35

 

 

 

 

 

 

(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)

 

 

 

 

 

Stay informed about your investment!

 

Shareholders like you are very important to us, and we’re committed to communicating with you about important matters. The best way to stay “in the know” is to sign up for our free email newsletter. You’ll get quarterly performance updates, insights about the stock market and investing, and more.

 

Simply send an email to help@mfamfunds.com today to sign up!

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

ORINDA FUNDS

 

Annual Report

 

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

of

the RBB Fund, Inc.

Class I Shares – OIOIX

Class A Shares – OIOAX 

Class D Shares – OIODX

 

 

 

 

 

Table of Contents

 

Commentary

1

Performance Data

5

Fund Expense Examples

8

Allocation of Portfolio Assets

9

Schedule of Investments

10

Schedule of Securities Sold Short

15

Schedule of Options Written

16

Financial Statements

17

Statement of Assets and Liabilities

17

Statement of Operations

19

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

20

Statement of Cash Flows

22

Financial Highlights

24

Notes to the Financial Statements

27

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

39

Notice to Shareholders

40

Management

42

Privacy Notice

46

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

COMMENTARY

 

 

Dear Shareholder,

 

During another year of rising 10-year Treasury yields, the Orinda Income Opportunities Fund (the “Fund”) delivered, in our view, another year of very respectable returns. For the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, the Fund outperformed the broader bond market, which generated negative returns, while the 10-year Treasury yield rate rose from 2.12% at August 31, 2017 to 2.86% at fiscal year-end. Our preferred and fixed income securities generated positive gross returns and contributed 6.51% to gross performance of the Fund during the fiscal year. Our common stock securities contributed -1.07% to gross performance and our hedging positions contributed 0.43% to gross performance during the period.

 

Average net exposure during the fiscal year was 100%, which is on the higher end of the long-term range for the Fund. The Fund started the year with higher-than-average net exposure of 98%. Following a spike in interest rates in January 2018, the Fund’s net exposure was reduced to about 75% by the end of January. Net exposure was brought back up to about 107% by the end of February and mostly remained at or above 100% for the duration of the fiscal year. At fiscal year-end, net exposure was 102%, just above the average for the year. We anticipate net exposure will generally be between 80%-100% over the coming fiscal year as the Federal Reserve (“Fed”) continues to raise the federal funds rate, but changing market conditions may warrant otherwise.

 

Shown below is the Fund’s performance for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, as well as the performance for the Bloomberg Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index.

 

ORINDA INCOME OPPORTUNITIES FUND

Annualized Returns as of 8/31/18

1 year

3 years

Since Inception
(6/28/13)1

Since Inception
(9/27/13)2

PERFORMANCE AT NAV without sales charge

 

A share

2.94%

5.44%

4.11%

N/A

I share

3.24%

5.75%

4.42%

N/A

D share (commenced 9/27/13)

2.23%

4.73%

N/A

3.61%

         

Bloomberg Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index

-1.05%

1.76%

2.33%

2.33%

PERFORMANCE AT MOP includes maximum sales charge

 

A share

-2.21%

3.66%

3.08%

N/A

 

1.The Orinda Income Opportunities Fund, a series of Advisor Series Trust (the “Predecessor Fund”) reorganized into the Fund following the close of business on April 28, 2017. The Predecessor Fund’s Class I and Class A shares commenced operations on June 28, 2013.

 

2.The Predecessor Fund’s Class D shares commenced operations on September 27, 2013.

 

Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses (what an investor would pay as of 12/31/17):
A share 2.14%; I share 1.84%; D share 2.81%.

 

Performance data quoted represents past performance and does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by calling 1-877-903-1313 or visiting www.orindafunds.com. Performance data shown at MOP (Maximum Offering Price) reflects the Class A maximum sales charge of 5.00%. Performance data shown at NAV does not reflect the deduction of the sales load. If reflected, the load would reduce the performance quoted. Investment performance reflects fee waivers in effect. In the absence of such waivers total return would be reduced.

 

Until December 31, 2019, Orinda Asset Management, LLC (the “Adviser”) has agreed to waive its fees to the extent necessary to maintain annualized expense ratios for the Class I, Class A and Class D shareholders of average daily net assets of 1.40%, 1.70%, and 2.40%, respectively (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes). There can be no assurance that the Adviser will continue such waiver for the Fund after December 31, 2019. For more detailed review of fund expenses, please refer to the prospectus by visiting www.orindafunds.com.

 

1

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

COMMENTARY (Continued)

 

 

YIELD as of 6/30/2018

 

Dividend yield is calculated by dividing the regular distribution paid for the quarter (annualized at a quarterly rate) by the NAV at 6/30/18. The 30-Day SEC yield is based on a 30-day period and is computed by dividing the net investment income per share earned during the period by the maximum offering price per share on the last day of the period.

 

Market Outlook

 

The first half of calendar year 2018 is in the books and the hopes and fears that animated markets at the beginning of the year are as resonant as they were on January 1. Far from taking a summer vacation, the differential impact across sectors of corporate tax reform, central bank policy normalization, and trade wars is being debated more hotly and portfolio rotations are accelerating.

 

At halftime, calendar year 2018’s dominant market themes look largely intact: reflation (short rates up and equities higher), elevated volatility, credit outperformance, tight housing inventory fueling giddy price rises, elevated debt service costs for corporates and households, etc. But cracks are appearing beneath the surface of consensus. Economic data releases out of China and Europe have lately caused a fading of the “global synchronized growth” theme and a resumption of the “U.S. leadership” narrative.

 

Trade is largely an unknown variable, naturally, and the outcome from multi-national trade discussions is difficult to ascertain. We intend to focus, instead, on two more durable trends that always bear watching for fixed income investors: leverage and the yield curve’s shape.

 

Earnings are growing. Debt for companies, households, and the government is growing faster.

 

First, leverage. Standard & Poor’s (S&P) sounded concerns in February 2018 that excessive corporate debt, coupled with rising refinance costs, could trigger the next recession. Since then, there has been a steady drumbeat of commentary warning about the corporate sector’s debt load. In April, Bloomberg reported on a number of asset managers’ taking underweight positions in the sector, with the always-oratorical sage of Santa Monica, Jeffrey Gundlach, announcing, “Trouble is here, people.” In June, the Washington Post published an editorial titled “Beware the ‘mother of all credit bubbles,’” which pointed out that the big beneficiaries of the tax break Congress provided in December have been shareholders, who have benefited from elevated stock buybacks. The article quoted Goldman Sachs strategists’ estimate that buybacks would surge 50% in 2018 to $1.2 trillion, an all-time high. In late June, U.S. nonfinancial corporate debt reached a record $6.3 trillion, which is also a record 31% of GDP. That earnings used to service this debt are also at record highs offers some comfort, but much of this debt is at below-market rates. Accordingly, refinancing options are often out-of-the-money. Prolonged low rates have had the intended effect of causing corporate borrowers to gorge on debt, but investors will watch nervously for another confirmation of the Minsky hypothesis that complacency is a necessary prelude to crisis.

 

2

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

COMMENTARY (Continued)

 

 

The International Monetary Fund (IMF) weighed in, in its April Global Financial Stability report: “A period of high credit growth is more likely to be followed by a severe downturn or financial sector stress over the medium term if it is accompanied by an increase in the riskiness of credit allocation.”

 

Perhaps the performance of high-grade bonds will serve as a canary in the coal mine. Corroborating the IMF’s worries about riskier allocations, the share of the IG index that is rated BBB, e.g. the lowest tier, has increased from 25% in the 1990s to 48% today. Net leverage for BBB companies has risen from 1.7x to 2.9x in the same period, according to PIMCO. When investment conditions turn south, trouble tends to accumulate in the junkiest part of bond indices. Interestingly, the Bloomberg Barclays Investment Grade Corporate Index was down 1.25% in the calendar quarter ended June 30, 2018, underperforming the high yield index by over 200 basis points, with the latter benefitting from the technical tailwind of light supply.

 

The yield curve is flattening, sending worrying signals.

 

The most interesting tension in the bond market is between short-term rates, an indicator of monetary tightness and financial conditions, and long-term rates, an indicator of the long-term outlook for inflation and real growth—in other words, the yield curve. The Fed hiked the Funds rate again in June to 2%, and much attention was paid to relatively hawkish language in the statement about future hikes this year (the futures market continues to assign better than 70% odds that four hikes will occur in calendar year 2018). The European Central Bank also offered hints of a taper in its bond-buying program by December 2018.

 

The Fed’s favored inflation measure, core personal consumption expenditure, firmed to 1.96% year-over-year in May, and real GDP in the first quarter of 2018 clocked a healthy 2.8%. The U.S. unemployment rate held steady at 3.8% and average hourly earnings ticked up to 2.7% year-over-year in May. The big question is, where does this put us on the Phillips Curve? With most of the Fed’s board agreeing that the U.S. is now at full employment, will we begin to see sustained above-target inflation? Evidently the Fed is playing it safe with the simultaneous removal of asset purchases and a quarterly, 25-basis-points-at-a-time crawl toward “neutral.” Yet 10-year yields fell from a high of 3.11% on May 17, 2018 to 2.86% at fiscal year-end. The spread between the yields on two- and ten-year Treasury notes, a measure of term premium or yield curve steepness, hit a cyclical low of 32.15 basis points on June 27, 2018. This means that the market’s expectation of the likelihood of an inflation pick-up over intermediate horizons is lower than policymakers’.

 

Many of these metrics hinge on where the neutral rate really is. “R-star” or the “natural” short-term rate of interest at which an economy will rest in equilibrium, has clearly fallen over many years or policy accommodation would have resulted in higher inflation. Now the Fed estimates that it’s likely positive for the first time since the depths of the crisis, and rising. Unfortunately, observers only know R-star once the economy has already passed it, never in real time. A positive real rate, with inflation hovering around 2%, means that the Fed is not quite yet at neutral and inflationary pressures will likely continue to rise. Below 2% inflation may have become so psychologically anchored among market participants that the idea of the Fed allowing an overshoot seems vanishingly unlikely, which might explain the decline in term premium. In this view, the long end almost “dares” the Fed to hike past neutral, causing the yield curve to invert, a much-discussed harbinger of recession.

 

We continue to believe the Fund is well positioned for the coming year by concentrating on higher-yielding REIT preferred shares and maintaining some exposure to REIT common stock with an emphasis on small- and mid-cap companies. We continue to manage the Fund with a view that the 10-year Treasury yield will top out at around 3.5% during the current rate cycle sometime over the next 12-18 months.

 

The Fund has a flexible strategy, which allows us to use a variety of risk management tools such as hedging, selective leverage, and writing covered calls as we endeavor to navigate a changing rate environment and look for the potential to enhance portfolio yield. The Fund’s broad investment charter allows it to invest in many securities and industries should we find compelling return opportunities.

 

 

Paul Gray
Portfolio Manager

 

3

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

COMMENTARY (Continued)

 

 

The information provided herein represents the opinions of Orinda Asset Management, LLC and is not intended to be a forecast of future events, a guarantee of future results, investment advice or a recommendation to buy or sell any security.

 

This report is intended for shareholders of the Fund and may not be used as sales literature unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.

 

The Fund can make short sales of securities, which involves the risk that losses in securities may exceed the original amount invested. The Fund may use leverage which may exaggerate the effect of any increase or decrease in the value of portfolio securities or the set asset value of the Fund, and money borrowed will be subject to interest costs. Investments in smaller and medium companies involve greater risks such as limited liquidity and greater volatility. Investments in foreign securities involve greater volatility and political, economic and currency risks and differences in accounting methods. These risks are greater for emerging markets. Investments in debt securities typically decrease in value when interest rates rise. This risk is usually greater for longer-term debt securities. Investment by the Fund in lower-rated and non-rated securities presents a greater risk of loss to principal and interest than higher-rated securities. The Fund may use certain types of investment derivatives such as futures, forwards, and swaps. Derivatives involve risks different from, and in certain cases, greater than the risks presented by more traditional investments. Investments in asset backed and mortgage backed securities include additional risks that investors should be aware of such as credit risk, prepayment risk, possible illiquidity and default, as well as increased susceptibility to adverse economic developments. To the extent that a master limited partnership’s (“MLP’s”) interests are all in a particular industry, the MLP will be negatively impacted by economic events adversely impacting that industry. The risks of investing in an MLP are generally those involved in investing in a partnership as opposed to a corporation. Exchange-traded funds (“ETFs”) are typically open-end investment companies that are bought and sold on a national securities exchange. When the Fund invests in an ETF, it will bear additional expenses based on its pro rata share of the ETF’s operating expenses, including the potential duplication of management fees. The risk of owning an ETF generally reflects the risks of owning the underlying securities it holds. Rule 144A securities carry the risk that the trading market may not continue and the Fund might be unable to dispose of these securities promptly or at reasonable prices and might thereby experience difficulty satisfying redemption requirements. The risk exists that the market value of initial public offering (“IPO”) shares will fluctuate considerably due to factors such as the absence of a prior public market, unseasoned trading, and the small number of shares available for trading and limited information about the issuer. The purchase of IPO shares may involve high transaction costs. IPO shares are subject to market risk and liquidity risk. The Fund is non-diversified, which means that there is no restriction on how much the Fund may invest in the securities of an issuer under the Investment Company Act of 1940. Some of the risks involved in investing in REITs include a general decline in the value of real estate, fluctuations in rental income, changes in interest rates, increases in property taxes, increased operating costs, overbuilding, changes in zoning laws, and changes in consumer demand for real estate.

 

Fund holdings and sector allocations are subject to change at any time and should not be considered a recommendation to buy or sell any security. Please refer to the Schedule of Investments for a complete listing of Fund holdings.

 

INDICES / DEFINITIONS

 

The Bloomberg Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index is an unmanaged, market capitalization-weighted index, comprised predominately of U.S. traded investment grade bonds with maturities of one year or more. The index includes Treasury securities, Government agency bonds, mortgage-backed bonds, and corporate bonds. The index is representative of intermediate duration U.S. investment grade debt securities. One cannot invest directly in an index.

 

The Bloomberg Barclays Investment Grade Corporate Index is an unmanaged index that measures the investment grade, fixed-rate, taxable corporate bond market. It includes U.S. dollar-denominated securities publicly issued by U.S. and non-U.S. industrial, utility and financial issuers. One cannot invest directly in an index.

 

The IG Index refers to the U.S. investment grade (IG) nonfinancial bond market. Bonds that are rated BBB have the lowest credit rating that are still considered investment grade.

 

The Phillips Curve is an econometric model which describes the historical inverse relationship between rates of unemployment and corresponding rates of rises in wages that result within an economy.

 

The federal funds rate is the interest rate at which depository institutions (banks and credit unions) lend reserve balances to other depository institutions overnight, on an uncollateralized basis. Yield is the income return on an investment. This refers to the interest or dividends received from a security and is usually expressed annually as a percentage based on the investment’s cost, its current market value or its face value.

 

Orinda Asset Management, LLC is the investment adviser to the Orinda Income Opportunities Fund, which is distributed by Quasar Distributors, LLC.

 

4

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Performance Data

august 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of the change in value of a $100,000 investment in the
Orinda Income Opportunities Fund – Class I and
the Bloomberg Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index

 

 

This chart illustrates the performance of a hypothetical $100,000 investment made in the Fund on June 28, 2013, the Fund’s inception date. Returns reflect the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions. Fee waivers are in effect. In the absence of fee waivers, returns would be reduced. The performance data and graph do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder may pay on dividends, capital gain distributions, or redemption of Fund shares. This chart does not imply any future performance.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the Periods ended AUGUST 31, 2018

 
 

One
Year

Three
Years

Five
Years

Since
Inception†

 

Class I Shares (No Load)

3.24%

5.75%

4.70%

4.42%

 

Bloomberg Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index

(1.05)%

1.76%

2.48%

2.33%

 

 

Inception date of Class I Shares of the Fund was June 28, 2013.

 

Until December 31, 2019, the Adviser has agreed to waive its fees to the extent necessary to maintain annualized expense ratios for the Class I Shares of average daily net assets of 1.40% (excluding certain items discussed below). In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause the Fund’s net annualized expense ratio to exceed the applicable expense limitation: acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes. There can be no assurance that the Adviser will continue such waiver for the Fund after December 31, 2019. The Fund’s expense ratio for the Class I Shares, as stated in the current prospectus, is 1.84%.

 

Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by calling 1-877-903-1313.

 

The Bloomberg Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index is an unmanaged, market capitalization-weighted index, comprised predominately of U.S. traded investment grade bonds with maturities of one year or more. The index includes Treasury securities, Government agency bonds, mortgage-backed bonds, and corporate bonds. The index is representative of intermediate duration US investment grade debt securities. It is not possible to invest directily in an index.

 

5

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Performance Data (Continued)

august 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of the change in value of a $10,000 investment in the
Orinda Income Opportunities Fund – Class A and
the Bloomberg Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index

 

 

This chart illustrates the performance of a hypothetical $10,000 investment made in the Fund on June 28, 2013, the Fund’s inception date. Returns reflect the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions. Fee waivers are in effect. In the absence of fee waivers, returns would be reduced. The performance data and graph do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder may pay on dividends, capital gain distributions, or redemption of Fund shares. This chart does not imply any future performance.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the Periods ended AUGUST 31, 2018

 
 

One
Year

Three
Years

Five
Years

Since
Inception†

 

Class A Shares (No Load)

2.94%

5.44%

4.38%

4.11%

 

Class A Shares (Load)

(2.21)%

3.66%

3.32%

3.08%

 

Bloomberg Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index

(1.05)%

1.76%

2.48%

2.33%

 

 

Inception date of Class A Shares of the Fund was June 28, 2013.

 

Until December 31, 2019, the Adviser has agreed to waive its fees to the extent necessary to maintain annualized expense ratios for the Class A Shares of average daily net assets of 1.70% (excluding certain items discussed below). In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause the Fund’s net annualized expense ratio to exceed the applicable expense limitation: acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes. There can be no assurance that the Adviser will continue such waiver for the Fund after December 31, 2019. The Fund’s expense ratio for the Class A Shares, as stated in the current prospectus, is 2.14%.

 

Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by calling 1-877-903-1313.

 

The Bloomberg Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index is an unmanaged, market capitalization-weighted index, comprised predominately of U.S. traded investment grade bonds with maturities of one year or more. The index includes Treasury securities, Government agency bonds, mortgage-backed bonds, and corporate bonds. The index is representative of intermediate duration US investment grade debt securities. It is not possible to invest directily in an index.

 

6

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Performance Data (Continued)

august 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of the change in value of a $10,000 investment in the
Orinda Income Opportunities Fund – Class D and
the Bloomberg Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index

 

 

This chart illustrates the performance of a hypothetical $10,000 investment made in the Fund on September 27, 2013, the Fund’s inception date. Returns reflect the reinvestment of dividends and capital gain distributions. Fee waivers are in effect. In the absence of fee waivers, returns would be reduced. The performance data and graph do not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder may pay on dividends, capital gain distributions, or redemption of Fund shares. This chart does not imply any future performance.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the Periods ended AUGUST 31, 2018

 
 

One
Year

Three
Years

Since
Inception†

 

Class D Shares (No Load)

2.23%

4.73%

3.61%

 

Bloomberg Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index

(1.05)%

1.76%

2.33%

 

 

Inception date of Class D Shares of the Fund was September 27, 2013.

 

Until December 31, 2019, the Adviser has agreed to waive its fees to the extent necessary to maintain annualized expense ratios for the Class D Shares of average daily net assets of 2.40% (excluding certain items discussed below). In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause the Fund’s net annualized expense ratio to exceed the applicable expense limitation: acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes. There can be no assurance that the Adviser will continue such waiver for the Fund after December 31, 2019. The Fund’s expense ratio for the Class D Shares, as stated in the current prospectus, is 2.81%.

 

Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by calling 1-877-903-1313.

 

The Bloomberg Barclays Capital U.S. Aggregate Bond Index is an unmanaged, market capitalization-weighted index, comprised predominately of U.S. traded investment grade bonds with maturities of one year or more. The index includes Treasury securities, Government agency bonds, mortgage-backed bonds, and corporate bonds. The index is representative of intermediate duration US investment grade debt securities.It is not possible to invest directily in an index.

 

7

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Fund Expense ExampleS

august 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

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

 

These examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period from March 1, 2018 to August 31, 2018.

 

ACTUAL EXPENSES

 

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

 

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

 

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

 

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

 

 

 

Beginning
Account
Value
march 1,
2018

   

Ending
Account
VALUE
august 31,
2018

   

Expenses
Paid
During
Period
*

   

ANNUALIZED
EXPENSE
RATIO

   

ACTUAL
SIX-MONTH
TOTAL
INVESTMENT
RETURN FOR
THE FUND

 

Actual

                                       

Class I Shares

  $ 1,000.00     $ 1,069.60     $ 7.15       1.37 %     6.96 %

Class A Shares

    1,000.00       1,068.30       8.71       1.67       6.83  

Class D Shares

    1,000.00       1,052.55       10.26       2.37       6.45  

 

                                       

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

                               

Class I Shares

  $ 1,000.00     $ 1,018.30     $ 6.97       1.37 %     N/A  

Class A Shares

    1,000.00       1,016.79       8.49       1.67       N/A  

Class D Shares

    1,000.00       1,009.15       10.05       2.37       N/A  

 

*

Expenses are equal to the Funds’ Class I Shares, Class A Shares and Class D Shares annualized six-month expense ratios for the period March 1, 2018 to August 31, 2018, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days (184) in the most recent fiscal half-year, then divided by 365 to reflect the one half year period. The Funds’ ending account values on the first line in the table is based on the actual six-month total investment return for the Funds’ respective share classes.

 

8

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Allocation Of Portfolio AssetS

august 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

 

Percentages represent market value as a percentage of net assets.

 

9

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Schedule Of Investments

august 31, 2018

 

COMMON STOCKS - 1.2%

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Energy - 0.2%

               

Energy Transfer Partners LP

    21,450     $ 483,698  
                 

Real Estate - 1.0%

               

Landmark Infrastructure Partners LP

    187,764       2,431,544  

Summit Industrial Income REIT (a)

    50,000       336,015  
              2,767,559  

TOTAL COMMON STOCKS (Cost $3,395,842)

            3,251,257  
                 

REITS - 68.4%

 

 

   

 

 

Financials - 22.2%

               

AGNC Investment Corp. - Series C, 7.00% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 5.11%) (b)(c)

    64,617       1,696,842  

Annaly Capital Management, Inc. - Series F, 6.95% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 4.99%) (b)(c)

    164,481       4,218,938  

Annaly Capital Management, Inc. - Series G, 6.50% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 4.17%) (b)

    34,270       837,216  

Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance, Inc.

    94,240       1,831,083  

Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. (c)

    202,494       2,482,576  

ARMOUR Residential REIT, Inc. - Series B, 7.88%

    98,120       2,461,831  

Chimera Investment Corp. - Series A, 8.00% (c)

    130,625       3,375,350  

Chimera Investment Corp. - Series B, 8.00% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 5.79%) (b)(c)

    214,512       5,581,602  

Exantas Capital Corp., 8.63% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 5.93%) (b)(c)

    190,912       4,933,166  

Great Ajax Corp., 7.25%

    24,350       623,489  

Invesco Mortgage Capital, Inc.

    69,800       1,132,854  

Invesco Mortgage Capital, Inc. - Series C, 7.50% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 5.29%) (b)(c)

    143,016       3,588,271  

New Residential Investment Corp.

    160,394       2,978,517  

New York Mortgage Trust, Inc. - Series D, 8.00% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 5.70%) (b)

    8,625       209,329  

PennyMac Mortgage Investment Trust - Series A, 8.13% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 5.83%) (b)(c)

    88,379       2,220,964  

PennyMac Mortgage Investment Trust - Series B, 8.00% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 5.99%) (b)(c)

    164,395       4,114,807  

Redwood Trust, Inc.

    83,076       1,410,630  

Starwood Property Trust, Inc.

    50,650       1,115,820  

Sutherland Asset Management Corp., 7.00%

    49,941       1,308,454  

TPG RE Finance Trust, Inc.

    73,351       1,514,698  

Two Harbors Investment Corp.

    50,000       781,000  

Two Harbors Investment Corp. - Series A, 8.13% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 5.66%) (b)(c)

    84,000       2,304,960  

Two Harbors Investment Corp. - Series C, 7.25% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 5.01%) (b)(c)

    130,240       3,287,258  

Two Harbors Investment Corp. - Series E, 7.50% (c)

    89,017       2,219,194  
              56,228,849  

Real Estate - 46.2%

               

Ashford Hospitality Trust, Inc. - Series D, 8.45% (c)

    99,644       2,596,723  

Ashford Hospitality Trust, Inc. - Series F, 7.38% (c)

    176,356       4,269,579  

Ashford Hospitality Trust, Inc. - Series H, 7.50%

    180,000       4,413,600  

Ashford Hospitality Trust, Inc. - Series I, 7.50% (c)

    231,254       5,633,347  

Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc. (c)

    208,876       2,065,784  

Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc. - Series C, 7.63% (c)

    161,553       4,087,291  

Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc. - Series D, 7.13% (c)

    77,899       1,885,156  

CBL & Associates Properties, Inc.

    81,679       364,288  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

10

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Schedule Of Investments (Continued)

august 31, 2018

 

REITS - 68.4% (CONTINUED)

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Real Estate - 46.2% (Continued)

               

CBL & Associates Properties, Inc. - Series D, 7.38% (c)

    327,165     $ 5,987,119  

City Office REIT, Inc. (c)

    163,600       2,112,076  

City Office REIT, Inc. - Series A, 6.63%

    52,444       1,300,611  

Colony Capital, Inc. - Series B, 8.25%

    60,349       1,543,124  

Colony Capital, Inc. - Series E, 8.75% (c)

    433,587       11,299,277  

Colony Capital, Inc. - Series G, 7.50%

    77,495       1,888,166  

Colony Capital, Inc. - Series H, 7.13% (c)

    380,309       9,070,370  

Colony Capital, Inc. - Series I, 7.15% (c)

    247,000       5,873,660  

Colony Capital, Inc. - Series J, 7.13%

    223,254       5,340,236  

Essex Property Trust, Inc. (c)

    5,000       1,231,400  

Global Medical REIT, Inc. - Series A, 7.50% (c)

    101,381       2,572,036  

Global Net Lease, Inc.

    45,000       976,050  

Global Net Lease, Inc. - Series A, 7.25% (c)

    132,594       3,347,998  

Independence Realty Trust, Inc. (c)

    167,500       1,730,275  

iStar Financial, Inc.

    114,557       1,281,893  

iStar, Inc. - Series D, 8.00% (c)

    177,796       4,503,573  

iStar, Inc. - Series I, 7.50% (c)

    194,785       4,834,564  

Jernigan Capital, Inc. - Series B, 7.00% (c)

    155,693       3,876,756  

Lexington Realty Trust

    194,931       1,820,656  

National Storage Affiliates Trust

    20,000       567,200  

QTS Realty Trust, Inc. - Series A, 7.13%

    80,000       2,067,200  

QTS Realty Trust, Inc. - Series B, 6.50%

    25,000       2,761,250  

RAIT Financial Trust, 7.63% (c)

    15,011       292,189  

RAIT Financial Trust, 7.13%

    1,941       44,303  

RLJ Lodging Trust - Series A, 1.95% (c)

    426,168       11,336,069  

Sabra Health Care REIT, Inc.

    47,344       1,116,371  

Seritage Growth Properties - Series A, 7.00% (c)

    71,082       1,766,388  

UMH Properties, Inc. - Series C, 6.75%

    54,100       1,397,944  

UMH Properties, Inc. - Series D, 6.38% (c)

    79,125       1,906,912  

Washington Prime Group, Inc. - Series H, 7.50% (c)

    82,420       1,922,034  

WPT Industrial Real Estate Investment Trust (a)

    12,300       171,093  
              121,254,561  

TOTAL REITS (Cost $170,568,011)

            177,483,410  
                 

PREFERRED STOCKS - 28.9%

 

 

   

 

 

Energy - 7.2%

               

DCP Midstream LP - Series B, 7.88% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 4.92%) (b)

    95,000       2,447,200  

Energy Transfer Partners LP - Series C, 7.38% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 4.53%) (b)

    105,000       2,686,950  

Energy Transfer Partners LP - Series D, 7.63% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 4.74%) (b)

    45,000       1,181,250  

GasLog Partners LP - Series A, 8.63% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 6.31%) (a)(b)(c)

    43,500       1,157,970  

GasLog Partners LP - Series B, 8.20% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 5.84%) (a)(b)(c)

    48,500       1,264,880  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

11

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Schedule Of Investments (Continued)

august 31, 2018

 

PREFERRED STOCKS - 28.9% (CONTINUED)

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Energy - 7.2% (Continued)

               

NGL Energy Partners LP - Series B, 9.00% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 7.21%) (b)

    74,000     $ 1,838,160  

NuStar Energy LP - Series A, 8.50% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 6.77%) (b)(c)

    60,000       1,440,000  

NuStar Energy LP - Series B, 7.63% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 5.64%) (b)(c)

    25,000       582,000  

NuStar Energy LP - Series C, 9.00% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 6.88%) (b)(c)

    50,000       1,248,500  

Teekay LNG Partners LP - Series B, 8.50% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 6.24%) (a)(b)(c)

    107,500       2,645,575  

Tsakos Energy Navigation Ltd. - Series E, 9.25% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 6.88%) (a)(b)

    24,300       606,042  

Tsakos Energy Navigation Ltd. - Series F, 9.50% (T-BILL 1MO + 6.54%) (a)(b)

    59,256       1,496,214  
              18,594,741  

Financials - 12.9%

               

AG Mortgage Investment Trust, Inc. - Series A, 8.25%

    11,000       281,600  

AG Mortgage Investment Trust, Inc. - Series B, 8.00%

    40,819       1,036,803  

AGNC Investment Corp. - Series B, 7.75% (c)

    119,083       3,079,486  

Annaly Capital Management, Inc. - Series C, 7.63%

    12,425       316,216  

Annaly Capital Management, Inc. - Series D, 7.50% (c)

    30,984       786,374  

Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance, Inc. - Series C, 8.00% (c)

    338,419       8,721,058  

Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. - Series A, 8.25%

    46,261       1,197,929  

Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. - Series B, 7.75%

    18,323       466,870  

Arbor Realty Trust, Inc. - Series C, 8.50% (c)

    78,873       2,063,318  

Capstead Mortgage Corp. - Series E, 7.50%

    50,393       1,272,423  

Compass Diversified Holdings - Series A, 7.25%

    37,400       858,704  

Cowen, Inc., 7.35% (c)

    64,900       1,644,566  

GMAC Capital Trust I - Series 2, 8.10% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 5.79%) (b)

    67,500       1,809,000  

Invesco Mortgage Capital, Inc. - Series A, 7.75% (c)

    80,553       2,042,018  

Invesco Mortgage Capital, Inc. - Series B, 7.75% (3 Month LIBOR USD + 5.18%) (b)(c)

    165,097       4,380,023  

MFA Financial, Inc. - Series B, 7.50% (c)

    62,681       1,603,380  

Oaktree Capital Group LLC - Series A, 6.63%

    25,000       632,500  

Oaktree Capital Group LLC - Series B, 6.55%

    50,000       1,251,000  
              33,443,268  

Industrials - 0.4%

               

Seaspan Corp. - Series H, 7.88% (a)

    46,500       1,181,333  
                 

Real Estate - 8.4%

               

Ashford Hospitality Trust, Inc. - Series G, 7.38% (c)

    236,514       5,747,290  

Bluerock Residential Growth REIT, Inc. - Series A, 8.25% (c)

    200,120       5,143,084  

Hersha Hospitality Trust - Series D, 6.50% (c)

    140,555       3,300,231  

iStar, Inc. - Series G, 7.65%

    60,046       1,502,351  

Landmark Infrastructure Partners LP - Series B, 7.90% (c)

    76,800       1,862,400  

STAG Industrial, Inc. - Series C, 6.88% (c)

    10,700       280,447  

Summit Hotel Properties, Inc. - Series D, 6.45%

    15,785       394,625  

UMH Properties, Inc. - Series B, 8.00% (c)

    33,751       892,377  

VEREIT, Inc. - Series F, 6.70% (c)

    101,651       2,571,770  
              21,694,575  

TOTAL PREFERRED STOCKS (Cost $70,571,666)

            74,913,917  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

12

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Schedule Of Investments (Continued)

august 31, 2018

 

CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCKS - 5.5%

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

Real Estate - 5.5%

               

CorEnergy Infrastructure Trust, Inc. - Series A, 7.38%

    212,948     $ 5,364,160  

Wheeler Real Estate Investment Trust, Inc. - Series B, 9.00% (c)

    160,906       3,033,078  

Wheeler Real Estate Investment Trust, Inc. - Series D, 8.75% (c)

    277,607       6,049,057  
              14,446,295  

TOTAL CONVERTIBLE PREFERRED STOCKS (Cost $15,255,753)

            14,446,295  
                 

CONVERTIBLE BONDS - 1.4%

 

PRINCIPAL
AMOUNT

   

 

 

Financials - 1.4%

               

Western Asset Mortgage Capital Corp., 6.750%, 10/01/2022 (c)

  $ 3,500,000       3,625,657  

TOTAL CONVERTIBLE BONDS (Cost $3,500,000)

            3,625,657  
                 

CORPORATE BONDS - 0.7%

 

 

   

 

 

Financials - 0.4%

               

Uniti Group LP / Uniti Fiber Holdings Inc. / CSL Capital LLC, 7.13%, 12/15/2024 (d)

    1,000,000       908,440  
                 

Real Estate - 0.3%

               

CBL & Associates Properties, Inc., 5.25%, 12/01/2023

    1,000,000       847,600  

TOTAL CORPORATE BONDS (Cost $1,844,563)

            1,756,040  
                 

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS - 1.1%

 

 

   

 

 

Direxion Daily 20+ Year Treasury Bear 3x Shares

    149,369       2,869,378  

TOTAL EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS (Cost $2,934,668)

            2,869,378  
                 

MUTUAL FUNDS - 0.8%

 

 

   

 

 

Brookfield Real Assets Income Fund, Inc.

    4,800       112,128  

Nuveen Preferred Income Opportunities Fund

    97,167       912,398  

Oaktree Specialty Lending Corp.

    190,927       969,909  

TOTAL MUTUAL FUNDS (Cost $1,952,618)

            1,994,435  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

13

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Schedule Of Investments (Continued)

august 31, 2018

 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS - 3.5%

 

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

STIT-Treasury Obligations Portfolio, 1.85% (e)

    8,990,230     $ 8,990,230  

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS (Cost $8,990,230)

            8,990,230  
                 

TOTAL INVESTMENTS (Cost $279,013,351) - 111.5%

            289,330,619  

LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS - (11.5%)

            (29,867,020 )

TOTAL NET ASSETS — 100.0%

          $ 259,463,599  

 

 

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

 

(a)

U.S. traded security of a foreign issuer or corporation.

 

(b)

Variable rate security. The rate shown represents the rate at August 31, 2018.

 

(c)

All or a portion of the security has been segregated for open short positions.

 

(d)

Security exempt from registration under Rule 144A of the Securities Act of 1933. These securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional buyers. As of August 31, 2018 the total market value of Rule 144A securities was $908,440 and represents 0.4% of net assets.

 

(e)

Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

14

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Schedule Of Securities Sold Short

august 31, 2018

 

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS - (5.8%)

 

NUMBER OF
SHARES

   

VALUE

 

Real Estate - (4.9%)

               

Invesco KBW Premium Yield Equity REIT ETF

    (29,260 )   $ (1,047,801 )

Vanguard REIT ETF

    (140,722 )     (11,827,684 )
              (12,875,485 )

Finance and Insurance - (0.9%)

               

iShares Mortgage Real Estate ETF

    (50,000 )     (2,257,000 )

TOTAL EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS (Proceeds $14,790,431)

            (15,132,485 )
                 

REITS - (1.2%)

 

 

   

 

 

Real Estate - (1.2%)

               

CBL & Associates Properties, Inc.

    (206,553 )     (921,226 )

Clipper Realty, Inc.

    (35,006 )     (427,073 )

Seritage Growth Properties

    (32,823 )     (1,689,728 )
              (3,038,027 )

TOTAL REITS (Proceeds $2,810,615)

            (3,038,027 )
                 

TOTAL SECURITIES SOLD SHORT (Proceeds $17,601,046) - (7.0%)

          $ (18,170,512 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

15

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Schedule Of Options Written

august 31, 2018

 

CALL OPTIONS - (0.0%)

 

COUNTER-
PARTY

   

CONTRACTS

   

NOTIONAL
COST

   

VALUE

 

ESSEX PROPERTY TRUST, INC.

                               

Expiration: September 2018, Exercise Price: $240.00

    N/A       (50 )   $ (1,231,400 )   $ (35,150 )

TOTAL CALL OPTIONS

                            (35,150 )
                                 

TOTAL OPTIONS WRITTEN (Premiums received $26,348) - (0.0%)

                    $ (35,150 )

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

16

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Statement Of Assets And Liabilities

august 31, 2018

 

ASSETS

       

Investments in securities, at value (cost $270,023,121)

  $ 280,340,389  

Short-term investments, at value (cost $8,990,230)

    8,990,230  

Receivables for:

       

Deposit at brokers

    23,773,820  

Dividends and interest

    1,034,734  

Capital shares sold

    750,236  

Investments sold

    130,147  

Return of capital

    31,875  

Prepaid expenses and other assets

    37,773  

Total assets

    315,089,204  
         

LIABILITIES

       

Securities sold short, at fair value (proceeds $17,601,046)

    18,170,512  

Options written, at value (premiums received $26,348)

    35,150  

Payables for:

       

Loans payable

    36,669,568  

Advisory fees

    218,285  

Capital shares redeemed

    191,323  

Distribution and service fees

    158,679  

Investments purchased

    59,184  

Administration and accounting fees

    28,882  

Transfer agent fees

    12,271  

Custodian fees

    7,350  

Other accrued expenses and liabilities

    74,401  

Total liabilities

    55,625,605  

Net assets

  $ 259,463,599  
         

NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:

       

Par value

  $ 11,546  

Paid-in capital

    271,381,269  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss)

    (68,353 )

Accumulated net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    (21,599,862 )

Net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on:

       

Investments

    10,317,267  

Securities sold short

    (569,466 )

Written options

    (8,802 )

Net assets

  $ 259,463,599  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

17

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Statement Of Assets And Liabilities (Continued)

august 31, 2018

 

CLASS I SHARES:

       

Net assets

  $ 193,183,727  

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    8,585,376  

Net asset value and redemption price per share

  $ 22.50  
         

CLASS A SHARES:

       

Net assets

  $ 45,782,558  

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    2,038,407  

Net asset value and redemption price per share

  $ 22.46  

Maximum offering price per share (net asset value divided by 95.00%)

  $ 23.64  
         

CLASS D SHARES:

       

Net assets

  $ 20,497,314  

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    922,088  

Net asset value and redemption price per share

  $ 22.23  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

18

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Statement Of Operations

For the year Ended august 31, 2018

 

INVESTMENT INCOME

       

Dividends (net of foreign withholding taxes of $9,916)

  $ 15,292,963  

Interest income

    682,385  

Total investment income

    15,975,348  
         

EXPENSES

       

Advisory fees (Note 2)

    2,809,810  

Interest expense

    1,374,465  

Dividend expense on securities sold-short

    308,176  

Shareholder service fees - Class I Shares

    188,438  

Shareholder service fees - Class A Shares

    107,523  

Shareholder services fee - Class D Shares

    20,861  

Distribution fees - Class D Shares

    208,610  

Distribution fees - Class A Shares

    179,205  

Administration and accounting fees (Note 2)

    131,985  

Printing and shareholder reporting fees

    106,805  

Registration and filing fees

    73,970  

Custodian fees (Note 2)

    70,493  

Transfer agent fees (Note 2)

    69,376  

Legal fees

    24,493  

Audit and tax service fees

    24,333  

Officer's fees

    10,448  

Director's fees

    3,655  

Other expenses

    5,484  

Total expenses

    5,718,130  

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ 10,257,218  
         

NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) FROM INVESTMENTS

       

Net realized gain/(loss) from:

       

Investments

  $ 238,930  

Foreign currency

    13  

Securities sold short

    (305,849 )

Written options

    433,286  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on:

       

Investments

    (6,210,189 )

Securities sold short

    (595,668 )

Written options

    (26,264 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) from investments

    (6,465,741 )

NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS

  $ 3,791,477  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

19

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Statements Of Changes In Net Assets

 

   

year ended
August 31,
2018

   

Six Months
Ended
August 31,
2017
1

   

Year Ended
February 28,
2017

 

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM OPERATIONS:

                       

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ 10,257,218     $ 8,222,962     $ 11,718,936  

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    366,380       22,483       1,682,886  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    (6,832,121 )     (276,109 )     28,284,505  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    3,791,477       7,969,336       41,686,327  
                         

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM:

                       

Net investment income

                       

Class I Shares

    (9,743,270 )     (4,918,367 )     (7,030,088 )

Class A Shares

    (3,521,733 )     (2,691,376 )     (3,854,794 )

Class D Shares

    (901,477 )     (570,380 )     (896,541 )

Return of Capital

                       

Class I Shares

    (3,841,630 )     (1,724,314 )     (3,874,004 )

Class A Shares

    (1,512,445 )     (979,164 )     (2,243,473 )

Class D Shares

    (429,227 )     (216,399 )     (601,099 )

Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (19,949,782 )     (11,100,000 )     (18,499,999 )
                         

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

                       

Class I Shares

                       

Proceeds from shares sold

    87,993,743       25,888,542       73,403,073  

Reinvestment of distributions

    11,829,623       5,748,698       9,427,050  

Shares redeemed

    (91,103,369 )     (16,854,591 )     (36,841,939 )

Total from Class I Shares

    8,719,997       14,782,649       45,988,184  
                         

Class A Shares

                       

Proceeds from shares sold

    38,525,832       28,088,135       66,186,938  

Reinvestment of distributions

    4,713,495       3,469,660       5,759,197  

Shares redeemed

    (103,727,248 )     (19,230,071 )     (45,028,436 )

Total from Class A Shares

    (60,487,921 )     12,327,724       26,917,699  
                         

Class D Shares

                       

Proceeds from shares sold

    2,988,921       1,194,705       3,202,125  

Reinvestment of distributions

    1,049,718       632,721       1,214,008  

Shares redeemed

    (4,832,896 )     (3,215,608 )     (4,095,955 )

Total from Class D Shares

    (794,257 )     (1,388,182 )     320,178  

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

    (52,562,181 )     25,722,191       73,226,061  

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    (68,720,486 )     22,591,527       96,412,389  
                         

NET ASSETS:

                       

Beginning of period

    328,184,085       305,592,558       209,180,169  

End of period

  $ 259,463,599     $ 328,184,085     $ 305,592,558  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $ (68,353 )   $ (28,234 )   $  

 

1

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

20

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Statements Of Changes In Net Assets (Continued)

 

   

year ended
August 31,
2018

   

Six Months
Ended
August 31,
2017
1

   

Year Ended
February 28,
2017

 

SHARES TRANSACTIONS:

                       

Class I Shares

                       

Shares sold

    3,923,521       1,103,910       3,146,019  

Dividends and distributions reinvested

    531,446       246,931       412,892  

Shares redeemed

    (4,124,638 )     (720,196 )     (1,617,828 )

Net increase/(decrease)

    330,329       630,645       1,941,083  
                         

Class A Shares

                       

Shares sold

    1,709,837       1,203,199       2,870,331  

Dividends and distributions reinvested

    209,201       149,547       252,826  

Shares redeemed

    (4,704,402 )     (823,696 )     (1,943,378 )

Net increase/(decrease)

    (2,785,364 )     529,050       1,179,779  
                         

Class D Shares

                       

Shares sold

    135,346       51,429       137,483  

Dividends and distributions reinvested

    47,747       27,400       53,651  

Shares redeemed

    (221,741 )     (138,260 )     (178,258 )

Net increase/(decrease)

    (38,648 )     (59,431 )     12,876  
                         

Net increase/(decrease) in shares outstanding

    (2,493,683 )     1,100,264       3,133,738  

 

1

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

21

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Statement Of Cash Flows

 

   

year ended
August 31,
2018

   

Six Months
Ended
August 31,
2017
1

   

Year Ended
February 28,
2017

 

CASH FLOWS FROM OPERATING ACTIVITIES:

                       

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

  $ 3,791,477     $ 7,969,336     $ 41,686,327  

Adjustments to reconcile net increase/(decrease) in net assets from operations to net cash used in operating activities:

                       

Purchases of investments

    (321,370,461 )     (176,970,133 )     (460,896,484 )

Purchases to cover securities sold short

    (650,366,400 )     (396,366,088 )     (712,621,042 )

Written options closed or exercised

    (18,408 )     145,057       (126,541 )

Proceeds from sales of long-term investments

    383,122,964       166,998,533       345,693,593  

Proceeds from securities sold short

    631,793,102       401,469,096       715,718,570  

Premiums received on written options

    510,947             445,827  

Purchases of short-term investments, net

    11,032,876       (12,152,954 )     (4,529,586 )

Return of capital and capital gain distributions received from underlying investments

    11,438,744       296,072       1,865,810  

Amortization and accretion of premium and discount

    (67,288 )     (17,909 )     (111,764 )

Net realized gain/(loss) on investments

    (238,930 )     (1,020,744 )     3,070,328  

Net realized gain/(loss) on short transactions

    305,849       1,113,507       2,052,465  

Net realized gain/(loss) on written options

    (433,286 )     (118,156 )     (319,286 )

Net realized gain/(loss) on foreign currency translation

    (13 )     2,058        

Change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    6,210,189       1,214,933       (28,623,187 )

Change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on short transactions

    595,668       (921,362 )     338,518  

Change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on written options

    26,264       (17,462 )     164  

Increases (decreases) in operating assets:

                       

Increase/(decrease) in dividends and interest receivable

    504,171       (143,410 )     (422,605 )

Increase/(decrease) in deposits at broker for short sales

    17,830,752       (3,988,577 )     (9,923,208 )

Increase/(decrease) in receivable for investment securities sold

    1,873,215       (491,417 )     1,013,887  

Increase/(decrease) in prepaid expenses and other assets

    10,727       (42,580 )     3,717  

Increases (decreases) in operating liabilities:

                       

Increase/(decrease) in payable for investment securities purchased

    (4,588,439 )     (7,885,590 )     2,819,372  

Increase/(decrease) in dividends payable on short positions

                (1,500 )

Increase/(decrease) in payable to advisor

    (59,698 )     46,346       82,924  

Increase/(decrease) in payable for distribution and service fees

    (132,392 )     141,969       72,798  

Increase/(decrease) in other accrued expenses

    65,896       (101,521 )     60,071  

Net cash used in operating activities

    91,837,526       (20,840,996 )     (102,650,832 )
                         

CASH FLOWS FROM FINANCING ACTIVITIES:

                       

Proceeds from shares sold

    129,515,596       55,515,634       160,716,798  

Payment on shares redeemed

    (200,118,485 )     (39,024,147 )     (85,937,492 )

Cash distributions paid to shareholders

    (2,356,946 )     (1,248,921 )     (2,099,744 )

Increase/(decrease) in loan payable

    (18,877,691 )     5,316,131       30,241,508  

Net cash provided by financing activities

    (91,837,526 )     20,558,697       102,921,070  

Net change in cash

          (282,299 )     270,238  
                         

CASH:

                       

Beginning balance

          282,299       12,061  

Ending balance

  $     $     $ 282,299  

 

1

The Fund changed its fiscal year to August 31.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

22

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Statement Of Cash Flows (continued)

 

   year ended
August 31,
2018
  

Six Months
Ended
August 31,
2017
1

   Year Ended
February 28,
2017
 
SUPPLEMENTAL DISCLOSURES:            
Cash paid for interest  $1,374,465   $695,913   $913,288 
Non-cash financing activities - distributions reinvested   17,592,836    9,851,079    16,400,255 
Non-cash financing activities - increase/(decrease) in receivable for Fund shares sold   (7,100)   344,252     
Non-cash financing activities - increase/(decrease) in payable for Fund shares redeemed   (454,972)   276,123     

 

1

The Fund changed its fiscal year to August 31.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

23

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Financial Highlights

 

For a capital share outstanding throughout the period

 

   

CLASS I SHARES

 
   

Year Ended
August 31,
2018

   

Six Months
Ended
August 31,
2017
2, 3

   

Year Ended
February 28,
2017

   

Year Ended
February 29,
2016

   

Year Ended
February 28,
2015

   

June 28,
2013
through
Fe
bruary 28,
2014
4

 

Net asset value – Beginning of period

  $ 23.42     $ 23.66     $ 21.36     $ 25.29     $ 25.60     $ 25.00  

Income from Investment Operations:

                                               

Net investment income/(loss)1

    0.86       0.63       1.10       0.99       1.15       0.59  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    (0.17 )     (0.02 )     2.90       (3.36 )     0.12       0.50  

Total from investment operations

    0.69       0.61       4.00       (2.37 )     1.27       1.09  

Less Distributions:

                                               

Dividends from net investment income

    (1.15 )     (0.63 )     (1.10 )     (1.02 )     (1.39 )     (0.45 )

Distributions from net realized gains

                            (0.01 )     (0.04 )

Return of capital

    (0.46 )     (0.22 )     (0.60 )     (0.54 )     (0.18 )      

Total distributions

    (1.61 )     (0.85 )     (1.70 )     (1.56 )     (1.58 )     (0.49 )

Net asset value – End of period

  $ 22.50     $ 23.42     $ 23.66     $ 21.36     $ 25.29     $ 25.60  

Total return

    3.24 %     2.62 %5     19.29 %     (9.81 )%     5.08 %     4.44 %5
                                                 

Ratios and Supplemental Data:

                                               

Net assets, end of period (thousands)

  $ 193,184     $ 193,361     $ 180,360     $ 121,400     $ 151,017     $ 72,370  

Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets:

                                               

Before Recoupments/Reimbursements

    1.92 %     1.82 %6     2.01 %     1.85 %     1.64 %     1.96 %6

After Recoupments/Reimbursements

    1.92 %     1.82 %6     2.01 %     1.84 %     1.70 %     1.62 %6

Ratio of interest expense and dividends on short positions to average net assets

    0.63 %     0.55 %6     0.68 %     0.49 %     0.27 %     0.02 %6

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets:

                                               

Before Recoupments/Reimbursements

    3.83 %     5.33 %6     4.68 %     4.21 %     4.71 %     6.75 %6

After Recoupments/Reimbursements

    3.83 %     5.33 %6     4.68 %     4.22 %     4.65 %     7.09 %6

Portfolio turnover rate

    102 %     46 %5     121 %     127 %     185 %     119 %5

 

1

Calculated based on average shares outstanding during the period.

 

2

Effective as of the close of business on April 28, 2017, the Fund acquired all the assets and liabilities of the Orinda Income Opportunities Fund, a series of Advisors Series Trust (the “Predecessor Fund”). The financial highlights for the periods prior to that date reflect the performance of the Predecessor Fund.

 

3

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31.

 

4

Commencement of operations for Class I shares was June 28, 2013.

 

5

Not Annualized.

 

6

Annualized.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

24

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Financial Highlights (Continued)

 

For a capital share outstanding throughout the period

 

   

CLASS A SHARES

 
   

Year Ended
August 31,
2018

   

Six Months
Ended
August 31,
2017
2, 3

   

Year Ended
February 28,
2017

   

Year Ended
February 29,
2016

   

Year Ended
February 28,
2015

   

June 28,
2013
through
Fe
bruary 28,
2014
4

 

Net asset value – Beginning of period

  $ 23.33     $ 23.58     $ 21.31     $ 25.25     $ 25.57     $ 25.00  

Income from Investment Operations:

                                               

Net investment income/(loss)1

    0.77       0.59       1.03       0.93       0.97       0.65  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    (0.14 )     (0.02 )     2.88       (3.37 )     0.22       0.39  

Total from investment operations

    0.63       0.57       3.91       (2.44 )     1.19       1.04  

Less Distributions:

                                               

Dividends from net investment income

    (1.04 )     (0.60 )     (1.04 )     (0.96 )     (1.32 )     (0.43 )

Distributions from net realized gains

                            (0.01 )     (0.04 )

Return of capital

    (0.46 )     (0.22 )     (0.60 )     (0.54 )     (0.18 )      

Total distributions

    (1.50 )     (0.82 )     (1.64 )     (1.50 )     (1.51 )     (0.47 )

Net asset value – End of period

  $ 22.46     $ 23.33     $ 23.58     $ 21.31     $ 25.25     $ 25.57  

Total return

    2.94 %     2.49 %5     18.90 %     (10.09 )%     4.79 %     4.22 %5
                                                 

Ratios and Supplemental Data:

                                               

Net assets, end of period (thousands)

  $ 45,783     $ 112,549     $ 101,270     $ 66,375     $ 74,834     $ 14,421  

Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets:

                                               

Before Recoupments/Reimbursements

    2.07 %     2.12 %6     2.29 %     2.15 %     1.96 %     2.55 %6

After Recoupments/Reimbursements

    2.07 %     2.12 %6     2.29 %     2.15 %     2.00 %     1.92 %6

Ratio of interest expense and dividends on short positions to average net assets

    0.51 %     0.55 %6     0.66 %     0.48 %     0.28 %     0.02 %6

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets:

                                               

Before Recoupments/Reimbursements

    3.37 %     5.03 %6     4.34 %     3.97 %     4.53 %     5.45 %6

After Recoupments/Reimbursements

    3.37 %     5.03 %6     4.34 %     3.97 %     4.49 %     6.08 %6

Portfolio turnover rate

    102 %     46 %5     121 %     127 %     185 %     119 %5

 

1

Calculated based on average shares outstanding during the period.

 

2

Effective as of the close of business on April 28, 2017, the Fund acquired all the assets and liabilities of the Orinda Income Opportunities Fund, a series of Advisors Series Trust (the “Predecessor Fund”). The financial highlights for the periods prior to that date reflect the performance of the Predecessor Fund.

 

3

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31.

 

4

Commencement of operations for Class A shares was June 28, 2013.

 

5

Not Annualized.

 

6

Annualized.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

25

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Financial Highlights (Continued)

 

For a capital share outstanding throughout the period

 

   

CLASS D SHARES

 
   

Year Ended
August 31,
2018

   

Six Months
Ended
August 31,
2017
2, 3

   

Year Ended
February 28,
2017

   

Year Ended
February 29,
2016

   

Year Ended
February 28,
2015

   

September 27,
2013
through
February 28,
2014
4

 

Net asset value – Beginning of period

  $ 23.18     $ 23.49     $ 21.25     $ 25.17     $ 25.51     $ 25.01  

Income from Investment Operations:

                                               

Net investment income/(loss)1

    0.63       0.51       0.87       0.82       0.92       0.53  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    (0.16 )     (0.02 )     2.88       (3.37 )     0.07       0.44  

Total from investment operations

    0.47       0.49       3.75       (2.55 )     0.99       0.97  

Less Distributions:

                                               

Dividends from net investment income

    (0.96 )     (0.58 )     (0.90 )     (0.83 )     (1.14 )     (0.43 )

Distributions from net realized gains

                            (0.01 )     (0.04 )

Return of capital

    (0.46 )     (0.22 )     (0.61 )     (0.54 )     (0.18 )      

Total distributions

    (1.42 )     (0.80 )     (1.51 )     (1.37 )     (1.33 )     (0.47 )

Net asset value – End of period

  $ 22.23     $ 23.18     $ 23.49     $ 21.25     $ 25.17     $ 25.51  

Total return

    2.23 %     2.13 %5     18.10 %     (10.56 )%     3.97 %     3.95 %5
                                                 

Ratios and Supplemental Data:

                                               

Net assets, end of period (thousands)

  $ 20,497     $ 22,274     $ 23,963     $ 21,405     $ 23,336     $ 12,450  

Ratio of operating expenses to average net assets:

                                               

Before Recoupments/Reimbursements

    2.93 %     2.79 %6     2.98 %     2.81 %     2.70 %     2.77 %6

After Recoupments/Reimbursements

    2.93 %     2.79 %6     2.98 %     2.67 %     2.76 %     2.67 %6

Ratio of interest expense and dividends on short positions to average net assets

    0.64 %     0.55 %6     0.67 %     0.49 %     0.27 %     0.02 %6

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets:

                                               

Before Recoupments/Reimbursements

    2.90 %     4.36 %6     3.76 %     3.32 %     3.75 %     7.62 %6

After Recoupments/Reimbursements

    2.90 %     4.36 %6     3.76 %     3.46 %     3.69 %     7.72 %6

Portfolio turnover rate

    102 %     46 %5     121 %     127 %     185 %     119 %5

 

1

Calculated based on average shares outstanding during the period.

 

2

Effective as of the close of business on April 28, 2017, the Fund acquired all the assets and liabilities of the Orinda Income Opportunities Fund, a series of Advisors Series Trust (the “Predecessor Fund”). The financial highlights for the periods prior to that date reflect the performance of the Predecessor Fund.

 

3

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31.

 

4

Commencement of operations for Class D shares was September 27, 2013.

 

5

Not Annualized.

 

6

Annualized.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.

 

26

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Notes To Financial Statements

august 31, 2018

 

1. ORGANIZATION AND SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTing POLICIES

 

The RBB Fund, Inc. (“RBB” or the “Company”) was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on February 29, 1988 and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. RBB is a “series fund,” which is a mutual fund divided into separate portfolios. Each portfolio is treated as a separate entity for certain matters under the 1940 Act, and for other purposes, and a shareholder of one portfolio is not deemed to be a shareholder of any other portfolio. Currently, RBB has thirty active investment portfolios, including the Orinda Income Opportunities Fund (the “Fund”), which became a series of RBB as of the close of business on April 28, 2017. The Fund is authorized to offer three classes of shares, Class I Shares, Class A Shares and Class D Shares. Class A Shares are sold subject to a front-end maximum sales charge of 5.00%. Front-end sales charges may be reduced or waived under certain circumstances. Class I Shares, Class A Shares and Class D Shares commenced investment operations on June 28, 2013, June 28, 2013 and September 27, 2013, respectively.

 

Prior to April 28, 2017, the Fund was a non-diversified series (the “Predecessor Fund”) of Advisors Series Trust (the “Trust”), an open-end management investment company (or mutual fund) organized on October 3, 1996, as a statutory trust under the laws of the State of Delaware. The Predecessor Fund was reorganized into the Fund on April 28, 2017 (the “Reorganization”). As a result of the Reorganization, the performance and accounting history of the Predecessor Fund was assumed by the Fund. Performance and accounting information prior to April 28, 2017 included herein is that of the Predecessor Fund.

 

RBB has authorized capital of one hundred billion shares of common stock of which 87.023 billion shares are currently classified into one hundred and eighty-one classes of common stock. Each class represents an interest in an active or inactive RBB investment portfolio.

 

The Fund’s investment objective is to maximize current income with potential for modest growth of capital.

 

The Fund is an investment company and follows the accounting and reporting guidance in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services-Investment Companies.”

 

The end of the reporting period for the Fund is August 31, 2018, and the period covered by these Notes to Financial Statements is the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018 (the “current fiscal period”).

 

PORTFOLIO VALUATION — The Fund’s net asset value (“NAV”) is calculated once daily at the close of regular trading hours on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on each day the NYSE is open. Securities held by the Fund are valued using the closing price or the last sale price on a national securities exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automatic Quotation System (“NASDAQ”) market system where they are primarily traded. Equity securities traded in the over-the-counter (“OTC”) market are valued at their closing prices. If there were no transactions on that day, securities traded principally on an exchange or on NASDAQ will be valued at the mean of the last bid and ask prices prior to the market close. Fixed income securities are valued using an independent pricing service, which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings, and are deemed representative of market values at the close of the market. Foreign securities are valued based on prices from the primary market in which they are traded, and are translated from the local currency into U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. Investments in other open-end investment companies are valued based on the NAV of the investment companies (which may use fair value pricing as disclosed in their prospectuses). Options for which the primary market is a national securities exchange are valued at the last sale price on the exchange on which they are traded, or, in the absence of any sale, will be valued at the mean of the last bid and ask prices prior to the market close. Options not traded on a national securities exchange are valued at the last quoted bid price for long option positions and the closing ask price for short option positions. If market quotations are unavailable or deemed unreliable, securities will be valued in accordance with procedures adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”). Relying on prices supplied by pricing services or dealers or using fair valuation may result in values that are higher or lower than the values used by other investment companies and investors to price the same investments. Such procedures use fundamental valuation methods, which may include, but are not limited to, an analysis of the effect of any restrictions on the resale of the security, industry analysis and trends, significant changes in the issuer’s financial position, and any other event which could have a significant impact on the value of the security. Determination of fair value involves subjective judgment as the actual market value of a particular security can be established only by negotiations between the parties in a sales transaction, and the difference between the recorded fair value and the value that would be received in a sale could be significant. The Fund may use fair value pricing more frequently for securities traded primarily in non-U.S. markets because, among other things, most foreign markets close well before the Fund values its securities, generally as of 4:00 p.m. Eastern time. The earlier close of these foreign markets gives rise to

 

27

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Notes To Financial Statements (Continued)

august 31, 2018

 

the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, government actions or pronouncements, aftermarket trading, or news events may have occurred in the interim. To account for this, the Fund may value foreign securities using fair value prices based on third-party vendor modeling tools (international fair value pricing).

 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS — The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the Fund’s investments are summarized into three levels as described in the hierarchy below:

 

 

Level 1 —

Prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

 

 

Level 2 —

Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).

 

 

Level 3 —

Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of the end of the reporting period, in valuing the Fund’s investments carried at fair value:

 

   

Total

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

 

Assets

                               

Common Stocks

                               

Energy

  $ 483,698     $ 483,698     $     $  

Real Estate

    2,767,559       2,767,559              

Total Common Stocks

    3,251,257       3,251,257              

REITs

                               

Financials

    56,228,849       53,300,400       2,928,449        

Real Estate

    121,254,561       119,029,903       2,224,658        

Total REITs

    177,483,410       172,330,303       5,153,107        

Preferred Stocks

                               

Energy

    18,594,741       18,594,741              

Financials

    33,443,268       30,182,021       3,261,247        

Industrials

    1,181,333       1,181,333              

Real Estate

    21,694,575       21,694,575              

Total Preferred Stocks

    74,913,917       71,652,670       3,261,247        

Convertible Preferred Stocks

                               

Real Estate

    14,446,295       14,446,295              

Total Convertible Preferred Stocks

    14,446,295       14,446,295              

Convertible Bonds

                               

Financials

    3,625,657             3,625,657        

Total Convertible Bonds

    3,625,657             3,625,657        

Corporate Bonds

                               

Financials

    908,440             908,440        

Real Estate

    847,600             847,600        

Total Corporate Bonds

    1,756,040             1,756,040        

Exchanged Traded Funds

    2,869,378       2,869,378              

Mutual Funds

    1,994,435       1,994,435              

Short-Term Investments

    8,990,230       8,990,230              

Total Investments in Securities

  $ 289,330,619     $ 275,534,568     $ 13,796,051     $  

Total Assets

  $ 289,330,619     $ 275,534,568     $ 13,796,051     $  

 

28

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Notes To Financial Statements (Continued)

august 31, 2018

 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS (continued)

 

   

Total

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

 

Liabilities

                               

Securities Sold Short

  $ 18,170,512     $ 18,170,512     $     $  

Written Options

    35,150       35,150              

Total Liabilities

  $ 18,205,662     $ 18,205,662     $     $  

 

At the end of each quarter, management evaluates the classification of Levels 1, 2 and 3 assets and liabilities. Various factors are considered, such as changes in liquidity from the prior reporting period; whether or not a broker is willing to execute at the quoted price; the depth and consistency of prices from third party pricing services; and the existence of contemporaneous, observable trades in the market. Additionally, management evaluates the classification of Level 1 and Level 2 assets and liabilities on a quarterly basis for changes in listings or delistings on national exchanges.

 

Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Fund’s investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values the Fund may ultimately realize. Further, such investments may be subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities.

 

For fair valuations using significant unobservable inputs, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires the Fund to present a reconciliation of the beginning to ending balances for reported market values that presents changes attributable to total realized and unrealized gains or losses, purchase and sales, and transfers in and out of Level 3 during the period. Transfers in and out between levels are based on values at the end of the period. U.S. GAAP also requires the Fund to disclose amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements. A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented only when the Fund had an amount of Level 3 investments at the end of the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets. The amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of each level within the three-tier hierarchy are disclosed when the Fund had an amount of total transfers during the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets as of the end of the reporting period.

 

Foreign securities that utilize international fair pricing are categorized as Level 2 in the hierarchy.

 

Transfers between levels are recognized at the end of the reporting period. The Fund transferred $747,317 from level 2 to level 1 at August 31, 2018 because these securities were now being priced at the official market close. The Fund transferred $3,839,381 from level 1 to level 2 at August 31, 2018 because the securities were priced at the mean of the last bid and ask prices prior to the market close.

 

DISCLOSURES ABOUT DERIVATIVE INSTRUMENTS AND HEDGING ACTIVITIES — The Fund may use derivatives for different purposes, such as a substitute for taking a position in the underlying asset and/or as part of a strategy designed to reduce exposure to other risks, such as interest rate or currency risk. The various derivative instruments that the Fund may use are options, futures, swaps, and forward foreign currency contracts, among others. The Fund may also use derivatives for leverage, in which case their use would involve leveraging risk. The Fund’s use of derivative instruments involves risks different from, or possibly greater than, the risks associated with investing directly in securities and other traditional investments. Derivatives are subject to a number of risks, such as liquidity risk, interest rate risk, market risk, credit risk, and management risk. A Fund investing in a derivative instrument could lose more than the principal amount invested.

 

The Fund has adopted the disclosure provisions of FASB Accounting Standard Codification 815, Derivatives and Hedging (“ASC 815”). ASC 815 requires enhanced disclosures about the Fund’s use of, and accounting for, derivative instruments and the effect of derivative instruments on the Fund’s results of operations and financial position. Tabular disclosure regarding derivative fair value and gain/loss by contract type (e.g., interest rate contracts, foreign exchange contracts, credit contracts, etc.) is required and derivatives accounted for as hedging instruments under ASC 815 must be disclosed separately from those that do not qualify for

 

29

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Notes To Financial Statements (Continued)

august 31, 2018

 

hedge accounting. Even though the Fund may use derivatives in an attempt to achieve an economic hedge, the Fund’s derivatives are not accounted for as hedging instruments under ASC 815 because investment companies account for their derivatives at fair value and record any changes in fair value in current period earnings.

 

The following tables provide quantitative disclosures about fair value amounts of, and gains and losses on, the Fund’s derivative instruments as of and for the current fiscal period.

 

The following table lists the fair values of the Fund’s derivative holdings as of the end of the reporting period, grouped by contract type and risk exposure category.

 

Derivative Type

Statement of
Assets and
Liabilities Location

 

Equity
Contracts

 

Asset Derivatives

Written Options

N/A

  $  

Total Value- Assets

    $  

 

Derivative Type

Statement of

Assets and

Liabilities Location

 

Equity
Contracts

 

Liability Derivatives

Written Options

Options written, at value

  $ (35,150 )

Total Value- Liabilities

    $ (35,150 )

 

The following table lists the amounts of realized gains/(losses) included in net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations during the current fiscal period, grouped by contract type and risk exposure.

 

Derivative Type

Statement of

Operations Location

 

Equity
Contracts

 

Realized Gain/(Loss)

Purchased Options

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

  $ (1,695,369 )

Written Options

Net realized gain/(loss) from written options

  $ 433,286  

Total Realized Gain/(Loss)

    $ (1,262,083 )

 

30

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Notes To Financial Statements (Continued)

august 31, 2018

 

The following table lists the amounts of change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) included in net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations during the current fiscal period, grouped by contract type and risk exposure.

 

Derivative Type

Statement of

Operations Location

 

Equity
Contracts

 

Change in Unrealized Appreciation/(Depreciation)

Purchased Options

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

  $  

Written Options

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on written options

    (26,264 )

Total Change in Unrealized Appreciation/(Depreciation)

 

  $ (26,264 )

 

Average Balance Information

 

During the current fiscal period, the Fund’s quarterly average volume of derivatives was as follows:

 

 

Purchased
Options
(Cost)

   

Written
Options
(Proceeds)

 
  $ 137,634     $ (40,460 )

 

OPTIONS The Fund may utilize options for hedging purposes as well as direct investment. Some options strategies, including buying puts, tend to hedge the Fund’s investments against price fluctuations. Other strategies, such as writing puts and calls and buying calls, tend to increase market exposure. Options contracts may be combined with each other in order to adjust the risk and return characteristics of each Fund’s overall strategy in a manner deemed appropriate to the Adviser and consistent with each Fund’s investment objective and policies. When a call or put option is written, an amount equal to the premium received is recorded as a liability. The liability is marked-to-market daily to reflect the current fair value of the written option. When a written option expires, a gain is realized in the amount of the premium originally received. If a closing purchase contract is entered into, a gain or loss is realized in the amount of the original premium less the cost of the closing transaction. If a written call option is exercised, a gain or loss is realized from the sale of the underlying security, and the proceeds from such sale are increased by the premium originally received. If a written put option is exercised, the amount of the premium originally received reduces the cost of the security which is purchased upon the exercise of the option.

 

With options, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Fund since the options are covered or secured, which means that the Fund will own the underlying security or, to the extent it does not hold such a portfolio, will maintain a segregated account with the Fund’s custodian consisting of high quality liquid debt obligations equal to the market value of the option, marked to market daily.

 

Options purchased are recorded as investments and marked-to-market daily to reflect the current fair value of the option contract. If an option purchased expires, a loss is realized in the amount of the cost of the option contract. If a closing transaction is entered into, a gain or loss is realized to the extent that the proceeds from the sale are greater or less than the cost of the option. If a purchase put option is exercised, a gain or loss is realized from the sale of the underlying security by adjusting the proceeds from such sale by the amount of the premium originally paid. If a purchased call option is exercised, the cost of the security purchased upon exercise is increased by the premium originally paid.

 

FUTURES CONTRACTS AND OPTIONS ON FUTURES CONTRACTS — The Fund is subject to equity price risk, interest rate risk, and foreign currency exchange rate risk in the normal course of pursuing its investment objectives. The Fund uses futures contracts and options on such futures contracts to gain exposure to, or hedge against, changes in the value of equities, interest rates or foreign currencies. A futures contract represents a commitment for the future purchase or sale of an asset at a specified price on a specified date. Upon entering into such contracts, the Fund is required to deposit with the broker, either in cash or securities, an

 

31

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Notes To Financial Statements (Continued)

august 31, 2018

 

initial margin deposit in an amount equal to a certain percentage of the contract amount. Subsequent payments (variation margin) are made or received by the Fund each day, depending on the daily fluctuations in the value of the contract, and are recorded for financial statement purposes as unrealized gains or losses by the Fund. Upon entering into such contracts, the Fund bears the risk of interest or exchange rates or securities prices moving unexpectedly, in which case, the Fund may not achieve the anticipated benefits of the futures contracts and may realize a loss. With futures, there is minimal counterparty credit risk to the Fund since futures are exchange traded and the exchange’s clearinghouse, as counterparty to all exchange-traded futures, guarantees the futures against default. The use of futures contracts, and options on futures contracts, involves the risk of imperfect correlation in movements in the price of futures contracts and options thereon, interest rates and the underlying hedged assets.

 

LEVERAGE AND SHORT SALES — The Fund may use leverage in connection with its investment activities and may effect short sales of securities. Leverage can increase the investment returns of the Fund if the securities purchased increase in value in an amount exceeding the cost of the borrowing. However, if the securities decrease in value, the Fund will suffer a greater loss than would have resulted without the use of leverage. A short sale is the sale by the Fund of a security which it does not own in anticipation of purchasing the same security in the future at a lower price to close the short position. A short sale will be successful if the price of the shorted security decreases. However, if the underlying security goes up in price during the period in which the short position is outstanding, the Fund will realize a loss. The risk on a short sale is unlimited because the Fund must buy the shorted security at the higher price to complete the transaction. Therefore, short sales may be subject to greater risks than investments in long positions. With a long position, the maximum sustainable loss is limited to the amount paid for the security plus the transaction costs, whereas there is no maximum attainable price of the shorted security. The Fund would also incur increased transaction costs associated with selling securities short. In addition, if the Fund sells securities short, it must maintain a segregated account with its custodian containing cash or high-grade securities equal to (i) the greater of the current market value of the securities sold short or the market value of such securities at the time they were sold short, less (ii) any collateral deposited with the Fund’s broker (not including the proceeds from the short sales). The Fund may be required to add to the segregated account as the market price of a shorted security increases. As a result of maintaining and adding to its segregated account, the Fund may maintain higher levels of cash or liquid assets (for example, U.S. Treasury bills, repurchase agreements, high quality commercial paper and long equity positions) for collateral needs thus reducing its overall managed assets available for trading purposes. The Fund is obligated to pay the counterparty any dividends or interest due on securities sold short. Such dividends and interest are recorded as an expense to the Fund.

 

MUTUAL FUND AND ETF TRADING RISK — The Fund may invest in other mutual funds that are either open-end or closed-end investment companies as well as ETFs. ETFs are investment companies that are bought and sold on a national securities exchange. Unlike mutual funds, ETFs do not necessarily trade at the net asset values of their underlying securities, which means an ETF could potentially trade above or below the value of the underlying portfolios. Additionally, because ETFs trade like stocks on exchanges, they are subject to trading and commission costs unlike mutual funds. Also, both mutual funds and ETFs have management fees that are part of their costs, and the Fund will indirectly bear its proportionate share of the costs.

 

REITS — The Fund has made certain investments in real estate investment trusts (“REITs”) which pay dividends to their shareholders based upon available funds from operations. It is quite common for these dividends to exceed the REITs’ taxable earnings and profits resulting in the excess portion being designated as a return of capital. The Fund intends to include the gross dividends from such REITs in its annual distributions to shareholders and, accordingly, a portion of the Fund’s distributions may also be designated as a return of capital.

 

USE OF ESTIMATES — The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and those differences could be significant.

 

INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS, INVESTMENT INCOME AND EXPENSES — The Fund records security transactions based on trade date for financial reporting purposes. The cost of investments sold is determined by use of the specific identification method for both financial reporting and income tax purposes in determining realized gains and losses on investments. Interest income is accrued when earned. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or capital gains are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The Fund’s

 

32

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Notes To Financial Statements (Continued)

august 31, 2018

 

investment income, expenses (other than class specific expenses) and unrealized and realized gains and losses are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class at the beginning of the day. Expenses incurred on behalf of a specific class, fund or fund family of the Company are charged directly to the class, fund or fund family (in proportion to net assets). Expenses incurred for all of the RBB funds (such as director or professional fees) are charged to all funds in proportion to their average net assets of RBB, or in such other manner as the Board deems fair or equitable. Expenses and fees, including investment advisory and administration fees, are accrued daily and taken into account for the purpose of determining the NAV of the Funds.

 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS — The Fund distributes substantially all of its net investment income, if any, quarterly, and net realized capital gains, if any, annually. Income dividends and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. GAAP.

 

U.S. TAX STATUS — No provision is made for U.S. income taxes as it is the Fund’s intention to continue to qualify for and elect the tax treatment applicable to regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and make the requisite distributions to its shareholders which will be sufficient to relieve it from U.S. income and excise taxes.

 

FOREIGN CURRENCY TRANSLATION — Assets and liabilities initially expressed in non-U.S. currencies are translated into U.S. dollars based on the applicable exchange rates at the date of the last business day of the financial statement period. Purchases and sales of securities, interest income, dividends, variation margin received and expenses denominated in foreign currencies are translated into U.S. dollars at the exchange rates in effect on the transaction date.

 

The Fund does not separately report the effect of changes in foreign exchange rates from changes in market prices of securities held. Such changes are included with the net realized gain or loss and change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on investments in the Statement of Operations. Other foreign currency transactions resulting in realized and unrealized gain or loss are reported separately as net realized gain or loss and change in unrealized appreciation or depreciation on foreign currencies in the Statement of Operations.

 

MARKET RISK The value of the Fund’s shares will fluctuate as a result of the movement of the overall stock market or the value of the individual securities held by the Fund, and you could lose money.

 

MASTER LIMITED PARTNERSHIP RISK Investments in securities (units) of MLPs involve risks that differ from an investment in common stock. To the extent that an MLP’s interests are all in a particular industry, the MLP will be negatively impacted by economic events adversely impacting that industry. Additionally, holders of the units of MLPs have more limited control and limited rights to vote on matters affecting the partnership. There are also certain tax risks associated with an investment in units of MLPs.

 

FOREIGN AND EMERGING MARKET SECURITIES RISK — Foreign investments may carry risks associated with investing outside the United States, such as currency fluctuation, economic or financial instability, lack of timely or reliable financial information or unfavorable political or legal developments. Those risks are increased for investments in emerging markets.

 

CURRENCY RISK Changes in foreign currency exchange rates will affect the value of what the Fund owns and the Fund’s share price. Generally, when the U.S. dollar rises in value against a foreign currency, an investment in that country loses value because that currency is worth fewer U.S. dollars. Devaluation of a currency by a country’s government or banking authority also will have a significant impact on the value of any investments denominated in that currency. Currency markets generally are not as regulated as securities markets.

 

SMALL AND MEDIUM COMPANIES RISK — Investing in securities of small and medium capitalization companies may involve greater volatility than investing in larger and more established companies because small and medium capitalization companies can be subject to more abrupt or erratic share price changes than larger, more established companies.

 

DERIVATIVES RISK — The Fund’s use of derivatives (which may include options, futures and swaps, among others) may reduce the Fund’s returns and/or increase volatility. Derivatives involve the risk of improper valuation, the risk of ambiguous documentation, and the risk that changes in the value of the derivative may not correlate perfectly with the underlying security.

 

33

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Notes To Financial Statements (Continued)

august 31, 2018

 

Derivatives are also subject to market risk, interest rate risk, credit risk, counterparty risk and liquidity risk. Derivatives may be more sensitive to changes in economic or market conditions than other types of investments and could result in losses that significantly exceed the Fund’s original investment.

 

OPTIONS RISK — Purchasing and writing put and call options are highly specialized activities and entail greater than ordinary investment risks. The Fund may not fully benefit from or may lose money on an option if changes in its value do not correspond as anticipated to changes in the value of the underlying securities.

 

INTEREST RATE RISK Interest rate risk is the risk that fixed income securities will decline in value because of changes in interest rates. It is likely there will be less governmental action in the near future to maintain low interest rates. The negative impact on fixed income securities from the resulting rate increases for that and other reasons could be swift and significant.

 

FIXED INCOME SECURITIES RISK — Fixed income securities are subject to interest rate risk and credit risk. There is also the risk that an issuer may “call,” or repay, its high yielding bonds before their maturity dates. Fixed income 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. Limited trading opportunities for certain fixed income securities may make it more difficult to sell or buy a security at a favorable price or time.

 

REAL ESTATE AND REIT CONCENTRATION RISK — The Fund is vulnerable to the risks of the real estate industry, such as the risk that a decline in rental income may occur because of extended vacancies, the failure to collect rents, increased competition from other properties, or poor management. The value and performance of REITs depends on how well the underlying properties owned by the REIT are managed. In addition, the value of an individual REIT’s securities can decline if the REIT fails to continue qualifying for special tax treatment.

 

CONVERTIBLE BOND RISK — Convertible bonds are hybrid securities that have characteristics of both bonds and common stocks and are therefore subject to both debt security risks and equity risk. Convertible bonds are subject to equity risk especially when their conversion value is greater than the interest and principal value of the bond. The prices of equity securities may rise or fall because of economic or political changes and may decline over short or extended periods of time.

 

PREFERRED STOCK RISK Preferred stocks may be more volatile than fixed income securities and are more correlated with the issuer’s underlying common stock than fixed income securities. Additionally, the dividend on a preferred stock may be changed or omitted by the issuer.

 

INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING RISK — The Fund may purchase securities of companies that are offered pursuant to an IPO. The risk exists that the market value of IPO shares will fluctuate considerably due to factors such as the absence of a prior public market, unseasoned trading, the small number of shares available for trading and limited information about the issuer. The purchase of IPO shares may involve high transaction costs. IPO shares are subject to market risk and liquidity risk. When the Fund’s asset base is small, a significant portion of the Fund’s performance could be attributable to investments in IPOs, because such investments would have a magnified impact on the Fund. As the Fund’s assets grow, the effect of the Fund’s investments in IPOs on the Fund’s performance probably will decline, which could reduce the Fund’s performance.

 

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER RISK A high portfolio turnover rate (100% or more) increases the Fund’s transaction costs (including brokerage commissions and dealer costs), which would adversely impact the Fund’s performance. Higher portfolio turnover may result in the realization of more short-term capital gains than if the Fund had lower portfolio turnover.

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — Cash and cash equivalents are valued at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates market value.

 

REDEMPTION FEES — The Fund does not charge redemption fees to shareholders.

 

OTHER — In the normal course of business, the Fund may enter into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made against the Fund in the future, and, therefore, cannot be estimated; however, based on experience, the risk of material loss from such claims is considered remote.

 

34

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Notes To Financial Statements (Continued)

august 31, 2018

 

2. INVESTMENT ADVISer AND OTHER services

 

Orinda Asset Management, LLC (the “Adviser”) serves as the investment adviser to the Fund. The Adviser furnishes all investment advice, office space, and facilities, and provides most of the personnel needed by the Fund. The Fund compensates the Adviser for its services at an annual rate based on the Fund’s average daily net assets (the “Advisory Fee”), payable on a monthly basis in arrears, as shown in the following table.

 

The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent that the total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) exceed the rate (“Expense Cap”) shown in the following table of the average daily net assets for each class of shares. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed the Expense Cap as applicable: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, dividends on securities sold short, extraordinary expenses, interest and taxes. This contractual limitation is in effect until December 31, 2019 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board. The Adviser may discontinue these arrangements at any time after December 31, 2019.

 

Advisory

 

Expense Caps

Fee

 

Class I

Class A

Class D

1.00%

 

1.40%

1.70%

2.40%

 

During the current fiscal period, investment advisory fees accrued were as follows:

 

Advisory
Fees
 
$2,809,810 

 

If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses (not including acquired fund fees and expenses, short sale dividend expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes) for a year are less than the relevant share class’s Expense Cap, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees forgone and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed the relevant share class’s Expense cap that was in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement. As of August 31, 2018, the Adviser had no fees left to recoup. During the period ended August 31, 2017 and February 28, 2017, the Adviser reimbursed the Fund for shareholder servicing fees in the amount of $8,402 and $35,183, respectively that was a result of the Fund not fully utilizing the fees that had been earned in fiscal year 2017. This amount will not be subject to recoup in the future.

 

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (“Fund Services”), doing business as U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, serves as administrator for the Fund. For providing administrative and accounting services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Fund Services serves as the Fund’s transfer and dividend disbursing agent. For providing transfer agent services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

U.S. Bank, N.A. (the “Custodian”) provides certain custodial services to the Fund. The Custodian is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Quasar Distributors, LLC serves as the principal underwriter and distributor of the Fund’s shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with RBB.

 

For compensation amounts paid to Fund Services and the Custodian, please refer to the Statement of Operations.

 

The Board has adopted a Distribution Plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 (the “Plan”). The Plan permits the Fund to pay for distribution and related expenses at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the average daily net assets of the Fund’s Class A shares and up to 1.00% for the Fund’s Class D shares. The expenses covered by the Plan may include the cost in connection with the promotion and distribution of shares and the provision of personal services to shareholders, including, but not necessarily limited to, advertising, compensation

 

35

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Notes To Financial Statements (Continued)

august 31, 2018

 

to underwriters, dealers and selling personnel, the printing and mailing of prospectuses to other than current Fund shareholders, and the printing and mailing of sales literature. Payments made pursuant to the Plan will represent compensation for distribution and service activities, not reimbursements for specific expenses incurred.

 

3. SHAREHOLDER SERVICING FEE

 

The Fund has entered into a shareholder servicing agreement (the “Agreement”) with the Adviser, under which the Adviser will provide, or arrange for others to provide, certain specified shareholder services. As compensation for the provision of shareholder services, the Fund may pay servicing fees at an annual rate of 0.15% of the average daily net assets of the Class A shares and 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Class D and Class I shares. Payments to the Adviser under the Agreement may reimburse the Adviser for payments it makes to selected brokers, dealers and administrators which have entered into service agreements with the Adviser for services provided to shareholders of the Fund. The services provided by such intermediaries are primarily designed to assist shareholders of the Fund and include the furnishing of office space and equipment, telephone facilities, personnel, and assistance to the Fund in servicing such shareholders. Services provided by such intermediaries also include the provision of support services to the Fund and include establishing and maintaining shareholders’ accounts and record processing, purchase and redemption transactions, answering routine client inquiries regarding the Fund, and providing such other personal services to shareholders as the Fund may reasonably request. During the current fiscal period, the Fund incurred shareholder servicing fees as follows:

 

   

Shareholder
servicing fees

 

Class I

  $ 188,438  

Class A

    107,523  

Class D

    20,861  

 

4. Director’s and Officer’s Compensation

 

The Directors of the Company receive an annual retainer and meeting fees for meetings attended. Employees of Vigilant Compliance, LLC serve as President, Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Treasurer of the Company. Vigilant Compliance, LLC is compensated for the services provided to the Company. An employee of RBB serves as Treasurer and Secretary, and is compensated for services provided. Certain employees of Fund Services serve as officers of the Company. They are not compensated by the Fund or the Company. For Director’s and Officer’s compensation amounts, please refer to the Statement of Operations.

 

5. purchases and sales of investment securities

 

During the current fiscal period, aggregate purchases and sales of investment securities, (excluding short-term investments) of the Fund were as follows:

 

 

Purchases

   

Sales

 
  $ 318,112,138     $ 382,631,686  

 

There were no purchases or sales of long-term U.S. Government securities, during the current fiscal period.

 

6. LEVERAGE & LINE OF CREDIT

 

The Fund may purchase securities with borrowed money, including bank overdrafts (a form of leverage). The Fund may borrow amounts up to one-third of the value of its assets after giving effect to such borrowing. Leverage exaggerates the effect on the net asset value of any increase or decrease in the market value of the Fund’s portfolio securities. These borrowings will be subject to interest costs, which may or may not be recovered by appreciation of the securities purchased. In certain cases, interest costs may exceed the return received on the securities purchased.

 

36

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Notes To Financial Statements (Continued)

august 31, 2018

 

The Fund may also utilize the line of credit for short term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The Fund maintains a separate line of credit with BNP Paribas (acting through its New York Branch). The Fund is charged interest of 1.20% above the one-month London Interbank Offered Rate (“LIBOR”) for borrowings under this agreement. The Fund can borrow up to a maximum of 50% of the market value of assets pledged as collateral. However, depending on the liquidity of the collateral, issuer concentration, debt ratings of fixed income investments, and the share price of equity holdings, the amount eligible to be borrowed can also be less than 50% of the market value of the assets pledged as collateral.

 

The Fund has pledged a portion of its investment securities as the collateral for their line of credit. As of the end of the reporting period, the value of the investment securities pledged as collateral was $187,495,197. The Fund had an outstanding average daily balance and a weighted average interest rate of $45.8 million and 2.95%, respectively. The maximum amount outstanding for the Fund during the reporting period was $79,195,619.

 

7. Federal income tax information

 

The Fund has followed the authoritative guidance on accounting for and disclosure of uncertainty in tax positions, which requires the Fund to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Fund has determined that there was no effect on the financial statements from following this authoritative guidance. In the normal course of business, the Fund is subject to examination by federal, state and local jurisdictions, where applicable, for tax years for which applicable statutes of limitations have not expired.

 

As of August 31, 2018, the federal tax cost and aggregate gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of investments held by the Fund were as follows:

 

 

Federal
tax cost

   

Unrealized
appreciation

   

Unrealized
Depreciation

   

Net
unrealized
Appreciation
(depreciation)

 
  $ 263,758,368     $ 15,154,017     $ (7,787,429 )   $ 7,366,588  

 

Distributions to shareholders, if any, from net investment income and realized gains are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from net investment income and realized gains recognized for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying financial statements. To the extent these differences are permanent, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts based on the tax treatment; temporary differences do not require such reclassification.

 

The following permanent differences as of August 31, 2018, were reclassified to the following accounts:

 

 

Undistributed
Net Investment
Income/(Loss)

   

accumulated
net realized
gain/(loss)

   

paid-in
capital

 
  $ 3,869,143     $ (441,589 )   $ (3,427,554 )

 

As of August 31, 2018, the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

 

 

undistributed
ordinary
income

   

undistributed
long-term
capital gains

   

net
UNrealized
appreciation/
(depreciation)

   

capital loss
carryforwards

   

Other
Differences

   

Total

 
  $     $     $ 7,366,588     $ (19,262,005 )   $ (33,799 )   $ (11,929,216 )

 

37

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Notes To Financial Statements (Continued)

august 31, 2018

 

The differences between the book and tax basis components of distributable earnings relate principally to the timing of recognition of income and gains for federal income tax purposes. Short-term and foreign currency gains are reported as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes.

 

The tax character of dividends and distributions paid during the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018, the six months ended August 31, 2017 and year ended February 28, 2017 were as follows:

 

   

ordinary
income

   

Long-term
capital gains

   

return
of capital

 

Year Ended August 31, 2018

  $ 14,166,480     $     $ 5,783,302  

Six Months Ended August 31, 2017

    8,180,121             2,919,879  

Year Ended February 28, 2017

    11,781,423             6,718,576  

 

Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal income tax purposes.

 

8. OTHER TAX INFORMATION (UNAUDITED)

 

For the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018, 50.48% of dividends paid from net investment income qualify for the dividends received deduction available to corporate shareholders of the Fund. For shareholders of the Fund, 56.23% of the dividend income distributed for the period ended August 31, 2018 is designated as qualified dividend income under the Jobs and Growth Relief Act of 2003.

 

9. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In August 2018, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”). The primary focus of ASU 2018-13 is to improve the effectiveness of the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The changes affect all companies that are required to include fair value measurement disclosures. In general, the amendments in ASU 2018-13 are effective for all affected entities for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. An affected entity is permitted to adopt the removed or modified disclosures upon the issuance of ASU 2018-13 and may delay adoption of the additional disclosures, which are required for public companies only, until their effective date. Management is currently evaluating the impact these changes will have on the Fund’s financial statements and disclosures.

 

10. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

Management has evaluated the impact of all subsequent events on the Fund through the date the financial statements were issued and has determined that there were no significant events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.

 

38

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

REPORT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

 

To the Board of Directors of
The RBB Fund, Inc.
and the Shareholders of the Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities of Orinda Income Opportunities Fund (the “Fund”), a series of The RBB Fund, Inc., including the schedule of investments, as of August 31, 2018, the related statement of operations and cash flows for the year then ended, the statements of changes in net assets for the year then ended, for the six month period ended August 31, 2017, and for the year ended February 28, 2017, financial highlights for the year then ended, for the six month period ended August 31, 2017, and for each of the three years in the period ended February 28, 2017 and for the period June 28, 2013 (commencement of operations) to February 28, 2014, and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of August 31, 2018, the results of its operations, cash flows, the changes in its net assets, and the financial highlights for the periods indicated above, in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

These financial statements are the responsibility of the Fund’s management. Our responsibility is to express an opinion on the Fund’s financial statements based on our audits. We are a public accounting firm registered with the Public Company Accounting Oversight Board (United States) (“PCAOB”) and are required to be independent with respect to the Fund in accordance with the U.S. federal securities laws and the applicable rules and regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission and the PCAOB. We have served as the Fund’s auditor since 2011.

 

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

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2018 by correspondence with the custodian and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

 

TAIT, WELLER & BAKER LLP

   
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania  
October 26, 2018  

 

39

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Notice To Shareholders

august 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s Proxy Voting Policies

 

A description of the policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-855-467-4632 or on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s Proxy Voting Records for the 12-Month Period Ended June 30, 2017

 

Information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30 is available without charge, upon request, by calling 1-855-467-4632. Furthermore, you can obtain the Fund’s proxy voting records on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Quarterly Filings on Form N-Q

 

The Fund files its complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year on Form N-Q. The Fund’s Form N-Q is available on the SEC’s website at http://www.sec.gov. The Fund’s Form N-Q may be reviewed and copied at the SEC’s Public Reference Room in Washington, DC, and information on the operation of the Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling 1-202-551-8090. Information included in the Fund’s Form N-Q is also available, upon request, by calling 1-855-467-4632.

 

Householding

 

In an effort to decrease costs, the Fund intends to reduce the number of duplicate prospectuses and annual and semi-annual reports you receive by sending only one copy of each to those addresses shared by two or more accounts and to shareholders the Transfer Agent reasonably believes are from the same family or household. Once implemented, if you would like to discontinue householding for your accounts, please call toll-free at 1-855-467-4632 to request individual copies of these documents. Once the Transfer Agent receives notice to stop householding, the Transfer Agent will begin sending individual copies thirty days after receiving your request. This policy does not apply to account statements.

 

Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement

 

As required by the 1940 Act, the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Company, including all of the Directors who are not “interested persons” of the Company, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act (the “Independent Directors”), considered the renewal of the investment advisory agreement between the Adviser and the Company (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund, at a meeting of the Board held on May 9-10, 2018 (the “Meeting”). At the Meeting, the Board, including all of the Independent Directors, approved the Investment Advisory Agreement for an additional one-year term. The Board’s decision to approve the Investment Advisory Agreement reflects the exercise of its business judgment to continue the existing arrangement. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Board considered information provided by the Adviser with the assistance and advice of counsel to the Independent Directors and the Company.

 

In considering the renewal and approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Company and the Adviser with respect to the Fund, the Directors took into account all the materials provided prior to and during the Meeting and at other meetings throughout the past year, the presentations made during the Meeting, and the discussions held during the Meeting. Among other things, the Directors considered (i) the nature, extent, and quality of the Adviser’s services provided to the Fund; (ii) descriptions of the experience and qualifications of the Adviser’s personnel providing those services; (iii) the Adviser’s investment philosophies and processes; (iv) the Adviser’s assets under management and client descriptions; (v) the Adviser’s soft dollar commission and trade allocation policies, including information on the types of research and services obtained in connection with soft dollar commissions; (vi) the Adviser’s current advisory fee arrangement with the Company and other similarly managed clients; (vii) the Adviser’s compliance procedures; (viii) the Adviser’s financial information, insurance coverage and profitability analysis related to providing advisory services to the Fund; (ix) the extent to which economies of scale are relevant to the Adviser; (x) a report prepared by Broadridge/Lipper comparing the Fund’s management fees and total expense ratio to those of its Lipper Group and comparing the performance of the Fund to the performance of its Lipper Group; and (xi) a report comparing the performance of the Fund to the performance of its benchmark.

 

40

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

Notice To Shareholders (CONTINUED)

august 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

As part of their review, the Directors considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by the Adviser. The Directors concluded that the Adviser had substantial resources to provide services to the Fund and that the Adviser’s services had been acceptable.

 

The Directors also considered the investment performance of the Fund and the Adviser. The Directors noted that the Fund had underperformed the Fund’s primary benchmark for the year-to-date and one-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also considered the Fund’s 2nd quintile ranking within its Lipper Performance Group and Lipper Performance Universe for the three-year, four-year and since-inception periods ended December 31, 2017.

 

The Board also considered the advisory fee rate payable by the Fund under the Investment Advisory Agreement. In this regard, information on the fees paid by the Fund and the Fund’s total operating expense ratio (before and after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) was compared to similar information for mutual funds advised by other, unaffiliated investment advisory firms. The Directors noted that the contractual advisory fees of the Fund were above the peer group median, and the actual advisory fees of the Fund were at the same level as the peer group median. In addition, the Directors noted that the Adviser has contractually agreed to waive management fees and reimburse expenses through December 31, 2018 to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses exceed 1.40%, 1.70% and 2.40% for Class I, Class A and Class D shares of the Fund, respectively.

 

After reviewing the information regarding the Fund’s costs, profitability and economies of scale, and after considering the Adviser’s services, the Directors concluded that the investment advisory fees paid by the Fund were fair and reasonable and that the Investment Advisory Agreement should be approved and continued for an additional one-year period ending August 16, 2019.

 

41

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

management (Unaudited)

 

The business and affairs of the Company are managed under the direction of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company is organized under and managed pursuant to Maryland law. The Directors and executive officers of the Company, their ages, business addresses and principal occupations during the past five years are set forth below. The statement of additional information (“SAI”) includes additional information about the Directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling (844)-261-6488.

 

Name, Address, and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office and
Length
of Time
Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund
Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other Directorships Held by
Director in the Past 5 Years

INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS

Julian A. Brodsky
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 85

Director

1988 to present

From 1969 to 2011, Director and Vice Chairman, Comcast Corporation (cable television and communications).

30

AMDOCS Limited (service provider to telecommunications companies).

J. Richard Carnall
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 79

Director

2002 to present

Since 1984, Director of Haydon Bolts, Inc. (bolt manufacturer) and Parkway Real Estate Company (subsidiary of Haydon Bolts, Inc.); since 2004, Director of Cornerstone Bank.

30

None

Gregory P. Chandler
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 51

Director

2012 to present

Since 2009, Chief Financial Officer, Emtec, Inc. (information technology consulting/services); from 2003-2009, Managing Director, head of Business Services and IT Services Practice, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC (investment banking/brokerage).

30

Emtec, Inc.; FS Investment Corporation (business development company); FS Energy and Power Fund (business development company); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios)(registered investment company).

Nicholas A. Giordano
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 75

Director

2006 to present

Since 1997, Consultant, financial services organizations.

30

Kalmar Pooled Investment Trust (registered investment company) (until September 2017); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios) (registered investment company); Independence Blue Cross (healthcare insurance).

Arnold M. Reichman
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 70

Chairman

 

Director

2005 to present

 

1991 to present

Since 2006, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lifebooker, LLC (online beauty and health appointment booking service).

30

Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

 

42

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

management (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Name, Address, and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office and
Length
of Time
Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund
Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other Directorships Held by
Director in the Past 5 Years

Brian T. Shea
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 58

Director

2018 to present

From 2014-2017, Chief Executive Officer, BNY Mellon Investment Services (fund services, global custodian and securities clearing firm); from 1983-2014, Chief Executive Officer and various positions, Pershing LLC (broker dealer, clearing and custody firm).

30

WisdomTree Investments, Inc. (asset management company); Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (financial services technology company).

Robert A. Straniere
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 77

Director

2006 to present

Since 2009, Administrative Law Judge, New York City; since 1980, Founding Partner, Straniere Law Group (law firm).

30

Reich and Tang Group (asset management).

INTERESTED DIRECTOR2

Robert Sablowsky
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 80

Vice Chairman

 

Director

2016 to present

 

1991 to present

Since 2002, Senior Director – Investments and, prior thereto, Executive Vice President, of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. (a registered broker-dealer).

30

None

OFFICERS

Salvatore Faia, JD,
CPA, CFE
Vigilant Compliance, LLC
Gateway Corporate
Center Suite 216
223 Wilmington West
Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Age: 55

President


Chief Compliance Officer

2009 to present

 

2004 to present

Since 2004, President, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2005, Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

 

43

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

management (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Name, Address, and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office and
Length
of Time
Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund
Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other Directorships Held by
Director in the Past 5 Years

James G. Shaw
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 57

Treasurer
and
Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2016, Treasurer and Secretary of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 2005 to 2016, Assistant Treasurer of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 1995 to 2016, Senior Director and Vice President of BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (financial services company).

N/A

N/A

Robert Amweg
Vigilant Compliance, LLC
Gateway Corporate Center Suite 216
223 Wilmington West Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Age: 65

Assistant
Treasurer

2016 to present

Since 2013, Compliance Director, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2012, Consultant to the financial services industry; from 2007 to 2012, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, Turner Investments, LP (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

Jennifer Witt
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 35

Assistant Treasurer

2018 to present

Since 2016, Assistant Vice President, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm); from 2007 to 2016, Supervisor, Nuveen Investments (investment company).

N/A

N/A

Edward Paz
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 47

Assistant Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2007, Vice President and Counsel, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm).

N/A

N/A

Michael P. Malloy
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Age: 59

Assistant
Secretary

1999 to present

Since 1993, Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm).

N/A

N/A

 

44

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

management (Unaudited) (Continued)

 

Name, Address, and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of
Office and
Length
of Time
Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund
Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other Directorships Held by
Director in the Past 5 Years

Jillian L. Bosmann
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Age: 39

Assistant Secretary

2017 to present

Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm) (2017-Present); Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (2006-Present).

N/A

N/A

 

*

Each Director oversees 30 portfolios of the Company.

 

1.

Subject to the Company’s Retirement Policy, each Director may continue to serve as a Director until the last day of the calendar year in which the applicable Director attains age 75 or until his successor is elected and qualified or his death, resignation or removal. The Board reserves the right to waive the requirements of the Policy with respect to an individual Director. The Board has approved waivers of the policy with respect to Messrs. Brodsky, Carnall, Giordano, Sablowsky and Straniere. Each officer holds office at the pleasure of the Board until the next special meeting of the Company or until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, or until he or she dies, resigns or is removed.

 

2.

Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “interested person” of the Company as that term is defined in the 1940 Act and is referred to as an “Interested Director.” Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “Interested Director” of the Company by virtue of his position as an employee of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc., a registered broker-dealer.

 

Director Experience, Qualifications, Attributes and/or Skills

 

The information above includes each Director’s principal occupations during the last five years. Each Director possesses extensive additional experience, skills and attributes relevant to his qualifications to serve as a Director. The cumulative background of each Director led to the conclusion that each Director should serve as a Director of the Company. Mr. Giordano has years of experience as a consultant to financial services organizations and also serves on the boards of other registered investment companies. Mr. Reichman brings decades of investment management experience to the Board, in addition to senior executive-level management experience. Mr. Straniere has been a practicing attorney for over 30 years and also serves on the boards of an asset management company and another registered investment company. Mr. Brodsky has over 40 years of senior executive level management experience in the cable television and communications industry. Mr. Sablowsky has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the financial services industry. Mr. Carnall has decades of senior executive-level management experience in the banking and financial services industry and also serves on the boards of various corporations and a bank. Mr. Chandler has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive level positions in the investment technology consulting/services and investment banking/brokerage industries, and also serves on various boards. Mr. Shea has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the investment services industry.

 

45

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

privacy notice

(Unaudited)

 

FACTS

WHAT DOES THE ORINDA INCOME OPPORTUNITIES Fund DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION?

Why?

Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.

What?

The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:

● Social Security number

● account balances

● account transactions

● transaction history

● wire transfer instructions

● checking account information

When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice.

How?

All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons the Orinda Income Opportunities Fund chooses to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.

       

Reasons we can share your personal information

Does the Orinda Income Opportunities Fund share?

Can you limit this
sharing?

For our everyday business purposes —
such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court orders and legal investigations, or report to credit bureaus

Yes

No

For our marketing purposes —
to offer our products and services to you

Yes

No

For joint marketing with other financial companies

No

We don’t share.

For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes —
information about your transactions and experiences

Yes

No

For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes —
information about your creditworthiness

No

We don’t share.

For our affiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share.

For nonaffiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share.

 

Questions?

Call (855)-467-4632 or go to www.orindafunds.com

 

46

 

 

 

Orinda Income Opportunities Fund

privacy notice (continued)

(Unaudited)

 

What we do

 

How does the Orinda Income Opportunities Fund protect my personal information?

To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.

How does the Orinda Income Opportunities Fund collect my personal information?

We collect your personal information, for example, when you

● open an account

● provide account information

● give us your contact information

● make a wire transfer

● tell us where to send the money

We also collect your information from others, such as credit bureaus, affiliates, or other companies.

Why can’t I limit all sharing?

Federal law gives you the right to limit only

● sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes – information about your creditworthiness

● affiliates from using your information to market to you

● sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you

State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.

Definitions

 

Affiliates

Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

Our affiliates include Orinda Investment Partners, LLC (“OIP”) and Orinda Asset Management, LLC (“OAM”).

Nonaffiliates

Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

The Orinda Income Opportunities Fund doesn’t share with nonaffiliates so they can market to you. The Fund may share information with nonaffiliates that perform marketing services on our behalf.

Joint marketing

A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.

The Orinda Income Opportunities Fund does not jointly market.

 

47

 

 

 

 

 

 

(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Investment Adviser

Orinda Asset Management LLC

3390 Mt. Diablo Boulevard, Suite 250

Lafayette, CA 94549

 

Distributor

Quasar Distributors, LLC

777 East Wisconsin Avenue, 6th Floor

Milwaukee, WI 53202

 

Administrator and Transfer Agent

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC

P.O. Box 701

Milwaukee, WI 53201

 

Custodian

U.S. Bank National Association

Custody Operations

1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302

Milwaukee, WI 53212

 

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Tait, Weller & Baker LLP

1818 Market Street, Suite 2400

Philadelphia, PA 19103

 

Legal Counsel

Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP

One Logan Square, Suite 2000

Philadelphia, PA 19103-6996

 

OR-AR18

 

This report is intended for shareholders of the Fund and may not be used as sales literature unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.

 

Past performance results shown in this report should not be considered a representation of future performance. Share price and returns will fluctuate so that shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Statements and other information herein are dated and are subject to change.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Schneider
Small Cap
Value Fund

 

 

of The RBB Fund, Inc.

 

 

 

 

Annual
Report

 

August 31, 2018

 

 

 

This report is submitted for the general information of the shareholders of the Fund. It is not authorized for distribution unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus for the Fund.

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report
August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Dear Fellow Shareholders:

 

We outperformed our index in both the 6-month and one-year period ended August 31, 2018 led by our energy holdings. Our Fund reached its 20th anniversary with since inception total returns of 1129.80% versus 586.77% of our benchmark index, the Russell 2000® Value Index.

 

The world has changed dramatically in the last 2 decades. Wireline phones, newspapers, photographic film, video rental stores and numerous other industries have been eviscerated by technological change for better or worse.

 

AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN*

PERIODS ENDING AUGUST 31, 2018

 

One Years

Five Years*

Ten Years*

Since
Inception
9/02/1998
*

Cumulative
Since
Inception
9/02/1998

Schneider Small Cap Value Fund

24.86%

8.95%

8.63%

13.37%

1129.80%

Russell 2000® Value Index

20.05%

11.72%

9.27%

10.12%

586.77%

 

*

Periods greater than one year are annualized.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is no guarantee of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares upon redemption may be worth more or less than their original cost. The Fund’s performance assumes reinvestment of all dividends and distributions. Performance reflects fee waivers and expense reimbursements in effect. The Advisor has contractually agreed to waive management fees and reimburse expenses through December 31, 2018, to the extent that Total annual Fund operating expenses exceed 1.15%. If fee waivers were not in place, the Fund’s performance would be reduced. Current performance may be lower or higher than the performance data quoted. Please call 1-888-520-3277 to obtain performance current to the most recent month-end.

 

The Fund’s gross annual operating expenses as stated in the prospectus is 1.58%. Shares of the Fund not purchased through reinvested dividends or capital gains and held less than 30 days are subject to a 1.00% redemption fee.

 

It has been a turbulent period for macroeconomics as well. The European Central Bank and the Euro were established 20 years ago, surely questionable ideas then and now. Why would countries who have little in common, except geography, want to impede their financial flexibility by giving up control of their interest rates and currency? Grexit (the 3 separate Greek crises) was a direct result of these decisions, by enabling the Greek fiscal profligacy that led to the debt crisis and limiting its options afterward.

 

Domestically, we had an unusual frequency of credit crises over the two decades; the 2002 high yield bond implosion (Enron, Worldcom etc.) and the 2008 financial crisis where housing prices fell 30 percent. While these events are even harder to stomach while owning unloved companies, the aftermath creates great opportunities for disciplined value investors like ourselves. Banks, in particular, were priced as if they were all going bankrupt in 2009. We were hugely overweight for most of the last nine years as the KBW Regional Banking Index more than quadrupled from the March 2009 bottom.

 

Value investing, particularly our deep value style, has been left for dead again after a 10 year period of growth style outperformance, similar to the 2000 tech bubble. The CFA Institute recently had a panel discussion called “The Death of Value Investing.” This is typical behavior during late bull markets. It is often at these out of favor times that value investing is the most compelling.

 

Turning to the present, the U.S. economy is easily the strongest in 12 years, growing at a 3% annualized pace. Small business confidence has been soaring recently to an all-time high as federal overreach in regulations is diminishing. Wages and capital spending are accelerating. The U.S. is in the process of becoming net energy independent as our net exports of gasoline, natural gas and natural gas liquids offset the quickly shrinking net imports of oil.

 

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SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report
August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

We continue to be overweight in oil. While prices have risen, they are not high. Oil averaged over $100/barrel from 2011 to 2014. After four years of global underinvestment, U.S. shale is the only large area of consistent production growth available in the intermediate term. There is a near all-time low amount of spare capacity in the world. We continue to like the potential upside in our portfolio, even in a highly valued equity market.

 

Past performance does not guarantee future results.

 

Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible. Small-capitalization companies tend to have limited liquidity and greater price volatility than large-capitalization companies. The Fund invests in foreign securities which involve greater volatility and political, economic and currency risks and differences in accounting methods. Value investing involves the risk that the Fund’s investment in companies whose securities are believed to be undervalued, relative to their underlying profitability, will not appreciate in value as anticipated.

 

Must be preceded or accompanied by a prospectus.

 

Opinions expressed are those of the Portfolio Manager and are subject to change, are not guaranteed and should not be considered investment advice.

 

The Russell 2000® Value Index measures the performance of those Russell 2000® Index companies with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth values. One may not directly invest in an index.

 

The KBW Regional Banking Index is an equal-weighted index that seeks to reflect the performance of publicly traded companies that do business as regional banks or thrifts.

 

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SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report
August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $20,000 Invested in
Schneider Small Cap Value Fund vs. Russell 2000® Value Index

 

 

The chart assumes a hypothetical $20,000 minimum initial investment in the Fund made on September 2, 1998 and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is a professionally managed mutual fund while the Russell 2000® Value Index is unmanaged, does not incur sales charges and/or expenses and is not available for investment.

 

TOTAL RETURNS FOR THE PERIODS ENDED AUGUST 31, 2018

 

1 Year

5 Years

10 Years

Since
Inception
*

Schneider Small Cap Value Fund

24.86%

8.95%

8.63%

13.37%

Russell 2000® Value Index

20.05%

11.72%

9.27%

10.12%**

 

*

The Fund commenced operations on September 2, 1998.

**

Benchmark performance is from inception date of the Fund only and is not the inception date of the benchmark itself.

 

The performance data quoted represents past performance. Past performance is not indicative of future results. Investment return and principal value will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher. Schneider Capital Management, the Fund’s investment adviser, has contractually agreed to waive management fees and/or reimburse expenses through December 31, 2019, to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes) exceed 1.15%. Total returns shown include fee waivers and expense reimbursements, if any; total returns would have been lower had there been no waiver or reimbursement of fees and expenses in excess of expense limitations. Returns shown include the reinvestment of all dividends and other distributions and do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. For performance data current to the most recent month-end, please call 1-888-520-3277. The Fund’s gross and net annual operating expenses, as stated in the current prospectus, are 1.58% and 1.16%, respectively. Shares of the Fund not purchased through reinvested dividends or capital gains and held less than 30 days are subject to a 1.00% redemption fee.

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

Small company stocks are generally riskier than large company stocks due to greater volatility and less liquidity.

 

Value investing involves the risk that the Fund’s investment in companies whose securities are believed to be undervalued, relative to their underlying profitability, will not appreciate in value as anticipated.

 

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SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Fund Expense Example

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur two types of costs: (1) transaction costs, including redemption fees; and (2) ongoing costs, including management fees and other Fund expenses. This example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds.

 

This example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period from March 1, 2018 through August 31, 2018, and held for the entire period.

 

ACTUAL EXPENSES

 

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

 

HYPOTHETICAL EXAMPLE FOR COMPARISON PURPOSES

 

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

 

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

 

 

Beginning
Account Value
March 1, 2018

Ending
Account Value
August 31, 2018

Expenses Paid
During Period
*

Annualized
Expense Ratio

Actual
Six-Month Total
Investment Return
for the Fund

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,177.30

$ 6.31

1.15%

17.73%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,019.41

5.85

1.15%

N/A

 

 

*

Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized six-month expense ratio for the period March 1, 2018 to August 31, 2018, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days (184) in the most recent fiscal half-year, then divided by 365 to reflect the one-half year period. The Company's ending account values on the first line in the tables is based on the actual six-month total investment return for each Portfolio.

 

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SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Portfolio Holdings Summary Table

August 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

The following table presents a summary by sector of the portfolio holdings of the Fund:

 

   

% of
Net Assets

   

Value

 

COMMON STOCKS:

               

Oil & Gas

    29.6 %   $ 13,996,199  

Insurance

    8.4       3,987,535  

Telecommunications

    7.7       3,634,470  

Real Estate Investment Trust

    6.9       3,245,891  

Oil & Gas Services

    6.4       3,011,092  

Banks

    6.3       2,964,313  

Machinery - Diversified

    5.3       2,515,781  

Commercial Services

    4.5       2,128,551  

Auto Parts & Equipment

    4.3       2,024,673  

Transportation

    3.8       1,793,904  

Manufacturing

    2.8       1,309,957  

Plastics Product Manufacturing

    1.6       759,614  

Retail

    1.6       732,460  

Pharmaceuticals

    1.2       583,615  

Semiconductors

    1.2       574,620  

Chemicals

    0.8       390,462  

Mining

    0.3       130,396  

Savings & Loans

    0.2       104,768  

Investments Purchased with Proceeds from Securities Lending Collateral

    7.7       3,644,397  

Short-Term Investments

    7.3       3,462,127  

Liabilities In Excess Of Other Assets

    (7.9 )     (3,733,155 )

NET ASSETS

    100.0 %   $ 47,261,670  

 

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


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SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Portfolio of Investments

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

COMMON STOCKS — 92.9%

               

Auto Parts & Equipment — 4.3%

               

Adient PLC

    46,770     $ 2,024,673  

Banks — 6.3%

               

Dundee Corp., Class A*

    2,333       2,590  

HomeStreet, Inc.*

    81,350       2,395,758  

KeyCorp

    26,861       565,965  
              2,964,313  

Chemicals — 0.8%

               

Venator Materials PLC*

    32,323       390,462  

Commercial Services — 4.5%

               

Herc Holdings, Inc.*

    31,777       1,670,835  

Hudson Global, Inc.*

    264,576       457,716  
              2,128,551  

Insurance — 8.4%

               

Assured Guaranty Ltd.(a)

    59,698       2,432,096  

Brighthouse Financial, Inc.*

    36,845       1,529,436  

Crawford & Co.

    2,982       26,003  
              3,987,535  

Machinery - Diversified — 5.3%

               

Intevac, Inc.*

    435,633       2,515,781  

Manufacturing — 2.8%

               

Arconic, Inc.

    15,531       347,584  

Intrepid Potash, Inc.*

    100,000       340,000  

Manitowoc Company, Inc., (The)*

    26,838       622,373  
              1,309,957  

Mining — 0.3%

               

Cameco Corp.

    12,526       130,396  

Oil & Gas — 29.6%

               

Chesapeake Energy Corp.*(a)

    1,082,039       4,793,433  

Halcon Resources Corp.*(a)

    607,723       2,783,371  

MRC Global, Inc.*

    28,323       583,737  

NOW, Inc.*

    68,287       1,173,853  

Oasis Petroleum, Inc.*

    19,525       262,806  

QEP Resources, Inc.*

    240,315       2,395,941  

SM Energy Co.

    25,000       752,250  

Whiting Petroleum Corp.*

    24,569       1,250,808  
              13,996,199  

Oil & Gas Services — 6.4%

               

Weatherford International PLC*(a)

    1,244,253       3,011,092  

Pharmaceuticals — 1.2%

               

Mallinckrodt PLC*

    16,936     583,615  

Plastics Product Manufacturing — 1.6%

       

Newell Brands, Inc.

    34,973       759,614  

Real Estate Investment Trust — 6.9%

       

Alexander & Baldwin, Inc.

    35,562       834,640  

Boardwalk Real Estate Investment Trust(a)

    50,991       1,934,181  

Forest City Realty Trust, Inc.

    18,969       477,070  
              3,245,891  

Retail — 1.6%

               

Tuesday Morning Corp.*(a)

    240,151       732,460  

Savings & Loans — 0.2%

               

Flagstar Bancorp, Inc.*

    3,170       104,768  

Semiconductors — 1.2%

               

Veeco Instruments, Inc.*

    47,885       574,620  

Telecommunications — 7.7%

               

Aviat Networks, Inc.*

    183,442       3,265,262  

UTStarcom Holdings Corp.*

    97,160       369,208  
              3,634,470  

Transportation — 3.8%

               

Aegean Marine Petroleum Network, Inc.(a)

    7,978       14,201  

Ardmore Shipping Corp.*

    71,196       498,372  

Bristow Group, Inc.*

    16,000       175,360  

Scorpio Tankers, Inc.

    451,061       866,037  

Stolt-Nielsen Ltd

    14,875       239,934  
              1,793,904  

TOTAL COMMON STOCKS

               

(Cost $41,784,469)

            43,888,301  
                 

INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL — 7.7%

Mount Vernon Liquid Assets Portfolio, LLC, 2.15%

    3,644,397       3,644,397  

TOTAL INVESTMENTS PURCHASED WITH PROCEEDS FROM SECURITIES LENDING COLLATERAL

(Cost $3,644,397)

            3,644,397  

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


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SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Portfolio of Investments (Concluded)

August 31, 2018

 

   

Number of
Shares

   

Value

 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS — 7.3%

       

First American Government Obligations Fund, 1.84%

    3,462,127     $ 3,462,127  

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

               

(Cost $3,462,127)

            3,462,127  

TOTAL INVESTMENTS — 107.9%

               

(Cost $48,890,993)

            50,994,825  

LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS — (7.9)%

            (3,733,155 )

NET ASSETS — 100.0%

          $ 47,261,670  

 

 

*

Non-income producing security.

PLC

Public Limited Company

(a)

All or a portion of the security is on loan. At August 31, 2018, the market value of securities on loan was $3,483,455.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


7

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Statement of Assets and Liabilities

August 31, 2018

 

ASSETS

       

Investments, at value^ (cost $41,784,469)

  $ 43,888,301  

Investments purchased with proceeds from securities lending collateral, at value (cost $3,644,397)

    3,644,397  

Short-term investments, at value (cost $3,462,127)

    3,462,127  

Receivables for:

       

Dividends

    31,193  

Prepaid expenses

    21,972  

Total assets

    51,047,990  
         

LIABILITIES

       

Payables for:

       

Securities lending collateral

    3,644,397  

Investments purchased

    47,279  

Advisory fees

    25,116  

Capital shares redeemed

    11,168  

Other accrued expenses and liabilities

    58,360  

Total liabilities

    3,786,320  

Net assets

  $ 47,261,670  
         

NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:

       

Par value

  $ 2,918  

Paid-in capital

    41,184,009  

Undistributed/(accumulated) net investment income/(loss)

     

Accumulated net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    3,970,911  

Net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    2,103,832  

Net assets

  $ 47,261,670  
         

CAPITAL SHARES:

       

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    2,917,711  

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share)

    16.20  

^Includes market value of securities on loan

  $ 3,483,455  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


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SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Statement of Operations

For the year Ended August 31, 2018

 

INVESTMENT INCOME

       

Dividends (net of foreign withholding taxes of $9,368)

  $ 447,416  

Securities lending income

    161,571  

Total investment income

    608,987  
         

EXPENSES

       

Advisory fees (Note 2)

    451,981  

Transfer agent fees (Note 2)

    41,801  

Administration and accounting services fees (Note 2)

    39,224  

Audit and tax services fees

    35,279  

Legal fees

    27,438  

Registration and filing fees

    23,495  

Printing and shareholder reporting fees

    17,464  

Officer's fees

    16,636  

Custodian fees (Note 2)

    10,161  

Director's fees

    9,599  

Other expenses

    10,677  

Total expenses

    683,755  

Less: waivers

    (163,977 )

Net expenses after waivers

    519,778  

Net investment income/(loss)

    89,209  
         

NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) FROM INVESTMENTS

       

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    6,075,346  

Net change in unrealized appreciation (depreciation) on investments

    3,706,524  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    9,781,870  

NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS

  $ 9,871,079  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


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SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM OPERATIONS:

               

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ 89,209     $ (164,197 )

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    6,075,346       11,057,111  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    3,706,524       (2,927,020 )

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    9,871,079       7,965,894  
                 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM:

               

Net investment income

    (188,429 )      

Net realized capital gains

    (8,787,560 )      

Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (8,975,989 )      
                 

CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    620,859       6,471,850  

Reinvestment of distributions

    7,194,872        

Redemption fees*

    6,043       86,813  

Shares redeemed

    (3,126,057 )     (9,728,036 )

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets from capital shares

    4,695,717       (3,169,373 )

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    5,590,807       4,796,521  
                 

NET ASSETS:

               

Beginning of period

    41,670,863       36,874,342  

End of period

  $ 47,261,670     $ 41,670,863  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $     $  
                 

SHARES TRANSACTIONS:

               

Shares sold

    40,988       401,314  

Dividends and distributions reinvested

    497,227        

Shares redeemed

    (204,987 )     (598,006 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares outstanding

    333,228       (196,692 )

 

 

*

Prior to December 31, 2017, there was a 1.75% redemption fee on shares redeemed which have been held less than one year. Effective December 31, 2017, the Fund has changed its redemption fees to 1.00% on redemptions of Fund shares held less than 30 days. The redemption fees are retained by the Fund for the benefit of the remaining shareholders and recorded as paid-in capital.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


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SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for each share outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

For the Years Ended August 31,

 
   

2018

   

2017

   

2016

   

2015

   

2014

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 16.12     $ 13.26     $ 11.00     $ 20.16     $ 21.07  

Net investment income/(loss) (1)

    0.03       (0.06 )     0.03       (0.01 )     (0.09 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    3.55       2.89       2.29       (4.53 )     2.63  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    3.58       2.83       2.32       (4.54 )     2.54  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                                       

Net investment income

    (0.07 )           (0.03 )            

Net realized capital gain

    (3.43 )           (0.03 )     (4.58 )     (3.45 )

Tax return of capital

                      (0.04 )      

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (3.50 )           (0.06 )     (4.62 )     (3.45 )

Redemption fees

     (2)     0.03        (2)      (2)      (2)

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 16.20     $ 16.12     $ 13.26     $ 11.00     $ 20.16  

Total investment return (3)

    24.86 %     21.57 %     21.15 %     (25.88 )%     12.59 %
                                         

Ratios/Supplemental Data

                                       

Net assets, end of period (000's)

  $ 47,262     $ 41,671     $ 36,874     $ 30,387     $ 61,240  

Ratios of expenses to average net assets (4)

    1.15 %     1.15 %     1.15 %     1.15 %     1.15 %

Ratio of expenses to average net assets without waivers and reimbursements

    1.51 %     1.57 %     2.13 %     1.82 %     1.52 %

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets (4)

    0.22 %     (0.37 )%     0.23 %     (0.05 )%     (0.44 )%

Portfolio turnover rate

    84 %     138 %     114 %     89 %     72 %

 

 

(1)

Calculated based on average shares outstanding for the period.

(2)

Amount is less than $0.005 per share.

(3)

Total investment return is calculated by assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

(4)

Reflects waivers and reimbursements.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


11

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Notes to Financial Statements

August 31, 2018

 

1.

Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

 

The RBB Fund, Inc. (“RBB” or the “Company”) was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on February 29, 1988 and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), as an open-end management investment company. RBB is a “series fund,” which is a mutual fund divided into separate portfolios. Each portfolio is treated as a separate entity for certain matters under the 1940 Act, and for other purposes, and a shareholder of one portfolio is not deemed to be a shareholder of any other portfolio. Currently, RBB has thirty active investment portfolios, including the Schneider Small Cap Value Fund (the “Fund”), which commenced investment operations on September 2, 1998. As of the date hereof, the Fund offers one class of shares.

 

RBB has authorized capital of one hundred billion shares of common stock of which 87.023 billion shares are currently classified into one hundred and eighty-one classes of common stock. Each class represents an interest in an active or inactive RBB investment portfolio.

 

The Fund’s investment objective seeks long-term capital growth.

 

The Fund is an investment company and follows accounting and reporting guidance in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services - Investment Companies”.

 

The end of the reporting period for the Fund is August 31, 2018, and the period covered by these Notes to Financial Statements is the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018 (the “current fiscal period”).

 

PORTFOLIO VALUATION — The Fund’s net asset value (“NAV”) is calculated once daily at the close of regular trading hours on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on each day the NYSE is open. Securities held by the Fund are valued using the closing price or the last sale price on a national securities exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automatic Quotation System (“NASDAQ”) market system where they are primarily traded. Equity securities traded in the over-the-counter (“OTC”) market are valued at their closing prices. If there were no transactions on that day, securities traded principally on an exchange or on NASDAQ will be valued at the mean of the last bid and ask prices prior to the market close. Fixed income securities are valued using an independent pricing service, which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings, and are deemed representative of market values at the close of the market. Foreign securities are valued based on prices from the primary market in which they are traded, and are translated from the local currency into U.S. dollars using current exchange rates. Investments in other open-end investment companies are valued based on the NAV of the investment companies (which may use fair value pricing as discussed in their prospectuses). If market quotations are unavailable or deemed unreliable, securities will be valued in accordance with procedures adopted by the Company's Board of Directors (the “Board”). Relying on prices supplied by pricing services or dealers or using fair valuation may result in values that are higher or lower than the values used by other investment companies and investors to price the same investments.

 

FAIR VALUE MEASUREMENTS — The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the Fund’s investments are summarized into three levels as described in the hierarchy below:

 

 

Level 1 —

Prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

 

 

Level 2 —

Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).

 

 

Level 3 —

Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

12

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of the end of the reporting period, in valuing the Fund’s investments carried at fair value:

 

   

Total

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

   

Investments
Measured at Net
Asset Value
*

 

Common Stocks

  $ 43,888,301     $ 43,888,301     $     $     $  

Investments Purchased with Proceeds from Securities Lending Collateral

    3,644,397                         3,644,397  

Short-Term Investments

    3,462,127       3,462,127                    

Total**

  $ 50,994,825     $ 47,350,428     $     $     $ 3,644,397  

 

*

Certain investments that are measured at fair value using the net asset value per share (or its equivalent) practical expedient have not been categorized in the fair value hierarchy. The fair value amounts presented in the table are intended to permit reconciliation of the fair value hierarchy to the amounts presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities.

 

**

Please refer to the Portfolio of Investments for further details.

 

At the end of each period, management evaluates the classification of Levels 1, 2 and 3 assets and liabilities. Various factors are considered, such as changes in liquidity from the prior reporting period; whether or not a broker is willing to execute at the quoted price; the depth and consistency of prices from third party pricing services; and the existence of contemporaneous, observable trades in the market. Additionally, management evaluates the classification of Level 1 and Level 2 assets and liabilities on a quarterly basis for changes in listings or delistings on national exchanges.

 

Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Fund’s investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had an active market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values the Fund may ultimately realize. Further, such investments may be subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities.

 

For fair valuations using significant unobservable inputs, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires the Fund to present a reconciliation of the beginning to ending balances for reported market values that presents changes attributable to total realized and unrealized gains or losses, purchase and sales, and transfers in and out of Level 3 during the period. Transfers in and out between levels are based on values at the end of the period. U.S. GAAP also requires the Fund to disclose amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements. A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented only when the Fund had an amount of Level 3 investments at the end of the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets. The amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of each level within the three-tier hierarchy are disclosed when the Fund had an amount of total transfers during the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets as of the end of the reporting period.

 

During the current fiscal period, the Fund had no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3.

 

USE OF ESTIMATES — The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and those differences could be significant.

 

INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS, INVESTMENT INCOME AND EXPENSES — The Fund records security transactions based on trade date for financial reporting purposes. The cost of investments sold is determined by use of the specific identification method for both financial reporting and income tax purposes in determining realized gains and losses on investments. Interest

 

13

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

income is accrued when earned. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The Fund estimates the components of distributions received that may be considered return of capital distributions or capital gain distributions. The Fund’s investment income, expenses (other than class specific expenses) and unrealized and realized gains and losses are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class at the beginning of the day. Expenses incurred on behalf of a specific class, fund or fund family of the Company are charged directly to the class, fund or fund family (in proportion to net assets). Expenses incurred for all of the RBB funds (such as director or professional fees) are charged to all funds in proportion to their average net assets of RBB, or in such other manner as the Board deems fair or equitable. Expenses and fees, including investment advisory and administration fees, are accrued daily and taken into account for the purpose of determining the NAV of the Fund.

 

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS — Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains, if any, are declared, and paid at least annually to shareholders recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income dividends and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. GAAP.

 

U.S. TAX STATUS — No provision is made for U.S. income taxes as it is the Fund’s intention to continue to qualify for and elect the tax treatment applicable to regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and make the requisite distributions to its shareholders which will be sufficient to relieve it from U.S. income and excise taxes.

 

CASH AND CASH EQUIVALENTS — Cash and cash equivalents are valued at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates market value.

 

REDEMPTION FEES — Prior to December 31, 2017, the Fund imposed a redemption fee of 1.75% on redemptions of Fund shares held less than one year. Effective December 31, 2017, the Fund has changed its redemption fees to 1.00% on redemptions of Fund shares held less than 30 days. The fees are reflected on the Statement of Changes in Net Assets. The Fund reserves the right to modify or eliminate the redemption fee or any waivers of such fee at any time.

 

OTHER — In the normal course of business, the Fund may enter into contracts that provide general indemnifications. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made against the Fund in the future, and, therefore, cannot be estimated; however, based on experience, the risk of material loss from such claims is considered remote.

 

2.

Investment Adviser and Other Services

 

Schneider Capital Management Company (“SCM” or the “Adviser”) serves as the investment adviser to the Fund. The Fund compensates the Adviser for its services at an annual rate based on the Fund’s average daily net assets (the “Advisory Fee”), payable on a monthly basis in arrears, as shown in the following table.

 

The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) exceed the rate (“Expense Cap”) shown in the following table of the Fund’s average daily net assets. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed the Expense Cap as applicable: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest and taxes.

 

14

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

This contractual limitation is in effect until December 31, 2019 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board. The Adviser may discontinue these arrangements at any time after December 31, 2019. The Fund will not pay the Adviser at a later time for any amounts it may waive or any amounts that the Adviser has assumed.

 

Advisory Fee

Expense Cap
Institutional Class

1.00%

1.15%

 

During the current fiscal period, investment advisory fees accrued and waived were as follows:

 

Gross Advisory
Fees

Waivers

Net Advisory
Fees

$451,981

$(163,977)

$288,004

 

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (“Fund Services”), doing business as U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, serves as administrator for the Fund. For providing administrative and accounting services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Fund Services serves as the Fund’s transfer and dividend disbursing agent. For providing transfer agent services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

U.S. Bank, N.A. (the “Custodian”) provides certain custodial services to the Fund. The Custodian is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Quasar Distributors, LLC serves as the principal underwriter and distributor of the Fund’s shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with RBB.

 

For compensation amounts paid to Fund Services and the Custodian, please refer to the Statement of Operations.

 

3.

Director’s and Officer’s Compensation

 

The Directors of the Company receive an annual retainer and meeting fees for meetings attended. Employees of Vigilant Compliance, LLC serve as President, Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Treasurer of the Company. Vigilant Compliance, LLC is compensated for the services provided to the Company. An employee of RBB serves as Treasurer and Secretary and is compensated for services provided. Certain employees of Fund Services serve as officers of the Company. They are not compensated by the Fund or the Company. For Director’s and Officer’s compensation amounts, please refer to the Statement of Operations.

 

4.

Purchases and Sales of Investment Securities

 

During the current fiscal period, aggregate purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding short-term investments) of the Fund were as follows:

 

Purchases

Sales

$35,636,506

$39,729,397

 

There were no purchases or sales of long-term U.S. Government securities during the current fiscal period.

 

15

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

5.

Federal Income Tax Information

 

The Fund has followed the authoritative guidance on accounting for and disclosure of uncertainty in tax positions, which requires the Fund to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Fund has determined that there was no effect on the financial statements from following this authoritative guidance. In the normal course of business, the Fund is subject to examination by federal, state and local jurisdictions, where applicable, for tax years for which applicable statutes of limitations have not expired.

 

As of August 31, 2018, the federal tax cost and aggregate gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of investments held by the Fund were as follows:

 

Federal Tax
Cost

Unrealized
Appreciation

Unrealized
(Depreciation)

Net
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

$49,781,265

$6,889,101

$(5,675,541)

$1,213,560

 

Distributions to shareholders, if any, from net investment income and realized gains are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from net investment income and realized gains recognized for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying financial statements. To the extent these differences are permanent, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts based on the tax treatment; temporary differences do not require such reclassification.

 

The following permanent differences as of August 31, 2018, primarily attributable to short-term capital gains being netted against net operating loss, were reclassified among the following accounts:

 

Undistributed Net
Investment
Income/(loss)

Accumulated
Net Realized
Gain/(Loss)

Paid-In
Capital

$99,220

$(99,220)

$—

 

As of August 31, 2018, the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

 

Undistributed
Ordinary
Income/(loss)

Undistributed
Long-Term
capital Gains/(loss)

Net
Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

Qualified
Late-Year
Losses

$4,141,093

$720,090

$1,213,560

$—

 

The differences between the book and tax basis components of distributable earnings relate principally to the timing of recognition of income and gains for federal income tax purposes. Short-term and foreign currency gains are reportable as ordinary income for federal income tax purposes.

 

The tax character of dividends and distributions paid during the fiscal years ended August 31, 2018 and 2017 were as follows:

 

    Ordinary
Income
   Long-Term
Gains
   Return of
Capital
   Total 
 2018   $7,656,035   $1,319,954   $   $8,975,989 
 2017                 

 

16

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

August 31, 2018

 

Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal income tax purposes.

 

Accumulated capital losses represent net capital loss carryforwards as of August 31, 2017 that may be available to offset future realized capital gains and thereby reduce future capital gains distributions. Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010, the Fund is permitted to carry forward capital losses incurred in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 for an unlimited period. Additionally, capital losses that are carried forward will retain their character as either short-term or long-term capital losses rather than being considered all short-term as under the previous law. As of August 31, 2018, the Fund had no tax basis capital loss carryovers to offset future capital gains.

 

6.

Securities Lending

 

The Fund may make secured loans of its portfolio securities to brokers, dealers and other financial institutions to earn additional income and receive cash collateral equal to at least 102% of the current market value of the loaned securities, as marked to market each day that the NAV of the Fund is determined. When the collateral falls below specified amounts, the lending agent will use its best effort to obtain additional collateral on the next business day to meet required amounts under the security lending agreement. The Fund will pay administrative and custodial fees in connection with the loan of securities. Collateral is invested in short-term investments and the Fund will bear the risk of loss of the invested collateral. Investments purchased with proceeds from securities lending are overnight and continuous. Securities lending will expose the Fund to the risk of loss should a borrower default on its obligation to return the borrowed securities. The market value of the securities on loan and collateral as of the end of the reporting period and the income generated from the program during the current fiscal period with respect to such secured loans were as follows:

 

Fair Value of
Securities Loaned

Fair Value
of Collateral

Income Received
from Securities
Lending

$3,483,455

$3,644,397

$161,571

 

Securities lending transactions are entered into by the Fund under a Master Securities Lending Agreement (“MSLA”) which permits the Fund, under certain circumstances including an event of default (such as bankruptcy or insolvency), to offset amounts payable by the Fund to the same counterparty against amounts to be received and create one single net payment due to or from the Fund. The following table is a summary of the Fund’s open securities lending transactions which are subject to a MSLA as of the end of the reporting period:

 

     

Gross Amount Not Offset in the
Statement of Assets and Liabilities

GROSS AMOUNTS OF
RECOGNIZED
ASSETS

GROSS AMOUNTS
OFFSET IN THE
STATEMENT OF
ASSETS AND
LIABILITIES

NET AMOUNT OF
ASSETS PRESENTED IN
THE STATEMENT
OF ASSETS AND
LIABILITIES

FINANCIAL
INSTRUMENTS
1

CASH
COLLATERAL
RECEIVED

NET
AMOUNT
2

$3,483,455

$—

$3,483,455

$(3,483,455)

$—

$—

 

1

Amount disclosed is limited to the amount of assets presented in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Actual collateral received may be more than the amount shown.

2

Net amount represents the net amount receivable from the counterparty in the event of default.

 

17

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Notes to Financial Statements (Concluded)

August 31, 2018

 

7.

NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In August 2018, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”). The primary focus of ASU 2018-13 is to improve the effectiveness of the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The changes affect all companies that are required to include fair value measurement disclosures. In general, the amendments in ASU 2018-13 are effective for all affected entities for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. An affected entity is permitted to adopt the removed or modified disclosures upon the issuance of ASU 2018-13 and may delay adoption of the additional disclosures, which are required for public companies only, until their effective date. Management is currently evaluating the impact these changes will have on the Fund's financial statements and disclosures.

 

8.

Subsequent Events

 

Management has evaluated the impact of all subsequent events on the Fund through the date the financial statements were issued and has determined that there were no significant events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.

 

18

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

To the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. and Shareholders of Schneider Small Cap Value Fund

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying statement of assets and liabilities, including the portfolio of investments, of Schneider Small Cap Value Fund (the "Fund"), a separately managed portfolio of The RBB Fund, Inc., as of August 31, 2018, the related statement of operations for the year ended August 31, 2018, the statement of changes in net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018, including the related notes, and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended August 31, 2018 (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of the Fund as of August 31, 2018, the results of its operations for the year then ended, the changes in its net assets for each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018 and the financial highlights for each of the five years in the period ended August 31, 2018 in conformity with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States of America.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

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

 

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

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2018 by correspondence with the custodian, transfer agent and brokers; when replies were not received from brokers, we performed other auditing procedures. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 


Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 25, 2018

 

We have served as the auditor of one or more Schneider Capital Management Company investment companies since 1999.

 

19

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Shareholder Tax Information

(Unaudited)

 

Certain tax information regarding the Fund is required to be provided to shareholders based upon the Fund’s income and distributions for the taxable year ended August 31, 2018. The information and distributions reported herein may differ from information and distributions taxable to the shareholders for the calendar year ended December 31, 2018. During the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, the Fund did not make any distributions of ordinary income or capital gains to shareholders. Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal income tax purposes.

 

The percentage of ordinary income dividends qualifying for the 15% dividend tax rate is 3.61%.

 

The percentage of ordinary income dividends qualifying for the corporate dividends received deduction is 2.19%.

 

The Fund designates 98.78% of the ordinary income distributions as qualified short-term gain pursuant to the American Job Creation Act of 2004.

 

Because the Fund’s fiscal year is not the calendar year, another notification will be sent with respect to calendar year 2018. The second notification, which will reflect the amount, if any, to be used by calendar year taxpayers on their U.S. federal income tax returns, will be made in conjunction with Form 1099-DIV and will be mailed in January 2019.

 

Foreign shareholders will generally be subject to U.S. withholding tax on the amount of their ordinary income dividends. They will generally not be entitled to a foreign tax credit or deduction for the withholding taxes paid by the Fund, if any.

 

In general, dividends received by tax-exempt recipients (e.g., IRAs and Keoghs) need not be reported as taxable income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, some retirement trusts (e.g., corporate, Keogh and 403(b)(7) plans) may need this information for their annual information reporting. Shareholders are advised to consult their own tax advisers with respect to the tax consequences of their investment in the Fund.

 

20

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Other Information

(Unaudited)

 

Proxy Voting

 

Policies and procedures that the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities as well as information regarding how the Fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities for the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 are available without charge, upon request, by calling (888) 520-3277 and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Quarterly Portfolio Schedules

 

The Company files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third fiscal quarters of each fiscal year (quarters ended November 30 and May 31) on Form N-Q. The Company's Form N-Q is available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov and may be reviewed and copied at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the SEC Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.

 

Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement

 

As required by the 1940 Act, the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Company, including all of the Directors who are not “interested persons” of the Company, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act (the “Independent Directors”), considered the renewal of the investment advisory agreement between SCM and the Company (the “Investment Advisory Agreement”) on behalf of the Fund, at a meeting of the Board held on May 9-10, 2018 (the “Meeting”). At the Meeting, the Board, including all of the Independent Directors, approved the Investment Advisory Agreement for an additional one-year term. The Board’s decision to approve the Investment Advisory Agreement reflects the exercise of its business judgment to continue the existing arrangement. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreement, the Board considered information provided by SCM with the assistance and advice of counsel to the Independent Directors and the Company.

 

In considering the renewal and approval of the Investment Advisory Agreement between the Company and SCM with respect to the Fund, the Directors took into account all the materials provided prior to and during the Meeting and at other meetings throughout the past year, the presentations made during the Meeting, and the discussions held during the Meeting. Among other things, the Directors considered (i) the nature, extent, and quality of SCM’s services provided to the Fund; (ii) descriptions of the experience and qualifications of SCM’s personnel providing those services; (iii) SCM’s investment philosophies and processes; (iv) SCM’s assets under management and client descriptions; (v) SCM’s soft dollar commission and trade allocation policies, including information on the types of research and services obtained in connection with soft dollar commissions; (vi) SCM’s current advisory fee arrangements with the Company and other similarly managed clients; (vii) SCM’s compliance procedures; (viii) SCM’s financial information, insurance coverage and profitability analysis related to providing advisory services to the Fund; (ix) the extent to which economies of scale are relevant to the Fund; (x) a report prepared by Broadridge/Lipper comparing the Fund’s management fees and total expense ratio to those of its Lipper Group and comparing the performance of the Fund to the performance of its Lipper Group; and (xi) a report comparing the performance of the Fund to the performance of its benchmark.

 

As part of their review, the Directors considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by SCM. The Directors concluded that SCM had substantial resources to provide services to the Fund and that SCM’s services had been acceptable.

 

The Directors also considered the investment performance of the Fund and SCM. The Directors noted that the Fund had underperformed its benchmark, the Russell 2000 Value Index, for the year-to-date and one-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors noted that for the two- and three-year periods ended December 31, 2017, the investment performance of the Fund ranked in the 1st quintile within both of its Lipper Performance Group and Lipper Performance Universe.

 

21

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Other Information (CONCLUDED)

(Unaudited)

 

The Board also considered the advisory fee rates payable by the Fund under the Investment Advisory Agreements. In this regard, information on the fees paid by the Fund and the Fund’s total operating expense ratios (before and after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) was compared to similar information for mutual funds advised by other, unaffiliated investment advisory firms. The Directors noted that the advisory fee, after waivers, and actual total expenses of the Fund were all lower than the Fund’s Lipper Expense Group medians. In addition, the Directors noted that SCM had contractually agreed to waive management fees and reimburse expenses through at least December 31, 2018 to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses exceed 1.15% for the Fund.

 

After reviewing the information regarding SCM’s costs, profitability and economies of scale, and after considering SCM’s services, the Directors concluded that the investment advisory fees paid by the Fund were fair and reasonable and that the Investment Advisory Agreement should be approved and continued for an additional one-year period ending August 16, 2019.

 

22

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Company Management

(Unaudited)

 

Directors and Executive Officers

 

The business and affairs of the Company are managed under the direction of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company is organized under and managed pursuant to Maryland law. The Directors and executive offi cers of the Company, their ages, business addresses and principal occupations during the past five years are set forth below. The statement of additional information (“SAI”) includes additional information about the Directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling (888) 520-3277.

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS

Julian A. Brodsky

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 85

Director

1988 to present

From 1969 to 2011, Director and Vice Chairman, Comcast Corporation (cable television and communications).

30

AMDOCS Limited (service provider to telecommunications companies).

J. Richard Carnall

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 79

Director

2002 to present

Since 1984, Director of Haydon Bolts, Inc. (bolt manufacturer) and Parkway Real Estate Company (subsidiary of Haydon Bolts, Inc.); since 2004, Director of Cornerstone Bank.

30

None

Gregory P. Chandler

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 51

Director

2012 to present

Since 2009, Chief Financial Officer, Emtec, Inc. (information technology consulting/services); from 2003-2009, Managing Director, head of Business Services and IT Services Practice, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC (investment banking/brokerage).

30

Emtec, Inc.; FS Investment Corporation (business development company); FS Energy and Power Fund (business development company); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios)(registered investment company).

Nicholas A. Giordano

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 75

Director

2006 to present

Since 1997, Consultant, financial services organizations.

30

Kalmar Pooled Investment Trust (registered investment company) (until September 2017); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios) (registered investment company); Independence Blue Cross (healthcare insurance).

 

23

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Company Management (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS

Arnold M. Reichman

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 70

Chairman

 

Director

2005 to present

 

1991 to present

Since 2006, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lifebooker, LLC (online beauty and health appointment booking service).

30

Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

Brian T. Shea

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 58

Director

2018 to present

From 2014-2017, Chief Executive Officer, BNY Mellon Investment Services (fund services, global custodian and securities clearing firm); from 1983-2014, Chief Executive Officer and various positions, Pershing LLC (broker dealer, clearing and custody firm).

30

WisdomTree Investments, Inc. (asset management company); Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (financial services technology company).

Robert A. Straniere

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 77

Director

2006 to present

Since 2009, Administrative Law Judge, New York City; since 1980, Founding Partner, Straniere Law Group (law firm).

30

Reich and Tang Group (asset management).

INTERESTED DIRECTOR2

Robert Sablowsky

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 80

Vice Chairman

 

Director

2016 to present

 

 

1991 to present

Since 2002, Senior Director – Investments and, prior thereto, Executive Vice President, of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. (a registered broker-dealer).

30

None

OFFICERS

Salvatore Faia, JD,

CPA, CFE

Vigilant Compliance, LLC

Gateway Corporate

Center Suite 216

223 Wilmington West

Chester Pike

Chadds Ford, PA 19317

Age: 55

President

 

Chief Compliance Officer

2009 to present

 

2004 to present

Since 2004, President, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2005, Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

James G. Shaw

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 57

Treasurer

and

Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2016, Treasurer and Secretary of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 2005 to 2016, Assistant Treasurer of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 1995 to 2016, Senior Director and Vice President of BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (financial services company).

N/A

N/A

 

 

24

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Company Management (Continued)

(Unaudited)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

OFFICERS

Robert Amweg

Vigilant Compliance, LLC

Gateway Corporate Center Suite 216

223 Wilmington West Chester Pike

Chadds Ford, PA 19317

Age: 65

Assistant

Treasurer

2016 to present

Since 2013, Compliance Director, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2012, Consultant to the financial services industry; from 2007 to 2012, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, Turner Investments, LP (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

Jennifer Witt

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 35

Assistant Treasurer

2018 to present

Since 2016, Assistant Vice President, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm); from 2007 to 2016, Supervisor, Nuveen Investments (investment company).

N/A

N/A

Edward Paz

615 East Michigan Street

Milwaukee, WI 53202

Age: 47

Assistant Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2007, Vice President and Counsel, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm).

N/A

N/A

Michael P. Malloy

One Logan Square

Ste. 2000

Philadelphia, PA 19103

Age: 59

Assistant

Secretary

1999 to present

Since 1993, Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm).

N/A

N/A

Jillian L. Bosmann

One Logan Square

Ste. 2000

Philadelphia, PA 19103

Age: 39

Assistant

Secretary

2017 to present

Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm) (2017-Present); Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (2006-Present).

N/A

N/A

 

*

Each Director oversees 30 portfolios of the Company.

1

Subject to the Company's Retirement Policy, each Director may continue to serve as a Director until the last day of the calendar year in which the applicable Director attains age 75 or until his successor is elected and qualified or his death, resignation or removal. The Board reserves the right to waive the requirements of the Policy with respect to an individual Director. The Board has approved waivers of the policy with respect to Messrs. Brodsky, Carnall, Giordano, Sablowsky and Straniere. Each officer holds office at the pleasure of the Board until the next special meeting of the Company or until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, or until he or she dies, resigns or is removed.

2

Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “interested person” of the Company as that term is defined in the 1940 Act and is referred to as an “Interested Director.” Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “Interested Director” of the Company by virtue of his position as an employee of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc., a registered broker-dealer.

 

25

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Company Management (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

Director Experience, Qualifications, Attributes and/or Skills

 

The information above includes each Director’s principal occupations during the last five years. Each Director possesses extensive additional experience, skills and attributes relevant to his qualifications to serve as a Director. The cumulative background of each Director led to the conclusion that each Director should serve as a Director of the Company. Mr. Giordano has years of experience as a consultant to financial services organizations and also serves on the boards of other registered investment companies. Mr. Reichman brings decades of investment management experience to the Board, in addition to senior executive-level management experience. Mr. Straniere has been a practicing attorney for over 30 years and also serves on the boards of an asset management company and another registered investment company. Mr. Brodsky has over 40 years of senior executive level management experience in the cable television and communications industry. Mr. Sablowsky has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the financial services industry. Mr. Carnall has decades of senior executive-level management experience in the banking and financial services industry and also serves on the boards of various corporations and a bank. Mr. Chandler has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive level positions in the investment technology consulting/services and investment banking/brokerage industries, and also serves on various boards. Mr. Shea has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the investment services industry.

 

26

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Privacy Notice

(Unaudited)

 

FACTS

WHAT DOES THE SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL
INFORMATION?

Why?

Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.

What?

The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:

 

Social Security number

account balances

account transactions

transaction history

wire transfer instructions

checking account information

 

When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice.

How?

All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons the Schneider Small Cap Value Fund chooses to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.

       

Reasons we can share your personal information

Does the Schneider Small Cap Value Fund share?

Can you limit this sharing?

For our everyday business purposes —
such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court orders and legal investigations, or report to credit bureaus

Yes

No

For our marketing purposes —
to offer our products and services to you

Yes

No

For joint marketing with other financial companies

No

We do not share.

For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes —
information about your transactions and experiences

Yes

No

For our affiliates’ everyday business purposes —
information about your creditworthiness

No

We do not share.

For our affiliates to market to you

No

We do not share.

For nonaffiliates to market to you

No

We do not share.

 

Questions?

Call (888) 520-3277 or go to www.schneidercap.com

 

27

 

 

 

SCHNEIDER SMALL CAP VALUE FUND

 

Privacy Notice (Concluded)

(Unaudited)

 

What we do

   

How does the Schneider Small Cap Value Fund protect my personal information?

To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.

How does the Schneider Small Cap Value Fund collect my personal information?

We collect your personal information, for example, when you

 

open an account

provide account information

give us your contact information

make a wire transfer

tell us where to send the money

 

We also collect your information from others, such as credit bureaus, affiliates, or other companies.

Why can’t I limit all sharing?

Federal law gives you the right to limit only

 

sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes – information about your creditworthiness

affiliates from using your information to market to you

sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you

 

State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.

Definitions

Affiliates

Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

    Our affiliates include Schneider Capital Management, the investment adviser to the Schneider Small Cap Value Fund.

Nonaffiliates

Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

   The Schneider Small Cap Value Fund doesn’t share with nonaffiliates so they can market to you. The Schneider Small Cap Value Fund may share information with nonaffiliates that perform marketing services on our behalf.

Joint marketing

A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.

 

   The Schneider Small Cap Value Fund does not jointly market.

 

28

 

 

 

 

 

 

[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

[THIS PAGE INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK]

 

 

 

 

 

Investment Adviser

Schneider Capital Management
460 E. Swedesford Road
Suite 1080
Wayne, PA 19087

 

Administrator and Transfer Agent

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, WI 53201

 

Principal Underwriter

Quasar Distributors, LLC
777 East Wisconsin Avenue, Floor 6
Milwaukee, WI 53202

 

Custodian

U.S. Bank, N.A.
1555 North Rivercenter Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, WI 53212

 

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP
Two Commerce Square, Suite 1800
2001 Market Street
Philadelphia, PA 19103-7042

 

Legal Counsel

Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
One Logan Square, Suite 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103-6996

 

SCH-AR18

 

 

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS
U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS
SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS
GLOBAL LOW VOLATILITY FUND

 

of

 

The RBB Fund, Inc.

 

ANNUAL REPORT

 

August 31, 2018

 

This report is submitted for the general information of the shareholders of the Funds.
It is not authorized for distribution unless preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus for the Funds.

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report
august 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Dear Shareholders:

 

We are grateful for the trust you’ve placed in Summit Global Investments ("SGI"). SGI equity strategies focus on managing risk while generating strong equity returns. This emphasis has historically allowed investors to enjoy competitive equity performance while taking significantly less risk. For example, historically, our large cap strategy averaged a beta of 0.75 versus the S&P 500 Index® implying a much lower risk level.

 

The Fund returned an outstanding 24.98% (Class I Shares), 24.68% (Class A Shares without sales charge), 18.16% (Class A Shares with sales charge) and 23.80% (Class C Shares) for the twelve months ended August 31, 2018. The performance of the S&P 500 Index was 19.66% in the same period.

 

Over the past twelve months, the top sector contributors were Information Technology and Industrials where our stock selection and sector weights both benefitted returns. The top five contributing stocks were Intuit, Robert Half International, Valero Energy, TJX Companies, and Cisco.

 

Over the past twelve months, the top sector detractors were Communications Services and Materials where neither our stock selection nor sector weights helped returns. The top five detracting stocks were Henry Schein, Biogen, Expedia, Merck, and Walgreens Boots Alliance.

 

The Fund is managed using our quantitative and fundamental disciplines. Our multi-factor quantitative process continues to identify stocks with excellent risk/reward characteristics while our fundamental process allows us to identify and analyze risks that a purely quantitative process may miss.

 

During the past twelve months, equity markets were mixed. U.S. stock markets performed well while international markets were weak and volatile. The key drivers for U.S. market outperformance were a healthy economy, strong corporate earnings growth, strong dollar, and increasing trade/tariff rhetoric which is viewed as worse for trading partners. Strong earnings growth in the U.S. was driven by both record stock buybacks, exceeding $750 billion year-to-date, and record corporate profit margins.

 

Recently, stocks set a record, becoming the longest bull market in history, surpassing 3,453 days without a major correction. Growth stocks, as a style, continued their outperformance versus value stocks across all market capitalization ranges.

 

Stock market volatility (CBOE VIX Index®), although elevated for a few months in early 2018, fell back to near-historic lows like in 2017. Stock fundamentals remain strong with Wall Street analysts estimates for sales growth for the S&P 500 Index® companies up 8.6% from a year ago. Earnings and cash flows are also expected to increase from a year ago, up 23.2% and 6.3%, respectively.

 

Oil prices defined by the WTI Cushing Crude Oil Index rose dramatically over 50% from a year ago. The rebound in oil prices was driven by supply disruption from new sanctions on Iran and stronger than expected global demand.

 

The U.S. economy continued to grow modestly at a Real GDP growth rate of 2.9% from a year ago. The Atlanta Fed GDP Now Forecast Index for the United States, which estimates six-month forward economic growth, forecasts 4.1% annualized growth. Inflation expectations, measured by the 10-Year Breakeven Inflation Rate, rose slightly to 2.14% during the year. New housing starts increased to an annualized rate of 1.28 million units and remained strong at more than double the rate of the recession lows in 2009. Total vehicle sales were an annualized rate of 17.0 million units but remain down from a peak of 18.5 million units in September of 2017. Retail sales and industrial production increased 6.0% and 4.0%, respectively, from a year ago. Total construction spending increased 6.0% year-over-year. Finally, the unemployment rate dropped to 3.9% in August 2018 from 4.4% in August of 2017. Overall, economic conditions were modest and steady. We do not see significant signs of a recession in the near term.

 

During the year, the Federal Reserve bank increased the Fed Funds rate several times by 0.25% to an upper-bound target of 2.25%. This is the eighth such increase since December 2015. Fed Chairman Powell has already signaled further gradual rate increases during the next several quarters. The futures market is pricing in the implied probability of another rate increase by the end of the year as 73%. In addition to rate increases, the Federal Reserve has accelerated its balance sheet reduction. Currently, Fed balance sheet reduction has grown to $50 billion per month. Increases in the

 

1

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Continued)
august 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Fed balance sheet came to be known as “quantitative easing”, likewise reductions in the Fed balance sheet should be known as “quantitative tightening”. Fed funds rate increases along with quantitative tightening at a rate of $600 billion per year will limit monetary accommodation for the remainder of 2018 and early 2019.

 

We remain optimistic that the current US economic expansion grows at 2-3% real GDP. We expect the Federal Reserve to continue increasing interest rates while reducing its balance sheet. It is likely that highly indebted companies may experience earnings difficulty with these higher interest rates. Finally, in our view, ongoing trade war and tariff rhetoric is unlikely to seriously damage the global economy.

 

SGI continues to grow with AUM now over $800 million. This growth led to the addition of two new employees this past year. Mr. Spencer Nielsen will add to improving our technological capabilities as a highly experienced software engineer. Mr. David Roll, CFA will significantly increase our institutional sales efforts. He comes to SGI with over 20 years of institutional sales, consultant relations, and client portfolio management expertise. Please contact David at David.Roll@sgi-mail.com or 801-797-1101.

 

We continue to adhere to our disciplined, managed-risk, multi-factor investment process. Over a full market cycle, this approach has historically limited downside risks and allowed for participation in market rallies. While equity investors enjoy the longest bull market in history without a correction, we believe it is time for investors to be proactively prudent lowering equity market risk by using our risk managed approach. We are grateful for the opportunity to help steward your investments.

 

Sincerely,
Summit Global Investments, LLC

 

This material represents the manager's assessment of the portfolio and market environment at a specific point in time and should not be relied upon by the reader as research or investment advice.

 

Fund holdings and sector allocations are subject to change and should not be considered recommendations to buy or sell any security. Please refer to the Schedule of Investments in this report for a complete list of fund holdings.

 

Mutual fund investing involves risk. Loss of principle is possible. A portfolio comprised of low volatility stocks may not produce investment exposure that has lower variability to changes in such stocks’ price levels. Investing in low volatility stocks may limit the Fund’s gains in rising markets. International investing is subject to special risks including, but not limited to, currency risk associated with securities denominated in other than the U.S. dollar, which may be affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates, political, social or economic instability, and differences in taxation, auditing, and other financial practices.

 

Beta is a measure of the volatility of a portfolio in comparison to the benchmark. A beta of 1 indicates that the price fluctuation of a specific portfolio correlated directly with the market. A beta of less than one, means the portfolio fluctuated less than the related benchmark. Beta does not necessarily directly correlate with the portfolios risk.

 

Standard & Poor’s 500® Index (“S&P 500®”). The S&P 500® is a widely recognized, unmanaged index of 500 common stocks which are generally representative of the U.S. stock market as a whole.

 

The CBOE Volatility Index (“CBOE VIX Index®”), is an index constructed using the implied volatilities on S&P 500 index options. The CBOE VIX Index® shows the market's expectation of 30-day volatility, and is a widely used measure of market risk.

 

WTI Cushing Crude Oil Index – WTI is an abbreviation for West Texas Intermediate crude oil which is used as a benchmark for oil prices. Cushing, Oklahoma is a major trading hub for crude oil and has been the delivery point for crude futures contracts and therefore the price settlement point for contracts on the New York Mercantile Exchange for over three decades.

 

The Atlanta Fed GDP Now Forecast Index (“GDPNow”) forecasting model provides a prediction of the present real gross domestic product (GDP) prior to its release. The GDPNow forecast is constructed by aggregating statistical model forecasts of 13 subcomponents that comprise GDP. GDPNow is not an official forecast of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, its president, the Federal Reserve System, or the FOMC.

 

2

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Continued)
august 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Dear Shareholders:

 

We are grateful for the trust you’ve placed in Summit Global Investments ("SGI"). SGI equity strategies focus on managing risk while generating strong equity returns. This emphasis has historically allowed investors to enjoy competitive equity performance while taking significantly less risk. For example, historically, our small cap strategy averaged a beta lower than 0.75 versus the Russell 2000 Index® implying a much lower risk level.

 

The Fund returned 22.26% (Class I Shares), 21.90% (Class A Shares without sales charge), 15.46% (Class A Shares with sales charge) and 21.05% (Class C Shares) for the twelve months ended August 31, 2018. Russell 2000 Index was 25.45% in the same period.

 

Over the past twelve months, the top sector contributor was Communications Services where our stock selection and sector weights both benefitted returns. The next largest contributor was Healthcare where stock selection was strong. The top five contributing stocks were Tandem Diabetes Care, World Wrestling Entertainment, Inogen, CareDx, and Korn/Ferry International.

 

Over the past twelve months, the top sector detractors were Financials and Consumer Discretionary where neither our stock selection nor sector weights helped returns. The top five detracting stocks were Ampio Pharmaceuticals, Innovate Biopharmaceuticals, Lannett Co., Maiden Holdings, and Endologix.

 

The Fund is managed using our quantitative and fundamental disciplines. Our multi-factor quantitative process continues to identify stocks with excellent risk/reward characteristics while our fundamental process allows us to identify and analyze risks that a purely quantitative process may miss.

 

During the past twelve months, equity markets were mixed. U.S. stock markets performed well while international markets were weak and volatile. The key drivers for U.S. market outperformance were a healthy economy, strong corporate earnings growth, strong dollar, and increasing trade/tariff rhetoric which is viewed as worse for trading partners. Strong earnings growth in the U.S. was driven by both record stock buybacks, exceeding $750 billion year-to-date, and record corporate profit margins.

 

Recently, stocks set a record, becoming the longest bull market in history, surpassing 3,453 days without a major correction. Growth stocks, as a style, continued their outperformance versus value stocks across all market capitalization ranges.

 

Stock market volatility (CBOE VIX Index®), although elevated for a few months in early 2018, fell back to near-historic lows like in 2017. Stock fundamentals remain strong with Wall Street analysts estimates for sales growth for the S&P 500 Index® companies up 8.6% from a year ago. Earnings and cash flows are also expected to increase from a year ago, up 23.2% and 6.3%, respectively.

 

Oil prices defined by the WTI Cushing Crude Oil Index rose dramatically over 50% from a year ago. The rebound in oil prices was driven by supply disruption from new sanctions on Iran and stronger than expected global demand.

 

The U.S. economy continued to grow modestly at a Real GDP growth rate of 2.9% from a year ago. The Atlanta Fed GDP Now Forecast Index for the United States, which estimates six-month forward economic growth, forecasts 4.1% annualized growth. Inflation expectations, measured by the 10-Year Breakeven Inflation Rate, rose slightly to 2.14% during the year. New housing starts increased to an annualized rate of 1.28 million units and remained strong at more than double the rate of the recession lows in 2009. Total vehicle sales were an annualized rate of 17.0 million units but remain down from a peak of 18.5 million units in September of 2017. Retail sales and industrial production increased 6.0% and 4.0%, respectively, from a year ago. Total construction spending increased 6.0% year-over-year. Finally, the unemployment rate dropped to 3.9% in August 2018 from 4.4% in August of 2017. Overall, economic conditions were modest and steady. We do not see significant signs of a recession in the near term.

 

3

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Continued)
august 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

During the year, the Federal Reserve bank increased the Fed Funds rate several times by 0.25% to an upper-bound target of 2.25%. This is the eighth such increase since December 2015. Fed Chairman Powell has already signaled further gradual rate increases during the next several quarters. The futures market is pricing in the implied probability of another rate increase by the end of the year as 73%. In addition to rate increases, the Federal Reserve has accelerated its balance sheet reduction. Currently, Fed balance sheet reduction has grown to $50 billion per month. Increases in the Fed balance sheet came to be known as “quantitative easing”, likewise reductions in the Fed balance sheet should be known as “quantitative tightening”. Fed funds rate increases along with quantitative tightening at a rate of $600 billion per year will limit monetary accommodation for the remainder of 2018 and early 2019.

 

We remain optimistic that the current US economic expansion grows at 2-3% real GDP. We expect the Federal Reserve to continue increasing interest rates while reducing its balance sheet. It is likely that highly indebted companies may experience earnings difficulty with these higher interest rates. Finally, in our view, ongoing trade war and tariff rhetoric is unlikely to seriously damage the global economy.

 

SGI continues to grow with AUM now over $800 million. This growth led to the addition of two new employees this past year. Mr. Spencer Nielsen will add to improving our technological capabilities as a highly experienced software engineer. Mr. David Roll, CFA will significantly increase our institutional sales efforts. He comes to SGI with over 20 years of institutional sales, consultant relations, and client portfolio management expertise. Please contact David at David.Roll@sgi-mail.com or 801-797-1101.

 

We continue to adhere to our disciplined, managed-risk, multi-factor investment process. Over a full market cycle, this approach has historically limited downside risks and allowed for participation in market rallies. While equity investors enjoy the longest bull market in history without a correction, we believe it is time for investors to be proactively prudent lowering equity market risk by using our risk managed approach. We are grateful for the opportunity to help steward your investments.

 

Sincerely,
Summit Global Investments, LLC

 

This material represents the manager's assessment of the portfolio and market environment at a specific point in time and should not be relied upon by the reader as research or investment advice.

 

Fund holdings and sector allocations are subject to change and should not be considered recommendations to buy or sell any security. Please refer to the Schedule of Investments in this report for a complete list of fund holdings.

 

Mutual fund investing involves risk. Loss of principle is possible. A portfolio comprised of low volatility stocks may not produce investment exposure that has lower variability to changes in such stocks’ price levels. Investing in low volatility stocks may limit the Fund’s gains in rising markets. International investing is subject to special risks including, but not limited to, currency risk associated with securities denominated in other than the U.S. dollar, which may be affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates, political, social or economic instability, and differences in taxation, auditing, and other financial practices.

 

Beta is a measure of the volatility of a portfolio in comparison to the benchmark. A beta of 1 indicates that the price fluctuation of a specific portfolio correlated directly with the market. A beta of less than one, means the portfolio fluctuated less than the related benchmark. Beta does not necessarily directly correlate with the portfolios risk.

 

The Russell 2000® Index (“Russell 2000®”) is a widely recognized, unmanaged index of 2,000 common stocks which are generally representative of the U.S. Small Companies.

 

The CBOE Volatility Index (“CBOE VIX Index®”), is an index constructed using the implied volatilities on S&P 500 index options. The CBOE VIX Index® shows the market's expectation of 30-day volatility, and is a widely used measure of market risk.

 

4

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Continued)
august 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Standard & Poor’s 500® Index (“S&P 500®”). The S&P 500® is a widely recognized, unmanaged index of 500 common stocks which are generally representative of the U.S. stock market as a whole.

 

WTI Cushing Crude Oil Index – WTI is an abbreviation for West Texas Intermediate crude oil which is used as a benchmark for oil prices. Cushing, Oklahoma is a major trading hub for crude oil and has been the delivery point for crude futures contracts and therefore the price settlement point for contracts on the New York Mercantile Exchange for over three decades.

 

The Atlanta Fed GDP Now Forecast Index (“GDPNow”) forecasting model provides a prediction of the present real gross domestic product (GDP) prior to its release. The GDPNow forecast is constructed by aggregating statistical model forecasts of 13 subcomponents that comprise GDP. GDPNow is not an official forecast of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, its president, the Federal Reserve System, or the FOMC.

 

5

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

GLOBAL LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (Continued)
august 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Dear Shareholders:

 

We are grateful for the trust you’ve placed in Summit Global Investments ("SGI"). SGI equity strategies focus on managing risk while generating strong equity returns. This emphasis has historically allowed investors to enjoy competitive equity performance while taking significantly less risk. For example, historically, our global strategy averaged a beta lower than 0.75 versus the MSCI ACWI Index® implying a much lower risk level.

 

The Fund returned 11.36% (Class I Shares) for the twelve months ended August 31, 2018. The performance of the MSCI ACWI Index was 11.99% in the same period.

 

Over the past twelve months, the top sector contributor was Consumer Staples and Information Technology where both our stock selection and sector weights benefitted returns. The top five contributing stocks were Adobe, Mastercard, TJX Companies, Microsoft, and Union Pacific.

 

Over the past twelve months, the top sector detractors were Communications Services and Energy where neither our stock selection nor sector weights helped returns. The top five detracting stocks were Telekomunik Indonesia, Fanuc Corp., Bayer, Tencent, and Merck.

 

The Fund is managed using our quantitative and fundamental disciplines. Our multi-factor quantitative process continues to identify stocks with excellent risk/reward characteristics while our fundamental process allows us to identify and analyze risks that a purely quantitative process may miss.

 

During the past twelve months, equity markets were mixed. U.S. stock markets performed well while international markets were weak and volatile. The key drivers for U.S. market outperformance were a healthy economy, strong corporate earnings growth, strong dollar, and increasing trade/tariff rhetoric which is viewed as worse for trading partners. Strong earnings growth in the U.S. was driven by both record stock buybacks, exceeding $750 billion year-to-date, and record corporate profit margins.

 

Recently, stocks set a record, becoming the longest bull market in history, surpassing 3,453 days without a major correction. Growth stocks, as a style, continued their outperformance versus value stocks across all market capitalization ranges.

 

Stock market volatility (CBOE VIX Index®), although elevated for a few months in early 2018, fell back to near-historic lows like in 2017. Stock fundamentals remain strong with Wall Street analysts estimates for sales growth for the S&P 500 Index® companies up 8.6% from a year ago. Earnings and cash flows are also expected to increase from a year ago, up 23.2% and 6.3%, respectively.

 

Oil prices defined by the WTI Cushing Crude Oil Index rose dramatically over 50% from a year ago. The rebound in oil prices was driven by supply disruption from new sanctions on Iran and stronger than expected global demand.

 

The U.S. economy continued to grow modestly at a Real GDP growth rate of 2.9% from a year ago. The Atlanta Fed GDP Now Forecast Index for the United States, which estimates six-month forward economic growth, forecasts 4.1% annualized growth. Inflation expectations, measured by the 10-Year Breakeven Inflation Rate, rose slightly to 2.14% during the year. New housing starts increased to an annualized rate of 1.28 million units and remained strong at more than double the rate of the recession lows in 2009. Total vehicle sales were an annualized rate of 17.0 million units but remain down from a peak of 18.5 million units in September of 2017. Retail sales and industrial production increased 6.0% and 4.0%, respectively, from a year ago. Total construction spending increased 6.0% year-over-year. Finally, the unemployment rate dropped to 3.9% in August 2018 from 4.4% in August of 2017. Overall, economic conditions were modest and steady. We do not see significant signs of a recession in the near term.

 

During the year, the Federal Reserve bank increased the Fed Funds rate several times by 0.25% to an upper-bound target of 2.25%. This is the eighth such increase since December 2015. Fed Chairman Powell has already signaled further gradual rate increases during the next several quarters. The futures market is pricing in the implied probability of another rate increase by the end of the year as 73%. In addition to rate increases, the Federal Reserve has accelerated

 

6

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

GLOBAL LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (CONtinued)
august 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

its balance sheet reduction. Currently, Fed balance sheet reduction has grown to $50 billion per month. Increases in the Fed balance sheet came to be known as “quantitative easing”, likewise reductions in the Fed balance sheet should be known as “quantitative tightening”. Fed funds rate increases along with quantitative tightening at a rate of $600 billion per year will limit monetary accommodation for the remainder of 2018 and early 2019.

 

We remain optimistic that the current US economic expansion grows at 2-3% real GDP. We expect the Federal Reserve to continue increasing interest rates while reducing its balance sheet. It is likely that highly indebted companies may experience earnings difficulty with these higher interest rates. Finally, in our view, ongoing trade war and tariff rhetoric is unlikely to seriously damage the global economy.

 

SGI continues to grow with AUM now over $800 million. This growth led to the addition of two new employees this past year. Mr. Spencer Nielsen will add to improving our technological capabilities as a highly experienced software engineer. Mr. David Roll, CFA will significantly increase our institutional sales efforts. He comes to SGI with over 20 years of institutional sales, consultant relations, and client portfolio management expertise. Please contact David at David.Roll@sgi-mail.com or 801-797-1101.

 

We continue to adhere to our disciplined, managed-risk, multi-factor investment process. Over a full market cycle, this approach has historically limited downside risks and allowed for participation in market rallies. While equity investors enjoy the longest bull market in history without a correction, we believe it is time for investors to be proactively prudent lowering equity market risk by using our risk managed approach. We are grateful for the opportunity to help steward your investments.

 

Sincerely,
Summit Global Investments, LLC

 

This material represents the manager's assessment of the portfolio and market environment at a specific point in time and should not be relied upon by the reader as research or investment advice.

 

Fund holdings and sector allocations are subject to change and should not be considered recommendations to buy or sell any security. Please refer to the Schedule of Investments in this report for a complete list of fund holdings.

 

Mutual fund investing involves risk. Loss of principle is possible. A portfolio comprised of low volatility stocks may not produce investment exposure that has lower variability to changes in such stocks’ price levels. Investing in low volatility stocks may limit the Fund’s gains in rising markets. International investing is subject to special risks including, but not limited to, currency risk associated with securities denominated in other than the U.S. dollar, which may be affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates, political, social or economic instability, and differences in taxation, auditing, and other financial practices.

 

Beta is a measure of the volatility of a portfolio in comparison to the benchmark. A beta of 1 indicates that the price fluctuation of a specific portfolio correlated directly with the market. A beta of less than one, means the portfolio fluctuated less than the related benchmark. Beta does not necessarily directly correlate with the portfolios risk.

 

The MSCI ACWI Index captures large and mid cap representation across 23 Developed Markets (DM) and 24 Emerging Markets (EM) countries. With more than 2, 700 constituents, the index covers approximately 85% of the global investable equity opportunity set.

 

The CBOE Volatility Index (“CBOE VIX Index®”), is an index constructed using the implied volatilities on S&P 500 index options. The CBOE VIX Index® shows the market's expectation of 30-day volatility, and is a widely used measure of market risk.

 

Standard & Poor’s 500® Index (“S&P 500®”). The S&P 500® is a widely recognized, unmanaged index of 500 common stocks which are generally representative of the U.S. stock market as a whole.

 

7

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

GLOBAL LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Annual Investment Adviser’s Report (CONCLUDED)
august 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

WTI Cushing Crude Oil Index – WTI is an abbreviation for West Texas Intermediate crude oil which is used as a benchmark for oil prices. Cushing, Oklahoma is a major trading hub for crude oil and has been the delivery point for crude futures contracts and therefore the price settlement point for contracts on the New York Mercantile Exchange for over three decades.

 

The Atlanta Fed GDP Now Forecast Index (“GDPNow”) forecasting model provides a prediction of the present real gross domestic product (GDP) prior to its release. The GDPNow forecast is constructed by aggregating statistical model forecasts of 13 subcomponents that comprise GDP. GDPNow is not an official forecast of the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta, its president, the Federal Reserve System, or the FOMC.

 

8

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND - CLASS I SHARES

Performance Data

AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $1,000,000 Investment in Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity
Fund - Class I Shares
vs. S&P 500® Index

 

 

This chart assumes a hypothetical $1,000,000 initial investment in the Fund’s Class I Shares made on February 29, 2012 (commencement of operations) and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the S&P 500® Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the periods ended August 31, 2018

 
 

One
Year

Three
Year

Five
Year

Since
Inception
*

 

Class I Shares

24.98%

15.35%

13.78%

13.56%

 

S&P 500® Index**

19.66%

16.11%

14.52%

14.67%

 

 

 

*

Class I Shares of the Fund commenced operations on February 29, 2012.

 

**

Benchmark performance is from inception date of the Class I Shares only and is not the inception date of the benchmark itself.

 

Performance quoted is past performance and does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment in the Fund will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher. Returns shown do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Performance data current to the most recent month-end may be obtained by calling (855) 744-8500.

 

The Fund’s total annual gross and net operating expenses, as stated in the current prospectus dated March 19, 2018, are 1.14% and 0.98%, respectively, of average daily net assets for Class I Shares. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. The Fund’s investment adviser (the “Adviser”) has contractually agreed to waive management fees and/or reimburse expenses through December 31, 2019 to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) exceed 0.98% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class I Shares. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed 0.98%: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes. The contractual limitation may not be terminated before December 31, 2019 without the approval of the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses for a year are less than 0.98% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class I Shares, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees forgone and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement.

 

9

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND - CLASS I SHARES

Performance Data (CONTINUED)

AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

The Fund’s investments will generally consist of securities, which may include common stocks, preferred stocks, warrants to acquire common stock and securities convertible into common stock. Portfolio composition is subject to change. The Fund evaluates performance as compared to that of the Standard & Poor’s 500® Index (“S&P 500®”). The S&P 500® is a widely recognized, unmanaged index of 500 common stocks which are generally representative of the U.S. stock market as a whole. It is impossible to invest directly in an index.

 

10

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND - CLASS A SHARES

Performance Data (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity
Fund - Class A Shares
vs. S&P 500® Index

 

 

This chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 initial investment, adjusted for the Class A Shares maximum sales charge of 5.25% to a net initial investment of $9,475, in the Fund’s Class A Shares made on October 29, 2015 (commencement of operations) and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the S&P 500® Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the periods ended August 31, 2018

 
 

One
Year

Since
Inception
*

 

Class A Shares (without sales charge)

24.68%

13.43%

 

Class A Shares (with sales charge)

18.16%

11.30%

 

S&P 500® Index**

19.66%

14.61%

 

 

 

*

Class A Shares of the Fund commenced operations on October 29, 2015.

 

**

Benchmark performance is from inception date of the Class A Shares only and is not the inception date of the benchmark itself.

 

Class A Shares of the Fund have a 5.25% maximum sales charge.

 

Performance quoted is past performance and does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment in the Fund will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher. Returns shown do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Performance data current to the most recent month-end may be obtained by calling (855) 744-8500.

 

The Fund’s total annual gross and net operating expenses, as stated in the current prospectus dated March 19, 2018, are 1.39% and 1.23%, respectively, of average daily net assets for Class A Shares. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. The Fund’s investment adviser (the “Adviser”) has contractually agreed to waive management fees and/or reimburse expenses through December 31, 2019 to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) exceed 1.23% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class A Shares. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse certain expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed 1.23%: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes. The contractual limitation may not be terminated before December 31, 2019 without the approval of the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating

 

11

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND - CLASS A SHARES

Performance Data (continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

expenses for a year are less than 1.23% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class A Shares, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees forgone and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement.

 

The Fund’s investments will generally consist of securities, which may include common stocks, preferred stocks, warrants to acquire common stock and securities convertible into common stock. Portfolio composition is subject to change. The Fund evaluates performance as compared to that of the Standard & Poor’s 500® Index (“S&P 500®”). The S&P 500® is a widely recognized, unmanaged index of 500 common stocks which are generally representative of the U.S. stock market as a whole. It is impossible to invest directly in an index.

 

12

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND - CLASS C SHARES

Performance Data (Continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity
Fund - Class C Shares
vs. S&P 500® Index

 

 

This chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 initial investment in the Fund’s Class C Shares made on December 31, 2015 (commencement of operations) and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the S&P 500® Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the periods ended August 31, 2018

 
 

One
Year

Since
Inception
*

 

Class C Shares

23.80%

13.83%

 

S&P 500® Index**

19.66%

16.40%

 

 

 

*

Class C Shares of the Fund commenced operations on December 31, 2015.

 

**

Benchmark performance is from inception date of the Class C Shares only and is not the inception date of the benchmark itself.

 

Performance quoted is past performance and does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment in the Fund will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher. Returns shown do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Performance data current to the most recent month-end may be obtained by calling (855) 744-8500.

 

The Fund’s total annual gross and net operating expenses, as stated in the current prospectus dated March 19, 2018, are 2.14% and 1.98%, respectively, of average daily net assets for Class C Shares. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. The Fund’s investment adviser (the “Adviser”) has contractually agreed to waive management fees and/or reimburse expenses through December 31, 2019 to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) exceed 1.98% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class C Shares. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed 1.98%: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes. The contractual limitation may not be terminated before December 31, 2019 without the approval of the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses for a year are less than 1.98% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class C Shares, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees forgone and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement.

 

13

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND - CLASS C SHARES

Performance Data (Continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

The Fund’s investments will generally consist of securities, which may include common stocks, preferred stocks, warrants to acquire common stock and securities convertible into common stock. Portfolio composition is subject to change. The Fund evaluates performance as compared to that of the Standard & Poor’s 500® Index (“S&P 500®”). The S&P 500® is a widely recognized, unmanaged index of 500 common stocks which are generally representative of the U.S. stock market as a whole. It is impossible to invest directly in an index.

 

14

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND - CLASS I SHARES

Performance Data (Continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $1,000,000 Investment in Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility
Fund - Class I Shares
vs. Russell 2000® Index

 

 

This chart assumes a hypothetical $1,000,000 initial investment in the Fund’s Class I Shares made on March 31, 2016 (commencement of operations) and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the Russell 2000® Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the periods ended August 31, 2018

 
 

One
Year

Since
Inception
*

 

Class I Shares

22.26%

18.92%

 

Russell 2000® Index**

25.45%

21.87%

 

 

 

*

Class I Shares of the Fund commenced operations on March 31, 2016.

 

**

Benchmark performance is from inception date of the Class I Shares only and is not the inception date of the benchmark itself.

 

Performance quoted is past performance and does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment in the Fund will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher. Returns shown do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Performance data current to the most recent month-end may be obtained by calling (855) 744-8500.

 

The Fund’s total annual gross and net operating expenses, as stated in the current prospectus dated March 19, 2018, are 2.40% and 1.42%, respectively, of average daily net assets for Class I Shares. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. The Fund’s investment adviser (the “Adviser”) has contractually agreed to waive management fees and/or reimburse expenses through December 31, 2019 to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) exceed 1.23% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class I Shares. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed 1.23%: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes. This contractual limitation may not be terminated before December 31, 2019 without the approval of the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses for a year are less than 1.23% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class I Shares, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees forgone and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement.

 

15

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND - CLASS I SHARES

Performance Data (Continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

The Fund’s investments will generally consist of securities, which may include common stocks, preferred stocks, warrants to acquire common stock and securities convertible into common stock. Portfolio composition is subject to change. The Fund evaluates performance as compared to that of the Russell 2000® Index (“Russell 2000®”). The Russell 2000® is a widely recognized, unmanaged index of 2,000 common stocks which are generally representative of the U.S. Small Companies. It is impossible to invest directly in an index.

 

The Fund invests in equity securities and in stocks of small companies which are subject to market, economic and business risks that may cause their price to rise or fall over time. Stocks of small companies may be more volatile, less liquid or not as readily marketable as those of larger companies. Small companies may also have limited product lines, markets or financial resources and may be dependent on relatively small or inexperienced management groups. Although the Fund seeks lower volatility, there is no guarantee the Fund will perform as expected.

 

16

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND - CLASS A SHARES (FORMERLY RETAIL CLASS SHARES)

Performance Data (Continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility
Fund - Class A Shares
vs. Russell 2000® Index

 

 

This chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 initial investment in the Fund’s Class A Shares made on March 31, 2016 (commencement of operations) and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the Russell 2000® Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the periods ended August 31, 2018

 
 

One
Year

Since
Inception
*

 

Class A Shares (without sales charge)

21.90%

18.68%

 

Class A Shares (with sales charge)

15.46%

16.08%

 

Russell 2000® Index**

25.45%

21.87%

 

 

 

*

Class A Shares of the Fund commenced operations on March 31, 2016.

 

**

Benchmark performance is from inception date of the Class A Shares only and is not the inception date of the benchmark itself.

 

Class A Shares of the Fund have a 5.25% maximum sales charge.

 

Performance quoted is past performance and does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment in the Fund will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher. Returns shown do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Performance data current to the most recent month-end may be obtained by calling (855) 744-8500.

 

The Fund’s total annual gross and net operating expenses, as stated in the current prospectus dated March 19, 2018, are 2.65% and 1.67%, respectively, of average daily net assets for Class A Shares. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. The Fund’s investment adviser (the “Adviser”) has contractually agreed to waive management fees and/or reimburse expenses through December 31, 2019 to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) exceed 1.48% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class A Shares. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed 1.48%: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes. This contractual limitation may not be terminated before December 31, 2019 without the approval of the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses for a year are less than 1.48% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class A Shares, the Adviser is entitled to

 

17

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND - CLASS A SHARES

Performance Data (Continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees forgone and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement.

 

The Fund’s investments will generally consist of securities, which may include common stocks, preferred stocks, warrants to acquire common stock and securities convertible into common stock. Portfolio composition is subject to change. The Fund evaluates performance as compared to that of the Russell 2000® Index (“Russell 2000®”). The Russell 2000® is a widely recognized, unmanaged index of 2,000 common stocks which are generally representative of the U.S. Small Companies. It is impossible to invest directly in an index.

 

The Fund invests in equity securities and in stocks of small companies which are subject to market, economic and business risks that may cause their price to rise or fall over time. Stocks of small companies may be more volatile, less liquid or not as readily marketable as those of larger companies. Small companies may also have limited product lines, markets or financial resources and may be dependent on relatively small or inexperienced management groups. Although the Fund seeks lower volatility, there is no guarantee the Fund will perform as expected.

 

18

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND - CLASS C SHARES

Performance Data (Continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $10,000 Investment in Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility
Fund - Class C Shares
vs. Russell 2000® Index

 

 

This chart assumes a hypothetical $10,000 initial investment in the Fund’s Class C Shares made on March 31, 2016 (commencement of operations) and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the Russell 2000® Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the periods ended August 31, 2018

 
 

One
Year

Since
Inception
*

 

Class C Shares

21.05%

17.77%

 

Russell 2000® Index**

25.45%

21.87%

 

 

 

*

Class C Shares of the Fund commenced operations on March 31, 2016.

 

**

Benchmark performance is from inception date of the Class C Shares only and is not the inception date of the benchmark itself.

 

Performance quoted is past performance and does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment in the Fund will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher. Returns shown do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Performance data current to the most recent month-end may be obtained by calling (855) 744-8500.

 

The Fund’s total annual gross and net operating expenses, as stated in the current prospectus dated March 19, 2018, are 3.40% and 2.42%, respectively, of average daily net assets for Class C Shares. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. The Fund’s investment adviser (the “Adviser”) has contractually agreed to waive management fees and/or reimburse expenses through December 31, 2019 to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) exceed 2.23% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class C Shares. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause net total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed 2.23%: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, interest or taxes. This contractual limitation may not be terminated before December 31, 2019 without the approval of the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses for a year are less than 2.23% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class C Shares, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees forgone and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement.

 

19

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND - CLASS C SHARES

Performance Data (Continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

The Fund’s investments will generally consist of securities, which may include common stocks, preferred stocks, warrants to acquire common stock and securities convertible into common stock. Portfolio composition is subject to change. The Fund evaluates performance as compared to that of the Russell 2000® Index (“Russell 2000®”). The Russell 2000® is a widely recognized, unmanaged index of 2,000 common stocks which are generally representative of the U.S. Small Companies. It is impossible to invest directly in an index.

 

The Fund invests in equity securities and in stocks of small companies which are subject to market, economic and business risks that may cause their price to rise or fall over time. Stocks of small companies may be more volatile, less liquid or not as readily marketable as those of larger companies. Small companies may also have limited product lines, markets or financial resources and may be dependent on relatively small or inexperienced management groups. Although the Fund seeks lower volatility, there is no guarantee the Fund will perform as expected.

 

20

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

GLOBAL LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Performance Data (CONTINUED)

AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

Comparison of Change in Value of $1,000,000 Investment in Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility
Fund - Class I Shares
vs. MSCI ACWI Index

 

 

This chart assumes a hypothetical $1,000,000 minimum initial investment, in the Fund’s Class I Shares made on April 1, 2009 (commencement of operations) and reflects Fund expenses. Investors should note that the Fund is an actively managed mutual fund while the MSCI ACWI Index is unmanaged, does not incur expenses and is not available for investment.

 

Average Annual Total Returns for the periods ended August 31, 2018*

 
 

One
Year

Three
Year

Five
Year

Since
Inception

 

Class I Shares**

11.36%

4.75%

9.03%

17.48%

 

MSCI ACWI Index***

11.99%

12.46%

10.26%

13.58%

 

 

 

*

Returns for periods prior to January 3, 2017 were generated under the Management of the Fund’s former investment adviser and reflect a previous investment strategy.

 

**

The Fund operated as a series of Scotia Institutional Funds prior to the close of business on March 21, 2014 (the “Predecessor Fund”), at which time the Predecessor Fund was reorganized into the Scotia Dynamic U.S. Growth Fund a newly created series of The RBB Fund, Inc. The fiscal year end of the Predecessor Fund was September 30. The performance shown for periods prior to March 21, 2014 represents the performance for the Predecessor Fund. While the Predecessor Fund commenced operations on March 31, 2009, the Predecessor Fund began investing consistent with its investment objective on April 1, 2009. Effective January 3, 2017, the Scotia Dynamic U.S. Growth Fund changed its name to the Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund (the “Fund”).

 

***

Benchmark performance is from inception date of the Predecessor Fund only and is not the inception date of the benchmark itself.

 

Performance quoted is past performance and does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment in the Fund will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. Current performance may be lower or higher. Returns shown do not reflect taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or on the redemption of Fund shares. Performance data current to the most recent month-end may be obtained by calling 1-855-744-8500.

 

The Fund’s total annual gross and net operating expenses, as stated in the current prospectus dated March 19, 2018, are 1.32% and 0.84%, respectively, of average daily net assets for Class I Shares. These ratios may differ from the actual expenses incurred by the Fund for the period covered by this report. The Fund’s investment adviser (the “Adviser”) has contractually agreed to waive management fees and/or reimburse certain expenses of the Fund through December 31, 2019 to the extent necessary to ensure that the Fund’s total annual operating expenses (excluding taxes, extraordinary expenses, brokerage commissions and interest) do not exceed 0.84% (on an annual basis) of Class I’s average daily net assets (the “Expense Limitation”). The Expense Limitation shall

 

21

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

GLOBAL LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Performance Data (Concluded)

AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

remain in effect until December 31, 2019, unless the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. approves its earlier termination. If at any time the Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses for a year are less than 0.84% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class I Shares, the Adviser is entitled to reimbursement by the Fund of the advisory fees forgone and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such reimbursement does not cause the Fund to exceed expense limitations that were in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement.

 

International investing is subject to special risks including, but not limited to, currency risk associated with securities denominated in other than the U.S. dollar, which may be affected by fluctuations in currency exchange rates, political, social or economic instability, and differences in taxation, auditing, and other financial practices.

 

The MSCI ACWI Index (the “Index”) captures large and mid cap representation across 23 Developed Markets (DM) and 24 Emerging Markets (EM) countries. With more than 2,700 constituents, the index covers approximately 85% of the global investable equity opportunity set. It is not possible to invest directly with an index.

 

22

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

 

Fund Expense Examples

AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

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

 

These examples are based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the six-month period from March 1, 2018 through August 31, 2018 and held for the entire period.

 

Actual Expenses

 

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

 

Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes

 

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

 

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

 

 

Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund

 

Beginning
Account Value
March 1, 2018

Ending
Account Value
August 31, 2018

Expenses
Paid During
Period
*

Annualized
Expense
Ratio

Actual Six-Month
Total Investment
Return for
the Fund

Class I Shares

         

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,130.90

$ 5.26

0.98%

13.09%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,020.27

4.99

0.98%

N/A

Class A Shares

         

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,129.30

$ 6.60

1.23%

12.93%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,019.00

6.26

1.23%

N/A

Class C Shares

         

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,125.40

$ 10.61

1.98%

12.54%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,015.22

10.06

1.98%

N/A

 

23

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

 

Fund Expense Examples (Concluded)

AUGUST 31, 2018 (Unaudited)

 

 

Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund

 

Beginning
Account Value
March 1, 2018

Ending
Account Value
August 31, 2018

Expenses
Paid During
Period
*

Annualized
Expense
Ratio

Actual Six-Month
Total Investment
Return for
the Fund

Class I Shares

         

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,190.40

$ 6.79

1.23%

19.04%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,019.00

6.26

1.23%

N/A

Class A Shares

         

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,188.60

$ 8.16

1.48%

18.86%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,017.74

7.53

1.48%

N/A

Class C Shares

         

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,184.80

$ 12.28

2.23%

18.48%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,013.96

11.32

2.23%

N/A

 

 

Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility

 

Beginning
Account Value
March 1, 2018

Ending
Account Value
August 31, 2018

Expenses
Paid During
Period
*

Annualized
Expense
Ratio

Actual Six-Month
Total Investment
Return for
the Fund

Class I Shares

         

Actual

$ 1,000.00

$ 1,050.30

$ 4.34

0.84%

5.03%

Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)

1,000.00

1,020.97

4.28

0.84%

N/A

 

 

*

Expenses are equal to each Fund's annualized six-month expense ratio for the period March 1, 2018 to August 31, 2018, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by the number of days (184) in the most recent fiscal half-year, then divided by 365 to reflect the one half year period. Each Fund's ending account values on the first line in the tables is based on the actual six-month total investment return for each Fund.

 

24

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND

Portfolio Holdings Summary Table

AUGUST 31, 2018 (UNAUDITED)

 

The following table presents a summary by industry of the portfolio holdings of the Fund:

 

   

% of Net
Assets

   

Value

 

COMMON STOCKS:

               

Software

    12.5 %   $ 56,080,274  

Retail

    12.4       55,555,824  

Commercial Services

    10.0       44,810,327  

Oil & Gas

    7.3       32,676,977  

Healthcare Products

    5.7       25,693,509  

Pharmaceuticals

    5.0       22,447,819  

Computers

    3.6       16,313,788  

REITS

    3.6       16,196,906  

Internet

    3.6       16,122,972  

Food

    2.9       13,147,990  

Telecommunications

    2.7       12,280,083  

Entertainment

    2.6       11,785,920  

Cosmetics & Personal Care

    2.5       11,296,641  

Healthcare Services

    2.4       10,912,624  

Electric

    2.1       9,523,371  

Beverages

    2.0       8,994,403  

Insurance

    1.9       8,417,878  

Diversified Financial Services

    1.8       8,215,306  

Electronics

    1.7       7,781,961  

Machinery-Diversified

    1.2       5,490,008  

Apparel

    1.1       4,744,695  

Banks

    1.0       4,352,050  

Aerospace & Defense

    0.9       3,948,395  

Chemicals

    0.9       3,852,798  

Lodging

    0.8       3,762,010  

Semiconductors

    0.8       3,608,040  

Environmental Control

    0.7       2,983,654  

Water

    0.5       2,188,250  

Hand & Machine Tools

    0.4       1,714,766  

Biotechnology

    0.3       1,272,564  

Iron & Steel

    0.3       1,193,750  

Distribution & Wholesale

    0.2       992,120  

Transportation

    0.2       922,368  

Media

    0.2       884,958  

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS

    1.6       6,918,152  

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

    2.3       10,300,321  

OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES

    0.3       1,486,273  

NET ASSETS

    100 %   $ 448,869,745  

 

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


25

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND

Portfolio of Investments

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

   

Number
of Shares

   

Value

 

COMMON STOCKS - 95.8%

               

Aerospace & Defense — 0.9%

               

HEICO Corp.

    25,875     $ 2,346,345  

Lockheed Martin Corp.

    5,000       1,602,050  
              3,948,395  

Apparel — 1.1%

               

VF Corp.

    51,500       4,744,695  

Banks — 1.0%

               

BB&T Corp.

    14,300       738,738  

Northern Trust Corp.

    26,200       2,815,452  

Regions Financial Corp.

    41,000       797,860  
              4,352,050  

Beverages — 2.0%

               

PepsiCo, Inc.

    80,300       8,994,403  

Biotechnology — 0.3%

               

Biogen, Inc.*

    3,600       1,272,564  

Chemicals — 0.9%

               

Air Products & Chemicals, Inc.

    12,200       2,028,738  

International Flavors & Fragrances, Inc.

    14,000       1,824,060  
              3,852,798  

Commercial Services — 10.0%

               

Ecolab, Inc.

    33,800       5,086,224  

Equifax, Inc.

    25,200       3,376,044  

Moody's Corp.

    26,500       4,717,530  

Robert Half International, Inc.

    192,300       15,034,014  

S&P Global, Inc.

    75,700       15,673,685  

Total System Services, Inc.

    9,500       922,830  
              44,810,327  

Computers — 3.6%

               

Accenture PLC, Class A, (Ireland)

    20,200       3,415,214  

Apple, Inc.

    21,800       4,962,334  

Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp.

    90,000       7,058,700  

HP, Inc.

    35,600       877,540  
              16,313,788  

Cosmetics & Personal Care — 2.5%

       

Colgate-Palmolive Co.

    47,100       3,127,911  

Estee Lauder Cos, Inc., (The)

    34,500       4,834,140  

Procter & Gamble Co., (The)

    40,200       3,334,590  
              11,296,641  

Distribution & Wholesale — 0.2%

       

Fastenal Co.

    17,000       992,120  

Diversified Financial Services — 1.8%

       

Mastercard, Inc.

    20,800       4,483,648  

T Rowe Price Group, Inc.

    32,200       3,731,658  
              8,215,306  

Electric — 2.1%

               

AES Corp.

    80,000     $ 1,076,800  

Consolidated Edison, Inc.

    10,900       860,337  

Edison International

    34,000       2,234,820  

Pinnacle West Capital Corp.

    10,600       832,630  

Sempra Energy

    7,800       905,424  

Xcel Energy, Inc.

    75,200       3,613,360  
              9,523,371  

Electronics — 1.7%

               

Agilent Technologies, Inc.

    46,400       3,133,856  

Corning, Inc.

    27,700       928,227  

Garmin Ltd., (Switzerland)

    13,000       885,820  

Mettler-Toledo International, Inc.*

    3,500       2,045,610  

TE Connectivity Ltd., (Switzerland)

    8,600       788,448  
              7,781,961  

Entertainment — 2.6%

               

Madison Square Garden Co., (The)*

    24,000       7,246,560  

Six Flags Entertainment Corp.

    67,200       4,539,360  
              11,785,920  

Environmental Control — 0.7%

               

Republic Services, Inc.

    28,900       2,120,104  

Waste Management, Inc.

    9,500       863,550  
              2,983,654  

Food — 2.9%

               

Hershey Co., (The)

    30,800       3,096,016  

Ingredion, Inc.

    10,400       1,051,128  

Sysco Corp.

    120,300       9,000,846  
              13,147,990  

Hand & Machine Tools — 0.4%

               

Snap-on, Inc.

    9,700       1,714,766  

Healthcare Products — 5.7%

               

Baxter International, Inc.

    79,700       5,927,289  

Bio-Techne Corp.

    34,800       6,687,516  

Edwards Lifesciences Corp.*

    15,200       2,192,448  

IDEXX Laboratories, Inc.*

    16,400       4,166,256  

Intuitive Surgical, Inc.*

    12,000       6,720,000  
              25,693,509  

Healthcare Services — 2.4%

               

Humana, Inc.

    2,600       866,476  

Quest Diagnostics, Inc.

    29,100       3,200,418  

UnitedHealth Group, Inc.

    25,500       6,845,730  
              10,912,624  

Insurance — 1.9%

               

Allstate Corp., (The)

    8,500       854,845  

Aon PLC

    8,100       1,179,036  

Marsh & McLennan Cos, Inc.

    49,900       4,223,037  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


26

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND

Portfolio of Investments (CONTINUED)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

   

Number
of Shares

   

Value

 

Insurance — 1.9% (Continued)

               

Progressive Corp., (The)

    32,000     $ 2,160,960  
              8,417,878  

Internet — 3.6%

               

Alphabet, Inc.*

    7,700       9,484,860  

F5 Networks, Inc.*

    35,100       6,638,112  
              16,122,972  

Iron & Steel — 0.3%

               

Nucor Corp.

    19,100       1,193,750  

Lodging — 0.8%

               

Choice Hotels International, Inc.

    48,200       3,762,010  

Machinery-Diversified — 1.2%

               

Roper Technologies, Inc.

    18,400       5,490,008  

Media — 0.2%

               

Walt Disney Co., (The)

    7,900       884,958  

Oil & Gas — 7.3%

               

EOG Resources, Inc.

    25,700       3,038,511  

Exxon Mobil Corp.

    36,700       2,942,239  

HollyFrontier Corp.

    34,600       2,578,392  

Phillips 66

    92,900       11,009,579  

Valero Energy Corp.

    111,200       13,108,256  
              32,676,977  

Pharmaceuticals — 5.0%

               

Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.

    15,500       938,525  

Eli Lilly & Co.

    87,300       9,223,245  

Johnson & Johnson

    48,100       6,478,589  

Zoetis, Inc.

    64,100       5,807,460  
              22,447,819  

REITS — 3.6%

               

American Tower Corp.

    37,300       5,562,176  

Duke Realty Corp.

    159,200       4,535,608  

Iron Mountain, Inc.

    115,300       4,162,330  

Public Storage

    5,200       1,105,416  

UDR, Inc.

    20,800       831,376  
              16,196,906  

Retail — 12.4%

               

Costco Wholesale Corp.

    15,300       3,566,889  

Dollar General Corp.

    8,200       883,386  

Home Depot, Inc., (The)

    30,800       6,183,716  

Kohl's Corp.

    18,800       1,487,268  

Lowe's Cos, Inc.

    9,600       1,044,000  

Lululemon Athletica, Inc.*

    39,100       6,057,763  

Ross Stores, Inc.

    9,800       938,644  

Retail — 12.4% (Continued)

               

Starbucks Corp.

    42,600     $ 2,276,970  

Tapestry, Inc.

    84,000       4,257,960  

Tiffany & Co.

    14,800       1,815,220  

TJX Cos, Inc., (The)

    103,400       11,370,898  

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

    163,500       15,673,110  
              55,555,824  

Semiconductors — 0.8%

               

Texas Instruments, Inc.

    32,100       3,608,040  

Software — 12.5%

               

Adobe Systems, Inc.*

    3,500       922,285  

Cadence Design Systems, Inc.*

    19,800       931,392  

Citrix Systems, Inc.*

    79,000       9,007,580  

Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.

    63,800       6,901,246  

Fiserv, Inc.*

    21,800       1,745,526  

Intuit, Inc.

    71,500       15,692,105  

Microsoft Corp.

    31,300       3,515,929  

Paychex, Inc.

    30,100       2,204,825  

Salesforce.com, Inc.*

    6,400       977,152  

Synopsys, Inc.*

    67,300       6,874,022  

Ultimate Software Group, Inc., (The)*

    23,600       7,308,212  
              56,080,274  

Telecommunications — 2.7%

               

AT&T, Inc.

    181,100       5,784,334  

Cisco Systems, Inc.

    117,200       5,598,644  

Verizon Communications, Inc.

    16,500       897,105  
              12,280,083  

Transportation — 0.2%

               

CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc.

    9,600       922,368  

Water — 0.5%

               

American Water Works Co, Inc.

    25,000       2,188,250  
                 

TOTAL COMMON STOCKS

               

(Cost $366,873,265)

            430,164,999  
         

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS - 1.6%

       

iShares Core S&P 500 ETF

    11,800       3,450,792  

Vanguard S&P 500 ETF

    13,000       3,467,360  
              6,918,152  

TOTAL EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS

               

(Cost $6,563,788)

            6,918,152  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


27

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND

Portfolio of Investments (Concluded)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

   

Number
of Shares

   

Value

 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS - 2.3%

Fidelity Investments Money Market Funds - Government Portfolio, 1.82% (a)

    10,300,321     $ 10,300,321  

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

               

(Cost $10,300,321)

            10,300,321  

TOTAL INVESTMENTS - 99.7%

               

(Cost $383,737,374)

            447,383,472  

OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES - 0.3%

            1,486,273  

NET ASSETS - 100.0%

          $ 448,869,745  

 

 

*

Non-income producing security.

 

(a)

Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.

 

PLC Public Limited Company.

 

REIT Real Estate Investment Trust

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


28

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Portfolio Holdings Summary Table

AUGUST 31, 2018 (UNAUDITED)

 

The following table presents a summary by industry of the portfolio holdings of the Fund:

 

   

% of Net
Assets

   

Value

 

COMMON STOCKS:

               

Banks

    10.5 %   $ 3,717,360  

Software

    8.2       2,891,068  

Retail

    7.7       2,713,789  

Internet

    6.6       2,337,726  

Healthcare-Products

    6.1       2,163,093  

Leisure Time

    5.2       1,840,074  

Commercial Services

    4.9       1,712,222  

Chemicals

    3.8       1,326,051  

Healthcare-Services

    3.2       1,143,234  

Biotechnology

    3.2       1,123,629  

Building Materials

    3.0       1,054,450  

Telecommunications

    2.9       1,006,868  

Machinery-Diversified

    2.8       995,807  

Electronics

    2.0       726,726  

Food

    2.0       692,994  

Apparel

    2.0       689,839  

Semiconductors

    1.9       680,696  

REITS

    1.9       678,912  

Real Estate

    1.9       662,591  

Pharmaceuticals

    1.8       618,267  

Oil & Gas Services

    1.6       572,633  

Media

    1.1       384,604  

Engineering & Construction

    1.0       367,360  

Insurance

    1.0       364,224  

Household Products & Wares

    1.0       356,850  

Auto Parts & Equipment

    1.0       353,058  

Airlines

    1.0       352,750  

Gas

    1.0       352,600  

Advertising

    1.0       349,320  

Computers

    1.0       347,261  

Transportation

    1.0       334,152  

Textiles

    0.9       333,360  

Miscellaneous Manufacturing

    0.9       329,565  

Electric

    0.9       328,474  

Agriculture

    0.8       292,640  

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS

    1.5       523,820  

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

    2.8       990,607  

LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS

    (1.1 )     (390,495 )

NET ASSETS

    100 %   $ 35,318,179  

 

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


29

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Portfolio of Investments

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

   

Number
of Shares

   

Value

 

COMMON STOCKS - 96.8%

               

Advertising — 1.0%

               

Forrester Research, Inc.

    7,100     $ 349,320  

Agriculture — 0.8%

               

Phibro Animal Health Corp., Class A

    6,200       292,640  

Airlines — 1.0%

               

Hawaiian Holdings, Inc.

    8,500       352,750  

Apparel — 2.0%

               

Oxford Industries, Inc.

    3,600       335,124  

Steven Madden Ltd.

    6,100       354,715  
              689,839  

Auto Parts & Equipment — 1.0%

       

Meritor, Inc.*

    16,300       353,058  

Banks — 10.5%

               

Bryn Mawr Bank Corp.

    7,100       346,480  

Carolina Financial Corp.

    8,600       353,890  

CenterState Bank Corp.

    11,500       352,130  

FCB Financial Holdings, Inc.*

    6,300       326,340  

First Bancshares, Inc., (The)

    8,100       332,505  

Great Southern Bancorp, Inc.

    5,100       302,430  

Heritage Commerce Corp.

    22,000       348,480  

National Commerce Corp.*

    8,000       352,000  

Opus Bank

    12,000       340,200  

Preferred Bank

    5,500       336,655  

QCR Holdings, Inc.

    7,500       326,250  
              3,717,360  

Biotechnology — 3.2%

               

Emergent BioSolutions, Inc.*

    5,400       334,800  

Ligand Pharmaceuticals, Inc.*

    1,500       389,535  

Retrophin, Inc.*

    12,600       399,294  
              1,123,629  

Building Materials — 3.0%

               

Boise Cascade Co.

    7,400       323,380  

PGT Innovations, Inc.*

    14,400       349,920  

Trex Co, Inc.*

    4,500       381,150  
              1,054,450  

Chemicals — 3.8%

               

AdvanSix, Inc.*

    9,600       324,864  

Ingevity Corp.*

    3,500       353,535  

Quaker Chemical Corp.

    1,900       342,266  

Sensient Technologies Corp.

    4,300       305,386  
              1,326,051  

Commercial Services — 4.9%

               

ICF International, Inc.

    4,000       326,600  

Korn/Ferry International

    5,200       349,076  

SP Plus Corp.*

    9,000       350,100  

Tarena International, Inc.

    40,900       347,650  

Commercial Services — 4.9% (Continued)

       

Willdan Group, Inc.*

    10,800     $ 338,796  
              1,712,222  

Computers — 1.0%

               

WNS Holdings Ltd., (India) ADR*

    6,700       347,261  

Electric — 0.9%

               

Unitil Corp.

    6,498       328,474  

Electronics — 2.0%

               

Alarm.com Holdings, Inc.*

    7,000       394,030  

Orbotech Ltd., (Israel)*

    5,200       332,696  
              726,726  

Engineering & Construction — 1.0%

       

Comfort Systems USA, Inc.

    6,400       367,360  

Food — 2.0%

               

J&J Snack Foods Corp.

    2,400       349,200  

Lancaster Colony Corp.

    2,200       343,794  
              692,994  

Gas — 1.0%

               

Chesapeake Utilities Corp.

    4,100       352,600  

Healthcare-Products — 6.1%

               

CONMED Corp.

    4,100       329,763  

Inogen, Inc.*

    1,600       423,856  

LeMaitre Vascular, Inc.

    9,460       354,845  

NuVasive, Inc.*

    5,800       407,102  

OraSure Technologies, Inc.*

    18,700       299,387  

Orthofix Medical, Inc.*

    6,500       348,140  
              2,163,093  

Healthcare-Services — 3.2%

               

Amedisys, Inc.*

    3,500       437,535  

Ensign Group, Inc., (The)

    9,200       359,444  

LHC Group, Inc.*

    3,500       346,255  
              1,143,234  

Household Products & Wares — 1.0%

       

Helen of Troy Ltd., (Bermuda)*

    3,000       356,850  

Insurance — 1.0%

               

Essent Group Ltd.*

    8,400       364,224  

Internet — 6.6%

               

Despegar.com Corp.*

    20,600       347,316  

ePlus, Inc.*

    3,010       311,986  

Imperva, Inc.*

    7,000       330,050  

Mimecast Ltd.*

    8,000       332,720  

Wix.com Ltd.*

    3,000       333,300  

XO Group, Inc.*

    11,100       333,666  

Yelp, Inc.*

    7,400       348,688  
              2,337,726  

Leisure Time — 5.2%

               

Callaway Golf Co.

    16,100       367,241  

Fox Factory Holding Corp.*

    6,700       442,535  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


30

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Portfolio of Investments (Concluded)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

   

Number
of Shares

   

Value

 

Leisure Time — 5.2% (Continued)

       

LCI Industries

    3,600     $ 334,620  

MCBC Holdings, Inc.*

    12,799       352,868  

Nautilus, Inc.*

    23,400       342,810  
              1,840,074  

Machinery-Diversified — 2.8%

               

Applied Industrial Technologies, Inc.

    4,200       323,610  

Cactus, Inc.*

    10,100       345,218  

Manitowoc Co Inc/The*

    14,100       326,979  
              995,807  

Media — 1.1%

               

World Wrestling Entertainment, Inc.

    4,400       384,604  

Miscellaneous Manufacturing — 0.9%

       

GP Strategies Corp.*

    17,300       329,565  

Oil & Gas Services — 1.6%

               

C&J Energy Services, Inc.*

    13,500       282,825  

Keane Group, Inc.*

    23,600       289,808  
              572,633  

Pharmaceuticals — 1.8%

               

Enanta Pharmaceuticals, Inc.*

    3,100       281,883  

Neogen Corp.*

    3,600       336,384  
              618,267  

Real Estate — 1.9%

               

Marcus & Millichap, Inc.*

    8,600       313,126  

RMR Group Inc., Class A, (The)

    3,700       349,465  
              662,591  

REITS — 1.9%

               

Cherry Hill Mortgage Investment Corp.

    18,700       347,820  

First Industrial Realty Trust, Inc.

    10,200       331,092  
              678,912  

Retail — 7.7%

               

America's Car-Mart Inc/TX*

    4,800       400,560  

BMC Stock Holdings, Inc.*

    15,900       357,750  

Carrols Restaurant Group, Inc.*

    21,800       344,440  

Foundation Building Materials, Inc.*

    24,500       338,345  

Genesco, Inc.*

    7,700       391,545  

Lumber Liquidators Holdings, Inc.*

    17,500       305,025  

Michaels Cos, Inc., (The)*

    15,600       265,044  

Ruth's Hospitality Group, Inc.

    10,100       311,080  
              2,713,789  

Semiconductors — 1.9%

               

Advanced Energy Industries, Inc.*

    5,600       333,648  

Rambus, Inc.*

    28,400       347,048  
              680,696  

Software — 8.2%

               

Appfolio, Inc.*

    4,700     $ 401,380  

Five9, Inc.*

    8,700       418,035  

InnerWorkings, Inc.*

    42,400       331,568  

Instructure, Inc.*

    8,100       331,695  

Manhattan Associates, Inc.*

    6,100       353,739  

MicroStrategy, Inc.*

    2,300       342,700  

SPS Commerce, Inc.*

    3,800       373,426  

Talend SA*

    5,500       338,525  
              2,891,068  

Telecommunications — 2.9%

               

InterDigital, Inc.

    3,700       305,620  

Quantenna Communications, Inc.*

    19,600       358,092  

Vonage Holdings Corp.*

    24,200       343,156  
              1,006,868  

Textiles — 0.9%

               

UniFirst Corp.

    1,800       333,360  

Transportation — 1.0%

               

Forward Air Corp.

    5,200       334,152  
                 

TOTAL COMMON STOCKS

               

(Cost $29,409,904)

            34,194,247  
                 

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS - 1.5%

       

iShares Russell 2000 ETF

    1,500       259,530  

Vanguard Russell 2000 ETF

    1,900       264,290  
              523,820  

TOTAL EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS

               

(Cost $500,346)

            523,820  
         

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS - 2.8%

       

Fidelity Investments Money Market Funds - Government Portfolio, 1.82% (a)

    990,607       990,607  

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

               

(Cost $990,607)

            990,607  

TOTAL INVESTMENTS - 101.1%

               

(Cost $30,900,857)

            35,708,674  

LIABILITIES IN EXCESS OF OTHER ASSETS - (1.1)%

            (390,495 )

NET ASSETS - 100.0%

          $ 35,318,179  

 

 

*

Non-income producing security.

 

(a)

Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.

 

ADR American Depository Receipt

 

REIT Real Estate Investment Trust

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


31

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

GLOBAL LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Portfolio Holdings Summary Table

AUGUST 31, 2018 (UNAUDITED)

 

The following table presents a summary by industry of the portfolio holdings of the Fund:

 

   

% of Net
Assets

   

Value

 

COMMON STOCKS:

               

Retail

    8.5 %   $ 1,667,533  

Pharmaceuticals

    8.5       1,653,828  

Cosmetics & Personal Care

    8.4       1,631,544  

Transportation

    6.8       1,324,822  

Software

    6.5       1,261,365  

Diversified Financial Services

    6.4       1,245,089  

Healthcare Products

    6.2       1,217,241  

Aerospace & Defense

    6.1       1,184,806  

Telecommunications

    5.8       1,136,342  

REITS

    4.5       880,847  

Banks

    4.4       856,088  

Insurance

    4.3       846,737  

Computers

    2.2       428,741  

Beverages

    2.1       418,958  

Media

    2.1       414,474  

Chemicals

    2.1       413,399  

Pipelines

    2.1       413,220  

Food

    2.1       412,132  

Household Products & Wares

    2.1       405,944  

Internet

    2.0       385,022  

Leisure Time

    1.9       371,612  

Machinery-Diversified

    1.6       323,400  

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS

    1.5       295,240  

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

    1.7       327,627  

OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES

    0.1       13,847  

NET ASSETS

    100 %   $ 19,529,858  

 

 

Portfolio holdings are subject to change at any time.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


32

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

GLOBAL LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Portfolio of Investments

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

   

Number
of Shares

   

Value

 

COMMON STOCKS - 96.7%

               

Aerospace & Defense — 6.1%

               

General Dynamics Corp.

    1,950     $ 377,130  

Raytheon Co.

    1,930       384,919  

United Technologies Corp.

    3,210       422,757  
              1,184,806  

Banks — 4.4%

               

Bank of Montreal, (Canada)

    5,400       442,584  

Royal Bank of Canada, (Canada)

    5,200       413,504  
              856,088  

Beverages — 2.1%

               

Coca-Cola Co., (The)

    9,400       418,958  

Chemicals — 2.1%

               

Nutrien Ltd., (Canada)

    7,300       413,399  

Computers — 2.2%

               

Check Point Software Technologies Ltd., (Israel)*

    3,690       428,741  

Cosmetics & Personal Care — 8.4%

       

Colgate-Palmolive Co.

    5,800       385,178  

Estee Lauder Cos, Inc., (The)

    2,770       388,132  

Procter & Gamble Co., (The)

    5,080       421,386  

Unilever, (Netherlands)

    7,600       436,848  
              1,631,544  

Diversified Financial Services — 6.4%

       

Mastercard, Inc.

    2,000       431,120  

T Rowe Price Group, Inc.

    3,500       405,615  

Visa, Inc.

    2,780       408,354  
              1,245,089  

Food — 2.1%

               

Hershey Co., (The)

    4,100       412,132  

Healthcare Products — 6.2%

               

ResMed, Inc.

    3,740       416,673  

Smith & Nephew PLC, (United Kingdom)

    10,900       390,547  

Stryker Corp.

    2,420       410,021  
              1,217,241  

Household Products & Wares — 2.1%

       

Clorox Co., (The)

    2,800       405,944  

Insurance — 4.3%

               

Berkshire Hathaway, Inc.*

    2,100       438,312  

Chubb Ltd.

    3,020       408,425  
              846,737  

Internet — 2.0%

               

Alibaba Group Holding Ltd. (China)*

    2,200       385,022  

Leisure Time — 1.9%

               

Carnival PLC, (United Kingdom) ADR

    6,100     $ 371,612  

Machinery-Diversified — 1.6%

               

FANUC Corp., (Japan)*

    16,500       323,400  

Media — 2.1%

               

Walt Disney Co., (The)

    3,700       414,474  

Pharmaceuticals — 8.5%

               

Eli Lilly & Co.

    3,870       408,865  

Novo Nordisk, (Denmark)

    8,300       408,111  

Roche Holding AG, (Switzerland) ADR

    14,200       439,632  

Sanofi, (France) ADR

    9,270       397,220  
              1,653,828  

Pipelines — 2.1%

               

TransCanada Corp., (Canada)

    9,700       413,220  

REITS — 4.5%

               

Crown Castle International
Corp.

    3,900       444,717  

Equinix, Inc.

    1,000       436,130  
              880,847  

Retail — 8.5%

               

McDonald's Corp.

    2,520       408,820  

Starbucks Corp.

    7,400       395,530  

TJX Cos, Inc., (The)

    3,700       406,889  

Wal-Mart Stores, Inc.

    4,760       456,294  
              1,667,533  

Software — 6.5%

               

Adobe Systems, Inc.*

    1,710       450,602  

Microsoft Corp.

    3,700       415,621  

SAP SE, (Germany)

    3,300       395,142  
              1,261,365  

Telecommunications — 5.8%

               

BCE, Inc., (Canada)

    9,180       374,268  

Telekomunikasi Indonesia Persero Tbk PT, (Indonesia)

    14,200       336,114  

TELUS Corp.

    11,500       425,960  
              1,136,342  

Transportation — 6.8%

               

Canadian National Railway Co., (Canada)

    5,000       444,550  

CH Robinson Worldwide, Inc.

    4,600       441,968  

Union Pacific Corp.

    2,910       438,304  
              1,324,822  

TOTAL COMMON STOCKS

               

(Cost $16,311,996)

            18,893,144  

 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


33

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

GLOBAL LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Portfolio of Investments (Concluded)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

   

Number
of Shares

   

Value

 

EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS - 1.5%

       

iShares MSCI ACWI ETF

    4,000     $ 295,240  

TOTAL EXCHANGE TRADED FUNDS

               

(Cost $295,067)

            295,240  
                 

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS - 1.7%

       

Fidelity Investments Money Market Funds - Government Portfolio, 1.82% (a)

    327,627       327,627  

TOTAL SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS

               

(Cost $327,627)

            327,627  

TOTAL INVESTMENTS - 99.9%

               

(Cost $16,934,690)

            19,516,011  

OTHER ASSETS IN EXCESS OF LIABILITIES - 0.1%

            13,847  

NET ASSETS - 100.0%

          $ 19,529,858  

 

 

*

Non-income producing security.

 

(a)

Seven-day yield as of August 31, 2018.

 

ADR American Depository Receipt

 

PLC Public Limited Company

 

REIT Real Estate Investment Trust

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


34

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

 

Statements of Assets and Liabilities

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

   

Summit Global
Investments
U.S. Low
Volatility
Equity Fund

   

Summit Global
Investments
Small Cap
Low Volatility
Fund

   

Summit Global
Investments
Global
Low Volatility
Fund

 

ASSETS

                       

Investments, at value (cost $373,437,053, $29,910,250 and $16,607,063, respectively)

  $ 437,083,151     $ 34,718,067     $ 19,188,384  

Short-term investments, at value (cost $10,300,321, $990,607 and $327,627, respectively)

    10,300,321       990,607       327,627  

Receivables for:

                       

Investments sold

                340,996  

Capital shares sold

    1,407,396       252,941       1,315  

Dividends

    759,152       17,136       41,751  

Prepaid expenses and other assets

    41,123       21,192       12,949  

Total assets

  $ 449,591,143     $ 35,999,943     $ 19,913,022  
                         

LIABILITIES

                       

Payables for:

                       

Advisory fees

  $ 295,657     $ 21,430     $ 10,152  

Capital shares redeemed

    311,823       80,305       38,655  

Investments purchased

    568       539,913       295,067  

Other accrued expenses and liabilities

    113,350       40,116       39,290  

Total liabilities

    721,398       681,764       383,164  

Net assets

  $ 448,869,745     $ 35,318,179     $ 19,529,858  
                         

NET ASSETS CONSIST OF:

                       

Par value

  $ 24,986     $ 2,556     $ 645  

Paid-in capital

    374,872,167       29,557,092       18,675,715  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss)

    1,541,322             258,784  

Accumulated net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    8,785,172       950,714       (1,986,607 )

Net unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    63,646,098       4,807,817       2,581,321  

Net assets

  $ 448,869,745     $ 35,318,179     $ 19,529,858  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


35

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

 

Statements of Assets and Liabilities (Concluded)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

   

Summit Global
Investments
U.S. Low
Volatility
Equity Fund

   

Summit Global
Investments
Small Cap
Low Volatility
Fund

   

Summit Global
Investments
Global
Low Volatility
Fund

 

CLASS I SHARES:

                       

Net assets applicable to Class I Shares

  $ 437,424,048     $ 31,558,732     $ 19,529,858  

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    24,346,986       2,283,398       644,647  

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share

  $ 17.97     $ 13.82     $ 30.30  
                         

CLASS A SHARES:

                       

Net assets applicable to Class A Shares

  $ 9,529,518     $ 3,559,616     $  

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    529,746       257,852        

Net asset value and redemption price per share

  $ 17.99     $ 13.80     $  

Maximum offering price per share (100/94.75 of $17.99 and $13.80, respectively)

  $ 18.99     $ 14.56     $  
                         

CLASS C SHARES:

                       

Net assets applicable to Class C Shares

  $ 1,916,179     $ 199,831     $  

Shares outstanding ($0.001 par value, 100,000,000 shares authorized)

    108,958       14,699        

Net asset value, offering and redemption price per share

  $ 17.59     $ 13.59     $  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


36

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

 

Statements of Operations

FOR THE YEAR ENDED AUGUST 31, 2018

 

   

Summit Global
Investments
U.S. Low
Volatility
Equity Fund

   

Summit Global
Investments
Small Cap
Low Volatility
Fund

   

Summit Global
Investments
Global
Low Volatility
Fund

 

INVESTMENT INCOME

                       

Dividends (net of foreign withholdings taxes of $568, $1,008 and $29,780, respectively)

  $ 3,941,691     $ 280,296     $ 437,164  

Total investment income

    3,941,691       280,296       437,164  
                         

EXPENSES

                       

Advisory fees (Note 2)

    1,492,806       224,340       148,818  

Administration and accounting fees (Note 2)

    106,412       20,528       18,460  

Transfer agent fees (Note 2)

    105,408       18,983       13,458  

Legal fees

    60,977       11,035       11,826  

Registration and filing fees

    47,457       44,324       24,606  

Officer's fees

    37,397       5,844       5,619  

Audit and tax service fees

    33,654       31,820       23,279  

Director's fees

    31,358       3,347       2,931  

Distribution fees - Class A Shares

    29,707       8,418        

Printing and shareholder reporting fees

    28,859       4,130       6,353  

Distribution fees - Class C Shares

    11,280       1,485        

Custodian fees (Note 2)

    9,197       4,726       2,102  

Other expenses

    55,785       8,933       8,720  

Total expenses before waivers and/or reimbursements

    2,050,297       387,913       266,172  

Less: waivers and/or reimbursements net of amounts recouped (Note 2)

    84,379       (87,054 )     (87,592 )

Net expenses after waivers and/or reimbursements net of amounts recouped

    2,134,676       300,859       178,580  

Net investment income/(loss)

    1,807,015       (20,563 )     258,584  
                         

NET REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAIN/(LOSS) FROM INVESTMENTS

                       

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    14,021,158       1,553,299       1,074,746  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    44,648,194       3,523,659       960,140  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    58,669,352       5,076,958       2,034,886  

NET INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS

  $ 60,476,367     $ 5,056,395     $ 2,293,470  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


37

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM OPERATIONS

               

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ 1,807,015     $ 1,455,100  

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    14,021,158       1,060,318  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    44,648,194       5,777,761  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    60,476,367       8,293,179  

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM:

               

Net investment income

               

Class I Shares

    (1,036,799 )     (1,016,757 )

Class A Shares

    (51,814 )     (180,710 )

Class C Shares

    (5,498 )     (5,671 )

Total net investment income

    (1,094,111 )     (1,203,138 )

Net realized capital gains

               

Class I Shares

    (5,396,669 )     (1,371,748 )

Class A Shares

    (521,669 )     (292,535 )

Class C Shares

    (85,402 )     (11,450 )

Total net realized capital gains

    (6,003,740 )     (1,675,733 )

Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (7,097,851 )     (2,878,871 )

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

       

Class I Shares

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    331,945,492       20,225,596  

Reinvestment of distributions

    6,276,150       2,279,346  

Shares redeemed

    (44,108,500 )     (40,980,435 )

Redemption fees*

    1,616       6,643  

Total from Class I Shares

    294,114,758       (18,468,850 )

Class A Shares

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    3,830,562       6,325,586  

Reinvestment of distributions

    571,954       466,338  

Shares redeemed

    (18,872,102 )     (4,908,192 )

Redemption fees*

    3,451       520  

Total from Class A Shares

    (14,466,135 )     1,884,252  

Class C Shares

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    593,933       1,031,081  

Reinvestment of distributions

    90,900       17,121  

Shares redeemed

    (239,527 )     (251,350 )

Redemption fees*

    162       8  

Total from Class C Shares

    445,468       796,860  

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

    280,094,091       (15,787,738 )

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    333,472,607       (10,373,430 )

NET ASSETS:

               

Beginning of period

    115,397,138       125,770,568  

End of period

  $ 448,869,745     $ 115,397,138  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $ 1,541,322     $ 830,711  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


38

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND

Statements of Changes in Net Assets (Concluded)

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

SHARES TRANSACTIONS:

               

Class I Shares

               

Shares sold

    20,675,668       1,369,045  

Shares reinvested

    400,265       155,799  

Shares redeemed

    (2,688,563 )     (2,786,555 )

Total Class I Shares

    18,387,370       (1,261,711 )

Class A Shares

               

Shares sold

    235,589       428,066  

Shares reinvested

    36,384       31,897  

Shares redeemed

    (1,183,389 )     (333,270 )

Total Class A Shares

    (911,416 )     126,693  

Class C Shares

               

Shares sold

    37,316       70,954  

Shares reinvested

    5,883       1,185  

Shares redeemed

    (15,118 )     (16,932 )

Total Class C Shares

    28,081       55,207  

Net increase/(decrease) in shares outstanding

    17,504,035       (1,079,811 )

 

 

*

Prior to December 31, 2017, there was a 1.50% redemption fee to the value of shares redeemed or exchanged within 60 days of purchase. The redemption fees were retained by the Fund for the benefit of the remaining shareholders and recorded as paid-in capital. Effective December 31, 2017, the Fund eliminated its redemption fee.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


39

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM OPERATIONS:

               

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ (20,563 )   $ 37,507  

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    1,553,299       1,255,269  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    3,523,659       570,119  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    5,056,395       1,862,895  

DIVIDENDS AND DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM:

               

Net investment income

               

Class I Shares

    (65,165 )     (44,499 )

Class A Shares*

    (4,708 )     (6,975 )

Class C Shares

           

Total net investment income

    (69,873 )     (51,474 )

Net realized capital gains

               

Class I Shares

    (1,486,849 )     (2,053 )

Class A Shares*

    (273,868 )     (471 )

Class C Shares

    (19,328 )     (10 )

Total net realized capital gains

    (1,780,045 )     (2,534 )

Net decrease in net assets from dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (1,849,918 )     (54,008 )

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

       

Class I Shares

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    20,187,254       3,687,970  

Reinvestment of distributions

    1,175,459       46,552  

Shares redeemed

    (5,501,102 )     (2,395,742 )

Redemption fees**

    197       54  

Total from Class I Shares.

    15,861,808       1,338,834  

Class A Shares*

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    1,101,638       1,213,017  

Reinvestment of distributions

    278,576       7,444  

Shares redeemed

    (1,365,801 )     (412,426 )

Redemption fees**

    101       81  

Total from Class A Shares

    14,514       808,116  

Class C Shares

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    64,169       203,995  

Reinvestment of distributions

    19,328       10  

Shares redeemed

    (67,513 )     (70,906 )

Redemption fees**

    2        

Total from Class C Shares

    15,986       133,099  

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

    15,892,308       2,280,049  

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    19,098,785       4,088,936  

NET ASSETS:

               

Beginning of period

    16,219,394       12,130,458  

End of period

  $ 35,318,179     $ 16,219,394  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $     $ 14,812  

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


40

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Statements of Changes in Net Assets (Concluded)

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

SHARES TRANSACTIONS:

               

Class I Shares

               

Shares sold

    1,580,236       306,838  

Shares reinvested

    96,507       3,825  

Shares redeemed

    (436,132 )     (199,853 )

Total Class I Shares

    1,240,611       110,810  

Class A Shares*

               

Shares sold

    345,519       101,225  

Shares reinvested

    22,853       611  

Shares redeemed

    (363,573 )     (34,308 )

Total Class A Shares

    4,799       67,528  

Class C Shares

               

Shares sold

    5,058       17,060  

Shares reinvested

    1,601       1  

Shares redeemed

    (5,634 )     (5,775 )

Total Class C Shares

    1,025       11,286  

Net increase/(decrease) in shares outstanding

    1,246,435       189,624  

 

 

*

Formerly Retail Class Shares.

**

Prior to December 31, 2017, there was a 1.50% redemption fee to the value of shares redeemed or exchanged within 60 days of purchase. The redemption fees were retained by the Fund for the benefit of the remaining shareholders and recorded as paid-in capital. Effective December 31, 2017, the Fund eliminated its redemption fee.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


41

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

GLOBAL LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Statements of Changes in Net Assets

 

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2018

   

For the
Year Ended
August 31, 2017

 

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM OPERATIONS:

               

Net investment income/(loss)

  $ 258,584     $ 92,781  

Net realized gain/(loss) from investments

    1,074,746       5,612,229  

Net change in unrealized appreciation/(depreciation) on investments

    960,140       (5,601,962 )

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    2,293,470       103,048  
                 

INCREASE/(DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS FROM CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

Class I Shares

               

Proceeds from shares sold

    896,436       25,430,511  

Shares redeemed

    (6,424,982 )     (67,148,680 )

Redemption fees*

    6       2,495  

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

    (5,528,540 )     (41,715,674 )

Total increase/(decrease) in net assets

    (3,235,070 )     (41,612,626 )
                 

NET ASSETS:

               

Beginning of period

    22,764,928       64,377,554  

End of period

  $ 19,529,858     $ 22,764,928  

Undistributed/accumulated net investment income/(loss), end of period

  $ 258,784     $  
                 

SHARE TRANSACTIONS:

Class I Shares

               

Shares sold

    30,761       965,782  

Shares reinvested

           

Shares redeemed

    (223,043 )     (2,711,424 )

Net increase/(decrease) in shares outstanding

    (192,282 )     (1,745,642 )

 

 

*

Prior to December 31, 2017, there was a 2.00% redemption fee to the value of shares redeemed or exchanged within 60 days of purchase. The redemption fees were retained by the Fund for the benefit of the remaining shareholders and recorded as paid-in capital. Effective December 31, 2017, the Fund eliminated its redemption fee.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


42

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for Class I Shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

Class I Shares

 
   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2018

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2017

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2016

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2015

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2014

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 15.43     $ 14.69     $ 13.78     $ 13.72     $ 11.85  

Net investment income/(loss)(1)

    0.16       0.22       0.21       0.21       0.16  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments(2)

    3.52       0.90       1.66       0.44       2.01  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    3.68       1.12       1.87       0.65       2.17  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                                       

Net investment income

    (0.18 )     (0.16 )     (0.21 )     (0.16 )     (0.08 )

Net realized capital gains

    (0.96 )     (0.22 )     (0.75 )     (0.43 )     (0.22 )

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (1.14 )     (0.38 )     (0.96 )     (0.59 )     (0.30 )

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 17.97     $ 15.43     $ 14.69     $ 13.78     $ 13.72  

Total investment return(3)

    24.98 %     7.73 %     13.99 %     4.82 %     18.57 %
                                         

Ratios/Supplemental Data

                                       

Net assets, end of period (000’s omitted)

  $ 437,424     $ 91,977     $ 106,110     $ 72,850     $ 60,266  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets with waivers and/or reimbursements net of amounts recouped

    0.98 %     0.98 %     0.98 %     0.98 %     0.98 %

Ratio of expenses to average net assets without waivers and/or reimbursements net of amounts recouped

    0.94 %     1.14 %     1.14 %     1.20 %     1.35 %

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    0.87 %     1.32 %     1.49 %     1.47 %     1.25 %

Portfolio turnover rate

    85 %     31 %     41 %     42 %     110 %

 

 

(1)

The selected per share data is calculated based on average shares outstanding method for the period.

(2)

The amount shown may not correlate with the change in the aggregate gains and losses due to the timing of sales and purchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to fluctuating market values for the Fund’s portfolio.

(3)

Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


43

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for Class A Shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the period. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

Class A Shares

 
   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2018

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2017

   

For the
Period
October 29,
2015
(1) to
August 31,
2016

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 15.40     $ 14.67     $ 14.69  

Net investment income/(loss)(2)

    0.10       0.16       0.14  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments(3)

    3.55       0.92       0.79  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    3.65       1.08       0.93  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                       

Net investment income

    (0.10 )     (0.13 )     (0.20 )

Net realized capital gains

    (0.96 )     (0.22 )     (0.75 )

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (1.06 )     (0.35 )     (0.95 )

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 17.99     $ 15.40     $ 14.67  

Total investment return(4)

    24.68 %     7.48 %     6.74 %(5)
                         

Ratios/Supplemental Data

                       

Net assets, end of period (000’s omitted)

  $ 9,530     $ 22,195     $ 19,288  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets with waivers and/or reimbursements net of amounts recouped

    1.23 %     1.23 %     1.23 %(6)

Ratio of expenses to average net assets without waivers and/or reimbursements net of amounts recouped

    1.27 %     1.39 %     1.38 %(6)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    0.62 %     1.07 %     1.15 %(6)

Portfolio turnover rate

    85 %     31 %     41 %(7)

 

 

(1)

Commencement of operations.

(2)

The selected per share data is calculated based on the average shares outstanding method for the period.

(3)

The amount shown may not correlate with the change in the aggregate gains and losses due to the timing of sales and purchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to fluctuating market values for the Fund’s portfolio.

(4)

Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any. Total investment return does not reflect any applicable sales charge.

(5)

Not annualized.

(6)

Annualized.

(7)

Portfolio turnover rate is calculated for the Fund, as a whole, for the entire period.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


44

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

U.S. LOW VOLATILITY EQUITY FUND

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for Class C Shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the period. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

Class C Shares

 
   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2018

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2017

   

For the
Period
December 31,
2015
(1) to
August 31,
2016

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 15.15     $ 14.51     $ 13.57  

Net investment income/(loss)(2)

    (0.02 )     0.04       0.03  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments(3)

    3.48       0.93       0.91  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    3.46       0.97       0.94  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                       

Net investment income

    (0.06 )     (0.11 )      

Net realized capital gains

    (0.96 )     (0.22 )      

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (1.02 )     (0.33 )      

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 17.59     $ 15.15     $ 14.51  

Total investment return(4)

    23.80 %     6.74 %     6.93 %(5)
                         

Ratios/Supplemental Data

                       

Net assets, end of period (000’s omitted)

  $ 1,916     $ 1,226     $ 373  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets with waivers and/or reimbursements net of amounts recouped

    1.98 %     1.98 %     1.99 %(6)

Ratio of expenses to average net assets without waivers and/or reimbursements net of amounts recouped

    2.00 %     2.15 %     2.16 %(6)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    (0.11 )%     0.30 %     0.32 %(6)

Portfolio turnover rate

    85 %     31 %     41 %(7)

 

 

(1)

Commencement of operations.

(2)

The selected per share data is calculated based on the average shares outstanding method for the period.

(3)

The amount shown may not correlate with the change in the aggregate gains and losses due to the timing of sales and purchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to fluctuating market values for the Fund’s portfolio.

(4)

Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

(5)

Not annualized.

(6)

Annualized.

(7)

Portfolio turnover rate is calculated for the Fund, as a whole, for the entire period.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


45

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for Class I Shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

Class I Shares

 
   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2018

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2017

   

For the
Period
March 31, 2016
(1)
to August 31,
2016

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.39     $ 10.83     $ 10.00  

Net investment income/(loss)(2)

    (0.01 )     0.04       0.02  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments(3)

    2.61       1.57       0.81  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    2.60       1.61       0.83  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                       

Net investment income

    (0.05 )     (0.05 )      

Net realized capital gains

    (1.12 )      (7)      

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (1.17 )     (0.05 )      

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 13.82     $ 12.39     $ 10.83  

Total investment return(4)

    22.26 %     14.86 %     8.30 %(5)
                         

Ratios/Supplemental Data

                       

Net assets, end of period (000’s omitted)

  $ 31,559     $ 12,919     $ 10,095  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets with waivers and reimbursements

    1.23 %     1.23 %     1.23 %(6)

Ratio of expenses to average net assets without waivers and reimbursements

    1.60 %     2.21 %     4.43 %(6)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    (0.05 )%     0.31 %     0.53 %(6)

Portfolio turnover rate

    122 %     95 %     0.01 %(5)

 

 

(1)

Commencement of operations.

(2)

The selected per share data is calculated based on the average shares outstanding method for the period.

(3)

The amount shown may not correlate with the change in the aggregate gains and losses due to the timing of sales and purchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to fluctuating market values for the Fund’s portfolio.

(4)

Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

(5)

Not annualized.

(6)

Annualized.

(7)

Amount represents less than $0.005 per share.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


46

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for Class A Shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the period. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

Class A Shares (Formerly Retail Class Shares)

 
   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2018

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2017

   

For the
Period
March 31, 2016
(1)
to August 31,
2016

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.38     $ 10.83     $ 10.00  

Net investment income/(loss)(2)

    (0.03 )     0.01       0.01  

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments(3)

    2.59       1.57       0.82  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    2.56       1.58       0.83  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                       

Net investment income

    (0.02 )     (0.03 )      

Net realized capital gains

    (1.12 )      (7)      

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

    (1.14 )     (0.03 )      

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 13.80     $ 12.38     $ 10.83  

Total investment return(4)

    21.90 %     14.63 %     8.30 %(5)
                         

Ratios/Supplemental Data

                       

Net assets, end of period (000’s omitted)

  $ 3,560     $ 3,132     $ 2,010  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets with waivers and reimbursements

    1.48 %     1.48 %     1.48 %(6)

Ratio of expenses to average net assets without waivers and reimbursements

    1.86 %     2.44 %     4.68 %(6)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    (0.23 )%     0.06 %     0.28 %(6)

Portfolio turnover rate

    122 %     95 %     0.01 %(5)

 

 

(1)

Commencement of operations.

(2)

The selected per share data is calculated based on the average shares outstanding method for the period.

(3)

The amount shown may not correlate with the change in the aggregate gains and losses due to the timing of sales and purchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to fluctuating market values for the Fund’s portfolio.

(4)

Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any. Total investment return does not reflect any applicable sales charge.

(5)

Not annualized.

(6)

Annualized.

(7)

Amount represents less than $0.005 per share.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


47

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

SMALL CAP LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for Class C Shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the period. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

Class C Shares

 
   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2018

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2017

   

For the
Period
March 31, 2016
(1)
to August 31,
2016

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                       

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 12.27     $ 10.80     $ 10.00  

Net investment income/(loss)(2)

    (0.12 )     (0.08 )     (0.02 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments(3)

    2.56       1.55       0.82  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets resulting from operations

    2.44       1.47       0.80  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                       

Net realized capital gains

    (1.12 )      (7)      

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 13.59     $ 12.27     $ 10.80  

Total investment return(4)

    21.05 %     13.63 %     8.00 %(5)
                         

Ratios/Supplemental Data

                       

Net assets, end of period (000’s omitted)

  $ 200     $ 168     $ 26  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets with waivers and reimbursements

    2.23 %     2.23 %     2.23 %(6)

Ratio of expenses to average net assets without waivers and reimbursements

    2.61 %     2.89 %     5.43 %(6)

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    (0.95 )%     (0.67 )%     (0.47 )%(6)

Portfolio turnover rate

    122 %     95 %     0.01 %(5)

 

 

(1)

Commencement of operations.

(2)

The selected per share data is calculated based on the average shares outstanding method for the period.

(3)

The amount shown may not correlate with the change in the aggregate gains and losses due to the timing of sales and purchases of the Fund’s shares in relation to fluctuating market values for the Fund’s portfolio.

(4)

Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

(5)

Not annualized.

(6)

Annualized.

(7)

Amount represents less than $0.005 per share.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


48

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS

GLOBAL LOW VOLATILITY FUND

Financial Highlights

 

Contained below is per share operating performance data for shares outstanding, total investment return, ratios to average net assets and other supplemental data for the respective periods. This information has been derived from information provided in the financial statements.

 

   

Class I Shares

 
   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2018

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2017

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2016

   

For the
Year
Ended
August 31,
2015

   

For the
Eleven Months
Ended
August 31,
2014
(1)(2)

   

For the
Year
Ended
Sept. 30,
2013

 

Per Share Operating Performance

                                               

Net asset value, beginning of period

  $ 27.20     $ 24.93     $ 28.29     $ 27.64     $ 27.45     $ 22.45  

Net investment income/(loss)(3)

    0.35       0.06       (0.19 )     (0.21 )     (0.20 )     (0.14 )

Net realized and unrealized gain/(loss) on investments

    2.75       2.21       (1.25 )     3.04       2.96       5.14  

Net increase/(decrease) in net assets
resulting from operations

    3.10       2.27       (1.44 )     2.83       2.76       5.00  

Dividends and distributions to shareholders from:

                                               

Net realized capital gains

                (1.93 )     (2.18 )     (2.57 )      

Total dividends and distributions to shareholders

                (1.93 )     (2.18 )     (2.57 )      

Redemption fees added to paid-in capital(3)

     (4)      (4)     0.01        (4)            

Net asset value, end of period

  $ 30.30     $ 27.20     $ 24.93     $ 28.29     $ 27.64     $ 27.45  

Total investment return(5)

    11.36 %     9.15 %     (5.44 )%     11.49 %     10.62 %(6)(8)     22.27 %
                                                 

Ratios/Supplemental Data

                                               

Net assets, end of period (000’s omitted)

  $ 19,530     $ 22,765     $ 64,378     $ 71,523     $ 59,924     $ 55,737  

Ratio of expenses to average net assets with waivers and reimbursements

    0.84 %     0.84 %     0.84 %     0.84 %     0.84 %(8)(7)     0.86 %

Ratio of expenses to average net assets without waivers and reimbursements

    1.25 %     1.32 %     1.13 %     1.20 %     1.13 %(8)(7)     1.13 %

Ratio of net investment income/(loss) to average net assets

    1.19 %     0.26 %     (0.76 )%     (0.77 )%     (0.80 )%(8)(7)     (0.63 )%

Portfolio turnover rate

    44 %     247 %     375 %     297 %     277 %(6)     345 %

 

 

(1)

The Fund changed its fiscal year end to August 31.

(2)

Effective as of the close of business on March 21, 2014, the Fund acquired all the assets and liabilities of the Dynamic U.S. Growth Fund (“Predecessor Fund”), a series of Scotia Institutional Funds. The financial highlights for the periods prior to that date reflect the performance of the Predecessor Fund.

(3)

The selected per share data was calculated based on average shares outstanding method for the period.

(4)

Amount represents less than $0.005 per share.

(5)

Total investment return is calculated assuming a purchase of shares on the first day and a sale of shares on the last day of each period reported and includes reinvestments of dividends and distributions, if any.

(6)

Not annualized.

(7)

Annualized.

(8)

Includes adjustments in accordance with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles and, consequently, the net asset value for financial reporting purposes and the returns based upon those net asset values may differ from the net asset values and returns for the shareholder transactions.

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of the financial statements.


49

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Notes to Financial Statements

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

1. Organization and Significant Accounting Policies

 

The RBB Fund, Inc. (“RBB” or the “Company”) was incorporated under the laws of the State of Maryland on February 29, 1988 and is registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, (the “1940 Act”) as an open-end management investment company. RBB is a “series fund,” which is a mutual fund divided into separate portfolios. Each portfolio is treated as a separate entity for certain matters under the 1940 Act, and for other purposes, and a shareholder of one portfolio is not deemed to be a shareholder of any other portfolio. Currently, RBB has thirty active investment portfolios, including the Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund, Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund and Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund (each a “Fund” and, collectively, the “Funds”). The Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund and Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund commenced investment operations on February 29, 2012 and March 31, 2016, respectively.

 

The Dynamic U.S. Growth Fund (the “Predecessor Fund”), a series of Scotia Institutional Funds, transferred all of its assets and liabilities to the Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund (formerly, the Scotia Dynamic U.S. Growth Fund) in a tax-free reorganization (the “Reorganization”). The Reorganization occurred at the close of business on March 21, 2014. The Predecessor Fund commenced operations on March 31, 2009. As a result of the Reorganization, the performance and accounting history of the Predecessor Fund was assumed by the Fund. Performance and accounting information prior to the close of business on March 21, 2014 included herein is that of the Predecessor Fund. Effective January 3, 2017, the Fund changed its name from the Scotia Dynamic U.S. Growth Fund to the Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund and Summit Global Investments, LLC (“Summit” or the “Adviser”) took over management of the Fund from its predecessor investment manager.

 

As of the end of the reporting period, the Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund offers three classes of shares: Class I Shares, Class A Shares and Class C Shares; the Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund offers three classes of shares: Class I Shares, Class A Shares (formerly Retail Class Shares) and Class C Shares and the Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund offers three classes of shares: Class I Shares, Class A Shares and Class C Shares. As of the end of the reporting period, Class A Shares and Class C Shares of the Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund were not yet operational.

 

RBB has authorized capital of one hundred billion shares of common stock of which 87.023 billion shares are currently classified into one hundred and eighty-one classes of common stock. Each class represents an interest in an active or inactive RBB investment portfolio.

 

The investment objective of the Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund is to outperform the S&P 500® Index over a market cycle while reducing overall volatility. The investment objective of the Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund is to outperform the Russell 2000® Index over a market cycle while reducing overall volatility. The investment objective of the Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund is to seek long-term capital appreciation.

 

The Funds are investment companies and follow accounting and reporting guidance in the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standards Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services - Investment Companies.”

 

The end of the reporting period for the Funds is August 31, 2018, and the period covered by these Notes to Financial Statements is the fiscal period ended August 31, 2018 (the “current fiscal period”).

 

Portfolio Valuation — Each Fund’s net asset value (“NAV”) is calculated once daily at the close of regular trading hours on the New York Stock Exchange (“NYSE”) (generally 4:00 p.m. Eastern time) on each day the NYSE is open. Securities held by the Funds are valued using the closing price or the last sale price on a national securities exchange or the National Association of Securities Dealers Automatic Quotation System (“NASDAQ”) market system where they are primarily traded. Equity securities traded in the over-the-counter (“OTC”) market are valued at their closing prices. If there were no transactions on that day, securities traded principally on an exchange or on NASDAQ will be valued at the mean of the last bid and ask prices prior to the market close. Fixed income securities are valued using an independent pricing service, which considers such factors as security prices, yields, maturities and ratings,

 

50

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

and are deemed representative of market values at the close of the market. Investments in other open-end investment companies, if any, are valued based on the NAV of those investment companies (which may use fair value pricing as discussed in their prospectuses). If market quotations are unavailable or deemed unreliable, securities will be valued in accordance with procedures adopted by the Company’s Board of Directors (the “Board”). Relying on prices supplied by pricing services or dealers or using fair valuation may result in values that are higher or lower than the values used by other investment companies and investors to price the same investments.

 

Fair Value Measurements — The inputs and valuation techniques used to measure the fair value of the Funds’ investments are summarized into three levels as described in the hierarchy below:

 

 

● Level 1

Prices are determined using quoted prices in active markets for identical securities.

 

 

● Level 2

Prices are determined using other significant observable inputs (including quoted prices for similar securities, interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk, etc.).

 

 

● Level 3

Prices are determined using significant unobservable inputs (including the Funds’ own assumptions in determining the fair value of investments).

 

The inputs or methodologies used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities.

 

The following is a summary of the inputs used, as of the end of the reporting period, in valuing the Funds’ investments carried at fair value:

 

   

Total

   

Level 1

   

Level 2

   

Level 3

 

Summit Global Investments U.S Low Volatility Equity Fund

                               

Common Stocks

  $ 430,164,999     $ 430,164,999     $     $  

Exchange Traded Funds

    6,918,152       6,918,152                  

Short-Term Investments

    10,300,321       10,300,321              

Total Investments*

  $ 447,383,472     $ 447,383,472     $     $  
                                 

Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund

                               

Common Stocks

  $ 34,194,247     $ 34,194,247     $     $  

Exchange Traded Funds

    523,820       523,820                  

Short-Term Investments

    990,607       990,607              

Total Investments*

  $ 35,708,674     $ 35,708,674     $     $  
                                 

Summit Global Investments global Low Volatility Fund

                               

Common Stocks

  $ 18,893,144     $ 18,893,144     $     $  

Exchange Traded Funds

    295,240       295,240                  

Short-Term Investments

    327,627       327,627              

Total Investments*

  $ 19,516,011     $ 19,516,011     $     $  

 

 

*

Please refer to the Portfolio of Investments for further details.

 

51

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

  

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

At the end of each quarter, management evaluates the classification of Levels 1, 2 and 3 assets and liabilities. Various factors are considered, such as changes in liquidity from the prior reporting period; whether or not a broker is willing to execute at the quoted price; the depth and consistency of prices from third party pricing services; and the existence of contemporaneous, observable trades in the market. Additionally, management evaluates the classification of Level 1 and Level 2 assets and liabilities on a quarterly basis for changes in listings or delistings on national exchanges.

 

Due to the inherent uncertainty of determining the fair value of investments that do not have a readily available market value, the fair value of the Funds’ investments may fluctuate from period to period. Additionally, the fair value of investments may differ significantly from the values that would have been used had a ready market existed for such investments and may differ materially from the values the Funds may ultimately realize. Further, such investments may be subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or otherwise less liquid than publicly traded securities.

 

For fair valuations using significant unobservable inputs, U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“U.S. GAAP”) requires each Fund to present a reconciliation of the beginning to ending balances for reported market values that presents changes attributable to total realized and unrealized gains or losses, purchase and sales, and transfers in and out of Level 3 during the period. Transfers in and out between levels are based on values at the end of the period. U.S. GAAP also requires the Funds to disclose amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of Level 1 and Level 2 fair value measurements. A reconciliation of Level 3 investments is presented only when a Fund had an amount of Level 3 investments at the end of the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets. The amounts and reasons for all transfers in and out of each level within the three-tier hierarchy are disclosed when a Fund had an amount of total transfers during the reporting period that was meaningful in relation to its net assets as of the end of the reporting period.

 

During the current fiscal period, the Funds had no transfers between Levels 1, 2 and 3.

 

Use of Estimates — The preparation of financial statements in conformity with U.S. GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported amounts of revenues and expenses during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates and those differences could be significant.

 

Investment Transactions, Investment Income and Expenses — The Funds record security transactions based on trade date for financial reporting purposes. The cost of investments sold is determined by use of the specific identification method for both financial reporting and income tax purposes in determining realized gains and losses on investments. Interest income is accrued when earned. Dividend income is recorded on the ex-dividend date. Distributions received on securities that represent a return of capital or capital gain are recorded as a reduction of cost of investments and/or as a realized gain. The Funds’ investment income, expenses (other than class specific expenses) and unrealized and realized gains and losses are allocated daily to each class of shares based upon the relative proportion of net assets of each class at the beginning of the day. Expenses incurred on behalf of a specific class, fund or fund family of the Company are charged directly to the class, fund or fund family (in proportion to net assets). Expenses incurred for all of the RBB funds (such as director or professional fees) are charged to all funds in proportion to their average net assets of RBB, or in such other manner as the Board deems fair or equitable. Expenses and fees, including investment advisory and administration fees, are accrued daily and taken into account for the purpose of determining the NAV of the Funds.

 

Dividends and Distributions to Shareholders — Dividends from net investment income and distributions from net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid at least annually to shareholders and recorded on the ex-dividend date. Income dividends and capital gain distributions are determined in accordance with U.S. federal income tax regulations, which may differ from U.S. GAAP.

 

U.S. Tax Status — No provision is made for U.S. income taxes as it is each Fund’s intention to continue to qualify for and elect the tax treatment applicable to regulated investment companies under Subchapter M of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, and make the requisite distributions to its shareholders which will be sufficient to relieve it from U.S. income and excise taxes.

 

52

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

Cash and Cash Equivalents — Cash and cash equivalents are valued at cost plus accrued interest, which approximates market value.

 

REDEMPTION/EXCHANGE FEES — Prior to December 31, 2017, the Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund, Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund and Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund imposed a redemption/exchange fee of 1.50%, 1.50% and 2.00%, respectively, on redemptions/exchanges of Fund shares held less than 60 days. The fees are reflected on the Statement of Changes in Net Assets. Effective December 31, 2017, the Funds have eliminated their redemption/exchange fees.

 

Other — In the normal course of business, the Funds may enter into contracts that provide general indemnifications. Each Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is dependent on claims that may be made against the Funds in the future, and, therefore, cannot be estimated; however, based on experience, the risk of material loss from such claims is considered remote.

 

2. Investment Adviser and Other Services

 

Summit serves as the investment adviser to each Fund. Each Fund compensates the Adviser for its services at an annual rate based on each Fund’s average daily net assets (the “Advisory Fee”), payable on a monthly basis in arrears, as shown in the following table.

 

The Adviser has contractually agreed to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses to the extent that total annual Fund operating expenses (excluding certain items discussed below) exceed the rates (“Expense Caps”) shown in the following table of each Fund’s average daily net assets. In determining the Adviser’s obligation to waive advisory fees and/or reimburse expenses, the following expenses are not taken into account and could cause total annual Fund operating expenses to exceed the Expense Caps as applicable: acquired fund fees and expenses, brokerage commissions, extraordinary expenses, interest and taxes. This contractual limitation is in effect until December 31, 2019 and may not be terminated without the approval of the Board. The Adviser may discontinue these arrangements at any time after December 31, 2019.

 

FUND

 

ADVISORY FEE

   

EXPENSE CAPS

 
           

CLASS I

   

CLASS A

   

CLASS C

 

Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund

    0.70 %     0.98 %     1.23 %     1.98 %

Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund

    0.95       1.23       1.48       2.23  

Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund

    0.70       0.84       1.09       1.84  

 

If at any time a Fund’s total annual Fund operating expenses for a year are less than the relevant share class’ Expense Cap, the Adviser is entitled to recoup from the Fund the advisory fees forgone and other payments remitted by the Adviser to the Fund within three years from the date on which such waiver or reimbursement was made, provided such recoupment does not cause the Fund to exceed the relevant share class' Expense Cap that was in effect at the time of the waiver or reimbursement.

 

53

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

During the current fiscal period, investment advisory fees accrued, waived and/or reimbursed and recoupments were as follows:

 

FUND

 

Gross
Advisory Fees

   

Waivers AND/OR
Reimbursements

   

RECOUPMENTS

   

Net
Advisory Fees

 

Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund

  $ 1,492,806     $ (86,805 )   $ 171,184     $ 1,577,185  

Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund

    224,340       (87,054 )           137,286  

Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund

    148,818       (87,592 )           61,226  

 

As of the end of the reporting period, the Funds had amounts available for recoupment by the Adviser as follows:

 

   

EXPIRATION

 

FUND

 

August 31,
2019

   

August 31,
2020

   

August 31,
2021

 

Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund

  $ 37,571     $ 180,221     $ 86,805  

Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund

    108,075       140,932       87,054  

Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund

          98,278       87,592  

 

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (“Fund Services”), doing business as U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, serves as administrator for the Funds. For providing administrative and accounting services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Fund Services serves as the Funds’ transfer and dividend disbursing agent. For providing transfer agent services, Fund Services is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

U.S. Bank, N.A. (the “Custodian”) provides certain custodial services to the Funds. The Custodian is entitled to receive a monthly fee, subject to certain minimum and out of pocket expenses.

 

Quasar Distributors, LLC (the "Distributor") serves as the principal underwriter and distributor of the Funds’ shares pursuant to a Distribution Agreement with RBB.

 

For compensation amounts paid to Fund Services and the Custodian, please refer to the Statements of Operations.

 

The Board has adopted a Plan of Distribution (the “Plan”) for the Class A Shares and Class C Shares of the Funds pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act. Under the Plan, the Distributor is entitled to receive from the Fund a distribution fee with respect to the Shares, which is accrued daily and paid monthly, of up to 0.25% on an annualized basis of the average daily net assets of the Class A Shares and and up to 1.00% of the Class C Shares. The actual amount of such compensation under the Plan is agreed upon by the Board and by the Distributor. Because these fees are paid out of a Fund’s assets on an ongoing basis, over time these fees will increase the cost of your investment and may cost you more than paying other types of sales charges. Amounts paid to the Distributor under the Plan may be used by the Distributor to cover expenses that are related to (i) the sale of the Shares, (ii) ongoing servicing and/or maintenance of the accounts of shareholders, and (iii) sub-transfer agency services, subaccounting services or administrative services related to the sale of the Shares, all as set forth in each Fund’s 12b-1 Plan.

 

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SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

3. SHAREHOLDER SERVICING PLAN

 

The Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund had adopted a Shareholder Services Plan for the Class I Shares. Under the Shareholder Services Plan, the Fund could pay service fees to firms that provide shareholder services, such as responding to shareholder inquiries and assisting shareholders with their accounts, not exceeding ten basis points (0.10%) of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class I Shares. Effective December 31, 2017, the Fund has eliminated its Shareholder Services Plan.

 

4. Director’s and Officer’s Compensation

 

The Directors of the Company receive an annual retainer and meeting fees for meetings attended. Employees of Vigilant Compliance, LLC serve as President, Chief Compliance Officer and Assistant Treasurer of the Company. Vigilant Compliance, LLC is compensated for the services provided to the Company. An employee of RBB serves as Treasurer and Secretary and is compensated for services provided. Certain employees of Fund Services serve as officers of the Company. They are not compensated by the Funds or the Company. For Director’s and Officer’s compensation amounts, please refer to the Statements of Operations.

 

5. Purchases and Sales of Investment Securities

 

During the current fiscal period, aggregate purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding short-term investments) of the Funds were as follows:

 

FUND

 

Purchases

   

Sales

 

Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund

  $ 444,644,893     $ 178,567,267  

Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund

    41,900,478       28,108,054  

Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund

    9,237,723       14,683,847  

 

There were no purchases or sales of long-term U.S. Government securities during the current fiscal period.

 

6. Federal Income Tax Information

 

The Funds have followed the authoritative guidance on accounting for and disclosure of uncertainty in tax positions, which requires the Funds to determine whether a tax position is more likely than not to be sustained upon examination, including resolution of any related appeals or litigation processes, based on the technical merits of the position. The Funds have determined that there was no effect on the financial statements from following this authoritative guidance. In the normal course of business, the Funds are subject to examination by federal, state and local jurisdictions, where applicable, for tax years for which applicable statutes of limitations have not expired.

 

As of August 31, 2018, the federal tax cost and aggregate gross unrealized appreciation and depreciation of investments held by each Fund were as follows:

 

FUND

 

Federal Tax
Cost

   

Unrealized
Appreciation

   

Unrealized
(Depreciation)

   

Net Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund

  $ 384,117,131     $ 65,860,021     $ (2,593,681 )   $ 63,266,340  

Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund

    30,923,575       5,679,578       (894,479 )     4,785,099  

Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund

    16,934,690       3,033,544       (452,223 )     2,581,321  

 

55

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Notes to Financial Statements (Continued)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

Distributions to shareholders, if any, from net investment income and realized gains are determined in accordance with federal income tax regulations, which may differ from net investment income and realized gains recognized for financial reporting purposes. Accordingly, the character of distributions and composition of net assets for tax purposes may differ from those reflected in the accompanying financial statements. To the extent these differences are permanent, such amounts are reclassified within the capital accounts based on the tax treatment; temporary differences do not require such reclassification.

 

The following permanent differences as of August 31, 2018, were reclassified among the following accounts. They are primarily attributable to gains and losses on foreign currency transactions, tax reclassification of distributions received and investments in publicly traded partnerships.

 

FUND

 

Undistributed
Net Investments
Income/(LOSS)

   

Accumulated
Net Realized
Gain/(Loss)

   

Paid-In
Capital

 

Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund

  $ (2,293 )   $ 2,293     $  

Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund

    75,624       (75,624 )      

Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund

    200       102       (302 )

 

As of August 31, 2018, the components of distributable earnings on a tax basis were as follows:

 

FUND

 

Undistributed
Ordinary Income

   

Undistributed
Long-Term
Capital Gains

   

Capital loss
carry forwards

   

Unrealized
Appreciation/
(Depreciation)

 

Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund

  $ 4,024,581     $ 6,681,671     $     $ 63,266,340  

Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund

    23,727       949,705             4,785,099  

Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund

    258,784             1,986,607       2,581,321  

 

The differences between the book and tax basis components of distributable earnings relate primarily to wash sales.

 

The tax character of dividends and distributions paid during the fiscal years ended August 31, 2018 and 2017 were as follows:

 

FUND  Ordinary
Income
   Long-Term
Gains
   Total 
Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund   2018   $1,094,111   $6,003,740   $7,097,851 
    2017    1,244,977    1,633,894    2,878,871 
Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund   2018    1,276,795    573,123    1,849,918 
    2017    53,019    989    54,008 
Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund   2018             
    2017             

 

Dividends from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income dividends for federal income tax purposes.

 

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SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Notes to Financial Statements (concluded)

AUGUST 31, 2018

 

Under the Regulated Investment Company Modernization Act of 2010, the Funds are permitted to carry forward capital losses incurred in taxable years beginning after December 22, 2010 for an unlimited period. Additionally, capital losses that are carried forward will retain their character as either short-term or long-term capital losses rather than being considered all short-term as under the previous law.

 

During the period ended August 31, 2018 the Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund utilized $1,074,158 of total capital loss carryforwards. As of August 31, 2018, the Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund had short-term post-enactment capital losses of $1,986,607. The capital losses can be carried forward for an unlimited period.

 

7. NEW ACCOUNTING PRONOUNCEMENTS

 

In August 2018, FASB issued Accounting Standards Update 2018-13, Fair Value Measurement (Topic 820): Disclosure Framework—Changes to the Disclosure Requirements for Fair Value Measurement (“ASU 2018-13”). The primary focus of ASU 2018-13 is to improve the effectiveness of the disclosure requirements for fair value measurements. The changes affect all companies that are required to include fair value measurement disclosures. In general, the amendments in ASU 2018-13 are effective for all affected entities for fiscal years and interim periods within those fiscal years, beginning after December 15, 2019. An affected entity is permitted to adopt the removed or modified disclosures upon the issuance of ASU 2018-13 and may delay adoption of the additional disclosures, which are required for public companies only, until their effective date. Management is currently evaluating the impact these changes will have on the Funds' financial statements and disclosures.

 

8. SUBSEQUENT EVENTS

 

Management has evaluated the impact of all subsequent events on the Portfolios through the date the financial statements were issued and has determined there were no significant events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.

 

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SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

To the Board of Directors of The RBB Fund, Inc. and
Shareholders of Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund, Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund and Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund

 

Opinion on the Financial Statements

 

We have audited the accompanying statements of assets and liabilities of Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund, Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund and Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund (collectively referred to as the “Funds”) (three of the portfolios constituting The RBB Fund, Inc. (the “Company”)), including the portfolios of investments, as of August 31, 2018, and the related statements of operations, the statements of changes in net assets, and the financial highlights for each of the periods indicated in the table below and the related notes (collectively referred to as the “financial statements”). In our opinion, the financial statements present fairly, in all material respects, the financial position of each of the Funds (three of the portfolios constituting The RBB Fund, Inc.) at August 31, 2018, and the results of their operations, changes in net assets and financial highlights for each of the periods indicated in the table below, in conformity with U.S. generally accepted accounting principles.

 

Individual portfolio constituting
The RBB Fund, Inc.

Statements of
operations

Statements of changes
in net assets

Financial highlights

Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund

For the year ended August 31, 2018 For each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018 For each of the five years in the period ended August 31, 2018

Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund

For the year ended August 31, 2018 For each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018 For each of the two years in the period ended August 31, 2018 and the period March 31, 2016 (commencement of operations) to August 31, 2016

Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund

For the year ended August 31, 2018 For the year ended August 31, 2018 For the year ended August 31, 2018

 

The financial statements and financial highlights of Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund, for each of the periods presented through August 31, 2017, were audited by other auditors whose reports dated October 27, 2017 and November 25, 2013, expressed unqualified opinions on those financial statements and financial highlights.

 

Basis for Opinion

 

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

 

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

 

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SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Report of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm (concluded)

 

Our audits included performing procedures to assess the risks of material misstatement of the financial statements, whether due to error or fraud, and performing procedures that respond to those risks. Such procedures included examining, on a test basis, evidence regarding the amounts and disclosures in the financial statements. Our procedures included confirmation of securities owned as of August 31, 2018, by correspondence with the custodian and brokers or by other appropriate auditing procedures where replies from brokers were not received. Our audits also included evaluating the accounting principles used and significant estimates made by management, as well as evaluating the overall presentation of the financial statements. We believe that our audits provide a reasonable basis for our opinion.

 

We have served as the auditor of one or more Summit Global Investments investment companies since 2012.

 

Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
October 30, 2018

 

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SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Shareholder Tax Information (Unaudited)

 

Certain tax information is required to be provided to shareholders based upon the Funds’ income and distributions for the taxable year ended August 31, 2018. The information and distributions reported herein may differ from information and distributions taxable to the shareholders for the calendar year ending December 31, 2018. During the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund’s were as follows:

 

   

Ordinary Income
Dividend

   

Long-Term
Capital Gain
Dividends

 

Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund

  $ 1,094,111     $ 6,003,740  

Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund

    1,276,795       573,123  

Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund

           

 

Distributions from net investment income and short-term capital gains are treated as ordinary income for federal income tax purporses.

 

Under the Jobs and Growth Tax relieft Reconciliation Act of 2003, the following percertages of ordinary dividends paid during the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018 are designated as "qualified dividend income," as defined in the Act, and are subject to reduced tax rates:

 

Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund

    95.16 %

Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund

    28.81 %

Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund

    0.00 %

 

The percentage of total ordinary income dividends paid qualifying for corporate dividends received deduction for each Fund is as follows:

 

Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund

    96.32 %

Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund

    20.88 %

Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund

    0.00 %

 

The percentage of qualified interest income related dividends not subject to withholding tax for non-resident aliens and foreign corporations is as follows:

 

Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund

    0 %

Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund

    0 %

Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund

    0 %

 

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SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Shareholder Tax Information (Unaudited) (concluded)

 

The percentage of ordinary income distributions designated as qualified short-term gains pursuant to the American Job Creation Act of 2004 is as follows:

 

Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund

    0 %

Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund

    98.66 %

Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund

    0 %

 

Because the Funds’ fiscal year is not the calendar year, another notification will be sent with respect to calendar year 2018. The second notification, which will reflect the amount, if any, to be used by calendar year taxpayers on their U.S. federal income tax returns, will be made in conjunction with Form 1099-DIV and will be mailed in January 2019.

 

Foreign shareholders will generally be subject to U.S. withholding tax on the amount of their ordinary income dividends. They will generally not be entitled to a foreign tax credit or deduction for the withholding taxes paid by the Funds, if any.

 

In general, dividends received by tax-exempt recipients (e.g., IRAs and Keoghs) need not be reported as taxable income for U.S. federal income tax purposes. However, some retirement trusts (e.g., corporate, Keogh and 403(b)(7) plans) may need this information for their annual information reporting.

 

Shareholders are advised to consult their own tax advisers with respect to the tax consequences of their investment in the Funds.

 

61

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Other Information (Unaudited)

 

Change in Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

 

BBD, LLP ("BBD") was replaced as the independent registered public accounting firm for Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund (the "Fund") of RBB effective upon the completion of services related to the audit for the Fund's 2017 fiscal year. During the Fund's two most recent fiscal years ended August 31, 2016 and 2017, BBD's reports on the Fund's financial statements contained no adverse opinion or disclaimer of opinion, nor were they qualified or modified as to uncertainty, audit scope, or accounting principles. During the Fund's two most recent fiscal years ended August 31, 2016 and 2017 and the interim period commencing August 31, 2017 and ended September 19, 2017, there were no disagreements with BBD on any matter of accounting principles or practices, financial statement disclosure, or auditing scope or procedure, which disagreements, if not resolved to the satisfaction of BBD, would have caused it to make reference to the subject matter of the disagreement in connection with its report on the financial statements for such years. During the Fund's two most recent fiscal years and the subsequent interim period commencing August 31, 2017 and ended September 19, 2017, there were no events of the kind described in Item 304(a)(1)(v) of Regulation S-K under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

 

On September 19, 2017, RBB, by actions of its Audit Committee and Board of Directors, including a majority of the members of the Board of Directors who are not "interested persons" of the Fund (as that term is defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended), selected Ernst & Young LLP ("EY") as the independent registered public accounting firm to audit the Fund's financial statements for the fiscal year ended August 31, 2018. During the Fund's two most recent fiscal years ended August 31, 2016 and 2017 and the subsequent interim period commencing August 31, 2017 and ended September 19, 2017, neither the Fund nor anyone on its behalf consulted EY on items which (i) concerned the application of accounting principles to a specified transaction, either completed or proposed, or the type of audit opinion that might be rendered on the Fund's financial statements, or (ii) concerned the subject of a disagreement (as defined in paragraph (a)(1)(iv) of Item 304 of Regulation S-K) or reportable events (as described in paragraph (a)(1)(v) of said Item 304).

 

Proxy Voting

 

Policies and procedures that the Funds use to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities as well as information regarding how the Funds voted proxies relating to portfolio securities for the most recent twelve-month period ended June 30 are available without charge, upon request, by calling (855) 744-8500 and on the Securities and Exchange Commission’s (“SEC”) website at http://www.sec.gov.

 

Quarterly Portfolio Schedules

 

The Company files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third fiscal quarters of each fiscal year (quarters ended November 30 and May 31) on Form N-Q. The Company’s Form N-Q is available on the SEC website at http://www.sec.gov and may be reviewed and copied at the SEC Public Reference Room in Washington, D.C. Information on the operation of the SEC Public Reference Room may be obtained by calling (800) SEC-0330.

 

Approval of Investment Advisory Agreements

 

As required by the 1940 Act, the Board of Directors (the “Board”) of the Company, including all of the Directors who are not “interested persons” of the Company, as that term is defined in the 1940 Act (the “Independent Directors”), considered the renewal of the investment advisory agreements between Summit and the Company (the “Investment Advisory Agreements”) on behalf of the Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund, the Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund, and the Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund (each a “Fund” and together the “Funds”), at a meeting of the Board held on May 9-10, 2018 (the “Meeting”). At the Meeting, the Board, including all of the Independent Directors, approved the Investment Advisory Agreements for an additional one-year term. The Board’s decision to approve the Investment Advisory Agreements reflects the exercise of its business judgment to continue the existing arrangements. In approving the Investment Advisory Agreements, the Board considered information provided by Summit with the assistance and advice of counsel to the Independent Directors and the Company.

 

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SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Other Information (Unaudited) (concluded)

 

In considering the renewal and approval of the Investment Advisory Agreements between the Company and Summit with respect to the Funds, the Directors took into account all the materials provided prior to and during the Meeting and at other meetings throughout the past year, the presentations made during the Meeting, and the discussions held during the Meeting. Among other things, the Directors considered (i) the nature, extent, and quality of Summit’s services provided to the Funds; (ii) descriptions of the experience and qualifications of Summit’s personnel providing those services; (iii) Summit’s investment philosophies and processes; (iv) Summit’s assets under management and client descriptions; (v) Summit’s soft dollar commission and trade allocation policies, including information on the types of research and services obtained in connection with soft dollar commissions; (vi) Summit’s current advisory fee arrangement with the Company and other similarly managed clients; (vii) Summit’s compliance procedures; (viii) Summit’s financial information, insurance coverage and profitability analysis related to providing advisory services to the Funds; (ix) the extent to which economies of scale are relevant to the Funds; (x) a report prepared by Broadridge/Lipper comparing the Funds’ management fees and total expense ratio to those of its respective Lipper Group and comparing the performance of the Funds to the performance of its Lipper Group; and (xi) a report comparing the performance of the Funds to the performance of its benchmark.

 

As part of their review, the Directors considered the nature, extent and quality of the services provided by Summit. The Directors concluded that Summit had substantial resources to provide services to the Funds and that Summit’s services had been acceptable.

 

The Directors also considered the investment performance of the Funds and Summit. The Directors considered each Fund’s investment performance in light of its investment objective and investment strategies. The Directors noted that the Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund outperformed its benchmark, the S&P 500 Index, for the year-to-date, one-year, and since-inception periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also noted that the Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund ranked in the 2nd quintile in its Lipper Performance Group and Lipper Performance Universe for the four-year period ended December 31, 2017.

 

Next, the Directors noted that the Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund’s investment performance underperformed its benchmark, the Russell 2000 Index, for the year-to-date and one-year periods ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also noted that the Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Fund ranked in the 4th quintile in both its Lipper Performance Group and its Lipper Performance Universe for the since-inception periods ended December 31, 2017.

 

Finally, the Directors noted that the Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund’s investment performance underperformed its benchmark, the MSCI ACWI Index, for the year ended March 31, 2018. The Directors also noted that the Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund ranked in the 3rd quintile in its Lipper Performance Group and the 4th quintile in its Lipper Performance Universe for the one-year periods ended December 31, 2017.

 

The Board also considered the advisory fee rate payable by the Funds under the Investment Advisory Agreement. In this regard, information on the fees paid by the Funds and each Fund’s total operating expense ratio (before and after fee waivers and expense reimbursements) were compared to similar information for mutual funds advised by other, unaffiliated investment advisory firms. The Directors noted that the actual advisory fee of the Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund ranked in the 5th quintile of the Fund’s Lipper Expense Group, and the both Summit Global Investments Small Cap Low Volatility Equity Fund’s and Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund’s actual advisory fee ranked in the 1st quintile of each respective Fund’s Lipper Expense Group. The Directors noted that Summit had contractually agreed to waive management fees and reimburse expenses through March 31, 2019 to limit total annual operating expenses to agreed upon levels for each Fund.

 

After reviewing the information regarding each Fund’s costs, profitability and economies of scale, and after considering Summit’s services, the Directors concluded that the investment advisory fees paid by the Funds were fair and reasonable and that the Investment Advisory Agreement should be approved and continued for an additional one-year period ending August 16, 2019.

 

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SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Company Management (Unaudited)

 

Directors and Executive Officers

 

The business and affairs of the Company are managed under the direction of the Company’s Board of Directors. The Company is organized under and managed pursuant to Maryland law. The Directors and executive officers of the Company, their ages, business addresses and principal occupations during the past five years are set forth below. The statement of additional information (“SAI”) includes additional information about the Directors and is available without charge, upon request, by calling (855) 744-8500.

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

INDEPENDENT DIRECTORS

Julian A. Brodsky
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 85

Director

1988 to present

From 1969 to 2011, Director and Vice Chairman, Comcast Corporation (cable television and communications).

30

AMDOCS Limited (service provider to telecommunications companies).

J. Richard Carnall
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 79

Director

2002 to present

Since 1984, Director of Haydon Bolts, Inc. (bolt manufacturer) and Parkway Real Estate Company (subsidiary of Haydon Bolts, Inc.); since 2004, Director of Cornerstone Bank.

30

None

Gregory P. Chandler
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 51

Director

2012 to present

Since 2009, Chief Financial Officer, Emtec, Inc. (information technology consulting/services); from 2003-2009, Managing Director, head of Business Services and IT Services Practice, Janney Montgomery Scott LLC (investment banking/brokerage).

30

Emtec, Inc.; FS Investment Corporation (business development company); FS Energy and Power Fund (business development company); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios)(registered investment company).

Nicholas A. Giordano
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 75

Director

2006 to present

Since 1997, Consultant, financial services organizations.

30

Kalmar Pooled Investment Trust (registered investment company) (until September 2017); Wilmington Funds (12 portfolios) (registered investment company); Independence Blue Cross (healthcare insurance).

Arnold M. Reichman
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 70

Chairman

 

Director

2005 to present

1991 to present

Since 2006, Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer, Lifebooker, LLC (online beauty and health appointment booking service).

30

Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

 

64

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Company Management (Unaudited) (continued)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

Brian T. Shea
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 58

Director

2018 to present

From 2014-2017, Chief Executive Officer, BNY Mellon Investment Services (fund services, global custodian and securities clearing firm); from 1983-2014, Chief Executive Officer and various positions, Pershing LLC (broker dealer, clearing and custody firm).

30

WisdomTree Investments, Inc. (asset management company); Fidelity National Information Services, Inc. (financial services technology company).

Robert A. Straniere
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 77

Director

2006 to present

Since 2009, Administrative Law Judge, New York City; since 1980, Founding Partner, Straniere Law Group (law firm).

30

Reich and Tang Group (asset management).

INTERESTED DIRECTOR2

Robert Sablowsky
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 80

Vice Chairman

 

Director

2016 to present

 

1991 to present

Since 2002, Senior Director - Investments and, prior thereto, Executive Vice President, of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc. (a registered broker-dealer).

30

None

OFFICERS

Salvatore Faia, JD,
CPA, CFE
Vigilant Compliance, LLC
Gateway Corporate Center Suite 216
223 Wilmington West
Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Age: 55

President

 

 

Chief Compliance Officer

2009 to present

 

2004 to present

Since 2004, President, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2005, Independent Trustee of EIP Investment Trust (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

James G. Shaw
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 57

Treasurer and Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2016, Treasurer and Secretary of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 2005 to 2016, Assistant Treasurer of The RBB Fund, Inc.; from 1995 to 2016, Senior Director and Vice President of BNY Mellon Investment Servicing (US) Inc. (financial services company).

N/A

N/A

 

 

65

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Company Management (Unaudited) (continued)

 

Name, Address,
and Age

Position(s)
Held with
Company

Term of Office
and Length of
Time Served
1

Principal Occupation(s)
During Past 5 Years

Number of
Portfolios in
Fund Complex
Overseen by
Director
*

Other
Directorships
Held by Director
in the Past
5 Years

Robert Amweg
Vigilant Compliance, LLC
Gateway Corporate Center Suite 216
223 Wilmington West Chester Pike
Chadds Ford, PA 19317
Age: 65

Assistant Treasurer

2016 to present

Since 2013, Compliance Director, Vigilant Compliance, LLC (investment management services company); since 2012, Consultant to the financial services industry; from 2007 to 2012, Chief Financial Officer and Chief Accounting Officer, Turner Investments, LP (registered investment company).

N/A

N/A

Jennifer Witt
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 35

Assistant Treasurer

2018 to present

Since 2016, Assistant Vice President, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm); from 2007 to 2016, Supervisor, Nuveen Investments (investment company).

N/A

N/A

Edward Paz
615 East Michigan Street
Milwaukee, WI 53202
Age: 47

Assistant Secretary

2016 to present

Since 2007, Vice President and Counsel, U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC (fund administrative services firm).

N/A

N/A

Michael P. Malloy
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103
Age: 59

Assistant Secretary

1999 to present

Since 1993, Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm).

N/A

N/A

Jillian L. Bosmann
One Logan Square
Ste. 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103

Age: 39

Assistant Secretary

2017 to present

Partner, Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (law firm) (2017-Present); Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP (2006-Present).

N/A

N/A

 

*

Each Director oversees 30 portfolios of the Company.

 

1.

Subject to the Company’s Retirement Policy, each Director may continue to serve as a Director until the last day of the calendar year in which the applicable Director attains age 75 or until his successor is elected and qualified or his death, resignation or removal. The Board reserves the right to waive the requirements of the Policy with respect to an individual Director. The Board has approved waivers of the policy with respect to Messrs. Brodsky, Carnall, Giordano, Sablowsky and Straniere. Each officer holds office at the pleasure of the Board until the next special meeting of the Company or until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified, or until he or she dies, resigns or is removed.

 

2.

Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “interested person” of the Company as that term is defined in the 1940 Act and is referred to as an “Interested Director.” Mr. Sablowsky is considered an “Interested Director” of the Company by virtue of his position as an employee of Oppenheimer & Co., Inc., a registered broker-dealer.

 

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SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

Company Management (Unaudited) (CONCLUDED)

 

Director Experience, Qualifications, Attributes and/or Skills

 

The information above includes each Director’s principal occupations during the last five years. Each Director possesses extensive additional experience, skills and attributes relevant to his qualifications to serve as a Director. The cumulative background of each Director led to the conclusion that each Director should serve as a Director of the Company. Mr. Giordano has years of experience as a consultant to financial services organizations and also serves on the boards of other registered investment companies. Mr. Reichman brings decades of investment management experience to the Board, in addition to senior executive-level management experience. Mr. Straniere has been a practicing attorney for over 30 years and also serves on the boards of an asset management company and another registered investment company. Mr. Brodsky has over 40 years of senior executive level management experience in the cable television and communications industry. Mr. Sablowsky has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the financial services industry. Mr. Carnall has decades of senior executive-level management experience in the banking and financial services industry and also serves on the boards of various corporations and a bank. Mr. Chandler has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive level positions in the investment technology consulting/services and investment banking/brokerage industries, and also serves on various boards. Mr. Shea has demonstrated leadership and management abilities as evidenced by his senior executive-level positions in the investment services industry.

 

67

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

 

PRIVACY NOTICE (Unaudited)

 

FACTS

WHAT DOES THE SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS DO WITH YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION?

Why?

Financial companies choose how they share your personal information. Federal law gives consumers the right to limit some but not all sharing. Federal law also requires us to tell you how we collect, share, and protect your personal information. Please read this notice carefully to understand what we do.

What?

The types of personal information we collect and share depend on the product or service you have with us. This information can include:

 

● Social Security number

● account balances

● account transactions

● transaction history

● wire transfer instructions

● checking account information

 

When you are no longer our customer, we continue to share your information as described in this notice.

How?

All financial companies need to share customers’ personal information to run their everyday business. In the section below, we list the reasons financial companies can share their customers’ personal information; the reasons Summit Global Investments Funds chooses to share; and whether you can limit this sharing.

       

Reasons we can share your information

Do the Summit Global
Investments Funds share?

Can you limit this sharing?

For our everyday business purpose
such as to process your transactions, maintain your account(s), respond to court orders and legal
investigations, or report to credit bureaus

Yes

No

For our marketing purposes
to offer our products and services to you

Yes

No

For joint marketing with other financial companies

Yes

No

For affiliates’ everyday business purposes
information about your transactions and experiences

Yes

No

For affiliates’ everyday business purposes
information about your creditworthiness

No

We don’t share

For our affiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share

For nonaffiliates to market to you

No

We don’t share

 

68

 

 

 

SUMMIT GLOBAL INVESTMENTS FUNDS

 

PRIVACY NOTICE (Unaudited) (concluded)

 

Questions?

Call 1-888-251-4847 or go to www.summitglobalinvestments.com

 

What we do

 

How do the Summit Global Investments Funds protect my personal information?

To protect your personal information from unauthorized access and use, we use security measures that comply with federal law. These measures include computer safeguards and secured files and buildings.

How do the Summit Global Investments Funds collect my personal information?

We collect your personal information, for example, when you

 

●  open an account

●  provide account information

●  give us your contact information

●  make a wire transfer

●  tell us where to send the money

 

We also collect your information from others, such as credit bureaus, affiliates, or other companies.

Why can’t I limit all sharing?

Federal law gives you the right to limit only

 

●  sharing for affiliates’ everyday business purposes — information about your creditworthiness

●  affiliates from using your information to market to you

●  sharing for nonaffiliates to market to you

 

State laws and individual companies may give you additional rights to limit sharing.

Definitions

 

Affiliates

Companies related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

  Our affiliates include Summit Global Investments, LLC, the investment adviser to the Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund, Small Cap Low Volatility Fund and Summit Global Investments Global Low Volatility Fund.

Nonaffiliates

Companies not related by common ownership or control. They can be financial and nonfinancial companies.

 

  Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund, Small Cap Low Volatility Fund and Global Low Volatility Fund doesn’t share with nonaffiliates so they can market to you.

Joint marketing

A formal agreement between nonaffiliated financial companies that together market financial products or services to you.

 

●   Summit Global Investments U.S. Low Volatility Equity Fund, Small Cap Low Volatility Fund and Global Low Volatility Fund may share your information with other financial institutions with whom they have joint marketing arrangements who may suggest additional fund services or other investments products which may be of interest to you. We do not currently have any joint marketing arrangements with other financial institutions.

 

 

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Investment Adviser

Summit Global Investments, LLC
620 South Main Street
Bountiful, UT 84010

 

Administrator and Transfer Agent

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, WI 53201

 

Principal Underwriter

Quasar Distributors, LLC
777 East Wisconsin Avenue, Floor 6
Milwaukee, WI 53202

 

Custodian

U.S. Bank, N.A.
1555 North Rivercenter Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, WI 53212

 

Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm

Ernst & Young LLP
One Commerce Square
2005 Market Street, Suite 700
Philadelphia, PA 19103

 

Legal Counsel

Drinker Biddle & Reath LLP
One Logan Square, Suite 2000
Philadelphia, PA 19103-6996

 

SGI-AR18

 

 

 

Item 2. Code of Ethics.

 

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

 

Item 3. Audit Committee Financial Expert.

 

The registrant’s board of directors has determined that the registrant has at least one audit committee financial expert serving on its audit committee. Julian A. Brodsky, Gregory P. Chandler and Nicholas A. Giordano are the registrant’s audit committee financial experts and each of them is “independent.”

 

Item 4. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.

 

Audit Fees

 

(a)The aggregate fees billed for each of the last two fiscal years for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for the audit of the registrant's annual financial statements or services that are normally provided by the accountant in connection with statutory and regulatory filings or engagements for those fiscal years were:

 

   Fiscal Year 2018   Fiscal Year 2017 
Ernst & Young LLP  $503,650   $475,825 
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP  $255,514   $229,142 
Tait, Weller & Baker  $88,300   $73,300 
BBD LLP  $0   $15,000 
Aggregate Fees  $847,464   $793,267 

 

 

 

Audit-Related Fees

 

(b)The aggregate fees billed in each of the last two fiscal years for assurance and related services by the principal accountant that are reasonably related to the performance of the audit of the registrant's financial statements and are not reported under paragraph (a) of this Item were:

 

   Fiscal Year 2018   Fiscal Year 2017 
Ernst & Young LLP  $0   $0 
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP  $0   $0 
Tait, Weller & Baker  $0   $0 
BBD LLP  $0   $0 
Aggregate Fees  $0   $0 

 

Tax Fees

 

(c)The aggregate fees billed in each of the last two fiscal years for professional services rendered by the principal accountant for tax compliance, tax advice, and tax planning were:

 

   Fiscal Year 2018   Fiscal Year 2017 
Ernst & Young LLP  $128,320   $152,100 
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP  $48,610   $41,717 
Tait, Weller & Baker  $17,000   $14,000 
BBD LLP  $0   $2,000 
Aggregate Fees  $193,930   $209,817 

 

All Other Fees

 

(d)The aggregate fees billed in each of the last two fiscal years for products and services provided by the principal accountant, other than the services reported in paragraphs (a) through (c) of this Item were:

 

   Fiscal Year 2018   Fiscal Year 2017 
Ernst & Young LLP  $0   $0 
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP  $0   $0 
Tait, Weller & Baker  $0   $0 
BBD LLP  $0   $0 
Aggregate Fees  $0   $0 

 

(e)(1)Disclose the audit committee’s pre-approval policies and procedures described in paragraph (c)(7) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X.

 

Pre-Approval of Audit and Permitted Non-Audit Services

 

1.Pre-Approval Requirements of the Company. The Committee shall pre-approve all auditing services and permissible non-audit services (e.g., tax services) to be provided to the Company by the Auditor, including the fees associated with those services.

 

2.Pre-Approval Requirements of Affiliates. Additionally, the Committee shall pre-approve any engagement of the Auditor to provide non-audit services to an investment adviser of a Portfolio or to any affiliate of such investment adviser that provides ongoing services to the Company, if the engagement relates directly to the operations and financial reporting of the Company.

 

 

 

3.Delegation. The Committee may delegate to the Chairman of the Committee, or if the Chairman is not available, one or more of its members, the authority to grant pre-approvals. The decisions of any member to whom authority is delegated shall be presented to the full Committee at its next scheduled meeting.

 

4.Prohibited Services. The Committee shall confirm with the Auditor that the Auditor is not performing contemporaneously with the Company’s audit any prohibited non-audit services for the Company, any investment adviser of a Portfolio, or any affiliates of the Company or such investment advisers. The Auditor is responsible for informing the Committee of whether it believes that a particular service is permissible or prohibited pursuant to applicable regulations and standards.

 

(e)(2)The percentage of services described in each of paragraphs (b) through (d) of this Item that were approved by the audit committee pursuant to paragraph (c)(7)(i)(C) of Rule 2-01 of Regulation S-X are as follows:

 

(b) Not applicable.

 

(c) Not applicable.

 

(d) Not applicable.

 

(f)The percentage of hours expended on the principal accountant’s engagement to audit the registrant’s financial statements for the most recent fiscal year that were attributed to work performed by persons other than the principal accountant’s full-time, permanent employees was not applicable.

 

(g)The aggregate non-audit fees billed by the registrant’s accountant for services rendered to the registrant, and rendered to the registrant’s investment adviser (not including any sub-adviser whose role is primarily portfolio management and is subcontracted with or overseen by another investment adviser), and any entity controlling, controlled by, or under common control with the adviser that provides ongoing services to the registrant for each of the last two fiscal years of the registrant were:

 

   Fiscal Year 2018   Fiscal Year 2017 
Ernst & Young LLP  $128,320   $152,100 
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP  $324,610   $343,130 
Tait  $17,000   $14,000 
BBD LLP  $0   $2,000 
Aggregate Fees  $469,930   $511,230 

 

(h)Not applicable.

 

 

 

Item 5. Audit Committee of Listed Registrants.

 

Not applicable to open-end investment companies.

 

Item 6. Investments.

 

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

 

(b)Not applicable.

 

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

 

Not applicable to open-end investment companies.

 

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

 

Not applicable to open-end investment companies.

 

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

 

Not applicable to open-end investment companies.

 

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

 

There have been no material changes to the procedures by which the shareholders may recommend nominees to the registrant’s board of directors, where those changes were implemented after the registrant last provided disclosure in response to the requirements of Item 407(c)(2)(iv) of Regulation S-K (17 CFR 229.407) (as required by Item 22(b)(15) of Schedule 14A (17 CFR 240.14a-101)), or this Item.

 

Item 11. Controls and Procedures.

 

(a)The Registrant’s Principal Executive and Principal Financial Officers have reviewed the Registrant's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “Act”)) as of a date within 90 days of the filing of this report, as required by Rule 30a-3(b) under the Act and Rules 13a-15(b) or 15d-15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Based on their review, such officers have concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed in this report is appropriately recorded, processed, summarized and reported and made known to them by others within the Registrant and by the Registrant’s service provider.

 

(b)There were no changes in the Registrant's internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the Act) that occurred during the second fiscal quarter of the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

 

 

 

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

 

Not applicable to open-end investment companies.

 

Item 13. Exhibits.

 

(a)(1) Senior Officer Code of Ethics, or any amendment thereto, that is the subject of disclosure required by Item 2 is attached hereto.

 

(a)(2) A separate certification for each principal executive officer and principal financial officer pursuant to Rule 30a-2(a) under the 1940 Act is attached hereto.

 

(a)(3) Not applicable to open-end investment companies.

 

(a)(4) There was no change in the registrant’s independent public accountant for the period covered by this report.

 

(b) Certifications pursuant to Section 906 of the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002. Furnished herewith.

 

 

 

SIGNATURES

 

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

 

(Registrant) The RBB Fund, Inc.  
     
By (Signature and Title)* /s/ Salvatore Faia   
  Salvatore Faia, President  
  (principal executive officer)  
     
Date 11/5/2018  

 

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

 

By (Signature and Title)* /s/ Salvatore Faia   
  Salvatore Faia, President  
  (principal executive officer)  
     
Date 11/5/2018   
     
By (Signature and Title)* /s/ James Shaw   
  James Shaw, Treasurer  
  (principal financial officer)  
     
Date 11/5/2018   

 

*Print the name and title of each signing officer under his or her signature.