485BPOS

As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on September 25, 2020

1933 Act File No. 033-31675

1940 Act File No. 811-05979

U.S. SECURITIES AND EXCHANGE COMMISSION

WASHINGTON, D.C. 20549

FORM N-1A

REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE SECURITIES ACT OF 1933	☒
PRE-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO.	☐
POST-EFFECTIVE AMENDMENT NO. 61
and/or
REGISTRATION STATEMENT UNDER THE INVESTMENT COMPANY ACT OF 1940	☒
AMENDMENT NO. 64
(CHECK APPROPRIATE BOX OR BOXES)

JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND

(EXACT NAME OF REGISTRANT AS SPECIFIED IN CHARTER)

200 BERKELEY STREET

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02116

(ADDRESS OF PRINCIPAL EXECUTIVE OFFICES) (ZIP CODE)

REGISTRANT’S TELEPHONE NUMBER, INCLUDING AREA CODE

(800) 225-5291

CHRISTOPHER (KIT) SECHLER

200 BERKELEY STREET

BOSTON, MASSACHUSETTS 02116

(NAME AND ADDRESS OF AGENT FOR SERVICE)

COPIES OF COMMUNICATIONS TO:

MARK P. GOSHKO, ESQ.

K & L GATES LLP

ONE LINCOLN STREET

BOSTON, MA 02111-2950

TITLE OF SECURITIES BEING REGISTERED: Shares of beneficial interest ($0.00 par value) of the Registrant.

APPROXIMATE DATE OF PROPOSED PUBLIC OFFERING: As soon as practicable after the effective date of this Registration Statement.

It is proposed that this filing will become effective (check appropriate box):

☐	immediately upon filing pursuant to paragraph (b) of Rule 485
☑	on October 1, 2020  pursuant to paragraph (b) of Rule 485
☐	60 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) of Rule 485
☐	on (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(1) of Rule 485
☐	75 days after filing pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of Rule 485
☐	on (date) pursuant to paragraph (a)(2) of Rule 485

If appropriate, check the following box:

☐ this post-effective amendment designates a new effective date for a previously filed post-effective amendment.

John Hancock
California Tax-Free Income Fund

Prospectus 10/1/20

Class A	TACAX
Class B	TSCAX
Class C	TCCAX
Class I	JCAFX
Class R6	JCSRX

Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the fund’s shareholder reports will no longer be sent by mail, unless you specifically request paper copies of the reports from the fund or from your financial intermediary. Instead, the reports will be made available on a website, and you will be notified by mail each time a report is posted and provided with a website link to access the report.

If you already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and do not need to take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications electronically by calling John Hancock Investment Management at 800-225-5291 (Class A, Class B, and Class C) or 888-972-8696 (Class I and Class R Suite) or by contacting your financial intermediary.

You may elect to receive all reports in paper free of charge at any time. You can inform the fund or your financial intermediary that you wish to continue receiving paper copies of your shareholder reports by following the instructions listed above. Your election to receive reports in paper will apply to all funds held with John Hancock Investment Management or your financial intermediary.

As with all mutual funds, the Securities and Exchange Commission has not approved or disapproved these securities or passed upon the adequacy of this prospectus. Any representation to the contrary is a criminal offense. 

 

Table of contents

Fund summary	Fund details	Your account
The summary section is a concise look at the investment objective, fees and expenses, principal investment strategies, principal risks, past performance, and investment management.	More about topics covered in the summary section, including descriptions of the investment strategies and various risk factors that investors should understand before investing.	How to place an order to buy, sell, or exchange shares, as well as information about the business policies and any distributions that may be paid.

1 John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund

5	Principal investment strategies
5	Principal risks of investing
10	Who’s who
13	Financial highlights

16	Choosing an eligible share class
17	Class cost structure
18	How sales charges for Class A, Class B, and Class C shares are calculated
19	Sales charge reductions and waivers
21	Opening an account
22	Buying shares
25	Selling shares
31	Transaction policies
34	Dividends and account policies
35	Additional investor services
36	Appendix 1 - Intermediary sales charge waivers
	For more information  See back cover

Fund summary 

John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund

Investment objective

To seek a high level of current income, consistent with preservation of capital, that is exempt from federal and California personal income taxes.

Fees and expenses

This table describes the fees and expenses you may pay if you buy, sell, and hold shares of the fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts on Class A shares if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $100000 in the John Hancock family of funds. Intermediaries may have different policies and procedures regarding the availability of front-end sales charge waivers or contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) waivers (See Appendix 1 - Intermediary sales charge waivers, which includes information about specific sales charge waivers applicable to the intermediaries identified therein). Although the fund does not impose any sales charges on Class I shares, you may pay commissions to your broker on your purchases and sales of Class I shares, which are not reflected in the table and example below. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional and on pages 19 to 21 of the prospectus under “Sales charge reductions and waivers” or pages 126 to 130 of the fund’s Statement of Additional Information under “Sales Charges on Class A, Class B and Class C Shares.”

Shareholder fees (%) (fees paid directly from your investment)		A	B	C	I	R6
Maximum front-end sales charge (load) on purchases, as a % of purchase price		4.00	None	None	None	None
Maximum deferred sales charge (load) as a % of purchase or sale price, whichever is less	1.00 (on certain purchases, including those of $1 million or more)		5.00	1.00	None	None
Small account fee ($) (for fund account balances under $1,000)		20	None	20	None	None

Annual fund operating expenses (%) (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)	A	B	C	I	R6
Management fee	0.55	0.55	0.55	0.55	0.55
Distribution and service (Rule 12b-1) fees	0.15	1.00	1.00	0.00	0.00
Other expenses	0.15	0.15	0.15	0.15	0.12
Total annual fund operating expenses	0.85	1.70	1.70	0.70	0.67
Contractual expense reimbursement1	-0.01	-0.112	-0.112	-0.01	-0.01
Total annual fund operating expenses after expense reimbursements	0.84	1.59	1.59	0.69	0.66

1 The advisor contractually agrees to waive a portion of its management fee and/or reimburse expenses for the fund and certain other John Hancock funds according to an asset level breakpoint schedule that is based on the aggregate net assets of all the funds participating in the waiver or reimbursement. This waiver is allocated proportionally among the participating funds. During its most recent fiscal year, the fund’s reimbursement amounted to 0.01% of the fund’s average daily net assets. This agreement expires on July 31, 2022, unless renewed by mutual agreement of the fund and the advisor based upon a determination that this is appropriate under the circumstances at that time.

2 The distributor contractually agrees to limit its Rule 12b-1 fees for Class B and Class C shares to 0.90%. This agreement expires on September 30, 2021, unless renewed by mutual agreement of the fund and the distributor based upon a determination that this is appropriate under the circumstances at that time.

Expense example

This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. Please see below a hypothetical example showing the expenses of a $10,000 investment for the time periods indicated and then, except as shown below, assuming you sell all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example assumes a 5% average annual return and that fund expenses will not change over the periods. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions, your costs would be:

Expenses ($)	A	B		C		I	R6
Shares		Sold	Not Sold	Sold	Not Sold
1 year	482	662	162	262	162	70	67
3 years	659	825	525	525	525	223	213
5 years	852	1113	913	913	913	389	372
10 years	1406	1773	1773	1999	1999	870	834

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER

The fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or “turns over” its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the fund’s performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the fund’s portfolio turnover rate was 22% of the average value of its portfolio.

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Principal investment strategies

Under normal market conditions, the fund invests at least 80% of its net assets, plus amounts borrowed for investment purposes, in securities of any maturity exempt from federal and California personal income taxes. Most of these securities are investment-grade when purchased, but the fund may invest up to 20% of its net assets in junk bonds rated BB by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services (S&P) or Fitch Ratings, Inc. (Fitch) or Ba by Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. (Moody’s), or their unrated equivalents. The fund’s investment policies are based on credit ratings at the time of purchase.

The fund may buy bonds of any maturity. The fund may engage in derivative transactions. Derivatives may be used to reduce risk and/or enhance investment returns, and may include futures contracts on debt securities and debt securities indexes; options on futures, debt securities, and debt indexes; and inverse floating-rate securities.

The manager looks for undervalued bonds, based on both broad and security-specific factors, such as issuer creditworthiness, bond structure, and general credit trends, and uses detailed analysis of an appropriate index to model portfolio performance and composition. The fund does not intend to engage in frequent trading.

The fund may invest in general obligation bonds, however, in general, the manager favors bonds backed by revenue from a specific public project or facility, such as a power plant (revenue bonds), as they tend to offer higher yields than general obligation bonds. The manager also favors bonds that have limitations on early payoff (call protection), which can help minimize the potential effect of falling interest rates on the fund’s yield. To the extent that the fund invests in bonds that are subject to the alternative minimum tax (AMT), the income paid by the fund may not be entirely tax-free to all investors. Investments in bonds subject to the AMT will not be counted toward the fund’s 80% investment policy.

For liquidity and flexibility, the fund may invest up to 20% of its net assets (plus any borrowings for investment purposes) in taxable and tax-free investment-grade short-term securities.

Principal risks

An investment in the fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Many factors affect performance, and fund shares will fluctuate in price, meaning you could lose money. The fund’s investment strategy may not produce the intended results.

During periods of heightened market volatility or reduced liquidity, governments, their agencies, or other regulatory bodies, both within the United States and abroad, may take steps to intervene. These actions, which could include legislative, regulatory, or economic initiatives, might have unforeseeable consequences and could adversely affect the fund’s performance or otherwise constrain the fund’s ability to achieve its investment objective.

The fund’s main risks are listed below in alphabetical order, not in order of importance. Before investing, be sure to read the additional descriptions of these risks beginning on page 5 of the prospectus.

Changing distribution levels risk. The fund may cease or reduce the level of its distribution if income or dividends paid from its investments declines.

Credit and counterparty risk. The issuer or guarantor of a fixed-income security, the counterparty to an over-the-counter derivatives contract, or a borrower of fund securities may not make timely payments or otherwise honor its obligations. A downgrade or default affecting any of the fund’s securities could affect the fund’s performance.

Cybersecurity and operational risk. Cybersecurity breaches may allow an unauthorized party to gain access to fund assets, customer data, or proprietary information, or cause a fund or its service providers to suffer data corruption or lose operational functionality. Similar incidents affecting issuers of a fund’s securities may negatively impact performance. Operational risk may arise from human error, error by third parties, communication errors, or technology failures, among other causes.

Economic and market events risk. Events in the U.S. and global financial markets, including actions taken by the U.S. Federal Reserve or foreign central banks to stimulate or stabilize economic growth, may at times result in unusually high market volatility, which could negatively impact performance. Reduced liquidity in credit and fixed-income markets could adversely affect issuers worldwide. Banks and financial services companies could suffer losses if interest rates rise or economic conditions deteriorate.

Fixed-income securities risk. A rise in interest rates typically causes bond prices to fall. The longer the average maturity or duration of the bonds held by a fund, the more sensitive it will likely be to interest-rate fluctuations. An issuer may not make all interest payments or repay all or any of the principal borrowed. Changes in a security’s credit quality may adversely affect fund performance.

Hedging, derivatives, and other strategic transactions risk. Hedging, derivatives, and other strategic transactions may increase a fund’s volatility and could produce disproportionate losses, potentially more than the fund’s principal investment. Risks of these transactions are different from and possibly greater than risks of investing directly in securities and other traditional instruments. Under certain market conditions, derivatives could become harder to value or sell and may become subject to liquidity risk (i.e., the inability to enter into closing transactions). Derivatives and other strategic transactions that the fund intends to utilize include: futures contracts; inverse floating-rate securities; and options. Futures contracts and options generally are subject to counterparty risk.

Liquidity risk. The extent (if at all) to which a security may be sold or a derivative position closed without negatively impacting its market value may be impaired by reduced market activity or participation, legal restrictions, or other economic and market impediments. Liquidity risk may be magnified in rising interest rate

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environments due to higher than normal redemption rates. Widespread selling of fixed-income securities to satisfy redemptions during periods of reduced demand may adversely impact their price or salability. The secondary market for certain tax-exempt securities tends to be less well-developed or liquid than many other securities markets, which may result in increased volatility or liquidity risk.

Lower-rated and high-yield fixed-income securities risk. Lower-rated and high-yield fixed-income securities (junk bonds) are subject to greater credit quality risk, risk of default, and price volatility than higher-rated fixed-income securities, may be considered speculative, and can be difficult to resell.

Municipal bond risk. The prices of municipal bonds, including general obligation bonds, can decline if the issuer’s credit quality declines. Revenue bond prices can decline if related projects become unprofitable. An insured municipal bond is subject to the risk that the insurer may be unable to pay claims and is not insured with respect to the market value of the obligation. Municipal bond income could become taxable in the future. Investments in AMT bonds may result in tax liability for shareholders.

Sector risk. When a fund focuses its investments in certain sectors of the economy, its performance may be driven largely by sector performance and could fluctuate more widely than if the fund were invested more evenly across sectors.

State/region risk. Investing heavily in any one state or region increases exposure to losses in that state or region. This risk is magnified for a fund that invests mainly in bonds from a single state. Factors that may affect performance include economic or political changes, tax base erosion, state constitutional limits on tax increases, budget deficits and other financial difficulties, and changes in credit ratings. At times, California has been more economically volatile than the United States as a whole. Puerto Rican municipal obligations, in which the fund may invest, may be subject to further devaluation due to adverse political, economic, and market conditions.

PAST PERFORMANCE

The following information illustrates the variability of the fund’s returns and provides some indication of the risks of investing in the fund by showing changes in the fund’s performance from year to year and by showing how the fund’s average annual returns compared with a broad-based market index. Past performance (before and after taxes) does not indicate future results. The Bloomberg Barclays Municipal Bond Index shows how the fund’s performance compares against the returns of similar investments. All figures assume dividend reinvestment. Performance information is updated daily, monthly, and quarterly and may be obtained at our website, jhinvestments.com, or by calling 800-225-5291 (Class A, Class B, and Class C), Monday to Thursday, 8:00 A.M.—7:00 P.M., and Friday, 8:00 A.M.—6:00 P.M., Eastern time, or 888-972-8696 (Class I and Class R6) between 8:30 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., Eastern time, on most business days.

A note on performance

Class A shares commenced operations on December 29, 1989. Class I shares commenced operations on February 13, 2017. Class R6 shares commenced operations on August 30, 2017. Returns shown prior to the commencement dates of Class I shares and Class R6 shares are those of Class A shares, except that they do not include sales charges and would be lower if they did. Returns for Class I and Class R6 shares would have been substantially similar to returns of Class A shares because both share classes are invested in the same portfolio of securities and returns would differ only to the extent that expenses of the classes are different. To the extent expenses of a class would have been higher than expenses of Class A shares for the periods shown, performance would have been lower.

Please note that after-tax returns (shown for Class A shares only) reflect the highest individual federal marginal income-tax rate in effect as of the date provided and do not reflect any state or local taxes. Your actual after-tax returns may be different. After-tax returns are not relevant to shares held in an IRA, 401(k), or other tax-advantaged investment plan. After-tax returns for other share classes would vary. The returns for Class A shares have been adjusted to reflect the reduction in the maximum sales charge from 4.50% to 4.00%, effective February 3, 2014.

Calendar year total returns (%)—Class A (sales charges are not reflected in the bar chart and returns would have been lower if they were)

Year-to-date total return. The fund’s total return for the six months ended June 30, 2020, was 7.12%.
Best quarter:   Q2 2011, 5.47%
Worst quarter:   Q4 2010, -5.27%

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Average annual total returns (%)—as of 12/31/19	1 year	5 year	10 year
Class A (before tax)	3.16	2.55	4.55
after tax on distributions	1.64	1.02	3.39
after tax on distributions, with sale	1.97	1.26	3.29
Class B	1.64	2.27	4.34
Class C	5.64	2.61	4.18
Class I	7.50	3.47	5.02
Class R6	7.63	3.47	5.02
Bloomberg Barclays California Municipal Bond Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses, or taxes)	7.67	3.52	4.85
Bloomberg Barclays Municipal Bond Index (reflects no deduction for fees, expenses, or taxes)	7.54	3.53	4.34

Investment management

Investment advisor John Hancock Investment Management LLC
Subadvisor Manulife Investment Management (US) LLC

Portfolio management

Dennis DiCicco
Portfolio Manager
Managed the fund since 2018 Jeffrey N. Given, CFA
Senior Managing Director and Senior Portfolio Manager
Managed the fund since 2018

Purchase and sale of fund shares

The minimum initial investment requirement for Class A and Class C shares is $1,000 ($250 for group investments), except that there is no minimum for certain group retirement plans, certain fee-based or wrap accounts, or certain other eligible investment product platforms. The minimum initial investment requirement for Class I shares is $250,000, except that the fund may waive the minimum for any category of investors at the fund’s sole discretion. The minimum initial investment requirement for Class R6 shares is $1 million, except that there is no minimum for: qualified and nonqualified plan investors; certain eligible qualifying investment product platforms; Trustees, employees of the advisor or its affiliates, employees of the subadvisor, members of the fund’s portfolio management team and the spouses and children (under age 21) of the aforementioned. There are no subsequent minimum investment requirements for any of these share classes. Purchases of Class B shares are closed to new and existing investors except by exchange from Class B shares of another John Hancock fund or through dividend and/or capital gains reinvestment.

Class A, Class B, Class C, and Class I shares may be redeemed on any business day by mail: John Hancock Signature Services, Inc., P.O. Box 219909, Kansas City, MO 64121-9909; or for most account types through our website: jhinvestments.com; or by telephone: 800-225-5291 (Class A, Class B, and Class C); 888-972-8696 (Class I and Class R6).

Taxes

The fund intends to distribute tax-exempt income. The fund intends to meet certain federal tax requirements so that distributions of the tax-exempt interest it earns may be treated as “exempt-interest dividends.” A portion of the fund’s exempt-interest dividends is also expected to be exempt from California personal income taxation when received by individual shareholders of the fund who are subject to California personal income taxation. A portion of the fund’s distributions may, however, be subject to federal income tax.

Payments to broker-dealers and other financial intermediaries

If you purchase the fund through a broker-dealer or other financial intermediary (such as a bank, registered investment advisor, financial planner, or retirement plan administrator), the fund and its related companies may pay the broker-dealer or other intermediary for the sale of fund shares and related services. These payments may create a conflict of interest by influencing the broker-dealer or other intermediary and your salesperson to recommend the fund over another investment. These payments are not applicable to Class R6 shares. Ask your salesperson or visit your financial intermediary’s website for more information.

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Fund details 

Principal investment strategies

The fund’s investment objective is to seek a high level of current income, consistent with preservation of capital, that is exempt from federal and California personal income taxes.Under normal market conditions, the fund invests at least 80% of its net assets, plus amounts borrowed for investment purposes, in securities of any maturity exempt from federal and California personal income taxes. Most of these securities are investment grade when purchased, but the fund may invest up to 20% of its net assets in junk bonds rated BB by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services (S&P) or Fitch Ratings (Fitch), or Ba by Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. (Moody’s), or their unrated equivalents. The fund’s investment policies are based on credit ratings at the time of purchase. Bonds that are rated at or below BB by S&P or Fitch or Ba by Moody’s are considered junk bonds.

A change in the fund’s 80% investment policy requires shareholder approval.

The fund may buy bonds of any maturity. If a bond’s credit rating falls, the fund does not have to sell it unless the manager determines a sale is in the fund’s best interest. The fund may engage in derivative transactions that include futures contracts on debt securities and debt securities indexes; options on futures, debt securities, and debt indexes; and inverse floating-rate securities, in each case for the purposes of reducing risk and/or enhancing investment returns.

The manager looks for bonds that are undervalued, based on both broad and security-specific factors, such as issuer creditworthiness, bond structure, general credit trends, and the relative attractiveness of different types of issuers. The manager uses detailed analysis of an appropriate index to model portfolio performance and composition, then blends the macro assessment with security analysis in a comprehensive and disciplined fashion. The fund does not intend to use frequent trading as part of its strategy.

The fund may invest in general obligation bonds, however, in general, the manager favors bonds backed by revenue from a specific public project or facility, such as a power plant (revenue bonds), as they tend to offer higher yields than general obligation bonds. The manager also favors bonds that have limitations on being paid off early (call protection), as this can help minimize the effect that falling interest rates may have on the fund’s yield. To the extent that the fund invests in bonds that are subject to the alternative minimum tax (AMT), the income paid by the fund may not be entirely tax-free to all investors. Investments in bonds subject to the AMT will not be counted toward the fund’s 80% investment policy.

For liquidity and flexibility, the fund may invest up to 20% of its net assets (plus any borrowings for investment purposes) in taxable and tax-free investment-grade short-term securities. The fund may temporarily invest more assets in cash or investment-grade short-term securities for the purpose of meeting redemption requests or making other anticipated cash payments.

The fund may deviate from its principal investment strategies during transition periods, which may include the reassignment of portfolio management, a change in investment objective or strategy, a reorganization or liquidation, or the occurrence of large inflows or outflows.

Temporary defensive investing

In abnormal circumstances, the fund may temporarily invest more than 20% of its net assets in cash or investment-grade short-term securities for the purpose

of protecting the fund in the event the manager determines that market, economic, political, or other conditions warrant a defensive posture.

The income from some short-term investments may be subject to California and/or federal income taxes. At the end of each quarter of the fund’s taxable year, these investments cannot exceed 50% of the fund’s total assets. To the extent that the fund is in a defensive position or is invested in taxable securities, its ability to achieve its investment objective will be limited.

Principal risks of investing

An investment in the fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. The fund’s shares will go up and down in price, meaning that you could lose money by investing in the fund. Many factors influence a fund’s performance. The fund’s investment strategy may not produce the intended results.

Instability in the financial markets has led many governments, including the U.S. government, to take a number of unprecedented actions designed to support certain financial institutions and segments of the financial markets that have experienced extreme volatility and, in some cases, a lack of liquidity. Federal, state, and other governments, and their regulatory agencies or self-regulatory organizations, may take actions that affect the regulation of the instruments in which the fund invests, or the issuers of such instruments, in ways that are unforeseeable. Legislation or regulation may also change the way in which the fund itself is regulated. Such legislation or regulation could limit or preclude the fund’s ability to achieve its investment objective. In addition, political events within the United States and abroad, including the U.S. government’s ongoing difficulty agreeing on a long-term budget and deficit reduction plan and uncertainty surrounding sovereign debt of European Union members, could negatively impact financial markets and the fund’s performance. Further, certain municipalities of the United States and its territories are financially strained and may face the possibility of default on their debt obligations, which could directly or indirectly detract from the fund’s performance.

Governments or their agencies may also acquire distressed assets from financial institutions and acquire ownership interests in those institutions. The implications of government ownership and disposition of these assets are unclear, and such a program may have positive or negative effects on the liquidity, valuation, and performance of the fund’s portfolio holdings. Furthermore, volatile financial markets can expose the fund to greater market and liquidity risk, increased transaction costs, and potential difficulty in valuing portfolio instruments held by the fund.

The principal risks of investing in the fund are summarized in its fund summary above. Below are descriptions of the main factors that may play a role in shaping the fund’s overall risk profile. The descriptions appear in alphabetical order, not in order of importance. For further details about fund risks, including additional risk factors that are not discussed in this prospectus because they are not considered primary factors, see the fund’s Statement of Additional Information (SAI).

Changing distribution levels risk

The distribution amounts paid by the fund generally depend on the amount of income and/or dividends paid by the fund’s investments. As a result of market, interest rate and other circumstances, the amount of cash available for

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distribution by the fund and the fund’s distribution rate may vary or decline. The risk of such variability is accentuated in currently prevailing market and interest rate circumstances.

Credit and counterparty risk

This is the risk that the issuer or guarantor of a fixed-income security, the counterparty to an over-the-counter (OTC) derivatives contract (see “Hedging, derivatives, and other strategic transactions risk”), or a borrower of a fund’s securities will be unable or unwilling to make timely principal, interest, or settlement payments, or otherwise honor its obligations. Credit risk associated with investments in fixed-income securities relates to the ability of the issuer to make scheduled payments of principal and interest on an obligation. A fund that invests in fixed-income securities is subject to varying degrees of risk that the issuers of the securities will have their credit ratings downgraded or will default, potentially reducing the fund’s share price and income level. Nearly all fixed-income securities are subject to some credit risk, which may vary depending upon whether the issuers of the securities are corporations, domestic or foreign governments, or their subdivisions or instrumentalities. When a fixed-income security is not rated, a manager may have to assess the risk of the security itself. Asset-backed securities, whose principal and interest payments are supported by pools of other assets, such as credit card receivables and automobile loans, are subject to further risks, including the risk that the obligors of the underlying assets default on payment of those assets.

Funds that invest in below-investment-grade securities, also called junk bonds (e.g., fixed-income securities rated Ba or lower by Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. or BB or lower by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services or Fitch Ratings, as applicable, at the time of investment, or determined by a manager to be of comparable quality to securities so rated) are subject to increased credit risk. The sovereign debt of many foreign governments, including their subdivisions and instrumentalities, falls into this category. Below-investment-grade securities offer the potential for higher investment returns than higher-rated securities, but they carry greater credit risk: their issuers’ continuing ability to meet principal and interest payments is considered speculative, they are more susceptible to real or perceived adverse economic and competitive industry conditions, and they may be less liquid than higher-rated securities.

In addition, a fund is exposed to credit risk to the extent that it makes use of OTC derivatives (such as forward foreign currency contracts and/or swap contracts) and engages to a significant extent in the lending of fund securities or the use of repurchase agreements. OTC derivatives transactions can be closed out with the other party to the transaction. If the counterparty defaults, a fund will have contractual remedies, but there is no assurance that the counterparty will be able to meet its contractual obligations or that, in the event of default, a fund will succeed in enforcing them. A fund, therefore, assumes the risk that it may be unable to obtain payments owed to it under OTC derivatives contracts or that those payments may be delayed or made only after the fund has incurred the costs of litigation. While the manager intends to monitor the creditworthiness of contract counterparties, there can be no assurance that the counterparty will be in a position to meet its obligations, especially during unusually adverse market conditions.

Cybersecurity and operational risk

Intentional cybersecurity breaches include unauthorized access to systems, networks, or devices (such as through “hacking” activity); infection from computer viruses or other malicious software code; and attacks that shut down,

disable, slow, or otherwise disrupt operations, business processes, or website access or functionality. In addition, unintentional incidents can occur, such as the inadvertent release of confidential information (possibly resulting in the violation of applicable privacy laws).

A cybersecurity breach could result in the loss or theft of customer data or funds, the inability to access electronic systems (“denial of services”), loss or theft of proprietary information or corporate data, physical damage to a computer or network system, or costs associated with system repairs. Such incidents could cause a fund, the advisor, a manager, or other service providers to incur regulatory penalties, reputational damage, additional compliance costs, litigation costs or financial loss. In addition, such incidents could affect issuers in which a fund invests, and thereby cause the fund’s investments to lose value.

Cyber-events have the potential to materially affect the fund and the advisor’s relationships with accounts, shareholders, clients, customers, employees, products, and service providers. The fund has established risk management systems reasonably designed to seek to reduce the risks associated with cyber-events. There is no guarantee that the fund will be able to prevent or mitigate the impact of any or all cyber-events.

The fund is exposed to operational risk arising from a number of factors, including, but not limited to, human error, processing and communication errors, errors of the fund’s service providers, counterparties, or other third parties, failed or inadequate processes and technology or system failures.

In addition, other disruptive events, including (but not limited to) natural disasters and public health crises (such as the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic), may adversely affect the fund’s ability to conduct business, in particular if the fund’s employees or the employees of its service providers are unable or unwilling to perform their responsibilities as a result of any such event. Even if the fund’s employees and the employees of its service providers are able to work remotely, those remote work arrangements could result in the fund’s business operations being less efficient than under normal circumstances, could lead to delays in its processing of transactions, and could increase the risk of cyber-events.

Economic and market events risk

Events in certain sectors historically have resulted, and may in the future result, in an unusually high degree of volatility in the financial markets, both domestic and foreign. These events have included, but are not limited to: bankruptcies, corporate restructurings, and other similar events; governmental efforts to limit short selling and high frequency trading; measures to address U.S. federal and state budget deficits; social, political, and economic instability in Europe; economic stimulus by the Japanese central bank; dramatic changes in energy prices and currency exchange rates; and China’s economic slowdown. Interconnected global economies and financial markets increase the possibility that conditions in one country or region might adversely impact issuers in a different country or region. Both domestic and foreign equity markets have experienced increased volatility and turmoil, with issuers that have exposure to the real estate, mortgage, and credit markets particularly affected. Banks and financial services companies could suffer losses if interest rates rise or economic conditions deteriorate.

In addition, relatively high market volatility and reduced liquidity in credit and fixed-income markets may adversely affect many issuers worldwide. Actions taken by the U.S. Federal Reserve (Fed) or foreign central banks to stimulate or stabilize economic growth, such as interventions in currency markets, could

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cause high volatility in the equity and fixed-income markets. Reduced liquidity may result in less money being available to purchase raw materials, goods, and services from emerging markets, which may, in turn, bring down the prices of these economic staples. It may also result in emerging-market issuers having more difficulty obtaining financing, which may, in turn, cause a decline in their securities prices.

In addition, while interest rates have been unusually low in recent years in the United States and abroad, any decision by the Fed to adjust the target fed funds rate, among other factors, could cause markets to experience continuing high volatility. A significant increase in interest rates may cause a decline in the market for equity securities. Also, regulators have expressed concern that rate increases may contribute to price volatility. These events and the possible resulting market volatility may have an adverse effect on the fund.

Political turmoil within the United States and abroad may also impact the fund. Although the U.S. government has honored its credit obligations, it remains possible that the United States could default on its obligations. While it is impossible to predict the consequences of such an unprecedented event, it is likely that a default by the United States would be highly disruptive to the U.S. and global securities markets and could significantly impair the value of the fund’s investments. Similarly, political events within the United States at times have resulted, and may in the future result, in a shutdown of government services, which could negatively affect the U.S. economy, decrease the value of many fund investments, and increase uncertainty in or impair the operation of the U.S. or other securities markets. The U.S. is also considering significant new investments in infrastructure and national defense which, coupled with lower federal taxes, could lead to increased government borrowing and higher interest rates. While these proposed policies are going through the political process, the equity and debt markets may react strongly to expectations, which could increase volatility, especially if the market’s expectations for changes in government policies are not borne out. The U.S. is also renegotiating many of its global trade relationships and has imposed or threatened to impose significant import tariffs. These actions could lead to price volatility and overall declines in U.S. and global investment markets.

Uncertainties surrounding the sovereign debt of a number of EU countries and the viability of the EU have disrupted and may in the future disrupt markets in the United States and around the world. If one or more countries leave the EU or the EU dissolves, the world’s securities markets likely will be significantly disrupted. On January 31, 2020, the UK left the EU, commonly referred to as “Brexit,” and there commenced a transition period during which the EU and UK will negotiate and agree on the nature of their future relationship. There is significant market uncertainty regarding Brexit’s ramifications, and the range and potential implications of possible political, regulatory, economic, and market outcomes are difficult to predict. This uncertainty may affect other countries in the EU and elsewhere, and may cause volatility within the EU, triggering prolonged economic downturns in certain countries within the EU. In addition, Brexit may create additional and substantial economic stresses for the UK, including a contraction of the UK economy and price volatility in UK stocks, decreased trade, capital outflows, devaluation of the British pound, wider corporate bond spreads due to uncertainty and declines in business and consumer spending as well as foreign direct investment. Brexit may also adversely affect UK-based financial firms that have counterparties in the EU or participate in market infrastructure (trading venues, clearing houses, settlement facilities) based in the EU. Additionally, the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic will stretch the resources and deficits of many countries

in the EU and throughout the world, increasing the risk of default on their sovereign debt. These events and the resulting market volatility may have an adverse effect on the performance of the fund.

A widespread health crisis such as a global pandemic could cause substantial market volatility, exchange trading suspensions and closures, impact the ability to complete redemptions, and affect fund performance. For example, the novel coronavirus disease (COVID-19) has resulted in significant disruptions to global business activity. The impact of a health crisis and other epidemics and pandemics that may arise in the future, could affect the global economy in ways that cannot necessarily be foreseen at the present time. A health crisis may exacerbate other pre-existing political, social and economic risks. Any such impact could adversely affect the fund’s performance, resulting in losses to your investment.

The United States has responded to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and resulting economic distress with fiscal and monetary stimulus packages. In late March 2020, the government passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, a stimulus package providing for over $2.2 trillion in resources to small businesses, state and local governments, and individuals that have been adversely impacted by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. In addition, in mid-March 2020 the Fed cut interest rates to historically low levels and promised unlimited and open-ended quantitative easing, including purchases of corporate and municipal government bonds. The Fed also enacted various programs to support liquidity operations and funding in the financial markets, including expanding its reverse repurchase agreement operations, adding $1.5 trillion of liquidity to the banking system, establishing swap lines with other major central banks to provide dollar funding, establishing a program to support money market funds, easing various bank capital buffers, providing funding backstops for businesses to provide bridging loans for up to four years, and providing funding to help credit flow in asset-backed securities markets. The Fed also plans to extend credit to small- and medium-sized businesses.

Political and military events, including in North Korea, Venezuela, Iran, Syria, and other areas of the Middle East, and nationalist unrest in Europe and South America, also may cause market disruptions.

In addition, there is a risk that the prices of goods and services in the United States and many foreign economies may decline over time, known as deflation. Deflation may have an adverse effect on stock prices and creditworthiness and may make defaults on debt more likely. If a country’s economy slips into a deflationary pattern, it could last for a prolonged period and may be difficult to reverse.

Fixed-income securities risk

Fixed-income securities are generally subject to two principal types of risk, as well as other risks described below: (1) interest-rate risk and (2) credit quality risk.

Interest-rate risk. Fixed-income securities are affected by changes in interest rates. When interest rates decline, the market value of fixed-income securities generally can be expected to rise. Conversely, when interest rates rise, the market value of fixed-income securities generally can be expected to decline. The longer the duration or maturity of a fixed-income security, the more susceptible it is to interest-rate risk. Recent and potential future changes in government monetary policy may affect the level of interest rates.

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The fixed-income securities market has been and may continue to be negatively affected by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. As with other serious economic disruptions, governmental authorities and regulators are responding to this crisis with significant fiscal and monetary policy changes, including considerably lowering interest rates, which, in some cases could result in negative interest rates. These actions, including their possible unexpected or sudden reversal or potential ineffectiveness, could further increase volatility in securities and other financial markets and reduce market liquidity. To the extent the fund has a bank deposit or holds a debt instrument with a negative interest rate to maturity, the fund would generate a negative return on that investment. Similarly, negative rates on investments by money market funds and similar cash management products could lead to losses on investments, including on investments of the fund’s uninvested cash.

Credit quality risk. Fixed-income securities are subject to the risk that the issuer of the security will not repay all or a portion of the principal borrowed and will not make all interest payments. If the credit quality of a fixed-income security deteriorates after a fund has purchased the security, the market value of the security may decrease and lead to a decrease in the value of the fund’s investments. An issuer’s credit quality could deteriorate as a result of poor management decisions, competitive pressures, technological obsolescence, undue reliance on suppliers, labor issues, shortages, corporate restructurings, fraudulent disclosures, or other factors. Funds that may invest in lower-rated fixed-income securities, commonly referred to as junk securities, are riskier than funds that may invest in higher-rated fixed-income securities. Additional information on the risks of investing in investment-grade fixed-income securities in the lowest rating category and lower-rated fixed-income securities is set forth below.

Investment-grade fixed-income securities in the lowest rating category risk. Investment-grade fixed-income securities in the lowest rating category (such as Baa by Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. or BBB by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services or Fitch Ratings, as applicable, and comparable unrated securities) involve a higher degree of risk than fixed-income securities in the higher rating categories. While such securities are considered investment-grade quality and are deemed to have adequate capacity for payment of principal and interest, such securities lack outstanding investment characteristics and have speculative characteristics as well. For example, changes in economic conditions or other circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to make principal and interest payments than is the case with higher-grade securities.

Prepayment of principal risk. Many types of debt securities, including floating-rate loans, are subject to prepayment risk. Prepayment risk is the risk that, when interest rates fall, certain types of obligations will be paid off by the borrower more quickly than originally anticipated and the fund may have to invest the proceeds in securities with lower yields. Securities subject to prepayment risk can offer less potential for gains when the credit quality of the issuer improves.

Hedging, derivatives, and other strategic transactions risk

The ability of a fund to utilize hedging, derivatives, and other strategic transactions to benefit the fund will depend in part on its manager’s ability to predict pertinent market movements and market risk, counterparty risk, credit risk, interest-rate risk, and other risk factors, none of which can be assured. The skills required to utilize hedging and other strategic transactions are different from those needed to select a fund’s securities. Even if the manager only uses

hedging and other strategic transactions in a fund primarily for hedging purposes or to gain exposure to a particular securities market, if the transaction does not have the desired outcome, it could result in a significant loss to a fund. The amount of loss could be more than the principal amount invested. These transactions may also increase the volatility of a fund and may involve a small investment of cash relative to the magnitude of the risks assumed, thereby magnifying the impact of any resulting gain or loss. For example, the potential loss from the use of futures can exceed a fund’s initial investment in such contracts. In addition, these transactions could result in a loss to a fund if the counterparty to the transaction does not perform as promised.

A fund may invest in derivatives, which are financial contracts with a value that depends on, or is derived from, the value of underlying assets, reference rates, or indexes. Derivatives may relate to bonds, interest rates, currencies, or currency exchange rates, and related indexes. A fund may use derivatives for many purposes, including for hedging, and as a substitute for direct investment in securities or other assets. Derivatives may be used in a way to efficiently adjust the exposure of a fund to various securities, markets, and currencies without a fund actually having to sell existing investments and make new investments. This generally will be done when the adjustment is expected to be relatively temporary or in anticipation of effecting the sale of fund assets and making new investments over time. Further, since many derivatives have a leverage component, adverse changes in the value or level of the underlying asset, reference rate, or index can result in a loss substantially greater than the amount invested in the derivative itself. Certain derivatives have the potential for unlimited loss, regardless of the size of the initial investment. When a fund uses derivatives for leverage, investments in that fund will tend to be more volatile, resulting in larger gains or losses in response to market changes. To limit leverage risk, a fund may segregate assets determined to be liquid or, as permitted by applicable regulation, enter into certain offsetting positions to cover its obligations under derivative instruments. For a description of the various derivative instruments the fund may utilize, refer to the SAI.

The regulation of the U.S. and non-U.S. derivatives markets has undergone substantial change in recent years and such change may continue. Regulatory changes in derivative markets could impact the cost of or the fund’s ability to engage in derivative transactions. In particular, the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act, and regulation proposed to be promulgated thereunder require many derivatives to be cleared and traded on an exchange, expand entity registration requirements, impose business conduct requirements on dealers that enter into swaps with a pension plan, endowment, retirement plan or government entity, and required banks to move some derivatives trading units to a non-guaranteed affiliate separate from the deposit-taking bank or divest them altogether. Although the CFTC has released final rules relating to clearing, reporting, recordkeeping and registration requirements under the legislation, many of the provisions are subject to further final rule making, and thus its ultimate impact remains unclear. New regulations could, among other things, restrict the fund’s ability to engage in derivatives transactions (for example, by making certain types of derivatives transactions no longer available to the fund) and/or increase the costs of such derivatives transactions (for example, by increasing margin or capital requirements), and the fund may be unable to fully execute its investment strategies as a result. Limits or restrictions applicable to the counterparties with which the fund engages in derivative transactions also could prevent the fund from using these instruments or affect the pricing or other factors relating to these instruments, or may change the availability of certain investments.

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At any time after the date of this prospectus, legislation may be enacted that could negatively affect the assets of the fund. Legislation or regulation may change the way in which the fund itself is regulated. The advisor cannot predict the effects of any new governmental regulation that may be implemented, and there can be no assurance that any new governmental regulation will not adversely affect the fund’s ability to achieve its investment objectives.

The use of derivative instruments may involve risks different from, or potentially greater than, the risks associated with investing directly in securities and other more traditional assets. In particular, the use of derivative instruments exposes a fund to the risk that the counterparty to an OTC derivatives contract will be unable or unwilling to make timely settlement payments or otherwise honor its obligations. OTC derivatives transactions typically can only be closed out with the other party to the transaction, although either party may engage in an offsetting transaction that puts that party in the same economic position as if it had closed out the transaction with the counterparty or may obtain the other party’s consent to assign the transaction to a third party. If the counterparty defaults, the fund will have contractual remedies, but there is no assurance that the counterparty will meet its contractual obligations or that, in the event of default, the fund will succeed in enforcing them. For example, because the contract for each OTC derivatives transaction is individually negotiated with a specific counterparty, a fund is subject to the risk that a counterparty may interpret contractual terms (e.g., the definition of default) differently than the fund when the fund seeks to enforce its contractual rights. If that occurs, the cost and unpredictability of the legal proceedings required for the fund to enforce its contractual rights may lead it to decide not to pursue its claims against the counterparty. The fund, therefore, assumes the risk that it may be unable to obtain payments owed to it under OTC derivatives contracts or that those payments may be delayed or made only after the fund has incurred the costs of litigation. While a manager intends to monitor the creditworthiness of counterparties, there can be no assurance that a counterparty will meet its obligations, especially during unusually adverse market conditions. To the extent a fund contracts with a limited number of counterparties, the fund’s risk will be concentrated and events that affect the creditworthiness of any of those counterparties may have a pronounced effect on the fund. Derivatives are also subject to a number of other risks, including market risk and liquidity risk. Since the value of derivatives is calculated and derived from the value of other assets, instruments, or references, there is a risk that they will be improperly valued. Derivatives also involve the risk that changes in their value may not correlate perfectly with the assets, rates, or indexes they are designed to hedge or closely track. Suitable derivatives transactions may not be available in all circumstances. The fund is also subject to the risk that the counterparty closes out the derivatives transactions upon the occurrence of certain triggering events. In addition, a manager may determine not to use derivatives to hedge or otherwise reduce risk exposure. Government legislation or regulation could affect the use of derivatives transactions and could limit a fund’s ability to pursue its investment strategies.

A detailed discussion of various hedging and other strategic transactions appears in the SAI. The following is a list of certain derivatives and other strategic transactions that the fund intends to utilize and the main risks associated with each of them:

Futures contracts. Counterparty risk, liquidity risk (i.e., the inability to enter into closing transactions), and risk of disproportionate loss are the principal risks of engaging in transactions involving futures contracts.

Inverse floating-rate securities. Liquidity risk (i.e., the inability to enter into closing transactions), interest-rate risk, issuer risk, and risk of disproportionate loss are the principal risks of engaging in transactions involving inverse floating-rate securities.

Options. Counterparty risk, liquidity risk (i.e., the inability to enter into closing transactions), and risk of disproportionate loss are the principal risks of engaging in transactions involving options. Counterparty risk does not apply to exchange-traded options.

Liquidity risk

The extent (if at all) to which a security may be sold or a derivative position closed without negatively impacting its market value may be impaired by reduced market activity or participation, legal restrictions, or other economic and market impediments. Funds with principal investment strategies that involve investments in securities of companies with smaller market capitalizations, foreign securities, derivatives, or securities with substantial market and/or credit risk tend to have the greatest exposure to liquidity risk. Exposure to liquidity risk may be heightened for funds that invest in securities of emerging markets and related derivatives that are not widely traded, and that may be subject to purchase and sale restrictions.

The capacity of traditional dealers to engage in fixed-income trading has not kept pace with the bond market’s growth. As a result, dealer inventories of corporate bonds, which indicate the ability to “make markets,” i.e., buy or sell a security at the quoted bid and ask price, respectively, are at or near historic lows relative to market size. Because market makers provide stability to fixed-income markets, the significant reduction in dealer inventories could lead to decreased liquidity and increased volatility, which may become exacerbated during periods of economic or political stress.

The secondary market for certain tax-exempt securities tends to be less well-developed or liquid than many other securities markets, which may adversely affect the fund’s ability to sell such securities at attractive prices.

Lower-rated and high-yield fixed-income securities risk

Lower-rated fixed-income securities are defined as securities rated below investment grade (such as Ba and below by Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. and BB and below by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services and Fitch Ratings, as applicable) (also called junk bonds). The general risks of investing in these securities are as follows:

Risk to principal and income. Investing in lower-rated fixed-income securities is considered speculative. While these securities generally provide greater income potential than investments in higher-rated securities, there is a greater risk that principal and interest payments will not be made. Issuers of these securities may even go into default or become bankrupt.

Price volatility. The price of lower-rated fixed-income securities may be more volatile than securities in the higher-rated categories. This volatility may increase during periods of economic uncertainty or change. The price of these securities is affected more than higher-rated fixed-income securities by the market’s perception of their credit quality, especially during times of adverse publicity. In the past, economic downturns or increases in interest rates have, at times, caused more defaults by issuers of these securities and may do so in the future. Economic downturns and increases in interest rates have an even greater effect on highly leveraged issuers of these securities.

Liquidity. The market for lower-rated fixed-income securities may have more limited trading than the market for investment-grade fixed-income securities.

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Therefore, it may be more difficult to sell these securities, and these securities may have to be sold at prices below their market value in order to meet redemption requests or to respond to changes in market conditions.

Dependence on manager’s own credit analysis. While a manager may rely on ratings by established credit rating agencies, it will also supplement such ratings with its own independent review of the credit quality of the issuer. Therefore, the assessment of the credit risk of lower-rated fixed-income securities is more dependent on the manager’s evaluation than the assessment of the credit risk of higher-rated securities.

Municipal bond risk

With general obligation bonds, which are backed by the municipal issuer’s ability to levy taxes, the main risk is that the issuer’s overall credit quality will decline. In extreme cases, a municipal issuer could declare bankruptcy or otherwise become unable to honor its commitments to bondholders. Although rare, this can be prompted by many possible reasons, ranging from fiscal mismanagement to erosion of the tax base. With revenue bonds, which are backed only by income associated with a specific facility (such as a power plant or stadium), the risk is generally higher, because any circumstance that reduces or threatens the economic viability of that particular facility can affect the bond’s credit quality.

In addition, since there are a limited number of municipal obligation insurers, the fund may have several investments covered by one insurer. Accordingly, this may make the value of those investments dependent on the claims-paying ability of that one insurer and could result in increased share price volatility for the fund’s shares. In addition, a ratings agency’s downgrade of the claims-paying ability of companies that provide bond insurance may affect the value of those securities.

Income from municipal bonds held by the fund could become taxable because of changes in tax laws or interpretations by taxing authorities, or noncompliant conduct of a municipal issuer. In addition, a portion of the fund’s otherwise tax-exempt dividends may be taxable to shareholders subject to the AMT. Values of municipal bonds could be adversely affected by changes in tax rates that make tax-exempt returns less attractive.

The costs associated with combatting the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the negative impact on tax revenues has adversely affected the financial condition of many states and their political subdivisions. The effects of this pandemic could affect the ability of states and their political subdivisions to make payments on debt obligations when due and could adversely impact the value of their bonds, which could negatively impact the performance of the fund.

Sector risk

When a fund’s investments are focused in one or more sectors of the economy, they are not as diversified as the investments of most funds and are far less diversified than the broad securities markets. This means that focused funds tend to be more volatile than other funds, and the values of their investments tend to go up and down more rapidly. In addition, a fund which invests in particular sectors is particularly susceptible to the impact of market, economic, regulatory, and other factors affecting those sectors.  From time to time, a small number of companies may represent a large portion of a particular sector or sectors.

State/region risk

To the extent that the fund invests heavily in bonds from any given state or region, its performance could be disproportionately affected by factors particular to that state or region. Although the fund invests mainly in investment-grade bonds, which generally have a relatively low level of credit risk, any factors that might lead to a credit decline statewide would be likely to cause widespread decline in the credit quality of the fund’s holdings. Despite significant budgetary improvements in recent years, there remain a number of major risks and pressures that threaten California’s financial condition, including the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, the threat of recession and the significant unfunded liabilities of the two main retirement systems managed by state entities. In addition, state expenditures are difficult to reduce because of constitutional provisions that require a minimum level of spending for certain government programs, such as education. California’s economy also may be affected by global economic crises, pandemics, and natural disasters, such as earthquakes or fires.

The fund may invest in municipal obligations issued by the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and its agencies, or other U.S. territories, which generally are tax exempt. Adverse economic, market, political, or other conditions within Puerto Rico may negatively affect the value of the fund’s holdings in municipal obligations issued by the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and its agencies. The Puerto Rican economy is reliant on manufacturing, services, and tourism, and its economy and financial operations generally parallel the economic cycles of those in the United States. As a result, economic difficulties in the United States are likely to have an adverse impact on the overall economy of Puerto Rico. Puerto Rico continues to face significant fiscal challenges, including persistent government budget deficits, underfunded public pension benefit obligations, underfunded government retirement systems, sizable debt service obligations, and a high unemployment rate. In recent years, several ratings organizations have downgraded a number of securities issued in Puerto Rico to below investment-grade or placed them on negative watch. In addition, on August 3, 2015, Puerto Rico became the first U.S. commonwealth to default on its debt, missing most of a $58 million bond payment. On January 4, 2016, Puerto Rico defaulted on approximately $174 million in debt payments to some bond holders. In May 2017, Puerto Rico began to seek the protection of the U.S. courts in order to reduce its debt burden. Future defaults may occur in the event that Puerto Rico does not have the ability to meet its upcoming obligations. If the current economic situation in Puerto Rico persists or worsens, the volatility of the fund’s share price could increase, and the credit quality of the fund’s portfolio, as well as the fund’s investment performance, could be adversely affected.

Who’s who

The following are the names of the various entities involved with the fund’s investment and business operations, along with brief descriptions of the role each entity performs.

Board of Trustees

The Trustees oversee the fund’s business activities and retain the services of the various firms that carry out the fund’s operations.

Investment advisor

The investment advisor manages the fund’s business and investment activities.

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John Hancock Investment Management LLC
200 Berkeley Street
Boston, MA 02116

Founded in 1968, the advisor is an indirect principally owned subsidiary of John Hancock Life Insurance Company (U.S.A.), which in turn is a subsidiary of Manulife Financial Corporation.

The advisor’s parent company has been helping individuals and institutions work toward their financial goals since 1862. The advisor offers investment solutions managed by leading institutional money managers, taking a disciplined team approach to portfolio management and research, leveraging the expertise of seasoned investment professionals. As of June 30, 2020, the advisor had total assets under management of approximately $131.7 billion.

Subject to general oversight by the Board of Trustees, the advisor manages and supervises the investment operations and business affairs of the fund. The advisor selects, contracts with, and compensates one or more subadvisors to manage all or a portion of the fund’s portfolio assets subject to oversight by the advisor. In this role, the advisor has supervisory responsibility for managing the investment and reinvestment of the fund’s portfolio assets through proactive oversight and monitoring of the subadvisor and the fund, as described in further detail below. The advisor is responsible for developing overall investment strategies for the fund and overseeing and implementing the fund’s continuous investment programs and provides a variety of advisory oversight and investment research services. The advisor also provides management and transition services associated with certain fund events (e.g., strategy, portfolio manager, or subadvisor changes) and coordinates and oversees services provided under other agreements.

The advisor has ultimate responsibility to oversee a subadvisor and recommend to the Board of Trustees its hiring, termination, and replacement. In this capacity, the advisor, among other things: (i) monitors on a daily basis the compliance of the subadvisor with the investment objectives and related policies of the fund; (ii) monitors significant changes that may impact the subadvisor’s overall business and regularly performs due diligence reviews of the subadvisor; (iii) reviews the performance of the subadvisor; and (iv) reports periodically on such performance to the Board of Trustees. The advisor employs a team of investment professionals who provide these ongoing research and monitoring services.

Management fee

The fund pays the advisor a management fee for its services to the fund. The advisor in turn pays the fees of the subadvisor. The management fee is stated as an annual percentage of the aggregate net assets of the fund (together with the assets of any other applicable fund identified in the advisory agreement) determined in accordance with the following schedule, and that rate is applied to the average daily net assets of the fund.

Average daily net assets ($)	Annual rate (%)
First 500 million	0.550
Next 500 million	0.500
Next 1 billion	0.475
Excess over 2 billion	0.450

During its most recent fiscal year, the fund paid the advisor a management fee equal to 0.54% of average daily net assets (including any waivers and/or reimbursements).

The basis for the Board of Trustees’ approval of the advisory fees, and of the investment advisory agreement overall, including the subadvisory agreement, is discussed in the fund’s most recent semiannual shareholder report for the period ended November 30.

Additional information about fund expenses

The fund’s annual operating expenses will likely vary throughout the period and from year to year. The fund’s expenses for the current fiscal year may be higher than the expenses listed in the fund’s Annual fund operating expenses table, for some of the following reasons: (i) a significant decrease in average net assets may result in a higher advisory fee rate if any advisory fee breakpoints are not achieved; (ii) a significant decrease in average net assets may result in an increase in the expense ratio because certain fund expenses do not decrease as asset levels decrease; or (iii) fees may be incurred for extraordinary events such as fund tax expenses.

As described in “Fund summary - Fees and expenses” on page 1 of this prospectus, the advisor has contractually agreed to waive a portion of its management fee and/or reimburse expenses for certain funds of the John Hancock funds complex, including the fund (the participating portfolios). The waiver equals, on an annualized basis, 0.0100% of that portion of the aggregate net assets of all the participating portfolios that exceeds $75 billion but is less than or equal to $125 billion; 0.0125% of that portion of the aggregate net assets of all the participating portfolios that exceeds $125 billion but is less than or equal to $150 billion; 0.0150% of that portion of the aggregate net assets of all the participating portfolios that exceeds $150 billion but is less than or equal to $175 billion; 0.0175% of that portion of the aggregate net assets of all the participating portfolios that exceeds $175 billion but is less than or equal to $200 billion; 0.0200% of that portion of the aggregate net assets of all the participating portfolios that exceeds $200 billion but is less than or equal to $225 billion; and 0.0225% of that portion of the aggregate net assets of all the participating portfolios that exceeds $225 billion. The amount of the reimbursement is calculated daily and allocated among all the participating portfolios in proportion to the daily net assets of each fund. This agreement expires on July 31, 2022, unless renewed by mutual agreement of the fund and the advisor based upon a determination that this is appropriate under the circumstances at that time.

The advisor voluntarily agrees to reduce its management fee for the fund, or if necessary make payment to the fund, in an amount equal to the amount by which the expenses of the fund exceed 0.15% of the average net assets of the fund. For purposes of this agreement, “expenses of the fund” means all the expenses of the fund, excluding (a) taxes, (b) brokerage commissions, (c) interest expense, (d) litigation and indemnification expenses and other extraordinary expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the fund’s business, (e) advisory fees, (f) class-specific expenses, (g) borrowing costs, (h) prime brokerage fees, (i) acquired fund fees and expenses paid indirectly, and (j) short dividend expense. This agreement will continue in effect until terminated at any time by the advisor on notice to the fund.

Subadvisor

The subadvisor handles the fund’s portfolio management activities, subject to oversight by the advisor.

Manulife Investment Management (US) LLC
197 Clarendon Street
Boston, MA 02116

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Manulife Investment Management (US) LLC (Manulife IM (US)) provides investment advisory services to individual and institutional investors. Manulife IM (US) is a wholly owned subsidiary of John Hancock Life Insurance Company (U.S.A.) (a subsidiary of Manulife Financial Corporation) and, as of June 30, 2020, had total assets under management of approximately $199.9 billion.

Following are brief biographical profiles of the leaders of the fund’s investment management team in alphabetical order. These managers are jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the fund’s portfolio. These managers are employed by Manulife IM (US). For more about these individuals, including information about their compensation, other accounts they manage, and any investments they may have in the fund, see the SAI.

Dennis DiCicco

■ Portfolio Manager

■ Managed the fund since 2018

■ Joined the subadvisor in 2016

■ Fixed Income Trader, Capital Security Advisors, LLC (2013-2016)

■ Began business career in 2008

Jeffrey N. Given, CFA

■ Senior Managing Director and Senior Portfolio Manager

■ Managed the fund since 2018

■ Joined the subadvisor in 1993

■ Began business career in 1993

Custodian

The custodian holds the fund’s assets, settles all portfolio trades, and collects most of the valuation data required for calculating the fund’s net asset value.

State Street Bank and Trust Company
State Street Financial Center
One Lincoln Street
Boston, MA 02111

Principal distributor

The principal distributor markets the fund and distributes shares through selling brokers, financial planners, and other financial professionals.

John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC
200 Berkeley Street
Boston, MA 02116

Transfer agent

The transfer agent handles shareholder services, including recordkeeping and statements, distribution of dividends, and processing of buy-and-sell requests.

John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 219909
Kansas City, MO 64121-9909

Additional information

The fund has entered into contractual arrangements with various parties that provide services to the fund, which may include, among others, the advisor, subadvisor, custodian, principal distributor, and transfer agent, as described above and in the SAI. Fund shareholders are not parties to, or intended or “third-party” beneficiaries of, any of these contractual arrangements. These

contractual arrangements are not intended to, nor do they, create in any individual shareholder or group of shareholders any right, either directly or on behalf of the fund, to either: (a) enforce such contracts against the service providers; or (b) seek any remedy under such contracts against the service providers.

This prospectus provides information concerning the fund that you should consider in determining whether to purchase shares of the fund. Each of this prospectus, the SAI, or any contract that is an exhibit to the fund’s registration statement, is not intended to, nor does it, give rise to an agreement or contract between the fund and any investor. Each such document also does not give rise to any contract or create rights in any individual shareholder, group of shareholders, or other person. The foregoing disclosure should not be read to suggest any waiver of any rights conferred by federal or state securities laws.

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Financial highlights

These tables detail the financial performance of each share class described in this prospectus, including total return information showing how much an investment in the fund has increased or decreased each period (assuming reinvestment of all dividends and distributions). Certain information reflects financial results for a single fund share.

The financial statements of the fund as of May 31, 2020, have been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC), the fund’s independent registered public accounting firm. The report of PwC, along with the fund’s financial statements in the fund’s annual report for the fiscal year ended May 31, 2020, has been incorporated by reference into the SAI. Copies of the fund’s most recent annual report are available upon request.

California Tax-Free Income Fund Class A Shares
Per share operating performance	Period ended	5-31-20	5-31-19	5-31-18	5-31-17	5-31-16
Net asset value, beginning of period		$10.94	$10.73	$10.90	$11.22	$10.91
Net investment income1		0.34	0.36	0.36	0.37	0.39
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments		(0.20 )	0.22	(0.16 )	(0.30 )	0.32
Total from investment operations		0.14	0.58	0.20	0.07	0.71
Less distributions
From net investment income		(0.34 )	(0.36 )	(0.37 )	(0.39 )	(0.40 )
From net realized gain		(0.08 )	(0.01 )	—	—	—
Total distributions		(0.42 )	(0.37 )	(0.37 )	(0.39 )	(0.40 )
Net asset value, end of period		$10.66	$10.94	$10.73	$10.90	$11.22
Total return (%)2,3		1.22	5.57	1.85	0.63	6.63
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (in millions)		$173	$176	$181	$213	$254
Ratios (as a percentage of average net assets):
Expenses before reductions		0.85	0.86	0.85	0.83	0.84
Expenses including reductions		0.84	0.85	0.84	0.83	0.83
Net investment income		3.12	3.42	3.37	3.35	3.53
Portfolio turnover (%)		22	22	9	17	20

1 Based on average daily shares outstanding.

2 Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced during the applicable periods.

3 Does not reflect the effect of sales charges, if any.

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California Tax-Free Income Fund Class B Shares
Per share operating performance	Period ended	5-31-20	5-31-19	5-31-18	5-31-17	5-31-16
Net asset value, beginning of period		$10.94	$10.73	$10.91	$11.23	$10.91
Net investment income1		0.26	0.28	0.28	0.28	0.31
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments		(0.20 )	0.22	(0.17 )	(0.30 )	0.33
Total from investment operations		0.06	0.50	0.11	(0.02 )	0.64
Less distributions
From net investment income		(0.26 )	(0.28 )	(0.29 )	(0.30 )	(0.32 )
From net realized gain		(0.08 )	(0.01 )	—	—	—
Total distributions		(0.34 )	(0.29 )	(0.29 )	(0.30 )	(0.32 )
Net asset value, end of period		$10.66	$10.94	$10.73	$10.91	$11.23
Total return (%)2,3		0.47	4.78	1.00	(0.12 )	5.93
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (in millions)		$— 4	$— 4	$1	$1	$2
Ratios (as a percentage of average net assets):
Expenses before reductions		1.70	1.71	1.70	1.69	1.69
Expenses including reductions		1.59	1.60	1.59	1.58	1.58
Net investment income		2.36	2.67	2.61	2.59	2.78
Portfolio turnover (%)		22	22	9	17	20

1 Based on average daily shares outstanding.

2 Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced during the applicable periods.

3 Does not reflect the effect of sales charges, if any.

4 Less than $500,000.

California Tax-Free Income Fund Class C Shares
Per share operating performance	Period ended	5-31-20	5-31-19	5-31-18	5-31-17	5-31-16
Net asset value, beginning of period		$10.94	$10.73	$10.90	$11.22	$10.91
Net investment income1		0.26	0.28	0.28	0.29	0.31
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments		(0.20 )	0.22	(0.16 )	(0.31 )	0.32
Total from investment operations		0.06	0.50	0.12	(0.02 )	0.63
Less distributions
From net investment income		(0.26 )	(0.28 )	(0.29 )	(0.30 )	(0.32 )
From net realized gain		(0.08 )	(0.01 )	—	—	—
Total distributions		(0.34 )	(0.29 )	(0.29 )	(0.30 )	(0.32 )
Net asset value, end of period		$10.66	$10.94	$10.73	$10.90	$11.22
Total return (%)2,3		0.47	4.78	1.09	(0.13 )	5.83
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (in millions)		$16	$19	$21	$30	$36
Ratios (as a percentage of average net assets):
Expenses before reductions		1.70	1.71	1.70	1.68	1.69
Expenses including reductions		1.59	1.60	1.59	1.58	1.58
Net investment income		2.37	2.67	2.62	2.60	2.78
Portfolio turnover (%)		22	22	9	17	20

1 Based on average daily shares outstanding.

2 Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced during the applicable periods.

3 Does not reflect the effect of sales charges, if any.

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California Tax-Free Income Fund Class I Shares
Per share operating performance	Period ended	5-31-20	5-31-19	5-31-18	5-31-17 1
Net asset value, beginning of period		$10.94	$10.73	$10.91	$10.70
Net investment income2		0.35	0.38	0.38	0.12
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments		(0.20 )	0.22	(0.17 )	0.21
Total from investment operations		0.15	0.60	0.21	0.33
Less distributions
From net investment income		(0.35 )	(0.38 )	(0.39 )	(0.12 )
From net realized gain		(0.08 )	(0.01 )	—	—
Total distributions		(0.43 )	(0.39 )	(0.39 )	(0.12 )
Net asset value, end of period		$10.66	$10.94	$10.73	$10.91
Total return (%)3		1.37	5.72	1.91	3.09 4
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (in millions)		$15	$10	$10	$5
Ratios (as a percentage of average net assets):
Expenses before reductions		0.70	0.71	0.70	0.67 5
Expenses including reductions		0.69	0.70	0.69	0.66 5
Net investment income		3.25	3.58	3.53	3.76 5
Portfolio turnover (%)		22	22	9	17 6

1 The inception date for Class I shares is 2-13-17.

2 Based on average daily shares outstanding.

3 Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced during the applicable periods.

4 Not annualized.

5 Annualized.

6 Portfolio turnover is shown for the period from 6-1-16 to 5-31-17.

California Tax-Free Income Fund Class R6 Shares
Per share operating performance	Period ended	5-31-20	5-31-19	5-31-18 1
Net asset value, beginning of period		$10.94	$10.73	$10.95
Net investment income2		0.36	0.38	0.29
Net realized and unrealized gain (loss) on investments		(0.20 )	0.22	(0.22 )
Total from investment operations		0.16	0.60	0.07
Less distributions
From net investment income		(0.36 )	(0.38 )	(0.29 )
From net realized gain		(0.08 )	(0.01 )	—
Total distributions		(0.44 )	(0.39 )	(0.29 )
Net asset value, end of period		$10.66	$10.94	$10.73
Total return (%)3		1.40	5.76	0.66 4
Ratios and supplemental data
Net assets, end of period (in millions)		$7	$4	$2
Ratios (as a percentage of average net assets):
Expenses before reductions		0.67	0.68	0.68 5
Expenses including reductions		0.66	0.67	0.67 5
Net investment income		3.28	3.58	3.56 5
Portfolio turnover (%)		22	22	9 6

1 The inception date for Class R6 shares is 8-30-17.

2 Based on average daily shares outstanding.

3 Total returns would have been lower had certain expenses not been reduced during the applicable periods.

4 Not annualized.

5 Annualized.

6 Portfolio turnover is shown for the period from 6-1-17 to 5-31-18.

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Your account 

Choosing an eligible share class

Class A, Class B, and Class C shares have a Rule 12b-1 plan that allows the class to pay fees for the sale, distribution, and service of its shares. Class I and Class R6 shares do not have a Rule 12b-1 plan. Your financial representative can help you decide which share class you are eligible to buy and is best for you. Each class’s eligibility guidelines are described below.

Class A shares

Class A shares are not available to group retirement plans that do not currently hold Class A shares of the fund and that are eligible to invest in Class I shares or any of the R share classes, except as provided below. Such group retirement plans include defined benefit plans, 401(k) plans, 457 plans, 403(b)(7) plans, pension and profit-sharing plans, and nonqualified deferred compensation plans. Individual retirement accounts (IRAs), Roth IRAs, SIMPLE IRAs, individual (“solo” or “single”) 401(k) plans, individual profit sharing plans, individual 403(b) plans, individual defined benefit plans, simplified employee pensions (SEPs), SAR-SEPs, 529 tuition programs and Coverdell Educational Savings Accounts are not considered group retirement plans and are not subject to this restriction on the purchase of Class A shares.

Investment in Class A shares by such group retirement plans will be permitted in the following circumstances:

■ The plan currently holds assets in Class A shares of the fund or any John Hancock fund;

■ Class A shares of the fund or any other John Hancock fund were established as an investment option under the plan prior to January 1, 2013, and the fund’s representatives have agreed that the plan may invest in Class A shares after that date;

■ Class A shares of the fund or any other John Hancock fund were established as a part of an investment model prior to January 1, 2013, and the fund’s representatives have agreed that plans utilizing such model may invest in Class A shares after that date; and

■ Such group retirement plans offered through an intermediary brokerage platform that does not require payments relating to the provisions of services to the fund, such as providing omnibus account services, transaction-processing services, or effecting portfolio transactions for the fund, that are specific to assets held in such group retirement plans and vary from such payments otherwise made for such services with respect to assets held in non-group retirement plan accounts.

Class C shares

The maximum amount you may invest in Class C shares with any single purchase is $999,999.99. John Hancock Signature Services, Inc. (Signature Services), the transfer agent for the fund, may accept a purchase request for Class C shares for $1,000,000 or more when the purchase is pursuant to the reinstatement privilege (see “Sales charge reductions and waivers”). Class C shares automatically convert to Class A shares after ten years, provided that the fund or the financial intermediary through which a shareholder purchased or holds Class C shares has records verifying that the Class C shares have been held for at least ten years. Group retirement plan recordkeeping platforms of certain intermediaries that hold Class C shares with the fund in an omnibus account do not track participant level share lot aging and, as such, these Class C shares would not satisfy the conditions for the automatic Class C to Class A conversion.

Class I shares

Class I shares are offered without any sales charge to the following types of investors if they also meet the minimum initial investment requirement for purchases of Class I shares (see “Opening an account”):

■ Clients of financial intermediaries who: (i) charge such clients a fee for advisory, investment, consulting, or similar services; (ii) have entered into an agreement with the distributor to offer Class I shares through a no-load program or investment platform; or (iii) have entered into an agreement with the distributor to offer Class I shares to clients on certain brokerage platforms where the intermediary is acting solely as an agent for the investor who may be required to pay a commission and/or other forms of compensation to the intermediary. Other share classes of the fund have different fees and expenses.

■ Retirement and other benefit plans

■ Endowment funds and foundations

■ Any state, county, or city, or its instrumentality, department, authority, or agency

■ Accounts registered to insurance companies, trust companies, and bank trust departments

■ Any entity that is considered a corporation for tax purposes

■ Investment companies, both affiliated and not affiliated with the advisor

■ Fund Trustees and other individuals who are affiliated with the fund and other John Hancock funds

Class R6 shares

Class R6 shares are offered without any sales charge and are generally made available to the following types of investors if they also meet the minimum initial investment requirement for purchases of Class R6 shares. (See “Opening an account.”)

■ Qualified 401(a) plans (including 401(k) plans, Keogh plans, profit-sharing pension plans, money purchase pension plans, target benefit plans, defined benefit pension plans, and Taft-Hartley multi-employer pension plans) (collectively, qualified plans)

■ Endowment funds and foundations

■ Any state, county, or city, or its instrumentality, department, authority, or agency

■ 403(b) plans and 457 plans, including 457(a) governmental entity plans and tax-exempt plans

■ Accounts registered to insurance companies, trust companies, and bank trust departments

■ Investment companies, both affiliated and not affiliated with the advisor

■ Any entity that is considered a corporation for tax purposes, including corporate nonqualified deferred compensation plans of such corporations

■ Trustees, employees of the advisor or its affiliates, employees of the subadvisor, members of the fund’s portfolio management team and the spouses and children (under age 21) of the aforementioned

■ Financial intermediaries utilizing fund shares in certain eligible qualifying investment product platforms under a signed agreement with the distributor

Class R6 shares may not be available through certain investment dealers.

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The availability of Class R6 shares for qualified plan investors will depend upon the policies of your financial intermediary and/or the recordkeeper for your qualified plan.

Class R6 shares also are generally available only to qualified plan investors where plan level or omnibus accounts are held on the books of the fund.

Class R6 shares are not available to retail non-retirement accounts, Traditional and Roth individual retirement accounts (IRAs), Coverdell Education Savings Accounts, SEPs, SARSEPs, SIMPLE IRAs, and 529 college savings plans.

Class B shares (closed)

Class B shares may not be purchased or acquired by any new or existing Class B shareholder, except by exchange from Class B shares of another John Hancock fund or through dividend and/or capital gains reinvestment. Any other investment received by a John Hancock fund that is intended for Class B shares will be rejected. A shareholder owning Class B shares may continue to hold those shares until such shares automatically convert to Class A shares under the fund’s existing conversion schedule, or until the shareholder redeems such Class B shares, subject to any applicable CDSC. Existing shareholders will continue to have exchange privileges with Class B shares of other John Hancock funds.

Class B shareholders will no longer be permitted to make automatic investments in Class B shares through the Monthly Automatic Accumulation Program (MAAP). To continue automatic investments, a Class B shareholder must designate a different share class of the same fund or another John Hancock fund for any purchases, provided the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for that share class. If the Class B shareholder does not designate a different share class, future automatic purchases of Class B shares will be rejected. No new Class B share MAAPs will be established.

Class B shareholders can continue to hold Class B shares in IRA or SIMPLE IRA accounts, but additional contributions must be made to another share class. If a Class B shareholder with a MAAP for an IRA or SIMPLE IRA account did not provide alternative investment instructions by July 1, 2013, subsequent automatic purchases will be rejected.

All other Class B share features, including, but not limited to, distribution and service fees, CDSC, the reinstatement privilege, and conversion features, will remain unchanged for Class B shares currently held. Accumulation privileges as described below will remain unchanged. Shareholders can continue to include the value of Class B shares of any John Hancock open-end fund currently owned for purposes of qualifying for a reduced Class A share sales charge.

Employer-sponsored retirement plans that currently hold Class B shares and can no longer purchase Class B shares due to the Class B share closure to purchases may instead purchase Class A shares and pay the applicable Class A sales charge, provided that their recordkeepers can properly assess a sales charge on plan investments, or Class C shares if the plans meet Class C share eligibility requirements and Class C shares are available on their recordkeeper’s platform. If the recordkeeper is not able to assess a front-end sales charge on Class A shares, or Class C shares are otherwise not an available or appropriate investment option, only then may such employer-sponsored retirement plans invest in one of the R share classes.

Class cost structure

Class A shares

■ A front-end sales charge, as described in the section “How sales charges for Class A, Class B, and Class C shares are calculated”

■ Distribution and service (Rule 12b-1) fees of 0.15%

■ A 1.00% Contingent Deferred Sales Charge (CDSC) on certain shares sold within one year of purchase

Class C shares

■ No front-end sales charge; all your money goes to work for you right away

■ Rule 12b-1 fees of 0.90% (under the Rule 12b-1 plan, the distributor has the ability to collect 1.00%; however, the distributor has contractually agreed to waive 0.10% of these fees until September 30, 2021)

■ A 1.00% CDSC on shares sold within one year of purchase

■ Automatic conversion to Class A shares after ten years, thus reducing future annual expenses (certain exclusions may apply)

Class I shares

■ No front-end or deferred sales charges; however, if you purchase Class I shares through a broker acting solely as an agent on behalf of its customers, you may be required to pay a commission to the broker

■ No Rule 12b-1 fees

Class R6 shares

■ No front-end or deferred sales charges; all your money goes to work for you right away 

■ No Rule 12b-1 fees

Class B shares (closed)

■ No front-end sales charge; all your money goes to work for you right away

■ Rule 12b-1 fees of 0.90% (under the Rule 12b-1 plan, the distributor has the ability to collect 1.00%; however, the distributor has contractually agreed waive 0.10% of these fees until September 30, 2021)

■ A 5.00% CDSC, as described in the section “How sales charges for Class A, Class B, and Class C shares are calculated”

■ Automatic conversion to Class A shares after eight years, thus reducing future annual expenses

Rule 12b-1 fees

Rule 12b-1 fees will be paid to the fund’s distributor, John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC, and may be used by the distributor for expenses relating to the sale, distribution of, and shareholder or administrative services for holders of the shares of the class, and for the payment of service fees that come within Rule 2341 of the Conduct Rules of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (FINRA).

Because Rule 12b-1 fees are paid out of the fund’s assets on an ongoing basis, over time they will increase the cost of your investment and may cost shareholders more than other types of sales charges.

Your broker-dealer or agent may charge you a fee to effect transactions in fund shares. Other share classes of the fund, which have their own expense structure, may be offered in separate prospectuses.

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Additional payments to financial intermediaries

Class A, Class B, and Class C shares of the fund are primarily sold through financial intermediaries, such as brokers, banks, registered investment advisors, financial planners, and retirement plan administrators. These firms may be compensated for selling shares of the fund in two principal ways: 

■ directly, by the payment of sales commissions, if any; and 

■ indirectly, as a result of the fund paying Rule 12b-1 fees.

Class I shares do not carry sales commissions or pay Rule 12b-1 fees. However, if you purchase Class I shares through a broker acting solely as an agent on behalf of its customers, you may be required to pay a commission to the broker.

No dealer compensation is paid from fund assets on sales of Class R6 shares. Class R6 shares do not carry sales commissions, pay Rule 12b-1 fees, or make payments to financial intermediaries to assist in the distributor’s efforts to promote the sale of the fund’s shares. Neither the fund nor its affiliates make any type of administrative or service payments in connection with investments in Class R6 shares.

Except with respect to Class R6 shares, certain firms may request, and the distributor may agree to make, payments in addition to sales commissions and Rule 12b-1 fees, if applicable, out of the distributor’s own resources.

These additional payments are sometimes referred to as revenue sharing. These payments assist in the distributor’s efforts to promote the sale of the fund’s shares. The distributor agrees with the firm on the methods for calculating any additional compensation, which may include the level of sales or assets attributable to the firm. Not all firms receive additional compensation, and the amount of compensation varies. These payments could be significant to a firm. The distributor determines which firms to support and the extent of the payments it is willing to make. The distributor generally chooses to compensate firms that have a strong capability to distribute shares of the fund and that are willing to cooperate with the distributor’s promotional efforts.

The distributor hopes to benefit from revenue sharing by increasing the fund’s net assets, which, as well as benefiting the fund, would result in additional management and other fees for the advisor and its affiliates. In consideration for revenue sharing, a firm may feature the fund in its sales system or give preferential access to members of its sales force or management. In addition, the firm may agree to participate in the distributor’s marketing efforts by allowing the distributor or its affiliates to participate in conferences, seminars, or other programs attended by the intermediary’s sales force. Although an intermediary may seek revenue-sharing payments to offset costs incurred by the firm in servicing its clients who have invested in the fund, the intermediary may earn a profit on these payments. Revenue-sharing payments may provide your firm with an incentive to favor the fund.

The SAI discusses the distributor’s revenue-sharing arrangements in more detail. Your intermediary may charge you additional fees other than those disclosed in this prospectus. You can ask your firm about any payments it receives from the distributor or the fund, as well as about fees and/or commissions it charges.

The distributor, advisor, and their affiliates may have other relationships with your firm relating to the provisions of services to the fund, such as providing omnibus account services, transaction-processing services, or effecting portfolio transactions for the fund. If your intermediary provides these services, the advisor or the fund may compensate the intermediary for these services. In

addition, your intermediary may have other compensated relationships with the advisor or its affiliates that are not related to the fund.

How sales charges for Class A, Class B, and Class C shares are calculated

Class A sales charges are as follows:

Your investment ($)	As a % of offering price*	As a % of your investment
Up to 99,999	4.00	4.17
100,000–249,999	3.50	3.63
250,000–499,999	2.50	2.56
500,000–999,999	2.00	2.04
1,000,000 and over	See below

* Offering price is the net asset value per share plus any initial sales charge.

You may qualify for a reduced Class A sales charge if you own or are purchasing Class A, Class B, Class C, Class ADV, Class I, Class I2, Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, Class R4, Class R5, or Class R6 shares of a John Hancock open-end mutual fund. To receive the reduced sales charge, you must tell your broker or financial professional at the time you purchase the fund’s Class A shares about any other John Hancock mutual funds held by you, your spouse, or your children under the age of 21. This includes investments held in an individual retirement account, in an employee benefit plan, or with a broker or financial professional other than the one handling your current purchase. John Hancock will credit the combined value, at the current offering price, of all eligible accounts to determine whether you qualify for a reduced sales charge on your current purchase. You may need to provide documentation for these accounts, such as an account statement. For more information about sales charges, reductions, and waivers, you may visit the fund’s website at jhinvestments.com, which includes hyperlinks to facilitate access to this information. You may also consult your broker or financial professional, or refer to the section entitled “Sales Charges on Class A, Class B and Class C Shares” in the fund’s SAI. You may request an SAI from your broker or financial professional by accessing the fund’s website at jhinvestments.com or by calling Signature Services at 800-225-5291.

Investments of $1 million or more

Class A shares are available with no front-end sales charge on investments of $1 million or more. There is a CDSC on any Class A shares upon which a commission or finder’s fee was paid that are sold within one year of purchase, as follows:

Class A deferred charges on investments of $1 million or more

Years after purchase	CDSC (%)
1st year	1.00
After 1st year	None

For purposes of this CDSC, all purchases made during a calendar month are counted as having been made on the first day of that month.

The CDSC is based on the lesser of the original purchase cost or the current market value of the shares being sold, and is not charged on shares you acquired by reinvesting your dividends. To keep your CDSC as low as possible, each time you place a request to sell shares, we will first sell any shares in your account that are not subject to a CDSC.

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Class B and Class C shares

Class B and Class C shares are offered at their net asset value per share, without any initial sales charge.

A CDSC may be charged if a commission has been paid and you sell Class B or Class C shares within a certain time after you bought them, as described in the tables below. There is no CDSC on shares acquired through reinvestment of dividends. The CDSC is based on the original purchase cost or the current market value of the shares being sold, whichever is less. The CDSCs are as follows:

Class B deferred charges

Years after purchase	CDSC (%)
1st year	5.00
2nd year	4.00
3rd or 4th year	3.00
5th year	2.00
6th year	1.00
After 6th year	None

Class C deferred charges

Years after purchase	CDSC (%)
1st year	1.00
After 1st year	None

For purposes of these CDSCs, all purchases made during a calendar month are counted as having been made on the first day of that month.

To keep your CDSC as low as possible, each time you place a request to sell shares, we will first sell any shares in your account that carry no CDSC. If there are not enough of these shares to meet your request, we will sell those shares that have the lowest CDSC.

Sales charge reductions and waivers

The availability of certain sales charge waivers and discounts will depend on whether you purchase your shares directly from the fund or through a financial intermediary. Intermediaries may have different policies and procedures regarding the availability of front-end sales charge waivers or CDSC waivers (See Appendix 1 - Intermediary sales charge waivers, which includes information about specific sales charge waivers applicable to the intermediaries identified therein).

Reducing your Class A sales charges

There are several ways you can combine multiple purchases of shares of John Hancock funds to take advantage of the breakpoints in the sales charge schedule. The first three ways can be combined in any manner.

■ Accumulation privilege—lets you add the value of any class of shares of any John Hancock open-end fund you already own to the amount of your next Class A investment for purposes of calculating the sales charge. However, Class A shares of money market funds will not qualify unless you have already paid a sales charge on those shares.

■ Letter of intention—lets you purchase Class A shares of a fund over a 13-month period and receive the same sales charge as if all shares had been purchased at once. You can use a letter of intention to qualify for reduced sales charges if you plan to invest at least to the first breakpoint level (generally $50,000 or $100,000 depending on the specific fund) in a John Hancock fund’s Class A shares during the next 13 months. Completing a

letter of intention does not obligate you to purchase additional shares. However, if you do not buy enough shares to qualify for the lower sales charges by the earlier of the end of the 13-month period or when you sell your shares, your sales charges will be recalculated to reflect your actual amount purchased. It is your responsibility to tell John Hancock Signature Services Inc. or your financial professional when you believe you have purchased shares totaling an amount eligible for reduced sales charges, as stated in your letter of intention. Further information is provided in the SAI.

■ Combination privilege—lets you combine shares of all funds for purposes of calculating the Class A sales charge.

To utilize any reduction, you must complete the appropriate section of your application, or contact your financial professional or Signature Services. Consult the SAI for additional details (see the back cover of this prospectus).

Group investment program

A group may be treated as a single purchaser under the accumulation and combination privileges. Each investor has an individual account, but the group’s investments are lumped together for sales charge purposes, making the investors potentially eligible for reduced sales charges. There is no charge or obligation to invest (although initial investments per account opened must satisfy minimum initial investment requirements specified in the section entitled “Opening an account”), and individual investors may close their accounts at any time.

To utilize this program, you must contact your financial professional or Signature Services to find out how to qualify. Consult the SAI for additional details (see the back cover of this prospectus).

CDSC waivers

As long as Signature Services is notified at the time you sell, any CDSC for Class A, Class B, or Class C shares will be waived in the following cases, as applicable:

■ to make payments through certain systematic withdrawal plans

■ certain retirement plans participating in PruSolutions^SM programs

■ redemptions pursuant to the fund’s right to liquidate an account that is below the minimum account value stated below in “Dividends and account policies,” under the subsection “Small accounts”

■ redemptions of Class A shares made after one year from the inception of a retirement plan at John Hancock

■ redemptions made under certain liquidation, merger or acquisition transactions involving other investment companies or personal holding companies

■ to make certain distributions from a retirement plan

■ because of shareholder death or disability

■ rollovers, contract exchanges, or transfers of John Hancock custodial 403(b)(7) account assets required by John Hancock as a result of its decision to discontinue maintaining and administering 403(b)(7) accounts

To utilize a waiver, you must contact your financial professional or Signature Services. Consult the SAI for additional details (see the back cover of this prospectus). Please note, these waivers are distinct from those described in Appendix 1, “Intermediary sales charge waivers.”

19 

Reinstatement privilege

If you sell shares of a John Hancock fund, you may reinvest some or all of the proceeds back into the same share class of the same fund and account from which it was removed, within 120 days without a sales charge, subject to fund minimums, as long as Signature Services or your financial professional is notified before you reinvest. If you paid a CDSC when you sold your shares, you will be credited with the amount of the CDSC. Consult the SAI for additional details.

To utilize this privilege, you must contact your financial professional or Signature Services. Consult the SAI for additional details (see the back cover of this prospectus).

Waivers for certain investors

Class A shares may be offered without front-end sales charges or CDSCs to the following individuals and institutions:

■ Selling brokers and their employees and sales representatives (and their Immediate Family, as defined in the SAI)

■ Financial intermediaries utilizing fund shares in eligible retirement platforms, fee-based, or wrap investment products

■ Financial intermediaries who offer shares to self-directed investment brokerage accounts that may or may not charge a transaction fee to their customers

■ Fund Trustees and other individuals who are affiliated with these or other John Hancock funds, including employees of John Hancock companies or Manulife Financial Corporation (and their Immediate Family, as defined in the SAI)

■ Individuals exchanging shares held in an eligible fee-based program for Class A shares, provided however, subsequent purchases in Class A shares will be subject to applicable sales charges

■ Individuals transferring assets held in a SIMPLE IRA, SEP, or SARSEP invested in John Hancock funds directly to an IRA

■ Individuals converting assets held in an IRA, SIMPLE IRA, SEP, or SARSEP invested in John Hancock funds directly to a Roth IRA

■ Individuals recharacterizing assets from an IRA, Roth IRA, SEP, SARSEP, or SIMPLE IRA invested in John Hancock funds back to the original account type from which they were converted

■ Participants in group retirement plans that are eligible and permitted to purchase Class A shares as described in the “Choosing an eligible share class” section above. This waiver is contingent upon the group retirement plan being in a recordkeeping arrangement and does not apply to group retirement plans transacting business with the fund through a brokerage relationship in which sales charges are customarily imposed, unless such brokerage relationship qualifies for a sales charge waiver as described. In addition, this waiver does not apply to a group retirement plan that leaves its current recordkeeping arrangement and subsequently transacts business with the fund through a brokerage relationship in which sales charges are customarily imposed. Whether a sales charge waiver is available to your group retirement plan through its record keeper depends upon the policies and procedures of your intermediary. Please consult your financial professional for further information

■ Retirement plans participating in PruSolutions^SM programs

■ Terminating participants in a pension, profit-sharing, or other plan qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code, or described in Section 457(b) of the

Code, (i) that is funded by certain John Hancock group annuity contracts, (ii) for which John Hancock Trust Company serves as trustee or custodian, or (iii) the trustee or custodian of which has retained John Hancock Retirement Plan Services (“RPS”) as a service provider, rolling over assets (directly or within 60 days after distribution) from such a plan (or from a John Hancock Managed IRA into which such assets have already been rolled over) to a John Hancock custodial IRA or John Hancock custodial Roth IRA that invests in John Hancock funds, or the subsequent establishment of or any rollover into a new John Hancock fund account by such terminating participants and/or their Immediate Family (as defined in the SAI), including subsequent investments into such accounts, and that are held directly at John Hancock funds or at the John Hancock Personal Financial Services (“PFS”) Financial Center

■ Participants in a terminating pension, profit-sharing, or other plan qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code, or described in Section 457(b) of the Code (the assets of which, immediately prior to such plan’s termination, were (a) held in certain John Hancock group annuity contracts, (b) in trust or custody by John Hancock Trust Company, or (c) by a trustee or custodian which has retained John Hancock RPS as a service provider, but have been transferred from such contracts or trust funds and are held either: (i) in trust by a distribution processing organization; or (ii) in a custodial IRA or custodial Roth IRA sponsored by an authorized third-party trust company and made available through John Hancock), rolling over assets (directly or within 60 days after distribution) from such a plan to a John Hancock custodial IRA or John Hancock custodial Roth IRA that invests in John Hancock funds, or the subsequent establishment of or any rollover into a new John Hancock fund account by such participants and/or their Immediate Family (as defined in the SAI), including subsequent investments into such accounts, and that are held directly at John Hancock funds or at the PFS Financial Center

■ Participants actively enrolled in a John Hancock RPS plan account (or an account the trustee of which has retained John Hancock RPS as a service provider) rolling over or transferring assets into a new John Hancock custodial IRA or John Hancock custodial Roth IRA that invests in John Hancock funds through John Hancock PFS (to the extent such assets are otherwise prohibited from rolling over or transferring into such participant’s John Hancock RPS plan account), including subsequent investments into such accounts, and that are held directly at John Hancock funds or at the John Hancock PFS Financial Center

■ Individuals rolling over assets held in a John Hancock custodial 403(b)(7) account into a John Hancock custodial IRA account

■ Former employees/associates of John Hancock, its affiliates, or agencies rolling over (directly or indirectly within 60 days after distribution) to a new John Hancock custodial IRA or John Hancock custodial Roth IRA from the John Hancock Employee Investment-Incentive Plan (TIP), John Hancock Savings Investment Plan (SIP), or the John Hancock Pension Plan, and such participants and their Immediate Family (as defined in the SAI) subsequently establishing or rolling over assets into a new John Hancock account through the John Hancock PFS Group, including subsequent investments into such accounts, and that are held directly at John Hancock funds or at the John Hancock PFS Financial Center

■ A member of a class action lawsuit against insurance companies who is investing settlement proceeds

To utilize a waiver, you must contact your financial professional or Signature Services. Consult the SAI for additional details (see the

20 

back cover of this prospectus). Please note, these waivers are distinct from those described in Appendix 1, “Intermediary sales charge waivers.”

Other waivers

Front-end sales charges and CDSCs are not imposed in connection with the following transactions:

■ Exchanges from one John Hancock fund to the same class of any other John Hancock fund (see “Transaction policies” in this prospectus for additional details)

■ Dividend reinvestments (see “Dividends and account policies” in this prospectus for additional details)

■ In addition, the availability of certain sales charge waivers and discounts will depend on whether you purchase your shares directly from the fund or through a financial intermediary. Intermediaries may have different policies and procedures regarding the availability of front-end sales charge waivers or CDSC waivers (See Appendix 1 - Intermediary sales charge waivers, which includes information about specific sales charge waivers applicable to the intermediaries identified therein). In all instances, it is the purchaser’s responsibility to notify the fund or the purchaser’s financial intermediary at the time of purchase of any relationship or other facts qualifying the purchaser for sales charge waivers or discounts. For waivers and discounts not available through a particular intermediary, shareholders will have to purchase fund shares directly from the fund or through another intermediary to receive these waivers or discounts.

Opening an account

1 Read this prospectus carefully. 

2 Determine if you are eligible by referring to “Choosing an eligible share class.”

3 Determine how much you want to invest. The minimum initial investments for Class A, Class C, Class I, and Class R6 shares are described below. There are no subsequent investment requirements for these share classes.

Share Class	Minimum initial investment
Class A and Class C	$1,000 ($250 for group investments). However, there is no minimum initial investment for certain group retirement plans using salary deduction or similar group methods of payment, for fee-based or wrap accounts of selling firms that have executed a fee-based or wrap agreement with the distributor, or for certain other eligible investment product platforms.
Class I	$250,000. However, the minimum initial investment requirement may be waived, at the fund’s sole discretion, for investors in certain fee-based, wrap, or other investment platform programs, or in certain brokerage platforms where the intermediary is acting solely as an agent for the investor. The fund also may waive the minimum initial investment for other categories of investors at its discretion, including for: (i) Trustees, (ii) employees of the advisor or its affiliates, and (iii) members of the fund’s portfolio management team.
Class R6	$1 million. However, there is no minimum initial investment requirement for: (i) qualified and nonqualified plan investors; (ii) certain eligible qualifying investment product platforms; or (iii) Trustees, employees of the advisor or its affiliates, employees of the subadvisor, members of the fund’s portfolio management team and the spouses and children (under age 21) of the aforementioned.

4 All Class A, Class C, Class I, and Class R6 shareholders must complete the account application, carefully following the instructions. If you have any questions, please contact your financial professional or call Signature Services at 800-225-5291 for Class A and Class C shares or 888-972-8696 for Class I and Class R6 shares.

5 For Class A and Class C shares, complete the appropriate parts of the account privileges application. By applying for privileges now, you can avoid the delay and inconvenience of having to file an additional application if you want to add privileges later.

6 For Class A, Class C, Class I, and Class R6 shares, make your initial investment using the instructions under “Buying shares.” You and your financial professional can initiate any purchase, exchange, or sale of shares.

Important information about opening a new account

To help the government fight the funding of terrorism and money laundering activities, the Uniting and Strengthening America by Providing Appropriate Tools Required to Intercept and Obstruct Terrorism Act of 2001 (USA PATRIOT Act) requires all financial institutions to obtain, verify, and record information that identifies each person or entity that opens an account.

For individual investors opening an account. When you open an account, you will be asked for your name, residential address, date of birth, and Social Security number.

For investors other than individuals. When you open an account, you will be asked for the name of the entity, its principal place of business, and taxpayer identification number (TIN), and you may be requested to provide information on persons with authority or control over the account, including, but not limited to, name, residential address, date of birth, and Social Security number. You may also be asked to provide documents, such as articles of incorporation, trust instruments, or partnership agreements, and other information that will help Signature Services identify the entity. Please see the mutual fund account application for more details.

21 

Buying shares

Class A, Class B, and Class C shares

Opening an account	Adding to an account
By check
■ Make out a check for the investment amount, payable to “John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.” ■ Deliver the check and your completed application to your financial professional or mail them to Signature Services (address below).	■ Make out a check for the investment amount, payable to “John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.” ■ Fill out the detachable investment slip from an account statement. If no slip is available, include a note specifying the fund name, the share class, your account number, and the name(s) in which the account is registered. ■ Deliver the check and your investment slip or note to your financial professional, or mail them to Signature Services (address below).
By exchange
■ Call your financial professional or Signature Services to request an exchange.	■ Log on to the website below to process exchanges between funds. ■ Call EASI-Line for automated service. ■ Call your financial professional or Signature Services to request an exchange.
By wire
■ Deliver your completed application to your financial professional or mail it to Signature Services. ■ Obtain your account number by calling your financial professional or Signature Services. ■ Obtain wiring instructions by calling Signature Services. ■ Instruct your bank to wire the amount of your investment. Specify the fund name, the share class, your account number, and the name(s) in which the account is registered. Your bank may charge a fee to wire funds.	■ Obtain wiring instructions by calling Signature Services. ■ Instruct your bank to wire the amount of your investment. Specify the fund name, the share class, your account number, and the name(s) in which the account is registered. Your bank may charge a fee to wire funds.
By Internet
■ See “By exchange” and “By wire.”	■ Verify that your bank or credit union is a member of the Automated Clearing House (ACH) system. ■ Complete the “Bank information” section on your account application. ■ Log on to the website below to initiate purchases using your authorized bank account.
By phone
■ See “By exchange” and “By wire.”	■ Verify that your bank or credit union is a member of the ACH system. ■ Complete the “To purchase, exchange, or redeem shares via telephone” and “Bank information” sections on your account application. ■ Call EASI-Line for automated service. ■ Call your financial professional or call Signature Services between 8:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M., Monday–Thursday, and on Friday, between 8:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M., Eastern time. To add to an account using the Monthly Automatic Accumulation Program, see “Additional investor services.”

Regular mail
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 219909
Kansas City, MO 64121-9909 Express delivery
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
430 W 7th Street
Suite 219909
Kansas City, MO 64105-1407 Website
jhinvestments.com EASI-Line
(24/7 automated service)
800-338-8080 Signature Services, Inc.
800-225-5291

22 

Buying shares

Class I shares

Opening an account	Adding to an account
By check
■ Make out a check for the investment amount, payable to “John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.” ■ Deliver the check and your completed application to your financial professional or mail them to Signature Services (address below).	■ Make out a check for the investment amount, payable to “John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.” ■ If your account statement has a detachable investment slip, please complete it in its entirety. If no slip is available, include a note specifying the fund name, your share class, your account number, and the name(s) in which the account is registered. ■ Deliver the check and your investment slip or note to your financial professional, or mail them to Signature Services (address below).
By exchange
■ Call your financial professional or Signature Services to request an exchange.	■ Log on to the website below to process exchanges between funds. ■ Call EASI-Line for account balance, fund inquiry, and transaction processing on some account types. ■ You may exchange Class I shares for other Class I shares or John Hancock Money Market Fund Class A shares. ■ Call your financial professional or Signature Services to request an exchange.
By wire
■ Deliver your completed application to your financial professional or mail it to Signature Services. ■ Obtain your account number by calling your financial professional or Signature Services. ■ Obtain wiring instructions by calling Signature Services. ■ Instruct your bank to wire the amount of your investment. Specify the fund name, the share class, your account number, and the name(s) in which the account is registered. Your bank may charge a fee to wire funds.	■ Obtain wiring instructions by calling Signature Services. ■ Instruct your bank to wire the amount of your investment. Specify the fund name, the share class, your account number, and the name(s) in which the account is registered. Your bank may charge a fee to wire funds.
By phone
■ See “By exchange” and “By wire.”	■ Verify that your bank or credit union is a member of the Automated Clearing House (ACH) system. ■ Complete the “To purchase, exchange, or redeem shares via telephone” and “Bank information” sections on your account application. ■ Call EASI-Line for account balance, fund inquiry, and transaction processing on some account types. ■ Call your financial professional or call Signature Services between 8:30 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., Eastern time, on most business days.

Regular mail
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 219909
Kansas City, MO 64121-9909 Express delivery
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
430 W 7th Street
Suite 219909
Kansas City, MO 64105-1407 Website
jhinvestments.com EASI-Line
(24/7 automated service)
800-597-1897 Signature Services, Inc.
888-972-8696

23 

Buying shares

Class R6 shares

Opening an account	Adding to an account
By check
■ Make out a check for the investment amount, payable to “John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.” ■ Deliver the check and your completed application to your financial professional or mail them to Signature Services (address below).	■ Make out a check for the investment amount, payable to “John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.” ■ If your account statement has a detachable investment slip, please complete it in its entirety. If no slip is available, include a note specifying the fund name, the share class, your account number, and the name(s) in which the account is registered. ■ Deliver the check and your investment slip or note to your financial professional, or mail them to Signature Services (address below).
By exchange
■ Call your financial professional or Signature Services to request an exchange.	■ Log on to the website below to process exchanges between funds. ■ Call EASI-Line for account balance, fund inquiry, and transaction processing on some account types. ■ You may exchange Class R6 shares for other Class R6 shares or John Hancock Money Market Fund Class A shares. ■ Call your financial professional or Signature Services to request an exchange.
By wire
■ Deliver your completed application to your financial professional or mail it to Signature Services. ■ Obtain your account number by calling your financial professional or Signature Services. ■ Obtain wiring instructions by calling Signature Services. ■ Instruct your bank to wire the amount of your investment. Specify the fund name, the share class, your account number, and the name(s) in which the account is registered. Your bank may charge a fee to wire funds.	■ Obtain wiring instructions by calling Signature Services. ■ Instruct your bank to wire the amount of your investment. Specify the fund name, the share class, your account number, and the name(s) in which the account is registered. Your bank may charge a fee to wire funds.
By phone
■ See “By exchange” and “By wire.”	■ Verify that your bank or credit union is a member of the Automated Clearing House (ACH) system. ■ Complete the “To purchase, exchange, or redeem shares via telephone” and “Bank information” sections on your account application. ■ Call EASI-Line for account balance, fund inquiry, and transaction processing on some account types. ■ Call your financial professional or call Signature Services between 8:30 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., Eastern time, on most business days.

Regular mail
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 219909
Kansas City, MO 64121-9909 Express delivery
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
430 W 7th Street
Suite 219909
Kansas City, MO 64105-1407 Website
jhinvestments.com EASI-Line
(24/7 automated service)
800-597-1897 Signature Services, Inc.
888-972-8696

24 

Selling shares

Class A, Class B, and Class C shares

	To sell some or all of your shares
By letter
■ Accounts of any type ■ Sales of any amount	■ Write a letter of instruction or complete a stock power indicating the fund name, the share class, your account number, the name(s) in which the account is registered, and the dollar value or number of shares you wish to sell. ■ Include all signatures and any additional documents that may be required (see the next page). ■ Mail the materials to Signature Services (address below). ■ A check will be mailed to the name(s) and address in which the account is registered, or otherwise according to your letter of instruction.
By Internet
■ Most accounts ■ Sales of up to $100,000	■ Log on to the website below to initiate redemptions from your fund.
By phone
■ Most accounts ■ Sales of up to $100,000	■ Call EASI-Line for automated service. ■ Call your financial professional or call Signature Services between 8:00 A.M. and 7:00 P.M., Monday–Thursday, and on Friday, between 8:00 A.M. and 6:00 P.M., Eastern time.
By wire or electronic funds transfer (EFT)
■ Requests by letter to sell any amount ■ Requests by Internet or phone to sell up to $100,000	■ To verify that the Internet or telephone redemption privilege is in place on an account, or to request the form to add it to an existing account, call Signature Services. ■ A $4 fee will be deducted from your account. Your bank may also charge a fee for this service.
By exchange
■ Accounts of any type ■ Sales of any amount	■ Obtain a current prospectus for the fund into which you are exchanging by accessing the fund’s website or by calling your financial professional or Signature Services. ■ Log on to the website below to process exchanges between your funds. ■ Call EASI-Line for automated service. ■ Call your financial professional or Signature Services to request an exchange. To sell shares through a systematic withdrawal plan, see “Additional investor services.”

Regular mail
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 219909
Kansas City, MO 64121-9909 Express delivery
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
430 W 7th Street
Suite 219909
Kansas City, MO 64105-1407 Website
jhinvestments.com EASI-Line
(24/7 automated service)
800-338-8080 Signature Services, Inc.
800-225-5291

25 

Class A, Class B, and Class C shares

Selling shares in writing

In certain circumstances, you will need to make your request to sell shares in writing. You may need to include additional items with your request, unless they were previously provided to Signature Services and are still accurate. These items are shown in the table below. You may also need to include a signature guarantee, which protects you against fraudulent orders. You will need a signature guarantee if:

■ your address or bank of record has changed within the past 30 days, and you would like the payment to be sent to your new address or bank,

■ you are selling more than $100,000 worth of shares (this requirement is waived for certain entities operating under a signed fax trading agreement with John Hancock), or

■ you are requesting payment other than by a check mailed to the address/bank of record and payable to the registered owner(s).

You will need to obtain your signature guarantee from a member of the Medallion Signature Guarantee Program. Most broker-dealers, banks, credit unions, and securities exchanges are members of this program. A notary public CANNOT provide a signature guarantee.

Seller	Requirements for written requests
Owners of individual, joint, or UGMA/UTMA accounts (custodial accounts for minors)	■ Letter of instruction ■ On the letter, the signatures and titles of all persons authorized to sign for the account, exactly as the account is registered ■ Medallion signature guarantee, if applicable (see above)
Owners of corporate, sole proprietorship, general partner, or association accounts	■ Letter of instruction ■ Corporate business/organization resolution, certified within the past 12 months, or a John Hancock business/organization certification form ■ On the letter and the resolution, the signature of the person(s) authorized to sign for the account ■ Medallion signature guarantee, if applicable (see above)
Owners or trustees of trust accounts	■ Letter of instruction ■ On the letter, the signature(s) of the trustee(s) ■ Copy of the trust document, certified within the past 12 months, or a John Hancock trust certification form ■ Medallion signature guarantee, if applicable (see above)
Joint tenancy shareholders with rights of survivorship with deceased co-tenant(s)	■ Letter of instruction signed by surviving tenant(s) ■ Copy of the death certificate ■ Medallion signature guarantee, if applicable (see above) ■ Inheritance tax waiver, if applicable
Executors of shareholder estates	■ Letter of instruction signed by the executor ■ Copy of the order appointing executor, certified within the past 12 months ■ Medallion signature guarantee, if applicable (see above) ■ Inheritance tax waiver, if applicable
Administrators, conservators, guardians, and other sellers, or account types not listed above	■ Call Signature Services for instructions

Regular mail
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 219909
Kansas City, MO 64121-9909 Express delivery
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
430 W 7th Street
Suite 219909
Kansas City, MO 64105-1407 Website
jhinvestments.com EASI-Line
(24/7 automated service)
800-338-8080 Signature Services, Inc.
800-225-5291

26 

Selling shares

Class I shares

	To sell some or all of your shares
By letter
■ Sales of any amount	■ Write a letter of instruction or complete a stock power indicating the fund name, the share class, your account number, the name(s) in which the account is registered, and the dollar value or number of shares you wish to sell. ■ Include all signatures and any additional documents that may be required (see the next page). ■ Mail the materials to Signature Services (address below). ■ A check will be mailed to the name(s) and address in which the account is registered, or otherwise according to your letter of instruction. ■ Certain requests will require a Medallion signature guarantee. Please refer to “Selling shares in writing” on the next page.
By phone
Amounts up to $100,000: ■ Most accounts Amounts up to $5 million: ■ Available to the following types of accounts: custodial accounts held by banks, trust companies, or broker-dealers; endowments and foundations; corporate accounts; group retirement plans; and pension accounts (excluding IRAs, 403(b) plans, and all John Hancock custodial retirement accounts)	■ Call EASI-Line for account balance, general fund inquiry, and transaction processing on some account types. ■ Redemption proceeds of up to $100,000 may be sent by wire or by check. A check will be mailed to the exact name(s) and address on the account. ■ To place your request with a representative at John Hancock, call Signature Services between 8:30 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., Eastern time, on most business days, or contact your financial professional. ■ Redemption proceeds exceeding $100,000 will be wired to your designated bank account, unless a Medallion signature guaranteed letter is provided requesting payment by check. Please refer to “Selling shares in writing.”
By wire or electronic funds transfer (EFT)
■ Requests by letter to sell any amount ■ Qualified requests by phone to sell to $5 million (accounts with telephone redemption privileges)	■ To verify that the telephone redemption privilege is in place on an account, or to request the form to add it to an existing account, call Signature Services. ■ Amounts up to $100,000 may be sent by EFT or by check. Your bank may charge a fee for this service. ■ Amounts of $5 million or more will be sent by wire.
By exchange
■ Sales of any amount	■ Obtain a current prospectus for the fund into which you are exchanging by accessing the fund’s website, or by calling your financial professional or Signature Services. ■ Call EASI-Line for account balance, general fund inquiry, and transaction processing on some account types. ■ You may only exchange Class I shares for other Class I shares or John Hancock Money Market Fund Class A shares. ■ Call your financial professional or Signature Services to request an exchange.

Regular mail
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 219909
Kansas City, MO 64121-9909 Express delivery
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
430 W 7th Street
Suite 219909
Kansas City, MO 64105-1407 Website
jhinvestments.com EASI-Line
(24/7 automated service)
800-597-1897 Signature Services, Inc.
888-972-8696

27 

Class I shares

Selling shares in writing

In certain circumstances, you will need to make your request to sell shares in writing. You may need to include additional items with your request, unless they were previously provided to Signature Services and are still accurate. These items are shown in the table below. You may also need to include a signature guarantee, which protects you against fraudulent orders. You will need a signature guarantee if:

■ your address or bank of record has changed within the past 30 days, and you would like the payment to be sent to your new address or bank;

■ you are selling more than $100,000 worth of shares and are requesting payment by check (this requirement is waived for certain entities operating under a signed fax trading agreement with John Hancock);

■ you are selling more than $5 million worth of shares from the following types of accounts: custodial accounts held by banks, trust companies, or broker-dealers; endowments and foundations; corporate accounts; group retirement plans; and pension accounts (excluding IRAs, 403(b) plans, and all John Hancock custodial retirement accounts); or

■ you are requesting payment other than by a check mailed to the address/bank of record and payable to the registered owner(s).

You will need to obtain your signature guarantee from a member of the Medallion Signature Guarantee Program. Most broker-dealers, banks, credit unions, and securities exchanges are members of this program. A notary public CANNOT provide a signature guarantee.

Seller	Requirements for written requests
Owners of individual, joint, or UGMA/UTMA accounts (custodial accounts for minors)	■ Letter of instruction ■ On the letter, the signatures and titles of all persons authorized to sign for the account, exactly as the account is registered ■ Medallion signature guarantee, if applicable (see above)
Owners of corporate, sole proprietorship, general partner, or association accounts	■ Letter of instruction ■ Corporate business/organization resolution, certified within the past 12 months, or a John Hancock business/organization certification form ■ On the letter and the resolution, the signature of the person(s) authorized to sign for the account ■ Medallion signature guarantee, if applicable (see above)
Owners or trustees of trust accounts	■ Letter of instruction ■ On the letter, the signature(s) of the trustee(s) ■ Copy of the trust document, certified within the past 12 months, or a John Hancock trust certification form ■ Medallion signature guarantee, if applicable (see above)
Joint tenancy shareholders with rights of survivorship with deceased co-tenant(s)	■ Letter of instruction signed by surviving tenant(s) ■ Copy of the death certificate ■ Medallion signature guarantee, if applicable (see above) ■ Inheritance tax waiver, if applicable
Executors of shareholder estates	■ Letter of instruction signed by the executor ■ Copy of the order appointing executor, certified within the past 12 months ■ Medallion signature guarantee, if applicable (see above) ■ Inheritance tax waiver, if applicable
Administrators, conservators, guardians, and other sellers, or account types not listed above	■ Call Signature Services for instructions

Regular mail
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 219909
Kansas City, MO 64121-9909 Express delivery
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
430 W 7th Street
Suite 219909
Kansas City, MO 64105-1407 Website
jhinvestments.com EASI-Line
(24/7 automated service)
800-597-1897 Signature Services, Inc.
888-972-8696

28 

Selling shares

Class R6 shares

	To sell some or all of your shares
By letter
■ Sales of any amount	■ Write a letter of instruction or complete a stock power indicating the fund name, the share class, your account number, the name(s) in which the account is registered, and the dollar value or number of shares you wish to sell. ■ Include all signatures and any additional documents that may be required (see the next page). ■ Mail the materials to Signature Services (address below). ■ A check will be mailed to the name(s) and address in which the account is registered, or otherwise according to your letter of instruction. ■ Certain requests will require a Medallion signature guarantee. Please refer to “Selling shares in writing” on the next page.
By phone
Amounts up to $5 million: ■ Available to the following types of accounts: custodial accounts held by banks, trust companies, or broker-dealers; endowments and foundations; corporate accounts; and group retirement plans	■ Call EASI-Line for account balance, general fund inquiry, and transaction processing on some account types. ■ Redemption proceeds of up to $100,000 may be sent by wire or by check. A check will be mailed to the exact name(s) and address on the account. ■ To place your request with a representative at John Hancock, call Signature Services between 8:30 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., Eastern time, on most business days, or your financial professional. ■ Redemption proceeds exceeding $100,000 will be wired to your designated bank account, unless a Medallion signature guaranteed letter is provided requesting payment by check. Please refer to “Selling shares in writing.”
By wire or electronic funds transfer (EFT)
■ Requests by letter to sell any amount ■ Qualified requests by phone to sell to $5 million (accounts with telephone redemption privileges)	■ To verify that the telephone redemption privilege is in place on an account, or to request the form to add it to an existing account, call Signature Services. ■ Amounts of $5 million or more will be sent by wire. ■ Amounts up to $100,000 may be sent by EFT or by check. Your bank may charge a fee for this service.
By exchange
■ Sales of any amount	■ Obtain a current prospectus for the fund into which you are exchanging by accessing the fund’s website, or by calling your financial professional or Signature Services. ■ Call EASI-Line for account balance, general fund inquiry, and transaction processing on some account types. ■ You may only exchange Class R6 shares for other Class R6 shares or John Hancock Money Market Fund Class A shares. ■ Call your financial professional or Signature Services to request an exchange.

Regular mail
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 219909
Kansas City, MO 64121-9909 Express delivery
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
430 W 7th Street
Suite 219909
Kansas City, MO 64105-1407 Website
jhinvestments.com EASI-Line
(24/7 automated service)
800-597-1897 Signature Services, Inc.
888-972-8696

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Class R6 shares

Selling shares in writing

In certain circumstances, you will need to make your request to sell shares in writing. You may need to include additional items with your request, unless they were previously provided to Signature Services and are still accurate. These items are shown in the table below. You may also need to include a signature guarantee, which protects you against fraudulent orders. You will need a signature guarantee if:

■ your address or bank of record has changed within the past 30 days, and you would like the payment to be sent to your new address or bank;

■ you are selling more than $100,000 worth of shares and are requesting payment by check (this requirement is waived for certain entities operating under a signed fax trading agreement with John Hancock);

■ you are selling more than $5 million worth of shares from the following types of accounts: custodial accounts held by banks, trust companies, or broker-dealers; endowments and foundations; corporate accounts; and group retirement plans; or

■ you are requesting payment other than by a check mailed to the address/bank of record and payable to the registered owner(s).

You will need to obtain your signature guarantee from a member of the Medallion Signature Guarantee Program. Most broker-dealers, banks, credit unions, and securities exchanges are members of this program. A notary public CANNOT provide a signature guarantee.

Seller	Requirements for written requests
Owners of individual, joint, or UGMA/UTMA accounts (custodial accounts for minors)	■ Letter of instruction ■ On the letter, the signatures and titles of all persons authorized to sign for the account, exactly as the account is registered ■ Medallion signature guarantee, if applicable (see above)
Owners of corporate, sole proprietorship, general partner, or association accounts	■ Letter of instruction ■ Corporate business/organization resolution, certified within the past 12 months, or a John Hancock business/organization certification form ■ On the letter and the resolution, the signature of the person(s) authorized to sign for the account ■ Medallion signature guarantee, if applicable (see above)
Owners or trustees of trust accounts	■ Letter of instruction ■ On the letter, the signature(s) of the trustee(s) ■ Copy of the trust document, certified within the past 12 months, or a John Hancock trust certification form ■ Medallion signature guarantee, if applicable (see above)
Joint tenancy shareholders with rights of survivorship with deceased co-tenant(s)	■ Letter of instruction signed by surviving tenant(s) ■ Copy of the death certificate ■ Medallion signature guarantee, if applicable (see above) ■ Inheritance tax waiver, if applicable
Executors of shareholder estates	■ Letter of instruction signed by the executor ■ Copy of the order appointing executor, certified within the past 12 months ■ Medallion signature guarantee, if applicable (see above) ■ Inheritance tax waiver, if applicable
Administrators, conservators, guardians, and other sellers, or account types not listed above	■ Call Signature Services for instructions

Regular mail
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 219909
Kansas City, MO 64121-9909 Express delivery
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
430 W 7th Street
Suite 219909
Kansas City, MO 64105-1407 Website
jhinvestments.com EASI-Line
(24/7 automated service)
800-597-1897 Signature Services, Inc.
888-972-8696

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Transaction policies

Valuation of shares

The net asset value (NAV) for each class of shares of the fund is normally determined once daily as of the close of regular trading on the New York Stock Exchange (NYSE) (typically 4:00 P.M., Eastern time, on each business day that the NYSE is open). In case of emergency or other disruption resulting in the NYSE not opening for trading or the NYSE closing at a time other than the regularly scheduled close, the NAV may be determined as of the regularly scheduled close of the NYSE pursuant to the fund’s Valuation Policies and Procedures. The time at which shares and transactions are priced and until which orders are accepted may vary to the extent permitted by the Securities and Exchange Commission and applicable regulations. On holidays or other days when the NYSE is closed, the NAV is not calculated and the fund does not transact purchase or redemption requests. Trading of securities that are primarily listed on foreign exchanges may take place on weekends and U.S. business holidays on which the fund’s NAV is not calculated. Consequently, the fund’s portfolio securities may trade and the NAV of the fund’s shares may be significantly affected on days when a shareholder will not be able to purchase or redeem shares of the fund.

Each class of shares of the fund has its own NAV, which is computed by dividing the total assets, minus liabilities, allocated to each share class by the number of fund shares outstanding for that class. The current NAV of the fund is available on our website at jhinvestments.com.

Valuation of securities

Portfolio securities are valued by various methods that are generally described below. Portfolio securities also may be fair valued by the fund’s Pricing Committee in certain instances pursuant to procedures established by the Trustees. Equity securities are generally valued at the last sale price or, for certain markets, the official closing price as of the close of the relevant exchange. Securities not traded on a particular day are valued using last available bid prices. A security that is listed or traded on more than one exchange is typically valued at the price on the exchange where the security was acquired or most likely will be sold. In certain instances, the Pricing Committee may determine to value equity securities using prices obtained from another exchange or market if trading on the exchange or market on which prices are typically obtained did not open for trading as scheduled, or if trading closed earlier than scheduled, and trading occurred as normal on another exchange or market. Debt obligations are typically valued based on evaluated prices provided by an independent pricing vendor. The value of securities denominated in foreign currencies is converted into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate supplied by an independent pricing vendor. Forward foreign currency contracts are valued at the prevailing forward rates which are based on foreign currency exchange spot rates and forward points supplied by an independent pricing vendor. Exchange-traded options are valued at the mid-price of the last quoted bid and ask prices. Futures contracts are typically valued at the last traded price on the exchange on which they trade. Foreign equity index futures that trade in the electronic trading market subsequent to the close of regular trading may be valued at the last traded price in the electronic trading market as of 4:00 P.M. Eastern time, or may be fair valued based on fair value adjustment factors provided by an independent pricing vendor in order to adjust for events that may occur between the close of foreign exchanges or markets and the close of the NYSE. Swaps and unlisted options are generally valued using evaluated prices obtained from an independent

pricing vendor. Shares of other open-end investment companies that are not exchange-traded funds (underlying funds) are valued based on the NAVs of such underlying funds.

Pricing vendors may use matrix pricing or valuation models that utilize certain inputs and assumptions to derive values, including transaction data, broker-dealer quotations, credit quality information, general market conditions, news, and other factors and assumptions. Special valuation considerations may apply with respect to a fund’s “odd-lot” positions, as the fund may receive different prices when it sells such positions than it would receive for sales of institutional round lot positions. Pricing vendors generally value securities assuming orderly transactions of institutional round lot sizes, but a fund may hold or transact in such securities in smaller, odd lot sizes. 

The Pricing Committee engages in oversight activities with respect to pricing vendors, which includes, among other things, monitoring significant or unusual price fluctuations above predetermined tolerance levels from the prior day, back-testing of pricing vendor prices against actual trades, conducting periodic due diligence meetings and reviews, and periodically reviewing the inputs, assumptions and methodologies used by these vendors. Nevertheless, market quotations, official closing prices, or information furnished by a pricing vendor could be inaccurate, which could lead to a security being valued incorrectly.

If market quotations, official closing prices, or information furnished by a pricing vendor are not readily available or are otherwise deemed unreliable or not representative of the fair value of such security because of market- or issuer-specific events, a security will be valued at its fair value as determined in good faith by the Trustees. The Trustees are assisted in their responsibility to fair value securities by the fund’s Pricing Committee, and the actual calculation of a security’s fair value may be made by the Pricing Committee acting pursuant to the procedures established by the Trustees. In certain instances, therefore, the Pricing Committee may determine that a reported valuation does not reflect fair value, based on additional information available or other factors, and may accordingly determine in good faith the fair value of the assets, which may differ from the reported valuation.

Fair value pricing of securities is intended to help ensure that a fund’s NAV reflects the fair market value of the fund’s portfolio securities as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE (as opposed to a value that no longer reflects market value as of such close), thus limiting the opportunity for aggressive traders or market timers to purchase shares of the fund at deflated prices reflecting stale security valuations and promptly sell such shares at a gain, thereby diluting the interests of long-term shareholders. However, a security’s valuation may differ depending on the method used for determining value, and no assurance can be given that fair value pricing of securities will successfully eliminate all potential opportunities for such trading gains.

The use of fair value pricing has the effect of valuing a security based upon the price the fund might reasonably expect to receive if it sold that security in an orderly transaction between market participants, but does not guarantee that the security can be sold at the fair value price. Further, because of the inherent uncertainty and subjective nature of fair valuation, a fair valuation price may differ significantly from the value that would have been used had a readily available market price for the investment existed and these differences could be material.

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Regarding the fund’s investment in an underlying fund that is not an ETF, which (as noted above) is valued at such underlying fund’s NAV, the prospectus for such underlying fund explains the circumstances and effects of fair value pricing for that underlying fund.

Buy and sell prices

When you buy shares, you pay the NAV, plus any applicable sales charges, as described earlier. When you sell shares, you receive the NAV, minus any applicable deferred sales charges.

Execution of requests

The fund is open for business when the NYSE is open, typically 9:30 A.M. to 4:00 P.M. Eastern time, Monday through Friday. A purchase or redemption order received in good order by the fund prior to the close of regular trading on the NYSE, on a day the fund is open for business, will be effected at that day’s NAV. An order received in good order after the fund close will generally be effected at the NAV determined on the next business day. In case of emergency or other disruption resulting in the NYSE not opening for trading or the NYSE closing at a time other than the regularly scheduled close, the time until which orders are accepted may vary to the extent permitted by the Securities and Exchange Commission and applicable regulations. This may result in the fund closing for business prior to the time at which the fund’s NAV is determined. In this case, orders submitted after the fund closing may receive the NAV determined on the next business day.

At times of peak activity, it may be difficult to place requests by telephone, if available for your share class. During these times, consider using EASI-Line, accessing jhinvestments.com, or sending your request in writing.

The fund typically expects to mail or wire redemption proceeds between 1 and 3 business days following the receipt of the shareholder’s redemption request. Processing time is not dependent on the chosen delivery method. In unusual circumstances, the fund may temporarily suspend the processing of sell requests or may postpone payment of proceeds for up to three business days or longer, as allowed by federal securities laws.

Under normal market conditions, the fund typically expects to meet redemption requests through holdings of cash or cash equivalents or through sales of portfolio securities, and may access other available liquidity facilities. In unusual or stressed market conditions, such as, for example, during a period of time in which a foreign securities exchange is closed, in addition to the methods used in normal market conditions, the fund may meet redemption requests through the use of its line of credit, interfund lending facility, redemptions in kind, or such other liquidity means or facilities as the fund may have in place from time to time.

Telephone transactions

For your protection, telephone requests may be recorded in order to verify their accuracy. Also for your protection, telephone redemption transactions are not permitted on accounts in which a name, mailing address, or recorded bank has changed within the past 30 days. Proceeds from telephone transactions can only be sent to the address or bank on record.

Exchanges and conversions

You may exchange Class A, Class B, or Class C shares of one John Hancock fund for shares of the same class of any other John Hancock fund that is then offering that class, generally without paying any sales charges, if applicable.

You may exchange Class I or Class R6 shares of one John Hancock fund for shares of the same class of any other John Hancock fund or for John Hancock Money Market Fund Class A shares.

For all share classes, the registration for both accounts involved in an exchange must be identical.

Note: Once exchanged into John Hancock Money Market Fund Class A shares, shares may only be exchanged back into the original class from which the shares were exchanged. As applicable, shares acquired in an exchange will be subject to the CDSC rate and holding schedule of the fund in which such shares were originally purchased if and when such shares are redeemed. For purposes of determining the holding period for calculating the CDSC, shares will continue to age from their original purchase date.

Provided the fund’s eligibility requirements are met, and to the extent the referenced share class is offered by the fund, an investor in the fund pursuant to a fee-based, wrap, or other investment platform program of certain firms, as determined by the fund, may be afforded an opportunity to make a conversion of (i) Class A shares and/or Class C shares (not subject to a CDSC) also owned by the investor in the same fund to Class I shares or Class R6 shares of that fund; or (ii) Class I shares also owned by the investor to Class R6 shares of the same fund. Investors that no longer participate in a fee-based, wrap, or other investment platform program of certain firms may be afforded an opportunity to make a conversion to Class A shares of the same fund. Class C shares may be converted to Class A at the request of the applicable financial intermediary after the expiration of the CDSC period, provided that the financial intermediary through which a shareholder purchased or holds Class C shares has records verifying that the Class C share CDSC period has expired and the position is held in an omnibus or dealer-controlled account. The fund may in its sole discretion permit a conversion of one share class to another share class of the same fund in certain circumstances other than those described above.

In addition, Trustees, employees of the advisor or its affiliates, employees of the subadvisor, members of the fund’s portfolio management team and the spouses and children (under age 21) of the aforementioned, may make a conversion of Class A shares also owned by the investor in the same fund to Class R6 shares or, if Class R6 shares are unavailable, Class I shares of that fund.

The conversion of one share class to another share class of the same fund in these particular circumstances should not cause the investor to realize taxable gain or loss. For further details, see “Additional information concerning taxes” in the SAI for information regarding taxation upon the redemption or exchange of shares of the fund (see the back cover of this prospectus).

The fund may change or cancel its exchange policies at any time, upon 60 days’ written notice to its shareholders. For further details, see “Additional services and programs” in the SAI (see the back cover of this prospectus).

Excessive trading

The fund is intended for long-term investment purposes only and does not knowingly accept shareholders who engage in market timing or other types of excessive short-term trading. Short-term trading into and out of the fund can disrupt portfolio investment strategies and may increase fund expenses for all shareholders, including long-term shareholders who do not generate these costs.

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Right to reject or restrict purchase and exchange orders

Purchases and exchanges should be made primarily for investment purposes. The fund reserves the right to restrict, reject, or cancel (with respect to cancellations within one day of the order), for any reason and without any prior notice, any purchase or exchange order, including transactions representing excessive trading and transactions accepted by any shareholder’s financial intermediary. For example, the fund may, in its discretion, restrict, reject, or cancel a purchase or exchange order even if the transaction is not subject to a specific limitation on exchange activity, as described below, if the fund or its agent determines that accepting the order could interfere with the efficient management of the fund’s portfolio, or otherwise not be in the fund’s best interest in light of unusual trading activity related to your account. In the event that the fund rejects or cancels an exchange request, neither the redemption nor the purchase side of the exchange will be processed. If you would like the redemption request to be processed even if the purchase order is rejected, you should submit separate redemption and purchase orders rather than placing an exchange order. The fund reserves the right to delay for up to one business day, consistent with applicable law, the processing of exchange requests in the event that, in the fund’s judgment, such delay would be in the fund’s best interest, in which case both the redemption and purchase side of the exchange will receive the fund’s NAV at the conclusion of the delay period. The fund, through its agents in their sole discretion, may impose these remedial actions at the account holder level or the underlying shareholder level.

Exchange limitation policies

The Board of Trustees has adopted the following policies and procedures by which the fund, subject to the limitations described below, takes steps reasonably designed to curtail excessive trading practices.

Limitation on exchange activity

The fund or its agent may reject or cancel a purchase order, suspend or terminate the exchange privilege, or terminate the ability of an investor to invest in John Hancock funds if the fund or its agent determines that a proposed transaction involves market timing or disruptive trading that it believes is likely to be detrimental to the fund. The fund or its agent cannot ensure that it will be able to identify all cases of market timing or disruptive trading, although it attempts to have adequate procedures in place to do so. The fund or its agent may also reject or cancel any purchase order (including an exchange) from an investor or group of investors for any other reason. Decisions to reject or cancel purchase orders (including exchanges) in the fund are inherently subjective and will be made in a manner believed to be in the best interest of the fund’s shareholders. The fund does not have any arrangement to permit market timing or disruptive trading.

Exchanges made on the same day in the same account are aggregated for purposes of counting the number and dollar amount of exchanges made by the account holder. The exchange limits referenced above will not be imposed or may be modified under certain circumstances. For example, these exchange limits may be modified for accounts held by certain retirement plans to conform to plan exchange limits, ERISA considerations, or U.S. Department of Labor regulations. Certain automated or preestablished exchange, asset allocation, and dollar-cost-averaging programs are not subject to these exchange limits. These programs are excluded from the exchange limitation since the fund believes that they are advantageous to shareholders and do not offer an effective means for market timing or excessive trading strategies. These investment tools involve regular and predetermined purchase or redemption

requests made well in advance of any knowledge of events affecting the market on the date of the purchase or redemption.

These exchange limits are subject to the fund’s ability to monitor exchange activity, as discussed under “Limitation on the ability to detect and curtail excessive trading practices” below. Depending upon the composition of the fund’s shareholder accounts, and in light of the limitations on the ability of the fund to detect and curtail excessive trading practices, a significant percentage of the fund’s shareholders may not be subject to the exchange limitation policy described above. In applying the exchange limitation policy, the fund considers information available to it at the time and reserves the right to consider trading activity in a single account or multiple accounts under common ownership, control, or influence.

Limitation on the ability to detect and curtail excessive trading practices

Shareholders seeking to engage in excessive trading practices sometimes deploy a variety of strategies to avoid detection and, despite the efforts of the fund to prevent excessive trading, there is no guarantee that the fund or its agent will be able to identify such shareholders or curtail their trading practices. The ability of the fund and its agent to detect and curtail excessive trading practices may also be limited by operational systems and technological limitations. Because the fund will not always be able to detect frequent trading activity, investors should not assume that the fund will be able to detect or prevent all frequent trading or other practices that disadvantage the fund. For example, the ability of the fund to monitor trades that are placed by omnibus or other nominee accounts is severely limited in those instances in which the financial intermediary, including a financial advisor, broker, retirement plan administrator, or fee-based program sponsor, maintains the records of the fund’s underlying beneficial owners. Omnibus or other nominee account arrangements are common forms of holding shares of the fund, particularly among certain financial intermediaries, such as financial advisors, brokers, retirement plan administrators, or fee-based program sponsors. These arrangements often permit the financial intermediary to aggregate its clients’ transactions and ownership positions and do not identify the particular underlying shareholder(s) to the fund. However, the fund will work with financial intermediaries as necessary to discourage shareholders from engaging in abusive trading practices and to impose restrictions on excessive trades. In this regard, the fund has entered into information-sharing agreements with financial intermediaries pursuant to which these intermediaries are required to provide to the fund, at the fund’s request, certain information relating to their customers investing in the fund through omnibus or other nominee accounts. The fund will use this information to attempt to identify excessive trading practices. Financial intermediaries are contractually required to follow any instructions from the fund to restrict or prohibit future purchases from shareholders that are found to have engaged in excessive trading in violation of the fund’s policies. The fund cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information provided to it from financial intermediaries and so cannot ensure that it will be able to detect abusive trading practices that occur through omnibus or other nominee accounts. As a consequence, the fund’s ability to monitor and discourage excessive trading practices in these types of accounts may be limited.

Excessive trading risk

To the extent that the fund or its agent is unable to curtail excessive trading practices in the fund, these practices may interfere with the efficient

33 

management of the fund’s portfolio and may result in the fund engaging in certain activities to a greater extent than it otherwise would, such as maintaining higher cash balances, using its line of credit, and engaging in increased portfolio transactions. Increased portfolio transactions and use of the line of credit would correspondingly increase the fund’s operating costs and decrease the fund’s investment performance. Maintenance of higher levels of cash balances would likewise result in lower fund investment performance during periods of rising markets.

While excessive trading can potentially occur in the fund, certain types of funds are more likely than others to be targets of excessive trading. For example:

■ A fund that invests a significant portion of its assets in small- or mid-capitalization stocks or securities in particular industries that may trade infrequently or are fair valued as discussed under “Valuation of securities” entails a greater risk of excessive trading, as investors may seek to trade fund shares in an effort to benefit from their understanding of the value of those types of securities (referred to as price arbitrage).

■ A fund that invests a material portion of its assets in securities of foreign issuers may be a potential target for excessive trading if investors seek to engage in price arbitrage based upon general trends in the securities markets that occur subsequent to the close of the primary market for such securities.

■ A fund that invests a significant portion of its assets in below-investment-grade (junk) bonds that may trade infrequently or are fair valued as discussed under “Valuation of securities” incurs a greater risk of excessive trading, as investors may seek to trade fund shares in an effort to benefit from their understanding of the value of those types of securities (referred to as price arbitrage).

Any frequent trading strategies may interfere with efficient management of a fund’s portfolio and raise costs. A fund that invests in the types of securities discussed above may be exposed to this risk to a greater degree than a fund that invests in highly liquid securities. These risks would be less significant, for example, in a fund that primarily invests in U.S. government securities, money market instruments, investment-grade corporate issuers, or large-capitalization U.S. equity securities. Any successful price arbitrage may cause dilution in the value of the fund shares held by other shareholders.

Account information

The fund is required by law to obtain information for verifying an account holder’s identity. For example, an individual will be required to supply his or her name, residential address, date of birth, and Social Security number. If you do not provide the required information, we may not be able to open your account. If verification is unsuccessful, the fund may close your account, redeem your shares at the next NAV, minus any applicable sales charges, and take any other steps that it deems reasonable.

Certificated shares

The fund no longer issues share certificates. Shares are electronically recorded. Any existing certificated shares can be sold only by returning the certificated shares to Signature Services, along with a letter of instruction or a stock power and a signature guarantee.

Sales in advance of purchase payments

When you place a request to sell shares for which the purchase money has not yet been collected, the request will be executed in a timely fashion, but the

fund will not release the proceeds to you until your purchase payment clears. This may take up to 10 business days after the purchase.

Dividends and account policies

Account statements

For Class A, Class B, and Class C shares, in general, you will receive account statements as follows:

■ after every transaction (except a dividend reinvestment, automatic investment, or systematic withdrawal) that affects your account balance 

■ after any changes of name or address of the registered owner(s)

■ in all other circumstances, every quarter

For Class I and Class R6 shares, in general, you will receive account statements as follows:

■ after every transaction (except a dividend reinvestment) that affects your account balance

■ after any changes of name or address of the registered owner(s)

■ in all other circumstances, every quarter

Every year you should also receive, if applicable, a Form 1099 tax information statement, mailed by February 15.

Dividends

The fund generally declares dividends daily and pays them monthly. Capital gains, if any, are distributed at least annually, typically after the end of the fund’s fiscal year. Most of the fund’s dividends are income dividends. Your dividends begin accruing the day after the fund receives payment and continue through the day your shares are actually sold.

Dividend reinvestments

Most investors have their dividends reinvested in additional shares of the same class of the same fund. If you choose this option, or if you do not indicate any choice, your dividends will be reinvested. Alternatively, you may choose to have your dividends and capital gains sent directly to your bank account or a check may be mailed if your combined dividend and capital gains amount is $10 or more. However, if the check is not deliverable or the combined dividend and capital gains amount is less than $10, your proceeds will be reinvested. If five or more of your dividend or capital gains checks remain uncashed after 180 days, all subsequent dividends and capital gains will be reinvested. No front-end sales charge or CDSC will be imposed on shares derived from reinvestment of dividends or capital gains distributions.

Taxability of dividends

The fund intends to meet certain federal tax requirements so that distributions of the tax-exempt interest it earns may be treated as “exempt-interest dividends.” However, any portion of exempt-interest dividends attributable to interest on private activity bonds may increase certain shareholders’ alternative minimum tax. Dividends from the fund’s short-term capital gains are taxable as ordinary income. Dividends from the fund’s long-term capital gains are taxable at a lower rate. Whether gains are short term or long term depends on the fund’s holding period. Some dividends paid in January may be taxable as if they had been paid the previous December. A portion of the fund’s exempt-interest dividends is also expected to be exempt from California personal income taxation when received by individual shareholders of the fund who are subject to California personal income taxation.

34 

The Form 1099 that is mailed to you every February, if applicable, details your dividends and their federal tax category, although you should verify your tax liability with your tax professional.

Returns of capital

If the fund’s distributions exceed its taxable and tax-exempt interest income and capital gains realized during a taxable year, all or a portion of the distributions made in the same taxable year may be recharacterized as a return of capital to shareholders. A return of capital distribution will generally not be taxable, but will reduce each shareholder’s cost basis in the fund and result in a higher reported capital gain or lower reported capital loss when those shares on which the distribution was received are sold.

Taxability of transactions

Any time you sell or exchange shares, it is considered a taxable event for you if you are not exempt from federal income taxes. Depending on the purchase price and the sale price of the shares you sell or exchange, you may have a gain or a loss on the transaction. You are responsible for any tax liabilities generated by your transactions.

Small accounts

If the value of your account of Class A or Class C shares is less than $1,000, you may be asked to purchase more shares within 30 days. If you do not take action, the fund may close out your account and mail you the proceeds. Alternatively, the fund may charge you $20 a year to maintain your account. You will not be charged a CDSC if your account is closed for this reason.

Additional investor services

Monthly Automatic Accumulation Program (MAAP)

MAAP lets you set up regular investments from paychecks or bank accounts to the John Hancock fund(s) to purchase Class A and Class C shares. Investors determine the frequency and amount of investments ($25 minimum per month), and they can terminate the program at any time. To establish, you must satisfy the minimum initial investment requirements specified in the section “Opening an account” and complete the appropriate parts of the account application.

Systematic withdrawal plan

This plan may be used for routine bill payments or periodic withdrawals from your account of Class A, Class B, and Class C shares. To establish:

■ Make sure you have at least $5,000 worth of shares in your account.

■ Make sure you are not planning to invest more money in this account (buying shares during a period when you are also selling shares of the same fund is not advantageous to you because of sales charges).

■ Specify the payee(s). The payee may be yourself or any other party, and there is no limit to the number of payees you may have, as long as they are all on the same payment schedule.

■ Determine the schedule: monthly, quarterly, semiannually, annually, or in certain selected months.

■ Fill out the relevant part of the account application. To add a systematic withdrawal plan to an existing account, contact your financial representative or Signature Services.

Retirement plans

John Hancock funds offer a range of retirement plans, including Traditional and Roth IRAs, Coverdell ESAs, SIMPLE plans, and SEPs. Using these plans, you can invest in any John Hancock fund (except tax-free income funds). To find out more, call Signature Services at 800-225-5291.

John Hancock does not accept requests to establish new John Hancock custodial 403(b)(7) accounts, does not accept requests for exchanges or transfers into your existing John Hancock custodial 403(b)(7) accounts, and requires additional disclosure documentation if you direct John Hancock to exchange or transfer some or all of your John Hancock custodial 403(b)(7) account assets to another 403(b)(7) contract or account. In addition, the fund no longer accepts salary deferrals into 403(b)(7) accounts. Please refer to the SAI for more information regarding these restrictions.

Disclosure of fund holdings

The following information for the fund is posted on the website, jhinvestments.com, generally on the fifth business day after month end: top 10 holdings; top 10 sector analysis; total return/yield; top 10 countries; average quality/maturity; beta/alpha; and top 10 portfolio composition. All of the holdings of the fund will be posted to the website no earlier than 15 days after each calendar month end, and will remain posted on the website for six months. All of the fund’s holdings as of the end of the third month of every fiscal quarter will be disclosed on Form N-PORT within 60 days of the end of the fiscal quarter. All of the fund’s holdings as of the end of the second and fourth fiscal quarters will be disclosed on Form N-CSR within 70 days of the end of such fiscal quarters. A description of the fund’s policies and procedures with respect to the disclosure of its portfolio securities is available in the SAI.

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Appendix 1 - Intermediary sales charge waivers

Intermediary sales charge waivers

Merrill Lynch, Pierce, Fenner & Smith Incorporated (Merrill Lynch)

Effective May 1, 2020, shareholders purchasing fund shares through a Merrill Lynch platform or account are eligible only for the following load waivers (front-end sales charge waivers and contingent deferred, or back-end, sales charge waivers) and discounts, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this fund’s prospectus or SAI:

Front-end Sales Load Waivers on Class A shares available at Merrill Lynch

■ Employer-sponsored retirement, deferred compensation and employee benefit plans (including health savings accounts) and trusts used to fund those plans, provided that the shares are not held in a commission-based brokerage account and shares are held for the benefit of the plan

■ Shares purchased by a 529 Plan (does not include 529 Plan units or 529-specific share classes or equivalents)

■ Shares purchased through a Merrill Lynch affiliated investment advisory program

■ Shares exchanged due to the holdings moving from a Merrill Lynch affiliated investment advisory program to a Merrill Lynch brokerage (non-advisory) account pursuant to Merrill Lynch’s policies relating to sales load discounts and waivers

■ Shares purchased by third party investment advisors on behalf of their advisory clients through Merrill Lynch’s platform

■ Shares of funds purchased through the Merrill Edge Self-Directed platform (if applicable)

■ Shares purchased through reinvestment of capital gains distributions and dividend reinvestment when purchasing shares of the same fund (but not any other fund within the fund family)

■ Shares exchanged from Class C (i.e. level-load) shares of the same fund pursuant to Merrill Lynch’s policies relating to sales load discounts and waivers

■ Employees and registered representatives of Merrill Lynch or its affiliates and their family members

■ Directors or Trustees of the fund, and employees of the fund’s investment adviser or any of its affiliates, as described in the prospectus

■ Eligible shares purchased from the proceeds of redemptions within the same fund family, provided (1) the repurchase occurs within 90 days following the redemption, (2) the redemption and purchase occur in the same account, and (3) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales load (known as Rights of Reinstatement). Automated transactions (i.e. systematic purchases and withdrawals) and purchases made after shares are automatically sold to pay Merrill Lynch’s account maintenance fees are not eligible for reinstatement

CDSC Waivers on Class A and Class C shares available at Merrill Lynch

■ Death or disability of the shareholder

■ Shares sold as part of a systematic withdrawal plan as described in the fund’s prospectus

■ Return of excess contributions from an IRA Account

■ Shares sold as part of a required minimum distribution for IRA and retirement accounts pursuant to the Internal Revenue Code

■ Shares sold to pay Merrill Lynch fees but only if the transaction is initiated by Merrill Lynch

■ Shares acquired through a Right of Reinstatement

■ Shares held in retirement brokerage accounts, that are exchanged for a lower cost share class due to transfer to certain fee based accounts or platforms (applicable to Class A and Class C shares only)

■ Shares received through an exchange due to the holdings moving from a Merrill Lynch affiliated investment advisory program to a Merrill Lynch brokerage (non-advisory) account pursuant to Merrill Lynch’s policies relating to sales load discounts and waivers

Front-end Load Discounts Available at Merrill Lynch; Breakpoints, Rights of Accumulation & Letters of Intent

■ Breakpoints as described in the fund’s prospectus

■ Rights of Accumulation (ROA) which entitle shareholders to breakpoint discounts as described in the fund’s prospectus will be automatically calculated based on the aggregated holding of fund family assets held by accounts (including 529 program holdings where applicable) within the purchaser’s household at Merrill Lynch. Eligible fund family assets not held at Merrill Lynch may be included in the ROA calculation only if the shareholder notifies his or her financial professional about such assets

■ Letters of Intent (LOI) which allow for breakpoint discounts based on anticipated purchases within a fund family, through Merrill Lynch, over a 13-month period of time (if applicable)

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc. (Ameriprise Financial)

Effective June 1, 2018, shareholders purchasing fund shares through an Ameriprise Financial platform or account which is not held directly at the fund are eligible for the following front-end sales charge waivers and discounts, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this fund’s prospectus or SAI:

Class A Shares Front-End Sales Charge Waivers Available at Ameriprise Financial

■ Employer-sponsored retirement plans (e.g., 401(k) plans, 457 plans, employer-sponsored 403(b) plans, profit sharing and money purchase pension plans and defined benefit plans). For purposes of this provision, employer-sponsored retirement plans do not include SEP IRAs, Simple IRAs or SAR-SEPs

■ Shares purchased through an Ameriprise Financial investment advisory program (if an Advisory or similar share class for such investment advisory program is not available)

■ Shares purchased by third party investment advisors on behalf of their advisory clients through Ameriprise Financial’s platform (if an Advisory or similar share class for such investment advisory program is not available)

■ Shares purchased through reinvestment of capital gains distributions and dividend reinvestment when purchasing shares of the same fund (but not any other fund within the same fund family)

■ Shares exchanged from Class C shares of the same fund in the month of or following the 10-year anniversary of the purchase date. To the extent that this prospectus elsewhere provides for a waiver with respect to such shares following a shorter holding period, that waiver will apply to exchanges

36 

following such shorter period. To the extent that this prospectus elsewhere provides for a waiver with respect to exchanges of Class C shares for load waived shares, that waiver will also apply to such exchanges

■ Employees and registered representatives of Ameriprise Financial or its affiliates and their immediate family members

■ Shares purchased by or through qualified accounts (including IRAs, Coverdell Education Savings Accounts, 401(k)s, 403(b) TSCAs subject to ERISA and defined benefit plans) that are held by a covered family member, defined as an Ameriprise financial advisor and/or the advisor’s spouse, advisor’s lineal ascendant (mother, father, grandmother, grandfather, great grandmother, great grandfather), advisor’s lineal descendant (son, step-son, daughter, step-daughter, grandson, granddaughter, great grandson, great granddaughter) or any spouse of a covered family member who is a lineal descendant

■ Shares purchased from the proceeds of redemptions within the same fund family, provided (1) the repurchase occurs within 90 days following the redemption, (2) the redemption and purchase occur in the same account, and (3) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales load (i.e. Rights of Reinstatement)

Morgan Stanley Smith Barney (Morgan Stanley)

Effective July 1, 2018, shareholders purchasing fund shares through a Morgan Stanley Wealth Management transactional brokerage account which is not held directly at the fund are eligible only for the following front-end sales charge waivers with respect to Class A shares, which may differ from and may be more limited than those disclosed elsewhere in this fund’s Prospectus or SAI:

Front-end Sales Charge Waivers on Class A Shares available at Morgan Stanley Wealth Management

■ Employer-sponsored retirement plans (e.g., 401(k) plans, 457 plans, employer-sponsored 403(b) plans, profit sharing and money purchase pension plans and defined benefit plans). For purposes of this provision, employer-sponsored retirement plans do not include SEP IRAs, Simple IRAs, SAR-SEPs or Keogh plans

■ Morgan Stanley employee and employee-related accounts according to Morgan Stanley’s account linking rules

■ Shares purchased through reinvestment of dividends and capital gains distributions when purchasing shares of the same fund

■ Shares purchased through a Morgan Stanley self-directed brokerage account

■ Class C (i.e., level-load) shares that are no longer subject to a contingent deferred sales charge and are converted to Class A shares of the same fund by Morgan Stanley Wealth Management pursuant to its share class conversion program

■ Shares purchased from the proceeds of redemptions within the same fund family, provided (i) the repurchase occurs within 90 days following the redemption, (ii) the redemption and purchase occur in the same account, and (iii) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales charge

Raymond James & Associates, Inc., Raymond James Financial Services, Inc. and each entity’s affiliates (Raymond James)

Shareholders purchasing fund shares through a Raymond James platform or account, or through an introducing broker-dealer or independent registered investment adviser for which Raymond James provides trade execution, clearance, and/or custody services, are eligible only for the following load

waivers (front-end sales charge waivers and contingent deferred, or back-end, sales charge waivers) and discounts, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this fund’s prospectus or SAI.

Front-end sales load waivers on Class A shares available at Raymond James

■ Shares purchased in an investment advisory program

■ Shares purchased within the same fund family through a systematic reinvestment of capital gains distributions and dividend reinvestment when purchasing shares of the same fund

■ Employees and registered representatives of Raymond James or its affiliates and their family members as designated by Raymond James

■ Shares purchased from the proceeds of redemptions within the same fund family, provided (1) the repurchase occurs within 90 days following the redemption, (2) the redemption and purchase occur in the same account, and (3) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales load (known as Rights of Reinstatement)

■ A shareholder in the fund’s Class C shares will have their shares converted at net asset value to Class A shares (or the appropriate share class) of the fund if the shares are no longer subject to a CDSC and the conversion is in line with the policies and procedures of Raymond James

CDSC Waivers on Class A and Class C shares available at Raymond James

■ Death or disability of the shareholder

■ Shares sold as part of a systematic withdrawal plan as described in the fund’s prospectus

■ Return of excess contributions from an IRA Account

■ Shares sold as part of a required minimum distribution for IRA and retirement accounts due to the shareholder reaching the qualified age based on applicable IRS regulations as described in the fund’s prospectus

■ Shares sold to pay Raymond James fees but only if the transaction is initiated by Raymond James

■ Shares acquired through a right of reinstatement

Front-end load discounts available at Raymond James: breakpoints, and/or rights of accumulation, and/or letters of intent

■ Breakpoints as described in the fund’s prospectus

■ Rights of accumulation which entitle shareholders to breakpoint discounts will be automatically calculated based on the aggregated holding of fund family assets held by accounts within the purchaser’s household at Raymond James. Eligible fund family assets not held at Raymond James may be included in the calculation of rights of accumulation only if the shareholder notifies his or her financial professional about such assets

■ Letters of intent which allow for breakpoint discounts based on anticipated purchases within a fund family, over a 13-month time period. Eligible fund family assets not held at Raymond James may be included in the calculation of letters of intent only if the shareholder notifies his or her financial professional about such assets

Janney Montgomery Scott LLC (Janney)

Effective May 1, 2020, if you purchase fund shares through a Janney brokerage account, you will be eligible for the following load waivers (front-end sales charge waivers and contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC), or back-end sales

37 

charge, waivers) and discounts, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this fund’s prospectus or SAI.

Front-end sales charge* waivers on Class A shares available at Janney

■ Shares purchased through reinvestment of capital gains distributions and dividend reinvestment when purchasing shares of the same fund (but not any other fund within the fund family)

■ Shares purchased by employees and registered representatives of Janney or its affiliates and their family members as designated by Janney

■ Shares purchased from the proceeds of redemptions within the same fund family, provided (1) the repurchase occurs within ninety (90) days following the redemption, (2) the redemption and purchase occur in the same account, and (3) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales load (i.e., right of reinstatement)

■ Employer-sponsored retirement plans (e.g., 401(k) plans, 457 plans, employer-sponsored 403(b) plans, profit sharing and money purchase pension plans and defined benefit plans). For purposes of this provision, employer-sponsored retirement plans do not include SEP IRAs, Simple IRAs, SAR-SEPs or Keogh plans

■ Shares acquired through a right of reinstatement

■ Class C shares that are no longer subject to a contingent deferred sales charge and are converted to Class A shares of the same fund pursuant to Janney’s policies and procedures

CDSC waivers on Class A and Class C shares available at Janney

■ Shares sold upon the death or disability of the shareholder

■ Shares sold as part of a systematic withdrawal plan as described in the fund’s prospectus

■ Shares purchased in connection with a return of excess contributions from an IRA account

■ Shares sold as part of a required minimum distribution for IRA and other retirement accounts due to the shareholder reaching age 70½ as described in the fund’s prospectus

■ Shares sold to pay Janney fees but only if the transaction is initiated by Janney

■ Shares acquired through a right of reinstatement

■ Shares exchanged into the same share class of a different fund

Front-end sales charge* discounts available at Janney: breakpoints, rights of accumulation, and/or letters of intent

■ Breakpoints as described in the fund’s prospectus

■ Rights of accumulation (ROA), which entitle shareholders to breakpoint discounts, will be automatically calculated based on the aggregated holding of fund family assets held by accounts within the purchaser’s household at Janney. Eligible fund family assets not held at Janney may be included in the ROA calculation only if the shareholder notifies his or her financial professional about such assets

■ Letters of intent which allow for breakpoint discounts based on anticipated purchases within a fund family, over a 13-month time period. Eligible fund family assets not held at Janney may be included in the calculation of letters of intent only if the shareholder notifies his or her financial professional about such assets

*Also referred to as an “initial sales charge.”

Edward D. Jones & Co. (Edward Jones)

Effective on or after May 1, 2020, shareholders purchasing fund shares through an Edward Jones platform or account are eligible only for the following load waivers (front-end sales charge waivers and contingent deferred, or back-end sales charge waivers) and discounts, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this fund’s prospectus or SAI. In all instances, it is the shareholder’s responsibility to inform Edward Jones at the time of purchase of any relationship, holdings of fund family or other facts qualifying the purchaser for breakpoints or waivers. Edward Jones can ask for documentation of such circumstance.

Front-end Sales Charge Waivers on Class A shares available at Edward Jones

Sales charges are waived for the following shareholders and in the following situations:

■ Associates of Edward Jones and its affiliates and their family members who are in the same pricing group (as determined by Edward Jones under its policies and procedures) as the associate. This waiver will continue for the remainder of the associate’s life if the associate retires from Edward Jones in good-standing and remains eligible consistent with Edward Jones’ policies

■ Shares purchased in an Edward Jones fee-based program

■ Shares purchased through reinvestment of capital gains distributions and dividend reinvestment

■ Shares purchased from the proceeds of redeemed shares of the same fund family so long as the following conditions are met: 1) the proceeds are from the sale of shares within 60 days of the purchase, and 2) the sale and purchase are made in the same share class and the same account or the purchase is made in an individual retirement account with proceeds from liquidations in a non-retirement account

■ Shares exchanged into Class A shares from another share class so long as the exchange is into the same fund and was initiated at the discretion of Edward Jones. Edward Jones is responsible for any remaining CDSC due to the fund company, if applicable. Any future purchases are subject to the applicable sales charge as disclosed in the prospectus

■ Exchanges from Class C shares to Class A shares of the same fund, generally, in the 84th month following the anniversary of the purchase date or earlier at the discretion of Edward Jones

CDSC Waivers on Class A and Class C shares available at Edward Jones

If the shareholder purchases shares that are subject to a CDSC and those shares are redeemed before the CDSC is expired, the shareholder is responsible to pay the CDSC except in the following conditions:

■ Shares sold upon the death or disability of the shareholder

■ Shares sold as part of a systematic withdrawal plan (limited to up to 10% per year of the account value)

■ Return of excess contributions from an Individual Retirement Account (IRA)

■ Shares sold as part of a required minimum distribution for IRA and retirement accounts if the redemption is taken in or after the year the shareholder reaches qualified age based on applicable IRS regulations

38 

■ Shares sold to pay Edward Jones fees or costs in such cases where the transaction is initiated by Edward Jones

■ Shares exchanged at Edward Jones’ discretion in an Edward Jones fee-based program. In such circumstances, Edward Jones is responsible for any remaining CDSC due to the fund company, if applicable

■ Shares acquired through a right of reinstatement

Front-end Load Discounts Available at Edward Jones; Breakpoints, Rights of Accumulation & Letter of Intent

■ Breakpoints as described in this prospectus

■ Rights of Accumulation (ROA). The applicable sales charge on a purchase of Class A shares is determined by taking into account all share classes (except any money market funds and retirement plan share classes) of the fund family held by the shareholder or in an account grouped by Edward Jones with other accounts for the purpose of providing certain pricing considerations (pricing groups). This includes all share classes held on the Edward Jones platform and/or held on another platform. The inclusion of eligible fund family assets in the rights of accumulation calculation is dependent on the shareholder notifying Edward Jones of such assets at the time of calculation. ROA is determined by calculating the higher of cost or market value (current shares x NAV)

■ Letter of Intent (LOI). Through a LOI, shareholders can receive the sales charge and breakpoint discounts for purchases shareholders intend to make over a 13-month period from the date Edward Jones receives the LOI. The LOI is determined by calculating the higher of cost or market value of qualifying holdings at LOI initiation in combination with the value that the shareholder intends to buy over a 13-month period to calculate the front-end sales charge and any breakpoint discounts. Each purchase the shareholder makes during that 13-month period will receive the sales charge and breakpoint discount that applies to the total amount. The inclusion of eligible fund family assets in the LOI calculation is dependent on the shareholder notifying Edward Jones of such assets at the time of calculation. Purchases made before the LOI is received by Edward Jones are not covered under the LOI and will not reduce the sales charge previously paid. Sales charges will be adjusted if LOI is not met

Other Important Information Regarding Shareholder Transactions Through Edward Jones

1.1 Minimum Purchase Amounts
• $250 initial purchase minimum
• $50 subsequent purchase minimum

1.2 Minimum Balances
• Edward Jones has the right to redeem at its discretion fund holdings with a balance of $250 or less. The following are examples of accounts that are not included in this policy:

■ A fee-based account held on an Edward Jones platform

■ A 529 account held on an Edward Jones platform

■ An account with an active systematic investment plan or letter of intent (LOI)

1.3 Changing Share Classes
• At any time it deems necessary, Edward Jones has the authority to exchange at NAV a shareholder’s holdings in a fund to Class A shares

Robert W. Baird & Co. (Baird)

Effective June 15, 2020, shareholders purchasing fund shares through a Baird platform or account are only be eligible for the following sales charge waivers (front-end sales charge waivers and contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) waivers) and discounts, which may differ from those disclosed elsewhere in this prospectus or the SAI.

Front-End Sales Charge Waivers on Class A shares Available at Baird

■ Shares purchased through reinvestment of capital gains distributions and dividend reinvestment when purchasing shares of the same fund

■ Shares purchased by employees and registered representatives of Baird or its affiliates and their family members as designated by Baird

■ Shares purchased from the proceeds of redemptions within the same fund family, provided (1) the repurchase occurs within 90 days following the redemption, (2) the redemption and purchase occur in the same account, and (3) redeemed shares were subject to a front-end or deferred sales charge (known as rights of reinstatement)

■ Class C shares will be converted at net asset value to Class A shares of the same fund if the shares are no longer subject to CDSC and the conversion is in line with the policies and procedures of Baird

■ Employer-sponsored retirement plans or charitable accounts in a transactional brokerage account at Baird, including 401(k) plans, 457 plans, employer-sponsored 403(b) plans, profit sharing and money purchase pension plans and defined benefit plans. For purposes of this provision, employer-sponsored retirement plans do not include SEP IRAs, Simple IRAs or SAR-SEPs

CDSC Waivers on Class A and Class C shares Available at Baird

■ Shares sold due to death or disability of the shareholder

■ Shares sold as part of a systematic withdrawal plan as described in the fund’s prospectus

■ Shares bought due to returns of excess contributions from an IRA Account

■ Shares sold as part of a required minimum distribution for IRA and retirement accounts due to the shareholder reaching the qualified age based on applicable IRS regulations as described in the fund’s prospectus

■ Shares sold to pay Baird fees but only if the transaction is initiated by Baird

■ Shares acquired through a right of reinstatement

Front-End Sales Charge Discounts Available at Baird: Breakpoints and/or Rights of Accumulations

■ Breakpoints as described in this prospectus

■ Rights of accumulations which entitle shareholders to breakpoint discounts will be automatically calculated based on the aggregated holdings of fund family assets held by accounts within the purchaser’s household at Baird. Eligible fund family assets not held at Baird may be included in the rights of accumulations calculation only if the shareholder notifies his or her financial advisor about such assets

■ Letters of Intent (LOI) allow for breakpoint discounts based on anticipated purchases within the fund family through Baird, over a 13-month period of time

Stifel, Nicolaus & Company, Incorporated (Stifel)

39 

Effective July 1, 2020, shareholders purchasing fund shares through a Stifel platform or account or who own shares for which Stifel or an affiliate is the broker-dealer of record are eligible for the following additional sales charge waiver.

Front-end Sales Load Waiver on Class A Shares

■ Class C shares that have been held for more than seven (7) years converted to Class A shares of the same fund pursuant to Stifel’s policies and procedures.

All other sales charge waivers and reductions described elsewhere in the fund’s prospectus or SAI still apply.

40 

For more information

Two documents are available that offer further information on the fund:

Annual/semiannual reports to shareholders

Additional information about the fund’s investments is available in the fund’s annual and semiannual reports to shareholders. In the fund’s annual report, you will find a discussion of the market conditions and investment strategies that significantly affected the fund’s performance during its last fiscal year.

Statement of Additional Information (SAI)

The SAI contains more detailed information on all aspects of the fund and includes a summary of the fund’s policy regarding disclosure of its portfolio holdings, as well as legal and regulatory matters. A current SAI has been filed with the SEC and is incorporated by reference into (and is legally a part of) this prospectus.

To obtain a free copy of these documents or request other information

There are several ways you can get a current annual/semiannual report, prospectus, or SAI from John Hancock, request other information, or make inquiries:

Online: jhinvestments.com

By mail:
John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 219909
Kansas City, MO 64121-9909

By EASI-Line: 800-338-8080 for Class A, Class B, and Class C shares; 800-597-1897 for Class I and Class R6 shares

By phone: 800-225-5291 for Class A, Class B, and Class C shares; 888-972-8696 for Class I and Class R6 shares

By TTY: 800-231-5469 for Class A, Class B, Class C, Class I, and Class R6 shares

You can also view or obtain copies of these documents through the SEC:

Online: sec.gov 

By email (duplicating fee required): publicinfo@sec.gov

© 2020 JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT DISTRIBUTORS LLC 530PN 10/1/20
SEC file number: 811-05979

John Hancock Bond Trust

John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund

John Hancock Municipal Securities Trust

John Hancock Sovereign Bond Fund

John Hancock Strategic Series

Statement of Additional Information
October 1, 2020

	A	B	C	I	R1	R2	R3	R4	R5	R6	NAV
John Hancock Bond Trust
John Hancock ESG Core Bond Fund	JBOAX	N/A	—	JBOIX	N/A	—	N/A	—	N/A	JBORX	—
John Hancock Government Income Fund	JHGIX	TSGIX	TCGIX	JGIFX	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	JTSRX	N/A
John Hancock High Yield Fund	JHHBX	TSHYX	JHYCX	JYHIX	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	JFHYX	—
John Hancock Investment Grade Bond Fund	TAUSX	TSUSX	TCUSX	TIUSX	N/A	JIGBX	N/A	JIGMX	N/A	JIGEX	—
John Hancock Short Duration Bond Fund	JSNAX	—	JSNCX	JSNIX	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	JSNRX	—
John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund
John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund	TACAX	TSCAX	TCCAX	JCAFX	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	JCSRX	N/A
John Hancock Municipal Securities Trust
John Hancock High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	JHTFX	TSHTX	JCTFX	JHYMX	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	JCTRX	N/A
John Hancock Tax-Free Bond Fund	TAMBX	TSMBX	TBMBX	JTBDX	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	JTMRX	N/A
John Hancock Sovereign Bond Fund
John Hancock Bond Fund	JHNBX	JHBBX	JHCBX	JHBIX	N/A	JHRBX	N/A	JBFRX	N/A	JHBSX	—
John Hancock Strategic Series
John Hancock Income Fund	JHFIX	STIBX	JSTCX	JSTIX	JSTRX	JSNSX	JSNHX	JSNFX	JSNVX	JSNWX	N/A

This Statement of Additional Information (“SAI”) provides information about each fund listed above (each a “fund” and collectively, the “funds”). Each fund is a series of the Trust indicated above. The information in this SAI is in addition to the information that is contained in each fund’s prospectus dated October 1, 2020, as amended and supplemented from time to time (collectively, the “Prospectus”). The funds may offer other share classes that are described in separate prospectuses and SAIs.

This SAI is not a prospectus. It should be read in conjunction with the Prospectus. This SAI incorporates by reference the financial statements of each series of John Hancock Bond Trust, John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund, John Hancock Municipal Securities Trust, John Hancock Sovereign Bond Fund and John Hancock Strategic Series for the period ended May 31, 2020, as well as the related opinion of the fund’s independent registered public accounting firm, as included in the fund’s most recent annual report to shareholders (each an “Annual Report”). A copy of a Prospectus or an Annual Report can be obtained free of charge by contacting:

John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
P.O. Box 219909
Kansas City, MO 64121-9909
800-225-5291
jhinvestments.com

Table of Contents

GLOSSARY	1
ORGANIZATION OF THE TRUSTS	4
ADDITIONAL INVESTMENT POLICIES AND OTHER INSTRUMENTS	4
RISK FACTORS	31
REGULATION OF COMMODITY INTERESTS	53
HEDGING AND OTHER STRATEGIC TRANSACTIONS	53
SPECIAL RISKS REGARDING CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	66
INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS	71
PORTFOLIO TURNOVER	79
THOSE RESPONSIBLE FOR MANAGEMENT	81
SHAREHOLDERS OF THE FUNDS	90
INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS AND OTHER SERVICES	108
DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENTS	114
SALES COMPENSATION	118
NET ASSET VALUE	123
POLICY REGARDING DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS	124
SALES CHARGES ON CLASS A, CLASS B, AND CLASS C SHARES	126
DEFERRED SALES CHARGE ON CLASS A, CLASS B, AND CLASS C SHARES	130
SPECIAL REDEMPTIONS	132
ADDITIONAL SERVICES AND PROGRAMS	133
PURCHASES AND REDEMPTIONS THROUGH THIRD PARTIES	135
DESCRIPTION OF FUND SHARES	136
SAMPLE CALCULATION OF MAXIMUM OFFERING PRICE	137
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONCERNING TAXES	138
PORTFOLIO BROKERAGE	148
TRANSFER AGENT SERVICES	153
LEGAL AND REGULATORY MATTERS	153
INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM	154
FINANCIAL STATEMENTS	154
CUSTODY OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES	154
CODES OF ETHICS	154
APPENDIX A – DESCRIPTION OF BOND RATINGS	155
APPENDIX B – PORTFOLIO MANAGER INFORMATION	162
APPENDIX C – PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES	169

GLOSSARY

Term	Definition
“1933 Act”	the Securities Act of 1933, as amended
“1940 Act”	the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended
“Advisers Act”	the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended
“Advisor”	John Hancock Investment Management LLC (formerly, John Hancock Advisers, LLC), 200 Berkeley Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116
“Advisory Agreement”	an investment advisory agreement or investment management contract between the Trust and the Advisor
“Affiliated Subadvisors”	Manulife Investment Management (North America) Limited and Manulife Investment Management (US) LLC, as applicable
“affiliated underlying funds”	Funds advised by John Hancock’s investment advisor or its affiliates
“BDCs”	business development companies
“Board”	Board of Trustees of the Trust
“Bond Connect”	Mutual Bond Market Access between Mainland China and Hong Kong
“Brown Brothers Harriman”	Brown Brothers Harriman & Co.
“CATS”	Certificates of Accrual on Treasury Securities
“CBOs”	Collateralized Bond Obligations
“CCO”	Chief Compliance Officer
“CDSC”	Contingent Deferred Sales Charge
“CEA”	the Commodity Exchange Act, as amended
“China A-Shares”	Chinese stock exchanges
“CIBM”	China interbank bond market
“CLOs”	Collateralized Loan Obligations
“CMOs”	Collateralized Mortgage Obligations
“Code”	the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended
“COFI floaters”	Cost of Funds Index
“CPI”	Consumer Price Index
“CPI-U”	Consumer Price Index for Urban Consumers
“CPO”	Commodity Pool Operator
“CFTC”	Commodity Futures Trading Commission
“Citibank”	Citibank, N.A., 388 Greenwich Street, New York, NY 10013
“Distributor”	John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC (formerly, John Hancock Funds, LLC), 200 Berkeley Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116
“EMU”	Economic and Monetary Union
“ETFs”	Exchange-Traded Funds
“ETNs”	Exchange-Traded Notes
“EU”	European Union
“Fannie Mae”	Federal National Mortgage Association
“FHFA”	Federal Housing Finance Agency
“FHLBs”	Federal Home Loan Banks
“FICBs”	Federal Intermediate Credit Banks
“Fitch”	Fitch Ratings
“Freddie Mac”	Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation
“funds” or “series”	The John Hancock funds within this SAI as noted on the front cover and as the context may require
“GNMA”	Government National Mortgage Association
“HKSCC”	Hong Kong Securities Clearing Company
“IOs”	Interest-Only
“IRA”	Individual Retirement Account
“IRS”	Internal Revenue Service

1

Term	Definition
“JHCT”	John Hancock Collateral Trust
“JH Distributors”	John Hancock Distributors, LLC
“JHLICO New York”	John Hancock Life Insurance Company of New York
“JHLICO U.S.A.”	John Hancock Life Insurance Company (U.S.A.)
“LOI”	Letter of Intention
“LIBOR”	London Interbank Offered Rate
“MAAP”	Monthly Automatic Accumulation Program
“Manulife Financial” or “MFC”	Manulife Financial, a publicly traded company based in Toronto, Canada
“Manulife IM (NA)”	Manulife Investment Management (North America) Limited (formerly, John Hancock Asset Management a Division of Manulife Asset Management (North America) Limited)
“Manulife IM (US)”	Manulife Investment Management (US) LLC (formerly, John Hancock Asset Management a Division of Manulife Asset Management (US) LLC)
“MiFID II”	Markets in Financial Instruments Directive
“Moody’s”	Moody’s Investors Service, Inc
“NAV”	Net Asset Value
“NRSRO”	Nationally Recognized Statistical Rating Organization
“NYSE”	New York Stock Exchange
“OID”	Original Issue Discount
“OTC”	Over-The-Counter
“PAC”	Planned Amortization Class
“PFS”	Personal Financial Services
“POs”	Principal-Only
“PRC”	People’s Republic of China
“PROMESA”	Puerto Rico Oversight, Management and Economic Stability Act
“REITs”	Real Estate Investment Trusts
“RIC”	Regulated Investment Company
“RPS”	John Hancock Retirement Plan Services
“SARSEP”	Salary Reduction Simplified Employee Pension Plan
“SEC”	Securities and Exchange Commission
“SEP”	Simplified Employee Pension
“SIMPLE”	Savings Incentive Match Plan for Employees
“S&P”	Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services
“SLMA”	Student Loan Marketing Association
“State Street”	State Street Bank and Trust Company, State Street Financial Center, One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111
“Stock Connect”	Hong Kong Stock Connect Program
“subadvisor”	The subadvisors employed by John Hancock within this SAI as noted in Appendix B and as the context may require
“TAC”	Target Amortization Class
“TIGRs”	Treasury Receipts, Treasury Investors Growth Receipts

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Term	Definition
“Trust”	John Hancock Bond Trust John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund John Hancock Capital Series John Hancock Current Interest John Hancock Exchange-Traded Fund Trust John Hancock Funds II John Hancock Funds III John Hancock Investment Trust John Hancock Investment Trust II John Hancock Municipal Securities Trust John Hancock Sovereign Bond Fund John Hancock Strategic Series John Hancock Variable Insurance Trust
“TSA”	Tax-Sheltered Annuity
“unaffiliated underlying funds”	Funds in which the Funds of Funds invest that are advised by an entity other than John Hancock’s investment advisor or its affiliates
“underlying funds”	Funds in which the Funds of Funds invest
“UK”	United Kingdom

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ORGANIZATION OF THE TRUSTS

Each Trust is organized as a Massachusetts business trust under the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts and is an open-end management investment company registered under the 1940 Act. Each fund is a diversified series of its respective Trust, as that term is used in the 1940 Act, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time. Each of California Tax-Free Income Fund, High Yield Municipal Bond Fund, and Tax-Free Bond Fund (each, a “Tax-Free Fund” and collectively, Tax-Free Funds”) invests primarily in tax-exempt securities. The following table sets forth the date each Trust was organized:

Trust	Date of Organization
Bond Trust	November 29, 1984
John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund	October 16, 1989
Municipal Securities Trust	November 13, 1989
Sovereign Bond Fund	October 5, 1984
Strategic Series	April 16, 1986

The Advisor is a Delaware limited liability company whose principal offices are located at 200 Berkeley Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116. The Advisor is registered as an investment advisor under the Advisers Act. The Advisor is an indirect principally owned subsidiary of JHLICO U.S.A. JHLICO U.S.A. and its subsidiaries today offer a broad range of financial products, including life insurance, annuities, 401(k) plans, long-term care insurance, college savings, and other forms of business insurance. Additional information about John Hancock may be found on the Internet at johnhancock.com. The ultimate controlling parent of the Advisor is MFC, a publicly traded company based in Toronto, Canada. MFC is the holding company of The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company and its subsidiaries, collectively known as Manulife Financial.

The Advisor has retained for each fund a subadvisor that is responsible for providing investment advice to the fund subject to the review of the Board and the overall supervision of the Advisor.

Manulife Financial is a leading international financial services group with principal operations in Asia, Canada, and the United States. Operating primarily as John Hancock in the United States and Manulife elsewhere, it provides financial protection products and advice, insurance, as well as wealth and asset management services through its extensive network of solutions for individuals, groups, and institutions. As of June 30, 2020, it had CAD$1.2 trillion (US$0.9 trillion) in assets under management and administration. Its global headquarters are in Toronto, Canada, and it trades as ‘MFC’ on the Toronto Stock Exchange, NYSE, and the Philippine Stock Exchange, and under ‘945’ in Hong Kong. Manulife Financial can be found on the Internet at manulife.com.

The following table sets forth each fund’s inception date:

Fund	Commencement of Operations
Bond Fund	September 15, 1995 (successor to Transamerica Investment Quality Bond Fund, which commenced operations on November 9, 1973)
California Tax-Free Income Fund	December 29, 1989
ESG Core Bond Fund	December 14, 2016
Government Income Fund	February 23, 1988
High Yield Fund	October 26, 1987
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	August 25, 1986
Income Fund	August 18, 1986
Investment Grade Bond Fund	December 31, 1991
Short Duration Bond Fund	July 16, 2019
Tax-Free Bond Fund	January 5, 1990

If a fund or share class has been in operation for a period that is shorter than the three-year fiscal period covered in this SAI, information is provided for the period the fund or share class, as applicable, was in operation.

ADDITIONAL INVESTMENT POLICIES AND OTHER INSTRUMENTS

The principal strategies and risks of investing in each fund are described in the applicable Prospectus. Unless otherwise stated in the applicable Prospectus or this SAI, the investment objective and policies of the funds may be changed without shareholder approval. However, the respective investment objectives of Bond Fund and Income Fund are fundamental and may not be changed without shareholder approval. In addition, with respect to each of California Tax-

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Free Income Fund and Tax-Free Bond Fund, the policy of investing at least 80% of net assets (plus amounts borrowed for investment purposes) in tax-exempt securities is fundamental and may not be changed without shareholder approval. With respect to High Yield Municipal Bond Fund, the policy of investing at least 80% of net assets, plus the amount of any borrowings for investment purposes, in municipal bonds is fundamental and may not be changed without shareholder approval. Each fund may invest in the instruments below, and such instruments and investment policies apply to each fund, but only if and to the extent that such policies are consistent with and permitted by a fund’s investment objective and policies. Each fund may also have indirect exposure to the instruments described below through derivative contracts, if applicable. By owning shares of the underlying funds, each fund of funds indirectly invests in the securities and instruments held by the underlying funds and bears the same risks of such underlying funds.

Asset-Backed Securities

The securitization techniques used to develop mortgage securities also are being applied to a broad range of other assets. Through the use of trusts and special purpose corporations, automobile and credit card receivables are being securitized in pass-through structures similar to mortgage pass-through structures or in a pay-through structure similar to the CMO structure.

Generally, the issuers of asset-backed bonds, notes or pass-through certificates are special purpose entities and do not have any significant assets other than the receivables securing such obligations. In general, the collateral supporting asset-backed securities is of a shorter maturity than that of mortgage loans. As a result, investment in these securities should be subject to less volatility than mortgage securities. Instruments backed by pools of receivables are similar to mortgage-backed securities in that they are subject to unscheduled prepayments of principal prior to maturity. When the obligations are prepaid, a fund must reinvest the prepaid amounts in securities with the prevailing interest rates at the time. Therefore, a fund’s ability to maintain an investment including high-yielding asset-backed securities will be affected adversely to the extent that prepayments of principal must be reinvested in securities that have lower yields than the prepaid obligations. Moreover, prepayments of securities purchased at a premium could result in a realized loss. Unless otherwise stated in its Prospectus, each of ESG Core Bond Fund, Government Income Fund, Investment Grade Bond Fund and Short Duration Bond Fund will only invest in asset-backed securities rated, at the time of purchase, “AA” or better by S&P or “AA” or better by Moody’s. Unless otherwise stated in its Prospectus, each other fund will only invest in asset-backed securities rated, at the time of purchase, “AA” or better by S&P or Fitch or “Aa” or better by Moody’s.

As with mortgage securities, asset-backed securities are often backed by a pool of assets representing the obligation of a number of different parties and use similar credit enhancement techniques. For a description of the types of credit enhancement that may accompany asset-backed securities, see “Types of Credit Support” below. When a fund invests in asset-backed securities, it will not limit its investments in asset-backed securities to those with credit enhancements. Although asset-backed securities are not generally traded on a national securities exchange, such securities are widely traded by brokers and dealers, and will not be considered illiquid securities for the purposes of the investment restriction on illiquid securities under “Additional Investment Policies and Other Instruments.”

Types of Credit Support. To lessen the impact of an obligor’s failure to make payments on underlying assets, mortgage securities and asset-backed securities may contain elements of credit support. Such credit support falls into two categories:

■ liquidity protection; and

■ default protection.

Liquidity protection refers to the provision of advances, generally by the entity administering the pool of assets, to ensure that the pass-through of payments due on the underlying pool of assets occurs in a timely fashion. Default protection provides protection against losses resulting from ultimate default and enhances the likelihood of ultimate payment of the obligations on at least a portion of the assets in the pool. This protection may be provided through guarantees, insurance policies or letters of credit obtained by the issuer or sponsor from third parties, through various means of structuring the transaction or through a combination of such approaches. A fund will not pay any additional fees for such credit support, although the existence of credit support may increase the price of a security.

Some examples of credit support include:

■ “senior-subordinated securities” (multiple class securities with one or more classes subordinate to other classes as to the payment of principal thereof and interest thereon, with the result that defaults on the underlying assets are borne first by the holders of the subordinated class);

■ creation of “reserve funds” (where cash or investments, sometimes funded from a portion of the payments on the underlying assets, are held in reserve against future losses); and

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■ “over-collateralization” (where the scheduled payments on, or the principal amount of, the underlying assets exceed those required to make payment on the securities and pay any servicing or other fees).

The ratings of mortgage-backed securities and asset-backed securities for which third-party credit enhancement provides liquidity protection or default protection are generally dependent upon the continued creditworthiness of the provider of the credit enhancement. The ratings of these securities could be reduced in the event of deterioration in the creditworthiness of the credit enhancement provider even in cases where the delinquency and loss experienced on the underlying pool of assets is better than expected.

The degree of credit support provided for each issue is generally based on historical information concerning the level of credit risk associated with the underlying assets. Delinquency or loss greater than anticipated could adversely affect the return on an investment in mortgage securities or asset-backed securities.

Collateralized Debt Obligations. CBOs, CLOs, other collateralized debt obligations, and other similarly structured securities (collectively, “CDOs”) are types of asset-backed securities. A CBO is a trust that is often backed by a diversified pool of high risk, below investment grade fixed-income securities. The collateral can be from many different types of fixed-income securities such as high yield debt, residential privately issued mortgage-related securities, commercial privately issued mortgage-related securities, trust preferred securities and emerging market debt. A CLO is a trust typically collateralized by a pool of loans, which may include, among others, domestic and foreign senior secured loans, senior unsecured loans, and subordinate corporate loans, including loans that may be rated below investment grade or equivalent unrated loans. Other CDOs are trusts backed by other types of assets representing obligations of various parties. CDOs may charge management fees and administrative expenses.

In a CDO structure, the cash flows from the trust are split into two or more portions, called tranches, varying in risk and yield. The riskiest portion is the “equity” tranche which bears the bulk of defaults from the bonds or loans in the trust and serves to protect the other, more senior tranches from default in all but the most severe circumstances. Since it is partially protected from defaults, a senior tranche from a CDO trust typically has a higher rating and lower yield than its underlying securities, and can be rated investment grade. Despite the protection from the equity tranche, CDO tranches can experience substantial losses due to actual defaults, increased sensitivity to defaults due to collateral default and disappearance of protecting tranches, market anticipation of defaults, as well as aversion to CDO securities as a class. In the case of all CDO tranches, the market prices of and yields on tranches with longer terms to maturity tend to be more volatile than those of tranches with shorter terms to maturity due to the greater volatility and uncertainty of cash flows.

Borrowing

A fund may borrow money in an amount that does not exceed 33% of its total assets. Borrowing by a fund involves leverage, which may exaggerate any increase or decrease in a fund’s investment performance and in that respect may be considered a speculative practice. The interest that a fund must pay on any borrowed money, additional fees to maintain a line of credit or any minimum average balances required to be maintained are additional costs that will reduce or eliminate any potential investment income and may offset any capital gains. Unless the appreciation and income, if any, on the asset acquired with borrowed funds exceed the cost of borrowing, the use of leverage will diminish the investment performance of a fund.

Brady Bonds

Brady Bonds are debt securities issued under the framework of the “Brady Plan,” an initiative announced by former U.S. Treasury Secretary Nicholas F. Brady in 1989 as a mechanism for debtor nations to restructure their outstanding external commercial bank indebtedness. The Brady Plan framework, as it has developed, involves the exchange of external commercial bank debt for newly issued bonds (“Brady Bonds”). Brady Bonds also may be issued in respect of new money being advanced by existing lenders in connection with the debt restructuring. Brady Bonds issued to date generally have maturities between 15 and 30 years from the date of issuance and have traded at a deep discount from their face value. In addition to Brady Bonds, investments in emerging market governmental obligations issued as a result of debt restructuring agreements outside of the scope of the Brady Plan are available.

Agreements implemented under the Brady Plan to date are designed to achieve debt and debt-service reduction through specific options negotiated by a debtor nation with its creditors. As a result, the financial packages offered by each country differ. The types of options have included:

■ the exchange of outstanding commercial bank debt for bonds issued at 100% of face value that carry a below-market stated rate of interest (generally known as par bonds);

■ bonds issued at a discount from face value (generally known as discount bonds);

■ bonds bearing an interest rate which increases over time; and

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■ bonds issued in exchange for the advancement of new money by existing lenders.

Discount bonds issued to date under the framework of the Brady Plan have generally borne interest computed semiannually at a rate equal to 13/16th of one percent above current six-month LIBOR. Regardless of the stated face amount and interest rate of the various types of Brady Bonds, when investing in Brady Bonds, a fund will purchase Brady Bonds in secondary markets in which the price and yield to the investor reflect market conditions at the time of purchase.

Certain sovereign bonds are entitled to “value recovery payments” in certain circumstances, which in effect constitute supplemental interest payments but generally are not collateralized. Certain Brady Bonds have been collateralized as to principal due at maturity (typically 15 to 30 years from the date of issuance) by U.S. Treasury zero coupon bonds with a maturity equal to the final maturity of such Brady Bonds, although the collateral is not available to investors until the final maturity of the Brady Bonds. Collateral purchases are financed by the International Monetary Fund (the “IMF”), the World Bank and the debtor nations’ reserves. In addition, interest payments on certain types of Brady Bonds may be collateralized by cash or high-grade securities in amounts that typically represent between 12 and 18 months of interest accruals on these instruments, with the balance of the interest accruals being uncollateralized.

A fund may purchase Brady Bonds with no or limited collateralization, and must rely for payment of interest and (except in the case of principal collateralized Brady Bonds) principal primarily on the willingness and ability of the foreign government to make payment in accordance with the terms of the Brady Bonds. Government Income Fund may invest up to 10% of its total assets in Brady Bonds and other sovereign debt securities of countries that have restructured or are in the process of restructuring sovereign debt pursuant to the Brady Plan.

Brady Bonds issued to date are purchased and sold in secondary markets through U.S. securities dealers and other financial institutions and are generally maintained through European transactional securities depositories. A substantial portion of the Brady Bonds and other sovereign debt securities in which a fund invests are likely to be acquired at a discount.

Callable Bonds

Callable bonds contain a provision in the indenture permitting the issuer to redeem the bonds prior to their maturity dates at a specified price that typically reflects a premium over the bonds’ original issue price. These bonds generally have call-protection (a period of time during which the bonds may not be called) that usually lasts for 7 to 10 years, after which time such bonds may be called away. An issuer may generally be expected to call its bonds, or a portion of them during periods of relatively declining interest rates, when borrowings may be replaced at lower rates than those obtained in prior years. If the proceeds of a bond called under such circumstances are reinvested, the result may be a lower overall yield due to lower current interest rates. If the purchase price of such bonds included a premium related to the appreciated value of the bonds, some or all of that premium may not be recovered by bondholders, such as the Fund, depending on the price at which such bonds were redeemed.

When feasible, Bond Fund will purchase debt securities that are non-callable.

Canadian and Provincial Government and Crown Agency Obligations

Canadian Government Obligations. Canadian government obligations are debt securities issued or guaranteed as to principal or interest by the government of Canada pursuant to authority granted by the Parliament of Canada and approved by the Governor in Council, where necessary. These securities include treasury bills, notes, bonds, debentures and marketable government of Canada loans.

Canadian Crown Obligations. Canadian Crown agency obligations are debt securities issued or guaranteed by a Crown corporation, company or agency (“Crown Agencies”) pursuant to authority granted by the Parliament of Canada and approved by the Governor in Council, where necessary. Certain Crown Agencies are by statute agents of Her Majesty in right of Canada, and their obligations, when properly authorized, constitute direct obligations of the government of Canada. These obligations include, but are not limited to, those issued or guaranteed by the:

■ Export Development Corporation;

■ Farm Credit Corporation;

■ Federal Business Development Bank; and

■ Canada Post Corporation.

In addition, certain Crown Agencies that are not, by law, agents of Her Majesty may issue obligations that, by statute, the Governor in Council may authorize the Minister of Finance to guarantee on behalf of the government of Canada. Other Crown Agencies that are not, by law, agents of Her Majesty may issue or guarantee obligations not entitled to be

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guaranteed by the government of Canada. No assurance can be given that the government of Canada will support the obligations of Crown Agencies that are not agents of Her Majesty, which it has not guaranteed, since it is not obligated to do so by law.

Provincial Government Obligations. Provincial Government obligations are debt securities issued or guaranteed as to principal or interest by the government of any province of Canada pursuant to authority granted by the provincial Legislature and approved by the Lieutenant Governor in Council of such province, where necessary. These securities include treasury bills, notes, bonds and debentures.

Provincial Crown Agency Obligations. Provincial Crown Agency obligations are debt securities issued or guaranteed by a provincial Crown corporation, company or agency (“Provincial Crown Agencies”) pursuant to authority granted by the provincial Legislature and approved by the Lieutenant Governor in Council of such province, where necessary. Certain Provincial Crown Agencies are by statute agents of Her Majesty in right of a particular province of Canada, and their obligations, when properly authorized, constitute direct obligations of such province. Other Provincial Crown Agencies that are not, by law, agents of Her Majesty in right of a particular province of Canada may issue obligations that, by statute, the Lieutenant Governor in Council of such province may guarantee, or may authorize the Treasurer thereof to guarantee, on behalf of the government of such province. Finally, other Provincial Crown Agencies that are not, by law, agencies of Her Majesty may issue or guarantee obligations not entitled to be guaranteed by a provincial government. No assurance can be given that the government of any province of Canada will support the obligations of Provincial Crown Agencies that are not agents of Her Majesty and that it has not guaranteed, as it is not obligated to do so by law. Provincial Crown Agency obligations described above include, but are not limited to, those issued or guaranteed by a:

■ provincial railway corporation;

■ provincial hydroelectric or power commission or authority;

■ provincial municipal financing corporation or agency; and

■ provincial telephone commission or authority.

Certificates of Deposit, Time Deposits and Bankers’ Acceptances

Certificates of Deposit. Certificates of deposit are certificates issued against funds deposited in a bank or a savings and loan. They are issued for a definite period of time and earn a specified rate of return.

Time Deposits. Time deposits are non-negotiable deposits maintained in banking institutions for specified periods of time at stated interest rates.

Bankers’ Acceptances. Bankers’ acceptances are short-term credit instruments evidencing the obligation of a bank to pay a draft which has been drawn on it by a customer. These instruments reflect the obligations both of the bank and of the drawer to pay the face amount of the instrument upon maturity. They are primarily used to finance the import, export, transfer or storage of goods. They are “accepted” when a bank guarantees their payment at maturity.

These obligations are not insured by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation.

Commercial Paper and Short-Term Notes

Commercial paper consists of unsecured promissory notes issued by corporations. Issues of commercial paper and short-term notes will normally have maturities of less than nine months and fixed rates of return, although such instruments may have maturities of up to one year.

Variable Amount Master Demand Notes. Commercial paper obligations may include variable amount master demand notes. Variable amount master demand notes are obligations that permit the investment of fluctuating amounts at varying rates of interest pursuant to direct arrangements between a fund, as lender, and the borrower. These notes permit daily changes in the amounts borrowed. The investing (i.e., “lending”) fund has the right to increase the amount under the note at any time up to the full amount provided by the note agreement, or to decrease the amount, and the borrower may prepay up to the full amount of the note without penalty. Because variable amount master demand notes are direct lending arrangements between the lender and borrower, it is not generally contemplated that such instruments will be traded. There is no secondary market for these notes, although they are redeemable (and thus immediately repayable by the borrower) at face value, plus accrued interest, at any time.

A subadvisor will only invest in variable amount master demand notes issued by companies that, at the date of investment, have an outstanding debt issue rated “Aaa” or “Aa” by Moody’s or “AAA” or “AA” by S&P or Fitch, and that the subadvisor has determined present minimal risk of loss. A subadvisor will look generally at the financial strength of the issuing company as “backing” for the note and not to any security interest or supplemental source, such as a

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bank letter of credit. A variable amount master demand note will be valued on each day a NAV is determined. The NAV generally will be equal to the face value of the note plus accrued interest unless the financial position of the issuer is such that its ability to repay the note when due is in question.

Common Stock

Stock market movements may lower the value of the funds’ investments in stocks. A company’s stock price also may fluctuate significantly in response to other factors such as disappointing earnings reports, loss of major customers, litigation or changes in government regulations affecting the company or its industry. The fund can invest in companies of any size, including small-capitalization and mid-capitalization companies whose stock prices may be more volatile than those of larger companies.

Conversion of Debt Securities

In the event debt securities held by a fund are converted to or exchanged for equity securities, the fund may continue to hold such equity securities, but only if and to the extent consistent with and permitted by its investment objective and policies.

Convertible Securities

Convertible securities may include corporate notes or preferred securities. Investments in convertible securities are not subject to the rating criteria with respect to non-convertible debt obligations. As with all debt securities, the market value of convertible securities tends to decline as interest rates increase and, conversely, to increase as interest rates decline. The market value of convertible securities can also be heavily dependent upon the changing value of the equity securities into which such securities are convertible, depending on whether the market price of the underlying security exceeds the conversion price. Convertible securities generally rank senior to common stocks in an issuer’s capital structure and consequently entail less risk than the issuer’s common stock. However, the extent to which such risk is reduced depends upon the degree to which the convertible security sells above its value as a fixed-income security.

Corporate Obligations

Corporate obligations are bonds and notes issued by corporations to finance long-term credit needs.

Custodial Receipts

A fund may acquire custodial receipts for U.S. government securities. Custodial receipts evidence ownership of future interest payments, principal payments or both, and include TIGRs, and CATS. For certain securities law purposes, custodial receipts are not considered U.S. government securities.

Defaulted Securities

A fund may invest in defaulted securities. The risk of loss due to default may be considerably greater with lower-quality securities because they are generally unsecured and are often subordinated to other debt of the issuer. The purchase of defaulted debt securities involves risks such as the possibility of complete loss of the investment where the issuer does not restructure to enable it to resume principal and interest payments. If the issuer of a security in a fund’s portfolio defaults, a fund may have unrealized losses on the security, which may lower the fund’s NAV. Defaulted securities tend to lose much of their value before they default. Thus, a fund’s NAV may be adversely affected before an issuer defaults. In addition, a fund may incur additional expenses if it must try to recover principal or interest payments on a defaulted security.

Defaulted debt securities may be illiquid and, as such, will be part of the percentage limits on investments in illiquid securities discussed under “Additional Investment Policies – Illiquid Securities.”

Depositary Receipts

Securities of foreign issuers may include American Depositary Receipts, European Depositary Receipts, Global Depositary Receipts, International Depositary Receipts, and Non-Voting Depositary Receipts (“ADRs,” “EDRs,” “GDRs,” “IDRs,” and “NVDRs,” respectively, and collectively, “Depositary Receipts”). Depositary Receipts are certificates typically issued by a bank or trust company that give their holders the right to receive securities issued by a foreign or domestic corporation.

ADRs are U.S. dollar-denominated securities backed by foreign securities deposited in a U.S. securities depository. ADRs are created for trading in the U.S. markets. The value of an ADR will fluctuate with the value of the underlying security and will reflect any changes in exchange rates. An investment in ADRs involves risks associated with investing in foreign securities. Issuers of unsponsored ADRs are not contractually obligated to disclose material information in the United States, and, therefore, there may not be a correlation between that information and the market value of an unsponsored ADR.

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EDRs, GDRs, IDRs, and NVDRs are receipts evidencing an arrangement with a foreign bank or exchange affiliate similar to that for ADRs and are designed for use in foreign securities markets. EDRs, GDRs, IDRs, and NVDRs are not necessarily quoted in the same currency as the underlying security. NVDRs do not have voting rights.

Exchange-Traded Notes

ETNs are senior, unsecured, unsubordinated debt securities the returns of which are linked to the performance of a particular market benchmark or strategy, minus applicable fees. ETNs are traded on an exchange (e.g., the NYSE) during normal trading hours; however, investors also can hold ETNs until they mature. At maturity, the issuer pays to the investor a cash amount equal to the principal amount, subject to the day’s market benchmark or strategy factor. ETNs do not make periodic coupon payments or provide principal protection. ETNs are subject to credit risk, including the credit risk of the issuer, and the value of the ETN may drop due to a downgrade in the issuer’s credit rating, despite the underlying market benchmark or strategy remaining unchanged. The value of an ETN also may be influenced by time to maturity, level of supply and demand for the ETN, volatility and lack of liquidity in underlying assets, changes in the applicable interest rates, changes in the issuer’s credit rating, and economic, legal, political, or geographic events that affect the referenced underlying asset. When a fund invests in ETNs, it will bear its proportionate share of any fees and expenses borne by the ETN. A decision by a fund to sell ETN holdings may be limited by the availability of a secondary market. In addition, although an ETN may be listed on an exchange, the issuer may not be required to maintain the listing, and there can be no assurance that a secondary market will exist for an ETN.

ETNs also are subject to tax risk. No assurance can be given that the IRS will accept, or a court will uphold, how a fund characterizes and treats ETNs for tax purposes.

An ETN that is tied to a specific market benchmark or strategy may not be able to replicate and maintain exactly the composition and relative weighting of securities, commodities or other components in the applicable market benchmark or strategy. Some ETNs that use leverage can, at times, be relatively illiquid, and thus they may be difficult to purchase or sell at a fair price. Leveraged ETNs are subject to the same risk as other instruments that use leverage in any form. The market value of ETNs may differ from their market benchmark or strategy. This difference in price may be due to the fact that the supply and demand in the market for ETNs at any point in time is not always identical to the supply and demand in the market for the securities, commodities or other components underlying the market benchmark or strategy that the ETN seeks to track. As a result, there may be times when an ETN trades at a premium or discount to its market benchmark or strategy.

Fixed-Income Securities

Investment grade bonds are rated at the time of purchase in the four highest rating categories by a NRSRO, such as those rated “Aaa,” “Aa,” “A” and “Baa” by Moody’s, or “AAA,” “AA,” “A” and “BBB” by S&P or Fitch. Obligations rated in the lowest of the top four rating categories (such as “Baa” by Moody’s or “BBB” by S&P or Fitch) may have speculative characteristics and changes in economic conditions or other circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to make principal and interest payments, including a greater possibility of default or bankruptcy of the issuer, than is the case with higher grade bonds. Subsequent to its purchase by a fund, an issue of securities may cease to be rated or its rating may be reduced below the minimum required for purchase by a fund. In addition, it is possible that Moody’s, S&P, Fitch and other NRSROs might not timely change their ratings of a particular issue to reflect subsequent events. None of these events will require the sale of the securities by a fund, although a subadvisor will consider these events in determining whether it should continue to hold the securities. No more than 25% of California Tax-Free Income Fund’s total assets will be invested in unrated debt obligations (excluding pre-refunded securities secured with high quality U.S. government or similar securities.)

In general, the ratings of Moody’s, S&P, and Fitch represent the opinions of these agencies as to the quality of the securities that they rate. It should be emphasized however, that ratings are relative and subjective and are not absolute standards of quality. These ratings will be used by a fund as initial criteria for the selection of portfolio securities. Among the factors that will be considered are the long-term ability of the issuer to pay principal and interest and general economic trends. Appendix A contains further information concerning the ratings of Moody’s, S&P, and Fitch and their significance.

Foreign Government Securities

Foreign government securities include securities issued or guaranteed by foreign governments (including political subdivisions) or their authorities, agencies, or instrumentalities or by supra-national agencies. Different kinds of foreign government securities have different kinds of government support. For example, some foreign government securities are supported by the full faith and credit of a foreign national government or political subdivision and some are not. Foreign government securities of some countries may involve varying degrees of credit risk as a result of financial or political

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instability in those countries and the possible inability of a Fund to enforce its rights against the foreign government issuer. As with other fixed income securities, sovereign issuers may be unable or unwilling to make timely principal or interest payments. Supra-national agencies are agencies whose member nations make capital contributions to support the agencies’ activities.

Fund-Specific Policies Regarding Corporate Debt Securities

A fund may purchase corporate debt securities bearing fixed or fixed and contingent interest as well as those that carry certain equity features, such as conversion or exchange rights or warrants for the acquisition of stock of the same or a different issuer, or participations based on revenues, sales or profits. A fund may purchase preferred securities. Bond Fund, ESG Core Bond Fund, and Investment Grade Bond Fund will not exercise any such conversion, exchange or purchase rights if, at the time, the value of all equity interests so owned would exceed 10% of the fund’s total assets taken at market value.

Fund-Specific Policies regarding Investments in Foreign Securities

Government Income Fund may invest in U.S. dollar-denominated securities of foreign governments or certain supranational entities (such as the World Bank). These securities generally will be rated within the four highest rating categories by an NRSRO such as S&P or Moody’s or, if not so rated, determined to be of equivalent quality in the opinion of the subadvisor, provided that the Fund may invest up to 10% of its total assets in such securities rated as low as “B” by an NRSRO and their unrated equivalents.

Income Fund may invest in debt obligations (denominated in U.S. dollars or in foreign currencies) issued or guaranteed by foreign corporations, certain supranational entities (such as the World Bank), and foreign governments (including political subdivisions having taxing authority) or their agencies or instrumentalities. The fund also may invest in debt securities that are issued by U.S. corporations and denominated in non-U.S. currencies. No more than 25% of the fund’s total assets, at the time of purchase, will be invested in government securities of any one foreign country. The percentage of the fund’s assets that will be allocated to foreign securities will vary depending on the relative yields of foreign and U.S. securities, the economies of foreign countries, the condition of such countries’ financial markets, the interest rate climate of such countries and the relationship of such countries’ currency to the U.S. dollar. These factors are judged on the basis of fundamental economic criteria (e.g., relative inflation levels and trends, growth rate forecasts, balance of payments status and economic policies), as well as technical and political data. The fund may invest in any country in which the subadvisor believes there is a potential to achieve the fund’s investment objective. Investments in securities of issuers in non-industrialized countries generally involve more risk and may be considered highly speculative. The value of portfolio securities denominated in foreign currencies may increase or decrease in response to changes in currency exchange rates. The fund will incur costs in connection with converting between currencies.

Certain funds may invest in U.S. dollar-denominated securities of foreign and U.S. issuers that are issued outside of the United States. These securities may include, for example, obligations of the World Bank and medium-term debt obligations of governmental issuers. Foreign companies may not be subject to accounting standards and government supervision comparable to U.S. companies, and there is often less publicly available information about their operations. Foreign markets generally provide less liquidity than U.S. markets (and thus potentially greater price volatility) and typically provide fewer regulatory protections for investors. Foreign securities can also be affected by political or financial instability abroad. It is anticipated that under normal conditions, each fund will not invest more than 25% of its total assets in U.S. dollar-denominated foreign securities (excluding U.S. dollar-denominated Canadian securities).

High Yield (High Risk) Domestic Corporate Debt Securities

High yield corporate debt securities (also known as “junk bonds”) include bonds, debentures, notes, bank loans, credit-linked notes and commercial paper. Most of these debt securities will bear interest at fixed rates, except bank loans, which usually have floating rates. Bonds also may have variable rates of interest, and debt securities may involve equity features, such as equity warrants or convertible outright and participation features (i.e., interest or other payments, often in addition to a fixed rate of return, that are based on the borrower’s attainment of specified levels of revenues, sales or profits and thus enable the holder of the security to share in the potential success of the venture). Today, much high yield debt is used for general corporate purposes, such as financing capital needs or consolidating and paying down bank lines of credit.

The secondary market for high yield U.S. corporate debt securities is concentrated in relatively few market makers and is dominated by institutional investors, including funds, insurance companies and other financial institutions. Accordingly, the secondary market for such securities is not as liquid as, and is more volatile than, the secondary market for higher-rated securities. In addition, market trading volume for high yield U.S. corporate debt securities is generally lower and the secondary market for such securities could shrink or disappear suddenly and without warning as a result of adverse

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market or economic conditions, independent of any specific adverse changes in the condition of a particular issuer. The lack of sufficient market liquidity may cause a fund to incur losses because it will be required to effect sales at a disadvantageous time and then only at a substantial drop in price. These factors may have an adverse effect on the market price and a fund’s ability to dispose of particular portfolio investments. A less liquid secondary market also may make it more difficult for a fund to obtain precise valuations of the high yield securities in its portfolio.

A fund is not obligated to dispose of securities whose issuers subsequently are in default or that are downgraded below the rating requirements that the fund imposes at the time of purchase.

Hybrid Instruments

Hybrid instruments (a type of potentially high-risk derivative) combine the elements of futures contracts or options with those of debt, preferred equity or a depository instrument.

Characteristics of Hybrid Instruments. Generally, a hybrid instrument is a debt security, preferred stock, depository share, trust certificate, certificate of deposit or other evidence of indebtedness on which a portion of or all interest payments, and/or the principal or stated amount payable at maturity, redemption or retirement, is determined by reference to the following:

■ prices, changes in prices, or differences between prices of securities, currencies, intangibles, goods, articles or commodities (collectively, “underlying assets”); or

■ an objective index, economic factor or other measure, such as interest rates, currency exchange rates, commodity indices, and securities indices (collectively, “benchmarks”).

Hybrid instruments may take a variety of forms, including, but not limited to:

■ debt instruments with interest or principal payments or redemption terms determined by reference to the value of a currency or commodity or securities index at a future point in time;

■ preferred stock with dividend rates determined by reference to the value of a currency; or

■ convertible securities with the conversion terms related to a particular commodity.

Uses of Hybrid Instruments. Hybrid instruments provide an efficient means of creating exposure to a particular market, or segment of a market, with the objective of enhancing total return. For example, a fund may wish to take advantage of expected declines in interest rates in several European countries, but avoid the transaction costs associated with buying and currency-hedging the foreign bond positions.

One approach is to purchase a U.S. dollar-denominated hybrid instrument whose redemption price is linked to the average three-year interest rate in a designated group of countries. The redemption price formula would provide for payoffs of greater than par if the average interest rate was lower than a specified level, and payoffs of less than par if rates were above the specified level. Furthermore, the investing fund could limit the downside risk of the security by establishing a minimum redemption price so that the principal paid at maturity could not be below a predetermined minimum level if interest rates were to rise significantly.

The purpose of this type of arrangement, known as a structured security with an embedded put option, is to give a fund the desired European bond exposure while avoiding currency risk, limiting downside market risk, and lowering transactions costs. Of course, there is no guarantee that such a strategy will be successful and the value of a fund may decline if, for example, interest rates do not move as anticipated or credit problems develop with the issuer of the hybrid instrument.

Structured Notes. Structured notes include investments in an entity, such as a trust, organized and operated solely for the purpose of restructuring the investment characteristics of various securities. This type of restructuring involves the deposit or purchase of specified instruments and the issuance of one or more classes of securities backed by, or representing interests, in the underlying instruments. The cash flow on the underlying instruments may be apportioned among the newly issued structured notes to create securities with different investment characteristics, such as varying maturities, payment priorities or interest rate provisions. The extent of the income paid by the structured notes is dependent on the cash flow of the underlying instruments.

Illiquid Securities

Government Income Fund may not invest more than 10% of its total assets in securities that are not readily marketable (“illiquid securities”). No fund may invest more than 15% of its net assets in securities that cannot be sold or disposed of in seven calendar days or less without the sale or disposition significantly changing the market value of the investment. Investment in illiquid securities involves the risk that, because of the lack of consistent market demand for such securities, a fund may be forced to sell them at a discount from the last offer price. To the extent that an investment

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is deemed to be an illiquid investment or a less liquid investment, a fund can expect to be exposed to greater liquidity risk.

Illiquid securities may include, but are not limited to: (a) securities (except for Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper, discussed below) that are not eligible for resale pursuant to Rule 144A under the 1933 Act; (b) repurchase agreements maturing in more than seven days (except for those that can be terminated after a notice period of seven days or less); (c) IOs and POs of non-governmental issuers; (d) time deposits maturing in more than seven days; (e) federal fund loans maturing in more than seven days; (f) bank loan participation interests; (g) foreign government loan participations; (h) municipal leases and participations therein; and (i) any other securities or other investments for which a liquid secondary market does not exist.

Each Trust has implemented a written liquidity risk management program (the “LRM Program”) and related procedures to manage the liquidity risk of a fund in accordance with Rule 22e-4 under the 1940 Act (“Rule 22e-4”). Rule 22e-4 defines “liquidity risk” as the risk that a fund could not meet requests to redeem shares issued by the fund without significant dilution of the remaining investors’ interests in the fund. The Board has designated the Advisor to serve as the administrator of the LRM Program and the related procedures. As a part of the LRM Program, the Advisor is responsible to identify illiquid investments and categorize the relative liquidity of a fund’s investments in accordance with Rule 22e-4. Under the LRM Program, the Advisor assesses, manages, and periodically reviews a fund’s liquidity risk, and is responsible to make periodic reports to the Board and the SEC regarding the liquidity of a fund’s investments, and to notify the Board and the SEC of certain liquidity events specified in Rule 22e-4. The liquidity of a fund’s portfolio investments is determined based on relevant market, trading and investment-specific considerations under the LRM Program.

Commercial paper issued in reliance on Section 4(a)(2) of the 1933 Act (“Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper”) is restricted as to its disposition under federal securities law, and generally is sold to institutional investors, such as the funds, who agree that they are purchasing the paper for investment purposes and not with a view to public distribution. Any resale by the purchaser must be made in an exempt transaction. Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper normally is resold to other institutional investors, like the funds, through or with the assistance of the issuer or investment dealers who make a market in Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper, thus providing liquidity.

If the Advisor determines, pursuant to the LRM Program and related procedures, that specific Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper or securities that are restricted as to resale but for which a ready market is available pursuant to an exemption provided by Rule 144A under the 1933 Act or other exemptions from the registration requirements of the 1933 Act are liquid, they will not be subject to a fund’s limitation on investments in illiquid securities. Investing in Section 4(a)(2) Commercial Paper could have the effect of increasing the level of illiquidity in a fund if qualified institutional buyers become for a time uninterested in purchasing these restricted securities.

Index-Related Securities (“Equity Equivalents”)

A fund may invest in certain types of securities that enable investors to purchase or sell shares in a basket of securities that seeks to track the performance of an underlying index or a portion of an index. Such Equity Equivalents include, among others DIAMONDS (interests in a basket of securities that seeks to track the performance of the Dow Jones Industrial Average), SPDRs or S&P Depositary Receipts (an exchange-traded fund that tracks the S&P 500 Index). Such securities are similar to index funds, but they are traded on various stock exchanges or secondary markets. The value of these securities is dependent upon the performance of the underlying index on which they are based. Thus, these securities are subject to the same risks as their underlying indices as well as the securities that make up those indices. For example, if the securities comprising an index that an index-related security seeks to track perform poorly, the index-related security will lose value.

Equity Equivalents may be used for several purposes, including to simulate full investment in the underlying index while retaining a cash balance for portfolio management purposes, to facilitate trading, to reduce transaction costs or to seek higher investment returns where an Equity Equivalent is priced more attractively than securities in the underlying index. Because the expense associated with an investment in Equity Equivalents may be substantially lower than the expense of small investments directly in the securities comprising the indices they seek to track, investments in Equity Equivalents may provide a cost-effective means of diversifying a fund’s assets across a broad range of securities.

To the extent a fund invests in securities of other investment companies, including Equity Equivalents, fund shareholders would indirectly pay a portion of the operating costs of such companies in addition to the expenses of its own operations. These costs include management, brokerage, shareholder servicing and other operational expenses. Indirectly, if a fund invests in Equity Equivalents, shareholders may pay higher operational costs than if they owned the underlying investment companies directly. Additionally, a fund’s investments in such investment companies are subject to limitations under the 1940 Act and market availability.

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The prices of Equity Equivalents are derived and based upon the securities held by the particular investment company. Accordingly, the level of risk involved in the purchase or sale of an Equity Equivalent is similar to the risk involved in the purchase or sale of traditional common stock, with the exception that the pricing mechanism for such instruments is based on a basket of stocks. The market prices of Equity Equivalents are expected to fluctuate in accordance with both changes in the NAVs of their underlying indices and the supply and demand for the instruments on the exchanges on which they are traded. Substantial market or other disruptions affecting Equity Equivalents could adversely affect the liquidity and value of the shares of a fund.

Indexed Securities

Indexed securities are instruments whose prices are indexed to the prices of other securities, securities indices, currencies, or other financial indicators. Indexed securities typically, but not always, are debt securities or deposits whose value at maturity or coupon rate is determined by reference to a specific instrument or statistic.

Currency-indexed securities typically are short-term to intermediate-term debt securities whose maturity values or interest rates are determined by reference to the values of one or more specified foreign currencies, and may offer higher yields than U.S. dollar-denominated securities. Currency-indexed securities may be positively or negatively indexed; that is, their maturity value may increase when the specified currency value increases, resulting in a security that performs similarly to a foreign denominated instrument, or their maturity value may decline when foreign currencies increase, resulting in a security whose price characteristics are similar to a put on the underlying currency. Currency-indexed securities also may have prices that depend on the values of a number of different foreign currencies relative to each other.

The performance of indexed securities depends to a great extent on the performance of the security, currency, or other instrument to which they are indexed, and also may be influenced by interest rate changes in the United States and abroad. Indexed securities may be more volatile than the underlying instruments. Indexed securities also are subject to the credit risks associated with the issuer of the security, and their values may decline substantially if the issuer’s creditworthiness deteriorates. Issuers of indexed securities have included banks, corporations, and certain U.S. government agencies. An indexed security may be leveraged to the extent that the magnitude of any change in the interest rate or principal payable on an indexed security is a multiple of the change in the reference price.

Each of Government Income Fund, High Yield Fund, and the Tax-Free Funds may invest up to 10% of its total assets in indexed securities, including floating rate securities that are subject to a maximum interest rate (“capped floaters”) and leveraged inverse floating rate securities.

Inflation-Indexed Bonds

Inflation-indexed bonds are debt instruments whose principal and/or interest value are adjusted periodically according to a rate of inflation (usually a CPI). Two structures are most common. The U.S. Treasury and some other issuers use a structure that accrues inflation into the principal value of the bond. Most other issuers pay out the inflation accruals as part of a semiannual coupon.

U.S. Treasury Inflation Protected Securities (“TIPS”) currently are issued with maturities of five, ten, or thirty years, although it is possible that securities with other maturities will be issued in the future. The principal amount of TIPS adjusts for inflation, although the inflation-adjusted principal is not paid until maturity. Semiannual coupon payments are determined as a fixed percentage of the inflation-adjusted principal at the time the payment is made.

If the rate measuring inflation falls, the principal value of inflation-indexed bonds will be adjusted downward, and consequently the interest payable on these securities (calculated with respect to a smaller principal amount) will be reduced. At maturity, TIPS are redeemed at the greater of their inflation-adjusted principal or at the par amount at original issue. If an inflation-indexed bond does not provide a guarantee of principal at maturity, the adjusted principal value of the bond repaid at maturity may be less than the original principal.

The value of inflation-indexed bonds is expected to change in response to changes in real interest rates. Real interest rates in turn are tied to the relationship between nominal interest rates and the rate of inflation. For example, if inflation were to rise at a faster rate than nominal interest rates, real interest rates would likely decline, leading to an increase in value of inflation-indexed bonds. In contrast, if nominal interest rates increase at a faster rate than inflation, real interest rates would likely rise, leading to a decrease in value of inflation-indexed bonds.

While these securities, if held to maturity, are expected to be protected from long-term inflationary trends, short-term increases in inflation may lead to a decline in value. If nominal interest rates rise due to reasons other than inflation (for example, due to an expansion of non-inflationary economic activity), investors in these securities may not be protected to the extent that the increase in rates is not reflected in the bond’s inflation measure.

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The inflation adjustment of TIPS is tied to the CPI-U, which is calculated monthly by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. The CPI-U is a measurement of price changes in the cost of living, made up of components such as housing, food, transportation, and energy. There can be no assurance that the CPI-U will accurately measure the real rate of inflation in the prices of goods and services.

Interfund Lending

Pursuant to an exemptive order issued by the SEC, a fund may lend money to, and borrow money from, other funds advised by the Advisor or any other investment advisor under common control with the Advisor, subject to the fundamental restrictions on borrowing and lending applicable to the fund.Although ESG Core Bond Fund, Government Income Fund, High Yield Municipal Bond Fund, Income Fund, and Tax-Free Bond Fund are authorized to participate fully in this program, each of California Tax-Free Income Fund and High Yield Fund is subject to a fundamental investment restriction that prohibits lending through the program, and each of Bond Fund and Investment Grade Bond Fund is subject to a fundamental investment restriction that prohibits borrowing through the program.

A fund will borrow through the program only when the costs are equal to or lower than the cost of bank loans, and a fund will lend through the program only when the returns are higher than those available from an investment in overnight repurchase agreements. Interfund loans and borrowings normally extend overnight, but can have a maximum duration of seven days. Loans may be called on one day’s notice. A fund may have to borrow from a bank at a higher interest rate if an interfund loan is called or not renewed. Any delay in repayment to a lending fund or from a borrowing fund could result in a lost investment opportunity or additional borrowing costs.

Investment in Other Investment Companies

A fund may invest in other investment companies (including closed-end investment companies, unit investment trusts, open-end investment companies, investment companies exempted from registration under the 1940 Act pursuant to the rules thereunder and other pooled vehicles) to the extent permitted by federal securities laws (including the rules, regulations and interpretations thereunder) and to the extent permitted by exemptive relief obtained from the SEC by the custodian, the Advisor and/or the subadvisor.

Investing in other investment companies involves substantially the same risks as investing directly in the underlying instruments, but the total return on such investments at the investment company-level may be reduced by the operating expenses and fees of such other investment companies, including advisory fees. Certain types of investment companies, such as closed-end investment companies, issue a fixed number of shares that trade on a stock exchange or may involve the payment of substantial premiums above the value of such investment companies’ portfolio securities when traded OTC or at discounts to their NAVs. Others are continuously offered at NAV, but also may be traded in the secondary market.

Investments in Creditors’ Claims

Creditors’ claims in bankruptcy (“Creditors’ Claims”) are rights to payment from a debtor under the U.S. bankruptcy laws. Creditors’ Claims may be secured or unsecured. A secured claim generally receives priority in payment over unsecured claims.

Sellers of Creditors’ Claims can either be: (i) creditors that have extended unsecured credit to the debtor company (most commonly trade suppliers of materials or services); or (ii) secured creditors (most commonly financial institutions) that have obtained collateral to secure an advance of credit to the debtor. Selling a Creditors’ Claim offers the creditor an opportunity to turn a claim that otherwise might not be satisfied for many years into liquid assets.

A Creditors’ Claim may be purchased directly from a creditor although most are purchased through brokers. A Creditors’ Claim can be sold as a single claim or as part of a package of claims from several different bankruptcy filings. Purchasers of Creditors’ Claims may take an active role in the reorganization process of the bankrupt company and, in certain situations in which a Creditors’ Claim is not paid in full, the claim may be converted into stock of the reorganized debtor.

Although Creditors’ Claims can be sold to other investors, the market for Creditors’ Claims is not liquid and, as a result, a purchaser of a Creditors’ Claim may be unable to sell the claim or may have to sell it at a drastically reduced price. There is no guarantee that any payment will be received from a Creditors’ Claim, especially in the case of unsecured claims.

Lending of Securities

Administrative fees equal Collateral Trust Fund Expense Ratio may lend its securities so long as such loans do not represent more than 33¹/₃% of its total assets. As collateral for the loaned securities, the borrower gives the lending portfolio collateral equal to at least 100% of the value of the loaned securities. The collateral will consist of cash (including U.S. dollars and foreign currency), cash equivalents or securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government

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or its agencies or instrumentalities. The borrower must also agree to increase the collateral if the value of the loaned securities increases. If the market value of the loaned securities declines, the borrower may request that some collateral be returned.

During the existence of the loan, a fund will receive from the borrower amounts equivalent to any dividends, interest or other distributions on the loaned securities, as well as interest on such amounts. If the fund receives a payment in lieu of dividends (a “substitute payment”) with respect to securities on loan pursuant to a securities lending transaction, such income will not be eligible for the dividends-received deduction (the “DRD”) for corporate shareholders or for treatment as qualified dividend income for individual shareholders. The DRD and qualified dividend income are discussed more fully in this SAI under “Additional Information Concerning Taxes.”

As with other extensions of credit, there are risks that collateral could be inadequate in the event of the borrower failing financially, which could result in actual financial loss, and risks that recovery of loaned securities could be delayed, which could result in interference with portfolio management decisions or exercise of ownership rights. The collateral is managed by an affiliate of the Advisor. A fund will be responsible for the risks associated with the investment of cash collateral, including the risk that the fund may lose money on the investment or may fail to earn sufficient income to meet its obligations to the borrower. In addition, a fund may lose its right to vote its shares of the loaned securities at a shareholder meeting if the subadvisor does not recall or does not timely recall the loaned securities, or if the borrower fails to return the recalled securities in advance of the record date for the meeting.

The Trust, on behalf of certain of its funds, has entered into an agency agreement for securities lending transactions (“Securities Lending Agreement”) with Citibank and, separately, with Brown Brothers Harriman (each, a “Securities Lending Agent”). Pursuant to each Securities Lending Agreement, Citibank or Brown Brothers Harriman acts as securities lending agent for the funds and administers each fund’s securities lending program. During the fiscal year, each Securities Lending Agent performed various services for the funds, including the following: (i) lending portfolio securities, previously identified by the fund as available for loan, and held by the fund’s custodian (“Custodian”) on behalf of the fund, to borrowers identified by the fund in the Securities Lending Agreement; (ii) instructing the Custodian to receive and deliver securities, as applicable, to effect such loans; (iii) locating borrowers; (iv) monitoring daily the market value of loaned securities; (v) ensuring daily movement of collateral associated with loan transactions; (vi) marking to market loaned securities and non-cash collateral; (vii) monitoring dividend activity with respect to loaned securities; (viii) negotiating loan terms with the borrowers; (ix) recordkeeping and account servicing related to securities lending activities; and (x) arranging for the return of loaned securities at the termination of the loan. Under each Securities Lending Agreement, Citibank or Brown Brothers Harriman, as applicable, generally will bear the risk that a borrower may default on its obligation to return loaned securities.

Securities lending involves counterparty risk, including the risk that the loaned securities may not be returned or returned in a timely manner and/or a loss of rights in the collateral if the borrower or the lending agent defaults or fails financially. This risk is increased when the fund’s loans are concentrated with a single or limited number of borrowers. There are no limits on the number of borrowers to which the fund may lend securities and the fund may lend securities to only one or a small group of borrowers. In addition, under each Securities Lending Agreement, loans may be made to affiliates of Citibank or Brown Brothers Harriman, as applicable, as identified in the applicable Securities Lending Agreement.

Cash collateral may be invested by a fund in JHCT. Investment of cash collateral offers the opportunity for a fund to profit from income earned by this collateral pool, but also the risk of loss, should the value of the fund’s shares in the collateral pool decrease below their initial value.

For each fund that engaged in securities lending activities during the fiscal period ended May 31, 2020, the following tables detail the amounts of income and fees/compensation related to such activities during the period.

Fund Name	Bond Fund ($)	Government Income Fund ($)	Investment Grade Bond Fund ($)	Income Fund ($)
Gross income from securities lending activities	4,670,006.95	68,404.16	411,096.09	334,589.39
Fees and/or compensation for securities lending activities and related services
Fees paid to securities lending agent from a revenue split	160,072.20	4,767.52	20,013.82	9,877.52
Fees paid for any cash collateral management service (including fees deducted from a pooled cash collateral reinvestment vehicle) that are not included in the revenue split	194,073.92	2,969.65	16,796.99	13,213.12
Administrative fees not included in revenue split1
Indemnification fee not included in revenue split

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Fund Name	Bond Fund ($)	Government Income Fund ($)	Investment Grade Bond Fund ($)	Income Fund ($)
Rebate (paid to borrower)	2,297,195.73	18,404.24	197,713.88	191,712.99
Other fees not included in revenue split (specify)
Aggregate fees/compensation for securities lending activities	2,651,341.85	26,141.42	234,524.69	214,803.63
Net income from securities lending activities	2,018,665.10	42,262.74	176,571.40	119,785.76

1 Administrative fees equal Collateral Trust Fund Expense Ratio

Loan Participations and Assignments; Term Loans

Loan participations are loans or other direct debt instruments that are interests in amounts owned by a corporate, governmental or other borrower to another party. They may represent amounts owed to lenders or lending syndicates to suppliers of goods or services, or to other parties. A fund will have the right to receive payments of principal, interest and any fees to which it is entitled only from the lender selling the participation and only upon receipt by the lender of the payments from the borrower. In connection with purchasing participations, a fund generally will have no right to enforce compliance by the borrower with the term of the loan agreement relating to loan, nor any rights of set-off against the borrower, and a fund may not directly benefit from any collateral supporting the loan in which it has purchased the participation. As a result, the fund will assume the credit risk of both the borrower and the lender that is selling the participation. In the event of the insolvency of the lender selling a participation, a fund may be treated as a general creditor of the lender and may not benefit from any set-off between the lender and the borrower.

When a fund purchases assignments from lenders it will acquire direct rights against the borrower on the loan. However, because assignments are arranged through private negotiations between potential assignees and potential assignors, the rights and obligation acquired by a fund as the purchaser of an assignment may differ from, and be more limited than, those held by the assigning lender. Investments in loan participations and assignments present the possibility that a fund could be held liable as a co-lender under emerging legal theories of lender liability. In addition, if the loan is foreclosed, a fund could be part owner of any collateral and could bear the costs and liabilities of owning and disposing of the collateral. It is anticipated that such securities could be sold only to a limited number of institutional investors. In addition, some loan participations and assignments may not be rated by major rating agencies and may not be protected by the securities laws.

A term loan is typically a loan in a fixed amount that borrowers repay in a scheduled series of repayments or a lump-sum payment at maturity. A delayed draw loan is a special feature in a term loan that permits the borrower to withdraw predetermined portions of the total amount borrowed at certain times. If a fund enters into a commitment with a borrower regarding a delayed draw term loan or bridge loan, the fund will be obligated on one or more dates in the future to lend the borrower monies (up to an aggregate stated amount) if called upon to do so by the borrower. Once repaid, a term loan cannot be drawn upon again.

Investments in loans and loan participations will subject a fund to liquidity risk. Loans and loan participations may be transferable among financial institutions, but may not have the liquidity of conventional debt securities and are often subject to restrictions on resale, thereby making them potentially illiquid. For example, the purchase or sale of loans requires, in many cases, the consent of either a third party (such as the lead or agent bank for the loan) or of the borrower, and although such consent is, in practice, infrequently withheld, the consent requirement can delay a purchase or hinder a fund’s ability to dispose of its investments in loans in a timely fashion. In addition, in some cases, negotiations involved in disposing of indebtedness may require weeks to complete. Consequently, some indebtedness may be difficult or impossible to dispose of readily at what a subadvisor believes to be a fair price.

Corporate loans that a fund may acquire or in which a fund may purchase a loan participation are made generally to finance internal growth, mergers, acquisitions, stock repurchases, leveraged buy-outs, leverage recapitalizations and other corporate activities. The highly leveraged capital structure of the borrowers in certain of these transactions may make such loans especially vulnerable to adverse changes in economic or market conditions and greater credit risk than other investments.

Certain of the loan participations or assignments acquired by a fund may involve unfunded commitments of the lenders or revolving credit facilities under which a borrower may from time to time borrow and repay amounts up to the maximum amount of the facility. In such cases, a fund would have an obligation to advance its portion of such additional borrowings upon the terms specified in the loan documentation. Such an obligation may have the effect of requiring a fund to increase its investment in a company at a time when it might not be desirable to do so (including at a time when the company’s financial condition makes it unlikely that such amounts will be repaid).

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The borrower of a loan in which a fund holds an interest (including through a loan participation) may, either at its own election or pursuant to the terms of the loan documentation, prepay amounts of the loan from time to time. The degree to which borrowers prepay loans, whether as a contractual requirement or at their election, may be affected by general business conditions, the financial condition of the borrower and competitive conditions among lenders, among other things. As such, prepayments cannot be predicted with accuracy. Upon a prepayment, either in part or in full, the actual outstanding debt on which a fund derives interest income will be reduced. The effect of prepayments on a fund’s performance may be mitigated by the receipt of prepayment fees, and the fund’s ability to reinvest prepayments in other loans that have similar or identical yields. However, there is no assurance that a fund will be able to reinvest the proceeds of any loan prepayment at the same interest rate or on the same terms as those of the prepaid loan.

A fund may invest in loans that pay interest at fixed rates and loans that pay interest at rates that float or reset periodically at a margin above a generally recognized base lending rate, such as the Prime Rate (the interest rate that banks charge their most creditworthy customers), LIBOR, or another generally recognized base lending rate. Most floating rate loans are senior in rank in the event of bankruptcy to most other securities of the borrower such as common stock or public bonds. In addition, floating rate loans also are normally secured by specific collateral or assets of the borrower so that the holders of the loans will have a priority claim on those assets in the event of default or bankruptcy of the issuer. While the seniority in rank and the security interest are helpful in reducing credit risk, such risk is not eliminated. Securities with floating interest rates can be less sensitive to interest rate changes, but may decline in value if their interest rates do not rise as much as interest rates in general, or if interest rates decline. While, because of this interest rate reset feature, loans with resetting interest rates provide a considerable degree of protection against rising interest rates, there is still potential for interest rates on such loans to lag changes in interest rates in general for some period of time. In addition, changes in interest rates will affect the amount of interest income paid to a fund as the floating rate instruments adjust to the new levels of interest rates. In a rising base rate environment, income generation generally will increase. Conversely, during periods when the base rate is declining, the income generating ability of the loan instruments will be adversely affected.

Investments in many loans have additional risks that result from the use of agents and other interposed financial institutions. Many loans are structured and administered by a financial institution (e.g., a commercial bank) that acts as the agent of the lending syndicate. The agent typically administers and enforces the loan on behalf of the other lenders in the lending syndicate. In addition, an institution, typically but not always the agent, holds the collateral, if any, on behalf of the lenders. A financial institution’s employment as an agent might be terminated in the event that it fails to observe a requisite standard of care or becomes insolvent. A successor agent would generally be appointed to replace the terminated agent, and assets held by the agent under the loan agreement would likely remain available to holders of such indebtedness. However, if assets held by the agent for the benefit of a fund were determined to be subject to the claims of the agent’s general creditors, the fund might incur certain costs and delays in realizing payment on a loan or loan participation and could suffer a loss of principal and/or interest. In situations involving other interposed financial institutions (e.g., an insurance company or government agency) similar risks may arise.

Loans and Other Direct Debt Instruments

Direct debt instruments are interests in amounts owed by a corporate, governmental, or other borrower to lenders or lending syndicates (loans and loan participations), to suppliers of goods or services (trade claims or other receivables), or to other parties. Direct debt instruments involve a risk of loss in case of default or insolvency of the borrower and may offer less legal protection to the purchaser in the event of fraud or misrepresentation, or there may be a requirement that a fund supply additional cash to a borrower on demand. U.S. federal securities laws afford certain protections against fraud and misrepresentation in connection with the offering or sale of a security, as well as against manipulation of trading markets for securities. It is unclear whether these protections are available to investments in loans and other forms of direct indebtedness under certain circumstances, in which case such risks may be increased.

A fund also may be in possession of material non-public information about a borrower as a result of owning a floating rate instrument issued by such borrower. Because of prohibitions on trading in securities of issuers while in possession of such information, a fund might be unable to enter into a transaction in a publicly traded security issued by that borrower when it would otherwise be advantageous to do so.

Money Market Instruments

Money market instruments (and other securities as noted under each fund description) may be purchased for temporary defensive purposes or for short-term investment purposes. General overnight cash held in a fund’s portfolio may also be invested in JHCT, a privately offered registered investment company subadvised by Manulife IM (US) LLC, an affiliate of the Advisor, that is part of the same group of investment companies as the fund and that is offered exclusively to funds in the same group of investment companies.

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Mortgage Dollar Rolls

Under a mortgage dollar roll, a fund sells mortgage-backed securities for delivery in the future (generally within 30 days) and simultaneously contracts to repurchase substantially similar securities (of the same type, coupon and maturity) on a specified future date. During the roll period, a fund forgoes principal and interest paid on the mortgage-backed securities. A fund is compensated by the difference between the current sale price and the lower forward price for the future purchase (often referred to as the “drop”), as well as by the interest earned on the cash proceeds of the initial sale. A fund also may be compensated by receipt of a commitment fee. A fund may only enter into “covered rolls.” A covered roll is a specific type of dollar roll for which there is an offsetting cash or cash equivalent security position that matures on or before the forward settlement date of the dollar roll transaction or for which a fund maintains on its records liquid assets having an aggregate value at least equal to the amount of such commitment to repurchase. Dollar roll transactions involve the risk that the market value of the securities sold by a fund may decline below the repurchase price of those securities. A mortgage dollar roll may be considered a form of leveraging, and may, therefore, increase fluctuations in a fund’s NAV per share. Covered rolls are not treated as a borrowing or other senior security and will be excluded from the calculation of a fund’s borrowing and other senior securities. For financial reporting and tax purposes, the funds treat mortgage dollar rolls as two separate transactions; one involving the purchase of a security and a separate transaction involving a sale.

Mortgage Securities

Prepayment of Mortgages. Mortgage securities differ from conventional bonds in that principal is paid over the life of the securities rather than at maturity. As a result, when a fund invests in mortgage securities, it receives monthly scheduled payments of principal and interest, and may receive unscheduled principal payments representing prepayments on the underlying mortgages. When a fund reinvests the payments and any unscheduled prepayments of principal it receives, it may receive a rate of interest that is higher or lower than the rate on the existing mortgage securities. For this reason, mortgage securities may be less effective than other types of debt securities as a means of locking in long term interest rates.

In addition, because the underlying mortgage loans and assets may be prepaid at any time, if a fund purchases mortgage securities at a premium, a prepayment rate that is faster than expected will reduce yield to maturity, while a prepayment rate that is slower than expected will increase yield to maturity. Conversely, if a fund purchases these securities at a discount, faster than expected prepayments will increase yield to maturity, while slower than expected payments will reduce yield to maturity.

Adjustable Rate Mortgage Securities. Adjustable rate mortgage securities are similar to the fixed rate mortgage securities discussed above, except that, unlike fixed rate mortgage securities, adjustable rate mortgage securities are collateralized by or represent interests in mortgage loans with variable rates of interest. These variable rates of interest reset periodically to align themselves with market rates. Most adjustable rate mortgage securities provide for an initial mortgage rate that is in effect for a fixed period, typically ranging from three to twelve months. Thereafter, the mortgage interest rate will reset periodically in accordance with movements in a specified published interest rate index. The amount of interest due to an adjustable rate mortgage holder is determined in accordance with movements in a specified published interest rate index by adding a pre-determined increment or “margin” to the specified interest rate index. Many adjustable rate mortgage securities reset their interest rates based on changes in:

■ one-year, three-year and five-year constant maturity Treasury Bill rates;

■ three-month or six-month Treasury Bill rates;

■ 11th District Federal Home Loan Bank Cost of Funds;

■ National Median Cost of Funds; or

■ one-month, three-month, six-month or one-year LIBOR and other market rates.

During periods of increasing rates, a fund will not benefit from such increase to the extent that interest rates rise to the point where they cause the current coupon of adjustable rate mortgages held as investments to exceed any maximum allowable annual or lifetime reset limits or “cap rates” for a particular mortgage. In this event, the value of the mortgage securities held by a fund would likely decrease. During periods of declining interest rates, income to a fund derived from adjustable rate mortgages that remain in a mortgage pool may decrease in contrast to the income on fixed rate mortgages, which will remain constant. Adjustable rate mortgages also have less potential for appreciation in value as interest rates decline than do fixed rate investments. Also, a fund’s NAV could vary to the extent that current yields on adjustable rate mortgage securities held as investments are different than market yields during interim periods between coupon reset dates.

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Privately Issued Mortgage Securities. Privately issued mortgage securities provide for the monthly principal and interest payments made by individual borrowers to pass through to investors on a corporate basis, and in privately issued collateralized mortgage obligations, as further described below. Privately issued mortgage securities are issued by private originators of, or investors in, mortgage loans, including:

■ mortgage bankers;

■ commercial banks;

■ investment banks;

■ savings and loan associations; and

■ special purpose subsidiaries of the foregoing.

Since privately issued mortgage certificates are not guaranteed by an entity having the credit status of GNMA or Freddie Mac, such securities generally are structured with one or more types of credit enhancement. For a description of the types of credit enhancements that may accompany privately issued mortgage securities, see “Types of Credit Support” below. To the extent that a fund invests in mortgage securities, it will not limit its investments in mortgage securities to those with credit enhancements.

Collateralized Mortgage Obligations. CMOs generally are bonds or certificates issued in multiple classes that are collateralized by or represent an interest in mortgages. CMOs may be issued by single-purpose, stand-alone finance subsidiaries or trusts of financial institutions, government agencies, investment banks or other similar institutions. Each class of CMOs, often referred to as a “tranche,” may be issued with a specific fixed coupon rate (which may be zero) or a floating coupon rate. Each class of CMOs also has a stated maturity or final distribution date. Principal prepayments on the underlying mortgages may cause the CMOs to be retired substantially earlier than their stated maturities or final distribution dates. Interest is paid or accrued on CMOs on a monthly, quarterly or semiannual basis.

The principal of and interest on the underlying mortgages may be allocated among the several classes of a series of a CMO in many ways. The general goal sought to be achieved in allocating cash flows on the underlying mortgages to the various classes of a series of CMOs is to create tranches on which the expected cash flows have a higher degree of predictability than the underlying mortgages. In creating such tranches, other tranches may be subordinated to the interests of these tranches and receive payments only after the obligations of the more senior tranches have been satisfied. As a general matter, the more predictable the cash flow is on a CMO tranche, the lower the anticipated yield will be on that tranche at the time of issuance. As part of the process of creating more predictable cash flows on most of the tranches in a series of CMOs, one or more tranches generally must be created that absorb most of the volatility in the cash flows on the underlying mortgages. The yields on these tranches are relatively higher than on tranches with more predictable cash flows. Because of the uncertainty of the cash flows on these tranches, and the sensitivity of these transactions to changes in prepayment rates on the underlying mortgages, the market prices of and yields on these tranches tend to be highly volatile. The market prices of and yields on tranches with longer terms to maturity also tend to be more volatile than tranches with shorter terms to maturity due to these same factors. To the extent the mortgages underlying a series of a CMO are so-called “subprime mortgages” (mortgages granted to borrowers whose credit history is not sufficient to obtain a conventional mortgage), the risk of default is higher, which increases the risk that one or more tranches of a CMO will not receive its predicted cash flows.

CMOs purchased by a fund may be:

1. collateralized by pools of mortgages in which each mortgage is guaranteed as to payment of principal and interest by an agency or instrumentality of the U.S. government;

2. collateralized by pools of mortgages in which payment of principal and interest is guaranteed by the issuer and the guarantee is collateralized by U.S. government securities; or

3. securities for which the proceeds of the issuance are invested in mortgage securities and payment of the principal and interest is supported by the credit of an agency or instrumentality of the U.S. government.

Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities. Separately traded interest components of securities may be issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Treasury. The interest components of selected securities are traded independently under the Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities program. Under the Separate Trading of Registered Interest and Principal of Securities program, the interest components are individually numbered and separately issued by the U.S. Treasury at the request of depository financial institutions, which then trade the component parts independently.

Stripped Mortgage Securities. Stripped mortgage securities are derivative multi-class mortgage securities. Stripped mortgage securities may be issued by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. government, or by private issuers, including savings and loan associations, mortgage banks, commercial banks, investment banks and special purpose

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subsidiaries of the foregoing. Stripped mortgage securities have greater volatility than other types of mortgage securities in which a fund invests. Although stripped mortgage securities are purchased and sold by institutional investors through several investment banking firms acting as brokers or dealers, the market for such securities has not yet been fully developed. Accordingly, stripped mortgage securities may be illiquid and, together with any other illiquid investments, will not exceed a fund’s limitation on investments in illiquid securities.

Stripped mortgage securities are usually structured with two classes that receive different proportions of the interest and principal distributions on a pool of mortgage assets. A common type of stripped mortgage security will have one class receiving some of the interest and most of the principal from the mortgage assets, while the other class will receive most of the interest and the remainder of the principal. In the most extreme case, one class will receive all of the interest (the interest only or “IO” class), while the other class will receive all of the principal (the principal only or “PO” class). The yield to maturity on an IO class is extremely sensitive to changes in prevailing interest rates and the rate of principal payments (including prepayments) on the related underlying mortgage assets. A rapid rate of principal payments may have a material adverse effect on an investing fund’s yield to maturity. If the underlying mortgage assets experience greater than anticipated prepayments of principal, the fund may fail to fully recoup its initial investment in these securities even if the securities are rated highly.

As interest rates rise and fall, the value of IOs tends to move in the same direction as interest rates. The value of the other mortgage securities described in the Prospectus and this SAI, like other debt instruments, will tend to move in the opposite direction to interest rates. Accordingly, investing in IOs, in conjunction with the other mortgage securities described in the Prospectus and this SAI, is expected to contribute to the relative stability of a fund’s NAV.

Similar securities such as Super Principal Only (“SPO”) and Levered Interest Only (“LIO”) are more volatile than POs and IOs. Risks associated with instruments such as SPOs are similar in nature to those risks related to investments in POs. Risks associated with LIOs and IOettes (a.k.a. “high coupon bonds”) are similar in nature to those associated with IOs. Other similar instruments may develop in the future.

Under the Code, POs may generate taxable income from the current accrual of original issue discount, without a corresponding distribution of cash to a fund.

Inverse Floaters. Inverse floaters may be issued by agencies or instrumentalities of the U.S. government, or by private issuers, including savings and loan associations, mortgage banks, commercial banks, investment banks and special purpose subsidiaries of the foregoing. Inverse floaters have greater volatility than other types of mortgage securities in which a fund invests (with the exception of stripped mortgage securities and there is a risk that the market value will vary from the amortized cost). Although inverse floaters are purchased and sold by institutional investors through several investment banking firms acting as brokers or dealers, the market for such securities has not yet been fully developed. Accordingly, inverse floaters may be illiquid. Any illiquid inverse floaters, together with any other illiquid investments, will not exceed a fund’s limitation on investments in illiquid securities.

Inverse floaters are derivative mortgage securities that are structured as a class of security that receives distributions on a pool of mortgage assets. Yields on inverse floaters move in the opposite direction of short-term interest rates and at an accelerated rate.

Types of Credit Support. Mortgage securities are often backed by a pool of assets representing the obligations of a number of different parties. To lessen the impact of an obligor’s failure to make payments on underlying assets, mortgage securities may contain elements of credit support. A discussion of credit support is included in “Asset-Backed Securities.”

Municipal Obligations

The two principal classifications of municipal obligations are general obligations and revenue obligations. General obligations are secured by the issuer’s pledge of its full faith, credit and taxing power for the payment of principal and interest. Revenue obligations are payable only from the revenues derived from a particular facility or class of facilities or in some cases from the proceeds of a special excise or other tax. For example, industrial development and pollution control bonds are in most cases revenue obligations since payment of principal and interest is dependent solely on the ability of the user of the facilities financed or the guarantor to meet its financial obligations, and in certain cases, the pledge of real and personal property as security for payment.

Issuers of municipal obligations are subject to the provisions of bankruptcy, insolvency and other laws affecting the rights and remedies of creditors, such as the Federal Bankruptcy Act, and laws, if any, that may be enacted by Congress or state legislatures extending the time for payment of principal or interest or both, or imposing other constraints upon enforcement of such obligations. There also is the possibility that as a result of litigation or other conditions, the power

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or ability of any one or more issuers to pay when due the principal of and interest on their municipal obligations may be affected.

High Yield Fund may invest up to 10% of its total assets in municipal obligations, including municipal bonds issued at a discount, in circumstances where the subadvisor determines that investing in such obligations would facilitate the fund’s ability to accomplish its investment objectives.

Municipal Bonds. Municipal bonds are issued to obtain funding for various public purposes, including the construction of a wide range of public facilities such as airports, highways, bridges, schools, hospitals, housing, mass transportation, streets and water and sewer works. Other public purposes for which municipal bonds may be issued include refunding outstanding obligations, obtaining funds for general operating expenses and obtaining funds to lend to other public institutions and facilities. In addition, certain types of industrial development bonds are issued by or on behalf of public authorities to obtain funds for many types of local, privately operated facilities. Such debt instruments are considered municipal obligations if the interest paid on them is exempt from federal income tax. The payment of principal and interest by issuers of certain obligations purchased may be guaranteed by a letter of credit, note repurchase agreement, insurance or other credit facility agreement offered by a bank or other financial institution. Such guarantees and the creditworthiness of guarantors will be considered by a subadvisor in determining whether a municipal obligation meets investment quality requirements. No assurance can be given that a municipality or guarantor will be able to satisfy the payment of principal or interest on a municipal obligation.

The yields or returns of municipal bonds depend on a variety of factors, including general market conditions, effective marginal tax rates, the financial condition of the issuer, general conditions of the municipal bond market, the size of a particular offering, the maturity of the obligation, and the rating (if any) of the issue. The ratings of S&P, Moody’s and Fitch represent their opinions as to the quality of various municipal bonds that they undertake to rate. It should be emphasized, however, that ratings are not absolute standards of quality. For example, depending on market conditions, municipal bonds with the same maturity and stated interest rate, but with different ratings, may nevertheless have the same yield. See Appendix A for a description of ratings. Many issuers of securities choose not to have their obligations rated. Although unrated securities eligible for purchase must be determined to be comparable in quality to securities having certain specified ratings, the market for unrated securities may not be as broad as for rated securities since many investors rely on rating organizations for credit appraisal. Yield disparities may occur for reasons not directly related to the investment quality of particular issues or the general movement of interest rates, due to such factors as changes in the overall demand or supply of various types of municipal bonds.

The costs associated with combatting the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and the negative impact on tax revenues has adversely affected the financial condition of many states and their political subdivisions. The effects of this pandemic could affect the ability of states and their political subdivisions to make payments on debt obligations when due and could adversely impact the value of their bonds, which could negatively impact the performance of the fund.

Municipal Bonds Issued by the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico. Municipal obligations issued by the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and its agencies, or other U.S. territories, generally are tax-exempt.

Adverse economic, market, political, or other conditions within Puerto Rico may negatively affect the value of a fund’s holdings in municipal obligations issued by the Commonwealth of Puerto Rico and its agencies. The Puerto Rican economy is reliant on manufacturing, services, and tourism, and its economy and financial operations generally parallel the economic cycles of those in the United States. As a result, economic difficulties in the United States are likely to have an adverse impact on the overall economy of Puerto Rico. Moreover, like many other U.S. states and municipalities, Puerto Rico experienced a significant downturn during the most recent recession. The recent spread of COVID-19 and the related governmental and public responses have had, and may continue to have, an adverse effect on Puerto Rico’s economy.

Puerto Rico continues to face significant fiscal challenges, including persistent government budget deficits, underfunded public pension benefit obligations, underfunded government retirement systems, sizable debt service obligations and a high unemployment rate. Several rating organizations have downgraded a number of securities issued in Puerto Rico to below investment-grade or placed them on “negative watch.” Any further downgrades could place additional strain on the Puerto Rican economy. On June 30, 2016, President Barack Obama signed the Puerto Rico Oversight, Management and Economic Stability Act (“PROMESA”), a law creating a federal oversight board that would negotiate the restructuring of Puerto Rico’s debt. Shortly thereafter, Puerto Rico’s then-governor issued an executive order suspending payments on its general obligation debt. As of May 2017, Puerto Rico began seeking the protection of U.S. courts to reduce its debt burden under PROMESA, which is analogous to a bankruptcy proceeding. The mediation process and certain litigation is ongoing with respect to certain municipal securities issued by Puerto Rico and its political subdivisions, instrumentalities and authorities. It is not presently possible to predict the results of this mediation and litigation, but

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such outcomes will have a significant impact on bondholders of those municipal securities. The COVID-19 pandemic, further legislation by the U.S. Congress, or actions by the oversight board established by PROMESA, or court approval of an unfavorable debt restructuring deal could have a negative impact on the marketability, liquidity or value of certain investments held by a fund and could reduce a fund’s performance. As a result, significant uncertainty remains for holders of Puerto Rico-issued bonds. Such bondholders are likely to experience a reduction in the value of their holdings.

Further, Puerto Rico has faced significant out-migration relating to its economic difficulties, eroding Puerto Rico’s population, economic base and ultimate ability to support its current debt burden, creating further long-term uncertainty.

In September 2017, Hurricane Maria made landfall in Puerto Rico, causing an estimated $80 billion in damage. The damage caused by Hurricane Maria may have substantially adverse effects on Puerto Rico’s economy and its ability to pay its debt. Puerto Rican financial difficulties potentially could lead to less liquidity, wider yield spreads, and greater risk of default for Puerto Rican municipal securities, and consequently may increase the volatility of a fund’s share price, and adversely affect the value of a fund’s investments.

The Puerto Rican constitution prioritizes general obligation bonds over revenue bonds, so that all tax revenues, even those pledged to revenue bondholders, can be applied first to general obligation bonds and other Commonwealth-guaranteed debt if other revenues are insufficient to satisfy such obligations.

Municipal Notes. Municipal notes are short-term obligations of municipalities, generally with a maturity ranging from six months to three years. The principal types of such notes include tax, bond and revenue anticipation notes, project notes and construction loan notes.

Tax-Anticipation Notes. Tax anticipation notes are issued to finance working capital needs of municipalities. Generally, they are issued in anticipation of various tax revenues, such as income, sales, use and business taxes, and are specifically payable from these particular future tax revenues.

Bond Anticipation Notes. Bond anticipation notes are issued to provide interim financing until long-term bond financing can be arranged. In most cases, the long-term bonds then provide the funds for the repayment of the notes.

Revenue Anticipation Notes. Revenue anticipation notes are issued in expectation of receipt of specific types of revenue, other than taxes, such as federal revenues available under Federal Revenue Sharing Programs.

Project Notes. Project notes are backed by an agreement between a local issuing agency and the Federal Department of Housing and Urban Development (“HUD”) and carry a U.S. government guarantee. These notes provide financing for a wide range of financial assistance programs for housing, redevelopment and related needs (such as low-income housing programs and urban renewal programs). Although they are the primary obligations of the local public housing agencies or local urban renewal agencies, the HUD agreement provides for the additional security of the full faith and credit of the U.S. government. Payment by the United States pursuant to its full faith and credit obligation does not impair the tax-exempt character of the income from project notes.

Construction Loan Notes. Construction loan notes are sold to provide construction financing. Permanent financing, the proceeds of which are applied to the payment of construction loan notes, is sometimes provided by a commitment by GNMA to purchase the loan, accompanied by a commitment by the Federal Housing Administration to insure mortgage advances thereunder. In other instances, permanent financing is provided by the commitments of banks to purchase the loan.

Municipal Commercial Paper. Municipal commercial paper is a short-term obligation of a municipality, generally issued at a discount with a maturity of less than one year. Such paper is likely to be issued to meet seasonal working capital needs of a municipality or interim construction financing. Municipal commercial paper is backed in many cases by letters of credit, lending agreements, note repurchase agreements or other credit facility agreements offered by banks and other institutions.

High Yield (High Risk) Municipal Debt Obligations. Municipal bonds rated “BBB” or “BB” by S&P or Fitch, or “Baa” or “Ba” by Moody’s, or lower (and their unrated equivalents) are considered to have some speculative characteristics and, to varying degrees, can pose special risks generally involving the ability of the issuer to make payment of principal and interest to a greater extent than higher rated securities.

A subadvisor may be authorized to purchase lower-rated municipal bonds when, based upon price, yield and its assessment of quality, investment in these bonds is determined to be consistent with a fund’s investment objectives. The subadvisor will evaluate and monitor the quality of all investments, including lower-rated bonds, and will dispose of these bonds as determined to be necessary to assure that the fund’s portfolio is constituted in a manner consistent with these objectives. To the extent that a fund’s investments in lower-rated municipal bonds emphasize obligations believed

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to be consistent with the goal of preserving capital, these obligations may not provide yields as high as those of other obligations having these ratings, and the differential in yields between these bonds and obligations with higher quality ratings may not be as significant as might otherwise be generally available. The Prospectus for certain funds includes additional information regarding a fund’s ability to invest in lower-rated debt obligations under “Principal investment strategies.”

Non-Diversification

A fund that is non-diversified is not limited as to the percentage of its assets that may be invested in any one issuer, or as to the percentage of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer that may be owned, except by the fund’s own investment restrictions. In contrast, a diversified fund, as to at least 75% of the value of its total assets, generally may not, except with respect to government securities and securities of other investment companies, invest more than five percent of its total assets in the securities, or own more than ten percent of the outstanding voting securities, of any one issuer. In determining the issuer of a municipal security, each state, each political subdivision, agency, and instrumentality of each state and each multi-state agency of which such state is a member is considered a separate issuer. In the event that securities are backed only by assets and revenues of a particular instrumentality, facility or subdivision, such entity is considered the issuer.

A fund that is non-diversified may invest a high percentage of its assets in the securities of a small number of issuers, may invest more of its assets in the securities of a single issuer, and may be affected more than a diversified fund by a change in the financial condition of any of these issuers or by the financial markets’ assessment of any of these issuers.

Participation Interests in Tax-Exempt Securities

Each Tax-Free Fund may purchase from financial institutions tax-exempt participation interests in tax-exempt securities. A participation interest gives a fund an undivided interest in the tax-exempt security in the proportion that the fund’s participation interest bears to the total amount of the tax-exempt security. For certain participation interests, a fund will have the right to demand payment, on a specified number of days’ notice, for all or any part of the funds participation interest in the tax-exempt security plus accrued interest. Participation interests that are determined to be not readily marketable will be considered illiquid for purposes of a fund’s limitation on investments in illiquid securities.

Each Tax-Free fund may invest in Certificates of Participation (“COPs”), which provide participation interests in lease revenues. Each COP represents a proportionate interest in or right to the lease-purchase payment made under municipal lease obligations or installment sales contracts. Typically, municipal lease obligations are issued by a state or municipal financing authority to provide funds for the construction of facilities (e.g., schools, dormitories, office buildings or prisons) or the acquisition of equipment. In certain states, such as California, COPs constitute a majority of new municipal financing issues. The facilities typically are used by the state or municipality pursuant to a lease with a financing authority. Certain municipal lease obligations may trade infrequently. Participation interests in municipal lease obligations will not be considered illiquid for purposes of each fund’s respective limitation on investments in illiquid securities, provided the subadvisor determines that there is a readily available market for such securities. An investment in COPs is subject to the risk that a municipality may not appropriate sufficient funds to meet payments on the underlying lease obligation.

In reaching liquidity decisions, the subadvisor will consider, among others, the following factors: (1) the frequency of trades and quotes for the security; (2) the number of dealers wishing to purchase or sell the security and the number of other potential purchasers; (3) dealer undertakings to make a market in the security; and (4) the nature of the security and the nature of marketplace trades (e.g., the time needed to dispose of the security, the method of soliciting offers and the mechanics of the transfer.) With respect to municipal lease obligations, the subadvisor also considers: (1) the willingness of the municipality to continue, annually or biannually, to appropriate funds for payment of the lease; (2) the general credit quality of the municipality and the essentiality to the municipality of the property covered by the lease; (3) an analysis of factors similar to that performed by NRSROs in evaluating the credit quality of a municipal lease obligation, including (i) whether the lease can be canceled; (ii) if applicable, what assurance there is that the assets represented by the lease can be sold; (iii) the strength of the lessee’s general credit (e.g., its debt, administrative, economic and financial characteristics); (iv) the likelihood that the municipality will discontinue appropriating funding for the leased property because the property is no longer deemed essential to the operations of the municipality (e.g., the potential for an event of non-appropriation); and (v) the legal recourse in the event of failure to appropriate; and (4) any other factors unique to municipal lease obligations as determined by the subadvisor.

In general, High Yield Municipal Bond Fund and Tax-Free Bond Fund also may make purchases and sales to restructure the portfolio in terms of average maturity, quality, coupon yield or diversification for any one or more of the following

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purposes: (a) to increase income, (b) to improve portfolio quality, (c) to minimize capital depreciation, (d) to realize gains or losses, or (e) for such other reasons as the subadvisor deems relevant in light of economic or market conditions.

Repurchase Agreements, Reverse Repurchase Agreements, and Sale-Buybacks

Repurchase agreements are arrangements involving the purchase of an obligation and the simultaneous agreement to resell the same obligation on demand or at a specified future date and at an agreed-upon price. A repurchase agreement can be viewed as a loan made by a fund to the seller of the obligation with such obligation serving as collateral for the seller’s agreement to repay the amount borrowed with interest. Repurchase agreements provide the opportunity to earn a return on cash that is only temporarily available. Repurchase agreements may be entered with banks, brokers, or dealers. However, a repurchase agreement will only be entered with a broker or dealer if the broker or dealer agrees to deposit additional collateral should the value of the obligation purchased decrease below the resale price.

Generally, repurchase agreements are of a short duration, often less than one week but on occasion for longer periods. Securities subject to repurchase agreements will be valued every business day and additional collateral will be requested if necessary so that the value of the collateral is at least equal to the value of the repurchase obligation, including the interest accrued thereon.

A subadvisor shall engage in a repurchase agreement transaction only with those banks or broker dealers who meet the subadvisor’s quantitative and qualitative criteria regarding creditworthiness, asset size and collateralization requirements. The Advisor also may engage in repurchase agreement transactions on behalf of the funds. The counterparties to a repurchase agreement transaction are limited to a:

■ Federal Reserve System member bank;

■ primary government securities dealer reporting to the Federal Reserve Bank of New York’s Market Reports Division; or

■ broker dealer that reports U.S. government securities positions to the Federal Reserve Board.

A fund also may participate in repurchase agreement transactions utilizing the settlement services of clearing firms that meet the subadvisors’ creditworthiness requirements.

The Advisor and the subadvisors will continuously monitor repurchase agreement transactions to ensure that the collateral held with respect to a repurchase agreement equals or exceeds the amount of the obligation.

The risk of a repurchase agreement transaction is limited to the ability of the seller to pay the agreed-upon sum on the delivery date. In the event of bankruptcy or other default by the seller, the instrument purchased may decline in value, interest payable on the instrument may be lost and there may be possible difficulties and delays in obtaining collateral and delays and expense in liquidating the instrument. If an issuer of a repurchase agreement fails to repurchase the underlying obligation, the loss, if any, would be the difference between the repurchase price and the underlying obligation’s market value. A fund also might incur certain costs in liquidating the underlying obligation. Moreover, if bankruptcy or other insolvency proceedings are commenced with respect to the seller, realization upon the underlying obligation might be delayed or limited.

Foreign Repurchase Agreements. Foreign repurchase agreements involve an agreement to purchase a foreign security and to sell that security back to the original seller at an agreed-upon price in either U.S. dollars or foreign currency. Unlike typical U.S. repurchase agreements, foreign repurchase agreements may not be fully collateralized at all times. The value of a security purchased may be more or less than the price at which the counterparty has agreed to repurchase the security. In the event of default by the counterparty, a fund may suffer a loss if the value of the security purchased is less than the agreed-upon repurchase price, or if it is unable to successfully assert a claim to the collateral under foreign laws. As a result, foreign repurchase agreements may involve higher credit risks than repurchase agreements in U.S. markets, as well as risks associated with currency fluctuations. In addition, as with other emerging market investments, repurchase agreements with counterparties located in emerging markets, or relating to emerging markets, may involve issuers or counterparties with lower credit ratings than typical U.S. repurchase agreements.

Under a reverse repurchase agreement, a fund sells a debt security and agrees to repurchase it at an agreed-upon time and at an agreed-upon price. The fund retains record ownership of the security and the right to receive interest and principal payments thereon. At an agreed-upon future date, the fund repurchases the security by remitting the proceeds previously received, plus interest. The difference between the amount the fund receives for the security and the amount it pays on repurchase is payment of interest. In certain types of agreements, there is no agreed-upon repurchase date and interest payments are calculated daily, often based on the prevailing overnight repurchase rate. A reverse repurchase agreement may be considered a form of leveraging and may, therefore, increase fluctuations in a fund’s NAV per share. A fund will cover its repurchase agreement transactions by maintaining in a segregated custodial account cash, Treasury

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bills, other U.S. government securities, or other liquid assets having an aggregate value at least equal to the amount of such commitment to repurchase including accrued interest, until payment is made.

Fund-Specific Policies Regarding Reverse Repurchase Agreements. A fund may enter into reverse repurchase agreements that involve the sale of government securities held in its portfolio to a bank. High Yield Municipal Bond Fund, Investment Grade Bond Fund, Short Duration Bond Fund and Tax-Free Bond Fund also may enter into reverse repurchase agreements that involve the sale of such securities to a securities firm.

Each of Government Income Fund, High Yield Fund, and High Yield Municipal Bond Fund will not enter into reverse repurchase agreements and other borrowings exceeding in the aggregate more than 33 1/3% of the market value of the fund’s total assets. Income Fund will not enter into reverse repurchase agreements and other borrowings exceeding in the aggregate more than 33% of the market value of the fund’s total assets (See “Additional Investments – Borrowing”). California Tax-Free Income Fund will not enter into reverse repurchase agreements and other borrowings exceeding in the aggregate 15% of the fund’s total assets (including the amount borrowed) valued at market less liabilities (not including the amount borrowed) at the time the borrowing was made. Tax-Free Bond Fund will not enter into reverse repurchase agreements and other borrowings exceeding in the aggregate 15% of the fund’s total assets. Bond Fund, Investment Grade Bond Fund and Short Duration Bond Fund will not enter into reverse repurchase agreements or borrow money, except that as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency purposes each fund may borrow from banks in aggregate amounts at any one time outstanding not exceeding 33 1/3% of the total assets (including the amount borrowed) of the fund valued at market.

Each of Government Income Fund and High Yield Municipal Bond Fund will not make additional investments while borrowings (including reverse repurchase agreements) exceed 5% of the fund’s total assets. Each of Bond Fund, California Tax-Free Income Fund, and Tax-Free Bond Fund may not purchase additional securities while all borrowings exceed 5% of the fund’s total assets. Each of ESG Core Bond Fund and Investment Grade Bond Fund may not purchase additional securities while all borrowings exceed 5% of the fund’s total assets (taken at market).

Investment Grade Bond Fund and Short Duration Bond Fund will use proceeds obtained from the sale of securities pursuant to reverse repurchase agreements to purchase other investments. The use of borrowed funds to make investments is a practice known as “leverage,” which is considered speculative. Use of reverse repurchase agreements is an investment technique that is intended to increase income. Thus, the fund will enter into a reverse repurchase agreement only when the subadvisor determines that the interest income to be earned from the investment of the proceeds is greater than the interest expense of the transaction. However, there is a risk that interest expense will nevertheless exceed the income earned. Forward commitment transactions shall not constitute borrowings and interest paid on any borrowings will reduce the fund’s net investment income.

Bond Fund and Short Duration Bond Fund will not use leverage to attempt to increase income.

A fund may effect simultaneous purchase and sale transactions that are known as “sale-buybacks.” A sale-buyback is similar to a reverse repurchase agreement, except that in a sale-buyback, the counterparty that purchases the security is entitled to receive any principal or interest payments made on the underlying security pending settlement of the fund’s repurchase of the underlying security. A fund’s obligations under a sale-buyback typically would be offset by liquid assets equal in value to the amount of the fund’s forward commitment to repurchase the subject security.

Restricted Securities

A fund may invest in “restricted securities,” which generally are securities that may be resold to the public only pursuant to an effective registration statement under the 1933 Act or an exemption from registration. Regulation S under the 1933 Act is an exemption from registration that permits, under certain circumstances, the resale of restricted securities in offshore transactions, subject to certain conditions, and Rule 144A under the 1933 Act is an exemption that permits the resale of certain restricted securities to qualified institutional buyers.

Since its adoption by the SEC in 1990, Rule 144A has facilitated trading of restricted securities among qualified institutional investors. To the extent restricted securities held by a fund qualify under Rule 144A and an institutional market develops for those securities, the fund expects that it will be able to dispose of the securities without registering the resale of such securities under the 1933 Act. However, to the extent that a robust market for such 144A securities does not develop, or a market develops but experiences periods of illiquidity, investments in Rule 144A securities could increase the level of a fund’s illiquidity. A fund might have to register restricted securities in order to dispose of them, resulting in additional expense and delay. Adverse market conditions could impede such a public offering of securities.

There is a large institutional market for certain securities that are not registered under the 1933 Act, which may include markets for repurchase agreements, commercial paper, foreign securities, municipal securities, loans and corporate

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bonds and notes. Institutional investors depend on an efficient institutional market in which the unregistered security can be readily resold or on an issuer’s ability to honor a demand for repayment. The fact that there are contractual or legal restrictions on resale to the general public or to certain institutions may not be indicative of the liquidity of such investments.

Short Sales

A fund may engage in short sales and short sales “against the box.” In a short sale against the box, a fund borrows securities from a broker-dealer and sells the borrowed securities, and at all times during the transaction, a fund either owns or has the right to acquire the same securities at no extra cost. If the price of the security has declined at the time a fund is required to deliver the security, a fund will benefit from the difference in the price. If the price of a security has increased, the funds will be required to pay the difference.

In addition, a fund may sell a security it does not own in anticipation of a decline in the market value of that security (a “short sale”). To complete such a transaction, a fund must borrow the security to make delivery to the buyer. The fund is then obligated to replace the security borrowed by purchasing it at market price at the time of replacement. The price at such time may be more or less than the price at which the security was sold by the fund. Until the security is replaced, the fund is required to pay the lender any dividends or interest which accrues during the period of the loan. To borrow the security, the fund also may be required to pay a premium, which would increase the cost of the security sold. The proceeds of the short sale are typically retained by the broker to meet margin requirements until the short position is closed out. Until a fund replaces a borrowed security, it will segregate with its custodian cash or other liquid assets at such a level that the amount segregated plus the amount deposited with the broker as collateral (generally not including proceeds from the short sales) will equal the current value of the security sold short. Except for short sales against-the-box, the amount of a fund’s net assets that may be committed to short sales is limited and the securities in which short sales are made must be listed on a national securities exchange.

A fund will incur a loss as a result of the short sale if the price of the security increases between the date of the short sale and the date on which the fund replaced the borrowed security and theoretically the fund’s loss could be unlimited. A fund will generally realize a gain if the security declines in price between those dates. This result is the opposite of what one would expect from a cash purchase of a long position in a security. The amount of any gain will be decreased, and the amount of any loss increased, by the amount of any premium, dividends or interest the fund may be required to pay in connection with a short sale. Short selling may amplify changes in a fund’s NAV. Short selling also may produce higher than normal portfolio turnover, which may result in increased transaction costs to a fund.

Short-Term Trading

Short-term trading means the purchase and subsequent sale of a security after it has been held for a relatively brief period of time. If and to the extent consistent with and permitted by its investment objective and policies, a fund may engage in short-term trading in response to stock market conditions, changes in interest rates or other economic trends and developments, or to take advantage of yield disparities between various fixed-income securities in order to realize capital gains or improve income. Short-term trading may have the effect of increasing portfolio turnover rate. A high rate of portfolio turnover (100% or greater) involves correspondingly greater brokerage transaction expenses and may make it more difficult for a fund to qualify as a RIC for federal income tax purposes (for additional information about qualification as a RIC under the Code, see “Additional Information Concerning Taxes” in this SAI). See “Portfolio Turnover.”

Bond Fund intends to use short-term trading of securities as a means of managing its portfolio to achieve its investment objective. The fund, in reaching a decision to sell one security and purchase another security at approximately the same time, will take into account a number of factors, including the quality ratings, interest rates, yields, maturity dates, call prices and refunding and sinking fund provisions of the securities under consideration, as well as historical yield spreads and current economic information. The success of short-term trading will depend upon the ability of the fund to evaluate particular securities, to anticipate relevant market factors, including trends of interest rates and earnings and variations from such trends, to obtain relevant information, to evaluate it promptly and to take advantage of its evaluations by completing transactions on a favorable basis. It is expected that the expenses involved in short-term trading, which would not be incurred by an investment company that does not use this portfolio technique, will be significantly less than the profits and other benefits that will accrue to shareholders.

Bond Fund’s portfolio turnover rate will depend on a number of factors, including the fact that the fund intends to continue to qualify as a RIC under the Code.

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Sovereign Debt Obligations

Sovereign debt obligations are issued or guaranteed by foreign governments or their agencies. Sovereign debt may be in the form of conventional securities or other types of debt instruments such as loan or loan participations. Typically, sovereign debt of developing countries may involve a high degree of risk and may be in default or present the risk of default, however, sovereign debt of developed countries also may involve a high degree of risk and may be in default or present the risk of default. Governments rely on taxes and other revenue sources to pay interest and principal on their debt obligations, and governmental entities responsible for repayment of the debt may be unable or unwilling to repay principal and pay interest when due and may require renegotiation or rescheduling of debt payments. The payment of principal and interest on these obligations may be adversely affected by a variety of factors, including economic results, changes in interest and exchange rates, changes in debt ratings, a limited tax base or limited revenue sources, natural disasters, or other economic or credit problems. In addition, prospects for repayment and payment of interest may depend on political as well as economic factors. Defaults in sovereign debt obligations, or the perceived risk of default, also may impair the market for other securities and debt instruments, including securities issued by banks and other entities holding such sovereign debt, and negatively impact the funds.

Structured or Hybrid Notes

The distinguishing feature of a “structured” or “hybrid note” is that the amount of interest and/or principal payable on the note is based on the performance of a benchmark asset or market other than fixed income securities or interest rates. Examples of these benchmarks include stock prices, currency exchange rates and physical commodity prices. Investing in a structured note allows a fund to gain exposure to the benchmark market while fixing the maximum loss that a fund may experience in the event that the market does not perform as expected. Depending on the terms of the note, a fund may forgo all or part of the interest and principal that would be payable on a comparable conventional note; the funds’ loss cannot exceed this forgone interest and/or principal. An investment in structured or hybrid notes involves risks similar to those associated with a direct investment in the benchmark asset.

Structured Securities

Structured securities include notes, bonds or debentures, the value of the principal of and/or interest on which is to be determined by reference to changes in the value of specific currencies, interest rates, commodities, indices or other financial indicators (the “Reference”) or the relative change in two or more References. The interest rate or the principal amount payable upon maturity or redemption may be increased or decreased depending upon changes in the applicable Reference. The terms of the structured securities may provide that in certain circumstances no principal is due at maturity and, therefore, may result in the loss of a funds’ investment. Structured securities may be positively or negatively indexed, so that appreciation of the Reference may produce an increase or decrease in the interest rate or value of the security at maturity. In addition, the change in interest rate or the value of the security at maturity may be a multiple of the change in the value of the Reference. Consequently, structured securities entail a greater degree of market risk than other types of debt obligations. Structured securities also may be more volatile, less liquid and more difficult to accurately price than less complex fixed income investments.

Tax-Exempt Securities

In seeking to achieve its investment objective, each Tax-Free Fund invests in a variety of tax-exempt securities. Tax-exempt securities are debt obligations generally issued by or on behalf of states, territories and possessions of the United States, the District of Columbia and their political subdivisions, agencies or instrumentalities the interest on which, in the opinion of the bond issuer’s counsel (not the fund’s counsel), is excluded from gross income for federal income tax purposes and from any applicable state personal income taxes. See “Additional Information Concerning Taxes” below. These securities consist of municipal bonds, municipal notes and municipal commercial paper, as well as variable or floating rate obligations and participation interests.

Tax-exempt securities are issued to obtain funds for various public purposes, including the construction of a wide range of public facilities such as bridges, highways, housing, hospitals, mass transportation, schools, streets and water and sewer works. Other public purposes for which tax-exempt securities may be issued include the refunding of outstanding obligations or obtaining funds for general operating expenses. See “Investment Policies – Municipal Obligations.”

In addition, certain types of “private activity bonds” may be issued by public authorities to finance privately operated housing facilities and certain local facilities for water supply, gas, electricity, sewage or solid waste disposal or student loans, or to obtain funds to lend to public or private institutions for the construction of facilities such as educational, hospital and housing facilities. California Tax-Free Income Fund may invest up to 20% of its total assets in private activity bonds. Such private activity bonds are considered to be tax-exempt securities if the interest paid thereon is excluded from gross income for federal income tax purposes.

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The interest income on certain private activity bonds (including a fund’s distributions to its shareholders attributable to such interest) may be treated as a tax preference item under the federal alternative minimum tax. California Tax-Free Income Fund and Tax-Free Bond Fund will not include tax-exempt securities generating this income for purposes of measuring compliance with the 80% fundamental investment policy described in the relevant Prospectus.

Other types of private activity bonds, the proceeds of which are used for the construction, equipment, repair or improvement of privately operated industrial or commercial facilities, also may constitute tax-exempt securities, but current federal tax law places substantial limitations on the size of such issues.

From time to time, proposals have been introduced before Congress that would adversely affect the federal income tax consequences of holding tax-exempt securities. Federal tax legislation enacted primarily during the 1980s limits the types and amounts of tax-exempt securities issuable for certain purposes, especially industrial development bonds and other types of “private activity” bonds. Such limits do not affect the federal income tax treatment of municipal obligations issued prior to the effective dates of the provisions imposing such restrictions. Such limits may affect the future supply and yields of these types of tax-exempt securities. Further proposals limiting the issuance of tax-exempt securities may well be introduced in the future. If it appeared that the availability of tax-exempt securities for investment by the funds and the value of the funds’ investments could be materially affected by such changes in law, the Trustees would reevaluate each fund’s investment objective and policies and consider changes in the structure of the fund or its dissolution.

Yields. The yields or returns on tax-exempt securities depend on a variety of factors, including general money market conditions, effective marginal tax rates, the financial condition of the issuer, general conditions of the tax-exempt securities market, the size of a particular offering, the maturity of the obligation and the rating (if any) of the issue. Yield disparities may occur for reasons not directly related to the investment quality of particular issues or the general movement of interest rates, due to such factors as changes in the overall demand or supply of various types of tax-exempt securities or changes in the investment objectives of investors.

The market value of debt securities that carry no equity participation usually reflects yields generally available on securities of similar quality and type. When such yields decline, the market value of a portfolio already invested at higher yields can be expected to rise if such securities are protected against early call. In general, in selecting securities, the portfolio managers of each fund intend to seek protection against early call. Similarly, when such yields increase, the market value of a portfolio already invested at lower yields can be expected to decline. A fund may invest in debt securities that sell at substantial discounts from par. These securities are low coupon bonds that, during periods of high interest rates, because of their lower acquisition cost tend to sell on a yield basis approximating current interest rates.

U.S. Government and Government Agency Obligations

U.S. Government Obligations. U.S. government obligations are debt securities issued or guaranteed as to principal or interest by the U.S. Treasury. These securities include treasury bills, notes and bonds.

GNMA Obligations. GNMA obligations are mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by the GNMA, which guarantee is supported by the full faith and credit of the U.S. government.

U.S. Agency Obligations. U.S. government agency obligations are debt securities issued or guaranteed as to principal or interest by an agency or instrumentality of the U.S. government pursuant to authority granted by Congress. U.S. government agency obligations include, but are not limited to:

■ SLMA;

■ FHLBs;

■ FICBs; and

■ Fannie Mae.

U.S. Instrumentality Obligations. U.S. instrumentality obligations include, but are not limited to, those issued by the Export-Import Bank and Farmers Home Administration.

Some obligations issued or guaranteed by U.S. government agencies or instrumentalities are supported by the right of the issuer to borrow from the U.S. Treasury or the Federal Reserve Banks, such as those issued by FICBs. Others, such as those issued by Fannie Mae, FHLBs and Freddie Mac, are supported by discretionary authority of the U.S. government to purchase certain obligations of the agency or instrumentality. In addition, other obligations, such as those issued by the SLMA, are supported only by the credit of the agency or instrumentality. There also are separately traded interest components of securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Treasury.

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No assurance can be given that the U.S. government will provide financial support for the obligations of such U.S. government-sponsored agencies or instrumentalities in the future, since it is not obligated to do so by law. In this SAI, “U.S. government securities” refers not only to securities issued or guaranteed as to principal or interest by the U.S. Treasury but also to securities that are backed only by their own credit and not the full faith and credit of the U.S. government.

It is possible that the availability and the marketability (liquidity) of the securities discussed in this section could be adversely affected by actions of the U.S. government to tighten the availability of its credit. In 2008, FHFA, an agency of the U.S. government, placed Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac into conservatorship, a statutory process with the objective of returning the entities to normal business operations. The FHFA will act as the conservator to operate Fannie Mae and Freddie Mac until they are stabilized. It is unclear what effect this conservatorship will have on the securities issued or guaranteed by Fannie Mae or Freddie Mac.

Variable and Floating Rate Obligations

Investments in floating or variable rate securities normally will involve industrial development or revenue bonds, which provide that the rate of interest is set as a specific percentage of a designated base rate, such as rates of Treasury Bonds or Bills or the prime rate at a major commercial bank. In addition, a bondholder can demand payment of the obligations on behalf of the investing fund on short notice at par plus accrued interest, which amount may be more or less than the amount the bondholder paid for them. The maturity of floating or variable rate obligations (including participation interests therein) is deemed to be the longer of: (i) the notice period required before a fund is entitled to receive payment of the obligation upon demand; or (ii) the period remaining until the obligation’s next interest rate adjustment. If not redeemed by the investor through the demand feature, the obligations mature on a specified date, which may range up to thirty years from the date of issuance.

Municipal Floating Rate Instruments. Municipal floating rate instruments are floating rate instruments that are created by dividing a municipal security’s interest rate into two or more different components. Typically, with respect to such an instrument, one component (“floating rate component” or “FRC”) pays an interest rate that is reset periodically through an auction process or by reference to an interest rate index; a second component (“inverse floating rate component” or “IFRC”) pays an interest rate that varies inversely with changes to market rates of interest, because the interest paid to the IFRC holders is generally determined by subtracting a variable or floating rate from a predetermined amount (i.e., the difference between the total interest paid by the municipal security and that paid by the FRC). Each Fund may purchase FRCs without limitation. Up to 10% of a Fund’s total assets may be invested in IFRCs in an attempt to protect against a reduction in the income earned on the Fund’s other investments due to a decline in interest rates. The extent of increases and decreases in the value of an IFRC generally will be greater than comparable changes in the value of an equal principal amount of a fixed rate municipal security having similar credit quality, redemption provisions and maturity. To the extent that IFRCs are not readily marketable, as determined by the subadvisor pursuant to guidelines adopted by the Board, they will be considered illiquid for purposes of a Fund’s respective limitation on investments in illiquid securities.

Warrants

Warrants may trade independently of the underlying securities. Warrants are rights to purchase securities at specific prices and are valid for a specific period of time. Warrant prices do not necessarily move parallel to the prices of the underlying securities, and warrant holders receive no dividends and have no voting rights or rights with respect to the assets of an issuer. The price of a warrant may be more volatile than the price of its underlying security, and a warrant may offer greater potential for capital appreciation as well as capital loss. Warrants cease to have value if not exercised prior to the expiration date. These factors can make warrants more speculative than other types of investments.

When-Issued/Delayed Delivery/Forward Commitment Securities

When-issued, delayed-delivery or forward-commitment transactions involve a commitment to purchase or sell securities at a predetermined price or yield in which payment and delivery take place after the customary settlement for such securities (which is typically one month or more after trade date). When purchasing securities in one of these types of transactions, payment for the securities is not required until the delivery date, however, the purchaser assumes the rights and risks of ownership, including the risks of price and yield fluctuations and the risk that the security will not be delivered. When a fund has sold securities pursuant to one of these transactions, it will not participate in further gains or losses with respect to that security. At the time of delivery, the value of when-issued, delayed-delivery or forward commitment securities may be more or less than the transaction price, and the yields then available in the market may be higher or lower than those obtained in the transaction.

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Under normal circumstances, when a fund purchases securities on a when-issued or forward commitment basis, it will take delivery of the securities, but a fund may, if deemed advisable, sell the securities before the settlement date. Forward contracts may settle in cash between the counterparty and the fund or by physical settlement of the underlying securities, and a fund may renegotiate or roll over a forward commitment transaction. In general, a fund does not pay for the securities, or start earning interest on them, or deliver or take possession of securities until the obligations are scheduled to be settled. In such transactions, no cash changes hands on the trade date, however, if the transaction is collateralized, the exchange of margin may take place between the fund and the counterparty according to an agreed-upon schedule. A fund does, however, record the transaction and reflect the value each day of the securities in determining its NAV.

While awaiting settlement of the obligations purchased or sold on such basis, a fund will maintain on its records liquid assets consisting of cash, liquid high quality debt obligations or other assets equal to the amount of the commitments to purchase or sell when-issued, delayed-delivery or forward commitment securities. The availability of liquid assets for this purpose and the effect of asset segregation on a fund’s ability to meet its current obligations, to honor requests for redemption, and to otherwise manage its investment portfolio will limit the extent to which the fund may purchase when-issued or forward commitment securities.

Yield Curve Notes

Inverse floating rate securities include, but are not limited to, an inverse floating rate class of a government agency-issued yield curve note. A yield curve note is a fixed-income security that bears interest at a floating rate that is reset periodically based on an interest rate benchmark. The interest rate resets on a yield curve note in the opposite direction from the interest rate benchmark.

Zero Coupon Securities, Deferred Interest Bonds and Pay-In-Kind Bonds

Zero coupon securities, deferred interest bonds and pay-in-kind bonds involve special risk considerations. Zero coupon securities and deferred interest bonds are debt securities that pay no cash income but are sold at substantial discounts from their value at maturity. While zero coupon bonds do not require the periodic payment of interest, deferred interest bonds provide for a period of delay before the regular payment of interest begins. When a zero coupon security or a deferred interest bond is held to maturity, its entire return, which consists of the amortization of discount, comes from the difference between its purchase price and its maturity value. This difference is known at the time of purchase, so that investors holding these securities until maturity know at the time of their investment what the return on their investment will be. Pay-in-kind bonds are bonds that pay all or a portion of their interest in the form of debt or equity securities.

Zero coupon securities, deferred interest bonds and pay-in-kind bonds are subject to greater price fluctuations in response to changes in interest rates than ordinary interest-paying debt securities with similar maturities. The value of zero coupon securities and deferred interest bonds usually appreciates during periods of declining interest rates and usually depreciates during periods of rising interest rates.

Issuers of Zero Coupon Securities and Pay-In-Kind Bonds. Zero coupon securities and pay-in-kind bonds may be issued by a wide variety of corporate and governmental issuers. Although zero coupon securities and pay-in-kind bonds are generally not traded on a national securities exchange, these securities are widely traded by brokers and dealers and, to the extent they are widely traded, will not be considered illiquid for the purposes of the investment restriction under “Illiquid Securities.”

Tax Considerations. Current federal income tax law requires the holder of a zero coupon security or certain pay-in-kind bonds to accrue income with respect to these securities prior to the receipt of cash payments. To maintain its qualification as a RIC under the Code and avoid liability for federal income and excise taxes, a fund may be required to distribute income accrued with respect to these securities and may have to dispose of portfolio securities under disadvantageous circumstances in order to generate cash to satisfy these distribution requirements.

RISK FACTORS

The risks of investing in certain types of securities are described below. Risks are only applicable to a fund if and to the extent that corresponding investments, or indirect exposures to such investments through derivative contracts, are consistent with and permitted by the fund’s investment objectives and policies. The value of an individual security or a particular type of security can be more volatile than the market as a whole and can perform differently than the value of the market as a whole. By owning shares of the underlying funds, each fund of funds indirectly invests in the securities and instruments held by the underlying funds and bears the same risks of such underlying funds.

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Cash Holdings Risk

A fund may be subject to delays in making investments when significant purchases or redemptions of fund shares cause the fund to have an unusually large cash position. When the fund has a higher than normal cash position, it may incur “cash drag,” which is the opportunity cost of holding a significant cash position. This significant cash position might cause the fund to miss investment opportunities it otherwise would have benefited from if fully invested, or might cause the fund to pay more for investments in a rising market, potentially reducing fund performance.

Collateralized Debt Obligations

The risks of an investment in a CDO depend largely on the quality of the collateral securities and the class of the instrument in which a fund invests. Normally, CDOs are privately offered and sold, and thus, are not registered under the securities laws. As a result, investments in CDOs may be characterized by a fund as illiquid, however an active dealer market may exist for CDOs allowing them to qualify for treatment as liquid under Rule 144A transactions. In addition to the normal risks associated with fixed-income securities discussed elsewhere in this SAI and the Prospectus (e.g., interest rate risk and default risk), CDOs carry risks including, but are not limited to the possibility that: (i) distributions from collateral securities will not be adequate to make interest or other payments; (ii) the quality of the collateral may decline in value or default; (iii) a fund may invest in CDO classes that are subordinate to other classes of the CDO; and (iv) the complex structure of the CDO may not be fully understood at the time of investment and may produce disputes with the issuer or unexpected investment results.

Cybersecurity and Operational Risk

Cybersecurity breaches are either intentional or unintentional events that allow an unauthorized party to gain access to fund assets, customer data, or proprietary information, or cause a fund or fund service provider to suffer data corruption or lose operational functionality. Intentional cybersecurity incidents include: unauthorized access to systems, networks, or devices (such as through “hacking” activity); infection from computer viruses or other malicious software code; and attacks that shut down, disable, slow, or otherwise disrupt operations, business processes, or website access or functionality. In addition, unintentional incidents can occur, such as the inadvertent release of confidential information.

A cybersecurity breach could result in the loss or theft of customer data or funds, the inability to access electronic systems (“denial of services”), loss or theft of proprietary information or corporate data, physical damage to a computer or network system, or costs associated with system repairs, any of which could have a substantial impact on a fund. For example, in a denial of service, fund shareholders could lose access to their electronic accounts indefinitely, and employees of the Advisor, each subadvisor, or the funds’ other service providers may not be able to access electronic systems to perform critical duties for the funds, such as trading, NAV calculation, shareholder accounting, or fulfillment of fund share purchases and redemptions. Cybersecurity incidents could cause a fund, the Advisor, each subadvisor, or other service provider to incur regulatory penalties, reputational damage, compliance costs associated with corrective measures, litigation costs, or financial loss. They may also result in violations of applicable privacy and other laws. In addition, such incidents could affect issuers in which a fund invests, thereby causing the fund’s investments to lose value.

Cyber-events have the potential to affect materially the funds and the advisor’s relationships with accounts, shareholders, clients, customers, employees, products, and service providers. The funds have established risk management systems reasonably designed to seek to reduce the risks associated with cyber-events. There is no guarantee that the funds will be able to prevent or mitigate the impact of any or all cyber-events.

The funds are exposed to operational risk arising from a number of factors, including, but not limited to, human error, processing and communication errors, errors of the funds’ service providers, counterparties, or other third parties, failed or inadequate processes, and technology or system failures.

The Advisor, each subadvisor, and their affiliates have established risk management systems that seek to reduce cybersecurity and operational risks, and business continuity plans in the event of a cybersecurity breach or operational failure. However, there are inherent limitations in such plans, including that certain risks have not been identified, and there is no guarantee that such efforts will succeed, especially since none of the Advisor, each subadvisor, or their affiliates controls the cybersecurity or operations systems of the funds’ third-party service providers (including the funds’ custodian), or those of the issuers of securities in which the funds invest.

In addition, other disruptive events, including (but not limited to) natural disasters and public health crises (such as the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic), may adversely affect the fund’s ability to conduct business, in particular if the fund’s employees or the employees of its service providers are unable or unwilling to perform their responsibilities as a result of any such event. Even if the fund’s employees and the employees of its service providers are able to work remotely, those remote work arrangements could result in the fund’s business operations being less efficient than under normal circumstances, could lead to delays in its processing of transactions, and could increase the risk of cyber-events.

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Equity Securities

Equity securities include common, preferred and convertible preferred stocks and securities the values of which are tied to the price of stocks, such as rights, warrants and convertible debt securities. Common and preferred stocks represent equity ownership in a company. Stock markets are volatile. The price of equity securities will fluctuate and can decline and reduce the value of a fund’s investment in equities. The price of equity securities fluctuates based on changes in a company’s financial condition and overall market and economic conditions. The value of equity securities purchased by a fund could decline if the financial condition of the issuers of these securities declines or if overall market and economic conditions deteriorate. Even funds that invest in high quality or “blue chip” equity securities or securities of established companies with large market capitalizations (which generally have strong financial characteristics) can be negatively impacted by poor overall market and economic conditions. Companies with large market capitalizations also may have less growth potential than smaller companies and may be able to react less quickly to change in the marketplace.

European Risk

Countries in Europe may be significantly affected by fiscal and monetary controls implemented by the EU and EMU, which require member countries to comply with restrictions on inflation rates, deficits, interest rates, debt levels and fiscal and monetary controls. Decreasing imports or exports, changes in governmental or other regulations on trade, changes in the exchange rate or dissolution of the Euro, the default or threat of default by one or more EU member countries on its sovereign debt, and/or an economic recession in one or more EU member countries may have a significant adverse effect on other European economies and major trading partners outside Europe.

In recent years, the European financial markets have experienced volatility and adverse trends due to concerns about economic downturns, rising government debt levels and the possible default of government debt in several European countries. The European Central Bank and IMF have previously bailed-out several European countries. There is no guarantee that these institutions will continue to provide financial support, and markets may react adversely to any reduction in financial support. A default or debt restructuring by any European country can adversely impact holders of that country’s debt and sellers of credit default swaps linked to that country’s creditworthiness, which may be located in countries other than those listed above, and can affect exposures to other EU countries and their financial companies as well.

Uncertainties regarding the viability of the EU have impacted and may continue to impact markets in the United States and around the world. If one or more countries leave the EU or the EU dissolves, securities markets would likely be significantly disrupted. On January 31, 2020, the UK left the EU, commonly referred to as “Brexit,” and there commenced a transition period during which the EU and UK will negotiate and agree on the nature of their future relationship. There is significant market uncertainty regarding Brexit’s ramifications, and the range and potential implications of possible political, regulatory, economic, and market outcomes are difficult to predict. This uncertainty may affect other countries in the EU and elsewhere, and may cause volatility within the EU, triggering prolonged economic downturns in certain countries within the EU. It is also possible that various countries within the UK, such as Scotland or Northern Ireland, could seek to separate and remain a part of the EU. Other secessionist movements including countries seeking to abandon the Euro or withdraw from the EU may cause volatility and uncertainty in the EU.

The UK has one of the largest economies in Europe and is a major trading partner with the other EU countries and the United States. Brexit might negatively affect The City of London’s economy, which is heavily dominated by financial services, as banks might be forced to move staff and comply with two separate sets of rules or lose business to banks in Continental Europe. In addition, Brexit may create additional and substantial economic stresses for the UK, including a contraction of the UK economy and price volatility in UK stocks, decreased trade, capital outflows, devaluation of the British pound, wider corporate bond spreads due to uncertainty and declines in business and consumer spending as well as foreign direct investment. Brexit may also adversely affect UK-based financial firms that have counterparties in the EU or participate in market infrastructure (trading venues, clearing houses, settlement facilities) based in the EU. These events and the resulting market volatility may have an adverse effect on the performance of the fund.

Investing in the securities of Eastern European issuers is highly speculative and involves risks not usually associated with investing in the more developed markets of Western Europe. Securities markets of Eastern European countries typically are less efficient and have lower trading volume, lower liquidity, and higher volatility than more developed markets. Eastern European economies also may be particularly susceptible to disruption in the international credit market due to their reliance on bank related inflows of capital.

To the extent that a fund invests in European securities, it may be exposed to these risks through its direct investments in such securities, including sovereign debt, or indirectly through investments in money market funds and financial institutions with significant investments in such securities. In addition, Russia’s increasing international assertiveness could negatively impact EU and Eastern European economic activity.

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Fixed-Income Securities

Fixed-income securities are generally subject to two principal types of risk, as well as other risks described below: (1) interest-rate risk and (2) credit quality risk.

Interest Rate Risk. Fixed-income securities are affected by changes in interest rates. When interest rates decline, the market value of the fixed-income securities generally can be expected to rise. Conversely, when interest rates rise, the market value of fixed-income securities generally can be expected to decline. Recent and potential future changes in government monetary policy may affect the level of interest rates.

The longer a fixed-income security’s duration, the more sensitive it will be to changes in interest rates. Similarly, a fund with a longer average portfolio duration will be more sensitive to changes in interest rates than a fund with a shorter average portfolio duration. Duration is a measure used to determine the sensitivity of a security’s price to changes in interest rates that incorporates a security’s yield, coupon, final maturity, and call features, among other characteristics. All other things remaining equal, for each one percentage point increase in interest rates, the value of a portfolio of fixed-income investments would generally be expected to decline by one percent for every year of the portfolio’s average duration above zero. For example, the price of a bond fund with an average duration of eight years would be expected to fall approximately 8% if interest rates rose by one percentage point. The maturity of a security, another commonly used measure of price sensitivity, measures only the time until final payment is due, whereas duration takes into account the pattern of all payments of interest and principal on a security over time, including how these payments are affected by prepayments and by changes in interest rates, as well as the time until an interest rate is reset (in the case of variable-rate securities).

The fixed-income securities market has been and may continue to be negatively affected by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. As with other serious economic disruptions, governmental authorities and regulators are responding to this crisis with significant fiscal and monetary policy changes, including considerably lowering interest rates, which, in some cases could result in negative interest rates. These actions, including their possible unexpected or sudden reversal or potential ineffectiveness, could further increase volatility in securities and other financial markets and reduce market liquidity. To the extent the fund has a bank deposit or holds a debt instrument with a negative interest rate to maturity, the fund would generate a negative return on that investment. Similarly, negative rates on investments by money market funds and similar cash management products could lead to losses on investments, including on investments of the fund’s uninvested cash.

Credit Quality Risk. Fixed-income securities are subject to the risk that the issuer of the security will not repay all or a portion of the principal borrowed and will not make all interest payments. If the credit quality of a fixed-income security deteriorates after a fund has purchased the security, the market value of the security may decrease and lead to a decrease in the value of the fund’s investments. Funds that may invest in lower rated fixed-income securities are riskier than funds that may invest in higher rated fixed-income securities.

LIBOR Discontinuation Risk. Certain debt securities, derivatives and other financial instruments may utilize LIBOR as the reference or benchmark rate for interest rate calculations. However, following allegations of manipulation and concerns regarding liquidity, in July 2017 the U.K. Financial Conduct Authority, which regulates LIBOR, announced that it will cease its active encouragement of banks to provide the quotations needed to sustain LIBOR after 2021. This event will likely cause LIBOR to cease to be published. Before then, it is expected that market participants will transition to the use of different reference of benchmark rates. However, although regulators have suggested alternative rates, there is currently no definitive information regarding the future utilization of LIBOR or of any particular replacement rate.

There are obstacles to converting certain longer term securities and transactions to a new benchmark and the effectiveness of one alternative reference rate versus multiple alternative reference rates in new or existing financial instruments and products has not been determined. In addition, it is expected that market participants will amend financial instruments referencing LIBOR to include fallback provisions and other measures that contemplate the discontinuation of LIBOR or other similar market disruption events, but neither the effect of the transition process nor the viability of such measures is known. As market participants transition away from LIBOR, LIBOR’s usefulness may deteriorate, which could occur prior to the end of 2021. The transition process may lead to increased volatility and illiquidity in markets that currently rely on LIBOR to determine interest rates. LIBOR’s deterioration may adversely affect the liquidity and/or market value of securities that use LIBOR as a benchmark interest rate, including securities and other financial instruments held by the fund. Further, the utilization of an alternative reference rate, or the transition process to an alternative reference rate, may adversely affect the Fund’s performance.

Liquidity Risk. Liquidity risk may result from the lack of an active market, the reduced number of traditional market participants, or the reduced capacity of traditional market participants to make a market in fixed-income securities. The capacity of traditional dealers to engage in fixed-income trading has not kept pace with the bond market’s growth. As a

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result, dealer inventories of corporate bonds, which indicate the ability to “make markets,” i.e., buy or sell a security at the quoted bid and ask price, respectively, are at or near historic lows relative to market size. Because market makers provide stability to fixed-income markets, the significant reduction in dealer inventories could lead to decreased liquidity and increased volatility, which may become exacerbated during periods of economic or political stress. In addition, liquidity risk may be magnified in a rising interest rate environment in which investor redemptions from fixed-income funds may be higher than normal; the selling of fixed-income securities to satisfy shareholder redemptions may result in an increased supply of such securities during periods of reduced investor demand due to a lack of buyers, thereby impairing the fund’s ability to sell such securities. The secondary market for certain tax-exempt securities tends to be less well-developed or liquid than many other securities markets, which may adversely affect a fund’s ability to sell such securities at attractive prices.

Floating Rate Loans Risk

Floating rate loans are generally rated below investment-grade, or if unrated, determined by the manager to be of comparable quality. They are generally considered speculative because they present a greater risk of loss, including default, than higher quality debt instruments. Such investments may, under certain circumstances, be particularly susceptible to liquidity and valuation risks. Although certain floating rate loans are collateralized, there is no guarantee that the value of the collateral will be sufficient or available to satisfy the borrower’s obligation. In times of unusual or adverse market, economic or political conditions, floating rate loans may experience higher than normal default rates. In the event of a serious credit event the value of the fund’s investments in floating rate loans are more likely to decline. The secondary market for floating rate loans is limited and, therefore, the fund’s ability to sell or realize the full value of its investment in these loans to reinvest sale proceeds or to meet redemption obligations may be impaired. In addition, floating rate loans generally are subject to extended settlement periods that may be longer than seven days. As a result, the fund may be adversely affected by selling other investments at an unfavorable time and/or under unfavorable conditions to meet redemption requests or pursue other investment opportunities. In addition, certain floating rate loans may be “covenant-lite” loans that may contain fewer or less restrictive covenants on the borrower or may contain other borrower-friendly characteristics. The fund may experience relatively greater difficulty or delays in enforcing its rights on its holdings of certain covenant-lite loans and debt securities than its holdings of loans or securities with the usual covenants.

In certain circumstances, floating rate loans may not be deemed to be securities. As a result, the fund may not have the protection of the anti-fraud provisions of the federal securities laws. In such cases, the fund generally must rely on the contractual provisions in the loan agreement and common-law fraud protections under applicable state law.

Foreign Securities

Currency Fluctuations. Investments in foreign securities may cause a fund to lose money when converting investments from foreign currencies into U.S. dollars. A fund may attempt to lock in an exchange rate by purchasing a foreign currency exchange contract prior to the settlement of an investment in a foreign security. However, the fund may not always be successful in doing so, and it could still lose money.

Political and Economic Conditions. Investments in foreign securities subject a fund to the political or economic conditions of the foreign country. These conditions could cause a fund’s investments to lose value if these conditions deteriorate for any reason. This risk increases in the case of emerging market countries which are more likely to be politically unstable. Political instability could cause the value of any investment in the securities of an issuer based in a foreign country to decrease or could prevent or delay a fund from selling its investment and taking the money out of the country.

Removal of Proceeds of Investments from a Foreign Country. Foreign countries, especially emerging market countries, often have currency controls or restrictions that may prevent or delay a fund from taking money out of the country or may impose additional taxes on money removed from the country. Therefore, a fund could lose money if it is not permitted to remove capital from the country or if there is a delay in taking the assets out of the country, since the value of the assets could decline during this period, or the exchange rate to convert the assets into U.S. dollars could worsen.

Nationalization of Assets. Investments in foreign securities subject a fund to the risk that the company issuing the security may be nationalized. If the company is nationalized, the value of the company’s securities could decrease in value or even become worthless.

Settlement of Sales. Foreign countries, especially emerging market countries, also may have problems associated with settlement of sales. Such problems could cause a fund to suffer a loss if a security to be sold declines in value while settlement of the sale is delayed.

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Investor Protection Standards. Foreign countries, especially emerging market countries, may have less stringent investor protection and disclosure standards than the U.S. Therefore, when making a decision to purchase a security for a fund, a subadvisor may not be aware of problems associated with the company issuing the security and may not enjoy the same legal rights as those provided in the U.S.

Securities of Emerging Market Issuers or Countries. The risks described above apply to an even greater extent to investments in emerging markets. The securities markets of emerging countries are generally smaller, less developed, less liquid, and more volatile than the securities markets of the United States and developed foreign countries. In addition, the securities markets of emerging countries may be subject to a lower level of monitoring and regulation. Government enforcement of existing securities regulations also has been extremely limited, and any such enforcement may be arbitrary and the results difficult to predict with any degree of certainty. Many emerging countries have experienced substantial, and in some periods extremely high, rates of inflation for many years. Inflation and rapid fluctuations in inflation rates have had and may continue to have very negative effects on the economies and securities markets of some emerging countries. Economies in emerging markets generally are heavily dependent upon international trade and, accordingly, have been and may continue to be affected adversely by trade barriers, exchange controls, managed adjustments in relative currency values, and other protectionist measures imposed or negotiated by the countries with which they trade. Economies in emerging markets also have been and may continue to be adversely affected by economic conditions in the countries with which they trade. The economies of countries with emerging markets also may be predominantly based on only a few industries or dependent on revenues from particular commodities. In many cases, governments of emerging market countries continue to exercise significant control over their economies, and government actions relative to the economy, as well as economic developments generally, may affect the capacity of issuers of debt instruments to make payments on their debt obligations, regardless of their financial condition.

Gaming-Tribal Authority Investments

The value of a fund’s investments in securities issued by gaming companies, including gaming facilities operated by Indian (Native American) tribal authorities, is subject to legislative or regulatory changes, adverse market conditions, and/or increased competition affecting the gaming sector. Securities of gaming companies may be considered speculative, and generally exhibit greater volatility than the overall market. The market value of gaming company securities may fluctuate widely due to unpredictable earnings, due in part to changing consumer tastes and intense competition, strong reaction to technological developments, and the threat of increased government regulation.

Securities issued by Indian tribal authorities are subject to particular risks. Indian tribes enjoy sovereign immunity, which is the legal privilege by which the United States federal, state, and tribal governments cannot be sued without their consent. In order to sue an Indian tribe (or an agency or instrumentality thereof), the tribe must have effectively waived its sovereign immunity with respect to the matter in dispute. Certain Indian tribal authorities have agreed to waive their sovereign immunity in connection with their outstanding debt obligations. Generally, waivers of sovereign immunity have been held to be enforceable against Indian tribes. Nevertheless, if a waiver of sovereign immunity is held to be ineffective, claimants, including investors in Indian tribal authority securities (such as a fund), could be precluded from judicially enforcing their rights and remedies.

Further, in most commercial disputes with Indian tribes, it may be difficult or impossible to obtain federal court jurisdiction. A commercial dispute may not present a federal question, and an Indian tribe may not be considered a citizen of any state for purposes of establishing diversity jurisdiction. The U.S. Supreme Court has held that jurisdiction in a tribal court must be exhausted before any dispute can be heard in an appropriate federal court. In cases where the jurisdiction of the tribal forum is disputed, the tribal court first must rule as to the limits of its own jurisdiction. Such jurisdictional issues, as well as the general view that Indian tribes are not considered to be subject to ordinary bankruptcy proceedings, may be disadvantageous to holders of obligations issued by Indian tribal authorities, including a fund.

Greater China Region Risk

Investments in the Greater China region are subject to special risks, such as less developed or less efficient trading markets, restrictions on monetary repatriation and possible seizure, nationalization or expropriation of assets. Investments in Taiwan could be adversely affected by its political and economic relationship with China. In addition, the willingness of the government of the PRC to support the Chinese and Hong Kong economies and markets is uncertain, and changes in government policy could significantly affect the markets in both Hong Kong and China. For example, a government may restrict investment in companies or industries considered important to national interests, or intervene in the financial markets, such as by imposing trading restrictions, or banning or curtailing short selling. The PRC also maintains strict currency controls and imposes repatriation restrictions in order to achieve economic, trade and political objectives and regularly intervenes in the currency market. The imposition of currency controls and repatriation restrictions may negatively impact the performance and liquidity of a fund as capital may become trapped in the PRC.

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Chinese yuan currency exchange rates can be very volatile and can change quickly and unpredictably. A small number of companies and industries may represent a relatively large portion of the Greater China market. Consequently, a fund may experience greater price volatility and significantly lower liquidity than a portfolio invested solely in equity securities of U.S. issuers. These companies and industries also may be subject to greater sensitivity to adverse political, economic or regulatory developments generally affecting the market (see “Risk Factors – Foreign Securities”).

High Yield (High Risk) Securities

General. A fund may invest in high yield (high risk) securities, consistent with its investment objectives and policies. High yield (high risk) securities (also known as “junk bonds”) are those rated below investment grade and comparable unrated securities. These securities offer yields that fluctuate over time, but generally are superior to the yields offered by higher-rated securities. However, securities rated below investment grade also have greater risks than higher-rated securities as described below.

Interest Rate Risk. To the extent that a fund invests in fixed-income securities, the NAV of the fund’s shares can be expected to change as general levels of interest rates fluctuate. However, the market values of securities rated below investment grade (and comparable unrated securities) tend to react less to fluctuations in interest rate levels than do those of higher-rated securities. Except to the extent that values are affected independently by other factors (such as developments relating to a specific issuer) when interest rates decline, the value of a fixed-income fund generally rise. Conversely, when interest rates rise, the value of a fixed-income fund will decline.

Liquidity. The secondary markets for high yield corporate and sovereign debt securities are not as liquid as the secondary markets for investment grade securities. The secondary markets for high yield debt securities are concentrated in relatively few market makers and participants are mostly institutional investors. In addition, the trading volume for high yield debt securities is generally lower than for investment grade securities. Furthermore, the secondary markets could contract under adverse market or economic conditions independent of any specific adverse changes in the condition of a particular issuer.

These factors may have an adverse effect on the ability of funds investing in high yield securities to dispose of particular portfolio investments. These factors also may limit funds that invest in high yield securities from obtaining accurate market quotations to value securities and calculate NAV. If a fund investing in high yield debt securities is not able to obtain precise or accurate market quotations for a particular security, it will be more difficult for the subadvisor to value the fund’s investments.

Less liquid secondary markets also may affect a fund’s ability to sell securities at their fair value. Each fund may invest in illiquid securities, subject to certain restrictions (see “Additional Investment Policies and Other Instruments”). These securities may be more difficult to value and to sell at fair value. If the secondary markets for high yield debt securities are affected by adverse economic conditions, the proportion of a fund’s assets invested in illiquid securities may increase.

Below-Investment Grade Corporate Debt Securities. While the market values of securities rated below investment grade (and comparable unrated securities) tend to react less to fluctuations in interest rate levels than do those of higher-rated securities, the market values of below-investment grade corporate debt securities tend to be more sensitive to individual corporate developments and changes in economic conditions than higher-rated securities.

In addition, these securities generally present a higher degree of credit risk. Issuers of these securities are often highly leveraged and may not have more traditional methods of financing available to them. Therefore, their ability to service their debt obligations during an economic downturn or during sustained periods of rising interest rates may be impaired. The risk of loss due to default by such issuers is significantly greater than with investment grade securities because such securities generally are unsecured and frequently are subordinated to the prior payment of senior indebtedness.

Below-Investment Grade Foreign Sovereign Debt Securities. Investing in below-investment grade foreign sovereign debt securities will expose a fund to the consequences of political, social or economic changes in the developing and emerging market countries that issue the securities. The ability and willingness of sovereign obligors in these countries to pay principal and interest on such debt when due may depend on general economic and political conditions within the relevant country. Developing and emerging market countries have historically experienced (and may continue to experience) high inflation and interest rates, exchange rate trade difficulties, extreme poverty and unemployment. Many of these countries also are characterized by political uncertainty or instability.

The ability of a foreign sovereign obligor to make timely payments on its external debt obligations also will be strongly influenced by:

■ the obligor’s balance of payments, including export performance;

■ the obligor’s access to international credits and investments;

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■ fluctuations in interest rates; and

■ the extent of the obligor’s foreign reserves.

Defaulted Securities. The risk of loss due to default may be considerably greater with lower-quality securities because they are generally unsecured and are often subordinated to other debt of the issuer. The purchase of defaulted debt securities involves risks such as the possibility of complete loss of the investment where the issuer does not restructure to enable it to resume principal and interest payments. If the issuer of a security in a fund’s portfolio defaults, the fund may have unrealized losses on the security, which may lower the fund’s NAV. Defaulted securities tend to lose much of their value before they default. Thus, a fund’s NAV may be adversely affected before an issuer defaults. In addition, a fund may incur additional expenses if it must try to recover principal or interest payments on a defaulted security.

Defaulted debt securities may be illiquid and, as such, will be part of the percentage limits on investments in illiquid securities discussed under “Illiquid Securities.”

Obligor’s Balance of Payments. A country whose exports are concentrated in a few commodities or whose economy depends on certain strategic imports could be vulnerable to fluctuations in international prices of these commodities or imports. To the extent that a country receives payment for its exports in currencies other than dollars, its ability to make debt payments denominated in dollars could be adversely affected.

Obligor’s Access to International Credits and Investments. If a foreign sovereign obligor cannot generate sufficient earnings from foreign trade to service its external debt, it may need to depend on continuing loans and aid from foreign governments, commercial banks, and multilateral organizations, and inflows of foreign investment. The commitment on the part of these entities to make such disbursements may be conditioned on the government’s implementation of economic reforms and/or economic performance and the timely service of its obligations. Failure in any of these efforts may result in the cancellation of these third parties’ lending commitments, thereby further impairing the obligor’s ability or willingness to service its debts on time.

Obligor’s Fluctuations in Interest Rates. The cost of servicing external debt is generally adversely affected by rising international interest rates since many external debt obligations bear interest at rates that are adjusted based upon international interest rates.

Obligor’s Foreign Reserves. The ability to service external debt also will depend on the level of the relevant government’s international currency reserves and its access to foreign exchange. Currency devaluations may affect the ability of a sovereign obligor to obtain sufficient foreign exchange to service its external debt.

The Consequences of a Default. As a result of the previously listed factors, a governmental obligor may default on its obligations. If a default occurs, a fund holding foreign sovereign debt securities may have limited legal recourse against the issuer and/or guarantor. Remedies must, in some cases, be pursued in the courts of the defaulting party itself, and the ability of the holder of the foreign sovereign debt securities to obtain recourse may be subject to the political climate in the relevant country. In addition, no assurance can be given that the holders of commercial bank debt will not contest payments to the holders of other foreign sovereign debt obligations in the event of default under their commercial bank loan agreements.

Sovereign obligors in developing and emerging countries are among the world’s largest debtors to commercial banks, other governments, international financial organizations and other financial institutions. These obligors have in the past experienced substantial difficulties in servicing their external debt obligations. This difficulty has led to defaults on certain obligations and the restructuring of certain indebtedness. Restructuring arrangements have included, among other things:

■ reducing and rescheduling interest and principal payments by negotiating new or amended credit agreements or converting outstanding principal and unpaid interest to Brady Bonds; and

■ obtaining new credit to finance interest payments.

Holders of certain foreign sovereign debt securities may be requested to participate in the restructuring of such obligations and to extend further loans to their issuers. There can be no assurance that the Brady Bonds and other foreign sovereign debt securities in which a fund may invest will not be subject to similar restructuring arrangements or to requests for new credit that may adversely affect the fund’s holdings. Furthermore, certain participants in the secondary market for such debt may be directly involved in negotiating the terms of these arrangements and may therefore have access to information not available to other market participants.

Securities in the Lowest Rating Categories. Certain debt securities in which a fund may invest may have (or be considered comparable to securities having) the lowest ratings for non-subordinated debt instruments (e.g., securities

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rated “Caa” or lower by Moody’s, “CCC” or lower by S&P or Fitch). These securities are considered to have the following characteristics:

■ extremely poor prospects of ever attaining any real investment standing;

■ current identifiable vulnerability to default;

■ unlikely to have the capacity to pay interest and repay principal when due in the event of adverse business, financial or economic conditions;

■ are speculative with respect to the issuer’s capacity to pay interest and repay principal in accordance with the terms of the obligations; and/or

■ are in default or not current in the payment of interest or principal.

Accordingly, it is possible that these types of characteristics could, in certain instances, reduce the value of securities held by a fund with a commensurate effect on the value of the fund’s shares.

Hong Kong Stock Connect Program and Bond Connect Program Risk

A fund may invest in eligible renminbi-denominated class A shares of equity securities that are listed and traded on certain Chinese stock exchanges (“China A-Shares”) through Stock Connect, a mutual market access program designed to, among others, enable foreign investment in the PRC; and in renminbi-denominated bonds issued in the PRC by Chinese credit, government and quasi-governmental issuers (“RMB Bonds”), which are available on the CIBM to eligible foreign investors through, among others, the “Mutual Bond Market Access between Mainland China and Hong Kong” (“Bond Connect”) program.

Trading in China A-Shares through Stock Connect and bonds through Bond Connect is subject to certain restrictions and risks. A fund’s investment in China A-Shares may only be traded through Stock Connect and is not otherwise transferable. The list of securities eligible to be traded on either program may change from time to time. Securities listed on either program may lose purchase eligibility, which could adversely affect a fund’s performance.

While Stock Connect is not subject to individual investment quotas, daily and aggregate investment quotas apply to all Stock Connect participants, which may restrict or preclude a fund’s ability to invest in China A-Shares. For example, these quota limitations require that buy orders for China A-Shares be rejected once the remaining balance of the relevant quota drops to zero or the daily quota is exceeded (although a fund will be permitted to sell China A-Shares regardless of the quota balance). These limitations may restrict a fund from investing in China A-Shares on a timely basis, which could affect a fund’s ability to effectively pursue its investment strategy. Investment quotas are also subject to change. Bond Connect is not subject to investment quotas.

Chinese regulations prohibit over-selling of China A-Shares. If a fund intends to sell China A-shares it holds, it must transfer those securities to the accounts of a fund’s participant broker before the market opens. As a result, a fund may not be able to dispose of its holdings of China A-Shares in a timely manner.

Stock Connect also is generally available only on business days when both the exchange on which China A-Shares are offered and the Stock Exchange of Hong Kong are open and when banks in both markets are open on the corresponding settlement days. Therefore, an investment in China A-Shares through Stock Connect may subject a fund to a risk of price fluctuations on days where Chinese stock markets are open, but Stock Connect is not operating. Similarly, Bond Connect is only available on days when markets in both China and Hong Kong are open, which may limit a fund’s ability to trade when it would be otherwise attractive to do so.

Stock Connect launched in November 2014 and Bond Connect launched in July 2017. Therefore, trading through Stock Connect and Bond Connect is subject to trading, clearance, and settlement procedures that may continue to develop as the programs mature, which could pose risks to a fund. Bond Connect is relatively new and its effects on the CIBM are uncertain. In addition, the trading, settlement and information technology systems required for non-Chinese investors in Bond Connect are relatively new. In the event of systems malfunctions or extreme market conditions, trading via Bond Connect could be disrupted. In addition, the rules governing the operation of Stock Connect and Bond Connect may be subject to further interpretation and guidance. There can be no assurance as to the programs’ continued existence or whether future developments regarding the programs may restrict or adversely affect a fund’s investments or returns. Additionally, the withholding tax treatment of dividends, interest, and capital gains payable to overseas investors may be subject to change. Furthermore, there is currently no specific formal guidance by the PRC tax authorities on the treatment of income tax and other tax categories payable in respect of trading in CIBM by eligible foreign institutional investors via Bond Connect. Any changes in PRC tax law, future clarifications thereof, and/or subsequent retroactive enforcement by the PRC tax authorities of any tax may result in a material loss to a fund.

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Stock Connect and Bond Connect regulations provide that investors, such as a fund, enjoy the rights and benefits of equities purchased through Stock Connect and bonds purchased through Bond Connect. However, the nominee structure under Stock Connect requires that China A-Shares be held through the HKSCC as nominee on behalf of investors. For investments via Bond Connect, the relevant filings, registration with People’s Bank of China, and account opening have to be carried out via an onshore settlement agent, offshore custody agent, registration agent, or other third parties (as the case may be). As such, a fund is subject to the risks of default or errors on the part of such third parties.

While a fund’s ownership of China A-Shares will be reflected on the books of the custodian’s records, a fund will only have beneficial rights in such A-Shares. The precise nature and rights of a fund as the beneficial owner of the equities through the HKSCC as nominee is not well defined under the law of the PRC. Although the China Securities Regulatory Commission has issued guidance indicating that participants in Stock Connect will be able to exercise rights of beneficial owners in the PRC, the exact nature and methods of enforcement of the rights and interests of a fund under PRC law is uncertain. In particular, the courts may consider that the nominee or custodian as registered holder of China A-Shares, has full ownership over the securities rather than a fund as the underlying beneficial owner. The HKSCC, as nominee holder, does not guarantee the title to China A-Shares held through it and is under no obligation to enforce title or other rights associated with ownership on behalf of beneficial owners. Consequently, title to these securities, or the rights associated with them, such as participation in corporate actions or shareholder meetings, cannot be assured.

While certain aspects of the Stock Connect trading process are subject to Hong Kong law, PRC rules applicable to share ownership will apply. In addition, transactions using Stock Connect are not subject to the Hong Kong investor compensation fund, which means that a fund will be unable to make monetary claims on the investor compensation fund that it might otherwise be entitled to with respect to investments in Hong Kong securities. Other risks associated with investments in PRC securities apply fully to China A-Shares purchased through Stock Connect.

Similarly, in China, the Hong Kong Monetary Authority Central Money Markets Unit holds Bond Connect securities on behalf of ultimate investors (such as a fund) in accounts maintained with a China-based custodian (either the China Central Depository & Clearing Co. or the Shanghai Clearing House). This recordkeeping system subjects a fund to various risks, including the risk that a fund may have a limited ability to enforce rights as a bondholder and the risks of settlement delays and counterparty default of the Hong Kong sub-custodian. In addition, enforcing the ownership rights of a beneficial holder of Bond Connect securities is untested and courts in China have limited experience in applying the concept of beneficial ownership.

China A-Shares traded via Stock Connect and bonds trading through Bond Connect are subject to various risks associated with the legal and technical framework of Stock Connect and Bond Connect, respectively. In the event that the relevant systems fail to function properly, trading through Stock Connect or Bond Connect could be disrupted. In the event of high trade volume or unexpected market conditions, Stock Connect and Bond Connect may be available only on a limited basis, if at all. Both the PRC and Hong Kong regulators are permitted, independently of each other, to suspend Stock Connect in response to certain market conditions. Similarly, in the event that the relevant Mainland Chinese authorities suspend account opening or trading on the CIBM via Bond Connect, a fund’s ability to invest in Chinese bonds will be adversely affected and limited. In such event, a fund’s ability to achieve its investment objective will be negatively affected and, after exhausting other trading alternatives, a fund may suffer substantial losses as a result.

Hybrid Instruments

The risks of investing in hybrid instruments are a combination of the risks of investing in securities, options, futures, swaps, and currencies. Therefore, an investment in a hybrid instrument may include significant risks not associated with a similar investment in a traditional debt instrument with a fixed principal amount, is denominated in U.S. dollars, or that bears interest either at a fixed rate or a floating rate determined by reference to a common, nationally published benchmark. The risks of a particular hybrid instrument will depend upon the terms of the instrument, but may include, without limitation, the possibility of significant changes in the benchmarks or the prices of underlying assets to which the instrument is linked. These risks generally depend upon factors unrelated to the operations or credit quality of the issuer of the hybrid instrument and that may not be readily foreseen by the purchaser. Such factors include economic and political events, the supply and demand for the underlying assets, and interest rate movements. In recent years, various benchmarks and prices for underlying assets have been highly volatile, and such volatility may be expected in the future. See “Hedging and Other Strategic Transactions” for a description of certain risks associated with investments in futures, options, and forward contracts. The principal risks of investing in hybrid instruments are as follows:

Volatility. Hybrid instruments are potentially more volatile and carry greater market risks than traditional debt instruments. Depending on the structure of the particular hybrid instrument, changes in a benchmark may be

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magnified by the terms of the hybrid instrument and have an even more dramatic and substantial effect upon the value of the hybrid instrument. Also, the prices of the hybrid instrument and the benchmark or underlying asset may not move in the same direction or at the same time.

Leverage Risk. Hybrid instruments may bear interest or pay preferred dividends at below market (or even relatively nominal) rates. Alternatively, hybrid instruments may bear interest at above market rates, but bear an increased risk of principal loss (or gain). For example, an increased risk of principal loss (or gain) may result if “leverage” is used to structure a hybrid instrument. Leverage risk occurs when the hybrid instrument is structured so that a change in a benchmark or underlying asset is multiplied to produce a greater value change in the hybrid instrument, thereby magnifying the risk of loss, as well as the potential for gain.

Liquidity Risk. Hybrid instruments also may carry liquidity risk since the instruments are often “customized” to meet the needs of a particular investor. Therefore, the number of investors that would be willing and able to buy such instruments in the secondary market may be smaller than for more traditional debt securities. In addition, because the purchase and sale of hybrid instruments could take place in an OTC market without the guarantee of a central clearing organization or in a transaction between a fund and the issuer of the hybrid instrument, the creditworthiness of the counterparty or issuer of the hybrid instrument would be an additional risk factor, which the fund would have to consider and monitor.

Lack of U.S. Regulation. Hybrid instruments may not be subject to regulation of the CFTC, which generally regulates the trading of swaps and commodity futures by U.S. persons, the SEC, which regulates the offer and sale of securities by and to U.S. persons, or any other governmental regulatory authority.

Credit and Counterparty Risk. The issuer or guarantor of a hybrid instrument may be unable or unwilling to make timely principal, interest or settlement payments, or otherwise honor its obligations. Funds that invest in hybrid instruments are subject to varying degrees of risk that the issuers of the securities will have their credit rating downgraded or will default, potentially reducing a fund’s share price and income level.

The various risks discussed above with respect to hybrid instruments particularly the market risk of such instruments, may cause significant fluctuations in the NAV of a fund that invests in such instruments.

Industry or Sector Investing

When a fund invests a substantial portion of its assets in a particular industry or sector of the economy, the fund’s investments are not as varied as the investments of most funds and are far less varied than the broad securities markets. As a result, the fund’s performance tends to be more volatile than other funds, and the values of the fund’s investments tend to go up and down more rapidly. In addition, to the extent that a fund invests significantly in a particular industry or sector, it is particularly susceptible to the impact of market, economic, regulatory and other factors affecting that industry or sector. The principal risks of investing in certain sectors are described below.

Consumer Discretionary. The consumer discretionary sector may be affected by fluctuations in supply and demand and may also be adversely affected by changes in consumer spending as a result of world events, political and economic conditions, commodity price volatility, changes in exchange rates, imposition of import controls, increased competition, depletion of resources and labor relations.

The outbreak of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has led to materially reduced consumer demand in certain sectors, a disruption in supply chains and an increase in market closures and retail company bankruptcies. The novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic may affect certain countries, industries, economic sectors, and companies more than others, may exacerbate existing economic, political, or social tensions and may increase the probability of an economic recession or depression. The impact on the consumer discretionary market may last for an extended period of time.

Consumer Staples. Companies in the consumer staples sector may be affected by general economic conditions, commodity production and pricing, consumer confidence and spending, consumer preferences, interest rates, product cycles, marketing, competition, and government regulation. Other risks include changes in global economic, environmental and political events, and the depletion of resources. Companies in the consumer staples sector may also be negatively impacted by government regulations affecting their products. For example, government regulations may affect the permissibility of using various food additives and production methods of companies that make food products, which could affect company profitability. Tobacco companies, in particular, may be adversely affected by new laws, regulations and litigation. Companies in the consumer staples sector may also be subject to risks relating to the supply of, demand for, and prices of raw materials. The prices of raw materials fluctuate in response to a number of factors, including, changes in exchange rates, import and export controls, changes in international agricultural and trading policies, and seasonal and weather conditions, among

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others. In addition, the success of food, beverage, household and personal product companies, in particular, may be strongly affected by unpredictable factors, such as, demographics, consumer spending, and product trends.

Energy. Companies in the energy sector may be affected by energy prices, supply and demand fluctuations including in energy fuels, energy conservation, liabilities arising from government or civil actions, environmental and other government regulations, and geopolitical events including political instability and war. The market value of companies in the local energy sector is heavily impacted by the levels and stability of global energy prices, energy conservation efforts, the success of exploration projects, exchange rates, interest rates, economic conditions, tax and other government regulations, increased competition and technological advances, as well as other factors. Companies in this sector may be subject to extensive government regulation and contractual fixed pricing, which may increase the cost of doing business and limit these companies’ profits. A large part of the returns of these companies depends on few customers, including governmental entities and utilities. As a result, governmental budget constraints may have a significant negative effect on the stock prices of energy sector companies. Energy companies may also operate in, or engage in, transactions involving countries with less developed regulatory regimes or a history of expropriation, nationalization or other adverse policies. As a result, securities of companies in the energy field are subject to quick price and supply fluctuations caused by events relating to international politics. Other risks include liability from accidents resulting in injury or loss of life or property, pollution or other environmental problems, equipment malfunctions or mishandling of materials and a risk of loss from terrorism, political strife and natural disasters. Energy companies can also be heavily affected by the supply of, and demand for, their specific product or service and for energy products in general, and government subsidization. Energy companies may have high levels of debt and may be more likely to restructure their businesses if there are downturns in energy markets or the economy as a whole.

Companies in the energy sector have been adversely affected by reduced demand for oil and other energy commodities as a result of the slowdown in economic activity resulting from the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and by price competition among key oil producing countries. Recently, global oil prices have declined significantly and experienced significant volatility, including a period where an oil-price futures contract fell into negative territory for the first time in history, as demand for oil has slowed and oil storage facilities reach their storage capacities. The impact on such commodities markets may last for an extended period of time.

Financial Services. To the extent that a fund invests principally in securities of financial services companies, it is particularly vulnerable to events affecting that industry. Financial services companies may include, but are not limited to, commercial and industrial banks, savings and loan associations and their holding companies, consumer and industrial finance companies, diversified financial services companies, investment banking, securities brokerage and investment advisory companies, leasing companies and insurance companies. The types of companies that compose the financial services sector may change over time. These companies are all subject to extensive regulation, rapid business changes, volatile performance dependent upon the availability and cost of capital, prevailing interest rates and significant competition. General economic conditions significantly affect these companies. Credit and other losses resulting from the financial difficulty of borrowers or other third parties have a potentially adverse effect on companies in this sector. Investment banking, securities brokerage and investment advisory companies are particularly subject to government regulation and the risks inherent in securities trading and underwriting activities. In addition, all financial services companies face shrinking profit margins due to new competitors, the cost of new technology, and the pressure to compete globally.
Banking. Commercial banks (including “money center” regional and community banks), savings and loan associations and holding companies of the foregoing are especially subject to adverse effects of volatile interest rates, concentrations of loans in particular industries (such as real estate or energy) and significant competition. The profitability of these businesses is to a significant degree dependent upon the availability and cost of capital funds. Economic conditions in the real estate market may have a particularly strong effect on certain banks and savings associations. Commercial banks and savings associations are subject to extensive federal and, in many instances, state regulation. Neither such extensive regulation nor the federal insurance of deposits ensures the solvency or profitability of companies in this industry, and there is no assurance against losses in securities issued by such companies.
Insurance. Insurance companies are particularly subject to government regulation and rate setting, potential anti-trust and tax law changes, and industry-wide pricing and competition cycles. Property and casualty insurance companies also may be affected by weather and other catastrophes. Life and health insurance companies may be affected by mortality and morbidity rates, including the effects of epidemics. Individual insurance companies may be exposed to reserve inadequacies, problems in investment portfolios (for example, due to real estate or “junk” bond holdings) and failures of reinsurance carriers.

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Health Sciences. Companies in this sector are subject to the additional risks of increased competition within the health care industry, changes in legislation or government regulations, reductions in government funding, product liability or other litigation and the obsolescence of popular products. The prices of the securities of health sciences companies may fluctuate widely due to government regulation and approval of their products and services, which may have a significant effect on their price and availability. In addition, the types of products or services produced or provided by these companies may quickly become obsolete. Moreover, liability for products that are later alleged to be harmful or unsafe may be substantial and may have a significant impact on a company’s market value or share price.

Industrials. Companies in the industrials sector may be affected by general economic conditions, commodity production and pricing, supply and demand fluctuations, environmental and other government regulations, geopolitical events, interest rates, insurance costs, technological developments, liabilities arising from governmental or civil actions, labor relations, import controls and government spending. The value of securities issued by companies in the industrials sector may also be adversely affected by supply and demand related to their specific products or services and industrials sector products in general, as well as liability for environmental damage and product liability claims and government regulations. For example, the products of manufacturing companies may face obsolescence due to rapid technological developments and frequent new product introduction. Certain companies within this sector, particularly aerospace and defense companies, may be heavily affected by government spending policies because companies involved in this industry rely, to a significant extent, on government demand for their products and services, and, therefore, the financial condition of, and investor interest in, these companies are significantly influenced by governmental defense spending policies, which are typically under pressure from efforts to control the U.S. (and other) government budgets. In addition, securities of industrials companies in transportation may be cyclical and have occasional sharp price movements which may result from economic changes, fuel prices, labor relations and insurance costs, and transportation companies in certain countries may also be subject to significant government regulation and oversight, which may adversely affect their businesses.

Internet-Related Investments. The value of companies engaged in Internet-related activities, which is a developing industry, is particularly vulnerable to: (a) rapidly changing technology; (b) extensive government regulation; and (c) relatively high risk of obsolescence caused by scientific and technological advances. In addition, companies engaged in Internet-related activities are difficult to value and many have high share prices relative to their earnings which they may not be able to maintain over the long-term. Moreover, many Internet companies are not yet profitable and will need additional financing to continue their operations. There is no guarantee that such financing will be available when needed. Since many Internet companies are start-up companies, the risks associated with investing in small companies are heightened for these companies. A fund that invests a significant portion of its assets in Internet-related companies should be considered extremely risky even as compared to other funds that invest primarily in small company securities.

Materials. Companies in the materials sector may be affected by general economic conditions, commodity production and prices, consumer preferences, interest rates, exchange rates, product cycles, marketing, competition, resource depletion, and environmental, import/export and other government regulations. Other risks may include liabilities for environmental damage and general civil liabilities, and mandated expenditures for safety and pollution control. The materials sector may also be affected by economic cycles, technological progress, and labor relations. At times, worldwide production of industrial materials has been greater than demand as a result of over-building or economic downturns, leading to poor investment returns or losses. These risks are heightened for companies in the materials sector located in foreign markets.

Natural Resources. A fund’s investments in natural resources companies are especially affected by variations in the commodities markets (which may be due to market events, regulatory developments or other factors that such fund cannot control) and such companies may lack the resources and the broad business lines to weather hard times. Natural resources companies can be significantly affected by events relating to domestic or international political and economic developments, energy conservation efforts, the success of exploration projects, reduced availability of transporting, processing, storing or delivering nature resources, extreme weather or other natural disasters, and threats of attack by terrorists on energy assets. Additionally, natural resource companies are subject to substantial government regulation, including environmental regulation and liability for environmental damage, and changes in the regulatory environment for energy companies may adversely impact their profitability. At times, the performance of these investments may lag the performance of other sectors or the market as a whole.

Investments in certain commodity-linked instruments, such as crude oil and crude oil products, can be susceptible to negative prices due to a surplus in production caused by global events, including restrictions or reductions in global

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travel. Exposure to such commodity-linked instruments may adversely affect an issuer’s returns or the performance of the fund.

The natural resources sector has been adversely impacted by the reduced demand for oil and other natural resources as a result of the slowdown in economic activity resulting from the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Recently, global oil prices have declined significantly and experienced significant volatility, including a period where an oil-price futures contract fell into negative territory for the first time in history, as demand for oil has slowed and oil storage facilities reach their storage capacities. The impact on the natural resources sector may last for an extended period of time.

Technology. Technology companies rely heavily on technological advances and face intense competition, both domestically and internationally, which may have an adverse effect on profit margins. Shortening of product cycle and manufacturing capacity increases may subject technology companies to aggressive pricing. Technology companies may have limited product lines, markets, financial resources or personnel. The products of technology companies may face product obsolescence due to rapid technological developments and frequent new product introduction, unpredictable changes in growth rates and competition for the services of qualified personnel. Technology companies may not successfully introduce new products, develop and maintain a loyal customer base or achieve general market acceptance for their products.

Stocks of technology companies, especially those of smaller, less-seasoned companies, tend to be more volatile than the overall market. Companies in the technology sector are also heavily dependent on patent and intellectual property rights, the loss or impairment of which may adversely affect the profitability of these companies. Technology companies engaged in manufacturing, such as semiconductor companies, often operate internationally which could expose them to risks associated with instability and changes in economic and political conditions, foreign currency fluctuations, changes in foreign regulations, competition from subsidized foreign competitors with lower production costs and other risks inherent to international business.

Telecommunications. Companies in the telecommunications sector are subject to the additional risks of rapid obsolescence due to technological advancement or development, lack of standardization or compatibility with existing technologies, an unfavorable regulatory environment, and a dependency on patent and copyright protection. The prices of the securities of companies in the telecommunications sector may fluctuate widely due to both federal and state regulations governing rates of return and services that may be offered, fierce competition for market share, and competitive challenges in the U.S. from foreign competitors engaged in strategic joint ventures with U.S. companies, and in foreign markets from both U.S. and foreign competitors. In addition, recent industry consolidation trends may lead to increased regulation of telecommunications companies in their primary markets.

Utilities. Companies in the utilities sector may be affected by general economic conditions, supply and demand, financing and operating costs, rate caps, interest rates, liabilities arising from governmental or civil actions, consumer confidence and spending, competition, technological progress, energy prices, resource conservation and depletion, man-made or natural disasters, geopolitical events, and environmental and other government regulations. The value of securities issued by companies in the utilities sector may be negatively impacted by variations in exchange rates, domestic and international competition, energy conservation and governmental limitations on rates charged to customers. Although rate changes of a regulated utility usually vary in approximate correlation with financing costs, due to political and regulatory factors rate changes usually happen only after a delay after the changes in financing costs. Deregulation may subject utility companies to increased competition and can negatively affect their profitability as it permits utility companies to diversify outside of their original geographic regions and customary lines of business, causing them to engage in more uncertain ventures. Deregulation can also eliminate restrictions on the profits of certain utility companies, but can simultaneously expose these companies to an increased risk of loss. Although opportunities may permit certain utility companies to earn more than their traditional regulated rates of return, companies in the utilities industry may have difficulty obtaining an adequate return on invested capital, raising capital, or financing large construction projects during periods of inflation or unsettled capital markets. Utility companies may also be subject to increased costs because of the effects of man-made or natural disasters. Current and future regulations or legislation can make it more difficult for utility companies to operate profitably. Government regulators monitor and control utility revenues and costs, and thus may restrict utility profits. There is no assurance that regulatory authorities will grant rate increases in the future, or that those increases will be adequate to permit the payment of dividends on stocks issued by a utility company. Because utility companies are faced with the same obstacles, issues and regulatory burdens, their securities may react similarly and more in unison to these or other market conditions.

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Initial Public Offerings (“IPOs”)

IPOs may have a magnified impact on the performance of a fund with a small asset base. The impact of IPOs on a fund’s performance likely will decrease as the fund’s asset size increases, which could reduce the fund’s returns. IPOs may not be consistently available to a fund for investment, particularly as the fund’s asset base grows. IPO shares frequently are volatile in price due to the absence of a prior public market, the small number of shares available for trading and limited information about the issuer. Therefore, a fund may hold IPO shares for a very short period of time. This may increase the turnover of a fund and may lead to increased expenses for a fund, such as commissions and transaction costs. In addition, IPO shares can experience an immediate drop in value if the demand for the securities does not continue to support the offering price.

Investment Companies

The funds may invest in shares of other investment companies, including both open- and closed-end investment companies (including single country funds, ETFs, and BDCs). When making such an investment, a fund will be indirectly exposed to all the risks of such investment companies. In general, the investing funds will bear a pro rata portion of the other investment company’s fees and expenses, which will reduce the total return in the investing funds. Certain types of investment companies, such as closed-end investment companies, issue a fixed number of shares that trade on a stock exchange and may involve the payment of substantial premiums above the value of such investment companies’ portfolio securities when traded OTC or at discounts to their NAVs. Others are continuously offered at NAV, but also may be traded in the secondary market.

In addition, the funds may invest in private investment funds, vehicles, or structures. A fund also may invest in debt-equity conversion funds, which are funds established to exchange foreign bank debt of countries whose principal repayments are in arrears into a portfolio of listed and unlisted equities, subject to certain repatriation restrictions.

Exchange-Traded Funds. An ETF is a type of investment company shares of which are bought and sold on a securities exchange. An ETF generally represents a fixed portfolio of securities designed to track a particular market index or basket of securities. A fund could purchase shares of an ETF to temporarily gain exposure to a portion of the U.S. or a foreign market while awaiting purchase of underlying securities. The risks of owning an ETF include the risks of owning the underlying securities it is designed to track. In addition, the lack of liquidity in an ETF could result in it being more volatile than the underlying securities and ETFs have management fees that increase their costs. Also, there is a risk that an ETF may fail to closely track the index or basket of securities that it is designed to replicate. The existence of extreme market volatility or potential lack of an active trading market for an ETF’s shares could result in the ETF’s shares trading at a significant premium or discount to their NAV.

Business Development Companies. A BDC is a less-common type of closed-end investment company that more closely resembles an operating company than a typical investment company. BDCs typically invest in and lend to small- and medium-sized private and certain public companies that may not have access to public equity markets to raise capital. BDCs invest in such diverse industries as health care, chemical and manufacturing, technology and service companies. BDCs generally invest in less mature private companies, which involve greater risk than well-established, publicly traded companies. BDCs are unique in that at least 70% of their investments must be made in private and certain public U.S. businesses, and BDCs are required to make available significant managerial assistance to their portfolio companies. Generally, little public information exists for private and thinly traded companies, and there is a risk that investors may not be able to make a fully informed investment decision. With investments in debt instruments issued by such portfolio companies, there is a risk that the issuer may default on its payments or declare bankruptcy.

Investment Grade Fixed-Income Securities in the Lowest Rating Category

Investment grade fixed-income securities in the lowest rating category (i.e., rated “Baa” by Moody’s and “BBB” by S&P or Fitch, and comparable unrated securities) involve a higher degree of risk than fixed-income securities in the higher rating categories. While such securities are considered investment grade quality and are deemed to have adequate capacity for payment of principal and interest, such securities lack outstanding investment characteristics and have speculative characteristics as well. For example, changes in economic conditions or other circumstances are more likely to lead to a weakened capacity to make principal and interest payments than is the case with higher grade securities.

Lower Rated Fixed-Income Securities

Lower rated fixed-income securities are defined as securities rated below-investment grade (e.g., rated “Ba” and below by Moody’s, or “BB” and below by S&P or Fitch). The principal risks of investing in these securities are as follows:

Risk to Principal and Income. Investing in lower rated fixed-income securities is considered speculative. While these securities generally provide greater income potential than investments in higher rated securities, there is a

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greater risk that principal and interest payments will not be made. Issuers of these securities may even go into default or become bankrupt.

Price Volatility. The price of lower rated fixed-income securities may be more volatile than securities in the higher rating categories. This volatility may increase during periods of economic uncertainty or change. The price of these securities is affected more than higher rated fixed-income securities by the market’s perception of their credit quality especially during times of adverse publicity. In the past, economic downturns or an increase in interest rates have, at times, caused more defaults by issuers of these securities and may do so in the future. Economic downturns and increases in interest rates have an even greater effect on highly leveraged issuers of these securities.

Liquidity. The market for lower rated fixed-income securities may have more limited trading than the market for investment grade fixed-income securities. Therefore, it may be more difficult to sell these securities and these securities may have to be sold at prices below their market value in order to meet redemption requests or to respond to changes in market conditions.

Dependence on Subadvisor’s Own Credit Analysis. While a subadvisor to a fund may rely on ratings by established credit rating agencies, it also will supplement such ratings with its own independent review of the credit quality of the issuer. Therefore, the assessment of the credit risk of lower rated fixed-income securities is more dependent on a subadvisor’s evaluation than the assessment of the credit risk of higher rated securities.

Additional Risks Regarding Lower Rated Corporate Fixed-Income Securities. Lower rated corporate debt securities (and comparable unrated securities) tend to be more sensitive to individual corporate developments and changes in economic conditions than higher-rated corporate fixed-income securities.

Issuers of lower rated corporate debt securities also may be highly leveraged, increasing the risk that principal and income will not be repaid.

Additional Risks Regarding Lower Rated Foreign Government Fixed-Income Securities. Lower rated foreign government fixed-income securities are subject to the risks of investing in emerging market countries described under “Risk Factors—Foreign Securities.” In addition, the ability and willingness of a foreign government to make payments on debt when due may be affected by the prevailing economic and political conditions within the country. Emerging market countries may experience high inflation, interest rates and unemployment as well as exchange rate fluctuations that adversely affect trade and political uncertainty or instability. These factors increase the risk that a foreign government will not make payments when due.

Market Events

Events in certain sectors historically have resulted, and may in the future result, in an unusually high degree of volatility in the financial markets, both domestic and foreign. These events have included, but are not limited to: bankruptcies, corporate restructurings, and other similar events; governmental efforts to limit short selling and high frequency trading; measures to address U.S. federal and state budget deficits; social, political, and economic instability in Europe; economic stimulus by the Japanese central bank; dramatic changes in energy prices and currency exchange rates; and China’s economic slowdown. Interconnected global economies and financial markets increase the possibility that conditions in one country or region might adversely impact issuers in a different country or region. Both domestic and foreign equity markets have experienced increased volatility and turmoil, with issuers that have exposure to the real estate, mortgage, and credit markets particularly affected. Banks and financial services companies could suffer losses if interest rates rise or economic conditions deteriorate.

In addition, relatively high market volatility and reduced liquidity in credit and fixed-income markets may adversely affect many issuers worldwide. Actions taken by the U.S. Federal Reserve (the “Fed”) or foreign central banks to stimulate or stabilize economic growth, such as interventions in currency markets, could cause high volatility in the equity and fixed-income markets. Reduced liquidity may result in less money being available to purchase raw materials, goods, and services from emerging markets, which may, in turn, bring down the prices of these economic staples. It may also result in emerging-market issuers having more difficulty obtaining financing, which may, in turn, cause a decline in their securities prices.

In addition, while interest rates have been unusually low in recent years in the United States and abroad, any decision by the Fed to adjust the target Fed funds rate, among other factors, could cause markets to experience continuing high volatility. A significant increase in interest rates may cause a decline in the market for equity securities. Also, regulators have expressed concern that rate increases may contribute to price volatility. These events and the possible resulting market volatility may have an adverse effect on a fund.

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Political turmoil within the United States and abroad may also impact a fund. Although the U.S. government has honored its credit obligations, it remains possible that the United States could default on its obligations. While it is impossible to predict the consequences of such an unprecedented event, it is likely that a default by the United States would be highly disruptive to the U.S. and global securities markets and could significantly impair the value of a fund’s investments. Similarly, political events within the United States at times have resulted, and may in the future result, in a shutdown of government services, which could negatively affect the U.S. economy, decrease the value of many fund investments, and increase uncertainty in or impair the operation of the U.S. or other securities markets. The U.S. is also considering significant new investments in infrastructure and national defense which, coupled with lower federal taxes, could lead to increased government borrowing and higher interest rates. While these proposed policies are going through the political process, the equity and debt markets may react strongly to expectations, which could increase volatility, especially if the market’s expectations for changes in government policies are not borne out. The U.S. is also renegotiating many of its global trade relationships and has imposed or threatened to impose significant import tariffs. These actions could lead to price volatility and overall declines in U.S. and global investment markets.

Uncertainties surrounding the sovereign debt of a number of EU countries and the viability of the EU have disrupted and may in the future disrupt markets in the United States and around the world. If one or more countries leave the EU or the EU dissolves, the world’s securities markets likely will be significantly disrupted. On January 31, 2020, the UK left the EU, commonly referred to as “Brexit,” and there commenced a transition period during which the EU and UK will negotiate and agree on the nature of their future relationship. There is significant market uncertainty regarding Brexit’s ramifications, and the range and potential implications of possible political, regulatory, economic, and market outcomes are difficult to predict. This uncertainty may affect other countries in the EU and elsewhere, and may cause volatility within the EU, triggering prolonged economic downturns in certain countries within the EU. In addition, Brexit may create additional and substantial economic stresses for the UK, including a contraction of the UK economy and price volatility in UK stocks, decreased trade, capital outflows, devaluation of the British pound, wider corporate bond spreads due to uncertainty and declines in business and consumer spending as well as foreign direct investment. Brexit may also adversely affect UK-based financial firms that have counterparties in the EU or participate in market infrastructure (trading venues, clearing houses, settlement facilities) based in the EU. Additionally, the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic will stretch the resources and deficits of many countries in the EU and throughout the world, increasing the risk of default on their sovereign debt. These events and the resulting market volatility may have an adverse effect on the performance of the fund.

A widespread health crisis such as a global pandemic could cause substantial market volatility, exchange trading suspensions and closures, impact the ability to complete redemptions, and affect fund performance. For example, the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic has resulted in significant disruptions to global business activity. The impact of a health crisis and other epidemics and pandemics that may arise in the future, could affect the global economy in ways that cannot necessarily be foreseen at the present time. A health crisis may exacerbate other pre-existing political, social and economic risks. Any such impact could adversely affect the fund’s performance, resulting in losses to your investment.

The United States has responded to the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic and resulting economic distress with fiscal and monetary stimulus packages. In late March 2020, the government passed the Coronavirus Aid, Relief, and Economic Security Act, a stimulus package providing for over $2.2 trillion in resources to small businesses, state and local governments, and individuals that have been adversely impacted by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. In addition, in mid-March 2020 the Fed cut interest rates to historically low levels and promised unlimited and open-ended quantitative easing, including purchases of corporate and municipal government bonds. The Fed also enacted various programs to support liquidity operations and funding in the financial markets, including expanding its reverse repurchase agreement operations, adding $1.5 trillion of liquidity to the banking system, establishing swap lines with other major central banks to provide dollar funding, establishing a program to support money market funds, easing various bank capital buffers, providing funding backstops for businesses to provide bridging loans for up to four years, and providing funding to help credit flow in asset-backed securities markets. The Fed also plans to extend credit to small- and medium-sized businesses.

Political and military events, including in North Korea, Venezuela, Iran, Syria, and other areas of the Middle East, and nationalist unrest in Europe and South America, also may cause market disruptions.

In addition, there is a risk that the prices of goods and services in the United States and many foreign economies may decline over time, known as deflation. Deflation may have an adverse effect on stock prices and creditworthiness and may make defaults on debt more likely. If a country’s economy slips into a deflationary pattern, it could last for a prolonged period and may be difficult to reverse.

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Master Limited Partnership (MLP) Risk

Investing in MLPs involves certain risks related to investing in the underlying assets of MLPs and risks associated with pooled investment vehicles. MLPs holding credit-related investments are subject to interest-rate risk and the risk of default on payment obligations by debt securities. In addition, investments in the debt and securities of MLPs involve certain other risks, including risks related to limited control and limited rights to vote on matters affecting MLPs, risks related to potential conflicts of interest between an MLP and the MLP’s general partner, cash flow risks, dilution risks and risks related to the general partner’s right to require unit-holders to sell their common units at an undesirable time or price. A fund’s investments in MLPs may be subject to legal and other restrictions on resale or may be less liquid than publicly traded securities. Certain MLP securities may trade in lower volumes due to their smaller capitalizations, and may be subject to more abrupt or erratic price movements and may lack sufficient market liquidity to enable the fund to effect sales at an advantageous time or without a substantial drop in price. If a fund is one of the largest investors in an MLP, it may be more difficult for the fund to buy and sell significant amounts of such investments without an unfavorable impact on prevailing market prices. Larger purchases or sales of MLP investments by a fund in a short period of time may cause abnormal movements in the market price of these investments. As a result, these investments may be difficult to dispose of at an advantageous price when a fund desires to do so. During periods of interest rate volatility, these investments may not provide attractive returns, which may adversely impact the overall performance of a fund. MLPs in which a fund may invest operate oil, natural gas, petroleum, or other facilities within the energy sector. As a result, a fund will be susceptible to adverse economic, environmental, or regulatory occurrences impacting the energy sector.

MLPs have been adversely impacted by the reduced demand for oil and other energy commodities as a result of the slowdown in economic activity resulting from the spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Recently, global oil prices have declined significantly and experienced significant volatility, including a period where an oil-price futures contract fell into negative territory for the first time in history, as demand for oil has slowed and oil storage facilities reach their storage capacities. Reduced production and continued oil price volatility may adversely impact MLPs and energy infrastructure companies.

To the extent a distribution received by a fund from an MLP is treated as a return of capital, the fund’s adjusted tax basis in the interests of the MLP may be reduced, which will result in an increase in an amount of income or gain (or decrease in the amount of loss) that will be recognized by the fund for tax purposes upon the sale of any such interests or upon subsequent distributions in respect of such interests. After a fund’s tax basis in an MLP has been reduced to zero, subsequent distributions from the MLP will be treated as ordinary income. Changes in the tax character of MLP distributions, as well as late or corrected tax reporting by MLPs, may result in a fund issuing corrected 1099s to its shareholders.

Mortgage-Backed and Asset-Backed Securities

Mortgage-Backed Securities. Mortgage-backed securities represent participating interests in pools of residential mortgage loans that are guaranteed by the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities. However, the guarantee of these types of securities relates to the principal and interest payments and not the market value of such securities. In addition, the guarantee only relates to the mortgage-backed securities held by a fund and not the purchase of shares of the fund.

Mortgage-backed securities are issued by lenders such as mortgage bankers, commercial banks, and savings and loan associations. Such securities differ from conventional debt securities, which provide for the periodic payment of interest in fixed amounts (usually semiannually) with principal payments at maturity or on specified dates. Mortgage-backed securities provide periodic payments that are, in effect, a “pass-through” of the interest and principal payments (including any prepayments) made by the individual borrowers on the pooled mortgage loans. A mortgage-backed security will mature when all the mortgages in the pool mature or are prepaid. Therefore, mortgage-backed securities do not have a fixed maturity, and their expected maturities may vary when interest rates rise or fall.

When interest rates fall, homeowners are more likely to prepay their mortgage loans. An increased rate of prepayments on a fund’s mortgage-backed securities will result in an unforeseen loss of interest income to the fund as the fund may be required to reinvest assets at a lower interest rate. Because prepayments increase when interest rates fall, the prices of mortgage-backed securities do not increase as much as other fixed-income securities when interest rates fall.

When interest rates rise, homeowners are less likely to prepay their mortgage loans. A decreased rate of prepayments lengthens the expected maturity of a mortgage-backed security. Therefore, the prices of mortgage-backed securities may decrease more than prices of other fixed-income securities when interest rates rise.

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The yield of mortgage-backed securities is based on the average life of the underlying pool of mortgage loans. The actual life of any particular pool may be shortened by unscheduled or early payments of principal and interest. Principal prepayments may result from the sale of the underlying property or the refinancing or foreclosure of underlying mortgages. The occurrence of prepayments is affected by a wide range of economic, demographic and social factors and, accordingly, it is not possible to accurately predict the average life of a particular pool. The actual prepayment experience of a pool of mortgage loans may cause the yield realized by a fund to differ from the yield calculated on the basis of the average life of the pool. In addition, if a fund purchases mortgage-backed securities at a premium, the premium may be lost in the event of early prepayment, which may result in a loss to the fund.

Prepayments tend to increase during periods of falling interest rates and decline during periods of rising interest rates. Monthly interest payments received by a fund have a compounding effect, which will increase the yield to shareholders as compared to debt obligations that pay interest semiannually. Because of the reinvestment of prepayments of principal at current rates, mortgage-backed securities may be less effective than Treasury bonds of similar maturity at maintaining yields during periods of declining interest rates. Also, although the value of debt securities may increase as interest rates decline, the value of these pass-through type of securities may not increase as much due to their prepayment feature.

The mortgage-backed securities market has been and may continue to be negatively affected by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. The U.S. government, its agencies or its instrumentalities may implement initiatives in response to the economic impacts of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic applicable to federally backed mortgage loans. These initiatives could involve forbearance of mortgage payments or suspension or restrictions of foreclosures and evictions. The fund cannot predict with certainty the extent to which such initiatives or the economic effects of the pandemic generally may affect rates of prepayment or default or adversely impact the value of the fund’s investments in securities in the mortgage industry as a whole.

Collateralized Mortgage Obligations. CMOs are mortgage-backed securities issued in separate classes with different stated maturities. As the mortgage pool experiences prepayments, the pool pays off investors in classes with shorter maturities first. By investing in CMOs, a fund may manage the prepayment risk of mortgage-backed securities. However, prepayments may cause the actual maturity of a CMO to be substantially shorter than its stated maturity.

Asset-Backed Securities. Asset-backed securities include interests in pools of debt securities, commercial or consumer loans, or other receivables. The value of these securities depends on many factors, including changes in interest rates, the availability of information concerning the pool and its structure, the credit quality of the underlying assets, the market’s perception of the servicer of the pool, and any credit enhancement provided. In addition, asset-backed securities have prepayment risks similar to mortgage-backed securities.

Multinational Companies Risk

To the extent that a fund invests in the securities of companies with foreign business operations, it may be riskier than funds that focus on companies with primarily U.S. operations. Multinational companies may face certain political and economic risks, such as foreign controls over currency exchange; restrictions on monetary repatriation; possible seizure, nationalization or expropriation of assets; and political, economic or social instability. These risks are greater for companies with significant operations in developing countries.

Municipal Obligations

If localities and/or authorities in a given state default on their debt obligations, this may in turn negatively affect the marketability and, therefore, the liquidity of such state’s municipal instruments. The credit risk of municipal securities is directly related to a state’s financial condition, and is subject to change rapidly and without notice. The credit ratings of municipal obligations also are affected by the credit ratings of their insurers, which may be and have been negatively affected by adverse economic conditions, such as the subprime mortgage crisis. A drop in a municipal obligation’s credit rating also may affect its marketability, which may in turn impact a fund’s performance. In addition, the inability of bond issuers to market municipal bonds may lead to “failed auctions,” which would reset periodic rates to rates in excess of those that would otherwise prevail in a short-term market. Also, the value of municipal obligations may be difficult to measure in a given economic environment, since valuation subject to external influences may not reflect the intrinsic, underlying value of a state’s municipal obligations. These events may lower a fund’s NAV, and the length and severity of such market turbulence may be difficult to determine.

Natural Disasters and Adverse Weather Conditions

Certain areas of the world may be exposed to adverse weather conditions, such as major natural disasters and other extreme weather events, including hurricanes, earthquakes, typhoons, floods, tidal waves, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions, wildfires, droughts, windstorms, coastal storm surges, heat waves, and rising sea levels, among others. Some countries and regions may not have the infrastructure or resources to respond to natural disasters, making them more

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economically sensitive to environmental events. Such disasters, and the resulting damage, could have a severe and negative impact on a fund’s investment portfolio and, in the longer term, could impair the ability of issuers in which a fund invests to conduct their businesses in the manner normally conducted. Adverse weather conditions also may have a particularly significant negative effect on issuers in the agricultural sector and on insurance companies that insure against the impact of natural disasters.

Climate change, which is the result of a change in global or regional climate patterns, may increase the frequency and intensity of such adverse weather conditions, resulting in increased economic impact, and may pose long-term risks to a fund’s investments. The future impact of climate change is difficult to predict but may include changes in demand for certain goods and services, supply chain disruption, changes in production costs, increased legislation, regulation and international accords, changes in property and security values, availability of natural resources and displacement of peoples.

Negative Interest Rates

Certain countries have recently experienced negative interest rates on deposits and debt instruments have traded at negative yields. A negative interest rate policy is an unconventional central bank monetary policy tool where nominal target interest rates are set with a negative value (i.e., below zero percent) intended to help create self-sustaining growth in the local economy. Negative interest rates may become more prevalent among non-U.S. issuers, and potentially within the U.S. For example, if a bank charges negative interest, instead of receiving interest on deposits, a depositor must pay the bank fees to keep money with the bank.

These market conditions may increase a fund’s exposures to interest rate risk. To the extent a fund has a bank deposit or holds a debt instrument with a negative interest rate to maturity, the fund would generate a negative return on that investment. While negative yields can be expected to reduce demand for fixed-income investments trading at a negative interest rate, investors may be willing to continue to purchase such investments for a number of reasons including, but not limited to, price insensitivity, arbitrage opportunities across fixed-income markets or rules-based investment strategies. If negative interest rates become more prevalent in the market, it is expected that investors will seek to reallocate assets to other income-producing assets such as investment grade and high-yield debt instruments, or equity investments that pay a dividend. This increased demand for higher yielding assets may cause the price of such instruments to rise while triggering a corresponding decrease in yield and the value of debt instruments over time.

Preferred Stocks

Preferred stock generally has a preference to dividends and, upon liquidation, over an issuer’s common stock but ranks junior to debt securities in an issuer’s capital structure. Preferred stock generally pays dividends in cash (or additional shares of preferred stock) at a defined rate but, unlike interest payments on debt securities, preferred stock dividends are payable only if declared by the issuer’s board of directors. Dividends on preferred stock may be cumulative, meaning that, in the event the issuer fails to make one or more dividend payments on the preferred stock, no dividends may be paid on the issuer’s common stock until all unpaid preferred stock dividends have been paid. Preferred stock also may be subject to optional or mandatory redemption provisions.

Privately Held and Newly Public Companies

Investments in the stocks of privately held companies and newly public companies involve greater risks than investments in stocks of companies that have traded publicly on an exchange for extended time periods. Investments in such companies are less liquid and may be difficult to value. There may be significantly less information available about these companies’ business models, quality of management, earnings growth potential, and other criteria used to evaluate their investment prospects. The extent (if at all) to which securities of privately held companies or newly public companies may be sold without negatively impacting its market value may be impaired by reduced market activity or participation, legal restrictions, or other economic and market impediments. Funds that invest in securities of privately held companies tend to have a greater exposure to liquidity risk than funds that do not invest in securities of privately held companies.

Rebalancing Risks Involving Funds of Funds

The funds of funds seek to achieve their investment objectives by investing in, among other things, other John Hancock funds, as permitted by Section 12 of the 1940 Act (“Underlying JH Funds”). In addition, a fund that is not a fund of funds may serve as an Underlying JH Fund for one or more funds of funds. The funds of funds will reallocate or rebalance assets among the Underlying JH Funds (collectively, “Rebalancings”) on a daily basis. The following discussion provides information on the risks related to Rebalancings, which risks are applicable to the Underlying JH Funds undergoing Rebalancings, as well as to those funds of funds that hold Underlying JH Funds undergoing Rebalancings.

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From time to time, one or more of the Underlying JH Funds may experience relatively large redemptions or investments due to Rebalancings, as effected by the funds of funds’ Affiliated Subadvisor. Shareholders should note that Rebalancings may adversely affect the Underlying JH Funds. The Underlying JH Funds subject to redemptions by a fund of funds may find it necessary to sell securities, and the Underlying JH Funds that receive additional cash from a fund of funds will find it necessary to invest the cash. The impact of Rebalancings is likely to be greater when a fund of funds owns, redeems, or invests in, a substantial portion of an Underlying JH Fund. Rebalancings could adversely affect the performance of one or more Underlying JH Funds and, therefore, the performance of one or more funds of funds.

Possible adverse effects of Rebalancings on the Underlying JH Funds include:

1. The Underlying JH Funds could be required to sell securities or to invest cash, at times when they may not otherwise desire to do so.

2. Rebalancings may increase brokerage and/or other transaction costs of the Underlying JH Funds.

3. When a fund of funds owns a substantial portion of an Underlying JH Fund, a large redemption by the fund of funds could cause that Underlying JH Fund’s expenses to increase and could result in its portfolio becoming too small to be economically viable.

4. Rebalancings could accelerate the realization of taxable capital gains in Underlying JH Funds subject to large redemptions if sales of securities results in capital gains.

The Advisor, which serves as the investment advisor to both the funds of funds and the Underlying JH Funds, has delegated the day-to-day portfolio management of the funds of funds and many of the Underlying JH Funds to the Affiliated Subadvisors, affiliates of the Advisor. The Advisor monitors both the funds and the Underlying JH Funds. The Affiliated Subadvisors manage the assets of both the funds and many of the Underlying JH Funds (the “Affiliated Subadvised Funds”). The Affiliated Subadvisors may allocate up to all of a funds of funds’ assets to Affiliated Subadvised Funds and accordingly has an incentive to allocate more fund of funds assets to such Affiliated Subadvised Funds. The Advisor and the Affiliated Subadvisors monitor the impact of Rebalancings on the Underlying JH Funds and attempt to minimize any adverse effect of the Rebalancings on the underlying funds, consistent with pursuing the investment objective of the relevant Underlying JH Funds. Moreover, an Affiliated Subadvisor has a duty to allocate assets to an Affiliated Subadvised Fund only when such Subadvisor believes it is in the best interests of fund of funds shareholders. Minimizing any adverse effect of the Rebalancings on the underlying funds may impact the redemption schedule in connection with a Rebalancing. As part of its oversight of the funds and the subadvisors, the Advisor will monitor to ensure that allocations are conducted in accordance with these principles. This conflict of interest is also considered by the Independent Trustees when approving or replacing affiliated subadvisors and in periodically reviewing allocations to Affiliated Subadvised Funds.

As discussed above, the funds of funds periodically reallocate their investments among underlying investments. In an effort to be fully invested at all times and also to avoid temporary periods of under-investment, an Underlying JH Fund may buy securities and other instruments in anticipation of or with knowledge of future purchases of Underlying JH Fund shares resulting from a reallocation of assets by the funds of funds to the Underlying JH Fund. Until such purchases of Underlying JH Fund shares by a fund of funds settle (normally between one and three days), the Underlying JH Fund may have investment exposure in excess of its net assets. Shareholders who transact with the Underlying JH Fund during the period beginning when the Underlying JH Fund first starts buying securities in anticipation of a purchase order from a fund until such purchase order settles may incur more loss or realize more gain than they otherwise might have in the absence of the excess investment exposure. The funds of funds may purchase and redeem shares of underlying funds each business day through the use of an algorithm that operates pursuant to standing instructions to allocate purchase and redemption orders among underlying funds. Each day, pursuant to the algorithm, a fund of funds will purchase or redeem shares of an underlying fund at the NAV for the underlying fund calculated that day. This algorithm is used solely for rebalancing a fund of funds’ investments in an effort to maintain previously determined allocation percentages.

Responsible Investing Risk

Certain subadvisors may integrate research on environmental, social and governance (ESG) factors into a fund’s investment process. ESG investments may be viewed as “sustainable,” “responsible,” or “socially conscious,” among other names. A subadvisor may also be a signatory of the United Nations Principles for Responsible Investment (PRI), which works to support its investor signatories in incorporating ESG factors into their investment and ownership decisions, or other similar global or regional initiatives. ESG factors may be utilized and evaluated differently by different subadvisors, and may mean different things to different people. The successful application of ESG factors is dependent on the subadvisor’s skill in properly identifying and analyzing material ESG issues, and the suitability of ESG investments may change over time. Integration of ESG factors into a fund’s investment process may impact its investment exposure, performance and proxy voting, among other elements.

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Russian Securities Risk

The United States and the EU have imposed economic sanctions against companies in certain sectors of the Russian economy, including, but not limited to: financial services, energy, metals and mining, engineering, and defense and defense-related materials. These sanctions could impair a fund’s ability to continue to invest in Russian issuers. For example, a fund may be prohibited from investing in securities issued by companies subject to such sanctions. In addition, retaliatory measures by the Russian government in response to such sanctions may result in a freeze of Russian assets held by the fund, thereby prohibiting the fund from selling or otherwise transacting in these investments. In such circumstances, the fund might be forced to liquidate non-restricted assets in order to satisfy shareholder redemptions. Such liquidation of fund assets might also result in the fund receiving substantially lower prices for its portfolio securities.

Securities Linked to the Real Estate Market

Investing in securities of companies in the real estate industry subjects a fund to the risks associated with the direct ownership of real estate. These risks include, but are not limited to:

■ declines in the value of real estate;

■ risks related to general and local economic conditions;

■ possible lack of availability of mortgage portfolios;

■ overbuilding;

■ extended vacancies of properties;

■ increased competition;

■ increases in property taxes and operating expenses;

■ change in zoning laws;

■ losses due to costs resulting from the clean-up of environmental problems;

■ liability to third parties for damages resulting from environmental problems;

■ casualty or condemnation losses;

■ limitations on rents;

■ changes in neighborhood values and the appeal of properties to tenants; and

■ changes in interest rates.

Therefore, if a fund invests a substantial amount of its assets in securities of companies in the real estate industry, the value of the fund’s shares may change at different rates compared to the value of shares of a fund with investments in a mix of different industries.

Securities of companies in the real estate industry have been and may continue to be negatively affected by the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic. Potential impacts on the real estate market may include lower occupancy rates, decreased lease payments, defaults and foreclosures, among other consequences. These impacts could adversely affect corporate borrowers and mortgage lenders, the value of mortgage-backed securities, the bonds of municipalities that depend on tax revenues and tourist dollars generated by such properties, and insurers of the property and/or of corporate, municipal or mortgage-backed securities. It is not known how long such impacts, or any future impacts of other significant events, will last.

Securities of companies in the real estate industry include REITs, including equity REITs and mortgage REITs. Equity REITs may be affected by changes in the value of the underlying property owned by the trusts, while mortgage REITs may be affected by the quality of any credit extended. Further, equity and mortgage REITs are dependent upon management skills and generally may not be diversified. Equity and mortgage REITs also are subject to heavy cash flow dependency, defaults by borrowers or lessees, and self-liquidations. In addition, equity, mortgage, and hybrid REITs could possibly fail to qualify for tax free pass-through of income under the Code, or to maintain their exemptions from registration under the 1940 Act. The above factors also may adversely affect a borrower’s or a lessee’s ability to meet its obligations to a REIT. In the event of a default by a borrower or lessee, a REIT may experience delays in enforcing its rights as a mortgagee or lessor and may incur substantial costs associated with protecting its investments.

In addition, even the larger REITs in the industry tend to be small to medium-sized companies in relation to the equity markets as a whole. See “Small and Medium Size and Unseasoned Companies” for a discussion of the risks associated with investments in these companies.

Small and Medium Size and Unseasoned Companies

Survival of Small or Unseasoned Companies. Companies that are small or unseasoned (i.e., less than three years of operating history) are more likely than larger or established companies to fail or not to accomplish their goals. As a

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result, the value of their securities could decline significantly. These companies are less likely to survive since they are often dependent upon a small number of products and may have limited financial resources and a small management group.

Changes in Earnings and Business Prospects. Small or unseasoned companies often have a greater degree of change in earnings and business prospects than larger or established companies, resulting in more volatility in the price of their securities.

Liquidity. The securities of small or unseasoned companies may have limited marketability. This factor could cause the value of a fund’s investments to decrease if it needs to sell such securities when there are few interested buyers.

Impact of Buying or Selling Shares. Small or unseasoned companies usually have fewer outstanding shares than larger or established companies. Therefore, it may be more difficult to buy or sell large amounts of these shares without unfavorably impacting the price of the security.

Publicly Available Information. There may be less publicly available information about small or unseasoned companies. Therefore, when making a decision to purchase a security for a fund, a subadvisor may not be aware of problems associated with the company issuing the security.

Medium Size Companies. Investments in the securities of medium sized companies present risks similar to those associated with small or unseasoned companies although to a lesser degree due to the larger size of the companies.

Stripped Securities

Stripped securities are the separate income or principal components of a debt security. The risks associated with stripped securities are similar to those of other debt securities, although stripped securities may be more volatile, and the value of certain types of stripped securities may move in the same direction as interest rates. U.S. Treasury securities that have been stripped by a Federal Reserve Bank are obligations issued by the U.S. Treasury.

U.S. Government Securities

U.S. government securities include securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. government or by an agency or instrumentality of the U.S. government. Not all U.S. government securities are backed by the full faith and credit of the United States. Some are supported only by the credit of the issuing agency or instrumentality, which depends entirely on its own resources to repay the debt. U.S. government securities that are backed by the full faith and credit of the United States include U.S. Treasuries and mortgage-backed securities guaranteed by GNMA. Securities that are only supported by the credit of the issuing agency or instrumentality include those issued by Fannie Mae, the FHLBs and Freddie Mac.

REGULATION OF COMMODITY INTERESTS

The CFTC has adopted regulations that subject registered investment companies and/or their investment advisors to regulation by the CFTC if the registered investment company invests more than a prescribed level of its NAV in commodity futures, options on commodities or commodity futures, swaps, or other financial instruments regulated under the CEA (“commodity interests”), or if the registered investment company markets itself as providing investment exposure to such commodity interests. The Advisor is registered as a CPO under the CEA and is a National Futures Association member firm; however, the Advisor does not act in the capacity of a registered CPO with respect to the funds.

Although the Advisor is a registered CPO, the Advisor has claimed an exemption from CPO registration pursuant to CFTC Rule 4.5 with respect to the funds. To remain eligible for this exemption, each fund must comply with certain limitations, including limits on trading in commodity interests, and restrictions on the manner in which the fund markets its commodity interests trading activities. These limitations may restrict a fund’s ability to pursue its investment strategy, increase the costs of implementing its strategy, increase its expenses and/or adversely affect its total return.

HEDGING AND OTHER STRATEGIC TRANSACTIONS

Hedging refers to protecting against possible changes in the market value of securities or other assets that a fund already owns or plans to buy or protecting unrealized gains in the fund. These strategies also may be used to gain exposure to a particular market. The hedging and other strategic transactions that may be used by a fund, but only if and to the extent that such transactions are consistent with its investment objective and policies, are described below:

■ exchange-listed and OTC put and call options on securities, equity indices, volatility indices, financial futures contracts, currencies, fixed-income indices and other financial instruments;

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■ financial futures contracts (including stock index futures);

■ interest rate transactions;*

■ currency transactions;**

■ warrants and rights (including, with respect to ESG Core Bond Fund, non-standard warrants and participatory risks);

■ swaps (including interest rate, index, dividend, inflation, variance, equity, and volatility swaps, credit default swaps, swap options and currency swaps); and

■ structured notes, including hybrid or “index” securities.

* A fund’s interest rate transactions may take the form of swaps, caps, floors and collars.

** A fund’s currency transactions may take the form of currency forward contracts, currency futures contracts, currency swaps and options on currencies or currency futures contracts.

Hedging and other strategic transactions may be used for the following purposes:

■ to attempt to protect against possible changes in the market value of securities held or to be purchased by a fund resulting from securities markets or currency exchange rate fluctuations;

■ to protect a fund’s unrealized gains in the value of its securities;

■ to facilitate the sale of a fund’s securities for investment purposes;

■ to manage the effective maturity or duration of a fund’s securities;

■ to establish a position in the derivatives markets as a method of gaining exposure to a particular geographic region, market, industry, issuer, or security; or

■ to increase exposure to a foreign currency or to shift exposure to foreign currency fluctuations from one country to another.

To the extent that a fund uses hedging or another strategic transaction to gain, shift or manage exposure to a particular geographic region, market, industry, issuer, security, currency, or other asset, the fund will be exposed to the risks of investing in that asset as well as the risks inherent in the specific hedging or other strategic transaction used to gain such exposure.

For purposes of determining compliance with a fund’s investment policies, strategies and restrictions, the fund will generally consider the market value of derivative instruments, unless the nature of the derivative instrument warrants the use of the instrument’s notional value to more accurately reflect the economic exposure represented by the derivative position.

Because of the uncertainties under federal tax laws as to whether income from commodity-linked derivative instruments and certain other instruments would constitute “qualifying income” to a RIC, no fund is permitted to invest in such instruments unless the subadvisor obtains prior written approval from the Trusts’ CCO. The CCO, as a member of the Advisor’s Complex Securities Committee, evaluates with the committee the appropriateness of the investment.

General Characteristics of Options

Put options and call options typically have similar structural characteristics and operational mechanics regardless of the underlying instrument on which they are purchased or sold. Many hedging and other strategic transactions involving options require segregation of portfolio assets in special accounts, as described under “Use of Segregated and Other Special Accounts.”

Put Options. A put option gives the purchaser of the option, upon payment of a premium, the right to sell (and the writer the obligation to buy) the underlying security, commodity, index, currency or other instrument at the exercise price. A fund’s purchase of a put option on a security, for example, might be designed to protect its holdings in the underlying instrument (or, in some cases, a similar instrument) against a substantial decline in the market value of such instrument by giving a fund the right to sell the instrument at the option exercise price.

If, and to the extent authorized to do so, a fund may, for various purposes, purchase and sell put options on securities (whether or not it holds the securities in its portfolio) and on securities indices, currencies and futures contracts.

Risk of Selling Put Options. In selling put options, a fund faces the risk that it may be required to buy the underlying security at a disadvantageous price above the market price.

Call Options. A call option, upon payment of a premium, gives the purchaser of the option the right to buy (and the seller the obligation to sell) the underlying instrument at the exercise price. A fund’s purchase of a call option on an underlying instrument might be intended to protect a fund against an increase in the price of the underlying instrument that it intends to purchase in the future by fixing the price at which it may purchase the instrument. An “American” style

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put or call option may be exercised at any time during the option period, whereas a “European” style put or call option may be exercised only upon expiration or during a fixed period prior to expiration. If and to the extent authorized to do so, a fund may purchase and sell call options on securities (whether or not it holds the securities).

Partial Hedge or Income to a Fund. If a fund sells a call option, the premium that it receives may serve as a partial hedge, to the extent of the option premium, against a decrease in the value of the underlying securities or instruments held by a fund or will increase a fund’s income. Similarly, the sale of put options also can provide fund gains.

Covering of Options. All call options sold by a fund must be “covered” (that is, the fund must own the securities or futures contract subject to the call or must otherwise meet the asset segregation requirements described below for so long as the call is outstanding).

Risk of Selling Call Options. Even though a fund will receive the option premium to help protect it against loss, a call option sold by a fund will expose it during the term of the option to possible loss of the opportunity to sell the underlying security or instrument with a gain.

Exchange-listed Options. Exchange-listed options are issued by a regulated intermediary such as the Options Clearing Corporation (the “OCC”), which guarantees the performance of the obligations of the parties to the options. The discussion below uses the OCC as an example, but also is applicable to other similar financial intermediaries.

OCC-issued and exchange-listed options, with certain exceptions, generally settle by physical delivery of the underlying security or currency, although in the future, cash settlement may become available. Index options and Eurodollar instruments (which are described below under “Eurodollar Instruments”) are cash settled for the net amount, if any, by which the option is “in-the-money” at the time the option is exercised. “In-the-money” means the amount by which the value of the underlying instrument exceeds, in the case of a call option, or is less than, in the case of a put option, the exercise price of the option. Frequently, rather than taking or making delivery of the underlying instrument through the process of exercising the option, listed options are closed by entering into offsetting purchase or sale transactions that do not result in ownership of the new option.

A fund’s ability to close out its position as a purchaser or seller of an OCC-issued or exchange-listed put or call option is dependent, in part, upon the liquidity of the particular option market. Among the possible reasons for the absence of a liquid option market on an exchange are:

■ insufficient trading interest in certain options;

■ restrictions on transactions imposed by an exchange;

■ trading halts, suspensions or other restrictions imposed with respect to particular classes or series of options or underlying securities, including reaching daily price limits;

■ interruption of the normal operations of the OCC or an exchange;

■ inadequacy of the facilities of an exchange or the OCC to handle current trading volume; or

■ a decision by one or more exchanges to discontinue the trading of options (or a particular class or series of options), in which event the relevant market for that option on that exchange would cease to exist, although any such outstanding options on that exchange would continue to be exercisable in accordance with their terms.

The hours of trading for listed options may not coincide with the hours during which the underlying financial instruments are traded. To the extent that the option markets close before the markets for the underlying financial instruments, significant price and rate movements can take place in the underlying markets that would not be reflected in the corresponding option markets.

OTC Options. OTC options are purchased from or sold to counterparties such as securities dealers or financial institutions through direct bilateral agreement with the counterparty. In contrast to exchange-listed options, which generally have standardized terms and performance mechanics, all of the terms of an OTC option, including such terms as method of settlement, term, exercise price, premium, guaranties and security, are determined by negotiation of the parties. It is anticipated that a fund authorized to use OTC options generally will only enter into OTC options that have cash settlement provisions, although it will not be required to do so.

Unless the parties provide for it, no central clearing or guaranty function is involved in an OTC option. As a result, if a counterparty fails to make or take delivery of the security, currency or other instrument underlying an OTC option it has entered into with a fund or fails to make a cash settlement payment due in accordance with the terms of that option, the fund will lose any premium it paid for the option as well as any anticipated benefit of the transaction. Thus, the subadvisor must assess the creditworthiness of each such counterparty or any guarantor or credit enhancement of the counterparty’s credit to determine the likelihood that the terms of the OTC option will be met. A fund will enter into OTC option transactions only with U.S. government securities dealers recognized by the Federal Reserve Bank of New

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York as “primary dealers,” or broker dealers, domestic or foreign banks, or other financial institutions that are deemed creditworthy by the subadvisor. In the absence of a change in the current position of the SEC’s staff, OTC options purchased by a fund and the amount of the fund’s obligation pursuant to an OTC option sold by the fund (the cost of the sell-back plus the in-the-money amount, if any) or the value of the assets held to cover such options will be deemed illiquid.

Types of Options That May Be Purchased. A fund may purchase and sell call options on securities indices, currencies, and futures contracts, as well as on Eurodollar instruments that are traded on U.S. and foreign securities exchanges and in the OTC markets.

General Characteristics of Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts

A fund may trade financial futures contracts (including stock index futures contracts, which are described below) or purchase or sell put and call options on those contracts for the following purposes:

■ as a hedge against anticipated interest rate, currency or market changes;

■ for duration management;

■ for risk management purposes; and

■ to gain exposure to a securities market.

Futures contracts are generally bought and sold on the commodities exchanges where they are listed with payment of initial and variation margin as described below. The sale of a futures contract creates a firm obligation by a fund, as seller, to deliver to the buyer the specific type of financial instrument called for in the contract at a specific future time for a specified price (or, with respect to certain instruments, the net cash amount). Options on futures contracts are similar to options on securities except that an option on a futures contract gives the purchaser the right, in return for the premium paid, to assume a position in a futures contract and obligates the seller to deliver that position.

With respect to futures contracts that are not legally required to “cash settle,” a fund may cover the open position by setting aside or earmarking liquid assets in an amount equal to the market value of the futures contract. With respect to futures that are required to “cash settle,” such as Eurodollar, UK 90 day and Euribor futures; however, a fund is permitted to set aside or earmark liquid assets in an amount equal to the fund’s daily marked to market (net) obligation, if any, (in other words, the fund’s daily net liability, if any) rather than the market value of the futures contract. By setting aside assets equal to only its net obligation under cash-settled futures contracts, a fund will have the ability to employ such futures contracts to a greater extent than if the fund were required to segregate assets equal to the full market value of the futures contract.

A fund will engage in transactions in futures contracts and related options only to the extent such transactions are consistent with the requirements of the Code in order to maintain its qualification as a RIC for federal income tax purposes.

Margin. Maintaining a futures contract or selling an option on a futures contract will typically require a fund to deposit with a financial intermediary, as security for its obligations, an amount of cash or other specified assets (“initial margin”) that initially is from 1% to 10% of the face amount of the contract (but may be higher in some circumstances). Additional cash or assets (“variation margin”) may be required to be deposited thereafter daily as the mark-to-market value of the futures contract fluctuates. The purchase of an option on a financial futures contract involves payment of a premium for the option without any further obligation on the part of a fund. If a fund exercises an option on a futures contract it will be obligated to post initial margin (and potentially variation margin) for the resulting futures position just as it would for any futures position.

Settlement. Futures contracts and options thereon are generally settled by entering into an offsetting transaction, but no assurance can be given that a position can be offset prior to settlement or that delivery will occur.

Value of Futures Contracts Sold by a Fund. The value of all futures contracts sold by a fund (adjusted for the historical volatility relationship between such fund and the contracts) will not exceed the total market value of the fund’s assets.

Hedging and other strategic transactions involving futures contracts, options on futures contracts and swaps will be purchased, sold or entered into primarily for bona fide hedging, risk management (including duration management) or appropriate portfolio management purposes, including gaining exposure to a particular securities market.

Fund-Specific Policies regarding Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts

For Bond Fund, ESG Core Bond Fund, Government Income Fund, High Yield Fund, Income Fund, and Investment Grade Bond Fund, futures contracts may be based on various securities, securities indices, foreign currencies (for ESG Core

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Bond Fund, High Yield Fund, and Income Fund) and any other financial instruments and indices. For the Tax-Free Funds, the futures contracts may be based on debt securities and debt securities indices. All futures contracts entered into by California Tax-Free Income Fund, Government Income Fund, High Yield Fund, and Income Fund are traded on U.S. or foreign exchanges or boards of trade, and all futures contracts entered into by Bond Fund, ESG Core Bond Fund, High Yield Municipal Bond Fund, Investment Grade Bond Fund, and Tax-Free Bond Fund are traded on U.S. exchanges or boards of trade, that are licensed, regulated or approved by the CFTC.

If and to the extent that a fund is using futures and related options for hedging purposes, futures contracts will be sold to protect against a decline in the price of securities (or the currency in which they are quoted or denominated) that the fund owns or futures contracts will be purchased to protect the fund against an increase in the price of securities (or the currency in which they are quoted or denominated) it intends to purchase. Prior to any such purchase, a fund will determine that the price fluctuations in any futures contracts and options on futures used for hedging purposes are substantially related to price fluctuations in securities held by the fund or securities or instruments that it expects to purchase. As evidence of its hedging intent, each fund expects that on 75% or more of the occasions on which it takes a long futures or option position (involving the purchase of futures contracts), the fund will have purchased, or will be in the process of purchasing, equivalent amounts of related securities (or assets of the fund denominated in the related currency) in the cash market at the time when the futures or option position is closed out. However, in particular cases, when it is economically advantageous for a fund to do so, a long futures position may be terminated or an option may expire without the corresponding purchase of securities or other assets. Although under some circumstances prices of securities in a fund’s portfolio may be more or less volatile than prices of such futures contracts, the subadvisor will attempt to estimate the extent of this volatility difference based on historical patterns and compensate for any differential by having the fund enter into a greater or lesser number of futures contracts or by attempting to achieve only a partial hedge against price changes affecting the fund’s portfolio securities.

If and to the extent that a fund engages in nonhedging transactions in futures contracts and options on futures, the aggregate initial margin and premiums required to establish these nonhedging positions will not exceed 5% of the net asset value of the fund’s portfolio after taking into account unrealized profits and losses on any such positions and excluding the amount by which such options were in-the-money at the time of purchase.

Options on Securities Indices and Other Financial Indices

A fund may purchase and sell call and put options on securities indices and other financial indices (“Options on Financial Indices”). In so doing, a fund may achieve many of the same objectives it would achieve through the sale or purchase of options on individual securities or other instruments.

Description of Options on Financial Indices. Options on Financial Indices are similar to options on a security or other instrument except that, rather than settling by physical delivery of the underlying instrument, Options on Financial Indices settle by cash settlement. Cash settlement means that the holder has the right to receive, upon exercise of the option, an amount of cash if the closing level of the index upon which the option is based exceeds, in the case of a call (or is less than, in the case of a put) the exercise price of the option. This amount of cash is equal to the excess of the closing price of the index over the exercise price of the option, which also may be multiplied by a formula value. The seller of the option is obligated to make delivery of this amount. The gain or loss on an option on an index depends on price movements in the instruments comprising the market or other composite on which the underlying index is based, rather than price movements in individual securities, as is the case for options on securities. In the case of an OTC option, physical delivery may be used instead of cash settlement. By purchasing or selling Options on Financial Indices, a fund may achieve many of the same objectives it would achieve through the sale or purchase of options on individual securities or other instruments.

Yield Curve Options

A fund also may enter into options on the “spread,” or yield differential, between two fixed-income securities, in transactions referred to as “yield curve” options. In contrast to other types of options, a yield curve option is based on the difference between the yields of designated securities, rather than the prices of the individual securities, and is settled through cash payments. Accordingly, a yield curve option is profitable to the holder if this differential widens (in the case of a call) or narrows (in the case of a put), regardless of whether the yields of the underlying securities increase or decrease.

Yield curve options may be used for the same purposes as other options on securities. Specifically, a fund may purchase or write such options for hedging purposes. For example, a fund may purchase a call option on the yield spread between two securities, if it owns one of the securities and anticipates purchasing the other security and wants to hedge against an adverse change in the yield spread between the two securities. A fund also may purchase or write yield curve options

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for other than hedging purposes (i.e., in an effort to increase its current income) if, in the judgment of the subadvisor, the fund will be able to profit from movements in the spread between the yields of the underlying securities. The trading of yield curve options is subject to all of the risks associated with the trading of other types of options. In addition, however, such options present risk of loss even if the yield of one of the underlying securities remains constant, if the spread moves in a direction or to an extent which was not anticipated. Yield curve options written by a fund will be “covered.” A call (or put) option is covered if a fund holds another call (or put) option on the spread between the same two securities and owns liquid and unencumbered assets sufficient to cover the fund’s net liability under the two options. Therefore, a fund’s liability for such a covered option is generally limited to the difference between the amounts of the fund’s liability under the option written by the fund less the value of the option held by it. Yield curve options also may be covered in such other manner as may be in accordance with the requirements of the counterparty with which the option is traded and applicable laws and regulations. Yield curve options are traded OTC.

Currency Transactions

A fund may be authorized to engage in currency transactions with counterparties to hedge the value of portfolio securities denominated in particular currencies against fluctuations in relative value, to gain exposure to a currency without purchasing securities denominated in that currency, and, with respect to ESG Core Bond Fund, to facilitate the settlement of equity trades or to exchange one currency for another. If a fund enters into a currency hedging transaction, the fund will comply with the asset segregation requirements described below under “Use of Segregated and Other Special Accounts.” Currency transactions may include:

■ forward currency contracts;

■ exchange-listed currency futures contracts and options thereon;

■ exchange-listed and OTC options on currencies;

■ currency swaps; and

■ spot transactions (i.e., transactions on a cash basis based on prevailing market rates).

A forward currency contract involves a privately negotiated obligation to purchase or sell (with delivery generally required) a specific currency at a future date at a price set at the time of the contract. A currency swap is an agreement to exchange cash flows based on the notional difference among two or more currencies and operates similarly to an interest rate swap, which is described under “Swap Agreements and Options on Swap Agreements.” A fund may enter into currency transactions only with counterparties that are deemed creditworthy by the subadvisor. Nevertheless, engaging in currency transactions will expose a fund to counterparty risk.

A fund’s dealings in forward currency contracts and other currency transactions such as futures contracts, options, options on futures contracts and swaps may be used for hedging and similar purposes, possibly including transaction hedging, position hedging, cross hedging and proxy hedging. A fund also may use foreign currency options and foreign currency forward contracts to increase exposure to a foreign currency, to shift exposure to foreign currency fluctuation from one country to another or to facilitate the settlement of equity trades. Each of High Yield Fund and Income Fund will not attempt to hedge all of its foreign portfolio positions and will enter into such transactions only to the extent, if any, deemed appropriate by the subadvisor.

A fund also may engage in non-deliverable forward transactions to manage currency risk or to gain exposure to a currency without purchasing securities denominated in that currency. A non-deliverable forward is a transaction that represents an agreement between a fund and a counterparty (usually a commercial bank) to buy or sell a specified (notional) amount of a particular currency at an agreed-upon foreign exchange rate on an agreed-upon future date. Unlike other currency transactions, there is no physical delivery of the currency on the settlement of a non-deliverable forward transaction. Rather, the fund and the counterparty agree to net the settlement by making a payment in U.S. dollars or another fully convertible currency that represents any differential between the foreign exchange rate agreed upon at the inception of the non-deliverable forward agreement and the actual exchange rate on the agreed-upon future date. Thus, the actual gain or loss of a given non-deliverable forward transaction is calculated by multiplying the transaction’s notional amount by the difference between the agreed-upon forward exchange rate and the actual exchange rate when the transaction is completed.

When a fund enters into a non-deliverable forward transaction, the fund will segregate liquid assets in an amount not less than the value of the fund’s net exposure to such non-deliverable forward transactions. If the additional segregated assets decline in value or the amount of the fund’s commitment increases because of changes in currency rates, additional cash or securities will be segregated on a daily basis so that the value of the account will equal the amount of the fund’s commitments under the non-deliverable forward agreement.

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Since a fund generally may only close out a non-deliverable forward with the particular counterparty, there is a risk that the counterparty will default on its obligation to pay under the agreement. If the counterparty defaults, the fund will have contractual remedies pursuant to the agreement related to the transaction, but there is no assurance that contract counterparties will be able to meet their obligations pursuant to such agreements or that, in the event of a default, the fund will succeed in pursuing contractual remedies. The fund thus assumes the risk that it may be delayed or prevented from obtaining payments owed to it pursuant to non-deliverable forward transactions.

In addition, where the currency exchange rates that are the subject of a given non-deliverable forward transaction do not move in the direction or to the extent anticipated, a fund could sustain losses on the non-deliverable forward transaction. A fund’s investment in a particular non-deliverable forward transaction will be affected favorably or unfavorably by factors that affect the subject currencies, including economic, political and legal developments that impact the applicable countries, as well as exchange control regulations of the applicable countries. These risks are heightened when a non-deliverable forward transaction involves currencies of emerging market countries because such currencies can be volatile and there is a greater risk that such currencies will be devalued against the U.S. dollar or other currencies.

Transaction Hedging. Transaction hedging involves entering into a currency transaction with respect to specific assets or liabilities of a fund, which generally will arise in connection with the purchase or sale of the portfolio securities or the receipt of income from them.

Position Hedging. Position hedging involves entering into a currency transaction with respect to portfolio securities positions denominated or generally quoted in that currency.

Cross Hedging. A fund may be authorized to cross-hedge currencies by entering into transactions to purchase or sell one or more currencies that are expected to increase or decline in value relative to other currencies to which the fund has or in which the fund expects to have exposure.

Proxy Hedging. To reduce the effect of currency fluctuations on the value of existing or anticipated holdings of its securities, a fund also may be authorized to engage in proxy hedging. Proxy hedging is often used when the currency to which a fund’s holdings are exposed is generally difficult to hedge or specifically difficult to hedge against the dollar. Proxy hedging entails entering into a forward contract to sell a currency, the changes in the value of which are generally considered to be linked to a currency or currencies in which some or all of a fund’s securities are or are expected to be denominated, and to buy dollars. The amount of the contract would not exceed the market value of the fund’s securities denominated in linked currencies.

Combined Transactions

A fund may be authorized to enter into multiple transactions, including multiple options transactions, multiple futures transactions, multiple currency transactions (including forward currency contracts), multiple interest rate transactions and any combination of futures, options, currency and interest rate transactions. A combined transaction usually will contain elements of risk that are present in each of its component transactions. Although a fund normally will enter into combined transactions to reduce risk or otherwise more effectively achieve the desired portfolio management goal, it is possible that the combination will instead increase the risks or hinder achievement of the fund’s investment objective.

Swap Agreements and Options on Swap Agreements

Among the hedging and other strategic transactions into which a fund may be authorized to enter are swap transactions, including, but not limited to, swap agreements on interest rates, security or commodity indexes, specific securities and commodities, currency exchange rates, and credit and event-linked swaps. To the extent that a fund may invest in foreign currency-denominated securities, it also may invest in currency exchange rate swap agreements.

A fund may enter into swap transactions for any legal purpose consistent with its investment objective and policies, such as to attempt to obtain or preserve a particular return or spread at a lower cost than obtaining a return or spread through purchases and/or sales of instruments in other markets, to protect against currency fluctuations, as a duration management technique, to protect against any increase in the price of securities the fund anticipates purchasing at a later date, or to gain exposure to certain markets in the most economical way possible.

OTC swap agreements are two-party contracts entered into primarily by institutional investors for periods ranging from a few weeks to one or more years. In a standard “swap” transaction, two parties agree to exchange the returns (or differentials in rates of return) earned or realized on particular predetermined investments or instruments, which may be adjusted for an interest factor. The gross returns to be exchanged or “swapped” between the parties are generally calculated with respect to a “notional amount,” i.e., the return on or increase in value of a particular dollar amount invested at a particular interest rate, in a particular foreign currency, or in a “basket” of securities or commodities

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representing a particular index. A “quanto” or “differential” swap combines both an interest rate and a currency transaction. Other forms of swap agreements include interest rate caps, under which, in return for a premium, one party agrees to make payments to the other to the extent that interest rates exceed a specified rate, or “cap”; interest rate floors, under which, in return for a premium, one party agrees to make payments to the other to the extent that interest rates fall below a specified rate, or “floor”; and interest rate collars, under which a party sells a cap and purchases a floor or vice versa in an attempt to protect itself against interest rate movements exceeding given minimum or maximum levels. Consistent with a fund’s investment objectives and general investment policies, a fund may be authorized to invest in commodity swap agreements. For example, an investment in a commodity swap agreement may involve the exchange of floating-rate interest payments for the total return on a commodity index. In a total return commodity swap, a fund will receive the price appreciation of a commodity index, a portion of the index, or a single commodity in exchange for paying an agreed-upon fee. If the commodity swap is for one period, a fund may pay a fixed fee, established at the outset of the swap. However, if the term of the commodity swap is more than one period, with interim swap payments, a fund may pay an adjustable or floating fee. With a “floating” rate, the fee may be pegged to a base rate, such as LIBOR, and is adjusted each period. Therefore, if interest rates increase over the term of the swap contract, a fund may be required to pay a higher fee at each swap reset date.

A fund may be authorized to enter into options on swap agreements (“Swap Options”). A Swap Option is a contract that gives a counterparty the right (but not the obligation) in return for payment of a premium, to enter into a new swap agreement or to shorten, extend, cancel or otherwise modify an existing swap agreement, at some designated future time on specified terms. A fund also may be authorized to write (sell) and purchase put and call Swap Options.

Depending on the terms of the particular agreement, a fund generally will incur a greater degree of risk when it writes a Swap Option than it will incur when it purchases a Swap Option. When a fund purchases a swap option, it risks losing only the amount of the premium it has paid should it decide to let the option expire unexercised. However, when the fund writes a Swap Option, upon exercise of the option the fund will become obligated according to the terms of the underlying agreement. Most other types of swap agreements entered into by a fund would calculate the obligations of the parties to the agreement on a “net basis.” Consequently, a fund’s current obligations (or rights) under a swap agreement generally will be equal only to the net amount to be paid or received under the agreement based on the relative values of the positions held by each party to the agreement (the “net amount”). A fund’s current obligations under a swap agreement will be accrued daily (offset against any amounts owed to the fund) and any accrued but unpaid net amounts owed to a swap counterparty will be covered by the segregation or “earmarking” of liquid assets, to avoid any potential leveraging of a fund’s investments. Obligations under swap agreements so covered will not be construed to be “senior securities” for purposes of a fund’s investment restriction concerning senior securities.

Whether a fund’s use of swap agreements or Swap Options will be successful in furthering its investment objective will depend on the subadvisor’s ability to predict correctly whether certain types of investments are likely to produce greater returns than other investments. Because OTC swaps are two-party contracts and because they may have terms of greater than seven days, they may be considered to be illiquid. Moreover, a fund bears the risk of loss of the amount expected to be received under a swap agreement in the event of the default or bankruptcy of a swap agreement counterparty. A fund will enter into swap agreements only with counterparties that meet certain standards of creditworthiness. Certain restrictions imposed on a fund by the Code may limit its ability to use swap agreements. Current regulatory initiatives, described below, and potential future regulation could adversely affect a fund’s ability to terminate existing swap agreements or to realize amounts to be received under such agreements.ESG Core Bond Fund will not enter into a swap agreement with any single party if the net amount owed to the fund under existing contracts with that party would exceed 5% of the fund’s total assets.

Swaps are highly specialized instruments that require investment techniques, risk analyses, and tax planning different from those associated with traditional investments. The use of a swap requires an understanding not only of the referenced asset, rate, or index but also of the swap itself, without the benefit of observing the performance of the swap under all possible market conditions. Swap agreements may be subject to liquidity risk, which exists when a particular swap is difficult to purchase or sell. If a swap transaction is particularly large or if the relevant market is illiquid (as is the case with many OTC swaps), it may not be possible to initiate a transaction or liquidate a position at an advantageous time or price, which may result in significant losses. In addition, a swap transaction may be subject to a fund’s limitation on investments in illiquid securities.

Like most other investments, swap agreements are subject to the risk that the market value of the instrument will change in a way detrimental to a fund’s interest. A fund bears the risk that the subadvisor will not accurately forecast future market trends or the values of assets, reference rates, indexes, or other economic factors in establishing swap positions for it. If the subadvisor attempts to use a swap as a hedge against, or as a substitute for, an investment, the fund will be exposed to the risk that the swap will have or will develop imperfect or no correlation with the investment.

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This could cause substantial losses for the fund. While hedging strategies involving swap instruments can reduce the risk of loss, they also can reduce the opportunity for gain or even result in losses by offsetting favorable price movements in other investments.

The swaps market was largely unregulated prior to the enactment of federal legislation known as the Dodd-Frank Wall Street Reform and Consumer Protection Act (the “Dodd-Frank Act”), which was enacted in 2010 in response to turmoil in the financial markets and other market events. Among other things, the Dodd-Frank Act sets forth a new regulatory framework for certain OTC derivatives, such as swaps, in which the funds may be authorized to invest. The Dodd-Frank Act requires many swap transactions to be executed on registered exchanges or through swap execution facilities, cleared through a regulated clearinghouse, and publicly reported. In addition, many market participants are now regulated as swap dealers or major swap participants, and are, or will be, subject to certain minimum capital and margin requirements and business conduct standards. The statutory requirements of the Dodd-Frank Act are being implemented primarily through rules and regulations adopted by the SEC and/or the CFTC. There is a prescribed phase-in period during which most of the mandated rulemaking and regulations are being implemented, and temporary exemptions from certain rules and regulations have been granted so that current trading practices will not be unduly disrupted during the transition period.

As of the date of this SAI, central clearing is required only for certain market participants trading certain instruments, although central clearing for additional instruments is expected to be implemented by the CFTC until the majority of the swaps market is ultimately subject to central clearing. In addition, as described below, uncleared OTC swaps may be subject to regulatory collateral requirements that could adversely affect a fund’s ability to enter into swaps in the OTC market. These developments could cause a fund to terminate new or existing swap agreements, realize amounts to be received under such instruments at an inopportune time, or increase the costs associated with trading derivatives. Until the mandated rulemaking and regulations are implemented completely, it will not be possible to determine the complete impact of the Dodd-Frank Act and related regulations on the funds. Swap dealers, major market participants, and swap counterparties may also experience other new and/or additional regulations, requirements, compliance burdens, and associated costs. The Dodd-Frank Act and rules promulgated thereunder may exert a negative effect on a fund’s ability to meet its investment objective. The swap market could be disrupted or limited as a result of the legislation, and the new requirements may increase the cost of a fund’s investments and of doing business, which could adversely affect the fund’s ability to buy or sell OTC derivatives. The prudential regulators issued final rules that will require banks subject to their supervision to exchange variation and initial margin in respect of their obligations arising under uncleared swap agreements. The CFTC adopted similar rules that apply to CFTC-registered swap dealers and major swap participants that are not banks. Such rules generally require the funds to segregate additional assets in order to meet the new variation and initial margin requirements when they enter into uncleared swap agreements. The variation margin requirements became effective in 2017 and the initial margin requirements are being phased-in based on average daily aggregate notional amount of covered swaps between swap dealers, swap entities and major swap participants.

In addition, regulations adopted by the prudential regulators that took effect with regards to most funds in 2019 require certain banks to include in a range of financial contracts, including derivative and short-term funding transactions terms delaying or restricting a counterparty’s default, termination and other rights in the event that the bank and/or its affiliates become subject to certain types of resolution or insolvency proceedings. The regulations could limit a fund’s ability to exercise a range of cross-default rights if its counterparty, or an affiliate of the counterparty, is subject to bankruptcy or similar proceedings. Such regulations could further negatively impact the funds’ use of derivatives.

Additional information about certain swap agreements that the funds may utilize is provided below.

Credit default swap agreements (“CDS”). CDS may have as reference obligations one or more securities that are not currently held by a fund. The protection “buyer” in a CDS is generally obligated to pay the protection “seller” an upfront or a periodic stream of payments over the term of the CDS provided that no credit event, such as a default, on a reference obligation has occurred. If a credit event occurs, the seller generally must pay the buyer the “par value” (full notional value) of the CDS in exchange for an equal face amount of deliverable obligations of the reference entity described in the CDS, or the seller may be required to deliver the related net cash amount, if the CDS is cash settled. A fund may be either the buyer or seller in the transaction. If a fund is a buyer and no credit event occurs, the fund may recover nothing if the CDS is held through its termination date. However, if a credit event occurs, the buyer generally may elect to receive the full notional value of the CDS in exchange for an equal face amount of deliverable obligations of the reference entity whose value may have significantly decreased. As a seller, a fund generally receives an upfront payment or a fixed rate of income throughout the term of the CDS, provided that there is no credit event. As the seller, a fund would effectively add leverage to the fund because, in addition to its total net assets, the fund would be subject to investment exposure on the notional amount of the CDS. If a fund enters into a CDS, the fund may be required to report

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the CDS as a “listed transaction” for tax shelter reporting purposes on the fund’s federal income tax return. If the IRS were to determine that the CDS is a tax shelter, a fund could be subject to penalties under the Code.

A fund also may be authorized to enter into credit default swaps on index tranches. CDS on index tranches give the fund, as a seller of credit protection, the opportunity to take on exposures to specific segments of the CDS index default loss distribution. Each tranche has a different sensitivity to credit risk correlations among entities in the index. One of the main benefits of index tranches is higher liquidity. This has been achieved mainly through standardization, yet it is also due to the liquidity in the single-name CDS and CDS index markets. In contrast, possibly owing to the limited liquidity in the corporate bond market, securities referencing corporate bond indexes have not been traded actively.

CDS involve greater risks than if a fund had invested in the reference obligation directly since, in addition to general market risks, CDS are subject to illiquidity risk, counterparty risk and credit risk. A fund will enter into CDS only with counterparties that meet certain standards of creditworthiness. A buyer generally also will lose its investment and recover nothing should no credit event occur and the CDS is held to its termination date. If a credit event were to occur, the value of any deliverable obligation received by the seller, coupled with the upfront or periodic payments previously received, may be less than the full notional value it pays to the buyer, resulting in a loss of value to the seller. A fund’s obligations under a CDS will be accrued daily (offset against any amounts owing to the fund). In connection with CDS in which a fund is the buyer, the fund will segregate or “earmark” cash or liquid assets, or enter into certain offsetting positions, with a value at least equal to the fund’s exposure (any accrued but unpaid net amounts owed by the fund to any counterparty), on a mark-to-market basis. In connection with CDS in which a fund is the seller, the fund will segregate or “earmark” cash or liquid assets, or enter into offsetting positions, with a value at least equal to the full notional amount of the CDS. Such segregation or “earmarking” will ensure that the fund has assets available to satisfy its obligations with respect to the transaction and will limit any potential leveraging of the fund’s investments. Such segregation or “earmarking” will not limit the fund’s exposure to loss.

Dividend swap agreements. A dividend swap agreement is a financial instrument where two parties contract to exchange a set of future cash flows at set dates in the future. One party agrees to pay the other the future dividend flow on a stock or basket of stocks in an index, in return for which the other party gives the first call options. Dividend swaps generally are traded OTC rather than on an exchange.

Inflation swap agreements. An inflation swap agreement is a contract in which one party agrees to pay the cumulative percentage increase in a price index (e.g., the CPI with respect to CPI swaps) over the term of the swap (with some lag on the inflation index), and the other pays a compounded fixed rate. Inflation swap agreements may be used to protect a fund’s NAV against an unexpected change in the rate of inflation measured by an inflation index since the value of these agreements is expected to increase if unexpected inflation increases.

Interest rate swap agreements. An interest rate swap agreement involves the exchange of cash flows based on interest rate specifications and a specified principal amount, often a fixed payment for a floating payment that is linked to an interest rate. An interest rate lock specifies a future interest rate to be paid. In an interest rate cap, one party receives payments at the end of each period in which a specified interest rate on a specified principal amount exceeds an agreed-upon rate; conversely, in an interest rate floor, one party may receive payments if a specified interest rate on a specified principal amount falls below an agreed-upon rate. Caps and floors have an effect similar to buying or writing options. Interest rate collars involve selling a cap and purchasing a floor, or vice versa, to protect a fund against interest rate movements exceeding given minimum or maximum levels.

Total return swap agreements. A total return swap agreement is a contract whereby one party agrees to make a series of payments to another party based on the change in the market value of the assets underlying such contract (which can include a security, commodity, index or baskets thereof) during the specified period. In exchange, the other party to the contract agrees to make a series of payments calculated by reference to an interest rate and/or some other agreed-upon amount (including the change in market value of other underlying assets). A fund may use total return swaps to gain exposure to an asset without owning it or taking physical custody of it. For example, by investing in total return commodity swaps, a fund will receive the price appreciation of a commodity, commodity index or portion thereof in exchange for payment of an agreed-upon fee.

Variance swap agreements. Variance swap agreements involve an agreement by two parties to exchange cash flows based on the measured variance (or square of volatility) of a specified underlying asset. One party agrees to exchange a “fixed rate” or strike price payment for the “floating rate” or realized price variance on the underlying asset with respect to the notional amount. At inception, the strike price chosen is generally fixed at a level such that the fair value of the swap is zero. As a result, no money changes hands at the initiation of the contract. At the expiration date, the amount paid by one party to the other is the difference between the realized price variance of the underlying asset and the strike price multiplied by the notional amount. A receiver of the realized price variance would receive a payment when the

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realized price variance of the underlying asset is greater than the strike price and would make a payment when that variance is less than the strike price. A payer of the realized price variance would make a payment when the realized price variance of the underlying asset is greater than the strike price and would receive a payment when that variance is less than the strike price. This type of agreement is essentially a forward contract on the future realized price variance of the underlying asset.

Eurodollar Instruments

A fund may be authorized to invest in Eurodollar instruments which typically are dollar-denominated futures contracts or options on those contracts that are linked to LIBOR. In addition, foreign currency-denominated instruments are available from time to time. Eurodollar futures contracts enable purchasers to obtain a fixed rate for the lending of funds and sellers to obtain a fixed rate for borrowings. A fund might use Eurodollar futures contracts and options thereon to hedge against changes in LIBOR, to which many interest rate swaps and fixed income instruments are linked.

Warrants and Rights

Warrants and rights generally give the holder the right to receive, upon exercise and prior to the expiration date, a security of the issuer at a stated price. Funds typically use warrants and rights in a manner similar to their use of options on securities, as described in “General Characteristics of Options” above and elsewhere in this SAI. Risks associated with the use of warrants and rights are generally similar to risks associated with the use of options. Unlike most options, however, warrants and rights are issued in specific amounts, and warrants generally have longer terms than options. Warrants and rights are not likely to be as liquid as exchange-traded options backed by a recognized clearing agency. In addition, the terms of warrants or rights may limit a fund’s ability to exercise the warrants or rights at such time, or in such quantities, as the fund would otherwise wish.

Non-Standard Warrants and Participatory Notes. From time to time, a fund may use non-standard warrants, including low exercise price warrants or low exercise price options (“LEPOs”), and participatory notes (“P-Notes”) to gain exposure to issuers in certain countries. LEPOs are different from standard warrants in that they do not give their holders the right to receive a security of the issuer upon exercise. Rather, LEPOs pay the holder the difference in price of the underlying security between the date the LEPO was purchased and the date it is sold. P-Notes are a type of equity-linked derivative that generally are traded OTC and constitute general unsecured contractual obligations of the banks, broker dealers or other financial institutions that issue them. Generally, banks and broker dealers associated with non-U.S.-based brokerage firms buy securities listed on certain foreign exchanges and then issue P-Notes that are designed to replicate the performance of certain issuers and markets. The performance results of P-Notes will not replicate exactly the performance of the issuers or markets that the notes seek to replicate due to transaction costs and other expenses. The return on a P-Note that is linked to a particular underlying security generally is increased to the extent of any dividends paid in connection with the underlying security. However, the holder of a P-Note typically does not receive voting or other rights as it would if it directly owned the underlying security, and P-Notes present similar risks to investing directly in the underlying security. Additionally, LEPOs and P-Notes entail the same risks as other over-the-counter derivatives. These include the risk that the counterparty or issuer of the LEPO or P-Note may not be able to fulfill its obligations, that the holder and counterparty or issuer may disagree as to the meaning or application of contractual terms, or that the instrument may not perform as expected. See “Principal risks—Credit and Counterparty risk” in the Prospectus, as applicable, and “Risk of Hedging and Other Strategic Transactions” below. Additionally, while LEPOs or P-Notes may be listed on an exchange, there is no guarantee that a liquid market will exist or that the counterparty or issuer of a LEPO or P-Note will be willing to repurchase such instrument when a fund wishes to sell it.

Risk of Hedging and Other Strategic Transactions

Hedging and other strategic transactions are subject to special risks, including:

■ possible default by the counterparty to the transaction;

■ markets for the securities used in these transactions could be illiquid; and

■ to the extent the subadvisor’s assessment of market movements is incorrect, the risk that the use of the hedging and other strategic transactions could result in losses to the fund.

Losses resulting from the use of hedging and other strategic transactions will reduce a fund’s NAV, and possibly income. Losses can be greater than if hedging and other strategic transactions had not been used.

Options and Futures Transactions. Options transactions are subject to the following additional risks:

■ option transactions could force the sale or purchase of portfolio securities at inopportune times or for prices higher than current market values (in the case of put options) or lower than current market values (in the case of call options), or could cause a fund to hold a security it might otherwise sell (in the case of a call option);

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■ calls written on securities that a fund does not own are riskier than calls written on securities owned by the fund because there is no underlying security held by the fund that can act as a partial hedge, and there also is a risk, especially with less liquid securities, that the securities may not be available for purchase; and

■ options markets could become illiquid in some circumstances and certain OTC options could have no markets. As a result, in certain markets, a fund might not be able to close out a transaction without incurring substantial losses.

Futures transactions are subject to the following additional risks:

■ the degree of correlation between price movements of futures contracts and price movements in the related securities position of a fund could create the possibility that losses on the hedging instrument are greater than gains in the value of the fund’s position.

■ futures markets could become illiquid. As a result, in certain markets, a fund might not be able to close out a transaction without incurring substantial losses.

Although a fund’s use of futures and options for hedging should tend to minimize the risk of loss due to a decline in the value of the hedged position, at the same time, it will tend to limit the potential gain that might result from an increase in value.

Currency Hedging. In addition to the general risks of hedging and other strategic transactions described above, currency hedging transactions have the following risks:

■ currency hedging can result in losses to a fund if the currency being hedged fluctuates in value to a degree or direction that is not anticipated;

■ proxy hedging involves determining the correlation between various currencies. If the subadvisor’s determination of this correlation is incorrect, a fund’s losses could be greater than if the proxy hedging were not used; and

■ foreign government exchange controls and restrictions on repatriation of currency can negatively affect currency transactions. These forms of governmental actions can result in losses to a fund if it is unable to deliver or receive currency or monies to settle obligations. Such governmental actions also could cause hedges it has entered into to be rendered useless, resulting in full currency exposure as well as incurring transaction costs.

Currency Futures Contracts and Options on Currency Futures Contracts. Currency futures contracts are subject to the same risks that apply to the use of futures contracts generally. In addition, settlement of a currency futures contract for the purchase of most currencies must occur at a bank based in the issuing nation. Trading options on currency futures contracts is relatively new, and the ability to establish and close out positions on these options is subject to the maintenance of a liquid market that may not always be available.

Risk Associated with Specific Types of Derivative Debt Securities. Different types of derivative debt securities are subject to different combinations of prepayment, extension and/or interest rate risk. Conventional mortgage passthrough securities and sequential pay CMOs are subject to all of these risks, but typically are not leveraged. Thus, the magnitude of exposure may be less than for more leveraged mortgage-backed securities.

The risk of early prepayments is the primary risk associated with IOs, super floaters, other leveraged floating rate instruments and mortgage-backed securities purchased at a premium to their par value. In some instances, early prepayments may result in a complete loss of investment in certain of these securities. The primary risks associated with certain other derivative debt securities are the potential extension of average life and/or depreciation due to rising interest rates.

Derivative debt securities include floating rate securities based on the COFI floaters, other “lagging rate” floating rate securities, capped floaters, mortgage-backed securities purchased at a discount, leveraged inverse floating rate securities, POs, certain residual or support tranches of CMOs and index amortizing notes. Index amortizing notes are not mortgage-backed securities, but are subject to extension risk resulting from the issuer’s failure to exercise its option to call or redeem the notes before their stated maturity date. Leveraged inverse IOs combine several elements of the mortgage-backed securities described above and present an especially intense combination of prepayment, extension and interest rate risks.

PAC and TAC CMO bonds involve less exposure to prepayment, extension and interest rate risk than other mortgage-backed securities, provided that prepayment rates remain within expected prepayment ranges or “collars.” To the extent that prepayment rates remain within these prepayment ranges, the residual or support tranches of PAC and TAC CMOs assume the extra prepayment, extension and interest rate risk associated with the underlying mortgage assets.

Other types of floating rate derivative debt securities present more complex types of interest rate risks. For example, range floaters are subject to the risk that the coupon will be reduced to below market rates if a designated interest rate floats outside of a specified interest rate band or collar. Dual index or yield curve floaters are subject to depreciation in

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the event of an unfavorable change in the spread between two designated interest rates. X-reset floaters have a coupon that remains fixed for more than one accrual period. Thus, the type of risk involved in these securities depends on the terms of each individual X-reset floater.

Risk of Hedging and Other Strategic Transactions Outside the United States

When conducted outside the United States, hedging and other strategic transactions will not only be subject to the risks described above, but also could be adversely affected by:

■ foreign governmental actions affecting foreign securities, currencies or other instruments;

■ less stringent regulation of these transactions in many countries as compared to the United States;

■ the lack of clearing mechanisms and related guarantees in some countries for these transactions;

■ more limited availability of data on which to make trading decisions than in the United States;

■ delays in a fund’s ability to act upon economic events occurring in foreign markets during non-business hours in the United States;

■ the imposition of different exercise and settlement terms and procedures and margin requirements than in the United States; and

■ lower trading volume and liquidity.

Use of Segregated and Other Special Accounts

Use of extensive hedging and other strategic transactions by a fund will require, among other things, that the fund post collateral with counterparties or clearinghouses, and/or segregate cash or other liquid assets with its custodian, or a designated subcustodian, to the extent that the fund’s obligations are not otherwise “covered” through ownership of the underlying security, financial instrument or currency.

In general, either the full amount of any obligation by a fund to pay or deliver securities or assets under a transaction or series of transactions must be covered at all times by: (a) holding the securities, instruments or currency required to meet the fund’s obligations under such transactions or series of transactions; or (b) subject to any regulatory restrictions, segregating an amount of cash or other liquid assets at least equal to the current amount of the obligation. The segregated assets cannot be sold or transferred unless equivalent assets are substituted in their place or it is no longer necessary to segregate them. Some examples of cover requirements are set forth below.

Call Options. A call option on securities written by a fund will require the fund to hold the securities subject to the call (or securities convertible into the needed securities without additional consideration) or to segregate cash or other liquid assets sufficient to purchase and deliver the securities if the call is exercised. A call option sold by a fund on an index will require the fund to own portfolio securities that correlate with the index or to segregate cash or other liquid assets equal to its obligations under the option.

Put Options. A put option on securities written by a fund will require the fund to segregate cash or other liquid assets equal to the exercise price.

OTC Options. OTC options entered into by a fund, including those on securities, currency, financial instruments or indices, and OTC-issued and exchange-listed index options generally will provide for cash settlement, although a fund will not be required to do so. As a result, when a fund sells these instruments it will segregate an amount of cash or other liquid assets equal to its obligations under the options. OTC-issued and exchange-listed options sold by a fund other than those described above generally settle with physical delivery, and the fund will segregate an amount of cash or liquid high grade debt securities equal to the full value of the option. OTC options settling with physical delivery or with an election of either physical delivery or cash settlement will be treated the same as other options settling with physical delivery.

Currency Contracts. Except when a fund enters into a forward contract in connection with the purchase or sale of a security denominated in a foreign currency or for other non-speculative purposes, which requires no segregation, a currency contract that obligates the fund to buy or sell a foreign currency generally will require the fund to hold an amount of that currency or liquid securities denominated in that currency equal to a fund’s obligations or to segregate cash or other liquid assets equal to the amount of the fund’s obligations.

Futures Contracts and Options on Futures Contracts. In the case of a futures contract or an option on a futures contract, a fund must deposit initial margin and, in some instances, daily variation margin, in addition to segregating assets sufficient to meet its obligations under the contract. These assets may consist of cash, cash equivalents, liquid debt, equity securities or other acceptable assets.

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Swaps. A fund will calculate the net amount, if any, of its obligations relating to swaps on a daily basis and will segregate an amount of cash or other liquid assets having an aggregate value at least equal to this net amount.

Caps, Floors and Collars. Caps, floors and collars require segregation of assets with a value equal to a fund’s net obligation, if any.

Hedging and other strategic transactions may be covered by means other than those described above when consistent with applicable regulatory policies. A fund also may enter into offsetting transactions so that its combined position, coupled with any segregated assets, equals its net outstanding obligation. A fund could purchase a put option, for example, if the exercise price of that option is the same or higher than the exercise price of a put option sold by the fund. In addition, if it holds a futures contracts or forward contract, a fund could, instead of segregating assets, purchase a put option on the same futures contract or forward contract with an exercise price as high as or higher than the price of the contract held. Other hedging and strategic transactions also may be offset in combinations. If the offsetting transaction terminates on or after the time the primary transaction terminates, no segregation is required, but if it terminates prior to that time, assets equal to any remaining obligation would need to be segregated.

Risk of Additional Government Regulation of Derivatives

It is possible that additional government regulation of various types of derivative instruments, including futures, options on futures and swap agreements, may limit or prevent a fund from using such instruments as part of its investment strategy, which could negatively impact the fund. While many provisions of the Dodd-Frank Act have yet to be fully implemented and any regulatory or legislative activity may not necessarily have a direct, immediate effect upon a fund, it is possible that, upon implementation of these measures or any future measures, they could potentially limit or completely restrict the ability of a fund to use these instruments as a part of its investment strategy, increase the costs of using these instruments or make them less effective. In particular, new position limits imposed on a fund or its counterparty may impact the fund’s ability to invest in futures, options, and swaps in a manner that efficiently meets its investment objective. In November 2019, the SEC proposed new regulations relating to a fund’s use of derivatives and related instruments. These and other regulatory developments relating to a fund’s use of derivatives may limit the availability or reduce the liquidity of derivatives, or may otherwise adversely affect the value or performance of derivatives and the fund. The November 2019 proposed new regulations may also make a fund’s use of derivatives more costly.

Other Limitations

A fund will not maintain open short positions in futures contracts, call options written on futures contracts, and call options written on securities indices if, in the aggregate, the current market value of the open positions exceeds the current market value of that portion of its securities being hedged by those futures and options, plus or minus the unrealized gain or loss on those open positions. The gain or loss on these open positions will be adjusted for the historical volatility relationship between that portion of the fund and the contracts (e.g., the Beta volatility factor). In the alternative, however, a fund could maintain sufficient liquid assets in a segregated account equal at all times to the current market value of the open short position in futures contracts, call options written on futures contracts and call options written on securities indices, subject to any other applicable investment restrictions.

For purposes of this limitation, to the extent that a fund has written call options on specific securities in that portion of its portfolio, the value of those securities will be deducted from the current market value of that portion of the securities portfolio. If this limitation should be exceeded at any time, the fund will take prompt action to close out the appropriate number of open short positions to bring its open futures and options positions within this limitation.

SPECIAL RISKS REGARDING CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND

Since California Tax-Free Income Fund concentrates its investments in California tax-exempt securities, the fund may be adversely affected by any political, economic or regulatory developments affecting the ability of California issuers to pay interest or repay principal.

Each section below is only a summary and does not purport to fully describe or predict the various conditions and developments that affect or may affect California’s financial outlook. Information in each section is drawn from information available from public sources, including official statements and periodic disclosure related to securities offerings of California issuers. Such information has not been independently verified by the fund, although in each case the fund believes it to be accurate. The information contained herein is subject to change without notice and should not be interpreted as anything other than an overview as of this SAI’s publication date, which may or may not accurately reflect California’s current fiscal condition at a later date. Any adverse developments with respect to California’s cash flow or fiscal condition generally may impede the fund’s performance.

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National Economy

The U.S. and world economy has experienced an economic shock due to the COVID-19 pandemic. On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared COVID-19 a global pandemic. In connection with the COVID-19 pandemic, on March 13, 2020, the President of the United States declared a national state of emergency. The widespread shutdown of businesses and supply chain disruption in response to the COVID-19 pandemic ended the longest economic expansion in U.S. history. U.S. real GDP contracted by 4.8% on a seasonally adjusted annualized rate basis in the first quarter of 2020. During the first quarter of 2020, household consumption experienced its highest quarterly decline since 1980, reflecting the introduction of stay-at-home orders and business closures throughout the nation. It remains unclear how long social distancing measures will be necessary, when an effective treatment or vaccine will be widely available, and whether people will feel comfortable resuming prior levels of spending and economic activity.

The US unemployment rate fell to 8.4% in August of 2020 from 10.2% in July, and marked the fourth straight decline after April 2020’s high of 14.7%.

In general, home prices continue to climb, outpacing both inflation and wages. The S&P Core Logic Case-Shiller U.S. National Home Price Index, which covers all nine U.S. census divisions, recorded a 4.5% annual gain in May 2020. The 20 City Composite Index recorded a 3.7% annual gain, and the 10 City Composite Index recorded a 3.7% annual gain, in May 2020.

California Economy

State Economic Outlook. California is the most populous state in the United States. The State’s economy accounted for 14.6% of the U.S. GDP in the first three quarters of 2019 and is the fifth largest economy in the world (in terms of GDP). The diversified economy of the State has major components in high technology, trade, entertainment, manufacturing, government, tourism, construction, and services. The relative proportion of the various components of the California economy closely resembles the make-up of the national economy.

On March 4, 2020, the Governor declared a state of emergency to help the State prepare for, and respond to, COVID-19. On March 19, 2020, the Governor issued a statewide order directing all residents to stay at their place of residence except as needed to maintain continuity of operations of critical infrastructure sectors during the COVID-19 response. The Governor’s office expects the federal government to reimburse most of the State’s expenditures to respond to the threat and spread of COVID-19. However, the State must make significant upfront emergency expenditures of several billion dollars to respond to COVID-19 prior to receiving any federal reimbursements.

As a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, since March 2020, the declines in economic activity surpass the worse of the prior recession in most cases. The severity of COVID-19’s impact on the State’s economy will depend on the depth of the downturn and how long it lasts. Efforts to respond to and mitigate the spread of COVID-19 have had a severe impact on the State and national economy, as well as triggered a historic drop and ongoing volatility in the stock market.

The COVID-19 pandemic is expected to result in significant declines in State revenues from recent levels, as well as increased expenditures to manage and mitigate COVID-19’s impact on the State. The economic disruption resulting from the COVID-19 pandemic is expected to adversely affect investment and hiring decisions at California companies. Public officials in California have stated that COVID-19 has the possibility of sustained damage to the State’s economy, particularly given the impact of quarantines, a decline in international trade and a decrease in tourism. While these changes will have far-reaching negative impacts on the State economy, the ultimate extent and severity of these impacts is unclear as much will depend on the trajectory of the public health crisis.

In June 2020, California’s unemployment rate was 14.9%, compared to 12.2% at the recession’s peak in parts of 2010 and the pre-recession low of 4.9% in parts of 2006. This is slightly higher than the national unemployment rate of 11.1% for June 2020. Though the June 2020 unemployment rates are lower than they were the prior month, this labor market data reflects the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic. Prior to the COVID-19 pandemic, California’s unemployment rate was 3.9% from August 2019 through February 2020, while the U.S. unemployment rate during these months ranged from 3.5% to 3.7%. More jobs were lost in March and April 2020 than had been created in the previous nine years.

Housing Constraints. California housing growth continues to lag population growth, raising housing costs and potentially limiting the number of jobs companies can add. During the prior recession, building permit issuances for housing in California fell from 209,000 in 2004 to 36,000 permits in 2009. Around 111,000 permits were issued in California in 2019, and if permits remain low or decrease, it would reduce the number of available workers, constrain job growth and put upward pressure on housing costs.

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Geography. California’s geographic location subjects it to earthquake and wildfire risks. It is impossible to predict the time, magnitude or location of a major earthquake or wildfire or its effect on the California economy. There is the possibility that earthquakes or wildfires could create major dislocation of the California economy and could significantly affect State and local governmental budgets.

States of Emergency (Natural Disasters). In recent years, California has also experienced a number of natural disasters, including some of the largest and most damaging wildfires in the State’s history occurring in 2018 and 2019. In October 2019, the Governor issued a state of emergency in Los Angeles, Riverside and Sonoma Counties due to the effects of wildfires. In July 2019, the Governor issued a state of emergency in San Bernardino County due to the effects of an earthquake damaging critical infrastructure, homes and other structures and causing fires. Between February to April 2019, the Governor issued state of emergencies in 34 counties across the State to help communities recover from severe winter storms that caused widespread flooding, mudslides and damage to critical infrastructure. The total cost of these natural disasters is expected to be in the billions of dollars, and the full economic impacts will not be realized for years.

Trade Policy. The material change or imposition of tariffs by the federal government on the State’s trading partners could cause an adverse effect on the State’s economy. In 2019, the U.S. imposed tariffs of up to 25% on $250 billion worth of Chinese products triggering Chinese retaliatory tariffs of 25% on over $50 billion worth of U.S. exports. Because California is a transportation hub, and China is one of the State’s top three trading partners, a trade war could have negative effects on the State’s economy. More trade barriers would increase the costs of inputs purchased from abroad, leading to decreased companies’ revenues, potentially impacting wages and employment in the short run and triggering a change in the business model of companies that have made significant investment decisions based on a system of free global trade.

Public Health Outbreaks. Outbreaks of an infectious disease, pandemic or any other serious public health concern could have wide ranging impacts on the State’s economy. An epidemic outbreak may lead to an increase in budgetary spending to respond to the spread of an infectious disease and significant policy changes, which could have an unfavorable impact on the State’s economy. Precautions or restrictions imposed by governmental authorities and public health departments could result in undeterminable periods of decreased economic activity in the State, throughout the U.S. and globally, including reduced or ceased business operations, limited travel and shortages of supplies, goods and services. An epidemic outbreak and reactions to such an outbreak could cause uncertainty in the markets and businesses and may adversely affect the performance of the global economy, including market volatility, market and business uncertainty and closures, supply chain and travel interruptions, the need for employees to work at external locations and extensive medical absences among the workforce. It is difficult to predict accurately the impact of any large epidemic, and because an epidemic may create significant market and business uncertainties and disruptions, not all events can be determined and addressed in advance.

Other Risks. The State faces other risks to its economy and budget, such risks include, but are not limited to: threat of an extended recession; capital gains volatility; global tensions; changes in federal policy, such as health care services, trade and immigration; federal stimulus; changes to federal tax law, which are expected to include changes in taxpayer behavior; the 2020 federal census, as federal funds are often apportioned based on population size and the State has higher portion of the “hard to count” population compared to the rest of the country; trade policy; health care costs; capital gains volatility; housing constraints; debts and liabilities of the State; and cybersecurity risks.

Ratings. As of May 2020, the State’s general obligation bonds were rated Aa2 by Moody’s, AA- by Standard & Poor’s (“S&P”), and AA by Fitch Ratings. In July 2015, S&P raised California’s general obligation bond rating from A+ to AA-. In October 2019, Moody’s upgraded California’s general obligation bond rating from Aa3 to Aa2. In August 2019, Fitch Ratings upgraded California’s general obligation bond rating from AA- to AA. It is not possible to determine whether, or the extent to which, Moody’s, S&P or Fitch Ratings will change such ratings in the future.

State Pension Funds. The two main State pension funds, the California Public Employees’ Retirement System (“CalPERS”) and the California State Teachers’ Retirement System (“CalSTRS”), have substantial unfunded liabilities in the tens of billions of dollars. As of June 30, 2018, the funded status for CalPERS and CalSTRS was 70% and 66%, respectively. CalPERS reported a total fund market value of $352.2 billion as of April 2, 2020, which is $42.8 billion or 10.8% lower than the $395 billion total fund market value reported as of December 31, 2019. CalSTRS has not publicly cited losses due to the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic, but the losses are expected to be significant.

Fiscal Year 2020-21

Governor Gavin Newsom released the 2020-21 Governor’s Budget (the “2020 Proposed Budget”) on January 10, 2020, which contained a multi-year plan that projected a balanced General Fund budget with a positive operating reserve through fiscal year 2023-24, while paying down debts and long-term liabilities. The 2020 Proposed Budget preceded the

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COVID-19 pandemic and therefore did not take into account its significant adverse impacts on the State’s financial condition. Given this impact, the revenue and expenditure projections in the 2020 Proposed Budget are no longer operative and have been significantly revised. The projected $5.6 billion surplus in the 2020 Proposed Budget changed to a projected $54.3 billion deficit at the time of the May revision of the budget.

The 2020-21 budget was enacted on June 26, 2020 (the “2020 Budget”), which closes the predicted budget deficit. To solve the anticipated budget s Abigail: It appears that the SAI includes FY information for the last four year. I don’t think that’s necessary. Let me know if you disagree. hortfall, the 2020 Budget reduces spending, increases revenue estimates, shifts some costs to future years, and uses federal funds and some State reserves. The 2020 Budget projects $129.9 billion in General Fund revenues and transfers in fiscal year 2020-21, which is $9.8 billion lower from the prior fiscal year and includes using $8.8 billion in reserves. The 2020 Budget estimates General Fund expenditures of $133.9 billion for fiscal year 2020-21. The 2020 Budget estimates spending $5.7 billion to respond directly to the COVID-19 pandemic. Pursuant to federal law, at least 75% of these expenditures will be reimbursed by the federal government. The 2020 Budget relies on receiving $10.1 billion in federal funds, including $8.1 billion that has already been received. The 2020 Budget also includes $11.1 billion in reductions and deferrals that will be restored if at least $14 billion in federal funds are received by October 15, 2020. If the State receives a lower amount, the reductions and deferrals will be partially restored.

Fiscal Year 2019-20

On June 27, 2019, Governor Gavin Newsom signed the 2019 Budget Act for fiscal year 2019-20. The budget increases spending on public education and expands healthcare services. With a focus on combatting the cost crisis, maintaining fiscal discipline and tackling affordability challenges, the $214.8 billion budget, which consists of $147.8 billion from the General Fund and creates the biggest reserve in the history of California. The budget is expected to end the year with total reserves of $19.2 billion, of which $16.5 billion is in the Rainy Day Fund, $1.4 billion in the Special Fund for Economic Uncertainties, $900 million in the Safety Net Reserve, and nearly $400 million in the Public School System Stabilization Account. The budget invests $1.45 billion over three years to increase health insurance premium support for low-income and qualified middle-income individuals, and more than doubles the investment in Cal-EITC to $1 billion.

With respect to higher education for the Californians, the budget contains several hundred million dollars in ongoing spending increases, including an additional $50 million for the University of California to enroll 4,860 new in-state undergraduate students, and $85 million for the California State University system to enroll 10,000 more in-state undergraduates. In addition, the budget invests $1 billion in the preparation for natural emergencies and directs $1 billion to the mental health support for the homeless.

Voter Initiatives

Over the years, a number of laws and constitutional amendments have been enacted, often through voter initiatives, which have made it more difficult for the state to raise taxes, restrict the use of the state’s General Fund or special fund revenues, or otherwise limit the Legislature and the Governor’s discretion in enacting budgets. Historical examples of difficulties in raising taxes include Proposition 13, passed in 1978, which among other items, requires that any change in state taxes enacted for the purpose of increasing revenues collected pursuant thereto, be approved by a two-thirds vote in each house of the Legislature, and Proposition 4, approved in 1979, which limits government spending by establishing an annual limit to the appropriation of tax proceeds. Historical examples of provisions restricting the use of General Fund revenues are Proposition 98, passed in 1988, which mandated that a minimum amount of General Fund revenues be spent on local education, and Proposition 10, passed in 1998, which raised taxes on tobacco products and mandated how the additional revenues would be expended.

Constitutional amendments approved by the voters have also affected the budget process. These include Proposition 49, approved in 2002, which requires expanding funding for before and after school programs. Proposition 58, approved in 2004, which requires the adoption of a balanced budget and restricts future borrowing to cover budget deficits; Proposition 63, approved in 2004, which imposes a surcharge on taxable income of more than $1 million and earmarks this funding for expanded mental health services; Proposition 1A, approved in 2004, which limits the Legislature’s power over local revenue sources, and Proposition 1A, approved in 2006, which limits the Legislature’s ability to use sales taxes on motor vehicle fuels for any purpose other than transportation. Propositions 22 and 26, approved on November 2, 2010, further limit the state’s fiscal flexibility. Proposition 25, also passed by the voters in November 2010, changed the legislative vote requirement to pass a budget and budget related legislation from two-thirds to a simple majority. It retained the two-thirds vote requirement for taxes. Proposition 30, approved on November 6, 2012, among other items, placed into the state Constitution the current statutory provisions transferring 1.0625% of the state sales tax to local governments to fund realignment; and Proposition 39, also approved on November 6, 2012, among other items, dedicates for five years up to $550 million annually to clean energy projects out of an expected $1 billion annual increase

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in corporate tax revenue due to a reversal of a provision adopted in 2009 that gave corporations an option on how to calculate their state income tax liability. Then in 2014, voters approved Proposition 2, requiring at least 1.5% of the General Fund revenues, plus the excess of capital gains tax receipts above a certain level, will be applied to funding the BSA and paying down the state’s debt and liabilities. Revenues are specifically targeted to pay down state pension liabilities and retiree health costs. In 2016, the voters of California passed Proposition 51, approving a $9 billion bond for school construction projects across the state, and passed Proposition 57, which reforms the juvenile and adult criminal justice system in California by creating a parole consideration process for non-violent offenders. Proposition 57 is expected to result in net savings of approximately $186 million by 2020-21. Additionally, in June 2018, the voters of California passed Proposition 68 giving the state permission to borrow $4.1 billion to finance infrastructure related projects.

Other Considerations

Substantially all of California is located within an active geologic region subject to major seismic activity. Any California municipal obligation held by the fund could be affected by an interruption of revenues because of damaged facilities, or, consequently, income tax deductions for casualty losses or property tax assessment reductions. Compensatory financial assistance could be constrained by the inability of (1) an issuer to have obtained earthquake insurance coverage at reasonable rates; (2) an issuer to perform on its contract of insurance in the event of widespread losses; or (3) the federal or state government to appropriate sufficient funds within their respective budget limitations.

The state Treasurer is responsible for the sale of debt obligations of the state and its various authorities and agencies. The state uses General Fund revenues to pay debt-service costs for principal and interest payments on two types of bonds used primarily to fund infrastructure – voter-approved general obligations bonds and lease-revenue bonds approved by the Legislature. The debt service ratio (“DSR”) is the ratio of annual General Fund debt-service costs to annual General Fund revenues and transfers, and is often used as an indicator of the state’s debt burden. The higher the DSR and the more rapidly it rises, the more closely bond rating agencies, financial analysts and investors tend to look at the state’s debt practices. Also, higher debt-service expenses limit the use of revenue for other programs.

The state’s DSR grew in the 1990s when its use of infrastructure bonds increased. The ratio increased in 2007-08 due to approval of large bond measures in 2006 and declines in revenues due to the recession. Although debt-service costs likely will increase as authorized bonds are sold, the DSR is expected to remain near 6% over the next few years. This is because General Fund debt service and revenues are expected to grow at similar rates, even with the passage of Proposition 51. To the extent additional bonds are authorized and sold in future years, the state’s debt-service costs and the DSR will increase.

While California’s economic outlook continues to improve, if the state’s economy were to falter, there could be heighten risks associated with investing in bonds issued by the state and its political subdivisions, agencies, instrumentalities and authorities, including the risk of default. There is also a heightened risk that there could be an interruption in payments to bondholders in some cases. This possibility could result in downgrades of the state’s general obligation debt and a reduction in the market value of the bonds held by the fund, which could adversely affect the fund’s share price or distributions paid by the fund.

As described in the summary above, the fund’s investments are susceptible to possible adverse effects of the complex political, economic and regulatory matters affecting California issuers. In the view of the Advisor, it is impossible to determine in advance the impact of any legislation, voter initiatives or other similar measures which have been or may be introduced to limit or increase the taxing or spending authority of state and local governments or to predict such governments’ abilities to pay the interest on, or repay the principal of, their obligations. Also, any pending litigation or other actions that may impact California’s budgetary obligations may similarly affect state and local governments’ ability to meet their debt obligations, or otherwise adversely affect California’s financial condition.

Legislation limiting taxation and spending may, however, affect the creditworthiness of state or local agencies in the future. If either California or any of its local governmental entities is unable to meet its financial obligations, the income derived by the fund, its NAV, its ability to preserve or realize capital appreciation or its liquidity could be adversely affected.

This is a summary of certain factors affecting the state’s current financial situation and is not an exhaustive description of all the conditions to which the issuers of the state’s tax-exempt obligations are subject. The national economy, legislative, legal and regulatory, social and environmental policies and conditions not within the control of the issuers of such bonds could also have an adverse effect on the financial condition of the state and its various political subdivisions and agencies. While the fund’s subadvisor attempts to mitigate risk by selecting a wide variety of municipal securities, it is not possible to predict whether or to what extent the current economic and political issues or any other factors may affect

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the ability of California municipal issuers to pay interest or principal on their bonds or the ability of such bonds to maintain market value or liquidity. We also are unable to predict what impact these factors may have on the fund’s share price or distributions.

INVESTMENT RESTRICTIONS

Bond Fund

Fundamental Investment Restrictions. The following investment restrictions will not be changed without approval of a majority of the fund’s outstanding voting securities that, as used in the Prospectus and this SAI, means approval by the lesser of (1) the holders of 67% or more of the fund’s shares represented at a meeting if more than 50% of the fund’s outstanding shares are present in person or by proxy at that meeting or (2) more than 50% of the fund’s outstanding shares.

(1) The fund may not issue senior securities, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(2) The fund may not borrow money, except from banks as a temporary measure for extraordinary emergency purposes in amounts not to exceed 33 1/3% of the fund’s total assets (including the amount borrowed) taken at market value. The fund will not use leverage to attempt to increase income. The fund will not purchase securities while outstanding borrowings exceed 5% of the fund’s total assets.

(3) The fund may not engage in the business of underwriting securities issued by others, except to the extent that the fund may be deemed to be an underwriter in connection with the disposition of portfolio securities.

(4) The fund may not purchase or sell real estate, which term does not include securities of companies which deal in real estate or mortgages or investments secured by real estate or interests therein, except that the fund reserves freedom of action to hold and to sell real estate acquired as a result of the fund’s ownership of securities.

(5) The fund may not make loans except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(6) The fund may not invest in commodities or commodity contracts or in puts, calls, or combinations of both, except interest rate futures contracts, options on securities, securities indices, currency and other financial instruments and options on such futures contracts, forward foreign currency exchange contracts, forward commitments, securities index put or call warrants and repurchase agreements entered into in accordance with the fund’s investment policies.

(7) The fund may not concentrate its investments in a particular industry, as that term is used in the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(8) The fund has elected to be treated as a diversified investment company, as that term is used in the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

Non-Fundamental Investment Restrictions. The following investment restrictions are designated as non-fundamental and may be changed by the Board without shareholder approval:

The fund may not:

(a) Participate on a joint or joint-and-several basis in any securities trading account. The “bunching” of orders for the sale or purchase of marketable portfolio securities with other accounts under the management of the Advisor to save commissions or to average prices among them is not deemed to result in a securities trading account.

(b) Purchase securities on margin or make short sales, except margin deposits in connection with transactions in options, futures contracts, options on futures contracts and other arbitrage transactions or unless by virtue of its ownership of other securities, the fund has the right to obtain securities equivalent in-kind and amount to the securities sold and, if the right is conditional, the sale is made upon the same conditions, except that the fund may obtain such short-term credits as may be necessary for the clearance of purchases and sales of securities and in connection with transactions involving forward foreign currency exchange transactions.

(c) Invest for the purpose of exercising control over or management of any company.

(d) Invest more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities.

If allowed by the fund’s other investment policies and restrictions, the fund may invest up to 5% of its total assets in Russian equity securities and up to 10% of its total assets in Russian fixed-income securities. All Russian securities must

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be: (1) denominated in U.S. dollars, Canadian dollars, euros, sterling, or yen; (2) traded on a major exchange and (3) held physically outside of Russia.

California Tax-Free Income Fund

Fundamental Investment Restrictions. The following investment restrictions will not be changed without approval of a majority of the fund’s outstanding voting securities that, as used in the Prospectus and this SAI, means approval by the lesser of (1) the holders of 67% or more of the fund’s shares represented at a meeting if more than 50% of the fund’s outstanding shares are present in person or by proxy at that meeting or (2) more than 50% of the fund’s outstanding shares.

The fund may not:

(1) Borrow money, except: (i) for temporary or short-term purposes or for the clearance of transactions in amounts not to exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the fund’s total assets (including the amount borrowed) taken at market value; (ii) in connection with the redemption of fund shares or to finance failed settlements of portfolio trades without immediately liquidating portfolio securities or other assets, (iii) in order to fulfill commitments or plans to purchase additional securities pending the anticipated sale of other portfolio securities or assets; (iv) in connection with entering into reverse repurchase agreements and dollar rolls, but only if after each such borrowing there is asset coverage of at least 300% as defined in the 1940 Act; and (v) as otherwise permitted under the 1940 Act. For purposes of this investment restriction, the deferral of trustees’ fees and transactions in short sales, futures contracts, options on futures contracts, securities or indices and forward commitment transactions shall not constitute borrowing.

(2) Invest in commodities or commodity futures contracts, except for transactions in financial derivative contracts. Financial derivatives include forward currency contracts; financial futures contracts and options on financial futures contracts; options and warrants on securities, currencies and financial indices; swaps, caps, floors, collars and swaptions; and repurchase agreements entered into in accordance with the fund’s investment policies.

(3) Make loans, except that the fund may (i) lend portfolio securities in accordance with the fund’s investment policies up to 33 1/3% of the fund’s total assets taken at market value, (ii) enter into repurchase agreements, and (iii) purchase all or a portion of an issue of publicly distributed debt securities, interests in bank loans, including without limitation, participation interests, bank certificates of deposit, bankers’ acceptances, debentures or other securities, whether or not the purchase is made upon the original issuance of the securities.

(4) The fund may not invest 25% or more of the value of its assets in any one industry, provided that this limitation does not apply to (i) tax-exempt municipal securities other than those tax-exempt municipal securities backed only by assets and revenues of non-governmental issuers and (ii) obligations of the U.S. Government or any of its agencies, instrumentalities or authorities.

(5) Underwrite the securities of other issuers, except insofar as the fund may be deemed an underwriter under the Securities Act of 1933 in disposing of a portfolio security.

(6) Purchase or sell real estate, real estate investment trust securities. This limitation shall not prevent the fund from investing in municipal securities secured by real estate or interests in real estate or holding real estate acquired as a result of owning such municipal securities.

(7) Issue any senior securities, except insofar as the fund may be deemed to have issued a senior security by: entering into a repurchase agreement; purchasing securities on a when-issued or delayed delivery basis; purchasing or selling any options or financial futures contract; borrowing money or lending securities in accordance with applicable investment restrictions.

Non-Fundamental Investment Restrictions. The following investment restrictions are designated as non-fundamental and may be changed by the Board without shareholder approval.

The fund may not:

1. Invest for the purpose of exercising control or management of another company.

2. Purchase securities on margin, except that the fund may obtain such short-term credits as may be necessary for the clearance of securities transactions.

3. Invest more than 15% of its net assets in securities which are illiquid.

ESG Core Bond Fund

There are two classes of investment restrictions to which Bond Trust is subject in implementing the investment policies of the fund: (a) fundamental and (b) non-fundamental. Fundamental restrictions may only be changed by a vote of the

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lesser of: (i) 67% or more of the shares represented at a meeting at which more than 50% of the outstanding shares are represented; or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares. Non-fundamental restrictions are subject to change by the Board without shareholder approval.

When submitting an investment restriction change to the holders of the fund’s outstanding voting securities, the matter shall be deemed to have been effectively acted upon if a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the fund vote for the approval of the matter, notwithstanding: (1) that the matter has not been approved by the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of any other series of the Trust affected by the matter, and (2) that the matter has not been approved by the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Trust as a whole.

Fundamental Investment Restrictions

(1) Concentration. The fund will not concentrate its investments in a particular industry, as that term is used in the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(2) Borrowing. The fund will not borrow money, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(3) Underwriting. The fund will not engage in the business of underwriting securities issued by others, except to the extent that the fund may be deemed to be an underwriter in connection with the disposition of portfolio securities.

(4) Real Estate. The fund will not purchase or sell real estate, which term does not include securities of companies which deal in real estate or mortgages or investments secured by real estate or interests therein, except that the fund reserves freedom of action to hold and to sell real estate acquired as a result of the fund’s ownership of securities.

(5) Commodities. The fund will not purchase or sell commodities, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(6) Loans. The fund will not make loans except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(7) Senior Securities. The fund will not issue senior securities, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

For purposes of Fundamental Restriction No. 7, purchasing securities on a when-issued, forward commitment or delayed delivery basis and engaging in hedging and other strategic transactions will not be deemed to constitute the issuance of a senior security.

Non-Fundamental Investment Restrictions

The fund will not:

(8) Knowingly invest more than 15% of the value of its net assets in securities or other investments, including repurchase agreements maturing in more than seven days but excluding master demand notes, which are not readily marketable.

(9) Make short sales of securities or maintain a short position, if, when added together, more than 25% of the value of the fund’s net assets would be: (i) deposited as collateral for the obligation to replace securities borrowed to effect short sales; and (ii) allocated to segregated accounts in connection with short sales, except that it may obtain such short-term credits as may be required to clear transactions. For purposes of this restriction, collateral arrangements with respect to hedging and other strategic transactions will not be deemed to involve the use of margin. Short sales “against-the-box” are not subject to this limitation.

(10) Pledge, hypothecate, mortgage or transfer (except as provided in restriction (7)) as security for indebtedness any securities held by the fund, except in an amount of not more than 10% of the value of the fund’s total assets and then only to secure borrowings permitted by restrictions (2) and (9). For purposes of this restriction, collateral arrangements with respect to hedging and other strategic transactions will not be deemed to involve a pledge of assets.

For purposes of restriction (10), “other strategic transactions” can include short sales and derivative transactions intended for non-hedging purposes.

Government Income Fund, High Yield Fund, and Investment Grade Bond Fund

Fundamental Investment Restrictions. With respect to each fund, the following investment restrictions will not be changed without the approval of a majority of the fund’s outstanding voting securities that, as used in the Prospectus and this SAI, means the approval by the lesser of: (1) the holders of 67% or more of the fund’s shares represented at a meeting if more than 50% of the fund’s outstanding shares are present in person or by proxy at that meeting; or (2) more than 50% of the fund’s outstanding shares.

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Government Income Fund

(1) The fund may not borrow money in an amount in excess of 33-1/3% of its total assets, and then only as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency purposes (except that it may enter into a reverse repurchase agreement within the limits described in the Prospectus or this SAI), or pledge, mortgage or hypothecate an amount of its assets (taken at market value) in excess of 15% of its total assets, in each case taken at the lower of cost or market value. For the purpose of this restriction, collateral arrangements with respect to options, futures contracts, options on futures contracts and collateral arrangements with respect to initial and variation margins are not considered a pledge of assets.

(2) The fund may not engage in the business of underwriting securities issued by others, except to the extent that the fund may be deemed to be an underwriter in connection with the disposition of portfolio securities.

(3) The fund may not purchase or sell real estate, which term does not include securities of companies which deal in real estate or mortgages or investments secured by real estate or interests therein, except that the fund reserves freedom of action to hold and to sell real estate acquired as a result of the fund’s ownership of securities.

(4) The fund may not make loans except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(5) The fund has elected to be treated as a diversified investment company, as that term is used in the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(6) The fund may not issue senior securities, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(7) The fund may not concentrate its investments in a particular industry, as that term is used in the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(8) The fund may not purchase or retain mineral leases, commodities or commodity contracts (except contracts for the future delivery of fixed-income securities, stock index and currency futures and options on such futures) in the ordinary course of its business. The fund reserves the freedom of action to hold and to sell mineral leases, commodities or commodity contracts acquired as a result of the ownership of securities.

In addition to Government Income Fund’s existing fundamental investment restrictions, the Board has adopted the following non-fundamental investment restrictions with respect to the fund. These investment restrictions may be changed by the Board without shareholder approval.

(1) The fund, in implementing its fundamental policy on diversification, will not consider a guarantee of a security to be a security of the guarantor, provided that the value of all securities issued or guaranteed by that guarantor, and owned by the fund, does not exceed 10% of the fund’s total assets. In determining the issuer of a security, each state and each political subdivision, agency, and instrumentality of each state and each multi state agency of which such state is a member is a separate issuer. Where securities are backed only by assets and revenues of a particular instrumentality, facility or subdivision, such entity is considered the issuer.

(2) The fund may not purchase securities of any issuer (other than securities issued or guaranteed by the U.S. Government or its agencies or instrumentalities) if such purchase, at the time thereof, would cause the fund to hold more than 10% of any class of securities of such issuer. For this purpose, all indebtedness of an issuer shall be deemed a single class and all preferred stock of an issuer shall be deemed a single class.

High Yield Fund

(1) The fund may not borrow money, except: (i) for temporary or short-term purposes or for the clearance of transactions in amounts not to exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the fund’s total assets (including the amount borrowed) taken at market value; (ii) in connection with the redemption of fund shares or to finance failed settlements of portfolio trades without immediately liquidating portfolio securities or other assets, (iii) in order to fulfill commitments or plans to purchase additional securities pending the anticipated sale of other portfolio securities or assets; (iv) in connection with entering into reverse repurchase agreements and dollar rolls, but only if after each such borrowing there is asset coverage of at least 300% as defined in the 1940 Act; and (v) as otherwise permitted under the 1940 Act. For purposes of this investment restriction, the deferral of trustees’ fees and transactions in short sales, futures contracts, options on futures contracts, securities or indices and forward commitment transactions shall not constitute borrowing.

(2) The fund may not engage in the business of underwriting securities issued by others, except to the extent that the fund may be deemed to be an underwriter in connection with the disposition of portfolio securities.

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(3) The fund may not purchase or sell real estate, which term does not include securities of companies which deal in real estate or mortgages or investments secured by real estate or interests therein, except that the fund reserves freedom of action to hold and to sell real estate acquired as a result of the fund’s ownership of securities.

(4) The fund may not invest in commodities or commodity futures contracts, except for transactions in financial derivative contracts, such as forward currency contracts; financial futures contracts and options on financial futures contracts; options on securities, currencies and financial indices; and swaps, caps, floors, collars and swaptions.

(5) The fund may not make loans, except that the fund may (i) lend portfolio securities in accordance with the fund’s investment policies up to 331/3% of the fund’s total assets taken at market value, (ii) enter into repurchase agreements, and (iii) purchase all or a portion of an issue of publicly distributed debt securities, bank loan participation interests, bank certificates of deposit, bankers’ acceptances, debentures or other securities, whether or not the purchase is made upon the original issuance of the securities.

(6) The fund has elected to be treated as a diversified investment company, as that term is used in the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(7) The fund may not issue senior securities, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(8) The fund may not concentrate its investments in a particular industry, as that term is used in the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

Investment Grade Bond Fund

(1) The fund may not borrow money, except that as a temporary measure for extraordinary or emergency purposes the fund may borrow from banks in aggregate amounts at any one time outstanding not exceeding 33 1/3% of the total assets (including the amount borrowed) of the fund valued at market; and the fund may not purchase any securities at any time when borrowings exceed 5% of the total assets of the fund (taken at market value). This borrowing restriction does not prohibit the use of reverse repurchase agreements (see “Reverse Repurchase Agreements”). For purposes of this investment restriction, forward commitment transactions shall not constitute borrowings. Interest paid on any borrowings will reduce the fund’s net investment income.

(2) The fund may not engage in the business of underwriting securities issued by others, except to the extent that the fund may be deemed to be an underwriter in connection with the disposition of portfolio securities.

(3) The fund may not make loans except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(4) The fund has elected to be treated as a diversified investment company, as that term is used in the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(5) The fund may not purchase or sell real estate, which term does not include securities of companies which deal in real estate or mortgages or investments secured by real estate or interests therein, except that the fund reserves freedom of action to hold and to sell real estate acquired as a result of the fund’s ownership of securities.

(6) The fund may not concentrate its investments in a particular industry, as that term is used in the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(7) The fund may not issue senior securities, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(8) The fund may not invest in commodities, except that the fund may purchase and sell: forward commitments, when-issued securities, securities index put or call warrants, repurchase agreements, options on securities and securities indices, futures contracts on securities and securities indices and options on these futures, entered into in accordance with the fund’s investment policies.

High Yield Municipal Bond Fund and Tax-Free Bond Fund

With respect to each fund, the following investment restrictions will not be changed without the approval of a majority of the respective fund’s outstanding voting securities, which, as used in the Prospectus and this SAI, means the approval by the lesser of: (1) the holders of 67% or more of the respective fund’s shares represented at a meeting if more than 50% of the respective fund’s outstanding shares are present in person or by proxy at the meeting; or (2) more than 50% of the respective fund’s outstanding shares.

(1) Neither fund may borrow money, except: (i) for temporary or short-term purposes or for the clearance of transactions in amounts not to exceed 33 1/3% of the value of the fund’s total assets (including the amount borrowed) taken at

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market value; (ii) in connection with the redemption of fund shares or to finance failed settlements of portfolio trades without immediately liquidating portfolio securities or other assets, (iii) in order to fulfill commitments or plans to purchase additional securities pending the anticipated sale of other portfolio securities or assets; (iv) in connection with entering into reverse repurchase agreements and dollar rolls, but only if after each such borrowing there is asset coverage of at least 300% as defined in the 1940 Act; and (v) as otherwise permitted under the 1940 Act. For purposes of this investment restriction, the deferral of Trustees’ fees and transactions in short sales, futures contracts, options on futures contracts, securities or indices and forward commitment transactions shall not constitute borrowing.

(2) Neither fund may invest in commodities or commodity futures contracts, except for transactions in financial derivative contracts. Financial derivatives include forward currency contracts; financial futures contracts and options on financial futures contracts; options and warrants on securities, currencies and financial indices; swaps, caps, floors, collars and swaptions; and repurchase agreements entered into in accordance with the fund’s investment policies.

(3) Neither fund may make loans except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(4) Neither fund may concentrate its investments in a particular industry, as that term is used in the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time. This fundamental restriction does not apply to investments in tax-exempt municipal securities other than those tax-exempt municipal securities backed only by assets and revenues of non-governmental issuers.

(5) Neither fund may engage in the business of underwriting securities issued by others, except to the extent that a fund may be deemed to be an underwriter in connection with the disposition of portfolio securities, and except that each fund may participate as part of a group in bidding for the purchase of tax-exempt debt securities directly from an issuer in order to take advantage of the lower purchase price available to members of such groups.

(6) Neither fund may purchase or sell real estate, which term does not include securities of companies which deal in real estate or mortgages or investments secured by real estate or interests therein, except that the fund reserves freedom of action to hold and to sell real estate acquired as a result of the fund’s ownership of securities.

(7) Neither fund may issue senior securities, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(8) The Tax-Free Bond Fund has elected to be treated as a diversified investment company, as that term is used in the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

Non-Fundamental Investment Restrictions. The following investment restrictions are designated as non-fundamental and may be changed by the Trustees without shareholder approval.

Neither fund may:

1. Invest for the purpose of exercising control or management of another company.

2. Purchase securities on margin, except that the fund may obtain such short-term credits as may be necessary for the clearance of securities transactions.

3. Invest more than 15% of the fund’s net assets in securities which are illiquid.

Income Fund

Fundamental Investment Restrictions. The following investment restrictions will not be changed without approval of a majority of the fund’s outstanding voting securities that, as used in the Prospectus and this SAI, means approval by the lesser of (1) the holders of 67% or more of the fund’s shares represented at a meeting if more than 50% of the fund’s outstanding shares are present in person or by proxy at that meeting or (2) more than 50% of the fund’s outstanding shares.

(1) The fund may not issue senior securities, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(2) The fund may not borrow money in amounts exceeding 33% of the fund’s total assets (including the amount borrowed) taken at market value. Interest paid on borrowing will reduce income available to shareholders.

(3) The fund may not engage in the business of underwriting securities issued by others, except to the extent that the fund may be deemed to be an underwriter in connection with the disposition of portfolio securities.

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(4) The fund may not purchase or sell real estate, which term does not include securities of companies which deal in real estate or mortgages or investments secured by real estate or interests therein, except that the fund reserves freedom of action to hold and to sell real estate acquired as a result of the fund’s ownership of securities.

(5) The fund may not make loans except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(6) The fund may not buy or sell commodity contracts, except futures contracts on securities, securities indices and currency and options on such futures, forward foreign currency exchange contracts, forward commitments, and repurchase agreements entered into in accordance with the fund’s investment policies.

(7) The fund may not concentrate its investments in a particular industry, as that term is used in the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(8) The fund has elected to be treated as a diversified investment company, as that term is used in the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

Non-Fundamental Investment Restrictions. The following investment restrictions are designated as non-fundamental and may be changed by the Board without shareholder approval.

The fund may not:

(a) Participate on a joint or joint-and-several basis in any securities trading account. The “bunching” of orders for the sale or purchase of marketable portfolio securities with other accounts under the management of the Subadvisor to save commissions or to average prices among them is not deemed to result in a joint securities trading account.

(b) Purchase securities on margin (except that it may obtain such short-term credits as may be necessary for the clearance of transactions in securities and forward foreign currency exchange contracts and may make margin payments in connection with transactions in futures contracts and options on futures) or make short sales of securities unless by virtue of its ownership of other securities, the fund has the right to obtain securities equivalent in-kind and amount to the securities sold and, if the right is conditional, the sale is made upon the same conditions.

(c) Invest for the purpose of exercising control over or management of any company.

(d) Invest more than 15% of its net assets in illiquid securities.

In addition, the fund complies with the following non-fundamental limitation on its investments:

The fund may not exercise any conversion, exchange or purchase rights associated with corporate debt securities in the portfolio if, at the time, the value of all equity interests would exceed 10% of the fund’s total assets taken at market value.

If allowed by the fund’s other investment policies and restrictions, the fund may invest up to 5% of its total assets in Russian equity securities and up to 10% of its total assets in Russian fixed-income securities. All Russian securities must be: (1) denominated in U.S. dollars, Canadian dollars, euros, sterling, or yen; (2) traded on a major exchange; and (3) held physically outside of Russia.

Short Duration Bond Fund

There are two classes of investment restrictions to which the Fund is subject in implementing the investment policies of the Fund: (a) fundamental and (b) non-fundamental. Fundamental restrictions may be changed only by a vote of the lesser of: (i) 67% or more of the shares represented at a meeting at which more than 50% of the outstanding shares are represented; or (ii) more than 50% of the outstanding shares. Non-fundamental restrictions are subject to change by the Board without shareholder approval.

When submitting an investment restriction change to the holders of the Fund’s outstanding voting securities, the matter shall be deemed to have been effectively acted upon if a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund vote for the approval of the matter, notwithstanding: (1) that the matter has not been approved by the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of any other series of the Trust affected by the matter, and (2) that the matter has not been approved by the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Trust as a whole.

Fundamental Investment Restrictions

(1) Concentration. The Fund will not concentrate its investments in a particular industry or group of industries, as that term is used in the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

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(2) Borrowing. The Fund will not borrow money, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(3) Underwriting. The Fund will not engage in the business of underwriting securities issued by others, except to the extent that the Fund may be deemed to be an underwriter in connection with the disposition of portfolio securities.

(4) Real Estate. The Fund will not purchase or sell real estate, which term does not include securities of companies which deal in real estate or mortgages or investments secured by real estate or interests therein, except that the Fund reserves freedom of action to hold and to sell real estate acquired as a result of the Fund’s ownership of securities.

(5) Commodities. The Fund will not purchase or sell commodities, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(6) Loans. The Fund will not make loans except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(7) Senior Securities. The Fund will not issue senior securities, except as permitted under the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

(8) Diversification. The Fund has elected to be treated as a diversified investment company, as that term is used in the 1940 Act, as amended, and as interpreted or modified by regulatory authority having jurisdiction, from time to time.

For purposes of fundamental restriction (7), purchasing securities on a when-issued, forward commitment or delayed delivery basis and engaging in hedging and other strategic transactions will not be deemed to constitute the issuance of a senior security.

Non-Fundamental Investment Restrictions

The Fund will not:

(9) Knowingly invest more than 15% of the value of its net assets in securities or other investments, including repurchase agreements maturing in more than seven days but excluding master demand notes, which are not readily marketable.

(10) Make short sales of securities or maintain a short position, if, when added together, more than 25% of the value of the Fund’s net assets would be: (i) deposited as collateral for the obligation to replace securities borrowed to effect short sales; and (ii) allocated to segregated accounts in connection with short sales, except that it may obtain such short-term credits as may be required to clear transactions. For purposes of this restriction, collateral arrangements with respect to hedging and other strategic transactions will not be deemed to involve the use of margin. Short sales “against-the-box” are not subject to this limitation.

(11) Pledge, hypothecate, mortgage or transfer (except as provided in restriction (7)) as security for indebtedness any securities held by the Fund, except in an amount of not more than 10% of the value of the Fund’s total assets and then only to secure borrowings permitted by restrictions (2) and (9). For purposes of this restriction, collateral arrangements with respect to hedging and other strategic transactions will not be deemed to involve a pledge of assets.

For purposes of restriction (11), “other strategic transactions” can include short sales and derivative transactions intended for non-hedging purposes.

Additional Information Regarding Fundamental Restrictions

Concentration. While the 1940 Act does not define what constitutes “concentration” in an industry, the staff of the SEC takes the position that any fund that invests more than 25% of its total assets in a particular industry (excluding the U.S. government, its agencies or instrumentalities) is deemed to be “concentrated” in that industry. With respect to a fund’s investment in loan participations, if any, the fund treats both the borrower and the financial intermediary under a loan participation as issuers for purposes of determining whether the fund has concentrated in a particular industry.For purposes of each fund’s fundamental restriction regarding concentration, the fund will take into account the concentration policies of the underlying funds in which the fund invests.

Diversification. A diversified fund, as to at least 75% of the value of its total assets, generally may not, except with respect to government securities and securities of other investment companies, invest more than 5% of its total assets in the securities, or own more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities, of any one issuer. In determining the issuer of a municipal security, each state, each political subdivision, agency, and instrumentality of each state and each multi-state agency of which such state is a member is considered a separate issuer. In the event that securities are backed only by assets and revenues of a particular instrumentality, facility or subdivision, such entity is considered the issuer.

Borrowing. The 1940 Act permits a fund to borrow money in amounts of up to one-third of its total assets, at the time of borrowing, from banks for any purpose (a fund’s total assets include the amounts being borrowed). To limit the risks

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attendant to borrowing, the 1940 Act requires a fund to maintain at all times an “asset coverage” of at least 300% of the amount of its borrowings, not including borrowings for temporary purposes in an amount not exceeding 5% of the value of its total assets. “Asset coverage” means the ratio that the value of a fund’s total assets (including amounts borrowed), minus liabilities other than borrowings, bears to the aggregate amount of all borrowings.

Commodities. Under the federal securities and commodities laws, certain financial instruments such as futures contracts and options thereon, including currency futures, stock index futures or interest rate futures, and certain swaps, including currency swaps, interest rate swaps, swaps on broad-based securities indices, and certain credit default swaps, may, under certain circumstances, also be considered to be commodities. Nevertheless, the 1940 Act does not prohibit investments in physical commodities or contracts related to physical commodities. Funds typically invest in futures contracts and related options on these and other types of commodity contracts for hedging purposes, to implement tax or cash management strategies, or to enhance returns.

Loans. Although the 1940 Act does not prohibit a fund from making loans, SEC staff interpretations currently prohibit funds from lending more than one-third of their total assets, except through the purchase of debt obligations or the use of repurchase agreements. A repurchase agreement is an agreement to purchase a security, coupled with an agreement to sell that security back to the original seller on an agreed-upon date at a price that reflects current interest rates. The SEC frequently treats repurchase agreements as loans.

Senior Securities. “Senior securities” are defined as fund obligations that have a priority over a fund’s shares with respect to the payment of dividends or the distribution of fund assets. The 1940 Act prohibits a fund from issuing any class of senior securities or selling any senior securities of which it is the issuer, except that a fund is permitted to borrow from a bank so long as, immediately after such borrowings, there is an asset coverage of at least 300% for all borrowings of a fund (not including borrowings for temporary purposes in an amount not exceeding 5% of the value of a fund’s total assets). In the event that such asset coverage falls below this percentage, a fund must reduce the amount of its borrowings within three days (not including Sundays and holidays) so that the asset coverage is restored to at least 300%. The fundamental investment restriction regarding senior securities will be interpreted so as to permit collateral arrangements with respect to swaps, options, forward or futures contracts or other derivatives, or the posting of initial or variation margin.

Except with respect to the fundamental investment restriction on borrowing, if a percentage restriction is adhered to at the time of an investment, a later increase or decrease in the investment’s percentage of the value of a fund’s total assets resulting from a change in such values or assets will not constitute a violation of the percentage restriction. Any subsequent change in a rating assigned by any rating service to a security (or, if unrated, any change in the subadvisor’s assessment of the security), or change in the percentage of portfolio assets invested in certain securities or other instruments, or change in the average duration of a fund’s investment portfolio, resulting from market fluctuations or other changes in the fund’s total assets will not require the fund to dispose of an investment until the subadvisor determines that it is practicable to sell or close out the investment without undue market or tax consequences to the fund. In the event that rating services assign different ratings to the same security, the subadvisor will determine which rating it believes best reflects the security’s quality and risk at that time, which may be the highest of the several assigned ratings.

Investment Policy that May Be Changed Only on 60 Days’ Notice to Shareholders or with Shareholder Approval

In order to comply with Rule 35d-1 under the 1940 Act (“Rule 35d-1”), the 80% investment policy for Bond Fund, ESG Core Bond Fund, Government Income Fund, High Yield Fund, Investment Grade Bond Fund, and Short Duration Bond Fund is subject to change only upon 60 days’ prior notice to shareholders. In order to comply with Rule 35d-1, the 80% investment policy for each Tax-Free Fund is fundamental and may not be changed without shareholder approval. Refer to the applicable Prospectus for each Fund’s “Principal investment strategies.”

PORTFOLIO TURNOVER

The annual rate of portfolio turnover will normally differ for each fund and may vary from year to year as well as within a year. A high rate of portfolio turnover (100% or more) generally involves correspondingly greater brokerage commission expenses, which must be borne directly by the fund. Portfolio turnover is calculated by dividing the lesser of purchases or sales of portfolio securities during the fiscal period by the monthly average of the value of the fund’s portfolio securities. (Excluded from the computation are all securities, including options, with maturities at the time of acquisition of one year or less). Portfolio turnover rates can change from year to year due to various factors, including among others,

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portfolio adjustments made in response to market conditions. The portfolio turnover rates for the funds for the fiscal periods ended May 31, 2020 and May 31, 2019 were as follows:

Fund	2020 (%)	2019 (%)
Bond Fund	125	106
California Tax-Free Income Fund	22	22
ESG Core Bond Fund	34	37
Government Income Fund	166	87
High Yield Fund	59	59
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	52	41
Income Fund	76	58
Investment Grade Bond Fund	151	111
Short Duration Bond Fund	581	N/A
Tax-Free Bond Fund	54	33

1 Period from July 16, 2019 (commencement of operations) to May 31, 2020.

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THOSE RESPONSIBLE FOR MANAGEMENT

The business of the Trusts, each an open-end management investment company, is managed by the Board, including certain Trustees who are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the funds or the Trusts (the “Independent Trustees”). The Trustees elect officers who are responsible for the day-to-day operations of the funds or the Trusts and who execute policies formulated by the Trustees. Several of the Trustees and officers of the Trusts also are officers or directors of the Advisor or the Distributor. Each Trustee oversees the funds and other funds in the John Hancock Fund Complex (as defined below).

The tables below present certain information regarding the Trustees and officers of the Trusts, including their principal occupations which, unless specific dates are shown, are of at least five years’ duration. In addition, the table includes information concerning other directorships held by each Trustee in other registered investment companies or publicly traded companies. Information is listed separately for each Trustee who is an “interested person” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Trusts (each a “Non-Independent Trustee”) and the Independent Trustees. As of May 31, 2020, the “John Hancock Fund Complex” consisted of 195 funds (including separate series of series mutual funds).Each Trustee, other than Andrew G. Arnott, James R. Boyle, Marianne Harrison, and Frances G. Rathke, was most recently elected to serve on the Board at a shareholder meeting held on November 15, 2012. The Board appointed Mr. Arnott and Ms. Harrison to serve as Non-Independent Trustees on June 20, 2017 and June 19, 2018, respectively, and Ms. Rathke to serve as Independent Trustee on September 15, 2020. In addition, although James R. Boyle initially was designated a Non-Independent Trustee, as of March 22, 2018, he is considered an Independent Trustee. The address of each Trustee and officer of the Trusts is 200 Berkeley Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116.

Name (Birth Year)	Position(s) with the Trusts1	Principal Occupation(s) and Other Directorships During the Past 5 Years	Number of Funds in John Hancock Fund Complex Overseen by Trustee
Non-Independent Trustees
Andrew G. Arnott2 (1971)	Trustee, each Trust (since 2017); President (since 2014); Executive Vice President (2007–2014, including prior positions)	Head of Wealth and Asset Management, United States and Europe, for John Hancock and Manulife (since 2018); Executive Vice President, John Hancock Financial Services (since 2009, including prior positions); Director and Executive Vice President, John Hancock Investment Management LLC (since 2005, including prior positions); Director and Executive Vice President, John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers LLC (since 2006, including prior positions); President, John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC (since 2004, including prior positions); President of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex (since 2007, including prior positions). Trustee of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex (since 2017).	195
Marianne Harrison2 (1963)	Trustee, each Trust (since 2018)	President and CEO, John Hancock (since 2017); President and CEO, Manulife Canadian Division (2013–2017); Member, Board of Directors, CAE Inc. (since 2019); Member, Board of Directors, MA Competitive Partnership Board (since 2018); Member, Board of Directors, American Council of Life Insurers (ACLI) (since 2018); Member, Board of Directors, Communitech, an industry-led innovation center that fosters technology companies in Canada (2017–2019); Member, Board of Directors, Manulife Assurance Canada (2015–2017); Board Member, St. Mary’s General Hospital Foundation (2014–2017); Member, Board of Directors, Manulife Bank of Canada (2013–2017); Member, Standing Committee of the Canadian Life & Health Assurance Association (2013–2017); Member, Board of Directors, John Hancock USA, John Hancock Life & Health, John Hancock New York (2012–2013). Trustee of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex (since 2018).	195
Independent Trustees
Charles L. Bardelis (1941)	Trustee, each Trust (since 2012)	Director, Island Commuter Corp. (marine transport). Trustee of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex (since 1988).	195

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Name (Birth Year)	Position(s) with the Trusts1	Principal Occupation(s) and Other Directorships During the Past 5 Years	Number of Funds in John Hancock Fund Complex Overseen by Trustee
Non-Independent Trustees
James R. Boyle (1959)	Trustee, each Trust (2005–2010, 2012–2014, and since 2015)	Chief Executive Officer, Foresters Financial (since 2018); Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Zillion Group, Inc. (formerly HealthFleet, Inc.) (healthcare) (2014-2018); Executive Vice President and Chief Executive Officer, U.S. Life Insurance Division of Genworth Financial, Inc. (insurance) (January 2014–July 2014); Senior Executive Vice President, Manulife Financial, President and Chief Executive Officer, John Hancock (1999-2012); Chairman and Director, John Hancock Investment Management LLC, John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC, and John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers LLC (2005–2010). Trustee of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex (2005–2014 and since 2015).	195
Peter S. Burgess (1942)	Trustee, each Trust (since 2012)	Consultant (financial, accounting, and auditing matters) (since 1999); Certified Public Accountant; Partner, Arthur Andersen (independent public accounting firm) (prior to 1999); Director, Lincoln Educational Services Corporation (since 2004); Director, Symetra Financial Corporation (2010–2016); Director, PMA Capital Corporation (2004–2010). Trustee of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex (since 2005).	195
William H. Cunningham (1944)	Trustee, Bond Trust (since 1986); Trustee, John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund and Municipal Securities Trust (since 1989); Trustee, Sovereign Bond Fund and Strategic Series (since 2005)	Professor, University of Texas, Austin, Texas (since 1971); former Chancellor, University of Texas System and former President of the University of Texas, Austin, Texas; Chairman (since 2009) and Director (since 2006), Lincoln National Corporation (insurance); Director, Southwest Airlines (since 2000); former Director, LIN Television (2009-2014). Trustee of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex (since 1986).	195
Grace K. Fey (1946)	Trustee, each Trust (since 2012)	Chief Executive Officer, Grace Fey Advisors (since 2007); Director and Executive Vice President, Frontier Capital Management Company (1988–2007); Director, Fiduciary Trust (since 2009). Trustee of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex (since 2008).	195
Deborah C. Jackson (1952)	Trustee, each Trust (since 2008)	President, Cambridge College, Cambridge, Massachusetts (since 2011); Board of Directors, Massachusetts Women’s Forum (since 2018); Board of Directors, National Association of Corporate Directors/New England (since 2015); Board of Directors, Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Massachusetts (2014-2017); Chief Executive Officer, American Red Cross of Massachusetts Bay (2002–2011); Board of Directors of Eastern Bank Corporation (since 2001); Board of Directors of Eastern Bank Charitable Foundation (since 2001); Board of Directors of American Student Assistance Corporation (1996–2009); Board of Directors of Boston Stock Exchange (2002–2008); Board of Directors of Harvard Pilgrim Healthcare (health benefits company) (2007–2011). Trustee of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex (since 2008).	195
Hassell H. McClellan (1945)	Trustee, each Trust (since 2012) and Chairperson of the Board, each Trust (since 2017)	Director/Trustee, Virtus Funds (since 2008); Director, The Barnes Group (since 2010); Associate Professor, The Wallace E. Carroll School of Management, Boston College (retired 2013). Trustee (since 2005) and Chairperson of the Board (since 2017) of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex.	195

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Name (Birth Year)	Position(s) with the Trusts1	Principal Occupation(s) and Other Directorships During the Past 5 Years	Number of Funds in John Hancock Fund Complex Overseen by Trustee
Non-Independent Trustees
James M. Oates (1946)	Trustee, each Trust (since 2012)	Managing Director, Wydown Group (financial consulting firm) (since 1994); Chairman and Director, Emerson Investment Management, Inc. (2000–2015); Independent Chairman, Hudson Castle Group, Inc. (formerly IBEX Capital Markets, Inc.) (financial services company) (1997–2011); Director, Stifel Financial (since 1996); Director, Investor Financial Services Corporation (1995–2007); Director, Connecticut River Bancorp (1998–2014); Director/Trustee, Virtus Funds (since 1988). Trustee (since 2004) and Chairperson of the Board (2005–2016) of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex.	195
Steven R. Pruchansky (1944)	Trustee, Bond Trust, John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund, and Municipal Securities Trust (since 1994); Trustee, Sovereign Bond Fund and Strategic Series (since 2005); Vice Chairperson of the Board, each Trust (since 2012)	Managing Director, Pru Realty (since 2017); Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, Greenscapes of Southwest Florida, Inc. (2014-2020); Director and President, Greenscapes of Southwest Florida, Inc. (until 2000); Member, Board of Advisors, First American Bank (until 2010); Managing Director, Jon James, LLC (real estate) (since 2000); Partner, Right Funding, LLC (2014-2017); Director, First Signature Bank & Trust Company (until 1991); Director, Mast Realty Trust (until 1994); President, Maxwell Building Corp. (until 1991). Trustee (since 1992), Chairperson of the Board (2011–2012), and Vice Chairperson of the Board (since 2012) of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex.	195
Frances G. Rathke (1960)	Trustee, each Trust (since 2020)	Director, Northern New England Energy Corporation (since 2017); Director, Audit Committee Chair and Compensation Committee Member, Green Mountain Power Corporation (since 2016); Director, Treasurer and Finance & Audit Committee Chair, Flynn Center for Performing Arts (since 2016); Director, Audit Committee Chair and Compensation Committee Member, Planet Fitness (since 2016); Director, Citizen Cider, Inc. (high-end hard cider and hard seltzer company) (since 2016); Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer, Keurig Green Mountain, Inc. (2003-retired 2015); Independent Financial Consultant, Frances Rathke Consulting (strategic and financial consulting services) (2001–2003); Chief Financial Officer and Secretary, Ben & Jerry’s Homemade, Inc. (1989–2000, including prior positions); Senior Manager, Coopers & Lybrand, LLC (independent public accounting firm) (1982–1989). Trustee of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex (since 2020).	195
Gregory A. Russo (1949)	Trustee, each Trust (since 2009)	Director and Audit Committee Chairman (since 2012), and Member, Audit Committee and Finance Committee (since 2011), NCH Healthcare System, Inc. (holding company for multi-entity healthcare system); Director and Member (2012-2018), and Finance Committee Chairman (2014-2018), The Moorings, Inc. (nonprofit continuing care community); Vice Chairman, Risk & Regulatory Matters, KPMG LLP (KPMG) (2002–2006); Vice Chairman, Industrial Markets, KPMG (1998–2002); Chairman and Treasurer, Westchester County, New York, Chamber of Commerce (1986–1992); Director, Treasurer and Chairman of Audit and Finance Committees, Putnam Hospital Center (1989–1995); Director and Chairman of Fundraising Campaign, United Way of Westchester and Putnam Counties, New York (1990–1995). Trustee of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex (since 2008).	195

1 Because each Trust does not hold regular annual shareholder meetings, each Trustee holds office for an indefinite term until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified or until he or she dies, retires, resigns, is removed or becomes disqualified. Trustees may be removed from the Trust (provided the aggregate number of Trustees after such removal shall not be less than one) with cause or without cause, by the action of two-thirds of the remaining Trustees or by action of two-thirds of the outstanding shares of the Trust.

2 The Trustee is a Non-Independent Trustee due to current or former positions with the Advisor and certain of its affiliates.

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Principal Officers who are not Trustees

The following table presents information regarding the current principal officers of the Trusts who are not Trustees, including their principal occupations which, unless specific dates are shown, are of at least five years’ duration. Each of the officers is an affiliated person of the Advisor. All of the officers listed are officers or employees of the Advisor or its affiliates. All of the officers also are officers of all of the other funds for which the Advisor serves as investment advisor.

Name (Birth Year)	Position(s) with the Trusts1	Principal Occupation(s) During Past 5 Years
Charles A. Rizzo (1957)	Chief Financial Officer (since 2007)	Vice President, John Hancock Financial Services (since 2008); Senior Vice President, John Hancock Investment Management LLC and John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers LLC (since 2008); Chief Financial Officer of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex (since 2007).
Salvatore Schiavone (1965)	Treasurer (since 2010)	Assistant Vice President, John Hancock Financial Services (since 2007); Vice President, John Hancock Investment Management LLC and John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers LLC (since 2007); Treasurer of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex (since 2007, including prior positions).
Christopher (Kit) Sechler (1973)	Secretary and Chief Legal Officer (since 2018); Assistant Secretary (2009–2018)	Vice President and Deputy Chief Counsel, John Hancock Investment Management (since 2015); Assistant Vice President and Senior Counsel (2009–2015), John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers LLC; Chief Legal Officer and Secretary of various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex (since 2018); Assistant Secretary of John Hancock Investment Management LLC and John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers LLC (since 2009).
Trevor Swanberg (1979)	Chief Compliance Officer (since 2020)	Chief Compliance Officer, various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex, John Hancock Investment Management LLC, and John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers LLC (since 2020); Deputy Chief Compliance Officer, various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex (2018 – 2020); Deputy Chief Compliance Officer, John Hancock Investment Management LLC and John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers LLC (2019 – 2020); Assistant Chief Compliance Officer, various trusts within the John Hancock Fund Complex (2016 – 2018); Assistant Chief Compliance Officer, John Hancock Investment Management LLC and John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers LLC (2016 – 2019); Vice President, State Street Global Advisors (2015 – 2016).

1 Each officer holds office for an indefinite term until his or her successor is duly elected and qualified or until he or she dies, retires, resigns, is removed or becomes disqualified.

Additional Information about the Trustees

In addition to the description of each Trustee’s Principal Occupation(s) and Other Directorships set forth above, the following provides further information about each Trustee’s specific experience, qualifications, attributes or skills with respect to each Trust. The information in this section should not be understood to mean that any of the Trustees is an “expert” within the meaning of the federal securities laws.

There are no specific required qualifications for Board membership. The Board believes that the different perspectives, viewpoints, professional experience, education, and individual qualities of each Trustee represent a diversity of experiences and a variety of complementary skills. Each Trustee has experience as a Trustee of the Trusts as well as experience as a Trustee of other John Hancock funds. It is the Trustees’ belief that this allows the Board, as a whole, to oversee the business of the funds and the other funds in the John Hancock Fund Complex in a manner consistent with the best interests of the funds’ shareholders. When considering potential nominees to fill vacancies on the Board, and as part of its annual self-evaluation, the Board reviews the mix of skills and other relevant experiences of the Trustees.

Independent Trustees

Charles L. Bardelis – As a director and former chief executive of an operating company, Mr. Bardelis has experience with a variety of financial, staffing, regulatory and operational issues. He also has experience as a director of publicly traded companies.

James R. Boyle – Through his former positions as chairman and director of the Advisor, position as a senior executive of MFC, the Advisor’s parent company, and positions with other affiliates of the Advisor, Mr. Boyle has experience in the development and management of registered investment companies, variable annuities and retirement products, enabling

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him to provide management input to the Board. He also has experience as a senior executive of healthcare and insurance companies.

Peter S. Burgess – As a financial consultant, a certified public accountant and a former partner in a major international public accounting firm, Mr. Burgess has experience in the auditing of financial services companies and mutual funds. He also has experience as a director of publicly traded operating companies.

William H. Cunningham – Mr. Cunningham has management and operational oversight experience as a former Chancellor and President of a major university. Mr. Cunningham regularly teaches a graduate course in corporate governance at the law school and the Red McCombs School of Business at The University of Texas at Austin. He also has oversight and corporate governance experience as a current and former director of a number of operating companies, including an insurance company.

Grace K. Fey – As a consultant to nonprofit and corporate boards, and as a former director and executive of an investment management firm, Ms. Fey has experience in the investment management industry. She also has experience as a director of an operating company.

Deborah C. Jackson – Ms. Jackson has management and operational oversight experience as the president of a college and as the former chief executive officer of a major charitable organization. She also has oversight and corporate governance experience as a current and former director of various corporate organizations, including a bank, an insurance company, a regional stock exchange, and nonprofit entities.

Hassell H. McClellan – As a former professor of finance and policy in the graduate management department of a major university, a current director of a public company, and as a former director of several privately held companies, Mr. McClellan has experience in corporate and financial matters. He also has experience as a director of other investment companies not affiliated with the Trusts.

James M. Oates – As a senior officer and director of investment management companies, Mr. Oates has experience in investment management. Mr. Oates previously served as chief executive officer of one bank and president and chief operating officer of another bank. He also has experience as a director of publicly traded companies and investment companies not affiliated with the Trusts.

Steven R. Pruchansky – Mr. Pruchansky has entrepreneurial, executive and financial experience as a chief executive officer of an operating services company and a current and former director of real estate and banking companies.

Frances G. Rathke – Through her former positions in senior financial roles, as a former certified public accountant, and as a consultant on strategic and financial matters, Ms. Rathke has experience as a leader overseeing, conceiving, implementing, and analyzing strategic and financial growth plans, and financial statements. Ms. Rathke also has experience in the auditing of financial statements and related materials. In addition, she has experience as a director of various organizations, inclding a publicly traded company and a non-profit entity.

Gregory A. Russo – As a retired certified public accountant and former partner in a major independent registered public accounting firm, Mr. Russo has accounting and executive experience. He also has experience as a current and former director of various operating entities.

Non-Independent Trustees

Andrew G. Arnott – Through his positions as Executive Vice President of John Hancock Financial Services; Director and Executive Vice President of the Advisor and an affiliated investment advisor, John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers LLC; President of John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC; and President of the John Hancock Fund Complex, Mr. Arnott has experience in the management of investments, registered investment companies, variable annuities and retirement products, enabling him to provide management input to the Board.

Marianne Harrison – Through her position as President and CEO, John Hancock, and previous experience as President and CEO, Manulife Canadian Division, President and General Manager for John Hancock Long-Term Care Insurance, and Executive Vice President and Controller for Manulife, Ms. Harrison has experience as a strategic business builder expanding product offerings and distribution, enabling her to provide management input to the Board.

Duties of Trustees; Committee Structure

Each Trust is organized as a Massachusetts business trust. Under each Declaration of Trust, the Trustees are responsible for managing the affairs of the Trust, including the appointment of advisors and subadvisors. Each Trustee has the experience, skills, attributes or qualifications described above (see “Principal Occupation(s) and Other Directorships” and “Additional Information about the Trustees” above). The Board appoints officers who assist in managing the day-to-day affairs of the Trusts. The Board met six times during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2020.

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The Board has appointed an Independent Trustee as Chairperson. The Chairperson presides at meetings of the Trustees and may call meetings of the Board and any Board committee whenever he deems it necessary. The Chairperson participates in the preparation of the agenda for meetings of the Board and the identification of information to be presented to the Board with respect to matters to be acted upon by the Board. The Chairperson also acts as a liaison with the funds’ management, officers, attorneys, and other Trustees generally between meetings. The Chairperson may perform such other functions as may be requested by the Board from time to time. The Board also has designated a Vice Chairperson to serve in the absence of the Chairperson. Except for any duties specified in this SAI or pursuant to a Trust’s Declaration of Trust or By-laws, or as assigned by the Board, the designation of a Trustee as Chairperson or Vice Chairperson does not impose on that Trustee any duties, obligations or liability that are greater than the duties, obligations or liability imposed on any other Trustee, generally. The Board has designated a number of standing committees as further described below, each of which has a Chairperson. The Board also may designate working groups or ad hoc committees as it deems appropriate.

The Board believes that this leadership structure is appropriate because it allows the Board to exercise informed and independent judgment over matters under its purview, and it allocates areas of responsibility among committees or working groups of Trustees and the full Board in a manner that enhances effective oversight. The Board considers leadership by an Independent Trustee as Chairperson to be integral to promoting effective independent oversight of the funds’ operations and meaningful representation of the shareholders’ interests, given the specific characteristics and circumstances of the funds. The Board also believes that having a super-majority of Independent Trustees is appropriate and in the best interest of the funds’ shareholders. Nevertheless, the Board also believes that having interested persons serve on the Board brings corporate and financial viewpoints that are, in the Board’s view, helpful elements in its decision-making process. In addition, the Board believes that Ms. Harrison and Messrs. Arnott and Boyle, as current or former senior executives of the Advisor and the Distributor (or of their parent company, MFC), and of other affiliates of the Advisor and the Distributor, provide the Board with the perspective of the Advisor and the Distributor in managing and sponsoring all of each Trust’s series. The leadership structure of the Board may be changed, at any time and in the discretion of the Board, including in response to changes in circumstances or the characteristics of a Trust.

Board Committees

The Board has established an Audit Committee; Compliance Committee; Contracts, Legal & Risk Committee; Nominating and Governance Committee; and Investment Committee. The current membership of each committee is set forth below.

Audit Committee. The Board has a standing Audit Committee composed solely of Independent Trustees (Messrs. Bardelis, Burgess, and Oates, and Ms. Rathke). Mr. Burgess serves as Chairperson of this Committee. This Committee reviews the internal and external accounting and auditing procedures of the Trusts and, among other things, considers the selection of an independent registered public accounting firm for each Trust, approves all significant services proposed to be performed by its independent registered public accounting firm and considers the possible effect of such services on its independence. This Committee met four times during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2020.

Compliance Committee. The Board also has a standing Compliance Committee (Mses. Fey and Jackson and Mr. Cunningham). Ms. Fey serves as Chairperson of this Committee. This Committee reviews and makes recommendations to the full Board regarding certain compliance matters relating to the Trusts. This Committee met four times during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2020.

Contracts, Legal & Risk Committee. The Board also has a standing Contracts, Legal & Risk Committee (Messrs. Boyle, Pruchansky, and Russo). Mr. Russo serves as Chairperson of this Committee. This Committee oversees the initiation, operation, and renewal of the various contracts between the Trust and other entities. These contracts include advisory and subadvisory agreements, custodial and transfer agency agreements and arrangements with other service providers. The Committee also reviews the significant legal affairs of the funds, as well as any significant regulatory and legislative actions or proposals affecting or relating to the funds or their service providers. The Committee also assists the Board in its oversight role with respect to the processes pursuant to which the Advisor and the subadvisors identify, manage and report the various risks that affect or could affect the funds. This Committee met four times during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2020.

Nominating and Governance Committee. The Board also has a Nominating and Governance Committee composed of all of the Independent Trustees. This Committee will consider nominees recommended by Trust shareholders. Nominations should be forwarded to the attention of the Secretary of the Trust at 200 Berkeley Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116. Any shareholder nomination must be submitted in compliance with all of the pertinent provisions of Rule 14a-8 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (the “Exchange Act”), in order to be considered by this Committee. This Committee met four times during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2020.

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Investment Committee. The Board also has an Investment Committee composed of all of the Trustees. The Investment Committee has five subcommittees with the Trustees divided among the five subcommittees (each an “Investment Sub-Committee”). Ms. Jackson and Messrs. Bardelis, Boyle, Cunningham, and Oates serve as Chairpersons of the Investment Sub-Committees. Each Investment Sub-Committee reviews investment matters relating to a particular group of funds in the John Hancock Fund Complex and coordinates with the full Board regarding investment matters. The Investment Committee met five times during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2020.

Annually, the Board evaluates its performance and that of its Committees, including the effectiveness of the Board’s Committee structure.

Risk Oversight

As registered investment companies, the funds are subject to a variety of risks, including investment risks (such as, among others, market risk, credit risk and interest rate risk), financial risks (such as, among others, settlement risk, liquidity risk and valuation risk), compliance risks, and operational risks. As a part of its overall activities, the Board oversees the funds’ risk management activities that are implemented by the Advisor, the funds’ CCO and other service providers to the funds. The Advisor has primary responsibility for the funds’ risk management on a day-to-day basis as a part of its overall responsibilities.Each fund’s subadvisor, subject to oversight of the Advisor, is primarily responsible for managing investment and financial risks as a part of its day-to-day investment responsibilities, as well as operational and compliance risks at their firms. The Advisor and the CCO also assist the Board in overseeing compliance with investment policies of the funds and regulatory requirements and monitor the implementation of the various compliance policies and procedures approved by the Board as a part of its oversight responsibilities.

The Advisor identifies to the Board the risks that it believes may affect the funds and develops processes and controls regarding such risks. However, risk management is a complex and dynamic undertaking and it is not always possible to comprehensively identify and/or mitigate all such risks at all times since risks are at times impacted by external events. In discharging its oversight responsibilities, the Board considers risk management issues throughout the year with the assistance of its various Committees as described below. Each Committee meets at least quarterly and presents reports to the Board, which may prompt further discussion of issues concerning the oversight of the funds’ risk management. The Board as a whole also reviews written reports or presentations on a variety of risk issues as needed and may discuss particular risks that are not addressed in the Committee process.

The Board has established an Investment Committee, which consists of five Investment Sub-Committees. Each Investment Sub-Committee assists the Board in overseeing the significant investment policies of the relevant funds and the performance of their subadvisors. The Advisor monitors these policies and subadvisor activities and may recommend changes in connection with the funds to each relevant Investment Sub-Committee in response to subadvisor requests or other circumstances. On at least a quarterly basis, each Investment Sub-Committee reviews reports from the Advisor regarding the relevant funds’ investment performance, which include information about investment and financial risks and how they are managed, and from the CCO or his/her designee regarding subadvisor compliance matters. In addition, each Investment Sub-Committee meets periodically with the portfolio managers of the funds’ subadvisors to receive reports regarding management of the funds, including with respect to risk management processes.

The Audit Committee assists the Board in reviewing with the independent auditors, at various times throughout the year, matters relating to the funds’ financial reporting. In addition, this Committee oversees the process of each fund’s valuation of its portfolio securities, assisted by the funds’ Pricing Committee (composed of officers of the Trusts), which calculates fair value determinations pursuant to procedures adopted by the Board.

The Compliance Committee assists the Board in overseeing the activities of the Trusts’ CCO with respect to the compliance programs of the funds, the Advisor, the subadvisors, and certain of the funds’ other service providers (the Distributor and transfer agent). This Committee and the Board receive and consider periodic reports from the CCO throughout the year, including the CCO’s annual written report, which, among other things, summarizes material compliance issues that arose during the previous year and any remedial action taken to address these issues, as well as any material changes to the compliance programs.

The Contracts, Legal & Risk Committee assists the Board in its oversight role with respect to the processes pursuant to which the Advisor and the subadvisors identify, assess, manage and report the various risks that affect or could affect the funds. This Committee reviews reports from the funds’ Advisor on a periodic basis regarding the risks facing the funds, and makes recommendations to the Board concerning risks and risk oversight matters as the Committee deems appropriate. This Committee also coordinates with the other Board Committees regarding risks relevant to the other Committees, as appropriate.

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In addressing issues regarding the funds’ risk management between meetings, appropriate representatives of the Advisor communicate with the Chairperson of the Board, the relevant Committee Chair, or the Trusts’ CCO, who is directly accountable to the Board. As appropriate, the Chairperson of the Board, the Committee Chairs and the Trustees confer among themselves, with the Trusts’ CCO, the Advisor, other service providers, external fund counsel, and counsel to the Independent Trustees, to identify and review risk management issues that may be placed on the full Board’s agenda and/or that of an appropriate Committee for review and discussion.

In addition, in its annual review of the funds’ advisory, subadvisory and distribution agreements, the Board reviews information provided by the Advisor, the subadvisors and the Distributor relating to their operational capabilities, financial condition, risk management processes and resources.

The Board may, at any time and in its discretion, change the manner in which it conducts its risk oversight role.

The Advisor also has its own, independent interest in risk management. In this regard, the Advisor has appointed a Risk and Investment Operations Committee, consisting of senior personnel from each of the Advisor’s functional departments. This Committee reports periodically to the Board and the Contracts, Legal & Risk Committee on risk management matters. The Advisor’s risk management program is part of the overall risk management program of John Hancock, the Advisor’s parent company. John Hancock’s Chief Risk Officer supports the Advisor’s risk management program, and at the Board’s request will report on risk management matters.

Compensation of Trustees

Trustees are reimbursed for travel and other out-of-pocket expenses. Each Independent Trustee receives in the aggregate from the Trusts and the other open-end funds in the John Hancock Fund Complex an annual retainer of $240,000, a fee of $22,000 for each regular meeting of the Trustees that he or she attends in person and a fee of $5,000 for each special meeting of the Trustees that he or she attends in person. The Chairperson of the Board receives an additional retainer of $160,000. The Vice Chairperson of the Board receives an additional retainer of $20,000. The Chairperson of each of the Audit Committee, Compliance Committee, and Contracts, Legal & Risk Committee receives an additional $40,000 retainer. The Chairperson of each Investment Sub-Committee receives an additional $20,000 retainer.

The following table provides information regarding the compensation paid by each Trust and the other investment companies in the John Hancock Fund Complex to the Independent Trustees for their services during the fiscal year ended May 31, 2020.

Compensation Table1
Name of Trustee	Bond Trust ($)	California Tax-Free Income Fund ($)	Municipal Securities Trust ($)	Sovereign Bond Fund ($)	Strategic Series ($)	Total Compensation from the Trusts and the John Hancock Fund Complex2 ($)
Independent Trustees
Charles L. Bardelis	3,877	301	929	24,535	2,505	405,000
James R. Boyle	3,877	301	929	24,535	2,505	405,000
Peter S. Burgess	4,083	317	980	25,872	2,642	425,000
William H. Cunningham	3,877	301	929	24,535	2,505	405,000
Grace K. Fey	4,083	317	980	25,872	2,642	425,000
Theron S. Hoffman3	323	29	91	2,295	248	43,333
Deborah C. Jackson	3,877	301	929	24,535	2,505	405,000
Hassell H. McClellan	5,317	416	1,285	33,895	3,461	545,000
James M. Oates	3,877	301	929	24,535	2,505	405,000
Steven R. Pruchansky	3,827	296	901	24,200	2,470	400,000
Frances G. Rathke4	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Gregory A. Russo	4,032	313	967	25,537	2,606	420,000

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Compensation Table1
Name of Trustee	Bond Trust ($)	California Tax-Free Income Fund ($)	Municipal Securities Trust ($)	Sovereign Bond Fund ($)	Strategic Series ($)	Total Compensation from the Trusts and the John Hancock Fund Complex2 ($)
Independent Trustees
Non-Independent Trustees
Andrew G. Arnott	0	0	0	0	0	0
Marianne Harrison	0	0	0	0	0	0

1 The Trust does not have a pension or retirement plan for any of its Trustees or officers.

2 There were approximately 195 series in the John Hancock Fund Complex as of May 31, 2020.

3 Retired from the Board effective as of August 31, 2019.

4 Appointed to serve as Trustee effective as of September 15, 2020.

Trustee Ownership of Shares of the Funds

The table below sets forth the dollar range of the value of the shares of each fund (only funds in which the Trustees owned shares is listed), and the dollar range of the aggregate value of the shares of all funds in the John Hancock Fund Complex overseen by a Trustee, owned beneficially by the Trustees as of December 31, 2019. For purposes of this table, beneficial ownership is defined to mean a direct or indirect pecuniary interest. Trustees may own shares beneficially through group annuity contracts. Exact dollar amounts of securities held are not listed in the table. Rather, dollar ranges are identified.

Trust/Funds	Government Income Fund	High Yield Fund	Income Fund	Investment Grade Bond	Total - John Hancock Fund Complex
Independent Trustees
Charles L. Bardelis	None	None	None	None	Over $100,000
James R. Boyle	None	None	None	None	Over $100,000
Peter S. Burgess	None	None	None	None	Over $100,000
William H. Cunningham	None	None	None	None	Over $100,000
Grace K. Fey	None	None	None	None	Over $100,000
Deborah C. Jackson	None	None	None	None	Over $100,000
Hassell H. McClellan	None	None	None	None	Over $100,000
James M. Oates	None	None	None	None	Over $100,000
Steven R. Pruchansky	$1 - $10,000	$10,000 - $50,000	$10,000 - $50,000	$1 - $10,000	Over $100,000
Frances G. Rathke1	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Gregory A. Russo	None	None	None	None	Over $100,000
Non-Independent Trustees
Andrew G. Arnott	Over $100,000	None	None	None	Over $100,000
Marianne Harrison	None	None	None	None	Over $100,000

1 Appointed to serve as Trustee effective as of September 15, 2020.

Trust/Funds	Income Fund	Investment Grade Bond Fund	Tax-Free Bond Fund	Total – John Hancock Fund Complex
Independent Trustees
Charles L. Bardelis	None	None	None	Over $100,000
James R. Boyle	None	None	None	Over $100,000
Peter S. Burgess	None	None	None	Over $100,000
William H. Cunningham	None	None	None	Over $100,000
Grace K. Fey	None	None	None	Over $100,000

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Trust/Funds	Income Fund	Investment Grade Bond Fund	Tax-Free Bond Fund	Total – John Hancock Fund Complex
Independent Trustees
Deborah C. Jackson	None	None	None	Over $100,000
Hassell H. McClellan	None	None	None	Over $100,000
James M. Oates	None	None	None	Over $100,000
Steven R. Pruchansky	$10,000 - $50,000	$1 - $10,000	None	Over $100,000
Frances G. Rathke1	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A
Gregory A. Russo	None	None	None	Over $100,000
Non-Independent Trustees
Andrew G. Arnott	Over $100,000	None	None	Over $100,000
Marianne Harrison	None	None	None	Over $100,000

1 Appointed to serve as Trustee effective as of September 15, 2020.

SHAREHOLDERS OF THE FUNDS

To the best knowledge of the Trusts, as of September 1, 2020, the Trustees and officers of each Trust, in the aggregate, beneficially owned less than 1% of the outstanding shares of each class of shares of each fund.

To the best knowledge of the Trusts, as of September 1, 2020, the following shareholders (principal holders) owned beneficially or of record 5% or more of the outstanding shares of the funds and classes stated below. A shareholder who owns beneficially more than 25% of any class of a fund is deemed to control that class and therefore could determine the outcome of a shareholder meeting with respect to a proposal directly affecting that share class.

JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
BOND FUND	A	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	48.04%	RECORD
BOND FUND	A	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	14.37%	RECORD
BOND FUND	B	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	12.20%	RECORD
BOND FUND	B	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	19.90%	RECORD
BOND FUND	B	MARY M HALLENBECK TOD SUBJECT TO (STA) TOD RULES 325 KINGS RD APT 119 SCHENECTADY NY 12304-3653	10.40%	BENEFICIAL
BOND FUND	B	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	7.78%	RECORD
BOND FUND	B	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	5.00%	RECORD

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JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
BOND FUND	C	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	28.08%	RECORD
BOND FUND	C	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	13.65%	RECORD
BOND FUND	C	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	10.89%	RECORD
BOND FUND	C	AMERICAN ENTERPRISE INVESTMENT SVC 707 2ND AVE S MINNEAPOLIS MN 55402-2405	9.60%	RECORD
BOND FUND	C	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	6.66%	RECORD
BOND FUND	C	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	6.42%	RECORD
BOND FUND	I	AMERICAN ENTERPRISE INVESTMENT SVC 707 2ND AVE S MINNEAPOLIS MN 55402-2405	20.89%	RECORD
BOND FUND	I	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	17.31%	RECORD
BOND FUND	I	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	13.80%	RECORD
BOND FUND	I	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	10.08%	RECORD
BOND FUND	I	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	6.50%	RECORD
BOND FUND	I	MLPF&S FOR THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS ATTN FUND ADMINISTRATION 97BK1 4800 DEER LAKE DRIVE EAST 2ND FL JACKSONVILLE FL 32246-6484	6.19%	RECORD
BOND FUND	I	RAYMOND JAMES OMNIBUS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS HOUSE ACCT FIRM 880 CARILLON PKWY ST PETERSBURG FL 33716-1100	5.92%	RECORD
BOND FUND	I	MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL. 12 NEW YORK NY 10004-1932	5.43%	RECORD

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JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
BOND FUND	R2	GREAT-WEST TRUST COMPANY LLC TTEE F EMPLOYEE BENEFITS CLIENTS 401K 8515 E ORCHARD RD 2T2 GREENWOOD VILLAGE CO 80111-5002	19.76%	RECORD
BOND FUND	R2	MLPF&S FOR THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS ATTN: FUND ADMINISTRATION 4800 DEER LAKE DRIVE EAST 2ND FL JACKSONVILLE FL 32246-6484	17.19%	RECORD
BOND FUND	R2	LINCOLN RETIREMENT SERVICES COMPANY FBO EXETER HEALTH RES 403(B) RSP PO BOX 7876 FORT WAYNE IN 46801-7876	15.88%	BENEFICIAL
BOND FUND	R2	STATE STREET BANK AND TRUST AS TRUSTEE AND OR CUSTODIAN FBO ADP ACCESS PRODUCT 1 LINCOLN ST BOSTON MA 02111-2901	5.29%	RECORD
BOND FUND	R4	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC 499 WASHINGTON BLVD JERSEY CITY NJ 07310-1995	59.52%	RECORD
BOND FUND	R4	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC 499 WASHINGTON BLVD JERSEY CITY NJ 07310-1995	11.38%	RECORD
BOND FUND	R4	JOHN HANCOCK TRUST COMPANY LLC 690 CANTON ST STE 100 WESTWOOD MA 02090-2324	10.63%	RECORD
BOND FUND	R4	GREAT-WEST TRUST COMPANY LLC FBO EMPLOYEE BENEFITS CLIENTS 401K 8515 E ORCHARD RD 2T2 GREENWOOD VILLAGE CO 80111-5002	6.29%	RECORD
BOND FUND	R6	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	83.70%	RECORD
BOND FUND	R6	JOHN HANCOCK LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY (USA) ATTN: JHRPS TRADING OPS ST6 200 BERKELEY ST BOSTON MA 02116-5022	6.55%	RECORD
BOND FUND	NAV	JHVIT MANAGED VOLATILITY MODERATE PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	20.55%	BENEFICIAL
BOND FUND	NAV	JHF II MULTIMANAGER LIFESTYLE MODERATE PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	18.45%	BENEFICIAL
BOND FUND	NAV	JHF II MULTIMANAGER LIFESTYLE GROWTH PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	12.77%	BENEFICIAL
BOND FUND	NAV	JHVIT MANAGED VOLATILITY CONSERVATIVE PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	10.92%	BENEFICIAL
BOND FUND	NAV	JHVIT MANAGED VOLATILITY GROWTH PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	9.56%	BENEFICIAL

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JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
BOND FUND	NAV	JHVIT MANAGED VOLATILITY BALANCED PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	8.86%	BENEFICIAL
BOND FUND	NAV	JHF II MULTIMANAGER LIFESTYLE BALANCED PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	6.46%	BENEFICIAL
BOND FUND	NAV	JHF II MULTIMANAGER LIFESTYLE CONSERVATIVE PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	5.21%	BENEFICIAL
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	A	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	21.48%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	A	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	9.66%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	A	CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FBO CUSTOMERS ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS 101 MONTGOMERY ST SAN FRANCISCO CA 94104-4151	7.53%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	A	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	5.76%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	A	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	5.37%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	A	MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL. 12 NEW YORK NY 10004-1932	5.18%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	B	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	53.45%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	B	CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FBO CUSTOMERS ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS 101 MONTGOMERY ST SAN FRANCISCO CA 94104-4151	41.08%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	C	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	13.81%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	C	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	10.81%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	C	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	9.77%	RECORD

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JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	C	SCOTT HANSFORD TOD SUBJECT TO (STA) TOD RULES 4203 HEUTTE DR NORFOLK VA 23518-4630	7.09%	BENEFICIAL
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	C	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	6.62%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	C	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	5.91%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	I	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	26.97%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	I	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	16.61%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	I	TD AMERITRADE INC FEBO OUR CUSTOMERS PO BOX 2226 OMAHA NE 68103-2226	9.93%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	I	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	9.64%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	I	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	9.12%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	I	RAYMOND JAMES OMNIBUS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS HOUSE ACCT FIRM 880 CARILLON PKWY ST PETERSBURG FL 33716-1100	8.49%	RECORD
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND	R6	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	99.65%	RECORD
ESG CORE BOND FUND	A	MANULIFE REINSURANCE (BERMUDA) LTD 200 BERKELEY ST BOSTON MA 02116-5022	85.09%	RECORD
ESG CORE BOND FUND	I	MANULIFE REINSURANCE (BERMUDA) LTD 200 BERKELEY ST BOSTON MA 02116-5022	77.66%	RECORD
ESG CORE BOND FUND	I	CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCOUNT FOR EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS 101 MONTGOMERY ST SAN FRANCISCO CA 94104-4151	5.85%	RECORD

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JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
ESG CORE BOND FUND	I	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	5.22%	RECORD
ESG CORE BOND FUND	R6	JOHN HANCOCK LIFE INSURANCE COMPANY (USA) ATTN: JHRPS TRADING OPS ST6 200 BERKELEY ST BOSTON MA 02116-5022	95.64%	RECORD
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND	A	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	35.34%	RECORD
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND	B	JOHN HANCOCK LIFE & HEALTH INS CO CUSTODIAN FOR THE IRA OF IDA NG PO BOX 326 RYE NH 03870-0326	31.56%	BENEFICIAL
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND	B	RBC CAPITAL MARKETS LLC MUTUAL FUND OMNIBUS PROCESSING OMNIBUS ATTN MUTUAL FUND OPS MANAGER 510 MARQUETTE AVE S MINNEAPOLIS MN 55402-1110	13.27%	RECORD
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND	B	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	11.16%	RECORD
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND	B	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	8.18%	RECORD
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND	B	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	6.47%	RECORD
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND	B	JOHN HANCOCK LIFE & HEALTH INS CO CUSTODIAN FOR THE IRA OF KAREN S MONTAGUE 2905 ROBINSON ST NEWPORT AR 72112-4626	5.56%	BENEFICIAL
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND	C	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	19.61%	RECORD
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND	C	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	19.52%	RECORD
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND	C	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	15.09%	RECORD

95

JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND	C	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	9.87%	RECORD
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND	I	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	52.82%	RECORD
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND	I	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	17.24%	RECORD
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND	I	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	12.60%	RECORD
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND	I	SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCOUNT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS OF UBS FINANCIAL SERVICES INC 1000 HARBOR BLVD WEEHAWKEN NJ 07086-6761	6.27%	RECORD
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND	R6	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	99.89%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	A	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	20.40%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	A	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	10.17%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	A	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	7.43%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	A	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	5.99%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	B	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	28.59%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	B	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	18.96%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	B	MLPF&S FOR THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS ATTN: FUND ADMINISTRATION 4800 DEERLAKE DRIVE EAST 2ND FL JACKSONVILLE FL 32246-6484	6.25%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	C	AMERICAN ENTERPRISE INVESTMENT SVC 707 2ND AVE S MINNEAPOLIS MN 55402-2405	19.74%	RECORD

96

JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
HIGH YIELD FUND	C	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	15.18%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	C	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	15.00%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	C	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	9.78%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	C	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	7.91%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	C	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	7.89%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	I	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	27.12%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	I	AMERICAN ENTERPRISE INVESTMENT SVC 707 2ND AVE S MINNEAPOLIS MN 55402-2405	18.96%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	I	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	10.39%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	I	RAYMOND JAMES OMNIBUS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS HOUSE ACCT FIRM 880 CARILLON PKWY ST PETERSBURG FL 33716-1100	9.55%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	I	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	6.57%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	I	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	5.86%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	R6	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	89.59%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD FUND	NAV	JHF II MULTIMANAGER LIFESTYLE BALANCED PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	20.55%	BENEFICIAL
HIGH YIELD FUND	NAV	JHF II MULTIMANAGER LIFESTYLE CONSERVATIVE PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	10.92%	BENEFICIAL

97

JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
HIGH YIELD FUND	NAV	JHF II MULTIMANAGER LIFESTYLE GROWTH PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	9.56%	BENEFICIAL
HIGH YIELD FUND	NAV	JHF II MULTIMANAGER LIFESTYLE MODERATE PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	8.86%	BENEFICIAL
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	A	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	40.46%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	A	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	11.76%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	A	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	5.69%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	A	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	5.22%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	B	PAUL A PLAUGHER TOD SUBJECT TO (STA) TOD RULES 13811 SUNSHOWERS CIR ORLANDO FL 32828-8152	24.61%	BENEFICIAL
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	B	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	18.73%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	B	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	16.73%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	B	MLPF&S FOR THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS ATTN: FUND ADMINISTRATION 4800 DEERLAKE DRIVE EAST 2ND FL JACKSONVILLE FL 32246-6484	9.71%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	B	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	9.60%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	B	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	8.86%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	B	RBC CAPITAL MARKETS LLC MUTUAL FUND OMNIBUS PROCESSING OMNIBUS ATTN MUTUAL FUND OPS MANAGER 510 MARQUETTE AVE S MINNEAPOLIS MN 55402-1110	8.68%	RECORD

98

JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	C	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	21.72%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	C	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	15.04%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	C	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	14.47%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	C	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	9.88%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	C	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	8.08%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	C	RAYMOND JAMES OMNIBUS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS HOUSE ACCT FIRM 880 CARILLON PKWY ST PETERSBURG FL 33716-1100	8.04%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	C	AMERICAN ENTERPRISE INVESTMENT SVC 707 2ND AVE S MINNEAPOLIS MN 55402-2405	5.27%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	I	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	22.73%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	I	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	16.60%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	I	MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL. 12 NEW YORK NY 10004-1932	15.54%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	I	SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCOUNT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS OF UBS FINANCIAL SERVICES INC 1000 HARBOR BLVD WEEHAWKEN NJ 07086-6761	11.20%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	I	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	10.52%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	I	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	10.47%	RECORD

99

JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	I	RAYMOND JAMES OMNIBUS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS HOUSE ACCT FIRM 880 CARILLON PKWY ST PETERSBURG FL 33716-1100	5.95%	RECORD
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND	R6	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	93.00%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	A	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	18.86%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	A	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	8.74%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	A	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	7.06%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	A	MLPF&S FOR THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS ATTN FUND ADMINISTRATION 4800 DEER LAKE DRIVE EAST 2ND FL JACKSONVILLE FL 32246-6484	6.53%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	B	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	23.45%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	B	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	19.69%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	B	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	14.60%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	B	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	5.68%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	C	RAYMOND JAMES OMNIBUS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS HOUSE ACCT FIRM 880 CARILLON PKWY ST PETERSBURG FL 33716-1100	13.37%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	C	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	12.11%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	C	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	12.03%	RECORD

100

JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
INCOME FUND	C	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	11.40%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	C	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	8.18%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	C	AMERICAN ENTERPRISE INVESTMENT SVC 707 2ND AVE S MINNEAPOLIS MN 55402-2405	7.95%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	I	CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FBO CUSTOMERS ATTN MUTUAL FUNDS 101 MONTGOMERY ST SAN FRANCISCO CA 94104-4151	21.51%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	I	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	20.82%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	I	AMERICAN ENTERPRISE INVESTMENT SVC 707 2ND AVE S MINNEAPOLIS MN 55402-2405	9.17%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	I	MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL. 12 NEW YORK NY 10004-1932	8.10%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	I	RAYMOND JAMES OMNIBUS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS HOUSE ACCT FIRM 880 CARILLON PKWY ST PETERSBURG FL 33716-1100	7.56%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	I	MLPF&S FOR THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS ATTN FUND ADMINISTRATION 4800 DEER LAKE DRIVE EAST 2ND FL JACKSONVILLE FL 32246-6484	5.21%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	R1	DCGT AS TTEE AND/OR CUST FBO PLIC VARIOUS RETIREMENT PLANS OMNIBUS ATTN NPIO TRADE DESK 711 HIGH ST DES MOINES IA 50392-0001	32.82%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	R2	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC 499 WASHINGTON BLVD JERSEY CITY NJ 07310-1995	32.57%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	R2	CAPITAL BANK & TRUST CO TTEE FBO EAST IOWA MACHINE COMPANY 401K 8515 E ORCHARD RD # 2T2 GREENWOOD VLG CO 80111-5002	19.69%	BENEFICIAL
INCOME FUND	R2	DCGT AS TTEE AND/OR CUST FBO PLIC VARIOUS RETIREMENT PLANS OMNIBUS ATTN NPIO TRADE DESK 711 HIGH ST DES MOINES IA 50392-0001	14.03%	RECORD

101

JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
INCOME FUND	R2	MID ATLANTIC TRUST COMPANY FBO MODEL CLEANERS UNIFORMS & APPAREL 1251 WATERFRONT PL STE 525 PITTSBURGH PA 15222-4228	7.07%	BENEFICIAL
INCOME FUND	R2	STATE STREET BANK AND TRUST AS TRUSTEE AND OR CUSTODIAN FBO ADP ACCESS PRODUCT 1 LINCOLN ST BOSTON MA 02111-2901	6.52%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	R3	MICHAEL WITCHER TTEE FBO HURWITZ WHITCHER & MOLLOY LLP C/O FASCORE LLC 8515 E ORCHARD RD # 2T2 GREENWOOD VLG CO 80111-5002	14.42%	BENEFICIAL
INCOME FUND	R3	WILLIAM CREECY TTEE FBO SALES SYSTEMS LTD 401K PSP C/O FASCORE LLC 8515 E ORCHARD RD # 2T2 GREENWOOD VLG CO 80111-5002	8.58%	BENEFICIAL
INCOME FUND	R3	ASCENSUS TRUST COMPANY FBO WATSON FAMILY DENTISTRY EE SAVINGS PO BOX 10758 FARGO ND 58106-0758	8.15%	BENEFICIAL
INCOME FUND	R3	SELLENRIEK CONSTRUCTION INC TTEE FB SELLENRIEK CONST 401K SAL SAV RET S C/O FASCORE LLC 8515 E ORCHARD RD 2T2 GREENWOOD VILLAGE CO 80111-5002	6.75%	BENEFICIAL
INCOME FUND	R3	DCGT AS TTEE AND/OR CUST FBO PLIC VARIOUS RETIREMENT PLANS OMNIBUS ATTN NPIO TRADE DESK 711 HIGH ST DES MOINES IA 50392-0001	6.50%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	R3	RELIANCE TRUST COMPANY FBO PAASCHE AIR PO BOX 78446 ATLANTA GA 30357-2446	6.03%	BENEFICIAL
INCOME FUND	R3	IZZUDDIN MANSUR TTEE FBO C/O FASCORE LLC IZZUDDIN A MANSUR MD 8515 E ORCHARD RD # 2T2 GREENWOOD VLG CO 80111-5002	5.26%	BENEFICIAL
INCOME FUND	R4	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC 499 WASHINGTON BLVD JERSEY CITY NJ 07310-1995	65.75%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	R4	RELIANCE TRUST COMPANY FBO MASSMUTUAL REGISTERED PRODUCT PO BOX 28004 ATLANTA GA 30358-0004	11.32%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	R4	ASCENSUS TRUST COMPANY FBO KGA ARCHITECTURE 401K PS PO BOX 10758 FARGO ND 58106-0758	7.06%	BENEFICIAL
INCOME FUND	R5	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC 499 WASHINGTON BLVD JERSEY CITY NJ 07310-1995	44.37%	RECORD

102

JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
INCOME FUND	R5	PIMS/PRUDENTIAL RETIREMENT AS NOMINEE FOR THE TTEE/CUST PL 007 SAFT AMERICA INC 13575 WATERWORKS ST JACKSONVILLE FL 32221-8118	21.51%	BENEFICIAL
INCOME FUND	R5	CHARLES SCHWAB & CO INC MUTUAL FUNDS DEPT 101 MONTGOMERY ST SAN FRANCISCO CA 94104-4151	12.00%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	R6	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 2555 MANCHESTER RD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	16.50%	RECORD
INCOME FUND	R6	LINE CONSTRUCTION BENEFIT FUND 821 PARKVIEW BLVD LOMBARD IL 60148-7019	10.66%	BENEFICIAL
INCOME FUND	R6	JPMORGAN CHASE AS TRUSTEE FBO THE INTERPUBLIC GROUP OF COMPANIES INC SAVINGS PLAN 8515 E ORCHARD RD 2T2 GREENWOOD VLG CO 80111-5002	8.49%	BENEFICIAL
INCOME FUND	R6	COMERICA BANK FBO DINGLE PO BOX 75000 MSC 3446 DETROIT MI 48275-0001	7.43%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	A	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	74.84%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	B	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	41.64%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	B	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	31.94%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	B	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	8.08%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	C	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	29.01%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	C	AMERICAN ENTERPRISE INVESTMENT SVC 707 2ND AVE S MINNEAPOLIS MN 55402-2405	15.91%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	C	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	9.33%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	C	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	7.89%	RECORD

103

JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	C	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	5.88%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	C	MLPF&S FOR THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS ATTN FUND ADMINISTRATION 4800 DEER LAKE DRIVE EAST 2ND FL JACKSONVILLE FL 32246-6484	5.28%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	C	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	5.25%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	C	J P MORGAN SECURITIES LLC OMNIBUS ACCOUNT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 4 CHASE METROTECH CENTER 3RD FL MUTUAL FUND DEPARTMENT BROOKLYN NY 11245-0004	5.10%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	I	AMERICAN ENTERPRISE INVESTMENT SVC 707 2ND AVE S MINNEAPOLIS MN 55402-2405	36.46%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	I	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	16.10%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	I	MLPF&S FOR THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS ATTN: FUND ADMINISTRATION 4800 DEER LAKE DR E FL 2 JACKSONVILLE FL 32246-6484	10.19%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	I	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	7.73%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	I	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	7.06%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	I	RAYMOND JAMES OMNIBUS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS HOUSE ACCT FIRM 880 CARILLON PKWY ST PETERSBURG FL 33716-1100	5.54%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	I	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	5.34%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	R2	MLPF&S FOR THE SOLE BENEFIT OF ITS CUSTOMERS ATTN: FUND ADMINISTRATION 4800 DEER LAKE DRIVE EAST 2ND FL JACKSONVILLE FL 32246-6484	76.02%	RECORD
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	R2	ERWIN UTILITIES PENSION PLAN PO BOX 1090 PARIS TN 38242-1090	14.47%	BENEFICIAL

104

JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	R4	LINCOLN RETIREMENT SERVICES COMPANY FBO LAURENS COUNTY SCHOOLS 403(B) PO BOX 7876 FORT WAYNE IN 46801-7876	30.65%	BENEFICIAL
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	R4	MATRIX TRUST COMPANY CUST FBO PLEKKENPOL BUILDERS INC 717 17TH ST STE 1300 DENVER CO 80202-3304	20.80%	BENEFICIAL
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	R4	LINCOLN RETIREMENT SERVICES COMPANY FBO LAURENS COUNTY SCHOOLS 457(B) PO BOX 7876 FORT WAYNE IN 46801-7876	16.63%	BENEFICIAL
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	R4	MATRIX TRUST COMPANY CUST FBO WORCESTER PUBLIC SCHOOLS (MA) 717 17TH ST STE 1300 DENVER CO 80202-3304	8.22%	BENEFICIAL
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	R4	MATRIX TRUST COMPANY CUST FBO SOUHEGAN COOP SCH DIST SAU #39 403B 717 17TH ST STE 1300 DENVER CO 80202-3304	7.34%	BENEFICIAL
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	R4	MATRIX TRUST COMPANY CUST FBO AMHERST SCH DIST SAU #39 403B 717 17TH ST STE 1300 DENVER CO 80202-3304	6.48%	BENEFICIAL
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND	R6	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	92.58%	RECORD
MANAGED ACCOUNT SHARES INVESTMENT GRADE CORPORATE BOND PORTFOLIO	SMA	MANULIFE REINSURANCE (BERMUDA) LTD 200 BERKELEY ST BOSTON MA 02116-5022	74.73%	RECORD
MANAGED ACCOUNT SHARES INVESTMENT GRADE CORPORATE BOND PORTFOLIO	SMA	MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL. 12 NEW YORK NY 10004-1932	11.99%	RECORD
MANAGED ACCOUNT SHARES INVESTMENT GRADE CORPORATE BOND PORTFOLIO	SMA	SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCOUNT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS OF UBS FINANCIAL SERVICES INC 1000 HARBOR BLVD WEEHAWKEN NJ 07086-6761	8.10%	RECORD
MANAGED ACCOUNT SHARES NON-INVESTMENT-GRADE CORPORATE BOND PORTFOLIO	SMA	MANULIFE REINSURANCE (BERMUDA) LTD ATTN KELLY CONWAY 200 BERKELEY ST BOSTON MA 02116-5022	86.22%	RECORD
MANAGED ACCOUNT SHARES NON-INVESTMENT-GRADE CORPORATE BOND PORTFOLIO	SMA	MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL. 12 NEW YORK NY 10004-1932	8.25%	RECORD
MANAGED ACCOUNT SHARES SECURITIZED DEBT PORTFOLIO	SMA	MANULIFE REINSURANCE (BERMUDA) LTD 200 BERKELEY ST BOSTON MA 02116-5022	81.22%	RECORD
MANAGED ACCOUNT SHARES SECURITIZED DEBT PORTFOLIO	SMA	MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL. 12 NEW YORK NY 10004-1932	8.96%	RECORD

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JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
MANAGED ACCOUNT SHARES SECURITIZED DEBT PORTFOLIO	SMA	SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCOUNT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS OF UBS FINANCIAL SERVICES INC 1000 HARBOR BLVD WEEHAWKEN NJ 07086-6761	5.98%	RECORD
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	A	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	32.65%	RECORD
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	A	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	7.45%	RECORD
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	A	JOHN HANCOCK LIFE & HEALTH INS CO CUSTODIAN FOR THE IRA OF MICHAEL A HARTLEY 416 LYNNWOOD BLVD NASHVILLE TN 37205-3435	6.03%	BENEFICIAL
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	A	TD AMERITRADE PO BOX 2226 OMAHA NE 68103-2226	5.76%	RECORD
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	C	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	63.90%	RECORD
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	C	MANULIFE REINSURANCE (BERMUDA) LTD 200 BERKELEY ST BOSTON MA 02116-5022	36.10%	RECORD
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	I	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	74.25%	RECORD
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	I	LPL FINANCIAL OMNIBUS CUSTOMER ACCOUNT ATTN: MUTUAL FUND TRADING 4707 EXECUTIVE DRIVE SAN DIEGO CA 92121-3091	19.45%	RECORD
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	I	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	6.30%	RECORD
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	R6	MANULIFE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT (US) LLC 2019-2020 MIM US DEF INCENTIVE PLAN 197 CLARENDON ST BOSTON MA 02116-5010	80.16%	RECORD
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	R6	MANULIFE REINSURANCE (BERMUDA) LTD 200 BERKELEY ST BOSTON MA 02116-5022	19.84%	RECORD
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	NAV	JHF II MULTIMANAGER LIFESTYLE CONSERVATIVE PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	35.16%	BENEFICIAL
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	NAV	JHF II MULTIMANAGER LIFESTYLE MODERATE PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	28.16%	BENEFICIAL
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	NAV	JHF II MULTIMANAGER 2020 LIFETIME PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	12.88%	BENEFICIAL

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JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	NAV	JHF II MULTIMANAGER 2025 LIFETIME PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	10.17%	BENEFICIAL
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	NAV	JHF II MULTIMANAGER 2015 LIFETIME PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	7.20%	BENEFICIAL
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND	NAV	JHF II MULTIMANAGER 2010 LIFETIME PORTFOLIO 200 BERKELEY STREET BOSTON, MA 02116	6.43%	BENEFICIAL
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	A	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	27.24%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	A	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	6.20%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	B	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	26.02%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	B	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	21.19%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	B	J P MORGAN SECURITIES LLC OMNIBUS ACCOUNT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 4 CHASE METROTECH CENTER 3RD FL MUTUAL FUND DEPARTMENT BROOKLYN NY 11245-0004	8.44%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	B	OPPENHEIMER & CO INC. FBO MARKET STREET REALTY ATTN: JEHOSHUA GRAFF 229 HOLLYWOOD XING LAWRENCE NY 11559-2700	8.32%	BENEFICIAL
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	B	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	6.68%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	B	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	6.02%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	C	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	24.10%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	C	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	12.97%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	C	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	12.48%	RECORD

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JH Fund Name	Share Class	Name and Address	Percentage Owned	Type of Ownership
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	C	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	8.45%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	C	ROBERT W P HOLSTROM TTEE JANET E HOLSTROM TTEE THE HOLSTROM TRUST U/A DTD 01/20/2005 382 VILLA CIR THOUSAND OAKS CA 91360-8407	7.04%	BENEFICIAL
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	I	RAYMOND JAMES OMNIBUS FOR MUTUAL FUNDS HOUSE ACCT FIRM 880 CARILLON PKWY ST PETERSBURG FL 33716-1100	17.43%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	I	MORGAN STANLEY SMITH BARNEY LLC FOR EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 1 NEW YORK PLAZA FL. 12 NEW YORK NY 10004-1932	15.13%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	I	WELLS FARGO CLEARING SERVICES, LLC SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMER 2801 MARKET ST SAINT LOUIS MO 63103-2523	15.11%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	I	NATIONAL FINANCIAL SERVICES LLC FEBO CUSTOMERS MUTUAL FUNDS 200 LIBERTY ST # 1WFC NEW YORK NY 10281-1003	12.42%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	I	SPECIAL CUSTODY ACCOUNT FOR THE EXCLUSIVE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS OF UBS FINANCIAL SERVICES INC 1000 HARBOR BLVD WEEHAWKEN NJ 07086-6761	11.31%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	I	TD AMERITRADE INC FEBO OUR CUSTOMERS PO BOX 2226 OMAHA NE 68103-2226	7.83%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	I	PERSHING LLC 1 PERSHING PLZ JERSEY CITY NJ 07399-0001	5.64%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	I	RBC CAPITAL MARKETS LLC MUTUAL FUND OMNIBUS PROCESSING OMNIBUS ATTN MUTUAL FUND OPS MANAGER 510 MARQUETTE AVE S MINNEAPOLIS MN 55402-1110	5.63%	RECORD
TAX-FREE BOND FUND	R6	EDWARD D JONES & CO FOR THE BENEFIT OF CUSTOMERS 12555 MANCHESTER ROAD SAINT LOUIS MO 63131-3710	98.02%	RECORD

INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT ARRANGEMENTS AND OTHER SERVICES

Advisory Agreement

The Advisor serves as investment advisor to the funds and is responsible for the supervision of the subadvisor services to the funds pursuant to the Advisory Agreement. Pursuant to the Advisory Agreement and subject to general oversight by the Board, the Advisor manages and supervises the investment operations and business affairs of the funds. The Advisor

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provides the funds with all necessary office facilities and equipment and any personnel necessary for the oversight and/or conduct of the investment operations of the funds. The Advisor also coordinates and oversees the services provided to the funds under other agreements, including custodial, administrative and transfer agency services. Additionally, the Advisor provides certain administrative and other non-advisory services to the funds pursuant to a separate Service Agreement or Accounting and Legal Services Agreement, as discussed below.

The Advisor is responsible for overseeing and implementing a fund’s investment program and provides a variety of advisory oversight and investment research services, including: (i) monitoring fund portfolio compositions and risk profiles and (ii) evaluating fund investment characteristics, such as investment strategies, and recommending to the Board potential enhancements to such characteristics. The Advisor provides management and transition services associated with certain fund events (e.g., strategy, portfolio manager or subadvisor changes).

The Advisor has the responsibility to oversee the subadvisors and recommend to the Board: (i) the hiring, termination, and replacement of a subadvisor; and (ii) the allocation and reallocation of a fund’s assets among multiple subadvisors, when appropriate. In this capacity, the Advisor negotiates with potential subadvisors and, once retained, among other things: (i) monitors the compliance of the subadvisor with the investment objectives and related policies of the funds; (ii) reviews the performance of the subadvisor; and (iii) reports periodically on such performance to the Board. The Advisor utilizes the expertise of a team of investment professionals in manager research and oversight who provide these research and monitoring services.

The Advisor is not liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by a fund in connection with the matters to which the Advisory Agreement relates, except a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on the part of the Advisor in the performance of its duties or from its reckless disregard of its obligations and duties under the Advisory Agreement.

Under the Advisory Agreement, a fund may use the name “John Hancock” or any name derived from or similar to it only for so long as the Advisory Agreement or any extension, renewal or amendment thereof remains in effect. If the Advisory Agreement is no longer in effect, the fund (to the extent that it lawfully can) will cease to use such name or any other name indicating that it is advised by or otherwise connected with the Advisor. In addition, the Advisor or JHLICO U.S.A., a subsidiary of Manulife Financial, may grant the nonexclusive right to use the name “John Hancock” or any similar name to any other corporation or entity, including but not limited to any investment company of which the JHLICO U.S.A. or any subsidiary or affiliate thereof or any successor to the business of any subsidiary or affiliate thereof shall be the investment advisor.

The continuation of the Advisory Agreement and the Distribution Agreement (discussed below) were each approved by all Trustees. The Advisory Agreement and the Distribution Agreement will continue in effect from year to year, provided that each Agreement’s continuance is approved annually both: (i) by the holders of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Trusts or by the Trustees; and (ii) by a majority of the Trustees who are not parties to the Agreement, or “interested persons” of any such parties. Each of these Agreements may be terminated on 60 days’ written notice by any party or by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the funds and will terminate automatically if assigned.

Each Trust bears all costs of its organization and operation, including but not limited to expenses of preparing, printing and mailing all shareholders’ reports, notices, prospectuses, proxy statements and reports to regulatory agencies; expenses relating to the issuance, registration and qualification of shares; government fees; interest charges; expenses of furnishing to shareholders their account statements; taxes; expenses of redeeming shares; brokerage and other expenses connected with the execution of portfolio securities transactions; expenses pursuant to a fund’s plan of distribution; fees and expenses of custodians including those for keeping books and accounts maintaining a committed line of credit and calculating the NAV of shares; fees and expenses of transfer agents and dividend disbursing agents; legal, accounting, financial, management, tax and auditing fees and expenses of the funds (including an allocable portion of the cost of the Advisor’s employees rendering such services to the funds); the compensation and expenses of officers and Trustees (other than persons serving as President or Trustee who are otherwise affiliated with the funds the Advisor or any of their affiliates); expenses of Trustees’ and shareholders’ meetings; trade association memberships; insurance premiums; and any extraordinary expenses.

Securities held by a fund also may be held by other funds or investment advisory clients for which the Advisor, the subadvisor or their respective affiliates provide investment advice. Because of different investment objectives or other factors, a particular security may be bought for one or more funds or clients when one or more are selling the same security. If opportunities for purchase or sale of securities by the Advisor or subadvisor for a fund or for other funds or clients for which the Advisor or subadvisor renders investment advice arise for consideration at or about the same time, transactions in such securities will be made, insofar as feasible, for the respective fund, funds or clients in a manner

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deemed equitable to all of them. To the extent that transactions on behalf of more than one client of the Advisor or subadvisor or their respective affiliates may increase the demand for securities being purchased or the supply of securities being sold, there may be an adverse effect on price.

Advisor Compensation. As compensation for its advisory services under each Advisory Agreement, the Advisor receives a fee from the relevant Trust computed separately for each relevant fund. The amount of the advisory fee is determined by applying the daily equivalent of an annual fee rate to the net assets of the fund.Each fund other than California Tax-Free Income Fund pays the advisory fee daily. California Tax-Free Income Fund pays the advisory fee monthly in arrears. The management fees a fund currently is obligated to pay the Advisor are as set forth in its Prospectus.

From time to time, the Advisor may reduce its fee or make other arrangements to limit a fund’s expenses to a specified percentage of average daily net assets. The Advisor retains the right to re-impose a fee and recover any other payments to the extent that, during the fiscal year in which such expense limitation is in place, the fund’s annual expenses fall below this limit.

The following table shows the advisory fees that each fund incurred and paid to the Advisor for the fiscal periods ended May 31, 2018, May 31, 2019, and May 31, 2020.

	Advisory Fee Paid in Fiscal Year Ended
Funds	2020 ($)	2019 ($)	2018 ($)
Bond Fund
Gross Fees	55,324,352	42,906,736	37,736,694
Waivers	(1,257,673)	(1,037,086)	(2,670,328)
Net Fees	54,066,679	41,869,650	35,066,366
California Tax-Free Income Fund
Gross Fees	1,178,990	1,125,514	1,271,001
Waivers	(15,365)	(15,911)	(19,352)
Net Fees	1,163,625	1,109,603	1,251,649
ESG Core Bond Fund
Gross Fees	282,087	253,720	195,026
Waivers	(175,387)	(146,963)	(195,026)
Net Fees	106,700	106,757	0
Government Income Fund
Gross Fees	1,391,588	1,303,032	1,547,791
Waivers	(128,222)	(105,002)	(203,632)
Net Fees	1,263,366	1,198,030	1,344,159
High Yield Fund
Gross Fees	5,139,076	4,237,590	4,769,776
Waivers	(73,740)	(65,004)	(79,479)
Net Fees	5,065,336	4,172,586	4,690,297
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund
Gross Fees	925,332	919,868	1,018,705
Waivers	(60,249)	(68,990)	(66,053)
Net Fees	865,083	850,878	952,652
Income Fund
Gross Fees	6,113,966	8,813,420	13,409,322
Waivers	(125,770)	(208,899)	(399,698)
Net Fees	5,988,196	8,604,521	13,009,624
Investment Grade Bond Fund
Gross Fees	5,861,751	3,308,957	3,205,883
Waivers	(1,198,737)	(541,190)	(577,484)
Net Fees	4,663,014	2,767,767	2,628,399
Short Duration Bond Fund
Gross Fees	245,2111	N/A	N/A

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	Advisory Fee Paid in Fiscal Year Ended
Funds	2020 ($)	2019 ($)	2018 ($)
Waivers	(197,216)1	N/A	N/A
Net Fees	47,9951	N/A	N/A
Tax-Free Bond Fund
Gross Fees	2,735,979	2,697,875	2,987,537
Waivers	(37,608)	(38,173)	(45,861)
Net Fees	2,698,371	2,659,702	2,941,676

1 Period from July 16, 2019 (commencement of operations) to May 31, 2020.

Service Agreement and Accounting and Legal Services Agreement

Pursuant to (i) a Service Agreement with Bond Trust, Municipal Securities Trust, Sovereign Bond Fund, and Strategic Series; and (ii) an Accounting and Legal Services Agreement with California Tax-Free Income Fund, the Advisor is responsible for providing, at the expense of the applicable Trust, certain financial, accounting and administrative services such as legal services, tax, accounting, valuation, financial reporting and performance, compliance and service provider oversight. Pursuant to the Service Agreement, the Advisor shall determine, subject to Board approval, the expenses to be reimbursed by each fund, including an overhead allocation. Pursuant to the Accounting and Legal Services Agreement, such expenses shall not exceed levels that are fair and reasonable in light of the usual and customary charges made by others for services of the same nature and quality. The payments under the Service Agreement and the Accounting and Legal Services Agreement are not intended to provide a profit to the Advisor. Instead, the Advisor provides the services under the Service Agreement and the Accounting and Legal Services Agreement because it also provides advisory services under the Advisory Agreement.Pursuant to each Agreement, the reimbursement shall be calculated and paid monthly in arrears.

The Advisor is not liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by a fund in connection with the matters to which the Service Agreement or the Accounting and Legal Services Agreement relates, except losses resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or negligence by the Advisor in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard by the Advisor of its obligations under either Agreement.

The Service Agreement and the Accounting and Legal Services Agreement each had an initial term of two years, and continues thereafter so long as such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by a majority of the Board and a majority of the Independent Trustees. The Trust, on behalf of any or all of the funds, or the Advisor may terminate either Agreement at any time without penalty on 60 days’ written notice to the other party. Either Agreement may be amended by mutual written agreement of the parties, without obtaining shareholder approval.

The following table shows the fees that each fund incurred and paid to the Advisor for non-advisory services pursuant to the Service Agreement or the Accounting and Legal Services Agreement, as applicable, for the fiscal periods ended May 31, 2018, May 31, 2019, and May 31, 2020.

	Service Fee Paid in Fiscal Year Ended May 31,
Fund	2020 ($)	2019 ($)	2018 ($)
Bond Fund	3,128,751	3,116,200	2,583,851
California Tax-Free Income Fund	36,194	45,511	53,471
ESG Core Bond Fund	10,649	13,118	9,669
Government Income Fund	47,386	54,285	63,814
High Yield Fund	186,960	180,124	221,547
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	26,225	34,491	40,645
Income Fund	317,330	569,522	955,064
Investment Grade Bond Fund	273,812	188,869	183,871
Short Duration Bond Fund	21,7811	N/A	N/A
Tax-Free Bond Fund	86,972	108,474	126,800

1 Period from July 16, 2019 (commencement of operations) to May 31, 2020.

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Subadvisory Agreements

Duties of the Subadvisors. Under the terms of each of the current subadvisory agreements (each a “Subadvisory Agreement” and collectively, the “Subadvisory Agreements”), the subadvisors manage the investment and reinvestment of the assets of the funds, subject to the supervision of the Board and the Advisor. Each subadvisor formulates a continuous investment program for each such fund consistent with its investment objectives and policies outlined in the Prospectus. Each subadvisor implements such programs by purchases and sales of securities and regularly reports to the Advisor and the Board with respect to the implementation of such programs. Each subadvisor, at its expense, furnishes all necessary investment and management facilities, including salaries of personnel required for it to execute its duties, as well as administrative facilities, including bookkeeping, clerical personnel, and equipment necessary for the conduct of the investment affairs of the assigned funds. Additional information about the funds’ portfolio managers, including other accounts managed, ownership of fund shares, and compensation structure, can be found at Appendix B to this SAI.

The Advisor has delegated to the subadvisors the responsibility to vote all proxies relating to the securities held by the funds. See “Other Services — Proxy Voting” below, for additional information.

Subadvisory Fees. As compensation for their services, each subadvisor receives fees from the Advisor computed separately for each fund.

Affiliated Subadvisors. The Advisor and the Affiliated Subadvisors are controlled by Manulife Financial.

Advisory arrangements involving Affiliated Subadvisors and investment in affiliated underlying funds present certain conflicts of interest. For each fund subadvised by an Affiliated Subadvisor, the Affiliated Subadvisor will benefit from increased subadvisory fees. In addition, MFC will benefit, not only from the net advisory fee retained by the Advisor but also from the subadvisory fee paid by the Advisor to the Affiliated Subadvisor. Consequently, the Affiliated Subadvisors and MFC may be viewed as benefiting financially from: (i) the appointment of or continued service of Affiliated Subadvisors to manage the funds; and (ii) the allocation of the assets of the funds to the funds having Affiliated Subadvisors. Similarly, the Advisor may be viewed as having a conflict of interest in the allocation of the assets of the funds to affiliated underlying funds as opposed to unaffiliated underlying funds. However, both the Advisor, in recommending to the Board the appointment or continued service of Affiliated Subadvisors, and such Subadvisors, in allocating the assets of the funds, have a fiduciary duty to act in the best interests of the funds and their shareholders. The Advisor has a duty to recommend that Affiliated Subadvisors be selected, retained, or replaced only when the Advisor believes it is in the best interests of shareholders. In addition, under the Trusts’ “Manager of Managers” exemptive order received from the SEC, each Trust is required to obtain shareholder approval of any subadvisory agreement appointing an Affiliated Subadvisor as the subadvisor except as otherwise permitted by applicable SEC No-Action Letter to a fund (in the case of a new fund, the initial sole shareholder of the fund, an affiliate of the Advisor and MFC, may provide this approval). Similarly, each Affiliated Subadvisor has a duty to allocate assets to Affiliated Subadvised funds, and affiliated underlying funds more broadly, only when it believes this is in shareholders’ best interests and without regard for the financial incentives inherent in making such allocations. The Independent Trustees are aware of and monitor these conflicts of interest.

Additional Information Applicable to Subadvisory Agreements

Term of each Subadvisory Agreement. Each Subadvisory Agreement will initially continue in effect as to a fund for a period no more than two years from the date of its execution (or the execution of an amendment making the agreement applicable to that fund) and thereafter if such continuance is specifically approved at least annually either: (a) by the Trustees; or (b) by the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of that fund. In either event, such continuance also shall be approved by the vote of the majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons of any party to the Subadvisory Agreements.

Any required shareholder approval of any continuance of any of the Subadvisory Agreements shall be effective with respect to any fund if a majority of the outstanding voting securities of that fund votes to approve such continuance, even if such continuance may not have been approved by a majority of the outstanding voting securities of: (a) any other series of the applicable Trust affected by the Subadvisory Agreement; or (b) all of the series of the applicable Trust.

Failure of Shareholders to Approve Continuance of any Subadvisory Agreement. If the outstanding voting securities of any fund fail to approve any continuance of any Subadvisory Agreement, the party may continue to act as investment subadvisor with respect to such fund pending the required approval of the continuance of the Subadvisory Agreement or a new agreement with either that party or a different subadvisor, or other definitive action.

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Termination of a Subadvisory Agreement. A Subadvisory Agreement may be terminated at any time without the payment of any penalty on 60 days’ written notice to the other party or parties to the Agreement, and also to the relevant fund. The following parties may terminate a Subadvisory Agreement:

■ the Board;

■ with respect to any fund, a majority of the outstanding voting securities of such fund;

■ the Advisor; and

■ the applicable subadvisor.

A Subadvisory Agreement will automatically terminate in the event of its assignment or upon termination of the Advisory Agreement.

Amendments to the Subadvisory Agreements. A Subadvisory Agreement may be amended by the parties to the agreement, provided that the amendment is approved by the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the relevant fund (except as noted below) and by the vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees. The required shareholder approval of any amendment to a Subadvisory Agreement shall be effective with respect to any fund if a majority of the outstanding voting securities of that fund votes to approve the amendment, even if the amendment may not have been approved by a majority of the outstanding voting securities of: (a) any other series of the applicable Trust affected by the amendment; or (b) all the series of the applicable Trust.

Except with respect to California Tax-Free Income Fund, High Yield Fund, and High Yield Municipal Bond Fund, as noted under“Who’s who — Investment advisor” in the Prospectus, an SEC order permits the Advisor, subject to approval by the Board and a majority of the Independent Trustees, to appoint a subadvisor (other than an Affiliated Subadvisor), or change a subadvisory fee or otherwise amend a subadvisory agreement (other than with an Affiliated Subadvisor) pursuant to an agreement that is not approved by shareholders.

Other Services

Proxy Voting. Based on the terms of the current Subadvisory Agreements, each Trust’s proxy voting policies and procedures (the “Trust Procedures”) delegate to the subadvisors of each of its funds the responsibility to vote all proxies relating to securities held by that fund in accordance with the subadvisor’s proxy voting policies and procedures. A subadvisor has a duty to vote or not vote such proxies in the best interests of the fund it subadvises and its shareholders, and to avoid the influence of conflicts of interest. In the event that the Advisor assumes day-to-day management responsibilities for the fund, each Trust’s Procedures delegate proxy voting responsibilities to the Advisor. Complete descriptions of the Trust Procedures and the proxy voting procedures of the Advisor and the subadvisors are set forth in Appendix C to this SAI.

It is possible that conflicts of interest could arise for the subadvisor when voting proxies. Such conflicts could arise, for example, when the subadvisor or its affiliate has an existing business relationship with the issuer of the security being voted or with a third party that has an interest in the vote. A conflict of interest also could arise when a fund, its Advisor or principal underwriter or any of their affiliates has an interest in the vote.

In the event the subadvisor becomes aware of a material conflict of interest, the Trust Procedures generally require the subadvisor to follow any conflicts procedures that may be included in the subadvisor’s proxy voting procedures. Although conflicts procedures will vary among subadvisors, they generally include one or more of the following:

(a) voting pursuant to the recommendation of a third party voting service;
(b) voting pursuant to pre-determined voting guidelines; or
(c) referring voting to a special compliance or oversight committee.

The specific conflicts procedures of each subadvisor are set forth in its proxy voting procedures included in Appendix C. While these conflicts procedures may reduce the influence of conflicts of interest on proxy voting, such influence will not necessarily be eliminated.

Although the subadvisor may have a duty to vote all proxies on behalf of the fund that it subadvises, it is possible that the subadvisor may not be able to vote proxies under certain circumstances. For example, it may be impracticable to translate in a timely manner voting materials that are written in a foreign language or to travel to a foreign country when voting in person rather than by proxy is required. In addition, if the voting of proxies for shares of a security prohibits a subadvisor from trading the shares in the marketplace for a period of time, the subadvisor may determine that it is not in the best interests of the fund to vote the proxies. In addition, consistent with its duty to vote proxies in the best interests of a fund’s shareholders, the subadvisor may refrain from voting one or more of the fund’s proxies if the subadvisor believes that the costs of voting such proxies may outweigh the potential benefits. For example, the subadvisor may choose not to recall securities where the subadvisor believes the costs of voting may outweigh the potential benefit of

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voting. A subadvisor also may choose not to recall securities that have been loaned in order to vote proxies for shares of the security since the fund would lose security lending income if the securities were recalled.

Information regarding how a fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities during the most recent 12-month period ended June 30th is available: (1) without charge, on www.jhinvestments.com and (2) on the SEC’s website at sec.gov.

DISTRIBUTION AGREEMENTS

Each Trust has a Distribution Agreement with John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC, an affiliate of the Advisor, located at 200 Berkeley Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116. Under the Distribution Agreement, the Distributor is obligated to use its best efforts to sell shares of each class of the funds. Shares of the funds also are sold by selected broker-dealers, banks and registered investment advisors (“Selling Firms”) that have entered into selling agreements with the Distributor. These Selling Firms are authorized to designate other intermediaries to receive purchase and redemption orders on behalf of the funds. The Distributor accepts orders for the purchase of the shares of the funds that are continually offered at the NAV next determined, plus any applicable sales charge. Class I, Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, Class R4, Class R5, Class R6, and Class NAV shares of the funds are offered without a front-end sales load or CDSC. In connection with the sale of Class A shares, the Distributor and Selling Firms receive compensation from a sales charge imposed at the time of sale.In the case of Class B and Class C shares, the Selling Firms receive compensation immediately, but the Distributor is compensated on a deferred basis. Neither the Distributor nor Selling Firms receive any compensation with respect to the sale of Class R6 shares of the funds.

With respect to share classes other than Class R6, the Distributor may make, either from Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, if applicable, or out of its own resources, additional payments to financial intermediaries (firms), such as broker-dealers, banks, registered investment advisors, independent financial planners, and retirement plan administrators. These payments are sometimes referred to as “revenue sharing.” No such payments are made with respect to the funds’ Class R6 shares.

The funds do not issue share certificates. Shares are electronically recorded. The Board reserves the right to change or waive a fund’s minimum investment requirements and to reject any order to purchase shares (including purchase by exchange) when, in the judgment of the Advisor or the relevant subadvisor, such rejection is in the fund’s best interest.

Underwriting Commissions. The following table shows the underwriting commissions that the Distributor charged and retained with respect to transactions in Class A, Class B, and Class C shares of the funds for the fiscal periods ended May 31, 2018, May 31, 2019, and May 31, 2020.

		Fiscal Period Ended May 31,
Fund	Share Class	2020 ($)	2019 ($)	2018 ($)
Bond Fund
	Class A	2,820,276	2,027,186	2,904,021
	Class B	0	3,288	13,584
	Class C	22,828	28,201	48,661
California Tax-Free Income Fund
	Class A	174,214	105,534	125,290
	Class B	0	0	99
	Class C	0427	410	6,842
ESG Core Bond
	Class A	0	0	0
Government Income Fund
	Class A	182,827	110,253	134,452
	Class B	0	48	707
	Class C	396	548	1,335
High Yield Fund
	Class A	494,706	240,574	375,933
	Class B	0	1,905	10,629
	Class C	1,738	1,278	2,450

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		Fiscal Period Ended May 31,
Fund	Share Class	2020 ($)	2019 ($)	2018 ($)
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund
	Class A	150,796	152,940	206,373
	Class B	0	740	2,450
	Class C	2,000	1,616	802
Income Fund
	Class A	352,515	268,737	383,212
	Class B	30	5,574	35,886
	Class C	2,287	2,378	8,024
Investment Grade Bond Fund
	Class A	964,428	545,112	541,174
	Class B	0	972	3,758
	Class C	6,144	603	3,615
Short Duration Bond Fund	Class A	01	N/A	N/A
	Class C	01	N/A	N/A
Tax-Free Bond Fund
	Class A	335,634	183,914	326,784
	Class B	0	658	2,463
	Class C	1,483	2,339	6,842

1 Period from July 16, 2019 (commencement of operations) to May 31, 2020.

Distribution Plans. The Board has adopted distribution plans with respect to Class A, Class B, Class C, Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, Class R4, and Class R5 shares pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act (the “Rule 12b-1 Plans”). Under the Rule 12b-1 Plans, a fund may pay distribution and service fees based on average daily net assets attributable to those classes, at the maximum aggregate annual rates shown in the following table. However, the service portion of the Rule 12b-1 fees borne by a class of shares of a fund will not exceed 0.25% of average daily net assets attributable to such class of shares.

Share Class	Rule 12b-1 Fee (%)
Class A (Bond Fund and Income Fund)	0.30
Class A1 (ESG Core Bond Fund, Government Income Fund, High Yield Fund, High Yield Municipal Bond Fund, Investment Grade Bond Fund, Short Duration Bond Fund and Tax- Free Bond Fund)	0.25
Class A (California Tax-Free Income Fund)	0.15
Class B2	1.00
Class C2	1.00
Class R1	0.50
Class R2	0.25
Class R3	0.50
Class R43	0.25
Class R5	0.00

1 The Distributor has contractually agreed to limit the Rule 12b-1 distribution and service fees for Class A shares of each of High Yield Municipal Bond Fund and Tax-Free Bond Fund to 0.15% until September 30, 2021.

2 The Distributor has contractually agreed to limit the Rule 12b-1 distribution and service fees for Class B and Class C shares of each of California Tax-Free Income Fund, High Yield Municipal Bond Fund, and Tax-Free Bond Fund to 0.90% until September 30, 2021.

3 The Distributor has contractually agreed to limit the Rule 12b-1 distribution and service fees for Class R4 shares of the Bond Fund, Income Fund and Investment Grade Bond Fund to 0.15% until September 30, 2021.

There are two types of Rule 12b-1 Plans: “reimbursement” and “compensation” plans. While a reimbursement plan provides for reimbursement of certain distribution and shareholder service expenses of a fund, a compensation plan provides for direct payment of distribution and shareholder service fees to the Distributor. Except as noted below, the funds’ Rule 12b-1 Plans are compensation Rule 12b-1 Plans. Under a compensation Rule 12b-1 Plan, the Distributor

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will retain the entire amount of the payments made to it, even if such amount exceeds the Distributor’s actual distribution-related expenses for the applicable fiscal year.

The fees charged under the Rule 12b-1 Plans will be paid to the Distributor either in reimbursement of distribution and shareholder service expenses incurred by the Distributor on the funds’ behalf, or as direct compensation to the Distributor in contemplation of such expenses, as noted above. The distribution portion of the fees payable pursuant to the Rule 12b-1 Plans may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of the particular class, including but not limited to: (i) compensation to Selling Firms and others (including affiliates of the Distributor) that are engaged in or support the sale of fund shares; and (ii) marketing, promotional and overhead expenses incurred in connection with the distribution of fund shares. The service portion of the fees payable pursuant to the Rule 12b-1 Plans may be used to compensate Selling Firms and others for providing personal and account maintenance services to shareholders.

The following share classes have reimbursement plans for the stated funds: Class A (California Tax-Free Income Fund); Class B (High Yield Fund and Investment Grade Bond Fund); Class C (Bond Fund, Government Income Fund, High Yield Municipal Bond Fund, Investment Grade Bond Fund and Tax-Free Bond Fund); and Class R1 (Income Fund). Under a reimbursement Rule 12b-1 Plan, if the aggregate payments received by the Distributor for a particular class of shares of a fund in any fiscal year exceed the expenditures made by the Distributor in that year pursuant to that Rule 12b-1 Plan, the Distributor will reimburse the fund for the amount of the excess. If, however, the expenditures made by the Distributor on a fund’s behalf during any fiscal year exceed the payments received under such Rule 12b-1 Plan, the Distributor is entitled to carry over such unreimbursed expenses (for Class B and Class C shares, with interest) to be paid in subsequent fiscal years from available Rule 12b-1 amounts. However, with respect to Class A reimbursement Rule 12b-1 Plans, these expenses will not be carried beyond twelve months from the date they were incurred. The funds do not treat unreimbursed expenses under Class B, Class C, and Class R1 reimbursement Rule 12b-1 Plans as a liability of the funds because the Trustees can terminate any of these Plans at any time with no additional liability to the shareholders and the funds for these expenses.

The Rule 12b-1 Plans and all amendments were approved by the Board, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, by votes cast in person at meetings called for the purpose of voting on the Rule 12b-1 Plans. Pursuant to the Rule 12b-1 Plans, at least quarterly, the Distributor provides the Board with a written report of the amounts expended under the Rule 12b-1 Plans and the purpose for which these expenditures were made. The Board reviews these reports on a quarterly basis to determine the continued appropriateness of such expenditures.

Each Rule 12b-1 Plan provides that it will continue in effect only so long as its continuance is approved at least annually by a majority of both the Board and the Independent Trustees. Each Rule 12b-1 Plan provides that it may be terminated without penalty: (a) by a vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees; and (b) by a vote of a majority of the fund’s outstanding shares of the applicable class, in each case upon 60 days’ written notice to the Distributor. Each Rule 12b-1 Plan further provides that it may not be amended to increase materially the maximum amount of the fees for the services described therein without the approval of a majority of the outstanding shares of the class of a fund that has voting rights with respect to the Rule 12b-1 Plan. The Rule 12b-1 Plans provide that no material amendment to the Rule 12b-1 Plans will be effective unless it is approved by a majority vote of the Board and the Independent Trustees of the relevant Trust. The holders of Class A, Class B, Class C, Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, Class R4, and Class R5 shares have exclusive voting rights with respect to the Rule 12b-1 Plans applicable to their class of shares. In adopting the Rule 12b-1 Plans, the Board, including the Independent Trustees, concluded that, in their judgment, there is a reasonable likelihood that the Rule 12b-1 Plans will benefit the holders of the applicable classes of shares of each fund.

Class I, Class R6, and Class NAV shares of the funds are not subject to any Rule 12b-1 Plan. Expenses associated with the obligation of the Distributor to use its best efforts to sell Class I, Class R6, and Class NAV shares will be paid by the Advisor or by the Distributor and will not be paid from the fees paid under the Rule 12b-1 Plan for any other class of shares. In addition, expenses associated with the obligation of the Distributor to use its best efforts to sell Class R5 shares will be paid by the Advisor or by the Distributor and will not be paid by the funds.

Amounts paid to the Distributor by any class of shares of a fund will not be used to pay the expenses incurred with respect to any other class of shares of that fund; provided, however, that expenses attributable to the fund as a whole will be allocated, to the extent permitted by law, according to a formula based upon gross sales dollars and/or average daily net assets of each such class, as may be approved from time to time by vote of a majority of the Trustees. From time to time, a fund may participate in joint distribution activities with other funds and the costs of those activities will be borne by the fund in proportion to the relative NAVs of the fund and the other funds.

Each Rule 12b-1 Plan recognizes that the Advisor may use its management fee revenue under the Advisory Agreement with a fund as well as its past profits or other resources from any source to make payments with respect to expenses

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incurred in connection with the distribution of shares of the fund. To the extent that the payment of management fees by a fund to the Advisor should be deemed to be the indirect financing of any activity primarily intended to result in the sale of shares of a class within the meaning of Rule 12b-1, such payments are deemed to be authorized by the Rule 12b-1 Plan.

During the fiscal period ended May 31, 2020, the following amounts were paid to the Distributor pursuant to each fund’s Rule 12b-1 Plans.

Fund	Share Class	Rule 12b-1 Service Fee Payments ($)	Rule 12b-1 Distribution Fee Payments ($)
Bond Fund	A	4,798,830	959,766
	B	12,579	37,738
	C	664,996	1,994,989
	R2	243,371	-
	R4	75,547	-
California Tax-Free Income Fund	A	268,510	-
	B	894	2,325
	C	43,957	114,288
ESG Core Bond Fund	A	13,259	-
Government Income Fund	A	563,482	-
	B	1,379	4,139
	C	15,278	45,833
High Yield Fund	A	752,720	-
	B	5,160	15,478
	C	117,387	352,162
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	A	173,079	-
	B	2,640	6,864
	C	62,148	161,584
Income Fund	A	1,373,636	274,727
	B	31,171	93,514
	C	301,163	903,490
	R1	16,914	16,914
	R2	13,337	-
	R3	10,982	10,982
	R4	4,409	-
Investment Grade Bond Fund	A	1,106,536	-
	B	3,365	10,096
	C	56,408	169,222
	R2	6,698	-
	R4	841	-
Short Duration Bond Fund1	A	680	-
	C	177	529
Tax-Free Bond Fund	A	663,982	-
	B	4,251	11,051
	C	76,263	198,285

1 Period from July 16, 2019 (commencement of operations) to May 31, 2020.

During the fiscal period ended May 31, 2020, the following unreimbursed expense amounts were incurred under the funds’ reimbursement Rule 12b-1 Plans:

Fund	Share Class	Unreimbursed Expenses ($)	Unreimbursed Expenses as a Percent of the Share Class Net Assets (%)
Bond Fund	C	7,891,808	3.49
California Tax-Free Income Fund	A	715,661	0.48

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Fund	Share Class	Unreimbursed Expenses ($)	Unreimbursed Expenses as a Percent of the Share Class Net Assets (%)
Government Income Fund	C	1,287,370	23.29
High Yield Fund	B	16,756,223	1332.89
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	C	1,719,635	8.99
Income Fund	R1	432,448	8.00
Investment Grade Bond Fund	B	5,961,879	673.84
	C	2,312,020	11.36
Tax-Free Bond Fund	C	2,229,007	9.39

Class R Service Plans. Each Trust has adopted a separate service plan with respect to Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, Class R4, and Class R5 shares of the applicable funds (the “Class R Service Plans”). The Class R Service Plans authorize a fund to pay securities dealers, plan administrators or other service organizations who agree to provide certain services to retirement plans, or plan participants holding shares of the fund a service fee of up to a specified percentage of the fund’s average daily net assets attributable to the applicable class of shares held by such plan participants. The percentages are 0.25% for Class R1 shares, 0.25% for Class R2 shares, 0.15% for Class R3 shares, 0.10% for Class R4 shares, and 0.05% for Class R5 shares. The services may include (a) acting, directly or through an agent, as the shareholder and nominee for all plan participants; (b) maintaining account records for each plan participant that beneficially owns the applicable class of shares; (c) processing orders to purchase, redeem and exchange the applicable class of shares on behalf of plan participants, and handling the transmission of funds representing the purchase price or redemption proceeds; (d) addressing plan participant questions regarding their accounts and the funds; and (e) other services related to servicing such retirement plans.

SALES COMPENSATION

As part of their business strategy, the funds, along with the Distributor, pay compensation to Selling Firms that sell the shares of the funds. These firms typically pass along a portion of this compensation to the shareholder’s broker or financial professional.

The primary sources of Selling Firm compensation payments for sales of shares of the funds are: (1) the Rule 12b-1 fees that are applicable to the class of shares being sold and that are paid out of a fund’s assets; and (2) in the case of Class A, Class B, and Class C shares, sales charges paid by investors. The sales charges and Rule 12b-1 fees are detailed in the relevant Prospectus and under “Distribution Agreements,” “Sales Charges on Class A, Class B, and Class C Shares,” and “Deferred Sales Charge on Class A, Class B, and Class C Shares” in this SAI. For Class I shares, the Distributor may make a one-time payment at the time of initial purchase out of its own resources to a Selling Firm that sells Class I shares of the funds. This payment may not exceed 0.15% of the amount invested.

Initial Compensation. Whenever an investor purchases Class A, Class B, or Class C shares of a fund, the Selling Firm receives a reallowance/payment/commission as described in the section “First Year Broker or Other Selling Firm Compensation.”

Annual Compensation. Except as provided below, for Class A share purchases of a fund, beginning with the first year an investment is made, the Selling Firm receives an annual Rule 12b-1 fee of 0.25% of its average daily net assets invested in the fund. This Rule 12b-1 fee is paid monthly in arrears.

For Class A investments of $1 million or more and investments by certain retirement plans, Class B and Class C shares of a fund, beginning in the second year after an investment is made, the Selling Firm receives an annual Rule 12b-1 service fee of 0.25% of its average daily net (aged) assets invested in the fund. The term “(aged) assets” used in this context refers to investments of $1 million or more in Class A shares that are held for more than one year and therefore would not be subject to the relevant CDSC upon redemption. In addition, beginning in the second year after an investment is made in Class C shares of a fund, the Distributor will pay the Selling Firm a distribution fee in an amount not to exceed 0.75% of the average daily net (aged) assets invested in the fund. These service and distribution fees are paid monthly in arrears.

For Class R1 and Class R3 shares of a fund, beginning with the first year an investment is made, the Selling Firm receives an annual Rule 12b-1 distribution fee of 0.50% of its average daily net assets. For Class R2 and R4 shares of a fund, beginning in the first year after an investment is made, the Selling Firm receives an annual Rule 12b-1 service fee of 0.25% of its average daily net (aged) assets, except that the annual Rule 12b-1 distribution fee payable to Selling Firms

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for Class R4 shares of certain funds is limited to 0.15% of the average daily net assets of Class R4 shares for each such fund until September 30, 2021, as described in each such fund’s Class R4 Prospectus.

For more information, see the table below under the column captioned “Selling Firm receives Rule 12b-1 service fees.” These service and distribution fees are paid monthly in arrears.

Additional Payments to Financial Intermediaries. Shares of the funds are primarily sold through financial intermediaries (firms), such as broker-dealers, banks, registered investment advisors, independent financial planners, and retirement plan administrators. In addition to sales charges, which are payable by shareholders, and Rule 12b-1 distribution fees, which are paid by the funds, the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate makes additional payments to firms out of its own resources. These payments are sometimes referred to as “revenue sharing.” Many firms involved in the sale of fund shares receive one or more types of these cash payments. The categories of payments that the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate provides to firms are described below. These categories are not mutually exclusive and the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate may make additional types of revenue sharing payments in the future. Some firms receive payments under more than one or all categories. These payments assist in the efforts of the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate to promote the sale of the funds’ shares. The Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate agrees with the firm on the methods for calculating any additional compensation, which may include the level of sales or assets attributable to the firm. Not all firms receive additional compensation and the amount of compensation varies. These payments could be significant to a firm and are an important factor in a firm’s willingness to support the sale of the funds through its distribution system. To the extent firms receiving such payments purchase shares of the funds on behalf of their clients, the Advisor and/or the Distributor benefit from increased management and other fees with respect to those assets. The Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate determines which firms to make payments to and the extent of the payments it is willing to make. The Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate generally chooses to compensate firms that have a strong capability to distribute shares of the funds and that are willing to cooperate with the promotional efforts of the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate. The Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate does not make an independent assessment of the cost of providing such services.

The provision of these additional payments, the varying fee structures and the basis on which a firm compensates its registered representatives or salespersons creates an incentive for a particular firm, registered representative, or salesperson to highlight, feature or recommend funds, including the funds, or other investments based, at least in part, on the level of compensation paid. Additionally, if greater payments are made with respect to one mutual fund complex than another, a firm has an incentive to recommend one fund complex over another. Similarly, if a firm receives greater compensation for one share class versus another, that firm has an incentive to recommend the share class with the greater compensation. Shareholders should consider whether such incentives exist when evaluating any recommendations from a firm to purchase or sell shares of the funds and when considering which share class is most appropriate. Shareholders should ask their salesperson or visit their firm’s website for more information about the additional payments they receive and any potential conflicts of interest, as well as for information regarding any fees and/or commissions the firm charges. Firms may categorize and disclose these arrangements differently than the Distributor and its affiliates.

As of May 31, 2020, the following member firms of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (“FINRA”) have arrangements in effect with the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate pursuant to which the firm is entitled to a revenue sharing payment at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the value of the fund shares sold or serviced by the firm:

Business Partner Firms

Advisor Group-FSC Securities Corporation

Advisor Group-Royal Alliance Associates, Inc.

Advisor Group-Sagepoint Financial, Inc.

Advisor Group-Woodbury Financial Services

Advisor Group-Securities America, Inc.

Advisor Group-Triad Advisors, LLC.

Advisor Group-Investacorp, Inc.

Advisor Group-KMS Financial Services, Inc.

Advisor Group-Securities Service Network, LLC

Ameriprise Financial Services, Inc.

Avantax Wealth Management

Banc of America/Merrill Lynch

BOK Financial Securities, Inc.

Business Partner Firms

Centaurus Financial, Inc.

Cetera - Advisor Network LLC

Cetera - Advisors LLC

Cetera - Financial Institutions

Cetera - Financial Specialists, Inc.

Cetera - First Allied Securities, Inc.

Cetera - Summit Brokerage Services, Inc.

Charles Schwab

Commonwealth Financial Network

Crown Capital Securities L.P.

DA Davidson & Co Inc.

Edward D. Jones & Co. LP

Fidelity - Fidelity Brokerage Services LLC

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Business Partner Firms

Fidelity - Fidelity Investments Institutional Operations Company, Inc.

Fidelity - National Financial Services LLC

Fifth Third Securities, Inc.

First Command Financial Planning

Business Partner Firms

First Tennessee Brokerage, Inc.

Geneos Wealth Management

GWFS Equities, Inc.

Independent Financial Group

Infinex Investments Inc.

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC

Key Investment Services

Leumi Investment Services, Inc.

LPL Financial LLC

MML Investor Services, Inc.

Money Concepts Capital Corp.

Morgan Stanley Wealth Management, LLC

Northwestern Mutual Investment Services, LLC

ProEquities, Inc.

Raymond James and Associates, Inc.

Raymond James Financial Services, Inc.

RBC Capital Markets Corporation

Robert W. Baird & Co.

Stifel, Nicolaus, & Co, Inc.

TD Ameritrade

The Investment Center, Inc.

Transamerica Financial Advisors, Inc.

UBS Financial Services, Inc.

Unionbanc Investment Services

Wells Fargo Advisors

The Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate also has arrangements with intermediaries that are not members of FINRA.

The Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate may revise the terms of any existing revenue sharing arrangement, and may enter into additional revenue sharing arrangements with other firms in the future.

Sales and Asset Based Payments. The Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate makes revenue sharing payments as incentives to certain firms to promote and sell shares of the funds. The Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate hopes to benefit from revenue sharing by increasing the funds’ net assets, which, as well as benefiting the funds, would result in additional management and other fees for the Advisor and its affiliates. In consideration for revenue sharing compensation, some firms will feature certain funds in their sales systems or give the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate additional access to members of their sales forces or management. In addition, some firms agree to participate in the marketing efforts of the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate by allowing the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate to participate in conferences, seminars or other programs attended by the firm’s sales force. Although certain firms seek revenue sharing payments to offset costs incurred by the firm in servicing the firm’s clients that have invested in the funds, such firms may still earn a profit on these payments. Revenue sharing payments provide a firm with an incentive to recommend the funds.

The payments to firms generally are negotiated based on a number of factors including, but not limited to, quality of service, reputation in the industry, ability to attract and retain assets, target markets, customer relationships, and relationship with the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate. No one factor is determinative of the type or amount of additional compensation to be provided. The amount of these payments, as determined from time to time by the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate in its sole discretion, may be different for different firms. For example, one way in which revenue sharing payments made by the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate are calculated is on sales of shares of the funds (“Sales-Based Payments”). Such payments can also be calculated on the average daily net assets of the applicable funds attributable to that particular financial intermediary or on another subset of assets of funds in the John Hancock Fund Complex (“Asset-Based Payments”). Sales-Based Payments primarily create incentives for firms to sell shares of the funds and Asset-Based Payments primarily create incentives for firms to retain previously sold shares of the funds in investor accounts. The Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate pays firms either or both Sales-Based

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Payments and Asset-Based Payments. The compensation arrangements described in this section are not mutually exclusive, and a single firm may receive multiple types of compensation. Such payments may be calculated by reference to the gross or net sales by such person, the average net assets of shares held by the customers of such person, the number of accounts of the funds attributable to such person, on the basis of a flat fee or a negotiated lump sum payment for services provided, or otherwise.

Administrative, Technology, and Processing Support Payments. The Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate also pays certain firms that sell shares of the funds for certain administrative services, including recordkeeping and sub-accounting shareholder accounts, to the extent that the funds do not pay for these costs directly. The Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate also makes payments to certain firms that sell shares of the funds in connection with client account maintenance support, statement preparation and transaction processing. The types of payments that the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate makes under this category include, among others, payment of ticket charges per purchase or exchange order placed by a financial intermediary, payment of networking fees in connection with certain fund trading systems, or one-time payments for ancillary services such as setting up funds on a firm’s fund trading system. The Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate also makes platform support payments to some firms for the purpose of supporting services provided by a financial firm’s servicing of shareholder accounts, including, but not limited to, platform education and communications, relationship management support, development to support new or changing products, eligibility for inclusion on sample fund line-ups, trading or order taking platforms and related infrastructure/technology and/or legal, risk management and regulatory compliance infrastructure in support of investment related products, programs and services. In addition, the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate may pay for certain services including technology, operations, tax, “due diligence,” or audit consulting services.

Retirement Plan Program Servicing Payments. The Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate may make payments to certain financial intermediaries who sell fund shares through retirement plan programs. A financial intermediary may perform retirement plan program services itself or may arrange with a third party to perform retirement plan program services. In addition to participant recordkeeping, reporting or transaction processing, retirement plan program services may include: services rendered to a plan in connection with fund/investment selection and monitoring; employee enrollment and education; plan balance rollover or separation; or other similar services.

Marketing Support Payments. The Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate makes payments to some firms for marketing support services, including: providing periodic and ongoing education and training and support of firm personnel regarding the funds; disseminating to firm personnel information and product marketing materials regarding the funds; explaining to firms’ clients the features and characteristics of the funds; conducting due diligence regarding the funds; granting access (in some cases on a preferential basis over other competitors) to sales meetings, sales representatives and management representatives of the firm; and providing business planning assistance, marketing support, advertising and other services.

Other Cash Payments. From time to time, the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate provides, either from Rule 12b-1 distribution fees or out of its own resources, additional compensation to firms that sell or arrange for the sale of shares of the funds. Such compensation provided by the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate may take various forms, including payments for the receipt of analytical data in relation to sales of fund shares, financial assistance to firms that enable the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate to participate in and/or present at conferences or seminars, sales or training programs for invited registered representatives and other employees, client entertainment, client and investor events, and other firm-sponsored events, and travel expenses, including lodging incurred by registered representatives and other employees in connection with client prospecting, retention and due diligence trips. Other compensation may be offered to the extent not prohibited by federal or state laws or any self-regulatory agency, such as FINRA. The Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate makes payments for entertainment events it deems appropriate, subject to its guidelines and applicable law. These payments vary depending upon the nature of the event or the relationship.

In certain circumstances, the Advisor, the Distributor or another affiliate has other relationships with some firms relating to the provisions of services to the funds, such as providing omnibus account services or transaction processing services, or effecting portfolio transactions for the funds. If a firm provides these services, the Advisor or the funds may compensate the firm for these services. In addition, in certain circumstances, some firms have other compensated or uncompensated relationships with the Advisor or its affiliates that are not related to the funds.

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First Year Broker or Other Selling Firm Compensation
	Investor pays sales charge (% of offering price)1	Selling Firm receives commission2	Selling Firm receives Rule 12b-1 service fee	Total Selling Firm compensation3,4,5
Class A investments (each fund other than Short Duration Bond Fund and the Tax-Free Funds)5
Up to $99,999	4.00%	3.50%	0.25%	3.75%
$100,000 - $249,999	3.50%	3.00%	0.25%	3.25%
$250,000 - $499,999	2.50%	2.05%	0.25%	2.30%
$500,000 - $999,999	2.00%	1.75%	0.25%	2.00%
Class A investments (Short Duration Bond Fund)5
Up to $99,999	2.25%	2.00%	0.25%	2.25%
$100,000 - $249,999	2.00%	1.50%	0.25%	1.75%
$250,000 - $999,999	—	0.25%	0.25%	0.50%
Class A investments (Tax-Free Funds)5
Up to $99,999	4.00%	3.50%	0.15%	3.65%
$100,000 - $249,999	3.50%	3.00%	0.15%	3.15%
$250,000 - $499,999	2.50%	2.05%	0.15%	2.20%
$500,000 - $999,999	2.00%	1.75%	0.15%	1.90%
Investments of Class A shares of $1 million or more (each fund except the Tax-Free Funds)6
$1,000,000 - $4,999,999	—	0.75%	0.25%	1.00%
$5,000,000 - $9,999,999	—	0.25%	0.25%	0.50%
$10,000,000 and over	—	—	0.25%	0.25%
Investments of Class A shares of $1 million or more (Tax-Free Funds)6
$1,000,000 - $4,999,999	—	0.85%	0.15%	1.00%
$5,000,000 - $9,999,999	—	0.35%	0.15%	0.50%
$10,000,000 and over	—	0.10%	0.15%	0.25%
Class B investments (each fund other than the Tax-Free Funds)7 All Amounts	—	3.75%	0.25%	4.00%
Class B investments (Tax-Free Funds)7 All Amounts	—	3.75%	0.15%	3.90%
Class C investments (each fund other than the Tax-Free Funds)7 All Amounts	—	0.75%	0.25%	1.00%
Class C investments (Tax-Free Funds)7 All Amounts	—	0.75%	0.15%	0.90%
Class R1 investments5 All Amounts	—	0.00%	0.50%	0.50%
Class R2 investments5 All Amounts	—	0.00%	0.25%	0.25%
Class R3 investments5 All Amounts	—	0.00%	0.50%	0.50%
Class R4 investments5 All Amounts	—	0.00%	0.15%	0.15%
Class R5 investments All Amounts	—	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%

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First Year Broker or Other Selling Firm Compensation
	Investor pays sales charge (% of offering price)1	Selling Firm receives commission2	Selling Firm receives Rule 12b-1 service fee	Total Selling Firm compensation3,4,5
Class R6 investments All Amounts	—	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%
Class I investments8 All Amounts	—	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%

1 See “Sales Charges on Class A, Class B, and Class C Shares” for discussion on how to qualify for a reduced sales charge. The Distributor may take recent redemptions into account in determining if an investment qualifies as a new investment.

2 For Class A investments under $1 million, a portion of the Selling Firm’s commission is paid out of the front-end sales charge.

3 Selling Firm commission, Rule 12b-1 service fee, and any underwriter fee percentages are calculated from different amounts, and therefore may not equal the total Selling Firm compensation percentages due to rounding, when combined using simple addition.

4 The Distributor retains the balance.

5 For purchases of Class A, Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, and Class R4 shares, beginning with the first year an investment is made, the Selling Firm receives an annual Rule 12b-1 service fee paid monthly in arrears. See “Distribution Agreements” for a description of Class A, Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, Class R4, and Class R5 Service Plan charges and payments.

6 Certain retirement platforms may invest in Class A shares without being subject to sales charges. Purchases via these platforms may pay a commission from the first dollar invested. Additionally, commissions (up to 1.00%) are paid to dealers who initiate and are responsible for certain Class A share purchases not subject to sales charges. In both cases, the Selling Firm receives Rule 12b-1 fees in the first year as a percentage of the amount invested. After the first year, the Selling Firm receives Rule 12b-1 fees as a percentage of average daily net eligible assets paid monthly in arrears.

7 For Class B and Class C shares, the Selling Firm receives Rule 12b-1 fees in the first year as a percentage of the amount invested. After the first year, the Selling Firm receives Rule 12b-1 fees as a percentage of average daily net eligible assets paid monthly in arrears.

8 The Distributor may make a one-time payment at time of initial purchase out of its own resources to a Selling Firm that sells Class I shares of the funds. This payment may be up to 0.15% of the amount invested.

CDSC revenues collected by the Distributor may be used to pay Selling Firm commissions when there is no initial sales charge.

NET ASSET VALUE

The NAV for each class of shares of each fund is normally determined once daily as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE (typically 4:00 p.m. Eastern time, on each business day that the NYSE is open). Each class of shares of each fund has its own NAV, which is computed by dividing the total assets, minus liabilities, allocated to each share class by the number of fund shares outstanding for that class. The current NAV of the fund is available on our website at jhinvestments.com.

In case of emergency or other disruption resulting in the NYSE not opening for trading or the NYSE closing at a time other than the regularly scheduled close, the NAV may be determined as of the regularly scheduled close of the NYSE pursuant to the funds’ Valuation Policies and Procedures. The time at which shares and transactions are priced and until which orders are accepted may vary to the extent permitted by the SEC and applicable regulations. On holidays or other days when the NYSE is closed, the NAV is not calculated and the fund does not transact purchase or redemption requests. Trading of securities that are primarily listed on foreign exchanges may take place on weekends and U.S. business holidays on which the fund’s NAV is not calculated. Consequently, the fund’s portfolio securities may trade and the NAV of the fund’s shares may be significantly affected on days when a shareholder will not be able to purchase or redeem shares of the fund.

Portfolio securities are valued by various methods that are generally described below. Portfolio securities also may be fair valued by the funds’ Pricing Committee in certain instances pursuant to procedures established by the Trustees. Equity securities are generally valued at the last sale price or, for certain markets, the official closing price as of the close of the relevant exchange. Securities not traded on a particular day are valued using last available bid prices. A security that is listed or traded on more than one exchange is typically valued at the price on the exchange where the security was acquired or most likely will be sold. In certain instances, the Pricing Committee may determine to value equity securities using prices obtained from another exchange or market if trading on the exchange or market on which prices are typically obtained did not open for trading as scheduled, or if trading closed earlier than scheduled, and trading occurred as normal on another exchange or market. Equity securities traded principally in foreign markets are typically valued using the last sale price or official closing price in the relevant exchange or market, as adjusted by an independent pricing vendor to reflect fair value. On any day a foreign market is closed and the NYSE is open, any foreign securities will typically be valued using the last price or official closing price obtained from the relevant exchange on the prior business day adjusted based on information provided by an independent pricing vendor to reflect fair value. Debt obligations are typically valued based on evaluated prices provided by an independent pricing vendor. The value of securities denominated in foreign currencies is converted into U.S. dollars at the exchange rate supplied by an

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independent pricing vendor. Forward foreign currency contracts are valued at the prevailing forward rates which are based on foreign currency exchange spot rates and forward points supplied by an independent pricing vendor. Exchange-traded options are valued at the mid-price of the last quoted bid and ask prices. Futures contracts are typically valued at the last traded price on the exchange on which they trade. Foreign equity index futures that trade in the electronic trading market subsequent to the close of regular trading may be valued at the last traded price in the electronic trading market as of 4:00 P.M. Eastern time, or may be fair valued based on fair value adjustment factors provided by an independent pricing vendor in order to adjust for events that may occur between the close of foreign exchanges or markets and the close of the NYSE. Swaps and unlisted options are generally valued using evaluated prices obtained from an independent pricing vendor. Shares of other open-end investment companies that are not ETFs (underlying funds) are valued based on the NAVs of such underlying funds.

Pricing vendors may use matrix pricing or valuation models that utilize certain inputs and assumptions to derive values, including transaction data, broker-dealer quotations, credit quality information, general market conditions, news, and other factors and assumptions. Special valuation considerations may apply with respect to a fund’s “odd- lot” positions, as the fund may receive different prices when it sells such positions than it would receive for sales of institutional round lot positions. Pricing vendors generally value securities assuming orderly transactions of institutional round lot sizes, but a fund may hold or transact in such securities in smaller, odd lot sizes.

The Pricing Committee engages in oversight activities with respect to pricing vendors, which includes, among other things, monitoring significant or unusual price fluctuations above predetermined tolerance levels from the prior day, back-testing of pricing vendor prices against actual trades, conducting periodic due diligence meetings and reviews, and periodically reviewing the inputs, assumptions and methodologies used by these vendors. Nevertheless, market quotations, official closing prices, or information furnished by a pricing vendor could be inaccurate, which could lead to a security being valued incorrectly.

If market quotations, official closing prices, or information furnished by a pricing vendor are not readily available or are otherwise deemed unreliable or not representative of the fair value of such security because of market- or issuer-specific events, a security will be valued at its fair value as determined in good faith by the Trustees. The Trustees are assisted in their responsibility to fair value securities by the funds’ Pricing Committee, and the actual calculation of a security’s fair value may be made by the Pricing Committee acting pursuant to the procedures established by the Trustees. In certain instances, therefore, the Pricing Committee may determine that a reported valuation does not reflect fair value, based on additional information available or other factors, and may accordingly determine in good faith the fair value of the assets, which may differ from the reported valuation.

Fair value pricing of securities is intended to help ensure that a fund’s NAV reflects the fair market value of the fund’s portfolio securities as of the close of regular trading on the NYSE (as opposed to a value that no longer reflects market value as of such close), thus limiting the opportunity for aggressive traders or market timers to purchase shares of the fund at deflated prices reflecting stale security valuations and promptly sell such shares at a gain, thereby diluting the interests of long term shareholders. However, a security’s valuation may differ depending on the method used for determining value, and no assurance can be given that fair value pricing of securities will successfully eliminate all potential opportunities for such trading gains.

The use of fair value pricing has the effect of valuing a security based upon the price a fund might reasonably expect to receive if it sold that security in an orderly transaction between market participants, but does not guarantee that the security can be sold at the fair value price. Further, because of the inherent uncertainty and subjective nature of fair valuation, a fair valuation price may differ significantly from the value that would have been used had a readily available market price for the investment existed and these differences could be material.

Regarding a fund’s investment in an underlying fund that is not an ETF, which (as noted above) is valued at such underlying fund’s NAV, the prospectus for such underlying fund explains the circumstances and effects of fair value pricing for that underlying fund.

POLICY REGARDING DISCLOSURE OF PORTFOLIO HOLDINGS

The Board has adopted a Policy Regarding Disclosure of Portfolio Holdings, to protect the interests of the shareholders of the funds and to address potential conflicts of interest that could arise between the interests of shareholders and the interests of the Advisor, or the interests of the funds’ subadvisors, principal underwriter or affiliated persons of the Advisor, subadvisors or principal underwriter. The Trusts’ general policy with respect to the release of a fund’s portfolio holdings to unaffiliated persons is to do so only in limited circumstances and only to provide nonpublic information regarding portfolio holdings to any person, including affiliated persons, on a “need to know” basis and, when released, to release such information only as consistent with applicable legal requirements and the fiduciary duties owed to

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shareholders. Each Trust applies its policy uniformly to all potential recipients of such information, including individual and institutional investors, intermediaries, affiliated persons of a fund, and all third party service providers and rating agencies.

Each Trust posts to its website atjhinvestments.com complete portfolio holdings a number of days after each calendar month end as described in the Prospectus. Each fund also discloses its complete portfolio holdings information as of the end of the third month of every fiscal quarter on Form N-PORT within 60 days of the end of the fiscal quarter and on Form N-CSR within 70 days after the second and fourth quarter ends of the Trust’s fiscal year. The portfolio holdings information in Form N-PORT is not required to be delivered to shareholders, but is made public through the SEC electronic filings. Shareholders receive either complete portfolio holdings information or summaries of a fund’s portfolio holdings with their annual and semiannual reports.

Portfolio holdings information for a fund that is not publicly available will be released only pursuant to the exceptions described in the Policy Regarding Disclosure of Portfolio Holdings. A fund’s material nonpublic holdings information may be provided to the following unaffiliated persons as part of the investment activities of the fund: entities that, by explicit agreement, are required to maintain the confidentiality of the information disclosed; rating organizations, such as Moody’s, S&P, Fitch, Morningstar and Lipper, Vestek (Thomson Financial) or other entities for the purpose of compiling reports and preparing data; proxy voting services for the purpose of voting proxies; entities providing computer software; courts (including bankruptcy courts) or regulators with jurisdiction over the relevant Trust and its affiliates; and institutional traders to assist in research and trade execution. Exceptions to the portfolio holdings release policy can be approved only by the Trusts’ CCO or the CCO’s duly authorized delegate after considering: (a) the purpose of providing such information; (b) the procedures that will be used to ensure that such information remains confidential and is not traded upon; and (c) whether such disclosure is in the best interest of the shareholders.

As of May 31, 2020, the entities that may receive information described in the preceding paragraph, and the purpose for which such information is disclosed, are as presented in the table below. Portfolio holdings information is provided as frequently as daily with a one-day lag.

Vendor Name	Disclosure Purpose
Bloomberg L.P.	Pricing/Order Management
BNP Paribas S.A.	Leverage Provider, Pledging
Broadridge Financial Solutions	Proxy Voting, Software Vendor
Brown Brothers Harriman & Co.	Reconciliation, Securities Lending
Capital Institutional Services (CAPIS)	Broker Dealer, Commission Recapture, Transition Services
Confluence Technologies	Consulting
DG3	Financial Reporting, Type Setting
Donnelley Financial Solutions	Financial Reporting, Printing
Electra Information Systems	Reconciliation
Ernst & Young	Tax Reporting
EVARE	Reconciliation
FactSet	Data Gathering / Analytics, Performance
Failstation	Matched/Unmatched Trades Reporting
Foley Hoag	Foreign Currency Trade Review
GainsKeeper	Wash Sales / REIT Data
Institutional Shareholder Services (ISS)	Class Action Services, Proxy Voting
Interactive Data	Pricing
KPMG	Tax Reporting
Law Firm of Davis and Harman	Development of Revenue Ruling
LindeData	Service Provider-NAV Oversight
Lipper	Ratings / Survey Service
Markit	Service Provider-Electronic Data Management
Milestone	Service Provider-Valuation Oversight
Morningstar, Inc.	Ratings/Surveys
MSCI Inc.	Liquidity Risk Management, Performance
PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP	Audit Services

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Vendor Name	Disclosure Purpose
RSM US LLP	Consulting
Russell Implementation Services	Transition Services
SS&C Advent /Technologies	Cash & Securities Reconciliation/Analytics/Data Gathering
Star Compliance	Service Provider-Compliance
State Street Bank	Service Provider-IBOR
State Street Closed End Financing	All SS lending funds
SunGard	Securities Lending Analytics
SWIFT	Accounting Messages, Custody Messages, Trade Messaging
Thomson Reuters	Analytics
Wolters Kluwer	Audit Services, Tax Reporting

The CCO is required to pre-approve the disclosure of nonpublic information regarding a fund’s portfolio holdings to any affiliated persons of the relevant Trust. The CCO will use the same three considerations stated above before approving disclosure of a fund’s nonpublic information to affiliated persons.

The CCO shall report to the Board whenever additional disclosures of a fund’s portfolio holdings are approved. The CCO’s report shall be at the Board meeting following such approval.

When the CCO believes that the disclosure of a fund’s nonpublic information to an unaffiliated person presents a potential conflict of interest between the interest of the shareholders and the interest of affiliated persons of the relevant Trust, the CCO shall refer the potential conflict to the Board. The Board shall then permit such disclosure of a fund’s nonpublic information only if in its reasonable business judgment it concludes that such disclosure will be in the best interests of the relevant Trust’s shareholders.

The receipt of compensation by a fund, the Advisor, a subadvisor or an affiliate as consideration for disclosing a fund’s nonpublic portfolio holdings information is not deemed a legitimate business purpose and is strictly forbidden.

Registered investment companies and separate accounts that are advised or subadvised by the funds’ subadvisors may have investment objectives and strategies and, therefore, portfolio holdings, that potentially are similar to those of a fund. Neither such registered investment companies and separate accounts nor the funds’ subadvisors are subject to the Trusts’ Policy Regarding Disclosure of Portfolio Holdings, and may be subject to different portfolio holdings disclosure policies. The funds’ subadvisors may not, and the Trusts’ Board cannot, exercise control over policies applicable to separate subadvised funds and accounts.

In addition, the Advisor or the funds’ subadvisors may receive compensation for furnishing to separate account clients (including sponsors of wrap accounts) model portfolios, the composition of which may be similar to those of a particular fund. Such clients have access to their portfolio holdings and are not subject to the Trusts’ Policy Regarding Disclosure of Portfolio Holdings. In general, the provision of portfolio management services and/or model portfolio information to wrap program sponsors is subject to contractual confidentiality provisions that the sponsor will only use such information in connection with the program, although there can be no assurance that this would be the case in an agreement between any particular fund subadvisor that is not affiliated with the Advisor and a wrap account sponsor. Finally, the Advisor or the funds’ subadvisors may distribute to investment advisory clients analytical information concerning a model portfolio, which information may correspond substantially to the characteristics of a particular fund’s portfolio, provided that the applicable fund is not identified in any manner as being the model portfolio.

The potential provision of information in the various ways discussed in the preceding paragraph is not subject to the Trusts’ Policy Regarding Disclosure of Portfolio Holdings, as discussed above, and is not deemed to be the disclosure of a fund’s nonpublic portfolio holdings information. As a result of the funds’ inability to control the disclosure of information as noted above, there can be no guarantee that this information would not be used in a way that adversely impacts a fund. Nonetheless, each fund has oversight processes in place to attempt to minimize this risk.

SALES CHARGES ON CLASS A, CLASS B, AND CLASS C SHARES

Class A, Class B, and Class C shares of the funds, as applicable, are offered at a price equal to their NAV plus a sales charge that, in the case of Class A shares, is imposed at the time of purchase (the “initial sales charge”), or, in the case of Class B and Class C shares, on a contingent deferred basis (the “contingent deferred sales charge” or “CDSC”).

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The Trustees reserve the right to change or waive a fund’s minimum investment requirements and to reject any order to purchase shares (including purchase by exchange) when in the judgment of the Advisor such rejection is in the fund’s best interest.

The availability of certain sales charge waivers and discounts will depend on whether you purchase your shares directly from the funds or through a financial intermediary. Intermediaries may have different policies and procedures regarding the availability of front-end sales charge waivers or CDSC waivers (See Appendix 1 to the Prospectus, “Intermediary sales charge waivers,” which includes information about specific sales charge waivers applicable to the intermediaries identified therein).

The sales charges applicable to purchases of Class A shares of a fund are described in the Prospectus. Please note, these waivers are distinct from those described in Appendix 1 to the Prospectus, “Intermediary sales charge waivers,” and are not intended to describe the sales load cost structure of, or be exclusive to, any particular intermediary. Methods of obtaining reduced sales charges referred to generally in the Prospectus are described in detail below. In calculating the sales charge applicable to current purchases of Class A shares of a fund, the investor is entitled to accumulate current purchases with the current offering price of the Class A, Class B, Class C, Class I, Class I2, Class R6, Class ADV, or all Class R shares of the John Hancock funds owned by the investor (see “Combination and Accumulation Privileges” below).

In order to receive the reduced sales charge, the investor must notify his or her financial professional and/or the financial professional must notify the funds’ transfer agent, John Hancock Signature Services, Inc. (“Signature Services”) at the time of purchase of the Class A shares, about any other John Hancock funds owned by the investor, the investor’s spouse and their children under the age of 21 (see “Combination and Accumulation Privileges” below). This includes investments held in an IRA, including those held at a broker or financial professional other than the one handling the investor’s current purchase. Additionally, individual purchases by a trustee(s) or other fiduciary(ies) also may be aggregated if the investments are for a single trust estate or for a group retirement plan. Assets held within a group retirement plan may not be combined with any assets held by those same participants outside of the plan.

John Hancock will credit the combined value, at the current offering price, of all eligible accounts to determine whether an investor qualifies for a reduced sales charge on the current purchase. Signature Services will automatically link certain accounts registered in the same client name, with the same taxpayer identification number, for the purpose of qualifying an investor for lower initial sales charge rates. An investor must notify Signature Services and his or her broker-dealer (financial professional) at the time of purchase of any eligible accounts held by the investor’s spouse or children under 21 in order to ensure these assets are linked to the investor’s accounts. Also, see Appendix 1 to the Prospectus, “Intermediary sales charge waivers,” for more information regarding the availability of sales charge waivers through particular intermediaries.

Without Sales Charges. Class A shares may be offered without a front-end sales charge or CDSC to various individuals and institutions as follows:

■ A Trustee or officer of the Trust; a director or officer of the Advisor and its affiliates, subadvisors or Selling Firms; employees or sales representatives of any of the foregoing; retired officers, employees or directors of any of the foregoing; a member of the immediate family (spouse, child, grandparent, grandchild, parent, sibling, mother-in-law, father-in-law, daughter-in-law, son-in-law, brother-in-law, sister-in-law, niece, nephew and same sex domestic partner; “Immediate Family”) of any of the foregoing; or any fund, pension, profit sharing or other benefit plan for the individuals described above.

■ A broker, dealer, financial planner, consultant or registered investment advisor that uses fund shares in certain eligible retirement platforms, fee-based investment products or services made available to their clients.

■ Financial intermediaries who offer shares to self-directed investment brokerage accounts that may or may not be charged a transaction fee. Also, see Appendix 1 to the Prospectus, “Intermediary sales charge waivers,” for more information regarding the availability of sales charge waivers through particular intermediaries.

■ Individuals transferring assets held in a SIMPLE IRA, SEP, or SARSEP invested in John Hancock funds directly to an IRA.

■ Individuals converting assets held in an IRA, SIMPLE IRA, SEP, or SARSEP invested in John Hancock funds directly to a Roth IRA.

■ Individuals recharacterizing assets from an IRA, Roth IRA, SEP, SARSEP or SIMPLE IRA invested in John Hancock funds back to the original account type from which it was converted.

■ Terminating participants in a pension, profit sharing or other plan qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code, or

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described in Section 457(b) of the Code, (i) that is funded by certain John Hancock group annuity contracts, (ii) for which John Hancock Trust Company serves as trustee or custodian, or (iii) the trustee or custodian of which has retained RPS as a service provider, rolling over assets (directly or within 60 days after distribution) from such a plan (or from a John Hancock Managed IRA into which such assets have already been rolled over) to a John Hancock custodial IRA or John Hancock custodial Roth IRA that invests in John Hancock funds, or the subsequent establishment of or any rollover into a new John Hancock fund account by such terminating participants and/or their Immediate Family (as defined above), including subsequent investments into such accounts and which are held directly at John Hancock funds or at the PFS Financial Center.

■ Participants in a terminating pension, profit sharing or other plan qualified under Section 401(a) of the Code, or described in Section 457(b) of the Code (the assets of which, immediately prior to such plan’s termination, were (a) held in certain John Hancock group annuity contracts, (b) in trust or custody by John Hancock Trust Company, or (c) by a trustee or custodian which has retained John Hancock RPS as a service provider, but have been transferred from such contracts or trust funds and are held either: (i) in trust by a distribution processing organization; or (ii) in a custodial IRA or custodial Roth IRA sponsored by an authorized third party trust company and made available through John Hancock), rolling over assets (directly or within 60 days after distribution) from such a plan to a John Hancock custodial IRA or John Hancock custodial Roth IRA that invests in John Hancock funds, or the subsequent establishment of or any rollover into a new John Hancock fund account by such participants and/or their Immediate Family (as defined above), including subsequent investments into such accounts and which are held directly at John Hancock funds or at the PFS Financial Center.

■ Participants actively enrolled in a John Hancock RPS plan account rolling over or transferring assets into a new John Hancock custodial IRA or John Hancock custodial Roth IRA that invests in John Hancock funds through John Hancock PFS (to the extent such assets are otherwise prohibited from rolling over or transferring into the John Hancock RPS plan account), including subsequent investments into such accounts and which are held directly at John Hancock funds or at the John Hancock PFS Financial Center.

■ Individuals rolling over assets held in a John Hancock custodial 403(b)(7) account into a John Hancock custodial IRA account.

■ Individuals exchanging shares held in an eligible fee-based program for Class A Shares, provided however, subsequent purchases in Class A Shares will be subject to applicable sales charges.

■ Former employees/associates of John Hancock, its affiliates or agencies rolling over (directly or indirectly within 60 days after distribution) to a new John Hancock custodial IRA or John Hancock custodial Roth IRA from the John Hancock Employee Investment-Incentive Plan (TIP), John Hancock Savings Investment Plan (SIP) or the John Hancock Pension Plan and such participants and their Immediate Family (as defined above) subsequently establishing or rolling over assets into a new John Hancock account through John Hancock PFS, including subsequent investments into such accounts and which are held directly at John Hancock funds or at the John Hancock PFS Financial Center.

■ Participants in group retirement plans that are eligible and permitted to purchase Class A shares. This waiver is contingent upon the group retirement plan being in a recordkeeping arrangement and does not apply to group retirement plans transacting business with a fund through a brokerage relationship in which sales charges are customarily imposed. In addition, this waiver does not apply to a group retirement plan that leaves its current recordkeeping arrangement and subsequently transacts business with the fund through a brokerage relationship in which sales charges are customarily imposed. Whether a sales charge waiver is available to your group retirement plan through its record keeper depends upon the policies and procedures of your intermediary. Please consult your financial professional for further information.

NOTE: Rollover investments to Class A shares from assets withdrawn from SIMPLE 401(k), TSA, 457, 403(b), 401(k), Money Purchase Pension Plan, Profit-Sharing Plan, and any other qualified plans as described in Code Sections 401(a), 403(b), or 457 and not specified above as waiver-eligible, will be subject to applicable sales charges.

■ A member of a class action lawsuit against insurance companies who is investing settlement proceeds.

■ Retirement plans investing through the PruSolution^SM program.

In-Kind Re-Registrations. A shareholder who has previously paid a sales charge, withdraws funds via a tax-reportable transaction from one John Hancock fund account and reregisters those assets directly to another John Hancock fund account, without the assets ever leaving the John Hancock Fund Complex, may do so without paying a sales charge. The beneficial owner must remain the same, i.e., in-kind.

NOTE: Rollover investments to Class A shares from assets withdrawn from SIMPLE 401(k), TSA, 457, 403(b), 401(k), Money Purchase Pension Plan, Profit-Sharing Plan, and any other qualified plans as described in Sections 401(a), 403(b), or 457 of the Code are not eligible for this provision, and will be subject to applicable sales charges.

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Class A shares also may be purchased without an initial sales charge in connection with certain liquidation, merger or acquisition transactions involving other investment companies or personal holding companies.

Reducing Class A Sales Charges

Combination and Accumulation Privileges. In calculating the sales charge applicable to purchases of Class A shares made at one time, the purchases will be combined to reduce sales charges if made by an individual, his or her spouse, and their children under the age of 21 when purchasing securities in the following:

■ his or her own individual or their joint account;

■ his or her trust account of which one of the above persons is the grantor or the beneficial owner;

■ a Uniform Gift/Transfer to Minor Account or Coverdell Education Savings Account (“ESA”) in which one of the above persons is the custodian or beneficiary;

■ a single participant retirement/benefit plan account, as long as it is established solely for the benefit of the individual account owner;

■ an IRA, including traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, and SEP IRAs; and

■ his or her sole proprietorship.

Group Retirement Plans, including 403(b)(7), Money Purchase Pension Plans, Profit-Sharing Plans, SARSEPs, and Simple IRAs with multiple participants may combine Class A share purchases to reduce their sales charge.

Individual qualified and non-qualified investments can be combined to take advantage of this privilege; however, assets held within a group retirement plan may not be combined with any assets held by those same participants outside of the plan.

Class A investors also may reduce their Class A sales charge by taking into account not only the amount being invested but also the current offering price of all the Class A, Class B, Class C, Class I, Class I2, Class R6, Class ADV, and all Class R shares of all funds in the John Hancock Fund Complex already held by such persons. However, Class A shares of John Hancock Money Market Fund, a series of John Hancock Current Interest (the “Money Market Fund”), will be eligible for the accumulation privilege only if the investor has previously paid a sales charge on the amount of those shares. To receive a reduced sales charge, the investor must tell his or her financial professional or Signature Services at the time of the purchase about any other John Hancock funds held by that investor, his or her spouse, and their children under the age of 21. Further information about combined purchases, including certain restrictions on combined group purchases, is available from Signature Services or a Selling Firm’s representative.

Group Investment Program. Under the Combination and Accumulation Privileges, all members of a group may combine their individual purchases of Class A shares to potentially qualify for breakpoints in the sales charge schedule. This feature is provided to any group that: (1) has been in existence for more than six months, (2) has a legitimate purpose other than the purchase of fund shares at a discount for its members, (3) utilizes salary deduction or similar group methods of payment, and (4) agrees to allow sales materials of the funds in its mailings to its members at a reduced or no cost to the Distributor.

Letter of Intention. Reduced Class A sales charges are applicable to investments made pursuant to an LOI, which should be read carefully prior to its execution by an investor. All investors have the option of making their investments over a specified period of thirteen (13) months. An individual’s non-retirement and qualified retirement plan investments can be combined to satisfy an LOI. The retirement accounts eligible for combination include traditional IRAs, Roth IRAs, Coverdell ESAs, SEPs, SARSEPs, and SIMPLE IRAs. Since some assets are held in omnibus accounts, an investor wishing to count those eligible assets towards a Class A purchase must notify Signature Services and his or her financial professional of these holdings. The aggregate amount of such an investment must be equal to or greater than a Fund’s first breakpoint level (generally $50,000 or $100,000 depending on the specific fund) over a period of 13 months from the date of the LOI. Any shares for which no sales charge was paid will not be credited as purchases made under the LOI.

The sales charge applicable to all amounts invested after an LOI is signed is computed as if the aggregate amount intended to be invested had been invested immediately. If such aggregate amount is not actually invested, the difference in the sales charge actually paid and the sales charge that would have been paid had the LOI not been in effect is due from the investor. In such cases, the sales charge applicable will be assessed based on the amount actually invested. However, for the purchases actually made within the specified period of 13 months, the applicable sales charge will not be higher than that which would have applied (including accumulations and combinations) had the LOI been for the amount actually invested. The asset inclusion criteria stated under the Combination and Accumulation Privilege applies to accounts eligible under the LOI. If such assets exceed the LOI amount at the conclusion of the LOI period, the LOI will be considered to have been met.

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The LOI authorizes Signature Services to hold in escrow sufficient Class A shares (approximately 5% of the aggregate) to make up any difference in sales charges on the amount intended to be invested and the amount actually invested, until such investment is completed within the 13-month period. At that time, the escrowed shares will be released. If the total investment specified in the LOI is not completed, the shares held in escrow may be redeemed and the proceeds used as required to pay such sales charge as may be due. By signing the LOI, the investor authorizes Signature Services to act as his or her attorney-in-fact to redeem any escrowed Class A shares and adjust the sales charge, if necessary. An LOI does not constitute a binding commitment by an investor to purchase, or by a fund to sell, any additional Class A shares, and may be terminated at any time.

DEFERRED SALES CHARGE ON CLASS A, CLASS B, AND CLASS C SHARES

Class A shares are available with no front-end sales charge on investments of $1 million or more. Class B and Class C shares are purchased at NAV without the imposition of an initial sales charge. In each of these cases, the funds will receive the full amount of the purchase payment. Also, see Appendix 1 to the Prospectus “Intermediary sales charge waivers,” for more information regarding the availability of sales charge waivers through particular intermediaries.

Contingent Deferred Sales Charge. There is a CDSC on any Class A shares upon which a commission or finder’s fee was paid that are sold within one year of purchase. Class B and Class C shares that are redeemed within six years or one year of purchase, respectively, will be subject to a CDSC at the rates set forth in the applicable Prospectus as a percentage of the dollar amount subject to the CDSC. The CDSC will be assessed on an amount equal to the lesser of the current market value or the original purchase cost of the Class A, Class B, or Class C shares being redeemed. No CDSC will be imposed on increases in account value above the initial purchase prices or on shares derived from reinvestment of dividends or capital gains distributions.

Class B Closure. Class B shares may not be purchased or acquired by any new or existing Class B shareholder, except by exchange from Class B shares of another John Hancock fund or through dividend and/or capital gains reinvestment. Any other investment received by a John Hancock fund that is intended for Class B shares will be rejected. A shareholder owning Class B shares may continue to hold those shares until such shares automatically convert to Class A shares under the Fund’s existing conversion schedule, or until the shareholder redeems such Class B shares, subject to any applicable CDSC. Existing shareholders will continue to have exchange privileges with Class B shares of other John Hancock funds.

Class B shareholders are no longer permitted to make automatic investments in Class B shares through the MAAP. To continue automatic investments, a Class B shareholder must designate a different share class of the same fund or another John Hancock fund for any purchases, provided the shareholder meets the eligibility requirements for that share class. If the Class B shareholder does not designate a different share class, future automatic purchases of Class B shares will be rejected. No new Class B MAAPs will be established.

Class B shareholders can continue to hold Class B shares in IRA or SIMPLE IRA accounts, but additional contributions must be made to another share class. If a Class B shareholder with a MAAP for an IRA or SIMPLE IRA account did not provide alternative investment instructions by July 1, 2013, subsequent automatic purchases will be rejected.

All other Class B share features, including but not limited to distribution and service fees, CDSC, the reinstatement privilege and conversion features, remain unchanged for Class B shares held after July 1, 2013. Accumulation Privileges as described in the Prospectus will remain unchanged. Shareholders can continue to include the value of Class B shares of any John Hancock open-end fund currently owned for purposes of qualifying for a reduced Class A sales charge.

Employer-sponsored retirement plans that currently hold Class B shares and can no longer purchase Class B shares due to the Class B closure to purchases, may instead purchase Class A shares and pay the applicable Class A sales charge, provided that their record keepers can properly assess a sales charge on plan investments, or Class C shares if the plans meet Class C eligibility requirements and Class C is available on their recordkeeper’s platform. If the recordkeeper is not able to assess a front-end sales charge on Class A shares, or Class C is otherwise not an available or appropriate investment option, only then may such employer-sponsored retirement plans invest in one of the Classes of R shares.

The amount of the Class B CDSC, if any, will vary depending on the number of years from the time of purchase of Class B shares until the time of redemption of such shares. Solely for the purposes of determining the number of years from the time of purchase of both Class B and Class C shares, all purchases during a month will be aggregated and deemed to have been made on the first day of the month.

In determining whether a CDSC applies to a redemption, the calculation will be determined in a manner that results in the lowest possible rate being charged. It will be assumed that a shareholder’s redemption comes first from shares the shareholder has held beyond the six-year redemption period for Class B shares, or the one-year CDSC redemption period for Class A or Class C shares, or those the shareholder acquired through dividend and capital gain reinvestment, and,

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with respect to Class B shares, next from the shares held longest during the six-year period. For this purpose, the amount of any increase in a share’s value above its initial purchase price is not subject to a CDSC. Thus, when a share that has appreciated in value is redeemed during the CDSC period, a CDSC is assessed only on its initial purchase price.

When requesting a redemption for a specific dollar amount, a shareholder should state if proceeds to equal the dollar amount requested are required. If not stated, only the specified dollar amount will be redeemed from the shareholder’s account and the proceeds will be less any applicable CDSC.

Example:

You have purchased 100 Class B shares at $10 per share. The second year after your purchase, your investment’s NAV per share has increased by $2 to $12, and you have gained 10 additional shares through dividend reinvestment. If you redeem 50 shares at this time your CDSC will be calculated as follows:

■ Proceeds of 50 shares redeemed at $12 per share (50 x 12)	$600.00
■ *Minus Appreciation ($12 - $10) x 100 shares	(200.00)
■ Minus proceeds of 10 shares not subject to CDSC (dividend reinvestment)	(120.00)
■ Amount subject to CDSC	$280.00
*The appreciation is based on all 100 shares in the account and NOT just the shares being redeemed.

With respect to a CDSC imposed on a redemption of Class A shares, proceeds from the imposition of a CDSC are paid to the Distributor and are used in whole or in part by the Distributor to defray its expenses related to paying a commission or finder’s fee in connection with the purchase at NAV of Class A shares with a value of $1 million or more.

With respect to a CDSC imposed on a redemption of Class B or Class C shares, proceeds from the imposition of a CDSC are paid to the Distributor and are used in whole or in part by the Distributor to defray its expenses related to providing distribution-related services to the funds in connection with the sale of Class B or Class C shares, such as the payment of compensation to select Selling Firms for selling Class B or Class C shares. The combination of the CDSC and the distribution and service fees facilitates the ability of the funds to sell Class B or Class C shares without a sales charge being deducted at the time of the purchase.

Waiver of Contingent Deferred Sales Charge. The CDSC will be waived on redemptions of Class A, Class B, and Class C shares, unless stated otherwise, in the circumstances defined below:

For all account types:

■ Redemptions of Class A shares made after one year from the inception date of a retirement plan at John Hancock.

■ Redemptions of Class A shares by retirement plans that invested through the PruSolutions^SM program.

■ Redemptions made pursuant to a fund’s right to liquidate an account if the investor owns shares worth less than the stated account minimum in the section “Small accounts” in the Prospectus.

■ Redemptions made under certain liquidation, merger or acquisition transactions involving other investment companies or personal holding companies.

■ Redemptions due to death or disability. (Does not apply to trust accounts unless trust is being dissolved.)

■ Redemptions made under the Reinstatement Privilege, as described in “Sales Charge Reductions and Waivers” in the Prospectus.

■ Redemption of Class B and Class C shares made under a systematic withdrawal plan or redemptions for fees charged by planners or advisors for advisory services, as long as the shareholder’s annual redemptions do not exceed 12% of the account value, including reinvested dividends, at the time the systematic withdrawal plan was established and 12% of the value of subsequent investments (less redemptions) in that account at the time Signature Services is notified. (Please note that this waiver does not apply to systematic withdrawal plan redemptions of Class A shares that are subject to a CDSC).

■ Rollovers, contract exchanges or transfers of John Hancock custodial 403(b)(7) account assets required by Signature Services as a result of its decision to discontinue maintaining and administering 403(b)(7) accounts.

For Retirement Accounts (such as traditional, Roth IRAs and Coverdell ESAs, SIMPLE IRAs, SIMPLE 401(k), Rollover IRA, TSA, 457, 403(b), 401(k), Money Purchase Pension Plan, Profit-Sharing Plan and other plans as described in the Code) unless otherwise noted.

■ Redemptions made to effect mandatory or life expectancy distributions under the Code. (Waiver based on required minimum distribution calculations for John Hancock mutual fund IRA assets only.)

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■ Returns of excess contributions made to these plans.

■ Redemptions made to effect certain distributions, as outlined in the following table, to participants or beneficiaries from employer sponsored retirement plans under sections 401(a) (such as Money Purchase Pension Plans and Profit-Sharing Plan/401(k) Plans), 403(b), 457 and 408 (SEPs and SIMPLE IRAs) of the Code.

Please see the following table for some examples.

Type of Distribution	401(a) Plan (401(k), MPP, PSP) & 457	403(b)	Roth IRA & Coverdell ESA	IRA, SEP IRA & Simple IRA	Non-retirement
Death or Disability	Waived	Waived	Waived	Waived	Waived
Over 70½ (or 72, in the case of individuals for whom the minimum distribution requirements begin at age 72)	Waived	Waived	Waived1	Waived1	12% of account value annually in periodic payments
Between 59½ and 70½ (or 72, in the case of individuals for whom the minimum distribution requirements begin at age 72)	Waived	Waived	12% of account value annually in periodic payments	Waived for Life Expectancy or 12% of account value annually in periodic payments	12% of account value annually in periodic payments
Under 59½ (Class B and Class C only)	Waived for annuity payments (72t2) or 12% of account value annually in periodic payments	Waived for annuity payments (72t) or 12% of account value annually in periodic payments	12% of account value annually in periodic payments	Waived for annuity payments (72t) or 12% of account value annually in periodic payments	12% of account value annually in periodic payments
Termination of Plan	Not Waived	Waived	N/A	N/A	N/A
Hardships	Waived	Waived	N/A	N/A	N/A
Qualified Domestic Relations Orders	Waived	Waived	N/A	N/A	N/A
Termination of Employment Before Normal Retirement Age	Waived	Waived	N/A	N/A	N/A
Return of Excess	Waived	Waived	Waived	Waived	N/A

1 External direct rollovers and transfer of assets are excluded.

2 Refers to withdrawals from retirement accounts under Section 72(t) of the Code.

If a shareholder qualifies for a CDSC waiver under one of these situations, Signature Services must be notified at the time of redemption. The waiver will be granted once Signature Services has confirmed that the shareholder is entitled to the waiver.

SPECIAL REDEMPTIONS

Although it would not normally do so, each fund has the right to pay the redemption price of its shares in whole or in part in portfolio securities as prescribed by the Trustees. When a shareholder sells any securities received in a redemption of fund shares, the shareholder will incur a brokerage charge. Any such securities would be valued for the purposes of fulfilling such a redemption request in the same manner as they are in computing the fund’s NAV.Bond Fund, California Tax-Free Income Fund, High Yield Municipal Bond Fund, Income Fund, and Tax-Free Bond Fund have, however, elected to be governed by Rule 18f-1 under the 1940 Act. Under that rule, a fund must redeem its shares for cash except to the extent that the redemption payments to any shareholder during any 90-day period would exceed the lesser of $250,000 or 1% of the fund’s NAV at the beginning of such period.

Each Trust has adopted Procedures Regarding Redemptions in Kind by Affiliates (the “Procedures”) to facilitate the efficient and cost effective movement of assets of a fund and other funds managed by the Advisor or its affiliates (“affiliated funds”) in connection with certain investment and marketing strategies. It is the position of the SEC that the 1940 Act prohibits an investment company, such as each fund, from satisfying a redemption request from a shareholder that is affiliated with the investment company by means of an in-kind distribution of portfolio securities. However, under a no-action letter issued by the SEC staff, a redemption in kind to an affiliated shareholder is permissible provided certain

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conditions are met. The Procedures, which are intended to conform to the requirements of this no-action letter, allow for in-kind redemptions by fund and affiliated fund shareholders subject to specified conditions, including that:

■ the distribution is effected through a pro rata distribution of securities of the distributing fund or affiliated fund;

■ the distributed securities are valued in the same manner as they are in computing the fund’s or affiliated fund’s NAV;

■ neither the affiliated shareholder nor any other party with the ability and the pecuniary incentive to influence the redemption in kind may select or influence the selection of the distributed securities; and

■ the Board, including a majority of the Independent Trustees, must determine on a quarterly basis that any redemptions in kind to affiliated shareholders made during the prior quarter were effected in accordance with the Procedures, did not favor the affiliated shareholder to the detriment of any other shareholder and were in the best interests of the fund and the affiliated fund.

Potential Adverse Effects of Large Shareholder Transactions

A fund may from time to time sell to one or more investors, including other funds advised by the Advisor or third parties, a substantial amount of its shares, and may thereafter be required to satisfy redemption requests by such shareholders. Such sales and redemptions may be very substantial relative to the size of such fund. While it is not possible to predict the overall effect of such sales and redemptions over time, such transactions may adversely affect such fund’s performance to the extent that the fund is required to invest cash received in connection with a sale or to sell portfolio securities to facilitate a redemption at, in either case, a time when the fund otherwise would not invest or sell. As a result, the fund may have greater or lesser market exposure than would otherwise be the case. Such transactions also may increase a fund’s transaction costs, which would detract from fund performance.

Large shareholder redemptions may negatively impact a fund’s net asset value and liquidity. If a fund is forced to sell portfolio securities that have appreciated in value, such sales may accelerate the realization of taxable income to shareholders if such sales of investments result in gains. If a fund has difficulty selling portfolio securities in a timely manner to meet a large redemption request, the fund may have to borrow money to do so. In such an instance, the fund’s remaining shareholders would bear the costs of such borrowings, and such costs could reduce the fund’s returns. In addition, a large redemption could result in a fund’s current expenses being allocated over a smaller asset base, leading to an increase in the fund’s expense ratio and possibly resulting in the fund’s becoming too small to be economically viable.

Non-U.S. market closures and redemptions. Market closures during regular holidays in an applicable non-U.S. market that are not holidays observed in the U.S. market may prevent the fund from executing securities transactions within the normal settlement period. Unforeseeable closures of applicable non-U.S. markets may have a similar impact. During such closures, the fund may be required to rely on other methods to satisfy shareholder redemption requests, including the use of its line of credit, interfund lending facility, redemptions in kind, or such other liquidity means or facilities as the fund may have in place from time to time, or the delivery of redemption proceeds may be extended beyond the normal settlement cycle.

ADDITIONAL SERVICES AND PROGRAMS

Exchange Privilege. Each Trust permits exchanges of shares of any class of a fund for shares of the same class of any other fund within the John Hancock Fund Complex offering that same class at the time of the exchange. Class I, Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, Class R4, Class R5, or Class R6 shareholders also may exchange their shares for Class A shares of Money Market Fund. If a shareholder exchanges into Class A shares of the Money Market Fund, any future exchanges out of Money Market Fund Class A shares must be to the same share class from which they were originally exchanged.

The registration for both accounts involved must be identical. Identical registration is determined by having the same beneficial owner on both accounts involved in the exchange.

Exchanges between funds are based on their respective NAVs. No sales charge is imposed, except on exchanges of Class A shares from Money Market Fund to another John Hancock fund, if a sales charge has not previously been paid on those shares. Shares acquired in an exchange will be subject to the CDSC rate and holding schedule of the fund in which such shares were originally purchased if and when such shares are redeemed. For Class B and Class C, this will have no impact on shareholders because the CDSC rates and holding schedules are the same for all Class B shares and the same for all Class C shares across the John Hancock Fund Complex. For Class A shares, certain funds within the John Hancock Fund Complex have different CDSC rates and holding schedules and shareholders should review the Prospectus for funds

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with Class A shares before considering an exchange. For purposes of determining the holding period for calculating the CDSC, shares will continue to age from their original purchase date.

If a retirement plan exchanges its Class A account in its entirety from a John Hancock fund that imposes a Class A CDSC to a non-John Hancock investment, the one-year CDSC applies.

Each fund reserves the right to require that previously exchanged shares (and reinvested dividends) be in the fund for 90 days before a shareholder is permitted a new exchange.

An exchange of shares is treated as a redemption of shares of one fund and the purchase of shares of another for federal income tax purposes. An exchange may result in a taxable gain or loss. See “Additional Information Concerning Taxes.”

Conversion Privilege. Provided a fund’s eligibility requirements are met, and to the extent the referenced share class is offered by the fund, an investor in the fund pursuant to a fee-based, wrap or other investment platform program of certain firms, as determined by the fund, may be afforded an opportunity to make a conversion of (i) Class A and/or Class C shares (not subject to a CDSC) also owned by the investor to Class I shares or Class R6 shares of the fund; or (ii) Class I shares also owned by the investor in the same fund to Class R6 shares of the same fund. Investors that no longer participate in a fee-based, wrap, or other investment platform program of certain firms may be afforded an opportunity to make a conversion to Class A shares of the same fund. Class C shares may be converted to Class A at the request of the applicable financial intermediary after the expiration of the CDSC period, provided that the financial intermediary through which a shareholder purchased or holds Class C shares has records verifying that the Class C share CDSC period has expired and the position is held in an omnibus or dealer-controlled account. The fund may in its sole discretion permit a conversion of one share class to another share class of the same fund in certain circumstances other than those described above.

In addition, Trustees, employees of the Advisor or its affiliates, employees of the subadvisor, members of the fund’s portfolio management team and the spouses and children (under age 21) of the aforementioned, may make a conversion of Class A or Class I shares also owned by the investor in the same fund to Class R6 shares or, if Class R6 shares are unavailable, Class I shares of that fund.

The conversion of one share class to another share class of the same fund in the particular circumstances described above, should not cause the investor to realize taxable gain or loss. For further details, see “Additional Information Concerning Taxes” for information regarding the tax treatment of such conversions.

Systematic Withdrawal Plan. Each Trust permits the establishment of a Systematic Withdrawal Plan. Payments under this plan represent proceeds arising from the redemption of fund shares. Since the redemption price of fund shares may be more or less than the shareholder’s cost, depending upon the market value of the securities owned by a fund at the time of redemption, the distribution of cash pursuant to this plan may result in realization of gain or loss for purposes of federal, state and local income taxes. The maintenance of a Systematic Withdrawal Plan concurrently with purchases of additional shares of a fund could be disadvantageous to a shareholder because of the initial sales charge payable on such purchases of Class A shares and the CDSC imposed on redemptions of Class B and Class C shares and because redemptions are taxable events. Therefore, a shareholder should not purchase shares at the same time that a Systematic Withdrawal Plan is in effect. Each fund reserves the right to modify or discontinue the Systematic Withdrawal Plan of any shareholder on 30 days’ prior written notice to such shareholder, or to discontinue the availability of such plan in the future. The shareholder may terminate the plan at any time by giving proper notice to Signature Services.

Monthly Automatic Accumulation Program (“MAAP”). This program is explained in a Prospectus that describes Class A, Class B, or Class C shares. The program, as it relates to automatic investment checks, is subject to the following conditions:

■ The investments will be drawn on or about the day of the month indicated;

■ The privilege of making investments through the MAAP may be revoked by Signature Services without prior notice if any investment is not honored by the shareholder’s bank. The bank shall be under no obligation to notify the shareholder as to the nonpayment of any checks; and

■ The program may be discontinued by the shareholder either by calling Signature Services or upon written notice to Signature Services that is received at least five (5) business days prior to the due date of any investment.

Reinstatement or Reinvestment Privilege. If Signature Services and the financial professional are notified prior to reinvestment, a shareholder who has redeemed fund shares may, within 120 days after the date of redemption, reinvest, without payment of a sales charge any part of the redemption proceeds in shares back into the same share class of the same John Hancock fund and account from which it was removed, subject to the minimum investment limit of that

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fund. The proceeds from the redemption of Class A shares of a fund may be reinvested at NAV without paying a sales charge for Class A shares of the fund. If a CDSC was paid upon a redemption, a shareholder may reinvest the proceeds from this redemption at NAV in additional shares of the same class, fund, and account from which the redemption was made. The shareholder’s account will be credited with the amount of any CDSC charged upon the prior redemption and the new shares will continue to be subject to the CDSC. The holding period of the shares acquired through reinvestment will, for purposes of computing the CDSC payable upon a subsequent redemption, include the holding period of the redeemed shares.

Redemption proceeds that are otherwise prohibited from being reinvested in the same account or the same fund may be invested in another account for the same shareholder in the same share class of the same fund (or different John Hancock fund if the original fund is no longer available) without paying a sales charge. Any such reinvestment is subject to the minimum investment limit.

A fund may refuse any reinvestment request and may change or cancel its reinvestment policies at any time.

A redemption or exchange of fund shares is a taxable transaction for federal income tax purposes even if the reinvestment privilege is exercised, and any gain or loss realized by a shareholder on the redemption or other disposition of fund shares will be treated for tax purposes as described under the caption “Additional Information Concerning Taxes.”

Section 403(b)(7) Accounts:

Section 403(b)(7) of the Code permits public school employers and employers of certain types of tax-exempt organizations to establish for their eligible employees custodial accounts for the purpose of providing for retirement income for such employees. Treasury regulations impose certain conditions on exchanges between one custodial account intended to qualify under Section 403(b)(7) (the “exchanged account”) and another contract or custodial account intended to qualify under Section 403(b) (the “replacing account”) under the same employer plan (a “Section 403(b) Plan”). Specifically, the replacing account agreement must include distribution restrictions that are no less stringent than those imposed under the exchanged account agreement, and the employer must enter into an agreement with the custodian (or other issuer) of the replacing account under which the employer and the custodian (or other issuer) of the replacing account will from time to time in the future provide each other with certain information.

Due to Treasury regulations:

1. The funds do not accept requests to establish new John Hancock custodial 403(b)(7) accounts intended to qualify as a Section 403(b) Plan.

2. The funds do not accept requests for exchanges or transfers into John Hancock custodial 403(b)(7) accounts (i.e., where the investor holds the replacing account).

3. The funds require certain signed disclosure documentation in the event:

• A shareholder established a John Hancock custodial 403(b)(7) account with a fund prior to September 24, 2007; and

• A shareholder directs the fund to exchange or transfer some or all of the John Hancock custodial 403(b)(7) account assets to another custodial 403(b) contract or account (i.e., where the exchanged account is with the fund).

4. The funds do not accept salary deferrals into custodial 403(b)(7) accounts.

In the event that a fund does not receive the required documentation, and the fund is nonetheless directed to proceed with the transfer, the transfer may be treated as a taxable transaction.

PURCHASES AND REDEMPTIONS THROUGH THIRD PARTIES

Shares of the funds may be purchased or redeemed through certain Selling Firms. Selling Firms may charge the investor additional fees for their services. A fund will be deemed to have received a purchase or redemption order when an authorized Selling Firm, or if applicable, a Selling Firm’s authorized designee, receives the order. Orders may be processed at the NAV next calculated after the Selling Firm receives the order. The Selling Firm must segregate any orders it receives after the close of regular trading on the NYSE and transmit those orders to the fund for execution at the NAV next determined. Some Selling Firms that maintain network/omnibus/nominee accounts with a fund for their clients charge an annual fee on the average net assets held in such accounts for accounting, servicing, and distribution services they provide with respect to the underlying fund shares. This fee is paid by the Advisor, the fund and/or the Distributor.

Certain accounts held on a fund’s books, known as omnibus accounts, contain the investments of multiple underlying clients that are invested in shares of the funds. These underlying client accounts are maintained by entities such as

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financial intermediaries. Indirect investments in a John Hancock fund through a financial intermediary such as, but not limited to: a broker-dealer, a bank (including a bank trust department), an investment advisor, a record keeper or trustee of a retirement plan or qualified tuition plan or a sponsor of a fee-based program that maintains an omnibus account with a fund for trading on behalf of its customers, may be subject to guidelines, conditions, services and restrictions that are different from those discussed in a fund’s Prospectus. These differences may include, but are not limited to: (i) eligibility standards to purchase, exchange, and sell shares depending on that intermediary’s policies; (ii) availability of sales charge waivers and fees; (iii) minimum and maximum initial and subsequent purchase amounts; and (iv) unavailability of LOI privileges. With respect to the availability of sales charge waivers and fees, and LOI privileges, see Appendix 1 to the Prospectus, “Intermediary sales charge waivers.” Additional conditions may apply to an investment in a fund, and the investment professional or intermediary may charge a transaction-based, administrative or other fee for its services. These conditions and fees are in addition to those imposed by a fund and its affiliates.

DESCRIPTION OF FUND SHARES

The Trustees are responsible for the management and supervision of each Trust. Each Declaration of Trust permits the Trustees to issue an unlimited number of full and fractional shares of beneficial interest of each fund or other series of the Trust without par value. Under each Declaration of Trust, the Trustees have the authority to create and classify shares of beneficial interest in separate series and classes without further action by shareholders. As of the date of this SAI, the Trustees have authorized shares of 10 series of the Trusts. Additional series may be added in the future. The Trustees also have authorized the issuance of 11 classes of shares of the funds, designated as Class A, Class B, Class C, Class I, Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, Class R4, Class R5, Class R6, and Class NAV. Additional classes of shares may be authorized in the future.

Each share of each class of a fund represents an equal proportionate interest in the aggregate net assets attributable to that class of the fund. Holders of each class of shares have certain exclusive voting rights on matters relating to their respective distribution plan, if any. The different classes of a fund may bear different expenses relating to the cost of holding shareholder meetings necessitated by the exclusive voting rights of any class of shares.

Dividends paid by a fund, if any, with respect to each class of shares will be calculated in the same manner, at the same time and on the same day and will be in the same amount, except for differences resulting from the fact that: (i) the distribution and service fees, if any, relating to each class of shares will be borne exclusively by that class, and (ii) each class of shares will bear any class expenses properly allocable to that class of shares. Similarly, the NAV per share may vary depending on which class of shares is purchased. No interest will be paid on uncashed dividend or redemption checks.

In the event of liquidation, shareholders of each class are entitled to share pro rata in the net assets of a fund that are available for distribution to these shareholders. Shares entitle their holders to one vote per share (and fractional votes for fractional shares), are freely transferable and have no preemptive, subscription or conversion rights. When issued, shares are fully paid and non-assessable, except as set forth below.

Unless otherwise required by the 1940 Act or the Declaration of Trust, each Trust has no intention of holding annual meetings of shareholders. Trust shareholders may remove a Trustee by the affirmative vote of at least two-thirds of the relevant Trust’s outstanding shares and the Trustees shall promptly call a meeting for such purpose when requested to do so in writing by the record holders of not less than 10% of the outstanding shares of the Trust. Shareholders may, under certain circumstances, communicate with other shareholders in connection with a request for a special meeting of shareholders. However, at any time that less than a majority of the Trustees holding office were elected by the shareholders, the Trustees will call a special meeting of shareholders for the purpose of electing Trustees.

Under Massachusetts law, shareholders of a Massachusetts business trust could, under certain circumstances, be held personally liable for acts or obligations of such trust or a series thereof. However, each Declaration of Trust contains an express disclaimer of shareholder liability for acts, obligations or affairs of the relevant Trust. Each Declaration of Trust also provides for indemnification out of the Trust’s assets for all losses and expenses of any shareholder held personally liable by reason of being or having been a shareholder. Each Declaration of Trust also provides that no series of the relevant Trust shall be liable for the liabilities of any other series. Furthermore, no series of a Trust shall be liable for the liabilities of any other fund within the John Hancock Fund Complex. Liability is therefore limited to circumstances in which a fund itself would be unable to meet its obligations, and the possibility of this occurrence is remote.

Each fund reserves the right to reject any application that conflicts with the fund’s internal policies or the policies of any regulatory authority. The Distributor does not accept starter, credit card, or third party checks. All checks returned by the post office as undeliverable will be reinvested at NAV in the fund or funds from which a redemption was made or dividend paid. Information provided on the account application may be used by the funds to verify the accuracy of the

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information or for background or financial history purposes. A joint account will be administered as a joint tenancy with right of survivorship, unless the joint owners notify Signature Services of a different intent. A shareholder’s account is governed by the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. For telephone transactions, the transfer agent will take measures to verify the identity of the caller, such as asking for name, account number, Social Security, or other taxpayer ID number and other relevant information. If appropriate measures are taken, the transfer agent is not responsible for any losses that may occur to any account due to an unauthorized telephone call. Also, for shareholders’ protection, telephone redemptions are not permitted on accounts whose names or addresses have changed within the past 30 days. Proceeds from telephone transactions can be mailed only to the address of record.

Except as otherwise provided, shares of a fund generally may be sold only to U.S. citizens, U.S. residents, and U.S. domestic corporations, partnerships, trusts or estates. For purposes of this policy, U.S. citizens and U.S. residents must reside in the U.S. and U.S. domestic corporations, partnerships, trusts, and estates must have a U.S. address of record.

The Declaration of Trust of each Trust other than John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund also provides that the Board may approve the merger of a relevant fund with an affiliated fund without shareholder approval, in accordance with the 1940 Act. This provision will permit the merger of affiliated funds without shareholder approval in certain circumstances to avoid incurring the expense of soliciting proxies when a combination does not raise significant issues for shareholders. For example, this provision would permit the combination of two small funds having the same portfolio managers, the same investment objectives, and the same fee structure in order to achieve economies of scale and thereby reduce fund expenses borne by shareholders. Such a merger will still require the Board (including a majority of the Independent Trustees) to determine that the merger is in the best interests of the combining funds and will not dilute the interest of existing shareholders. The Trustees would evaluate any and all information reasonably necessary to make their determination and consider and give appropriate weight to all pertinent factors in fulfilling their duty of care to shareholders.

Shareholders of an acquired fund will still be required to approve a combination that would result in a change in a fundamental investment policy, a material change to the terms of an advisory agreement, the institution of or an increase in Rule 12b-1 fees, or when the board of the surviving fund does not have a majority of Independent Trustees who were elected by its shareholders. Under Massachusetts law, shareholder approval is not required for fund mergers, consolidation, or sales of assets. Shareholder approval nevertheless will be obtained for combinations of affiliated funds when required by the 1940 Act. Shareholder approval also will be obtained for combinations with unaffiliated funds when deemed appropriate by the Trustees.

Effective January 22, 2016, the Board amended and restated in its entirety each Declaration of Trust. The amendments to the Declaration of Trust include, among other changes, provisions that: (i) clarify certain duties, responsibilities, and powers of the Trustees; (ii) clarify that, other than as provided under federal securities laws, the shareholders may only bring actions involving a fund derivatively; (iii) provide that any action brought by a shareholder related to a fund will be brought in Massachusetts state or federal court, and that, if a claim is brought in a different jurisdiction and subsequently changed to a Massachusetts venue, the shareholder will be required to reimburse the fund for such expenses; and (iv) clarify that shareholders are not intended to be third-party beneficiaries of fund contracts. The foregoing description of the Declaration of Trust is qualified in its entirety by the full text of the Declaration of Trust, effective as of January 22, 2016, which is available by writing to the Secretary of the Trust at 200 Berkeley Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116, and also on the SEC’s and Secretary of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts’ websites.

SAMPLE CALCULATION OF MAXIMUM OFFERING PRICE

Class A shares are sold with a maximum initial sales charge of 4.00%, 3.00%, 2.50% or 2.25%. Class B and Class C shares are sold at NAV without any initial sales charges and with a 5.00% and 1.00% CDSC, respectively, on shares redeemed within 12 months of purchase. Class I, Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, Class R4, Class R5, Class R6, and Class NAV shares of each fund, as applicable, are sold at NAV without any initial sales charges or CDSCs. The following tables show the maximum offering price per share of each class of each fund using the fund’s relevant NAV as of May 31, 2020.

Fund	NAV and Redemption Price per Class A Share ($)	Maximum Sales Charge (4.00% of offering price, unless otherwise noted) ($)	Maximum Offering Price to Public ($)
Bond Fund	16.37	0.68	17.05
California Tax-Free Income Fund	10.66	0.44	11.10
ESG Core Bond Fund	10.65	0.44	11.09

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Fund	NAV and Redemption Price per Class A Share ($)	Maximum Sales Charge (4.00% of offering price, unless otherwise noted) ($)	Maximum Offering Price to Public ($)
Government Income Fund	10.07	0.42	10.49
High Yield Fund	3.16	0.13	3.29
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	7.32	0.31	7.63
Income Fund	6.39	0.27	6.66
Investment Grade Bond Fund	11.02	0.46	11.48
Short Duration Bond Fund1	9.90	0.23	10.13
Tax-Free Bond Fund	9.55	0.40	9.95

1 The fund commenced operations on July 16, 2019.

	NAV, Shares Offering Price, and Redemption Price per Share
Fund	Class B ($)	Class C ($)
Bond Fund	16.36	16.37
California Tax-Free Income Fund	10.66	10.66
Government Income Fund	10.06	10.07
High Yield Fund	3.17	3.16
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	7.32	7.32
Income Fund	6.38	6.39
Investment Grade Bond Fund	11.02	11.02
Short Duration Bond Fund1	N/A	9.90
Tax-Free Bond Fund	9.55	9.55

1 The fund commenced operations on July 16, 2019.

	NAV, Shares Offering Price and Redemption Price per Share
Fund	Class R1 ($)	Class R2 ($)	Class R3 ($)	Class R4 ($)	Class R5 ($)	Class R6 ($)	Class I ($)	Class NAV ($)
Bond Fund	N/A	16.39	N/A	16.39	N/A	16.40	16.37	16.39
California Tax-Free Income Fund	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	10.66	10.66	N/A
ESG Core Bond Fund	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	10.65	10.64	N/A
Government Income Fund	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	10.07	10.07	N/A
High Yield Fund	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	3.16	3.16	3.16
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	7.34	7.33	N/A
Income Fund	6.41	6.38	6.38	6.39	6.38	6.38	6.37	N/A
Investment Grade Bond Fund	N/A	11.02	N/A	11.02	N/A	11.02	11.02	N/A
Short Duration Bond Fund1	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	9.90	9.90	9.90
Tax-Free Bond Fund	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	9.57	9.57	N/A

1 The fund commenced operations on July 16, 2019.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION CONCERNING TAXES

The following discussion is a general and abbreviated summary of certain tax considerations affecting the funds and their shareholders. Where noted, additional tax considerations with respect to specific funds are also addressed. No attempt is made to present a detailed explanation of all federal, state, local and foreign tax concerns, and the discussions set forth here and in the Prospectus do not constitute tax advice. Investors are urged to consult their own tax advisors with specific questions relating to federal, state, local or foreign taxes.

Each fund is treated as a separate entity for accounting and tax purposes, and intends to qualify as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Code for each taxable year. In order to qualify for the special tax treatment accorded RICs and their shareholders, a fund must, among other things:

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(a) derive at least 90% of its gross income from dividends, interest, payments with respect to certain securities loans, and gains from the sale or other disposition of stock, securities, and foreign currencies, or other income (including but not limited to gains from options, futures, or forward contracts) derived with respect to its business of investing in such stock, securities, or currencies, and net income derived from interests in qualified publicly traded partnerships (as defined below);

(b) distribute with respect to each taxable year at least the sum of 90% of its investment company taxable income (as that term is defined in the Code without regard to the deduction for dividends paid-generally, taxable ordinary income and the excess, if any, of net short-term capital gains over net long-term capital losses) and 90% of net tax-exempt interest income, for such year; and

(c) diversify its holdings so that, at the end of each quarter of the fund’s taxable year: (i) at least 50% of the market value of the fund’s total assets is represented by cash and cash items, U.S. government securities, securities of other RICs, and other securities limited in respect of any one issuer to a value not greater than 5% of the value of the fund’s total assets and not more than 10% of the outstanding voting securities of such issuer; and (ii) not more than 25% of the value of the fund’s total assets is invested (x) in the securities (other than those of the U.S. government or other RICs) of any one issuer or of two or more issuers that the fund controls and that are engaged in the same, similar, or related trades or businesses, or (y) in the securities of one or more qualified publicly traded partnerships (as defined below).

With respect to gains from the sale or other disposition of foreign currencies, the Treasury Department can, by regulation, exclude from qualifying income foreign currency gains which are not directly related to a RIC’s principal business of investing in stock (or options or futures with respect to stock or securities), but no regulations have been proposed or adopted pursuant to this grant of regulatory authority.

In general, for purposes of the 90% gross income requirement described in paragraph (a) above, income derived from a partnership will be treated as qualifying income only to the extent such income is attributable to items of income of the partnership which would be qualifying income if realized by the RIC. However, 100% of the net income derived from an interest in a “qualified publicly traded partnership” will be treated as qualifying income. A “qualified publicly traded partnership” is a publicly traded partnership that satisfies certain requirements with respect to the type of income it produces. In addition, although in general the passive loss rules of the Code do not apply to RICs, such rules do apply to a RIC with respect to items attributable to an interest in a qualified publicly traded partnership. Finally, for purposes of paragraph (c) above, the term “outstanding voting securities of such issuer” will include the equity securities of a qualified publicly traded partnership. If a fund invests in publicly traded partnerships, it might be required to recognize in its taxable year income in excess of its cash distributions from such publicly traded partnerships during that year. Such income, even if not reported to a fund by the publicly traded partnerships until after the end of that year, would nevertheless be subject to the RIC income distribution requirements and would be taken into account for purposes of the 4% excise tax described below.

Each fund may use “equalization payments” in determining the portion of its net investment income and net realized capital gains that have been distributed. A fund that elects to use equalization payments will allocate a portion of its investment income and capital gains to the amounts paid in redemption of fund shares, and such income and gains will be deemed to have been distributed by the fund for purposes of the distribution requirements described above. This may have the effect of reducing the amount of income and gains that the fund is required to distribute to shareholders in order for the fund to avoid federal income tax and excise tax and also may defer the recognition of taxable income by shareholders. This process does not affect the tax treatment of redeeming shareholders and, since the amount of any undistributed income and/or gains will be reflected in the value of the fund’s shares, the total return on a shareholder’s investment will not be reduced as a result of the fund’s distribution policy. The IRS has not published any guidance concerning the methods to be used in allocating investment income and capital gain to redemptions of shares. In the event that the IRS determines that a fund is using an improper method of allocation and has under-distributed its net investment income or net realized capital gains for any taxable year, such fund may be liable for additional federal income or excise tax or may jeopardize its treatment as a RIC.

A fund may invest in certain commodity investments including commodity-based ETFs. Under an IRS revenue ruling effective after September 30, 2006, income from certain commodities-linked derivatives in which certain funds invest is not considered qualifying income for purposes of the 90% qualifying income test. This ruling limits the extent to which a fund may receive income from such commodity-linked derivatives to a maximum of 10% of its annual gross income.

As a result of qualifying as a RIC, a fund will not be subject to U.S. federal income tax on its net investment income (i.e., its investment company taxable income, as that term is defined in the Code, determined without regard to the

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deduction for dividends paid) and net capital gain (i.e., the excess of its net realized long-term capital gain over its net realized short-term capital loss), if any, that it distributes to its shareholders in each taxable year, provided that it distributes to its shareholders at least the sum of 90% of its investment company taxable income and 90% of its net exempt interest income for such taxable year.

A fund will be subject to a non-deductible 4% excise tax to the extent that the fund does not distribute by the end of each calendar year: (a) at least 98% of its ordinary income for the calendar year; (b) at least 98.2% of its capital gain net income for the one-year period ending, as a general rule, on October 31 of each year; and (c) 100% of the undistributed ordinary income and capital gain net income from the preceding calendar years (if any). For this purpose, any income or gain retained by a fund that is subject to corporate tax will be considered to have been distributed by year-end. To the extent possible, each fund intends to make sufficient distributions to avoid the application of both corporate income and excise taxes. Under current law, distributions of net investment income and net capital gain are not taxed to a life insurance company to the extent applied to increase the reserves for the company’s variable annuity and life insurance contracts.

If a fund failed to meet the annual gross income test or asset diversification test or fails to satisfy the 90% distribution requirement as described above, for any taxable year, the fund would incur regular corporate income tax on its taxable income and net capital gains for that year, it would lose its deduction for dividends paid to shareholders, and it would be subject to certain gain recognition and distribution requirements upon requalification. Further distributions of income by the fund to its shareholders would be treated as dividend income, although such dividend income would constitute qualified dividend income subject to reduced federal income tax rates if the shareholder satisfies certain holding period requirements with respect to its shares in the fund. Compliance with the RIC 90% qualifying income test and with the asset diversification requirements is carefully monitored by the Advisor and the subadvisors and it is intended that each fund will comply with the requirements for qualification as a RIC.

If a fund fails to meet the annual gross income test described above, the fund will nevertheless be considered to have satisfied the test if (i) (a) such failure is due to reasonable cause and not due to willful neglect and (b) the fund reports the failure, and (ii) the fund pays an excise tax equal to the excess non-qualifying income. If a fund fails to meet the asset diversification test described above with respect to any quarter, the fund will nevertheless be considered to have satisfied the requirements for such quarter if the fund cures such failure within six months and either: (i) such failure is de minimis; or (ii) (a) such failure is due to reasonable cause and not due to willful neglect; and (b) the fund reports the failure and pays an excise tax.

A fund may make investments that produce income that is not matched by a corresponding cash distribution to the fund, such as investments in pay-in-kind bonds or in obligations such as certain Brady Bonds and zero-coupon securities having OID (i.e., an amount equal to the excess of the stated redemption price of the security at maturity over its issue price), or market discount (i.e., an amount equal to the excess of the stated redemption price at maturity of the security (appropriately adjusted if it also has OID) over its basis immediately after it was acquired) if the fund elects to accrue market discount on a current basis. In addition, income may continue to accrue for federal income tax purposes with respect to a non-performing investment. Any such income would be treated as income earned by the fund and therefore would be subject to the distribution requirements of the Code. Because such income may not be matched by a corresponding cash distribution to the fund, the fund may be required to borrow money or dispose of other securities to be able to make distributions to its investors. In addition, if an election is not made to currently accrue market discount with respect to a market discount bond, all or a portion of any deduction for any interest expense incurred to purchase or hold such bond may be deferred until such bond is sold or otherwise disposed of.

Investments in debt obligations that are at risk of or are in default present special tax issues for a fund. Tax rules are not entirely clear about issues such as when a fund may cease to accrue interest, OID, or market discount, when and to what extent deductions may be taken for bad debts or worthless securities, how payments received on obligations in default should be allocated between principal and income, and whether exchanges of debt obligations in a workout context are taxable. These and other issues will be addressed by a fund that holds such obligations in order to reduce the risk of distributing insufficient income to preserve its status as a RIC and seek to avoid becoming subject to federal income or excise tax.

A fund may make investments in convertible securities and exchange traded notes. Convertible debt ordinarily is treated as a “single property” consisting of a pure debt interest until conversion, after which the investment becomes an equity interest. If the security is issued at a premium (i.e., for cash in excess of the face amount payable on retirement), the creditor-holder may amortize the premium over the life of the bond. If the security is issued for cash at a price below its face amount, the creditor-holder must accrue OID in income over the life of the debt. The creditor-holder’s exercise of the conversion privilege is treated as a nontaxable event. Mandatorily convertible debt, such as an exchange traded note

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issued in the form of an unsecured obligation that pays a return based on the performance of a specified market index, currency or commodity, is often treated as a contract to buy or sell the reference property rather than debt. Similarly, convertible preferred stock with a mandatory conversion feature is ordinarily, but not always, treated as equity rather than debt. In general, conversion of preferred stock for common stock of the same corporation is tax-free. Conversion of preferred stock for cash is a taxable redemption. Any redemption premium for preferred stock that is redeemable by the issuing company might be required to be amortized under OID principles.

Certain funds may engage in hedging or derivatives transactions involving foreign currencies, forward contracts, options and futures contracts (including options, futures and forward contracts on foreign currencies) and short sales (see “Hedging and Other Strategic Transactions”). Such transactions will be subject to special provisions of the Code that, among other things, may affect the character of gains and losses realized by a fund (that is, may affect whether gains or losses are ordinary or capital), accelerate recognition of income of a fund and defer recognition of certain of the fund’s losses. These rules could therefore affect the character, amount and timing of distributions to shareholders. The futures that are traded on a regulated exchange, such as NYSE or NASDAQ, will be treated as Code Section 1256 contracts, and the capital gain/loss will be reflected as 40% short-term capital gain/loss and 60% long-term capital gain/loss. Any futures that are not traded on a regulated exchange will follow the 365 day rule of short-term capital or long-term capital treatment. In addition, these provisions: (1) will require a fund to “mark-to-market” certain types of positions in its portfolio (that is, treat them as if they were closed out); and (2) may cause a fund to recognize income without receiving cash with which to pay dividends or make distributions in amounts necessary to satisfy the distribution requirement and avoid the 4% excise tax. Each fund intends to monitor its transactions, will make the appropriate tax elections and will make the appropriate entries in its books and records when it acquires any option, futures contract, forward contract or hedged investment in order to mitigate the effect of these rules.

Foreign exchange gains and losses realized by a fund in connection with certain transactions involving foreign currency-denominated debt securities, certain foreign currency options, foreign currency forward contracts, foreign currencies, or payables or receivables denominated in a foreign currency are subject to Section 988 of the Code, which generally causes such gains and losses to be treated as ordinary income and losses and may affect the amount, timing and character of distributions to shareholders. If the net foreign exchange loss for a year treated as ordinary loss under Section 988 were to exceed a fund’s investment company taxable income computed without regard to such loss, the resulting overall ordinary loss for such year would not be deductible by the fund or its shareholders in future years. Under such circumstances, distributions paid by the fund could be deemed return of capital.

Certain funds may be required to account for their transactions in forward rolls or swaps, caps, floors and collars in a manner that, under certain circumstances, may limit the extent of their participation in such transactions. Additionally, a fund may be required to recognize gain, but not loss, if a swap or other transaction is treated as a constructive sale of an appreciated financial position in a fund’s portfolio. Additionally, some countries restrict repatriation which may make it difficult or impossible for a fund to obtain cash corresponding to its earnings or assets in those countries. However, a fund must distribute to shareholders for each taxable year substantially all of its net income and net capital gains, including such income or gain, to qualify as a RIC and avoid liability for any federal income or excise tax. Therefore, a fund may have to dispose of its portfolio securities under disadvantageous circumstances to generate cash, or borrow cash, to satisfy these distribution requirements.

Certain funds may invest in REITs and/or MLPs. Effective for taxable years beginning after December 31, 2017 and before January 1, 2026, the Code generally allows individuals and certain non-corporate entities a deduction for 20% of “qualified publicly traded partnership income,” such as income from MLPs, and a deduction for 20% of qualified REIT dividends. Treasury regulations allow a RIC to pass the character of its qualified REIT dividends through to its shareholders provided certain holding period requirements are met. A similar pass-through by RICs of qualified publicly traded partnership income is not currently available. As a result, an investor who invests directly in MLPs will be able to receive the benefit of such deductions, while a shareholder in a fund that invests in MLPs currently will not.

If a fund invests in stock (including an option to acquire stock such as is inherent in a convertible bond) in certain foreign corporations that receive at least 75% of their annual gross income from passive sources (such as interest, dividends, certain rents and royalties or capital gain) or hold at least 50% of their assets in investments producing such passive income (“passive foreign investment companies” or “PFIC”), the fund could be subject to federal income tax and additional interest charges on “excess distributions” received from such companies or gain from the sale of stock in such companies, even if all income or gain actually received by the fund is timely distributed to its shareholders. The fund would not be able to pass through to its shareholders any credit or deduction for such a tax.

If a fund were to invest in a PFIC and elected to treat the PFIC as a “qualified electing fund” under the Code, in lieu of the foregoing requirements, the fund would be required to include in income each year a portion of the ordinary

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earnings and net capital gain of the qualified electing fund, even if not distributed to the fund. Alternatively, a fund can elect to mark-to-market at the end of each taxable year its shares in a PFIC; in this case, the fund would recognize as ordinary income any increase in the value of such shares, and as ordinary loss any decrease in such value to the extent it did not exceed prior increases included in income. Under either election, a fund might be required to recognize in a year income in excess of its distributions from PFICs and its proceeds from dispositions of PFIC stock during that year, and such income would nevertheless be subject to the distribution requirements and would be taken into account for purposes of the 4% excise tax.

A fund may be subject to withholding and other taxes imposed by foreign countries with respect to its investments in foreign securities. Some tax conventions between certain countries and the U.S. may reduce or eliminate such taxes. If more than 50% of the value of a fund’s total assets at the close of any taxable year consists of stock or securities of foreign corporations, the fund will be able to pass such taxes through to the shareholders (as additional income) along with a corresponding entitlement to a foreign tax credit or deduction. A fund will deduct the foreign taxes in determining the amount it has available to distribute to shareholders.

If this election is made, a shareholder generally subject to tax will be required to include in gross income (in addition to taxable dividends actually received) his or her pro rata share of the foreign taxes paid by the fund, and may be entitled either to deduct (as an itemized deduction) his or her pro rata share of foreign taxes in computing his or her taxable income or to use it (subject to limitations) as a foreign tax credit against his or her U.S. federal income tax liability. No deduction for foreign taxes may be claimed by a shareholder who does not itemize deductions. Each shareholder will be notified after the close of the fund’s taxable year whether the foreign taxes paid by the fund will “pass-through” for that taxable year.

For United States federal income tax purposes, distributions paid out of a fund’s current or accumulated earnings and profits will, except in the case of distributions of qualified dividend income and capital gain dividends described below, be taxable as ordinary dividend income. Certain income distributions paid by a fund (whether paid in cash or reinvested in additional fund shares) to individual taxpayers are taxed at rates applicable to net long-term capital gains (currently 20%, 15%, or 0%, depending on an individual’s level of income). This tax treatment applies only if certain holding period requirements and other requirements are satisfied by the shareholder and the dividends are attributable to qualified dividend income received by the fund itself. There can be no assurance as to what portion of a fund’s dividend distributions will qualify as qualified dividend income. Dividends paid by funds that primarily invest in bonds and other debt securities generally will not qualify for the reduced tax rate applicable to qualified dividend income and will not qualify for the corporate dividends-received deduction.

If a fund should have dividend income that qualifies for the reduced tax rate applicable to qualified dividend income, the maximum amount allowable will be reported by the fund. This amount will be reflected on Form 1099-DIV for the applicable calendar year.

For purposes of the dividends received deduction available to corporations, dividends received by a fund, if any, from U.S. domestic corporations in respect of the stock of such corporations held by the fund, for U.S. federal income tax purposes, for at least 46 days (91 days in the case of certain preferred stock) during a prescribed period extending before and after each such dividend and distributed and reported by the fund may be treated as qualifying dividends. Corporate shareholders must meet the holding period requirements stated above with respect to their shares of a fund for each dividend in order to qualify for the deduction and, if they have any debt that is deemed under the Code directly attributable to such shares, may be denied a portion of the dividends received deduction. Additionally, any corporate shareholder should consult its tax advisor regarding the possibility that its tax basis in its shares may be reduced, for federal income tax purposes, by reason of “extraordinary dividends” received with respect to the shares and, to the extent such basis would be reduced below zero, that current recognition of income would be required.

Shareholders receiving any distribution from a fund in the form of additional shares pursuant to a dividend reinvestment plan will be treated as receiving a taxable distribution in an amount equal to the fair market value of the shares received, determined as of the reinvestment date. Shareholders who have chosen automatic reinvestment of their distributions will have a federal tax basis in each share received pursuant to such a reinvestment equal to the amount of cash they would have received had they elected to receive the distribution in cash, divided by the number of shares received in the reinvestment.

For federal income tax purposes, a fund is permitted to carry forward a net capital loss incurred in any year to offset net capital gains, if any, in any subsequent year until such loss carry forwards have been fully used. Capital losses carried forward will retain their character as either short-term or long-term capital losses. A fund’s ability to utilize capital losses in a given year or in total may be limited. To the extent subsequent net capital gains are offset by such losses, they would not result in federal income tax liability to a fund and would not be distributed as such to shareholders.

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Below are the capital loss carryforwards available to the funds as of May 31, 2020 to the extent provided by regulations, to offset future net realized capital gains:

Fund	Short-term Losses	Long-term Losses	Total ($)
Bond Fund	–	–	–
California Tax-Free Income Fund	–	–	–
ESG Core Bond Fund	175,958	15,727	191,685
Government Income Fund	4,056,892	6,902,844	10,959,736
High Yield Fund	27,592,354	478,757,721	506,350,075
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	–	–	–
Income Fund	98,149,398	83,889,276	182,038,674
Investment Grade Bond Fund	–	–	–
Short Duration Bond Fund1	–	–	–
Tax-Free Bond Fund	11,865,334	287,724	12,153,058

1 The fund commenced operations on July 16, 2019.

Distributions of net capital gain, if any, reported as capital gains dividends are taxable to a shareholder as long-term capital gains, regardless of how long the shareholder has held fund shares. A distribution of an amount in excess of a fund’s current and accumulated earnings and profits will be treated by a shareholder as a return of capital which is applied against and reduces the shareholder’s basis in his or her shares. To the extent that the amount of any such distribution exceeds the shareholder’s basis in his or her shares, the excess will be treated by the shareholder as gain from a sale or exchange of the shares. Distributions of gains from the sale of investments that a fund owned for one year or less will be taxable as ordinary income.

A fund may elect to retain its net capital gain or a portion thereof for investment and be taxed at corporate rates on the amount retained. In such case, it may designate the retained amount as undistributed capital gains in a notice to its shareholders who will be treated as if each received a distribution of his pro rata share of such gain, with the result that each shareholder will: (i) be required to report his pro rata share of such gain on his tax return as long-term capital gain; (ii) receive a refundable tax credit for his pro rata share of tax paid by the fund on the gain; and (iii) increase the tax basis for his shares by an amount equal to the deemed distribution less the tax credit.

Selling shareholders generally will recognize gain or loss in an amount equal to the difference between the shareholder’s adjusted tax basis in the shares sold and the sale proceeds. Such gain or loss will be treated as capital gain or loss if the shares are capital assets in the shareholder’s hands and will be long-term or short-term, depending upon the shareholder’s tax holding period for the shares and subject to the special rules described below. The maximum tax rate applicable to net capital gains recognized by individuals and other non-corporate taxpayers is generally 20% for gains recognized on the sale of capital assets held for more than one year (as well as certain capital gain distributions) (15% or 0% for individuals at certain income levels).

A shareholder exchanging shares of one fund for shares of another fund will be treated for tax purposes as having sold the shares of the first fund, realizing tax gain or loss on such exchange. A shareholder exercising a right to convert one class of fund shares to a different class of shares of the same fund should not realize taxable gain or loss.

Any loss realized upon the sale or exchange of fund shares with a holding period of six months or less will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any capital gain distributions received (or amounts designated as undistributed capital gains) with respect to such shares. In addition, all or a portion of a loss realized on a sale or other disposition of fund shares may be disallowed under “wash sale” rules to the extent the shareholder acquires other shares of the same fund (whether through the reinvestment of distributions or otherwise) within a period of 61 days beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the date of disposition of the shares. Any disallowed loss will result in an adjustment to the shareholder’s tax basis in some or all of the other shares acquired.

Sales charges paid upon a purchase of shares cannot be taken into account for purposes of determining gain or loss on a sale of the shares before the 91st day after their purchase to the extent a sales charge is reduced or eliminated in a subsequent acquisition of shares of a fund, during the period beginning on the date of such sale and ending on January 31 of the calendar year following the calendar year in which such sale was made, pursuant to a reinvestment or exchange privilege. Any disregarded amounts will result in an adjustment to the shareholder’s tax basis in some or all of any other shares acquired.

The benefits of the reduced tax rates applicable to long-term capital gains and qualified dividend income may be impacted by the application of the alternative minimum tax to individual shareholders.

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Certain net investment income received by an individual having adjusted gross income in excess of $200,000 (or $250,000 for married individuals filing jointly) will be subject to a tax of 3.8%. Undistributed net investment income of trusts and estates in excess of a specified amount also will be subject to this tax. Dividends and capital gains distributed by a fund, and gain realized on redemption of fund shares, will constitute investment income of the type subject to this tax.

Special tax rules apply to investments through defined contribution plans and other tax-qualified plans. Shareholders should consult their tax advisor to determine the suitability of shares of a fund as an investment through such plans.

A state income (and possibly local income and/or intangible property) tax exemption is generally available to the extent (if any) the fund’s distributions are derived from interest on (or, in the case of intangible property taxes, the value of its assets is attributable to) certain U.S. Government obligations, provided in some states that certain thresholds for holdings of such obligations and/or reporting requirements are satisfied. The funds will not seek to satisfy any threshold or reporting requirements that may apply in particular taxing jurisdictions, although a fund may in its sole discretion provide relevant information to shareholders.

Dividends and distributions on a fund’s shares are generally subject to federal income tax as described herein to the extent they do not exceed the fund’s realized income and gains, even though such dividends and distributions may economically represent a return of a particular shareholder’s investment. Such distributions are likely to occur in respect of shares purchased at a time when a fund’s net asset value reflects gains that are either unrealized or realized but not distributed. Such realized gains may be required to be distributed even when a fund’s net asset value also reflects unrealized losses. Such gains could be substantial, and the taxes incurred by a shareholder with respect to such distributions could have a material impact on the value of the shareholder’s investment.

Certain distributions declared in October, November or December to shareholders of record of such month and paid in the following January will be taxed to shareholders as if received on December 31 of the year in which they were declared. In addition, certain other distributions made after the close of a taxable year of a fund may be “spilled back” and treated as paid by the fund (except for purposes of the non-deductible 4% federal excise tax) during such taxable year. In such case, shareholders will be treated as having received such dividends in the taxable year in which the distributions were actually made.

A fund will inform its shareholders of the source and tax status of all distributions promptly after the close of each calendar year.

Each fund (or its administrative agent) must report to the IRS and furnish to shareholders the cost basis information and holding period for such fund’s shares purchased on or after January 1, 2012, and repurchased by the fund on or after that date. A fund will permit shareholders to elect from among several permitted cost basis methods. In the absence of an election, each fund will use an average cost as its default cost basis method. The cost basis method that a shareholder elects may not be changed with respect to a repurchase of shares after the settlement date of the repurchase. Shareholders should consult with their tax advisors to determine the best permitted cost basis method for their tax situation and to obtain more information about how the new cost basis reporting rules apply to them.

A fund generally is required to withhold and remit to the U.S. Treasury a percentage of the taxable dividends and other distributions paid to and proceeds of share sales, exchanges, or redemptions made by any individual shareholder (including foreign individuals) who fails to furnish the fund with a correct taxpayer identification number, who has under-reported dividends or interest income, or who fails to certify to the fund that he or she is a United States person and is not subject to such withholding. The backup withholding tax rate is 24%. Distributions will not be subject to backup withholding to the extent they are subject to the withholding tax on foreign persons described in the next paragraph. Any tax withheld as a result of backup withholding does not constitute an additional tax imposed on the record owner of the account and may be claimed as a credit on the record owner’s federal income tax return.

Non-U.S. investors not engaged in a U.S. trade or business with which their investment in a fund is effectively connected will be subject to U.S. federal income tax treatment that is different from that described above. Such non-U.S. investors may be subject to withholding tax at the rate of 30% (or a lower rate under an applicable tax treaty) on amounts treated as ordinary dividends from a fund. Capital gain distributions, if any, are not subject to the 30% withholding tax. Unless an effective IRS Form W-8BEN or other authorized withholding certificate is on file, backup withholding will apply to certain other payments from a fund. Non-U.S. investors should consult their tax advisors regarding such treatment and the application of foreign taxes to an investment in a fund.

Properly-reported dividends generally are exempt from U.S. federal withholding tax where they are (i) “interest-related dividends” paid in respect of a fund’s “qualified net interest income” (generally, a fund’s U.S. source interest income, other than certain contingent interest and interest from obligations of a corporation or partnership in which the fund is

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at least a 10% shareholder, reduced by expenses that are allocable to such income) or (ii) “short-term capital gain dividends” paid in respect of a fund’s “qualified short-term gains” (generally, the excess of a fund’s net short-term capital gain over the fund’s long-term capital loss for such taxable year). Depending on its circumstances, a fund may designate all, some or none of its potentially eligible dividends as such interest-related dividends or as short-term capital gain dividends and/or treat such dividends, in whole or in part, as ineligible for this exemption from withholding.

Under legislation known as FATCA, a 30% U.S. withholding tax may apply to any U.S.-source “withholdable payments” made to a non-U.S. entity unless the non-U.S. entity enters into an agreement with either the IRS or a governmental authority in its own country, as applicable, to collect and provide substantial information regarding the entity’s owners, including “specified United States persons” and “United States owned foreign entities,” or otherwise demonstrates compliance with or exemption from FATCA. The term “withholdable payment” includes any payment of interest (even if the interest is otherwise exempt from the withholding rules described above) or dividends, in each case with respect to any U.S. investment. The withholding tax regime went into effect on July 1, 2014 with respect to U.S.-source income. The IRS has issued proposed regulations, which have immediate effect, to eliminate the withholding tax that was scheduled to begin in 2019 with respect to U.S.-source investment sale proceeds. A specified United States person is essentially any U.S. person, other than publicly traded corporations, their affiliates, tax-exempt organizations, governments, banks, real estate investment trusts, RICs, and common trust funds. A United States owned foreign entity is a foreign entity with one or more “substantial United States owners,” generally defined as United States person owning a greater than 10% interest. Non-U.S. investors should consult their own tax advisers regarding the impact of this legislation on their investment in a fund.

If a shareholder realizes a loss on disposition of a fund’s shares of $2 million or more for an individual shareholder or $10 million or more for a corporate shareholder, the shareholder must file with the IRS a disclosure statement on Form 8886. Direct shareholders of portfolio securities are in many cases excepted from this reporting requirement, but under current guidance, shareholders of a RIC are not excepted. Future guidance may extend the current exception from this reporting requirement to shareholders of most or all RICs.

The foregoing is a general and abbreviated summary of the applicable provisions of the Code and Treasury Regulations currently in effect. It is not intended to be a complete explanation or a substitute for consultation with individual tax advisors. For the complete provisions, reference should be made to the pertinent Code sections and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder. The Code and Treasury Regulations are subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect.

California Tax-Free Income Fund, High Yield Municipal Bond Fund, and Tax-Free Bond Fund — Additional Tax Considerations

These funds expect to qualify to pay “exempt-interest dividends,” as defined in the Code. To qualify to pay exempt-interest dividends, a fund must, at the close of each quarter of its taxable year, have at least 50% of the value of its total assets invested in municipal securities, the interest on which is excluded from gross income under Section 103(a) of the Code. In purchasing municipal securities, the funds intend to rely on opinions of nationally recognized bond counsel for each issue as to the excludability of interest on such obligations from gross income for federal income tax purposes. None of these funds will undertake independent investigations concerning the tax-exempt status of such obligations, nor does any of these funds guarantee or represent that bond counsels’ opinions are correct. Bond counsels’ opinions will generally be based in part upon covenants by the issuers and related parties regarding continuing compliance with federal tax requirements. Tax laws enacted principally during the 1980s not only had the effect of limiting the purposes for which tax-exempt bonds could be issued and reducing the supply of such bonds, but also increased the number and complexity of requirements that must be satisfied on a continuing basis in order for bonds to be and remain tax-exempt. If the issuer of a bond or a user of a bond-financed facility fails to comply with such requirements at any time, interest on the bond could become taxable, retroactive to the date the obligation was issued. In that event, a portion of a fund’s distributions attributable to interest such fund received on such bond for the current year and for prior years could be characterized or recharacterized as taxable income. The availability of tax-exempt obligations and the value of each fund’s portfolio may be affected by restrictive federal income tax legislation enacted in recent years or by similar future legislation.

If a fund satisfies the applicable requirements, dividends paid by the fund that are attributable to tax exempt interest on municipal securities and reported in a written statement by the fund as exempt-interest dividends to its shareholders may be treated by shareholders as items of interest excludable from their gross income under Section 103(a) of the Code. The recipient of tax-exempt income is required to report such income on his federal income tax return. However, a shareholder is advised to consult his tax advisor with respect to whether exempt-interest dividends retain the exclusion under Section 103(a) if such shareholder would be treated as a “substantial user” or “related person” thereof under

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Section 147(a) with respect to any of the tax-exempt obligations held by a fund. The Code provides that interest on indebtedness incurred or continued to purchase or carry shares of a fund is not deductible to the extent it is deemed related to the fund’s exempt-interest dividends. Pursuant to published guidelines, the IRS may deem indebtedness to have been incurred for the purpose of purchasing or carrying shares of the funds even though the borrowed money may not be directly traceable to the purchase of shares.

Although all or a substantial portion of the dividends paid by a fund may be excluded by such fund’s shareholders from their gross income for federal income tax purposes, each fund may purchase specified private activity bonds, the interest from which (including the fund’s distributions attributable to such interest) may be a preference item for purposes of the federal alternative minimum tax on individuals. All exempt-interest dividends from a fund, whether or not attributable to private activity bond interest, will be taken into account in determining the extent to which a shareholder’s Social Security or certain railroad retirement benefits are taxable.

Distributions other than exempt-interest dividends from a fund’s current or accumulated earnings and profits (“E&P”) will be taxable for investors who are subject to tax. Taxable distributions include distributions from a fund that are attributable to (i) taxable income, including but not limited to taxable bond interest, recognized market discount income, original issue discount income accrued with respect to taxable bonds, income from repurchase agreements, income from securities lending, income from dollar rolls, income from interest rate swaps, caps, floors and collars, and a portion of the discount from certain stripped tax-exempt obligations or their coupons or (ii) capital gains from the sale or constructive sale of securities or other investments (including from the disposition of rights to when-issued securities prior to issuance) or from options and futures contracts. If these distributions are paid from a fund’s “investment company taxable income,” they will be taxable as ordinary income; and if they are paid from a fund’s “net capital gain,” they will be taxable as long-term capital gain. (Net capital gain is the excess (if any) of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss, and investment company taxable income is all taxable income and capital gains or losses, other than those gains and losses included in computing net capital gain, after reduction by deductible expenses.) Some distributions may be paid in January but may be taxable to shareholders as if they had been received on December 31 of the previous year. The tax treatment described above will apply without regard to whether distributions are received in cash or reinvested in additional shares of the applicable fund.

Distributions, if any, in excess of E&P will constitute a return of capital under the Code, which will first reduce an investor’s federal tax basis in fund shares and then, to the extent such basis is exceeded, will generally give rise to capital gains. Shareholders who have chosen automatic reinvestment of their distributions will have a federal tax basis in each share received pursuant to such a reinvestment equal to the amount of cash they would have received had they elected to receive the distribution in cash, divided by the number of shares received in the reinvestment.

After the close of each calendar year, each fund will inform shareholders of the federal income tax status of its dividends and distributions for such year, including the portion of such dividends that qualifies as tax-exempt and the portion, if any, that should be treated as a tax preference item for purposes of the federal alternative minimum tax. Shareholders who have not held shares of a fund for its full taxable year may have designated as tax-exempt or as a tax preference item a percentage of distributions that is not equal to the actual amount of a pro rata share of tax-exempt income or tax preference item income earned by such fund during the period of their investment in the fund.

The amount of a fund’s net realized capital gains, if any, in any given year will vary depending upon a subadvisor’s current investment strategy and whether a subadvisor believes it to be in the best interest of the fund, including for tax purposes, to dispose of portfolio securities and/or engage in options or futures transactions that will generate capital gains. At the time of an investor’s purchase of a fund’s shares, a portion of the purchase price is often attributable to realized or unrealized appreciation in the fund’s portfolio. Consequently, subsequent distributions on these shares from such appreciation may be taxable to such investor even if the NAV of the investor’s shares is, as a result of the distributions, reduced below the investor’s cost for such shares, and the distributions in reality represent a return of a portion of the purchase price.

Each fund may invest a portion, and in the case of the High Yield Municipal Bond Fund, a substantial portion, of its assets in debt obligations that are in the lower rating categories or are unrated. Investments in debt obligations that are at risk of default present special tax issues for the funds. Tax rules are not entirely clear about issues such as when the funds may cease to accrue interest, original issue discount, or market discount, when and to what extent deductions may be taken for bad debts or worthless securities, how payments received on obligations in default should be allocated between principal and income, and whether exchanges of debt obligations in a workout context are taxable. If a fund invests in these debt obligations, it will address these issues in order to seek to ensure that it distributes sufficient income to preserve its status as a RIC and seek to avoid federal income or excise tax.

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Certain options and futures transactions undertaken by a fund may cause the fund to recognize gains or losses from marking to market even though the positions have not been sold or terminated and affect the character as long-term or short-term and timing of some capital gains and losses realized by the fund. Additionally, the fund may be required to recognize gains (subject to tax distribution requirements) if an option, futures contract, notional principal contract, or a combination thereof is treated as a constructive sale of an appreciated financial position in the fund’s portfolio. Also, some of a fund’s losses on its transactions involving options and futures contracts and/or offsetting or successor portfolio positions may be deferred rather than being taken into account currently in calculating the fund’s taxable income or gain. Certain of such transactions also may cause a fund to dispose of investments sooner than would otherwise have occurred. These transactions may thereafter affect the amount, timing and character of a fund’s distributions to shareholders. Each fund will take into account the special tax rules (including consideration of available elections) applicable to options and futures transactions in order to seek to minimize any potential adverse tax consequences.

Upon a redemption or other disposition of shares of a fund (including by exercise of the exchange privilege) in a transaction that is treated as a sale for tax purposes, a shareholder will ordinarily realize a taxable gain or loss depending upon the amount of the proceeds and the investor’s basis in his shares. Such gain or loss will be treated as capital gain or loss if the shares are capital assets in the shareholder’s hands. A sales charge paid in purchasing shares of a fund cannot be taken into account for purposes of determining gain or loss on the redemption or exchange of such shares within 90 days after their purchase to the extent shares of the fund or another John Hancock fund are subsequently acquired, on or before January 31 of the year following the calendar year that includes the date of such redemption or exchange, without payment of a sales charge pursuant to the reinvestment or exchange privilege. This disregarded charge will result in an increase in the shareholder’s tax basis in the shares subsequently acquired. Also, any loss realized on a redemption or exchange may be disallowed to the extent the shares disposed of are replaced with other shares of the same fund within a period of 61 days beginning 30 days before and ending 30 days after the date on which the initial shares are disposed of, such as pursuant to automatic dividend reinvestments. In such a case, the basis of the shares acquired will be adjusted to reflect the disallowed loss.

Any loss realized upon the redemption of shares with a tax holding period of six months or less will be disallowed to the extent of all exempt-interest dividends paid with respect to such shares and, to the extent in excess of the amount disallowed, will be treated as a long-term capital loss to the extent of any amounts treated as distributions of long-term capital gain with respect to such shares. Shareholders should consult their own tax advisors regarding their particular circumstances to determine whether a disposition of fund shares is properly treated as a sale for tax purposes, as is assumed in the foregoing discussion.

Although each fund’s present intention is to distribute, at least annually, all net capital gain, if any, each fund reserves the right to retain and reinvest all or any portion of the excess of net long-term capital gain over net short-term capital loss in any year. A fund will not, in any event, distribute net capital gain realized in any year to the extent that a capital loss is carried forward from prior years against such gain. To the extent such excess was retained and not exhausted by the carryforward of prior years’ capital losses, it would be subject to federal income tax in the hands of the fund. Upon proper reporting of this amount by a fund, each shareholder would be treated for federal income tax purposes as if the fund had distributed to him on the last day of its taxable year his pro rata share of such excess, and he had paid his pro rata share of the taxes paid by the fund and reinvested the remainder in the fund. Accordingly, each shareholder would (a) include his pro rata share of such excess as long-term capital gain in his return for his taxable year in which the last day of the fund’s taxable year falls; (b) be entitled either to a tax credit on his return for, or to a refund of, his pro rata share of the taxes paid by the fund; and (c) be entitled to increase the adjusted tax basis for his shares in the funds by the difference between his pro rata share of such excess and his pro rata share of such taxes.

Each fund will be required to report to the IRS all taxable distributions to shareholders, as well as gross proceeds from the redemption or exchange of fund shares, except in the case of certain exempt recipients, i.e., corporations and certain other investors distributions to which are exempt from the information reporting provisions of the Code. All such reportable distributions and proceeds may be subject to backup withholding of federal income tax in the case of non-exempt shareholders who fail to furnish the applicable fund with their correct taxpayer identification numbers and certain certifications required by the IRS or if the IRS or a broker notifies a fund that the number furnished by the shareholder is incorrect or that the shareholder is subject to backup withholding as a result of failure to report interest or dividend income. However, a fund’s taxable distributions may not be subject to backup withholding if the fund can reasonably estimate that at least 95% of its distributions for the year will be exempt-interest dividends. A fund may refuse to accept an application that does not contain any required taxpayer identification number or certification that the number provided is correct. If the backup withholding provisions are applicable, any such distributions and proceeds, whether taken in cash or reinvested in shares, will be reduced by the amounts required to be withheld. Any amounts

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withheld may be credited against a shareholder’s U.S. federal income tax liability. Investors should consult their tax advisors about the applicability of the backup withholding provisions.

The foregoing is a general and abbreviated summary of the applicable provisions of the Code and Treasury Regulations currently in effect. It is not intended to be a complete explanation or a substitute for consultation with individual tax advisors. For the complete provisions, reference should be made to the pertinent Code sections and the Treasury Regulations promulgated thereunder. The Code and Treasury Regulations are subject to change, possibly with retroactive effect.

Each fund is not subject to Massachusetts corporate excise or franchise taxes. Each fund anticipates that, provided the fund qualifies as a RIC under the Code, it also will not be required to pay any Massachusetts income tax.

California Tax-Free Income Fund — State Tax Considerations

The following discussion assumes that the fund will be qualified as a RIC under Subchapter M of the Code and will be qualified thereunder to pay exempt interest dividends.

Individual shareholders of the fund who are subject to California personal income taxation will not be required to include in their California gross income that portion of their federal exempt-interest dividends that the fund clearly and accurately identifies as directly attributable to interest earned on obligations the interest on which is exempt from California personal income taxation, provided that at least 50% of the value of the fund’s total assets at the close of each quarter of its taxable year consists of such obligations. Distributions to individual shareholders derived from interest on Tax-Exempt Securities issued by governmental authorities in states other than California or on other obligations or investments the interest or other income on which is not exempt from California personal income taxation and short term capital gains will be taxed as dividends for purposes of California personal income taxation. The fund’s long-term capital gains for federal income tax purposes that are distributed to the shareholders will be taxed as long-term capital gains to individual shareholders of the fund for purposes of California personal income taxation. Gain or loss, if any, resulting from a sale or redemption of shares will be recognized in the year of the sale or redemption. Current California law taxes both long-term and short-term capital gains at the rates applicable to ordinary income. Interest on indebtedness incurred or continued by a shareholder in connection with the purchase of shares of the fund will not be deductible for California personal income tax purposes.

Generally, corporate shareholders of the fund subject to the California franchise tax will be required to include any gain on a sale or redemption of shares and all distributions of exempt interest, capital gains and other taxable income, if any, as income subject to such tax.

The fund does not expect to be subject to California franchise or corporate income tax.

The foregoing is a general, abbreviated summary of certain of the provisions of California law presently in effect as it directly governs the taxation of the shareholders of the fund. These provisions are subject to change by legislative or administrative action, and any such change may be retroactive with respect to the fund’s transactions. Shareholders are advised to consult with their own tax advisors for more detailed information concerning California tax matters.

PORTFOLIO BROKERAGE

Pursuant to the Subadvisory Agreements, the subadvisors are responsible for placing all orders for the purchase and sale of portfolio securities of the funds. The subadvisors have no formula for the distribution of the funds’ brokerage business; rather they place orders for the purchase and sale of securities with the primary objective of obtaining the most favorable overall results for the applicable fund. The cost of securities transactions for each fund will consist primarily of brokerage commissions or dealer or underwriter spreads. Fixed-income securities and money market instruments are generally traded on a net basis and do not normally involve either brokerage commissions or transfer taxes.

Occasionally, securities may be purchased directly from the issuer. For securities traded primarily in the OTC market, the subadvisors will, where possible, deal directly with dealers who make a market in the securities unless better prices and execution are available elsewhere. Such dealers usually act as principals for their own account.

Selection of Brokers or Dealers to Effect Trades. In selecting brokers or dealers to implement transactions, the subadvisors will give consideration to a number of factors, including:

■ price, dealer spread or commission, if any;

■ the reliability, integrity and financial condition of the broker dealer;

■ size of the transaction;

■ difficulty of execution;

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■ brokerage and research services provided (unless prohibited by applicable law); and

■ confidentiality and anonymity.

Consideration of these factors by the subadvisor, either in terms of a particular transaction or the subadvisor’s overall responsibilities with respect to the fund and any other accounts managed by the subadvisor, could result in the applicable fund paying a commission or spread on a transaction that is in excess of the amount of commission or spread another broker dealer might have charged for executing the same transaction.

Securities of Regular Broker Dealers. The table below presents information regarding the securities of the funds’ regular broker dealers (or parents of the regular broker dealers) that were held by the funds as of May 31, 2020. A “Regular Broker Dealer” of a fund is defined by the SEC as one of the 10 brokers or dealers that during the fund’s most recent fiscal year: (a) received the greatest dollar amount of brokerage commissions by virtue of direct or indirect participation in the fund’s portfolio transactions; (b) engaged as principal in the largest dollar amount of portfolio transactions of the fund; or (c) sold the largest dollar amount of securities of the fund.

Fund	Regular Broker Dealer	Holdings ($000s)
Bond Fund	Barclays Bank PLC	241,674
	Deutsche Bank AG	31,990
	HSBC Bank PLC	70,872
	JPMorgan Chase & Co.	283,708
	Morgan Stanley & Company, Inc.	102,241
	State Street Corp.	5,369
	The Bank of New York Mellon Corp.	21,194
	The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.	177,637
	UBS Group AG	16,772
	Wells Fargo & Company	184,983
California Tax-Free Income Fund	Barclays Bank PLC	2,298
	State Street Corp.	180
ESG Core Bond Fund	Citigroup, Inc.	1,300
	JPMorgan Chase & Co.	2,019
	Morgan Stanley & Company, Inc.	525
	State Street Corp.	515
	The Bank of New York Mellon Corp.	408
	The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.	609
Government Income Fund	Citigroup, Inc.	1,534
	Deutsche Bank AG	104
	JPMorgan Chase & Co.	123
High Yield Fund	Barclays Bank PLC	60,095
	State Street Corp.	2,749
	The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.	1,740
	Wells Fargo & Company	3,830
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	N/A	N/A
Income Fund	Bank of America Corp.	10,638
	Barclays Bank PLC	49,907
	Citigroup, Inc.	6,868
	Deutsche Bank AG	8,608
	JPMorgan Chase & Co.	27,421
	Morgan Stanley & Company, Inc.	8,702
	State Street Corp.	1,699
	The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.	7,591
Investment Grade Bond Fund	Barclays Bank PLC	16,651
	Citigroup, Inc.	14,215
	Deutsche Bank AG	10,126

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Fund	Regular Broker Dealer	Holdings ($000s)
	JPMorgan Chase & Co.	32,900
	Morgan Stanley & Company, Inc.	12,854
	State Street Corp.	1,010
	jPMorgan Chase & Co.	2,288
	The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.	24,187
	Wells Fargo & Company	32,827
Investment-Grade Corporate Bond Portfolio	Citigroup, Inc.	164
	Morgan Stanley & Company, Inc.	35
	The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.	97
Non-Investment-Grade Corporate Bond Portfolio	Citigroup, Inc.	143
Securitized Debt Portfolio	Bank of America Corp.	225
	Barclays Bank PLC	98
	Citigroup, Inc.	525
	Deutsche Bank AG	161
	JPMorgan Chase & Co.	248
	Morgan Stanley & Company, Inc.	164
	The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.	232
Short Duration Bond Fund	Barclays Bank PLC	1,602
	Citigroup, Inc.	2,050
	Morgan Stanley & Company, Inc.	633
	The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.	988
	UBS Group AG	1,270
	Wells Fargo & Company	1,044
Tax-Free Bond Fund	N/A	N/A

Soft Dollar Considerations. In selecting brokers and dealers, the subadvisors will give consideration to the value and quality of any research, statistical, quotation, brokerage or valuation services provided by the broker or dealer to the subadvisor. In placing a purchase or sale order, unless prohibited by applicable law, the subadvisor may use a broker whose commission in effecting the transaction is higher than that of some other broker if the subadvisor determines in good faith that the amount of the higher commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services provided by such broker, viewed in terms of either the particular transaction or the subadvisor’s overall responsibilities with respect to a fund and any other accounts managed by the subadvisor. In addition to statistical, quotation, brokerage or valuation services, the subadvisor may receive from brokers or dealers products or research that are used for both research and other purposes, such as administration or marketing. In such case, the subadvisor will make a good faith determination as to the portion attributable to research. Only the portion attributable to research will be paid through portfolio brokerage. The portion not attributable to research will be paid by the subadvisor. Research products and services may be acquired or received either directly from executing brokers or indirectly through other brokers in step-out transactions. A “step-out” is an arrangement by which the subadvisor executes a trade through one broker dealer but instructs that entity to step-out all or a portion of the trade to another broker dealer. This second broker dealer will clear and settle, and receive commissions for, the stepped-out portion. The second broker dealer may or may not have a trading desk of its own.

Under MiFID II, EU investment managers, including certain subadvisors to funds in the John Hancock Fund Complex, may only pay for research from brokers and dealers directly out of their own resources or by establishing “research payment accounts” for each client, rather than through client commissions. MiFID II is expected to limit the use of soft dollars by subadvisors located in the EU, if applicable, and in certain circumstances may result in other subadvisors reducing the use of soft dollars as to certain groups of clients or as to all clients.

The subadvisors also may receive research or research credits from brokers that are generated from underwriting commissions when purchasing new issues of fixed-income securities or other assets for a fund. These services, which in some cases also may be purchased for cash, include such matters as general economic and security market reviews, industry and company reviews, evaluations of securities and recommendations as to the purchase and sale of securities. Some of these services are of value to the subadvisor in advising several of its clients (including the funds), although not

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all of these services are necessarily useful and of value in managing the funds. The management fee paid by a fund is not reduced because the subadvisor and its affiliates receive such services.

As noted above, the subadvisor may purchase new issues of securities for a fund in underwritten fixed price offerings. In these situations, the underwriter or selling group member may provide the subadvisor with research in addition to selling the securities (at the fixed public offering price) to the funds or other advisory clients. Because the offerings are conducted at a fixed price, the ability to obtain research from a broker dealer in this situation provides knowledge that may benefit the fund, other subadvisor clients, and the subadvisor without incurring additional costs. These arrangements may not fall within the safe harbor in Section 28(e) of the Exchange Act, because the broker dealer is considered to be acting in a principal capacity in underwritten transactions. However, FINRA has adopted rules expressly permitting broker dealers to provide bona fide research to advisors in connection with fixed price offerings under certain circumstances. As a general matter in these situations, the underwriter or selling group member will provide research credits at a rate that is higher than that which is available for secondary market transactions.

Brokerage and research services provided by brokers and dealers include advice, either directly or through publications or writings, as to:

■ the value of securities;

■ the advisability of purchasing or selling securities;

■ the availability of securities or purchasers or sellers of securities; and

■ analyses and reports concerning: (a) issuers; (b) industries; (c) securities; (d) economic, political and legal factors and trends; and (e) portfolio strategy.

Research services are received primarily in the form of written reports, computer generated services, telephone contacts and personal meetings with security analysts. In addition, such services may be provided in the form of meetings arranged with corporate and industry spokespersons, economists, academicians and government representatives. In some cases, research services are generated by third parties but are provided to the subadvisor by or through a broker.

To the extent research services are used by the subadvisors, such services would tend to reduce such party’s expenses. However, the subadvisors do not believe that an exact dollar value can be assigned to these services. Research services received by the subadvisors from brokers or dealers executing transactions for series of the Trusts, which may not be used in connection with a fund, also will be available for the benefit of other funds managed by the subadvisors.

Allocation of Trades by the Subadvisors. The subadvisors manage a number of accounts other than the funds. Although investment determinations for the funds will be made by the subadvisor independently from the investment determinations it makes for any other account, investments deemed appropriate for the funds by the subadvisor also may be deemed appropriate by it for other accounts. Therefore, the same security may be purchased or sold at or about the same time for both the funds and other accounts. In such circumstances, the subadvisor may determine that orders for the purchase or sale of the same security for the funds and one or more other accounts should be combined. In this event the transactions will be priced and allocated in a manner deemed by the subadvisor to be equitable and in the best interests of the funds and such other accounts. While in some instances combined orders could adversely affect the price or volume of a security, each fund believes that its participation in such transactions on balance will produce better overall results for the fund.

For purchases of equity securities, when a complete order is not filled, a partial allocation will be made to each participating account pro rata based on the order size. For high demand issues (for example, initial public offerings), shares will be allocated pro rata by account size as well as on the basis of account objective, account size (a small account’s allocation may be increased to provide it with a meaningful position), and the account’s other holdings. In addition, an account’s allocation may be increased if that account’s portfolio manager was responsible for generating the investment idea or the portfolio manager intends to buy more shares in the secondary market. For fixed-income accounts, generally securities will be allocated when appropriate among accounts based on account size, except if the accounts have different objectives or if an account is too small to receive a meaningful allocation. For new issues, when a complete order is not filled, a partial allocation will be made to each account pro rata based on the order size. However, if a partial allocation is too small to be meaningful, it may be reallocated based on such factors as account objectives, strategies, duration benchmarks and credit and sector exposure. For example, value funds will likely not participate in initial public offerings as frequently as growth funds. In some instances, this investment procedure may adversely affect the price paid or received by the funds or the size of the position obtainable for it. On the other hand, to the extent permitted by law, the subadvisor may aggregate securities to be sold or purchased for the funds with those to be sold or purchased for other clients that it manages in order to obtain best execution.

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Affiliated Underwriting Transactions by the Subadvisor. Each Trust has approved procedures in conformity with Rule 10f-3 under the 1940 Act whereby a fund may purchase securities that are offered in underwritings in which an affiliate of the subadvisors participates. These procedures prohibit a fund from directly or indirectly benefiting a subadvisor affiliate in connection with such underwritings. In addition, for underwritings where a subadvisor affiliate participates as a principal underwriter, certain restrictions may apply that could, among other things, limit the amount of securities that the funds could purchase.

Affiliated Brokerage. Pursuant to procedures determined by the Trustees and consistent with the above policy of obtaining best net results, a fund may execute portfolio transactions with or through brokers affiliated with the Advisor or subadvisor (“Affiliated Brokers”). Affiliated Brokers may act as broker for the funds on exchange transactions, subject, however, to the general policy set forth above and the procedures adopted by the Trustees pursuant to the 1940 Act. Commissions paid to an Affiliated Broker must be at least as favorable as those that the Trustees believe to be contemporaneously charged by other brokers in connection with comparable transactions involving similar securities being purchased or sold. A transaction would not be placed with an Affiliated Broker if the fund would have to pay a commission rate less favorable than the Affiliated Broker’s contemporaneous charges for comparable transactions for its other most favored, but unaffiliated, customers, except for accounts for which the Affiliated Broker acts as clearing broker for another brokerage firm, and any customers of the Affiliated Broker not comparable to the fund, as determined by a majority of the Trustees who are not “interested persons” (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the fund, the Advisor, the subadvisor or the Affiliated Broker. Because the Advisor or subadvisor that is affiliated with the Affiliated Broker has, as an investment advisor to the funds, the obligation to provide investment management services, which includes elements of research and related investment skills such research and related skills will not be used by the Affiliated Broker as a basis for negotiating commissions at a rate higher than that determined in accordance with the above criteria.

The Advisor’s indirect parent, Manulife Financial, is the parent of a broker dealer, JH Distributors. JH Distributors is considered an Affiliated Broker.

Brokerage Commissions Paid. For the last three fiscal periods, the funds paid brokerage commissions in connection with portfolio transactions. Any material differences from year to year reflect an increase or decrease in trading activity by the applicable fund. The total brokerage commissions paid by the funds for the fiscal periods ended May 31, 2018, May 31, 2019, and May 31, 2020 are set forth in the table below:

	Total Commissions Paid in Fiscal Period Ended May 31,
Fund Name	2020 ($)	2019 ($)	2018 ($)
Bond Fund	0	0	0
California Tax-Free Income Fund	0	0	0
ESG Core Bond Fund	0	0	0
Government Income Fund	0	0	0
High Yield Fund	0	34,502	14,984
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	0	0	0
Income Fund	60,367	9	276
Investment Grade Bond Fund	0	0	0
Short Duration Bond Fund1	N/A	N/A	N/A
Tax-Free Bond Fund	0	0	0

1 The fund commenced operations on July 16, 2019.

Brokerage Commissions Paid to Affiliated Brokers. For the fiscal periods ended May 31, 2018, May 31, 2019, and May 31, 2020, no commissions were paid by any of the funds to brokers affiliated with the subadvisors.

Commission Recapture Program. The Board has approved each fund’s participation in a commission recapture program. Commission recapture is a form of institutional discount brokerage that returns commission dollars directly to a fund. It provides a way to gain control over the commission expenses incurred by a subadvisor, which can be significant over time and thereby reduces expenses, improves cash flow and conserves assets. A fund can derive commission recapture dollars from both equity trading commissions and fixed-income (commission equivalent) spreads. From time to time, the Board reviews whether participation in the recapture program is in the best interests of the funds.

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TRANSFER AGENT SERVICES

John Hancock Signature Services, Inc., P.O. Box 219909, Kansas City, MO 64121-9909, a wholly-owned indirect subsidiary of MFC, is the transfer and dividend paying agent for the Class A, Class B, Class C, Class I, Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, Class R4, Class R5, and Class R6 shares of the funds, as applicable.

The fees paid to Signature Services are determined based on the cost to Signature Services of providing services to the fund and to all other John Hancock affiliated funds for which Signature Services serves as transfer agent (“Signature Services Cost”). Signature Services Cost includes: (i) an allocable portion of John Hancock corporate overhead; and (ii) out-of-pocket expenses, including payments made by Signature Services to intermediaries and other third-parties (“Subtransfer Agency Fees”) whose clients and/or customers invest in one or more funds for sub-transfer agency and administrative services provided to those clients/customers. Signature Services Cost is calculated monthly and allocated by Signature Services among four different categories as described below based generally on the Signature Services Cost associated with providing services to each category in the aggregate. Within each category, Signature Services Cost is allocated across all of the John Hancock affiliated funds and/or classes for which Signature Services provides transfer agent services, on the basis of relative average net assets.

Retail Share and Institutional Classes of Non-Municipal Bond Funds. An amount equal to the total Signature Services Cost associated with providing services to Class A, Class B, Class C, Class ADV, Class I, and Class I2 shares of all non-municipal series of the Trust and of all other John Hancock affiliated funds for which it serves as transfer agent is allocated pro-rata based upon assets of all Class A, Class B, Class C, Class ADV, Class I, and Class I2 shares in the aggregate, without regard to fund or class. The funds do not offer Class I2 or Class ADV shares. John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund and Municipal Securities Trust currently do not offer any non-municipal bond funds.

Class R6 Shares. An amount equal to the total Signature Services Cost associated with providing services to Class R6 shares of the Trusts and all other John Hancock affiliated funds for which it serves as transfer agent, is allocated pro-rata based upon assets of all such shares in the aggregate, without regard to fund.

Retirement Share Classes. An amount equal to the total Signature Services Cost associated with providing services to Class R1, Class R2, Class R3, Class R4, and Class R5 shares of the Trusts and all other John Hancock affiliated funds for which it serves as transfer agent is allocated pro-rata based upon assets of all such shares in the aggregate, without regard to fund or class. In addition, payments made to intermediaries and/or record keepers under Class R Service plans will be made by each relevant fund on a fund- and class- specific basis pursuant to the applicable plan.

Municipal Bond Funds. An amount equal to the total Signature Services Cost associated with providing services to Class A, Class B, Class C, and Class I shares of all John Hancock affiliated municipal bond funds for which it serves as transfer agent is allocated pro-rata based upon assets of all such shares in the aggregate, without regard to fund or class. John Hancock municipal bond funds currently only offer Class A, Class B, Class C, Class I, and Class R6 shares. The allocation of Signature Services Costs for Class R6 shares of the municipal bond funds is described above. Bond Trust, Sovereign Bond Fund, and Strategic Series currently do not offer any municipal bond funds.

In applying the foregoing methodology, Signature Services seeks to operate its aggregate transfer agency operations on an “at cost” or “break even” basis. The allocation of aggregate transfer agency costs to categories of funds and/or classes assets seeks to ensure that shareholders of each class within each category will pay the same or a very similar level of transfer agency fees for the delivery of similar services. Under this methodology, the actual costs associated with providing particular services to a particular fund and/or share classes during a period of time, including payments to intermediaries for sub-transfer agency services to clients or customers whose assets are invested in a particular fund or share class, are not charged to and borne by that particular fund or share classes during that period. Instead, they are included in Signature Services Cost, which is then allocated to the applicable aggregate asset category described above and then allocated to all assets in that category based on relative net assets. Applying this methodology could result in some funds and/or classes having higher or lower transfer agency fees than they would have had if they bore only fund- or class-specific costs directly or indirectly attributable to them.

LEGAL AND REGULATORY MATTERS

There are no legal proceedings to which the Trusts, the Advisor, or the Distributor is a party that are likely to have a material adverse effect on the funds or the ability of either the Advisor or the Distributor to perform its contract with the funds.

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INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

The financial statements of each series of John Hancock Bond Trust, John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund, John Hancock Municipal Securities Trust, John Hancock Sovereign Bond Fund and John Hancock Strategic Series for the fiscal period ended May 31, 2020, including the related financial highlights that appear in the Prospectus, have been audited by PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP, independent registered public accounting firm, as stated in their report with respect thereto, and are incorporated herein by reference in reliance upon said report given on the authority of said firm as experts in accounting and auditing. PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP has offices at 101 Seaport Boulevard, Suite 500, Boston, Massachusetts 02210.

FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The financial statements of each series of John Hancock Bond Trust, John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund, John Hancock Municipal Securities Trust, John Hancock Sovereign Bond Fund and John Hancock Strategic Seies for the fiscal period ended May 31, 2020, are incorporated herein by reference from each fund’s most recent Annual Report filed with the SEC on Form N-CSR pursuant to Rule 30b2-1 under the 1940 Act.

CUSTODY OF PORTFOLIO SECURITIES

Except as noted below, State Street Bank and Trust Company, State Street Financial Center, One Lincoln Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02111, currently acts as custodian and bookkeeping agent with respect to each fund’s assets. Citibank, N.A., 388 Greenwich Street, New York, New York 10013, currently acts as custodian and bookkeeping agent with respect to the assets ofESG Core Bond Fund. State Street and Citibank have selected various banks and trust companies in foreign countries to maintain custody of certain foreign securities. Each fund also may use special purpose custodian banks from time to time for certain assets. State Street and Citibank are authorized to use the facilities of the Depository Trust Company, the Participants Trust Company, and the book-entry system of the Federal Reserve Banks.

CODES OF ETHICS

Each Trust, the Advisor, the Distributor and each subadvisor to the funds have adopted Codes of Ethics that comply with Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act. Each Code of Ethics permits personnel subject to the Code of Ethics to invest in securities, including securities that may be purchased or held by a fund.

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APPENDIX A – DESCRIPTION OF BOND RATINGS

DESCRIPTIONS OF CREDIT RATING SYMBOLS AND DEFINITIONS

The ratings of Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. (“Moody’s”), Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services (“S&P Global Ratings”) and Fitch Ratings (“Fitch”) represent their respective opinions as of the date they are expressed and not statements of fact as to the quality of various long-term and short-term debt instruments they undertake to rate. It should be emphasized that ratings are general and are not absolute standards of quality. Consequently, debt instruments with the same maturity, coupon and rating may have different yields while debt instruments of the same maturity and coupon with different ratings may have the same yield.

Ratings do not constitute recommendations to buy, sell, or hold any security, nor do they comment on the adequacy of market price, the suitability of any security for a particular investor, or the tax-exempt nature or taxability of any payments of any security.

IN GENERAL

Moody’s. Ratings assigned on Moody’s global long-term and short-term rating scales are forward-looking opinions of the relative credit risks of financial obligations issued by non-financial corporates, financial institutions, structured finance vehicles, project finance vehicles, and public sector entities.

Note that the content of this Appendix A, to the extent that it relates to the ratings determined by Moody’s, is derived directly from Moody’s electronic publication of “Ratings Symbols and Definitions” which is available at: https://www.moodys.com/researchdocumentcontentpage.aspx?docid=PBC_79004.

S&P Global Ratings. An S&P Global Ratings issue credit rating is a forward-looking opinion about the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to a specific financial obligation, a specific class of financial obligations, or a specific financial program (including ratings on medium-term note programs and commercial paper programs). It takes into consideration the creditworthiness of guarantors, insurers, or other forms of credit enhancement on the obligation and takes into account the currency in which the obligation is denominated. The opinion reflects S&P Global Ratings’ view of the obligor’s capacity and willingness to meet its financial commitments as they come due, and this opinion may assess terms, such as collateral security and subordination, which could affect ultimate payment in the event of default.

Issue ratings are an assessment of default risk but may incorporate an assessment of relative seniority or ultimate recovery in the event of default. Junior obligations are typically rated lower than senior obligations, to reflect the lower priority in bankruptcy.

Note that the content of this Appendix A, to the extent that it relates to the ratings determined by S&P Global Ratings, is derived directly from S&P Global Ratings’ electronic publication of “S&P’s Global Ratings Definitions,” which is available at: https://www.standardandpoors.com/en_US/web/guest/article/-/view/sourceId/504352.

Fitch. Fitch’s opinions are forward looking and include Fitch’s views of future performance. In many cases, these views on future performance may include forecasts, which may in turn (i) be informed by non-disclosable management projections, (ii) be based on a trend (sector or wider economic cycle) at a certain stage in the cycle, or (iii) be based on historical performance. As a result, while ratings may include cyclical considerations and attempt to assess the likelihood of repayment at “ultimate/final maturity,” material changes in economic conditions and expectations (for a particular issuer) may result in a rating change.

The terms “investment grade” and “speculative grade” have established themselves over time as shorthand to describe the categories ‘AAA’ to ‘BBB’ (investment grade) and ‘BB’ to ‘D’ (speculative grade). The terms investment grade and speculative grade are market conventions and do not imply any recommendation or endorsement of a specific security for investment purposes. Investment grade categories indicate relatively low to moderate credit risk, while ratings in the speculative categories either signal a higher level of credit risk or that a default has already occurred. For the convenience of investors, Fitch may also include issues relating to a rated issuer that are not and have not been rated on its web page. Such issues are also denoted as ‘NR’.

Note that the content of this Appendix A, to the extent that it relates to the ratings determined by Fitch, is derived directly from Fitch’s electronic publication of “Definitions of Ratings and Other Forms of Opinion” which is available at: https://www.fitchratings.com/site/dam/jcr:6b03c4cd-611d-47ec-b8f1-183c01b51b08/Rating%20Definitions%20-%20Jan%2024%202018.pdf.

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GENERAL PURPOSE RATINGS

LONG-TERM ISSUE RATINGS

MOODY’S GLOBAL LONG-TERM RATING SCALE

Long-term ratings are assigned to issuers or obligations with an original maturity of one year or more and reflect both on the likelihood of a default or impairment on contractual financial obligations and the expected financial loss suffered in the event of default or impairment.

Aaa: Obligations rated Aaa are judged to be of the highest quality, subject to the lowest level of credit risk.

Aa: Obligations rated Aa are judged to be of high quality and are subject to very low credit risk.

A: Obligations rated A are considered upper-medium grade and are subject to low credit risk.

Baa: Obligations rated Baa are judged to be medium-grade and subject to moderate credit risk and as such may possess certain speculative characteristics.

Ba: Obligations rated Ba are judged to be speculative and are subject to substantial credit risk.

B: Obligations rated B are considered speculative and are subject to high credit risk.

Caa: Obligations rated Caa are judged to be speculative of poor standing and are subject to very high credit risk.

Ca: Obligations rated Ca are highly speculative and are likely in, or very near, default, with some prospect of recovery of principal and interest.

C: Obligations rated C are the lowest rated and are typically in default, with little prospect for recovery of principal or interest.

Note: Addition of a Modifier 1, 2 or 3: Moody’s appends numerical modifiers 1, 2 and 3 to each generic rating classification from Aa through Caa. The modifier 1 indicates that the obligation ranks in the higher end of its generic rating category; the modifier 2 indicates a mid-range ranking; and the modifier 3 indicates a ranking in the lower end of that generic rating category. Additionally, a “(hyb)” indicator is appended to all ratings of hybrid securities issued by banks, insurers, finance companies, and securities firms. By their terms, hybrid securities allow for the omission of scheduled dividends, interest, or principal payments, which can potentially result in impairment if such an omission occurs. Hybrid securities may also be subject to contractually allowable write-downs of principal that could result in impairment.

Together with the hybrid indicator, the long-term obligation rating assigned to a hybrid security is an expression of the relative credit risk associated with that security.

S&P GLOBAL RATINGS LONG-TERM ISSUE CREDIT RATINGS

Long-term ratings are assigned to issuers or obligations with an original maturity of one year or more and reflect both on the likelihood of a default or impairment on contractual financial obligations and the expected financial loss suffered in the event of default or impairment.

AAA: An obligation rated ‘AAA’ has the highest rating assigned by S&P Global Ratings. The obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is extremely strong.

AA: An obligation rated ‘AA’ differs from the highest-rated obligations only to a small degree. The obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is very strong.

A: An obligation rated ‘A’ is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher-rated categories. However, the obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is still strong.

BBB: An obligation rated ‘BBB’ exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to weaken the obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

BB, B, CCC, CC and C: Obligations rated ‘BB’, ‘B’, ‘CCC’ ‘CC’ and ‘C’ are regarded as having significant speculative characteristics. ‘BB’ indicates the least degree of speculation and ‘C’ the highest. While such obligations will likely have some quality and protective characteristics, these may be outweighed by large uncertainties or major exposures to adverse conditions.

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BB: An obligation rated ‘BB’ is less vulnerable to nonpayment than other speculative issues. However, it faces major ongoing uncertainties or exposure to adverse business, financial, or economic conditions that could lead to the obligor’s inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation.

B: An obligation rated ‘B’ is more vulnerable to nonpayment than obligations rated ‘BB’, but the obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation. Adverse business, financial, or economic conditions will likely impair the obligor’s capacity or willingness to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

CCC: An obligation rated ‘CCC’ is currently vulnerable to nonpayment and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitments on the obligation. In the event of adverse business, financial or economic conditions, the obligor is not likely to have the capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

CC: An obligation rated ‘CC’ is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment. The ‘CC’ rating is used when a default has not yet occurred but S&P Global Ratings expects default to be a virtual certainty, regardless of the anticipated time to default.

C: An obligation rated ‘C’ is currently highly vulnerable to nonpayment, and the obligation is expected to have lower relative seniority or lower ultimate recovery compared to obligations that are rated higher.

D: An obligation rated ‘D’ is in default or in breach of an imputed promise. For non-hybrid capital instruments, the ‘D’ rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless S&P Global Ratings believes that such payments will be made within five business days in the absence of a stated grace period or within the earlier of the stated grace period or 30 calendar days. The ‘D’ rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or taking of similar action and where default on an obligation is a virtual certainty, for example due to automatic stay provisions. An obligation’s rating is lowered to ‘D’ if it is subject to a distressed exchange offer.

Note: Addition of a Plus (+) or minus (-) sign: The ratings from ‘AA’ to ‘CCC’ may be modified by the addition of a plus (+) or minus (-) sign to show relative standing within the major rating categories.

Dual Ratings – Dual ratings may be assigned to debt issues that have a put option or demand feature. The first component of the rating addresses the likelihood of repayment of principal and interest as due, and the second component of the rating addresses only the demand feature. The first component of the rating can relate to either a short-term or long-term transaction and accordingly use either short-term or long-term rating symbols. The second component of the rating relates to the put option and is assigned a short-term rating symbol (for example, ‘AAA/A-1+’ or ‘A-1+/A-1’). With U. S. municipal short-term demand debt, the U.S. municipal short-term note rating symbols are used for the first component of the rating (for example, ‘SP-1+/A-1+’).

FITCH CORPORATE FINANCE OBLIGATIONS – LONG-TERM RATING SCALES

Ratings of individual securities or financial obligations of a corporate issuer address relative vulnerability to default on an ordinal scale. In addition, for financial obligations in corporate finance, a measure of recovery given default on that liability is also included in the rating assessment. This notably applies to covered bond ratings, which incorporate both an indication of the probability of default and of the recovery given a default of this debt instrument.

AAA: Highest credit quality. ‘AAA’ ratings denote the lowest expectation of credit risk. They are assigned only in cases of exceptionally strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is highly unlikely to be adversely affected by foreseeable events.

AA: Very high credit quality. ‘AA’ ratings denote expectations of very low credit risk. They indicate very strong capacity for payment of financial commitments. This capacity is not significantly vulnerable to foreseeable events.

A: High credit quality. ‘A’ ratings denote expectations of low credit risk. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered strong. This capacity may, nevertheless, be more vulnerable to adverse business or economic conditions than is the case for higher ratings.

BBB: Good credit quality. ‘BBB’ ratings indicate that expectations of credit risk are currently low. The capacity for payment of financial commitments is considered adequate but adverse business or economic conditions are more likely to impair this capacity.

BB: Speculative. ‘BB’ ratings indicate an elevated vulnerability to credit risk, particularly in the event of adverse changes in business or economic conditions over time; however, business or financial alternatives may be available to allow financial commitments to be met.

B: Highly speculative. ‘B’ ratings indicate that material credit risk is present.

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CCC: Substantial credit risk. “CCC” ratings indicate that substantial credit risk is present.

CC: Very high levels of credit risk. “CC” ratings indicate very high levels of credit risk.

C: Exceptionally high levels of credit risk. “C” indicates exceptionally high levels of credit risk.

Corporate finance defaulted obligations typically are not assigned ‘RD’ or ‘D’ ratings but are instead rated in the ‘CCC’ to ‘C’ rating categories, depending on their recovery prospects and other relevant characteristics. This approach better aligns obligations that have comparable overall expected loss but varying vulnerability to default and loss.

Note: Addition of a Plus (+) or minus (-) sign: Within rating categories, Fitch may use modifiers. The modifiers “+” or “-“ may be appended to a rating to denote relative status within major rating categories. For example, the rating category ‘AA’ has three notch-specific rating levels (‘AA+’; ‘AA’; ‘AA-’; each a rating level). Such suffixes are not added to ‘AAA’ ratings and ratings below the ‘CCC’ category. For the short-term rating category of ‘F1’, a ‘+’ may be appended. For Viability Ratings, the modifiers ‘+’ or ‘-’ may be appended to a rating to denote relative status within categories from ‘aa’ to ‘ccc’.

CORPORATE AND TAX-EXEMPT COMMERCIAL PAPER RATINGS

SHORT-TERM ISSUE RATINGS

MOODY’S GLOBAL SHORT-TERM RATING SCALE

Ratings assigned on Moody’s global long-term and short-term rating scales are forward-looking opinions of the relative credit risks of financial obligations issued by non-financial corporates, financial institutions, structured finance vehicles, project finance vehicles, and public sector entities. Short-term ratings are assigned to obligations with an original maturity of thirteen months or less and reflect both the likelihood of a default or impairment on contractual financial obligations and the expected financial loss suffered in the event of default or impairment.

Moody’s employs the following designations to indicate the relative repayment ability of rated issuers:

P-1: Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-1 have a superior ability to repay short-term debt obligations.

P-2: Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-2 have a strong ability to repay short-term debt obligations.

P-3: Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Prime-3 have an acceptable ability to repay short-term obligations.

NP: Issuers (or supporting institutions) rated Not Prime do not fall within any of the Prime rating categories.

The following table indicates the long-term ratings consistent with different short-term ratings when such long-term ratings exist. (Note: Structured finance short-term ratings are usually based either on the short-term rating of a support provider or on an assessment of cash flows available to retire the financial obligation).

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S&P GLOBAL RATINGS’ SHORT-TERM ISSUE CREDIT RATINGS

S&P Global Ratings’ short-term ratings are generally assigned to those obligations considered short-term in the relevant market. Short-term ratings are also used to indicate the creditworthiness of an obligor with respect to put features on long-term obligations. Medium term notes are assigned long-term ratings. Ratings are graded into several categories, ranging from ‘A’ for the highest-quality obligations to ‘D’ for the lowest. These categories are as follows:

A-1: A short-term obligation rated ‘A-1’ is rated in the highest category by S&P Global Ratings. The obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitment on the obligation is strong. Within this category, certain obligations are designated with a plus sign (+). This indicates that the obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitments on these obligations is extremely strong.

A-2: A short-term obligation rated ‘A-2’ is somewhat more susceptible to the adverse effects of changes in circumstances and economic conditions than obligations in higher rating categories. However, the obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation is satisfactory.

A-3: A short-term obligation rated ‘A-3’ exhibits adequate protection parameters. However, adverse economic conditions or changing circumstances are more likely to weaken an obligor’s capacity to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

B: A short-term obligation rated ‘B’ is regarded as vulnerable and has significant speculative characteristics. The obligor currently has the capacity to meet its financial commitments; however, it faces major ongoing uncertainties that could lead to the obligor’s inadequate capacity to meet its financial commitments.

C: A short-term obligation rated ‘C’ is currently vulnerable to nonpayment and is dependent upon favorable business, financial, and economic conditions for the obligor to meet its financial commitments on the obligation.

D: A short-term obligation rated ‘D’ is in default or in breach of an imputed promise. For non-hybrid capital instruments, the ‘D’ rating category is used when payments on an obligation are not made on the date due, unless S&P Global Ratings believes that such payments will be made within any stated grace period. However, any stated grace period longer than five business days will be treated as five business days. The ‘D’ rating also will be used upon the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of a similar action and where default on an obligation is a virtual certainty, for example due to automatic stay provisions. An obligation’s rating is lowered to ‘D’ if it is subject to a distressed exchange offer.

Dual Ratings - Dual ratings may be assigned to debt issues that have a put option or demand feature. The first component of the rating addresses the likelihood of repayment of principal and interest as due, and the second component of the rating addresses only the demand feature. The first component of the rating can relate to either a short-term or long-term transaction and accordingly use either short-term or long-term rating symbols. The second component of the rating relates to the put option and is assigned a short-term rating symbol (for example, ‘AAA/A-1+’ or ‘A-1+/A-1’). With U.S. municipal short-term demand debt, the U.S. municipal short-term note rating symbols are used for the first component of the rating (for example, ‘SP-1+/A-1+’).

FITCH’S SHORT-TERM ISSUER OR OBLIGATION RATINGS

A short-term issuer or obligation rating is based in all cases on the short-term vulnerability to default of the rated entity and relates to the capacity to meet financial obligations in accordance with the documentation governing the relevant obligation. Short-term deposit ratings may be adjusted for loss severity. Short-term deposit ratings may be adjusted for loss severity. Short-Term Ratings are assigned to obligations whose initial maturity is viewed as “short term” based on market convention. Typically, this means up to 13 months for corporate, sovereign, and structured obligations, and up to 36 months for obligations in U.S. public finance markets.

F1: Highest short-term credit quality.
Indicates the strongest intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments; may have an added (“+”) to denote any exceptionally strong credit feature.

F2: Good short-term credit quality.
Good intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments.

F3: Fair short-term credit quality.
The intrinsic capacity for timely payment of financial commitments is adequate.

B: Speculative short-term credit quality.
Minimal capacity for timely payment of financial commitments, plus heightened vulnerability to near term adverse changes in financial and economic conditions.

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C: High short-term default risk.
Default is a real possibility.

RD: Restricted default.
Indicates an entity that has defaulted on one or more of its financial commitments, although it continues to meet other financial obligations. Typically applicable to entity ratings only.

D: Default.
Indicates a broad-based default event for an entity, or the default of a short-term obligation.

TAX-EXEMPT NOTE RATINGS

MOODY’S U.S. MUNICIPAL SHORT-TERM DEBT RATINGS

While the global short-term ‘prime’ rating scale is applied to US municipal tax-exempt commercial A-8 paper, these programs are typically backed by external letters of credit or liquidity facilities and their short-term prime ratings usually map to the long-term rating of the enhancing bank or financial institution and not to the municipality’s rating. Other short-term municipal obligations, which generally have different funding sources for repayment, are rated using two additional short-term rating scales (i.e., the MIG and VMIG scale discussed below).

The Municipal Investment Grade (MIG) scale is used to rate US municipal bond anticipation notes of up to five years maturity. Municipal notes rated on the MIG scale may be secured by either pledged revenues or proceeds of a take-out financing received prior to note maturity. MIG ratings expire at the maturity of the obligation, and the issuer’s long-term rating is only one consideration in assigning the MIG rating. MIG ratings are divided into three levels—MIG 1 through MIG 3—while speculative grade short-term obligations are designated SG.

MIG 1: This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by established cash flows, highly reliable liquidity support, or demonstrated broad-based access to the market for refinancing.

MIG 2: This designation denotes strong credit quality. Margins of protection are ample, although not as large as in the preceding group.

MIG 3: This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Liquidity and cash-flow protection may be narrow, and market access for refinancing is likely to be less well-established.

SG: This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Debt instruments in this category may lack sufficient margins of protection.

Variable Municipal Investment Grade (VMIG) ratings of demand obligations with unconditional liquidity support are mapped from the short-term debt rating (or counterparty assessment) of the support provider, or the underlying obligor in the absence of third party liquidity support, with VMIG 1 corresponding to P-1, VMIG 2 to P-2, VMIG 3 to P-3 and SG to not prime. For example, the VMIG rating for an industrial revenue bond with Company XYZ as the underlying obligor would normally have the same numerical modifier as Company XYZ’s prime rating. Transitions of VMIG ratings of demand obligations with conditional liquidity support, as shown in the diagram below, differ from transitions on the Prime scale to reflect the risk that external liquidity support will terminate if the issuer’s long-term rating drops below investment grade.

VMIG 1: This designation denotes superior credit quality. Excellent protection is afforded by the superior short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.

VMIG 2: This designation denotes strong credit quality. Good protection is afforded by the strong short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.

VMIG 3: This designation denotes acceptable credit quality. Adequate protection is afforded by the satisfactory short-term credit strength of the liquidity provider and structural and legal protections that ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.

SG: This designation denotes speculative-grade credit quality. Demand features rated in this category may be supported by a liquidity provider that does not have an investment grade short-term rating or may lack the structural and/or legal protections necessary to ensure the timely payment of purchase price upon demand.

* For VRDBs supported with conditional liquidity support, short-term ratings transition down at higher long-term ratings to reflect the risk of termination of liquidity support as a result of a downgrade below investment grade.

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VMIG ratings of VRDBs with unconditional liquidity support reflect the short-term debt rating (or counterparty assessment) of the liquidity support provider with VMIG 1 corresponding to P-1, VMIG 2 to P-2, VMIG 3 to P-3 and SG to not prime.

For more complete discussion of these rating transitions, please see Annex B of Moody’s Methodology titled Variable Rate Instruments Supported by Conditional Liquidity Facilities.

S&P GLOBAL RATINGS’ MUNICIPAL SHORT-TERM NOTE RATINGS

MUNICIPAL SHORT-TERM NOTE RATINGS

An S&P Global Ratings municipal note rating reflects S&P Global Ratings’ opinion about the liquidity factors and market access risks unique to the notes. Notes due in three years or less will likely receive a note rating. Notes with an original maturity of more than three years will most likely receive a long-term debt rating. In determining which type of rating, if any, to assign, S&P Global Ratings’ analysis will review the following considerations:

■ Amortization schedule – the larger the final maturity relative to other maturities, the more likely it will be treated as a note; and

■ Source of payment – the more dependent the issue is on the market for its refinancing, the more likely it will be treated as a note.

Note rating symbols are as follows:

SP-1: Strong capacity to pay principal and interest. An issue determined to possess a very strong capacity to pay debt service is given a plus (+) designation.

SP-2: Satisfactory capacity to pay principal and interest, with some vulnerability to adverse financial and economic changes over the term of the notes.

SP-3: Speculative capacity to pay principal and interest.

D: ‘D’ is assigned upon failure to pay the note when due, completion of a distressed exchange offer, or the filing of a bankruptcy petition or the taking of similar action and where default on an obligation is a virtual certainty, for example due to automatic stay provisions.

FITCH PUBLIC FINANCE RATINGS

See FITCH SHORT-TERM ISSUER OR OBLIGATIONS RATINGS above.

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APPENDIX B – PORTFOLIO MANAGER INFORMATION

MANULIFE INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT (US) LLC (the “Subadvisor”)

BOND FUND
CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
GOVERNMENT INCOME FUND
HIGH YIELD FUND
HIGH YIELD MUNICIPAL BOND FUND
INCOME FUND
INVESTMENT GRADE BOND FUND
SHORT DURATION BOND FUND
TAX-FREE BOND FUND

PORTFOLIO MANAGERS AND OTHER ACCOUNTS MANAGED

The following table lists the portfolio managers that are primarily responsible or jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the portfolios of the Funds shown in the table.

Fund Managed	Portfolio Managers
Bond Fund	Jeffrey N. Given, CFA and Howard C. Greene, CFA
California Tax-Free Income Fund	Dennis DiCicco and Jeffrey N. Given, CFA
Government Income Fund	Jeffrey N. Given, CFA and Howard C. Greene, CFA
High Yield Fund	John F. Addeo, CFA, Dennis F. McCafferty, CFA, and Caryn Rothman, CFA
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	Dennis DiCicco and Jeffrey N. Given, CFA
Income Fund	Christopher M. Chapman, CFA, Thomas C. Goggins, Daniel S. Janis III, and Kisoo Park
Investment Grade Bond Fund	Jeffrey N. Given, CFA and Howard C. Greene, CFA
Short Duration Bond Fund	Jeffrey N. Given, CFA and Howard C. Greene, CFA
Tax-Free Bond Fund	Dennis DiCicco and Jeffrey N. Given, CFA

The following table reflects information regarding other accounts for which each portfolio manager listed above has day-to-day management responsibilities. Accounts are grouped into three categories: (i) other investment companies (and series thereof); (ii) other pooled investment vehicles; and (iii) other accounts. To the extent that any of these accounts pays advisory fees that are based on account performance (“performance-based fees”), information on those accounts is specifically broken out. In addition, any assets denominated in foreign currencies have been converted into U.S. dollars using the exchange rates as of the applicable date. Also shown below the table is each portfolio manager’s investment in the Fund or Funds and similarly managed accounts.

The following table reflects information as of May 31, 2020:

Portfolio Manager	Number of Accounts	Assets (in millions)	Number of Accounts	Assets (in millions)	Number of Accounts	Assets (in millions)
John F. Addeo	1	$229	9	$1,105	3	$219
Christopher M. Chapman	5	$5,136	44	$18,816	13	$10,173
Dennis DiCicco	0	$0	2	$318	0	$0
Jeffrey N. Given	19	$21,164	22	$4,421	20	$11,970
Thomas C. Goggins	5	$5,136	45	$18,783	13	$10,173
Howard C. Greene	9	$8,800	22	$4,117	20	$11,970
Daniel S. Janis III	5	$5,136	48	$19,467	13	$10,173
Dennis McCafferty	1	$229	12	$4,236	0	$0
Kisoo Park	5	$5,136	45	$18,821	13	$10,173
Endre Pedersen	1	$201	2	$104	0	$0
Caryn Rothman	0	$0	2	$97	0	$0

Performance-Based Fees for Other Accounts Managed .. Of the accounts in the table listed above, those for which the Subadvisor receives a fee based on investment performance are listed in the table below:

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	Other Registered Investment Companies		Other Pooled Investment Vehicles		Other Accounts
Portfolio Manager	Number of Accounts	Assets (in millions)	Number of Accounts	Assets (in millions)	Number of Accounts	Assets (in millions)
Christopher M. Chapman	0	$0	0	$0	1	$6,841
Thomas C. Goggins	0	$0	0	$0	1	$6,841
Daniel S. Janis III	0	$0	0	$0	1	$6,841
Kisoo Park	0	$0	0	$0	1	$6,841

Ownership of the Funds and Similarly Managed Accounts

The following tables show the dollar range of Fund shares and shares of similarly managed accounts beneficially owned by the portfolio managers listed above as of May 31, 2020. For purposes of these tables, “similarly managed accounts” include all accounts that are managed (i) by the same portfolio managers that are jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of the Fund; and (ii) with an investment style, objective, policies and strategies substantially similar to those that are used to manage the Fund. Each portfolio manager’s ownership of Fund shares is stated in the footnotes that follow the tables.

Fund	Portfolio Manager	Dollar Range of Shares Owned
Bond Fund1	Jeffrey N. Given	$500,001-$1,000,000
	Howard C. Greene	Over $1,000,000
California Tax-Free Income Fund2	Dennis DiCicco	$10,001-$50,000
	Jeffrey N. Given	$0
Government Income Fund3	Jeffrey N. Given	$0
	Howard C. Greene	$10,001-$50,000
High Yield Fund4	John F. Addeo	$500,001-$1,000,000
	Dennis McCafferty	Over $1,000,000
	Caryn Rothman	$500,001 - $1,000,000
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund5	Dennis DiCicco	$1-$10,000
	Jeffrey N. Given	$0
Income Fund6	Christopher M. Chapman	$0
	Thomas C. Goggins	Over $1,000,000
	Daniel S. Janis III	Over $1,000,000
	Kisoo Park	Over $1,000,000
Investment Grade Bond Fund7	Jeffrey N. Given	$100,001-$500,000
	Howard C. Greene	$100,001-$500,000
Short Duration Bond Fund8	Jeffrey N. Given	$50,001-$100,000
	Howard C. Greene	$50,001-$100,000
Tax-Free Bond Fund9	Dennis DiCicco	$10,001-$50,000
	Jeffrey N. Given	$0

1 As of May 31, 2020, Jeffrey N. Given and Howard C. Greene beneficially owned $500,001-$1,000,000 and over $1,000,000 of shares, respectively, of Bond Fund.

2 As of May 31, 2020, Dennis DiCicco and Jeffrey N. Given beneficially owned $10,001-$50,000 and $0 of shares, respectively, of California Tax-Free Income Fund.

3 As of May 31, 2020, Jeffrey N. Given and Howard C. Greene beneficially owned $0 and $10,001-$50,000 of shares, respectively, of Government Income Fund.

4 As of May 31, 2020, John F. Addeo, Dennis McCafferty, and Caryn Rothman beneficially owned $500,001-$1,000,000, over $1,000,000, and $500,001 - $1,000,000 of shares, respectively, of High Yield Fund.

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5 As of May 31, 2020, Dennis DiCicco and Jeffrey N. Given beneficially owned $1-$10,000 and $0 of shares, respectively, of High Yield Municipal Bond Fund.

6 As of May 31, 2020, Christopher M. Chapman, Thomas C. Goggins, Daniel S. Janis III, and Kisoo Park beneficially owned $100,001-$500,000, over $1,000,000, over $1,000,00, and over $1,000,000 of shares, respectively, of Income Fund.

7 As of May 31, 2020, Jeffrey N. Given and Howard C. Greene beneficially owned $100,001-$500,000 and $100,001-$500,000 of shares, respectively, of Investment Grade Bond Fund.

8 As of May 31, 2020, Jeffrey N. Given and Howard C. Greene beneficially owned $50,001-$100,000 and $50,001-$100,000 of shares, respectively, of Short Duration Bond Fund.

9 As of May 31, 2020, Dennis DiCicco and Jeffrey N. Given beneficially owned $10,001-$50,000 and $0 of shares, respectively, of Tax-Free Bond Fund.

POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

When a portfolio manager is responsible for the management of more than one account, the potential arises for the portfolio manager to favor one account over another. The principal types of potential conflicts of interest that may arise are discussed below. For the reasons outlined below, the Fund does not believe that any material conflicts are likely to arise out of a portfolio manager’s responsibility for the management of the Fund as well as one or more other accounts. The Advisor and Subadvisor have adopted procedures that are intended to monitor compliance with the policies referred to in the following paragraphs. Generally, the risks of such conflicts of interests are increased to the extent that a portfolio manager has a financial incentive to favor one account over another. The Advisor and Subadvisor have structured their compensation arrangements in a manner that is intended to limit such potential for conflicts of interests. See “Compensation of Portfolio Managers” below.

■ A portfolio manager could favor one account over another in allocating new investment opportunities that have limited supply, such as initial public offerings and private placements. If, for example, an initial public offering that was expected to appreciate in value significantly shortly after the offering was allocated to a single account, that account may be expected to have better investment performance than other accounts that did not receive an allocation on the initial public offering. The Subadvisor has policies that require a portfolio manager to allocate such investment opportunities in an equitable manner and generally to allocate such investments proportionately among all accounts with similar investment objectives.

■ A portfolio manager could favor one account over another in the order in which trades for the accounts are placed. If a portfolio manager determines to purchase a security for more than one account in an aggregate amount that may influence the market price of the security, accounts that purchased or sold the security first may receive a more favorable price than accounts that made subsequent transactions. The less liquid the market for the security or the greater the percentage that the proposed aggregate purchases or sales represent of average daily trading volume, the greater the potential for accounts that make subsequent purchases or sales to receive a less favorable price. When a portfolio manager intends to trade the same security for more than one account, the policies of the Subadvisor generally require that such trades be “bunched,” which means that the trades for the individual accounts are aggregated and each account receives the same price. There are some types of accounts as to which bunching may not be possible for contractual reasons (such as directed brokerage arrangements). Circumstances may also arise where the trader believes that bunching the orders may not result in the best possible price. Where those accounts or circumstances are involved, the Subadvisor will place the order in a manner intended to result in as favorable a price as possible for such client.

■ A portfolio manager could favor an account if the portfolio manager’s compensation is tied to the performance of that account rather than all accounts managed by the portfolio manager. If, for example, the portfolio manager receives a bonus based upon the performance of certain accounts relative to a benchmark while other accounts are disregarded for this purpose, the portfolio manager will have a financial incentive to seek to have the accounts that determine the portfolio manager’s bonus achieve the best possible performance to the possible detriment of other accounts. Similarly, if the Subadvisor receives a performance-based advisory fee, the portfolio manager may favor that account, whether or not the performance of that account directly determines the portfolio manager’s compensation. The investment performance on specific accounts is not a factor in determining the portfolio manager’s compensation. See “Compensation of Portfolio Managers” below. Neither the Advisor nor the Subadvisor receives a performance-based fee with respect to any of the accounts managed by the portfolio managers.

■ A portfolio manager could favor an account if the portfolio manager has a beneficial interest in the account, in order to benefit a large client or to compensate a client that had poor returns. For example, if the portfolio manager held an interest in an investment partnership that was one of the accounts managed by the portfolio manager, the portfolio manager would have an economic incentive to favor the account in which the portfolio manager held an interest. The Subadvisor imposes certain trading restrictions and reporting requirements for accounts in which a portfolio manager or certain family members have a personal interest in order to confirm that such accounts are not favored over other accounts.

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■ If the different accounts have materially and potentially conflicting investment objectives or strategies, a conflict of interest may arise. For example, if a portfolio manager purchases a security for one account and sells the same security short for another account, such trading pattern could disadvantage either the account that is long or short. In making portfolio manager assignments, the Subadvisor seeks to avoid such potentially conflicting situations. However, where a portfolio manager is responsible for accounts with differing investment objectives and policies, it is possible that the portfolio manager will conclude that it is in the best interest of one account to sell a portfolio security while another account continues to hold or increase the holding in such security.

COMPENSATION

The Subadvisor has adopted a system of compensation for portfolio managers and others involved in the investment process that is applied systematically among investment professionals. At the Subadvisor, the structure of compensation of investment professionals is currently composed of the following basic components: base salary and short- and long-term incentives. A limited number of senior investment professionals, who serve as officers of both the Subadvisor and its parent company, may also receive options or restricted stock grants of common shares of Manulife Financial. The following describes each component of the compensation package for the individuals identified as a portfolio manager for the Funds.

■ Base salary. Base compensation is fixed and normally reevaluated on an annual basis. The Subadvisor seeks to set compensation at market rates, taking into account the experience and responsibilities of the investment professional.

■ Incentives. Only investment professionals are eligible to participate in the short- and long-term incentive plan. Under the plan, investment professionals are eligible for an annual cash award. The plan is intended to provide a competitive level of annual bonus compensation that is tied to the investment professional achieving superior investment performance and aligns the financial incentives of the Subadvisor and the investment professional. Any bonus under the plan is completely discretionary, with a maximum annual bonus that may be well in excess of base salary. Payout of a portion of this bonus may be deferred for up to five years. While the amount of any bonus is discretionary, the following factors are generally used in determining bonuses under the plan:

• Investment Performance: The investment performance of all accounts managed by the investment professional over one-, three, and five-year periods are considered. The pre-tax performance of each account is measured relative to an appropriate peer group benchmark identified in the table below (for example a Morningstar large cap growth peer group if the fund invests primarily in large cap stocks with a growth strategy). With respect to fixed-income accounts, relative yields are also used to measure performance. This is the most heavily weighted factor.

• Financial Performance: The profitability of the Subadvisor and its parent company are also considered in determining bonus awards.

• Non-Investment Performance: To a lesser extent, intangible contributions, including the investment professional’s support of client service and sales activities, new fund/strategy idea generation, professional growth and development, and management, where applicable, are also evaluated when determining bonus awards.

■ In addition to the above, compensation may also include a revenue component for an investment team derived from a number of factors including, but not limited to, client assets under management, investment performance, and firm metrics.

■ Manulife equity awards. A limited number of senior investment professionals may receive options to purchase shares of Manulife Financial stock. Generally, such option would permit the investment professional to purchase a set amount of stock at the market price on the date of grant. The option can be exercised for a set period (normally a number of years or until termination of employment) and the investment professional would exercise the option if the market value of Manulife Financial stock increases. Some investment professionals may receive restricted stock grants, where the investment professional is entitled to receive the stock at no or nominal cost, provided that the stock is forgone if the investment professional’s employment is terminated prior to a vesting date.

■ Deferred Incentives. Investment professionals may receive deferred incentives which are fully invested in strategies managed by the team/individual as well as other Manulife Asset Management strategies.

The Subadvisor also permits investment professionals to participate on a voluntary basis in a deferred compensation plan, under which the investment professional may elect on an annual basis to defer receipt of a portion of their compensation until retirement. Participation in the plan is voluntary.

Fund	Benchmark Index for Incentive Period
Bond Fund	Morningstar US OE Intermediate Term Bond

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Fund	Benchmark Index for Incentive Period
California Tax-Free Income Fund	OE Muni California Long
Government Income Fund	Morningstar US OE Intermediate Government
High Yield Fund	Morningstar US OE High Yield Bond
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	Morningstar US OE High Yield Muni
Income Fund	Morningstar US OE Multisector Bond
Investment Grade Bond Fund	Morningstar US OE Intermediate-Term Bond
Short Duration Bond Fund	Barclays Capital 1-3 Year US Aggregate Bond Index
Tax-Free Bond Fund	Morningstar US OE Muni National Long

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BRECKINRIDGE CAPITAL ADVISORS, INC.
(“Breckinridge”)

ESG CORE BOND FUND

PORTFOLIO MANAGERS AND OTHER ACCOUNTS MANAGED

Matthew Buscone, Sara Chanda, Khurram Gillani, and Jeffrey M. Glenn, CFA, are jointly and primarily responsible for the day-to-day management of ESG Core Bond Fund’s portfolio.

The following table provides information regarding other accounts for which each portfolio manager listed above has day-to-day management responsibilities. Accounts are grouped into three categories: (i) other investment companies (and series thereof); (ii) other pooled investment vehicles; and (iii) other accounts. To the extent that any of these accounts pays advisory fees that are based on account performance (“performance-based fees”), information on those accounts is specifically broken out. In addition, any assets denominated in foreign currencies have been converted into U.S. dollars using the exchange rates as of the applicable date. Also shown below the table is each portfolio manager’s investment in the Fund and similarly managed accounts.

The following table provides information as of May 31, 2020.

	Other Registered Investment Companies		Other Pooled Investment Vehicles		Other Accounts
Portfolio Manager1	Number of Accounts	Assets (in millions)	Number of Accounts	Assets (in millions)	Number of Accounts	Assets (in millions)
Matthew Buscone	2	$184.0	1	$11.2	15,656	$40,783
Sara Chanda	2	$184.0	1	$11.2	15,656	$40,783
Khurram Gillani	2	$184.0	1	$11.2	15,656	$40,783
Jeffrey M. Glenn	2	$184.0	1	$11.2	15,656	$40,783

1 In addition to the accounts in the table, portfolio managers manage personal accounts for their own benefit.

As of May 31, 2020, the portfolio managers did not manage any performance-based accounts.

Ownership of fund shares. None of the Fund’s portfolio managers beneficially owned any shares of the Fund or beneficially owned shares of similarly managed accounts as of May 31, 2020.

POTENTIAL CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

Breckinridge provides investment advisory services to client accounts in different strategies with varying fee schedules. As such, Breckinridge’s portfolio management team must allocate their time across multiple client accounts, which can create a conflict of interest. Using our proprietary portfolio management and trading system, the team is able to make investment decisions and allocations across multiple client accounts, regardless of a client’s investment strategy, objectives, or fee schedule. Additionally, the portfolio management team utilizes the proprietary system to complete allocations in a manner that is consistent with internal policy. Since all client accounts are managed on a team-basis, portfolio managers’ bonuses are not tied to the performance of any single client account or strategy; rather, bonuses are based on individual and overall firm performance. Therefore, portfolio managers are incentivized to act in the best interests of all clients in the short and long term. Breckinridge does not have any performance fee or soft dollar arrangements, both of which can create further conflicts concerning the management and trading of client accounts.

When Breckinridge has identified buy and sell orders in the same or similar security at the same time, Breckinridge will consider cross trades between client accounts. The usage of cross trades creates a conflict as Breckinridge is advising clients on both sides of the transaction. Breckinridge only executes cross trades when certain conditions are met, and conducts regular reviews of cross transactions to ensure compliance with internal policy and best execution objectives. As a matter of policy, IRAs and accounts subject to ERISA or the Investment Company Act of 1940 are excluded from cross transactions. Clients also may opt-out of cross trades at any time by providing written notification to Breckinridge.

Breckinridge has trading partners that have, or trading partners with affiliates that have, client accounts managed by us. Since Breckinridge has a business interest in these client relationships, there may be an incentive for Breckinridge to select these dealers over those without such client accounts when placing orders for client portfolios. When selecting dealers for client orders, we do not consider whether Breckinridge receives client referrals from such dealers. Our trading and consultant relations teams are separate. Traders are not permitted to consult with the consultant relations team on broker selections. Further, Breckinridge conducts periodic reviews of its trade execution and trading partners to ensure we are meeting our best execution goal.

Employees at Breckinridge may enter into certain personal securities transactions with appropriate approvals. Personal trading activity can cause conflicts with client accounts since employees may hold the same securities as those held in

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client accounts. To help minimize this conflict, Breckinridge has a general prohibition on the trading of securities that may be eligible for client accounts. Employees also are subject to transactional restrictions and regular reporting requirements, which are detailed in our Code of Ethics.

From time to time, our employees will receive non-cash gifts or business entertainment. Typically, these are tickets to events or occasional meals with vendors. Breckinridge has a policy in place that regulates the acceptance of such items. The policy includes but is not limited to: seeking approval on items over a specific value, submitting reports on certain items and certifying periodically to policy compliance.

COMPENSATION

All members of the portfolio management team receive a compensation and benefits package that includes a base salary, eligibility for a bonus, and profit sharing, healthcare coverage, employer-matched 401k, tuition reimbursement, and a fully-funded gym membership. Base salary is determined by at least the following: the role and responsibilities, the person’s experience, and market data for similar jobs. Individual performance and contribution are additional considerations during the annual review process. Bonuses are paid quarterly and are not tied to the performance of any client account or strategy. Each member of the team is also eligible to receive equity options. Our Board of Directors determines the amount of options to issue and, with input from the Executive Committee, the recipients of those options.

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APPENDIX C – PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES

JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS
PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
(Updated December 10, 2019)

General
The Majority of the Independent Board of Trustees (the “Board”) of each registered investment company of the Trusts, has adopted these proxy voting policies and procedures (the “Trust Proxy Policy”).

Each fund of the Trust or any other registered investment company (or series thereof) (each, a “fund”) is required to disclose its proxy voting policies and procedures in its registration statement and, pursuant to Rule 30b1-4 under the 1940 Act, file annually with the Securities and Exchange Commission and make available to shareholders its actual proxy voting record. In this regard, the Trust Policy is set forth below.

Policy
It is the Advisers’ policy to comply with Rule 206(4)-6 of the Advisers Act and Rule 30b1-4 of the 1940 Act as described above. In general, Advisers defer proxy voting decisions to the sub-advisers managing the Funds. It is the policy of the Trusts to delegate the responsibility for voting proxies relating to portfolio securities held by a Fund to the Fund’s respective Adviser or, if the Fund’s Adviser has delegated portfolio management responsibilities to one or more investment sub-adviser(s), to the fund’s sub-adviser(s), subject to the Board’s continued oversight. The sub-adviser for each Fund shall vote all proxies relating to securities held by each Fund and in that connection, and subject to any further policies and procedures contained herein, shall use proxy voting policies and procedures adopted by each sub-adviser in conformance with Rule 206(4)-6 under the Advisers Act.

If an instance occurs where a conflict of interest arises between the shareholders and the designated sub-adviser, however, Advisers retain the right to influence and/or direct the conflicting proxy voting decisions in the best interest of shareholders.

Investment Company Act
An investment company is required to disclose in its SAI either (a) a summary of the policies and procedures that it uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities or (b) a copy of its proxy voting policies.

A fund is also required by Rule 30b1-4 of the Investment Company Act of 1940 to file Form N-PX annually with the SEC, which contains a record of how the fund voted proxies relating to portfolio securities. For each matter relating to a portfolio security considered at any shareholder meeting, Form N-PX is required to include, among other information, the name of the issuer of the security, a brief identification of the matter voted on, whether and how the fund cast its vote, and whether such vote was for or against management. In addition, a fund is required to disclose in its SAI and its annual and semi-annual reports to shareholders that such voting record may be obtained by shareholders, either by calling a toll-free number or through the fund’s website, at the fund’s option.

Advisers Act
Under Advisers Act Rule 206(4)-6, investment advisers are required to adopt proxy voting policies and procedures, and investment companies typically rely on the policies of their advisers or sub-advisers.

Delegation of Proxy Voting Responsibilities It is the policy of the Trust to delegate the responsibility for voting proxies relating to portfolio securities held by a fund to the fund’s investment adviser (“adviser”) or, if the fund’s adviser has delegated portfolio management responsibilities to one or more investment sub-adviser(s), to the fund’s sub-adviser(s), subject to the Board’s continued oversight. The sub-adviser for each fund shall vote all proxies relating to securities held by each fund and in that connection, and subject to any further policies and procedures contained herein, shall use proxy voting policies and procedures adopted by each sub-adviser in conformance with Rule 206(4)-6 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the “Advisers Act”).

Except as noted below under Material Conflicts of Interest, the Trust Proxy Policy with respect to a Fund shall incorporate that adopted by the Fund’s sub-adviser with respect to voting proxies held by its clients (the “Sub-adviser Proxy Policy”). Each Sub-adviser Policy, as it may be amended from time to time, is hereby incorporated by reference into the Trust Proxy Policy. Each sub-adviser to a Fund is directed to comply with these policies and procedures in voting proxies relating to portfolio securities held by a fund, subject to oversight by the Fund’s adviser and by the Board. Each Adviser to a Fund retains the responsibility, and is directed, to oversee each sub-adviser’s compliance with these policies and procedures, and to adopt and implement such additional policies and procedures as it deems necessary or appropriate to discharge

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its oversight responsibility. Additionally, the Trust’s Chief Compliance Officer (“CCO”) shall conduct such monitoring and supervisory activities as the CCO or the Board deems necessary or appropriate in order to appropriately discharge the CCO’s role in overseeing the sub-advisers’ compliance with these policies and procedures.

The delegation by the Board of the authority to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities of the funds is entirely voluntary and may be revoked by the Board, in whole or in part, at any time.

Voting Proxies of Underlying Funds of a Fund of Funds
A. Where the Fund of Funds is not the Sole Shareholder of the Underlying Fund
With respect to voting proxies relating to the shares of an underlying fund (an “Underlying Fund”) held by a Fund of the Trust operating as a fund of funds (a “Fund of Funds”) in reliance on Section 12(d)(1)(G) of the 1940 Act where the Underlying Fund has shareholders other than the Fund of Funds which are not other Fund of Funds, the Fund of Funds will vote proxies relating to shares of the Underlying Fund in the same proportion as the vote of all other holders of such Underlying Fund shares.

B. Where the Fund of Funds is the Sole Shareholder of the Underlying Fund
In the event that one or more Funds of Funds are the sole shareholders of an Underlying Fund, the Adviser to the Fund of Funds or the Trusts will vote proxies relating to the shares of the Underlying Fund as set forth below unless the Board elects to have the Fund of Funds seek voting instructions from the shareholders of the Funds of Funds in which case the Fund of Funds will vote proxies relating to shares of the Underlying Fund in the same proportion as the instructions timely received from such shareholders.

1. Where Both the Underlying Fund and the Fund of Funds are Voting on Substantially Identical Proposals

In the event that the Underlying Fund and the Fund of Funds are voting on substantially identical proposals (the “Substantially Identical Proposal”), then the Adviser or the Fund of Funds will vote proxies relating to shares of the Underlying Fund in the same proportion as the vote of the shareholders of the Fund of Funds on the Substantially Identical Proposal.

2. Where the Underlying Fund is Voting on a Proposal that is Not Being Voted on by the Fund of Funds
(a) Where there is No Material Conflict of Interest Between the Interests of the Shareholders of the Underlying Fund and the Adviser Relating to the Proposal
In the event that the Fund of Funds is voting on a proposal of the Underlying Fund and the Fund of Funds is not also voting on a substantially identical proposal and there is no material conflict of interest between the interests of the shareholders of the Underlying Fund and the Adviser relating to the Proposal, then the Adviser will vote proxies relating to the shares of the Underlying Fund pursuant to its Proxy Voting Procedures.

(b) Where there is a Material Conflict of Interest Between the Interests of the Shareholders of the Underlying Fund and the Adviser Relating to the Proposal In the event that the Fund of Funds is voting on a proposal of the Underlying Fund and the Fund of Funds is not also voting on a substantially identical proposal and there is a material conflict of interest between the interests of the shareholders of the Underlying Fund and the Adviser relating to the Proposal, then the Fund of Funds will seek voting instructions from the shareholders of the Fund of Funds on the proposal and will vote proxies relating to shares of the Underlying Fund in the same proportion as the instructions timely received from such shareholders. A material conflict is generally defined as a proposal involving a matter in which the Adviser or one of its affiliates has a material economic interest.

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Procedure

Review of Sub-advisers’ Proxy Voting The Trusts have delegated proxy voting authority with respect to Fund portfolio securities in accordance with the Trust Policy, as set forth above.

Consistent with this delegation, each sub-adviser is responsible for the following:

1. Implementing written policies and procedures, in compliance with Rule 206(4)-6 under the Advisers Act, reasonably designed to ensure that the sub-adviser votes portfolio securities in the best interest of shareholders of the Trusts.
2. Providing the Advisers with a copy and description of the Sub-adviser Proxy Policy prior to being approved by the Board as a sub-adviser, accompanied by a certification that represents that the Sub-adviser Proxy Policy has been adopted in conformance with Rule 206(4)-6 under the Advisers Act. Thereafter, providing the Advisers with notice of any amendment or revision to that Sub-adviser Proxy Policy or with a description thereof. The Advisers are required to report all material changes to a Sub-adviser Proxy Policy quarterly to the Board. The CCO’s annual written compliance report to the Board will contain a summary of the material changes to each Sub-adviser Proxy Policy during the period covered by the report.
3. Providing the Adviser with a quarterly certification indicating that the sub-adviser did vote proxies of the funds and that the proxy votes were executed in a manner consistent with the Sub-adviser Proxy Policy. If the sub-adviser voted any proxies in a manner inconsistent with the Sub-adviser Proxy Policy, the sub-adviser will provide the Adviser with a report detailing the exceptions.

Adviser Responsibilities The Trusts have retained a proxy voting service to coordinate, collect, and maintain all proxy-related information, and to prepare and file the Trust’s reports on Form N-PX with the SEC.

The Advisers, in accordance with their general oversight responsibilities, will periodically review the voting records maintained by the proxy voting service in accordance with the following procedures:

1. Receive a file with the proxy voting information directly from each sub-adviser on a quarterly basis.
2. Select a sample of proxy votes from the files submitted by the sub-advisers and compare them against the proxy voting service files for accuracy of the votes.
3. Deliver instructions to shareholders on how to access proxy voting information via the Trust’s semi-annual and annual shareholder reports.

The Fund Administration Department, in conjunction with the Legal Department supporting the Trusts, is responsible for the foregoing procedures.

Proxy Voting Service Responsibilities Proxy voting services retained by the Trusts are required to undertake the following procedures:

• Aggregation of Votes:
The proxy voting service’s proxy disclosure system will collect fund-specific and/or account-level voting records, including votes cast by multiple sub-advisers or third-party voting services.

• Reporting:
The proxy voting service’s proxy disclosure system will provide the following reporting features:

1. multiple report export options;
2. report customization by fund-account, portfolio manager, security, etc.; and
3. account details available for vote auditing.

• Form N-PX Preparation and Filing:
The Advisers will be responsible for oversight and completion of the filing of the Trusts’ reports on Form N-PX with the SEC. The proxy voting service will prepare the EDGAR version of Form N-PX and will submit it to the adviser for review and approval prior to filing with the SEC. The proxy voting service will file Form N-PX for each twelve-month period ending on June 30. The filing must be submitted to the SEC on or before August 31 of each year. The Fund Administration Department, in conjunction with the Legal Department supporting the Trusts, is responsible for the foregoing procedures.

The Fund Administration Department in conjunction with the CCO oversees compliance with this policy.

The Fund Administration Department maintains operating procedures affecting the administration and disclosure of the Trusts’ proxy voting records.

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The Trusts’ Chief Legal Counsel is responsible for including in the Trusts’ SAI information regarding the Advisers’ and each sub-advisers proxy voting policies as required by applicable rules and form requirements.

The Fund Administration Department and The CCO’s Office is responsible for maintaining all documentation created in connection with this policy. Documents will be maintained for the period set forth in the Records Retention Schedule.

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JOHN HANCOCK VARIABLE TRUST ADVISERS LLC
JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LLC
PROXY VOTING POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Updated December 1, 2019

General

The SEC adopted Rule 206(4)-6 under the Advisers Act, which requires investment advisers with voting authority to adopt and implement written policies and procedures that are reasonably designed to ensure that the investment adviser votes client securities in the best interest of clients. The procedures must include how the investment adviser addresses material conflicts that may arise between the interests of the investment adviser and those of its clients. The Advisers are registered investment advisers under the Advisers Act and serve as the investment advisers to the Funds. The Advisers generally retain one or more sub-advisers to manage the assets of the Funds, including voting proxies with respect to a Fund’s portfolio securities. From time to time, however, the Advisers may elect to manage directly the assets of a Fund, including voting proxies with respect to such Fund’s portfolio securities, or a Fund’s Board may otherwise delegate to the Advisers authority to vote such proxies. Rule 206(4)-6 under the Advisers Act requires that a registered investment adviser adopt and implement written policies and procedures reasonably designed to ensure that it votes proxies with respect to a client’s securities in the best interest of the client.

Firms are required by Advisers Act Rule 204-2(c)(2) to maintain records of their voting policies and procedures, a copy of each proxy statement that the investment adviser receives regarding client securities, a record of each vote cast by the investment adviser on behalf of a client, a copy of any document created by the investment adviser that was material to making a decision how to vote proxies on behalf of a client, and a copy of each written client request for information on how the adviser voted proxies on behalf of the client, as well as a copy of any written response by the investment adviser to any written or oral client request for information on how the adviser voted that client’s proxies.

Investment companies must disclose information about the policies and procedures used to vote proxies on the investment company’s portfolio securities and must file the fund’s proxy voting record with the SEC annually on Form N-PX.

Pursuant thereto, the Advisers have adopted and implemented these proxy voting policies and procedures (the “Proxy Procedures”).

Policy

It is the Advisers’ policy to comply with Rule 206(4)-6 and Rule 204-2(c)(2) under the Advisers Act as described above. In general, the Advisers delegate proxy voting decisions to the sub-advisers managing the funds. If an instance occurs where a conflict of interest arises between the shareholders and a particular sub-adviser, however, the Adviser retains the right to influence and/or direct the conflicting proxy voting decisions.

Procedure

Fiduciary Duty
The Advisers have a fiduciary duty to vote proxies on behalf of a Fund in the best interest of the Fund and its shareholders.

Voting of Proxies - Advisers The Advisers will vote proxies with respect to a Fund’s portfolio securities when authorized to do so by the Fund and subject to the Fund’s proxy voting policies and procedures and any further direction or delegation of authority by the Fund’s Board. The decision on how to vote a proxy will be made by the person(s) to whom the Advisers have from time to time delegated such responsibility (the “Designated Person”). The Designated Person may include the Fund’s portfolio manager(s) or a Proxy Voting Committee, as described below.

When voting proxies with respect to a Fund’s portfolio securities, the following standards will apply:

• The Designated Person will vote based on what it believes is in the best interest of the Fund and its shareholders and in accordance with the Fund’s investment guidelines.

• Each voting decision will be made independently. To assist with the analysis of voting issues and/or to carry out the actual voting process the Designated Person may enlist the services of (1) reputable professionals (who may include persons employed by or otherwise associated with the Advisers or any of its affiliated persons) or (2) independent proxy evaluation services such as Institutional Shareholder Services. However, the ultimate decision as to how to vote a proxy will remain the responsibility of the Designated Person.

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• The Advisers believe that a good management team of a company will generally act in the best interests of the company. Therefore, the Designated Person will take into consideration as a key factor in voting proxies with respect to securities of a company that are held by the Fund the quality of the company’s management. In general, the Designated Person will vote as recommended by company management except in situations where the Designated Person believes such recommended vote is not in the best interests of the Fund and its shareholders.

• As a general principle, voting with respect to the same portfolio securities held by more than one Fund should be consistent among those Funds having substantially the same investment mandates.

• The Advisers will provide the Fund, from time to time in accordance with the Fund’s proxy voting policies and procedures and any applicable laws and regulations, a record of the Advisers’ voting of proxies with respect to the Fund’s portfolio securities.

Material Conflicts of Interest In carrying out its proxy voting responsibilities, the Advisers will monitor and resolve potential material conflicts (“Material Conflicts”) between the interests of (a) a Fund and (b) the Advisers or any of its affiliated persons. Affiliates of the Advisers include Manulife Financial Corporation and its subsidiaries. Material Conflicts may arise, for example, if a proxy vote relates to matters involving any of these companies or other issuers in which the Advisers or any of their affiliates has a substantial equity or other interest.

If the Advisers or a Designated Person become aware that a proxy voting issue may present a potential Material Conflict, the issue will be referred to the Advisers’ Legal Department and/or the Office of the CCO. If the Legal Department and/or the Office of the CCO, as applicable determines that a potential Material Conflict does exist, a Proxy Voting Committee will be appointed to consider and resolve the issue. The Proxy Voting Committee may make any determination that it considers reasonable and may, if it chooses, request the advice of an independent, third-party proxy service on how to vote the proxy.

Voting Proxies of Underlying Funds of a Fund of Funds The Advisers or the Designated Person will vote proxies with respect to the shares of a Fund that are held by another Fund that operates as a Fund of Funds”) in the manner provided in the proxy voting policies and procedures of the Fund of Funds (including such policies and procedures relating to material conflicts of interest) or as otherwise directed by the board of trustees or directors of the Fund of Funds.

Proxy Voting Committee(s)
The Advisers will from time to time, and on such temporary or longer-term basis as they deem appropriate, establish one or more Proxy Voting Committees. A Proxy Voting Committee shall include the Advisers’ CCO and may include legal counsel. The terms of reference and the procedures under which a Proxy Voting Committee will operate will be reviewed from time to time by the Legal and Compliance Department. Records of the deliberations and proxy voting recommendations of a Proxy Voting Committee will be maintained in accordance with applicable law, if any, and these Proxy Procedures. Requested shareholder proposals or other Shareholder Advocacy must be submitted for consideration pursuant to the Shareholder Advocacy Policy and Procedures.

Records Retention The Advisers will retain (or arrange for the retention by a third party of) such records relating to proxy voting pursuant to these Proxy Procedures as may be required from time to time by applicable law and regulations, including the following:

1. These Proxy Procedures and all amendments hereto;

2. All proxy statements received regarding Fund portfolio securities;

3. Records of all votes cast on behalf of a Fund;

4. Records of all Fund requests for proxy voting information;

5. Any documents prepared by the Designated Person or a Proxy Voting Committee that were material to or memorialized the basis for a voting decision;

6. All records relating to communications with the Funds regarding Conflicts; and

7. All minutes of meetings of Proxy Voting Committees.

The Office of the CCO, and/or the Legal Department are responsible for maintaining the documents set forth above as needed and deemed appropriate. Such documents will be maintained in the Office of the CCO, and/or the Legal Department for the period set forth in the Records Retention Schedule.

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Voting of Proxies - SubAdvisers In the case of proxies voted by a sub-adviser to a Fund pursuant to the Fund’s proxy voting procedures, the Advisers will request the sub-adviser to certify to the Advisers that the sub-adviser has voted the Fund’s proxies as required by the Fund’s proxy voting policies and procedures and that such proxy votes were executed in a manner consistent with these Proxy Procedures and to provide the Advisers with a report detailing any instances where the sub-adviser voted any proxies in a manner inconsistent with the Fund’s proxy voting policies and procedures. The COO of the Advisers will then report to the Board on a quarterly basis regarding the sub-adviser certification and report to the Board any instance where the sub-adviser voted any proxies in a manner inconsistent with the Fund’s proxy voting policies and procedures.

The Fund Administration Department maintains procedures affecting all administration functions for the mutual funds. These procedures detail the disclosure and administration of the Trust’s proxy voting records.

The Trust’s Chief Legal Counsel is responsible for including, in the SAI of each Trust, information about the proxy voting of the Advisers and each sub-adviser.

Reporting to Fund Boards The CCO of the Advisers will provide the Board with a copy of these Proxy Procedures, accompanied by a certification that represents that the Proxy Procedures have been adopted by the Advisers in conformance with Rule 206(4)-6 under the Advisers Act. Thereafter, the Advisers will provide the Board with notice and a copy of any amendments or revisions to the Procedures and will report quarterly to the Board all material changes to these Proxy Procedures.

The CCO’s annual written compliance report to the Board will contain a summary of material changes to the Proxy Procedures during the period covered by the report.

If the Advisers or the Designated Person vote any proxies in a manner inconsistent with either these Proxy Procedures or a Fund’s proxy voting policies and procedures, the CCO will provide the Board with a report detailing such exceptions.

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MANULIFE ASSET MANAGEMENT
GLOBAL PROXY VOTING POLICIES
AND PROCEDURES
March 2020

Executive Summary

Each investment team at Manulife Investment Management (“Manulife IM”)¹ is responsible for investing in line with its investment philosophy and clients’ objectives. Manulife IM’s approach to proxy voting aligns with its organizational structure and encourages best practices in governance and management of environmental and social risks and opportunities. Manulife IM has adopted and implemented proxy voting policies and procedures to ensure that proxies are voted in the best interests of its clients for whom it has proxy voting authority.

This Global Proxy Voting Policy and Procedures (“Policy”) applies to each of the Manulife IM advisory affiliates listed in Appendix A. In seeking to adhere to local regulatory requirements of the jurisdiction in which an advisory affiliate operates, additional procedures specific to that affiliate may be implemented to ensure compliance, where applicable. The Policy is not intended to cover every possible situation that may arise in the course of business, but rather to act as a decision-making guide. It is therefore subject to change and interpretation from time-to-time as facts and circumstances dictate.

Statement of Policy

■ The right to vote is a basic component of share ownership and is an important control mechanism to ensure that a company is managed in the best interests of its shareholders. Where clients delegate proxy voting authority to Manulife IM, Manulife IM has a fiduciary duty to exercise voting rights responsibly.

■ Where Manulife IM is granted and accepts responsibility for voting proxies for client accounts, it will seek to ensure proxies are received and voted in the best interests of the client with a view to maximize the economic value of their equity securities, unless it determines that it is in the best interests of the client to refrain from voting a given proxy.

■ If there is any potential material proxy-related conflict of interest between Manulife IM and its clients, identification and resolution processes are in place to provide for determination in the best interests of the client.

■ Manulife IM will disclose information about its proxy voting policies and procedures to its clients.

■ Manulife IM will maintain certain records relating to proxy voting.

Philosophy on Sustainable Investing

Manulife IM’s commitment to sustainable investment² is focused on protecting and enhancing the value of our clients’ investments and, as active owners in the companies in which we invest, we believe that voting at shareholder meetings can contribute to the long-term sustainability of our investee companies. Manulife IM will seek to exercise the rights and responsibilities associated with equity ownership, on behalf of its clients, with a focus on maximizing long-term shareholder returns, as well as enhancing and improving the operating strength of the companies to create sustainable value for shareholders.

Manulife IM invests in a wide range of securities across the globe, ranging from large multinationals to smaller early stage companies, and from well-developed markets to emerging and frontier markets. Expectations of those companies vary by market to reflect local standards, regulations and laws. Manulife IM believes, however, that successful companies across regions are generally better positioned over the long-term if they have:

■ Robust oversight including a strong and effective board with independent and objective leaders working on behalf of shareholders;

■ Mechanisms to mitigate risk such as effective internal controls, board expertise covering a firm’s unique risk profile, and routine use of KPIs to measure and assess long-term risks;

■ A management team aligned with shareholders through remuneration structures that incentivize long-term performance through the judicious and sustainable stewardship of company resources;

■ Transparent and thorough reporting of the components of the business that are most significant to shareholders and stakeholders with focus on the firm’s long-term success and,

■ Management focused on all forms of capital including environmental, social and human capital.

The Manulife Investment Management Voting Principles (“Voting Principles”) outlined in Appendix B provide guidance for our voting decisions. An active decision to invest in a firm reflects a positive conviction in the investee company and we generally expect to be supportive of management for that reason. Manulife IM may seek to challenge management’s

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recommendations, however, if they contravene these Voting Principles or Manulife IM otherwise determines that doing so is in the best interest of its clients.

Manulife IM also regularly engages with boards and management on environmental, social or corporate governance issues consistent with the principles stipulated in our Sustainable Investing Statement and our ESG Engagement Policy. Manulife IM may, through these engagements, request certain changes of the portfolio company to mitigate risks or maximize opportunities. In the context of preparing for a shareholder meeting, Manulife IM will review progress on requested changes for those companies engaged. In an instance where Manulife IM determines that the issuer has not made sufficient improvements on an issue, then we may take voting action to demonstrate our concerns.

In rare circumstances Manulife IM may consider filing, or co-filing, a shareholder resolution at an investee company. This may occur where our team has engaged with management regarding a material sustainability risk or opportunity, and where we determine that the company has not made satisfactory progress on the matter within a reasonable time period. Any such decision will be in the sole discretion of Manulife IM and acted on where we believe filing, or co-filing, a proposal is in the best interests of our clients.

Manulife IM may also divest of holdings in a company where Portfolio Managers are dissatisfied with company financial performance, strategic direction and/or management of material sustainability risks or opportunities.

Procedures

Receipt of Ballots and Proxy Materials
Proxies received are reconciled against the client’s holdings, and the custodian bank will be notified if proxies have not been forwarded to the proxy service provider when due.

Voting Proxies
Manulife IM has adopted the Voting Principles contained in Appendix B of this Policy.

Manulife IM has deployed the services of a proxy voting services provider to ensure the timely casting of votes, and to provide relevant and timely proxy voting research to inform our voting decisions. Manulife IM periodically reviews the detailed policies created by the proxy voting service provider to ensure consistency with our Voting Principles, to the extent this is possible.

Portfolio managers actively review voting options and make voting decisions for their holdings. Where Manulife IM holds a significant ownership position in an issuer, the rationale for a portfolio manager’s voting decision is specifically recorded, including whether the vote cast aligns with the recommendations of the proxy voting services provider or has been voted differently. A significant ownership position in an investment is defined as those cases where Manulife IM holds at least 2% of a company’s issued share capital in aggregate across all Manulife IM client accounts.

The Manulife IM ESG Research and Integration Team (“ESG Team”) is an important resource for portfolio management teams on proxy matters. This team provides advice on specific proxy votes for individual issuers if needed. ESG Team advice is supplemental to the research and recommendations provided by our proxy voting services provider. In particular, ESG analysts actively review voting resolutions for companies in which:

■ Manulife IM’s aggregated holdings across all client accounts represent 2% or greater of issued capital;

■ A meeting agenda includes shareholder resolutions related to environmental and social risk management issues, or where the subject of a shareholder resolution is deemed to be material to our investment decision; or

■ The issuer has been engaged by Manulife IM within the past two years seeking a change in behavior.

After review, the ESG Team may provide research and advice to investment staff in line with the Voting Principles.

Manulife IM also has an internal Proxy Voting Working Group (“Working Group”) comprising senior managers from across Manulife IM including the equity investment team, Legal, Compliance, and the ESG Team. The Working Group operates under the auspices of the Manulife IM Public Markets Sustainable Investing Committee. The Working Group regularly meets to review and discuss voting decisions on shareholder proposals or instances where a portfolio manager recommends a vote different than the recommendation of the proxy voting services provider.

Manulife IM clients retain the authority, and may choose, to lend shareholdings. Manulife IM, however, generally retains the ability to recall shares in order to execute proxy votes. Manulife IM will, where feasible, weigh the benefit of casting votes at a given meeting when deciding whether to recall lent shares for voting.

Manulife IM may refrain from voting a proxy where we have agreed with a client in advance to limit the situations in which we will execute votes. Manulife may also refrain from voting due to logistical considerations that may have a detrimental effect on our ability to vote. These issues may include, but are not limited to:

■ Costs associated with voting the proxy exceed the expected benefits to clients;

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■ Underlying securities have been lent out pursuant to a client’s securities lending program and have not been subject to recall;

■ Short notice of a shareholder meeting;

■ Requirements to vote proxies in person;

■ Restrictions on a non-national’s ability to exercise votes, determined by local market regulation;

■ Restrictions on the sale of securities in proximity to the shareholder meeting (i.e. “share blocking”);

■ Requirements to disclose commercially sensitive information that may be made public (i.e. “re-registration”);

■ Requirements to provide local agents with power of attorney to facilitate the voting instructions (such proxies are voted on a best-efforts basis); or

■ Inability of a client’s custodian to forward and process proxies electronically.

If a Manulife IM portfolio manager believes it is in the best interest of a client to vote proxies in a manner inconsistent with the Policy, the portfolio manager will submit new voting instructions to a member of the ESG Team with rationale for the new instructions. The ESG Team will then support the portfolio manager in developing voting decision rationale that aligns with this Policy and the Voting Principles. The ESG Team will then submit the vote change to the Working Group. The Working Group will review the change and ensure that the rationale is sound, and the decision will promote the long-term success of the issuer.

On occasion, there may be proxy votes which are not within the research and recommendation coverage universe of the proxy voting service provider. Portfolio managers responsible for the proxy votes will provide voting recommendations to the ESG Team and those items may be escalated to the Working Group for review to ensure that the voting decision rationale is sound, and the decision will promote the long-term success of the issuer. the Manulife IM Proxy Operations Team will be notified of the voting decisions and execute the votes accordingly.

Manulife IM does not engage in the practice of “empty voting” (a term embracing a variety of factual circumstances that result in a partial, or total, separation of the right to vote at a shareholders meeting from beneficial ownership of the shares on the meeting date). Manulife IM prohibits investment managers from creating large hedge positions solely to gain the vote while avoiding economic exposure to the market. Manulife IM will not knowingly vote borrowed shares (for example, shares borrowed for short sales and hedging transactions).

Engagement of the Proxy Voting Service Provider
Manulife IM has contracted with a third-party proxy service provider to assist with the proxy voting process. Except in instances where a client retains voting authority, Manulife IM will instruct custodians of client accounts to forward all proxy statements and materials received in respect of client accounts to the proxy service provider.

Manulife IM has engaged its proxy voting service provider to:

■ Research and make voting recommendations;

■ Ensure proxies are voted and submitted in a timely manner;

■ Perform other administrative functions of proxy voting;

■ Maintain records of proxy statements and provide copies of such proxy statements promptly upon request;

■ Maintain records of votes cast; and

■ Provide recommendations with respect to proxy voting matters in general.

Scope of Proxy Voting Authority
Manulife IM and our clients shape the proxy voting relationship by agreement provided there is full and fair disclosure and informed consent. Manulife IM may agree with clients to other proxy voting arrangements in which Manulife IM does not assume proxy voting responsibility or will only vote in limited circumstances.³

While the application of our fiduciary duty in the context of proxy voting will vary with the scope of the voting authority we assume, we acknowledge the relationship in all cases remains that of a fiduciary to the client. Beyond the general discretion retained by Manulife IM to withhold from voting as outlined above, Manulife IM may enter a specific agreement with a client not to exercise voting authority on certain matters where the cost of voting would be high or the benefit to the client would be low.

Disclosure of Proxy Votes
Manulife IM may inform company management of our voting intentions ahead of casting the vote. This is in line with Manulife IM’s objective to provide the opportunity for companies to better understand our investment process, policies and objectives.

We will not intentionally disclose to anyone else, including other investors, our voting intention prior to casting the vote.

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Manulife IM keeps records of proxy voting available for inspection by clients, regulatory authorities or government agencies.

Manulife IM will annually disclose voting records aggregated across funds.

Conflicts of Interest

Manulife IM has an established infrastructure designed to identify conflicts of interest throughout all aspects of the business. Proxy voting proposals may raise conflicts between the interests of Manulife IM’s clients and the interests of Manulife IM, its affiliates, or employees. Apparent conflicts are reviewed by the Working Group to determine whether there is a conflict of interest and, if so, whether the conflict is material. Manulife IM shall consider any of the following circumstances a potential material conflict of interest:

■ Manulife IM has a business relationship or potential relationship with the issuer;

■ Manulife IM has a business relationship with the proponent of the proxy proposal; or

■ Manulife IM members, employees or consultants have a personal or other business relationship with managers of the business such as top-level executives, corporate directors or director candidates.

In addressing any such potential material conflict Manulife IM will seek to ensure proxy votes are cast in the advisory client’s best interests and are not affected by Manulife IM’s potential conflict. In the event a potential material conflict of interest exists, the Working Group or its designee will either (i) review the proxy voting decisions to ensure robust rationale, that the voting decision will protect or enhance shareholder value over the long-term, and is in line with the best interest of the client; (ii) vote such proxy according to the specific recommendation of the proxy voting services provider; (iii) abstain; or (iv) request the client vote such proxy. The basis for the voting decision, including the process for the determination of the decision that is in the best interests of the client, is recorded.

Voting Shares of Manulife Financial Corporation
Manulife Financial Corporation (“MFC”) is the publicly listed parent company of Manulife IM. Generally, legislation restricts the ability of a public company (and its subsidiaries) to hold shares in itself within its own accounts. Accordingly, the MFC Share Investment Policy outlines the limited circumstances in which MFC or its subsidiaries may, or may not, invest or hold shares in MFC on behalf of MFC or its subsidiaries.⁴

The MFC Share Investment Policy does not apply to investments made on behalf of unaffiliated third parties, which remain assets of the client.⁵ Such investing may be restricted, however, by specific client guidelines, other Manulife policies or other applicable laws.

Where Manulife IM is charged with voting MFC shares we will execute votes in proportion with all other shareholders (i.e. proportional or ‘echo’ vote). This is intended to neutralize the effect of our vote on the meeting outcome.

Policy Responsibility and Oversight

The Working Group oversees and monitors the Policy and Manulife IM’s proxy voting function. The Working Group is responsible for reviewing regular reports, potential conflicts of interest, vote changes and non-routine proxy voting items. The Working Group also oversees the third-party proxy voting service provider. The Working Group will meet at least monthly and report to the Manulife IM Public Markets Sustainable Investing Committee and, where requested, the Manulife IM Operating Committee.

Manulife IM’s Proxy Operations Team is responsible for the daily administration of the proxy voting process for all Manulife IM operations that have contracted with a third-party proxy voting services provider. Significant proxy voting issues identified by Manulife IM’s Proxy Operations Team are escalated to the Chief Compliance Officer or its designee, and the Working Group.

The Working Group is responsible for the proper oversight of any service providers hired by Manulife IM to assist it in the proxy voting process. This oversight includes:

Annual Due Diligence: Manulife IM conducts an annual due diligence review of the proxy voting research service provider. This oversight includes an evaluation of the service provider’s industry reputation, points of risk, compliance with laws and regulations and technology infrastructure. Manulife IM also reviews the provider’s capabilities to meet Manulife IM’s requirements including reporting competencies; the adequacy and quality of the proxy advisory firm’s staffing and personnel; the quality and accuracy of sources of data and information; the strength of policies and procedures that enable it to make proxy voting recommendations based on current and accurate information; and the strength of policies and procedures to address conflicts of interest of the service provider related to its voting recommendations.

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Regular Updates: Manulife also requests that the proxy voting research service provider deliver updates regarding any business changes that alter that firm’s ability to provide independent proxy voting advice and services aligned with our policies.

Additional Oversight in Process: Manulife IM has additional control mechanisms built into the proxy voting process to act as checks on the service provider and ensure that decisions are made in the best interest of our clients. These mechanisms include:

■ Sampling pre-populated votes: Where we utilize a third-party research provider for either voting recommendations or voting execution (or both), we may assess “pre-populated” votes shown on the vendor’s electronic voting platform before such votes are cast to ensure alignment with the Voting Principles.

■ Consideration of additional information: Where Manulife IM utilizes a proxy service provider for voting recommendations, we consider additional information that may become available regarding voting items. This additional information may include filings by an issuer or shareholder proponent that are issued subsequent to the filing of meeting materials.

■ Decision scrutiny from the Working Group: Where our voting policies and procedures do not address how to vote on a particular matter, or where the matter is highly contested or controversial (e.g. major acquisitions involving takeovers or contested director elections where a shareholder has proposed its own slate of directors), review by the Working Group may be necessary or appropriate to ensure votes cast on behalf of its client are cast in the client’s best interest.

Record Keeping and Reporting

Manulife IM provides clients with a copy of the Voting Policy upon request and it is also available on our website at manulifeim.com/institutional. Manulife IM describes its proxy voting procedures to its clients in the relevant or required disclosure document and discloses to its clients the process to obtain information on how Manulife IM voted that client’s proxies.

Manulife IM keeps records of proxy voting activities and those records include proxy voting policies and procedures, records of votes cast on behalf of clients, records of client requests for proxy voting information; and any documents generated in making a vote decision. These documents are available for inspection by clients, regulatory authorities or government agencies.

Manulife IM will disclose voting records on its website and those records will be updated on an annual basis. The voting records will generally reflect the voting decisions made for retail, institutional and other client funds in the aggregate.

Policy Amendments and Exceptions

This policy is subject to periodic review by the Proxy Voting Working Group. The Working Group may suggest amendments to this Policy and any such amendments must be approved by the Manulife IM Public Markets Sustainable Investing Committee and the Manulife IM Operating Committee.

Any deviation from this Policy will only be permitted with the prior approval of the Chief Investment Officer or Chief Administrative Officer (or their designee), with the counsel of the Chief Compliance Officer/General Counsel.

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APPENDIX A – Manulife IM Advisory Affiliates in Scope of Policy

+Investment management business only.

Manulife Investment Management Limited
Manulife Investment Management (North America) Limited
Manulife Investment Management (Hong Kong) Limited
PT Manulife Aset Manajemen Indonesia*
Manulife Investment Management (Japan) Limited
Manulife Investment Management (Malaysia) Bhd.
Manulife Investment Management and Trust Corporation
Manulife Investment Management (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.
Manulife IM (Switzerland) LLC
Manulife Investment Management (Taiwan) Co., Ltd.*
Manulife Investment Management (Europe) Limited
Manulife Investment Management (US) LLC
Manulife Investment Fund Management (Vietnam) Company Limited*

*By reason of certain local regulations and laws with respect to voting, e.g.: manual/physical voting processes or the absence of a third-party proxy voting service provider for those jurisdictions, Manulife Investment Fund Management (Vietnam) Company Limited, and PT Manulife Aset Manajemen Indonesia do not engage a third-party service provider to assist in their proxy voting processes. Manulife Investment Management (Taiwan) Co., Ltd. Uses the third-party proxy voting service provider to execute votes for non-Taiwanese entities only.

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APPENDIX B – Manulife IM Voting Principles

Manulife Investment Management (“Manulife IM”) believes that strong management of all forms of corporate capital, whether financial, social or environmental will mitigate risks, create opportunities and drive value over the long-term. Manulife IM reviews and considers environmental, social and corporate governance risks and opportunities in our investment decisions. Once invested, Manulife IM continues its oversight through active ownership which includes portfolio company engagement and proxy voting of underlying shares. We believe proxy voting is a vital component of this continued oversight as it provides a voice for minority shareholders regarding management actions.

Manulife IM has developed some key principles that drive our proxy voting decisions and engagements. We believe these principles preserve value and generally lead to outcomes that drive positive firm performance. These principles dictate our voting on issues ranging from director elections and executive compensation to the preservation of shareholder rights and stewardship of environmental and social capital. The facts and circumstances of each issuer are unique, and Manulife IM may deviate from these principles where we believe doing so will preserve or create value over the long-term. These principles also do not address the specific content of all proposals voted around the globe, but provide a general lens of value preservation, value creation, risk management and protection of shareholder rights through which Manulife IM analyzes all voting matters.

I. Boards and Directors: Manulife IM uses the following principles to review proposals covering director elections and board structure in the belief that they encourage engaged and accountable leadership of a firm.

a. Board Independence: The most effective boards are composed of directors with a diverse skill set that can provide an objective view of the business, oversee management, and make decisions in the best interest of the shareholder body at large. To create and preserve this voice, boards should have a significant number of non-executive, independent directors. The actual number of independent directors can vary by market and Manulife IM accounts for these differences when reviewing the independence of the board. Ideally, however, there is an independent majority among directors at a given firm.

b. Committee Independence: Manulife IM also prefers that key board committees are composed of independent directors. Specifically, the audit, nomination and compensation committees should be entirely or majority composed of independent directors.

c. Attendance: A core part of a director’s duties is to remain an engaged and productive participant at board and committee meetings. Directors should, therefore, attend at least 75% of board and committee meetings in the aggregate over the course of a calendar year.

d. Gender Diversity: In line with the principles expressed in relation to ‘Board Independence’ above, Manulife IM believes boards with strong gender representation are better equipped to manage
risks and oversee business resilience over the long-term compared to firms with low gender balance. Manulife IM generally expects boards to have at least one woman on the board and encourages companies to aspire to a higher balance of gender representation.

e. Classified/Staggered Boards: Manulife IM prefers that directors be subject to election and re-election on an annual basis. Annual elections operate to hold directors accountable for their actions in a given year in a timely manner. Shareholders should have the ability to voice concerns through a director vote and to potentially remove problematic directors if necessary. Manulife IM generally opposes the creation of classified or staggered director election cycles designed to extend director terms beyond one year. Manulife IM also supports proposals to eliminate these structures.

f. Overboarding: Manulife IM believes directors should limit their outside board seats in order to ensure that they have the time and attention to provide their director role at a firm in question. Generally, this means directors should not sit on more than 5 public company boards. The role of CEO requires an individual’s significant time and attention. Directors holding the role of CEO at any public firm, therefore, should not sit on more than 3 public company boards inclusive of the firm at which they hold the CEO role.

g. Independent Chair/CEO: Governance failures can occur where a manager has firm control over a board through the combination of the Chair/CEO roles. Manulife IM generally supports the separation of the Chair/CEO roles as a means to prevent board ‘capture’ by management. We will evaluate proposals to separate the Chair/CEO roles on a case-by-case basis, for example, however considering such factors as the establishment of a strong lead independent director role or the temporary need for the combination of the CEO/Chair roles to help the firm through a leadership transition.

h. Vote Standard: Manulife IM supports a vote standard that allows resolutions to pass, or fail, based on a majority voting standard. Manulife IM expects companies to adopt a majority vote standard for director elections and supports the elimination of a plurality vote standard except in the case of contested elections.

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i. Contested Elections: Where there is a proxy contest or a director’s election is otherwise contested, Manulife IM evaluates the proposals on a case-by-case basis. Consideration is given to firm performance, whether there have been significant failures of oversight, and whether the proponent for change makes a compelling case that board turnover will drive firm value.

j. Significant and Problematic Actions or Omissions: Manulife IM believes boards should be held accountable to shareholders in instances where there is a significant failure of oversight that has led to a loss of firm value or otherwise curtailed shareholder rights. Manulife IM considers
withholding from, or voting against, certain directors where the board acted, or failed to act, in a way that significantly affected shareholder rights or otherwise negatively affected firm value. Some examples of actions that might warrant a vote against directors include, but are not limited to, the following:

i. Failure of Oversight: Manulife IM may take action against directors where there has been a significant negative event leading to a loss of shareholder value and stakeholder confidence. A failure may manifest itself in multiple ways including adverse auditor opinions, material misstatements, failures of leadership and governance and environmental or human rights violations.

ii. Adoption of Anti-Takeover Mechanism: Boards should generally review takeover offers independently and objectively in consideration of the potential value created or lost for shareholders. Manulife IM holds boards accountable when they create or prolong certain mechanisms, bylaws or article amendments that act to frustrate genuine offers that may lead to value creation for shareholders. These can include ‘poison pills’; classes of shares with differential voting rights; classified, or staggered, board structures; unilateral bylaw amendments and supermajority voting provisions.

iii. Problematic Executive Compensation Practices: Manulife IM encourages companies to adopt best practices for executive compensation in the markets in which they operate. Generally, this means that pay should be aligned with performance. Manulife IM may hold directors accountable where this alignment is not robust. We may also hold boards accountable where they have not adequately responded to shareholder votes against a previous proposal on remuneration or have adopted problematic agreements or practices (e.g. ‘golden parachutes’, repricing of options).

iv. Bylaw/Article Adoption and Amendments: Shareholders should have the ability to vote on any change to company articles or bylaws that will materially change their rights as shareholders. Any amendments should require only a majority of votes to pass. Manulife IM will hold directors accountable where a board has amended or adopted bylaw and/or article provisions that significantly curtail shareholder rights.

v. Engagement Responsiveness: Manulife IM regularly engages with issuers to discuss ESG risks and opportunities and may request changes from firms during these discussions. Manulife IM may vote against certain directors where we have engaged with an issuer and requested certain changes, but the firm has not made sufficient progress on those matters.

II. Environmental and Social Proposals: Manulife IM expects its portfolio companies to manage material environmental and social issues affecting its business, whether risks or opportunities, with a view towards
long-term value preservation and creation.⁶ Manulife IM expects firms to identify material environmental and social risks and opportunities specific to their business, to develop strategies to manage those matters, and to provide meaningful, substantive reporting while demonstrating progress year-over-year against their plans. Proposals touching on management of risks and opportunities related to environmental and social issues are often put forth as shareholder proposals but can be proposed by management as well. Manulife IM reviews these proposals on a case-by-case basis considering, among other factors:

a. The Magnitude of the Risk/Opportunity: Manulife IM evaluates the level of materiality of a certain environmental or social issue identified in a proposal as it pertains to the firm’s ability to generate value over the long-term. This review includes deliberation of the effect an issue will have on the financial statements and/or the cost of capital.

b. The Firm’s Current Management of the Risk/Opportunity: Manulife IM analyzes a firm’s current approach to an issue to determine whether the firm has robust plans, infrastructure and reporting to mitigate the risk or embrace the opportunity.

c. Firm’s Current Disclosure Framework: Manulife IM expects firms to disclose enough information for shareholders to assess the company’s management of environmental and social risks and opportunities material to the business. Manulife IM may support proposals calling for enhanced firm disclosure regarding

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environmental and social issues where additional information would help our evaluation of a company’s exposure, and response, to those factors.

d. Legislative or Regulatory Action of a Risk/Opportunity: When reviewing proposals on environmental or social factors, Manulife IM considers whether a given risk or opportunity is currently addressed by local regulation or law in the markets in which a firm operates and whether those rules are designed to adequately manage an issue. Manulife IM also considers whether a firm should proactively address a matter in anticipation of future legislation or regulation.

e. Cost to, or Disruption of, the Business: When reviewing environmental and social proposals Manulife IM assesses the potential cost of the requested action against the benefit provided to the firm and its shareholders. Particular attention is paid to proposals that request actions that are overly prescriptive on management or that request a firm exit markets or operations that are essential to its business.

III. Shareholder Rights: Manulife IM generally supports management or shareholder proposals that protect, or improve, shareholder rights and opposes proposals that remove, or curtail, existing rights.

a. Shareholder Rights Plans (“Poison Pills”): Manulife IM opposes mechanisms intended to frustrate genuine takeover offers. Manulife IM may, however, support shareholder rights plans where the plan has a trigger of 20% ownership or more and will expire in three years or less. In conjunction with these requirements Manulife IM evaluates the company’s strategic rationale for adopting the poison pill.

b. Supermajority Voting: Shareholders should have the ability to direct change at a firm based on a majority vote. Manulife IM opposes the creation, or continuation, of any bylaw, charter or article provisions that require approval of more than a majority of shareholders for amendment of those documents. Manulife IM may consider supporting such a standard where the supermajority requirement is intended to protect minority shareholders.

c. Proxy Access: Manulife IM believes that shareholders have a right to appoint representatives to the board that best protect their interests. The power to propose nominees without holding a proxy contest is a way to protect that right and is potentially less costly to management and shareholders. Accordingly, Manulife IM supports creation of a proxy access right (or similar power at non-U.S. firms) provided there are reasonable thresholds of ownership and a reasonable number of shareholders can aggregate ownership to meet those thresholds.

d. Written Consent: Written consent provides shareholders the power to formally demand board action outside of the context of an annual general meeting. Shareholders can use written consent as a nimble method of holding boards accountable. Manulife IM supports the right of written consent so long as that right is reasonably tailored to reflect the will of a majority of shareholders. Manulife IM may not support such a right, however, where there is a holder with a significant, or controlling, stake. Manulife IM evaluates the substance of any written actual consent proposal in-line with these principles.

e. Right to Call a Special Meeting: Manulife IM is supportive of the shareholder right to call a special meeting. This right allows shareholders to quickly respond to events which can significantly affect firm value. Manulife IM believes that a 10% ownership threshold to call a special meeting reasonably protects this shareholder right while reducing the possibility of undue distraction for management.

IV. Executive Compensation: Manulife IM encourages companies to align executive incentives with shareholder interests when designing executive compensation plans. Companies should provide shareholders with transparent, comprehensive and substantive disclosure regarding executive compensation that aids shareholder assessment of the alignment between executive pay and firm performance. Companies should also have the flexibility to design remuneration programs that fit a firm’s business model, business sector and industry and overall corporate strategy. No one template of executive remuneration can fit all companies.

a. Advisory Votes on Executive Compensation: While acknowledging that there is no singular model for executive compensation, Manulife IM scrutinizes companies closely that have certain practices. Some concerning practices can include:

i. Misalignment Between Pay and Company Performance: Pay should generally move in tandem with corporate performance. Firms where CEO pay remains flat, or increases, though corporate performance remains down relative to peers are particularly concerning.

ii. One-Time Grants: A firm’s one-time grant to an executive, outside of the normal salary, bonus and long-term award structure, may be indicative of an overall failure of the board to design an effective remuneration plan. A company should have a robust justification for making grants outside of the normal remuneration framework.

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iii. Significant Quantity of Non-Performance Based Pay: Executive pay should generally be weighted more heavily towards performance-based remuneration to create the alignment between pay and performance. Companies should provide a robust explanation for any significant awards made that vest solely based on time or are not otherwise tied to performance.

iv. Lack of Rigor in Performance Targets: Performance targets should challenge managers to improve corporate performance and outperform peers. Targets should, where applicable, generally align with, or even outpace, guidance; incentivize outperformance against a peer group; and otherwise remain challenging.

v. Lack of Disclosure: Transparency is essential to shareholder analysis and understanding of executive remuneration at a company. Manulife IM expects firms to clearly disclose all major components of remuneration. This includes disclosure of amounts, performance metrics and targets, vesting terms, and pay outcomes.

vi. Repricing of Options: Resetting the exercise price of outstanding options significantly undermines the incentive nature of the initial option grant. Though a firm may have a strong justification for repricing options, Manulife IM believes that firms should put such decisions to a shareholder vote. Manulife IM may oppose an advisory vote on executive compensation where a company has repriced outstanding options for executives without that shareholder approval.

vii. Adoption of Problematic Severance Agreements (“Golden Parachutes”): Manulife IM believes managers should be incentivized to pursue and complete transactions that may benefit shareholders. Severance agreements, if structured appropriately, can provide such inducements. At the same time, however, the significant payment associated with severance agreements could potentially drive managers to pursue transactions at the expense of shareholder value. Manulife IM may oppose an executive remuneration proposal where a firm has adopted, or amended, an agreement with an executive that contains an excise tax gross-up provision, permits accelerated vesting of equity upon a change-in-control, allows an executive to unilaterally trigger the severance payment, or pays out in an amount greater than 300% of salary and bonus combined.

V. Capital Structure: Manulife IM believes firms should balance the need to raise capital and encourage investment with the rights and interests of the existing shareholder body. Evaluation of proposals to issue shares, repurchase shares, conduct stock splits or otherwise restructure capital are evaluated on a case-by-case basis with some specific requests covered here:

a. Common Stock Authorization: Requests to increase the pool of shares authorized for issuance are evaluated on a case-by-case basis with consideration given to the size of the current pool, recent use of authorized shares by management, and the company rationale for the proposed increase. Manulife IM also supports these increases where the company intends to execute a split of shares or pay a stock dividend.

b. Reverse Stock Splits: Manulife IM generally supports proposals for a reverse stock split if the company plans to proportionately reduce the number of shares authorized for issue in order to mitigate against the risk of excessive dilution to our holdings. We may also support these proposals in instances where the firm needs to quickly raise capital in order to continue operations.

c. Dual Class Voting Structure: Voting power should align with economic interest at a given firm. Manulife IM opposes the creation of new classes of stock with differential voting rights and supports the elimination of these structures.

1. Manulife Investment Management is the unified global brand for Manulife’s Global Wealth and Asset Management (GWAM) business which serves individual investors and institutional clients in three businesses: Retirement, Retail and Institutional Asset Management (Public Markets and Private Markets)

2. Further information on Sustainable Investing at Manulife IM can be found at manulifeim.com/institutional.

3. We acknowledge SEC guidance on this issue from August 2019 which lists several non-exhaustive examples of possible voting arrangements between the client and investment advisor including: (i) an agreement with the client to exercise voting authority pursuant to specific parameters designed to serve the client’s best interest; (ii) an agreement with the client to vote in favor of all proposals made by particular shareholder proponents; or (iii) an agreement with the client to vote in accordance with the voting recommendations of management of the issuer. All such arrangements could be subject to conditions depending on instruction from the client.

4. This includes general funds, affiliated segregated funds or separate accounts, and affiliated mutual / pooled funds.

5. This includes assets managed or advised for unaffiliated third parties, such as unaffiliated mutual/pooled funds and unaffiliated institutional advisory portfolios.

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6. For more information on issues generally of interest to our firm please see the Manulife Investment Management Engagement Policy and the Manulife Investment Management Sustainable Investing Policy.

VI. Corporate Transactions and Restructurings: Manulife IM reviews mergers, acquisitions, restructurings and reincorporations on a case-by-case basis through the lens of whether the transaction will create shareholder value. Considerations include fairness of the terms, valuation of the event, changes to management and leadership, realization of synergies and efficiencies and whether the rationale for a strategic shift is compelling.

VII. Audit-related Issues: Manulife IM believes that an effective auditor will remain independent and objective in their review of company reporting. Firms should be transparent regarding auditor fees and other services provided by an auditor which may create a conflict of interest. Manulife IM uses the below principles to guide voting decisions related to auditors.

a. Auditor Ratification: Manulife IM generally approves the reappointment of the auditor absent evidence that they have either failed in their duties or appear to have a conflict that may not allow independent and objective oversite of a firm.

b. Auditor Rotation: If Manulife IM believes that the independence and objectivity of an auditor may be impaired at a firm, we may support a proposal requesting a rotation of auditor. Reasons to support the rotation of the auditor can include a significant failure in the audit function and excessive tenure of the auditor at the firm.

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BRECKINRIDGE CAPITAL ADVISORS
PROXY VOTING AND CORPORATE ACTIONS

JUNE 2019

Breckinridge has been granted authority by clients to vote proxies and act on voluntary corporate actions. Delegation of proxy voting and corporate actions authority is typically included in the investment management agreement between Breckinridge and the client or the client’s primary advisor or other written account document.

When granted with such authority, Breckinridge retains full discretion to vote or act on any proxies or voluntary corporate actions that are solicited by or relate to the bonds purchased into client accounts by us. We will conduct proxy voting and act on voluntary corporate actions in a manner that we determine, in good faith, to be in the best interest of the account. This determination will include the decision to take no action with respect to any proxy or voluntary corporate action.

We will consider only those proxies and corporate actions issued by the municipal or corporate bonds purchased by Breckinridge in the course of managing the account assets (“managed security”). Proxies or corporate actions solicited by securities that were transferred into the portfolio for funding or contributions, or temporary investment vehicles (e.g., money market funds), will not be acted upon by Breckinridge. Further, Breckinridge will not act on any proxy ballots or corporate actions received after a client has terminated its relationship with us.

Compliance manages proxy voting and Reconciliation manages corporate actions.

Proxy Voting

While the issuance of proxy ballots is a rare occurrence in the fixed income markets, Breckinridge has established these policies and procedures to comply with Rule 206(4)-6 under the Advisers Act. The Rule requires each registered investment adviser that exercises proxy voting authority with respect to client securities to:

■ Adopt and implement written policies and procedures reasonably designed to ensure that the adviser votes client securities in the clients’ best interests. Such policies and procedures must address the manner in which the adviser will resolve material conflicts of interest that can arise during the proxy voting process;

■ Disclose to clients how they may obtain information from the adviser about how the adviser voted with respect to their securities; and

■ Describe to clients the adviser’s proxy voting policies and procedures and, upon request, furnish a copy of the policies and procedures.

When Breckinridge does vote a proxy, it will do so in the interest of the client as a bond holder. Consideration will be given to both the short and long-term implications of the proposal to be voted on when considering the optimal vote.

Voting Process

When Compliance receives a proxy ballot and has verified it was issued by a managed security, they will use best efforts to identify the accounts which held the bonds on record date. Compliance will provide the proxy statements to the appropriate investment team members (e.g., portfolio manager, research analyst) for review. If the investment team decides they will vote the proxy, they will provide Compliance with the votes. Compliance will submit votes for the accounts and retain records of the vote and decision rationale. If the investment team decides to not vote or act on the proxy, Compliance will record the decision and rationale.

Conflicts of Interest

Breckinridge focuses exclusively on investment management, and thus, does not anticipate it will encounter many material conflicts of interests with regards to its proxy voting activities. Compliance will reasonably try to assess any material conflicts between Breckinridge’s interests and those of its clients with respect to proxy voting. So long as there are no material conflicts of interest identified, Breckinridge will act on proxies according to the process set forth above.

If Compliance has detected a material conflict of interest, Compliance will take steps to address the conflict to help ensure actions are in the best interests of our clients. For example, should an investment team member hold a material personal interest in an issuer, that particular person would not be permitted to be involved in the decision-making process for proxy ballots in that issuer. If Compliance believes the conflict can’t be sufficiently addressed, it may decide to: (i) to not take any action on the proxy, or (ii) engage the services of an outside proxy voting service or consultant who will provide an independent recommendation on the direction in which Breckinridge should act on the proposal. The proxy voting service’s or consultant’s determination will be binding.

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Other Proxy Matters

Due to the variety of client types that we have, it is possible that Breckinridge will act on the same proxy in different ways for different accounts or different strategies. In such cases, Breckinridge shall maintain documentation to support its voting as required by Rule 204-2. Further, our ability to review and consider proxy ballots largely depends on the custodians delivering the ballots and documentation to us in a timely manner.

Breckinridge will not be able to vote or act on proxies by securities lent out under a client’s securities lending program. If a client wants to vote the proxies, they will need to instruct their custodian to call the securities back. Since clients have full discretion on participating in lending programs, Breckinridge will not initiate call backs on any securities.

Proxy Solicitation and Reporting

It is Breckinridge’s policy to not reveal or disclose to any third party (with the exception of clients or their advisers) how Breckinridge has acted or intends to acton a particular proxy. Discussions with clients (or their authorized agents) about proxies will be limited to those issued for securities held in the clients’ portfolios. Upon request, Breckinridge will provide clients with a report of the proxies voted on their behalf. At no time, may any employee accept any remuneration in the solicitation of proxies by third party solicitors. All calls or requests from proxy solicitors should be directed to Compliance.

Corporate Actions

Voluntary corporate actions, including tender offers, rights offerings and exchanges, are given the same considerations as proxy ballots. When a corporate action is received, our reconciliation team will work with the investment team to determine the appropriate action. As with proxy ballots, the investment team may decide to not take any action with respect to any corporate action. Records and any supporting documents pertaining to the action taken or not taken will be retained by the reconciliation team.

Class Actions and Other Legal Proceedings

Breckinridge will not act on or agree to participate in any class actions or other legal proceedings on securities held in client portfolios. If an adviser or client has a reasonable requests for information in relation to such legal actions, we will provide the information on a best efforts basis. Such requests should be directed to Compliance.

Recordkeeping

As required under Rule 204-2 of the Advisers Act, Breckinridge will retain the following records for no less than six years:

■ Copies of all proxy policies and procedures;

■ A copy of each proxy statement that Breckinridge receives regarding client securities (Breckinridge will rely on obtaining a copy of a proxy statement from the SEC’s EDGAR system);

■ A record of each vote cast on behalf of a client (Breckinridge can rely on a third party to satisfy this requirement);

■ A copy of any document created by Breckinridge that was material to making a decision on how to vote proxies on behalf of a client or that memorializes the basis for that decision; and

■ A copy of each written client request for information on how Breckinridge voted proxies on behalf of the client, and a copy of the written request to any (written or oral) client request for information on how proxies were voted on behalf of the requesting client.

Any questions regarding this policy should be directed to Compliance.

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JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND

PART C

OTHER INFORMATION

Item 28. Exhibits.

99.(a) Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust dated January 22, 2016. – previously filed as exhibit 99.(a) to post-effective amendment no. 47 filed on September 27, 2016, accession number 0001133228-16-012744.

99.(a).1 Amendment dated December 13, 2018 to the Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust dated January 22, 2016, regarding change of address of principal place of business. – previously filed as exhibit 99.(a).1 to post-effective amendment no. 62 filed on September 26, 2019, accession number 0001133228-19-005761.

99.(b) Amended and Restated By-Laws dated March 8, 2005. – previously filed as exhibit 99.(b) to post-effective amendment no. 28 filed on December 28, 2005, accession number 0001010521-05-000528.

99.(b).1 Amendment dated March 11, 2008 to the Amended and Restated By-Laws. – previously filed as exhibit 99.(b).1 to post-effective amendment no. 33 filed on December 18, 2008, accession number 0000950135-08-008324.

99.(b).2 Amendment dated June 9, 2009 to the Amended and Restated By-Laws. – previously filed as exhibit 99.(b).2 to post-effective amendment no. 34 filed on September 24, 2009, accession number 0000950123-09-045769.

99.(b).3 Amendment dated August 31, 2010 to the Amended and Restated By-Laws. – FILED HEREWITH.

99.(b).4 Amendment dated March 10, 2016 to the Amended and Restated By-laws. – previously filed as exhibit 99.(b).4 to post-effective amendment no. 47 filed on September 27, 2016, accession number 0001133228-16-012744.

99.(c) Instruments Defining Rights of Security Holders. See Exhibit 99.(a) and 99.(b).

99.(d) Investment Advisory Contracts.  Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement dated June 30, 2020 between John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund (the “Registrant”) and John Hancock Investment Management LLC¹ (the “Advisor”). — FILED HEREWITH.

99.(d).1 Sub-Advisory Agreement dated December 31, 2005 (the “Sub-Advisory Agreement”) between Registrant, the Advisor and Manulife Investment Management (US) LLC² (the “Sub-Advisor”) relating to John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund. – previously filed as exhibit 99.(d).1 to post-effective amendment no. 29 filed on December 27, 2006, accession number 0001010521-06-000988.

¹ Prior to June 28, 2019, John Hancock Investment Management LLC was known as John Hancock Advisers, LLC.

² Prior to May 7, 2019, Manulife Investment Management (US) LLC was known as John Hancock Asset Management a division of Manulife Asset Management (US) LLC (formerly known as MFC Global Investment Management (U.S.), LLC, formerly known as Sovereign Asset Management LLC).

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99.(d).2 Amendment dated October 1, 2009 to the Sub-Advisory Agreement relating to John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund. – previously filed as exhibit 99.(d).3 to post-effective amendment no. 35 filed on July 16, 2010, accession number 0000950123-10-065986.

99.(d).3 Amendment dated May 17, 2013 to the Sub-Advisory Agreement relating to John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund. –FILED HEREWITH.

99.(e) Underwriting Contracts.  Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement dated June 30, 2020 between the Registrant and John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC³ (the “Distributor”). — FILED HEREWITH.

99.(f) Bonus or Profit Sharing Contracts.  Not Applicable.

99.(g) Custodian Agreement.  Master Custodian Agreement dated September 10, 2008 between John Hancock Mutual Funds and State Street Bank and Trust Company. – previously filed as exhibit 99.(g) to post-effective amendment no. 34 filed on September 24, 2009, accession number 0000950123-09-045769.

99.(g).1 Amendment dated October 1, 2015 to Master Custodian Agreement dated September 10, 2008 between John Hancock Mutual Funds and State Street Bank and Trust Company. – previously filed as exhibit 99.(g).1 to post-effective amendment no. 47 filed on September 27, 2016, accession number 0001133228-16-012744.

99.(h) Other Material Contracts.  Accounting and Legal Services Agreement dated January 1, 1996 between John Hancock Mutual Funds and John Hancock Investment Management LLC – previously filed as exhibit 99.(h).3 to post-effective amendment no. 28 filed on December 28, 2005, accession number 0001010521-05-000528.

99.(h).1 Amendment dated March 8, 2005 to Accounting and Legal Services Agreement dated January 1, 1996. – previously filed as exhibit 99.(h).4 to post-effective amendment no. 28 filed on December 28, 2005, accession number 0001010521-05-000528.

99.(h).2 EDGAR Publishing Services Agreement dated January 2, 1996 between John Hancock Mutual Funds and John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC. – FILED HEREWITH.

99.(h).3 Desktop Publishing Services Agreement dated September 27, 1994 between John Hancock Mutual Funds and John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC. – FILED HEREWITH.

99.(h).4 Service Agreement dated June 30, 2020 among the Registrant, John Hancock Investment Management LLC, and the Registrant’s Chief Compliance Officer — FILED HEREWITH.

99.(h).5 Amended and Restated Transfer Agency and Service Agreement dated July 1, 2013 (the “Restated Transfer Agency Agreement”) between John Hancock Mutual Funds advised by the Advisor and John Hancock Signature Services, Inc. – previously filed as exhibit 99.(h).2 to post-effective amendment no. 43 filed on September 25, 2014, accession number 0001133228-14-003360.

³ Prior to June 28, 2019, John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC was known as John Hancock Funds, LLC (formerly known as John Hancock Broker Distribution Services, Inc.).

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99.(h).6 Amendment dated October 1, 2013 to the Amended and Restated Transfer Agency Agreement. – previously filed as exhibit 99.(h).3 to post-effective amendment no. 43 filed on September 25, 2014, accession number 0001133228-14-003360.

99.(h).7 Amendment dated August 26, 2019 to the Restated Transfer Agency Agreement. — FILED HEREWITH.

99.(h).8 Expense Limitation Letter Agreement and Voluntary Expense Limitation Notice dated June 25, 2020, between the Registrant and John Hancock Investment Management LLC. – FILED HEREWITH.

99.(h).9 Agreement to Waive Advisory Fees and Reimburse Expenses dated June 25, 2020 among John Hancock Investment Management LLC, John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers LLC and John Hancock Mutual Funds. – FILED HEREWITH.

99.(h).10 Rule 12b-1 Fee Waiver Letter Agreement dated June 25, 2020, between the Registrant and John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC. – FILED HEREWITH.

99.(i) Legal Opinion. – FILED HEREWITH.

99.(j) Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP. – FILED HEREWITH.

99.(k) Omitted Financial Statements.  Not Applicable.

99.(l) Initial Capital Agreements.  Not Applicable.

99.(m) Rule 12b-1 Plan. Amended and Restated Plan of Distribution pursuant to Rule 12b-1 dated June 30, 2020 relating to Class A Shares. — FILED HEREWITH.

99.(m).1 Amended and Restated Plan of Distribution pursuant to Rule 12b-1 dated June 30, 2020 relating to Class B Shares. — FILED HEREWITH.

99.(m).2 Amended and Restated Plan of Distribution pursuant to Rule 12b-1 dated June 30, 2020 relating to Class C Shares. — FILED HEREWITH.

99.(n) Rule 18f-3 Plan.  Amended and Restated Multiple Class Plan pursuant to Rule 18f-3 dated December 6, 2011, as amended as of December 17, 2014, for John Hancock Mutual Funds advised by John Hancock Investment Management LLC. – previously filed as exhibit 99.(n) to post-effective amendment no. 45 filed on September 25, 2015, accession number 0001133228-15-004955.

99.(n).1 Amended and Restated Multiple Class Plan pursuant to Rule 18f-3 dated December 17, 2014, as amended as of December 8, 2016, for John Hancock Mutual Funds advised by John Hancock Investment Management LLC. – previously filed as exhibit 99.(n).1 to post-effective amendment no. 55 filed on September 28, 2017, accession number 0001133228-17-005801.

99.(o) Reserved.

99.(p) Code of Ethics.  Code of Ethics dated January 1, 2008 (Revised September 17, 2020) of John Hancock Investment Management LLC and John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers LLC (each, a “John Hancock Advisor”), John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC, John Hancock Distributors, LLC, and each open-end fund, closed-end fund, and exchange traded fund advised by a John Hancock Advisor. — FILED HEREWITH.

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99.(p).1 Code of Ethics of Manulife Asset Management (NA) and Manulife Asset Management (US) dated January 20, 2020 -  FILED HEREWITH.

99.(p).2 Code of Ethics for the Independent Trustees of the John Hancock Funds Effective December 6, 2005 Amended and Restated January 1, 2020. – FILED HEREWITH.

99.(q) Power of Attorney dated December 12, 2019 – FILED HEREWITH.

99.(q).1 Power of Attorney dated September 15, 2020 – FILED HEREWITH.

Item 29. Persons Controlled by or under Common Control with Registrant.

John Hancock Investment Management LLC is the Advisor to the Registrant.  The Advisor is an indirect principally owned subsidiary of John Hancock Life Insurance Company (U.S.A.), which in turn is a subsidiary of Manulife Financial Corporation (“MFC”), a publicly traded company based in Toronto, Canada.  A corporate organization list is set forth below.

Item 30. Indemnification.

Indemnification provisions relating to Registrant's Trustees, officers, employees and agents are set forth in Article IV of Registrant's Declaration of Trust included as Exhibit (a) herein.

Under Section 12 of the Distribution Agreement, John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC has agreed to indemnify Registrant and its Trustees, officers and controlling persons against claims arising out of certain acts and statements of John Hancock Funds.

Section 9(a) of the By-Laws of John Hancock Life Insurance Company (USA) (the “Insurance Company”) provides, in effect, that the Insurance Company will, subject to limitations of law, indemnify each present and former director, officer and employee of the Insurance Company who serves as a Trustee or officer of Registrant at the direction or request of the Insurance Company against litigation expenses and liabilities incurred while acting as such, except that such indemnification does not cover any expense or liability incurred or imposed in connection with any matter as to which such person shall be finally adjudicated not to have acted in good faith in the reasonable belief that his action was in the best interests of the Insurance Company. In addition, no such person will be indemnified by the Insurance Company in respect of any final adjudication unless such settlement shall have been approved as in the best interests of the Insurance Company either by vote of the Board of Directors at a meeting composed of directors who have no interest in the outcome of such vote, or by vote of the policyholders. The Insurance Company may pay expenses incurred in defending an action or claim in advance of its final disposition, but only upon receipt of an undertaking by the person indemnified to repay such payment if he should be determined not to be entitled to indemnification.

Article V of the Limited Liability Company Agreement of the Advisor provides as follows:

“Section 5.06. Indemnity and Exculpation.”

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(a) No Indemnitee, and no shareholder, director, officer, member, manager, partner, agent, representative, employee or Affiliate of an Indemnitee, shall have any liability to the Company or to any Member for any loss suffered by the Company (or the Corporation) which arises out of any action or inaction by such Indemnitee with respect to the Company (or the Corporation) if such Indemnitee so acted or omitted to act (i) in the good faith (A) belief that such course of conduct was in, or was not opposed to, the best interests of the Company (or the Corporation), or (B) reliance on the provisions of this Agreement, and (ii) such course of conduct did not constitute gross negligence or willful misconduct of such Indemnitee.

(b) The Company shall, to the fullest extent permitted by applicable law, indemnify each person who was or is a party or is threatened to be made a party to any threatened, pending or completed action, suit or proceeding, whether civil, criminal, administrative or investigative, by reason of the fact that he is or was, or has agreed to become, a Director or Officer, or is or was serving, or has agreed to serve, at the request of the Company (or previously at the request of the Corporation), as a director, officer, manager or trustee of, or in a similar capacity with, another corporation, partnership, limited liability company, joint venture, trust or other enterprise (including any employee benefit plan) (all such persons being referred to hereafter as an “Indemnitee”), or by reason of any action alleged to have been taken or omitted in such capacity, against all expenses (including attorneys' fees), judgments, fines and amounts paid in settlement actually and reasonably incurred by or on behalf of an Indemnitee in connection with such action, suit or proceeding and any appeal therefrom.

(c) As a condition precedent to his right to be indemnified, the Indemnitee must notify the Company in writing as soon as practicable of any action, suit, proceeding or investigation involving him for which indemnity hereunder will or could be sought. With respect to any action, suit, proceeding or investigation of which the Company is so notified, the Company will be entitled to participate therein at its own expense and/or to assume the defense thereof at its own expense, with legal counsel reasonably acceptable to the Indemnitee.

(d) In the event that the Company does not assume the defense of any action, suit, proceeding or investigation of which the Company receives notice under this Section 5.06, the Company shall pay in advance of the final disposition of such matter any expenses (including attorneys' fees) incurred by an Indemnitee in defending a civil or criminal action, suit, proceeding or investigation or any appeal therefrom; provided, however, that the payment of such expenses incurred by an Indemnitee in advance of the final disposition of such matter shall be made only upon receipt of an undertaking by or on behalf of the Indemnitee to repay all amounts so advanced in the event that it shall ultimately be determined that the Indemnitee is not entitled to be indemnified by the Company as authorized in this Section 5.06, which undertaking shall be accepted without reference to the financial ability of the Indemnitee to make such repayment; and further provided that no such advancement of expenses shall be made if it is determined that (i) the Indemnitee did not act in good faith and in a manner he reasonably believed to be in, or not opposed to, the best interests of the Company, or (ii) with respect to any criminal action or proceeding, the Indemnitee had reasonable cause to believe his conduct was unlawful.

(e) The Company shall not indemnify an Indemnitee seeking indemnification in connection with a proceeding (or part thereof) initiated by such Indemnitee unless the initiation thereof was approved by the Board of Directors. In addition, the Company shall not indemnify an Indemnitee to the extent such Indemnitee is reimbursed from the proceeds of insurance, and in the event the Company makes any indemnification payments to an Indemnitee and such Indemnitee is subsequently reimbursed from the proceeds of insurance, such Indemnitee shall promptly refund such indemnification payments to the Company to the extent of such insurance reimbursement.

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(f) All determinations hereunder as to the entitlement of an Indemnitee to indemnification or advancement of expenses shall be made in each instance by (a) a majority vote of the Directors consisting of persons who are not at that time parties to the action, suit or proceeding in question (“Disinterested Directors”), whether or not a quorum, (b) a majority vote of a quorum of the outstanding Common Shares, which quorum shall consist of Members who are not at that time parties to the action, suit or proceeding in question, (c) independent legal counsel (who may, to the extent permitted by law, be regular legal counsel to the Company), or (d) a court of competent jurisdiction.

(g) The indemnification rights provided in this Section 5.06 (i) shall not be deemed exclusive of any other rights to which an Indemnitee may be entitled under any law, agreement or vote of Members or Disinterested Directors or otherwise, and (ii) shall inure to the benefit of the heirs, executors and administrators of the Indemnitees. The Company may, to the extent authorized from time to time by its Board of Directors, grant indemnification rights to other employees or agents of the Company or other persons serving the Company and such rights may be equivalent to, or greater or less than, those set forth in this Section 5.06. Any indemnification to be provided hereunder may be provided although the person to be indemnified is no longer a Director or Officer.

Insofar as indemnification for liability arising under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (“Securities Act”), may be permitted to Trustees, officers and controlling persons of the Registrant pursuant to the provisions described in this Item 30, the Registrant has been advised that in the opinion of the Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) such indemnification is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and is, therefore, unenforceable. In the event that a claim for indemnification against such liabilities (other than the payment by the Registrant of expenses incurred or paid by a Trustee, officer or controlling person of the Registrant in the successful defense of any action, suit or proceeding) is asserted by such Trustee, officer or controlling person in connection with the securities being registered, the Registrant will, unless in the opinion of its counsel the matter has been settled by controlling precedent, submit to a court of appropriate jurisdiction the question whether such indemnification by it is against public policy as expressed in the Securities Act and will be governed by the final adjudication of such issue.

Item 31. Business and Other Connections of Investment Advisers.

See “Fund Details” in the Prospectuses and “Investment Advisory and Other Services” in the Statement of Additional Information for information regarding the business of John Hancock Investment Management LLC (the “Advisor”) and Manulife Investment Management (US) LLC) (the “Sub-Advisor”).  For information as to the business, profession, vocation or employment of a substantial nature of each director, officer or partner of the Advisor and of the Sub-Advisor, reference is made to the respective Form ADV, as amended, filed under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, each of which is incorporated herein by reference.  The Investment Advisers Act of 1940 file number for the Advisor is 801-8124 and the file number for the Sub-Advisor is 801-42023.

Item 32. Principal Underwriters.

(a) John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC acts as principal underwriter for the Registrant and also serves as principal underwriter or distributor of shares for John Hancock Bond Trust, John Hancock Capital Series, John Hancock Current Interest, John Hancock Funds II, John Hancock Funds III, John Hancock Investment Trust, John Hancock Investment Trust II, John Hancock Investment Trust III, John Hancock Municipal Securities Trust, John Hancock Sovereign Bond Fund and John Hancock Strategic Series.

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(b) The following table presents certain information with respect to each director and officer of John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC. The principal business address of each director or officer is 200 Berkeley Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116.

NAME	POSTIONS AND OFFICES WITH DISTRIBUTOR	POSITIONS AND OFFICES WITH REGISTRANT
Andrew G. Arnott	Director, Chairman, President and Chief Executive Officer	President and Trustee
Jeff Duckworth	Director and Senior Vice President	None
Leo Zerilli	Director	Senior Vice President, Investments
Edward Macdonald	Secretary and Chief Legal Counsel	Assistant Secretary
John J. Danello	Senior Vice President	Senior Vice President
Jeffrey H. Long	Chief Financial Officer and Treasurer	None
Michael Mahoney	Chief Compliance Officer	None
Kelly A. Conway	Assistant Treasurer	None
Tracy K. Lannigan	Assistant Secretary	None
Erica Blake	Assistant Secretary	None

(c) None.

Item 33. Location of Accounts and Records.

All applicable accounts, books and documents required to be maintained by the Registrant by Section 31(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and the Rules promulgated thereunder are in the possession and custody of the Registrant’s custodian State Street Bank and Trust Company, State Street Financial Center, One Lincoln Street,  Boston, Massachusetts 02111 and its transfer agent, John Hancock Signature Services, Inc., P.O. Box 55913, Boston, Massachusetts 02205-5913, with the exception of certain corporate documents and portfolio trading documents which are in the possession and custody of the Advisor, 200 Berkeley Street, Boston, Massachusetts, 02116 and the Sub-Advisor, 197 Clarendon Street, Boston, Massachusetts 02116. Registrant is informed that all applicable accounts, books and documents required to be maintained by registered investment advisors are in the custody and possession of the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor.

Item 34. Management Services.

Not Applicable.

Item 35. Undertakings.

Not Applicable.

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Exhibit Index

99.(b).3 Amendment dated August 31, 2010 to the Amended and Restated By-Laws.

99.(d) Amended and Restated Advisory Agreement dated June 30, 2020 between John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund (the “Registrant”) and John Hancock Investment Management LLC (the “Advisor”).

99.(d).3 Amendment dated May 17, 2013 to the Sub-Advisory Agreement relating to John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund.

99.(e) Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement dated June 30, 2020 between the Registrant and John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC (the “Distributor”).

99.(h).2 EDGAR Publishing Services Agreement dated January 2, 1996 between John Hancock Mutual Funds and John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC.

99.(h).3 Desktop Publishing Services Agreement dated September 27, 1994 between John Hancock Mutual Funds and John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC.

99.(h).4 Service Agreement dated June 30, 2020 among the Registrant, John Hancock Investment Management LLC, and the Registrant’s Chief Compliance Officer.

99.(h).7 Amendment dated August 26, 2019 to the Restated Transfer Agency Agreement.

99.(h).8 Expense Limitation Letter Agreement and Voluntary Expense Limitation Notice dated June 25, 2020, between the Registrant and John Hancock Investment Management LLC.

99.(h).9 Agreement to Waive Advisory Fees and Reimburse Expenses dated June 25, 2020 among John Hancock Investment Management LLC, John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers LLC and John Hancock Mutual Funds.

99.(h).10 Rule 12b-1 Fee Waiver Letter Agreement dated June 25, 2020, between the Registrant and John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC.

99.(i) Legal Opinion.

99.(j) Consent of Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP.

99.(m) Amended and Restated Plan of Distribution pursuant to Rule 12b-1 dated June 30, 2020 relating to Class A Shares.

99.(m).1 Amended and Restated Plan of Distribution pursuant to Rule 12b-1 dated June 30, 2020 relating to Class B Shares.

99.(m).2 Amended and Restated Plan of Distribution pursuant to Rule 12b-1 dated June 30, 2020 relating to Class C Shares.

99.(p) Code of Ethics dated January 1, 2008 (Revised September 17, 2020) of John Hancock Investment Management LLC and John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers LLC (each, a “John Hancock Advisor”), John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC, John Hancock Distributors, LLC, and each open-end fund, closed-end fund, and exchange traded fund advised by a John Hancock Advisor.

99.(p).1 Code of Ethics of Manulife Asset Management (NA) and Manulife Asset Management (US) dated January 20, 2020.

99.(p).2 Code of Ethics for the Independent Trustees of the John Hancock Funds Effective December 6, 2005 Amended and Restated January 1, 2020.

99.(q) Power of Attorney dated December 12, 2019.

99.(q).1 Power of Attorney dated September 15, 2020.

SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Registrant certifies that it meets all of the requirements for effectiveness of this Amendment to the Registration Statement under Rule 485(b) under the Securities Act of 1933 and has duly caused this Amendment to the Registration Statement to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, duly authorized, in the City of Boston, and The Commonwealth of Massachusetts on the 25^th day of September, 2020.

JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
By:	/s/ Andrew G. Arnott
	Name: Andrew G. Arnott
	Title: President and Trustee

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Act of 1933, this amendment to the Registration Statement has been signed below by the following persons in the capacities and on the date(s) indicated.

Signature	Title	Date
/s/ Andrew G. Arnott	President and Trustee	September 25, 2020
Andrew G. Arnott
/s/ Charles A Rizzo	Chief Financial Officer	September 25, 2020
Charles A. Rizzo	(Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer)
/s/ Charles L. Bardelis *	Trustee	September 25, 2020
Charles L. Bardelis
/s/ James R. Boyle *	Trustee	September 25, 2020
James R. Boyle
/s/ Peter S. Burgess *	Trustee	September 25, 2020
Peter S. Burgess
/s/ William H. Cunningham *	Trustee	September 25, 2020
William H. Cunningham
/s/ Grace K. Fey *	Trustee	September 25, 2020
Grace K. Fey
/s/ Marianne Harrison *	Trustee	September 25, 2020
Marianne Harrison
/s/ Deborah C. Jackson *	Trustee	September 25, 2020
Deborah C. Jackson
/s/ Hassell H. McClellan *	Trustee	September 25, 2020
Hassell H. McClellan
/s/ James M. Oates *	Trustee	September 25, 2020
James M. Oates

Signature	Title	Date
/s/ Steven R. Pruchansky *	Trustee	September 25, 2020
Steven R. Pruchansky
/s/ Frances G. Rathke *	Trustee	September 25, 2020
Frances G. Rathke
/s/ Gregory A. Russo *	Trustee	September 25, 2020
Gregory A. Russo

*By:	Power of Attorney
	/s/ Thomas Dee
	Thomas Dee
	Attorney-In-Fact
	*Pursuant to Power of Attorney filed herewith.

EX-99.(B).3

Exhibit 99.(b)(3)

AMENDMENT DATED AUGUST 31, 2010

TO THE

AMENDED AND RESTATED

BY-LAWS OF

JOHN HANCOCK BOND TRUST

JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND

JOHN HANCOCK CAPITAL SERIES

JOHN HANCOCK CURRENT INTEREST

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT TRUST

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT TRUST II

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT TRUST III

JOHN HANCOCK MUNICIPAL SECURITIES TRUST

JOHN HANCOCK SERIES TRUST

JOHN HANCOCK SOVEREIGN BOND FUND

JOHN HANCOCK STRATEGIC SERIES

JOHN HANCOCK TAX-EXEMPT SERIES FUND

EACH DATED MARCH 8, 2005 AS AMENDED

AND

BY-LAWS OF

JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS III

DATED JUNE 9, 2005 AS AMENDED

Section 4.3 of ARTICLE IV is hereby amended to read as follows in its entirety:

Section 4.3 Retirement Age.  The retirement age for Trustees shall be seventy three and therefore each Trustee shall retire from service on December 31 of the year in which he or she reaches his or her seventy-third birthday.

EX-99.(D)

Exhibit 99.d

JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND

Boston, Massachusetts

June 30, 2020

John Hancock Investment Management LLC

200 Berkeley Street

Boston, Massachusetts 02116

Amended and Restated Investment Management Contract

Ladies and Gentlemen:

John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund (the “Fund”) has been organized as a business trust under the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts to engage in the business of an investment company. The Fund’s shares of beneficial interest may be classified in the future into series representing the entire undivided interest in separate portfolios operated as separate investment companies.

The Trustees of the Fund (the “Trustees”) have selected John Hancock Investment Management LLC (the “Adviser”) to provide overall investment advice and management for the Fund, and to provide certain other services, as more fully set forth below, and you are willing to provide such advice, management and services under the terms and conditions hereinafter set forth. Accordingly, the Fund agrees with you as follows:

1.        Delivery of Documents. The Fund has furnished you with copies, properly certified or otherwise authenticated, of each of the following:

(a) Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust, dated January 22, 2016, as amended from time to time (the “Declaration of Trust”);

(b) By-Laws of the Fund as in effect on the date hereof;

(c) Resolutions of the Trustees selecting the Adviser as investment adviser for the Fund and approving the form of this Agreement; and

(d) Commitments, limitations and undertakings made by the Fund to state securities or “blue sky” authorities for the purpose of qualifying shares of the Fund for sale in such states. The Fund will furnish you from time to time with copies, properly certified or otherwise authenticated, of all amendments of or supplements to the foregoing, if any.

2.       Investment and Management Services. You will use your best efforts to provide to the Fund continuing and suitable investment programs with respect to investments, consistent with the investment policies, objectives and restrictions of the Fund. In the performance of the Adviser’s duties hereunder, subject always (x) to the provisions contained in the documents delivered to the Adviser pursuant to Section 1, as each of the same may from time to time be amended or supplemented, and (y) to the limitations set forth in the registration statement of the Fund as in effect from time to time under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), the Adviser will, at its own expense:

(a) furnish the Fund with advice and recommendations, consistent with the investment policies, objectives and restrictions of the Fund, with respect to the purchase, holding and disposition of portfolio securities;

(b) advise the Fund in connection with policy decisions to be made by the Trustees or any committee thereof with respect to the Fund’s investments and, as requested, furnish the Fund with research, economic and statistical data in connection with the Fund’s investments and investment policies;

(c) provide administration of the day-to-day investment operations of the Fund;

(d) submit such reports relating to the valuation of the Fund’s securities as the Trustees may reasonably request;

(e) assist the Fund in any negotiations relating to the Fund’s investments with issuers, investment banking firms, securities brokers or dealers and other institutions or investors;

(f) consistent with the provisions of Section 6 of this Agreement, place orders for the purchase, sale or exchange of portfolio securities with brokers or dealers selected by you, provided that in connection with the placing of such orders and the selection of such brokers or dealers you shall seek to obtain execution and pricing within the policy guidelines determined by the Trustees and set forth in the Prospectus and Statement of Additional Information of the Fund as in effect from time to time;

(g) provide office space and equipment and supplies, the use of accounting equipment when required, and necessary executive, clerical and secretarial personnel for the administration of the affairs of the Fund;

(h) from time to time or at any time requested by the Trustees, make reports to the Trust of your performance of the foregoing services and furnish advice and recommendations with respect to other aspects of the business and affairs of the Fund;

(i) maintain and preserve the records required by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), to be maintained and preserved by the Fund (you agree that such records are the property of the Fund and will be surrendered to the Fund promptly upon request therefor);

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(j) obtain and evaluate such information relating to economies, industries, businesses, securities markets and securities as you may deem necessary or useful in the discharge of your duties hereunder;

(k) oversee, and use your best efforts to assure the performance of the activities and services of the custodian, transfer agent or other similar agents retained by the Fund; and

(1) give instructions to the Fund’s custodian as to deliveries of securities to and from such custodian and transfer of payment of cash for the account of the Fund.

The Adviser may engage one or more investment advisers which are either registered as such or specifically exempt from registration under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended, to act as subadvisers to provide with respect to the Fund certain services set forth in Section 2 of this Agreement, all as shall be set forth in a written contract, which contract shall be subject to approval by the vote of a majority of the Trustees of the Fund who are not interested persons of the Adviser, the subadviser or the Fund, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval and by the vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund and otherwise consistent with the terms of the 1940 Act. Any fee, compensation or expense to be paid to any subadviser shall be paid by the Adviser, and no obligation to the subadviser shall be incurred on the Fund’s behalf, except as agreed upon by the Trustees of the Fund and otherwise consistent with the terms of the 1940 Act.

3.         Expenses of the Fund. You will pay:

(a) the compensation and expenses of all officers and employees of the Fund;

(b) the expenses of office rent, telephone and other utilities, office furniture, equipment, supplies and other office expenses of the Fund;

(c) any other expenses incurred by you in connection with the performance of your duties hereunder; and

(d) premiums for such insurance as may be agreed upon by you and the Trustees.

4.       Expenses of the Fund Not Paid by You. You will not be required to pay any expenses which this Agreement does not expressly make payable by you. In particular, and without limiting the generality of the foregoing but subject to the provisions of Section 3, you will not be required to pay:

(a) any and all expenses, taxes and governmental fees incurred by the Fund prior to the effective date of this Agreement;

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(b) without limiting the generality of the foregoing clause (a), the expenses of organizing the Fund (including without limitation, legal, accounting and auditing fees and expenses incurred in connection with the matters referred to in this clause (b)), of initially registering the shares of the Fund under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and of qualifying the shares for sale under state securities laws for the initial offering and sale of shares;

(c) the compensation and expenses of Trustees who are not interested persons (as used in this Agreement, such term shall have the meaning specified in the 1940 Act) of you, and of independent advisers, independent contractors, consultants, managers and other unaffiliated agents employed by the Fund other than through you;

(d) legal, accounting and auditing fees and expenses of the Fund;

(e) the fees or disbursements of custodians and depositories of the Fund’s assets, transfer agents, disbursing agents, plan agents and registrars;

(f) taxes and governmental fees assessed against the Fund’s assets and payable by the Fund;

(g) the cost of preparing and mailing dividends, distributions, reports, notices and proxy materials to shareholders of the Fund;

(h) brokers’ commissions and underwriting fees; and

(i} the expense of periodic calculations of the net asset value of the shares of the Fund.

5.         Compensation of the Adviser. For all services to be rendered, facilities furnished and expenses paid or assumed by the Adviser as herein provided, the Adviser shall be entitled to a fee, paid monthly in arrears, at an annual rate equal to (i) 0.550% of the average daily net asset value of the Fund up to $500 million; (ii) 0.500% of the next $500 million; (iii) 0.475% of the next $1 billion; and (iv) 0.450% of the amount over $2 billion.

In the event that normal operating expenses of the Fund, exclusive of certain expenses prescribed by state law, are in excess of any limitation imposed by a state where the Fund is registered to sell shares of common stock, the fee payable to the Adviser will be reduced to the extent of such excess and the Adviser will make any arrangements necessary to eliminate any remaining excess expenses.

6.        Avoidance of Inconsistent Position. In connection with purchases or sales of portfolio securities for the account of the Fund, neither your nor any investment management subsidiary of yours, nor any of your or their directors, officers or employees will act as principal or agent or receive any commission. If any occasion shall arise in which you advise persons concerning the shares of the Fund, you will act solely on your own behalf and not in any way on behalf of the Fund.

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7.        No Partnership or Joint Venture. The Fund and you are not partners of or joint venturers with each other and nothing herein shall be construed so as to make them such partners or joint venturers or impose any liability as such on any of them.

8.      Name of the Fund. The Fund may use the name “John Hancock” or any name derived from or similar to the name “John Hancock Investment Management LLC” or “John Hancock Life Insurance Company (U.S.A.),” a Michigan domiciled insurance company, only for so long as this Agreement remains in effect. At such time as this Agreement shall no longer be in effect, the Fund will (to  the extent they lawfully can} cease to use such a name or any other name indicating that the Fund is advised by or otherwise connected with you. The Fund acknowledges that it has adopted the name “John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund” through permission of John Hancock Life Insurance Company (U.S.A.), and agrees that John Hancock Life Insurance Company (U.S.A.) reserves to itself and any successor to its business the right to grant the non-exclusive right to use the name “John Hancock” or any similar name to any other corporation or entity, including but not limited to any investment company of which John Hancock Life Insurance Company (U.S.A.) or any subsidiary or affiliate thereof shall be the investment adviser.

9.        Limitation of Liability of the Adviser. You shall not be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Fund in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates, except a loss resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or gross negligence on your part in the performance of your duties or from reckless disregard by you of your obligations and duties under this Agreement. Any person, even though also employed by you, who may be or become an employee of and paid by the Fund shall be deemed, when acting within the scope of his employment by the Fund, to be acting in such employment solely for the Fund and not as your employee or agent.

10.      Duration and Termination of this Agreement. This Agreement shall remain in force until the second anniversary of the date upon which this Agreement was executed by the parties hereto, and from year to year thereafter, but only so long as such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by (a) a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons of you or (other than as trustees) of the Fund, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval, and (b) either (i) the Trustees or (ii) a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund. This Agreement may, on 60 days’ written notice, be terminated at any time without the payment of any penalty by the Fund by vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, by the Trustees or by you. Termination of this Agreement with respect to the Fund shall not be deemed to terminate or otherwise invalidate any provisions of any contract between you and any other series of the Fund. This Agreement shall automatically terminate in the event of its assignment. In interpreting the provisions of this Section 10, the definitions contained in Section 2(a) of the 1940 Act (particularly the definitions of “assignment,” “interested person” and “voting security”) shall be applied.

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11.       Amendment of this Agreement. No provision of this Agreement may be changed, waived, discharged or terminated orally, but only by an instrument in writing signed by the party against which enforcement of the change, waiver, discharge or termination is sought, and no amendment, transfer, assignment, sale, hypothecation or pledge of this Agreement shall be effective until approved by (a) the Trustees, including a majority of the Trustees who are not interested persons of you or (other than as Trustees) of the Fund, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval, and (b) a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Fund, as defined in the 1940 Act.

12.      Miscellaneous. The captions in this Agreement are included for convenience of reference only and in no way define or delimit any of the provisions hereof or otherwise affect their construction or effect.This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. The name John Hancock California Tax- Free Income Fund is the designation of the Trustees under the Declaration of Trust, dated January 22, 2016, as amended from time to time. The Declaration of Trust and all amendments thereto have been filed with the Secretary of State of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts. The obligations of the Fund are not personally binding upon, nor shall resort be had to the private property of, any of the Trustees, shareholders, officers, employees or agents of the Fund, but only the Fund’s property shall be bound. The Fund shall not be liable for the obligations of any other future series, if any, of the Fund.

13.      Execution. This Agreement and any amendments hereto and any notices or other communications hereunder that are required to be in writing may be in electronic form (including without limitation by facsimile and, in the case of notices and other communications, email) and may be executed by means of electronic signatures.

(THE REMAINDER OF THIS SPACE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK)

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Agreement to be executed under seal by their duly authorized officers as of the date first mentioned above.

Very truly yours,
JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX- FREE INCOME FUND
By:	/s/ Andrew G. Arnott
	Andrew G. Arnott
	President

The foregoing contract is hereby agreed to as of the date hereof.
JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT
MANAGEMENT LLC
By:	/s/ Jay Aronowitz
	Jay Aronowitz
	Chief Investment Officer

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EX-99.(D).3

Exhibit 99.(d)(3)

JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS

AMENDMENT TO SUB-ADVISORY AGREEMENT

John Hancock Asset Management a division of

Manulife Asset Management (US) LLC

AMENDMENT made as of this 17^th  day of May, 2013 to the Sub-Advisory Agreement dated December 31, 2005, as amended (the “Agreement”), among John Hancock Advisers, LLC, a Delaware limited liability company (the “Adviser”), John Hancock Asset Management a division of Manulife Asset Management (US) LLC (formerly, Sovereign Asset Management, LLC), a Delaware limited liability company (the “Sub-adviser”), and each of the investment companies that is a signatory to the Agreement. In consideration of the mutual covenants contained herein, the parties agree as follows:

1. Section 2.c is amended and restated as follows:

The Sub-adviser will select brokers, dealers, futures commission merchants and other counterparties to effect all transactions for each Fund, including without limitation, with respect to transactions in securities, derivatives, foreign currency exchange, commodities and/or any other investments.  The Sub-adviser will place all orders with brokers, dealers, counterparties or issuers, and will negotiate brokerage commissions, spreads and other financial and non-financial terms, as applicable.  The Sub-adviser will always seek the best possible price and execution in the circumstances in all transactions.  Subject to the foregoing, the Sub-adviser is directed at all times to seek to execute transactions for each Fund in accordance with its trading policies, as disclosed by the Sub-adviser to the Fund from time to time, but in all cases subject to policies and practices established by the Fund and described in the applicable Trust’s registration statement.  Notwithstanding the foregoing, the Sub-adviser may pay a broker-dealer that provides research and brokerage services a higher spread or commission for a particular transaction than otherwise might have been charged by another broker-dealer to the extent permitted by Section 28(e) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and by the applicable Trust’s registration statement, if the Sub-adviser determines that the higher spread or commission is reasonable in relation to the value of the brokerage and research services that such broker-dealer provides, viewed in terms of either the particular transaction or the Sub-adviser’s overall responsibilities with respect to accounts managed by the Sub-adviser. The Sub-adviser may use for the benefit of the Sub-adviser’s other clients, or make available to companies affiliated with the Sub-adviser or to its directors for the benefit of its clients, any such brokerage and research services that the Sub-adviser obtains from brokers or dealers.

2. Effective Date

This Amendment shall become effective upon the later to occur of: (i) approval of the Amendment by the Board of Trustees of the John Hancock trusts that are a signatory hereto, and (ii) execution of the Amendment.

3. Miscellaneous

Except as set forth herein, all provisions of the Agreement shall remain in full force and effect. This Amendment may be executed in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed to be an original but all of which together shall constitute one and the same Amendment.

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment to be executed under seal by their duly authorized officers as of the date first mentioned above.

JOHN HANCOCK ADVISERS, LLC
By:	/s/Leo Zerilli
	Name:	Leo Zerilli
	Title:	Senior Vice President and Chief Investment Officer
JOHN HANCOCK ASSET MANAGEMENT A DIVISION OF
MANULIFE ASSET MANAGEMENT (US) LLC
By:	/s/Diane R. Landers
	Name:	Diane R. Landers
	Title:	Chief Administrative Officer

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the parties hereto have caused this Amendment to be executed under seal by their duly authorized officers as of the date first mentioned above.

JOHN HANCOCK BOND TRUST

on behalf of

John Hancock Government Income Fund

John Hancock High Yield Fund

John Hancock Investment Grade Bond Fund

JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND

JOHN HANCOCK CURRENT INTEREST

on behalf of

John Hancock Money Market Fund

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT TRUST

on behalf of

John Hancock Balanced Fund

John Hancock Global Opportunities Fund

John Hancock Large Cap Equity Fund

John Hancock Small Cap Intrinsic Value Fund

John Hancock Sovereign Investors Fund

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT TRUST II

on behalf of

John Hancock Financial Industries Fund

John Hancock Regional Bank Fund

John Hancock Small Cap Equity Fund

JOHN HANCOCK MUNICIPAL SECURITIES TRUST

on behalf of

John Hancock High Yield Municipal Bond Fund

John Hancock Tax-Free Bond Fund

JOHN HANCOCK SERIES TRUST

on behalf of

John Hancock Mid Cap Equity Fund

JOHN HANCOCK SOVEREIGN BOND FUND

on behalf of

John Hancock Bond Fund

JOHN HANCOCK STRATEGIC SERIES

on behalf of

John Hancock Income Fund

JOHN HANCOCK TAX-EXEMPT SERIES FUND

on behalf of

John Hancock Massachusetts Tax-Free Income Fund

John Hancock New York Tax-Free Income Fund

JOHN HANCOCK FINANCIAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND

JOHN HANCOCK INCOME SECURITIES TRUST

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTORS TRUST

JOHN HANCOCK PREFERRED INCOME FUND

JOHN HANCOCK PREFERRED INCOME FUND II

JOHN HANCOCK PREFERRED INCOME FUND III

JOHN HANCOCK PREMIUM DIVIDEND FUND

JOHN HANCOCK STRATEGIC DIVERSIFIED INCOME FUND

JOHN HANCOCK TAX-ADVANTAGED DIVIDEND INCOME FUND

Executed on behalf of each Trust and its relevant
Series referenced above:
By:	/s/Hugh McHaffie
	Name:	Hugh McHaffie
	Title:	President

EX-99.(E)

Exhibit 99.e

June 30, 2020

John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC

200 Berkeley Street

Boston, Massachusetts 02116

Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement

Dear Sir:

John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund (the “Trust”) has been organized as a business trust under the laws of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts to engage in the business of an investment company. The Trust’s Board of Trustees has selected you to act as principal underwriter (as such term is defined in Section 2(a)(29) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the shares of beneficial interest (“shares”) of any series of the Trust and you are willing, as agent for the Trust, to sell the shares to the public, to broker-dealers or to both, in the manner and on the conditions hereinafter set forth. Accordingly, the Trust hereby agrees with you as follows:

1. Delivery of Documents. The Trust will furnish you promptly with copies, properly certified or otherwise authenticated, of any registration statements filed by it with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, or the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, together with any financial statements and exhibits included therein, and all amendments or supplements thereto hereafter filed.

2. Registration and Sale of Additional Shares. The Trust will from time to time use its best efforts to register under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, such shares not already so registered as you may reasonably be expected to sell as agent on behalf of the Trust. This Agreement relates to the issue and sale of shares that are duly authorized and registered and available for sale by a series of the Trust if, but only if, the Trust sees fit to sell them. You and the Trust will cooperate in taking such action as may be necessary from time to time to qualify shares for sale in Massachusetts and in any other states mutually agreeable to you and the Trust, and to maintain such qualification if and so long as such shares are duly registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended.

3. Solicitation of Orders. You will use your best efforts (but only in states in which you may lawfully do so) to obtain from investors unconditional orders for shares authorized for issue by a series of the Trust and registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, provided that you may in your discretion refuse to accept orders for such shares from any particular applicant.

4. Sale of Shares. Subject to the provisions of Sections 5 and 6 hereof and to such minimum purchase requirements as may from time to time be currently indicated in the  prospectus of a series of the Trust, you are authorized to sell as agent on behalf of a series authorized and issued shares registered under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Such sales may be made by you on behalf of a series of the Trust by accepting unconditional orders to purchase such shares placed with your investors. The sales price to the public of such shares shall be the public offering price as defined in Section 6 hereof.

5. Sale of Shares to Investors by the Trust. Any right granted to you to accept orders for shares or make sales on behalf of a series of the Trust will not apply to shares issued in connection with the merger or consolidation of any other investment company with a series or a series’ acquisition, by purchase or otherwise, of all or substantially all the assets of any investment company or substantially all the outstanding shares of any such company, and such right shall not apply to shares that may be offered or otherwise issued by a series of the Trust to shareholders by virtue of their being shareholders of a series of the Trust.

6. Public Offering Price. All shares sold by you as agent for the series of the Trust will be sold at the public offering price, which will be determined in the manner provided in a series’’s prospectus or statement of additional information, as now in effect or as it may be amended.

7. No Sales Discount. Each series shall receive the applicable net asset value on all sales of shares by you as agent of the series.

8. Delivery of Payments. You will deliver to the transfer agent for any series of the Trust all payments made pursuant to orders accepted by you, and accompanied by proper applications for the purchase of shares, no later than the first business day following the receipt by you in your home office of such payments and applications.

9. Suspension of Sales. If and whenever a suspension of the right of redemption or a postponement of the date of payment or redemption has been declared pursuant to the Trust’s Declaration of Trust and has become effective, then, until such suspension or postponement is terminated, no further orders for shares shall be accepted by you except such unconditional orders placed with you before you have knowledge of the suspension. The Trust reserves the right to suspend the sale of shares and your authority to accept orders for shares on behalf of a series of the Trust if, in the judgment of a majority of the Trust’s Board of Trustees, it is in the best interests of the series to do so, such suspension to continue for such period as may be determined by such majority; and in that event, no shares will be sold by the Trust or by you on behalf of the series while such suspension remains in effect except for shares necessary to cover unconditional orders accepted by you before you had knowledge of the suspension.

10. Expenses. The Trust will pay (or will enter into arrangements providing that persons other than you will pay) all fees and expenses in connection with the preparation and filing of any registration statement and prospectus or amendments thereto under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, covering the issue and sale of shares and in connection with the qualification of shares for sale in the various states in which the Trust shall determine it advisable to qualify such shares for sale. It will also pay the issue taxes or (in the case of shares redeemed) any initial transfer taxes thereon. You will pay all expenses of printing prospectuses and other sales literature, all fees and expenses in connection with your qualification as a dealer in various states, and all other expenses in connection with the sale and offering for sale of the shares of the series of the Trust which have not been herein specifically allocated to the Trust.

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11. Conformity with Law. You agree that in selling the shares you will duly conform in all respects with the laws of the United States and any state in which such shares may be offered for sale by you pursuant to this Agreement.

12. Indemnification. You agree to indemnify and hold harmless the Trust and each of its Trustees and officers and each person, if any, who controls the Trust within the meaning of Section 15 of the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, against any and all losses, claims, damages, liabilities or litigation (including legal and other expenses) to which the Trust or such Trustees, officers or controlling person may become subject under such Act, under any other statute, at common law or otherwise, arising out of the acquisition of any shares by any person which (a) may be based upon any wrongful act by you or any of your employees or representatives or (b) may be based upon any untrue statement or alleged untrue statement of a material fact contained in a registration statement, prospectus or statement of additional information covering shares of a series of the Trust or any amendment thereof or supplement thereto or the omission or alleged omission to state therein a material fact required to be stated therein or necessary to make the statements therein not misleading if such statement or omission was made in reliance upon information furnished or confirmed in writing to the Trust by you, or (c) may be incurred or arise by reason of your acting as the Trust’s agent instead of purchasing and reselling shares as principal in distributing shares to the public, provided that in no case is your indemnity in favor of a Trustee or officer of the Trust or any other person deemed to protect such Trustee or officer of the Trust or other person against any liability to which any such person would otherwise be subject by reason of willful misfeasance, bad faith, or gross negligence in the performance of his duties or by reason of his reckless disregard of obligations and duties under this Agreement.

You are not authorized to give any information or to make any representations on behalf of the Trust or in connection with the sale of shares other than the information and representations contained in a registration statement, prospectus, or statement of additional information covering shares, as such registration statement, prospectus and statement of additional information may be amended or supplemented from time to time. No person other than you is authorized to act as principal underwriter for the Trust.

13. Duration and Termination of this Agreement. This Agreement shall remain in force until two years from the date hereof and from year to year thereafter, but only so long as such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by (a) a majority of the Board of Trustees of the Trust who are not interested persons of you (other than as Trustees) or of the Trust, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on such approval, and (b) either (i) the Board of Trustees of the Trust, or (ii) a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Trust. This Agreement may, on 60 days’ written notice, be terminated at any time, without the payment of any penalty, by the Board of Trustees of the Trust, by a vote of a majority of the outstanding voting securities of the Trust, or by you. This Agreement will automatically terminate in the event of its assignment by you. In interpreting the provisions of this Section 13, the definitions contained in Section 2(a) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (particularly the definitions of “interested person”, “assignment” and “voting security”) shall be applied.

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14. Amendment of this Agreement. No provision of this Agreement may be changed, waived, discharged or terminated orally, but only by an instrument in writing signed by the party against which enforcement of the change, waiver, discharge or termination is sought. If the Trust should at any time deem it necessary or advisable in the best interests of the Trust that any amendment of this agreement be made in order to comply with the recommendations or requirements of the Securities and Exchange Commission or other governmental authority or to obtain any advantage under state or federal tax laws and should notify you of the form of such amendment, and the reasons therefor, and if you should decline to assent to such amendment, the Trust may terminate this Agreement forthwith. If you should at any time request that a change be made in the Trust’s Declaration of Trust or By-Laws, or in its methods of doing business, in order to comply with any requirements of federal law or regulations of the Securities and Exchange Commission or of a national securities association of which you are or may be a member, relating to the sale of shares, and the Trust should not make such necessary change within a reasonable time, you may terminate this Agreement forthwith.

15. Miscellaneous. The captions in this Agreement are included for convenience of reference only and in no way define or limit any of the provisions hereof or otherwise affect their construction or effect. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. The obligations of the Trust are not personally binding upon, nor shall resort be had to the private property of, any of the Trustees, shareholders, officers, employees or agents of the Trust, but only the Trust’s property shall be bound.

16. Execution. This Agreement and any amendments hereto and any notices or other communications hereunder that are required to be in writing may be in electronic form (including without limitation by facsimile and, in the case of notices and other communications, email) and may be executed by means of electronic signatures.

(THE REMAINDER OF THIS SPACE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK)

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Very truly yours,

JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX- FREE INCOME FUND
By:	/s/ Andrew G. Arnott
	Andrew G. Arnott
	President

The foregoing Agreement is hereby

accepted as of the date hereof.

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT
MANAGEMENT DISTRIBUTORS LLC
By:	/s/ Jeffrey H. Long
	Jeffrey H. Long
	Chief Financial Officer

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EX-99.(H).2

Exhibit 99.(h)(2)

January 2, 1996

John Hancock Advisers, Inc.

101 Huntington Ave.

Boston, MA 02199

Ladies and Gentlemen:

The John Hancock Funds agree to retain John Hancock Advisers, Inc. to perform from time to time EDGAR publishing services for each of the various John Hancock Funds in connection with preparing and printing various SEC filings for the Funds.

The Funds will pay you at the rate of actual cost plus 10% for work performed in accordance with this Agreement or such other rate as approved by the Trustees/Directors of the Funds.

You agree to perform the work in a workmanlike manner consistent with the customs and practices of the industry. You expressly disclaim all other guarantees, warranties or representations. You will not be responsible for any indirect or consequential damages, with your sole liability being limited to the correction of, and reasonable costs of correcting, any errors which are attributable to you. You will not be responsible for unavoidable delays beyond your control such as labor stoppages, strikes, fires or act of God.

Performance of this Agreement will be subject to the conditions set forth in the attached memorandum dated November 7, 1995 and any other conditions established from time to time by the Trustees/Directors of the Funds.

This Agreement may be terminated by either you or us upon written or oral notice communicated to the other party at anytime effective upon the receipt of such notice.

Sincerely,
JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS (See Schedule A)
By:	/s/Thomas H. Drohan

Agreed and accepted:
JOHN HANCOCK ADVISERS, INC.
By:	/s/ Robert G. Freedman

SCHEDULE A

John Hancock Financial Opportunities Fund

John Hancock Investment Trust

John Hancock Fundamental Large Cap Core Fund

John Hancock Premium Dividend Fund

EX-99.(H).3

Exhibit 99.(h)(3)

September 27, 1994

John Hancock Broker Distribution Services, Inc.

101 Huntington Ave.

Boston, MA 02199

Ladies and Gentlemen:

The John Hancock Funds agree to retain John Hancock Broker Distribution Services, Inc. to perform from time to time desktop publishing services for each of the various John Hancock Funds in connection with preparing and printing various communications to shareholders of the Funds.

The Funds will pay you at the rate of $33 per hour for work performed in accordance with this Agreement or such other rate as approved by the Trustees/Directors of the Funds.

You agree to perform the work in a workmanlike manner consistent with the customs and practices of the industry. You expressly disclaim all other guarantees, warranties or representations. You will not be responsible for any indirect or consequential damages, with our sole liability being limited to the correction of, and reasonable costs of correcting, any errors which are attributable to you. You will not be responsible for unavoidable delays beyond your control such as labor stoppages, strikes, fires or act of God.

Performance of this Agreement will be subject to the conditions set forth in the attached memorandum dated August 29, 1994 and any other conditions established from time to time by the Trustees/Directors of the Funds.

This Agreement may be terminated by either you or us upon written or oral notice communicated to the other party at anytime effective upon the receipt of such notice.

Sincerely,
JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS ( See  Schedule A)
By:	/s/Thomas H. Connors

Agreed and accepted:

JOHN HANCOCK BROKER DISTRIBUTION
SERVICES, INC.
By:	/s/ C. Troy Shaver, Jr.

SCHEDULE A

JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS

John Hancock Financial Opportunities Fund

John Hancock Investment Trust

John Hancock Fundamental Large Cap Core Fund

John Hancock Premium Dividend Fund

EX-99.(H).4

Exhibit 99.(h)(4)

CHIEF COMPLIANCE OFFICER

SERVICES AGREEMENT

THIS AGREEMENT (the “Agreement”) is made as of this 30^th day of June, 2020 by and among the trusts listed in Appendix A (the “Trusts”), on behalf of themselves and each of their funds (the “Funds”), John Hancock Investment Management LLC (formerly, John Hancock Advisers, LLC) (“John Hancock”) and the Trust’s Chief Compliance Officer, Frank Knox (the “CCO”).

WHEREAS, Rule 38a-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), requires each Trust to: (i) establish a compliance program that is reasonably designed to prevent violations of the Federal Securities Laws (as defined in Rule 38a-1); and (ii) designate an individual to serve as the CCO, with overall responsibility for administering the Trust’s compliance program;

WHEREAS, each Trust desires to retain the CCO to provide the services set forth below to the Trust and each of its Funds and the CCO is willing to furnish such services in the manner and on the terms hereinafter set forth; and

WHEREAS, each Trust desires to retain John Hancock to provide administrative services to the CCO as described below and John Hancock is willing to furnish such services in the manner and on the terms hereinafter set forth.

NOW, THEREFORE, each Trust, the CCO and John Hancock hereby agree as follows:

1.        CCO and CCO Services. Subject to the general supervision of the Boards of Trustees of the Trusts (the “Board”), the CCO will provide the Trusts and each of the Funds the CCO services set forth below as are reasonably necessary for the operation of the Trusts and each Fund (the “CCO Services”). The CCO Services include, but are not limited to:

(1) coordinating the implementation of policies and procedures reasonably designed to prevent violation of federal securities laws by the Funds, including policies and procedures that provide for the oversight of compliance by each investment adviser, subadviser, principal underwriter, administrator, and transfer agent of the Funds;

(2) reviewing, at least annually, the adequacy of the policies and procedures of the Funds and each investment adviser, subadviser, principal underwriter, administrator and transfer agent of the Funds; and

(3) providing, at least annually, a written report to the Board that at minimum, addresses:

(a) the operation of the policies and procedures of the Funds and each investment adviser, subadviser, principal underwriter, administrator, and transfer agent of the Funds, any material changes made to those policies and procedures since the date of the last report, and any material changes to the policies and procedures recommended as a result of the annual review described in Section 1.2 above; and

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(b) each material compliance matter that occurred since the date of the last report.

(4) Monitoring of post-trade compliance of each Fund with applicable regulatory requirements.

In connection with the provision of the CCO Services by the CCO, John Hancock will at the expense of the Trusts:

(1) either provide such staff and personnel to the CCO as are reasonably necessary to perform the CCO Services or assist the CCO in hiring such staff and personnel;

(2) provide the Trusts with all office space, office equipment, utilities and other office support as the CCO may reasonably request to perform the CCO Services (“Office Support”);

(3) provide the CCO with computer hardware and software (and the development thereof) used to support CCO Services and IT support relating to such computer hardware and software; and

(4) provide the CCO with such other services as the CCO may reasonably request in order to perform his or her duties as the CCO of the Funds including, without limitation, services provided by third parties such as Charles River, Diligence Vault and Bloomberg that are related to John Hancock’s provision of CCO Services to the Funds;

Expenses of providing the services set forth in (1) through (4) above to be paid by the Trust include overhead expenses (including Manulife Financial Corporation (“Manulife”) corporate overhead) related to Office Support and personnel who provide services to each Fund pursuant to this Agreement (the “Reimbursement”), provided that overhead expenses related to Office Support shall not exceed levels that are allocated ordinarily to other Manulife business units. John Hancock shall determine, subject to Board approval, the expenses to be reimbursed by each Fund pursuant to this Agreement (the “Reimbursement”); provided, however, that such expenses shall not exceed levels that are fair and reasonable in light of the usual and customary charges made by others for services of the same nature and quality. The Reimbursement shall be calculated and paid monthly in arrears.

The CCO Services do not include services performed and personnel provided pursuant to contracts with the Trust or the Funds by third-party custodians, transfer agents and other service providers.

2.         Compensation. In consideration for the CCO Services provided by the CCO pursuant to this Agreement, each Fund will pay the CCO such compensation as may be approved by the Board in accordance with Rule 38a-1 from time to time. Any services provided to the CCO or the Funds relating to the CCO Services by a person or entity other than John Hancock and its affiliates, including, without limitation, services provided by attorneys not affiliated with John Hancock, are not covered under this Agreement and are an expense of the Funds.

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3.        No Partnership or Joint Venture. Each Trust, on behalf of itself and each of its Funds, John Hancock and the CCO are not partners of or joint venturers with each other, and nothing herein shall be construed so as to make any of the Trusts, on behalf of itself or any of its Funds, John Hancock or the CCO partners or joint venturers or impose any liability as such on the Trust, any Fund, John Hancock or the CCO.

4.        Limitation of Liability. Neither the CCO nor John Hancock shall be liable for any error of judgment or mistake of law or for any loss suffered by the Funds in connection with the matters to which this Agreement relates, except losses resulting from willful misfeasance, bad faith or negligence by the CCO or John Hancock in the performance of its duties or from reckless disregard by the CCO or John Hancock of its obligations under this Agreement. Any person, even though also employed by John Hancock, who may be or become an employee of and paid by any of the Trusts shall be deemed, when acting within the scope of his or her employment by the Trust, to be acting in such employment solely for the Trusts and not as John Hancock’s employee or agent.

5.         Duration and Termination of Agreement. This Agreement shall remain in effect until the second anniversary of the date on which it was executed, and from year to year thereafter, but only so long as such continuance is specifically approved at least annually by a majority of the Board and a majority of the Independent Trustees. The Agreement may be terminated: (a) at any time on written notice without the payment of any penalty by any of the Trusts on behalf of itself or any of its Funds (by vote of a majority of the Trustees of the Trust); or (b) on 30 days’ written notice to the Trusts by the CCO or John Hancock.

6.         Amendment. No provision of this Agreement may be amended, waived, discharged or terminated except by an instrument in writing signed by the party against which enforcement of the amendment, waiver, discharge or termination is sought.

7.         Governing Law. This Agreement shall be governed by and construed in accordance with the laws of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts without regard to the choice of law provisions thereof.

8.        Miscellaneous. The captions in this Agreement are included for convenience of reference only and in no way define or limit any of the provisions of this Agreement or otherwise affect their construction or effect. This Agreement may be executed simultaneously in two or more counterparts, each of which shall be deemed an original, but all of which together shall constitute one and the same instrument. A copy of the Declaration of Trust of each Trust which is organized as a Massachusetts business trust is on file with the Secretary of State of the Commonwealth of Massachusetts and provides that no Trustee, shareholder, officer, employee or agent of the Trust shall be subject to any personal liability in connection with Trust property or the affairs of the Trust, but that only the assets belonging to the Trust, or to the particular Fund with respect to which an obligation or claim arose, shall be liable.

9.        Execution. This Agreement and any amendments hereto and any notices or other communications hereunder that are required to be in writing may be in electronic form (including without limitation by facsimile and, in the case of notices and other communications, email) and may be executed by means of electronic signatures.

(THE REMAINDER OF THIS SPACE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK)

3

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the undersigned have caused this Agreement to be executed by authorized officers as of the date first written above.

By:	/s/ Frank Knox
Name:	Frank Knox
Title:	CCO of the Trusts
JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LLC
(formerly, John Hancock Advisers, LLC)
By:	/s/ Jay Aronowitz
Name:	Jay Aronowitz
Title:	Chief Investment Officer
BY ALL THE TRUSTS LISTED IN APPENDIX A
By:	/s/ Andrew G. Arnott
Name:	Andrew G. Arnott
Title:	President and Chief Executive Officer

4

APPENDIX A

JOHN HANCOCK BOND TRUST

JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND

JOHN HANCOCK CAPITAL SERIES

JOHN HANCOCK COLLATERAL TRUST

JOHN HANCOCK CURRENT INTEREST

JOHN HANCOCK EXHANGE-TRADED FUND TRUST

JOHN HANCOCK FINANCIAL OPPORTUNITIES FUND

JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS II

JOHN HANCOCK FUNDS III

JOHN HANCOCK HEDGED EQUITY & INCOME FUND

JOHN HANCOCK INCOME SECURITIES TRUST

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT TRUST

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT TRUST II

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTORS TRUST

JOHN HANCOCK MUNICIPAL SECURITIES TRUST

JOHN HANCOCK PREFERRED INCOME FUND

JOHN HANCOCK PREFERRED INCOME FUND II

JOHN HANCOCK PREFERRED INCOME FUND III

JOHN HANCOCK PREMIUM DIVIDEND FUND

JOHN HANCOCK SOVEREIGN BOND FUND

JOHN HANCOCK STRATEGIC SERIES

JOHN HANCOCK TAX-ADVANTAGED DIVIDEND INCOME FUND

JOHN HANCOCK TAX-ADVANTAGED GLOBAL SHAREHOLDER YIELD FUND

A-1

EX-99.(H).7

Exhibit 99.(h)(7)

AMENDMENT TO THE

AMENDED AND RESTATED TRANSFER AGENCY AND SERVICE AGREEMENT

AMENDMENT  made as of  the 26^th dayof August, 2019 is made to the Amended and Restated Transfer Agency and Service Agreement dated July 1, 2013, as amended (the "Agreement"), by and between each investment company identified on Exhibit A of the Agreement (individually the " Fund " and collectively the " Funds ") and John Hancock Signature Services, Inc. ("JHSS").

WHEREAS , the parties to the Agreement desire to amend Exhibit A contained in the Agreement.

NO W, THEREFORE, in consideration of the mutual covenants hereinafter set forth. and intending to be legally bound. the parties agree the Agreement shall be amended as follows:

I. CHANGE IN Exhibit A:

Exhibit A of the Agreement is hereby amended and restated to add John Hancock Alternative Risk Premia Fund, a series of John Hancock Investment Trust , and John Hancock Short Duration Bond Fund, a series of John Hancock Bond Trust.

2. EFFECTIVE DATE

This Amendment shall become effective as of date first mentioned above.

3. DEFINED TERMS

Unless otherwise defined herein, capitalized terms used herein have the meanings specified in or pursuant to the Agreement.

4. OTHER TERMS OF THE AGREEMENT

Except as specifically amended hereby , all of the term s and conditions of the Agreement shall continue to be in full force and effect and shall be binding upon the parties in accordance with their respective terms.

IN WITNESS W HEREOF , the parties hereto have caused this Amendment to be executed in their names and on their behalf under their seals by and through their duly authorized officers, a of the day and year first above written.

[The remainder of this page is intentionally left blank .]

On Behalf or each Fund and Portfolio		John Hancock Signature Services, Inc.
Listed on Exhibit A of the Agreement
By:	/s/Andrew G. Arnott	By:	/s/Jeffrey H. Long
	Andrew G. Arnott		Jeffrey H. Long
	President		Vice President and Chief Financial Officer

Exhibit A

List of Funds and Portfolios

John Hancock Bond Trust

John Hancock ESG Core Bond Fund

John Hancock Global Conservative Absolute Return Fund

John Hancock Global Short Duration Credit Fund

John Hancock Government Income Fund John

Hancock High Yield Fund

John Hancock Investment Grade Bond Fund

John Hancock Short Duration Bond Fund

John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund

John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund

John Hancock Capital Series

John Hancock Classic Value Fund

John Hancock U.S. Global Leaders Growth Fund

John Hancock Current Interest

John Hancock Money Market Fund

John Hancock Investment Trust

John Hancock Alternative Risk Premia Fund

John Hancock Balanced Fund

John Hancock Diversified Macro Fund

John Hancock Disciplined Value International Fund

John Hancock Emerging Markets Equity Fund

John Hancock Enduring Assets Fund

John Hancock ESG All Cap Core Fund

John Hancock ESG International Equity Fund

John Hancock ESG Large Cap Core Fund

John Hancock Fundamental Large Cap Core Fund

John Hancock Global Focused Strategies Fund John

Hancock Global Thematic Opportunities Fund John

Hancock International Dynamic Growth Fund

John Hancock Seaport Long/Short Fund

John Hancock Small Cap Core Fund

John Hancock Value Equity Fund

John Hancock Investment Trust II

John Hancock Financial Industries Fund John

Hancock Regional Bank Fund

John Hancock Investment Trust III

John Hancock Greater China Opportunities Fund

John Hancock Municipal Securities Trust

John Hancock High Yield Municipal Bond Fund

John Hancock Tax-Free Bond Fund

John Hancock Sovereign Bond

John Hancock Bond Fund

John Hancock Strategic Series

John Hancock Income Fund

John Hancock Funds II

Absolute Return Currency Fund

Alternative Asset Allocation Fund

Asia Pacific Total Return Bond Fund

Blue Chip Growth Fund

Diversified Strategies Fund

Emerging Markets Fund

Emerging Markets Debt Fund

Equity Income Fund

Floating Rate Income Fund

Fundamental Global Franchise Fund

Fundamental All Cap Core Fund

Fundamental Large Cap Value Fund

Global Absolute Return Strategies

Fund Global Equity Fund

Income Allocation Fund

International Small Company Fund

Multi-Index Lifestyle Aggressive Portfolio

Multi-Index Lifestyle Balanced Portfolio

Multi-Index Lifestyle Conservative

Portfolio Multi-Index Lifestyle Growth

Portfolio Multi-Index Lifestyle Moderate

Portfolio Multimanager Lifestyle

Aggressive Portfolio Multimanager

Lifestyle Balanced Portfolio

Multimanager Lifestyle Conservative Portfolio

Multimanager Lifestyle Growth Portfolio

Multimanager Lifestyle Moderate Portfolio

Multi-Index 2060 Lifetime Portfolio

Multi-Index 2055 Lifetime Portfolio

Multi-Index 2050 Lifetime Portfolio

Multi-Index 2045 Lifetime Portfolio

Multi-Index 2040 Lifetime Portfolio

Multi- Index 2035 Lifetime Portfolio

Multi-Index 2030 Lifetime Portfolio

Multi-Index 2025 Lifetime Portfolio

Multi-Index 2020 Lifetime Portfolio

Multi-Index 2015 Lifetime Portfolio

Multi-Index 20 IO Lifetime Portfolio

Multi-Index 2060 Preservation Portfolio

Multi-Index 2055 Preservation Portfolio

Multi-Index 2050 Preservation Portfolio

Multi-Index 2045 Preservation Portfolio

Multi-Index 2040 Preservation Portfolio

Multi-Index 2035 Preservation Portfolio

Multi-Index 2030 Preservation Portfolio

Multi-Index 2025 Preservation Portfolio

Multi-Index 2020 Preservation Portfolio

Multi-Index Income Preservation

Portfolio Multimanager 2060 Lifetime

Portfolio Multimanager 2055 Lifetime

Portfolio Multimanager 2050 Lifetime

Portfolio Multimanager 2045 Lifetime

Portfolio Multimanager 2040 Lifetime

Portfolio Multimanager 2035 Lifetime

Portfolio Multimanager 2030 Lifetime

Portfolio Multimanager 2025 Lifetime

Portfolio Multimanager 2020 Lifetime

Portfolio Multi manager 2015 Lifetime

Portfolio Multimanager 20 IO Lifetime

Portfolio New Opportunities Fund

Redwood Fund

Retirement Income 2040 Fund

Short Duration Credit Opportunities Fund

Small Cap Growth Fund

Small Cap Value Fund

Spectrum Income Fund

Strategic Income Opportunities Fund

Technical Opportunities Fund

U.S. Growth Fund

John Hancock Funds III

John Hancock Disciplined Value Fund

John Hancock Disciplined Value Mid Cap Fund

John Hancock Global Shareholder Yield Fund

John Hancock International Growth Fund

John Hancock International Value Equity Fund

John Hancock Strategic Growth Fund

EX-99.(H).8

Exhibit 99.(h)(8)

John Hancock Investment Management LLC 200 Berkeley Street Boston, MA 02116

June 25, 2020

To the Trustees of

John Hancock Funds

200 Berkeley Street

Boston, MA 02116

Re: Expense Limitation Letter Agreement and Voluntary Expense Limitation Notice

With reference to each of the Advisory Agreements approved by the Board or entered into by and between John Hancock Investment Management LLC (formerly, John Hancock Advisers, LLC and hereinafter, the “Adviser”) and each of the trusts listed in Appendix A to this letter (each, a “Trust” and collectively, the “Trusts”), on behalf of each of their respective series listed in Appendix A (each, a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”), we hereby notify you as follows:

1.  The Adviser agrees to contractually waive its advisory fees or, to the extent necessary, reimburse other expenses of each Fund as set forth in Appendix B, Appendix C, Appendix D, Appendix E, and Appendix F hereto.

2.  The Adviser agrees to voluntarily waive its advisory fees or, to the extent necessary, reimburse other expenses of each Fund as set forth in Appendix G, Appendix H and Appendix I hereto.

3.  We understand and intend that the Trusts will rely on this undertaking in overseeing the preparation and filing of Post-effective Amendments to the Registration Statement on Form N-1A for the Trusts and the Funds with the Securities and Exchange Commission, in accruing each Fund’s expenses for purposes of calculating its net and gross asset value per share, and for other purposes permitted under Form N-1A and/or the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and we expressly permit the Trusts so to rely.

Very truly yours,
JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT LLC
By:	/s/ Jeffrey H. Long
	Jeffrey H. Long
	Chief Financial Officer

Agreed and Accepted

on behalf of each applicable Trust listed in Appendix A

By:	/s/ Charles A. Rizzo
	Charles A. Rizzo
	Chief Financial Officer

A copy of the document establishing each Trust is filed with the Secretary of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.  This Agreement is executed by the officer in his capacity as such and not as an individual and is not binding upon any of the Trustees, officers or shareholders of the Trusts individually but only upon the assets of the Funds.

APPENDIX A

TRUSTS and Funds

JOHN HANCOCK BOND TRUST

John Hancock ESG Core Bond Fund

John Hancock Government Income Fund

John Hancock High Yield Fund

John Hancock Investment Grade Bond Fund

John Hancock Short Duration Bond Fund

JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND

John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund

JOHN HANCOCK CAPITAL SERIES

John Hancock Classic Value Fund

John Hancock U.S. Global Leaders Growth Fund

JOHN HANCOCK CURRENT INTEREST

John Hancock Money Market Fund

JOHN HANCOCK EXCHANGE-TRADED FUND TRUST

John Hancock Multifactor Consumer Discretionary ETF

John Hancock Multifactor Consumer Staples ETF

John Hancock Multifactor Developed International ETF

John Hancock Multifactor Emerging Markets ETF

John Hancock Multifactor Energy ETF

John Hancock Multifactor Financials ETF

John Hancock Multifactor Healthcare ETF

John Hancock Multifactor Industrials ETF

John Hancock Multifactor Large Cap ETF

John Hancock Multifactor Materials ETF

John Hancock Multifactor Media and Communications ETF

John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF

John Hancock Multifactor Small Cap ETF

John Hancock Multifactor Technology ETF

John Hancock Multifactor Utilities ETF

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT TRUST

John Hancock Alternative Risk Premia Fund

John Hancock Balanced Fund

John Hancock Disciplined Value International Fund

John Hancock Diversified Macro Fund

John Hancock Diversified Real Assets Fund

John Hancock Emerging Markets Equity Fund

John Hancock ESG All Cap Core Fund

John Hancock ESG International Equity Fund

John Hancock ESG Large Cap Core Fund

John Hancock Fundamental Large Cap Core Fund

John Hancock Global Thematic Opportunities Fund

A-1

John Hancock Infrastructure Fund

John Hancock International Dynamic Growth Fund

John Hancock Seaport Long/Short Fund

John Hancock Small Cap Core Fund

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT TRUST II

John Hancock Financial Industries Fund

John Hancock Regional Bank Fund

JOHN HANCOCK MUNICIPAL SECURITIES TRUST

John Hancock High Yield Municipal Bond Fund

John Hancock Tax-Free Bond Fund

JOHN HANCOCK SOVEREIGN BOND FUND

John Hancock Bond Fund

JOHN HANCOCK STRATEGIC SERIES

John Hancock Income Fund

A-2

APPENDIX B

Fund Level Contractual Limitation on Fund Level Expenses

For purposes of this Appendix:

The Adviser contractuallyagrees to reduce its management fee for the Fund or, if necessary, make payment to the Fund, in an amount equal to the amount by which the “Expenses” of the Fund exceed the percentage of average daily net assets (on an annualized basis) of the Fund as set forth in the table below. “Expenses” means all the expenses of the Fund, excluding (a) taxes, (b) brokerage commissions, (c) interest expense, (d) litigation and indemnification expenses and other extraordinary expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Fund’s business, (e) Rule 12b-1 fees, (f) transfer agent fees and service fees, (g) shareholder servicing fees, (h) borrowing costs, (i) prime brokerage fees, (j) acquired fund fees and expenses paid indirectly, and (k) short dividend expense.

“Expense Limit” means the percentage of a Fund’s average daily net assets (on an annualized basis) set forth below.

The current expense limitation agreement expires on the date specified, unless renewed by mutual agreement of the Fund and the Adviser based upon a determination that this is appropriate under the circumstances at that time.

Fund	Limit on Fund Level Expenses	Expiration Date of Expense Limit
Disciplined Value International Fund	0.88%	2/28/2021
Diversified Macro Fund	1.33%	2/28/2021
ESG All Cap Core Fund	0.81%	2/28/2021
ESG International Equity Fund	0.91%	2/28/2021
ESG Large Cap Core Fund	0.81%	2/28/2021
Global Thematic Opportunities Fund	0.84%	2/28/2021
International Dynamic Growth Fund	0.83%	2/28/2021
ESG Core Bond Fund	0.50%	9/30/20211
Investment Grade Bond Fund	0.38%	9/30/20211
Short Duration Bond Fund	0.29%	9/30/20211

¹ At the June 23-25, 2020 meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, the Adviser notified the Board of, and the Board approved, the renewal of the contractual limit on fund level expenses for ESG Core Bond Fund (0.50%), Investment Grade Bond Fund (0.38%) and Short Duration Bond Fund (0.29%), each with an expiration date of September 30, 2021, each effective upon the current expiration date of September 30, 2020.

B-1

APPENDIX C

Fund Level Contractual Limitation on Total Operating Expenses

For purposes of this Appendix:

The Adviser contractuallyagrees to reduce its management fee for the Fund or, if necessary, make payment to the Fund, in an amount equal to the amount by which the “Expenses” of the Fund exceed the percentage of average daily net assets (on an annualized basis) of the Fund as set forth in the table below. “Expenses” means all the expenses of the Fund, excluding (a) taxes, (b) brokerage commissions, (c) interest expense, (d) litigation and indemnification expenses and other extraordinary expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Fund’s business, (e) borrowing costs, (f) prime brokerage fees, (g) acquired fund fees and expenses paid indirectly, and (h) short dividend expense.

“Expense Limit” means the percentage of a Fund’s average daily net assets (on an annualized basis) set forth below.

The current expense limitation agreement expires on the date specified, unless renewed by mutual agreement of the Fund and the Adviser based upon a determination that this is appropriate under the circumstances at that time.

Fund	Limit on Fund Level Expenses	Expiration Date of Expense Limit
John Hancock Multifactor Large Cap ETF	0.29%	8/31/2021
John Hancock Multifactor Mid Cap ETF	0.42%	8/31/2021
John Hancock Multifactor Consumer Discretionary ETF	0.40%	8/31/20211
John Hancock Multifactor Consumer Staples ETF	0.40%	8/31/20211
John Hancock Multifactor Developed International ETF	0.39%	8/31/2021
John Hancock Multifactor Emerging Markets ETF	0.49%	8/31/2021
John Hancock Multifactor Energy ETF	0.40%	8/31/20211
John Hancock Multifactor Financials ETF	0.40%	8/31/20211
John Hancock Multifactor Healthcare ETF	0.40%	8/31/20211
John Hancock Multifactor Industrials ETF	0.40%	8/31/20211
John Hancock Multifactor Materials ETF	0.40%	8/31/20211
John Hancock Multifactor Media and Communications ETF	0.40%	8/31/20211
John Hancock Multifactor Small Cap ETF	0.42%	8/31/2021
John Hancock Multifactor Technology ETF	0.40%	8/31/20211
John Hancock Multifactor Utilities ETF	0.40%	8/31/20211

¹ At the June 23-25, 2020 meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, the Adviser notified the Board of, and the Board approved, the renewal of the contractual limit on total operating expenses for John Hancock Multifactor Consumer Discretionary ETF (0.40%); John Hancock Multifactor Consumer Staples ETF (0.40%); John Hancock Multifactor Energy ETF (0.40%); John Hancock Multifactor Financials ETF (0.40%); %); John Hancock Multifactor Healthcare ETF (0.40%); John Hancock Multifactor Industrials ETF (0.40%); John Hancock Multifactor Materials ETF (0.40%); John Hancock Multifactor Media and Communications ETF (0.40%); John Hancock Multifactor Technology ETF (0.40%); and John Hancock Multifactor Utilities ETF (0.40%), each with an expiration date of August 31, 2021, each effective upon the current expiration date of August 31, 2020.

C-1

APPENDIX D

Class Level Contractual Total Operating Expense Limitations

For purposes of this Appendix:

“Expenses” means all the expenses of a class of shares of a Fund (including those expenses of the Fund attributable to such class) but excluding: (i) taxes; (ii) portfolio brokerage commissions; (iii) interest expense; (iv) litigation and indemnification expenses and other extraordinary expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Fund’s business; (v) acquired fund fees and expenses paid indirectly; (vi) borrowing costs; (vii) prime brokerage fees; (viii) short dividend expense; and (ix) fees under any agreements or plans of the Fund dealing with services for shareholders and others with beneficial interests in shares of the Fund.

“Expense Limit” means the percentage of average daily net assets (on an annualized basis) attributable to a class of shares of the Funds set forth below.

The Adviser contractually agrees to waive advisory fees or, if necessary, reimburse expenses or make payment to a specific class of shares of the Fund (up to the amount of the expenses relating solely to such class of shares), in an amount equal to the amount by which the Expenses of such class of shares exceed the Expense Limit for such class set forth in the table below.  The current expense limitation agreements expire on the dates specified, unless renewed by mutual agreement of the Fund and the Adviser based upon a determination that this is appropriate under the circumstances at that time.

The Expense Limit for the classes of shares of the Funds indicated below for the purposes of this Appendix shall be as follows:

D-1

	Class	Class	Class	Class	Class	Class	Class	Class NAV	Expiration Date of Expense Limit
Fund	A	B	C	I	R2	R4	R6
Disciplined Value International Fund	N/A	N/A	N/A	0.98%	N/A	N/A	0.88%	N/A	2/28/2021
Fundamental Large Cap Core Fund	N/A	1.82%	1.82%	0.78%	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	2/28/2021
Global Thematic Opportunities Fund	1.19%	N/A	1.94%	0.94%	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	2/28/2021
Infrastructure Fund	1.31%	N/A	2.01%	1.00%	N/A	N/A	0.92%	0.92%	2/28/2021
Government Income Fund	0.98%	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	9/30/20211
High Yield Fund	N/A	N/A	N/A	0.72%	N/A	N/A	N/A	N/A	9/30/20212
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	0.89%	1.64%	1.64%	0.74%	N/A	N/A	0.72%	N/A	9/30/20213
Short Duration Bond Fund	0.65%	N/A	1.40%	0.40%	N/A	N/A	0.29%	N/A	9/30/20214

¹ At the June 23-25, 2020 meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, the Adviser notified the Board of, and the Board approved, the renewal of the class level limit on total operating expenses for Government Income Fund for Class A Shares (0.98%), with an expiration date of September 30, 2021, effective upon the current expiration date of September 30, 2020.

² At the June 23-25, 2020 meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, the Adviser notified the Board of, and the Board approved, the renewal of the class level limit on total operating expenses for High Yield Fund for Class I Shares (0.72%), with an expiration date of September 30, 2021, effective upon the current expiration date of September 30, 2020.

³ At the June 23-25, 2020 meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, the Adviser notified the Board of, and the Board approved, the addition of the class level limit on total operating expenses for High Yield Municipal Bond Fund for Class A (0.89%); Class B (1.64%); Class C (1.64%); Class I (0.74%); and Class R6 (0.72%) Shares, each with an expiration date of  September 30, 2021, each effective as of July 1, 2020.

⁴ At the June 23-25, 2020 meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, the Adviser notified the Board of, and the Board approved, the renewal of the class level limit on total operating expenses for Short Duration Bond Fund for Class A (0.65%),Class C (1.40%), Class I (0.40%), and Class R6 (0.29%) Shares, with an expiration date of September 30, 2021, effective upon the current expiration date of September 30, 2020.

D-2

APPENDIX E

Fund Level Contractual Limit on Other Expenses

For purposes of this Appendix:

The Adviser contractuallyagrees to reduce its management fee for the Fund or, if necessary, make payment to the Fund, in an amount equal to the amount by which the “Expenses” of the Fund exceed the percentage of average daily net assets (on an annualized basis) of the Fund as set forth in the table below. “Expenses” means all the expenses of the Fund, excluding (a) taxes, (b) brokerage commissions, (c) interest expense, (d) litigation and indemnification expenses and other extraordinary expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Fund’s business, (e) advisory fees, (f) Rule 12b-1 fees, (g) transfer agent fees and service fees, (h) shareholder servicing fees, (i) borrowing costs, (j) prime brokerage fees, (k) acquired fund fees and expenses paid indirectly, and (l) short dividend expense.

“Expense Limit” means the percentage of a Fund’s average daily net assets (on an annualized basis) set forth below.

The current expense limitation agreement expires on the date specified, unless renewed by mutual agreement of the Fund and the Adviser based upon a determination that this is appropriate under the circumstances at that time.

Fund Limit on Other Expenses Expiration Date of Expense Limit

E-1

APPENDIX F

Fund Level Contractual Investment Management Fee Waivers

The Adviser agrees to reduce John Hancock Diversified Real Assets Fund’s management fee by an annual rate of 0.05% of the Fund’s average daily net assets.  The reduction will continue until at least July 31, 2021.

F-1

APPENDIX G

Class Level Voluntary Total Operating Expense Limitations*

For purposes of this Appendix:

“Expenses” means all the expenses of a class of shares of the Fund (including those expenses of the Fund attributable to such class) but excluding: (i) taxes; (ii) portfolio brokerage commissions; (iii) interest expense; (iv) litigation and indemnification expenses and other extraordinary expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Fund’s business; (v) acquired fund fees and expenses paid indirectly; (vi) short dividend expense; and (vii) fees under any agreements or plans of the Fund dealing with services for shareholders and others with beneficial interests in shares of the Fund.

“Expense Limit” means the percentage of average daily net assets (on an annualized basis) attributable to a class of shares of the Fund set forth below.

The Adviser voluntarily agrees to waive advisory fees or, if necessary, reimburse expenses or make payment to a specific class of shares of the Fund (up to the amount of the expenses relating solely to such class of shares), in an amount equal to the amount by which the Expenses of such class of shares exceed the Expense Limit for such class set forth in the table below.

The Expense Limit for the classes of shares of the Fund indicated below for the purposes of this Appendix shall be as follows:

	Classes
Fund	A	B	C	I	R1	R2	R3	R4	R5	R6
N/A

*These fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements are voluntary and may be amended or terminated at any time by the Adviser on notice to the Trust

G-1

APPENDIX H

Fund Level Voluntary Limit on Other Expenses*

For purposes of this Appendix:

The Adviser voluntarilyagrees to reduce its management fee for the Fund or, if necessary, make payment to the Fund, in an amount equal to the amount by which the “Other Expenses” of the Fund exceed the percentage of average daily net assets (on an annualized basis) of the Fund as set forth in the table below. “Other Expenses” means all the expenses of the Fund, excluding (a) taxes, (b) brokerage commissions, (c) interest expense, (d) litigation and indemnification expenses and other extraordinary expenses not incurred in the ordinary course of the Fund’s business, (e) investment management fees, (f) Rule 12b-1 fees, (g) transfer agent fees and service fees, (h) shareholder servicing fees, (i) borrowing costs, (j) prime brokerage fees, (k) acquired fund fees and expenses paid indirectly, and (l) short dividend expense.

Fund	Limit on Other Expenses
Balanced Fund	0.20%
Classic Value Fund	0.20%
Emerging Markets Equity Fund	0.25%
Financial Industries Fund	0.20%
Fundamental Large Cap Core Fund	0.20%
Infrastructure Fund	0.25%
Regional Bank Fund	0.20%
Seaport Long/Short Fund	0.20%
Small Cap Core Fund	0.20%
U.S. Global Leaders Growth Fund	0.20%
Bond Fund	0.15%
California Tax-Free Income Fund	0.15%
Government Income Fund	0.15%
High Yield Fund	0.15%
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	0.15%
Income Fund	0.15%
Tax-Free Bond Fund	0.15%
Money Market Fund	0.15%

*    These fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements are voluntary and may be amended or terminated at any time by the Adviser on notice to the Trust.

H-1

APPENDIX I

Voluntary Money Market Fund Expense Limitation Agreement

For John Hancock Money Market Fund, the Adviser and its affiliates may voluntarily waive a portion of their fees (including, but not limited to, distribution and service (Rule 12b‑1) fees) and/or reimburse certain expenses to the extent necessary to assist the Fund in attempting to avoid a negative yield.  In addition, the Adviser and its affiliates have voluntarily agreed to waive a portion of their fees (including, but not limited to, Rule 12b-1 fees) and/or reimburse certain expenses to the extent necessary to assist the fund in attempting to achieve a positive yield. These fee waivers and/or expense reimbursements are voluntary and may be amended or terminated at any time by the Adviser on notice to the Trust.

I-1

EX-99.(H).9

Exhibit 99.(h)(9)

June 25, 2020

To the Trustees of the John Hancock Group of Funds

200 Berkeley Street

Boston, MA 02116

Re: Agreement to Waive Advisory Fees and Reimburse Expenses

John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers LLC (formerly John Hancock Investment Management Services, LLC) and John Hancock Investment Management LLC (formerly John Hancock Advisers, LLC) (collectively, the “Advisers”), each an investment adviser to the investment companies listed in Appendix A (collectively, the “John Hancock Funds”), hereby notify you as follows:

1.  Each Adviser agrees to waive its management fee for a John Hancock Fund portfolio, as applicable, or otherwise reimburse the expenses of that portfolio as set forth below (the “Reimbursement”).

2.  The Reimbursement shall apply to all John Hancock Fund portfolios in existence on the date of this Agreement, except those noted below, and to all future John Hancock Fund portfolios to which an Adviser agrees this Agreement should apply (the “Participating Portfolios”).

The Reimbursement shall not apply to the following John Hancock Variable Insurance Trust portfolios:

Each Managed Volatility Portfolio

Each Lifecycle Trust

Each Lifestyle Portfolio

The reimbursement shall not apply to the following John Hancock Funds II portfolios:

Each Multi-Index Preservation Portfolio

Each Multimanager Lifestyle Portfolio

Each Multi-Index Lifestyle Portfolio

Each Multimanager Lifetime Portfolio

Each Multi-Index Lifetime Portfolio

Alternative Asset Allocation Fund

Retirement Income 2040 Fund

The Reimbursement shall not apply to John Hancock Collateral Trust.

The Reimbursement shall not apply to the following John Hancock Strategic Series portfolios:

John Hancock Managed Account Shares Investment-Grade Corporate Bond Portfolio

John Hancock Managed Account Shares Securitized Debt Portfolio

John Hancock Managed Account Shares Non-Investment-Grade Corporate Bond Portfolio

3.  The Reimbursement shall equal on an annualized basis:

0.01% of that portion of the aggregate net assets of all the Participating Portfolios that exceeds $75 billion but is less than or equal to $125 billion;

0.0125% of that portion of the aggregate net assets of all the Participating Portfolios that exceeds $125 billion but is less than or equal to $150 billion;

0.0150% of that portion of the aggregate net assets of all the Participating Portfolios that exceeds $150 billion but is less than or equal to $175 billion;

0.0175% of that portion of the aggregate net assets of all the Participating Portfolios that exceeds $175 billion but is less than or equal to $200 billion;

0.02% of that portion of the aggregate net assets of all the Participating Portfolios that exceeds $200 billion but is less than or equal to $225 billion; and

0.0225% of that portion of the aggregate net assets of all the Participating Portfolios that exceeds $225 billion.

The amount of the Reimbursement shall be calculated daily and allocated among all the Participating Portfolios in proportion to the daily net assets of each such portfolio.

4.  The Reimbursement with respect to each Participating Portfolio expires on July 31, 2022 unless renewed by mutual agreement of the John Hancock Funds and the Advisers based upon a determination that this is appropriate under the circumstances at the time.

5.  This Agreement is effective as of June 25, 2020 and supersedes the prior Letter Agreement from the Adviser to the Trustees relating to the same subject matter.

- 2 -

Very truly yours,
John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers LLC
By:	/s/ Jay Aronowitz
	Jay Aronowitz
John Hancock Investment Management LLC
By:	/s/ Jay Aronowitz
	Jay Aronowitz

ACCEPTED BY:

John Hancock Bond Trust
John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund	John Hancock Investors Trust John Hancock Municipal Securities Trust
John Hancock Capital Series	John Hancock Preferred Income Fund
John Hancock Current Interest	John Hancock Preferred Income Fund II
John Hancock Exchange-Traded Fund Trust	John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III John Hancock Premium Dividend Fund
John Hancock Financial Opportunities Fund	John Hancock Sovereign Bond Fund John Hancock Strategic Series
John Hancock Funds II John Hancock Funds III	John Hancock Tax-Advantaged Dividend Income Fund
John Hancock Hedged Equity & Income Fund	John Hancock Tax-Advantaged Global Shareholder Yield Fund
John Hancock Income Securities Trust	John Hancock Variable Insurance Trust
John Hancock Investment Trust John Hancock Investment Trust II

On behalf of each of its series identified as a Participating Portfolio
By:	/s/ Andrew G. Arnott
	Andrew G. Arnott

- 3 -

Appendix A

John Hancock Bond Trust
John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund	John Hancock Investors Trust John Hancock Municipal Securities Trust
John Hancock Capital Series	John Hancock Preferred Income Fund
John Hancock Current Interest	John Hancock Preferred Income Fund II
John Hancock Exchange-Traded Fund Trust	John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III John Hancock Premium Dividend Fund
John Hancock Financial Opportunities Fund	John Hancock Sovereign Bond Fund John Hancock Strategic Series
John Hancock Funds II John Hancock Funds III	John Hancock Tax-Advantaged Dividend Income Fund
John Hancock Hedged Equity & Income Fund	John Hancock Tax-Advantaged Global Shareholder Yield Fund
John Hancock Income Securities Trust	John Hancock Variable Insurance Trust
John Hancock Investment Trust John Hancock Investment Trust II

- 4 -

EX-99.(H).10

Exhibit 99.(h)(10)

John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC
200 Berkeley Street
Boston, MA 02116

June 25, 2020

To the Trustees of

John Hancock Funds

200 Berkeley Street

Boston, MA 02116

Re: Rule 12b-1 Fee Waiver Letter Agreement

With reference to each of the Distribution Plans entered into by and between John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC (formerly, John Hancock Funds, LLC  and hereinafter, the “Distributor”) and each of the trusts listed in Appendix A to this letter (each, a “Trust” and collectively, the “Trusts”), on behalf of each of their respective series listed in Appendix A (each, a “Fund” and collectively, the “Funds”), we hereby notify you as follows:

1.  The Distributor agrees to contractually waive and limit its Rule 12b-1 distribution fees and/or service fees to the extent necessary to achieve the aggregate Rule 12b-1 distribution and service fees of each Fund as set forth in Appendix B hereto. The expense waiver agreements expire on the dates specified, unless renewed by mutual agreement of the Fund and the Distributor based upon a determination that this is appropriate under the circumstances at that time.

2.  We understand and intend that the Trusts will rely on this undertaking in overseeing the preparation and filing of Post-effective Amendments to the Registration Statements on Form N-1A for the Trusts and the Funds with the Securities and Exchange Commission, in accruing each Fund’s expenses for purposes of calculating its net and gross asset value per share, and for other purposes permitted under Form N-1A and/or the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and we expressly permit the Trusts so to rely.

Sincerely,
JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT MANAGEMENT DISTRIBUTORS LLC
By:	/s/ Jeffrey H. Long
	Jeffrey H. Long
	Chief Financial Officer

John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC
200 Berkeley Street
Boston, MA 02116

Agreed and Accepted
on behalf of each applicable Trust listed in Appendix A
By:	/s/ Charles A. Rizzo
	Charles A. Rizzo
	Chief Financial Officer

A copy of the document establishing each Trust is filed with the Secretary of The Commonwealth of Massachusetts.  This Agreement is executed by the officer in his capacity as such and not as an individual and is not binding upon any of the Trustees, officers or shareholders of the Trusts individually but only upon the assets of the Funds.

APPENDIX A

TRUSTS and Funds

JOHN HANCOCK BOND TRUST

John Hancock ESG Core Bond Fund

John Hancock Government Income Fund

John Hancock High Yield Fund

John Hancock Investment Grade Bond Fund

John Hancock Short Duration Bond Fund

JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND

John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund

JOHN HANCOCK CAPITAL SERIES

John Hancock Classic Value Fund

John Hancock U.S. Global Leaders Growth Fund

JOHN HANCOCK CURRENT INTEREST

John Hancock Money Market Fund

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT TRUST

John Hancock Alternative Risk Premia Fund

John Hancock Balanced Fund

John Hancock Disciplined Value International Fund

John Hancock Diversified Real Assets Fund

John Hancock Diversified Macro Fund

John Hancock Emerging Markets Equity Fund

John Hancock ESG All Cap Core Fund

John Hancock ESG International Equity Fund

John Hancock ESG Large Cap Core Fund

John Hancock Fundamental Large Cap Core Fund

John Hancock Global Thematic Opportunities Fund

John Hancock Infrastructure Fund

John Hancock International Dynamic Growth Fund

John Hancock Seaport Long/Short Fund

John Hancock Small Cap Core Fund

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT TRUST II

John Hancock Financial Industries Fund

John Hancock Regional Bank Fund

JOHN HANCOCK MUNICIPAL SECURITIES TRUST

John Hancock High Yield Municipal Bond Fund

John Hancock Tax-Free Bond Fund

JOHN HANCOCK SOVEREIGN BOND FUND

John Hancock Bond Fund

JOHN HANCOCK STRATEGIC SERIES

John Hancock Income Fund

A-1

APPENDIX B

Fund	Class A	Class B	Class C	Class R4	Expiration Date of Waiver/Limit
Balanced Fund	N/A	N/A	N/A	0.15%	2/28/2021
Classic Value Fund	N/A	N/A	N/A	0.15%	2/28/2021
Disciplined Value International Fund	N/A	N/A	N/A	0.15%	2/28/2021
Emerging Markets Equity Fund	N/A	N/A	N/A	0.15%	2/28/2021
Fundamental Large Cap Core Fund	N/A	N/A	N/A	0.15%	2/28/2021
Bond Fund	N/A	N/A	N/A	0.15%	9/30/20211
California Tax-Free Income Fund	N/A	0.90%	0.90%	N/A	9/30/20212
High Yield Municipal Bond Fund	0.15%	0.90%	0.90%	N/A	9/30/20213
Income Fund	N/A	N/A	N/A	0.15%	9/30/20211
Investment Grade Bond Fund	N/A	N/A	N/A	0.15%	9/30/20211
Tax-Free Bond Fund	0.15%	0.90%	0.90%	N/A	9/30/20213
Money Market Fund	0.00%	0.00%	0.00%	N/A	7/31/2021

¹ At the June 23-25, 2020 meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, the Distributor notified the Board of, and the Board approved, the extension of the waiver and limit of the Rule 12b-1 distribution fees and/or services fees for Class R4 shares of Bond Fund, Income Fund and Investment Grade Bond Fund, each with an expiration date of September 30, 2021, each effective upon the current expiration date of September 30, 2020.

² At the June 23-25, 2020 meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, the Distributor notified the Board of, and the Board approved, the extension of the waiver and limit of the Rule 12b-1 distribution fees and/or services fees for Class B and Class C shares of California Tax-Free Income Fund, each with an expiration date of September 30, 2021, each effective upon the current expiration date of September 30, 2020.

³ At the June 23-25, 2020 meeting of the Board of Trustees of the Trust, the Distributor notified the Board of, and the Board approved, the extension of the waiver and limit of the Rule 12b-1 distribution fees and/or services fees for Class A, Class B and Class C shares of High Yield Municipal Bond Fund and Tax-Free Bond Fund, each with an expiration date of September 30, 2021, each effective upon the current expiration date of September 30, 2020.

B-1

EX-99.(I)

Exhibit (i)

JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND

200 Berkeley Street

Boston, Massachusetts 02116

September 25, 2020

To whom it may concern:

John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund (the “Trust”) is a voluntary association (commonly referred to as a “business trust”) established under Massachusetts law with the powers and authority set forth under its Amended and Restated Declaration of Trust dated January 22, 2016, as amended from time to time (the “Declaration of Trust”). The Trustees of the Trust have the powers set forth in the Declaration of Trust, subject to the terms, provisions and conditions therein provided.

As provided in the Declaration of Trust, the Trustees may authorize one or more series or classes of shares, without par value, the number of shares of each series or class authorized is unlimited, and the Trustees may from time to time issue and sell or cause to be issued and sold shares of the Trust for cash or for property. All such shares, when so issued, shall be fully paid and nonassessable by the Trust.

This opinion is furnished in connection with the share classes of the fund listed in Schedule A (collectively, the “Shares”) of the Trust to be offered and sold pursuant to Post-Effective Amendment No. 61 to the Trust’s Registration Statement under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, and Amendment No. 64 to its Registration Statement under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, as may be supplemented from time to time (the “Registration Statement”).

I am a member of the Massachusetts bar and have acted as internal legal counsel to the Trust in connection with the preparation of the Registration Statement. I have examined originals, or copies, certified or otherwise identified to my satisfaction, of such certificates, records and other documents as I have deemed necessary or appropriate for the purpose of this opinion.

Based upon the foregoing, and with respect to existing Massachusetts law (other than the Massachusetts Uniform Securities Act), only to the extent that Massachusetts law may be applicable and without reference to the laws of the other several states or of the United States of America, I am of the opinion that the Shares, when issued, sold and consideration therefore is paid in accordance with the Registration Statement, will be legally issued, fully paid and non-assessable by the Trust.  In this regard, however, I note that the Trust is a Massachusetts business trust and, under certain circumstances, shareholders of a Massachusetts business trust could be held personally liable for the obligations of the Trust.

I consent to the filing of this opinion with the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission as an exhibit to the Registration Statement.

Very truly yours,

/s/ Thomas Dee

Thomas Dee, Esq.

Assistant Secretary of the Trust

John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund

Exhibit (i)

Schedule A

John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund

Class A

Class B

Class C

Class I

Class R6

EX-99.(J)

Exhibit 99.j

CONSENT OF INDEPENDENT REGISTERED PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM

We hereby consent to the incorporation by reference in this Registration Statement on Form N-1A of John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund of our report dated July 13, 2020, relating to the financial statements and financial highlights, which appears in John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund’s Annual Report on Form N-CSR for the year ended May 31, 2020.  We also consent to the references to us under the headings “Financial Highlights”, “Independent Registered Public Accounting Firm” and “Policy Regarding Disclosure of Portfolio Holdings” in such Registration Statement.

/s/ PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Boston, Massachusetts

September 23, 2020

EX-99.(M)

Exhibit 99.m

JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FOND

Class A Shares

Amended and Restated

Distribution Plan

June 30, 2020

Article I.  This Plan

This Amended and Restated Distribution Plan (the “Plan”) sets forth the terms and conditions on which John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund (the “Fund”) will, after the effective date hereof, pay certain amounts to John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC (“JHIMD”) in connection with the provision by JHIMD of certain services to the Fund and its Class A shareholders, as set forth herein. Certain of such payments by the Trust may, under Rule 12b-1 of the Securities and Exchange Commission, as from time to time amended (the “Rule”), under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “Act”), be deemed to constitute the financing of distribution by the Fund of its shares. This Plan describes all material aspects of such financing as contemplated by the Rule and shall be administered and interpreted, and implemented and continued, in a manner consistent with the Rule. The Fund and JHIMD have entered into a Distribution Agreement of even date herewith, as amended from time to time (the “Agreement”), the terms of which, as heretofore and from time to time continued, are incorporated herein by reference.

Article II.  Distribution and Service Expenses

The Fund shall pay to JHIMD a fee in the amount specified in Article III hereof. Such fee may be spent by JHIMD on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of Class A shares of the Fund, including, but not limited to the payment of Distribution Expenses (as defined below) and Service Expenses (as defined below). Distribution Expenses include, but are not limited to, (a) initial and ongoing sales compensation payable out of such fee as it is received by JHIMD or other broker-dealers (“Selling Brokers”) that have entered into an agreement with JHIMD for the sale of Class A shares of the Fund, (b) direct out-of-pocket expenses incurred in connection with the distribution of Class A shares of the Fund, including expenses related to printing of prospectuses and reports to other than existing Class A shareholders of the Fund, and preparation, printing and distribution of sales literature and advertising materials, (c) an allocation of overhead and other branch office expenses of JHIMD related to the distribution of Class A shares of the Fund, (d) distribution expenses incurred by Transamerica Fund Distributors, Inc. in connection with the Class A shares of the Fund, and (e) distribution expenses incurred in connection with the distribution of a corresponding class of any open-end, registered investment company which sells all or substantially all of its assets to the Fund or which merges or otherwise combines with the Fund.

Service Expenses include payments made to, or on account of, account executives of selected broker-dealers (including affiliates of JHIMD) and others who furnishpersonal and shareholder account maintenance services to Class A shareholders of the Fund.

Article III.  Maximum Expenditures

The expenditures to be made by the Fund, pursuant to this Plan, and the basis upon which such expenditures will be made, shall be determined by the Fund, and in no event shall such expenditures exceed an annual rate of 0.15% of the average daily net asset value of the Class A shares of the Fund (determined in accordance with the Fund’s prospectus as from time to time in effect) to cover Distribution Expenses and Service Expenses, provided that the portion of such fee used to cover Service Expenses may only constitute up to an annual rate of 0.15% of the average daily net asset value of the Class A shares of the Fund payable annually pursuant to the Plan. Such expenditures shall be calculated and accrued daily and paid monthly or at such other intervals as the Trustees shall determine. In the event JHIMD is not fully reimbursed for payments made or other expenses incurred by it under this Plan, such expenses will not be carried beyond one year from the date such expenses were incurred. Any fees paid to JHIMD under this Plan during any fiscal year of the Fund and not expended or allocated by JHIMD for actual or budgeted Distribution Expenses and Service Expenses during such fiscal year will be promptly returned to the Fund.

Article IV.  Expenses Borne by the Fund

Notwithstanding any other provision of this Plan, the Fund and its investment adviser, John Hancock Investment Management LLC (the “Adviser”), shall bear the respective expenses to be borne by them under the Amended and Restated Investment Management Contract dated June 30, 2020, as from time to time continued and amended (the “Management Contract”), and under the Fund’s current prospectus as it is from time to time in effect. Except as otherwise contemplated by this Plan, the Fund shall not, directly or indirectly, engage in financing any activity which is primarily intended to or should reasonably result in the sale of shares of the Fund.

Article V.  Approval by Trustees

This Plan shall not take effect until it has been approved, together with any related agreements, by votes, cast in person at a meeting called for the purpose of voting on this Plan or such agreements, of a majority (or whatever greater percentage may, from time to time, be required by Section 12(b) of the Act or the rules and regulations thereunder) of (a) all of the Trustees of the Fund and (b) those Trustees of the Fund who are not “interested persons” of the Fund, as such term may be from time to time defined under the Act, and have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of this Plan or any agreements related to it (the “Independent Trustees”).

2

Article VI.  Continuance

This Plan and any related agreements shall continue in effect for so long as such continuance is specifically approved at least annually in advance in the manner provided for the approval of this Plan in Article V.

Article VII.  Information

JHIMD shall furnish the Fund and its Trustees quarterly, or at such other intervals as the Fund shall specify, a written report of amounts expended or incurred for Distribution Expenses and Service Expenses pursuant to this Plan and the purposes for which such expenditures were made and such other information as the Trustees may request.

Article VIII.  Termination

This Plan may be terminated (a) at any time by vote of a majority of the Trustees, a majority of the Independent Trustees, or a majority of the Fund’s outstanding voting Class A shares, or by JHIMD on 60 days’ notice in writing to the  Fund.

Article IX.  Agreements

Each agreement with any person relating to implementation of this Plan shall be in writing, and each agreement related to this Plan shall provide:

(a) That, with respect to the Fund, such agreement may be terminated at any time, without payment of any penalty, by vote of a majority of the Independent Trustees or by vote of a majority of the Fund’s then outstanding voting Class A shares.

(b) That such agreement shall terminate automatically in the event of its assignment.

Article X.  Amendments

This Plan may not be amended to increase the maximum amount of the fees payable by the Fund hereunder without the approval of a majority of the outstanding voting Class A shares of the Fund. No material amendment to the Plan shall, in any event, be effective unless it is approved in the same manner as is provided for approval of this Plan in Article V.

Article XI.  Limitation of Liability

The obligations of the Fund are not personally binding upon, nor shall resort be had to the private property of, any of the Trustees, shareholders, officers, employees or agents of the Fund, but only the Fund’s property shall be bound.

Article XII. Execution

This Agreement and any amendments hereto and any notices or other communications hereunder that are required to be in writing may be in electronic form (including without limitation by facsimile and, in the case of notices and other communications, email) and may be executed by means of electronic signatures.

(THE REMAINDER OF THIS SPACE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK)

3

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Trust, on behalf of the Fund, has executed this Distribution Plan effective as of the 30^th day of June, 2020.

JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX- FREE INCOME FUND
By:	/s/ Andrew G. Arnott
	Andrew G. Arnott
	President

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT
MANAGEMENT DISTRIBUTORS LLC
By:	/s/ Jeffrey H. Long
	Jeffrey H. Long
	Chief Financial Officer

4

EX-99.(M).1

Exhibit 99.(m)(1)

JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND

CLASS B SHARES

AMENDED AND RESTATED

DISTRIBUTION PLAN PURSUANT TO RULE 12b-1

June 30, 2020

WHEREAS, John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund (the “Trust”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (“1940 Act”), and offers for public sale shares of beneficial interest in several series (each series a “Fund”);

WHEREAS, the shares of beneficial interest of each Fund are divided into one or more classes, one of which is designated Class B;

WHEREAS, the Trust desires to adopt a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act for the Class B shares, and the Board of Trustees has determined that there is a reasonable likelihood that adoption of said plan will benefit Class B and its shareholders; and

WHEREAS, the Trust has entered into an Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement with John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC (“John Hancock”) pursuant to which John Hancock has agreed to serve as Distributor of the Class B shares of each Fund of the Trust;

NOW, THEREFORE, the Trust, with respect to the Class B shares, hereby adopts this Plan Pursuant to Rule 12b-1 (“Plan”) in accordance with Rule 12b‑1 under the 1940 Act on the following terms and conditions:

1.         This Plan applies to the Fund(s) listed on Schedule A.

2.         A.The Class B shares of each Fund shall pay to John Hancock, as compensation for distribution of Class B shares and/or for providing services to Class B shareholders, a fee at the rate specified for that Fund on Schedule A, such fee to be calculated and accrued and paid daily or at such other intervals as the Board shall determine.

B.The distribution and service fees payable hereunder are payable without regard to the aggregate amount that may be paid over the years, provided that, so long as the limitations set forth in Rule 2341 of the Conduct Rules (“Rule 2341”) of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (formerly the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.) remain in effect and apply to recipients of payments made under this Plan, the amounts paid hereunder shall not exceed those limitations, including permissible interest. Amounts expended in support of the activities described in Paragraph 3.B. of this Plan may be excluded in determining whether expenditures under the Plan exceed the appropriate percentage of new gross assets specified in Rule 2341. Amounts expended in support of the activities described in Paragraph 3.B. of this Plan will not exceed 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class B shares.

3.         A.As Distributor of the Trust’s shares, John Hancock may spend such amounts as it deems appropriate on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of Class B shares of the Funds, including, but not limited to, (i) compensation to selling firms and others (including affiliates of John Hancock) that engage in or support the sale of Class B shares of the Funds; and (ii) marketing, promotional and overhead expenses incurred in connection with the distribution of Class B shares of the Funds. John Hancock may use service fees to compensate selling firms and others for providing personal and account maintenance services to shareholders.

B.John Hancock may spend such amounts as it deems appropriate on the administration and servicing of Class B shareholder accounts, including, but not limited to, responding to inquiries from shareholders or their representatives requesting information regarding matters such as shareholder account or transaction status, net asset value of shares, performance, services, plans and options, investment policies, portfolio holdings, and distributions and taxation thereof; and dealing with complaints and correspondence of shareholders; including compensation to organizations and employees who service Class B shareholder accounts, and expenses of such organizations, including overhead and telephone and other communications expenses.

4.Amounts paid to the John Hancock by Class B shares of the Fund will not be used to pay the expenses incurred with respect to any other class of shares of the Fund; provided, however, that expenses attributable to the Fund as a whole will be allocated, to the extent permitted by law, according to a formula based upon gross sales dollars and/or average daily net assets of each such class, as may be approved from time to time by a vote of a majority of the Trustees. From time to time, a Fund may participate in joint distribution activities with other Funds and the costs of those activities will be borne by each Fund in proportion to the relative net asset value of each such participating Fund.

5.        Each Fund pays, and will continue to pay, a management fee to John Hancock Investment Management LLC (“JHIM”) pursuant to a management agreement between the Fund and JHIM. It is recognized that JHIM may use its management fee revenue, as well as its past profits or its other resources from any other source, to make payments with respect to any expenses incurred in connection with the distribution of Class B shares, including the activities referred to in Paragraph 3 above. To the extent that the payment of management fees by the Fund to JHIM should be deemed to be indirect financing of any activity primarily intended to result in the sale of Class B shares within the meaning of Rule 12b-1, then such payment shall be deemed to be authorized by this Plan.

6.        This Plan shall take effect on June 30, 2020 and shall continue in effect with respect to each Fund for successive periods of one year from its execution for so long as such continuance is specifically approved with respect to such Fund at least annually together with any related agreements, by votes of a majority of both (a) the Board of Trustees of the Trust and (b) those Trustees who are not “interested persons” of the Trust, as defined in the 1940 Act, and who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of this Plan or any agreements related to it (the “Rule 12b-1 Trustees”), cast in person at a meeting or meetings called for the purpose of voting on this Plan and such related agreements; and only if the Trustees who approve the implementation or continuation of the Plan have reached the conclusion required by Rule 12b-1(e) under the 1940 Act.

2

7.         Any person authorized to direct the disposition of monies paid or payable by a Fund pursuant to this Plan or any related agreement shall provide to the Trust’s Board of Trustees and the Board shall review, at least quarterly, a written report of the amounts so expended and the purposes for which such expenditures were made.

8.        This Plan may be terminated without penalty with respect to a Fund at any time (a) by the vote of a majority of the Fund’s Board of Trustees, Independent Trustees, or by a vote of a majority of the Fund’s outstanding Class B shares, or (b) upon 60 days’ written notice to John Hancock. John Hancock may terminate the Plan without penalty with respect to any Fund upon 60 days’ written notice to the Fund.

9.        This Plan may not be amended to increase materially the amount of fees to be paid by any Fund hereunder unless such amendment is approved by a vote of a majority of the outstanding securities (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Class B shares of that Fund, and no material amendment to the Plan shall be made unless such amendment is approved in the manner provided in Paragraph 6 hereof for annual approval.

10.     While this Plan is in effect, the selection and nomination of Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust, as defined in the 1940 Act, shall be committed to the discretion of Trustees who are themselves not interested persons.

11.       The Trust shall preserve copies of this Plan and any related agreements for a period of not less than six years from the date of expiration of the Plan or agreement, as the case may be, the first two years in an easily accessible place; and shall preserve copies of each report made pursuant to Paragraph 5 hereof for a period of not less than six years from the date of such report, the first two years in an easily accessible place.

12.       This Agreement and any amendments hereto and any notices or other communications hereunder that are required to be in writing may be in electronic form (including without limitation by facsimile and, in the case of notices and other communications, email) and may be executed by means of electronic signatures.

(THE REMAINDER OF THIS SPACE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK)

3

IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Trust has executed this Plan, as amended, pursuant to Rule 12b-1 as of the day and year set forth below.

JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX- FREE INCOME FUND
By:	/s/ Andrew G. Arnott
	Andrew G. Arnott
	President

Agreed and assented to:

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT
MANAGEMENT DISTRIBUTORS LLC
By:	/s/ Jeffrey H. Long
	Jeffrey H. Long
	Chief Financial Officer
Date:	June 30, 2020

4

SCHEDULE A

Class B shares of the following series of John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund are subject to this Plan Pursuant to 12b-1, at the annual fee rates specified:

Series	Fee*
John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund	1.00%

*Expressed as a Percentage of Average Daily Net Assets of Class B shares

A-1

EX-99.(M).2

Exhibit 99.(m)(2)

JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND

CLASS C SHARES

AMENDED AND RESTATED

DISTRIBUTION PLAN PURSUANT TO RULE 12b-1

June 30, 2020

WHEREAS, John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund (the “Trust”) is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (“1940 Act”), and offers for public sale shares of beneficial interest in several series (each series a “Fund”);

WHEREAS, the shares of beneficial interest of each Fund are divided into one or more classes, one of which is designated Class C;

WHEREAS, the Trust desires to adopt a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the 1940 Act for the Class C shares, and the Board of Trustees has determined that there is a reasonable likelihood that adoption of said plan will benefit Class C and its shareholders; and

WHEREAS, the Trust has entered into an Amended and Restated Distribution Agreement with John Hancock Investment Management Distributors LLC (“John Hancock”) pursuant to which John Hancock has agreed to serve as Distributor of the Class C shares of each Fund of the Trust;

NOW, THEREFORE, the Trust, with respect to the Class C shares, hereby adopts this Plan Pursuant to Rule 12b-1 (“Plan”) in accordance with Rule 12b‑1 under the 1940 Act on the following terms and conditions:

1.         This Plan applies to the Fund(s) listed on Schedule A.

2.        A.The Class C shares of each Fund shall pay to John Hancock, as compensation for distribution of Class C shares and/or for providing services to Class C shareholders, a fee at the rate specified for that Fund on Schedule A, such fee to be calculated and accrued and paid daily or at such other intervals as the Board shall determine.

B.The distribution and service fees payable hereunder are payable without regard to the aggregate amount that may be paid over the years, provided that, so long as the limitations set forth in Rule 2341 of the Conduct Rules (“Rule 2341”) of the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority (formerly the National Association of Securities Dealers, Inc.) remain in effect and apply to recipients of payments made under this Plan, the amounts paid hereunder shall not exceed those limitations, including permissible interest. Amounts expended in support of the activities described in Paragraph 3.B. of this Plan may be excluded in determining whether expenditures under the Plan exceed the appropriate percentage of new gross assets specified in Rule 2341. Amounts expended in support of the activities described in Paragraph 3.B. of this Plan will not exceed 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Class C shares.

3.        A.As Distributor of the Trust’s shares, John Hancock may spend such amounts as it deems appropriate on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of Class C shares of the Funds, including, but not limited to, (i) compensation to selling firms and others (including affiliates of John Hancock) that engage in or support the sale of Class C shares of the Funds; and (ii) marketing, promotional and overhead expenses incurred in connection with the distribution of Class C shares of the Funds. John Hancock may use service fees to compensate selling firms and others for providing personal and account maintenance services to shareholders.

B.John Hancock may spend such amounts as it deems appropriate on the administration and servicing of Class C shareholder accounts, including, but not limited to, responding to inquiries from shareholders or their representatives requesting information regarding matters such as shareholder account or transaction status, net asset value of shares, performance, services, plans and options, investment policies, portfolio holdings, and distributions and taxation thereof; and dealing with complaints and correspondence of shareholders; including compensation to organizations and employees who service Class C shareholder accounts, and expenses of such organizations, including overhead and telephone and other communications expenses.

4.        Amounts paid to the John Hancock by Class C shares of the Fund will not be used to pay the expenses incurred with respect to any other class of shares of the Fund; provided, however, that expenses attributable to the Fund as a whole will be allocated, to the extent permitted by law, according to a formula based upon gross sales dollars and/or average daily net assets of each such class, as may be approved from time to time by a vote of a majority of the Trustees. From time to time, a Fund may participate in joint distribution activities with other Funds and the costs of those activities will be borne by each Fund in proportion to the relative net asset value of each such participating Fund.

5.        Each Fund pays, and will continue to pay, a management fee to John Hancock Investment Management LLC (“JHIM”) pursuant to a management agreement between the Fund and JHIM. It is recognized that JHIM may use its management fee revenue, as well as its past profits or its other resources from any other source, to make payments with respect to any expenses incurred in connection with the distribution of Class C shares, including the activities referred to in Paragraph 3 above. To the extent that the payment of management fees by the Fund to JHIM should be deemed to be indirect financing of any activity primarily intended to result in the sale of Class C shares within the meaning of Rule 12b-1, then such payment shall be deemed to be authorized by this Plan.

6.       This Plan shall take effect on June 30, 2020 and shall continue in effect with respect to each Fund for successive periods of one year from its execution for so long as such continuance is specifically approved with respect to such Fund at least annually together with any related agreements, by votes of a majority of both (a) the Board of Trustees of the Trust and (b) those Trustees who are not “interested persons” of the Trust, as defined in the 1940 Act, and who have no direct or indirect financial interest in the operation of this Plan or any agreements related to it (the “Rule 12b-1 Trustees”), cast in person at a meeting or meetings called for the purpose of voting on this Plan and such related agreements; and only if the Trustees who approve the implementation or continuation of the Plan have reached the conclusion required by Rule 12b-1(e) under the 1940 Act.

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7.         Any person authorized to direct the disposition of monies paid or payable by a Fund pursuant to this Plan or any related agreement shall provide to the Trust’s Board of Trustees and the Board shall review, at least quarterly, a written report of the amounts so expended and the purposes for which such expenditures were made.

8.        This Plan may be terminated without penalty with respect to a Fund at any time (a) by the vote of a majority of the Fund’s Board of Trustees, Independent Trustees, or by a vote of a majority of the Fund’s outstanding Class C shares, or (b) upon 60 days’ written notice to John Hancock. John Hancock may terminate the Plan without penalty with respect to any Fund upon 60 days’ written notice to the Fund.

9.        This Plan may not be amended to increase materially the amount of fees to be paid by any Fund hereunder unless such amendment is approved by a vote of a majority of the outstanding securities (as defined in the 1940 Act) of the Class C shares of that Fund, and no material amendment to the Plan shall be made unless such amendment is approved in the manner provided in Paragraph 6 hereof for annual approval.

10.     While this Plan is in effect, the selection and nomination of Trustees who are not interested persons of the Trust, as defined in the 1940 Act, shall be committed to the discretion of Trustees who are themselves not interested persons.

11.       The Trust shall preserve copies of this Plan and any related agreements for a period of not less than six years from the date of expiration of the Plan or agreement, as the case may be, the first two years in an easily accessible place; and shall preserve copies of each report made pursuant to Paragraph 5 hereof for a period of not less than six years from the date of such report, the first two years in an easily accessible place.

12.      This Agreement and any amendments hereto and any notices or other communications hereunder that are required to be in writing may be in electronic form (including without limitation by facsimile and, in the case of notices and other communications, email) and may be executed by means of electronic signatures.

(THE REMAINDER OF THIS SPACE HAS BEEN INTENTIONALLY LEFT BLANK)

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IN WITNESS WHEREOF, the Trust has executed this Plan, as amended, pursuant to Rule 12b-1 as of the day and year set forth below.

JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX- FREE INCOME FUND
By:	/s/ Andrew G. Arnott
	Andrew G. Arnott
	President

Agreed and assented to:

JOHN HANCOCK INVESTMENT
MANAGEMENT DISTRIBUTORS LLC
By:	/s/ Jeffrey H. Long
	Jeffrey H. Long
	Chief Financial Officer
Date:	June 30, 2020

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SCHEDULE A

Class C shares of the following series of John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund are subject to this Plan Pursuant to 12b-1, at the annual fee rates specified:

Series	Fee*
John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund	1.00%

*Expressed as a Percentage of Average Daily Net Assets of Class C shares

A-1

EX-99.(P)

Exhibit 99.p

John Hancock Code of Ethics

January 1, 2008

 (Revised September 17, 2020)

This is the Code of Ethics for the following:

John Hancock Investment Management, LLC and

John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers, LLC, LLC

(each, a “John Hancock Adviser”)

and

John Hancock Investment Management Distributors, LLC

John Hancock Distributors, LLC,

each open-end fund, closed-end fund, and exchange traded fund advised by a John Hancock Adviser

 (the “John Hancock Affiliated Funds”),

 (together, called “John Hancock”)

Table of Contents

Introduction	4
Standards of Business Conduct	5
Applicability and Scope	5
Access Levels	6
Access Level 1	6
Access Level 2	7
Access Level 3	7
Overview of Rules for All Access Persons	7
Brokerage Account Disclosure	7
Brokerage Account Examples (non-exclusive list)	7
Employee Compensation Instruments (non-exclusive list)	8
College Savings Plans - 529s	8
401(k) and John Hancock Variable Products: John Hancock Affiliated Funds Reporting	9
Managed Accounts	9
Preferred Brokerage Account Requirements	9
Opening/Closing Accounts	10
Statements and Duplicate Confirmations of Trades	10
Personal Trading	10
Personal Trading Restrictions for all Access Persons	11
Reporting and Pre-clearance	11
Level 1 Access Persons: Additional Personal Trading Restrictions and Disclosures	12
Level 2 Access Persons: Additional Personal Trading Restrictions and Disclosures	15
Level 3 Access Persons: Additional Personal Trading Restrictions and Disclosures	17
Pre-clearance Process	17
Reporting and Certification Requirements	18
Reporting	18
Reporting Upon Designation	18
Quarterly Reporting	18
Annual Reporting	19
Ad Hoc Reporting	19

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Administration and Enforcement	20
Administration of the Code	20
Subadviser Compliance	20
Adoption and Approval	20
Subadviser Reporting & Recordkeeping Requirements	21
Reporting to the Board	21
Reporting Violations	21
Exemptions & Appeals	22
Exemptions:	22
Appeals	22
Interpretation and Enforcement	22
Education of Employees	23
Recordkeeping	23
Other Important Policies	24
MFC Code of Business Conduct & Ethics (All Covered Employees)	24
John Hancock Conflicts of Interest Policy (All Covered Employees)	25
John Hancock Gift & Entertainment Policy (All Covered Employees)	25
John Hancock Insider Trading Policy (All Covered Employees)	25
John Hancock Pay to Play Rule on Political Contributions (All Covered Associates)	25
John Hancock Whistleblower Policy (All Covered Employees)	26
Policy and Procedures Regarding Disclosure of Portfolio Holdings (All Covered Employees)	26
Additional Policies Outside the Code (All Covered Employees)	27
Appendix	28
Definitions	28
Preferred Brokers List	32
Compliance Contacts	33

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Introduction

John Hancock is required by law to adopt a Code of Ethics. The purpose of a Code of Ethics is to ensure that companies and their Covered Persons comply with all applicable laws and to prevent abuses in the investment advisory business that can arise when conflicts of interest exist between the employees of an investment advisor and its clients. By adopting and enforcing a Code of Ethics, we strengthen the trust and confidence entrusted in us by demonstrating that at John Hancock, client interests come first.

The Code of Ethics (the Code) that follows represents a balancing of important interests. On the one hand, as registered investment advisers, the John Hancock Advisers owe a duty of undivided loyalty to their clients and must avoid even the appearance of a conflict that might be perceived as abusing the trust they have placed in John Hancock. On the other hand, the John Hancock Advisers do not want to prevent conscientious professionals from investing for their own accounts where conflicts do not exist or that are immaterial to investment decisions affecting the John Hancock Advisers’ clients.

When conflicting interests cannot be reconciled, the Code makes clear that, first and foremost, Covered Persons owe a fiduciary duty to John Hancock clients. In most cases, this means that the affected employee will be required to forego conflicting personal securities transactions. In some cases, personal investments will be permitted, but only in a manner, which, because of the circumstances and applicable controls, cannot reasonably be perceived as adversely affecting John Hancock client portfolios or taking unfair advantage of the relationship John Hancock employees have to John Hancock clients.

The Code contains specific rules prohibiting defined types of conflicts. Since every potential conflict cannot be anticipated by the Code, it also contains general provisions prohibiting conflict situations. In view of these general provisions, it is critical that any Covered Person who is in doubt about the applicability of the Code in a given situation seek a determination from Chief Compliance Officer (CCO), designee, or the Code of Ethics Administration Group about the propriety of the conduct in advance.

It is critical that the Code be strictly observed. Not only will adherence to the Code ensure that John Hancock renders the best possible service to its clients, it will help to ensure that no individual is liable for violations of law.

It should be emphasized that adherence to this policy is a fundamental condition of employment at John Hancock. Every Covered Person is expected to adhere to the requirements of the Code despite any inconvenience that may be involved. Any Covered Person failing to do so may be subject to disciplinary action, including financial penalties and termination of employment as determined by the CCO, designee, or Ethics Oversight Committee.

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Standards of Business Conduct

Each Covered Person within the John Hancock organization is responsible for maintaining the very highest ethical standards when conducting our business.

 This means that you must at all times:

• Place the interests of clients first. You have a fiduciary duty at all times to place the interests of our clients and fund investors first.

• Conduct all personal trading in full compliance with this Code. All of your personal securities transactions must be conducted consistent with the provisions of the Code that apply to you and in such a manner as to avoid any actual or potential conflict of interest or other abuse of your position of trust and responsibility.

• Avoid taking inappropriate advantage of your position at John Hancock. You should not take inappropriate advantage of your position or engage in any fraudulent or manipulative practice (such as front-running or manipulative market timing) with respect to our clients’ accounts or fund investors.

• Maintain confidentiality of our clients and John Hancock. You must treat as confidential any information concerning the identity of security holdings and financial circumstances of clients or fund investors.

• Comply with applicable Federal Securities Laws. You must comply with all applicable federal Securities Laws.

• Report any violation of the Code. You must promptly report any violation of the Code that comes to your attention to the CCO (or designee) of your company.

It is essential that you understand and comply with the general principles, noted above, in letter and in spirit as no set of rules can anticipate every possible problem or conflict situation. Failure to comply with the general principles and the provisions of the Code may result in disciplinary action, including termination of employment.

Applicability and Scope

Individuals subject to this policy will be notified by the CCO, designee, or the Code of Ethics Administration Group. Generally, if you meet the requirements listed below, you are deemed an Access Person¹ and this Code applies to you²:

• a director, officer or other Supervised Person of a John Hancock Adviser;

• an interested director, officer or Access Person of John Hancock Investment Management Distributors, LLC, John Hancock Distributors, LLC, or a John Hancock open-end or closed-end fund registered under the 1940 Act and are advised by a John Hancock Adviser;³

• an employee of Manulife Financial Corporation (MFC) or its subsidiaries who participates in making recommendations for, or receives information about, portfolio trades or holdings of the John Hancock Affiliated Funds.⁴

¹ See the Definitions section and contact a member of the Office of the CCO with any questions.

² Access Persons of John Hancock GA Mortgage Trust that are personnel of John Hancock Investment Management, LLC are covered by this Code.

³ Disinterested Trustees of John Hancock open-end and closed-end funds registered under the 1940 Act and advised by a John Hancock Adviser are subject to a separate Code of Ethics adopted by the Board of Trustees.

⁴The preceding excludes John Hancock Asset Management (U.S.) and John Hancock Asset Management (N.A.) each of whom have adopted their own Code of Ethics in accordance with Rule 204A-1 under the Advisers Act.

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Access Levels

The requirements of this policy will differ depending on your Access Level category. There are three categories for persons covered by the Code, taking into account position, duties and access to information regarding fund portfolio trades.⁵ You will receive notification as to your particular category, based on the Code of Ethics Administration Group’s understanding of your current role in coordination with the Office of the CCO. If you have a level of investment access beyond your assigned category, or if you are promoted or change duties and as a result should more appropriately be included in a different category, it is your responsibility to notify the CCO, designee, or the Code of Ethics Administration Group.

Please note: If a specific Code provision (examples: personal investing restriction or limitations, pre-clearance obligation, or reporting obligation, etc.) applies to the Access Person, it also applies to all Securities and Brokerage Accounts over which the Access Person has Beneficial Ownership.

Access Level 1

A person who, in connection with his/her regular functions or duties, makes or participates in making recommendations regarding the purchase or sale of securities by the Fund or account.

Examples (may include but are not limited to):

• Portfolio Managers

• Analysts

• Traders

Access Level 2

A person who, in connection with his/her regular functions or duties, has regular access to nonpublic information regarding any clients' purchase or sale of securities, nonpublic information regarding the portfolio holdings of any John Hancock Affiliated Fund(s), is involved in making securities recommendations to clients, or has regular access to such recommendations that are nonpublic.

Examples (may include but are not limited to):

• Office of the CCO

⁵ The Code of Ethics Administration Group, CCO (or designee) may modify the requirements of this Code for those John Hancock Associates whose covered status is expected not to exceed 90 days (for instance contractors, co-ops and interns) or in instances where a person is subject to another Code of Ethics or fiduciary duty and where the modification is not otherwise specifically prohibited by law.  In reliance on an SEC no-action letter, the Code of Ethics Administration Group or CCO (or designee) may include in the definition of “John Hancock Associate” any person of a John Hancock Affiliate who is engaged, directly or indirectly inJohn Hancock’s investment advisory activities.

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• Fund Administration

• Investment Management Services

• Technology Resources Personnel (as designated)

• Legal Staff

• Marketing (as designated)

Access Level 3

A person who, in connection with his/her regular functions or duties, has periodic access to nonpublic information regarding any clients' purchase or sale of securities or nonpublic information regarding the portfolio holdings of any John Hancock Affiliated Funds.

Examples (may include but are not limited to):

• Marketing (as designated)

• Product Development

• E-Commerce

• Corporate Publishing

• Technology Resources Personnel (as designated)

Overview of Rules for All Access Persons

This policy contains rules regarding your obligations to comply with federal Securities Laws and John Hancock’s standards of conduct. Access Persons are responsible for complying with the personal trading restrictions and obligations of their access designation level including: Brokerage Account disclosure, personal trading restrictions, pre-clearance requirements, disclosure requirements, and various reporting and certification requirements.

Brokerage Account Disclosure

You must use the automated compliance reporting system (”StarCompliance”), to disclose all Brokerage Accounts that have the capability to hold Reportable Securities including all Brokerage Accounts:

• of your own; regardless of what is currently held in the account,

• of your spouse, Significant Other, minor children or family members sharing the same household (Household Family Member),

• over which you have discretion or give advice or information, and/or

• in which your Household Family Member have Beneficial Ownership, or the opportunity to directly or indirectly profit or share in any profit derived from a Reportable Securities transaction.

Brokerage Account Examples (non-exclusive list)

You need to report:

• Brokerage Accounts

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• John Hancock 401(k) accounts

• MFC Global Share Ownership Plan (GSOP)

• Solium accounts (some if they hold reportable securities including options on MFC securities)

• Self-directed IRA accounts

• Custodial accounts

• Mutual fund accounts*

• College investment plans 529s*

• 401(k)/403(b) accounts*

• Dividend reinvestment program or dividend reinvestment plan (DRIP)

• Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP/RESP/TFSA)

• Stock Purchase accounts

*if they have the capability to hold John Hancock Affiliated Funds

Employee Compensation Instruments (non-exclusive list)

You need to report:

• John Hancock 401(k)

• MFC Global Share Ownership Plan (GSOP)

• Options acquired from MFC (only MFC Solium account options that are granted)

• Public company employer as part of employee compensation

• Sole discretion accounts

• Accounts holding John Hancock Affiliated Funds

• Certain Manulife Pension Plans (RPS, RRSP)

You are not responsible for reporting:

• MFC Restricted Share Units (RSU)

• Deferred Share Units (DSU)

• Performance Share Units (PSU)

• US John Hancock Pension Plans

• Employer phantom stock/phantom option interest (granted as compensation to employee, only employer can redeem interest and interest is non-transferrable)

To prevent any potential violations of the Code, you are strongly encouraged to request clarification for accounts that are in question from the Code of Ethics Administration Group INVDIVCodeofEthics@manulife.com.

College Savings Plans - 529s

You must report John Hancock affiliated 529 plans including both the Freedom 529 plan and any other 529 plans that can hold John Hancock Affiliated Funds. You are not required to report transactions or holdings in 529 Plans for which the Adviser or a control affiliate does not manage, distribute, market or underwrite the 529 Plan or the investments and strategies underlying the 529 Plan. If you have any questions about this requirement, please contact the Code of Ethics Administration Group or a member of the Office of the CCO.

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401(k) and John Hancock Variable Products: John Hancock Affiliated Funds Reporting

You must report your holdings and trades in a John Hancock Affiliated Funds. This includes voluntary trades in your John Hancock affiliated accounts such as your 401(k) and any external Brokerage Account.

To comply with this requirement, if you purchase a John Hancock variable product you must provide your contract or policy number to the Code of Ethics Administration Group and if you have a John Hancock 401(k), you must you must enter the Brokerage Account on StarCompliance.

Managed Accounts

Managed Accounts are considered fully managed if neither Access Person nor Household Family Member has no direct influence or control. Prior to the execution of Reportable Securities transactions in the Managed Account, you must obtain approval from the CCO (or designee). Once the Brokerage Account is approved as a Managed Account, in writing from the CCO (or designee) of the Adviser/Trust, the transactions do not need to be pre-cleared. Exemption requests which pose a conflict of interest for the CCO (or designee) will be escalated to the Ethics Oversight Committee for review and consideration.

You may request approval by disclosing the Brokerage Account in the automated compliance system, marking it as a Managed Account and by providing the appropriate evidence as described below. You are required to provide evidence that you or your Household Family Member has no direct or indirect influence or control including not being able to:

1) Suggest that the trustee or third-party discretionary manager make any particular purchases or sales of Reportable Securities;

2) Direct the trustee or third-party discretionary manager to make any particular purchases or sales of Reportable Securities; and

3) Consult with the trustee or third-party discretionary manager as to the particular allocation of investments to be made in your account.

You may also be asked to periodically attest to the status of the Managed Account(s) and provide electronic feeds or duplicate statements.

Preferred Brokerage Account Requirements

You must maintain your Brokerage Accounts at one of the preferred brokers approved by John Hancock. Upon designation as an Access Person, you have 45 calendar days to (i) qualify any non-compliant Brokerage Account as an exempt account or (ii) transfer all assets to a preferred broker and close the non- compliant account. Please note that you are not required to move 401(k) accounts. Exceptions may be granted with the approval from the CCO, its designee, or the Code of Ethics Administration Group. Requests for exceptions to this policy must be submitted in writing to the Code of Ethics Administration Group. A list of the Preferred Brokers can be found in the Appendix.

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Opening/Closing Accounts

You are required to report each transaction in any Reportable Security to the Code of Ethics Administration Group. To comply with this requirement, you:

• Are required to notify the Code of Ethics Administration team within 10 days of opening or closing a Brokerage Account. In the case of a new Brokerage Account in which you have a beneficial interest, you must notify the Code of Ethics Administration Group before any trades are placed.

• Are required by this Code and by the Insider Trading Policy to inform your broker-dealer that you are employed by a financial institution. Your broker- dealer is subject to certain rules designed to prevent favoritism toward your Brokerage Accounts. You may not accept negotiated commission rates that you believe may be more favorable than the broker grants to accounts with similar characteristics.

• Must notify the broker-dealer if you are registered with the Financial Industry Regulatory Authority or are employed by John Hancock Investment Management Distributors, LLC or John Hancock Distributors, LLC.

Statements and Duplicate Confirmations of Trades

The Code of Ethics Administration Group may rely on information submitted by your broker as part of your reporting requirements under the Code. Upon notification of your Brokerage Account, the Code of Ethics Administration Group will notify the broker-dealer to have duplicate confirmations of any trade, as well as statements or other information concerning the Brokerage Account, sent to:

John Hancock Financial Services

Attention: General Funds Compliance

197 Clarendon Street, C-03-13

Boston, MA 02116

Personal Trading

Personal Trading is a privilege and must always come second to the fiduciary duty you owe to our clients. Below is a list of personal trading restrictions for all Access Persons.

All Access Persons must:

• Disclose holdings in Reportable Securities (including John Hancock Affiliated Funds and John Hancock Variable Products)

• Disclose Brokerage Accounts

• Pre-clear applicable Reportable Securities transactions

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Personal Trading Restrictions for all Access Persons

All Access Persons are prohibited from:

• Profiting from the purchase and sale of a John Hancock Affiliated Fund within 30 calendar days.

• Engaging in speculative transactions involving MFC securities including: options, hedging or short sales involving securities issues by Manulife.

• Transacting in securities that appear on the confidential John Hancock Restricted list (pre-clearance requests will be denied).

• Transacting in Initial Public Offerings (IPOs), Private Placements, and Limited Offerings without obtaining proper pre-clearance approval.⁶

• Transacting in securities while in possession of material nonpublic information including but not limited to: fund events, due diligence visits etc.

An Access Person who either directs 45 or more trades in a quarter or redeems shares of a John Hancock Affiliated Fund within 30 days of purchase, should expect additional scrutiny of his or her trades and he or she may be subject to limitations on the number of trades allowed during a given period.

Reporting and Pre-clearance

As an Access Person, you are required to report to the Code of Ethics Administration Group each transaction in any Reportable Security. You must ensure that all transactions (unless it is an Involuntary Issuer Transaction) and holdings in Reportable Securities are properly reflected in the requisite initial, quarterly and annual reporting certifications. To facilitate the reporting process, please ensure that you have properly disclosed your correct Brokerage Account information to the Code of Ethics Administration Group in the automated compliance system, including the disclosure of participation in the John Hancock 401(k) and Manulife GSOP.

The transaction and holding reporting requirement does not include John Hancock money market funds or any dividend reinvestment, payroll deduction, systematic investment/withdrawal and/or other program trades. Please note that different requirements apply to shares of John Hancock Affiliated Funds, including a 30-day holding period requirement.

As an Access Person, in addition to your reporting obligations, you have pre-clearance obligations for certain securities, depending on your Access Level group. Please see the appropriate access level below, for more detailed information.

⁶ Please note, Level 1 Access Persons and Registered Representatives are prohibited from purchasing IPOs.

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Level 1 Access Persons: Additional Personal Trading Restrictions and Disclosures

Please note, there are additional restrictions that apply to all Access Persons listed in the section entitled, “Personal Trading Restrictions for All Access Persons”.

Level 1 Access Persons

• Pre-clear MFC Securities: You must pre-clear all transactions in MFC securities including stock, company issued options, securities such as debt, and sell transactions in the MFC Global Share Ownership Plan.

• Pre-clear all of the following securities: You must pre-clear and receive approval prior to transactions in the following securities:

• Stocks; including sell transactions of MFC Shares held in your Global Share Ownership Plan

• Bonds;

• Government securities that are not direct obligations of the U.S. government, such as Fannie Mae, or municipal securities, in each case that mature in more than one year;

• John Hancock Affiliated Funds;⁷

• Closed-end funds (including John Hancock affiliated closed-end funds)

• Options on securities, on indexes, and on currencies;

• Swaps on securities, on indexes, and on currencies;

• Limited partnerships;

• Exchange traded funds and notes;

• Domestic unit investment trusts;

• Non-US unit investment trusts and Non-US mutual funds;

• Private investment funds and hedge funds; and

• Futures, investment contracts or any other instrument that is considered a “security” under the Securities Act of 1933;

• Private Placements, limited offerings⁸.

• Ban on IPOs: You may not acquire securities in an IPO. You may not purchase any newly-issued Reportable Security until it is listed on a public exchange.

• Seven Day Blackout: You are prohibited from buying or selling a Reportable Security within 7 calendar days before or after that Reportable Security is traded for a fund that the Person manages or for a John Hancock Affiliated Fund unless no conflict of interest exists in relation to that Reportable Security as determined by the Code of Ethics Administration Group.

• Gifting Reportable Securities: If you gift or donate shares of a Reportable Security it is considered a sale and you must receive pre-clearance approval.

• Inheriting Reportable Securities: If you inherit shares of a Reportable Security you must notify the Code of Ethics Administration Group within 10 days.

⁷ John Hancock Affiliated open ended mutual funds do not require pre-clearance, only reporting. However, there are certain holding period requirements. A list of John Hancock Affiliated Funds can be found on StarCompliance.

⁸ Level 1 Access Persons are banned from participation in IPOs.

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• 30 Day Hold John Hancock Affiliated Funds: You cannot profit from the purchase and sale of a John Hancock Affiliated Funds within 30 calendar days.

• 60 Day Hold: You may not profit from the purchase and sale (or sale and purchase) of the same (or equivalent) Reportable Security (see note on John Hancock Affiliated Funds) within 60 calendar days, also known as a “Ban on Short Term Profits”.

o Exclusion: pre-clearance requests in a Reportable Security with a market capitalization of $5 billion or more would, in most cases, not be subject to the 60 day hold and would be approved if they are appropriately pre-cleared.

Options requiring additional consideration are as follows:

Call Options

You can purchase a call option that is subject to pre-clearance only if the call option has an expiration of equal to or greater than 60 days from the date of purchase. You must either (i) hold the option for at least 60 days prior to sale or (ii) if exercised, must hold the option and the underlying Security of the option for a total of 60 days (i.e., the period during which the call option was held will count towards the 60 day holding period for the underlying Security).

You can sell (i.e. write) a call option that is subject to pre-clearance only if the underlying Security (in the corresponding quantity) has been held for at least 60 days (i.e. covered call). You can not engage in a subsequent purchase of a call option unless the conditions specified above are met.

Put Options

You can purchase a put option that is subject to pre-clearance only if the put option has a period to expiration of at least 60 days from the date of purchase and you hold the put option for at least 60 days. If you purchases a put option on a Security already owned (i.e. put hedge), the time the underlying Security has been held will count towards the 60 day holding period for the put.

You may not sell (i.e. write) a put option on a Security.

You may not use derivatives including futures, options on futures, or options or warrants on a Security to circumvent the restrictions of the Code. (i.e. you may not use derivative transactions with respect to a Security if the Code otherwise prohibits them from taking the same position directly in the underlying Security.)

• Ownership Ban: Securities of Sub-advisers: you are prohibited from owning securities of any sub-adviser of a John Hancock Affiliated Fund.⁹

⁹ MFC securities are excluded from Level 1 & Level 2 sub-adviser ownership prohibition. The list of securities of sub-advisers can be found on the automated compliance system or upon request from the CCO.

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• Must promptly disclose:

o Ownership of Securities Under Consideration for John Hancock Affiliated Fund: Any direct or indirect beneficial interest in a Reportable Security that is under consideration for purchase or sale in a John Hancock Affiliated Fund.

o Private Placement Conflicts: You must disclose holdings of any Reportable Securities purchased in a private placement when you participate in a decision to purchase or sell that same issuer’s securities for a John Hancock Affiliated Fund.

• Restriction on Securities Under Active Consideration: You are prohibited from buying or selling a Reportable Security if the Reportable Security is being actively traded by a John Hancock Affiliated Fund.

o Exceptions:

◾ De Minimis Trading: pre-clearance requests for 500 shares or less of a particular Reportable Security within a market value of $25K or less, aggregated daily, would, in most cases, not be subject to the 7-day blackout period restrictions and the restriction on actively traded securities.

◾ Market Cap Securities: pre-clearance requests in a Reportable Security with a market capitalization of $5B or more would not be subject to the blackout period restrictions and the restriction on actively traded securities.

• Pre-clearance of Exchange Traded Funds/Exchange Traded Notes (ETF/ETN) and Options on Reportable Securities: you are required to pre-clear ETFs, ETNs and Options on Reportable Securities.

o Exceptions to the pre-clearance requirement for ETF/ETN or options on Reportable Securities (provided it is not a John Hancock Affiliated Fund):

o has an average market capitalization of $5 billion or more;

o is based on a non-covered security;

o or is based on a Broad-Based Index.

• Prohibition on Investment Clubs, Good Until Canceled Orders, or Limit Orders: You may not participate in:

o investment clubs,

o “good until cancelled orders”, or

o “limit orders” unless the limit orders are day orders that automatically expire at the end of the trading day and cancel any orders that have not been executed.

Investment Professionals Only

Level 1 Access Persons who are “Investment Professionals” (Analysts and Portfolio Managers) must disclose the following:

o Ownership of 5% or Greater: 5% or greater interest in a company, John Hancock Affiliated Funds and its affiliates may not make any investment in that company;

o Ownership of 1% or greater 1% or greater interest in a company, you cannot participate in any decision by John Hancock Funds and its affiliates to buy or sell that company’s securities;

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• ANY other interest in a company, you cannot recommend or participate in a decision by John Hancock Affiliated Funds, and its affiliates to buy or sell that company’s securities unless your personal interest is fully disclosed at all stages of the investment decision.

In such instances, you must initially disclose that beneficial interest orally to the primary portfolio manager (or other appropriate analyst) of the Affiliated Fund(s) or account or the appropriate Chief Investment Officer. Following the oral disclosure, you must send a written acknowledgement to the primary portfolio manager with a copy to the Code of Ethics Administration Group.

Level 2 Access Persons: Additional Personal Trading Restrictions and Disclosures

Please note, there are additional restrictions that apply to all Access Persons listed in the section entitled, “Personal Trading Restrictions for All Access Persons”.

Level 2 Access Persons:

• Pre-clear MFC Securities: You must pre-clear all transactions in MFC securities including stock, company issued options, sell transactions in the MFC Global Share Ownership Plan, and any other securities such as debt.

• Pre-clear the following securities: You must pre-clear and receive approval prior to transactions in the following securities:

• Stocks; including sell transactions of MFC Shares held in your Global Share Ownership Plan

• Bonds;

• Government securities that are not direct obligations of the U.S. government, such as Fannie Mae, or municipal securities, in each case that mature in more than one year;

• John Hancock Affiliated Funds;¹⁰

• Closed-end funds (including John Hancock affiliated closed-end funds)

• Options on securities, on indexes, and on currencies;

• Swaps on securities, on indexes, and on currencies;

• Limited partnerships;

• Exchange traded funds and notes;

• Domestic unit investment trusts;

• Non-US unit investment trusts and Non-US mutual funds;

• Private investment funds and hedge funds; and

• Futures, investment contracts or any other instrument that is considered a “security” under the Securities Act of 1933;

¹⁰ John Hancock Affiliated open ended mutual funds do not require pre-clearance, only reporting. However, there are certain holding period requirements.

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• IPOs¹¹, Private Placements, limited offerings.

• Three Day Blackout Period: You are prohibited from knowingly buying or selling a Reportable Security within three calendar days before and after that Reportable Security is traded for a John Hancock Affiliated Fund unless no conflict of interest exists in relation to that Reportable Security as determined by the Code of Ethics Administration Group.

• Gifting Reportable Securities: If you gift or donate shares of a Reportable Security the transaction is considered a sale and you must receive pre-clearance approval.

• Inheriting Reportable Securities: If you inherit shares of a Reportable Security you must notify the Code of Ethics Administration Group within 10 days.

• 30 Day Hold John Hancock Affiliated Funds: You cannot profit from the purchase and sale of a John Hancock Affiliated Funds within 30 calendar days.

• 60 Day Hold: You may not profit from the purchase and sale (or sale and purchase) of the same (or equivalent) Reportable Security within 60 calendar days, also known as a “Ban on Short Term Profits”.

o Exclusion: pre-clearance requests in a Reportable Security with a market capitalization of $5 billion or more would, in most cases, not be subject to the Ban on Short Term Profits, and would be approved if they are appropriately pre-cleared.

• Ownership Ban: Securities of Sub-advisers: you are prohibited from owning securities of any sub-adviser of a John Hancock Affiliated Fund.¹²

• Restriction on Securities Under Active Consideration: You are prohibited from buying or selling a Reportable Security if the security is being actively traded by a John Hancock Affiliated Fund.

o Exceptions:

◾ De Minimis Trading: pre-clearance requests for 500 shares or less of a particular Reportable Security within a market value of $25K or less, aggregated daily, would, in most cases, not be subject to the 7-day blackout period restrictions and the restriction on actively traded securities.

◾ Market Cap Securities: pre-clearance requests in a Reportable Security with a market capitalization of $5B or more would not be subject to the blackout period restrictions and the restriction on actively traded securities.

• Pre-clearance of Exchange Traded Funds/Exchange Traded Notes (ETF/ETN) and Options on Reportable Securities: you are required to pre-clear ETFs, ETNs and Options on Reportable Securities.

o Exceptions to the pre-clearance requirement for ETF/ETN or options on Reportable Securities (provided it is not a John Hancock Affiliated Fund):

◾ has an average market capitalization of $5 billion or more;

¹¹ Level 1 Access Persons are banned from participation in IPOs.

¹² MFC securities are excluded from Level 1 &Level 2 sub-adviser ownership prohibition. The list of securities of sub-advisers can be found on the automated compliance system or upon request from the CCO.

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◾ is based on a non-covered security;

◾ or is based on a Broad-Based Index.

• Prohibition on Investment Clubs, Good Until Canceled Orders, or Limit Orders: You may not participate in:

o investment clubs,

o “good until cancelled orders”, or

o “limit orders” unless the limit orders are day orders that automatically expire at the end of the trading day and cancel any orders that have not been executed.

Level 3 Access Persons: Additional Personal Trading Restrictions and Disclosures

Please note, there are additional restrictions that apply to all Access Persons listed in the section entitled, “Personal Trading Restrictions for All Access Persons”.

Level 3 Access Persons:

• Pre-clear transactions in:

o closed-end funds and exchange traded funds advised by a John Hancock Adviser

o transactions in IPOs

o private placements and limited offerings.

• Gift or Donation of Reportable Securities: You must obtain pre-clearance approval prior to gifting or donating any Reportable Securities transactions that would require pre-clearance.

• Inheritance of Reportable Securities: If you inherit shares of a Reportable Security you must notify the Code of Ethics Administration Group within 10 days.

• 30 Day Hold John Hancock Affiliated Funds: You cannot profit from the purchase and sale of a John Hancock Affiliated Funds within 30 calendar days.

An Access level 3 Person is not required to pre-clear other trades. However, please keep in mind that an Access level 3 Person is required to report Reportable Securities transactions after every trade (even those that are not required to be pre-cleared) by requiring your broker to submit duplicate confirmation statements or electronic feeds to the Code of Ethics Administration Group. You must also ensure that all transactions in Reportable Securities are properly reported on your quarterly transaction/annual holdings certification.

Pre-clearance Process

You may request a trade pre-clearance through the automated compliance system, StarCompliance.

Please note that:

• You may not trade until clearance approval is received.

• Clearance approval is valid only for the date granted (i.e. the pre-clearance requested date and the trade date should be the same).

• A separate procedure should be followed for requesting pre-clearance of an IPO, a private placement, or a limited offering in StarCompliance.

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Certain transactions in securities that would normally require pre-clearance are exempt from the pre-clearance requirement in the following situations: (1) shares are being purchased as part of an Automatic Investment Plan; (2) shares are being purchased as part of a dividend reinvestment plan; or (3) transactions are being made in a Managed/discretionary account, an account over which you have designated a third party as having sole discretion to trade (you must have approval from the CCO (or designee) to establish a discretionary account).

Reporting and Certification Requirements

Reporting

All Access Persons, regardless of their level, must complete and submit reports and certifications to compliance using StarCompliance, the automated compliance system, in an accurate and timely manner as described below.

Reporting Upon Designation

Within 10 calendar days after designation as an Access Person, you must complete and submit to compliance using StarCompliance:

• Initial Holdings Report: A report of all Brokerage Accounts (please see the definition section) that hold or have the ability to hold any Reportable Securities and all Reportable Securities holdings current as of the date you became an Access Person.

• Initial Certification of Compliance: Certify to your understanding of the Code of Ethics.

• Initial Training: Certify that you have attended a training on the Code of Ethics Policy.

Quarterly Reporting

Within 30 calendar days after the end of each calendar quarter, you must complete and submit to compliance using StarCompliance:

• Quarterly Certification: a report of all Brokerage Accounts and all transactions in Reportable Securities (including transactions in John Hancock Affiliated Funds, including sell transactions in your Global Share Ownership Plan (GSOP) and voluntary transactions, such as fund exchanges, in your John Hancock 401(k)).

• Managed Account Certification: A certification of related to your Managed Accounts (only if applicable).

Additional transaction notes:

• All transactions in John Hancock Affiliated Funds and Variable Products must be reported.

• Only sell transactions of MFC stock in your Global Share Ownership Plan (GSOP) need to be reported.

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• Only voluntary transactions, such as fund exchanges, need to be reported for transactions in your John Hancock 401(k) Savings account.

For each Brokerage Account you must certify that the following information is captured accurately:

• Account number

• Brokerage Firm

For each transaction required to be reported you must certify the following information was captured accurately:

• the date of the transaction, the title, and as applicable the exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP number, interest rate and maturity date, number of shares, and principal amount of each Reportable Security involved;

• the nature of the transaction (i.e. purchase, sale or any other type of acquisition or disposition);

• the price at which the transaction was effected;

• the name of the broker, dealer or bank with or through which the transaction was effected.

Annual Reporting

At a date designated by the Code of Ethics Administration Group, at least annually (or additionally when the Code has been materially changed), you must complete and submit to compliance:

• Annual Holdings Report: disclosing all of your Brokerage Accounts that hold or can hold any Reportable Securities and all holdings in Reportable Securities, current as of a date not more than 45 days before the report is submitted.

o John Hancock Affiliated Funds & Variable Products holdings must be reported, regardless of where they are held.

o Global Share Ownership holdings of Manulife Financial Corporation, Inc. (MFC) stock must be reported.

• Annual (or additionally when the Code has been materially changed) Certification of Code of Ethics: acknowledging that you have received, read, and complied with the requirements of the Code of Ethics.

Ad Hoc Reporting

Throughout the year you must complete and submit to compliance:

• Brokerage Account Changes:You are required to promptly notify (within 10 days) Compliance of any applicable account changes.

• Changes to the Code of Ethics: You are required to complete an additional certification of compliance stating that you read, received and understood material changes to the Code of Ethics.

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Administration and Enforcement

Administration of the Code

Sub-adviser Compliance

A sub-adviser to a John Hancock Affiliated Fund has a number of Code of Ethics responsibilities:

• The sub-adviser must have adopted their own code of ethics in accordance with Rule 204A-1(b) under the Advisers Act which has been approved by the Board of Trustees;

• On a quarterly basis, each sub-adviser certifies compliance with their Code of Ethics or reports material violations if such have occurred; and

• Each sub-advisor must report quarterly to the CCO (or designee), any material changes to its Code of Ethics.

 Adoption and Approval

The Board of a John Hancock Affiliated Fund, including a majority of the Fund’s Independent Board Members, must approve the Code of Ethics of the Fund’s adviser, sub-adviser or principal underwriter (if an affiliate of the underwriter serves as a Board member or officer of the Fund or the adviser) before initially retaining its services.

Each material change to a Code of Ethics of a sub-adviser to a fund must be approved by the Board of the John Hancock Affiliated Fund, including a majority of the Fund’s Independent Board Members, no later than six months after adoption of the material change.

The Board may only approve the Code if they determine that the Code:

• Contains provisions reasonably necessary to prevent the subadviser’s Access Persons (as defined in Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act and Rule 204A-1 under the Advisers Act) from engaging in any conduct prohibited by Rule 17j-1 and 204A-1;

• Requires the sub-adviser’s Access Persons to make reports to at least the extent required in Rule 17j-1(d) and Rule 204A-1(b);

• Requires the sub-adviser to institute appropriate procedures for review of these reports by management or compliance personnel (as contemplated by Rule 17j-1(d)(3) and Rule 204 A- 1(a)(3));

• Provides for notification of the sub-adviser’s Access Persons in accordance with Rule 17j-1(d)(4) and Rule 204A-1(a)(5);

• Requires the sub-adviser’s Access Persons who are Investment Personnel to obtain the pre- clearances required by Rule 17j-1(e); and

• Requires the sub-adviser’s Access Persons to obtain the pre-clearances required by Rule 204A- 1(c).

The CCO of the John Hancock Affiliated Funds oversees each of the fund’s sub-adviser to ensure compliance with each of the provisions included in this section.

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Sub-adviser Reporting & Recordkeeping Requirements

Each sub-adviser must complete an annual Code of Ethics questionnaire and certification as to their compliance under Rule 17j-1 and summary of any violation to the relevant John Hancock Adviser, whom present summaries to the Board of Trustees annually during their 2^nd quarter meeting (which is typically held in June).

Reporting to the Board

No less frequently than annually, the Office of the CCO will furnish to the Board of Trustees a written report that:

• describes issues that arose during the previous year under the Code of Ethics or the related procedures, including, but not limited to, information about material Code or procedure violations, as well as any sanctions imposed in response to the material violations, and

• certifies that each entity, including the sub-advisers have adopted procedures reasonably necessary to prevent its Access Persons from violating its Code of Ethics,

• Any material changes to the Code are presented to the Trustees within six months for their approval.

The CCO of the John Hancock Affiliated Funds oversees each of the fund’s sub-adviser to ensure compliance with each of the provisions included in this section.

Reporting Violations

If you know of any violation of the Code, you have a responsibility to promptly report it to the CCO of your company. You should also report any deviations from the controls and procedures that safeguard John Hancock and the assets of our clients.

Since we cannot anticipate every situation that will arise, it is important that we have a way to approach questions and concerns. Always ask first, act later. If you are unsure of what to do in any situation, seek guidance before you act.

Speak to your manager, a member of the Human Resources Department or Legal Department or your divisional compliance officer if you have:

• a doubt about a particular situation;

• a question or concern about a business practice; or

• a question about potential conflicts of interest

You may report suspected or potential illegal or unethical behavior without fear of retaliation. John Hancock does not permit retaliation of any kind for good faith reports of illegal or unethical behavior. Concerns about potential or suspected illegal or unethical behavior should be referred to a member of the Human Resources or Legal Department. John Hancock relies on the Manulife Code of Business Conduct which advises that unethical, unprofessional, illegal, fraudulent or other questionable behavior may also be reported by

calling a confidential toll-free Ethics Hotline at 1-866-294-9534 or at www.ManulifeEthics.com.

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Exemptions & Appeals

Exemptions:to the Code may be granted by the CCO (or designee) where supported by applicable facts and circumstances. If you believe that you have a situation that warrants an exemption to any of the rules and restrictions of this Code you need to submit a written request to the CCO (or designee).  All requests will be reviewed on a case by case basis.  The CCO (or designee) will provide a written response detailing its decision once the review has been completed.

Exemption requests which pose a conflict of interest for the CCO will be escalated to the Ethics Oversight Committee for review and consideration.

Appeals: If you believe that your request has been incorrectly denied or that an action is not warranted, you may appeal the decision. To make an appeal, you need to give the CCO (or designee) of the Adviser/Trust a written explanation of your reasons for appeal within 30 days of the date that you were informed of the decision. Be sure to include any extenuating circumstances or other factors not previously considered. During the review process, you may, at your own expense, engage an attorney to represent you. The Code of Ethics Administration Group may arrange for Ethics Oversight Committee or other parties to be part of the review process.

Interpretation and Enforcement

The Code cannot anticipate every situation in which personal interests may be in conflict with the interests of our clients and fund investors. You should be responsive to the spirit and intent of the Code as well as its specific provisions.

When any doubt exists regarding any Code provision or whether a conflict of interest with clients or fund investors might exist, you should discuss the situation in advance with the CCO (or designee) of your company. The Code is designed to detect and prevent fraud against clients and fund investors, and to avoid the appearance of impropriety.

The CCO has general administrative responsibility for the Code as it applies to the covered employees; an appropriate member of the Code of Ethics Administration Group will administer procedures to review personal trading activity. The Code of Ethics Administration Group also regularly reviews the forms and reports it receives. If these reviews uncover information that is incomplete, questionable, or potentially in violation of the rules in this document, the Code of Ethics Administration Group will investigate the matter and may contact you.

The Board of the John Hancock Affiliated Funds approve material amendments to the Code and authorize sanctions imposed on Access Persons of the Funds. Accordingly, the Code of Ethics Administration Group will refer violations to the CCO of the Trust/Adviser (or designee) for further review and action, including determination if the matter should be presented to the Ethics Oversight Committee and/or the Board of Trustees for recommended action.

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The following factors will be considered when determining a fine or other disciplinary action:

• the person's position and function (senior personnel may be held to a higher standard);

• the amount of the trade;

• whether the John Hancock Affiliated Funds hold the security and were trading the same day;

• whether the violation was by a family member;

• whether the person has had a prior violation and which policy was involved; and

• whether the employee self-reported the violation.

John Hancock takes all rule violations seriously and, at least once a year, provides the Board of the John Hancock Affiliated Funds with a summary of all material violations and sanctions, significant conflicts of interest and other related issues for their review. Sanctions for violations could include (but are not limited to) fines, disgorgement, limitations on personal trading activity, suspension or termination of the Covered Person's position with John Hancock and/or a report to the appropriate regulatory authority.

You should be aware that other Securities Laws and regulations not addressed by the Code may also apply to you, depending on your role at John Hancock.

The CCO of the Adviser/Trust (or designee) and the Ethics Oversight Committee retain the discretion to interpret the Code’s provisions and to decide how they apply to any given situation.

Education of Employees

This Code constitutes the Code of Ethics required by Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940 and by Rule 204A-1 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. The Code of Ethics Administration Group will provide a copy of the Code (and any amendments) to each person subject to the Code. The Code of Ethics Administration Group in coordination with the CCO or designee will also administer initial and annual training to employees on the principles and procedures of the Code and other related policies.

Recordkeeping

The Code of Ethics Administration Group will maintain a:

• Copy of the current Code for John Hancock and a copy of each Code of Ethics in effect at any time within the past five years.

• Record of any violation of the Code, and of any action taken as a result of the violation, for six years.

• Copy of each report made by an Access Person under the Code, for six years (the first two years in a readily accessible place).

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• Record of all persons, currently or within the past five years, who are or were, required to make reports under the Code. This record will also indicate who was responsible for reviewing these reports.

• Record of any decision, and the reasons supporting the decision, to approve the acquisition by an Access Level I Persons of IPOs or private placement securities, for six years.

• Record of any decision, and the reasons supporting the decision, to approve the acquisition by an Access Person of the John Hancock Advisers IPOs or private placement securities, for six years.

Other Important Policies

The John Hancock Affiliated Funds have additional policies or may rely on certain MFC policies. Summary excerpts of such policies are listed below please review each full policy for additional details.

MFC Code of Business Conduct & Ethics (All Covered Employees)

The MFC Code of Business Conduct and Ethics (the MFC Code) provides standards for ethical behavior when representing the Company and when dealing with employees, field representatives, customers, investors, external suppliers, competitors, government authorities and the public.

The MFC Code applies to directors, officers and employees of MFC, its subsidiaries and controlled affiliates. Sales representatives and third-party business associates are also expected to abide by all applicable provisions of the MFC Code and adhere to the principles and values set out in the MFC Code when representing Manulife to the public or performing services for, or on behalf of, Manulife.

Other important issues in the MFC Code include:

• MFC values;

• Ethics in workplace;

• Ethics in business relationships;

• Conflicts of Interest;

• Handling information;

• Receiving or giving of gifts, entertainment or favors;

• Misuse or misrepresentation of your corporate position;

• Disclosure of confidential or proprietary information;

• Disclosure of outside business activities;

• Antitrust activities; and

• Political campaign contributions and expenditures relating to public officials.

John Hancock Conflicts of Interest Policy (All Covered Employees)

Conflicts of Interest are both inherent to the investment advisory business and also exist as a result of our unique organizational structure.  The Conflicts of Interest Policy governs organizational/Adviser conflicts, rather than personal conflicts (such as outside business activities or gifts and entertainment).  Our fiduciary obligation as an adviser to the Funds requires us to effectively disclose and/or manage these conflicts, which we do today through various documents and controls, and ultimately to act in the best interest of our clients and the Fund shareholders.

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John Hancock Gift & Entertainment Policy (All Covered Employees)

You are subject to the Gift and Entertainment Policy for the John Hancock Advisers which is designed to prevent the appearance of an impropriety, potential conflict of interest or improper payment.

The Gift & Entertainment Policy covers many issues relating to giving and accepting of gifts and entertainment when dealing with business partners, such as:

• Gift & Business Entertainment Limits

• Restrictions on Gifts & Entertainment

• Reporting of Gifts & Entertainment

John Hancock Insider Trading Policy (All Covered Employees)

The antifraud provisions of the federal Securities Laws generally prohibit persons with material nonpublic information from trading on or communicating the information to others. Sanctions for violations can include civil injunctions, permanent bars from the securities industry, civil penalties up to three times the profits made or losses avoided, criminal fines and jail sentences. While Access Level I Persons are most likely to come in contact with material nonpublic information, the rules (and sanctions) in this area apply to all persons covered under this code and extend to activities both related and unrelated to your job duties.

The John Hancock Insider Trading Policy (the Insider Trading Policy) covers a number of important issues, such as:

• Possession, misuse and access to material nonpublic information

John Hancock Pay to Play Rule on Political Contributions (All Covered Associates)

The Pay to Play rule restricts Investment Advisers and certain employees who fall within the definition of Covered Associates from making contributions to elected officials (including incumbents, candidates, or successful candidates for an elective office of a government entity) who may be able to influence the selection of the investment adviser to manage the assets of government entities (any state or political subdivision of a state). The rule has three primary elements:

• A two-year prohibition on an adviser’s providing compensated investment advisory services to a government entity after a contribution has been made by the adviser or one of its covered associates;

• A prohibition on the use of third-party solicitors who are not themselves regulated persons subject to pay-to-play restrictions on political contributions; and

• A prohibition on bundling and other efforts by advisers to solicit political contributions to certain officials of a government entity to which the adviser is seeking to provide services.

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Sanctions for violating the rule include a prohibition from receiving compensation for providing advisory services to a fund in which such government entity’s participant-directed plan or program invests for two years thereafter, otherwise known as a “time-out” period.

John Hancock Whistleblower Policy (All Covered Employees)

The Committees of the mutual funds’ Board of Trustees investigate improprieties or suspected improprieties in the operations of the Funds and has established procedures for the confidential, anonymous submission by employees of John Hancock Investment Management, LLC and John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers, LLC.  (collectively the “Advisers”) or any other provider of services to the Funds or Advisers of complaints regarding accounting, internal accounting controls, auditing matters or violations of the Securities Laws.  The objective of this policy is to provide a mechanism by which complaints and concerns regarding accounting, internal accounting controls, auditing matters or violations of Securities Laws may be raised and addressed without the fear or threat of retaliation.  The funds desire and expect that the employees and officers of the Advisers, or any other service provider to the funds will report any complaints or concerns they may have regarding accounting, internal accounting controls or auditing matters.

Persons may submit complaints or concerns to the attention of funds’ CCO (or designee) by sending a letter or other writing to the funds’ principal executive offices, by telephone call to or an email to the Ethics Hotline, Ethics Hotline can be reached at 1-866-294-9534, or through the Ethicspoint website at www.manulifeethics.com.  The Ethics Hotline and Ethicspoint website are operated by an independent third party, which maintains the anonymity of all complaints.

Complaints and concerns may be made anonymously to the funds’ CCO (or designee) or the respective Committee’s Chairperson. Furthermore, nothing in this policy prohibits reporting possible violations of applicable law or regulation to any governmental agency or entity, including but not limited to the Department of Justice, the Securities and Exchange Commission, the Congress, and any agency Inspector General, or making other disclosures that are protected under the whistleblower provisions of applicable law or regulation.

Policy and Procedures Regarding Disclosure of Portfolio Holdings (All Covered Employees)

It is our policy not to disclose nonpublic information regarding Fund portfolio holdings except in the limited circumstances noted in this Policy. You can only provide nonpublic information regarding portfolio holdings to any person, including affiliated persons, on a “need to know” basis (i.e., the person receiving the information must have a legitimate business purpose for obtaining the information prior to it being publicly available and you must have a legitimate business purpose for disclosing the information in this manner). We consider nonpublic information regarding Fund portfolio holdings to be confidential and the intent of the policy and procedures is to guard against selective disclosure of such information in a manner that would not be in the best interest of Fund shareholders.

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Additional Policies Outside the Code (All Covered Employees)

• Policy Regarding Dissemination of Mutual Fund Portfolio Information

• Manulife Financial Corporation Anti-Fraud Policy

• John Hancock Anti-Money Laundering (AML) and Anti-Terrorist Financing (ATF) Program

• Conflict of Interest Rules for Directors and Officers

• John Hancock Non-Cash Compensation Policy

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Appendix

Definitions

Access Person:

You are an “Access Person” if you are a “Supervised Person” who has access to nonpublic information regarding any client’s purchase or sale of securities, or nonpublic information regarding the portfolio holdings of any John Hancock Affiliated Fund, or who is involved in making securities recommendations to clients, or who has access to such recommendations that are nonpublic.

Automatic Investment Plan:

Means a program in which regular periodic purchases (or withdrawals) are made automatically in (or from) investment accounts in accordance with a predetermined schedule and allocation. An Automatic Investment Plan includes a dividend reinvestment plan.

Beneficial Ownership:

Means the opportunity, directly or indirectly, to profit or share in any profit (for loss) derived from a Reportable Securities transaction. This includes Reportable Securities held by an Access Person’s Household Family Member and Covered  Securities held through certain family trusts, family custodial accounts, entities controlled by the Access Person, portfolios from which the Supervised Person may receive a performance fee, and other circumstances in which the Access Person may profit, directly or indirectly through any contract, arrangement, understanding, relationship, or otherwise, from transactions in the respective Reportable Securities, as defined further in Rule 16a-1 (a) (2) of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934.

Broad-Based Index:

For the purposed of this Code a Broad-Based Index will include the following:

• the S&P 100, S&P Midcap 400, S&P 500, FTSE 100, and Nikkei 225;

• Direct obligations of the U.S. Government (e.g., treasury securities)

• Indirect obligations of the U.S. Government with a maturity of less than 1 year (GNMA)

• Commodities;

• Foreign currency

Brokerage Account:

Any of your accounts:

• Which have the capability to hold Reportable Securities;

• Accounts of your spouse, Significant Other, minor children or family members sharing your household (together, “Household Members”);

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• Accounts in which you or your Household Members have a Beneficial Ownership;

• Accounts over which you have discretion, give advice or information or have Power of Attorney (POA).

Covered Person:

Includes all “Access Persons” as defined under Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended (the “1940 Act”), and “Supervised Persons” as defined under SEC Rule 204A-1 under the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, as amended (the “Advisers Act”).

Household Family Member:

An Access Person’s spouse, Significant Other, minor children, or other family member who also shares the same household as the Access Person.

Investment Professionals:

Means a Supervised Person who are either Portfolio Managers, Analysts, and Traders.

Involuntary Issuer Transaction:

Transaction where the account owner has not determined the timing as to when the purchase or sale transaction will occur or the amount of shares purchased or sold, i.e. making changes to existing positions or asset allocations within the John Hancock retirement plans, buying or selling shares of a Reportable Security, etc.

Involuntary Issuer Transactions include:

• transactions which result from a corporate action applicable to all similar security holders (such as splits, tender offers, mergers, stock dividends, etc.); or

• automatic dividend reinvestment and stock purchase plan acquisitions.

Please note: any transaction that overrides the pre-set schedule or allocations must be included in a quarterly transaction report.

John Hancock Affiliated Fund:

For the purposes of this Code, a John Hancock Affiliated Fund shall include both:

• a “John Hancock Mutual Fund” (i.e., a 1940 Act mutual fund that is advised or sub-advised by a John Hancock Adviser or by another Manulife entity); or

• “John Hancock Variable Product” (i.e., contracts funded by insurance company separate accounts that use one or more portfolios of John Hancock Variable Insurance Trust).

• Any other financial product or security advised or sub-advised by a John Hancock Adviser or John Hancock Insurance or another Manulife entity.

The definition for John Hancock Affiliated Fund does not include John Hancock money market funds. A list of John Hancock Affiliated Funds can be found on StarCompliance.

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John Hancock Variable Products:

Contracts funded by insurance company separate accounts that use one or more portfolios of John Hancock Variable Insurance Trust

Managed Account:

Any account over which neither you nor a Household Family Member has direct or indirect influence or control and cannot a) suggest purchases or sales of investments to the trustee or third-party discretionary manager; b) direct purchases or sales of investments; or c) consult with the trustee or third-party discretionary manager as to the particular allocation of investments to be made in the account.

Private Placements:

Securities exempt from SEC registration under section 4(2), section 4(6) and/or rules 504 –506 under the Securities Act.

Reportable Securities:

Means any note, stock, treasury stock, security future, bond, debenture, evidence of indebtedness, certificate of interest or participation in any profit-sharing agreement, collateral-trust certificate, preorganization certificate or subscription, transferable share, investment contract, voting-trust certificate, certificate of deposit for a security, fractional undivided interest in oil, gas, or other mineral rights, any put, call, straddle, option, or privilege on any security (including a certificate of deposit) or on any group or index of securities (including any interest therein or based on the value thereof), or any put, call, straddle, option, or privilege entered into on a national securities exchange relating to foreign currency, or, in general, any interest or instrument commonly known as a “security”, or any certificate of interest or participation in, temporary or interim certificate for, receipt for, guaranty of, or warrant or right to subscribe to or purchase any of the foregoing, except it should not include:

(i) Direct obligations of the Government of the United States;

(ii) Bankers' acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper and high quality short-term debt instruments, including repurchase agreements;

(iii) Shares issued by money market funds;

(iv) Shares issued by open-end funds other than reportable funds; and

(v) Shares issued by unit investment trusts that are invested exclusively in one or more open-end funds, none of which are reportable funds.

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Please note: Reportable Securities includes both John Hancock Affiliated Funds and John Hancock Variable Products.

Securities Laws:

Means the Securities Act of 1933, as amended (the “Securities Act”), the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002, the Investment Company Act of 1940, the Investment Advisers Act of 1940, Title V of the Gramm-Leach-Bliley Act, any rules adopted by the SEC under any of these statutes, the Bank Secrecy Act as it applies to funds and investment advisers, and any rules adopted there under by the SEC or the Department of the Treasury.

Significant Others:

Two people who (1) share the same primary residence; (2) share living expenses; and (3) are in a committed relationship and intend to remain in the relationship indefinitely.

Supervised Person:

Is defined by the Advisers Act to mean a partner, officer, director (or other person occupying a similar status or performing similar functions) or employee, as well as any other person who provides advice on behalf of the adviser and is subject to the adviser’s supervision and control. However, in reliance on the Prudential no-action letter, John Hancock does not treat as a “Supervised Employee” any of its “non-advisory personnel”, as defined below.

In reliance on the Prudential no-action letter, John Hancock treats as an “Advisory Person” any “Supervised Employee” who is involved, directly, or indirectly, in John Hancock Financial Services investment advisory activities, as well as any “Supervised Employee” who is an Access Person. John Hancock treats as “non-advisory personnel”, and does not treat as a Supervised Person, those individuals who have no involvement, directly or indirectly, in John Hancock investment advisory activities, and who are not Access Persons.

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Preferred Brokers List

Preferred Brokers List While employed by John Hancock, you must maintain your Brokerage Accounts at one of the preferred brokers approved by John Hancock. The following are the preferred brokers:

Ameriprise	Sanders Morris Harris
Bank of Oklahoma	Scottrade
Bank of Texas	Stifel
Barclays Wealth Management	TD Ameritrade
Brave Warrior Advisors	T. Rowe Price
Charles Schwab	Thompson Davis & Co.
Chase Investment Services	UBS
Citigroup	US Trust
Constellation Wealth Management	Vanguard
Credit Suisse	Robert W. Baird & Co.
DB Alex Brown
Edward Jones
E*Trade
Fidelity
First Republic
Goldman Sachs Wealth Management
HSBC Private Bank
Interactive Brokers
JB Were
JP Morgan Private Bank
JP Morgan Securities
Lincoln Financial
Merrill Lynch & Bank of America
Morgan Stanley Private Wealth
Morgan Stanley Smith Barney
Northern Trust
Northern Trust Institutional
Oppenheimer & Co.
OptionsXpress
Pershing Advisor Solutions
Piper Jaffray
Raymond James
Revolution Capital

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Compliance Contacts

Entity	Chief Compliance Officer
John Hancock Investment Management, LLC	Trevor Swanberg – 617-572-4398
JohnHancockVariable Trust Advisers, LLC	Trevor Swanberg
Each open-end and closed-end fund advised by a John Hancock Adviser	Trevor Swanberg
John Hancock Investment Management Distributors, LLC	Michael Mahoney - 617-663-3021
John Hancock Distributors, LLC	Michael Mahoney

Code of Ethics Contacts	E-mail
Code of Ethics Administration Group	INVDIVCodeofEthics@manulife.com

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EX-99.(P).1

Exhibit 99.(p).1

Every day we make individual choices which reflect on the collective reputation of the Manulife and John Hancock brands. Our global standards for business ethics and our well-regarded reputation for integrity differentiates our brands in the marketplace, and are critical factors to our past and future success. We are proud of Manulife’s culture of doing business the right way and underscore the need to continue to conduct our business in this manner.

To this end, Global Wealth and Asset Management and General Account Investments have adopted this code of ethics to promote compliance with applicable law, as well as to address certain potential and actual conflicts of interest which can arise between our personal interests and the interests of our Clients. This code of ethics has been designed to reflect our values as a global organization and demonstrate the importance of the trust our Clients have placed in Manulife and the duties we owe to our Clients.

Paul Lorentz	Scott Hartz
President & CEO,	Chief Investment Officer
Global Wealth and Asset Management	Manulife Financial Corporation

Table of Contents

1.	Purpose	7
2.	Code Applicability	8
	2.1 GWAM AND GA ASSOCIATE	8
	2.2 GWAM AND GA ACCESS PERSON (“ACCESS PERSON”)	8
3.	Access Classification Levels and Applicable Rules	9
	3.1 ACCESS CLASSIFICATION LEVELS – SCHEMATIC	9
4.	General Principles of Business Conduct	10
	4.1 GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF BUSINESS CONDUCT	10
	4.2 PERSONAL TRADING CONFLICTS OF INTEREST	11
	4.3 CONFIDENTIAL INVESTMENT INFORMATION	11
	4.4 MNPI RELATED TO MANULIFE SECURITIES AND MANULIFE AFFILIATED FUNDS	11
	4.5 FALSE RUMOURS	11
	4.6 SUPERVISORY OVERSIGHT	11
	4.7 SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR REAL ASSETS	11
	4.8 SHARED BUSINESS ENTERTAINMENT AND GIFTS	11
	4.9 PAY TO PLAY	12
	4.10 OUTSIDE BUSINESS ACTIVITIES	12
	4.11 REPORTING VIOLATIONS OF THE CODE	12
	4.12 INITIAL CODE CERTIFICATION	12
	4.13 QUARTERLY CODE CERTIFICATION	12
	4.14 ANNUAL CODE CERTIFICATION	12

Code of Ethics Rev. 01.20.2020

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Table of Contents

5.	Personal Trading Rules	13
	5.1 NO LIABILITY FOR LOSSES	13
	5.2 WHAT SECURITIES ARE SUBJECT TO THE PERSONAL TRADING RULES?	13
	5.3 REQUIREMENT TO REPORT SECURITIES ACCOUNTS	13
	5.3.1 MANAGED ACCOUNTS	14
	5.3.2 MANAGED ACCOUNT QUALIFICATION PROCESS	14
	5.4 DUPLICATE TRANSACTION CONFIRMATIONS AND STATEMENTS	14
	5.5 U.S.-BASED PREFERRED BROKERAGE ACCOUNT REQUIREMENT	14
	5.6 INITIAL HOLDINGS REPORT AND CERTIFICATION	14
	5.7 QUARTERLY TRANSACTIONS REPORT AND CERTIFICATION	15
	5.8 REPORTING OF SECURITIES AS GIFTS, DONATIONS AND INHERITANCES	15
	5.9 ANNUAL HOLDINGS REPORT AND CERTIFICATION	15
	5.10 ACCESS PERSON’S RESPONSIBILITY REGARDING TRANSACTIONS AND HOLDINGS DATA	15
	5.11 PRE-CLEARANCE APPROVAL REQUIREMENT	16
	5.12 TERMS OF PRE-CLEARANCE	16
	5.12.1 SAME DAY APPROVAL WINDOW	16
	5.12.2 RESTRICTION ON SECURITIES UNDER ACTIVE CONSIDERATION	16
	5.12.3 LIMIT ORDERS AND SPECIAL ORDERS	16
	5.12.4 MIM PUBLIC MARKETS INVESTMENT TEAM HOLD UNTIL SOLD RULE	16
	5.12.5 INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERINGS & INITIAL COIN OFFERINGS & PRIVATE PLACEMENTS	16
	5.12.6 INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERINGS, INITIAL COIN OFFERINGS & PRIVATE PLACEMENT APPROVALS	16
	5.13 INVESTMENT CLUBS	16
	5.14 RESTRICTIONS ON MANULIFE SECURITIES	16
	5.14.1 REQUIREMENT TO PRE-CLEAR SALES OF MFC SHARES IN THE GSOP PROGRAM	17
	5.15 SHORT TERM PROFIT BAN (“60 DAY RULE”)	17
	5.16 SAME DAY BLACKOUT PERIOD RULE	18
	5.16.1 MARKET CAP SECURITIES EXCEPTION	18
	5.17 EXCESSIVE TRADING IS DISCOURAGED	18
	5.18 INFORMATION BARRIERS	18

Code of Ethics Rev. 01.20.2020

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Table of Contents

6.	Additional Personal Trading Rules for Front-Office Access Persons	19
	6.1 15 DAY BLACKOUT PERIOD RULE	19
	6.1.1 MARKET CAP SECURITIES EXCEPTION	19
	6.1.2 DE MINIMIS TRADING EXCEPTION	19
	6.2 INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING BAN	19
	6.3 INVESTMENT CLUB BAN	19
7.	Additional Personal Trading Rules for MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Persons	20
	7.1 MIM PUBLIC MARKETS INVESTMENT TEAM HOLD UNTIL SOLD RULE	20
8.	Administration of the Code	21
	8.1 PENALTIES FOR CODE VIOLATIONS	21
	8.2 EXEMPTIONS AND APPEALS	21
	8.3 CODE AMENDMENTS	22
	8.4 PRIVACY	22
	8.5 CODE ADMINISTRATION	23
	8.5.1 CONTACT	23
	8.6 RECORDKEEPING	23

Appendix A	24
Definitions of Italicized Code of Ethics Terms	24
Appendix B	29
Legal Entity Adoption of the Code	29
Appendix C	30
Securities Reporting & Pre-Clearance Summary Chart	30

Code of Ethics Rev. 01.20.2020

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Code of Ethics Rev. 01.20.2020

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1. Purpose

Global Wealth and Asset Management (“GWAM”) and General Account Investments (“GA”) and certain regulated entities listed in Appendix B (together the “Firm”) have adopted this Code of Ethics (the “Code”) to promote compliance with applicable law.1

This Code is separate and distinct from the Manulife Code of Business Conduct and Ethics. It is a supplementary standard of business conduct for asset managers and their employees to prevent those abuses in the investment management business that can arise when certain conflicts of interest exist between an investment manager, including its personnel and affiliates, and accounts managed for its Clients.

By adopting and enforcing this Code, we strengthen the trust and confidence entrusted in us by demonstrating that at Manulife, Client interests come first.

1This Code has been designed to be applicable across GWAM and GA and certain regulated entities listed in Appendix B (together the “Firm”), however it is being implemented in a multi-phased, multi-year project. In the interim, Associates may be subject to another code of ethics. See Appendix B for the legal entities that have adopted this Code to date.

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2. Code Applicability

This Code is applicable to Associates of the Firm.

Adherence to the General Principles of Business Conduct, and other provisions of this Code as applicable, are a condition of employment.

2.1 GWAM AND GA ASSOCIATE

Associates are:

(i)	any partner, officer, director, or other person occupying a similar status or performing similar functions of the Firm
(ii)	an employee of the Firm
(iii)	any person who provides investment advice on behalf of the Firm and is subject to the supervision and control of the Firm
(iv)	any person meeting the definition of Access Person
(v)	an Advisory Person of a Fund
(vi)	certain Manulife Affiliate persons who engage, directly or indirectly, in the Firm’s investment advisory activities and
(vii)	any other person who the Code Administrator deems an Associate.2

2.2 GWAM AND GA ACCESS PERSON (“ACCESS PERSON”)

Additionally, Associates who have access to certain investment information and the investment decision-making process are further classified by the Code Administrator into one of three Access Person levels and therefore subject to the personal trading rules and obligations of their Access Person classification level.

2The Code Administrator may modify the requirements of this Code for those Associates whose covered status is expected not to exceed 90 days (for instance contractors, co-ops and interns) or in instances where a person is subject to another code of ethics or fiduciary duty and where the modification is not otherwise specifically prohibited by law. In reliance on an SEC no-action letter, the Code Administrator may include in the definition of “Associate” any person of a Manulife Affiliate who is engaged, directly or indirectly in the Firm’s investment advisory activities.

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3. Access Classification Levels and Applicable Rules

Associates are categorized into one of the following Access Classification Levels for purposes of applying the rules in this

Code:

ACCESS CLASSIFICATION LEVELS	DEFINITION	APPLICABLE SECTION(S) OF RULES IN THIS CODE
Non-Access Person	Associates (as defined in Section 2.1) who are not deemed to be an Access Person.	Section 4
Regular Access Person	Any Associate who, in connection with their regular functions or duties: (i) has or may have access to non-public information regarding the purchase or sale of securities or non-public information regarding the portfolio holdings of Client or Firm accounts (ii) has or may have access to material, non-public Securities information. Examples: Sales, Marketing, Product, Client Service, IT, Finance, Operations, Legal, Compliance, Risk, Audit and certain related support staff.	Section 4 Section 5
General Account/ Manulife Investment Management Private Markets (“MIM Private Markets”) Front- Office Access Person	Any GA or MIM Private Markets Associate who, in connection with their regular functions or duties, makes or participates in/supports making recommendations regarding the purchase or sale of Securities for Client or Firm accounts, or provides direct administrative support to a General Account/MIM Private Markets Associate who makes or participates in/supports recommendations. Examples: Portfolio Management, Analysts, Traders, Credit, ALM, Real Estate, Commercial Mortgages and certain related support staff	Section 4 Section 5 Section 6
Manulife Investment Management Public Markets (“MIM Public Markets”) Front-Office Access Person	Any MIM Public Markets Associate who, in connection with their regular functions or duties, makes or participates in/supports making recommendations regarding the purchase or sale of Securities for Client or Firm accounts, or provides direct administrative support to a MIM Public Markets Associate who makes or participates in/supports recommendations. Examples: Portfolio Managers, Analysts, Traders and certain related support staff	Section 4 Section 5 Section 6 Section 7

3.1 ACCESS CLASSIFICATION LEVELS – SCHEMATIC

ACCESS CLASSIFICATION LEVELS	GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF BUSINESS CONDUCT (SECTION 4)	PERSONAL TRADING RULES (SECTION 5)	ADDITIONAL PERSONAL TRADING RULES (SECTION 6)	ADDITIONAL PERSONAL TRADING RULES (SECTION 7)
Non-Access Person
Regular Access Person
GA/MIM Private Markets Front-Office Access Person
MIM Public Markets Front- Office Access Person

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4. General Principles of Business Conduct

Applicable to All Access Classification Levels

The rules in this Section are applicable to all Access Classification Levels:

•       Non-Access Person

•       Regular Access Person

•       GA/MIM Private Markets Front-Office Access Person

•       MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Person.

4.1 GENERAL PRINCIPLES OF BUSINESS CONDUCT

Adherence to the General Principles of Business Conduct and other provisions of this Code is a condition of employment. Additionally, while the Code contains specific restrictions and limitations designed to prevent certain defined types of conflicts, the Firm recognizes that not every potential conflict of interest can be anticipated by the Code. Therefore, it is critical that the Code’s General Principles of Business Conduct be followed in the absence of a specific Code requirement or limitation.

Each Associate is expected to adhere to a high standard of professional and ethical conduct and should be sensitive to situations that may give rise to an actual conflict or the appearance of a conflict with the accounts we manage, or situations that have the potential to cause damage to Manulife or a Manulife Affiliates’ reputation. To this end, each Associate must act with integrity, honesty and in an ethical manner. The following General Principles of Business Conduct govern the activities of our business and every Associate:

• We have a fiduciary duty to place the interests of our Clients first. Consistent with our fiduciary duty, we must also never (i) employ any device, scheme or artifice to defraud a Client (ii) make any untrue statement of a material fact to the Client or an account we manage or omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements made to a Client, in light of the circumstances under which they are made, not misleading

• All personal Securities transactions must be conducted consistent with the applicable provisions of the Code, and in such a manner as to avoid any actual or potential conflict of interest and any other abuse of trust or responsibility.

• We should not take inappropriate advantage of our position or engage in any fraudulent or manipulative practice (such as front-running or manipulative market timing) with respect to the accounts we manage.

• We must treat as confidential any non-public or confidential information concerning the identity of Security holdings and financial circumstances of the Firm or our Clients.

• We must comply with all applicable laws including applicable domestic and foreign Securities Laws.

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4.2 PERSONAL TRADING CONFLICTS OF INTEREST

The Code represents a balancing of important interests. On the one hand, we owe a duty of loyalty to our Clients, and we must avoid even the appearance of a conflict that might be perceived as abusing the trust Clients have placed in us. On the other hand, the Firm does not want to prevent conscientious professionals from investing for their own accounts where conflicts do not exist or are immaterial to investment decisions affecting our Clients or the accounts we manage.

When conflicting interests cannot be reconciled, the Code makes clear that, first and foremost, Associates owe a fiduciary duty to our Clients, and the accounts we manage. In most cases, this means that the affected Associates will be required to forego conflicting Securities transactions. In some cases, personal investments will be permitted, but only in a manner, which, because of the circumstances and applicable controls, cannot reasonably be perceived as adversely affecting Client portfolios or taking unfair advantage of the account relationship.

4.3 CONFIDENTIAL INVESTMENT INFORMATION

Information acquired by Associates in connection with their duties for the Firm including information regarding actual or contemplated investment decisions, non-public portfolio composition, proprietary research, research recommendations, investment recommendations, or Firm or Client interests, is confidential and may not be used in any way that might be contrary to, or in conflict with the interests of the accounts we manage. Additionally, Associates are reminded that certain Clients have specifically required their relationship with us to be treated confidentially.

4.4 MNPI RELATED TO MANULIFE SECURITIES AND MANULIFE AFFILIATED FUNDS

Material, non-public information (“MNPI”) related to Manulife Securities, Manulife Affiliated Mutual Funds, or Affiliated Regulated Closed-End Funds acquired by Associates in connection with their duties for the Firm is confidential and may not be used for direct or indirect personal or family benefit including personal trading.

4.5 FALSE RUMOURS

The Securities Laws prohibit the deliberate or reckless use of manipulative devices or activities with an intention to affect the Securities markets, including the intentional creation or spreading of false or unfounded rumors or other information. Accordingly, Associates may not communicate information regarding companies, Securities, or markets that they know to be false.

4.6 SUPERVISORY OVERSIGHT

All Associates with managerial responsibility are responsible for the reasonable supervision of their staff to prevent and detect violations of this Code and applicable rules and regulations. Failure to perform adequate oversight can result in the manager being held personally liable by regulators for violations of the Securities Laws and the Code.

4.7 SPECIAL REQUIREMENTS FOR REAL ASSETS

Associates are prohibited from knowingly engaging in for (direct or indirect) personal or family benefit any of the following activities:

• Employing, hiring, or contracting with vendors for the provision of goods or services to Manulife or Manulife-managed properties or businesses;

• Utilizing for personal purposes the paid or unpaid services of a Manulife or Manulife-managed property vendor (including the services of the vendor’s employees);

• Purchasing or selling property adjacent to existing or proposed Manulife or Manulife-managed properties or businesses;

• Purchasing, selling, or transferring mineral or other land-related rights impacting existing or proposed Manulife or Manulife-managed properties or businesses;

• Leasing a real estate interest to or from a Manulife or Manulife- managed property; or

• Exploiting Manulife or Manulife- managed properties or assets (including rental space and equipment or supplies) for personal use.

4.8 SHARED BUSINESS ENTERTAINMENT AND GIFTS

The Firm has adopted the “GLOBAL ENTERTAINMENT & GIFT POLICY.” Although the Firm recognizes that the giving or receiving of shared business entertainment and modest gifts is a customary way to strengthen business relationships, and with some restrictions, is a lawful and proper business practice, they have adopted the policy to:

• Protect Associates from being improperly influenced (or perceived to be improperly influenced) in the discharge of their responsibilities because of excessive or improper shared business entertainment or gifts from a business partner or Client;

• Ensure that the giving of shared business entertainment or gifts to business partners or Clients does not exclude the Firm from certain investment management and business opportunities; and

• Ensure that Associates do not engage in shared business entertainment or gift practices that constitute (or appear to constitute) a corrupt business practice, including bribery.

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All Associates must abide by the specific standards and disclosure requirements of the “GLOBAL ENTERTAINMENT & GIFT POLICY.”

Additionally, Associates are required to report their shared business entertainment and gift activity in StarCompliance, the Code of Ethics administrative system, as well as certify to their adherence to the “GLOBAL ENTERTAINMENT & GIFT POLICY” on a quarterly basis.

4.9 PAY TO PLAY

The Firm has adopted the “PAY TO PLAY POLICY” to ensure that certain GWAM and GA legal entities (each a “U.S. Adviser”) comply with applicable pay to play laws and are not disqualified from pursuing new government Client opportunities (including public pension fund Clients), or from receiving advisory compensation from existing government Clients.

The Policy outlines its applicability to certain U.S. Advisers and Associates of those U.S. Advisers that must comply with the specific standards and requirements of the policy.

Additionally, Associates are required to pre-clear and report their political contributions and certify to their adherence to the “PAY TO PLAY POLICY” in StarCompliance on a quarterly and annual basis.

4.10 OUTSIDE BUSINESS ACTIVITIES

The Firm has established a reporting and pre-clearance process to identify and address certain actual or potential conflicts of interest related to an Associate’s outside business activities.

Associates are required to pre-clear and disclose in StarCompliance their outside employment positions, board or officer positions with a business or charitable organization, positions with portfolio companies or other portfolio advisory positions, positions on loan or creditor committees, positions with government or quasi-government bodies, and board or officer positions with industry or professional organizations. This includes activities on both a paid and unpaid basis.

Additionally, Associates are required to certify that they have disclosed all outside business activities in StarCompliance on a quarterly and annual basis.

4.11 REPORTING VIOLATIONS OF THE CODE

Associates who know or have reason to believe that the Code has been or may be violated must bring such actual or potential violations to the immediate attention of the Code Administrator and/or the relevant Chief Compliance Officer.

Associates are encouraged to communicate with the Code Administrator and/or the relevant Chief Compliance Officer, if they have a doubt about a provision of the Code pertinent to a specific situation, business practice or potential conflict of interest.

It is a violation of the Code for an Associate to deliberately fail to report a violation or deliberately withhold relevant or material information concerning a violation of the Code.

No person will be subject to penalty or reprisal for reporting in good faith suspected violations of the Code.

Additionally, unethical, unprofessional, illegal, fraudulent or other questionable behavior may also be anonymously reported by visiting the confidential Manulife Ethics Hotline at www.ManulifeEthics.com.

4.12 INITIAL CODE CERTIFICATION

Each Associate is required to certify in StarCompliance their initial receipt of the Code including that they have read and understood the Code and agree to comply with the applicable provisions of the Code.

4.13 QUARTERLY CODE CERTIFICATION

Each Associate is required to certify in StarCompliance on a quarterly basis that they are in compliance with the applicable provisions of the Code.

4.14 ANNUAL CODE CERTIFICATION

Each Associate, on an annual basis, is required to certify in StarCompliance that they have read and understood the Code, have complied with the applicable provisions of the Code (or have disclosed any failure to comply with the provisions of the Code to the Code Administrator) during the past year.

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5. Personal Trading Rules

Applicable to All Access Persons

The rules in this Section are applicable to the following Access Classification Levels:

• Regular Access Person

• General Account/MIM Private Markets Front-Office Access Person

• MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Person

5.1 NO LIABILITY FOR LOSSES

Manulife and/or Clients will not be liable for any losses incurred or profits avoided by any Access Person or Household Family Member resulting from the implementation or enforcement of the Code. The definition of a Household Family Member includes an Access Person’s spouse, significant other, minor children or other family members who also share the same household with the Access Person.

Access Persons must understand that their ability (as well as the ability of their Household Family Members) to buy and sell Securities may be limited by the Code and that trading activity by the Firm, Clients and/or other Manulife Affiliates may affect the timing of when an Access Person (as well as a Household Family Member) can buy or sell a particular Security.

5.2 WHAT SECURITIES ARE SUBJECT TO THE PERSONAL TRADING RULES?

Securities in which the Access Person has a Beneficial Interest are subject to the Code’s personal trading restrictions and requirements. An Access Person is deemed to have a Beneficial Interest in any Security w here the Access Person controls or can directly or indirectly profit or share in the profit derived from a transaction in a Security. An Access Person is presumed to have a Beneficial Interest in the following Securities:

• Securities owned by an Access Person in their name;

• Securities owned by Household Family Members;

• Securities owned by an Access Person indirectly through an account or investment vehicle for their benefit, such as an IRA/RRSP/ RESP/ISA/SIPP, family trust, or family partnership;

• Securities in which the Access Person has a joint ownership interest, such as Securities owned in a joint brokerage account; and

• Securities over which the Access Person has discretion or gives advice (other than for a Firm or Client account). This includes Securities owned by trusts, private foundations or other charitable accounts for which the Access Person has investment discretion.

5.3 REQUIREMENT TO REPORT SECURITIES ACCOUNTS

Access Persons are required to report the name of the broker, dealer, bank, or other entity with which the Access Person maintains an account in which any Securities are or can be held for the Access Person’s Beneficial Interest (including accounts of Household Family Members).

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Access Persons are required to report all Securities accounts within 10 calendar days of initially being designated an Access Person. After this initial report of Securities accounts, any Securities accounts opened in the future time must be reported no later than 10 calendar days following the opening of the account or prior to the first discretionary transaction in the account.

The following is a non-exhaustive list of commonly reported Securities Accounts:

• Brokerage Accounts

• Mutual Fund Only Accounts

• Custodial Securities Accounts

• Manulife GSOP Plan Accounts

• Certain 529 Plans (plans affiliated with or plans with investment options managed by Manulife or a Manulife-affiliated entity)

• IRA Accounts

• Stock Purchase Plans

• Transfer Agent Accounts

• Variable Life or Annuity Insurance Policies with underlying Affiliated Mutual Fund investment options

• Manulife Loan Program Mutual Fund Account

• John Hancock Unified 401k Plan/Manulife RPS

• Registered Savings Plan (RRSP/ RESP/TFSA)

• Uncertified Book Entry Securities

• Physical possession of certified Securities

• Employee Stock Option Account

• U.K. Individual Savings Account (ISA)

• U.K. Self Invested Pension Plan (SIPP)

As an Access Person, you are also required to inform any broker/dealer when you open a new account that you are employed by a financial institution and also whether you are registered with a broker/dealer.

5.3.1 MANAGED ACCOUNTS

As outlined in Section 5.3 above, the requirement to report accounts in which any Securities are or can be held for the Access Person’s Beneficial Interest includes Managed Accounts (accounts where a professional money manager is charged with sole discretionary authority over the account). However, Securities transactions in Managed Accounts may be exempt from Section 5.7:

Pre-Clearance Approval Requirement (below) provided the Code Administrator qualifies the account to be a Managed Account.

5.3.2 MANAGED ACCOUNT QUALIFICATION PROCESS

The Code Administrator may qualify an account to be a Managed Account provided the Access Person furnishes a copy of the client Advisory Agreement for the Managed Account. The Code Administrator will review the agreement to determine if the account qualifies to be a Managed Account.

Once the Code Administrator approves an account to be a Managed Account, any Securities transactions in the Managed Account are exempt from Section 5.7: Pre-Clearance Approval Requirement.

5.4 DUPLICATE TRANSACTION CONFIRMATIONS AND STATEMENTS

Access Persons must arrange for the Code Administrator to receive duplicate copies of trade confirmations of Reportable Securities transactions and periodic account statements for any Reportable Securities accounts in which the Access Person has a Beneficial Interest in, if the account holds, or has the ability to hold, Reportable Securities. This requirement also applies to the Securities confirmations and statements of Household Family Members.3

5.5 U.S.-BASED PREFERRED BROKERAGE ACCOUNT REQUIREMENT

U.S.-based Access Persons are required to maintain all Reportable Securities accounts (including the Reportable Securities accounts of Household Family Members) at one of the firm’s Preferred Brokers unless the account has been qualified by the Code Administrator as an Exempt Securities Account. A current list of the Firm’s Preferred Brokers can be found on StarCompliance or by contacting the Code Administrator.

Upon designation as an Access Person, a person has 45 calendar days to (i) transfer all assets to a Preferred Broker and close the non-compliant account or (ii) qualify any non- compliant Securities account as an Exempt Securities Account.

5.6 INITIAL HOLDINGS REPORT AND CERTIFICATION

After reporting all Reportable Securities accounts (as outlined in Section 5.3) Access Persons must file an Initial Holdings Report. This Initial Holdings Report is due within 10 calendar days after the person became an Access Person and the submitted information must be current as of a date no more than 45 calendar days prior to the date the person became an Access Person.

An Access Person is required to submit with their Initial Holdings Report a certification that they have disclosed or reported all required Reportable

3 The Code Administrator may rely on the operating groups of Manulife/John Hancock for administration of trading activity limitations and monitoring of market timing policies for Manulife Affiliated Mutual Funds. To the extent the Code Administrator has ready access to Securities transaction and holdings information, the Code Administrator is not required to obtain duplicate paper confirmations or statements for such accounts.

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Securities holdings and all Reportable Securities accounts in which they have a Beneficial Interest (including Household Family Member accounts).

The Initial Holdings Report must include: (i) the title and type of each Reportable Security in which the Access Person has any Beneficial Interest, (ii) the exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP number and the number of shares or principal amount of each Reportable Security (each as applicable), (iii) the name of any broker, dealer, bank, or other entity with which the Access Person maintains an account in which any Reportable Securities are or can be held for the Access Person’s direct or indirect Beneficial Interest, and (iv) the date the report is submitted by the Access Person.

5.7 QUARTERLY TRANSACTIONS REPORT AND CERTIFICATION

Access Persons must file a Quarterly Transaction Report that discloses certain information about each Reportable Security transaction in which they have (or as a result of the transaction acquired) a Beneficial Interest (including transactions for Household Family Members) during the quarter covered by the Quarterly Transaction Report.

Each Access Person’s Quarterly Transaction Report is due within 30 calendar days after the end of each calendar quarter. Each Access Person’s Quarterly Transaction report must also include a certification that the submitted Quarterly Transaction Report includes all information required to be reported. In connection with the Quarterly Transaction Report Certification, Access Persons are required to certify to the accuracy of the listing of Securities accounts displayed in StarCompliance.

The Quarterly Transaction report must include: (i) the date of the transaction (“trade date”), (ii) the title of the Reportable Security, (iii) the exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP number, the interest rate and maturity date, the number of shares or principal amount of each Reportable Security, the type of transaction or acquisition, the price at which the transaction was effected (each as applicable), (iv) the name of any broker, dealer, bank, or other entity with or through which the transaction was effected, and (v) the date the report is submitted by the Access Person.

5.8 REPORTING OF SECURITIES AS GIFTS, DONATIONS AND INHERITANCES

An Access Person’s gift or donation of a Pre-Clearable Security is considered a “sale” event (this includes gifts

or donations by Household Family Members) and therefore is subject to pre-clearance approval prior to

making the gift or donation. Refer to Section 5.11: Pre-Clearance Approval Requirement. Additionally, any approved gift or donation event of a Reportable Security must be accurately reflected in the next Quarterly Transaction Report (Refer to Section 5.7).

The receipt of a gift or inheritance of Reportable Securities should be promptly reported to the Code Administrator to ensure the new holding is accurately accounted for. However, the receipt of a gift or inheritance is not subject to pre- clearance.

5.9 ANNUAL HOLDINGS REPORT AND CERTIFICATION

Access Persons must file an Annual Holdings Report.

The Annual Holdings Report is due within 45 calendar days of December 31st and must be current as of a date no more than 45 calendar days prior to the date this information is reported.

Each Access Person must submit each Annual Holdings Report with a certification that they have reported all required Reportable Securities holdings and Securities accounts for which the Access Person holds a Beneficial Interest (including the applicable holdings and accounts of Household Family Members).

The Annual Holdings Report must include: (i) the title and type of each Reportable Security in which the Access Person has any Beneficial Interest, (ii) the exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP number and the number of shares or principal amount of each Reportable Security (each as applicable), (iii) the name of any broker, dealer, bank, or other entity with which the Access Person maintains an account in which any Reportable Securities are or can be held for the Access Person’s direct or indirect Beneficial Interest, and (iv) the date the report is submitted by the Access Person.

5.10 ACCESS PERSON’S RESPONSIBILITY REGARDING TRANSACTIONS AND HOLDINGS DATA

As a convenience to Access Persons, the Code Administrator works with certain brokers to obtain Securities transactions and holdings data to pre-populate Quarterly Transaction and Annual Holdings Reports in StarCompliance (where available). However, the pre-populated data may contain omissions or inaccuracies. It is each Access Person’s responsibility to contact the Code Administrator to correct any inaccurate transactions or holdings data prior to submitting a report or certification.

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5.11 PRE-CLEARANCE APPROVAL REQUIREMENT

Access Persons may not purchase, sell or otherwise acquire or dispose of any Security in which they have (or because of such transaction will establish) a Beneficial Interest without obtaining advance pre-clearance approval for such transaction from StarCompliance (or the Code Administrator) unless the Security transaction is exempt from the Code’s pre-clearance requirement. Remember, Access Persons are required to obtain pre-clearance approval for all Securities transactions of persons who qualify as a Household Family Member of the Access Person unless the Security transaction is exempt from the Code’s pre-clearance requirement.

Refer to APPENDIX C for a list of Securities and Securities transactions exempt from the pre-clearance requirement.

5.12 TERMS OF PRE-CLEARANCE

During the pre-clearance process, Access Persons will be required to attest to the following terms of pre-clearance:

5.12.1 SAME DAY APPROVAL WINDOW

The pre-clearance approval is valid only for the same day it is granted.

5.12.2 RESTRICTION ON SECURITIES UNDER ACTIVE CONSIDERATION

Access Persons may not purchase, sell or otherwise dispose of any Security in which the Access Person has (or because of such transaction will establish) Beneficial Interest if the Access Person at the time of the transaction has actual knowledge that:

• the Security (or a related Security) is under Active Consideration for Purchase or Sale by or on behalf of the Firm or any Client account;

• the Security is on an MNPI Restricted Trading List; and/or

• the Access Person is in possession of material non-public information regarding the Security.

5.12.3 LIMIT ORDERS AND SPECIAL ORDERS

Due to the same-day approval window outlined in Section 5.12.1, multi-day special orders such as “good until cancelled orders” or “limit orders” are prohibited. “Day orders” (i.e., orders that automatically expire at the end of the trading day session) are allowed, however the onus is on the Access Person to check the status of day orders at the end of the trading day to ensure any orders that have not been executed are cancelled. If a trade order is left open beyond the same-day pre-clearance window, any resulting executed trade will constitute a Code violation.

5.12.4 MIM PUBLIC MARKETS INVESTMENT TEAM HOLD UNTIL SOLD RULE

	Please note this term of pre- clearance is only applicable to the following Classification Level: MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Persons.
	Refer to Section 7.1 – MIM Public Markets Investment Team Hold Until Sold Rule.

As outlined in Section 7.1, MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Persons associated with an Investment Team (including Household Family Members) are not permitted to sell a holding if the same holding is held in a Client account managed by the MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Person’s Investment Team.

5.12.5 INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERINGS & INITIAL COIN OFFERINGS & PRIVATE PLACEMENTS

As outlined in Section 5.11, Access Persons must obtain advance pre- clearance approval for transactions of reportable Securities. This includes Initial Public Offerings, Initial Coin Offerings, and Private Placements.

Please note that the following Classification Levels may not participate in Initial Public Offerings (Refer to Section 6.2 – Initial Public Offering Ban):

• General Account/MIM Private Markets Front-Office Access Person

• MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Person.

5.12.6 INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERINGS, INITIAL COIN OFFERINGS & PRIVATE PLACEMENT APPROVALS

As part of the pre-clearance process, pre-clearance requests for Initial Public Offerings, Initial Coin Offerings and Private Placements will be subject to the approval of the relevant Chief Investment Officer or designee.

5.13 INVESTMENT CLUBS

Access Persons (including Household Family Members) are required to pre-clear and report all pre-clearable and Reportable Securities of their Investment Club in the same manner as their own personal trades.

Please note that the following Classification Levels may not participate in Investment Clubs (Refer to Section 6.3 – Investment Club Ban):

• General Account/MIM Private Markets Front-Office Access Person

• MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Person.

5.14       RESTRICTIONS ON MANULIFE SECURITIES

The Corporate Law Department has a Policy entitled: Manulife Financial Corporation (“MFC”): Insider Trading & Reporting Policy. This Policy prohibits Manulife employees from speculating in MFC Securities. Speculation includes the purchase or sale of MFC Securities with the intention of reselling or buying back in a relatively short period of time in the expectation of a rise or fall in the market price of such Securities, buying or selling options, or short selling. The

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Policy also outlines requirements for Manulife employees that are deemed to be “Reporting Insiders”. Questions related to this Policy and whether you have been deemed a “Reporting Insider” should be directed to the Corporate Law Department or to the General Counsel.

Notwithstanding the above, Access Persons are subject to pre-clearance requirements for transactions in MFC Securities, just like any other Security (refer to Section 5.11: Pre-Clearance Approval Requirement).

5.14.1 REQUIREMENT TO PRE-CLEAR SALES OF MFC SHARES IN THE GSOP PROGRAM

Access Persons are required to pre-clear sales of MFC Shares in the MFC Global Share Ownership Program (GSOP).

Refer to Section 5.11: Pre-Clearance

Approval Requirement.

Access Persons are not required to pre- clear purchases of MFC Shares in the MFC GSOP.

5.15 SHORT TERM PROFIT BAN (“60 DAY RULE”)

Access Persons (including Household Family Members) cannot directly or indirectly profit from a discretionary purchase and sale of the same Pre- Clearable Security within 60 calendar days. However, Pre-Clearable Securities whose issuer’s market capitalization is $5 Billion USD or more at the time of the transaction are exempt from the 60 Day Rule.

A voluntary transaction related to a derivative Security (including options) which results in a profit is permitted so long as the voluntary transaction occurs more than 60 calendar days after the initial related transaction event.

The following Securities activities are exempt from the 60-Day Rule:

• All money market fund transactions

• Automatic Investment Plan transactions (including payroll deduction purchases)

• Dividend reinvestment purchase transactions

• Issuer Pro Rata Discretionary Transactions

• Involuntary issuer transactions (i.e. stock dividends, stock splits/ reverse splits or other similar

• reorganizations or distributions, call of a debt security, and spin-offs of shares to existing holders)

• Automatic purchases into a default investment option by a retirement plan

• Other involuntary purchase or sales activity not at the direction of the Access Person or the Access Person’s Household Family Member.

Conversely, giving gifts and donations of Securities are considered “Sales” and are not exempt from the 60-Day Rule.

The Code Administrator in consultation with the relevant Chief Compliance Officer may approve waivers to the 60 Day Rule.

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5.16 SAME DAY BLACKOUT PERIOD RULE

Access Persons (and Household Family Members) may not purchase, sell or otherwise acquire or dispose of any Pre-Clearable Security in which they have (or as a result of such transaction will establish) a Beneficial Interest if that same or Related Pre-Clearable Security traded in a Client or Firm account on the same day the Access Person (or Household Family Member) transacts unless (1) the Access Person has no actual knowledge that the same or Related Pre-Clearable Security is under Active Consideration for Purchase or Sale by an account and (2) the transaction can satisfy the following exception:

5.16.1 MARKET CAP SECURITIES EXCEPTION

May permit the transaction if the Access Person’s pre-clearance request is in the Securities of an issuer whose market capitalization is at least $5B USD or more.

If a Client or Firm account trades in a Pre-Clearable Security during the pre-clearance window and an Access Person successfully obtained pre- clearance approval of a trade, the Access Person may still be required to demonstrate that they did not know that the same or Related Pre-Clearable Security was under Active Consideration for Purchase or Sale for an account at the time of the personal trade. Access Persons failing to demonstrate to the firm “no knowledge” when requested may be required to sell any Security purchased and/or disgorge any profits realized as a result of a transaction being found by the Firm to have violated the Same Day Blackout Period Rule.

  Please note that the following Access Person Classification Levels are subject to a stricter Blackout period Rule. (Refer to Section 6.1 - 15 Day Blackout Period Rule.):

• General Account/MIM Private Markets Front-Office Access Person

• MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Person.

5.17 EXCESSIVE TRADING IS DISCOURAGED

While active personal trading may not in and of itself raise issues under the Securities Laws, a high volume of personal trading by an Access Person can be time consuming and can increase the possibility of actual or apparent conflicts with portfolio transactions. Accordingly, high levels of discretionary personal trading activity by an Access Person is strongly discouraged and will be subjected to enhanced scrutiny including reporting to the Ethics Oversight Committee. Additionally, limitations may be imposed on the number of Pre-Clearable Securities pre-clearance requests permitted during a given period for Access Persons.

5.18 INFORMATION BARRIERS

The Firm has adopted the “INFORMATION BARRIER POLICY” to establish, maintain, and enforce information barriers reasonably designed to meet its business needs and satisfy its contractual and regulatory obligations. In addition, the policy establishes safeguards and controls to ensure the integrity of these information barriers and prevent the improper transfer or sharing of sensitive information between business units.

Access Persons must comply with the specific standards and requirements of the “INFORMATION BARRIER POLICY”.

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6. Additional Personal Trading Rules for Front- Office Access

Applicable to all General Account/MIM Private Markets Front-Office Access Persons and all MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access

The rules in this Section are applicable to the following Access Classification Levels:

• General Account/MIM Private Markets Front-Office Access Person

• MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Person.

6.1 15 DAY BLACKOUT PERIOD RULE

Front-Office Access Persons (and Household Family Members) may not purchase, sell or otherwise acquire or dispose of any Pre-Clearable Security in which they have (or as a result of such transaction will establish) a Beneficial Interest if that same or Related Pre-Clearable Security traded in a Client or Firm account 7 calendar days before such a transaction (or will trade in a Client or Firm account 7 days following such a transaction) unless (1) the Front-Office Access Person has no actual knowledge that the same or Related Pre-Clearable Security is under Active Consideration for Purchase or Sale by an account and (2) the transaction can satisfy one of the following exceptions:

6.1.1 MARKET CAP SECURITIES EXCEPTION

May permit the transaction if the Front- Office Access Person’s pre-clearance request is in the Securities of an issuer whose market capitalization is at least $5B USD or more.

6.1.2 DE MINIMIS TRADING EXCEPTION

May permit the transaction if all of the Front-Office Access Person’s aggregate total same-day pre-clearance requests for the same or Related Pre-Clearable Security have a transaction market value of less than $25,000 USD and (in the case of equities) the same day transactions in the Pre-Clearable Security total no more than 500 equity shares.

If a Client or Firm account trades in a Pre-Clearable Security during the pre- clearance window and a Front-Office Access Person successfully obtained pre-clearance approval of a trade, the Front-Office Access Person may still be required to demonstrate that they did not know that the same or Related Pre- Clearable Security was under Active Consideration for Purchase or Sale for an account at the time of the personal trade. Front-Office Access Persons failing to demonstrate to the Firm “no knowledge” when requested may be required to sell any Security purchased and/or disgorge any profits realized as a result of a transaction being found by the Firm to have violated the 15 Day Blackout Period Rule.

6.2 INITIAL PUBLIC OFFERING BAN

Front-Office Access Persons may not directly or indirectly acquire a Beneficial Interest in a Security through an Initial Public Offering (IPO). Consequently Front-Office Access Persons (including Household Family Members) must wait to purchase newly- issued IPO Securities until the next business (trading) day following the offering date of the IPO.

6.3 INVESTMENT CLUB BAN

Front-Office Access Persons (including Household Family Members) are prohibited from participating or holding an interest in any Investment Club.

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7. Additional Personal Trading Rules for MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Persons

Applicable to all MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Persons

The rules in this Section are applicable to the following Access Classification Levels:

• MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Person.

7.1 MIM PUBLIC MARKETS INVESTMENT TEAM HOLD UNTIL SOLD RULE

MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Persons associated with an Investment Team (including Household Family Members) are not permitted to sell a Pre- Clearable Security holding in which they have a Beneficial Interest if (i) the same Security is held in a Client account managed by the MIM Public Markets Front- Office Access Person’s Investment Team and (ii) the MIM Public Markets Front- Office Access Person (or Household Family Member) purchased the Security after the date of the Code’s initial adoption or the date the person was named to the relevant Investment Team (whichever date is later).

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8 Administration of the Code

8.1 PENALTIES FOR CODE VIOLATIONS

Penalties for violating the Securities Laws can be severe, both for the individuals involved and their employers. A person can be subject to penalties even if they did not personally benefit from the violation. Penalties may include civil injunctions, payment of profits made or losses avoided (“disgorgement”), jail sentences, fines for the person committing the violation, and fines for the employer or other controlling person.

In addition, any violation of the Code is subject to the imposition of sanctions by the Firm as may be deemed appropriate under the circumstances by the Firm. These sanctions could include, without limitation, bans on personal trading (including Household Family Member trading), disgorgement of trading profits, and personnel action, including termination of employment, where appropriate.

8.2 EXEMPTIONS AND APPEALS

In cases of hardship, exemptions from Code provisions may be granted by the Code Administrator, in consultation with the relevant Chief Compliance Officer, where warranted by applicable facts and circumstances, if permitted by law, and if the Code Administrator and/or Ethics Oversight Committee determines an exemption would be in accordance with the spirit of the General Principles of the Code and the Securities Laws. Associates and Access Persons may direct their request for an exemption to the Code Administrator or the relevant Chief Compliance Officer. The Code Administrator and/ or Ethics Oversight Committee is also authorized to modify the personal trading provisions of this Code where local law would prohibit the application of a specific provision.

If an Associate or Access Person believes that a Code-related request for exemption has been incorrectly denied by the Code Administrator and/or Ethics Oversight Committee, or that a Code-related action is not warranted, they may make a written appeal of the decision or action within 30-days of the decision or action to the Ethics Oversight Committee. The Code Administrator will arrange an appropriate forum or communication for the consideration of appeals.

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8.3 CODE AMENDMENTS

The Code Administrator, in consultation with the relevant Chief Compliance Officer, is permitted to approve non-material amendments to the Code and the Ethics Oversight Committee (or relevant Board, if applicable) is responsible for approving any material amendments.

For certain Affiliated Mutual Fund and Affiliated Registered Closed-End Fund Clients, the respective Board of Trustees must approve any material changes to the Code within 6 months of the adoption of the material change in accordance with the requirements of SEC Rule 17j-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940.

8.4 PRIVACY

All confidential information received by the Code Administrator or Code service providers is kept confidential and will only be disclosed to others as required to administer this Code, or to report violations to the Ethics Oversight Committee, management, regulators, or other legal authority.

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8.5 CODE ADMINISTRATION

The Firm’s relevant Chief Compliance Officers, together with the Code Administrator, maintain responsibility for establishing policies and procedures for the administration of the Code; monitoring and testing for Code compliance; ensuring Code training is provided to Associates and Access Persons; granting exemptions to any provision of the Code, on an individual or class basis; and considering and recommending material amendments to the Code to the Ethics Oversight Committee (or relevant Board, if applicable).

The Ethics Oversight Committee (or relevant Board, if applicable) retains the ultimate discretion as to the interpretation the Code’s provisions in any given situation, rendering material sanctions for violations of the Code, and rendering final judgments on any Associate’s or Access Person’s appeal of any decision or ordinary sanction imposed by the Code Administrator.

8.5.1 CONTACT

The Code Administrator can be contacted at The Code of Ethics, Global Center of Expertise - INVDIVCodeofEthics@manulife.com

8.6 RECORDKEEPING

The Code Administrator maintains or causes to be maintained, the following records: (1) a copy of the Code or any predecessor code of ethics which has been in effect during the most recent 7-year period; (2) a record of any violation of the Code, or any predecessor code of ethics, and of any action taken as a result of such violation in the 7-year period following the end of the fiscal year in which the violation took place; (3) a list of all persons currently or within the most recent 7-year period who were required to make reports pursuant to the Code (or any predecessor Code) and the person(s) who were responsible for reviewing these reports; (4) copies of all acknowledgements of each person’s receipt of the Code, Initial and Annual Holdings Reports, Quarterly Transaction Reports, and duplicate brokerage confirmations and Securities account statements (as applicable) filed during the most recent 7-year period; and (5) a record of the approval of, and rationale supporting, the acquisition of Securities by Access Persons in an Initial Public Offering or Limited Offering for at least 7 years after the end of the fiscal year in which the approval is granted.

Code records will be maintained for the first 2 years in an office of the Firm (in paper or accessible electronically) and in an easily accessible place for the time period as required by any applicable regulations thereafter.

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Appendix A

Definitions of Italicized Code of Ethics Terms

Access Person	Access Persons are any Associate who, in connection with their regular functions or duties: (i) has regular access to non-public information regarding the purchase or sale of securities or non-public information regarding the portfolio holdings of Client or Firm accounts, (ii) has a job function that relates to the making (or participating in making) of recommendations regarding the purchase or sale of Securities for Firm or Client accounts, or (iii) regularly has or may have access to material, non-public securities information. See Section 3: Access Classification Levels and Applicable Rules.
Active Consideration for Purchase or Sale	A Security is under Active Consideration for Purchase or Sale once an analyst wishes to recommend or a portfolio manager forms a specific intent to purchase or sell a Security for a Client or Firm account.
Advisory Person of a Fund	An Advisory Person of a Fund is (i) any “Access Person” of the Fund (as defined by SEC Rule 17j- 1), (i) any director, officer, general partner, or employee of a Fund or its investment adviser (or of any company in a control relationship to the Fund or its investment adviser who, in connection with their regular functions or duties, makes, participates in, or obtains information regarding the purchase or sale of “covered securities” (as defined by SEC Rule 17j-1) by the Fund, or whose functions relate to the making of any recommendations with respect to such purchases or sales; or (iii) any natural person in a control relationship to the Fund or investment adviser who obtains information regarding recommendations made to the Fund with regard to the purchase or sale of covered securities. Note: Advisory Persons of a Fund that are also personnel of John Hancock Investment Management, LLC (“JHIM LLC”) are covered under a separate joint Fund and JHIM LLC code of ethics. Additionally, Advisory Persons of a Fund that are also independent trustees of a Fund are covered under a separate Fund independent trustee code of ethics.
Affiliated Mutual Fund	Any Mutual Fund for which Manulife serves as an investment adviser (or sub-adviser) or whose investment adviser (or sub-adviser) controls, is controlled by, or is under common control with Manulife. (e.g., Manulife or John Hancock Mutual Funds).
Affiliated Registered Closed-End Fund	Any U.S. registered Closed-End Investment Company or business development company for which Manulife serves as an investment adviser (or sub-adviser) (e.g., John Hancock GA Mortgage Trust, etc).
Associate	Associates are: (i) any partner, officer, director, or other person occupying a similar status or performing similar functions of the Firm (ii) an employee of the Firm (iii) any person who provides investment advice on behalf of the Firm and is subject to the supervision and control of the Firm (iv) any person meeting the definition of Access Person; (v) an Advisory Person of a Fund; (vi) certain Manulife Affiliate persons who engage, directly or indirectly, in the Firm’s investment advisory activities; and (vii) any other person who the Code Administrator deems an Associate. See Section 3.1.
Automatic Investment Plan	A program in which regular periodic purchases (or withdrawals) are made automatically in (or from) investment accounts in accordance with a predetermined schedule and allocation. Examples include automatic dividend reinvestment plans and payroll deduction purchase plans.

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Beneficial Interest	An Access Person is deemed to have a Beneficial Interest in any transaction in which the Access Person controls or has the opportunity to directly or indirectly profit or share in the profit derived from the Securities transacted. An Access Person is presumed to have a Beneficial Interest in the following Securities and related transaction activities: (1) Securities owned by an Access Person in their name; (ii) Securities (and Securities accounts) owned by Household Family Members; (iii) Securities owned by an Access Person indirectly through an account or investment vehicle for their benefit, such as an IRA/RRSP/RESP/ISA/SIPP, family trust or family partnership; (iv) Securities owned in which the Access Person has a joint ownership interest, such as Securities owned in a joint brokerage account; and (v) Securities over which the Access Person has discretion or gives advice (other than Firm or Client accounts) and includes Securities owned by trusts, private foundations or other charitable accounts for which the Access Person has investment discretion. Beneficial Interest is interpreted in the same manner under the Code as it would be under Rule 16a-1(a)(2) under the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934.
Chief Compliance Officer	The term Chief Compliance Officer refers to the Chief Compliance Officer of each applicable entity adopting this Code.
Client	For purposes of this Code, the term “Client” means the specific person or entity that has an investment advisory or investment sub-advisory services agreement (or supervised investment delegation affiliate arrangement) with a specific entity adopting this Code. The term “Client” also includes a Fund.
Closed-End Investment Company	A Closed-Fund Investment Company is a registered investment company that issues a fixed number of shares and is usually traded on a major stock exchange. In contrast, an open- end investment company (i.e., mutual fund) continuously offers new shares to the public and repurchases shares at net asset value. Note: Many REITs are Closed-End Investment Companies.
Code Administrator	Code Administrator refers to the person (or persons) primarily responsible for the day-to-day administration of the Code. The Code Administrator can be contacted at The Code of Ethics, Global Center of Expertise - INVDIVCodeofEthics@manulife.com.
Cryptocurrencies	A cryptocurrency (or crypto currency) is a digital asset designed to work as a medium of exchange that uses strong cryptography to secure financial transactions, control the creation of additional units, and verify the transfer of assets. Cryptocurrencies use decentralized control as opposed to centralized digital currency and central banking systems. The decentralized control of each cryptocurrency works through distributed ledger technology, typically a blockchain, that serves as a public financial transaction database.
Direct Obligations of the Government of the U.S. or U.K.	Any Security directly issued or guaranteed as to principal or interest by the United States. Examples of direct obligations include Cash Management Bills, Treasury Bills, Notes and Bonds, and STRIPS. It is important to note that Federal National Mortgage Association (Fannie Mae), and Federal Home Loan Mortgage Corporation (Freddie Mac) Securities are not Direct Obligations of the Government of the United States. Direct Obligations of the U.K. refers to the following list of Securities issued and guaranteed by the United Kingdom Treasury: Premium Savings Bonds, Index Linked Savings Certificates, Fixed Interest Savings Certificates, Guaranteed Equity Bonds, Capital Bonds, Children’s Bonus Bonds, Fixed Rate Savings Bonds, Income Bonds, and Pensioners Guaranteed Income Bonds. Refer to M&G Investment Management Ltd. SEC No-Action Letter (Sept. 10, 2002).
Ethics Oversight Committee	The Ethics Oversight Committee is an ad hoc or standing compliance committee composed of Code Administrator personnel, relevant Chief Compliance Officers and certain senior management.
Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF)	An Exchange-Traded Fund (ETF) is an investment fund traded on stock exchanges. An ETF holds assets such as stocks, commodities or bonds. Most ETF’s track an index, such as a stock index or bond index. ETF transactions require annual and quarterly reporting, but do not require advance pre-clearance approval. Refer to APPENDIX C for further information on reporting ETF transactions and holdings.

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Exempt Securities Accounts	With written approval from the Code Administrator, U.S.-based Access Persons (and Household Family Members) subject to the Preferred Broker Requirement of Section 5.5 are permitted to maintain a Securities account with an entity other than with a Preferred Broker, if the Securities account can meet one of the following exemptions: (i) it contains only Securities that can’t be transferred; (ii) it exists solely for products or services that one of the Preferred Brokers cannot provide; (iii) it exists solely because your spouse’s or significant other’s employer prohibits external covered accounts; (iv) it is managed by a third-party registered investment adviser; (v) it is restricted to trading interests in 529 College Savings Plans; (vi) it is associated with an ESOP (employee stock option plan) or an ESPP (employee stock purchase plan); (vii) employee sponsored phantom stock or option plan; (viii) it is required by a direct purchase plan, a dividend reinvestment plan, or an Automatic Investment Plan with a public company in which regularly scheduled investments are made or planned; (ix) it is a Mutual Fund only account; (x) it is required by a trust agreement; (xi) it is associated with an estate of which the Access Person is the executor, but not a beneficiary, and involvement with the account is temporary; (xii) transferring the account would be inconsistent with other applicable rules; or (xii) other exception approved by the Code Administrator.
Firm	Global Wealth and Asset Management (“GWAM”) and General Account Investments (“GA”) business groups and the entities listed in Appendix B of this Code.
Fund(s)	Fund (or collectively Funds) means the John Hancock GA Mortgage Trust, John Hancock Private Placement Trust, and John Hancock GA Senior Loan Trust.
High Quality Short Term Debt Instrument	Any instrument that has a maturity at issuance of less than 366 days and that is rated in one of the two highest rating categories by a nationally recognized rating organization (e.g., S&P, Moody’s, Fitch, A.M. Best).
Household Family Member	An Access Person’s spouse, “significant other,” minor children, or other family member who also shares the same household with the Access Person. An Access Person’s “significant other” is defined as a person who (i) shares the same household with the Access Person; (ii) shares living expenses with the Access Person; and (iii) is in a committed personal relationship with the Access Person and there is an intention to remain in the relationship indefinitely. The Code Administrator, after reviewing all the pertinent facts and circumstances, may determine, if not prohibited by applicable law, that an indirect Beneficial Interest over Securities held by members of the Access Person’s Household Family Members does not exist or is too remote for purposes of the Code’s requirements.
Initial Coin Offering	An Initial Coin Offering (ICO) is the cryptocurrency industry’s equivalent to an Initial Public Offering (IPO) (see IPO definition below). ICOs act as a way to raise funds, where a company looking to raise money to create a new coin, app, or service launches an ICO. Interested investors can buy into the offering and receive a new cryptocurrency token issued by the company. This token may have some utility in using the product or service the company is offering, or it may just represent a stake in the company or project.
Initial Public Offering	An offering of Securities registered under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933 (or comparable non-U.S. registration statute or regime), the issuer of which, immediately before the registration, was not subject to the reporting requirements of Sections 13 or 15(d) of the U.S. Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (or comparable non-U.S. compulsory reporting requirements).
Investment Club	A group of people who pool their assets in order to make joint decisions (typically a vote) on which Securities to buy, hold or sell.

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Investment Team	An individual Investment Team describes the grouping of analysts and portfolio managers who make or participate in making recommendations regarding the purchase or sale of securities for designated Client accounts. The Code Administrator or CCO may also assign certain traders to specific Investment Teams if the trader regularly participates in the Security recommendation process with the analysts or portfolio managers.
Limited Offering	A Securities offering that is exempt from registration under the U.S. Securities Act of 1933, pursuant to Section 4(2) or Section 4(6) or pursuant to Rule 504, Rule 505, or Rule 506 under the Securities Act of 1933, or equivalent foreign statute or regulation. Also known as a private placement Security (e.g., private investment funds, “hedge funds,” limited partnerships, etc.)
Manulife	Manulife Financial Corporation.
Manulife Affiliate	All persons or entities controlled by Manulife.
Mutual Fund	(a) Any U.S. registered open-end investment management company (i.e., mutual fund); or (b) a Canadian or foreign regulated mutual fund (UCITs etc.) which meets the following 4 requirements: (i) redemption on demand at the net asset value of fund shares, (ii) forward pricing reflecting the net asset value of fund shares, (iii) daily calculation of the fund’s net asset value in a manner consistent with principles and rules adopted under the Investment Company Act of 1940, and (iv) absence of a secondary market. Refer to SEC No-Action Letter, Manufacturers Adviser Corp., Sept. 10, 2002.
No Direct or Indirect Control Over Account	Purchases, sales or dispositions of Securities over which a person has no direct or indirect influence or control (e.g., a “blind trust” or certain managed accounts which the Access Person has obtained from the Code Administrator a written exemption).
Pre-Clearable Security	All Securities except those Securities listed on APPENDIX C of the Code as exempt from the pre- clearance requirements of the Code.
Preferred Brokers	A current list of Preferred Brokers can be found on StarCompliance or by contacting the Code Administrator. Refer to Section 5.5 for further information regarding the U.S.-Based Preferred Brokerage Account requirements.
Private Placement	Private Placement (or non-public offering) is a funding round of Securities which are not sold through a public offering, but rather through a private offering, mostly to a small number of chosen investors.
Pro Rata Discretionary Transactions	Purchases or other acquisitions or dispositions of Securities resulting from the discretionary exercise of rights acquired from an issuer as part of a pro rata distribution to all holders of a class of Securities of the issuer. (e.g., discretionary participation in takeovers, rights & tender/ exchange offerings).
Reportable Security	All Securities except those Securities listed as exempt from the Initial and Annual Holdings Report and Quarterly Transaction Report requirements on APPENDIX C of the Code.
Same (or Related) Pre- Clearable Security	For an equity Security, the Same Pre-Clearable Security would include all other equity securities of the same issuer or, other instrument whose value is derived from the value of the issuer’s equity Securities. For a debt Security, the Same Pre-Clearable Security would include all other debt instruments of the same issuer as well as any instrument whose value is derived from the credit, value or reference to the issuer’s debt.

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Security (Securities)	A “security” as defined by Section 1(1) of the Ontario Securities Act, the Hong Kong Securities and Futures Ordinance, Section 3(a)(10) or the Investment Advisers Act of 1940. Examples include but are not limited to: any note, stock, treasury stock, security future, bond, debenture, evidence of indebtedness, mutual funds, closed-end funds, unit investment trusts, REITS, ETFs, commodity funds, broker cds, certificate of interest or participation in any profit-sharing agreement, collateral-trust certificate, pre-organization certificate or subscription, transferable share, investment contract, security-based swap, voting-trust certificate, certificate of deposit for a security, fractional undivided interest in oil, gas, or other mineral rights, any put, call, straddle, option, or privilege on any “security” (including a certificate of deposit) or on any group or index of securities (including any interest therein or based on the value thereof), or any put, call, straddle, option, or privileged entered into on a national securities exchange related to foreign currency, or, in general, any interest or instrument commonly known as a “security”, or any certificate of interest or participation in, temporary or interim certificate for, receipt for, guarantee of, or warrant or right to subscribe to or purchase any of the foregoing. References to a Security also includes any warrant for, option in, or “security” or other instrument immediately convertible into or whose value is derived from that “security” and any instrument or right which is equivalent to that “security.” The definition of Security applies regardless of the registration status or domicile of registration of the Security (i.e., the term Security includes both private placements/ limited partnership interests and publicly-traded securities as well as domestic and foreign Securities). For purposes of this Code, the definition of Securities also includes other instruments and interests labeled as reportable on APPENDIX C of this Code.
Securities Laws	The Securities Laws include various domestic and foreign securities-related laws, statutes and rules/regulations that govern the Firm’s investment management activities and includes: Ontario Securities Act, U.K. Financial Services Authority regulations, the Securities and Futures Ordinance of Hong Kong, Securities and Futures Act (Singapore), the Securities Act of 1933 (U.S.), the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 (U.S.), the Sarbanes-Oxley Act of 2002 (U.S.), the Investment Company Act of 1940 (U.S.), the Investment Advisers Act of 1940 (U.S.), Title V of the Gramm- Leach-Bliley Act (U.S.), and the Bank Secrecy Act (U.S.) (as it applies to funds and investment advisers).
StarCompliance	The web-based reporting and certification system used by the Firm to facilitate compliance with certain reporting and pre-clearance obligations imposed under the Code (a.k.a., Star). The Code Administrator may approve alternate reporting methods if deemed appropriate.

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Appendix B

¹Legal Entity Adoption of the Code

Legal Entity:	Jurisdiction/ Country	Initial Adoption Date
Hancock Natural Resource Group, Inc.	U.S.	April 6, 2020
John Hancock GA Mortgage Trust	U.S.	April 6, 2020
John Hancock GA Senior Loan Trust	U.S.	April 6, 2020
Manulife Asset Management and Trust Corporation	Philippines	April 6, 2020
Manulife Data Services Inc.	Barbados	April 6, 2020
Manulife General Account Investments (HK) Limited	Hong Kong	April 6, 2020
Manulife General Account Investments (Singapore) Pte. Ltd.	Singapore	April 6, 2020
Manulife IM (Switzerland) LLC	Switzerland	April 6, 2020
Manulife Investment (Shanghai) Limited Company	China	April 6, 2020
Manulife Investment Management (Europe) Limited	U.K.	April 6, 2020
Manulife Investment Management (Ireland) Limited	Ireland	April 6, 2020
Manulife Investment Management (North America) Limited	Canada	April 6, 2020
Manulife Investment Management (US) LLC	U.S.	April 6, 2020
Manulife Investment Management Distributors Inc.	Canada	April 6, 2020
Manulife Investment Management Limited	Canada	April 6, 2020
Manulife Investment Management Private Markets (Canada) Corp	Canada	April 6, 2020
Manulife Investment Management Private Markets (US) LLC	U.S.	April 6, 2020
Manulife Investment Management Private Markets Holdings (US) LLC	U.S.	April 6, 2020
Manulife Overseas Investment Fund Management (Shanghai) Limited Company	China	April 6, 2020
Manulife US Real Estate Management Pte, Ltd. (Definition of Associate only includes officers and employees of the entity).	Singapore	April 6, 2020
The General Account Investments and the Manulife Investment Management Private Markets Groups of John Hancock Life Insurance Company (U.S.A.)	U.S.	April 6, 2020
The General Account Investments and the Manulife Investment Management Private Markets Groups of The Manufacturers Life Insurance Company	Canada	April 6, 2020

¹This Code has been designed to be applicable across GWAM and GA and certain regulated entities listed in Appendix B (together the “Firm”), however it is being implemented in a multi-phased, multi-year project.

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Appendix C

Securities Reporting & Pre-Clearance Summary Chart

Only applicable to Access Persons in the following Access Classification Levels: •   Regular Access Person •   General Account/MIM Private Markets Front-Office Access Person •   MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Person.	Reportable Security? Initial and Annual Holdings Reports	Reportable Security? Quarterly Transaction Reports	Pre-Clearable Security?
			Does the Access
Unless otherwise indicated on this chart, (i) all Securities positions	Does the Access	Does the Access	Person need
must be reported initially and annually thereafter, (ii) all Securities	Person need to	Person need to	to obtain pre-
transactions must receive advance pre-clearance approval, and (iii)	report the following	report transactions	clearance approval
all Securities transactions must be reported quarterly (italicized terms are defined in the Code).	types of Securities holdings?	in the following types of Securities?	prior to transacting in the following types of Securities?
Government Securities
Direct Obligations of the Government of the U.S. or U.K.	No	No	No
State, Province or Municipal Bonds	Yes	Yes	Yes
Direct Obligations of the Governments of Canada, Japan, Germany, France or Italy	Yes	Yes	Yes
Money Market Instruments/Commodities/Currency
Bankers Acceptances	No	No	No
Bank Certificates of Deposit	No	No	No
Brokerage Certificates of Deposit	Yes	Yes	No
Commercial Paper	No	No	No
High Quality Short-Term Debt Instruments	No	No	No
Repurchase Agreements	No	No	No
Money Market Funds (including Money Market Affiliated Mutual Funds)	No	No	No
Physical Commodities and Options and Futures on Commodities (not commodity ETFs or closed-end funds)	No	No	No
Foreign and Domestic Currency Holdings/ Transactions (including currency options and futures)	No	No	No
Cryptocurrencies (only Initial Coin Offerings “ICO’s” are reportable and pre-clearable)	No	No	No

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Only applicable to Access Persons in the following Access Classification Levels: •   Regular Access Person •   General Account/MIM Private Markets Front-Office Access Person •   MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Person.	Reportable Security? Initial and Annual Holdings Reports	Reportable Security? Quarterly Transaction Reports	Pre-Clearable Security?
			Does the Access
Unless otherwise indicated on this chart, (i) all Securities positions	Does the Access	Does the Access	Person need
must be reported initially and annually thereafter, (ii) all Securities	Person need to	Person need to	to obtain pre-
transactions must receive advance pre-clearance approval, and (iii) all Securities transactions must be reported quarterly (italicized terms are defined in the Code).	report the following types of Securities holdings?	report transactions in the following types of Securities?	clearance approval prior to transacting in the following types of Securities?
IPOs / ICOs, Private Placements / Limited Offerings
IPOs & ICOs (Note: IPO’s are prohibited for the following Classification Levels: GA/ MIM Private Markets Front-Office Access Persons & MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Persons)	Yes	Yes	Yes
Private Placements/Private Funds/Limited Offerings	Yes	Yes	Yes
Issuer Event Transactions / Automatic Investment Plans
Involuntary Issuer Transactions and Holdings (stock dividends, stock splits/reverse splits, or other similar reorganizations or distributions, call of a debt security, and spin-offs of shares to existing holders)	Yes	Yes	No
Issuer Pro Rata Discretionary Transactions/Elections (purchases or other acquisitions or dispositions resulting from the discretionary exercise of rights acquired from an issuer as part of a pro rata distribution to all holders of a class of Securities of such issuer) (e.g., discretionary participation in takeovers, rights & tender/exchange offerings)	Yes	Yes	Yes. Pre-clearance approval for discretionary elections should be sought by manually phoning or emailing the Code Administrator directly. It is important to contact the Code Administrator to avoid having your request improperly denied.

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Automatic Investment Plans (a program in which regular periodic purchases or withdrawals are made automatically in (or from) investment accounts in accordance with a predetermined schedule and allocation) (for Mutual Funds AIPs Refer to below) Yes. You must add up all of the Plan transactions for the year and reflect the activity on the Annual Holdings Report No. You do not need to report automatic (non-discretionary) Plan transactions on the Quarterly Transaction Report No. However, transactions that override the automatic preset schedule (discretionary purchases /sales, discretionary changes in individual security selection) must be pre-cleared. Note: You do not need to pre-clear a change to your money contribution level into a Plan.

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Only applicable to Access Persons in the following Access Classification Levels: •   Regular Access Person •   General Account/MIM Private Markets Front-Office Access Person •   MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Person.	Reportable Security? Initial and Annual Holdings Reports	Reportable Security? Quarterly Transaction Reports	Pre-Clearable Security?
			Does the Access
Unless otherwise indicated on this chart, (i) all Securities positions must be reported initially and annually thereafter, (ii) all Securities transactions must receive advance pre-clearance approval, and (iii) all Securities transactions must be reported quarterly (italicized terms are defined in the Code).	Does the Access Person need to report the following types of Securities holdings?	Does the Access Person need to report transactions in the following types of Securities?	Person need to obtain pre-clearance approval prior to transacting in the following types of Securities?
Issuer Event Transactions / Automatic Investment Plans
Dividend Reinvestment Plan Automatic Transactions	Yes	No	No
Issuer Direct Stock Plan Automatic Transactions	Yes	No	No
Issuer Direct Stock Plan Non-Automatic Transactions (discretionary transactions)	Yes	Yes	Yes. A pre-cleared transaction instruction is valid until executed by the Plan.
Investment Company Securities
Closed-End Investment Companies	Yes	Yes	Yes
Exchange Traded Funds (ETFs) and Exchange Traded Notes	Yes	Yes	No
Money Market Funds (including Money Market Affiliated Mutual Funds)	No	No	No
Mutual Funds (non-affiliated)	No	No	No
Affiliated Mutual Funds	Yes	Yes	No
Affiliated Mutual Funds interests held by or through the Manulife Registered Pension Plan (RPS), Manulife Registered Retirement Savings Plan (RRSP), John Hancock Unified 401k Plan, other employer- sponsored retirement plan, 529/RESP plan, or any other account.	Yes	Yes, however do not report automatic transactions/ rebalances (in accordance with a predetermined schedule/ allocation) on the Quarterly Transaction Report	No
Affiliated Mutual Funds held through a variable (annuity or life) insurance product separate account/unit investment trust	Yes (report Affiliated Mutual Fund unit values)	Yes, however do not report automatic transactions/ rebalances (in accordance with a predetermined schedule/ allocation) on the Quarterly Transaction Report	No

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Only applicable to Access Persons in the following Access Classification Levels: •   Regular Access Person •   General Account/Private Markets Front-Office Access Person •   MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Person.	Reportable Security? Initial and Annual Holdings Reports	Reportable Security? Quarterly Transaction Reports	Pre-Clearable Security?
			Does the Access
Unless otherwise indicated on this chart, (i) all Securities positions must be reported initially and annually thereafter, (ii) all Securities transactions must receive advance pre-clearance approval, and (iii) all Securities transactions must be reported quarterly (italicized terms are defined in the Code).	Does the Access Person need to report the following types of Securities holdings?	Does the Access Person need to report transactions in the following types of Securities?	Person need to obtain pre-clearance approval prior to transacting in the following types of Securities?
Employee Compensation Instruments
			Automated Purchases—No
MFC Shares in the MFC Global Share Ownership Plan (GSOP)	Yes	Automated Purchases—No Sales—Yes	Sales—Yes. A pre-cleared transaction instruction is valid until executed by the Plan.
MFC Restricted Share Units (RSU), Deferred Share Units (DSU), or Performance Share Units (PSU)	No	No	No
Options Acquired from MFC or Other Public Company Employer as Part of Employee Compensation (MFC Solium Account options)	Yes	Yes	No
Employer Phantom Stock/Phantom Option Interest (granted as compensation to employee, only employer can redeem interest and interest is non-transferable)	No	No	No
			Automatic Grants— No
Employer (non-MFC) Stock Grant (unvested grant of employer stock, vesting event, sales of vested shares)	Unvested and Vested Amounts— Yes	Grants—No Vesting Events — No (however if upon vesting the shares are transferred to a brokerage account then yes)	Automatic Vesting Event—No Sale of Vested Shares: Yes—if employee directs sale, No—if employer automatically sells vested without direction from employee)

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Only applicable to Access Persons in the following Access Classification Levels: •   Regular Access Person •   General Account/Private Markets Front-Office Access Person •   MIM Public Markets Front-Office Access Person.	Reportable Security? Initial and Annual Holdings Reports	Reportable Security? Quarterly Transaction Reports	Pre-Clearable Security?
			Does the Access
Unless otherwise indicated on this chart, (i) all Securities positions must be reported initially and annually thereafter, (ii) all Securities transactions must receive advance pre-clearance approval, and (iii) all Securities transactions must be reported quarterly (italicized terms are defined in the Code).	Does the Access Person need to report the following types of Securities holdings?	Does the Access Person need to report transactions in the following types of Securities?	Person need to obtain pre-clearance approval prior to transacting in the following types of Securities?
Gifts / Blind Trusts / Managed Accounts
Gifts, Inheritances, or Donations of Reportable Securities (received or given)	Yes	Yes	Securities Gifts & Inheritances Received - No Securities Given or Donated - Yes
			No*
No Direct or Indirect Control Over Account (Securities held in, purchased/sold for an account where a person does not have direct or indirect influence or investment/ proxy voting control, e.g., Blind Trusts, Certain Managed Accounts)	No	No	*However, you must report initial and annual holdings in (as well as pre-clear and report quarterly transactions for) a Managed Account unless the Access Person has obtained a specific written pre-clearance or reporting exemption from the Code Administrator.

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EX-99.(P).2

Exhibit 99.(p)(2)

Code of Ethics for the Independent Trustees of the

John Hancock Funds

Effective December 6, 2005

Amended and Restated January 1, 2020

The Board of Trustees (the “Board”) of the John Hancock Funds¹ has adopted this code of ethics (this “Code”), exclusively with respect to Trustees who are not “interested persons,” as defined in Section 2(a)(19) of the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “1940 Act”), of the John Hancock Funds (the “Independent Trustees” or “you”). This Code is intended to comply with the requirements of Rule 17j-1 under the 1940 Act insofar as they apply to the Independent Trustees.

The Board recognizes that the John Hancock Funds’ officers and access persons (with the exception of the Independent Trustees) are covered by a separate code of ethics adopted by the Board, which is applicable to John Hancock Investment Management, LLC and John Hancock Variable Trust Advisers, LLC (each, a “John Hancock Adviser”), John Hancock Investment Management Distributors, LLC, John Hancock Distributors, LLC and each of the John Hancock Funds. The Board also recognizes that access persons who are employees of a sub-adviser to the John Hancock Funds are covered under a separate code of ethics approved by the Board. The Board, after considering the limited nature of access by the Independent Trustees to current information with respect to security transactions being effected or considered on behalf of the John Hancock Funds, has adopted this Code specifically and separately to cover the Independent Trustees.

Please note that the policies described below apply to all accounts over which you have a beneficial interest. Normally, you will be deemed to have a beneficial interest in your personal accounts, those of a spouse, “significant other,” minor children or family members sharing your household, as well as all accounts over which you have discretion or give advice.

If you have any questions regarding your responsibilities under this Code of Ethics, please contact Trevor Swanberg at (617) 572-4398 or tswanberg@jhancock.com

Set forth below are policies applicable to the Independent Trustees.

I. Statements of Policy

A. General Principles

It is unlawful for any Independent Trustee covered by this Code, directly or indirectly, in connection with his or her purchase or sale of a security held or to be acquired by a John Hancock Fund, to:

•employ any device, scheme or artifice to defraud a John Hancock Fund;

•make any untrue statement of a material fact to a John Hancock Fund or omit to state a material fact necessary in order to make the statements made to a John Hancock Fund, in light of the circumstances under which they are made, not misleading;

•engage in any act, practice or course of business that operates or would operate as a fraud or deceit on a John Hancock Fund; or

¹As used in this Code, the “John Hancock Funds,” or the “Funds,” refer to each open-end and closed-end fund that is listed, or that is a series of a trust listed, in Appendix A hereto, as may be updated from time to time by the Chief Compliance Officer of the John Hancock Funds.

•engage in any manipulative practice with respect to a John Hancock Fund.

The General Principles discussed above govern all conduct, whether or not the conduct is also covered by more specific standards and procedures in this Code. Failure to comply with this Code may result in disciplinary action as determined by the Board, including potentially removal from the Board in accordance with the terms of the John Hancock Fund charter documents.

B. Transactions in John Hancock Funds

The Independent Trustees are subject to the same policies against excessive trading of shares of the open-end John Hancock Funds that apply to all shareholders of the open-end John Hancock Funds, as applicable. These policies are described in the John Hancock Funds’ prospectuses and are subject to change.  Additional restrictions on trading of closed-end and open-end John Hancock Funds are discussed in Section II.C.

C. Transactions in securities of Advisers, Subadvisers and Principal Underwriters

As an Independent Trustee, you are prohibited from purchasing any security issued by:

(1) the controlling parent of the John Hancock Advisers;

(2) any subadviser of a John Hancock Fund;

(3) the controlling parent of any subadviser;

(4) any principal underwriter of a John Hancock Fund, including prospective principal underwriters of John Hancock closed-end funds;

(5) the controlling parent of any principal underwriter.

A complete list of these issuers can be found in Appendix B.

D. Annual Certification

On an annual basis, you must provide a certification at a date designated by the Chief

Compliance Officer of the John Hancock Funds that: (1) you have read and understand this Code;

(2) you acknowledge that you are subject to its requirements; and

(3) you have complied, to the best of your knowledge, with its requirements.

You are required to make this certification to demonstrate that you understand the importance of these policies and your responsibilities under the Code.

E. Quarterly Transaction Reports

You will not generally be required to submit quarterly transaction reports. You will, however, be required to submit a quarterly transaction report if you knew (or, in the ordinary course of fulfilling your official duties as an Independent Trustee, should have known) that during the 15 calendar days immediately before or after you trade a security described in Section II.A of this Code, either:

(i) the subadviser of a John Hancock Fund purchased or sold the same security on behalf of such Fund, or

(ii) the subadviser of a John Hancock Fund actively considered the purchase or sale of the same security on behalf of such Fund;

provided that, monitoring of the publication of portfolio holdings of series of John Hancock Exchange-Traded Fund Trust (the “John Hancock ETFs”) is not construed to be within the ordinary course of fulfilling the duties of a trustee, therefore the publication or availability of such portfolio holdings shall not be construed to impart actual or constructive knowledge of the John Hancock ETFs’ portfolio transactions on a trustee.

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If these circumstances occur, it is your responsibility to contact the Chief Compliance Officer of the John Hancock Funds and he will assist you with the requirements of the quarterly transaction report.

You must submit a quarterly transaction report within 30 calendar days after the end of a calendar quarter if required in the limited circumstances described above. This report must cover all transactions during the calendar quarter that are personal securities transactions, as described below in Section II of this Code.

If you are required to submit a quarterly transaction report, the report must include the following information about each transaction described above:

•the date of the transaction, the title, and as applicable, the exchange ticker symbol or CUSIP number, interest rate and maturity date (if applicable), number of shares, and principal amount of each reportable security involved;

•the nature of the transaction (i.e., purchase, sale or any other type of acquisition or disposition);

•the price at which the transaction was effected;

•the name of the broker, dealer or bank with or through which the transaction was effected; and

•the date that you submit the report.

With respect to any account in which you have traded securities for which you must submit a quarterly transaction report, the quarterly transaction report must also include the following account information:

•the name of the broker, dealer or bank with whom you have established an account;

•the account number and account registration;

•the date the account was established; and

•the date that you submit the report.

II. Personal Securities Transactions

A Personal Securities Transaction is a transaction in a security in which an Independent Trustee subject to this Code has a beneficial interest. Normally, this includes securities transactions in your personal accounts, those of a spouse, “significant other,” minor children or family members sharing your household, as well as all accounts over which you have discretion or give advice. Accounts over which you have no direct or indirect influence or control are exempt. For discretionary accounts, this is defined as:

1) Not being able to suggest that the trustee or third-party discretionary manager make any particular purchases or sales of securities;

2) Not being able to direct the trustee or third-party discretionary manager to make any particular purchases or sales of securities; and

3) You did not consult with the trustee or third-party discretionary manager as to the particular allocation of investments to be made in your account.

To prevent potential violations of this Code, you are strongly encouraged to request clarification for any transactions or accounts that are in question.

A. Covered Personal Securities Transactions

Except as noted below, Personal Securities Transactions include transactions in all securities, including:

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•Stocks or bonds;

•Government securities that are not direct obligations of the U.S. government, such as

Fannie Mae or municipal securities;

•Shares of all closed-end funds;

•Shares of the John Hancock Funds, as well as any other open-end mutual funds, including John Hancock ETF’s, that are advised or sub-advised by a John Hancock Adviser or by John Hancock or Manulife entities (other than money market funds);

•Options on securities, on indexes, and on currencies;

•All kinds of limited partnerships;

Exchange Traded Funds formed as unit investment trusts;

•Foreign unit trusts and foreign mutual funds;

•Private investment funds and hedge funds; and

•Futures, investment contracts or any other instrument that is considered a “security” under the Investment Company Act of 1940.

B. Exempt Personal Securities Transactions

Personal Securities Transactions do not include transactions in the following securities:

•Direct obligations of the U.S. government (e.g., treasury securities);

•Bankers’ acceptances, bank certificates of deposit, commercial paper, and high quality short-term debt obligations, including repurchase agreements;

•Shares of any open-end mutual funds, including exchange-traded funds, that are not advised or sub-advised by a John Hancock Adviser or by John Hancock or Manulife entities;

•Shares issued by money market funds; and

•Securities in accounts over which you have no direct or indirect influence or control.

C. Restrictions on Trading in John Hancock Funds

1.General. You may not buy or sell shares of John Hancock Funds, or tip others who then trade in such Funds, on the basis of material non-public information (“Inside Information”).  This concern is most pronounced with respect to closed-end John Hancock Funds (“Closed-End Funds”) and the John Hancock ETFs because their shares trade on a secondary market.  However, it is also applicable to all John Hancock mutual funds.

a.Material Information. Information is considered “material” if a reasonable investor would consider it important in making a decision to buy, sell or hold shares of a Fund. Positive or negative information may be “material.”

b.Non-public Information. Information is considered “non-public” if it has not been broadly and publicly disseminated for a sufficient period to be reflected in the price of the Fund.  Information remains “non-public” until it has been “publicly disclosed,” meaning that it has been broadly distributed to the public in a non-exclusionary manner, such as via a press release or inclusion of such information in a filing with the Securities and Exchange Commission.  In the case of the John Hancock ETFs, holdings information posted to the Funds’ website is considered to have been “publicly disseminated.”

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c.Examples.  Inside Information may include such things as news about acquisitions, Closed-End Fund tender offers, financial results, changes in dividends or distributions, Closed-End Fund share buy-backs, important management changes, anticipated litigation recoveries, or any other information that is likely to be considered material to a Fund.

d.Further Guidance.  If you are uncertain as to whether information is Inside Information, you should presume that the information is both material and non-public, and that it is Inside Information. In such cases, you should refrain from trading until you consult legal counsel or the Chief Compliance Officer for further guidance on information that may be deemed Inside Information.

2.Closed-End, and John Hancock ETF’s Blackout Periods and Trading Guidelines.  You may not trade in shares of Closed-End Funds during the following blackout periods (each, a “Blackout Period”):

a.Regular Meetings. The Independent Trustees may not engage in any transactions in shares of the Closed-End Funds at any time between (x) the earlier of (A) the date Board meeting information is received by the Trustee, or (B) the date the Independent Trustees are advised that Board meeting information is posted to the website where Board materials are made available, and (y) 10 calendar days after the dates of a regular meeting of the Board. To clarify, assuming a meeting begins on a Monday and concludes at mid-day on the next day, Independent Trustees may not transact in Closed-End Fund or John Hancock ETF shares before the second subsequent Monday.

b.Special Meetings. Upon receipt of the materials for a special meeting of the Board or a committee thereof, Independent Trustees may not engage in any transactions in Closed-End Fund or John Hancock ETF shares at any time from the date of receipt of such materials until after the tenth calendar day after the date of such meeting.

c.Financial Statements Review. The Independent Trustees may not engage in any transactions in shares of a Closed-End Fund or John Hancock ETF’s at any time between:

(i) the earlier of (A) the date on which a semiannual or an annual shareholder report that contains financial statements for a Closed-End Fund or John Hancock ETF is received by the Trustee, or (B) the date the Independent Trustees are advised that a semiannual or an annual shareholder report that contains financial statements for a Closed-End Fund or John Hancock ETF is posted to the website where Board materials are made available, and

(ii) two (2) business days after the date on which the semi-annual or annual shareholder report for the Closed-End Fund or John Hancock ETF is publicly available on John Hancock Funds website or through another method consistent with Regulation FD.

3.  Other Restricted Periods. The Chief Compliance Officer of the John Hancock Funds may, from time to time, restrict the purchase of one or more John Hancock Funds, including open-end John Hancock Funds, if he or she believes after consulting with counsel to the John Hancock Funds that the Independent Trustees may have knowledge of Inside Information regarding such John Hancock Fund(s).  The Chief Compliance Officer will provide the Independent Trustees prior notice of any such restrictions.

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III. Administration of the Code of Ethics

A. Review of Reports

The Chief Compliance Officer of the John Hancock Funds shall review any reports delivered by an Independent Trustee pursuant to this Code. Any such review shall give special attention to evidence, if any, of conflicts or potential conflicts with the securities transactions of the John Hancock Funds or violations or potential violations of the antifraud provisions of the federal securities law or this Code.

B. Investigations of Potential Violations

The Chief Compliance Officer shall investigate any potential violation of the provisions of this Code. After completion of any such investigation, the Chief Compliance Officer shall determine whether a violation has occurred and, if so, make a report to the Board or, if appropriate, the Compliance Committee of the Board. The Board shall determine what action should be taken in response to a violation of this Code.

C. Annual Reports

At least on an annual basis, the Chief Compliance Officer shall provide the Board with (i) a written report that describes issues that arose under this Code since the prior such report, including, but not limited to, information relating to material violations of this Code and any actions taken, and (ii) a certification that the John Hancock Funds have adopted procedures reasonably necessary to prevent the Independent Trustees from violating this Code.

D. Record Retention Requirements

The Chief Compliance Officer shall maintain the following records at the John Hancock Funds’ principal place of business, and shall make these records available to the Securities and Exchange Commission at any time and from time to time for reasonable periodic, special or other examination:

•A copy of this Code that is currently in effect, or at any time within the past five years was in effect;

•A record of any violation of this Code, and any action taken as a result of a violation, must be maintained in an easily accessible place for at least five years after the end of the fiscal year in which the violation occurs;

•A copy of each quarterly transaction report made by an Independent Trustee under this Code;

•A copy of each annual report and certification described in Section III.C of this Code; and

•A record of all Independent Trustees, currently or within the past five years, who are subject to this Code, and of individual(s) who are responsible for reviewing reports made under this Code.

E. Amendments

Any amendments to this Code must be approved by a majority of the Independent Trustees.

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Appendix A

John Hancock Funds

John Hancock Variable Insurance Trust

John Hancock Funds II

John Hancock Funds III

John Hancock Bond Trust

John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund

John Hancock Capital Series

John Hancock Collateral Trust

John Hancock Current Interest

John Hancock Exchange-Traded Fund Trust

John Hancock Investment Trust

John Hancock Investment Trust II

John Hancock Municipal Securities Trust

John Hancock Sovereign Bond Fund

John Hancock Strategic Series

John Hancock Emerging Markets Income Fund

John Hancock Floating Rate High Income Fund

John Hancock Financial Opportunities Fund

John Hancock Hedged Equity & Income Trust

John Hancock Income Securities Trust

John Hancock Investors Trust

John Hancock Preferred Income Fund

John Hancock Preferred Income Fund II

John Hancock Preferred Income Fund III

John Hancock Premium Dividend Fund

John Hancock Tax-Advantaged Dividend Income Fund

John Hancock Tax-Advantaged Global Shareholder Yield Fund

EX-99.(Q)

Exhibit 99.q

John Hancock Bond Trust	John Hancock Investment Trust
John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund	John Hancock Investment Trust II
John Hancock Capital Series	John Hancock Investment Trust III
John Hancock Collateral Trust	John Hancock Municipal Securities Trust
John Hancock Current Interest	John Hancock Sovereign Bond Fund
John Hancock Exchange-Traded Fund Trust	John Hancock Strategic Series
John Hancock Funds II	John Hancock Variable Insurance Trust
John Hancock Funds III

(each a “Trust”)

POWER OF ATTORNEY

The undersigned does hereby constitute and appoint Ariel Ayanna, Sarah M. Coutu, John J. Danello, Thomas Dee, Kinga Kapuscinski, Nicholas J. Kolokithas, Suzanne M. Lambert, Edward Macdonald, Mara Moldwin, Harsha Pulluru, Christopher L. Sechler, Betsy Anne Seel and Steven Sunnerberg, each individually, his or her true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent (each an “Attorney-in-Fact”) with power of substitution or re-substitution, in any and all capacities, including without limitation in the applicable undersigned’s capacity as president or chief financial officer of each Trust, in the furtherance of the business and affairs of each Trust: (i) to execute any and all instruments which said Attorney-in-Fact may deem necessary or advisable or which may be required to comply with the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (collectively the “Acts”), and any other applicable federal securities laws, or rules, regulations or requirements of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) in respect thereof, in connection with the filing and effectiveness of the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A regarding the registration of each Trust or series thereof or its shares of beneficial interest, and any and all amendments thereto, including without limitation any reports, forms or other filings required by the Acts or any other applicable federal securities laws, or rules, regulations or requirements of the SEC, and to do generally all such things in my name and on my behalf in the capacity indicated below to enable each Trust to comply with the Acts, and all requirements of the SEC thereunder; and (ii) to execute any and all state regulatory or other required filings, including all applications with regulatory authorities, state charter or organizational documents and any amendments or supplements thereto, to be executed by, on behalf of, or for the benefit of, each Trust.  The undersigned hereby grants to each Attorney-in-Fact full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing contemplated above, as fully and to all intents and purposes as the undersigned might or could do in person, and hereby ratifies and confirms all that said Attorneys-in-Fact, individually or collectively, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

This Power of Attorney shall be revocable with respect to an undersigned at any time by a writing signed by such undersigned and shall terminate automatically with respect to an undersigned if such undersigned ceases to be a Trustee or Officer of the Trust.

Dated: December 12, 2019

Name	Signature	Title
Andrew G. Arnott	/s/ Andrew G. Arnott	President and Trustee
Charles A. Rizzo	/s/ Charles A. Rizzo	Chief Financial Officer (Principal Financial Officer and Principal Accounting Officer)
Charles L. Bardelis	/s/ Charles L. Bardelis	Trustee
James R. Boyle	/s/ James R. Boyle	Trustee
Peter S. Burgess	/s/ Peter S. Burgess	Trustee
William H. Cunningham	/s/ William H. Cunningham	Trustee
Grace K. Fey	/s/ Grace K. Fey	Trustee
Marianne Harrison	/s/ Marianne Harrison	Trustee
Deborah C. Jackson	/s/ Deborah C. Jackson	Trustee
Hassell H. McClellan	/s/ Hassell H. McClellan	Trustee
James M. Oates	/s/ James M. Oates	Trustee
Steven R. Pruchansky	/s/ Steven R. Pruchansky	Trustee
Gregory A. Russo	/s/ Gregory A. Russo	Trustee

EX-99.(Q).1

Exhibit 99.(q)(1)

John Hancock Bond Trust	John Hancock Investment Trust
John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund	John Hancock Investment Trust II
John Hancock Capital Series	John Hancock Municipal Securities Trust
John Hancock Collateral Trust	John Hancock Sovereign Bond Fund
John Hancock Current Interest	John Hancock Strategic Series
John Hancock Exchange-Traded Fund Trust	John Hancock Variable Insurance Trust
John Hancock Funds II
John Hancock Funds III

(each a “Trust”)

POWER OF ATTORNEY

The undersigned does hereby constitute and appoint Ariel Ayanna, Sarah M. Coutu, John J. Danello, Thomas Dee, Kinga Kapuscinski, Nicholas J. Kolokithas, Suzanne M. Lambert, Edward Macdonald, Mara Moldwin, Harsha Pulluru, Christopher L. Sechler, Betsy Anne Seel and Steven Sunnerberg, each individually, his or her true and lawful attorney-in-fact and agent (each an “Attorney-in-Fact”) with power of substitution or re-substitution, in any and all capacities, including without limitation in the applicable undersigned’s capacity as president or chief financial officer of each Trust, in the furtherance of the business and affairs of each Trust: (i) to execute any and all instruments which said Attorney-in-Fact may deem necessary or advisable or which may be required to comply with the Securities Act of 1933, as amended, the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, and the Securities Exchange Act of 1934, as amended (collectively the “Acts”), and any other applicable federal securities laws, or rules, regulations or requirements of the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) in respect thereof, in connection with the filing and effectiveness of the Trust’s Registration Statement on Form N-1A regarding the registration of each Trust or series thereof or its shares of beneficial interest, and any and all amendments thereto, including without limitation any reports, forms or other filings required by the Acts or any other applicable federal securities laws, or rules, regulations or requirements of the SEC, and to do generally all such things in my name and on my behalf in the capacity indicated below to enable each Trust to comply with the Acts, and all requirements of the SEC thereunder; and (ii) to execute any and all state regulatory or other required filings, including all applications with regulatory authorities, state charter or organizational documents and any amendments or supplements thereto, to be executed by, on behalf of, or for the benefit of, each Trust.  The undersigned hereby grants to each Attorney-in-Fact full power and authority to do and perform each and every act and thing contemplated above, as fully and to all intents and purposes as the undersigned might or could do in person, and hereby ratifies and confirms all that said Attorneys-in-Fact, individually or collectively, may lawfully do or cause to be done by virtue hereof.

This Power of Attorney shall be revocable with respect to an undersigned at any time by a writing signed by such undersigned and shall terminate automatically with respect to an undersigned if such undersigned ceases to be a Trustee or Officer of the Trust.

Dated: September 15, 2020

Name	Signature	Title
Frances G. Rathke	/s/ Frances G. Rathke	Trustee

XML

Label	Element	Value
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
Document Type	dei_DocumentType	485BPOS
Document Period End Date	dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate	May 31, 2020
Registrant Name	dei_EntityRegistrantName	JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
Entity Inv Company Type	dei_EntityInvCompanyType	N-1A
Central Index Key	dei_EntityCentralIndexKey	0000856671
Amendment Flag	dei_AmendmentFlag	false
Document Creation Date	dei_DocumentCreationDate	Sep. 25, 2020
Document Effective Date	dei_DocumentEffectiveDate	Oct. 01, 2020
Prospectus Date	rr_ProspectusDate	Oct. 01, 2020
John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
Objective [Heading]	rr_ObjectiveHeading	Investment objective
Objective, Primary [Text Block]	rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlock	To seek a high level of current income, consistent with preservation of capital, that is exempt from federal and California personal income taxes.
Expense [Heading]	rr_ExpenseHeading	Fees and expenses
Expense Narrative [Text Block]	rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlock	This table describes the fees and expenses you may pay if you buy, sell, and hold shares of the fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts on Class A shares if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $100000 in the John Hancock family of funds. Intermediaries may have different policies and procedures regarding the availability of front-end sales charge waivers or contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) waivers (See Appendix 1 - Intermediary sales charge waivers, which includes information about specific sales charge waivers applicable to the intermediaries identified therein). Although the fund does not impose any sales charges on Class I shares, you may pay commissions to your broker on your purchases and sales of Class I shares, which are not reflected in the table and example below. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional and on pages 19 to 21 of the prospectus under “Sales charge reductions and waivers” or pages 126 to 130 of the fund’s Statement of Additional Information under “Sales Charges on Class A, Class B and Class C Shares.”
Expense Breakpoint Discounts [Text]	rr_ExpenseBreakpointDiscounts	You may qualify for sales charge discounts on Class A shares if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $100000 in the John Hancock family of funds.
Expense Breakpoint, Minimum Investment Required [Amount]	rr_ExpenseBreakpointMinimumInvestmentRequiredAmount	$ 100,000
Shareholder Fees Caption [Text]	rr_ShareholderFeesCaption	Shareholder fees (%) (fees paid directly from your investment)
Operating Expenses Caption [Text]	rr_OperatingExpensesCaption	Annual fund operating expenses (%) (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
Fee Waiver or Reimbursement over Assets, Date of Termination	rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssetsDateOfTermination	July 31, 2022
Expense Example [Heading]	rr_ExpenseExampleHeading	Expense example
Expense Example Narrative [Text Block]	rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlock	This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. Please see below a hypothetical example showing the expenses of a $10,000 investment for the time periods indicated and then, except as shown below, assuming you sell all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example assumes a 5% average annual return and that fund expenses will not change over the periods. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions, your costs would be:
Expense Example by, Year, Caption [Text]	rr_ExpenseExampleByYearCaption	Sold
Expense Example, No Redemption, By Year, Caption [Text]	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionByYearCaption	Not Sold
Portfolio Turnover [Heading]	rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeading	PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
Portfolio Turnover [Text Block]	rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlock	The fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or “turns over” its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the fund’s performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the fund’s portfolio turnover rate was 22% of the average value of its portfolio.
Portfolio Turnover, Rate	rr_PortfolioTurnoverRate	22.00%
Strategy [Heading]	rr_StrategyHeading	Principal investment strategies
Strategy Narrative [Text Block]	rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlock	Under normal market conditions, the fund invests at least 80% of its net assets, plus amounts borrowed for investment purposes, in securities of any maturity exempt from federal and California personal income taxes. Most of these securities are investment-grade when purchased, but the fund may invest up to 20% of its net assets in junk bonds rated BB by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services (S&P) or Fitch Ratings, Inc. (Fitch) or Ba by Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. (Moody’s), or their unrated equivalents. The fund’s investment policies are based on credit ratings at the time of purchase.The fund may buy bonds of any maturity. The fund may engage in derivative transactions. Derivatives may be used to reduce risk and/or enhance investment returns, and may include futures contracts on debt securities and debt securities indexes; options on futures, debt securities, and debt indexes; and inverse floating-rate securities.The manager looks for undervalued bonds, based on both broad and security-specific factors, such as issuer creditworthiness, bond structure, and general credit trends, and uses detailed analysis of an appropriate index to model portfolio performance and composition. The fund does not intend to engage in frequent trading.The fund may invest in general obligation bonds, however, in general, the manager favors bonds backed by revenue from a specific public project or facility, such as a power plant (revenue bonds), as they tend to offer higher yields than general obligation bonds. The manager also favors bonds that have limitations on early payoff (call protection), which can help minimize the potential effect of falling interest rates on the fund’s yield. To the extent that the fund invests in bonds that are subject to the alternative minimum tax (AMT), the income paid by the fund may not be entirely tax-free to all investors. Investments in bonds subject to the AMT will not be counted toward the fund’s 80% investment policy.For liquidity and flexibility, the fund may invest up to 20% of its net assets (plus any borrowings for investment purposes) in taxable and tax-free investment-grade short-term securities.
Risk [Heading]	rr_RiskHeading	Principal risks
Risk Narrative [Text Block]	rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlock	An investment in the fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Many factors affect performance, and fund shares will fluctuate in price, meaning you could lose money. The fund’s investment strategy may not produce the intended results.During periods of heightened market volatility or reduced liquidity, governments, their agencies, or other regulatory bodies, both within the United States and abroad, may take steps to intervene. These actions, which could include legislative, regulatory, or economic initiatives, might have unforeseeable consequences and could adversely affect the fund’s performance or otherwise constrain the fund’s ability to achieve its investment objective.The fund’s main risks are listed below in alphabetical order, not in order of importance. Before investing, be sure to read the additional descriptions of these risks beginning on page 5 of the prospectus.Changing distribution levels risk. The fund may cease or reduce the level of its distribution if income or dividends paid from its investments declines.Credit and counterparty risk. The issuer or guarantor of a fixed-income security, the counterparty to an over-the-counter derivatives contract, or a borrower of fund securities may not make timely payments or otherwise honor its obligations. A downgrade or default affecting any of the fund’s securities could affect the fund’s performance.Cybersecurity and operational risk. Cybersecurity breaches may allow an unauthorized party to gain access to fund assets, customer data, or proprietary information, or cause a fund or its service providers to suffer data corruption or lose operational functionality. Similar incidents affecting issuers of a fund’s securities may negatively impact performance. Operational risk may arise from human error, error by third parties, communication errors, or technology failures, among other causes.Economic and market events risk. Events in the U.S. and global financial markets, including actions taken by the U.S. Federal Reserve or foreign central banks to stimulate or stabilize economic growth, may at times result in unusually high market volatility, which could negatively impact performance. Reduced liquidity in credit and fixed-income markets could adversely affect issuers worldwide. Banks and financial services companies could suffer losses if interest rates rise or economic conditions deteriorate.Fixed-income securities risk. A rise in interest rates typically causes bond prices to fall. The longer the average maturity or duration of the bonds held by a fund, the more sensitive it will likely be to interest-rate fluctuations. An issuer may not make all interest payments or repay all or any of the principal borrowed. Changes in a security’s credit quality may adversely affect fund performance.Hedging, derivatives, and other strategic transactions risk. Hedging, derivatives, and other strategic transactions may increase a fund’s volatility and could produce disproportionate losses, potentially more than the fund’s principal investment. Risks of these transactions are different from and possibly greater than risks of investing directly in securities and other traditional instruments. Under certain market conditions, derivatives could become harder to value or sell and may become subject to liquidity risk (i.e., the inability to enter into closing transactions). Derivatives and other strategic transactions that the fund intends to utilize include: futures contracts; inverse floating-rate securities; and options. Futures contracts and options generally are subject to counterparty risk.Liquidity risk. The extent (if at all) to which a security may be sold or a derivative position closed without negatively impacting its market value may be impaired by reduced market activity or participation, legal restrictions, or other economic and market impediments. Liquidity risk may be magnified in rising interest rate environments due to higher than normal redemption rates. Widespread selling of fixed-income securities to satisfy redemptions during periods of reduced demand may adversely impact their price or salability. The secondary market for certain tax-exempt securities tends to be less well-developed or liquid than many other securities markets, which may result in increased volatility or liquidity risk.Lower-rated and high-yield fixed-income securities risk. Lower-rated and high-yield fixed-income securities (junk bonds) are subject to greater credit quality risk, risk of default, and price volatility than higher-rated fixed-income securities, may be considered speculative, and can be difficult to resell.Municipal bond risk. The prices of municipal bonds, including general obligation bonds, can decline if the issuer’s credit quality declines. Revenue bond prices can decline if related projects become unprofitable. An insured municipal bond is subject to the risk that the insurer may be unable to pay claims and is not insured with respect to the market value of the obligation. Municipal bond income could become taxable in the future. Investments in AMT bonds may result in tax liability for shareholders.Sector risk. When a fund focuses its investments in certain sectors of the economy, its performance may be driven largely by sector performance and could fluctuate more widely than if the fund were invested more evenly across sectors.State/region risk. Investing heavily in any one state or region increases exposure to losses in that state or region. This risk is magnified for a fund that invests mainly in bonds from a single state. Factors that may affect performance include economic or political changes, tax base erosion, state constitutional limits on tax increases, budget deficits and other financial difficulties, and changes in credit ratings. At times, California has been more economically volatile than the United States as a whole. Puerto Rican municipal obligations, in which the fund may invest, may be subject to further devaluation due to adverse political, economic, and market conditions.
Risk Lose Money [Text]	rr_RiskLoseMoney	Many factors affect performance, and fund shares will fluctuate in price, meaning you could lose money.
Risk Not Insured Depository Institution [Text]	rr_RiskNotInsuredDepositoryInstitution	An investment in the fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.
Bar Chart and Performance Table [Heading]	rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeading	PAST PERFORMANCE
Performance Narrative [Text Block]	rr_PerformanceNarrativeTextBlock	The following information illustrates the variability of the fund’s returns and provides some indication of the risks of investing in the fund by showing changes in the fund’s performance from year to year and by showing how the fund’s average annual returns compared with a broad-based market index. Past performance (before and after taxes) does not indicate future results. The Bloomberg Barclays Municipal Bond Index shows how the fund’s performance compares against the returns of similar investments. All figures assume dividend reinvestment. Performance information is updated daily, monthly, and quarterly and may be obtained at our website, jhinvestments.com, or by calling 800-225-5291 (Class A, Class B, and Class C), Monday to Thursday, 8:00 A.M.—7:00 P.M., and Friday, 8:00 A.M.—6:00 P.M., Eastern time, or 888-972-8696 (Class I and Class R6) between 8:30 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., Eastern time, on most business days.A note on performanceClass A shares commenced operations on December 29, 1989. Class I shares commenced operations on February 13, 2017. Class R6 shares commenced operations on August 30, 2017. Returns shown prior to the commencement dates of Class I shares and Class R6 shares are those of Class A shares, except that they do not include sales charges and would be lower if they did. Returns for Class I and Class R6 shares would have been substantially similar to returns of Class A shares because both share classes are invested in the same portfolio of securities and returns would differ only to the extent that expenses of the classes are different. To the extent expenses of a class would have been higher than expenses of Class A shares for the periods shown, performance would have been lower.Please note that after-tax returns (shown for Class A shares only) reflect the highest individual federal marginal income-tax rate in effect as of the date provided and do not reflect any state or local taxes. Your actual after-tax returns may be different. After-tax returns are not relevant to shares held in an IRA, 401(k), or other tax-advantaged investment plan. After-tax returns for other share classes would vary. The returns for Class A shares have been adjusted to reflect the reduction in the maximum sales charge from 4.50% to 4.00%, effective February 3, 2014.
Performance Information Illustrates Variability of Returns [Text]	rr_PerformanceInformationIllustratesVariabilityOfReturns	The following information illustrates the variability of the fund’s returns and provides some indication of the risks of investing in the fund by showing changes in the fund’s performance from year to year and by showing how the fund’s average annual returns compared with a broad-based market index.
Performance Availability Phone [Text]	rr_PerformanceAvailabilityPhone	calling 800-225-5291 (Class A, Class B, and Class C), Monday to Thursday, 8:00 A.M.—7:00 P.M., and Friday, 8:00 A.M.—6:00 P.M., Eastern time, or 888-972-8696 (Class I and Class R6) between 8:30 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., Eastern time, on most business days.
Performance Availability Website Address [Text]	rr_PerformanceAvailabilityWebSiteAddress	jhinvestments.com
Performance Past Does Not Indicate Future [Text]	rr_PerformancePastDoesNotIndicateFuture	Past performance (before and after taxes) does not indicate future results.
Bar Chart [Heading]	rr_BarChartHeading	Calendar year total returns (%)—Class A (sales charges are not reflected in the bar chart and returns would have been lower if they were)
Bar Chart Does Not Reflect Sales Loads [Text]	rr_BarChartDoesNotReflectSalesLoads	sales charges are not reflected in the bar chart and returns would have been lower if they were
Performance Table Uses Highest Federal Rate	rr_PerformanceTableUsesHighestFederalRate	Please note that after-tax returns (shown for Class A shares only) reflect the highest individual federal marginal income-tax rate in effect as of the date provided and do not reflect any state or local taxes.
Performance Table Not Relevant to Tax Deferred	rr_PerformanceTableNotRelevantToTaxDeferred	Your actual after-tax returns may be different. After-tax returns are not relevant to shares held in an IRA, 401(k), or other tax-advantaged investment plan.
Performance Table One Class of after Tax Shown [Text]	rr_PerformanceTableOneClassOfAfterTaxShown	Please note that after-tax returns (shown for Class A shares only)
Bar Chart Closing [Text Block]	rr_BarChartClosingTextBlock	Year-to-date total return. The fund’s total return for the six months ended June 30, 2020, was 7.12%.Best quarter:   Q2 2011, 5.47%Worst quarter:   Q4 2010, -5.27%
Performance Table Heading	rr_PerformanceTableHeading	Average annual total returns (%)—as of 12/31/19
Barclays Capital Municipal Bond Index | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	7.54%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	3.53%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	4.34%
Barclays Capital California Intermediate Municipal Bond Index | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	7.67%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	3.52%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	4.85%
A | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
Maximum Cumulative Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumCumulativeSalesChargeOverOther	4.00%
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOther	1.00%
Shareholder Fee, Other	rr_ShareholderFeeOther	$ 20
Management Fees (as a percentage of Assets)	rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets	0.55%
Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fees	rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets	0.15%
Other Expenses (as a percentage of Assets):	rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets	0.15%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses	rr_ExpensesOverAssets	0.85%
Fee Waiver or Reimbursement	rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets	(0.01%)	[1]
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Expense Reimbursement	rr_NetExpensesOverAssets	0.84%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year	rr_ExpenseExampleYear01	$ 482
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear03	659
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear05	852
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear10	$ 1,406
Annual Return 2010	rr_AnnualReturn2010	3.23%
Annual Return 2011	rr_AnnualReturn2011	12.05%
Annual Return 2012	rr_AnnualReturn2012	9.60%
Annual Return 2013	rr_AnnualReturn2013	(2.35%)
Annual Return 2014	rr_AnnualReturn2014	11.18%
Annual Return 2015	rr_AnnualReturn2015	3.18%
Annual Return 2016	rr_AnnualReturn2016	(0.01%)
Annual Return 2017	rr_AnnualReturn2017	6.10%
Annual Return 2018	rr_AnnualReturn2018	0.42%
Annual Return 2019	rr_AnnualReturn2019	7.44%
Year to Date Return, Label	rr_YearToDateReturnLabel	Year-to-date total return. The fund’s total return for the six months ended June 30, 2020, was 7.12%.
Bar Chart, Year to Date Return	rr_BarChartYearToDateReturn	7.12%
Highest Quarterly Return, Label	rr_HighestQuarterlyReturnLabel	Best quarter:   Q2 2011, 5.47%
Highest Quarterly Return	rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturn	5.47%
Highest Quarterly Return, Date	rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnDate	Jun. 30, 2011
Lowest Quarterly Return, Label	rr_LowestQuarterlyReturnLabel	Worst quarter:   Q4 2010, -5.27%
Lowest Quarterly Return	rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturn	(5.27%)
Lowest Quarterly Return, Date	rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnDate	Dec. 31, 2010
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	3.16%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	2.55%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	4.55%
A | After Taxes on Distributions | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	1.64%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	1.02%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	3.39%
A | After Taxes on Distributions and Sales | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	1.97%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	1.26%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	3.29%
B | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
Maximum Cumulative Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumCumulativeSalesChargeOverOther	none
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOther	5.00%
Shareholder Fee, Other	rr_ShareholderFeeOther	none
Management Fees (as a percentage of Assets)	rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets	0.55%
Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fees	rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets	1.00%
Other Expenses (as a percentage of Assets):	rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets	0.15%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses	rr_ExpensesOverAssets	1.70%
Fee Waiver or Reimbursement	rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets	(0.11%)	[1],[2]
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Expense Reimbursement	rr_NetExpensesOverAssets	1.59%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year	rr_ExpenseExampleYear01	$ 662
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear03	825
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear05	1,113
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear10	1,773
Expense Example, No Redemption, 1 Year	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear01	162
Expense Example, No Redemption, 3 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear03	525
Expense Example, No Redemption, 5 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear05	913
Expense Example, No Redemption, 10 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear10	$ 1,773
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	1.64%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	2.27%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	4.34%
C | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
Maximum Cumulative Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumCumulativeSalesChargeOverOther	none
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOther	1.00%
Shareholder Fee, Other	rr_ShareholderFeeOther	$ 20
Management Fees (as a percentage of Assets)	rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets	0.55%
Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fees	rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets	1.00%
Other Expenses (as a percentage of Assets):	rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets	0.15%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses	rr_ExpensesOverAssets	1.70%
Fee Waiver or Reimbursement	rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets	(0.11%)	[1],[2]
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Expense Reimbursement	rr_NetExpensesOverAssets	1.59%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year	rr_ExpenseExampleYear01	$ 262
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear03	525
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear05	913
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear10	1,999
Expense Example, No Redemption, 1 Year	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear01	162
Expense Example, No Redemption, 3 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear03	525
Expense Example, No Redemption, 5 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear05	913
Expense Example, No Redemption, 10 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear10	$ 1,999
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	5.64%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	2.61%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	4.18%
I | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
Maximum Cumulative Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumCumulativeSalesChargeOverOther	none
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOther	none
Shareholder Fee, Other	rr_ShareholderFeeOther	none
Management Fees (as a percentage of Assets)	rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets	0.55%
Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fees	rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets	none
Other Expenses (as a percentage of Assets):	rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets	0.15%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses	rr_ExpensesOverAssets	0.70%
Fee Waiver or Reimbursement	rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets	(0.01%)	[1]
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Expense Reimbursement	rr_NetExpensesOverAssets	0.69%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year	rr_ExpenseExampleYear01	$ 70
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear03	223
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear05	389
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear10	$ 870
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	7.50%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	3.47%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	5.02%
R6 | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
Maximum Cumulative Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumCumulativeSalesChargeOverOther	none
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOther	none
Shareholder Fee, Other	rr_ShareholderFeeOther	none
Management Fees (as a percentage of Assets)	rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets	0.55%
Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fees	rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets	none
Other Expenses (as a percentage of Assets):	rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets	0.12%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses	rr_ExpensesOverAssets	0.67%
Fee Waiver or Reimbursement	rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets	(0.01%)	[1]
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Expense Reimbursement	rr_NetExpensesOverAssets	0.66%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year	rr_ExpenseExampleYear01	$ 67
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear03	213
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear05	372
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear10	$ 834
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	7.63%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	3.47%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	5.02%

[1] The advisor contractually agrees to waive a portion of its management fee and/or reimburse expenses for the fund and certain other John Hancock funds according to an asset level breakpoint schedule that is based on the aggregate net assets of all the funds participating in the waiver or reimbursement. This waiver is allocated proportionally among the participating funds. During its most recent fiscal year, the fund’s reimbursement amounted to 0.01% of the fund’s average daily net assets. This agreement expires on July 31, 2022, unless renewed by mutual agreement of the fund and the advisor based upon a determination that this is appropriate under the circumstances at that time.

[2] The distributor contractually agrees to limit its Rule 12b-1 fees for Class B and Class C shares to 0.90%. This agreement expires on September 30, 2021, unless renewed by mutual agreement of the fund and the distributor based upon a determination that this is appropriate under the circumstances at that time.

XML

Label	Element	Value
John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
Objective [Heading]	rr_ObjectiveHeading	Investment objective
Objective, Primary [Text Block]	rr_ObjectivePrimaryTextBlock	To seek a high level of current income, consistent with preservation of capital, that is exempt from federal and California personal income taxes.
Expense [Heading]	rr_ExpenseHeading	Fees and expenses
Expense Narrative [Text Block]	rr_ExpenseNarrativeTextBlock	This table describes the fees and expenses you may pay if you buy, sell, and hold shares of the fund. You may qualify for sales charge discounts on Class A shares if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $100000 in the John Hancock family of funds. Intermediaries may have different policies and procedures regarding the availability of front-end sales charge waivers or contingent deferred sales charge (CDSC) waivers (See Appendix 1 - Intermediary sales charge waivers, which includes information about specific sales charge waivers applicable to the intermediaries identified therein). Although the fund does not impose any sales charges on Class I shares, you may pay commissions to your broker on your purchases and sales of Class I shares, which are not reflected in the table and example below. More information about these and other discounts is available from your financial professional and on pages 19 to 21 of the prospectus under “Sales charge reductions and waivers” or pages 126 to 130 of the fund’s Statement of Additional Information under “Sales Charges on Class A, Class B and Class C Shares.”
Expense Breakpoint Discounts [Text]	rr_ExpenseBreakpointDiscounts	You may qualify for sales charge discounts on Class A shares if you and your family invest, or agree to invest in the future, at least $100000 in the John Hancock family of funds.
Expense Breakpoint, Minimum Investment Required [Amount]	rr_ExpenseBreakpointMinimumInvestmentRequiredAmount	$ 100,000
Shareholder Fees Caption [Text]	rr_ShareholderFeesCaption	Shareholder fees (%) (fees paid directly from your investment)
Operating Expenses Caption [Text]	rr_OperatingExpensesCaption	Annual fund operating expenses (%) (expenses that you pay each year as a percentage of the value of your investment)
Fee Waiver or Reimbursement over Assets, Date of Termination	rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssetsDateOfTermination	July 31, 2022
Expense Example [Heading]	rr_ExpenseExampleHeading	Expense example
Expense Example Narrative [Text Block]	rr_ExpenseExampleNarrativeTextBlock	This example is intended to help you compare the cost of investing in the fund with the cost of investing in other mutual funds. Please see below a hypothetical example showing the expenses of a $10,000 investment for the time periods indicated and then, except as shown below, assuming you sell all of your shares at the end of those periods. The example assumes a 5% average annual return and that fund expenses will not change over the periods. Although your actual costs may be higher or lower, based on these assumptions, your costs would be:
Expense Example by, Year, Caption [Text]	rr_ExpenseExampleByYearCaption	Sold
Expense Example, No Redemption, By Year, Caption [Text]	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionByYearCaption	Not Sold
Portfolio Turnover [Heading]	rr_PortfolioTurnoverHeading	PORTFOLIO TURNOVER
Portfolio Turnover [Text Block]	rr_PortfolioTurnoverTextBlock	The fund pays transaction costs, such as commissions, when it buys and sells securities (or “turns over” its portfolio). A higher portfolio turnover rate may indicate higher transaction costs and may result in higher taxes when fund shares are held in a taxable account. These costs, which are not reflected in annual fund operating expenses or in the example, affect the fund’s performance. During its most recent fiscal year, the fund’s portfolio turnover rate was 22% of the average value of its portfolio.
Portfolio Turnover, Rate	rr_PortfolioTurnoverRate	22.00%
Strategy [Heading]	rr_StrategyHeading	Principal investment strategies
Strategy Narrative [Text Block]	rr_StrategyNarrativeTextBlock	Under normal market conditions, the fund invests at least 80% of its net assets, plus amounts borrowed for investment purposes, in securities of any maturity exempt from federal and California personal income taxes. Most of these securities are investment-grade when purchased, but the fund may invest up to 20% of its net assets in junk bonds rated BB by Standard & Poor’s Ratings Services (S&P) or Fitch Ratings, Inc. (Fitch) or Ba by Moody’s Investors Service, Inc. (Moody’s), or their unrated equivalents. The fund’s investment policies are based on credit ratings at the time of purchase.The fund may buy bonds of any maturity. The fund may engage in derivative transactions. Derivatives may be used to reduce risk and/or enhance investment returns, and may include futures contracts on debt securities and debt securities indexes; options on futures, debt securities, and debt indexes; and inverse floating-rate securities.The manager looks for undervalued bonds, based on both broad and security-specific factors, such as issuer creditworthiness, bond structure, and general credit trends, and uses detailed analysis of an appropriate index to model portfolio performance and composition. The fund does not intend to engage in frequent trading.The fund may invest in general obligation bonds, however, in general, the manager favors bonds backed by revenue from a specific public project or facility, such as a power plant (revenue bonds), as they tend to offer higher yields than general obligation bonds. The manager also favors bonds that have limitations on early payoff (call protection), which can help minimize the potential effect of falling interest rates on the fund’s yield. To the extent that the fund invests in bonds that are subject to the alternative minimum tax (AMT), the income paid by the fund may not be entirely tax-free to all investors. Investments in bonds subject to the AMT will not be counted toward the fund’s 80% investment policy.For liquidity and flexibility, the fund may invest up to 20% of its net assets (plus any borrowings for investment purposes) in taxable and tax-free investment-grade short-term securities.
Risk [Heading]	rr_RiskHeading	Principal risks
Risk Narrative [Text Block]	rr_RiskNarrativeTextBlock	An investment in the fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency. Many factors affect performance, and fund shares will fluctuate in price, meaning you could lose money. The fund’s investment strategy may not produce the intended results.During periods of heightened market volatility or reduced liquidity, governments, their agencies, or other regulatory bodies, both within the United States and abroad, may take steps to intervene. These actions, which could include legislative, regulatory, or economic initiatives, might have unforeseeable consequences and could adversely affect the fund’s performance or otherwise constrain the fund’s ability to achieve its investment objective.The fund’s main risks are listed below in alphabetical order, not in order of importance. Before investing, be sure to read the additional descriptions of these risks beginning on page 5 of the prospectus.Changing distribution levels risk. The fund may cease or reduce the level of its distribution if income or dividends paid from its investments declines.Credit and counterparty risk. The issuer or guarantor of a fixed-income security, the counterparty to an over-the-counter derivatives contract, or a borrower of fund securities may not make timely payments or otherwise honor its obligations. A downgrade or default affecting any of the fund’s securities could affect the fund’s performance.Cybersecurity and operational risk. Cybersecurity breaches may allow an unauthorized party to gain access to fund assets, customer data, or proprietary information, or cause a fund or its service providers to suffer data corruption or lose operational functionality. Similar incidents affecting issuers of a fund’s securities may negatively impact performance. Operational risk may arise from human error, error by third parties, communication errors, or technology failures, among other causes.Economic and market events risk. Events in the U.S. and global financial markets, including actions taken by the U.S. Federal Reserve or foreign central banks to stimulate or stabilize economic growth, may at times result in unusually high market volatility, which could negatively impact performance. Reduced liquidity in credit and fixed-income markets could adversely affect issuers worldwide. Banks and financial services companies could suffer losses if interest rates rise or economic conditions deteriorate.Fixed-income securities risk. A rise in interest rates typically causes bond prices to fall. The longer the average maturity or duration of the bonds held by a fund, the more sensitive it will likely be to interest-rate fluctuations. An issuer may not make all interest payments or repay all or any of the principal borrowed. Changes in a security’s credit quality may adversely affect fund performance.Hedging, derivatives, and other strategic transactions risk. Hedging, derivatives, and other strategic transactions may increase a fund’s volatility and could produce disproportionate losses, potentially more than the fund’s principal investment. Risks of these transactions are different from and possibly greater than risks of investing directly in securities and other traditional instruments. Under certain market conditions, derivatives could become harder to value or sell and may become subject to liquidity risk (i.e., the inability to enter into closing transactions). Derivatives and other strategic transactions that the fund intends to utilize include: futures contracts; inverse floating-rate securities; and options. Futures contracts and options generally are subject to counterparty risk.Liquidity risk. The extent (if at all) to which a security may be sold or a derivative position closed without negatively impacting its market value may be impaired by reduced market activity or participation, legal restrictions, or other economic and market impediments. Liquidity risk may be magnified in rising interest rate environments due to higher than normal redemption rates. Widespread selling of fixed-income securities to satisfy redemptions during periods of reduced demand may adversely impact their price or salability. The secondary market for certain tax-exempt securities tends to be less well-developed or liquid than many other securities markets, which may result in increased volatility or liquidity risk.Lower-rated and high-yield fixed-income securities risk. Lower-rated and high-yield fixed-income securities (junk bonds) are subject to greater credit quality risk, risk of default, and price volatility than higher-rated fixed-income securities, may be considered speculative, and can be difficult to resell.Municipal bond risk. The prices of municipal bonds, including general obligation bonds, can decline if the issuer’s credit quality declines. Revenue bond prices can decline if related projects become unprofitable. An insured municipal bond is subject to the risk that the insurer may be unable to pay claims and is not insured with respect to the market value of the obligation. Municipal bond income could become taxable in the future. Investments in AMT bonds may result in tax liability for shareholders.Sector risk. When a fund focuses its investments in certain sectors of the economy, its performance may be driven largely by sector performance and could fluctuate more widely than if the fund were invested more evenly across sectors.State/region risk. Investing heavily in any one state or region increases exposure to losses in that state or region. This risk is magnified for a fund that invests mainly in bonds from a single state. Factors that may affect performance include economic or political changes, tax base erosion, state constitutional limits on tax increases, budget deficits and other financial difficulties, and changes in credit ratings. At times, California has been more economically volatile than the United States as a whole. Puerto Rican municipal obligations, in which the fund may invest, may be subject to further devaluation due to adverse political, economic, and market conditions.
Risk Lose Money [Text]	rr_RiskLoseMoney	Many factors affect performance, and fund shares will fluctuate in price, meaning you could lose money.
Risk Not Insured Depository Institution [Text]	rr_RiskNotInsuredDepositoryInstitution	An investment in the fund is not a bank deposit and is not insured or guaranteed by the Federal Deposit Insurance Corporation or any other government agency.
Bar Chart and Performance Table [Heading]	rr_BarChartAndPerformanceTableHeading	PAST PERFORMANCE
Performance Narrative [Text Block]	rr_PerformanceNarrativeTextBlock	The following information illustrates the variability of the fund’s returns and provides some indication of the risks of investing in the fund by showing changes in the fund’s performance from year to year and by showing how the fund’s average annual returns compared with a broad-based market index. Past performance (before and after taxes) does not indicate future results. The Bloomberg Barclays Municipal Bond Index shows how the fund’s performance compares against the returns of similar investments. All figures assume dividend reinvestment. Performance information is updated daily, monthly, and quarterly and may be obtained at our website, jhinvestments.com, or by calling 800-225-5291 (Class A, Class B, and Class C), Monday to Thursday, 8:00 A.M.—7:00 P.M., and Friday, 8:00 A.M.—6:00 P.M., Eastern time, or 888-972-8696 (Class I and Class R6) between 8:30 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., Eastern time, on most business days.A note on performanceClass A shares commenced operations on December 29, 1989. Class I shares commenced operations on February 13, 2017. Class R6 shares commenced operations on August 30, 2017. Returns shown prior to the commencement dates of Class I shares and Class R6 shares are those of Class A shares, except that they do not include sales charges and would be lower if they did. Returns for Class I and Class R6 shares would have been substantially similar to returns of Class A shares because both share classes are invested in the same portfolio of securities and returns would differ only to the extent that expenses of the classes are different. To the extent expenses of a class would have been higher than expenses of Class A shares for the periods shown, performance would have been lower.Please note that after-tax returns (shown for Class A shares only) reflect the highest individual federal marginal income-tax rate in effect as of the date provided and do not reflect any state or local taxes. Your actual after-tax returns may be different. After-tax returns are not relevant to shares held in an IRA, 401(k), or other tax-advantaged investment plan. After-tax returns for other share classes would vary. The returns for Class A shares have been adjusted to reflect the reduction in the maximum sales charge from 4.50% to 4.00%, effective February 3, 2014.
Performance Information Illustrates Variability of Returns [Text]	rr_PerformanceInformationIllustratesVariabilityOfReturns	The following information illustrates the variability of the fund’s returns and provides some indication of the risks of investing in the fund by showing changes in the fund’s performance from year to year and by showing how the fund’s average annual returns compared with a broad-based market index.
Performance Availability Phone [Text]	rr_PerformanceAvailabilityPhone	calling 800-225-5291 (Class A, Class B, and Class C), Monday to Thursday, 8:00 A.M.—7:00 P.M., and Friday, 8:00 A.M.—6:00 P.M., Eastern time, or 888-972-8696 (Class I and Class R6) between 8:30 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., Eastern time, on most business days.
Performance Availability Website Address [Text]	rr_PerformanceAvailabilityWebSiteAddress	jhinvestments.com
Performance Past Does Not Indicate Future [Text]	rr_PerformancePastDoesNotIndicateFuture	Past performance (before and after taxes) does not indicate future results.
Bar Chart [Heading]	rr_BarChartHeading	Calendar year total returns (%)—Class A (sales charges are not reflected in the bar chart and returns would have been lower if they were)
Bar Chart Does Not Reflect Sales Loads [Text]	rr_BarChartDoesNotReflectSalesLoads	sales charges are not reflected in the bar chart and returns would have been lower if they were
Performance Table Uses Highest Federal Rate	rr_PerformanceTableUsesHighestFederalRate	Please note that after-tax returns (shown for Class A shares only) reflect the highest individual federal marginal income-tax rate in effect as of the date provided and do not reflect any state or local taxes.
Performance Table Not Relevant to Tax Deferred	rr_PerformanceTableNotRelevantToTaxDeferred	Your actual after-tax returns may be different. After-tax returns are not relevant to shares held in an IRA, 401(k), or other tax-advantaged investment plan.
Performance Table One Class of after Tax Shown [Text]	rr_PerformanceTableOneClassOfAfterTaxShown	Please note that after-tax returns (shown for Class A shares only)
Bar Chart Closing [Text Block]	rr_BarChartClosingTextBlock	Year-to-date total return. The fund’s total return for the six months ended June 30, 2020, was 7.12%.Best quarter:   Q2 2011, 5.47%Worst quarter:   Q4 2010, -5.27%
Performance Table Heading	rr_PerformanceTableHeading	Average annual total returns (%)—as of 12/31/19
Barclays Capital California Intermediate Municipal Bond Index | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	7.67%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	3.52%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	4.85%
Barclays Capital Municipal Bond Index | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	7.54%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	3.53%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	4.34%
A | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
Maximum Cumulative Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumCumulativeSalesChargeOverOther	4.00%
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOther	1.00%
Shareholder Fee, Other	rr_ShareholderFeeOther	$ 20
Management Fees (as a percentage of Assets)	rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets	0.55%
Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fees	rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets	0.15%
Other Expenses (as a percentage of Assets):	rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets	0.15%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses	rr_ExpensesOverAssets	0.85%
Fee Waiver or Reimbursement	rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets	(0.01%)	[1]
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Expense Reimbursement	rr_NetExpensesOverAssets	0.84%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year	rr_ExpenseExampleYear01	$ 482
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear03	659
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear05	852
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear10	$ 1,406
Annual Return 2010	rr_AnnualReturn2010	3.23%
Annual Return 2011	rr_AnnualReturn2011	12.05%
Annual Return 2012	rr_AnnualReturn2012	9.60%
Annual Return 2013	rr_AnnualReturn2013	(2.35%)
Annual Return 2014	rr_AnnualReturn2014	11.18%
Annual Return 2015	rr_AnnualReturn2015	3.18%
Annual Return 2016	rr_AnnualReturn2016	(0.01%)
Annual Return 2017	rr_AnnualReturn2017	6.10%
Annual Return 2018	rr_AnnualReturn2018	0.42%
Annual Return 2019	rr_AnnualReturn2019	7.44%
Year to Date Return, Label	rr_YearToDateReturnLabel	Year-to-date total return. The fund’s total return for the six months ended June 30, 2020, was 7.12%.
Bar Chart, Year to Date Return	rr_BarChartYearToDateReturn	7.12%
Highest Quarterly Return, Label	rr_HighestQuarterlyReturnLabel	Best quarter:   Q2 2011, 5.47%
Highest Quarterly Return	rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturn	5.47%
Highest Quarterly Return, Date	rr_BarChartHighestQuarterlyReturnDate	Jun. 30, 2011
Lowest Quarterly Return, Label	rr_LowestQuarterlyReturnLabel	Worst quarter:   Q4 2010, -5.27%
Lowest Quarterly Return	rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturn	(5.27%)
Lowest Quarterly Return, Date	rr_BarChartLowestQuarterlyReturnDate	Dec. 31, 2010
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	3.16%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	2.55%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	4.55%
A | After Taxes on Distributions | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	1.64%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	1.02%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	3.39%
A | After Taxes on Distributions and Sales | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	1.97%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	1.26%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	3.29%
B | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
Maximum Cumulative Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumCumulativeSalesChargeOverOther	none
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOther	5.00%
Shareholder Fee, Other	rr_ShareholderFeeOther	none
Management Fees (as a percentage of Assets)	rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets	0.55%
Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fees	rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets	1.00%
Other Expenses (as a percentage of Assets):	rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets	0.15%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses	rr_ExpensesOverAssets	1.70%
Fee Waiver or Reimbursement	rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets	(0.11%)	[1],[2]
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Expense Reimbursement	rr_NetExpensesOverAssets	1.59%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year	rr_ExpenseExampleYear01	$ 662
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear03	825
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear05	1,113
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear10	1,773
Expense Example, No Redemption, 1 Year	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear01	162
Expense Example, No Redemption, 3 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear03	525
Expense Example, No Redemption, 5 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear05	913
Expense Example, No Redemption, 10 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear10	$ 1,773
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	1.64%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	2.27%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	4.34%
C | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
Maximum Cumulative Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumCumulativeSalesChargeOverOther	none
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOther	1.00%
Shareholder Fee, Other	rr_ShareholderFeeOther	$ 20
Management Fees (as a percentage of Assets)	rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets	0.55%
Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fees	rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets	1.00%
Other Expenses (as a percentage of Assets):	rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets	0.15%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses	rr_ExpensesOverAssets	1.70%
Fee Waiver or Reimbursement	rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets	(0.11%)	[1],[2]
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Expense Reimbursement	rr_NetExpensesOverAssets	1.59%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year	rr_ExpenseExampleYear01	$ 262
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear03	525
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear05	913
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear10	1,999
Expense Example, No Redemption, 1 Year	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear01	162
Expense Example, No Redemption, 3 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear03	525
Expense Example, No Redemption, 5 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear05	913
Expense Example, No Redemption, 10 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleNoRedemptionYear10	$ 1,999
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	5.64%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	2.61%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	4.18%
I | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
Maximum Cumulative Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumCumulativeSalesChargeOverOther	none
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOther	none
Shareholder Fee, Other	rr_ShareholderFeeOther	none
Management Fees (as a percentage of Assets)	rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets	0.55%
Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fees	rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets	none
Other Expenses (as a percentage of Assets):	rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets	0.15%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses	rr_ExpensesOverAssets	0.70%
Fee Waiver or Reimbursement	rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets	(0.01%)	[1]
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Expense Reimbursement	rr_NetExpensesOverAssets	0.69%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year	rr_ExpenseExampleYear01	$ 70
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear03	223
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear05	389
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear10	$ 870
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	7.50%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	3.47%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	5.02%
R6 | John Hancock California Tax-Free Income Fund_ABCIR6_Stat Pro_10.1.20 | California Tax-Free Income Fund
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
Maximum Cumulative Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumCumulativeSalesChargeOverOther	none
Maximum Deferred Sales Charge (as a percentage)	rr_MaximumDeferredSalesChargeOverOther	none
Shareholder Fee, Other	rr_ShareholderFeeOther	none
Management Fees (as a percentage of Assets)	rr_ManagementFeesOverAssets	0.55%
Distribution and Service (12b-1) Fees	rr_DistributionAndService12b1FeesOverAssets	none
Other Expenses (as a percentage of Assets):	rr_OtherExpensesOverAssets	0.12%
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses	rr_ExpensesOverAssets	0.67%
Fee Waiver or Reimbursement	rr_FeeWaiverOrReimbursementOverAssets	(0.01%)	[1]
Total Annual Fund Operating Expenses After Expense Reimbursement	rr_NetExpensesOverAssets	0.66%
Expense Example, with Redemption, 1 Year	rr_ExpenseExampleYear01	$ 67
Expense Example, with Redemption, 3 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear03	213
Expense Example, with Redemption, 5 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear05	372
Expense Example, with Redemption, 10 Years	rr_ExpenseExampleYear10	$ 834
1 Year	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear01	7.63%
5 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear05	3.47%
10 Years	rr_AverageAnnualReturnYear10	5.02%

[1] The advisor contractually agrees to waive a portion of its management fee and/or reimburse expenses for the fund and certain other John Hancock funds according to an asset level breakpoint schedule that is based on the aggregate net assets of all the funds participating in the waiver or reimbursement. This waiver is allocated proportionally among the participating funds. During its most recent fiscal year, the fund’s reimbursement amounted to 0.01% of the fund’s average daily net assets. This agreement expires on July 31, 2022, unless renewed by mutual agreement of the fund and the advisor based upon a determination that this is appropriate under the circumstances at that time.

[2] The distributor contractually agrees to limit its Rule 12b-1 fees for Class B and Class C shares to 0.90%. This agreement expires on September 30, 2021, unless renewed by mutual agreement of the fund and the distributor based upon a determination that this is appropriate under the circumstances at that time.

XML

Label	Element	Value
Prospectus:	rr_ProspectusTable
Document Type	dei_DocumentType	485BPOS
Document Period End Date	dei_DocumentPeriodEndDate	May 31, 2020
Registrant Name	dei_EntityRegistrantName	JOHN HANCOCK CALIFORNIA TAX-FREE INCOME FUND
Central Index Key	dei_EntityCentralIndexKey	0000856671
Entity Inv Company Type	dei_EntityInvCompanyType	N-1A
Amendment Flag	dei_AmendmentFlag	false
Document Creation Date	dei_DocumentCreationDate	Sep. 25, 2020
Document Effective Date	dei_DocumentEffectiveDate	Oct. 01, 2020
Prospectus Date	rr_ProspectusDate	Oct. 01, 2020