N-CSRS 1 hft_hf-ncsrs.htm HENNESSY FUNDS SEMIANNUAL REPORTS 4-30-20
As filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission on July 9, 2020


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


FORM N-CSR

CERTIFIED SHAREHOLDER REPORT OF REGISTERED
MANAGEMENT INVESTMENT COMPANIES




Investment Company Act file number (811-07168)



Hennessy Funds Trust
(Exact name of registrant as specified in charter)



7250 Redwood Blvd., Suite 200
Novato, CA 94945
(Address of principal executive offices) (Zip code)



Teresa M. Nilsen
7250 Redwood Blvd., Suite 200
Novato, CA 94945
(Name and address of agent for service)



800-966-4354
Registrant’s telephone number, including area code



Date of fiscal year end: October 31, 2020



Date of reporting period: April 30, 2020

Item 1. Reports to Stockholders.



SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

APRIL 30, 2020




HENNESSY CORNERSTONE GROWTH FUND
 
Investor Class  HFCGX
Institutional Class  HICGX


IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
 
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the annual and semi-annual reports will no longer be sent by mail unless you specifically request paper copies from the Hennessy Funds 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 have already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Hennessy Funds electronically by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com/account or by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950. If you own shares in a Fund through a financial intermediary, please contact your financial intermediary to make this election.
 
You may elect to receive paper copies of all future reports free of charge by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or, if you own your shares through a financial intermediary, by contacting your financial intermediary. Your election to receive paper copies of reports will apply to all Funds in the Hennessy Funds family.
 

hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354









(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 










Contents
 
 
Letter to Shareholders
2
Performance Overview
4
Financial Statements
 
Schedule of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
9
Statement of Operations
10
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
11
Financial Highlights
12
Notes to the Financial Statements
16
Expense Example
23
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
25
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
25
Federal Tax Distribution Information
25
Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents
25
Electronic Delivery
25
Board Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement
26








HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 


June 2020
 
Dear Hennessy Funds Shareholder:

 
First and foremost, I hope this communication finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. In many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down in recent months, and we at Hennessy have joined the rest of the world in witnessing and experiencing its profound effect on public health, the global economy, and the everyday lives of people around the world.  In response to the crisis, we invoked our business continuity plan in mid-March to ensure a smooth transition to remote work for all of our employees, who have been working safely and productively from home. We want to assure our Hennessy Funds shareholders that our operations are uninterrupted and functioning normally.
 
The past six months have been marked by extremes. During the first half of the period from November 2019 through January 2020, the bull market, supported by strong corporate fundamentals, continued to move higher, and investors appeared focused on record-low unemployment and strong economic growth. In mid-February, the major U.S. market indices hit all-time highs, but then, within just a matter of weeks, lost over one-third of their values as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded. Shelter-in-place and business closure orders rippled through the nation, causing initial unemployment claims to skyrocket to their highest number in history. The market then rallied back and posted double-digit positive returns in April.
 
For the six months ended April 30, 2020, on a total return basis, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 8.9% and the S&P 500® Index was down 3.2%. Small-cap and mid-cap stocks generally fared worse than large-cap stocks during the period, and the Financial sector was particularly hard hit as the Federal Reserve aggressively cut the federal funds rate in an effort to stabilize the economy. The Energy sector was crushed by both the sudden loss of demand due to COVID-19 and the oversupply caused by the surprise market-share battle between Russia and Saudi Arabia, and the S&P 500® Energy Sector Index ended the six-month period down over 30%.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented event, and the duration and full extent of the economic impact is unknown. In the moment, there is always the concern that ‘this time is different.’ But, when you are able to look at past financial, political, and health crises with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, history has demonstrated that our economy and financial markets have always rebounded and recovered eventually. If you look back to the last market downturn in 2008, economic fundamentals were weak compared to the market in 2020, where the overall underpinnings were – and are still – quite strong.  Publicly listed companies today have plenty of cash, with over $5 trillion on balance sheets of the S&P 500® companies alone, and I believe that most will survive and that many may emerge from the current crisis even stronger.
 


 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
2

LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

We understand that this market volatility and economic uncertainty is jarring to many investors, and we continue to monitor events and the markets. We remain focused on managing our high-conviction portfolios for the long-term benefit of our shareholders, and we are confident in the time-tested strategies and rigorous research that led to their formation. We encourage shareholders to maintain a long-term investment horizon and to remain focused on long-term goals. As always, but especially in these trying times, we are here to support our shareholders, and we thank you for your continued investment and trust. Should you have any questions or would like to speak with us directly, please don’t hesitate to call (800) 966-4354 or email us at fundsinfo@hennessyfunds.com.
 
Best regards,
 
 
Neil J. Hennessy
President and Chief Investment Officer
 
 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500® Index are commonly used to measure the performance of U.S. stocks. The S&P 500® Energy Sector Index is an index that comprises those companies included in the S&P 500 that are classified as members of the GICS energy sector. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 





HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
3

Performance Overview (Unaudited)
 
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR PERIODS ENDED APRIL 30, 2020
 
 
Six
One
Five
Ten
 
Months(1)
Year
Years
Years
Hennessy Cornerstone Growth Fund –
       
  Investor Class (HFCGX)
-22.30%
-22.05%
-3.32%
  4.43%
Hennessy Cornerstone Growth Fund –
       
  Institutional Class (HICGX)
-22.19%
-21.79%
-3.02%
  4.76%
Russell 2000® Index
-15.47%
-16.39%
 2.88%
  7.69%
S&P 500® Index
  -3.16%
   0.86%
 9.12%
11.69%

Expense ratios:  1.34% (Investor Class); 1.01% (Institutional Class)
 
(1)
Periods of less than one year are not annualized.

 

 

 
_______________
 
Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance table does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com.
 
The Russell 2000® Index comprises the smallest 2,000 companies in the Russell 3000® Index based on market capitalization, representing approximately 8% of the Russell 3000® total market capitalization. The S&P 500® Index is a capitalization-weighted index that is designed to represent the broad domestic economy through changes in the aggregate market value of 500 stocks across all major industries. One cannot invest directly in an index. These indices are used herein for comparative purposes in accordance with SEC regulations.
 
Frank Russell Company (“Russell”) is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks, and copyrights related to the Russell Indexes. Russell® is a trademark of Russell. Neither Russell nor its licensors accept any liability for any errors or omissions in the Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data and no party may rely on any Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data contained in this communication. No further distribution of Russell data is permitted without Russell’s express written consent. Russell does not promote, sponsor, or endorse the content of this communication.
 
Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC is the source and owner of the S&P® and S&P 500® trademarks.
 
The expense ratios presented are from the most recent prospectus. The expense ratios for the current reporting period are available in the Financial Highlights section of this report.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
4

 PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Financial Statements

 Schedule of Investments as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

HENNESSY CORNERSTONE GROWTH FUND
(% of Net Assets)

 

 
TOP TEN HOLDINGS (EXCLUDING MONEY MARKET FUNDS)
% NET ASSETS
Sportsman’s Warehouse Holdings, Inc.
3.16%
Leidos Holdings, Inc.
2.74%
Sony Corp. – ADR
2.51%
Crown Holdings, Inc.
2.49%
Target Corp.
2.48%
Carvana Co.
2.42%
Teekay Tankers Ltd.
2.41%
Brookfield Asset Management, Inc., Class A
2.38%
Best Buy Co., Inc.
2.36%
Universal Forest Products, Inc.
2.34%

 
Note: For presentation purposes, the Fund has grouped some of the industry categories. For purposes of categorizing securities for compliance with Section 8(b)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Fund uses more specific industry classifications.
 
The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) was developed by and is the exclusive property and a service mark of MSCI, Inc. and Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC. It has been licensed for use by the Hennessy Funds.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
5


COMMON STOCKS – 97.88%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Consumer Discretionary – 33.02%
                 
America’s Car-Mart, Inc. (a)
   
25,196
   
$
1,661,676
     
1.69
%
Best Buy Co., Inc.
   
30,300
     
2,324,919
     
2.36
%
Carvana Co. (a)
   
29,800
     
2,387,278
     
2.42
%
Dick’s Sporting Goods, Inc.
   
56,100
     
1,648,779
     
1.67
%
Installed Building Products, Inc. (a)
   
38,700
     
1,908,297
     
1.94
%
KB Home
   
78,300
     
2,054,592
     
2.08
%
M/I Homes, Inc. (a)
   
63,400
     
1,614,164
     
1.64
%
Rent-A-Center, Inc.
   
92,800
     
1,847,184
     
1.87
%
Skechers U.S.A., Inc. (a)
   
65,300
     
1,840,154
     
1.87
%
Skyline Champion Corp. (a)
   
79,400
     
1,564,974
     
1.59
%
Sony Corp. – ADR (a)(b)
   
38,500
     
2,473,625
     
2.51
%
Sportsman’s Warehouse Holdings, Inc. (a)
   
434,800
     
3,113,168
     
3.16
%
Target Corp.
   
22,300
     
2,447,202
     
2.48
%
The Buckle, Inc.
   
106,300
     
1,627,453
     
1.65
%
Williams-Sonoma, Inc.
   
36,600
     
2,263,344
     
2.30
%
Zumiez, Inc. (a)
   
83,600
     
1,767,304
     
1.79
%
 
           
32,544,113
     
33.02
%
                         
Energy – 5.69%
                       
Cosan Ltd. – Class A (a)(b)
   
120,600
     
1,608,804
     
1.63
%
Teekay Tankers Ltd. (a)(b)
   
117,100
     
2,378,301
     
2.41
%
World Fuel Services Corp.
   
64,800
     
1,620,000
     
1.65
%
 
           
5,607,105
     
5.69
%
                         
Financials – 10.16%
                       
Brookfield Asset Management, Inc., Class A (b)
   
69,400
     
2,347,108
     
2.38
%
Equitable Holdings, Inc.
   
105,700
     
1,936,424
     
1.96
%
LPL Financial Holdings, Inc.
   
28,000
     
1,686,160
     
1.71
%
The Carlyle Group, Inc.
   
87,300
     
2,046,312
     
2.08
%
Voya Financial, Inc.
   
44,300
     
2,001,031
     
2.03
%
 
           
10,017,035
     
10.16
%
                         
Health Care – 4.03%
                       
R1 RCM, Inc. (a)
   
199,500
     
2,058,840
     
2.09
%
RadNet, Inc. (a)
   
135,400
     
1,911,848
     
1.94
%
 
           
3,970,688
     
4.03
%


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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
6


 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

COMMON STOCKS
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Industrials – 19.12%
                 
Alamo Group, Inc.
   
22,100
   
$
2,175,524
     
2.21
%
American Woodmark Corp. (a)
   
25,400
     
1,305,814
     
1.32
%
Arcosa, Inc.
   
60,200
     
2,243,654
     
2.28
%
Atkore International Group, Inc. (a)
   
66,100
     
1,608,874
     
1.63
%
BMC Stock Holdings, Inc. (a)
   
91,700
     
1,948,625
     
1.98
%
Builders FirstSource, Inc. (a)
   
103,100
     
1,891,885
     
1.92
%
Colfax Corp. (a)
   
73,200
     
1,887,828
     
1.91
%
Howmet Aerospace, Inc.
   
94,100
     
1,229,887
     
1.25
%
JELD-WEN Holding, Inc. (a)
   
111,000
     
1,409,700
     
1.43
%
Triumph Group, Inc.
   
119,400
     
840,576
     
0.85
%
Universal Forest Products, Inc.
   
56,000
     
2,302,720
     
2.34
%
 
           
18,845,087
     
19.12
%
                         
Information Technology – 19.89%
                       
Benchmark Electronics, Inc.
   
77,400
     
1,599,084
     
1.62
%
CDW Corp.
   
19,300
     
2,138,440
     
2.17
%
Insight Enterprises, Inc. (a)
   
38,500
     
2,090,165
     
2.12
%
Itron, Inc. (a)
   
32,400
     
2,262,168
     
2.30
%
Jabil, Inc.
   
64,400
     
1,831,536
     
1.86
%
JinkoSolar Holding Company Ltd. – ADR (a)(b)
   
119,600
     
1,892,072
     
1.92
%
Leidos Holdings, Inc.
   
27,300
     
2,697,513
     
2.74
%
Methode Electronics, Inc.
   
70,600
     
2,119,412
     
2.15
%
Synnex Corp.
   
18,400
     
1,611,104
     
1.63
%
Xerox Holdings Corp.
   
74,500
     
1,362,605
     
1.38
%
 
           
19,604,099
     
19.89
%
                         
Materials – 3.99%
                       
Arconic Corp. (a)
   
22,800
     
198,816
     
0.20
%
Crown Holdings, Inc. (a)
   
38,100
     
2,454,021
     
2.49
%
Koppers Holdings, Inc. (a)
   
81,400
     
1,282,864
     
1.30
%
 
           
3,935,701
     
3.99
%
                         
Real Estate – 1.98%
                       
CBRE Group, Inc. (a)
   
45,500
     
1,953,315
     
1.98
%
 
                       
Total Common Stocks
                       
  (Cost $131,272,201)
           
96,477,143
     
97.88
%


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
7


SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 2.31%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Money Market Funds – 2.31%
                 
First American Government Obligations Fund,
                 
  Institutional Class, 0.25% (c)
   
2,274,895
   
$
2,274,895
     
2.31
%
 
                       
Total Short-Term Investments
                       
  (Cost $2,274,895)
           
2,274,895
     
2.31
%
 
                       
Total Investments
                       
  (Cost $133,547,096) – 100.19%
           
98,752,038
     
100.19
%
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets – (0.19)%
           
(185,257
)
   
(0.19
)%
 
                       
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
         
$
98,566,781
     
100.00
%

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

ADR – American Depositary Receipt
(a)
Non-income-producing security.
(b)
U.S.-traded security of a foreign corporation.
(c)
The rate listed is the fund’s seven-day yield as of April 30, 2020.

Summary of Fair Value Exposure as of April 30, 2020
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s net assets as of April 30, 2020 (see Note 3 in the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements):
 
Common Stocks
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Consumer Discretionary
 
$
32,544,113
   
$
   
$
   
$
32,544,113
 
Energy
   
5,607,105
     
     
     
5,607,105
 
Financials
   
10,017,035
     
     
     
10,017,035
 
Health Care
   
3,970,688
     
     
     
3,970,688
 
Industrials
   
18,845,087
     
     
     
18,845,087
 
Information Technology
   
19,604,099
     
     
     
19,604,099
 
Materials
   
3,935,701
     
     
     
3,935,701
 
Real Estate
   
1,953,315
     
     
     
1,953,315
 
Total Common Stocks
 
$
96,477,143
   
$
   
$
   
$
96,477,143
 
Short-Term Investments
                               
Money Market Funds
 
$
2,274,895
   
$
   
$
   
$
2,274,895
 
Total Short-Term Investments
 
$
2,274,895
   
$
   
$
   
$
2,274,895
 
Total Investments
 
$
98,752,038
   
$
   
$
   
$
98,752,038
 


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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
8


 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS/STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments in securities, at value (cost $133,547,096)
 
$
98,752,038
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
26,083
 
Receivable for fund shares sold
   
4,440
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
18,823
 
Total assets
   
98,801,384
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable for fund shares redeemed
   
27,722
 
Payable to advisor
   
54,047
 
Payable to administrator
   
16,944
 
Payable to auditor
   
11,372
 
Accrued distribution fees
   
84,893
 
Accrued service fees
   
6,584
 
Accrued trustees fees
   
5,581
 
Accrued expenses and other payables
   
27,460
 
Total liabilities
   
234,603
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
98,566,781
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSISTS OF:
       
Capital stock
 
$
134,817,851
 
Accumulated deficit
   
(36,251,070
)
Total net assets
 
$
98,566,781
 
         
NET ASSETS:
       
Investor Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
88,878,741
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
5,972,420
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
14.88
 
         
Institutional Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
9,688,040
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
627,805
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
15.43
 


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
9

Financial Statements
 
  Statement of Operations for the six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Dividend income(1)
 
$
589,963
 
Interest income
   
16,198
 
Total investment income
   
606,161
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (See Note 5)
   
468,599
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
91,203
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
6,358
 
Distribution fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
85,388
 
Administration, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees (See Note 5)
   
69,537
 
Service fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
56,925
 
Federal and state registration fees
   
18,485
 
Compliance expense (See Note 5)
   
13,462
 
Audit fees
   
11,375
 
Reports to shareholders
   
9,197
 
Trustees’ fees and expenses
   
8,921
 
Legal fees
   
731
 
Other expenses
   
9,380
 
Total expenses
   
849,561
 
NET INVESTMENT LOSS
 
$
(243,400
)
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
       
Net realized gain on investments
 
$
11,594,725
 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(40,617,711
)
Net loss on investments
   
(29,022,986
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(29,266,386
)







 
(1)
Net of foreign taxes withheld of $2,691.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
10


 STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS/STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

Financial Statements
 
 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
April 30, 2020
   
Year Ended
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
October 31, 2019
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment loss
 
$
(243,400
)
 
$
(45,248
)
Net realized gain (loss) on investments
   
11,594,725
     
(12,686,776
)
Net change in unrealized
               
  appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(40,617,711
)
   
3,138,849
 
Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations
   
(29,266,386
)
   
(9,593,175
)
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
Distributable earnings – Investor Class
   
     
(12,717,829
)
Distributable earnings – Institutional Class
   
     
(1,655,292
)
Total distributions
   
     
(14,373,121
)
                 
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
               
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Investor Class
   
601,667
     
2,338,416
 
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Institutional Class
   
259,737
     
643,045
 
Dividends reinvested – Investor Class
   
     
12,312,126
 
Dividends reinvested – Institutional Class
   
     
1,582,859
 
Cost of shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(10,405,549
)
   
(27,329,933
)
Cost of shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(2,346,814
)
   
(5,351,383
)
Net decrease in net assets derived
               
  from capital share transactions
   
(11,890,959
)
   
(15,804,870
)
TOTAL DECREASE IN NET ASSETS
   
(41,157,345
)
   
(39,771,166
)
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
139,724,126
     
179,495,292
 
End of period
 
$
98,566,781
   
$
139,724,126
 
                 
CHANGES IN SHARES OUTSTANDING:
               
Shares sold – Investor Class
   
36,651
     
125,244
 
Shares sold – Institutional Class
   
14,738
     
32,446
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Investor Class
   
     
661,942
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Institutional Class
   
     
82,441
 
Shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(597,965
)
   
(1,423,630
)
Shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(124,359
)
   
(274,093
)
Net decrease in shares outstanding
   
(670,935
)
   
(795,650
)


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
11

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Investor Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
19.15
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income (loss)
   
(0.04
)(1)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(4.23
)
Total from investment operations
   
(4.27
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
 
Dividends from net realized gains
   
 
Total distributions
   
 
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
14.88
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-22.30
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
88.88
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.37
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets
   
(0.42
)%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(4)
   
96
%(2)









(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
12


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INVESTOR CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
22.17
   
$
24.16
   
$
18.98
   
$
20.00
   
$
18.68
 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.01
)(1)
   
(0.17
)
   
(0.09
)
   
(0.02
)
   
0.06
 
 
(1.19
)
   
(1.82
)
   
5.27
     
(0.98
)
   
1.26
 
 
(1.20
)
   
(1.99
)
   
5.18
     
(1.00
)
   
1.32
 
                                     
                                     
 
     
     
     
(0.02
)
   
 
 
(1.82
)
   
     
     
     
 
 
(1.82
)
   
     
     
(0.02
)
   
 
$
19.15
   
$
22.17
   
$
24.16
   
$
18.98
   
$
20.00
 
                                     
 
-5.19
%
   
-8.24
%
   
27.29
%
   
-5.00
%
   
7.07
%
                                     
                                     
$
125.10
   
$
158.98
   
$
197.22
   
$
184.61
   
$
248.74
 
 
1.34
%
   
1.30
%
   
1.30
%
   
1.32
%
   
1.15
%
 
(0.07
)%
   
(0.56
)%
   
(0.33
)%
   
(0.18
)%
   
0.30
%
 
95
%
   
133
%
   
98
%
   
97
%
   
102
%







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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
13

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Institutional Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
19.83
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income (loss)
   
(0.01
)(1)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(4.39
)
Total from investment operations
   
(4.40
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
 
Dividends from net realized gains
   
 
Total distributions
   
 
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
15.43
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-22.19
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
9.69
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.06
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets
   
(0.10
)%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(4)
   
96
%(2)









(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
14


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INSTITUTIONAL CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
22.88
   
$
24.85
   
$
19.46
   
$
20.47
   
$
19.08
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.05
(1) 
   
0.11
     
0.01
     
0.17
     
0.03
 
 
(1.22
)
   
(2.08
)
   
5.38
     
(1.13
)
   
1.36
 
 
(1.17
)
   
(1.97
)
   
5.39
     
(0.96
)
   
1.39
 
                                     
                                     
 
     
     
     
(0.05
)
   
 
 
(1.88
)
   
     
     
     
 
 
(1.88
)
   
     
     
(0.05
)
   
 
$
19.83
   
$
22.88
   
$
24.85
   
$
19.46
   
$
20.47
 
                                     
 
-4.86
%
   
-7.93
%
   
27.70
%
   
-4.69
%
   
7.29
%
                                     
                                     
$
14.62
   
$
20.52
   
$
31.65
   
$
25.74
   
$
38.96
 
 
1.01
%
   
0.96
%
   
0.97
%
   
0.98
%
   
0.99
%
 
0.27
%
   
(0.23
)%
   
(0.00
)%
   
0.14
%
   
0.51
%
 
95
%
   
133
%
   
98
%
   
97
%
   
102
%







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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
15

Financial Statements
 
 Notes to the Financial Statements April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

1).  ORGANIZATION
 
The Hennessy Cornerstone Growth Fund (the “Fund”) is a series of Hennessy Funds Trust (the “Trust”), which was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 17, 1992. The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The investment objective of the Fund is long-term growth of capital. The Fund is a diversified fund.
 
The Fund offers Investor Class and Institutional Class shares. Each class of shares differs principally in its respective 12b-1 distribution and service, shareholder servicing, and sub-transfer agent expenses. There are no sales charges. Each class has identical rights to earnings, assets, and voting privileges, except for class-specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only one class.
 
As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies.”
 
2).  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of the financial statements. These policies conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
 
a).
Securities Valuation – All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value, as described in Note 3.
   
b).
Federal Income Taxes – No provision for federal income taxes or excise taxes has been made because the Fund has elected to be taxed as a regulated investment company and intends to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders and otherwise comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies. Net investment income/loss and realized gains/losses for federal income tax purposes may differ from those reported in the financial statements because of temporary book and tax basis differences. Temporary differences are primarily the result of the treatment of partnership income and wash sales for tax reporting purposes. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax benefits, if any, in the Statement of Operations as an income tax expense. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income to shareholders for tax purposes. The Fund may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes.
   
c).
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – The Fund has accounting policies regarding recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The tax returns of the Fund for the prior three fiscal years are open for examination. The Fund has reviewed all open tax years in major jurisdictions and concluded that there is no impact on the Fund’s net assets and no tax liability resulting from unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain income tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The Fund’s major tax jurisdictions are U.S. federal and Delaware.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
16


 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

d).
Income and Expenses – Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date or as soon as information is available to the Fund. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recognized on an accrual basis. Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received. The Fund is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to its portfolio, such as advisory, administration, and certain shareholder service fees. Income, expenses (other than expenses attributable to a specific class), and realized and unrealized gains/losses on investments are allocated to each class of shares based on such class’s net assets.
   
e).
Distributions to Shareholders – Dividends from net investment income for the Fund, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December. Distributions of net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December.
   
f).
Security Transactions – Investment and shareholder transactions are recorded on the trade date. The Fund determines the realized gain/loss from an investment transaction by comparing the original cost of the security lot sold with the net sale proceeds. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted or amortized, respectively, over the life of each such security.
   
g).
Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported change in net assets during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
h).
Share Valuation – The net asset value (“NAV”) per share of the Fund is calculated by dividing (i) the total value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by (ii) the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest $0.01. The Fund’s shares will not be priced on days the New York Stock Exchange is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for the Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.
 
3).  SECURITIES VALUATION
 
The Fund follows fair value accounting standards that establish an authoritative definition of fair value and set out a hierarchy for measuring fair value. These standards require additional disclosures about the various inputs and valuation techniques used to develop the measurements of fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs during the period. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
 
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments that the Fund has the ability to access at the date of measurement.
     
 
Level 2 –
Other significant observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar instruments, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets, such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk curves, default rates, and similar data).
     
 
Level 3 –
Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability based on the best available information) when observable inputs are unavailable.


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
17


The following is a description of the valuation techniques applied to the Fund’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
Equity Securities – Equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, foreign-issued common stocks, exchange-traded funds, closed-end mutual funds, partnerships, rights, and real estate investment trusts, that are traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is readily available will generally be valued at the last sales price as reported by the primary exchange on which the securities are listed. Securities listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) will generally be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may differ from the last sales price reported. Securities traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is not readily available will generally be valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Securities traded on foreign exchanges generally are not valued at the same time the Fund calculates its NAV because most foreign markets close well before such time. The earlier close of most foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim. In certain circumstances, it may be determined that a foreign security needs to be fair valued because it appears that the value of the security might have been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the market in which the security is principally traded, but before the time the Fund calculates its NAV, such as by a development that affects an entire market or region (e.g., a weather-related event) or a potentially global development (e.g., a terrorist attack that may be expected to have an effect on investor expectations worldwide).
   
 
Registered Investment Companies – Investments in open-end registered investment companies, commonly referred to as mutual funds, generally are priced at the ending NAV provided by the applicable mutual fund’s service agent and will be classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Debt Securities – Debt securities, including corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and U.S. government agency issues, are generally valued at market on the basis of valuations furnished by an independent pricing service that utilizes both dealer-supplied valuations and formula-based techniques. The pricing service may consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, and fundamental data relating to the issuer. In addition, the model may incorporate observable market data, such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued primarily using dealer quotations. These securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Short-Term Securities – Short-term equity investments, including money market funds, are valued in the manner specified above. Short-term debt investments with an original term to maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value. If the original term to maturity of a short-term debt investment exceeded 60 days, then the values as of the 61st day prior to maturity are amortized. Amortized cost is not used if its use would be inappropriate due to credit or other impairments of the issuer, in which case the security’s fair value would be determined, as described below. Short-term securities are generally classified in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the inputs used and market activity levels for specific securities.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
18


 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board”) has adopted fair value pricing procedures that are followed when a price for a security is not readily available or if a significant event has occurred that indicates the closing price of a security no longer represents the true value of that security. Fair value pricing determinations are made in good faith in accordance with these procedures. There are numerous criteria that will be given consideration in determining a fair value of a security, such as the trading volume of a security and markets, the values of other similar securities, and news events with direct bearing on a security or markets. Fair value pricing results in an estimated price for a security that reflects the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive in a current sale. Depending on the relative significance of the valuation inputs, these securities may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
The fair value of foreign securities may be determined with the assistance of a pricing service using correlations between the movement of prices of such securities and indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators, such as closing market prices of relevant American Depositary Receipts or futures contracts. Using fair value pricing means that the Fund’s NAV reflects the affected portfolio securities’ values as determined by the Board or its designee, pursuant to the fair value pricing procedures adopted by the Board, instead of being determined by the market. Using a fair value pricing methodology to price a foreign security may result in a value that is different from such foreign security’s most recent closing price and from the value used by other investment companies to calculate their NAVs. Such securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Because the Fund may invest in foreign securities, the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities may change on days when you will not be able to purchase or redeem your shares.
 
The Board has delegated day-to-day valuation matters to the Valuation and Liquidity Committee comprising representatives from Hennessy Advisors, Inc., the Fund’s investment advisor (the “Advisor”). The function of the Valuation and Liquidity Committee is to value securities where current and reliable market quotations are not readily available. All actions taken by the Valuation and Liquidity Committee are reviewed by the Board.
 
The Fund has performed an analysis of all existing investments to determine the significance and character of all inputs to their fair value determinations. Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Fund’s investments. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. Details related to the fair value hierarchy of the Fund’s securities as of April 30, 2020, are included in the Schedule of Investments.
 
4).  INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding government and short-term investments) for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $117,978,311 and $128,501,795, respectively.
 
There were no purchases or sales/maturities of long-term U.S. government securities for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Fund is permitted to purchase or sell securities from or to another fund in the Hennessy Funds family of funds (collectively, the “Hennessy Funds”) under specified conditions outlined in procedures adopted by the Board. The procedures have been designed to ensure that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Hennessy Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not engage in purchases or sales of securities pursuant to Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
19

5).  INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
The Advisor provides the Fund with investment advisory services under an Investment Advisory Agreement. The Advisor furnishes all investment advice, office space, and facilities and most of the personnel needed by the Fund. As compensation for its services, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee from the Fund. The fee is based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate of 0.74%. The net investment advisory fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Board has approved a Shareholder Servicing Agreement for Investor Class shares of the Fund, which was instituted to compensate the Advisor for the non-investment advisory services it provides to the Fund. The Shareholder Servicing Agreement provides for a monthly fee paid to the Advisor at an annual rate of 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund attributable to Investor Class shares. The shareholder service fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has adopted a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that authorizes payments in connection with the distribution of the Fund’s shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares. Even though the authorized rate is up to 0.25%, the Fund is currently only using up to 0.15% of its average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares for such purpose. Amounts paid under the plan may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares, including, but not limited to, advertising, shareholder account servicing, printing and mailing of prospectuses to other than current shareholders, printing and mailing of sales literature, and compensation for sales and marketing activities or to financial institutions and others, such as dealers and distributors. The distribution fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into agreements with various brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries in connection with the sale of shares of the Fund. The agreements provide for periodic payments of sub-transfer agent expenses by the Fund to the brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries for providing certain shareholder maintenance services. These shareholder services include the pre-processing and quality control of new accounts, shareholder correspondence, answering customer inquiries regarding account status, and facilitating shareholder telephone transactions. The sub-transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (“Fund Services”) provides the Fund with administrative, accounting, and transfer agent services. As administrator, Fund Services is responsible for activities such as (i) preparing various federal and state regulatory filings, reports, and returns for the Fund, (ii) preparing reports and materials to be supplied to the Board, (iii) monitoring the activities of the Fund’s custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, and (iv) coordinating the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviewing the Fund’s expense accruals. U.S. Bank N.A., an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Fund’s custodian. The servicing agreements between the Trust and Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. contain a fee schedule that is inclusive of administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. The administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
20

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Quasar Distributors, LLC (“Quasar”) acts as the Fund’s principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Fund’s shares. Quasar was an affiliate of Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. through March 30, 2020. Effective March 31, 2020, Foreside Financial Group, LLC (“Foreside”) acquired Quasar from Fund Services. As a result of the acquisition, Quasar became a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of Foreside and is no longer affiliated with Fund Services or U.S. Bank N.A. The Board approved a new Distribution Agreement to enable Quasar to continue serving as the Fund’s distributor.
 
The officers of the Fund are affiliated with the Advisor. With the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer and the Senior Compliance Officer, such officers receive no compensation from the Fund for serving in their respective roles. The Fund, along with the other Hennessy Funds, makes reimbursement payments on an equal basis to the Advisor for a portion of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Chief Compliance Officer and for all of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Senior Compliance Officer. The compliance fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
6).  GUARANTEES AND INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Hennessy Funds’ organizational documents, their officers and trustees are indemnified by the Hennessy Funds against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Hennessy Funds. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Hennessy Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Fund expects the risk of loss to be remote.
 
7).  LINE OF CREDIT
 
The Fund has an uncommitted line of credit with the other Hennessy Funds in the amount of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 or (ii) 33.33% of each Hennessy Fund’s net assets, or 30% for the Hennessy Gas Utility Fund and 10% for the Hennessy Balanced Fund, intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The credit facility is with the Hennessy Funds’ custodian bank, U.S. Bank N.A. Borrowings under this arrangement bear interest at the bank’s prime rate and are secured by all of the Fund’s assets (as to its own borrowings only). During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not have any borrowings outstanding under the line of credit.
 
8).  FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund’s most recent fiscal year end, the components of accumulated earnings (losses) for income tax purposes were as follows:
 
   
Investments
 
Cost of investments for tax purposes
 
$
134,392,059
 
Gross tax unrealized appreciation
 
$
15,584,822
 
Gross tax unrealized depreciation
   
(10,055,455
)
Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)
 
$
5,529,367
 
Undistributed ordinary income
 
$
 
Undistributed long-term capital gains
   
 
Total distributable earnings
 
$
 
Other accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
(12,514,051
)
Total accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
(6,984,684
)


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
21

The difference between book-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation (as shown above) is attributable primarily to wash sales.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund had capital loss carryforwards as follows:
 
 
$12,514,051
Unlimited Short-Term

As of October 31, 2019, the Fund did not defer, on a tax basis, any late-year ordinary losses. Late-year ordinary losses are net ordinary losses incurred after December 31, 2018, but within the taxable year, that are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year.
 
During fiscal year 2020 (year to date) and fiscal year 2019, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund was as follows:
 
     
Six Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
     
April 30, 2020
   
October 31, 2019
 
 
Ordinary income(1)
 
$
   
$
 
 
Long-term capital gain
   
     
14,373,121
 
     
$
   
$
14,373,121
 

 
(1)  Ordinary income includes short-term capital gain.
 
9).  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO PERIOD END
 
Management has evaluated the Fund’s related events and transactions that occurred subsequent to April 30, 2020, through the date of issuance of the Fund’s financial statements. Management has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.
 



 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
22


 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS/EXPENSE EXAMPLE

Expense Example (Unaudited)
April 30, 2020


As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur ongoing costs, including management fees, service fees, and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from November 1, 2019, through April 30, 2020.
 
Actual Expenses
The first line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. Although the Fund charges no sales loads or transaction fees, you will be assessed fees for outgoing wire transfers, returned checks and stop payment orders at prevailing rates charged by U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, the Fund’s transfer agent. If you request that a redemption be made by wire transfer, currently a $15 fee is charged by the Fund’s transfer agent. IRA accounts will be charged a $15 annual maintenance fee. The example below includes, but is not limited to, management fees, shareholder servicing fees, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. However, the example below does not include portfolio trading commissions and related expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line of the table under the “Investor Class” or “Institutional Class” headings in the column entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only. Therefore, the second line of the table under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
 

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
23


 
 
Beginning
Ending
 
 
Account Value
Account Value
Expenses Paid
 
November 1, 2019
April 30, 2020
During Period(1)
Investor Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   777.00
$6.05
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,018.05
$6.87
       
Institutional Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   778.10
$4.69
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,019.59
$5.32

(1)
Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio of 1.37% for Investor Class shares or 1.06% for Institutional Class shares, as applicable, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 days (to reflect the half-year period).






 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
24


 EXPENSE EXAMPLE — ELECTRONIC DELIVERY

 
How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s Proxy
Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
 
A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge (1) by calling 1-800-966-4354, (2) on the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-policy, or (3) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record is available without charge on both the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-record and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov no later than August 31 for the prior 12 months ending June 30.
 
 
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
 
The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on request by calling 1-800-966-4354.
 
 
Federal Tax Distribution Information
(Unaudited)
 
For fiscal year 2019, certain dividends paid by the Fund may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 23.8%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was 0.00%.
 
For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions that qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction for fiscal year 2019 was 0.00%.
 
The percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that were designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Section 871(k)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, for the Fund was 0.00%.
 
 
Important Notice Regarding Delivery
of Shareholder Documents
 
To help keep the Fund’s costs as low as possible, we generally deliver a single copy of shareholder reports, proxy statements, and prospectuses to shareholders who share an address and have the same last name. This process does not apply to account statements. You may request an individual copy of a shareholder document at any time. If you would like to receive separate mailings of shareholder documents, please call U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124, and individual delivery will begin within 30 days of your request. If your account is held through a financial institution or other intermediary, please contact such intermediary directly to request individual delivery.
 
 
Electronic Delivery
 
The Funds offer shareholders the option to receive account statements, prospectuses, tax forms, and shareholder reports online. To sign up for eDelivery, please visit www.hennessyfunds.com/account. You may change your delivery preference at any time by visiting our website or calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
25

Board Approval of Investment Advisory
Agreement
 
At its meeting on March 12, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board,” and the members thereof, the “Trustees”) unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement of the Fund with Hennessy Advisors, Inc. (the “Advisor”). As part of the process of approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees reviewed their fiduciary duties and the relevant factors for them to consider with respect to approving the advisory agreement. In addition, the Trustees who are not deemed “interested persons” (as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Fund (the “Independent Trustees”) met in executive session to discuss the approval of the advisory agreement.
 
In advance of the meeting, the Advisor sent detailed information to the Trustees to assist them in their evaluation of the advisory agreement. This information included, but was not limited to, the following:
 
 
(1)
A memorandum from outside legal counsel that described the fiduciary duties of the Board with respect to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement and the relevant factors for consideration;
     
 
(2)
A memorandum from the Advisor that listed the factors relevant to the Board’s approval of the continuation of the advisory agreement and also referenced the documents that had been provided to help the Board assess each such factor;
     
 
(3)
An inventory of the services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(4)
A written discussion of economies of scale;
     
 
(5)
A summary of the key terms of the advisory agreement;
     
 
(6)
A recent Fund fact sheet, which included performance information over various periods;
     
 
(7)
A peer expense comparison of the net expense ratio and investment advisory fee of the Fund; and
     
 
(8)
The Advisor’s financial statements from its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q.

All of the factors discussed were considered as a whole by the Trustees and by the Independent Trustees meeting in executive session. The factors were viewed in their totality by the Trustees, with no single factor being the principal or determinative factor in the Trustees’ determination of whether to approve the continuation of the advisory agreement. The Trustees recognized that the management and fee arrangements for the Fund are the result of years of review and discussion between the Independent Trustees and the Advisor, that certain aspects of such arrangements may receive greater scrutiny in some years than in others, and that the Trustees’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of these same arrangements and information received during the course of the year and in prior years.
 
Prior to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees in executive session, considered, among other items:
 
 
(1)
The nature and quality of the advisory services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(2)
A comparison of the fees and expenses of the Fund to other similar funds;
     
 
(3)
Whether economies of scale are recognized by the Fund;

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
26

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

 
(4)
The costs and profitability of the Fund to the Advisor;
     
 
(5)
The performance of the Fund; and
     
 
(6)
Any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an investment advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee).

The material considerations and determinations of the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, were as follows:
 
 
(1)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Advisor. Based on this review, the Trustees concluded that the Advisor provides high-quality services to the Fund and noted that their overall confidence in the Advisor was high. The Trustees also concluded that they were satisfied with the nature, extent, and quality of the advisory services provided to the Fund by the Advisor and that the nature and extent of the services provided by the Advisor were appropriate to assure that the Fund’s operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

   
(a)
The Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund. In this capacity, the Advisor does the following:

     
(i)
manages the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, including the purchase, retention, and disposition of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions;
         
     
(ii)
seeks best execution for the Fund’s portfolio;
         
     
(iii)
manages the use of soft dollars for the Fund; and
         
     
(iv)
manages proxy voting for the Fund.

   
(b)
The Advisor performs a daily reconciliation of portfolio positions and cash for the Fund.
       
   
(c)
The Advisor monitors the liquidity of each Fund.
       
   
(d)
The Advisor monitors the Fund’s compliance with its investment objectives and restrictions.
       
   
(e)
The Advisor monitors compliance with federal securities laws, maintains a compliance program (including a code of ethics), conducts ongoing reviews of the compliance programs of the Fund’s service providers, as feasible, conducts on-site visits to the Fund’s service providers, monitors incidents of abusive trading practices, reviews Fund expense accruals, payments, and fixed expense ratios, evaluates insurance providers for fidelity bond, D&O/E&O insurance, and cybersecurity insurance coverage, manages regulatory examination compliance and responses, conducts employee compliance training, reviews reports provided by service providers, and maintains books and records.
       
   
(f)
The Advisor oversees service providers that provide accounting, administration, distribution, transfer agency, custodial, sales, marketing, public relations, audit, information technology, and legal services to the Fund.
       
   
(g)
The Advisor maintains in-house marketing and distribution departments on behalf of the Fund.
       
   
(h)
The Advisor is actively involved with preparing regulatory filings for the Fund, including writing and annually updating the Fund’s prospectus and related documents.


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
27


   
(i)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Advisor prepares a written summary of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(j)
The Advisor oversees distribution of the Fund through third-party broker/dealers and independent financial institutions such as Charles Schwab, Inc., Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and Pershing. The Advisor participates in “no transaction fee” (“NTF”) programs with these companies on behalf of the Fund, which allow customers to purchase the Fund through third-party distribution channels without paying a transaction fee. The Advisor compensates, in part, a number of these third-party providers of NTF programs out of its own revenues.
       
   
(k)
The Advisor pays the incentive compensation of the Fund’s compliance officers and employs other staff, such as legal, marketing, national accounts, distribution, sales, administrative, and trading oversight personnel, as well as management executives.
       
   
(l)
The Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board.
       
   
(m)
The Advisor prepares or reviews all Board materials, frequently presents to the Board and leads Board discussions, prepares or reviews all meeting minutes, and arranges for Board training and education.

 
(2)
The Trustees compared the performance of the Fund to benchmark indices over various periods and also noted that the Trustees review and discuss reports comparing the investment performance of the Fund to various indices at each quarterly Board meeting. Based on such information, the Trustees determined that the Advisor manages the Fund in a manner materially consistent with its stated investment objective and style. The Trustees concluded that the performance of the Fund over various periods warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(3)
The Trustees reviewed the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of the Fund compared to other funds similar in asset size and investment objective to the Fund using data from Morningstar. As part of the discussion with management, the Trustees ensured that they understood and were comfortable with the criteria used to determine the mutual funds included in the Morningstar categories for purposes of the materials considered at the meeting. The Trustees determined that the advisory fee and overall expense ratio of the Fund falls within the range of the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of other comparable funds and concluded that they are reasonable and warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(4)
The Trustees also considered whether the Advisor was realizing economies of scale that it should share with the Fund’s shareholders. The Trustees noted that the assets of the Fund had declined over the prior year. In addition, the Trustees noted that many of the expenses incurred to manage the Fund are asset-based fees, so the Advisor does not realize material economies of scale relating to those expenses as the assets of the Fund increase. For example, mutual fund platform fees increase as the Fund’s assets grow. The Trustees also considered the Advisor’s efforts to contain expenses through actions such as renegotiating service contracts, the Advisor’s significant marketing efforts to promote the Funds, the Advisor’s investments in personnel to manage the Funds, and the Advisor’s agreement to waive fees or lower its management fees in certain

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
28

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

   
circumstances. The Trustees noted that it did not appear that the Advisor was realizing economies of scale at current asset levels and concluded that it would continue to monitor economies of scale in the future as circumstances changed.
     
 
(5)
The Trustees considered the profitability of the Advisor, including the impact of mutual fund platform fees on the Advisor’s profitability, and also considered the resources and revenues that the Advisor has put into managing and distributing the Fund. The Trustees then concluded that the profits of the Advisor are reasonable and not excessive when compared to profitability guidelines set forth in relevant court cases.
     
 
(6)
The Trustees considered the high level of professionalism and knowledge of the Advisor’s employees, along with a very low level of turnover, and concluded that this was beneficial to the Fund and its shareholders.
     
 
(7)
The Trustees considered any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee). The Trustees noted that the Advisor may derive ancillary benefits from, by way of example, its association with the Fund in the form of proprietary and third-party research products and services received from broker-dealers that execute portfolio trades for the Fund. The Trustees determined that any such products and services have been used for legitimate purposes relating to the Fund by providing assistance in the investment decision-making process. The Trustees concluded that any additional benefits realized by the Advisor from its relationship with the Fund were reasonable, which was based on, among other things, the Trustees’ finding that the research, analytical, statistical, and other information and services provided by brokers are merely supplemental to the Advisor’s own efforts in the performance of its duties under the advisory agreement.

After reviewing the materials and information provided at the meeting, as well as other information regularly provided at the Board’s quarterly meetings throughout the year regarding the quality of services provided by the Advisor, the performance of the Fund, expense information, brokerage commissions information, the adequacy and efficacy of the Advisor’s written policies and procedures, other regulatory compliance issues, trading information and related matters, and other factors that the Trustees deemed relevant, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the advisory agreement.
 




HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
29


For information, questions, or assistance, please call
The Hennessy Funds
1-800-966-4354 or 1-415-899-1555


INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
7250 Redwood Boulevard, Suite 200
Novato, California 94945

ADMINISTRATOR,
TRANSFER AGENT,
DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, &
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0701

CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

TRUSTEES
Neil J. Hennessy
Robert T. Doyle
J. Dennis DeSousa
Gerald P. Richardson

COUNSEL
Foley & Lardner LLP
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-5306

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
Two Liberty Place
50 South 16th Street, Suite 2900
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-2529

DISTRIBUTOR
Quasar Distributors, LLC
111 East Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 2200
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202




www.hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354

This report has been prepared for shareholders and may be distributed to
others only if preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.




SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

APRIL 30, 2020




HENNESSY FOCUS FUND
 
Investor Class  HFCSX
Institutional Class  HFCIX


IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
 
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the annual and semi-annual reports will no longer be sent by mail unless you specifically request paper copies from the Hennessy Funds 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 have already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Hennessy Funds electronically by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com/account or by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950. If you own shares in a Fund through a financial intermediary, please contact your financial intermediary to make this election.
 
You may elect to receive paper copies of all future reports free of charge by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or, if you own your shares through a financial intermediary, by contacting your financial intermediary. Your election to receive paper copies of reports will apply to all Funds in the Hennessy Funds family.
 

hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354









(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 










Contents
 

 
Letter to Shareholders
2
Performance Overview
4
Financial Statements
 
Schedule of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
9
Statement of Operations
10
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
11
Financial Highlights
12
Notes to the Financial Statements
16
Expense Example
24
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
26
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
26
Federal Tax Distribution Information
26
Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents
26
Electronic Delivery
26
Board Approval of Investment Advisory Agreements
27







HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 


June 2020
 
Dear Hennessy Funds Shareholder:

 
First and foremost, I hope this communication finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. In many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down in recent months, and we at Hennessy have joined the rest of the world in witnessing and experiencing its profound effect on public health, the global economy, and the everyday lives of people around the world.  In response to the crisis, we invoked our business continuity plan in mid-March to ensure a smooth transition to remote work for all of our employees, who have been working safely and productively from home. We want to assure our Hennessy Funds shareholders that our operations are uninterrupted and functioning normally.
 
The past six months have been marked by extremes. During the first half of the period from November 2019 through January 2020, the bull market, supported by strong corporate fundamentals, continued to move higher, and investors appeared focused on record-low unemployment and strong economic growth. In mid-February, the major U.S. market indices hit all-time highs, but then, within just a matter of weeks, lost over one-third of their values as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded. Shelter-in-place and business closure orders rippled through the nation, causing initial unemployment claims to skyrocket to their highest number in history. The market then rallied back and posted double-digit positive returns in April.
 
For the six months ended April 30, 2020, on a total return basis, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 8.9% and the S&P 500® Index was down 3.2%. Small-cap and mid-cap stocks generally fared worse than large-cap stocks during the period, and the Financial sector was particularly hard hit as the Federal Reserve aggressively cut the federal funds rate in an effort to stabilize the economy. The Energy sector was crushed by both the sudden loss of demand due to COVID-19 and the oversupply caused by the surprise market-share battle between Russia and Saudi Arabia, and the S&P 500® Energy Sector Index ended the six-month period down over 30%.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented event, and the duration and full extent of the economic impact is unknown. In the moment, there is always the concern that ‘this time is different.’ But, when you are able to look at past financial, political, and health crises with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, history has demonstrated that our economy and financial markets have always rebounded and recovered eventually. If you look back to the last market downturn in 2008, economic fundamentals were weak compared to the market in 2020, where the overall underpinnings were – and are still – quite strong.  Publicly listed companies today have plenty of cash, with over $5 trillion on balance sheets of the S&P 500® companies alone, and I believe that most will survive and that many may emerge from the current crisis even stronger.
 

 

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
2


 LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

We understand that this market volatility and economic uncertainty is jarring to many investors, and we continue to monitor events and the markets. We remain focused on managing our high-conviction portfolios for the long-term benefit of our shareholders, and we are confident in the time-tested strategies and rigorous research that led to their formation. We encourage shareholders to maintain a long-term investment horizon and to remain focused on long-term goals. As always, but especially in these trying times, we are here to support our shareholders, and we thank you for your continued investment and trust. Should you have any questions or would like to speak with us directly, please don’t hesitate to call (800) 966-4354 or email us at fundsinfo@hennessyfunds.com.
 
Best regards,
 
 
Neil J. Hennessy
President and Chief Investment Officer
 
 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500® Index are commonly used to measure the performance of U.S. stocks. The S&P 500® Energy Sector Index is an index that comprises those companies included in the S&P 500 that are classified as members of the GICS energy sector. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 








HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
3

Performance Overview (Unaudited)
 
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR PERIODS ENDED APRIL 30, 2020
 
 
Six
One
Five
Ten
 
Months(1)
Year
Years
Years
Hennessy Focus Fund –
       
  Investor Class (HFCSX)
-17.53%
-10.23%
4.01%
  9.77%
Hennessy Focus Fund –
       
  Institutional Class (HFCIX)
-17.40%
  -9.94%
4.39%
10.12%
Russell 3000® Index
  -4.33%
  -1.04%
8.33%
11.29%
Russell Midcap® Growth Index
  -1.78%
   0.23%
8.88%
12.19%

Expense ratios:  1.47% (Investor Class); 1.12% (Institutional Class)
 
(1)
Periods of less than one year are not annualized.

 

 
 

 

 
_______________
 
Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance table does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com. Performance for periods on or prior to October 26, 2012, is that of the FBR Focus Fund.
 
The Russell 3000® Index comprises the 3,000 largest U.S. companies based on market capitalization, representing approximately 98% of the investable U.S. equities market. The Russell Midcap® Growth Index comprises approximately 65% of the total market value of the Russell Midcap® Index and includes companies with higher price-to-book ratios and higher forecasted growth values. One cannot invest directly in an index. These indices are used herein for comparative purposes in accordance with SEC regulations.
 
Frank Russell Company (“Russell”) is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks, and copyrights related to the Russell Indexes. Russell® is a trademark of Russell. Neither Russell nor its licensors accept any liability for any errors or omissions in the Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data and no party may rely on any Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data contained in this communication. No further distribution of Russell data is permitted without Russell’s express written consent. Russell does not promote, sponsor, or endorse the content of this communication.
 
The expense ratios presented are from the most recent prospectus. The expense ratios for the current reporting period are available in the Financial Highlights section of this report.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
4

 PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Financial Statements
 
 Schedule of Investments as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

HENNESSY FOCUS FUND
(% of Net Assets)

 

 
TOP TEN HOLDINGS (EXCLUDING MONEY MARKET FUNDS)
% NET ASSETS
Brookfield Asset Management, Inc., Class A
10.32%
CarMax, Inc.
10.19%
O’Reilly Automotive, Inc.
  9.85%
American Tower Corp., Class A
  9.37%
Markel Corp.
  8.67%
Aon PLC
  7.92%
Encore Capital Group, Inc.
  7.07%
American Woodmark Corp.
  6.05%
NVR, Inc.
  5.77%
Ashtead Group PLC
  5.58%

 
Note: For presentation purposes, the Fund has grouped some of the industry categories. For purposes of categorizing securities for compliance with Section 8(b)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Fund uses more specific industry classifications.
 
The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) was developed by and is the exclusive property and a service mark of MSCI, Inc. and Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC. It has been licensed for use by the Hennessy Funds.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
5


COMMON STOCKS – 89.09%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Consumer Discretionary – 27.14%
                 
CarMax, Inc. (a)
   
1,559,717
   
$
114,873,157
     
10.19
%
NVR, Inc. (a)
   
20,984
     
65,050,400
     
5.77
%
O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. (a)
   
287,218
     
110,963,802
     
9.85
%
Restoration Hardware Holdings, Inc. (a)
   
104,116
     
14,969,799
     
1.33
%
 
           
305,857,158
     
27.14
%
                         
Financials – 38.86%
                       
Aon PLC (b)
   
516,581
     
89,198,041
     
7.92
%
Brookfield Asset Management, Inc., Class A (b)
   
3,439,047
     
116,308,586
     
10.32
%
Encore Capital Group, Inc. (a)(d)
   
3,067,416
     
79,691,468
     
7.07
%
Markel Corp. (a)
   
112,831
     
97,693,593
     
8.67
%
Marlin Business Services Corp. (d)
   
1,010,273
     
10,749,305
     
0.95
%
The Charles Schwab Corp.
   
1,175,168
     
44,327,337
     
3.93
%
 
           
437,968,330
     
38.86
%
                         
Industrials – 17.87%
                       
American Woodmark Corp. (a)(d)
   
1,325,021
     
68,119,330
     
6.05
%
Ametek, Inc.
   
316,322
     
26,529,926
     
2.35
%
Ashtead Group PLC (b)
   
2,293,317
     
62,823,085
     
5.58
%
Hexcel Corp.
   
1,134,608
     
39,246,091
     
3.48
%
Mistras Group, Inc. (a)
   
971,558
     
4,614,900
     
0.41
%
 
           
201,333,332
     
17.87
%
                         
Information Technology – 5.22%
                       
SS&C Technologies Holdings, Inc.
   
1,067,191
     
58,866,255
     
5.22
%
 
                       
Total Common Stocks
                       
  (Cost $595,132,355)
           
1,004,025,075
     
89.09
%
 
                       
REITS – 9.37%
                       
Financials – 9.37%
                       
American Tower Corp., Class A
   
443,706
     
105,602,028
     
9.37
%
 
                       
Total REITS
                       
  (Cost $871,527)
           
105,602,028
     
9.37
%


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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
6


 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 1.72%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Money Market Funds – 1.72%
                 
First American Government Obligations Fund,
                 
  Institutional Class, 0.25% (c)
   
19,440,273
   
$
19,440,273
     
1.72
%
 
                       
Total Short-Term Investments
                       
  (Cost $19,440,273)
           
19,440,273
     
1.72
%
 
                       
Total Investments
                       
  (Cost $615,444,155) – 100.18%
           
1,129,067,376
     
100.18
%
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets – (0.18)%
           
(2,058,696
)
   
(0.18
)%
 
                       
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
         
$
1,127,008,680
     
100.00
%

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

PLC – Public Limited Company
REIT – Real Estate Investment Trust
(a)
Non-income-producing security.
(b)
U.S.-traded security of a foreign corporation.
(c)
The rate listed is the fund’s seven-day yield as of April 30, 2020.
(d)
Investment in affiliated security. Investment represents five percent or more of the outstanding voting securities of the issuer, making the issuer an affiliate of the Fund, as defined in the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, for the six months ended April 30, 2020. Details of transactions with affiliated companies for the six months ended April 30, 2020, are as follows:

     
Common Stocks
       
     
American
   
Encore
   
Marlin
       
     
Woodmark
   
Capital
   
Business
       
     
Corp.
   
Group, Inc.
   
Services Corp.
   
Total
 
 
Beginning Cost – November 1, 2019
 
$
63,553,435
   
$
104,853,067
   
$
15,865,289
   
$
184,271,791
 
 
Purchase Cost
 
$
   
$
   
$
   
$
 
 
Sales Cost
 
$
(2,365,758
)
 
$
(733,287
)
 
$
   
$
(3,099,045
)
 
Ending Cost – April 30, 2020
 
$
61,187,677
   
$
104,119,780
   
$
15,865,289
   
$
181,172,746
 
 
Dividend Income
 
$
   
$
   
$
282,876
   
$
282,876
 
 
Net Change in Unrealized
                               
 
  Appreciation/Depreciation
 
$
(63,726,485
)
 
$
(21,880,632
)
 
$
(13,234,576
)
 
$
(98,841,693
)
 
Realized Gain/Loss
 
$
750,628
   
$
(182,630
)
 
$
   
$
567,998
 
 
Shares
   
1,325,021
     
3,067,416
     
1,010,273
     
5,402,710
 
 
Market Value – April 30, 2020
 
$
68,119,330
   
$
79,691,468
   
$
10,749,305
   
$
158,560,103
 



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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
7


Summary of Fair Value Exposure as of April 30, 2020
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s net assets as of April 30, 2020 (see Note 3 in the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements):
 
Common Stocks
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Consumer Discretionary
 
$
305,857,158
   
$
   
$
   
$
305,857,158
 
Financials
   
437,968,330
     
     
     
437,968,330
 
Industrials
   
201,333,332
     
     
     
201,333,332
 
Information Technology
   
58,866,255
     
     
     
58,866,255
 
Total Common Stocks
 
$
1,004,025,075
   
$
   
$
   
$
1,004,025,075
 
REITS
                               
Financials
 
$
105,602,028
   
$
   
$
   
$
105,602,028
 
Total REITS
 
$
105,602,028
   
$
   
$
   
$
105,602,028
 
Short-Term Investments
                               
Money Market Funds
 
$
19,440,273
   
$
   
$
   
$
19,440,273
 
Total Short-Term Investments
 
$
19,440,273
   
$
   
$
   
$
19,440,273
 
Total Investments
 
$
1,129,067,376
   
$
   
$
   
$
1,129,067,376
 










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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
8


 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS/STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments in unaffiliated securities, at value (cost $434,271,409)
 
$
970,507,273
 
Investments in affiliated securities, at value (cost $181,172,746)
   
158,560,103
 
Total investments in securities, at value (cost $615,444,155)
   
1,129,067,376
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
230,604
 
Receivable for fund shares sold
   
771,727
 
Receivable for securities sold
   
1,376,981
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
52,645
 
Total assets
   
1,131,499,333
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable for fund shares redeemed
   
3,077,192
 
Payable to advisor
   
811,578
 
Payable to administrator
   
191,372
 
Payable to auditor
   
11,373
 
Accrued distribution fees
   
110,426
 
Accrued service fees
   
58,014
 
Accrued expenses and other payables
   
230,698
 
Total liabilities
   
4,490,653
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
1,127,008,680
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSISTS OF:
       
Capital stock
 
$
355,862,305
 
Total distributable earnings
   
771,146,375
 
Total net assets
 
$
1,127,008,680
 
         
NET ASSETS:
       
Investor Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
717,212,003
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
11,308,379
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
63.42
 
         
Institutional Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
409,796,677
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
6,251,196
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
65.55
 


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
9

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Operations for the six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Dividend income from unaffiliated securities(1)
 
$
4,303,415
 
Dividend income from affiliated securities
   
282,876
 
Interest income
   
216,294
 
Total investment income
   
4,802,585
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (See Note 5)
   
7,126,066
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
1,093,264
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
309,559
 
Administration, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees (See Note 5)
   
802,719
 
Distribution fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
777,946
 
Service fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
518,630
 
Reports to shareholders
   
48,453
 
Federal and state registration fees
   
36,493
 
Trustees’ fees and expenses
   
17,872
 
Compliance expense (See Note 5)
   
13,462
 
Audit fees
   
11,375
 
Legal fees
   
8,964
 
Interest expense (See Note 7)
   
4,172
 
Other expenses
   
90,112
 
Total expenses
   
10,859,087
 
NET INVESTMENT LOSS
 
$
(6,056,502
)
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
       
Net realized gain on investments:
       
  Unaffiliated investments
 
$
271,791,120
 
  Affiliated investments
   
567,998
 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments:
       
  Unaffiliated investments
   
(449,646,491
)
  Affiliated investments
   
(98,841,693
)
Net loss on investments
   
(276,129,066
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(282,185,568
)




 
(1)
Net of foreign taxes withheld of $152,136.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
10


 STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS/STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

Financial Statements
 
 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
April 30, 2020
   
Year Ended
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
October 31, 2019
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment loss
 
$
(6,056,502
)
 
$
(10,051,840
)
Net realized gain on investments
   
272,359,118
     
247,439,832
 
Net change in unrealized
               
  appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(548,488,184
)
   
152,257,794
 
Net increase (decrease) in net assets
               
  resulting from operations
   
(282,185,568
)
   
389,645,786
 
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
Distributable earnings – Investor Class
   
(124,333,581
)
   
(222,108,992
)
Distributable earnings – Institutional Class
   
(60,331,162
)
   
(129,337,592
)
Total distributions
   
(184,664,743
)
   
(351,446,584
)
                 
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
               
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Investor Class
   
71,800,907
     
68,175,822
 
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Institutional Class
   
74,823,478
     
106,498,153
 
Dividends reinvested – Investor Class
   
122,154,479
     
218,459,005
 
Dividends reinvested – Institutional Class
   
53,173,071
     
112,851,020
 
Cost of shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(387,949,323
)
   
(449,379,880
)
Cost of shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(139,590,290
)
   
(446,765,359
)
Net decrease in net assets derived
               
  from capital share transactions
   
(205,587,678
)
   
(390,161,239
)
TOTAL DECREASE IN NET ASSETS
   
(672,437,989
)
   
(351,962,037
)
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
1,799,446,669
     
2,151,408,706
 
End of period
 
$
1,127,008,680
   
$
1,799,446,669
 
                 
CHANGES IN SHARES OUTSTANDING:
               
Shares sold – Investor Class
   
888,118
     
874,775
 
Shares sold – Institutional Class
   
967,498
     
1,347,453
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Investor Class
   
1,522,553
     
3,226,392
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Institutional Class
   
642,032
     
1,620,026
 
Shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(5,356,609
)
   
(5,945,263
)
Shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(2,033,339
)
   
(5,770,900
)
Net decrease in shares outstanding
   
(3,369,747
)
   
(4,647,517
)


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
11

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Investor Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
85.11
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment loss
   
(0.34
)(1)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(12.79
)
Total from investment operations
   
(13.13
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
 
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(8.56
)
Total distributions
   
(8.56
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
63.42
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-17.53
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
717.21
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.49
%(3)
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets
   
(0.88
)%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(4)
   
2
%(2)








 
(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
12


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INVESTOR CLASS


 
 


Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
83.20
   
$
84.92
   
$
70.63
   
$
71.94
   
$
69.46
 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.52
)(1)
   
(0.86
)
   
(0.51
)
   
(0.45
)
   
(0.33
)
 
16.90
     
(0.85
)
   
14.80
     
(0.72
)
   
8.07
 
 
16.38
     
(1.71
)
   
14.29
     
(1.17
)
   
7.74
 
                                     
                                     
 
     
     
     
     
(0.02
)
 
(14.47
)
   
(0.01
)
   
     
(0.14
)
   
(5.24
)
 
(14.47
)
   
(0.01
)
   
     
(0.14
)
   
(5.26
)
$
85.11
   
$
83.20
   
$
84.92
   
$
70.63
   
$
71.94
 
                                     
 
24.16
%
   
-2.02
%
   
20.23
%
   
-1.63
%
   
11.83
%
                                     
                                     
$
1,213.20
   
$
1,339.45
   
$
1,675.00
   
$
1,626.71
   
$
1,615.36
 
 
1.47
%
   
1.47
%
   
1.48
%
   
1.47
%
   
1.46
%
 
(0.67
)%
   
(0.72
)%
   
(0.51
)%
   
(0.65
)%
   
(0.55
)%
 
2
%
   
13
%
   
5
%
   
2
%
   
4
%









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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
13

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Institutional Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
87.83
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment loss
   
(0.21
)(1)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(13.23
)
Total from investment operations
   
(13.44
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
 
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(8.84
)
Total distributions
   
(8.84
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
65.55
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-17.40
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
409.80
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.14
%(3)
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets
   
(0.54
)%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(4)
   
2
%(2)








 
(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
14


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INSTITUTIONAL CLASS


 
 


Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
85.66
   
$
87.10
   
$
72.17
   
$
73.24
   
$
70.50
 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.25
)(1)
   
(0.28
)
   
(0.11
)
   
(0.14
)
   
(0.08
)
 
17.41
     
(1.15
)
   
15.04
     
(0.79
)
   
8.19
 
 
17.16
     
(1.43
)
   
14.93
     
(0.93
)
   
8.11
 
                                     
                                     
 
     
     
     
     
(0.05
)
 
(14.99
)
   
(0.01
)
   
     
(0.14
)
   
(5.32
)
 
(14.99
)
   
(0.01
)
   
     
(0.14
)
   
(5.37
)
$
87.83
   
$
85.66
   
$
87.10
   
$
72.17
   
$
73.24
 
                                     
 
24.59
%
   
-1.65
%
   
20.69
%
   
-1.27
%
   
12.23
%
                                     
                                     
$
586.25
   
$
811.96
   
$
1,057.32
   
$
765.82
   
$
520.06
 
 
1.12
%
   
1.09
%
   
1.10
%
   
1.10
%
   
1.11
%
 
(0.32
)%
   
(0.34
)%
   
(0.13
)%
   
(0.28
)%
   
(0.19
)%
 
2
%
   
13
%
   
5
%
   
2
%
   
4
%









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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
15

Financial Statements
 
 Notes to the Financial Statements April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

1).  ORGANIZATION
 
The Hennessy Focus Fund (the “Fund”) is a series of Hennessy Funds Trust (the “Trust”), which was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 17, 1992. The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The investment objective of the Fund is capital appreciation. The Fund is a non-diversified fund.
 
The Fund offers Investor Class and Institutional Class shares. Each class of shares differs principally in its respective 12b-1 distribution and service, shareholder servicing, and sub-transfer agent expenses. There are no sales charges. Each class has identical rights to earnings, assets, and voting privileges, except for class-specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only one class.
 
As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies.”
 
2).  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of the financial statements. These policies conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
 
a).
Securities Valuation – All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value, as described in Note 3.
   
b).
Federal Income Taxes –No provision for federal income taxes or excise taxes has been made because the Fund has elected to be taxed as a regulated investment company and intends to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders and otherwise comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies. Net investment income/loss and realized gains/losses for federal income tax purposes may differ from those reported in the financial statements because of temporary book and tax basis differences. Temporary differences are primarily the result of the treatment of wash sales for tax reporting purposes. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax benefits, if any, in the Statement of Operations as an income tax expense. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income to shareholders for tax purposes. The Fund may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes.
   
c).
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – The Fund has accounting policies regarding recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The tax returns of the Fund for the prior three fiscal years are open for examination. The Fund has reviewed all open tax years in major jurisdictions and concluded that there is no impact on the Fund’s net assets and no tax liability resulting from unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain income tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The Fund’s major tax jurisdictions are U.S. federal and Delaware.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
16

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

d).
Income and Expenses – Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date or as soon as information is available to the Fund. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recognized on an accrual basis. Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received. The Fund is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to its portfolio, such as advisory, administration, and certain shareholder service fees. Income, expenses (other than expenses attributable to a specific class), and realized and unrealized gains/losses on investments are allocated to each class of shares based on such class’s net assets.
   
e).
Distributions to Shareholders – Dividends from net investment income for the Fund, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December. Distributions of net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December.
   
f).
Security Transactions – Investment and shareholder transactions are recorded on the trade date. The Fund determines the realized gain/loss from an investment transaction by comparing the original cost of the security lot sold with the net sale proceeds. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted or amortized, respectively, over the life of each such security.
   
g).
Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported change in net assets during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
h).
Share Valuation – The net asset value (“NAV”) per share of the Fund is calculated by dividing (i) the total value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by (ii) the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest $0.01. The Fund’s shares will not be priced on days the New York Stock Exchange is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for the Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.
   
i).
Foreign Currency – Values of investments denominated in foreign currencies are converted into U.S. dollars using the spot market rate of exchange at the time of valuation. Purchases and sales of investments and income are translated into U.S. dollars using the spot market rate of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. The Fund does not isolate the portion of the results of operations resulting from fluctuations in foreign exchange rates on investments from fluctuations resulting from changes in the market prices of securities held. Such fluctuations are included with the net realized and unrealized gain/loss on investments. Foreign investments present additional risks due to currency fluctuations, economic and political factors, lower liquidity, government regulations, differences in accounting standards, and other factors.
   
j).
REIT Equity Securities – The Fund may invest in the equity securities of real estate investment trusts (“REITs”). Distributions received from REITs may be classified as dividends, capital gains, or return of capital. Investments in REITs may require the Fund to accrue and distribute income not yet received. To generate sufficient cash to make the requisite distributions, the Fund may be required to sell securities in its portfolio (including when it is not advantageous to do so) that it otherwise would have continued to hold. At other times, investments in a REIT may result in the Fund’s receipt of cash in excess of the REIT’s earnings. If the Fund distributes these amounts, these distributions could constitute a return of capital to Fund


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
17


 
shareholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Dividends received by the Fund from a REIT generally will not constitute qualified dividend income and will not qualify for the dividends-received deduction.
 
3).  SECURITIES VALUATION
 
The Fund follows fair value accounting standards that establish an authoritative definition of fair value and set out a hierarchy for measuring fair value. These standards require additional disclosures about the various inputs and valuation techniques used to develop the measurements of fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs during the period. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
 
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments that the Fund has the ability to access at the date of measurement.
     
 
Level 2 –
Other significant observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar instruments, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets, such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk curves, default rates, and similar data).
     
 
Level 3 –
Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability based on the best available information) when observable inputs are unavailable.

The following is a description of the valuation techniques applied to the Fund’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
Equity Securities – Equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, foreign-issued common stocks, exchange-traded funds, closed-end mutual funds, partnerships, rights, and real estate investment trusts, that are traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is readily available will generally be valued at the last sales price as reported by the primary exchange on which the securities are listed. Securities listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) will generally be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may differ from the last sales price reported. Securities traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is not readily available will generally be valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Securities traded on foreign exchanges generally are not valued at the same time the Fund calculates its NAV because most foreign markets close well before such time. The earlier close of most foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim. In certain circumstances, it may be determined that a foreign security needs to be fair valued because it appears that the value of the security might have been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the market in which the security is principally traded, but before the time the Fund calculates its NAV, such as by a development that affects an entire market or region (e.g., a weather-related event) or a potentially global development (e.g., a terrorist attack that may be expected to have an effect on investor expectations worldwide).
   
 
Registered Investment Companies – Investments in open-end registered investment companies, commonly referred to as mutual funds, generally are priced at the ending NAV provided by the applicable mutual fund’s service agent and will be classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
18

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
Debt Securities – Debt securities, including corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and U.S. government agency issues, are generally valued at market on the basis of valuations furnished by an independent pricing service that utilizes both dealer-supplied valuations and formula-based techniques. The pricing service may consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, and fundamental data relating to the issuer. In addition, the model may incorporate observable market data, such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued primarily using dealer quotations. These securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Short-Term Securities – Short-term equity investments, including money market funds, are valued in the manner specified above. Short-term debt investments with an original term to maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value. If the original term to maturity of a short-term debt investment exceeded 60 days, then the values as of the 61st day prior to maturity are amortized. Amortized cost is not used if its use would be inappropriate due to credit or other impairments of the issuer, in which case the security’s fair value would be determined, as described below. Short-term securities are generally classified in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the inputs used and market activity levels for specific securities.

The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board”) has adopted fair value pricing procedures that are followed when a price for a security is not readily available or if a significant event has occurred that indicates the closing price of a security no longer represents the true value of that security. Fair value pricing determinations are made in good faith in accordance with these procedures. There are numerous criteria that will be given consideration in determining a fair value of a security, such as the trading volume of a security and markets, the values of other similar securities, and news events with direct bearing on a security or markets. Fair value pricing results in an estimated price for a security that reflects the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive in a current sale. Depending on the relative significance of the valuation inputs, these securities may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
The fair value of foreign securities may be determined with the assistance of a pricing service using correlations between the movement of prices of such securities and indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators, such as closing market prices of relevant American Depositary Receipts or futures contracts. Using fair value pricing means that the Fund’s NAV reflects the affected portfolio securities’ values as determined by the Board or its designee, pursuant to the fair value pricing procedures adopted by the Board, instead of being determined by the market. Using a fair value pricing methodology to price a foreign security may result in a value that is different from such foreign security’s most recent closing price and from the value used by other investment companies to calculate their NAVs. Such securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Because the Fund may invest in foreign securities, the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities may change on days when you will not be able to purchase or redeem your shares.
 
The Board has delegated day-to-day valuation matters to the Valuation and Liquidity Committee comprising representatives from Hennessy Advisors, Inc., the Fund’s investment advisor (the “Advisor”). The function of the Valuation and Liquidity Committee is to value securities where current and reliable market quotations are not readily available. All actions taken by the Valuation and Liquidity Committee are reviewed by the Board.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
19


The Fund has performed an analysis of all existing investments to determine the significance and character of all inputs to their fair value determinations. Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Fund’s investments. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. Details related to the fair value hierarchy of the Fund’s securities as of April 30, 2020, are included in the Schedule of Investments.
 
4).  INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding government and short-term investments) for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $25,433,487 and $409,676,325, respectively.
 
There were no purchases or sales/maturities of long-term U.S. government securities for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Fund is permitted to purchase or sell securities from or to another fund in the Hennessy Funds family of funds (collectively, the “Hennessy Funds”) under specified conditions outlined in procedures adopted by the Board. The procedures have been designed to ensure that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Hennessy Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not engage in purchases or sales of securities pursuant to Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
 
5).  INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
The Advisor provides the Fund with investment advisory services under an Investment Advisory Agreement. The Advisor oversees the provision of investment advice and furnishes office space, facilities, and most of the personnel needed by the Fund. As compensation for its services, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee from the Fund. The fee is based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate of 0.90%. The net investment advisory fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Advisor has delegated the day-to-day management of the Fund to a sub-advisor, Broad Run Investment Management, LLC. The Advisor pays the sub-advisory fees from its own assets, and these fees are not an additional expense of the Fund. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Advisor (not the Fund) paid a sub-advisory fee at the rate of 0.29% of the daily net assets of the Fund.
 
The Board has approved a Shareholder Servicing Agreement for Investor Class shares of the Fund, which was instituted to compensate the Advisor for the non-investment advisory services it provides to the Fund. The Shareholder Servicing Agreement provides for a monthly fee paid to the Advisor at an annual rate of 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund attributable to Investor Class shares. The shareholder service fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has adopted a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that authorizes payments in connection with the distribution of the Fund’s shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares. Even though the authorized rate is up to 0.25%, the Fund is currently only using up to 0.15% of its average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares for such purpose. Amounts paid under the plan may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares, including, but not limited to, advertising, shareholder account servicing, printing and
 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
20

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

mailing of prospectuses to other than current shareholders, printing and mailing of sales literature, and compensation for sales and marketing activities or to financial institutions and others, such as dealers and distributors. The distribution fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into agreements with various brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries in connection with the sale of shares of the Fund. The agreements provide for periodic payments of sub-transfer agent expenses by the Fund to the brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries for providing certain shareholder maintenance services. These shareholder services include the pre-processing and quality control of new accounts, shareholder correspondence, answering customer inquiries regarding account status, and facilitating shareholder telephone transactions. The sub-transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (“Fund Services”) provides the Fund with administrative, accounting, and transfer agent services. As administrator, Fund Services is responsible for activities such as (i) preparing various federal and state regulatory filings, reports, and returns for the Fund, (ii) preparing reports and materials to be supplied to the Board, (iii) monitoring the activities of the Fund’s custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, and (iv) coordinating the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviewing the Fund’s expense accruals. U.S. Bank N.A., an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Fund’s custodian. The servicing agreements between the Trust and Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. contain a fee schedule that is inclusive of administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. The administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
Quasar Distributors, LLC (“Quasar”) acts as the Fund’s principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Fund’s shares. Quasar was an affiliate of Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. through March 30, 2020. Effective March 31, 2020, Foreside Financial Group, LLC (“Foreside”) acquired Quasar from Fund Services. As a result of the acquisition, Quasar became a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of Foreside and is no longer affiliated with Fund Services or U.S. Bank N.A. The Board approved a new Distribution Agreement to enable Quasar to continue serving as the Fund’s distributor.
 
The officers of the Fund are affiliated with the Advisor. With the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer and the Senior Compliance Officer, such officers receive no compensation from the Fund for serving in their respective roles. The Fund, along with the other Hennessy Funds, makes reimbursement payments on an equal basis to the Advisor for a portion of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Chief Compliance Officer and for all of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Senior Compliance Officer. The compliance fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
6).  GUARANTEES AND INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Hennessy Funds’ organizational documents, their officers and trustees are indemnified by the Hennessy Funds against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Hennessy Funds. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Hennessy Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Fund expects the risk of loss to be remote.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
21

7).  LINE OF CREDIT
 
The Fund has an uncommitted line of credit with the other Hennessy Funds in the amount of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 or (ii) 33.33% of each Hennessy Fund’s net assets, or 30% for the Hennessy Gas Utility Fund and 10% for the Hennessy Balanced Fund, intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The credit facility is with the Hennessy Funds’ custodian bank, U.S. Bank N.A. Borrowings under this arrangement bear interest at the bank’s prime rate and are secured by all of the Fund’s assets (as to its own borrowings only). During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund had an outstanding average daily balance and a weighted average interest rate of $206,209 and 4.00%, respectively. The interest expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, is included in the Statement of Operations. The maximum amount outstanding for the Fund during the period was $10,356,000. As of April 30, 2020, the Fund did not have any borrowings outstanding under the line of credit.
 
8).  FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund’s most recent fiscal year end, the components of accumulated earnings (losses) for income tax purposes were as follows:
 
     
Investments
 
 
Cost of investments for tax purposes
 
$
736,862,699
 
 
Gross tax unrealized appreciation
 
$
1,085,596,555
 
 
Gross tax unrealized depreciation
   
(23,485,150
)
 
Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)
 
$
1,062,111,405
 
 
Undistributed ordinary income
 
$
 
 
Undistributed long-term capital gains
   
184,664,689
 
 
Total distributable earnings
 
$
184,664,689
 
 
Other accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
(8,779,408
)
 
Total accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
1,237,996,686
 

As of October 31, 2019, the Fund had no tax basis capital losses to offset future capital gains.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund deferred, on a tax basis, a late-year ordinary loss of $8,779,408. Late-year ordinary losses are net ordinary losses incurred after December 31, 2018, but within the taxable year, that are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year.
 
During fiscal year 2020 (year to date) and fiscal year 2019, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund was as follows:
 
     
Six Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
     
April 30, 2020
   
October 31, 2019
 
 
Ordinary income(1)
 
$
   
$
 
 
Long-term capital gain
   
184,664,743
     
351,446,584
 
     
$
184,664,743
   
$
351,446,584
 

 
(1)  Ordinary income includes short-term capital gain.
 
9).  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO PERIOD END
 
Management has evaluated the Fund’s related events and transactions that occurred subsequent to April 30, 2020, through the date of issuance of the Fund’s financial statements. Management has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
22

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 







(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 









HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
23

Expense Example (Unaudited)
April 30, 2020


As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur ongoing costs, including management fees, service fees, and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from November 1, 2019, through April 30, 2020.
 
Actual Expenses
The first line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. Although the Fund charges no sales loads or transaction fees, you will be assessed fees for outgoing wire transfers, returned checks and stop payment orders at prevailing rates charged by U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, the Fund’s transfer agent. If you request that a redemption be made by wire transfer, currently a $15 fee is charged by the Fund’s transfer agent. IRA accounts will be charged a $15 annual maintenance fee. The example below includes, but is not limited to, management fees, shareholder servicing fees, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. However, the example below does not include portfolio trading commissions and related expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line of the table under the “Investor Class” or “Institutional Class” headings in the column entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only. Therefore, the second line of the table under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
 

 

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
24

 EXPENSE EXAMPLE

 
Beginning
Ending
 
 
Account Value
Account Value
Expenses Paid
 
November 1, 2019
April 30, 2020
During Period(1)
Investor Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   824.70
$6.76
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,017.45
$7.47
       
Institutional Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   826.00
$5.18
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,019.19
$5.72

(1)
Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio of 1.49% for Investor Class shares or 1.14% for Institutional Class shares, as applicable, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 days (to reflect the half-year period).












HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
25

How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s Proxy
Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
 
A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge (1) by calling 1-800-966-4354, (2) on the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-policy, or (3) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record is available without charge on both the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-record and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov no later than August 31 for the prior 12 months ending June 30.
 
 
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
 
The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on request by calling 1-800-966-4354.
 
 
Federal Tax Distribution Information (Unaudited)
 
For fiscal year 2019, certain dividends paid by the Fund may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 23.8%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was 0.00%.
 
For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions that qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction for fiscal year 2019 was 0.00%.
 
The percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that were designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Section 871(k)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, for the Fund was 0.00%.
 
 
Important Notice Regarding Delivery
of Shareholder Documents
 
To help keep the Fund’s costs as low as possible, we generally deliver a single copy of shareholder reports, proxy statements, and prospectuses to shareholders who share an address and have the same last name. This process does not apply to account statements. You may request an individual copy of a shareholder document at any time. If you would like to receive separate mailings of shareholder documents, please call U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124, and individual delivery will begin within 30 days of your request. If your account is held through a financial institution or other intermediary, please contact such intermediary directly to request individual delivery.
 
 
Electronic Delivery
 
The Funds offer shareholders the option to receive account statements, prospectuses, tax forms, and shareholder reports online. To sign up for eDelivery, please visit www.hennessyfunds.com/account. You may change your delivery preference at any time by visiting our website or calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
26

 PROXY VOTING — BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

Board Approval of Investment Advisory
Agreements
 
At its meeting on March 12, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board,” and the members thereof, the “Trustees”) unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement of the Fund with Hennessy Advisors, Inc. (the “Advisor”) and the sub-advisory agreement for the Fund between the Advisor and Broad Run Investment Management, LLC (the “Sub-Advisor”). As part of the process of approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements, the Trustees reviewed their fiduciary duties and the relevant factors for them to consider with respect to approving the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. In addition, the Trustees who are not deemed “interested persons” (as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Fund (the “Independent Trustees”) met in executive session to discuss the approval of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
 
In advance of the meeting, the Advisor sent detailed information to the Trustees to assist them in their evaluation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. This information included, but was not limited to, the following:
 
 
(1)
A memorandum from outside legal counsel that described the fiduciary duties of the Board with respect to approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and the relevant factors for consideration;
     
 
(2)
A memorandum from the Advisor that listed the factors relevant to the Board’s approval of the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and also referenced the documents that had been provided to help the Board assess each such factor;
     
 
(3)
An inventory of the services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor and the distinction between the Advisor-provided services and the Sub-Advisor-provided services;
     
 
(4)
A written discussion of economies of scale;
     
 
(5)
Summaries of the key terms of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements;
     
 
(6)
A recent Fund fact sheet, which included performance information over various periods;
     
 
(7)
A peer expense comparison of the net expense ratio and investment advisory fee of the Fund;
     
 
(8)
The Advisor’s financial statements from its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q;
     
 
(9)
A completed questionnaire from the Sub-Advisor;
     
 
(10)
A summary of the Sub-Advisor’s questionnaire and relevant information from the Sub-Advisor’s Form ADV Parts I and II;
     
 
(11)
The Sub-Advisor’s Code of Ethics; and
     
 
(12)
Financial information of the Sub-Advisor.

All of the factors discussed were considered as a whole by the Trustees and by the Independent Trustees meeting in executive session. The factors were viewed in their totality by the Trustees, with no single factor being the principal or determinative factor in the Trustees’ determination of whether to approve the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. The Trustees recognized that the management and fee
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
27


arrangements for the Fund are the result of years of review and discussion between the Independent Trustees and the Advisor, that certain aspects of such arrangements may receive greater scrutiny in some years than in others, and that the Trustees’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of these same arrangements and information received during the course of the year and in prior years.
 
Prior to approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees in executive session, considered, among other items:
 
 
(1)
The nature and quality of the advisory services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor;
     
 
(2)
A comparison of the fees and expenses of the Fund to other similar funds;
     
 
(3)
Whether economies of scale are recognized by the Fund;
     
 
(4)
The costs and profitability of the Fund to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor;
     
 
(5)
The performance of the Fund; and
     
 
(6)
Any benefits to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor from serving as an investment advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory and sub-advisory fees).

The material considerations and determinations of the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, were as follows:
 
 
(1)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Advisor. Based on this review, the Trustees concluded that the Advisor provides high-quality services to the Fund and noted that their overall confidence in the Advisor was high. The Trustees also concluded that they were satisfied with the nature, extent, and quality of the advisory services provided to the Fund by the Advisor and that the nature and extent of the services provided by the Advisor were appropriate to assure that the Fund’s operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

   
(a)
The Advisor oversees the Sub-Advisor for the Fund, and the Sub-Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund.
       
   
(b)
The Advisor performs a daily reconciliation of portfolio positions and cash for the Fund.
       
   
(c)
The Advisor monitors the liquidity of each Fund.
       
   
(d)
The Advisor monitors the Fund’s compliance with its investment objectives and restrictions.
       
   
(e)
The Advisor monitors compliance with federal securities laws, maintains a compliance program (including a code of ethics), conducts ongoing reviews of the compliance programs of the Sub-Advisor and the Fund’s other service providers, as feasible, conducts on-site visits to the Sub-Advisor and the Fund’s other service providers, monitors incidents of abusive trading practices, reviews Fund expense accruals, payments, and fixed expense ratios, evaluates insurance providers for fidelity bond, D&O/E&O insurance, and cybersecurity insurance coverage, manages regulatory examination compliance and responses, conducts employee compliance training, reviews reports provided by service providers, and maintains books and records.

 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
28

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

   
(f)
The Advisor oversees the selection and continued employment of the Sub-Advisor, reviews the Fund’s investment performance, and monitors the Sub-Advisor’s adherence to the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions.
       
   
(g)
The Advisor oversees service providers that provide accounting, administration, distribution, transfer agency, custodial, sales, marketing, public relations, audit, information technology, and legal services to the Fund.
       
   
(h)
The Advisor maintains in-house marketing and distribution departments on behalf of the Fund.
       
   
(i)
The Advisor is actively involved with preparing regulatory filings for the Fund, including writing and annually updating the Fund’s prospectus and related documents.
       
   
(j)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Advisor reviews the written summary prepared by the Sub-Advisor of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(k)
The Advisor oversees distribution of the Fund through third-party broker/dealers and independent financial institutions such as Charles Schwab, Inc., Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and Pershing. The Advisor participates in “no transaction fee” (“NTF”) programs with these companies on behalf of the Fund, which allow customers to purchase the Fund through third-party distribution channels without paying a transaction fee. The Advisor compensates, in part, a number of these third-party providers of NTF programs out of its own revenues.
       
   
(l)
The Advisor pays the incentive compensation of the Fund’s compliance officers and employs other staff, such as legal, marketing, national accounts, distribution, sales, administrative, and trading oversight personnel, as well as management executives.
       
   
(m)
The Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board.
       
   
(n)
The Advisor prepares or reviews all Board materials, frequently presents to the Board and leads Board discussions, prepares or reviews all meeting minutes, and arranges for Board training and education.

 
(2)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Sub-Advisor:

   
(a)
The Sub-Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund. In this capacity, the Sub-Advisor does the following:

     
(i)
manages the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, including the purchase, retention, and disposition of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions;
         
     
(ii)
seeks best execution for the Fund’s portfolio;
         
     
(iii)
manages the use of soft dollars for the Fund; and
         
     
(iv)
manages proxy voting for the Fund.

   
(b)
The Sub-Advisor ensures that its compliance program includes policies and procedures relevant to the Fund and the Sub-Advisor’s duties as a portfolio manager to the Fund.
       
   
(c)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Sub-Advisor prepares a written summary of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
29

   
(d)
The Sub-Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board regarding trading and allocation practices, supervisory matters, the Sub-Advisor’s compliance program (including its code of ethics), compliance with the Fund’s policies, and general firm updates.

 
(3)
The Trustees considered the distinction between the services performed by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor. The Trustees noted that the management of the Fund, including the oversight of the Sub-Advisor, involves more comprehensive and substantive duties than the duties of the Sub-Advisor. Specifically, the Trustees considered the lists of services identified above and concluded that the services performed by the Advisor for the Fund require a higher level of service and oversight than the services performed by the Sub-Advisor. Based on this determination, the Trustees concluded that the differential in advisory fees between the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor is reasonable.
     
 
(4)
The Trustees compared the performance of the Fund to benchmark indices over various periods and also noted that the Trustees review and discuss reports comparing the investment performance of the Fund to various indices at each quarterly Board meeting. Based on such information, the Trustees determined that the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor manage the Fund in a manner materially consistent with its stated investment objective and style. The Trustees concluded that the performance of the Fund over various periods warranted continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
     
 
(5)
The Trustees reviewed the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of the Fund compared to other funds similar in asset size and investment objective to the Fund using data from Morningstar. As part of the discussion with management, the Trustees ensured that they understood and were comfortable with the criteria used to determine the mutual funds included in the Morningstar categories for purposes of the materials considered at the meeting. The Trustees determined that the advisory fee and overall expense ratio of the Fund falls within the range of the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of other comparable funds and concluded that they are reasonable and warranted continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
     
 
(6)
The Trustees also considered whether the Advisor was realizing economies of scale that it should share with the Fund’s shareholders. The Trustees noted that the assets of the Fund had declined over the prior year. In addition, the Trustees noted that many of the expenses incurred to manage the Fund are asset-based fees, so the Advisor does not realize material economies of scale relating to those expenses as the assets of the Fund increase. For example, mutual fund platform fees increase as the Fund’s assets grow. The Trustees also considered the Advisor’s efforts to contain expenses through actions such as renegotiating service contracts, the Advisor’s significant marketing efforts to promote the Funds, the Advisor’s investments in personnel to manage the Funds, and the Advisor’s agreement to waive fees or lower its management fees in certain circumstances. The Trustees determined that it did not appear that the Advisor was realizing significant economies of scale and concluded that it would continue to monitor economies of scale in the future as circumstances changed.
     
 
(7)
The Trustees considered the profitability of the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor, including the impact of mutual fund platform fees on the Advisor’s profitability, and also considered the resources and revenues that the Advisor has put into

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
30

BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

   
managing and distributing the Fund. The Trustees then concluded that the profits of the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor are reasonable and not excessive when compared to profitability guidelines set forth in relevant court cases.
     
 
(8)
The Trustees considered the high level of professionalism and knowledge of the Advisor’s employees, along with a very low level of turnover, and concluded that this was beneficial to the Fund and its shareholders.
     
 
(9)
The Trustees considered any benefits to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor from serving as an advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory and sub-advisory fees). The Trustees noted that the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor may derive ancillary benefits from, by way of example, their association with the Fund in the form of proprietary and third-party research products and services received from broker-dealers that execute portfolio trades for the Fund. The Trustees determined that any such products and services have been used for legitimate purposes relating to the Fund by providing assistance in the investment decision-making process. The Trustees concluded that any additional benefits realized by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor from their relationship with the Fund were reasonable, which was based on, among other things, the Trustees’ findings that (i) the research, analytical, statistical, and other information and services provided by brokers are merely supplemental to the Advisor’s and the Sub-Advisor’s own efforts in the performance of their duties under the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and (ii) although the Sub-Advisor could derive benefits from the conversion of Fund shareholders into separate account clients, the Fund also could benefit from potential institutional shareholders who might choose to invest in the Fund.

After reviewing the materials and information provided at the meeting, as well as other information regularly provided at the Board’s quarterly meetings throughout the year regarding the quality of services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor, the performance of the Fund, expense information, brokerage commissions information, the adequacy and efficacy of the Advisor’s and the Sub-Advisor’s written policies and procedures, other regulatory compliance issues, trading information and related matters, and other factors that the Trustees deemed relevant, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
 




HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
31










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For information, questions, or assistance, please call
The Hennessy Funds
1-800-966-4354 or 1-415-899-1555


INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
7250 Redwood Boulevard, Suite 200
Novato, California 94945

ADMINISTRATOR,
TRANSFER AGENT,
DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, &
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0701

CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

TRUSTEES
Neil J. Hennessy
Robert T. Doyle
J. Dennis DeSousa
Gerald P. Richardson

COUNSEL
Foley & Lardner LLP
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-5306

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
Two Liberty Place
50 South 16th Street, Suite 2900
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-2529

DISTRIBUTOR
Quasar Distributors, LLC
111 East Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 2200
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202




www.hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354

This report has been prepared for shareholders and may be distributed to
others only if preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.




SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

APRIL 30, 2020




HENNESSY CORNERSTONE MID CAP 30 FUND
 
Investor Class  HFMDX
Institutional Class  HIMDX


IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
 
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the annual and semi-annual reports will no longer be sent by mail unless you specifically request paper copies from the Hennessy Funds 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 have already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Hennessy Funds electronically by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com/account or by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950. If you own shares in a Fund through a financial intermediary, please contact your financial intermediary to make this election.
 
You may elect to receive paper copies of all future reports free of charge by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or, if you own your shares through a financial intermediary, by contacting your financial intermediary. Your election to receive paper copies of reports will apply to all Funds in the Hennessy Funds family.
 


hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354










(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 











Contents
 

 
Letter to Shareholders
2
Performance Overview
4
Financial Statements
 
Schedule of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
9
Statement of Operations
10
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
11
Financial Highlights
12
Notes to the Financial Statements
16
Expense Example
23
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
25
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
25
Federal Tax Distribution Information
25
Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents
25
Electronic Delivery
25
Board Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement
26










HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 


June 2020
 
Dear Hennessy Funds Shareholder:

 
First and foremost, I hope this communication finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. In many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down in recent months, and we at Hennessy have joined the rest of the world in witnessing and experiencing its profound effect on public health, the global economy, and the everyday lives of people around the world.  In response to the crisis, we invoked our business continuity plan in mid-March to ensure a smooth transition to remote work for all of our employees, who have been working safely and productively from home. We want to assure our Hennessy Funds shareholders that our operations are uninterrupted and functioning normally.
 
The past six months have been marked by extremes. During the first half of the period from November 2019 through January 2020, the bull market, supported by strong corporate fundamentals, continued to move higher, and investors appeared focused on record-low unemployment and strong economic growth. In mid-February, the major U.S. market indices hit all-time highs, but then, within just a matter of weeks, lost over one-third of their values as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded. Shelter-in-place and business closure orders rippled through the nation, causing initial unemployment claims to skyrocket to their highest number in history. The market then rallied back and posted double-digit positive returns in April.
 
For the six months ended April 30, 2020, on a total return basis, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 8.9% and the S&P 500® Index was down 3.2%. Small-cap and mid-cap stocks generally fared worse than large-cap stocks during the period, and the Financial sector was particularly hard hit as the Federal Reserve aggressively cut the federal funds rate in an effort to stabilize the economy. The Energy sector was crushed by both the sudden loss of demand due to COVID-19 and the oversupply caused by the surprise market-share battle between Russia and Saudi Arabia, and the S&P 500® Energy Sector Index ended the six-month period down over 30%.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented event, and the duration and full extent of the economic impact is unknown. In the moment, there is always the concern that ‘this time is different.’ But, when you are able to look at past financial, political, and health crises with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, history has demonstrated that our economy and financial markets have always rebounded and recovered eventually. If you look back to the last market downturn in 2008, economic fundamentals were weak compared to the market in 2020, where the overall underpinnings were – and are still – quite strong.  Publicly listed companies today have plenty of cash, with over $5 trillion on balance sheets of the S&P 500® companies alone, and I believe that most will survive and that many may emerge from the current crisis even stronger.
 

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
2

 LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

We understand that this market volatility and economic uncertainty is jarring to many investors, and we continue to monitor events and the markets. We remain focused on managing our high-conviction portfolios for the long-term benefit of our shareholders, and we are confident in the time-tested strategies and rigorous research that led to their formation. We encourage shareholders to maintain a long-term investment horizon and to remain focused on long-term goals. As always, but especially in these trying times, we are here to support our shareholders, and we thank you for your continued investment and trust. Should you have any questions or would like to speak with us directly, please don’t hesitate to call (800) 966-4354 or email us at fundsinfo@hennessyfunds.com.
 
Best regards,
 

Neil J. Hennessy
President and Chief Investment Officer
 

 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500® Index are commonly used to measure the performance of U.S. stocks. The S&P 500® Energy Sector Index is an index that comprises those companies included in the S&P 500 that are classified as members of the GICS energy sector. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 






HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
3

Performance Overview (Unaudited)
 
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR PERIODS ENDED APRIL 30, 2020
 
 
Six
One
Five
Ten
 
Months(1)
Year
Years
Years
Hennessy Cornerstone
       
  Mid Cap 30 Fund –
       
  Investor Class (HFMDX)
-20.57%
-23.80%
-4.01%
  5.75%
Hennessy Cornerstone
       
  Mid Cap 30 Fund –
       
  Institutional Class (HIMDX)
-20.47%
-23.53%
-3.68%
  6.11%
Russell Midcap® Index
-11.63%
-10.00%
 4.81%
  9.83%
S&P 500® Index
  -3.16%
   0.86%
 9.12%
11.69%

Expense ratios:  1.36% (Investor Class); 1.00% (Institutional Class)
 
(1)
Periods of less than one year are not annualized.

 

 

 

_______________
 
Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance table does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com.
 
The Russell Midcap® Index comprises approximately 800 of the smallest securities of the Russell 1000® Index based on a combination of market capitalization and current index membership. The S&P 500® Index is a capitalization-weighted index that is designed to represent the broad domestic economy through changes in the aggregate market value of 500 stocks across all major industries. One cannot invest directly in an index. These indices are used herein for comparative purposes in accordance with SEC regulations.
 
Frank Russell Company (“Russell”) is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks, and copyrights related to the Russell Indexes. Russell® is a trademark of Russell. Neither Russell nor its licensors accept any liability for any errors or omissions in the Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data and no party may rely on any Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data contained in this communication. No further distribution of Russell data is permitted without Russell’s express written consent. Russell does not promote, sponsor, or endorse the content of this communication.
 
Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC is the source and owner of the S&P® and S&P 500® trademarks.
 
The expense ratios presented are from the most recent prospectus. The expense ratios for the current reporting period are available in the Financial Highlights section of this report.
 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
4


 PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Financial Statements
 
 Schedule of Investments as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

HENNESSY CORNERSTONE MID CAP 30 FUND
(% of Net Assets)

 

 
TOP TEN HOLDINGS (EXCLUDING MONEY MARKET FUNDS)
% NET ASSETS
Synaptics, Inc.
6.66%
Syneos Health, Inc.
4.34%
Crown Holdings, Inc.
4.06%
AECOM Technology Corp.
3.93%
Itron, Inc.
3.87%
Packaging Corp. of America
3.73%
Landstar System, Inc.
3.71%
Williams-Sonoma, Inc.
3.65%
Lithia Motors, Inc., Class A
3.42%
Restoration Hardware Holdings, Inc.
3.38%

 
Note: For presentation purposes, the Fund has grouped some of the industry categories. For purposes of categorizing securities for compliance with Section 8(b)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Fund uses more specific industry classifications.
 
The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) was developed by and is the exclusive property and a service mark of MSCI, Inc. and Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC. It has been licensed for use by the Hennessy Funds.
 


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
5


COMMON STOCKS – 97.04%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Communication Services – 2.84%
                 
News Corp.
   
697,300
   
$
6,910,243
     
2.84
%
 
                       
Consumer Discretionary – 29.70%
                       
KB Home
   
286,800
     
7,525,632
     
3.09
%
Lithia Motors, Inc., Class A
   
75,300
     
8,325,168
     
3.42
%
Meritage Homes Corp. (a)
   
136,800
     
7,190,208
     
2.95
%
Restoration Hardware Holdings, Inc. (a)
   
57,300
     
8,238,594
     
3.38
%
Scientific Games Corp. (a)
   
499,100
     
6,293,651
     
2.59
%
Skechers U.S.A., Inc. (a)
   
268,100
     
7,555,058
     
3.10
%
Taylor Morrison Home Corp. (a)
   
377,400
     
5,491,170
     
2.26
%
Toll Brothers, Inc.
   
239,900
     
5,762,398
     
2.37
%
Whirlpool Corp.
   
62,900
     
7,028,446
     
2.89
%
Williams-Sonoma, Inc.
   
143,600
     
8,880,224
     
3.65
%
 
           
72,290,549
     
29.70
%
                         
Financials – 17.20%
                       
American Financial Group, Inc.
   
92,000
     
6,094,080
     
2.50
%
Brighthouse Financial, Inc. (a)
   
255,400
     
6,566,334
     
2.70
%
First American Financial Corp.
   
164,700
     
7,595,964
     
3.12
%
Hanover Insurance Group, Inc.
   
72,400
     
7,267,512
     
2.99
%
LPL Financial Holdings, Inc.
   
128,100
     
7,714,182
     
3.17
%
Old Republic International Corp.
   
415,400
     
6,625,630
     
2.72
%
 
           
41,863,702
     
17.20
%
                         
Health Care – 4.34%
                       
Syneos Health, Inc. (a)
   
189,400
     
10,566,626
     
4.34
%
                         
Industrials – 12.71%
                       
AECOM Technology Corp. (a)
   
264,000
     
9,572,640
     
3.93
%
Landstar System, Inc.
   
87,300
     
9,018,963
     
3.71
%
MasTec, Inc. (a)
   
152,200
     
5,463,980
     
2.24
%
Owens Corning
   
158,700
     
6,881,232
     
2.83
%
 
           
30,936,815
     
12.71
%
                         
Information Technology – 22.46%
                       
Itron, Inc. (a)
   
134,700
     
9,404,754
     
3.87
%
Jabil, Inc.
   
275,700
     
7,840,908
     
3.22
%
NCR Corp. (a)
   
323,800
     
6,644,376
     
2.73
%
SunPower Corp. (a)
   
935,600
     
6,876,660
     
2.83
%


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
6

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
 
COMMON STOCKS
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Information Technology (Continued)
                 
Synaptics, Inc. (a)
   
247,900
   
$
16,210,181
     
6.66
%
Synnex Corp.
   
87,600
     
7,670,256
     
3.15
%
 
           
54,647,135
     
22.46
%
                         
Materials – 7.79%
                       
Crown Holdings, Inc. (a)
   
153,500
     
9,886,935
     
4.06
%
Packaging Corp. of America
   
93,800
     
9,065,770
     
3.73
%
 
           
18,952,705
     
7.79
%
Total Common Stocks
                       
  (Cost $290,576,420)
           
236,167,775
     
97.04
%
 
                       
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 0.52%
                       
                         
Money Market Funds – 0.52%
                       
First American Government Obligations Fund,
                       
  Institutional Class, 0.25% (b)
   
1,261,916
     
1,261,916
     
0.52
%
 
                       
Total Short-Term Investments
                       
  (Cost $1,261,916)
           
1,261,916
     
0.52
%
 
                       
Total Investments
                       
  (Cost $291,838,336) – 97.56%
           
237,429,691
     
97.56
%
Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities – 2.44%
           
5,944,730
     
2.44
%
 
                       
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
         
$
243,374,421
     
100.00
%

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

(a)
Non-income-producing security.
(b)
The rate listed is the fund’s seven-day yield as of April 30, 2020.




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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
7


Summary of Fair Value Exposure as of April 30, 2020
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s net assets as of April 30, 2020 (see Note 3 in the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements):
 
Common Stocks
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Communication Services
 
$
6,910,243
   
$
   
$
   
$
6,910,243
 
Consumer Discretionary
   
72,290,549
     
     
     
72,290,549
 
Financials
   
41,863,702
     
     
     
41,863,702
 
Health Care
   
10,566,626
     
     
     
10,566,626
 
Industrials
   
30,936,815
     
     
     
30,936,815
 
Information Technology
   
54,647,135
     
     
     
54,647,135
 
Materials
   
18,952,705
     
     
     
18,952,705
 
Total Common Stocks
 
$
236,167,775
   
$
   
$
   
$
236,167,775
 
Short-Term Investments
                               
Money Market Funds
 
$
1,261,916
   
$
   
$
   
$
1,261,916
 
Total Short-Term Investments
 
$
1,261,916
   
$
   
$
   
$
1,261,916
 
Total Investments
 
$
237,429,691
   
$
   
$
   
$
237,429,691
 









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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
8


 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS/STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments in securities, at value (cost $291,838,336)
 
$
237,429,691
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
71,468
 
Receivable for fund shares sold
   
48,732
 
Receivable for securities sold
   
6,308,772
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
28,012
 
Total assets
   
243,886,675
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable for fund shares redeemed
   
229,926
 
Payable to advisor
   
132,390
 
Payable to administrator
   
34,919
 
Payable to auditor
   
11,379
 
Accrued distribution fees
   
13,620
 
Accrued service fees
   
10,024
 
Accrued trustees fees
   
3,538
 
Accrued expenses and other payables
   
76,458
 
Total liabilities
   
512,254
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
243,374,421
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSISTS OF:
       
Capital stock
 
$
388,546,990
 
Accumulated deficit
   
(145,172,569
)
Total net assets
 
$
243,374,421
 
         
NET ASSETS:
       
Investor Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
136,417,034
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
14,303,676
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
9.54
 
         
Institutional Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
106,957,387
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
10,797,183
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
9.91
 


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
9

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Operations for the six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Dividend income
 
$
1,946,949
 
Interest income
   
35,920
 
Total investment income
   
1,982,869
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (See Note 5)
   
1,197,031
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
184,847
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
79,548
 
Administration, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees (See Note 5)
   
170,507
 
Distribution fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
135,062
 
Service fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
90,042
 
Federal and state registration fees
   
25,104
 
Reports to shareholders
   
22,857
 
Compliance expense (See Note 5)
   
13,462
 
Audit fees
   
11,375
 
Trustees’ fees and expenses
   
10,279
 
Legal fees
   
2,285
 
Interest expense (See Note 7)
   
221
 
Other expenses
   
24,234
 
Total expenses
   
1,966,854
 
NET INVESTMENT INCOME
 
$
16,015
 
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
       
Net realized loss on investments
 
$
(2,425,383
)
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(63,834,710
)
Net loss on investments
   
(66,260,093
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(66,244,078
)




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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
10


 STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS/STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

Financial Statements
 
 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
April 30, 2020
   
Year Ended
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
October 31, 2019
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment income
 
$
16,015
   
$
66,757
 
Net realized loss on investments
   
(2,425,383
)
   
(81,390,911
)
Net change in unrealized
               
  appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(63,834,710
)
   
70,748,582
 
Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations
   
(66,244,078
)
   
(10,575,572
)
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
Distributable earnings – Investor Class
   
     
(84,472,220
)
Distributable earnings – Institutional Class
   
     
(78,382,312
)
Total distributions
   
     
(162,854,532
)
                 
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
               
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Investor Class
   
4,939,861
     
5,388,708
 
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Institutional Class
   
2,476,446
     
13,304,783
 
Dividends reinvested – Investor Class
   
     
83,056,407
 
Dividends reinvested – Institutional Class
   
     
76,949,798
 
Cost of shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(37,339,663
)
   
(130,835,008
)
Cost of shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(35,351,769
)
   
(167,228,188
)
Net decrease in net assets derived
               
  from capital share transactions
   
(65,275,125
)
   
(119,363,500
)
TOTAL DECREASE IN NET ASSETS
   
(131,519,203
)
   
(292,793,604
)
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
374,893,624
     
667,687,228
 
End of period
 
$
243,374,421
   
$
374,893,624
 
                 
CHANGES IN SHARES OUTSTANDING:
               
Shares sold – Investor Class
   
509,844
     
436,901
 
Shares sold – Institutional Class
   
218,322
     
981,434
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Investor Class
   
     
7,160,035
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Institutional Class
   
     
6,417,832
 
Shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(3,363,637
)
   
(10,498,154
)
Shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(2,971,669
)
   
(12,799,172
)
Net decrease in shares outstanding
   
(5,607,140
)
   
(8,301,124
)


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
11

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Investor Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
12.01
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income (loss)
   
(0.01
)(1)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(2.46
)
Total from investment operations
   
(2.47
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
 
Dividends from net realized gains
   
 
Total distributions
   
 
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
9.54
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-20.57
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
136.42
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.37
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets
   
(0.15
)%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(4)
   
0
%(2)









(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
12


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INVESTOR CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
16.87
   
$
22.46
   
$
18.37
   
$
20.12
   
$
19.00
 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.02
)(1)
   
(0.06
)
   
(0.15
)
   
(0.07
)
   
0.10
 
 
(0.34
)
   
(1.87
)
   
4.36
     
(1.51
)
   
2.16
 
 
(0.36
)
   
(1.93
)
   
4.21
     
(1.58
)
   
2.26
 
                                     
                                     
 
     
     
     
(0.03
)
   
 
 
(4.50
)
   
(3.66
)
   
(0.12
)
   
(0.14
)
   
(1.14
)
 
(4.50
)
   
(3.66
)
   
(0.12
)
   
(0.17
)
   
(1.14
)
$
12.01
   
$
16.87
   
$
22.46
   
$
18.37
   
$
20.12
 
                                     
 
-1.22
%
   
-10.54
%
   
23.02
%
   
-7.89
%
   
12.35
%
                                     
                                     
$
206.11
   
$
338.39
   
$
351.16
   
$
485.15
   
$
765.90
 
 
1.36
%
   
1.31
%
   
1.34
%
   
1.35
%
   
1.17
%
 
(0.15
)%
   
(0.47
)%
   
(0.33
)%
   
(0.24
)%
   
0.27
%
 
70
%
   
181
%
   
106
%
   
108
%
   
5
%







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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
13

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Institutional Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
12.46
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income (loss)
   
0.01
(1) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(2.56
)
Total from investment operations
   
(2.55
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
 
Dividends from net realized gains
   
 
Total distributions
   
 
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
9.91
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-20.47
%(3)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
106.96
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:
   
1.02
%(4)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets:
   
0.20
%(4)
Portfolio turnover rate(5)
   
0
%(3)








(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Amount is between $(0.005) and 0.005.
(3)
Not annualized.
(4)
Annualized.
(5)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
14


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INSTITUTIONAL CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
17.38
   
$
23.07
   
$
18.80
   
$
20.55
   
$
19.36
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.03
(1) 
   
(0.00
)(2)
   
0.02
     
0.00
(2) 
   
(0.03
)
 
(0.36
)
   
(1.92
)
   
4.38
     
(1.54
)
   
2.38
 
 
(0.33
)
   
(1.92
)
   
4.40
     
(1.54
)
   
2.35
 
                                     
                                     
 
     
     
     
(0.06
)
   
 
 
(4.59
)
   
(3.77
)
   
(0.13
)
   
(0.15
)
   
(1.16
)
 
(4.59
)
   
(3.77
)
   
(0.13
)
   
(0.21
)
   
(1.16
)
$
12.46
   
$
17.38
   
$
23.07
   
$
18.80
   
$
20.55
 
                                     
 
-0.84
%
   
-10.22
%
   
23.47
%
   
-7.53
%
   
12.62
%
                                     
                                     
$
168.79
   
$
329.30
   
$
620.38
   
$
754.97
   
$
306.04
 
 
1.00
%
   
0.95
%
   
0.97
%
   
0.97
%
   
0.96
%
 
0.20
%
   
(0.12
)%
   
0.04
%
   
0.07
%
   
0.41
%
 
70
%
   
181
%
   
106
%
   
108
%
   
5
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
15

Financial Statements
 
 Notes to the Financial Statements April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

1).  ORGANIZATION
 
The Hennessy Cornerstone Mid Cap 30 Fund (the “Fund”) is a series of Hennessy Funds Trust (the “Trust”), which was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 17, 1992. The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The investment objective of the Fund is long-term growth of capital. The Fund is a diversified fund.
 
The Fund offers Investor Class and Institutional Class shares. Each class of shares differs principally in its respective 12b-1 distribution and service, shareholder servicing, and sub-transfer agent expenses. There are no sales charges. Each class has identical rights to earnings, assets, and voting privileges, except for class-specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only one class.
 
As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies.”
 
2).  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of the financial statements. These policies conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
 
a).
Securities Valuation – All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value, as described in Note 3.
   
b).
Federal Income Taxes – No provision for federal income taxes or excise taxes has been made because the Fund has elected to be taxed as a regulated investment company and intends to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders and otherwise comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies. Net investment income/loss and realized gains/losses for federal income tax purposes may differ from those reported in the financial statements because of temporary book and tax basis differences. Temporary differences are primarily the result of the treatment of wash sales for tax reporting purposes. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax benefits, if any, in the Statement of Operations as an income tax expense. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income to shareholders for tax purposes. The Fund may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes.
   
c).
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – The Fund has accounting policies regarding recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The tax returns of the Fund for the prior three fiscal years are open for examination. The Fund has reviewed all open tax years in major jurisdictions and concluded that there is no impact on the Fund’s net assets and no tax liability resulting from unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain income tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The Fund’s major tax jurisdictions are U.S. federal and Delaware.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
16


 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

d).
Income and Expenses – Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date or as soon as information is available to the Fund. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recognized on an accrual basis. Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received. The Fund is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to its portfolio, such as advisory, administration, and certain shareholder service fees. Income, expenses (other than expenses attributable to a specific class), and realized and unrealized gains/losses on investments are allocated to each class of shares based on such class’s net assets.
   
e).
Distributions to Shareholders – Dividends from net investment income for the Fund, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December. Distributions of net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December.
   
f).
Security Transactions – Investment and shareholder transactions are recorded on the trade date. The Fund determines the realized gain/loss from an investment transaction by comparing the original cost of the security lot sold with the net sale proceeds. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted or amortized, respectively, over the life of each such security.
   
g).
Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported change in net assets during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
h).
Share Valuation – The net asset value (“NAV”) per share of the Fund is calculated by dividing (i) the total value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by (ii) the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest $0.01. The Fund’s shares will not be priced on days the New York Stock Exchange is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for the Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.
 
3).  SECURITIES VALUATION
 
The Fund follows fair value accounting standards that establish an authoritative definition of fair value and set out a hierarchy for measuring fair value. These standards require additional disclosures about the various inputs and valuation techniques used to develop the measurements of fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs during the period. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
 
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments that the Fund has the ability to access at the date of measurement.
     
 
Level 2 –
Other significant observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar instruments, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets, such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk curves, default rates, and similar data).
     
 
Level 3 –
Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability based on the best available information) when observable inputs are unavailable.


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
17


The following is a description of the valuation techniques applied to the Fund’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
Equity Securities – Equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, exchange-traded funds, closed-end mutual funds, partnerships, rights, and real estate investment trusts, that are traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is readily available will generally be valued at the last sales price as reported by the primary exchange on which the securities are listed. Securities listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) will generally be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may differ from the last sales price reported. Securities traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is not readily available will generally be valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Registered Investment Companies – Investments in open-end registered investment companies, commonly referred to as mutual funds, generally are priced at the ending NAV provided by the applicable mutual fund’s service agent and will be classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Debt Securities – Debt securities, including corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and U.S. government agency issues, are generally valued at market on the basis of valuations furnished by an independent pricing service that utilizes both dealer-supplied valuations and formula-based techniques. The pricing service may consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, and fundamental data relating to the issuer. In addition, the model may incorporate observable market data, such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued primarily using dealer quotations. These securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Short-Term Securities – Short-term equity investments, including money market funds, are valued in the manner specified above. Short-term debt investments with an original term to maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value. If the original term to maturity of a short-term debt investment exceeded 60 days, then the values as of the 61st day prior to maturity are amortized. Amortized cost is not used if its use would be inappropriate due to credit or other impairments of the issuer, in which case the security’s fair value would be determined, as described below. Short-term securities are generally classified in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the inputs used and market activity levels for specific securities.

The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board”) has adopted fair value pricing procedures that are followed when a price for a security is not readily available or if a significant event has occurred that indicates the closing price of a security no longer represents the true value of that security. Fair value pricing determinations are made in good faith in accordance with these procedures. There are numerous criteria that will be given consideration in determining a fair value of a security, such as the trading volume of a security and markets, the values of other similar securities, and news events with direct bearing on a security or markets. Fair value pricing results in an estimated price for a security that reflects the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive in a current sale. Depending on the relative significance of the valuation inputs, these securities may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
 
 
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 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Board has delegated day-to-day valuation matters to the Valuation and Liquidity Committee comprising representatives from Hennessy Advisors, Inc., the Fund’s investment advisor (the “Advisor”). The function of the Valuation and Liquidity Committee is to value securities where current and reliable market quotations are not readily available. All actions taken by the Valuation and Liquidity Committee are reviewed by the Board.
 
The Fund has performed an analysis of all existing investments to determine the significance and character of all inputs to their fair value determinations. Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Fund’s investments. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. Details related to the fair value hierarchy of the Fund’s securities as of April 30, 2020, are included in the Schedule of Investments.
 
4).  INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding government and short-term investments) for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $0 and $66,179,569, respectively.
 
There were no purchases or sales/maturities of long-term U.S. government securities for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Fund is permitted to purchase or sell securities from or to another fund in the Hennessy Funds family of funds (collectively, the “Hennessy Funds”) under specified conditions outlined in procedures adopted by the Board. The procedures have been designed to ensure that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Hennessy Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not engage in purchases or sales of securities pursuant to Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
 
5).  INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
The Advisor provides the Fund with investment advisory services under an Investment Advisory Agreement. The Advisor furnishes all investment advice, office space, and facilities and most of the personnel needed by the Fund. As compensation for its services, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee from the Fund. The fee is based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate of 0.74%. The net investment advisory fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Board has approved a Shareholder Servicing Agreement for Investor Class shares of the Fund, which was instituted to compensate the Advisor for the non-investment advisory services it provides to the Fund. The Shareholder Servicing Agreement provides for a monthly fee paid to the Advisor at an annual rate of 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund attributable to Investor Class shares. The shareholder service fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has adopted a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that authorizes payments in connection with the distribution of the Fund’s shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares. Even though the authorized rate is up to 0.25%, the Fund is currently only using up to 0.15% of its average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares for such purpose. Amounts paid under the plan may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares,
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
19


including, but not limited to, advertising, shareholder account servicing, printing and mailing of prospectuses to other than current shareholders, printing and mailing of sales literature, and compensation for sales and marketing activities or to financial institutions and others, such as dealers and distributors. The distribution fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into agreements with various brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries in connection with the sale of shares of the Fund. The agreements provide for periodic payments of sub-transfer agent expenses by the Fund to the brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries for providing certain shareholder maintenance services. These shareholder services include the pre-processing and quality control of new accounts, shareholder correspondence, answering customer inquiries regarding account status, and facilitating shareholder telephone transactions. The sub-transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (“Fund Services”) provides the Fund with administrative, accounting, and transfer agent services. As administrator, Fund Services is responsible for activities such as (i) preparing various federal and state regulatory filings, reports, and returns for the Fund, (ii) preparing reports and materials to be supplied to the Board, (iii) monitoring the activities of the Fund’s custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, and (iv) coordinating the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviewing the Fund’s expense accruals. U.S. Bank N.A., an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Fund’s custodian. The servicing agreements between the Trust and Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. contain a fee schedule that is inclusive of administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. The administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
Quasar Distributors, LLC (“Quasar”) acts as the Fund’s principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Fund’s shares. Quasar was an affiliate of Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. through March 30, 2020. Effective March 31, 2020, Foreside Financial Group, LLC (“Foreside”) acquired Quasar from Fund Services. As a result of the acquisition, Quasar became a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of Foreside and is no longer affiliated with Fund Services or U.S. Bank N.A. The Board approved a new Distribution Agreement to enable Quasar to continue serving as the Fund’s distributor.
 
The officers of the Fund are affiliated with the Advisor. With the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer and the Senior Compliance Officer, such officers receive no compensation from the Fund for serving in their respective roles. The Fund, along with the other Hennessy Funds, makes reimbursement payments on an equal basis to the Advisor for a portion of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Chief Compliance Officer and for all of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Senior Compliance Officer. The compliance fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
6).  GUARANTEES AND INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Hennessy Funds’ organizational documents, their officers and trustees are indemnified by the Hennessy Funds against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Hennessy Funds. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Hennessy Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Fund expects the risk of loss to be remote.
 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
20


 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

7).  LINE OF CREDIT
 
The Fund has an uncommitted line of credit with the other Hennessy Funds in the amount of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 or (ii) 33.33% of each Hennessy Fund’s net assets, or 30% for the Hennessy Gas Utility Fund and 10% for the Hennessy Balanced Fund, intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The credit facility is with the Hennessy Funds’ custodian bank, U.S. Bank N.A. Borrowings under this arrangement bear interest at the bank’s prime rate and are secured by all of the Fund’s assets (as to its own borrowings only). During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund had an outstanding average daily balance and a weighted average interest rate of $9,412 and 4.64%, respectively. The interest expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, is included in the Statement of Operations. The maximum amount outstanding for the Fund during the period was $531,000. As of April 30, 2020, the Fund did not have any borrowings outstanding under the line of credit.
 
8).  FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund’s most recent fiscal year end, the components of accumulated earnings (losses) for income tax purposes were as follows:
 
     
Investments
 
 
Cost of investments for tax purposes
 
$
366,713,711
 
 
Gross tax unrealized appreciation
 
$
15,338,127
 
 
Gross tax unrealized depreciation
   
(6,545,308
)
 
Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)
 
$
8,792,819
 
 
Undistributed ordinary income
 
$
 
 
Undistributed long-term capital gains
   
 
 
Total distributable earnings
 
$
 
 
Other accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
(87,721,310
)
 
Total accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
(78,928,491
)

The difference between book-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation (as shown above) is attributable primarily to wash sales.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund had capital loss carryforwards as follows:
 
 
$44,528,232
Unlimited Long-Term
 
$40,746,684
Unlimited Short-Term

As of October 31, 2019, the Fund deferred, on a tax basis, a late-year ordinary loss of $2,446,394. Late-year ordinary losses are net ordinary losses incurred after December 31, 2018, but within the taxable year, that are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year.
 
During fiscal year 2020 (year to date) and fiscal year 2019, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund was as follows:
 
     
Six Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
     
April 30, 2020
   
October 31, 2019
 
 
Ordinary income(1)
 
$
   
$
5,427,863
 
 
Long-term capital gain
   
     
157,426,669
 
     
$
   
$
162,854,532
 

 
(1)  Ordinary income includes short-term capital gain.

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
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9).  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO PERIOD END
 
Management has evaluated the Fund’s related events and transactions that occurred subsequent to April 30, 2020, through the date of issuance of the Fund’s financial statements. Management has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.
 








 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
22


 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS/EXPENSE EXAMPLE

Expense Example (Unaudited)
April 30, 2020


As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur ongoing costs, including management fees, service fees, and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from November 1, 2019, through April 30, 2020.
 
Actual Expenses
The first line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. Although the Fund charges no sales loads or transaction fees, you will be assessed fees for outgoing wire transfers, returned checks and stop payment orders at prevailing rates charged by U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, the Fund’s transfer agent. If you request that a redemption be made by wire transfer, currently a $15 fee is charged by the Fund’s transfer agent. IRA accounts will be charged a $15 annual maintenance fee. The example below includes, but is not limited to, management fees, shareholder servicing fees, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. However, the example below does not include portfolio trading commissions and related expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line of the table under the “Investor Class” or “Institutional Class” headings in the column entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only. Therefore, the second line of the table under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
 

 

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
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Beginning
Ending
 
 
Account Value
Account Value
Expenses Paid
 
November 1, 2019
April 30, 2020
During Period(1)
Investor Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   794.30
$6.11
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,018.05
$6.87
       
Institutional Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   795.30
$4.55
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,019.79
$5.12

(1)
Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio of 1.37% for Investor Class shares or 1.02% for Institutional Class shares, as applicable, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 days (to reflect the half-year period).











 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
24


 EXPENSE EXAMPLE — ELECTRONIC DELIVERY

 
How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s Proxy
Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
 
A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge (1) by calling 1-800-966-4354, (2) on the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-policy, or (3) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record is available without charge on both the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-record and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov no later than August 31 for the prior 12 months ending June 30.
 
 
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
 
The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on request by calling 1-800-966-4354.
 
 
Federal Tax Distribution Information (Unaudited)
 
For fiscal year 2019, certain dividends paid by the Fund may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 23.8%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was 100.00%.
 
For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions that qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction for fiscal year 2019 was 100.00%.
 
The percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that were designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Section 871(k)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, for the Fund was 100.00%.
 
 
Important Notice Regarding Delivery
of Shareholder Documents
 
To help keep the Fund’s costs as low as possible, we generally deliver a single copy of shareholder reports, proxy statements, and prospectuses to shareholders who share an address and have the same last name. This process does not apply to account statements. You may request an individual copy of a shareholder document at any time. If you would like to receive separate mailings of shareholder documents, please call U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124, and individual delivery will begin within 30 days of your request. If your account is held through a financial institution or other intermediary, please contact such intermediary directly to request individual delivery.
 
 
Electronic Delivery
 
The Funds offer shareholders the option to receive account statements, prospectuses, tax forms, and shareholder reports online. To sign up for eDelivery, please visit www.hennessyfunds.com/account. You may change your delivery preference at any time by visiting our website or calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124.
 


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
25

Board Approval of Investment Advisory
Agreement
 
At its meeting on March 12, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board,” and the members thereof, the “Trustees”) unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement of the Fund with Hennessy Advisors, Inc. (the “Advisor”). As part of the process of approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees reviewed their fiduciary duties and the relevant factors for them to consider with respect to approving the advisory agreement. In addition, the Trustees who are not deemed “interested persons” (as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Fund (the “Independent Trustees”) met in executive session to discuss the approval of the advisory agreement.
 
In advance of the meeting, the Advisor sent detailed information to the Trustees to assist them in their evaluation of the advisory agreement. This information included, but was not limited to, the following:
 
 
(1)
A memorandum from outside legal counsel that described the fiduciary duties of the Board with respect to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement and the relevant factors for consideration;
     
 
(2)
A memorandum from the Advisor that listed the factors relevant to the Board’s approval of the continuation of the advisory agreement and also referenced the documents that had been provided to help the Board assess each such factor;
     
 
(3)
An inventory of the services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(4)
A written discussion of economies of scale;
     
 
(5)
A summary of the key terms of the advisory agreement;
     
 
(6)
A recent Fund fact sheet, which included performance information over various periods;
     
 
(7)
A peer expense comparison of the net expense ratio and investment advisory fee of the Fund; and
     
 
(8)
The Advisor’s financial statements from its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q.

All of the factors discussed were considered as a whole by the Trustees and by the Independent Trustees meeting in executive session. The factors were viewed in their totality by the Trustees, with no single factor being the principal or determinative factor in the Trustees’ determination of whether to approve the continuation of the advisory agreement. The Trustees recognized that the management and fee arrangements for the Fund are the result of years of review and discussion between the Independent Trustees and the Advisor, that certain aspects of such arrangements may receive greater scrutiny in some years than in others, and that the Trustees’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of these same arrangements and information received during the course of the year and in prior years.
 
Prior to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees in executive session, considered, among other items:
 
 
(1)
The nature and quality of the advisory services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(2)
A comparison of the fees and expenses of the Fund to other similar funds;
     
 
(3)
Whether economies of scale are recognized by the Fund;

 
 
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26


 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

 
(4)
The costs and profitability of the Fund to the Advisor;
     
 
(5)
The performance of the Fund; and
     
 
(6)
Any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an investment advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee).

The material considerations and determinations of the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, were as follows:
 
 
(1)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Advisor. Based on this review, the Trustees concluded that the Advisor provides high-quality services to the Fund and noted that their overall confidence in the Advisor was high. The Trustees also concluded that they were satisfied with the nature, extent, and quality of the advisory services provided to the Fund by the Advisor and that the nature and extent of the services provided by the Advisor were appropriate to assure that the Fund’s operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

   
(a)
The Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund. In this capacity, the Advisor does the following:

     
(i)
manages the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, including the purchase, retention, and disposition of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions;
         
     
(ii)
seeks best execution for the Fund’s portfolio;
         
     
(iii)
manages the use of soft dollars for the Fund; and
         
     
(iv)
manages proxy voting for the Fund.

   
(b)
The Advisor performs a daily reconciliation of portfolio positions and cash for the Fund.
       
   
(c)
The Advisor monitors the liquidity of each Fund.
       
   
(d)
The Advisor monitors the Fund’s compliance with its investment objectives and restrictions.
       
   
(e)
The Advisor monitors compliance with federal securities laws, maintains a compliance program (including a code of ethics), conducts ongoing reviews of the compliance programs of the Fund’s service providers, as feasible, conducts on-site visits to the Fund’s service providers, monitors incidents of abusive trading practices, reviews Fund expense accruals, payments, and fixed expense ratios, evaluates insurance providers for fidelity bond, D&O/E&O insurance, and cybersecurity insurance coverage, manages regulatory examination compliance and responses, conducts employee compliance training, reviews reports provided by service providers, and maintains books and records.
       
   
(f)
The Advisor oversees service providers that provide accounting, administration, distribution, transfer agency, custodial, sales, marketing, public relations, audit, information technology, and legal services to the Fund.
       
   
(g)
The Advisor maintains in-house marketing and distribution departments on behalf of the Fund.
       
   
(h)
The Advisor is actively involved with preparing regulatory filings for the Fund, including writing and annually updating the Fund’s prospectus and related documents.


HENNESSY FUNDS
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(i)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Advisor prepares a written summary of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(j)
The Advisor oversees distribution of the Fund through third-party broker/dealers and independent financial institutions such as Charles Schwab, Inc., Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and Pershing. The Advisor participates in “no transaction fee” (“NTF”) programs with these companies on behalf of the Fund, which allow customers to purchase the Fund through third-party distribution channels without paying a transaction fee. The Advisor compensates, in part, a number of these third-party providers of NTF programs out of its own revenues.
       
   
(k)
The Advisor pays the incentive compensation of the Fund’s compliance officers and employs other staff, such as legal, marketing, national accounts, distribution, sales, administrative, and trading oversight personnel, as well as management executives.
       
   
(l)
The Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board.
       
   
(m)
The Advisor prepares or reviews all Board materials, frequently presents to the Board and leads Board discussions, prepares or reviews all meeting minutes, and arranges for Board training and education.

 
(2)
The Trustees compared the performance of the Fund to benchmark indices over various periods and also noted that the Trustees review and discuss reports comparing the investment performance of the Fund to various indices at each quarterly Board meeting. Based on such information, the Trustees determined that the Advisor manages the Fund in a manner materially consistent with its stated investment objective and style. The Trustees concluded that the performance of the Fund over various periods warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(3)
The Trustees reviewed the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of the Fund compared to other funds similar in asset size and investment objective to the Fund using data from Morningstar. As part of the discussion with management, the Trustees ensured that they understood and were comfortable with the criteria used to determine the mutual funds included in the Morningstar categories for purposes of the materials considered at the meeting. The Trustees determined that the advisory fee and overall expense ratio of the Fund falls within the range of the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of other comparable funds and concluded that they are reasonable and warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(4)
The Trustees also considered whether the Advisor was realizing economies of scale that it should share with the Fund’s shareholders. The Trustees noted that the assets of the Fund had declined over the prior year. In addition, the Trustees noted that many of the expenses incurred to manage the Fund are asset-based fees, so the Advisor does not realize material economies of scale relating to those expenses as the assets of the Fund increase. For example, mutual fund platform fees increase as the Fund’s assets grow. The Trustees also considered the Advisor’s efforts to contain expenses through actions such as renegotiating service contracts, the Advisor’s significant marketing efforts to promote the Funds, the Advisor’s investments in personnel to manage the Funds, and the Advisor’s agreement to waive fees or lower its management fees in certain

 
 
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28


 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

   
circumstances. The Trustees noted that it did not appear that the Advisor was realizing economies of scale at current asset levels and concluded that it would continue to monitor economies of scale in the future as circumstances changed.
     
 
(5)
The Trustees considered the profitability of the Advisor, including the impact of mutual fund platform fees on the Advisor’s profitability, and also considered the resources and revenues that the Advisor has put into managing and distributing the Fund. The Trustees then concluded that the profits of the Advisor are reasonable and not excessive when compared to profitability guidelines set forth in relevant court cases.
     
 
(6)
The Trustees considered the high level of professionalism and knowledge of the Advisor’s employees, along with a very low level of turnover, and concluded that this was beneficial to the Fund and its shareholders.
     
 
(7)
The Trustees considered any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee). The Trustees noted that the Advisor may derive ancillary benefits from, by way of example, its association with the Fund in the form of proprietary and third-party research products and services received from broker-dealers that execute portfolio trades for the Fund. The Trustees determined that any such products and services have been used for legitimate purposes relating to the Fund by providing assistance in the investment decision-making process. The Trustees concluded that any additional benefits realized by the Advisor from its relationship with the Fund were reasonable, which was based on, among other things, the Trustees’ finding that the research, analytical, statistical, and other information and services provided by brokers are merely supplemental to the Advisor’s own efforts in the performance of its duties under the advisory agreement.

After reviewing the materials and information provided at the meeting, as well as other information regularly provided at the Board’s quarterly meetings throughout the year regarding the quality of services provided by the Advisor, the performance of the Fund, expense information, brokerage commissions information, the adequacy and efficacy of the Advisor’s written policies and procedures, other regulatory compliance issues, trading information and related matters, and other factors that the Trustees deemed relevant, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the advisory agreement.
 




HENNESSY FUNDS
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29


For information, questions, or assistance, please call
The Hennessy Funds
1-800-966-4354 or 1-415-899-1555


INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
7250 Redwood Boulevard, Suite 200
Novato, California 94945

ADMINISTRATOR,
TRANSFER AGENT,
DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, &
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0701

CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

TRUSTEES
Neil J. Hennessy
Robert T. Doyle
J. Dennis DeSousa
Gerald P. Richardson

COUNSEL
Foley & Lardner LLP
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-5306

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
Two Liberty Place
50 South 16th Street, Suite 2900
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-2529

DISTRIBUTOR
Quasar Distributors, LLC
111 East Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 2200
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202




www.hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354

This report has been prepared for shareholders and may be distributed to
others only if preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.




SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

APRIL 30, 2020




HENNESSY CORNERSTONE LARGE GROWTH FUND
 
Investor Class  HFLGX
Institutional Class  HILGX


IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
 
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the annual and semi-annual reports will no longer be sent by mail unless you specifically request paper copies from the Hennessy Funds 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 have already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Hennessy Funds electronically by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com/account or by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950. If you own shares in a Fund through a financial intermediary, please contact your financial intermediary to make this election.
 
You may elect to receive paper copies of all future reports free of charge by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or, if you own your shares through a financial intermediary, by contacting your financial intermediary. Your election to receive paper copies of reports will apply to all Funds in the Hennessy Funds family.
 


hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354









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Contents
 

 
Letter to Shareholders
2
Performance Overview
4
Financial Statements
 
Schedule of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
9
Statement of Operations
10
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
11
Financial Highlights
12
Notes to the Financial Statements
16
Expense Example
23
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
25
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
25
Federal Tax Distribution Information
25
Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents
25
Electronic Delivery
25
Board Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement
26










HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 


June 2020
 
Dear Hennessy Funds Shareholder:

 
First and foremost, I hope this communication finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. In many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down in recent months, and we at Hennessy have joined the rest of the world in witnessing and experiencing its profound effect on public health, the global economy, and the everyday lives of people around the world.  In response to the crisis, we invoked our business continuity plan in mid-March to ensure a smooth transition to remote work for all of our employees, who have been working safely and productively from home. We want to assure our Hennessy Funds shareholders that our operations are uninterrupted and functioning normally.
 
The past six months have been marked by extremes. During the first half of the period from November 2019 through January 2020, the bull market, supported by strong corporate fundamentals, continued to move higher, and investors appeared focused on record-low unemployment and strong economic growth. In mid-February, the major U.S. market indices hit all-time highs, but then, within just a matter of weeks, lost over one-third of their values as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded. Shelter-in-place and business closure orders rippled through the nation, causing initial unemployment claims to skyrocket to their highest number in history. The market then rallied back and posted double-digit positive returns in April.
 
For the six months ended April 30, 2020, on a total return basis, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 8.9% and the S&P 500® Index was down 3.2%. Small-cap and mid-cap stocks generally fared worse than large-cap stocks during the period, and the Financial sector was particularly hard hit as the Federal Reserve aggressively cut the federal funds rate in an effort to stabilize the economy. The Energy sector was crushed by both the sudden loss of demand due to COVID-19 and the oversupply caused by the surprise market-share battle between Russia and Saudi Arabia, and the S&P 500® Energy Sector Index ended the six-month period down over 30%.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented event, and the duration and full extent of the economic impact is unknown. In the moment, there is always the concern that ‘this time is different.’ But, when you are able to look at past financial, political, and health crises with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, history has demonstrated that our economy and financial markets have always rebounded and recovered eventually. If you look back to the last market downturn in 2008, economic fundamentals were weak compared to the market in 2020, where the overall underpinnings were – and are still – quite strong.  Publicly listed companies today have plenty of cash, with over $5 trillion on balance sheets of the S&P 500® companies alone, and I believe that most will survive and that many may emerge from the current crisis even stronger.
 


 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
2

 LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

We understand that this market volatility and economic uncertainty is jarring to many investors, and we continue to monitor events and the markets. We remain focused on managing our high-conviction portfolios for the long-term benefit of our shareholders, and we are confident in the time-tested strategies and rigorous research that led to their formation. We encourage shareholders to maintain a long-term investment horizon and to remain focused on long-term goals. As always, but especially in these trying times, we are here to support our shareholders, and we thank you for your continued investment and trust. Should you have any questions or would like to speak with us directly, please don’t hesitate to call (800) 966-4354 or email us at fundsinfo@hennessyfunds.com.
 
Best regards,
 
 
Neil J. Hennessy
President and Chief Investment Officer
 
 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500® Index are commonly used to measure the performance of U.S. stocks. The S&P 500® Energy Sector Index is an index that comprises those companies included in the S&P 500 that are classified as members of the GICS energy sector. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 







HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
3

Performance Overview (Unaudited)
 
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR PERIODS ENDED APRIL 30, 2020
 
 
Six
One
Five
Ten
 
Months(1)
Year
Years
Years
Hennessy Cornerstone
       
  Large Growth Fund –
       
  Investor Class (HFLGX)
-13.00%
-10.88%
2.82%
  8.46%
Hennessy Cornerstone
       
  Large Growth Fund –
       
  Institutional Class (HILGX)
-12.84%
-10.66%
3.08%
  8.73%
Russell 1000® Index
  -3.56%
   0.09%
8.74%
11.57%
S&P 500® Index
  -3.16%
   0.86%
9.12%
11.69%

Expense ratios:  1.31% (Investor Class); 1.00% (Institutional Class)
 
(1)
Periods of less than one year are not annualized.

 


 
_______________
 
Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance table does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com.
 
The Russell 1000® Index comprises the 1,000 largest companies in the Russell 3000® Index based on market capitalization. The S&P 500® Index is a capitalization-weighted index designed to reflect the broad domestic economy through changes in aggregate market value of 500 stocks representing all major industries. One cannot invest directly in an index. These indices are used herein for comparative purposes in accordance with SEC regulations.
 
Frank Russell Company (“Russell”) is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks, and copyrights related to the Russell Indexes. Russell® is a trademark of Russell. Neither Russell nor its licensors accept any liability for any errors or omissions in the Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data and no party may rely on any Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data contained in this communication. No further distribution of Russell data is permitted without Russell’s express written consent. Russell does not promote, sponsor, or endorse the content of this communication.
 
Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC is the source and owner of the S&P® and S&P 500® trademarks.
 
The expense ratios presented are from the most recent prospectus. The expense ratios for the current reporting period are available in the Financial Highlights section of this report.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
4


 PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Financial Statements
 
 Schedule of Investments as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

HENNESSY CORNERSTONE LARGE GROWTH FUND
(% of Net Assets)

 

TOP TEN HOLDINGS (EXCLUDING MONEY MARKET FUNDS)
% NET ASSETS
Amgen, Inc.
2.56%
General Mills, Inc.
2.56%
eBay, Inc.
2.45%
Tractor Supply Co.
2.45%
Electronic Arts, Inc.
2.43%
Walmart, Inc.
2.39%
Oracle Corp.
2.34%
3M Co.
2.33%
Cummins, Inc.
2.29%
United Parcel Service, Inc., Class B
2.27%

 
Note: For presentation purposes, the Fund has grouped some of the industry categories. For purposes of categorizing securities for compliance with Section 8(b)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Fund uses more specific industry classifications.
 
The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) was developed by and is the exclusive property and a service mark of MSCI, Inc. and Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC. It has been licensed for use by the Hennessy Funds.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
5


COMMON STOCKS – 98.35%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Communication Services – 5.69%
                 
Electronic Arts, Inc. (a)
   
22,700
   
$
2,593,702
     
2.43
%
Omnicom Group, Inc.
   
32,300
     
1,842,069
     
1.73
%
ViacomCBS, Inc.
   
94,388
     
1,629,137
     
1.53
%
 
           
6,064,908
     
5.69
%
                         
Consumer Discretionary – 19.96%
                       
Advance Auto Parts, Inc.
   
17,400
     
2,103,834
     
1.98
%
AutoZone, Inc. (a)
   
2,300
     
2,346,736
     
2.20
%
Best Buy Co., Inc.
   
29,200
     
2,240,516
     
2.10
%
Darden Restaurants, Inc.
   
21,400
     
1,579,106
     
1.48
%
DR Horton, Inc.
   
41,200
     
1,945,464
     
1.83
%
eBay, Inc.
   
65,600
     
2,612,848
     
2.45
%
Las Vegas Sands Corp.
   
39,800
     
1,911,196
     
1.79
%
PulteGroup, Inc.
   
55,200
     
1,560,504
     
1.47
%
Target Corp.
   
21,400
     
2,348,436
     
2.21
%
Tractor Supply Co.
   
25,700
     
2,606,751
     
2.45
%
 
           
21,255,391
     
19.96
%
                         
Consumer Staples – 6.66%
                       
General Mills, Inc.
   
45,600
     
2,730,984
     
2.56
%
Sysco Corp.
   
32,300
     
1,817,521
     
1.71
%
Walmart, Inc.
   
20,900
     
2,540,395
     
2.39
%
 
           
7,088,900
     
6.66
%
                         
Energy – 4.90%
                       
ConocoPhillips
   
44,500
     
1,873,450
     
1.76
%
EOG Resources, Inc.
   
35,700
     
1,696,107
     
1.59
%
Pioneer Natural Resources Co.
   
18,400
     
1,643,304
     
1.55
%
 
           
5,212,861
     
4.90
%
                         
Financials – 4.22%
                       
T. Rowe Price Group, Inc.
   
18,900
     
2,185,407
     
2.05
%
The Progressive Corp.
   
29,900
     
2,311,270
     
2.17
%
 
           
4,496,677
     
4.22
%
                         
Health Care – 10.64%
                       
Amgen, Inc.
   
11,400
     
2,727,108
     
2.56
%
Biogen, Inc. (a)
   
7,400
     
2,196,542
     
2.06
%
HCA Healthcare, Inc.
   
18,000
     
1,977,840
     
1.86
%
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
6

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
 
COMMON STOCKS
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Health Care (Continued)
                 
Henry Schein, Inc. (a)
   
37,900
   
$
2,067,824
     
1.94
%
Merck & Co., Inc.
   
29,800
     
2,364,332
     
2.22
%
 
           
11,333,646
     
10.64
%
                         
Industrials – 31.65%
                       
3M Co.
   
16,300
     
2,476,296
     
2.33
%
American Airlines Group, Inc.
   
103,500
     
1,243,035
     
1.17
%
Caterpillar, Inc.
   
18,600
     
2,164,668
     
2.03
%
CSX Corp.
   
31,700
     
2,099,491
     
1.97
%
Cummins, Inc.
   
14,900
     
2,436,150
     
2.29
%
Deere & Co.
   
14,400
     
2,088,864
     
1.96
%
Delta Air Lines, Inc.
   
47,000
     
1,217,770
     
1.14
%
Emerson Electric Co.
   
35,900
     
2,047,377
     
1.92
%
General Dynamics Corp.
   
13,800
     
1,802,556
     
1.69
%
Masco Corp.
   
54,000
     
2,216,160
     
2.08
%
Norfolk Southern Corp.
   
12,300
     
2,104,530
     
1.98
%
PACCAR, Inc.
   
34,200
     
2,367,666
     
2.22
%
Southwest Airlines Co.
   
48,200
     
1,506,250
     
1.41
%
Union Pacific Corp.
   
14,000
     
2,237,060
     
2.10
%
United Airlines Holdings, Inc. (a)
   
33,900
     
1,002,762
     
0.94
%
United Parcel Service, Inc., Class B
   
25,500
     
2,413,830
     
2.27
%
United Rentals, Inc. (a)
   
17,800
     
2,287,300
     
2.15
%
 
           
33,711,765
     
31.65
%
                         
Information Technology – 14.63%
                       
Cisco Systems, Inc.
   
56,000
     
2,373,280
     
2.23
%
Cognizant Technology Solutions Corp., Class A
   
37,100
     
2,152,542
     
2.02
%
Intel Corp.
   
40,050
     
2,402,199
     
2.26
%
International Business Machines Corp.
   
16,900
     
2,121,964
     
1.99
%
NetApp, Inc.
   
49,000
     
2,144,730
     
2.01
%
Oracle Corp.
   
47,000
     
2,489,590
     
2.34
%
The Western Union Co.
   
99,500
     
1,897,465
     
1.78
%
 
           
15,581,770
     
14.63
%
Total Common Stocks
                       
  (Cost $114,262,337)
           
104,745,918
     
98.35
%


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
7


SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 1.82%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Money Market Funds – 1.82%
                 
First American Government Obligations Fund,
                 
  Institutional Class, 0.25% (b)
   
1,940,247
   
$
1,940,247
     
1.82
%
 
                       
Total Short-Term Investments
                       
  (Cost $1,940,247)
           
1,940,247
     
1.82
%
 
                       
Total Investments
                       
  (Cost $116,202,584) – 100.17%
           
106,686,165
     
100.17
%
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets – (0.17)%
           
(178,796
)
   
(0.17
)%
 
                       
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
         
$
106,507,369
     
100.00
%

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

(a)
Non-income-producing security.
(b)
The rate listed is the fund’s seven-day yield as of April 30, 2020.

Summary of Fair Value Exposure as of April 30, 2020
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s net assets as of April 30, 2020 (see Note 3 in the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements):
 
Common Stocks
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Communication Services
 
$
6,064,908
   
$
   
$
   
$
6,064,908
 
Consumer Discretionary
   
21,255,391
     
     
     
21,255,391
 
Consumer Staples
   
7,088,900
     
     
     
7,088,900
 
Energy
   
5,212,861
     
     
     
5,212,861
 
Financials
   
4,496,677
     
     
     
4,496,677
 
Health Care
   
11,333,646
     
     
     
11,333,646
 
Industrials
   
33,711,765
     
     
     
33,711,765
 
Information Technology
   
15,581,770
     
     
     
15,581,770
 
Total Common Stocks
 
$
104,745,918
   
$
   
$
   
$
104,745,918
 
Short-Term Investments
                               
Money Market Funds
 
$
1,940,247
   
$
   
$
   
$
1,940,247
 
Total Short-Term Investments
 
$
1,940,247
   
$
   
$
   
$
1,940,247
 
Total Investments
 
$
106,686,165
   
$
   
$
   
$
106,686,165
 



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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
8


 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS/STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments in securities, at value (cost $116,202,584)
 
$
106,686,165
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
75,668
 
Receivable for fund shares sold
   
151,044
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
18,084
 
Total assets
   
106,930,961
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable for fund shares redeemed
   
113,727
 
Payable to advisor
   
60,813
 
Payable to administrator
   
18,891
 
Payable to auditor
   
11,373
 
Accrued distribution fees
   
186,996
 
Accrued service fees
   
7,307
 
Accrued trustees fees
   
5,587
 
Accrued expenses and other payables
   
18,898
 
Total liabilities
   
423,592
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
106,507,369
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSISTS OF:
       
Capital stock
 
$
108,785,790
 
Accumulated deficit
   
(2,278,421
)
Total net assets
 
$
106,507,369
 
         
NET ASSETS:
       
Investor Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
94,659,502
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
10,579,575
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
8.95
 
         
Institutional Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
11,847,867
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
1,311,145
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
9.04
 


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
9

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Operations for the six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Dividend income
 
$
1,549,700
 
Interest income
   
17,984
 
Total investment income
   
1,567,684
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (See Note 5)
   
459,636
 
Distribution fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
82,827
 
Administration, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees (See Note 5)
   
68,037
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
55,374
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
3,814
 
Service fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
55,218
 
Federal and state registration fees
   
18,641
 
Compliance expense (See Note 5)
   
13,462
 
Audit fees
   
11,375
 
Trustees’ fees and expenses
   
8,829
 
Reports to shareholders
   
7,282
 
Legal fees
   
642
 
Interest expense (See Note 7)
   
465
 
Other expenses
   
8,846
 
Total expenses before recoupment and reimbursement by advisor
   
794,448
 
Expense recoupment by advisor – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
1,621
 
Expense reimbursement by advisor – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
(162
)
Net expenses
   
795,907
 
NET INVESTMENT INCOME
 
$
771,777
 
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
       
Net realized gain on investments
 
$
6,648,556
 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(23,638,322
)
Net loss on investments
   
(16,989,766
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(16,217,989
)



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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
10


 STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS/STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

Financial Statements
 
 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
April 30, 2020
   
Year Ended
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
October 31, 2019
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment income
 
$
771,777
   
$
1,763,273
 
Net realized gain on investments
   
6,648,556
     
2,328,575
 
Net change in unrealized
               
  appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(23,638,322
)
   
5,977,384
 
Net increase (decrease) in net assets
               
  resulting from operations
   
(16,217,989
)
   
10,069,232
 
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
Distributable earnings – Investor Class
   
(2,977,504
)
   
(24,244,915
)
Distributable earnings – Institutional Class
   
(399,991
)
   
(3,824,749
)
Total distributions
   
(3,377,495
)
   
(28,069,664
)
                 
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
               
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Investor Class
   
912,868
     
1,986,421
 
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Institutional Class
   
1,391,062
     
4,246,408
 
Dividends reinvested – Investor Class
   
2,817,178
     
22,928,508
 
Dividends reinvested – Institutional Class
   
392,293
     
3,735,099
 
Cost of shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(9,168,541
)
   
(17,643,309
)
Cost of shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(6,276,955
)
   
(6,379,370
)
Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived
               
  from capital share transactions
   
(9,932,095
)
   
8,873,757
 
TOTAL DECREASE IN NET ASSETS
   
(29,527,579
)
   
(9,126,675
)
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
136,034,948
     
145,161,623
 
End of period
 
$
106,507,369
   
$
136,034,948
 
                 
CHANGES IN SHARES OUTSTANDING:
               
Shares sold – Investor Class
   
98,992
     
191,986
 
Shares sold – Institutional Class
   
159,560
     
412,298
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Investor Class
   
255,707
     
2,404,367
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Institutional Class
   
35,229
     
387,740
 
Shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(937,239
)
   
(1,718,603
)
Shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(613,053
)
   
(625,689
)
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding
   
(1,000,804
)
   
1,052,099
 


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
11

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Investor Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
10.54
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income
   
0.06
(1) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(1.38
)
Total from investment operations
   
(1.32
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.14
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(0.13
)
Total distributions
   
(0.27
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
8.95
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-13.00
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
94.66
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:
       
Before expense reimbursement/recoupment
   
1.31
%(3)
After expense reimbursement/recoupment
   
1.31
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets:
       
Before expense reimbursement/recoupment
   
1.21
%(3)
After expense reimbursement/recoupment
   
1.21
%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(4)
   
61
%(2)










(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
12


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INVESTOR CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
12.24
   
$
11.75
   
$
10.27
   
$
12.99
   
$
15.16
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.13
(1) 
   
0.06
     
0.11
     
0.09
     
0.17
 
 
0.56
     
0.94
     
1.49
     
0.08
     
0.04
 
 
0.69
     
1.00
     
1.60
     
0.17
     
0.21
 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.09
)
   
(0.08
)
   
(0.12
)
   
(0.16
)
   
(0.14
)
 
(2.30
)
   
(0.43
)
   
     
(2.73
)
   
(2.24
)
 
(2.39
)
   
(0.51
)
   
(0.12
)
   
(2.89
)
   
(2.38
)
$
10.54
   
$
12.24
   
$
11.75
   
$
10.27
   
$
12.99
 
                                     
 
7.84
%
   
8.53
%
   
15.70
%
   
2.63
%
   
1.11
%
                                     
                                     
$
117.62
   
$
125.91
   
$
91.74
   
$
87.73
   
$
98.64
 
                                     
 
1.31
%
   
1.24
%
   
1.25
%
   
1.25
%
   
1.09
%
 
1.29
%
   
1.24
%
   
1.25
%
   
1.25
%
   
1.09
%
                                     
 
1.24
%
   
0.81
%
   
0.95
%
   
1.22
%
   
1.37
%
 
1.26
%
   
0.81
%
   
0.95
%
   
1.22
%
   
1.37
%
 
57
%
   
70
%
   
65
%
   
53
%
   
79
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
13

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Institutional Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
10.65
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income
   
0.08
(1) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(1.39
)
Total from investment operations
   
(1.31
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.17
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(0.13
)
Total distributions
   
(0.30
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
9.04
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-12.84
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
11.85
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:
       
Before expense reimbursement
   
1.01
%(3)
After expense reimbursement
   
1.01
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets:
       
Before expense reimbursement
   
1.50
%(3)
After expense reimbursement
   
1.50
%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(4)
   
61
%(2)










(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
14


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INSTITUTIONAL CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
12.38
   
$
11.87
   
$
10.37
   
$
13.10
   
$
15.30
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.16
(1) 
   
0.14
     
0.13
     
0.13
     
0.20
 
 
0.56
     
0.90
     
1.52
     
0.07
     
0.02
 
 
0.72
     
1.04
     
1.65
     
0.20
     
0.22
 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.12
)
   
(0.10
)
   
(0.15
)
   
(0.17
)
   
(0.16
)
 
(2.33
)
   
(0.43
)
   
     
(2.76
)
   
(2.26
)
 
(2.45
)
   
(0.53
)
   
(0.15
)
   
(2.93
)
   
(2.42
)
$
10.65
   
$
12.38
   
$
11.87
   
$
10.37
   
$
13.10
 
                                     
 
8.12
%
   
8.82
%
   
16.00
%
   
2.92
%
   
1.19
%
                                     
                                     
$
18.42
   
$
19.25
   
$
12.17
   
$
12.24
   
$
13.82
 
                                     
 
1.00
%
   
0.96
%
   
1.00
%
   
1.01
%
   
0.99
%
 
0.98
%
   
0.96
%
   
1.00
%
   
1.01
%
   
0.99
%
                                     
 
1.56
%
   
1.08
%
   
1.20
%
   
1.47
%
   
1.47
%
 
1.58
%
   
1.08
%
   
1.20
%
   
1.47
%
   
1.47
%
 
57
%
   
70
%
   
65
%
   
53
%
   
79
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
15

Financial Statements
 
 Notes to the Financial Statements April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

1).  ORGANIZATION
 
The Hennessy Cornerstone Large Growth Fund (the “Fund”) is a series of Hennessy Funds Trust (the “Trust”), which was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 17, 1992. The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The investment objective of the Fund is long-term growth of capital. The Fund is a diversified fund.
 
The Fund offers Investor Class and Institutional Class shares. Each class of shares differs principally in its respective 12b-1 distribution and service, shareholder servicing, and sub-transfer agent expenses. There are no sales charges. Each class has identical rights to earnings, assets, and voting privileges, except for class-specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only one class.
 
As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies.”
 
2).  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of the financial statements. These policies conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
 
a).
Securities Valuation – All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value, as described in Note 3.
   
b).
Federal Income Taxes – No provision for federal income taxes or excise taxes has been made because the Fund has elected to be taxed as a regulated investment company and intends to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders and otherwise comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies. Net investment income/loss and realized gains/losses for federal income tax purposes may differ from those reported in the financial statements because of temporary book and tax basis differences. Temporary differences are primarily the result of the treatment of wash sales for tax reporting purposes. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax benefits, if any, in the Statement of Operations as an income tax expense. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income to shareholders for tax purposes. The Fund may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes.
   
c).
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – The Fund has accounting policies regarding recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The tax returns of the Fund for the prior three fiscal years are open for examination. The Fund has reviewed all open tax years in major jurisdictions and concluded that there is no impact on the Fund’s net assets and no tax liability resulting from unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain income tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The Fund’s major tax jurisdictions are U.S. federal and Delaware.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
16

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

d).
Income and Expenses – Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date or as soon as information is available to the Fund. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recognized on an accrual basis. Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received. The Fund is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to its portfolio, such as advisory, administration, and certain shareholder service fees. Income, expenses (other than expenses attributable to a specific class), and realized and unrealized gains/losses on investments are allocated to each class of shares based on such class’s net assets.
   
e).
Distributions to Shareholders – Dividends from net investment income for the Fund, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December. Distributions of net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December.
   
f).
Security Transactions – Investment and shareholder transactions are recorded on the trade date. The Fund determines the realized gain/loss from an investment transaction by comparing the original cost of the security lot sold with the net sale proceeds. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted or amortized, respectively, over the life of each such security.
   
g).
Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported change in net assets during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
h).
Share Valuation – The net asset value (“NAV”) per share of the Fund is calculated by dividing (i) the total value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by (ii) the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest $0.01. The Fund’s shares will not be priced on days the New York Stock Exchange is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for the Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.
 
3).  SECURITIES VALUATION
 
The Fund follows fair value accounting standards that establish an authoritative definition of fair value and set out a hierarchy for measuring fair value. These standards require additional disclosures about the various inputs and valuation techniques used to develop the measurements of fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs during the period. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
 
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments that the Fund has the ability to access at the date of measurement.
     
 
Level 2 –
Other significant observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar instruments, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets, such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk curves, default rates, and similar data).
     
 
Level 3 –
Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability based on the best available information) when observable inputs are unavailable.


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
17


The following is a description of the valuation techniques applied to the Fund’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
Equity Securities – Equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, exchange-traded funds, closed-end mutual funds, partnerships, rights, and real estate investment trusts, that are traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is readily available will generally be valued at the last sales price as reported by the primary exchange on which the securities are listed. Securities listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) will generally be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may differ from the last sales price reported. Securities traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is not readily available will generally be valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Registered Investment Companies – Investments in open-end registered investment companies, commonly referred to as mutual funds, generally are priced at the ending NAV provided by the applicable mutual fund’s service agent and will be classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Debt Securities – Debt securities, including corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and U.S. government agency issues, are generally valued at market on the basis of valuations furnished by an independent pricing service that utilizes both dealer-supplied valuations and formula-based techniques. The pricing service may consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, and fundamental data relating to the issuer. In addition, the model may incorporate observable market data, such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued primarily using dealer quotations. These securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Short-Term Securities – Short-term equity investments, including money market funds, are valued in the manner specified above. Short-term debt investments with an original term to maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value. If the original term to maturity of a short-term debt investment exceeded 60 days, then the values as of the 61st day prior to maturity are amortized. Amortized cost is not used if its use would be inappropriate due to credit or other impairments of the issuer, in which case the security’s fair value would be determined, as described below. Short-term securities are generally classified in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the inputs used and market activity levels for specific securities.

The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board”) has adopted fair value pricing procedures that are followed when a price for a security is not readily available or if a significant event has occurred that indicates the closing price of a security no longer represents the true value of that security. Fair value pricing determinations are made in good faith in accordance with these procedures. There are numerous criteria that will be given consideration in determining a fair value of a security, such as the trading volume of a security and markets, the values of other similar securities, and news events with direct bearing on a security or markets. Fair value pricing results in an estimated price for a security that reflects the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive in a current sale. Depending on the relative significance of the valuation inputs, these securities may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
18


 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Board has delegated day-to-day valuation matters to the Valuation and Liquidity Committee comprising representatives from Hennessy Advisors, Inc., the Fund’s investment advisor (the “Advisor”). The function of the Valuation and Liquidity Committee is to value securities where current and reliable market quotations are not readily available. All actions taken by the Valuation and Liquidity Committee are reviewed by the Board.
 
The Fund has performed an analysis of all existing investments to determine the significance and character of all inputs to their fair value determinations. Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Fund’s investments. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. Details related to the fair value hierarchy of the Fund’s securities as of April 30, 2020, are included in the Schedule of Investments.
 
4).  INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding government and short-term investments) for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $73,305,975 and $85,630,097, respectively.
 
There were no purchases or sales/maturities of long-term U.S. government securities for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Fund is permitted to purchase or sell securities from or to another fund in the Hennessy Funds family of funds (collectively, the “Hennessy Funds”) under specified conditions outlined in procedures adopted by the Board. The procedures have been designed to ensure that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Hennessy Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not engage in purchases or sales of securities pursuant to Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
 
5).  INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
The Advisor provides the Fund with investment advisory services under an Investment Advisory Agreement. The Advisor furnishes all investment advice, office space, and facilities and most of the personnel needed by the Fund. As compensation for its services, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee from the Fund. The fee is based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate of 0.74%. The net investment advisory fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
From December 1, 2017, through November 30, 2019, the Advisor contractually agreed to limit total annual operating expenses to 1.29% of the Fund’s net assets for Investor Class shares and 0.98% of the Fund’s net assets for Institutional Class shares (in each case, excluding all federal, state, and local taxes, interest, brokerage commissions, extraordinary items, and acquired fund fees and expenses and other costs incurred in connection with the purchase and sale of securities).
 
For three years following the date on which expenses were waived or incurred, the Advisor may recoup waived or reimbursed expenses from the Fund if total operating expenses, including such recoupment, does not exceed the expense limitation in effect (i) at the time the Advisor waived or reimbursed such expenses and (ii) at the time the Advisor recoups such expenses. As of April 30, 2020, expenses subject to potential recovery for Investor Class and Institutional Class shares and the fiscal years in which they expire were as follows:

     
Fiscal Year
   
Fiscal Year
       
     
2022
   
2023
   
Total
 
 
Investor Class
 
$
20,122
   
$
   
$
20,122
 
 
Institutional Class
 
$
2,872
   
$
162
   
$
3,034
 


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
19


The Advisor recouped $1,459 from the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Board has approved a Shareholder Servicing Agreement for Investor Class shares of the Fund, which was instituted to compensate the Advisor for the non-investment advisory services it provides to the Fund. The Shareholder Servicing Agreement provides for a monthly fee paid to the Advisor at an annual rate of 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund attributable to Investor Class shares. The shareholder service fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has adopted a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that authorizes payments in connection with the distribution of the Fund’s shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares. Even though the authorized rate is up to 0.25%, the Fund is currently only using up to 0.15% of its average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares for such purpose. Amounts paid under the plan may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares, including, but not limited to, advertising, shareholder account servicing, printing and mailing of prospectuses to other than current shareholders, printing and mailing of sales literature, and compensation for sales and marketing activities or to financial institutions and others, such as dealers and distributors. The distribution fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into agreements with various brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries in connection with the sale of shares of the Fund. The agreements provide for periodic payments of sub-transfer agent expenses by the Fund to the brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries for providing certain shareholder maintenance services. These shareholder services include the pre-processing and quality control of new accounts, shareholder correspondence, answering customer inquiries regarding account status, and facilitating shareholder telephone transactions. The sub-transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (“Fund Services”) provides the Fund with administrative, accounting, and transfer agent services. As administrator, Fund Services is responsible for activities such as (i) preparing various federal and state regulatory filings, reports, and returns for the Fund, (ii) preparing reports and materials to be supplied to the Board, (iii) monitoring the activities of the Fund’s custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, and (iv) coordinating the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviewing the Fund’s expense accruals. U.S. Bank N.A., an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Fund’s custodian. The servicing agreements between the Trust and Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. contain a fee schedule that is inclusive of administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. The administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
Quasar Distributors, LLC (“Quasar”) acts as the Fund’s principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Fund’s shares. Quasar was an affiliate of Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. through March 30, 2020. Effective March 31, 2020, Foreside Financial Group, LLC (“Foreside”) acquired Quasar from Fund Services. As a result of the acquisition, Quasar became a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of Foreside and is no longer affiliated with Fund Services or U.S. Bank N.A. The Board approved a new Distribution Agreement to enable Quasar to continue serving as the Fund’s distributor.
 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
20


 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The officers of the Fund are affiliated with the Advisor. With the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer and the Senior Compliance Officer, such officers receive no compensation from the Fund for serving in their respective roles. The Fund, along with the other Hennessy Funds, makes reimbursement payments on an equal basis to the Advisor for a portion of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Chief Compliance Officer and for all of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Senior Compliance Officer. The compliance fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
6).  GUARANTEES AND INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Hennessy Funds’ organizational documents, their officers and trustees are indemnified by the Hennessy Funds against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Hennessy Funds. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Hennessy Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Fund expects the risk of loss to be remote.
 
7).  LINE OF CREDIT
 
The Fund has an uncommitted line of credit with the other Hennessy Funds in the amount of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 or (ii) 33.33% of each Hennessy Fund’s net assets, or 30% for the Hennessy Gas Utility Fund and 10% for the Hennessy Balanced Fund, intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The credit facility is with the Hennessy Funds’ custodian bank, U.S. Bank N.A. Borrowings under this arrangement bear interest at the bank’s prime rate and are secured by all of the Fund’s assets (as to its own borrowings only). During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund had an outstanding average daily balance and a weighted average interest rate of $19,379 and 4.75%, respectively. The interest expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, is included in the Statement of Operations. The maximum amount outstanding for the Fund during the period was $1,250,000. As of April 30, 2020, the Fund did not have any borrowings outstanding under the line of credit.
 
8).  FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund’s most recent fiscal year end, the components of accumulated earnings (losses) for income tax purposes were as follows:
 
     
Investments
 
 
Cost of investments for tax purposes
 
$
122,265,671
 
 
Gross tax unrealized appreciation
 
$
23,118,894
 
 
Gross tax unrealized depreciation
   
(9,179,228
)
 
Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)
 
$
13,939,666
 
 
Undistributed ordinary income
 
$
3,097,822
 
 
Undistributed long-term capital gains
   
279,575
 
 
Total distributable earnings
 
$
3,377,397
 
 
Other accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
 
 
Total accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
17,317,063
 

The difference between book-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation (as shown above) is attributable primarily to wash sales.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
21


As of October 31, 2019, the Fund had no tax basis capital losses to offset future capital gains.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund did not defer, on a tax basis, any late-year ordinary losses. Late-year ordinary losses are net ordinary losses incurred after December 31, 2018, but within the taxable year, that are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year.
 
During fiscal year 2020 (year to date) and fiscal year 2019, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund was as follows:
 
     
Six Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
     
April 30, 2020
   
October 31, 2019
 
 
Ordinary income(1)
 
$
3,097,827
   
$
1,289,774
 
 
Long-term capital gain
   
279,668
     
26,779,890
 
     
$
3,377,495
   
$
28,069,664
 

 
(1)  Ordinary income includes short-term capital gain.
 
9).  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO PERIOD END
 
Management has evaluated the Fund’s related events and transactions that occurred subsequent to April 30, 2020, through the date of issuance of the Fund’s financial statements. Management has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.
 







 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
22


 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS/EXPENSE EXAMPLE

Expense Example (Unaudited)
April 30, 2020


As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur ongoing costs, including management fees, service fees, and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from November 1, 2019, through April 30, 2020.
 
Actual Expenses
The first line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. Although the Fund charges no sales loads or transaction fees, you will be assessed fees for outgoing wire transfers, returned checks and stop payment orders at prevailing rates charged by U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, the Fund’s transfer agent. If you request that a redemption be made by wire transfer, currently a $15 fee is charged by the Fund’s transfer agent. IRA accounts will be charged a $15 annual maintenance fee. The example below includes, but is not limited to, management fees, shareholder servicing fees, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. However, the example below does not include portfolio trading commissions and related expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line of the table under the “Investor Class” or “Institutional Class” headings in the column entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only. Therefore, the second line of the table under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
 

 

 

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
23


 
 
Beginning
Ending
 
 
Account Value
Account Value
Expenses Paid
 
November 1, 2019
April 30, 2020
During Period(1)
Investor Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   870.00
$6.09
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,018.35
$6.57
       
Institutional Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   871.60
$4.70
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,019.84
$5.07

(1)
Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio of 1.31% for Investor Class shares or 1.01% for Institutional Class shares, as applicable, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 days (to reflect the half-year period).








 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
24


 EXPENSE EXAMPLE — ELECTRONIC DELIVERY

How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s Proxy
Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
 
A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge (1) by calling 1-800-966-4354, (2) on the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-policy, or (3) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record is available without charge on both the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-record and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov no later than August 31 for the prior 12 months ending June 30.
 
 
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
 
The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on request by calling 1-800-966-4354.
 
 
Federal Tax Distribution Information
(Unaudited)
 
For fiscal year 2019, certain dividends paid by the Fund may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 23.8%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was 100.00%.
 
For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions that qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction for fiscal year 2019 was 100.00%.
 
The percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that were designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Section 871(k)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, for the Fund was 0.00%.
 
 
Important Notice Regarding Delivery
of Shareholder Documents
 
To help keep the Fund’s costs as low as possible, we generally deliver a single copy of shareholder reports, proxy statements, and prospectuses to shareholders who share an address and have the same last name. This process does not apply to account statements. You may request an individual copy of a shareholder document at any time. If you would like to receive separate mailings of shareholder documents, please call U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124, and individual delivery will begin within 30 days of your request. If your account is held through a financial institution or other intermediary, please contact such intermediary directly to request individual delivery.
 
 
Electronic Delivery
 
The Funds offer shareholders the option to receive account statements, prospectuses, tax forms, and shareholder reports online. To sign up for eDelivery, please visit www.hennessyfunds.com/account. You may change your delivery preference at any time by visiting our website or calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
25

Board Approval of Investment Advisory
Agreement
 
At its meeting on March 12, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board,” and the members thereof, the “Trustees”) unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement of the Fund with Hennessy Advisors, Inc. (the “Advisor”). As part of the process of approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees reviewed their fiduciary duties and the relevant factors for them to consider with respect to approving the advisory agreement. In addition, the Trustees who are not deemed “interested persons” (as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Fund (the “Independent Trustees”) met in executive session to discuss the approval of the advisory agreement.
 
In advance of the meeting, the Advisor sent detailed information to the Trustees to assist them in their evaluation of the advisory agreement. This information included, but was not limited to, the following:
 
 
(1)
A memorandum from outside legal counsel that described the fiduciary duties of the Board with respect to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement and the relevant factors for consideration;
     
 
(2)
A memorandum from the Advisor that listed the factors relevant to the Board’s approval of the continuation of the advisory agreement and also referenced the documents that had been provided to help the Board assess each such factor;
     
 
(3)
An inventory of the services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(4)
A written discussion of economies of scale;
     
 
(5)
A summary of the key terms of the advisory agreement;
     
 
(6)
A recent Fund fact sheet, which included performance information over various periods;
     
 
(7)
A peer expense comparison of the net expense ratio and investment advisory fee of the Fund; and
     
 
(8)
The Advisor’s financial statements from its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q.

All of the factors discussed were considered as a whole by the Trustees and by the Independent Trustees meeting in executive session. The factors were viewed in their totality by the Trustees, with no single factor being the principal or determinative factor in the Trustees’ determination of whether to approve the continuation of the advisory agreement. The Trustees recognized that the management and fee arrangements for the Fund are the result of years of review and discussion between the Independent Trustees and the Advisor, that certain aspects of such arrangements may receive greater scrutiny in some years than in others, and that the Trustees’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of these same arrangements and information received during the course of the year and in prior years.
 
Prior to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees in executive session, considered, among other items:
 
 
(1)
The nature and quality of the advisory services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(2)
A comparison of the fees and expenses of the Fund to other similar funds;
     
 
(3)
Whether economies of scale are recognized by the Fund;

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
26

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

 
(4)
The costs and profitability of the Fund to the Advisor;
     
 
(5)
The performance of the Fund; and
     
 
(6)
Any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an investment advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee).

The material considerations and determinations of the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, were as follows:
 
 
(1)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Advisor. Based on this review, the Trustees concluded that the Advisor provides high-quality services to the Fund and noted that their overall confidence in the Advisor was high. The Trustees also concluded that they were satisfied with the nature, extent, and quality of the advisory services provided to the Fund by the Advisor and that the nature and extent of the services provided by the Advisor were appropriate to assure that the Fund’s operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

   
(a)
The Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund. In this capacity, the Advisor does the following:

     
(i)
manages the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, including the purchase, retention, and disposition of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions;
         
     
(ii)
seeks best execution for the Fund’s portfolio;
         
     
(iii)
manages the use of soft dollars for the Fund; and
         
     
(iv)
manages proxy voting for the Fund.

   
(b)
The Advisor performs a daily reconciliation of portfolio positions and cash for the Fund.
       
   
(c)
The Advisor monitors the liquidity of each Fund.
       
   
(d)
The Advisor monitors the Fund’s compliance with its investment objectives and restrictions.
       
   
(e)
The Advisor monitors compliance with federal securities laws, maintains a compliance program (including a code of ethics), conducts ongoing reviews of the compliance programs of the Fund’s service providers, as feasible, conducts on-site visits to the Fund’s service providers, monitors incidents of abusive trading practices, reviews Fund expense accruals, payments, and fixed expense ratios, evaluates insurance providers for fidelity bond, D&O/E&O insurance, and cybersecurity insurance coverage, manages regulatory examination compliance and responses, conducts employee compliance training, reviews reports provided by service providers, and maintains books and records.
       
   
(f)
The Advisor oversees service providers that provide accounting, administration, distribution, transfer agency, custodial, sales, marketing, public relations, audit, information technology, and legal services to the Fund.
       
   
(g)
The Advisor maintains in-house marketing and distribution departments on behalf of the Fund.
       
   
(h)
The Advisor is actively involved with preparing regulatory filings for the Fund, including writing and annually updating the Fund’s prospectus and related documents.


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
27


 
   
(i)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Advisor prepares a written summary of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(j)
The Advisor oversees distribution of the Fund through third-party broker/dealers and independent financial institutions such as Charles Schwab, Inc., Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and Pershing. The Advisor participates in “no transaction fee” (“NTF”) programs with these companies on behalf of the Fund, which allow customers to purchase the Fund through third-party distribution channels without paying a transaction fee. The Advisor compensates, in part, a number of these third-party providers of NTF programs out of its own revenues.
       
   
(k)
The Advisor pays the incentive compensation of the Fund’s compliance officers and employs other staff, such as legal, marketing, national accounts, distribution, sales, administrative, and trading oversight personnel, as well as management executives.
       
   
(l)
The Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board.
       
   
(m)
The Advisor prepares or reviews all Board materials, frequently presents to the Board and leads Board discussions, prepares or reviews all meeting minutes, and arranges for Board training and education.

 
(2)
The Trustees compared the performance of the Fund to benchmark indices over various periods and also noted that the Trustees review and discuss reports comparing the investment performance of the Fund to various indices at each quarterly Board meeting. Based on such information, the Trustees determined that the Advisor manages the Fund in a manner materially consistent with its stated investment objective and style. The Trustees concluded that the performance of the Fund over various periods warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(3)
The Trustees reviewed the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of the Fund compared to other funds similar in asset size and investment objective to the Fund using data from Morningstar. As part of the discussion with management, the Trustees ensured that they understood and were comfortable with the criteria used to determine the mutual funds included in the Morningstar categories for purposes of the materials considered at the meeting. The Trustees determined that the advisory fee and overall expense ratio of the Fund falls within the range of the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of other comparable funds and concluded that they are reasonable and warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(4)
The Trustees also considered whether the Advisor was realizing economies of scale that it should share with the Fund’s shareholders. The Trustees noted that the assets of the Fund had declined over the prior year. In addition, the Trustees noted that many of the expenses incurred to manage the Fund are asset-based fees, so the Advisor does not realize material economies of scale relating to those expenses as the assets of the Fund increase. For example, mutual fund platform fees increase as the Fund’s assets grow. The Trustees also considered the Advisor’s efforts to contain expenses through actions such as renegotiating service contracts, the Advisor’s significant marketing efforts to promote the Funds, the Advisor’s investments in personnel to manage the Funds, and the Advisor’s agreement to waive fees or lower its management fees in certain

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
28


 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

   
circumstances. The Trustees noted that it did not appear that the Advisor was realizing economies of scale at current asset levels and concluded that it would continue to monitor economies of scale in the future as circumstances changed.
     
 
(5)
The Trustees considered the profitability of the Advisor, including the impact of mutual fund platform fees on the Advisor’s profitability, and also considered the resources and revenues that the Advisor has put into managing and distributing the Fund. The Trustees then concluded that the profits of the Advisor are reasonable and not excessive when compared to profitability guidelines set forth in relevant court cases.
     
 
(6)
The Trustees considered the high level of professionalism and knowledge of the Advisor’s employees, along with a very low level of turnover, and concluded that this was beneficial to the Fund and its shareholders.
     
 
(7)
The Trustees considered any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee). The Trustees noted that the Advisor may derive ancillary benefits from, by way of example, its association with the Fund in the form of proprietary and third-party research products and services received from broker-dealers that execute portfolio trades for the Fund. The Trustees determined that any such products and services have been used for legitimate purposes relating to the Fund by providing assistance in the investment decision-making process. The Trustees concluded that any additional benefits realized by the Advisor from its relationship with the Fund were reasonable, which was based on, among other things, the Trustees’ finding that the research, analytical, statistical, and other information and services provided by brokers are merely supplemental to the Advisor’s own efforts in the performance of its duties under the advisory agreement.

After reviewing the materials and information provided at the meeting, as well as other information regularly provided at the Board’s quarterly meetings throughout the year regarding the quality of services provided by the Advisor, the performance of the Fund, expense information, brokerage commissions information, the adequacy and efficacy of the Advisor’s written policies and procedures, other regulatory compliance issues, trading information and related matters, and other factors that the Trustees deemed relevant, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the advisory agreement.
 



HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
29


For information, questions, or assistance, please call
The Hennessy Funds
1-800-966-4354 or 1-415-899-1555


INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
7250 Redwood Boulevard, Suite 200
Novato, California 94945

ADMINISTRATOR,
TRANSFER AGENT,
DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, &
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0701

CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

TRUSTEES
Neil J. Hennessy
Robert T. Doyle
J. Dennis DeSousa
Gerald P. Richardson

COUNSEL
Foley & Lardner LLP
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-5306

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
Two Liberty Place
50 South 16th Street, Suite 2900
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-2529

DISTRIBUTOR
Quasar Distributors, LLC
111 East Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 2200
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202




www.hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354

This report has been prepared for shareholders and may be distributed to
others only if preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.




SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

APRIL 30, 2020




HENNESSY CORNERSTONE VALUE FUND
 
Investor Class  HFCVX
Institutional Class  HICVX



IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
 
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the annual and semi-annual reports will no longer be sent by mail unless you specifically request paper copies from the Hennessy Funds 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 have already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Hennessy Funds electronically by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com/account or by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950. If you own shares in a Fund through a financial intermediary, please contact your financial intermediary to make this election.
 
You may elect to receive paper copies of all future reports free of charge by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or, if you own your shares through a financial intermediary, by contacting your financial intermediary. Your election to receive paper copies of reports will apply to all Funds in the Hennessy Funds family.
 

hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354









(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 










Contents
 

 
Letter to Shareholders
2
Performance Overview
4
Financial Statements
 
Schedule of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
9
Statement of Operations
10
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
11
Financial Highlights
12
Notes to the Financial Statements
16
Expense Example
23
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
25
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
25
Federal Tax Distribution Information
25
Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents
25
Electronic Delivery
25
Board Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement
26








HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 


June 2020
 
Dear Hennessy Funds Shareholder:

 
First and foremost, I hope this communication finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. In many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down in recent months, and we at Hennessy have joined the rest of the world in witnessing and experiencing its profound effect on public health, the global economy, and the everyday lives of people around the world.  In response to the crisis, we invoked our business continuity plan in mid-March to ensure a smooth transition to remote work for all of our employees, who have been working safely and productively from home. We want to assure our Hennessy Funds shareholders that our operations are uninterrupted and functioning normally.
 
The past six months have been marked by extremes. During the first half of the period from November 2019 through January 2020, the bull market, supported by strong corporate fundamentals, continued to move higher, and investors appeared focused on record-low unemployment and strong economic growth. In mid-February, the major U.S. market indices hit all-time highs, but then, within just a matter of weeks, lost over one-third of their values as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded. Shelter-in-place and business closure orders rippled through the nation, causing initial unemployment claims to skyrocket to their highest number in history. The market then rallied back and posted double-digit positive returns in April.
 
For the six months ended April 30, 2020, on a total return basis, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 8.9% and the S&P 500® Index was down 3.2%. Small-cap and mid-cap stocks generally fared worse than large-cap stocks during the period, and the Financial sector was particularly hard hit as the Federal Reserve aggressively cut the federal funds rate in an effort to stabilize the economy. The Energy sector was crushed by both the sudden loss of demand due to COVID-19 and the oversupply caused by the surprise market-share battle between Russia and Saudi Arabia, and the S&P 500® Energy Sector Index ended the six-month period down over 30%.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented event, and the duration and full extent of the economic impact is unknown. In the moment, there is always the concern that ‘this time is different.’ But, when you are able to look at past financial, political, and health crises with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, history has demonstrated that our economy and financial markets have always rebounded and recovered eventually. If you look back to the last market downturn in 2008, economic fundamentals were weak compared to the market in 2020, where the overall underpinnings were – and are still – quite strong.  Publicly listed companies today have plenty of cash, with over $5 trillion on balance sheets of the S&P 500® companies alone, and I believe that most will survive and that many may emerge from the current crisis even stronger.

 

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
2

 LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

We understand that this market volatility and economic uncertainty is jarring to many investors, and we continue to monitor events and the markets. We remain focused on managing our high-conviction portfolios for the long-term benefit of our shareholders, and we are confident in the time-tested strategies and rigorous research that led to their formation. We encourage shareholders to maintain a long-term investment horizon and to remain focused on long-term goals. As always, but especially in these trying times, we are here to support our shareholders, and we thank you for your continued investment and trust. Should you have any questions or would like to speak with us directly, please don’t hesitate to call (800) 966-4354 or email us at fundsinfo@hennessyfunds.com.
 
Best regards,
 
 
Neil J. Hennessy
President and Chief Investment Officer
 
 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500® Index are commonly used to measure the performance of U.S. stocks. The S&P 500® Energy Sector Index is an index that comprises those companies included in the S&P 500 that are classified as members of the GICS energy sector. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 








HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
3

Performance Overview (Unaudited)
 
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR PERIODS ENDED APRIL 30, 2020
 
 
Six
One
Five
Ten
 
Months(1)
Year
Years
Years
Hennessy Cornerstone Value Fund –
       
  Investor Class (HFCVX)
-16.89%
-16.46%
1.80%
  6.90%
Hennessy Cornerstone Value Fund –
       
  Institutional Class (HICVX)
-16.80%
-16.37%
2.01%
  7.14%
Russell 1000® Value Index
-13.66%
-11.01%
3.90%
  8.54%
S&P 500® Index
  -3.16%
   0.86%
9.12%
11.69%

Expense ratios:  1.23% (Investor Class); 1.08% (Institutional Class)
 
(1)
Periods of less than one year are not annualized.

 

 

 
_______________
 
Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance table does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com.
 
The Russell 1000® Value Index comprises those Russell 1000® companies with lower price-to-book ratios and lower forecasted growth value. The S&P 500® Index is a capitalization-weighted index that is designed to represent the broad domestic economy through changes in the aggregate market value of 500 stocks across all major industries. One cannot invest directly in an index. These indices are used herein for comparative purposes in accordance with SEC regulations.
 
Frank Russell Company (“Russell”) is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks, and copyrights related to the Russell Indexes. Russell® is a trademark of Russell. Neither Russell nor its licensors accept any liability for any errors or omissions in the Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data and no party may rely on any Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data contained in this communication. No further distribution of Russell data is permitted without Russell’s express written consent. Russell does not promote, sponsor, or endorse the content of this communication.
 
Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC is the source and owner of the S&P® and S&P 500® trademarks.
 
The expense ratios presented are from the most recent prospectus. The expense ratios for the current reporting period are available in the Financial Highlights section of this report.
 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
4


 PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Financial Statements
 
 Schedule of Investments as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

HENNESSY CORNERSTONE VALUE FUND
(% of Net Assets)

 


TOP TEN HOLDINGS (EXCLUDING MONEY MARKET FUNDS)
% NET ASSETS
Gilead Sciences, Inc.
2.96%
The Kraft Heinz Co.
2.73%
General Mills, Inc.
2.72%
Amgen, Inc.
2.63%
Pfizer, Inc.
2.63%
Verizon Communications, Inc.
2.42%
GlaxoSmithKline PLC – ADR
2.39%
3M Co.
2.37%
Merck & Co., Inc.
2.36%
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.
2.27%

 
Note: For presentation purposes, the Fund has grouped some of the industry categories. For purposes of categorizing securities for compliance with Section 8(b)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Fund uses more specific industry classifications.
 
The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) was developed by and is the exclusive property and a service mark of MSCI, Inc. and Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC. It has been licensed for use by the Hennessy Funds.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
5


COMMON STOCKS – 98.29%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Communication Services – 4.36%
                 
AT&T, Inc.
   
129,060
   
$
3,932,458
     
1.94
%
Verizon Communications, Inc.
   
85,500
     
4,911,975
     
2.42
%
 
           
8,844,433
     
4.36
%
                         
Consumer Discretionary – 5.89%
                       
Carnival Corp. (a)
   
119,400
     
1,898,460
     
0.93
%
Ford Motor Co.
   
630,745
     
3,210,492
     
1.58
%
General Motors Co.
   
143,600
     
3,200,844
     
1.58
%
Las Vegas Sands Corp.
   
75,900
     
3,644,718
     
1.80
%
 
           
11,954,514
     
5.89
%
                         
Consumer Staples – 19.94%
                       
Altria Group, Inc.
   
108,400
     
4,254,700
     
2.10
%
Archer Daniels Midland Co.
   
113,400
     
4,211,676
     
2.07
%
General Mills, Inc.
   
92,300
     
5,527,847
     
2.72
%
PepsiCo, Inc.
   
34,100
     
4,511,089
     
2.22
%
Philip Morris International, Inc.
   
55,500
     
4,140,300
     
2.04
%
The Coca-Cola Co.
   
82,800
     
3,799,692
     
1.87
%
The Kraft Heinz Co.
   
182,600
     
5,538,258
     
2.73
%
Unilever PLC – ADR (a)
   
83,400
     
4,325,958
     
2.13
%
Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.
   
96,700
     
4,186,143
     
2.06
%
 
           
40,495,663
     
19.94
%
                         
Energy – 15.96%
                       
BP PLC – ADR (a)
   
140,700
     
3,348,660
     
1.65
%
Canadian Natural Resources Ltd. (a)
   
165,400
     
2,772,104
     
1.37
%
Chevron Corp.
   
45,675
     
4,202,100
     
2.07
%
ConocoPhillips
   
85,200
     
3,586,920
     
1.77
%
Exxon Mobil Corp.
   
84,110
     
3,908,592
     
1.92
%
Marathon Petroleum Corp.
   
84,200
     
2,701,136
     
1.33
%
Occidental Petroleum Corp.
   
118,160
     
1,961,456
     
0.97
%
Royal Dutch Shell PLC – ADR (a)
   
101,200
     
3,352,756
     
1.65
%
Suncor Energy, Inc. (a)
   
163,700
     
2,922,045
     
1.44
%
Total S.A. – ADR (a)
   
103,700
     
3,645,055
     
1.79
%
 
           
32,400,824
     
15.96
%


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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
6


 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

COMMON STOCKS
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Financials – 12.15%
                 
Citigroup, Inc.
   
65,100
   
$
3,161,256
     
1.56
%
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
   
36,600
     
3,504,816
     
1.73
%
MetLife, Inc.
   
97,100
     
3,503,368
     
1.72
%
Royal Bank of Canada (a)
   
60,200
     
3,707,718
     
1.83
%
The Bank of New York Mellon Corp.
   
110,500
     
4,148,170
     
2.04
%
Toronto-Dominion Bank (a)
   
86,800
     
3,625,636
     
1.78
%
Wells Fargo & Co.
   
104,300
     
3,029,915
     
1.49
%
 
           
24,680,879
     
12.15
%
                         
Health Care – 19.47%
                       
AbbVie, Inc.
   
52,400
     
4,307,280
     
2.12
%
Amgen, Inc.
   
22,300
     
5,334,606
     
2.63
%
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.
   
75,800
     
4,609,398
     
2.27
%
CVS Health Corp.
   
69,600
     
4,283,880
     
2.11
%
Gilead Sciences, Inc.
   
71,400
     
5,997,600
     
2.96
%
GlaxoSmithKline PLC – ADR (a)
   
115,500
     
4,859,085
     
2.39
%
Merck & Co., Inc.
   
60,400
     
4,792,136
     
2.36
%
Pfizer, Inc.
   
139,300
     
5,343,548
     
2.63
%
 
           
39,527,533
     
19.47
%
                         
Industrials – 9.74%
                       
3M Co.
   
31,700
     
4,815,864
     
2.37
%
Caterpillar, Inc.
   
36,300
     
4,224,594
     
2.08
%
Delta Air Lines, Inc.
   
86,000
     
2,228,260
     
1.10
%
Emerson Electric Co.
   
69,000
     
3,935,070
     
1.94
%
United Parcel Service, Inc., Class B
   
48,300
     
4,572,078
     
2.25
%
 
           
19,775,866
     
9.74
%
                         
Information Technology – 8.72%
                       
Cisco Systems, Inc.
   
107,500
     
4,555,850
     
2.24
%
International Business Machines Corp.
   
33,200
     
4,168,592
     
2.05
%
Qualcomm, Inc.
   
57,200
     
4,499,924
     
2.22
%
Texas Instruments, Inc.
   
38,700
     
4,491,909
     
2.21
%
 
           
17,716,275
     
8.72
%
                         
Materials – 2.06%
                       
Nutrien Ltd. (a)
   
116,900
     
4,174,499
     
2.06
%
 
                       
Total Common Stocks
                       
  (Cost $242,660,643)
           
199,570,486
     
98.29
%
 

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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
7


SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 1.79%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Money Market Funds – 1.79%
                 
First American Government Obligations Fund,
                 
  Institutional Class, 0.25% (b)
   
3,634,203
   
$
3,634,203
     
1.79
%
 
                       
Total Short-Term Investments
                       
  (Cost $3,634,203)
           
3,634,203
     
1.79
%
 
                       
Total Investments
                       
  (Cost $246,294,846) – 100.08%
           
203,204,689
     
100.08
%
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets – (0.08)%
           
(170,732
)
   
(0.08
)%
 
                       
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
         
$
203,033,957
     
100.00
%

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

ADR – American Depositary Receipt
PLC – Public Limited Company
(a)
U.S.-traded security of a foreign corporation.
(b)
The rate listed is the fund’s seven-day yield as of April 30, 2020.

Summary of Fair Value Exposure as of April 30, 2020
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s net assets as of April 30, 2020 (see Note 3 in the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements):
 
Common Stocks
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Communication Services
 
$
8,844,433
   
$
   
$
   
$
8,844,433
 
Consumer Discretionary
   
11,954,514
     
     
     
11,954,514
 
Consumer Staples
   
40,495,663
     
     
     
40,495,663
 
Energy
   
32,400,824
     
     
     
32,400,824
 
Financials
   
24,680,879
     
     
     
24,680,879
 
Health Care
   
39,527,533
     
     
     
39,527,533
 
Industrials
   
19,775,866
     
     
     
19,775,866
 
Information Technology
   
17,716,275
     
     
     
17,716,275
 
Materials
   
4,174,499
     
     
     
4,174,499
 
Total Common Stocks
 
$
199,570,486
   
$
   
$
   
$
199,570,486
 
Short-Term Investments
                               
Money Market Funds
 
$
3,634,203
   
$
   
$
   
$
3,634,203
 
Total Short-Term Investments
 
$
3,634,203
   
$
   
$
   
$
3,634,203
 
Total Investments
 
$
203,204,689
   
$
   
$
   
$
203,204,689
 


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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
8


 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS/STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments in securities, at value (cost $246,294,846)
 
$
203,204,689
 
Cash
   
41,845
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
410,755
 
Receivable for fund shares sold
   
3,045
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
20,565
 
Total assets
   
203,680,899
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable for fund shares redeemed
   
59,581
 
Payable to advisor
   
118,050
 
Payable to administrator
   
34,104
 
Payable to auditor
   
11,373
 
Accrued distribution fees
   
374,889
 
Accrued service fees
   
15,569
 
Accrued trustees fees
   
4,536
 
Accrued expenses and other payables
   
28,840
 
Total liabilities
   
646,942
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
203,033,957
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSISTS OF:
       
Capital stock
 
$
243,018,967
 
Accumulated deficit
   
(39,985,010
)
Total net assets
 
$
203,033,957
 
         
NET ASSETS:
       
Investor Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
198,085,733
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
14,581,676
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
13.58
 
         
Institutional Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
4,948,224
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
364,053
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
13.59
 


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
9

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Operations for the six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Dividend income(1)
 
$
4,777,568
 
Interest income
   
37,945
 
Total investment income
   
4,815,513
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (See Note 5)
   
888,672
 
Distribution fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
175,662
 
Administration, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees (See Note 5)
   
126,377
 
Service fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
117,108
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
89,308
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
3,177
 
Federal and state registration fees
   
19,945
 
Compliance expense (See Note 5)
   
13,462
 
Audit fees
   
11,375
 
Reports to shareholders
   
11,016
 
Trustees’ fees and expenses
   
9,553
 
Legal fees
   
1,281
 
Other expenses
   
14,930
 
Total expenses
   
1,481,866
 
NET INVESTMENT INCOME
 
$
3,333,647
 
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
       
Net realized gain on investments
 
$
1,313,644
 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(46,914,128
)
Net loss on investments
   
(45,600,484
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(42,266,837
)








 
(1)
Net of foreign taxes withheld and issuance fees of $104,704.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
10


 STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS/STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

Financial Statements
 
 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
April 30, 2020
   
Year Ended
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
October 31, 2019
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment income
 
$
3,333,647
   
$
7,177,446
 
Net realized gain on investments
   
1,313,644
     
11,149,160
 
Net change in unrealized
               
  appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(46,914,128
)
   
(5,555,727
)
Net increase (decrease) in net assets
               
   resulting from operations
   
(42,266,837
)
   
12,770,879
 
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
Distributable earnings – Investor Class
   
(16,696,863
)
   
(36,817,937
)
Distributable earnings – Institutional Class
   
(434,493
)
   
(980,722
)
Total distributions
   
(17,131,356
)
   
(37,798,659
)
                 
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
               
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Investor Class
   
998,842
     
2,177,066
 
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Institutional Class
   
555,343
     
1,522,914
 
Dividends reinvested – Investor Class
   
15,770,353
     
34,854,971
 
Dividends reinvested – Institutional Class
   
399,784
     
893,462
 
Cost of shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(14,752,516
)
   
(25,540,967
)
Cost of shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(929,266
)
   
(2,463,013
)
Net increase in net assets derived
               
  from capital share transactions
   
2,042,540
     
11,444,433
 
TOTAL DECREASE IN NET ASSETS
   
(57,355,653
)
   
(13,583,347
)
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
260,389,610
     
273,972,957
 
End of period
 
$
203,033,957
   
$
260,389,610
 
                 
CHANGES IN SHARES OUTSTANDING:
               
Shares sold – Investor Class
   
62,799
     
128,721
 
Shares sold – Institutional Class
   
34,336
     
90,985
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Investor Class
   
906,647
     
2,133,897
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Institutional Class
   
22,969
     
54,603
 
Shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(959,893
)
   
(1,518,570
)
Shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(62,175
)
   
(150,029
)
Net increase in shares outstanding
   
4,683
     
739,607
 


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
11

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Investor Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
17.43
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income
   
0.22
(1) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(2.93
)
Total from investment operations
   
(2.71
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.47
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(0.67
)
Total distributions
   
(1.14
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
13.58
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-16.89
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
198.09
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.24
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets
   
2.77
%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(4)
   
30
%(2)









(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
12


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INVESTOR CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
19.29
   
$
21.48
   
$
18.36
   
$
17.69
   
$
18.41
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.47
(1) 
   
0.41
     
0.45
     
0.43
     
0.44
 
 
0.30
     
0.35
     
3.10
     
0.67
     
(0.75
)
 
0.77
     
0.76
     
3.55
     
1.10
     
(0.31
)
                                     
                                     
 
(0.41
)
   
(0.42
)
   
(0.43
)
   
(0.43
)
   
(0.41
)
 
(2.22
)
   
(2.53
)
   
     
     
 
 
(2.63
)
   
(2.95
)
   
(0.43
)
   
(0.43
)
   
(0.41
)
$
17.43
   
$
19.29
   
$
21.48
   
$
18.36
   
$
17.69
 
                                     
 
5.22
%
   
3.64
%
   
19.63
%
   
6.41
%
   
-1.77
%
                                     
                                     
$
253.95
   
$
266.76
   
$
281.07
   
$
126.53
   
$
129.86
 
 
1.23
%
   
1.21
%
   
1.22
%
   
1.25
%
   
1.10
%
 
2.75
%
   
2.21
%
   
2.36
%
   
2.33
%
   
2.32
%
 
27
%
   
41
%
   
72
%
   
36
%
   
46
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
13

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Institutional Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
17.45
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income
   
0.24
(1) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(2.93
)
Total from investment operations
   
(2.69
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.49
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(0.68
)
Total distributions
   
(1.17
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
13.59
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-16.80
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
4.95
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:
   
1.02
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets:
   
2.99
%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(4)
   
30
%(2)








(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
14


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INSTITUTIONAL CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
19.33
   
$
21.52
   
$
18.40
   
$
17.67
   
$
18.41
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.50
(1) 
   
0.45
     
0.43
     
0.48
     
0.53
 
 
0.29
     
0.35
     
3.18
     
0.67
     
(0.83
)
 
0.79
     
0.80
     
3.61
     
1.15
     
(0.30
)
                                     
                                     
 
(0.45
)
   
(0.46
)
   
(0.49
)
   
(0.42
)
   
(0.44
)
 
(2.22
)
   
(2.53
)
   
     
     
 
 
(2.67
)
   
(2.99
)
   
(0.49
)
   
(0.42
)
   
(0.44
)
$
17.45
   
$
19.33
   
$
21.52
   
$
18.40
   
$
17.67
 
                                     
 
5.37
%
   
3.88
%
   
19.95
%
   
6.72
%
   
-1.72
%
                                     
                                     
$
6.44
   
$
7.22
   
$
7.40
   
$
1.88
   
$
1.75
 
 
1.08
%
   
0.98
%
   
0.97
%
   
0.95
%
   
1.00
%
 
2.92
%
   
2.43
%
   
2.60
%
   
2.63
%
   
2.43
%
 
27
%
   
41
%
   
72
%
   
36
%
   
46
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
15

Financial Statements
 
 Notes to the Financial Statements April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

1).  ORGANIZATION
 
The Hennessy Cornerstone Value Fund (the “Fund”) is a series of Hennessy Funds Trust (the “Trust”), which was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 17, 1992. The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The investment objective of the Fund is total return, consisting of capital appreciation and current income. The Fund is a diversified fund.
 
The Fund offers Investor Class and Institutional Class shares. Each class of shares differs principally in its respective 12b-1 distribution and service, shareholder servicing, and sub-transfer agent expenses. There are no sales charges. Each class has identical rights to earnings, assets, and voting privileges, except for class-specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only one class.
 
As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies.”
 
2).  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of the financial statements. These policies conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
 
a).
Securities Valuation – All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value, as described in Note 3.
   
b).
Federal Income Taxes – No provision for federal income taxes or excise taxes has been made because the Fund has elected to be taxed as a regulated investment company and intends to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders and otherwise comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies. Net investment income/loss and realized gains/losses for federal income tax purposes may differ from those reported in the financial statements because of temporary book and tax basis differences. Temporary differences are primarily the result of the treatment of wash sales for tax reporting purposes. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax benefits, if any, in the Statement of Operations as an income tax expense. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income to shareholders for tax purposes. The Fund may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes.
   
c).
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – The Fund has accounting policies regarding recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The tax returns of the Fund for the prior three fiscal years are open for examination. The Fund has reviewed all open tax years in major jurisdictions and concluded that there is no impact on the Fund’s net assets and no tax liability resulting from unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain income tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The Fund’s major tax jurisdictions are U.S. federal and Delaware.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
16


 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

d).
Income and Expenses – Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date or as soon as information is available to the Fund. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recognized on an accrual basis. Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received. The Fund is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to its portfolio, such as advisory, administration, and certain shareholder service fees. Income, expenses (other than expenses attributable to a specific class), and realized and unrealized gains/losses on investments are allocated to each class of shares based on such class’s net assets.
   
e).
Distributions to Shareholders – Dividends from net investment income for the Fund, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December. Distributions of net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December.
   
f).
Security Transactions – Investment and shareholder transactions are recorded on the trade date. The Fund determines the realized gain/loss from an investment transaction by comparing the original cost of the security lot sold with the net sale proceeds. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted or amortized, respectively, over the life of each such security.
   
g).
Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported change in net assets during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
h).
Share Valuation – The net asset value (“NAV”) per share of the Fund is calculated by dividing (i) the total value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by (ii) the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest $0.01. The Fund’s shares will not be priced on days the New York Stock Exchange is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for the Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.
 
3).  SECURITIES VALUATION
 
The Fund follows fair value accounting standards that establish an authoritative definition of fair value and set out a hierarchy for measuring fair value. These standards require additional disclosures about the various inputs and valuation techniques used to develop the measurements of fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs during the period. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
 
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments that the Fund has the ability to access at the date of measurement.
     
 
Level 2 –
Other significant observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar instruments, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets, such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk curves, default rates, and similar data).
     
 
Level 3 –
Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability based on the best available information) when observable inputs are unavailable.


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
17


The following is a description of the valuation techniques applied to the Fund’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
Equity Securities – Equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, foreign-issued common stocks, exchange-traded funds, closed-end mutual funds, partnerships, rights, and real estate investment trusts, that are traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is readily available will generally be valued at the last sales price as reported by the primary exchange on which the securities are listed. Securities listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) will generally be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may differ from the last sales price reported. Securities traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is not readily available will generally be valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Securities traded on foreign exchanges generally are not valued at the same time the Fund calculates its NAV because most foreign markets close well before such time. The earlier close of most foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim. In certain circumstances, it may be determined that a foreign security needs to be fair valued because it appears that the value of the security might have been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the market in which the security is principally traded, but before the time the Fund calculates its NAV, such as by a development that affects an entire market or region (e.g., a weather-related event) or a potentially global development (e.g., a terrorist attack that may be expected to have an effect on investor expectations worldwide).
   
 
Registered Investment Companies – Investments in open-end registered investment companies, commonly referred to as mutual funds, generally are priced at the ending NAV provided by the applicable mutual fund’s service agent and will be classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Debt Securities – Debt securities, including corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and U.S. government agency issues, are generally valued at market on the basis of valuations furnished by an independent pricing service that utilizes both dealer-supplied valuations and formula-based techniques. The pricing service may consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, and fundamental data relating to the issuer. In addition, the model may incorporate observable market data, such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued primarily using dealer quotations. These securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Short-Term Securities – Short-term equity investments, including money market funds, are valued in the manner specified above. Short-term debt investments with an original term to maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value. If the original term to maturity of a short-term debt investment exceeded 60 days, then the values as of the 61st day prior to maturity are amortized. Amortized cost is not used if its use would be inappropriate due to credit or other impairments of the issuer, in which case the security’s fair value would be determined, as described below. Short-term securities are generally classified in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the inputs used and market activity levels for specific securities.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
18


 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board”) has adopted fair value pricing procedures that are followed when a price for a security is not readily available or if a significant event has occurred that indicates the closing price of a security no longer represents the true value of that security. Fair value pricing determinations are made in good faith in accordance with these procedures. There are numerous criteria that will be given consideration in determining a fair value of a security, such as the trading volume of a security and markets, the values of other similar securities, and news events with direct bearing on a security or markets. Fair value pricing results in an estimated price for a security that reflects the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive in a current sale. Depending on the relative significance of the valuation inputs, these securities may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
The fair value of foreign securities may be determined with the assistance of a pricing service using correlations between the movement of prices of such securities and indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators, such as closing market prices of relevant American Depositary Receipts or futures contracts. Using fair value pricing means that the Fund’s NAV reflects the affected portfolio securities’ values as determined by the Board or its designee, pursuant to the fair value pricing procedures adopted by the Board, instead of being determined by the market. Using a fair value pricing methodology to price a foreign security may result in a value that is different from such foreign security’s most recent closing price and from the value used by other investment companies to calculate their NAVs. Such securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Because the Fund may invest in foreign securities, the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities may change on days when you will not be able to purchase or redeem your shares.
 
The Board has delegated day-to-day valuation matters to the Valuation and Liquidity Committee comprising representatives from Hennessy Advisors, Inc., the Fund’s investment advisor (the “Advisor”). The function of the Valuation and Liquidity Committee is to value securities where current and reliable market quotations are not readily available. All actions taken by the Valuation and Liquidity Committee are reviewed by the Board.
 
The Fund has performed an analysis of all existing investments to determine the significance and character of all inputs to their fair value determinations. Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Fund’s investments. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. Details related to the fair value hierarchy of the Fund’s securities as of April 30, 2020, are included in the Schedule of Investments.
 
4).  INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding government and short-term investments) for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $69,278,230 and $78,301,299, respectively.
 
There were no purchases or sales/maturities of long-term U.S. government securities for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Fund is permitted to purchase or sell securities from or to another fund in the Hennessy Funds family of funds (collectively, the “Hennessy Funds”) under specified conditions outlined in procedures adopted by the Board. The procedures have been designed to ensure that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Hennessy Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not engage in purchases or sales of securities pursuant to Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
19


5).  INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
The Advisor provides the Fund with investment advisory services under an Investment Advisory Agreement. The Advisor furnishes all investment advice, office space, and facilities and most of the personnel needed by the Fund. As compensation for its services, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee from the Fund. The fee is based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate of 0.74%. The net investment advisory fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Board has approved a Shareholder Servicing Agreement for Investor Class shares of the Fund, which was instituted to compensate the Advisor for the non-investment advisory services it provides to the Fund. The Shareholder Servicing Agreement provides for a monthly fee paid to the Advisor at an annual rate of 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund attributable to Investor Class shares. The shareholder service fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has adopted a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that authorizes payments in connection with the distribution of the Fund’s shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares. Even though the authorized rate is up to 0.25%, the Fund is currently only using up to 0.15% of its average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares for such purpose. Amounts paid under the plan may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares, including, but not limited to, advertising, shareholder account servicing, printing and mailing of prospectuses to other than current shareholders, printing and mailing of sales literature, and compensation for sales and marketing activities or to financial institutions and others, such as dealers and distributors. The distribution fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into agreements with various brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries in connection with the sale of shares of the Fund. The agreements provide for periodic payments of sub-transfer agent expenses by the Fund to the brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries for providing certain shareholder maintenance services. These shareholder services include the pre-processing and quality control of new accounts, shareholder correspondence, answering customer inquiries regarding account status, and facilitating shareholder telephone transactions. The sub-transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (“Fund Services”) provides the Fund with administrative, accounting, and transfer agent services. As administrator, Fund Services is responsible for activities such as (i) preparing various federal and state regulatory filings, reports, and returns for the Fund, (ii) preparing reports and materials to be supplied to the Board, (iii) monitoring the activities of the Fund’s custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, and (iv) coordinating the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviewing the Fund’s expense accruals. U.S. Bank N.A., an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Fund’s custodian. The servicing agreements between the Trust and Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. contain a fee schedule that is inclusive of administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. The administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
20

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Quasar Distributors, LLC (“Quasar”) acts as the Fund’s principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Fund’s shares. Quasar was an affiliate of Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. through March 30, 2020. Effective March 31, 2020, Foreside Financial Group, LLC (“Foreside”) acquired Quasar from Fund Services. As a result of the acquisition, Quasar became a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of Foreside and is no longer affiliated with Fund Services or U.S. Bank N.A. The Board approved a new Distribution Agreement to enable Quasar to continue serving as the Fund’s distributor.
 
The officers of the Fund are affiliated with the Advisor. With the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer and the Senior Compliance Officer, such officers receive no compensation from the Fund for serving in their respective roles. The Fund, along with the other Hennessy Funds, makes reimbursement payments on an equal basis to the Advisor for a portion of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Chief Compliance Officer and for all of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Senior Compliance Officer. The compliance fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
6).  GUARANTEES AND INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Hennessy Funds’ organizational documents, their officers and trustees are indemnified by the Hennessy Funds against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Hennessy Funds. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Hennessy Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Fund expects the risk of loss to be remote.
 
7).  LINE OF CREDIT
 
The Fund has an uncommitted line of credit with the other Hennessy Funds in the amount of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 or (ii) 33.33% of each Hennessy Fund’s net assets, or 30% for the Hennessy Gas Utility Fund and 10% for the Hennessy Balanced Fund, intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The credit facility is with the Hennessy Funds’ custodian bank, U.S. Bank N.A. Borrowings under this arrangement bear interest at the bank’s prime rate and are secured by all of the Fund’s assets (as to its own borrowings only). During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not have any borrowings outstanding under the line of credit.
 
8).  FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund’s most recent fiscal year end, the components of accumulated earnings (losses) for income tax purposes were as follows:
 
     
Investments
 
 
Cost of investments for tax purposes
 
$
256,839,158
 
 
Gross tax unrealized appreciation
 
$
30,378,700
 
 
Gross tax unrealized depreciation
   
(26,875,325
)
 
Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)
 
$
3,503,375
 
 
Undistributed ordinary income
 
$
5,925,833
 
 
Undistributed long-term capital gains
   
9,983,975
 
 
Total distributable earnings
 
$
15,909,808
 
 
Other accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
 
 
Total accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
19,413,183
 


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
21


The difference between book-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation (as shown above) is attributable primarily to wash sales.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund had no tax basis capital losses to offset future capital gains.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund did not defer, on a tax basis, any late-year ordinary losses. Late-year ordinary losses are net ordinary losses incurred after December 31, 2018, but within the taxable year, that are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year.
 
During fiscal year 2020 (year to date) and fiscal year 2019, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund was as follows:
 
     
Six Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
     
April 30, 2020
   
October 31, 2019
 
 
Ordinary income(1)
 
$
7,147,330
   
$
21,936,197
 
 
Long-term capital gain
   
9,984,026
     
15,862,462
 
     
$
17,131,356
   
$
37,798,659
 

 
(1)  Ordinary income includes short-term capital gain.
 
9).  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO PERIOD END
 
Management has evaluated the Fund’s related events and transactions that occurred subsequent to April 30, 2020, through the date of issuance of the Fund’s financial statements. Management has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.
 





 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
22


 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS/EXPENSE EXAMPLE

Expense Example (Unaudited)
April 30, 2020


As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur ongoing costs, including management fees, service fees, and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from November 1, 2019, through April 30, 2020.
 
Actual Expenses
The first line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. Although the Fund charges no sales loads or transaction fees, you will be assessed fees for outgoing wire transfers, returned checks and stop payment orders at prevailing rates charged by U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, the Fund’s transfer agent. If you request that a redemption be made by wire transfer, currently a $15 fee is charged by the Fund’s transfer agent. IRA accounts will be charged a $15 annual maintenance fee. The example below includes, but is not limited to, management fees, shareholder servicing fees, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. However, the example below does not include portfolio trading commissions and related expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line of the table under the “Investor Class” or “Institutional Class” headings in the column entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only. Therefore, the second line of the table under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
 

 

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
23


 
 
Beginning
Ending
 
 
Account Value
Account Value
Expenses Paid
 
November 1, 2019
April 30, 2020
During Period(1)
Investor Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   831.10
$5.65
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,018.70
$6.22
       
Institutional Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   832.00
$4.65
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,019.79
$5.12

(1)
Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio of 1.24% for Investor Class shares or 1.02% for Institutional Class shares, as applicable, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 days (to reflect the half-year period).










 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
24

 EXPENSE EXAMPLE — ELECTRONIC DELIVERY

How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s Proxy
Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
 
A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge (1) by calling 1-800-966-4354, (2) on the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-policy, or (3) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record is available without charge on both the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-record and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov no later than August 31 for the prior 12 months ending June 30.
 
 
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
 
The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on request by calling 1-800-966-4354.
 
 
Federal Tax Distribution Information (Unaudited)
 
For fiscal year 2019, certain dividends paid by the Fund may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 23.8%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was 49.21%.
 
For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions that qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction for fiscal year 2019 was 33.20%.
 
The percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that were designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Section 871(k)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, for the Fund was 70.55%.
 
 
Important Notice Regarding Delivery
of Shareholder Documents
 
To help keep the Fund’s costs as low as possible, we generally deliver a single copy of shareholder reports, proxy statements, and prospectuses to shareholders who share an address and have the same last name. This process does not apply to account statements. You may request an individual copy of a shareholder document at any time. If you would like to receive separate mailings of shareholder documents, please call U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124, and individual delivery will begin within 30 days of your request. If your account is held through a financial institution or other intermediary, please contact such intermediary directly to request individual delivery.
 
 
Electronic Delivery
 
The Funds offer shareholders the option to receive account statements, prospectuses, tax forms, and shareholder reports online. To sign up for eDelivery, please visit www.hennessyfunds.com/account. You may change your delivery preference at any time by visiting our website or calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
25

Board Approval of Investment Advisory
Agreement
 
At its meeting on March 12, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board,” and the members thereof, the “Trustees”) unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement of the Fund with Hennessy Advisors, Inc. (the “Advisor”). As part of the process of approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees reviewed their fiduciary duties and the relevant factors for them to consider with respect to approving the advisory agreement. In addition, the Trustees who are not deemed “interested persons” (as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Fund (the “Independent Trustees”) met in executive session to discuss the approval of the advisory agreement.
 
In advance of the meeting, the Advisor sent detailed information to the Trustees to assist them in their evaluation of the advisory agreement. This information included, but was not limited to, the following:
 
 
(1)
A memorandum from outside legal counsel that described the fiduciary duties of the Board with respect to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement and the relevant factors for consideration;
     
 
(2)
A memorandum from the Advisor that listed the factors relevant to the Board’s approval of the continuation of the advisory agreement and also referenced the documents that had been provided to help the Board assess each such factor;
     
 
(3)
An inventory of the services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(4)
A written discussion of economies of scale;
     
 
(5)
A summary of the key terms of the advisory agreement;
     
 
(6)
A recent Fund fact sheet, which included performance information over various periods;
     
 
(7)
A peer expense comparison of the net expense ratio and investment advisory fee of the Fund; and
     
 
(8)
The Advisor’s financial statements from its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q.

All of the factors discussed were considered as a whole by the Trustees and by the Independent Trustees meeting in executive session. The factors were viewed in their totality by the Trustees, with no single factor being the principal or determinative factor in the Trustees’ determination of whether to approve the continuation of the advisory agreement. The Trustees recognized that the management and fee arrangements for the Fund are the result of years of review and discussion between the Independent Trustees and the Advisor, that certain aspects of such arrangements may receive greater scrutiny in some years than in others, and that the Trustees’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of these same arrangements and information received during the course of the year and in prior years.
 
Prior to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees in executive session, considered, among other items:
 
 
(1)
The nature and quality of the advisory services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(2)
A comparison of the fees and expenses of the Fund to other similar funds;
     
 
(3)
Whether economies of scale are recognized by the Fund;

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
26

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

 
(4)
The costs and profitability of the Fund to the Advisor;
     
 
(5)
The performance of the Fund; and
     
 
(6)
Any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an investment advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee).

The material considerations and determinations of the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, were as follows:
 
 
(1)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Advisor. Based on this review, the Trustees concluded that the Advisor provides high-quality services to the Fund and noted that their overall confidence in the Advisor was high. The Trustees also concluded that they were satisfied with the nature, extent, and quality of the advisory services provided to the Fund by the Advisor and that the nature and extent of the services provided by the Advisor were appropriate to assure that the Fund’s operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

   
(a)
The Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund. In this capacity, the Advisor does the following:

     
(i)
manages the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, including the purchase, retention, and disposition of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions;
         
     
(ii)
seeks best execution for the Fund’s portfolio;
         
     
(iii)
manages the use of soft dollars for the Fund; and
         
     
(iv)
manages proxy voting for the Fund.

   
(b)
The Advisor performs a daily reconciliation of portfolio positions and cash for the Fund.
       
   
(c)
The Advisor monitors the liquidity of each Fund.
       
   
(d)
The Advisor monitors the Fund’s compliance with its investment objectives and restrictions.
       
   
(e)
The Advisor monitors compliance with federal securities laws, maintains a compliance program (including a code of ethics), conducts ongoing reviews of the compliance programs of the Fund’s service providers, as feasible, conducts on-site visits to the Fund’s service providers, monitors incidents of abusive trading practices, reviews Fund expense accruals, payments, and fixed expense ratios, evaluates insurance providers for fidelity bond, D&O/E&O insurance, and cybersecurity insurance coverage, manages regulatory examination compliance and responses, conducts employee compliance training, reviews reports provided by service providers, and maintains books and records.
       
   
(f)
The Advisor oversees service providers that provide accounting, administration, distribution, transfer agency, custodial, sales, marketing, public relations, audit, information technology, and legal services to the Fund.
       
   
(g)
The Advisor maintains in-house marketing and distribution departments on behalf of the Fund.
       
   
(h)
The Advisor is actively involved with preparing regulatory filings for the Fund, including writing and annually updating the Fund’s prospectus and related documents.


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
27


   
(i)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Advisor prepares a written summary of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(j)
The Advisor oversees distribution of the Fund through third-party broker/dealers and independent financial institutions such as Charles Schwab, Inc., Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and Pershing. The Advisor participates in “no transaction fee” (“NTF”) programs with these companies on behalf of the Fund, which allow customers to purchase the Fund through third-party distribution channels without paying a transaction fee. The Advisor compensates, in part, a number of these third-party providers of NTF programs out of its own revenues.
       
   
(k)
The Advisor pays the incentive compensation of the Fund’s compliance officers and employs other staff, such as legal, marketing, national accounts, distribution, sales, administrative, and trading oversight personnel, as well as management executives.
       
   
(l)
The Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board.
       
   
(m)
The Advisor prepares or reviews all Board materials, frequently presents to the Board and leads Board discussions, prepares or reviews all meeting minutes, and arranges for Board training and education.

 
(2)
The Trustees compared the performance of the Fund to benchmark indices over various periods and also noted that the Trustees review and discuss reports comparing the investment performance of the Fund to various indices at each quarterly Board meeting. Based on such information, the Trustees determined that the Advisor manages the Fund in a manner materially consistent with its stated investment objective and style. The Trustees concluded that the performance of the Fund over various periods warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(3)
The Trustees reviewed the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of the Fund compared to other funds similar in asset size and investment objective to the Fund using data from Morningstar. As part of the discussion with management, the Trustees ensured that they understood and were comfortable with the criteria used to determine the mutual funds included in the Morningstar categories for purposes of the materials considered at the meeting. The Trustees determined that the advisory fee and overall expense ratio of the Fund falls within the range of the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of other comparable funds and concluded that they are reasonable and warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(4)
The Trustees also considered whether the Advisor was realizing economies of scale that it should share with the Fund’s shareholders. The Trustees noted that the assets of the Fund had declined over the prior year. In addition, the Trustees noted that many of the expenses incurred to manage the Fund are asset-based fees, so the Advisor does not realize material economies of scale relating to those expenses as the assets of the Fund increase. For example, mutual fund platform fees increase as the Fund’s assets grow. The Trustees also considered the Advisor’s efforts to contain expenses through actions such as renegotiating service contracts, the Advisor’s significant marketing efforts to promote the Funds, the Advisor’s investments in personnel to manage the Funds, and the Advisor’s agreement to waive fees or lower its management fees in certain

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
28


 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

   
circumstances. The Trustees noted that it did not appear that the Advisor was realizing economies of scale at current asset levels and concluded that it would continue to monitor economies of scale in the future as circumstances changed.
     
 
(5)
The Trustees considered the profitability of the Advisor, including the impact of mutual fund platform fees on the Advisor’s profitability, and also considered the resources and revenues that the Advisor has put into managing and distributing the Fund. The Trustees then concluded that the profits of the Advisor are reasonable and not excessive when compared to profitability guidelines set forth in relevant court cases.
     
 
(6)
The Trustees considered the high level of professionalism and knowledge of the Advisor’s employees, along with a very low level of turnover, and concluded that this was beneficial to the Fund and its shareholders.
     
 
(7)
The Trustees considered any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee). The Trustees noted that the Advisor may derive ancillary benefits from, by way of example, its association with the Fund in the form of proprietary and third-party research products and services received from broker-dealers that execute portfolio trades for the Fund. The Trustees determined that any such products and services have been used for legitimate purposes relating to the Fund by providing assistance in the investment decision-making process. The Trustees concluded that any additional benefits realized by the Advisor from its relationship with the Fund were reasonable, which was based on, among other things, the Trustees’ finding that the research, analytical, statistical, and other information and services provided by brokers are merely supplemental to the Advisor’s own efforts in the performance of its duties under the advisory agreement.

After reviewing the materials and information provided at the meeting, as well as other information regularly provided at the Board’s quarterly meetings throughout the year regarding the quality of services provided by the Advisor, the performance of the Fund, expense information, brokerage commissions information, the adequacy and efficacy of the Advisor’s written policies and procedures, other regulatory compliance issues, trading information and related matters, and other factors that the Trustees deemed relevant, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the advisory agreement.
 


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
29


For information, questions, or assistance, please call
The Hennessy Funds
1-800-966-4354 or 1-415-899-1555


INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
7250 Redwood Boulevard, Suite 200
Novato, California 94945

ADMINISTRATOR,
TRANSFER AGENT,
DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, &
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0701

CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

TRUSTEES
Neil J. Hennessy
Robert T. Doyle
J. Dennis DeSousa
Gerald P. Richardson

COUNSEL
Foley & Lardner LLP
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-5306

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
Two Liberty Place
50 South 16th Street, Suite 2900
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-2529

DISTRIBUTOR
Quasar Distributors, LLC
111 East Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 2200
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202



www.hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354

This report has been prepared for shareholders and may be distributed to
others only if preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.




SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

APRIL 30, 2020





HENNESSY TOTAL RETURN FUND
 
Investor Class  HDOGX


IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
 
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the annual and semi-annual reports will no longer be sent by mail unless you specifically request paper copies from the Hennessy Funds 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 have already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Hennessy Funds electronically by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com/account or by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950. If you own shares in a Fund through a financial intermediary, please contact your financial intermediary to make this election.
 
You may elect to receive paper copies of all future reports free of charge by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or, if you own your shares through a financial intermediary, by contacting your financial intermediary. Your election to receive paper copies of reports will apply to all Funds in the Hennessy Funds family.
 


hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354









(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 










Contents
 

 
Letter to Shareholders
2
Performance Overview
4
Financial Statements
 
Schedule of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
9
Statement of Operations
10
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
11
Statement of Cash Flows
12
Financial Highlights
14
Notes to the Financial Statements
16
Expense Example
24
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
25
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
25
Federal Tax Distribution Information
25
Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents
25
Electronic Delivery
25
Board Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement
26












HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 


June 2020
 
Dear Hennessy Funds Shareholder:

 
First and foremost, I hope this communication finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. In many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down in recent months, and we at Hennessy have joined the rest of the world in witnessing and experiencing its profound effect on public health, the global economy, and the everyday lives of people around the world.  In response to the crisis, we invoked our business continuity plan in mid-March to ensure a smooth transition to remote work for all of our employees, who have been working safely and productively from home. We want to assure our Hennessy Funds shareholders that our operations are uninterrupted and functioning normally.
 
The past six months have been marked by extremes. During the first half of the period from November 2019 through January 2020, the bull market, supported by strong corporate fundamentals, continued to move higher, and investors appeared focused on record-low unemployment and strong economic growth. In mid-February, the major U.S. market indices hit all-time highs, but then, within just a matter of weeks, lost over one-third of their values as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded. Shelter-in-place and business closure orders rippled through the nation, causing initial unemployment claims to skyrocket to their highest number in history. The market then rallied back and posted double-digit positive returns in April.
 
For the six months ended April 30, 2020, on a total return basis, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 8.9% and the S&P 500® Index was down 3.2%. Small-cap and mid-cap stocks generally fared worse than large-cap stocks during the period, and the Financial sector was particularly hard hit as the Federal Reserve aggressively cut the federal funds rate in an effort to stabilize the economy. The Energy sector was crushed by both the sudden loss of demand due to COVID-19 and the oversupply caused by the surprise market-share battle between Russia and Saudi Arabia, and the S&P 500® Energy Sector Index ended the six-month period down over 30%.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented event, and the duration and full extent of the economic impact is unknown. In the moment, there is always the concern that ‘this time is different.’ But, when you are able to look at past financial, political, and health crises with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, history has demonstrated that our economy and financial markets have always rebounded and recovered eventually. If you look back to the last market downturn in 2008, economic fundamentals were weak compared to the market in 2020, where the overall underpinnings were – and are still – quite strong.  Publicly listed companies today have plenty of cash, with over $5 trillion on balance sheets of the S&P 500® companies alone, and I believe that most will survive and that many may emerge from the current crisis even stronger.
 

 

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
2

 LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

We understand that this market volatility and economic uncertainty is jarring to many investors, and we continue to monitor events and the markets. We remain focused on managing our high-conviction portfolios for the long-term benefit of our shareholders, and we are confident in the time-tested strategies and rigorous research that led to their formation. We encourage shareholders to maintain a long-term investment horizon and to remain focused on long-term goals. As always, but especially in these trying times, we are here to support our shareholders, and we thank you for your continued investment and trust. Should you have any questions or would like to speak with us directly, please don’t hesitate to call (800) 966-4354 or email us at fundsinfo@hennessyfunds.com.
 
Best regards,
 
 
Neil J. Hennessy
President and Chief Investment Officer
 
 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500® Index are commonly used to measure the performance of U.S. stocks. The S&P 500® Energy Sector Index is an index that comprises those companies included in the S&P 500 that are classified as members of the GICS energy sector. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 










HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
3

Performance Overview (Unaudited)
 
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR PERIODS ENDED APRIL 30, 2020
 
 
Six
One
Five
Ten
 
Months(1)
Year
Years
Years
Hennessy Total Return
       
  Fund (HDOGX)
-8.65%
-7.58%
4.52%
  7.47%
75/25 Blended DJIA/Treasury Index
-6.12%
-3.66%
7.27%
  8.52%
Dow Jones Industrial Average
-8.87%
-6.16%
9.06%
11.01%

Expense ratio:  2.32%
 
(1)
Periods of less than one year are not annualized.

 

 

 

 

_______________
 
Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance table does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com.
 
The 75/25 Blended DJIA/Treasury Index consists of 75% common stocks represented by the Dow Jones Industrial Average and 25% short-duration Treasury securities represented by the ICE BofAML 3-Month U.S. Treasury Bill Index, which comprises U.S. Treasury securities maturing in three months. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the NYSE or The NASDAQ Stock Market. One cannot invest directly in an index. These indices are used herein for comparative purposes in accordance with SEC regulations.
 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average is the property of the Dow Jones & Company, Inc. Dow Jones & Company, Inc. is not affiliated with the Fund or its investment advisor. Dow Jones & Company, Inc. has not participated in any way in the creation of the Fund or in the selection of stocks included in the Fund and has not approved any information included in this report.
 
The expense ratio presented is from the most recent prospectus. The expense ratio for the current reporting period is available in the Financial Highlights section of this report.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
4


 PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Financial Statements
 
 Schedule of Investments as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

HENNESSY TOTAL RETURN FUND
(% of Net Assets)

 

 
TOP TEN HOLDINGS (EXCLUDING MONEY MARKET FUNDS)
% NET ASSETS
U.S. Treasury Bill, 0.280%, 07/16/2020
36.42%
U.S. Treasury Bill, 0.080%, 05/14/2020
20.80%
U.S. Treasury Bill, 0.115%, 06/18/2020
10.41%
Pfizer, Inc.
  8.20%
Verizon Communications, Inc.
  7.99%
International Business Machines Corp.
  7.41%
Chevron Corp.
  7.18%
3M Co.
  7.14%
Cisco Systems, Inc.
  6.49%
Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.
  6.41%

 
Note: For presentation purposes, the Fund has grouped some of the industry categories. For purposes of categorizing securities for compliance with Section 8(b)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Fund uses more specific industry classifications.
 
The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) was developed by and is the exclusive property and a service mark of MSCI, Inc. and Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC. It has been licensed for use by the Hennessy Funds.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
5


COMMON STOCKS – 72.01%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Communication Services – 7.99%
                 
Verizon Communications, Inc.
   
80,200
   
$
4,607,490
     
7.99
%
 
                       
Consumer Staples – 12.79%
                       
The Coca-Cola Co.
   
80,200
     
3,680,378
     
6.38
%
Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.
   
85,300
     
3,692,637
     
6.41
%
 
           
7,373,015
     
12.79
%
                         
Energy – 13.56%
                       
Chevron Corp.
   
45,000
     
4,140,000
     
7.18
%
Exxon Mobil Corp.
   
79,200
     
3,680,424
     
6.38
%
 
           
7,820,424
     
13.56
%
                         
Health Care – 9.32%
                       
Johnson & Johnson
   
4,300
     
645,172
     
1.12
%
Pfizer, Inc.
   
123,300
     
4,729,788
     
8.20
%
 
           
5,374,960
     
9.32
%
                         
Industrials – 8.11%
                       
3M Co.
   
27,100
     
4,117,032
     
7.14
%
Caterpillar, Inc.
   
4,800
     
558,624
     
0.97
%
 
           
4,675,656
     
8.11
%
                         
Information Technology – 13.90%
                       
Cisco Systems, Inc.
   
88,300
     
3,742,154
     
6.49
%
International Business Machines Corp.
   
34,000
     
4,269,040
     
7.41
%
 
           
8,011,194
     
13.90
%
                         
Materials – 6.34%
                       
Dow, Inc.
   
99,600
     
3,654,324
     
6.34
%
 
                       
Total Common Stocks
                       
  (Cost $43,417,214)
           
41,517,063
     
72.01
%


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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
6

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 68.74%
 
Number of Shares/
         
% of
 
 
 
Par Amount
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Money Market Funds – 1.11%
                 
First American Government Obligations Fund,
                 
  Institutional Class, 0.25% (a)
   
641,482
   
$
641,482
     
1.11
%
 
                       
U.S. Treasury Bills – 67.63%
                       
0.080%, 05/14/2020 (b)(c)
   
12,000,000
     
11,993,392
     
20.80
%
0.115%, 06/18/2020 (b)(c)
   
6,000,000
     
6,000,000
     
10.41
%
0.280%, 07/16/2020 (b)(c)
   
21,000,000
     
20,996,176
     
36.42
%
 
           
38,989,568
     
67.63
%
Total Short-Term Investments
                       
  (Cost $39,629,554)
           
39,631,050
     
68.74
%
 
                       
Total Investments
                       
  (Cost $83,046,768) – 140.75%
           
81,148,113
     
140.75
%
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets – (40.75)%
           
(23,494,553
)
   
(40.75
)%
 
                       
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
         
$
57,653,560
     
100.00
%

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

(a)
The rate listed is the fund’s seven-day yield as of April 30, 2020.
(b)
The rate listed is the discount rate at issue.
(c)
All or a portion of this security is pledged as collateral for securities sold subject to repurchase. The aggregate fair value of the collateral is $25,993,044.


Summary of Fair Value Exposure as of April 30, 2020
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s net assets as of April 30, 2020 (see Note 3 in the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements):
 
Common Stocks
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Communication Services
 
$
4,607,490
   
$
   
$
   
$
4,607,490
 
Consumer Staples
   
7,373,015
     
     
     
7,373,015
 
Energy
   
7,820,424
     
     
     
7,820,424
 
Health Care
   
5,374,960
     
     
     
5,374,960
 
Industrials
   
4,675,656
     
     
     
4,675,656
 
Information Technology
   
8,011,194
     
     
     
8,011,194
 
Materials
   
3,654,324
     
     
     
3,654,324
 
Total Common Stocks
 
$
41,517,063
   
$
   
$
   
$
41,517,063
 
Short-Term Investments
                               
Money Market Funds
 
$
641,482
   
$
   
$
   
$
641,482
 
U.S. Treasury Bills
   
     
38,989,568
     
     
38,989,568
 
Total Short-Term Investments
 
$
641,482
   
$
38,989,568
   
$
   
$
39,631,050
 
Total Investments
 
$
42,158,545
   
$
38,989,568
   
$
   
$
81,148,113
 


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
7

Schedule of Reverse Repurchase Agreements
 
         
Principal
Maturity
 
Maturity
 
 
Face Value
 
Counterparty
Rate
Trade Date
Date
 
Amount
 
 
$
7,196,000
 
Jefferies LLC
1.80%
02/13/20
05/14/20
 
$
7,228,382
 
   
3,598,000
 
Jefferies LLC
0.70%
03/19/20
06/18/20
   
3,604,297
 
   
12,593,000
 
Jefferies LLC
0.35%
04/16/20
07/16/20
   
12,604,019
 
 
$
23,387,000
              
$
23,436,698
 

As of April 30, 2020, the fair value of securities held as collateral for reverse repurchase agreements was $25,993,044, as noted on the Schedule of Investments.
 
Reverse repurchase agreements are not included in the fair value hierarchy because they are carried at face value. Due to the short-term nature of the reverse repurchase agreements, face value approximates fair value. The face value of the reverse repurchase agreements as of April 30, 2020, was $23,387,000. The face value plus interest due at maturity is equal to $23,436,698.
 









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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
8


 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS/STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Financial Statements

 Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments in securities, at value (cost $83,046,768)
 
$
81,148,113
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
54,562
 
Receivable for fund shares sold
   
151
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
10,583
 
Total assets
   
81,213,409
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable for fund shares redeemed
   
8,766
 
Payable to advisor
   
27,554
 
Payable to administrator
   
11,343
 
Payable to auditor
   
11,373
 
Accrued distribution fees
   
58,605
 
Accrued service fees
   
4,592
 
Reverse repurchase agreements
   
23,387,000
 
Accrued interest payable
   
32,357
 
Accrued trustees fees
   
6,246
 
Accrued expenses and other payables
   
12,013
 
Total liabilities
   
23,559,849
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
57,653,560
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSISTS OF:
       
Capital stock
 
$
55,362,389
 
Total distributable earnings
   
2,291,171
 
Total net assets
 
$
57,653,560
 
         
NET ASSETS:
       
Investor Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
57,653,560
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
4,569,034
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
12.62
 


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
9

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Operations for the six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Dividend income
 
$
928,826
 
Interest income
   
339,383
 
Total investment income
   
1,268,209
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Interest expense (See Notes 7 and 9)
   
251,216
 
Investment advisory fees (See Note 5)
   
193,074
 
Distribution fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
48,268
 
Administration, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees (See Note 5)
   
38,006
 
Service fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
32,179
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
27,982
 
Compliance expense (See Note 5)
   
13,462
 
Federal and state registration fees
   
12,817
 
Audit fees
   
11,375
 
Trustees’ fees and expenses
   
8,559
 
Reports to shareholders
   
6,008
 
Legal fees
   
366
 
Other expenses
   
4,371
 
Total expenses
   
647,683
 
NET INVESTMENT INCOME
 
$
620,526
 
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
       
Net realized gain on investments
 
$
4,463,183
 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(10,859,112
)
Net loss on investments
   
(6,395,929
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(5,775,403
)


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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
10

 STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS/STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

Financial Statements
 
 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
April 30, 2020
   
Year Ended
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
October 31, 2019
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment income
 
$
620,526
   
$
1,326,399
 
Net realized gain (loss) on investments
   
4,463,183
     
(174,948
)
Net change in unrealized
               
  appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(10,859,112
)
   
4,513,627
 
Net increase (decrease) in net assets
               
  resulting from operations
   
(5,775,403
)
   
5,665,078
 
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
Distributable earnings – Investor Class
   
(685,864
)
   
(3,434,351
)
Total distributions
   
(685,864
)
   
(3,434,351
)
                 
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
               
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Investor Class
   
872,039
     
20,299,985
 
Dividends reinvested – Investor Class
   
649,975
     
3,277,777
 
Cost of shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(10,348,466
)
   
(24,470,559
)
Net decrease in net assets derived
               
  from capital share transactions
   
(8,826,452
)
   
(892,797
)
TOTAL INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS
   
(15,287,719
)
   
1,337,930
 
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
72,941,279
     
71,603,349
 
End of period
 
$
57,653,560
   
$
72,941,279
 
                 
CHANGES IN SHARES OUTSTANDING:
               
Shares sold – Investor Class
   
65,479
     
1,488,984
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Investor Class
   
52,678
     
242,975
 
Shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(767,367
)
   
(1,788,558
)
Net decrease in shares outstanding
   
(649,210
)
   
(56,599
)


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
11

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Cash Flows for the six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
Cash flows from operating activities:
     
Net decrease in net assets from operations
 
$
(5,775,403
)
Adjustments to reconcile net increase in net assets resulting from
       
  operations to net cash used in operating activities:
       
Payments to purchase securities
   
(15,370,436
)
Proceeds from sale of securities
   
19,582,452
 
Proceeds from securities litigation
   
295
 
Net sale of short term investments
   
10,508,656
 
Realized gain on investments in securities
   
(4,463,183
)
Net accretion of discount on securities
   
(331,457
)
Change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation
       
  on investments in securities
   
10,859,112
 
Decreases in operating assets:
       
Decrease in dividends and interest receivable
   
33,889
 
Decrease in prepaid expenses and other assets
   
5,219
 
Decreases in operating liabilities:
       
Decrease in payable to advisor
   
(9,612
)
Decrease in payable to administrator
   
(3,947
)
Decrease in payable for distribution fees
   
(2,047
)
Decrease in payable for service fees
   
(1,602
)
Decrease in accrued interest payable
   
(45,265
)
Decrease in accrued audit fees
   
(11,175
)
Decrease in accrued trustee fees
   
(356
)
Decrease in other accrued expenses and payables
   
(7,322
)
Net cash provided by operating securities
   
14,967,818
 
         
Cash flows from financing activities:
       
Decrease in reverse repurchase agreements
   
(5,397,000
)
Proceeds on shares sold
   
872,148
 
Payment on shares redeemed
   
(10,407,077
)
Distributions paid in cash, net of reinvestments
   
(35,889
)
Net cash provided by financing activities
   
(14,967,818
)
Net increase in cash
   
 
         
Cash:
       
Beginning balance
   
 
Ending balance
 
$
 
         
Supplemental information:
       
Non-cash financing activities not included herein, consisting
       
  of dividend reinvestment of dividends and distributions
 
$
649,975
 
         
Cash paid for interest
 
$
296,481
 


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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
12

 STATEMENT OF CASH FLOWS









(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 










HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
13

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Investor Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
13.98
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income
   
0.13
(1) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(1.34
)
Total from investment operations
   
(1.21
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.15
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
 
Total distributions
   
(0.15
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
12.62
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-8.65
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
57.65
 
Ratio of expenses, including interest expense, to average net assets
   
2.01
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets
   
1.93
%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate
   
34
%(2)









 
(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
14


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INVESTOR CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
13.57
   
$
14.66
   
$
13.84
   
$
14.19
   
$
15.27
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.24
(1) 
   
0.23
     
0.20
     
0.16
     
0.20
 
 
0.81
     
0.43
     
1.48
     
0.88
     
(0.02
)
 
1.05
     
0.66
     
1.68
     
1.04
     
0.18
 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.24
)
   
(0.23
)
   
(0.20
)
   
(0.16
)
   
(0.20
)
 
(0.40
)
   
(1.52
)
   
(0.66
)
   
(1.23
)
   
(1.06
)
 
(0.64
)
   
(1.75
)
   
(0.86
)
   
(1.39
)
   
(1.26
)
$
13.98
   
$
13.57
   
$
14.66
   
$
13.84
   
$
14.19
 
                                     
 
7.93
%
   
4.92
%
   
12.56
%
   
8.20
%
   
1.22
%
                                     
                                     
$
72.94
   
$
71.60
   
$
77.75
   
$
83.87
   
$
69.42
 
 
2.31
%
   
1.95
%
   
1.57
%
   
1.44
%
   
1.28
%
 
1.74
%
   
1.67
%
   
1.38
%
   
1.22
%
   
1.40
%
 
30
%
   
10
%
   
36
%
   
44
%
   
27
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
15

Financial Statements
 
 Notes to the Financial Statements April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

1).  ORGANIZATION
 
The Hennessy Total Return Fund (the “Fund”) is a series of Hennessy Funds Trust (the “Trust”), which was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 17, 1992. The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The investment objective of the Fund is total return, consisting of capital appreciation and current income. The Fund is a non-diversified fund and offers Investor Class shares.
 
As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies.”
 
2).  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of the financial statements. These policies conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
 
a).
Securities Valuation – All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value, as described in Note 3.
   
b).
Federal Income Taxes – No provision for federal income taxes or excise taxes has been made because the Fund has elected to be taxed as a regulated investment company and intends to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders and otherwise comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies. Net investment income/loss and realized gains/losses for federal income tax purposes may differ from those reported in the financial statements because of temporary book and tax basis differences. Temporary differences are primarily the result of the treatment of wash sales for tax reporting purposes. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax benefits, if any, in the Statement of Operations as an income tax expense. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income to shareholders for tax purposes. The Fund may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes.
   
c).
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – The Fund has accounting policies regarding recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The tax returns of the Fund for the prior three fiscal years are open for examination. The Fund has reviewed all open tax years in major jurisdictions and concluded that there is no impact on the Fund’s net assets and no tax liability resulting from unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain income tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The Fund’s major tax jurisdictions are U.S. federal and Delaware.
   
d).
Income and Expenses – Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date or as soon as information is available to the Fund. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recognized on an accrual basis.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
16


 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received. The Fund is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to its portfolio, such as advisory, administration, and certain shareholder service fees.
   
e).
Distributions to Shareholders – Dividends from net investment income for the Fund, if any, are declared and paid at the end of each calendar quarter. Distributions of net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December.
   
f).
Security Transactions – Investment and shareholder transactions are recorded on the trade date. The Fund determines the realized gain/loss from an investment transaction by comparing the original cost of the security lot sold with the net sale proceeds. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted or amortized, respectively, over the life of each such security.
   
g).
Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported change in net assets during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
h).
Share Valuation – The net asset value (“NAV”) per share of the Fund is calculated by dividing (i) the total value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by (ii) the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest $0.01. The Fund’s shares will not be priced on days the New York Stock Exchange is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for the Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.
   
i).
Derivatives – The Fund may invest in derivatives such as options, futures contracts, options on futures contracts, and swaps, for a variety of reasons, including to hedge certain risks, provide a substitute for purchasing or selling particular securities, or increase potential income gain. Derivatives are financial contracts based on an underlying or notional amount, require no initial investment or an initial net investment that is smaller than would normally be required to have a similar response to changes in market factors, and require or permit net settlement. Derivatives may allow the Fund to increase or decrease its level of risk more quickly and efficiently than transactions in other types of instruments. The main reason for utilizing derivative instruments is for hedging purposes.

 
The Fund follows the financial accounting reporting rules as required by the Derivatives and Hedging Topic of the FASB Accounting Standards Codification. Under such rules, the Fund is required to include enhanced disclosure that enables investors to understand how and why an entity uses derivatives, how derivatives are accounted for, and how derivatives instruments affect an entity’s results of operations and financial position. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not hold any derivative instruments.

j).
Repurchase and Reverse Repurchase Agreements – The Fund may enter into repurchase agreements and reverse repurchase agreements with member banks or security dealers of the Federal Reserve Board whom the investment advisor deems creditworthy. Transactions involving repurchase agreements and reverse repurchase agreements are treated as collateralized financing transactions and are recorded at their contracted resell or repurchase amounts, which approximates fair value. Interest on repurchase agreements and reverse repurchase agreements is included in interest receivable and interest payable, respectively.


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
17


 
In connection with repurchase agreements, securities pledged as collateral are held by the custodian bank until the respective agreements mature. Provisions of the repurchase agreements ensure that the market value of the collateral, including accrued interest thereon, is sufficient to cover the repurchase amount in the event of default of the counterparty. If the counterparty defaults and the fair value of the collateral declines, or if the counterparty enters an insolvency proceeding, realization of the collateral by the Fund may be delayed or limited.
   
 
As of April 30, 2020, securities with a fair value of $25,993,044, which are included in investments in securities in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, were pledged to collateralize reverse repurchase agreements.

k).
Offsetting Assets and Liabilities – The Fund follows the financial reporting rules regarding offsetting assets and liabilities and related netting arrangements to enable users of its financial statements to understand the effect of those arrangements on its financial position. Reverse repurchase transactions are entered into by the Fund under Master Repurchase Agreements (“MRAs”) that permit the Fund, under certain circumstances, including an event of default (such as bankruptcy or insolvency), to offset payables under the MRA with collateral held with the counterparty and create one single net payment from the Fund. Upon a bankruptcy or insolvency of the MRA counterparty, the Fund is considered an unsecured creditor with respect to excess collateral and, as such, the return of excess collateral may be delayed. In the event the buyer of securities under an MRA files for bankruptcy or becomes insolvent, the Fund’s use of the proceeds of the MRA may be restricted while the other party, or its trustee or receiver, determines whether or not to enforce the Fund’s obligation to repurchase the securities. For additional information regarding the offsetting of assets and liabilities as of April 30, 2020, please refer to the table in Note 9.
 
3).  SECURITIES VALUATION
 
The Fund follows fair value accounting standards that establish an authoritative definition of fair value and set out a hierarchy for measuring fair value. These standards require additional disclosures about the various inputs and valuation techniques used to develop the measurements of fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs during the period. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
 
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments that the Fund has the ability to access at the date of measurement.
     
 
Level 2 –
Other significant observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar instruments, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets, such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk curves, default rates, and similar data).
     
 
Level 3 –
Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability based on the best available information) when observable inputs are unavailable.

The following is a description of the valuation techniques applied to the Fund’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
Equity Securities – Equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, exchange-traded funds, closed-end mutual funds, partnerships, rights, and real estate investment trusts, that are traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
18

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
sales price is readily available will generally be valued at the last sales price as reported by the primary exchange on which the securities are listed. Securities listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) will generally be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may differ from the last sales price reported. Securities traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is not readily available will generally be valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Registered Investment Companies – Investments in open-end registered investment companies, commonly referred to as mutual funds, generally are priced at the ending NAV provided by the applicable mutual fund’s service agent and will be classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Debt Securities – Debt securities, including corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and U.S. government agency issues, are generally valued at market on the basis of valuations furnished by an independent pricing service that utilizes both dealer-supplied valuations and formula-based techniques. The pricing service may consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, and fundamental data relating to the issuer. In addition, the model may incorporate observable market data, such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued primarily using dealer quotations. These securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Short-Term Securities – Short-term equity investments, including money market funds, are valued in the manner specified above. Short-term debt investments with an original term to maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value. If the original term to maturity of a short-term debt investment exceeded 60 days, then the values as of the 61st day prior to maturity are amortized. Amortized cost is not used if its use would be inappropriate due to credit or other impairments of the issuer, in which case the security’s fair value would be determined, as described below. Short-term securities are generally classified in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the inputs used and market activity levels for specific securities.

The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board”) has adopted fair value pricing procedures that are followed when a price for a security is not readily available or if a significant event has occurred that indicates the closing price of a security no longer represents the true value of that security. Fair value pricing determinations are made in good faith in accordance with these procedures. There are numerous criteria that will be given consideration in determining a fair value of a security, such as the trading volume of a security and markets, the values of other similar securities, and news events with direct bearing on a security or markets. Fair value pricing results in an estimated price for a security that reflects the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive in a current sale. Depending on the relative significance of the valuation inputs, these securities may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
The Board has delegated day-to-day valuation matters to the Valuation and Liquidity Committee comprising representatives from Hennessy Advisors, Inc., the Fund’s investment advisor (the “Advisor”). The function of the Valuation and Liquidity Committee is to value securities where current and reliable market quotations are not readily available. All actions taken by the Valuation and Liquidity Committee are reviewed by the Board.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
19


The Fund has performed an analysis of all existing investments to determine the significance and character of all inputs to their fair value determinations. Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Fund’s investments. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. Details related to the fair value hierarchy of the Fund’s securities as of April 30, 2020, are included in the Schedule of Investments.
 
4).  INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding government and short-term investments) for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $15,370,436 and $19,582,452, respectively.
 
There were no purchases or sales/maturities of long-term U.S. government securities for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Fund is permitted to purchase or sell securities from or to another fund in the Hennessy Funds family of funds (collectively, the “Hennessy Funds”) under specified conditions outlined in procedures adopted by the Board. The procedures have been designed to ensure that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Hennessy Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not engage in purchases or sales of securities pursuant to Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
 
5).  INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
The Advisor provides the Fund with investment advisory services under an Investment Advisory Agreement. The Advisor furnishes all investment advice, office space, and facilities and most of the personnel needed by the Fund. As compensation for its services, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee from the Fund. The fee is based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate of 0.60%. The net investment advisory fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Board has approved a Shareholder Servicing Agreement for the Fund, which was instituted to compensate the Advisor for the non-investment advisory services it provides to the Fund. The Shareholder Servicing Agreement provides for a monthly fee paid to the Advisor at an annual rate of 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund. The shareholder service fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has adopted a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that authorizes payments in connection with the distribution of the Fund’s shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. Even though the authorized rate is up to 0.25%, the Fund is currently only using up to 0.15% of its average daily net assets for such purpose. Amounts paid under the plan may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares, including, but not limited to, advertising, shareholder account servicing, printing and mailing of prospectuses to other than current shareholders, printing and mailing of sales literature, and compensation for sales and marketing activities or to financial institutions and others, such as dealers and distributors. The distribution fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into agreements with various brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries in connection with the sale of shares of the Fund. The agreements provide for periodic payments of sub-transfer agent expenses by the Fund to the brokers, dealers,

 
 
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 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

and financial intermediaries for providing certain shareholder maintenance services. These shareholder services include the pre-processing and quality control of new accounts, shareholder correspondence, answering customer inquiries regarding account status, and facilitating shareholder telephone transactions. The sub-transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (“Fund Services”) provides the Fund with administrative, accounting, and transfer agent services. As administrator, Fund Services is responsible for activities such as (i) preparing various federal and state regulatory filings, reports, and returns for the Fund, (ii) preparing reports and materials to be supplied to the Board, (iii) monitoring the activities of the Fund’s custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, and (iv) coordinating the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviewing the Fund’s expense accruals. U.S. Bank N.A., an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Fund’s custodian. The servicing agreements between the Trust and Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. contain a fee schedule that is inclusive of administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. The administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
Quasar Distributors, LLC (“Quasar”) acts as the Fund’s principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Fund’s shares. Quasar was an affiliate of Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. through March 30, 2020. Effective March 31, 2020, Foreside Financial Group, LLC (“Foreside”) acquired Quasar from Fund Services. As a result of the acquisition, Quasar became a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of Foreside and is no longer affiliated with Fund Services or U.S. Bank N.A. The Board approved a new Distribution Agreement to enable Quasar to continue serving as the Fund’s distributor.
 
The officers of the Fund are affiliated with the Advisor. With the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer and the Senior Compliance Officer, such officers receive no compensation from the Fund for serving in their respective roles. The Fund, along with the other Hennessy Funds, makes reimbursement payments on an equal basis to the Advisor for a portion of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Chief Compliance Officer and for all of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Senior Compliance Officer. The compliance fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
6).  GUARANTEES AND INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Hennessy Funds’ organizational documents, their officers and trustees are indemnified by the Hennessy Funds against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Hennessy Funds. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Hennessy Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Fund expects the risk of loss to be remote.
 
7).  LINE OF CREDIT
 
The Fund has an uncommitted line of credit with the other Hennessy Funds in the amount of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 or (ii) 33.33% of each Hennessy Fund’s net assets, or 30% for the Hennessy Gas Utility Fund and 10% for the Hennessy Balanced Fund, intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The credit facility is with the Hennessy Funds’ custodian bank, U.S. Bank N.A. Borrowings under this arrangement bear
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
21


interest at the bank’s prime rate and are secured by all of the Fund’s assets (as to its own borrowings only). During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund had an outstanding average daily balance and a weighted average interest rate of $3,984 and 4.75%, respectively. The interest expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, is included in the Statement of Operations. The maximum amount outstanding for the Fund during the period was $417,000. As of April 30, 2020, the Fund did not have any borrowings outstanding under the line of credit.
 
8).  FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund’s most recent fiscal year end, the components of accumulated earnings (losses) for income tax purposes were as follows:
 
     
Investments
 
 
Cost of investments for tax purposes
 
$
93,073,817
 
 
Gross tax unrealized appreciation
 
$
10,143,856
 
 
Gross tax unrealized depreciation
   
(1,284,121
)
 
Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)
 
$
8,859,735
 
 
Undistributed ordinary income
 
$
96,178
 
 
Undistributed long-term capital gains
   
 
 
Total distributable earnings
 
$
96,178
 
 
Other accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
(203,475
)
 
Total accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
8,752,438
 

The difference between book-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation (as shown above) is attributable primarily to wash sales.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund had capital loss carryforwards as follows:
 
 
$203,475
Unlimited Short-Term

As of October 31, 2019, the Fund did not defer, on a tax basis, any late-year ordinary losses. Late-year ordinary losses are net ordinary losses incurred after December 31, 2018, but within the taxable year, that are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year.
 
During fiscal year 2020 (year to date) and fiscal year 2019, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund was as follows:
 
     
Six Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
     
April 30, 2020
   
October 31, 2019
 
 
Ordinary income(1)
 
$
685,864
   
$
1,318,071
 
 
Long-term capital gain
   
     
2,116,280
 
     
$
685,864
   
$
3,434,351
 

 
(1)  Ordinary income includes short-term capital gain.
 
9).  REVERSE REPURCHASE AGREEMENTS
 
The Fund may enter into reverse repurchase agreements with the same parties with which it may enter into repurchase agreements. Under a reverse repurchase agreement, the Fund sells securities and agrees to repurchase them at a mutually agreed date and price. Reverse repurchase agreements are regarded as a form of secured borrowing by the Fund. Securities sold under reverse repurchase agreements are reflected as a liability in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities. Interest payments made under reverse repurchase agreements during the six months ended April 30, 2020, totaled $251,120 and are recorded as a component of interest expense in the Statement of Operations.
 
 
 
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 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the average daily balance and average interest rate in effect for reverse repurchase agreements were $26,599,500 and 1.85%, respectively. Below is information about the scheduled maturity date, amount, and interest rate for outstanding reverse repurchase agreements as of April 30, 2020:
 
 
Maturity Date
Amount
Interest Rate
 
 
May 14, 2020
$  7,196,000
1.80%
 
 
June 18, 2020
$  3,598,000
0.70%
 
 
July 16, 2020
$12,593,000
0.35%
 

Outstanding reverse repurchase agreements as of April 30, 2020, comprised 40.56% of the Fund’s net assets.
 
Below is information about reverse repurchase agreements eligible for offset in the Statement of Assets and Liabilities, on both a gross and net basis:
 
       
Gross
   
Net
   
Gross Amounts Not
Offset in the Statement
of Assets and Liabilities
       
       
Amounts
   
Amounts
           
       
Offset
   
Presented
           
 
Gross
   
in the
   
in the
           
 
Amounts of
   
Statement of
   
Statement of
         
Collateral
       
 
Recognized
   
Assets and
   
Assets and
   
Financial
   
Pledged
   
Net
 
 
Liabilities
   
Liabilities
   
Liabilities
   
Instruments
   
(Received)
   
Amount
 
 
$
23,387,000
   
$
   
$
23,387,000
   
$
23,387,000
   
$
   
$
 
 
$
23,387,000
   
$
   
$
23,387,000
   
$
23,387,000
   
$
   
$
 

For additional information, please refer to the “Offsetting Assets and Liabilities” section in Note 2.
 
10).  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO PERIOD END
 
Management has evaluated the Fund’s related events and transactions that occurred subsequent to April 30, 2020, through the date of issuance of the Fund’s financial statements. Management has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.
 






HENNESSY FUNDS
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Expense Example (Unaudited)
April 30, 2020


As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur ongoing costs, including management fees, service fees, and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from November 1, 2019, through April 30, 2020.
 
Actual Expenses
The first line of the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. Although the Fund charges no sales loads or transaction fees, you will be assessed fees for outgoing wire transfers, returned checks and stop payment orders at prevailing rates charged by U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, the Fund’s transfer agent. If you request that a redemption be made by wire transfer, currently a $15 fee is charged by the Fund’s transfer agent. IRA accounts will be charged a $15 annual maintenance fee. The example below includes, but is not limited to, management fees, shareholder servicing fees, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. However, the example below does not include portfolio trading commissions and related expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line of the table under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line of the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only. Therefore, the second line of the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
 
 
Beginning
Ending
 
 
Account Value
Account Value
Expenses Paid
 
November 1, 2019
April 30, 2020
During Period(1)
Investor Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   913.50
$  9.56
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,014.87
$10.07
 
(1)
Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio of 2.01%, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 days (to reflect the half-year period).



 
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 EXPENSE EXAMPLE — ELECTRONIC DELIVERY

How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
 
A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge (1) by calling 1-800-966-4354, (2) on the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-policy, or (3) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record is available without charge on both the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-record and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov no later than August 31 for the prior 12 months ending June 30.
 
 
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
 
The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on request by calling 1-800-966-4354.
 
 
Federal Tax Distribution Information (Unaudited)
 
For fiscal year 2019, certain dividends paid by the Fund may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 23.8%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was 100.00%.
 
For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions that qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction for fiscal year 2019 was 100.00%.
 
The percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that were designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Section 871(k)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, for the Fund was 0.00%.
 
 
Important Notice Regarding Delivery
of Shareholder Documents
 
To help keep the Fund’s costs as low as possible, we generally deliver a single copy of shareholder reports, proxy statements, and prospectuses to shareholders who share an address and have the same last name. This process does not apply to account statements. You may request an individual copy of a shareholder document at any time. If you would like to receive separate mailings of shareholder documents, please call U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124, and individual delivery will begin within 30 days of your request. If your account is held through a financial institution or other intermediary, please contact such intermediary directly to request individual delivery.
 
 
Electronic Delivery
 
The Funds offer shareholders the option to receive account statements, prospectuses, tax forms, and shareholder reports online. To sign up for eDelivery, please visit www.hennessyfunds.com/account. You may change your delivery preference at any time by visiting our website or calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
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Board Approval of Investment Advisory
Agreement
 
At its meeting on March 12, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board,” and the members thereof, the “Trustees”) unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement of the Fund with Hennessy Advisors, Inc. (the “Advisor”). As part of the process of approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees reviewed their fiduciary duties and the relevant factors for them to consider with respect to approving the advisory agreement. In addition, the Trustees who are not deemed “interested persons” (as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Fund (the “Independent Trustees”) met in executive session to discuss the approval of the advisory agreement.
 
In advance of the meeting, the Advisor sent detailed information to the Trustees to assist them in their evaluation of the advisory agreement. This information included, but was not limited to, the following:
 
 
(1)
A memorandum from outside legal counsel that described the fiduciary duties of the Board with respect to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement and the relevant factors for consideration;
     
 
(2)
A memorandum from the Advisor that listed the factors relevant to the Board’s approval of the continuation of the advisory agreement and also referenced the documents that had been provided to help the Board assess each such factor;
     
 
(3)
An inventory of the services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(4)
A written discussion of economies of scale;
     
 
(5)
A summary of the key terms of the advisory agreement;
     
 
(6)
A recent Fund fact sheet, which included performance information over various periods;
     
 
(7)
A peer expense comparison of the net expense ratio and investment advisory fee of the Fund; and
     
 
(8)
The Advisor’s financial statements from its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q.

All of the factors discussed were considered as a whole by the Trustees and by the Independent Trustees meeting in executive session. The factors were viewed in their totality by the Trustees, with no single factor being the principal or determinative factor in the Trustees’ determination of whether to approve the continuation of the advisory agreement. The Trustees recognized that the management and fee arrangements for the Fund are the result of years of review and discussion between the Independent Trustees and the Advisor, that certain aspects of such arrangements may receive greater scrutiny in some years than in others, and that the Trustees’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of these same arrangements and information received during the course of the year and in prior years.
 

 

 
 
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 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

Prior to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees in executive session, considered, among other items:
 
 
(1)
The nature and quality of the advisory services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(2)
A comparison of the fees and expenses of the Fund to other similar funds;
     
 
(3)
Whether economies of scale are recognized by the Fund;
     
 
(4)
The costs and profitability of the Fund to the Advisor;
     
 
(5)
The performance of the Fund; and
     
 
(6)
Any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an investment advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee).

The material considerations and determinations of the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, were as follows:
 
 
(1)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Advisor. Based on this review, the Trustees concluded that the Advisor provides high-quality services to the Fund and noted that their overall confidence in the Advisor was high. The Trustees also concluded that they were satisfied with the nature, extent, and quality of the advisory services provided to the Fund by the Advisor and that the nature and extent of the services provided by the Advisor were appropriate to assure that the Fund’s operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

   
(a)
The Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund. In this capacity, the Advisor does the following:

     
(i)
manages the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, including the purchase, retention, and disposition of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions;
         
     
(ii)
seeks best execution for the Fund’s portfolio;
         
     
(iii)
manages the use of soft dollars for the Fund; and
         
     
(iv)
manages proxy voting for the Fund.

   
(b)
The Advisor performs a daily reconciliation of portfolio positions and cash for the Fund.
       
   
(c)
The Advisor monitors the liquidity of each Fund.
       
   
(d)
The Advisor monitors the Fund’s compliance with its investment objectives and restrictions.
       
   
(e)
The Advisor monitors compliance with federal securities laws, maintains a compliance program (including a code of ethics), conducts ongoing reviews of the compliance programs of the Fund’s service providers, as feasible, conducts on-site visits to the Fund’s service providers, monitors incidents of abusive trading practices, reviews Fund expense accruals, payments, and fixed expense ratios, evaluates insurance providers for fidelity bond, D&O/E&O insurance, and cybersecurity insurance coverage, manages regulatory examination compliance and responses, conducts employee compliance training, reviews reports provided by service providers, and maintains books and records.
       
   
(f)
The Advisor oversees service providers that provide accounting, administration, distribution, transfer agency, custodial, sales, marketing, public relations, audit, information technology, and legal services to the Fund.

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
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(g)
The Advisor maintains in-house marketing and distribution departments on behalf of the Fund.
       
   
(h)
The Advisor is actively involved with preparing regulatory filings for the Fund, including writing and annually updating the Fund’s prospectus and related documents.
       
   
(i)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Advisor prepares a written summary of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(j)
The Advisor oversees distribution of the Fund through third-party broker/dealers and independent financial institutions such as Charles Schwab, Inc., Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and Pershing. The Advisor participates in “no transaction fee” (“NTF”) programs with these companies on behalf of the Fund, which allow customers to purchase the Fund through third-party distribution channels without paying a transaction fee. The Advisor compensates, in part, a number of these third-party providers of NTF programs out of its own revenues.
       
   
(k)
The Advisor pays the incentive compensation of the Fund’s compliance officers and employs other staff, such as legal, marketing, national accounts, distribution, sales, administrative, and trading oversight personnel, as well as management executives.
       
   
(l)
The Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board.
       
   
(m)
The Advisor prepares or reviews all Board materials, frequently presents to the Board and leads Board discussions, prepares or reviews all meeting minutes, and arranges for Board training and education.

 
(2)
The Trustees compared the performance of the Fund to benchmark indices over various periods and also noted that the Trustees review and discuss reports comparing the investment performance of the Fund to various indices at each quarterly Board meeting. Based on such information, the Trustees determined that the Advisor manages the Fund in a manner materially consistent with its stated investment objective and style. The Trustees concluded that the performance of the Fund over various periods warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(3)
The Trustees reviewed the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of the Fund compared to other funds similar in asset size and investment objective to the Fund using data from Morningstar. As part of the discussion with management, the Trustees ensured that they understood and were comfortable with the criteria used to determine the mutual funds included in the Morningstar categories for purposes of the materials considered at the meeting. The Trustees determined that the advisory fee and overall expense ratio of the Fund falls within the range of the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of other comparable funds and concluded that they are reasonable and warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(4)
The Trustees also considered whether the Advisor was realizing economies of scale that it should share with the Fund’s shareholders. The Trustees noted that the assets of the Fund had declined over the prior year. In addition, the Trustees noted that many of the expenses incurred to manage the Fund are asset-based fees, so the Advisor does not realize material economies of scale relating to those expenses as the assets of the Fund increase. For example, mutual fund platform

 
 
 
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28

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

   
fees increase as the Fund’s assets grow. The Trustees also considered the Advisor’s efforts to contain expenses through actions such as renegotiating service contracts, the Advisor’s significant marketing efforts to promote the Funds, the Advisor’s investments in personnel to manage the Funds, and the Advisor’s agreement to waive fees or lower its management fees in certain circumstances. The Trustees noted that it did not appear that the Advisor was realizing economies of scale at current asset levels and concluded that it would continue to monitor economies of scale in the future as circumstances changed.
     
 
(5)
The Trustees considered the profitability of the Advisor, including the impact of mutual fund platform fees on the Advisor’s profitability, and also considered the resources and revenues that the Advisor has put into managing and distributing the Fund. The Trustees then concluded that the profits of the Advisor are reasonable and not excessive when compared to profitability guidelines set forth in relevant court cases.
     
 
(6)
The Trustees considered the high level of professionalism and knowledge of the Advisor’s employees, along with a very low level of turnover, and concluded that this was beneficial to the Fund and its shareholders.
     
 
(7)
The Trustees considered any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee). The Trustees noted that the Advisor may derive ancillary benefits from, by way of example, its association with the Fund in the form of proprietary and third-party research products and services received from broker-dealers that execute portfolio trades for the Fund. The Trustees determined that any such products and services have been used for legitimate purposes relating to the Fund by providing assistance in the investment decision-making process. The Trustees concluded that any additional benefits realized by the Advisor from its relationship with the Fund were reasonable, which was based on, among other things, the Trustees’ finding that the research, analytical, statistical, and other information and services provided by brokers are merely supplemental to the Advisor’s own efforts in the performance of its duties under the advisory agreement.

After reviewing the materials and information provided at the meeting, as well as other information regularly provided at the Board’s quarterly meetings throughout the year regarding the quality of services provided by the Advisor, the performance of the Fund, expense information, brokerage commissions information, the adequacy and efficacy of the Advisor’s written policies and procedures, other regulatory compliance issues, trading information and related matters, and other factors that the Trustees deemed relevant, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the advisory agreement.
 



HENNESSY FUNDS
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29


For information, questions, or assistance, please call
The Hennessy Funds
1-800-966-4354 or 1-415-899-1555


INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
7250 Redwood Boulevard, Suite 200
Novato, California 94945

ADMINISTRATOR,
TRANSFER AGENT,
DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, &
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0701

CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

TRUSTEES
Neil J. Hennessy
Robert T. Doyle
J. Dennis DeSousa
Gerald P. Richardson

COUNSEL
Foley & Lardner LLP
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-5306

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
Two Liberty Place
50 South 16th Street, Suite 2900
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-2529

DISTRIBUTOR
Quasar Distributors, LLC
111 East Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 2200
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202




www.hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354

This report has been prepared for shareholders and may be distributed to
others only if preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.




SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

APRIL 30, 2020




HENNESSY EQUITY AND INCOME FUND
Investor Class  HEIFX
Institutional Class  HEIIX


IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
 
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the annual and semi-annual reports will no longer be sent by mail unless you specifically request paper copies from the Hennessy Funds 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 have already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Hennessy Funds electronically by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com/account or by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950. If you own shares in a Fund through a financial intermediary, please contact your financial intermediary to make this election.
 
You may elect to receive paper copies of all future reports free of charge by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or, if you own your shares through a financial intermediary, by contacting your financial intermediary. Your election to receive paper copies of reports will apply to all Funds in the Hennessy Funds family.
 


hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354









(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 










Contents
 

 
Letter to Shareholders
2
Performance Overview
4
Financial Statements
 
Schedule of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
16
Statement of Operations
17
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
19
Financial Highlights
20
Notes to the Financial Statements
24
Expense Example
32
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
34
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
34
Federal Tax Distribution Information
34
Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents
34
Electronic Delivery
34
Board Approval of Investment Advisory Agreements
35







HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 


June 2020
 
Dear Hennessy Funds Shareholder:

 
First and foremost, I hope this communication finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. In many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down in recent months, and we at Hennessy have joined the rest of the world in witnessing and experiencing its profound effect on public health, the global economy, and the everyday lives of people around the world.  In response to the crisis, we invoked our business continuity plan in mid-March to ensure a smooth transition to remote work for all of our employees, who have been working safely and productively from home. We want to assure our Hennessy Funds shareholders that our operations are uninterrupted and functioning normally.
 
The past six months have been marked by extremes. During the first half of the period from November 2019 through January 2020, the bull market, supported by strong corporate fundamentals, continued to move higher, and investors appeared focused on record-low unemployment and strong economic growth. In mid-February, the major U.S. market indices hit all-time highs, but then, within just a matter of weeks, lost over one-third of their values as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded. Shelter-in-place and business closure orders rippled through the nation, causing initial unemployment claims to skyrocket to their highest number in history. The market then rallied back and posted double-digit positive returns in April.
 
For the six months ended April 30, 2020, on a total return basis, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 8.9% and the S&P 500® Index was down 3.2%. Small-cap and mid-cap stocks generally fared worse than large-cap stocks during the period, and the Financial sector was particularly hard hit as the Federal Reserve aggressively cut the federal funds rate in an effort to stabilize the economy. The Energy sector was crushed by both the sudden loss of demand due to COVID-19 and the oversupply caused by the surprise market-share battle between Russia and Saudi Arabia, and the S&P 500® Energy Sector Index ended the six-month period down over 30%.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented event, and the duration and full extent of the economic impact is unknown. In the moment, there is always the concern that ‘this time is different.’ But, when you are able to look at past financial, political, and health crises with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, history has demonstrated that our economy and financial markets have always rebounded and recovered eventually. If you look back to the last market downturn in 2008, economic fundamentals were weak compared to the market in 2020, where the overall underpinnings were – and are still – quite strong.  Publicly listed companies today have plenty of cash, with over $5 trillion on balance sheets of the S&P 500® companies alone, and I believe that most will survive and that many may emerge from the current crisis even stronger.
 

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
2


 LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

We understand that this market volatility and economic uncertainty is jarring to many investors, and we continue to monitor events and the markets. We remain focused on managing our high-conviction portfolios for the long-term benefit of our shareholders, and we are confident in the time-tested strategies and rigorous research that led to their formation. We encourage shareholders to maintain a long-term investment horizon and to remain focused on long-term goals. As always, but especially in these trying times, we are here to support our shareholders, and we thank you for your continued investment and trust. Should you have any questions or would like to speak with us directly, please don’t hesitate to call (800) 966-4354 or email us at fundsinfo@hennessyfunds.com.
 
Best regards,
 
 
Neil J. Hennessy
President and Chief Investment Officer
 
 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500® Index are commonly used to measure the performance of U.S. stocks. The S&P 500® Energy Sector Index is an index that comprises those companies included in the S&P 500 that are classified as members of the GICS energy sector. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 







HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
3

Performance Overview (Unaudited)
 
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR PERIODS ENDED APRIL 30, 2020
 
 
Six
One
Five
Ten
 
Months(1)
Year
Years
Years
Hennessy Equity and Income Fund –
       
  Investor Class (HEIFX)
-5.70%
-3.79%
3.43%
  6.83%
Hennessy Equity and Income Fund –
       
  Institutional Class (HEIIX)
-5.52%
-3.49%
3.83%
  7.17%
Blended Balanced Index
 0.05%
 4.38%
6.95%
  8.48%
S&P 500® Index
-3.16%
 0.86%
9.12%
11.69%

Expense ratios:  1.55% (Investor Class); 1.18% (Institutional Class)
 
(1)
Periods of less than one year are not annualized.

 

 

 

 

 
_______________
 
Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance table does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com. Performance for the period on or prior to October 26, 2012, is that of the FBR Balanced Fund.
 
The Blended Balanced Index consists of 60% common stocks represented by the S&P 500® Index and 40% bonds represented by the Bloomberg Barclays Intermediate U.S. Government/Credit Index, which measures the performance of U.S. dollar denominated Treasury securities and government-related and investment-grade corporate securities that have $250 million or more of outstanding face value, are fixed rate and non-convertible, and have remaining maturities of greater than or equal to one year and less than 10 years. The S&P 500® Index is a capitalization-weighted index that is designed to represent the broad domestic economy through changes in the aggregate market value of 500 stocks across all major industries. One cannot invest directly in an index. These indices are used herein for comparative purposes in accordance with SEC regulations.
 
Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC is the source and owner of the S&P® and S&P 500® trademarks.
 
The expense ratios presented are from the most recent prospectus. The expense ratios for the current reporting period are available in the Financial Highlights section of this report.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
4

 PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Financial Statements

 Schedule of Investments as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

HENNESSY EQUITY AND INCOME FUND
(% of Net Assets)

 

 
TOP TEN HOLDINGS (EXCLUDING MONEY MARKET FUNDS)
% NET ASSETS
Apple, Inc.
4.84%
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B
3.98%
Alphabet, Inc., Class C
3.29%
Visa, Inc., Class A
2.70%
Nestlé S.A. – ADR
2.40%
Citrix Systems, Inc.
2.32%
Home Depot, Inc.
2.24%
O’Reilly Automotive, Inc.
2.10%
Norfolk Southern Corp.
2.07%
Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
1.99%

 
Note: For presentation purposes, the Fund has grouped some of the industry categories. For purposes of categorizing securities for compliance with Section 8(b)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Fund uses more specific industry classifications.
 
The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) was developed by and is the exclusive property and a service mark of MSCI, Inc. and Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC. It has been licensed for use by the Hennessy Funds.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
5


COMMON STOCKS – 56.52%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Communication Services – 6.48%
                 
Alphabet, Inc., Class C (a)
   
2,874
   
$
3,876,049
     
3.29
%
Fox Corp.
   
59,859
     
1,548,552
     
1.32
%
Verizon Communications, Inc.
   
38,313
     
2,201,082
     
1.87
%
 
           
7,625,683
     
6.48
%
                         
Consumer Discretionary – 8.46%
                       
CarMax, Inc. (a)
   
31,005
     
2,283,518
     
1.94
%
Dollar Tree, Inc. (a)
   
18,669
     
1,487,359
     
1.26
%
Home Depot, Inc.
   
11,985
     
2,634,663
     
2.24
%
Lowe’s Companies, Inc.
   
10,272
     
1,075,992
     
0.92
%
O’Reilly Automotive, Inc. (a)
   
6,391
     
2,469,099
     
2.10
%
 
           
9,950,631
     
8.46
%
                         
Consumer Staples – 4.23%
                       
Altria Group, Inc.
   
54,868
     
2,153,569
     
1.83
%
Nestlé S.A. – ADR (a)(b)
   
26,872
     
2,824,247
     
2.40
%
 
           
4,977,816
     
4.23
%
                         
Energy – 1.63%
                       
Chevron Corp.
   
18,831
     
1,732,452
     
1.47
%
Enbridge, Inc. (b)
   
1,575
     
48,321
     
0.04
%
Kinder Morgan, Inc.
   
3,300
     
50,259
     
0.04
%
Targa Resources Corp.
   
2,500
     
32,400
     
0.03
%
The Williams Companies, Inc.
   
3,100
     
60,047
     
0.05
%
 
           
1,923,479
     
1.63
%
                         
Financials – 10.13%
                       
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B (a)
   
25,020
     
4,687,747
     
3.98
%
BlackRock, Inc.
   
4,642
     
2,330,470
     
1.98
%
The Charles Schwab Corp.
   
42,288
     
1,595,103
     
1.36
%
The Progressive Corp.
   
27,228
     
2,104,725
     
1.79
%
Wells Fargo & Co.
   
41,424
     
1,203,367
     
1.02
%
 
           
11,921,412
     
10.13
%
                         
Health Care – 2.91%
                       
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co.
   
24,123
     
1,466,920
     
1.25
%
Pfizer, Inc.
   
50,982
     
1,955,669
     
1.66
%
 
           
3,422,589
     
2.91
%
                         
Industrials – 5.74%
                       
FedEx Corp.
   
14,232
     
1,804,191
     
1.53
%
General Dynamics Corp.
   
10,341
     
1,350,741
     
1.15
%
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
6

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
 
COMMON STOCKS
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Industrials (Continued)
                 
Norfolk Southern Corp.
   
14,234
   
$
2,435,437
     
2.07
%
Southwest Airlines Co.
   
37,328
     
1,166,500
     
0.99
%
 
           
6,756,869
     
5.74
%
                         
Information Technology – 11.56%
                       
Apple, Inc.
   
19,392
     
5,697,370
     
4.84
%
Cisco Systems, Inc.
   
47,056
     
1,994,233
     
1.70
%
Citrix Systems, Inc.
   
18,825
     
2,729,813
     
2.32
%
Visa, Inc., Class A
   
17,784
     
3,178,357
     
2.70
%
 
           
13,599,773
     
11.56
%
                         
Materials – 5.38%
                       
Air Products and Chemicals, Inc.
   
10,376
     
2,340,618
     
1.99
%
Martin Marietta Materials, Inc.
   
10,427
     
1,983,528
     
1.69
%
NewMarket Corp.
   
4,872
     
2,004,536
     
1.70
%
 
           
6,328,682
     
5.38
%
Total Common Stocks
                       
  (Cost $54,672,359)
           
66,506,934
     
56.52
%
 
                       
PREFERRED STOCKS – 2.74%
                       
                         
Communication Services – 0.07%
                       
AT&T, Inc., 5.625%, 08/01/2067
   
3,090
     
81,607
     
0.07
%
                         
Consumer Staples – 0.12%
                       
CHS, Inc., Series 4, 7.500%, Perpetual
   
5,280
     
138,917
     
0.12
%
                         
Energy – 0.08%
                       
Enbridge, Inc., Series B, 6.375% to 04/15/2023 then
                       
  3 Month LIBOR USD + 3.593%, 04/15/2078 (b)(f)
   
4,020
     
94,510
     
0.08
%
                         
Financials – 2.47%
                       
American International Group, Inc., Series A, 5.850%, Perpetual
   
2,995
     
77,571
     
0.07
%
Arch Capital Group Ltd., Series F, 5.450%, Perpetual (b)
   
3,465
     
86,348
     
0.07
%
Axis Capital Holdings Ltd., Series E, 5.500%, Perpetual (b)
   
1,845
     
45,424
     
0.04
%
BancorpSouth Bank, Series A, 5.500%, Perpetual
   
1,155
     
29,129
     
0.02
%
Bank of America Corp.
                       
  Series GG, 6.000%, Perpetual
   
2,455
     
66,580
     
0.06
%
  Series CC, 6.200%, Perpetual
   
1,645
     
42,935
     
0.04
%
Capital One Financial Corp.
                       
  Series J, 4.800%, Perpetual
   
1,830
     
40,461
     
0.04
%
  Series I, 5.000%, Perpetual
   
3,650
     
84,680
     
0.07
%
  Series H, 6.000%, Perpetual
   
1,595
     
41,741
     
0.04
%
 

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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
7

PREFERRED STOCKS
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Financials (Continued)
                 
Citigroup, Inc.
                 
  Series K, 6.875% to 11/15/2023 then
                 
    3 Month LIBOR USD + 4.130%, Perpetual (f)
   
1,645
   
$
45,007
     
0.04
%
  Series S, 6.300%, Perpetual
   
2,590
     
66,149
     
0.06
%
Citizens Financial Group, Inc., Series D, 6.350% to 04/06/2024
                       
  then 3 Month LIBOR USD + 3.642%, Perpetual (f)
   
2,075
     
52,788
     
0.04
%
Equitable Holdings, Inc., Series A, 5.250%, Perpetual
   
2,480
     
59,818
     
0.05
%
Fifth Third Bancorp, Series K, 4.950%, Perpetual
   
3,200
     
77,120
     
0.07
%
First Citizens BancShares, Inc., Series A, 5.375%, Perpetual
   
3,470
     
87,409
     
0.07
%
First Republic Bank, Series G, 5.500%, Perpetual
   
2,510
     
64,582
     
0.05
%
Hartford Financial Services Group, Inc., Series G, 6.000%, Perpetual
   
2,940
     
78,469
     
0.07
%
Huntington Bancshares, Inc., Series D, 6.250%, Perpetual
   
4,335
     
111,366
     
0.09
%
IBERIABANK Corp.
                       
  Series D, 6.100% to 05/01/2024 then
                       
    3 Month LIBOR USD + 3.859%, Perpetual (f)
   
1,185
     
25,561
     
0.02
%
  Series B, 6.625% to 08/01/2025 then
                       
    3 Month LIBOR USD + 4.262%, Perpetual (f)
   
1,920
     
46,541
     
0.04
%
JPMorgan Chase & Co., Series GG, 4.750%, Perpetual
   
3,365
     
84,798
     
0.07
%
KeyCorp
                       
  Series F, 5.650%, Perpetual
   
1,455
     
37,277
     
0.03
%
  Series E, 6.125% to 12/15/2026 then
                       
    3 Month LIBOR USD + 3.892%, Perpetual (f)
   
2,995
     
85,118
     
0.07
%
Legg Mason, Inc., 5.450%, 09/15/2056
   
1,570
     
38,575
     
0.03
%
MetLife, Inc., Series E, 5.625%, Perpetual
   
3,165
     
82,923
     
0.07
%
Morgan Stanley, Series I, 6.375% to 10/15/2024 then
                       
  3 Month LIBOR USD + 3.708%, Perpetual (f)
   
5,420
     
145,527
     
0.12
%
Northern Trust Corp., Series E, 4.700%, Perpetual
   
985
     
24,684
     
0.02
%
Prudential Financial, Inc., 5.625%, 08/15/2058
   
1,415
     
37,101
     
0.03
%
Regions Financial Corp.
                       
  Series C, 5.700% to 08/15/2029 then
                       
    3 Month LIBOR USD + 3.148%, Perpetual (f)
   
1,840
     
48,778
     
0.04
%
  Series B, 6.375% to 09/15/2024 then
                       
    3 Month LIBOR USD + 3.536%, Perpetual (f)
   
3,270
     
88,552
     
0.08
%
State Street Corp., Series D, 5.900% to 03/15/2024 then
                       
  3 Month LIBOR USD + 3.108%, Perpetual (f)
   
4,360
     
113,970
     
0.10
%
SVB Financial Group, Series A, 5.250%, Perpetual
   
2,415
     
59,940
     
0.05
%
Synchrony Financial, Series A, 5.625%, Perpetual
   
3,890
     
81,068
     
0.07
%
Synovus Financial Corp.
                       
  Series E, 5.875% to 07/01/2024 then
                       
    5 Year CMT Rate + 4.127%, Perpetual (f)
   
1,615
     
34,771
     
0.03
%
  Series D, 6.300% to 06/21/2023 then
                       
    3 Month LIBOR USD + 3.352%, Perpetual (f)
   
1,520
     
34,580
     
0.03
%
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
8

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
 
PREFERRED STOCKS
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Financials (Continued)
                 
TCF Financial Corp., Series C, 5.700%, Perpetual
   
1,510
   
$
38,037
     
0.03
%
The Allstate Corp.
                       
  Series H, 5.100%, Perpetual
   
2,305
     
59,008
     
0.05
%
  Series G, 5.625%, Perpetual
   
3,375
     
91,125
     
0.08
%
The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.
                       
  Series K, 6.375% to 05/10/2024 then
                       
    3 Month LIBOR USD + 3.550%, Perpetual (f)
   
1,930
     
49,813
     
0.04
%
  Series N, 6.300%, Perpetual
   
2,015
     
53,115
     
0.05
%
Truist Financial Corp., Series F, 5.200%, Perpetual
   
3,215
     
81,018
     
0.07
%
U.S. Bancorp
                       
  Series F, 6.500% to 01/15/2022 then
                       
    3 Month LIBOR USD + 4.468%, Perpetual (d)(f)
   
2,090
     
56,451
     
0.05
%
  Series B, 3.500% to 06/10/2020 then
                       
    3 Month LIBOR USD + 0.600%, Perpetual (f)
   
2,980
     
58,944
     
0.05
%
Webster Financial Corp., Series F, 5.250%, Perpetual
   
800
     
19,776
     
0.02
%
Wells Fargo & Co.
                       
  Series Z, 4.750%, Perpetual
   
3,490
     
83,341
     
0.07
%
  Series X, 5.500%, Perpetual
   
3,265
     
83,747
     
0.07
%
 
           
2,901,716
     
2.47
%
Total Preferred Stocks
                       
  (Cost $3,217,636)
           
3,216,750
     
2.74
%
 
                       
REITS – 1.58%
                       
                         
Financials – 1.58%
                       
Annaly Capital Management, Inc., Series F, 6.950% to 09/30/2022
                       
  then 3 Month LIBOR USD + 4.993%, Perpetual (f)
   
2,720
     
61,254
     
0.05
%
Apollo Commercial Real Estate Finance, Inc.
   
4,130
     
33,660
     
0.03
%
Chimera Investment Corp.
   
2,930
     
22,766
     
0.02
%
Chimera Investment Corp.
                       
  Series A, 8.000%, Perpetual
   
2,635
     
51,277
     
0.04
%
  Series B, 8.000% to 03/30/2024 then
                       
    3 Month LIBOR USD + 5.791%, Perpetual (f)
   
1,320
     
23,390
     
0.02
%
Kimco Realty Corp., Series M, 5.250%, Perpetual
   
1,835
     
41,746
     
0.03
%
Monmouth Real Estate Investment Corp., Series C, 6.125%, Perpetual
   
3,195
     
78,086
     
0.07
%
Starwood Property Trust, Inc.
   
2,730
     
35,326
     
0.03
%
STORE Capital Corp.
   
72,725
     
1,459,591
     
1.24
%
Vornado Realty Trust, Series M, 5.250%, Perpetual
   
2,565
     
57,277
     
0.05
%
 
           
1,864,373
     
1.58
%
Total REITS
                       
  (Cost $2,393,671)
           
1,864,373
     
1.58
%
 

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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
9

RIGHTS – 0.00%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Financials – 0.00%
                 
Golub Capital BDC, Inc. (Expiration: May 6, 2020) (a)
   
800
   
$
515
     
0.00
%
 
                       
Total Rights
                       
  (Cost $1,233)
           
515
     
0.00
%
 
                       
CORPORATE BONDS – 21.44%
                       
                         
Communication Services – 0.92%
                       
AT&T, Inc., 4.250%, 03/01/2027
   
980,000
     
1,081,869
     
0.92
%
                         
Consumer Discretionary – 1.10%
                       
Alibaba Group Holding Ltd., 3.600%, 11/28/2024 (b)
   
1,000,000
     
1,081,317
     
0.92
%
Starbucks Corp., 4.450%, 08/15/2049
   
175,000
     
210,075
     
0.18
%
 
           
1,291,392
     
1.10
%
                         
Energy – 2.59%
                       
Boardwalk Pipelines LP, 4.450%, 07/15/2027
   
1,200,000
     
1,035,650
     
0.88
%
Canadian Natural Resources Ltd., 3.900%, 02/01/2025 (b)
   
1,000,000
     
955,281
     
0.81
%
Husky Energy, Inc., 4.000%, 04/15/2024 (b)
   
750,000
     
692,114
     
0.59
%
Ovintiv, Inc., 3.900%, 11/15/2021
   
400,000
     
363,449
     
0.31
%
 
           
3,046,494
     
2.59
%
                         
Financials – 11.47%
                       
Aflac, Inc., 3.600%, 04/01/2030
   
300,000
     
337,870
     
0.29
%
American International Group, Inc., 4.125%, 02/15/2024
   
1,000,000
     
1,083,535
     
0.92
%
Capital One Financial Corp., 4.750%, 07/15/2021
   
500,000
     
516,434
     
0.44
%
Comerica Bank, 2.500%, 07/23/2024
   
700,000
     
712,605
     
0.60
%
Dell International LLC / EMC Corp., 5.450%, 06/15/2023 (e)
   
1,220,000
     
1,292,457
     
1.10
%
Discover Financial Services, 5.200%, 04/27/2022
   
900,000
     
931,641
     
0.79
%
General Motors Financial Co, Inc., 3.700%, 05/09/2023
   
1,075,000
     
1,032,580
     
0.88
%
Huntington Bancshares, Inc.
                       
  2.550%, 02/04/2030
   
525,000
     
507,988
     
0.43
%
  4.000%, 05/15/2025
   
765,000
     
833,242
     
0.71
%
Morgan Stanley, 5.500%, 07/28/2021
   
400,000
     
419,782
     
0.36
%
Prudential Financial, Inc., 3.878%, 03/27/2028
   
400,000
     
448,025
     
0.38
%
Raymond James Financial, Inc.
                       
  3.625%, 09/15/2026
   
1,500,000
     
1,571,830
     
1.33
%
  5.625%, 04/01/2024
   
700,000
     
773,355
     
0.66
%
Synchrony Financial
                       
  3.750%, 08/15/2021
   
350,000
     
351,264
     
0.30
%
  3.950%, 12/01/2027
   
650,000
     
600,043
     
0.51
%
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
10

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
 
CORPORATE BONDS
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Financials (Continued)
                 
Synovus Financial Corp., 3.125%, 11/01/2022
   
1,300,000
   
$
1,299,610
     
1.10
%
Willis North America, Inc., 3.600%, 05/15/2024
   
750,000
     
789,714
     
0.67
%
 
           
13,501,975
     
11.47
%
                         
Health Care – 2.25%
                       
Bristol-Myers Squibb Co., 3.625%, 05/15/2024 (e)
   
1,000,000
     
1,101,603
     
0.93
%
Edwards Lifesciences Corp., 4.300%, 06/15/2028
   
700,000
     
797,528
     
0.68
%
Express Scripts Holding Co., 3.500%, 06/15/2024
   
700,000
     
749,350
     
0.64
%
 
           
2,648,481
     
2.25
%
                         
Information Technology – 1.59%
                       
Autodesk, Inc., 2.850%, 01/15/2030
   
675,000
     
710,151
     
0.61
%
Corning, Inc., 6.850%, 03/01/2029
   
275,000
     
355,428
     
0.30
%
PayPal Holdings, Inc., 2.850%, 10/01/2029
   
750,000
     
800,677
     
0.68
%
 
           
1,866,256
     
1.59
%
                         
Materials – 1.52%
                       
AngloGold Ashanti Holdings PLC, 5.125%, 08/01/2022 (b)
   
1,000,000
     
1,036,094
     
0.88
%
Goldcorp, Inc., 3.625%, 06/09/2021
   
750,000
     
755,220
     
0.64
%
 
           
1,791,314
     
1.52
%
Total Corporate Bonds
                       
  (Cost $24,651,808)
           
25,227,781
     
21.44
%
 
                       
MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES – 7.50%
                       
                         
Fannie Mae Pool
                       
  3.000%, 10/01/2043
   
1,930,960
     
2,065,838
     
1.75
%
  3.500%, 01/01/2042
   
425,258
     
459,542
     
0.39
%
  4.000%, 10/01/2041
   
416,081
     
453,920
     
0.39
%
  4.000%, 12/01/2041
   
405,607
     
444,272
     
0.38
%
  4.500%, 08/01/2020
   
1,893
     
1,999
     
0.00
%
  6.000%, 10/01/2037
   
122,682
     
141,509
     
0.12
%
                         
Fannie Mae REMICS
                       
  Series 2013-52, 1.250%, 06/25/2043
   
120,918
     
121,848
     
0.10
%
  Series 2012-22, 2.000%, 11/25/2040
   
91,710
     
93,874
     
0.08
%
  Series 2012-16, 2.000%, 11/25/2041
   
89,342
     
92,320
     
0.08
%
  Series 2010-134, 2.250%, 03/25/2039
   
62,501
     
63,403
     
0.05
%
                         
Freddie Mac Gold Pool
                       
  3.000%, 05/01/2042
   
770,463
     
824,036
     
0.70
%
  3.000%, 09/01/2042
   
1,450,408
     
1,550,881
     
1.32
%
  3.500%, 01/01/2048
   
1,373,266
     
1,468,870
     
1.25
%
  5.000%, 05/01/2020
   
54
     
57
     
0.00
%
  5.500%, 04/01/2037
   
56,582
     
64,737
     
0.05
%
 

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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
11

MORTGAGE-BACKED SECURITIES
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Freddie Mac REMICS
                 
  Series 4146, 1.500%, 10/15/2042
   
50,580
   
$
50,778
     
0.04
%
  Series 4309, 2.000%, 10/15/2043
   
73,252
     
75,341
     
0.07
%
  Series 3928, 2.500%, 08/15/2040
   
140,671
     
143,911
     
0.12
%
  Series 3870, 2.750%, 01/15/2041
   
52,068
     
54,574
     
0.05
%
  Series 4016, 3.000%, 09/15/2039
   
232,923
     
235,885
     
0.20
%
  Series 4322, 3.000%, 05/15/2043
   
210,857
     
223,085
     
0.19
%
                         
Government National Mortgage Association,
                       
  Series 2013-24, 1.750%, 02/16/2043
   
193,006
     
196,726
     
0.17
%
 
                       
Total Mortgage-Backed Securities
                       
   (Cost $8,322,355)
           
8,827,406
     
7.50
%
 
                       
U.S. GOVERNMENT AGENCY ISSUES – 0.43%
                       
                         
U.S. Government Agency Issues – 0.43%
                       
Fannie Mae, 1.500%, 08/10/2021
   
500,000
     
501,569
     
0.43
%
 
                       
Total U.S. Government Agency Issues
                       
  (Cost $500,000)
           
501,569
     
0.43
%
 
                       
U.S. TREASURY OBLIGATIONS – 6.66%
                       
                         
U.S. Treasury Notes – 6.66%
                       
U.S. Treasury Notes
                       
  1.625%, 11/15/2022
   
500,000
     
517,686
     
0.44
%
  1.750%, 05/15/2023
   
1,250,000
     
1,306,787
     
1.11
%
  1.875%, 07/31/2026
   
1,775,000
     
1,928,232
     
1.64
%
  2.625%, 11/15/2020
   
750,000
     
760,181
     
0.64
%
  2.750%, 02/15/2024
   
1,575,000
     
1,720,441
     
1.46
%
  3.000%, 10/31/2025
   
450,000
     
513,228
     
0.44
%
  3.125%, 11/15/2028
   
900,000
     
1,091,039
     
0.93
%
 
           
7,837,594
     
6.66
%
Total U.S. Treasury Obligations
                       
  (Cost $7,400,498)
           
7,837,594
     
6.66
%
 


The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
12

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
 
INVESTMENT COMPANIES (EXCLUDING
 
Number
         
% of
 
  MONEY MARKET FUNDS) – 0.75%
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Financials – 0.46%
                 
Apollo Investment Corp.
   
4,375
   
$
38,544
     
0.03
%
Ares Capital Corp.
   
3,345
     
42,950
     
0.04
%
Bain Capital Specialty Finance, Inc.
   
3,380
     
34,341
     
0.03
%
BlackRock TCP Capital Corp.
   
4,790
     
41,529
     
0.04
%
FS Investment Corp.
   
12,055
     
41,469
     
0.03
%
Golub Capital BDC, Inc.
   
3,200
     
32,832
     
0.03
%
Hercules Capital, Inc.
   
4,625
     
47,452
     
0.04
%
Monroe Capital Corp.
   
6,150
     
49,508
     
0.04
%
New Mountain Finance Corp.
   
4,755
     
36,376
     
0.03
%
Oaktree Specialty Lending Corp.
   
11,905
     
47,739
     
0.04
%
TCG BDC, Inc.
   
5,235
     
41,304
     
0.03
%
TPG Specialty Lending, Inc.
   
2,650
     
43,619
     
0.04
%
TriplePoint Venture Growth BDC Corp.
   
5,675
     
45,627
     
0.04
%
 
           
543,290
     
0.46
%
                         
Other Investment Companies – 0.29%
                       
Vanguard High-Yield Corporate Fund
   
62,348
     
339,171
     
0.29
%
 
                       
Total Investment Companies (Excluding
                       
  Money Market Funds)
                       
  (Cost $1,248,904)
           
882,461
     
0.75
%
 

 

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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
13

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 1.71%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Money Market Funds – 1.71%
                 
First American Government Obligations Fund,
                 
  Institutional Class, 0.25% (c)
   
2,014,732
   
$
2,014,732
     
1.71
%
 
                       
Total Short-Term Investments
                       
  (Cost $2,014,732)
           
2,014,732
     
1.71
%
 
                       
Total Investments
                       
  (Cost $104,423,196) – 99.33%
           
116,880,115
     
99.33
%
Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities – 0.67%
           
790,643
     
0.67
%
 
                       
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
         
$
117,670,758
     
100.00
%

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

ADR – American Depositary Receipt
PLC – Public Limited Company
REIT – Real Estate Investment Trust
(a)
Non-income-producing security.
(b)
U.S.-traded security of a foreign corporation.
(c)
The rate listed is the fund’s seven-day yield as of April 30, 2020.
(d)
Investment in affiliated security for the period from November 1, 2019, through March 30, 2020. Quasar Distributors, LLC, which serves as the Fund’s distributor, was a subsidiary of U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC through March 30, 2020. Details of transactions with this affiliated company for the period November 1, 2019, through March 30, 2020, are as follows:

     
Preferred Stocks
 
     
U.S. Bancorp
 
 
Beginning Cost – November 1, 2019
 
$
79,260
 
 
Purchase Cost
 
$
9,634
 
 
Sales Cost
 
$
(28,766
)
 
Ending Cost – March 30, 2020
 
$
60,128
 
 
Dividend Income
 
$
2,110
 
 
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation/Depreciation
 
$
(1,592
)
 
Realized Gain/Loss
 
$
(3,290
)
 
Shares
   
2,090
 
 
Market Value – March 30, 2020
 
$
54,653
 

(e)
Rule 144A security. Security is exempt from registration pursuant to Rule 144A under the Securities Act of 1933, as amended. Rule 144A securities may be resold in transactions exempt from registration to qualified institutional investors. As of April 30, 2020, the market value of this security totaled $2,394,060 which represents 2.03% of net assets.
(f)
Variable rate security; rate disclosed is the rate as of April 30, 2020.
 

 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
14

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
 
Summary of Fair Value Exposure as of April 30, 2020
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s net assets as of April 30, 2020 (see Note 3 in the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements):
 
Common Stocks
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Communication Services
 
$
7,625,683
   
$
   
$
   
$
7,625,683
 
Consumer Discretionary
   
9,950,631
     
     
     
9,950,631
 
Consumer Staples
   
4,977,816
     
     
     
4,977,816
 
Energy
   
1,923,479
     
     
     
1,923,479
 
Financials
   
11,921,412
     
     
     
11,921,412
 
Health Care
   
3,422,589
     
     
     
3,422,589
 
Industrials
   
6,756,869
     
     
     
6,756,869
 
Information Technology
   
13,599,773
     
     
     
13,599,773
 
Materials
   
6,328,682
     
     
     
6,328,682
 
Total Common Stocks
 
$
66,506,934
   
$
   
$
   
$
66,506,934
 
Preferred Stocks
                               
Communication Services
 
$
81,607
   
$
   
$
   
$
81,607
 
Consumer Staples
   
138,917
     
     
     
138,917
 
Energy
   
94,510
     
     
     
94,510
 
Financials
   
2,901,716
     
     
     
2,901,716
 
Total Preferred Stocks
 
$
3,216,750
   
$
   
$
   
$
3,216,750
 
REITS
                               
Financials
 
$
1,864,373
   
$
   
$
   
$
1,864,373
 
Total REITS
 
$
1,864,373
   
$
   
$
   
$
1,864,373
 
Rights
                               
Financials
 
$
515
   
$
   
$
   
$
515
 
Total Rights
 
$
515
   
$
   
$
   
$
515
 
Corporate Bonds
                               
Communication Services
 
$
   
$
1,081,869
   
$
   
$
1,081,869
 
Consumer Discretionary
   
     
1,291,392
     
     
1,291,392
 
Energy
   
     
3,046,494
     
     
3,046,494
 
Financials
   
     
13,501,975
     
     
13,501,975
 
Health Care
   
     
2,648,481
     
     
2,648,481
 
Information Technology
   
     
1,866,256
     
     
1,866,256
 
Materials
   
     
1,791,314
     
     
1,791,314
 
Total Corporate Bonds
 
$
   
$
25,227,781
   
$
   
$
25,227,781
 
Mortgage-Backed Securities
 
$
   
$
8,827,406
   
$
   
$
8,827,406
 
U.S. Government Agency Issues
 
$
   
$
501,569
   
$
   
$
501,569
 
U.S. Treasury Obligations
                               
U.S. Treasury Notes
 
$
   
$
7,837,594
   
$
   
$
7,837,594
 
Total U.S. Treasury Obligations
 
$
   
$
7,837,594
   
$
   
$
7,837,594
 
Investment Companies (Excluding
                               
  Money Market Funds)
                               
Financials
 
$
543,290
   
$
   
$
   
$
543,290
 
Other Investment Companies
   
339,171
     
     
     
339,171
 
Total Investment Companies (Excluding
                               
  Money Market Funds)
 
$
882,461
   
$
   
$
   
$
882,461
 
Short-Term Investments
                               
Money Market Funds
 
$
2,014,732
   
$
   
$
   
$
2,014,732
 
Total Short-Term Investments
 
$
2,014,732
   
$
   
$
   
$
2,014,732
 
Total Investments
 
$
74,485,765
   
$
42,394,350
   
$
   
$
116,880,115
 


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
15

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments in securities, at value (cost $104,423,196)
 
$
116,880,115
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
515,459
 
Receivable for fund shares sold
   
20,732
 
Receivable for securities sold
   
575,426
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
23,498
 
Total assets
   
118,015,230
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable for fund shares redeemed
   
180,182
 
Payable to advisor
   
75,373
 
Payable to administrator
   
20,517
 
Payable to auditor
   
11,372
 
Accrued distribution fees
   
7,901
 
Accrued service fees
   
4,565
 
Accrued trustees fees
   
5,333
 
Accrued expenses and other payables
   
39,229
 
Total liabilities
   
344,472
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
117,670,758
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSISTS OF:
       
Capital stock
 
$
99,351,527
 
Total distributable earnings
   
18,319,231
 
Total net assets
 
$
117,670,758
 
         
NET ASSETS:
       
Investor Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
56,214,817
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
4,071,181
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
13.81
 
         
Institutional Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
61,455,941
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
4,731,738
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
12.99
 



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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
16

 STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES/STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Operations for the six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Dividend income from unaffiliated securities(1)
 
$
1,182,491
 
Dividend income from affiliated securities
   
2,110
 
Interest income
   
792,354
 
Total investment income
   
1,976,955
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (See Note 5)
   
567,340
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
80,215
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
38,855
 
Administration, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees (See Note 5)
   
77,261
 
Distribution fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
52,441
 
Service fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
34,961
 
Federal and state registration fees
   
20,371
 
Compliance expense (See Note 5)
   
13,462
 
Audit fees
   
11,375
 
Trustees’ fees and expenses
   
9,012
 
Reports to shareholders
   
9,009
 
Legal fees
   
912
 
Interest expense (See Note 7)
   
80
 
Other expenses
   
9,373
 
Total expenses
   
924,667
 
NET INVESTMENT INCOME
 
$
1,052,288
 
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
       
Net realized gain (loss) on investments:
       
  Unaffiliated investments
 
$
5,747,135
 
  Affiliated investments
   
(3,290
)
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments:
       
  Unaffiliated investments
   
(13,993,847
)
  Affiliated investments
   
(1,592
)
Net loss on investments
   
(8,251,594
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(7,199,306
)




 
(1)
Net of foreign taxes withheld of $11,436.

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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
17








(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 







 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
18


 STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

Financial Statements
 
 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
April 30, 2020
   
Year Ended
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
October 31, 2019
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment income
 
$
1,052,288
   
$
2,527,023
 
Net realized gain on investments
   
5,743,845
     
12,163,724
 
Net change in unrealized
               
  appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(13,995,439
)
   
257,624
 
Net increase (decrease) in net assets
               
  resulting from operations
   
(7,199,306
)
   
14,948,371
 
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
Distributable earnings – Investor Class
   
(5,528,505
)
   
(9,623,337
)
Distributable earnings – Institutional Class
   
(5,606,651
)
   
(8,312,271
)
Total distributions
   
(11,135,156
)
   
(17,935,608
)
                 
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
               
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Investor Class
   
829,381
     
4,045,914
 
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Institutional Class
   
3,387,927
     
9,963,578
 
Dividends reinvested – Investor Class
   
5,335,026
     
9,369,182
 
Dividends reinvested – Institutional Class
   
4,420,347
     
6,581,032
 
Cost of shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(34,620,159
)
   
(39,659,654
)
Cost of shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(17,257,552
)
   
(32,586,017
)
Net decrease in net assets derived
               
  from capital share transactions
   
(37,905,030
)
   
(42,285,965
)
TOTAL DECREASE IN NET ASSETS
   
(56,239,492
)
   
(45,273,202
)
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
173,910,250
     
219,183,452
 
End of period
 
$
117,670,758
   
$
173,910,250
 
                 
CHANGES IN SHARES OUTSTANDING:
               
Shares sold – Investor Class
   
56,336
     
268,813
 
Shares sold – Institutional Class
   
247,057
     
702,865
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Investor Class
   
357,711
     
647,946
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Institutional Class
   
315,489
     
481,833
 
Shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(2,290,121
)
   
(2,637,769
)
Shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(1,261,871
)
   
(2,309,628
)
Net decrease in shares outstanding
   
(2,575,399
)
   
(2,845,940
)


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
19

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Investor Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
15.72
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income
   
0.10
(1) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(0.92
)
Total from investment operations
   
(0.82
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.09
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(1.00
)
Total distributions
   
(1.09
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
13.81
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-5.70
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
56.21
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.49
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets
   
1.29
%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(4)
   
13
%(2)








(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
20


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INVESTOR CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
15.82
   
$
16.24
   
$
15.61
   
$
16.15
   
$
16.68
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.18
(1) 
   
0.16
     
0.14
     
0.14
     
0.13
 
 
1.02
     
0.40
     
1.95
     
(0.16
)
   
0.11
 
 
1.20
     
0.56
     
2.09
     
(0.02
)
   
0.24
 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.17
)
   
(0.14
)
   
(0.12
)
   
(0.13
)
   
(0.13
)
 
(1.13
)
   
(0.84
)
   
(1.34
)
   
(0.39
)
   
(0.64
)
 
(1.30
)
   
(0.98
)
   
(1.46
)
   
(0.52
)
   
(0.77
)
$
15.72
   
$
15.82
   
$
16.24
   
$
15.61
   
$
16.15
 
                                     
 
8.39
%
   
3.44
%
   
14.16
%
   
-0.12
%
   
1.43
%
                                     
                                     
$
93.51
   
$
121.32
   
$
155.33
   
$
202.04
   
$
292.84
 
 
1.46
%
   
1.42
%
   
1.43
%
   
1.43
%
   
1.38
%
 
1.16
%
   
0.89
%
   
0.78
%
   
0.84
%
   
0.83
%
 
16
%
   
18
%
   
15
%
   
24
%
   
39
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
21

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Institutional Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
14.80
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income
   
0.12
(1) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(0.87
)
Total from investment operations
   
(0.75
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.12
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(0.94
)
Total distributions
   
(1.06
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
12.99
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-5.52
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
61.46
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.12
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets
   
1.67
%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(4)
   
13
%(2)









(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
22


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INSTITUTIONAL CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
14.93
   
$
15.34
   
$
14.76
   
$
15.28
   
$
15.80
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.22
(1) 
   
0.19
     
0.16
     
0.18
     
0.19
 
 
0.96
     
0.39
     
1.87
     
(0.13
)
   
0.09
 
 
1.18
     
0.58
     
2.03
     
0.05
     
0.28
 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.24
)
   
(0.20
)
   
(0.18
)
   
(0.20
)
   
(0.19
)
 
(1.07
)
   
(0.79
)
   
(1.27
)
   
(0.37
)
   
(0.61
)
 
(1.31
)
   
(0.99
)
   
(1.45
)
   
(0.57
)
   
(0.80
)
$
14.80
   
$
14.93
   
$
15.34
   
$
14.76
   
$
15.28
 
                                     
 
8.76
%
   
3.86
%
   
14.60
%
   
0.30
%
   
1.75
%
                                     
                                     
$
80.40
   
$
97.86
   
$
110.74
   
$
129.91
   
$
168.84
 
 
1.09
%
   
1.02
%
   
1.05
%
   
1.03
%
   
1.04
%
 
1.53
%
   
1.28
%
   
1.16
%
   
1.23
%
   
1.18
%
 
16
%
   
18
%
   
15
%
   
24
%
   
39
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
23

Financial Statements
 
 Notes to the Financial Statements April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

1).  ORGANIZATION
 
The Hennessy Equity and Income Fund (the “Fund”) is a series of Hennessy Funds Trust (the “Trust”), which was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 17, 1992. The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The investment objective of the Fund is long-term capital growth and current income. The Fund is a diversified fund.
 
The Fund offers Investor Class and Institutional Class shares. Each class of shares differs principally in its respective 12b-1 distribution and service, shareholder servicing, and sub-transfer agent expenses. There are no sales charges. Each class has identical rights to earnings, assets, and voting privileges, except for class-specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only one class.
 
As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies.”
 
2).  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of the financial statements. These policies conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
 
a).
Securities Valuation – All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value, as described in Note 3.
   
b).
Federal Income Taxes – No provision for federal income taxes or excise taxes has been made because the Fund has elected to be taxed as a regulated investment company and intends to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders and otherwise comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies. Net investment income/loss and realized gains/losses for federal income tax purposes may differ from those reported in the financial statements because of temporary book and tax basis differences. Temporary differences are primarily the result of the treatment of wash sales for tax reporting purposes. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax benefits, if any, in the Statement of Operations as an income tax expense. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income to shareholders for tax purposes. The Fund may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes.
   
c).
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – The Fund has accounting policies regarding recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The tax returns of the Fund for the prior three fiscal years are open for examination. The Fund has reviewed all open tax years in major jurisdictions and concluded that there is no impact on the Fund’s net assets and no tax liability resulting from unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain income tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The Fund’s major tax jurisdictions are U.S. federal and Delaware.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
24

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

d).
Income and Expenses – Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date or as soon as information is available to the Fund. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recognized on an accrual basis. Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received. The Fund is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to its portfolio, such as advisory, administration, and certain shareholder service fees. Income, expenses (other than expenses attributable to a specific class), and realized and unrealized gains/losses on investments are allocated to each class of shares based on such class’s net assets.
   
e).
Distributions to Shareholders – Dividends from net investment income for the Fund, if any, are declared and paid at the end of each calendar quarter. Distributions of net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December.
   
f).
Security Transactions – Investment and shareholder transactions are recorded on the trade date. The Fund determines the realized gain/loss from an investment transaction by comparing the original cost of the security lot sold with the net sale proceeds. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted or amortized, respectively, over the life of each such security.
   
g).
Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported change in net assets during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
h).
Share Valuation – The net asset value (“NAV”) per share of the Fund is calculated by dividing (i) the total value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by (ii) the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest $0.01. The Fund’s shares will not be priced on days the New York Stock Exchange is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for the Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.
   
i).
REIT Equity Securities – The Fund may invest in the equity securities of real estate investment trusts (“REITs”). Distributions received from REITs may be classified as dividends, capital gains, or return of capital. Investments in REITs may require the Fund to accrue and distribute income not yet received. To generate sufficient cash to make the requisite distributions, the Fund may be required to sell securities in its portfolio (including when it is not advantageous to do so) that it otherwise would have continued to hold. At other times, investments in a REIT may result in the Fund’s receipt of cash in excess of the REIT’s earnings. If the Fund distributes these amounts, these distributions could constitute a return of capital to Fund shareholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Dividends received by the Fund from a REIT generally will not constitute qualified dividend income and will not qualify for the dividends-received deduction.


 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
25

3).  SECURITIES VALUATION
 
The Fund follows fair value accounting standards that establish an authoritative definition of fair value and set out a hierarchy for measuring fair value. These standards require additional disclosures about the various inputs and valuation techniques used to develop the measurements of fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs during the period. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
 
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments that the Fund has the ability to access at the date of measurement.
     
 
Level 2 –
Other significant observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar instruments, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets, such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk curves, default rates, and similar data).
     
 
Level 3 –
Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability based on the best available information) when observable inputs are unavailable.

The following is a description of the valuation techniques applied to the Fund’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
Equity Securities – Equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, foreign-issued common stocks, exchange-traded funds, closed-end mutual funds, partnerships, rights, and real estate investment trusts, that are traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is readily available will generally be valued at the last sales price as reported by the primary exchange on which the securities are listed. Securities listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) will generally be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may differ from the last sales price reported. Securities traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is not readily available will generally be valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Securities traded on foreign exchanges generally are not valued at the same time the Fund calculates its NAV because most foreign markets close well before such time. The earlier close of most foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim. In certain circumstances, it may be determined that a foreign security needs to be fair valued because it appears that the value of the security might have been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the market in which the security is principally traded, but before the time the Fund calculates its NAV, such as by a development that affects an entire market or region (e.g., a weather-related event) or a potentially global development (e.g., a terrorist attack that may be expected to have an effect on investor expectations worldwide).
   
 
Registered Investment Companies – Investments in open-end registered investment companies, commonly referred to as mutual funds, generally are priced at the ending NAV provided by the applicable mutual fund’s service agent and will be classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.


 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
26

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
Debt Securities – Debt securities, including corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and U.S. government agency issues, are generally valued at market on the basis of valuations furnished by an independent pricing service that utilizes both dealer-supplied valuations and formula-based techniques. The pricing service may consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, and fundamental data relating to the issuer. In addition, the model may incorporate observable market data, such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued primarily using dealer quotations. These securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Short-Term Securities – Short-term equity investments, including money market funds, are valued in the manner specified above. Short-term debt investments with an original term to maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value. If the original term to maturity of a short-term debt investment exceeded 60 days, then the values as of the 61st day prior to maturity are amortized. Amortized cost is not used if its use would be inappropriate due to credit or other impairments of the issuer, in which case the security’s fair value would be determined, as described below. Short-term securities are generally classified in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the inputs used and market activity levels for specific securities.

The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board”) has adopted fair value pricing procedures that are followed when a price for a security is not readily available or if a significant event has occurred that indicates the closing price of a security no longer represents the true value of that security. Fair value pricing determinations are made in good faith in accordance with these procedures. There are numerous criteria that will be given consideration in determining a fair value of a security, such as the trading volume of a security and markets, the values of other similar securities, and news events with direct bearing on a security or markets. Fair value pricing results in an estimated price for a security that reflects the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive in a current sale. Depending on the relative significance of the valuation inputs, these securities may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
The fair value of foreign securities may be determined with the assistance of a pricing service using correlations between the movement of prices of such securities and indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators, such as closing market prices of relevant American Depositary Receipts or futures contracts. Using fair value pricing means that the Fund’s NAV reflects the affected portfolio securities’ values as determined by the Board or its designee, pursuant to the fair value pricing procedures adopted by the Board, instead of being determined by the market. Using a fair value pricing methodology to price a foreign security may result in a value that is different from such foreign security’s most recent closing price and from the value used by other investment companies to calculate their NAVs. Such securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Because the Fund may invest in foreign securities, the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities may change on days when you will not be able to purchase or redeem your shares.
 
The Board has delegated day-to-day valuation matters to the Valuation and Liquidity Committee comprising representatives from Hennessy Advisors, Inc., the Fund’s investment advisor (the “Advisor”). The function of the Valuation and Liquidity Committee is to value securities where current and reliable market quotations are not readily available. All actions taken by the Valuation and Liquidity Committee are reviewed by the Board.
 

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The Fund has performed an analysis of all existing investments to determine the significance and character of all inputs to their fair value determinations. Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Fund’s investments. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. Details related to the fair value hierarchy of the Fund’s securities as of April 30, 2020, are included in the Schedule of Investments.
 
4).  INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding government and short-term investments) for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $16,651,409 and $51,978,831, respectively.
 
Purchases and sales/maturities of long-term U.S. government securities for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $1,086,961 and $10,922,267, respectively.
 
The Fund is permitted to purchase or sell securities from or to another fund in the Hennessy Funds family of funds (collectively, the “Hennessy Funds”) under specified conditions outlined in procedures adopted by the Board. The procedures have been designed to ensure that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Hennessy Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not engage in purchases or sales of securities pursuant to Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
 
5).  INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
The Advisor provides the Fund with investment advisory services under an Investment Advisory Agreement. The Advisor oversees the provision of investment advice and furnishes office space, facilities, and most of the personnel needed by the Fund. As compensation for its services, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee from the Fund. The fee is based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate of 0.80%. The net investment advisory fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Advisor has delegated the day-to-day management of the equity allocation of the Fund to a sub-advisor, The London Company of Virginia, LLC, and has delegated the day-to-day management of the fixed income allocation of the Fund to a sub-advisor, FCI Advisors. The Advisor pays the sub-advisory fees from its own assets, and these fees are not an additional expense of the Fund. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Advisor (not the Fund) paid a sub-advisory fee at the rate of 0.33% of the daily net assets of the equity allocation of the Fund and 0.27% of the daily net assets of the fixed income allocation of the Fund.
 
The Board has approved a Shareholder Servicing Agreement for Investor Class shares of the Fund, which was instituted to compensate the Advisor for the non-investment advisory services it provides to the Fund. The Shareholder Servicing Agreement provides for a monthly fee paid to the Advisor at an annual rate of 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund attributable to Investor Class shares. The shareholder service fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has adopted a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that authorizes payments in connection with the distribution of the Fund’s shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares. Even though the authorized rate is
 
 
 
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28

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

up to 0.25%, the Fund is currently only using up to 0.15% of its average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares for such purpose. Amounts paid under the plan may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares, including, but not limited to, advertising, shareholder account servicing, printing and mailing of prospectuses to other than current shareholders, printing and mailing of sales literature, and compensation for sales and marketing activities or to financial institutions and others, such as dealers and distributors. The distribution fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into agreements with various brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries in connection with the sale of shares of the Fund. The agreements provide for periodic payments of sub-transfer agent expenses by the Fund to the brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries for providing certain shareholder maintenance services. These shareholder services include the pre-processing and quality control of new accounts, shareholder correspondence, answering customer inquiries regarding account status, and facilitating shareholder telephone transactions. The sub-transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (“Fund Services”) provides the Fund with administrative, accounting, and transfer agent services. As administrator, Fund Services is responsible for activities such as (i) preparing various federal and state regulatory filings, reports, and returns for the Fund, (ii) preparing reports and materials to be supplied to the Board, (iii) monitoring the activities of the Fund’s custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, and (iv) coordinating the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviewing the Fund’s expense accruals. U.S. Bank N.A., an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Fund’s custodian. The servicing agreements between the Trust and Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. contain a fee schedule that is inclusive of administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. The administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
Quasar Distributors, LLC (“Quasar”) acts as the Fund’s principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Fund’s shares. Quasar was an affiliate of Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. through March 30, 2020. Effective March 31, 2020, Foreside Financial Group, LLC (“Foreside”) acquired Quasar from Fund Services. As a result of the acquisition, Quasar became a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of Foreside and is no longer affiliated with Fund Services or U.S. Bank N.A. The Board approved a new Distribution Agreement to enable Quasar to continue serving as the Fund’s distributor.
 
The officers of the Fund are affiliated with the Advisor. With the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer and the Senior Compliance Officer, such officers receive no compensation from the Fund for serving in their respective roles. The Fund, along with the other Hennessy Funds, makes reimbursement payments on an equal basis to the Advisor for a portion of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Chief Compliance Officer and for all of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Senior Compliance Officer. The compliance fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 

 

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6).  GUARANTEES AND INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Hennessy Funds’ organizational documents, their officers and trustees are indemnified by the Hennessy Funds against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Hennessy Funds. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Hennessy Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Fund expects the risk of loss to be remote.
 
7).  LINE OF CREDIT
 
The Fund has an uncommitted line of credit with the other Hennessy Funds in the amount of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 or (ii) 33.33% of each Hennessy Fund’s net assets, or 30% for the Hennessy Gas Utility Fund and 10% for the Hennessy Balanced Fund, intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The credit facility is with the Hennessy Funds’ custodian bank, U.S. Bank N.A. Borrowings under this arrangement bear interest at the bank’s prime rate and are secured by all of the Fund’s assets (as to its own borrowings only). During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund had an outstanding average daily balance and a weighted average interest rate of $3,341 and 4.75%, respectively. The interest expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, is included in the Statement of Operations. The maximum amount outstanding for the Fund during the period was $608,000. As of April 30, 2020, the Fund did not have any borrowings outstanding under the line of credit.
 
8).  FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund’s most recent fiscal year end, the components of accumulated earnings (losses) for income tax purposes were as follows:
 
     
Investments
 
 
Cost of investments for tax purposes
 
$
146,980,836
 
 
Gross tax unrealized appreciation
 
$
30,352,943
 
 
Gross tax unrealized depreciation
   
(3,914,105
)
 
Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)
 
$
26,438,838
 
 
Undistributed ordinary income
 
$
85,038
 
 
Undistributed long-term capital gains
   
10,129,817
 
 
Total distributable earnings
 
$
10,214,855
 
 
Other accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
 
 
Total accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
36,653,693
 

The difference between book-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation (as shown above) is attributable primarily to wash sales.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund had no tax basis capital losses to offset future capital gains.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund did not defer, on a tax basis, any late-year ordinary losses. Late-year ordinary losses are net ordinary losses incurred after December 31, 2018, but within the taxable year, that are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year.
 

 
 
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 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

During fiscal year 2020 (year to date) and fiscal year 2019, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund was as follows:
 
     
Six Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
     
April 30, 2020
   
October 31, 2019
 
 
Ordinary income(1)
 
$
1,005,295
   
$
2,694,614
 
 
Long-term capital gain
   
10,129,861
     
15,240,994
 
     
$
11,135,156
   
$
17,935,608
 

 
(1)  Ordinary income includes short-term capital gain.
 
9).  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO PERIOD END
 
Management has evaluated the Fund’s related events and transactions that occurred subsequent to April 30, 2020, through the date of issuance of the Fund’s financial statements. Management has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.
 










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Expense Example (Unaudited)
April 30, 2020


As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur ongoing costs, including management fees, service fees, and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from November 1, 2019, through April 30, 2020.
 
Actual Expenses
The first line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. Although the Fund charges no sales loads or transaction fees, you will be assessed fees for outgoing wire transfers, returned checks and stop payment orders at prevailing rates charged by U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, the Fund’s transfer agent. If you request that a redemption be made by wire transfer, currently a $15 fee is charged by the Fund’s transfer agent. IRA accounts will be charged a $15 annual maintenance fee. The example below includes, but is not limited to, management fees, shareholder servicing fees, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. However, the example below does not include portfolio trading commissions and related expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line of the table under the “Investor Class” or “Institutional Class” headings in the column entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only. Therefore, the second line of the table under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
 

 

 

 
 
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 EXPENSE EXAMPLE

 
Beginning
Ending
 
 
Account Value
Account Value
Expenses Paid
 
November 1, 2019
April 30, 2020
During Period(1)
Investor Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   943.00
$7.20
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,017.45
$7.47
       
Institutional Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   944.80
$5.42
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,019.29
$5.62

(1)
Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio of 1.49% for Investor Class shares or 1.12% for Institutional Class shares, as applicable, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 days (to reflect the half-year period).








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How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s Proxy
Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
 
A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge (1) by calling 1-800-966-4354, (2) on the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-policy, or (3) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record is available without charge on both the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-record and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov no later than August 31 for the prior 12 months ending June 30.
 
 
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
 
The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on request by calling 1-800-966-4354.
 
 
Federal Tax Distribution Information (Unaudited)
 
For fiscal year 2019, certain dividends paid by the Fund may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 23.8%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was 100.00%.
 
For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions that qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction for fiscal year 2019 was 100.00%.
 
The percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that were designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Section 871(k)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, for the Fund was 4.97%.
 
 
Important Notice Regarding Delivery
of Shareholder Documents
 
To help keep the Fund’s costs as low as possible, we generally deliver a single copy of shareholder reports, proxy statements, and prospectuses to shareholders who share an address and have the same last name. This process does not apply to account statements. You may request an individual copy of a shareholder document at any time. If you would like to receive separate mailings of shareholder documents, please call U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124, and individual delivery will begin within 30 days of your request. If your account is held through a financial institution or other intermediary, please contact such intermediary directly to request individual delivery.
 
 
Electronic Delivery
 
The Funds offer shareholders the option to receive account statements, prospectuses, tax forms, and shareholder reports online. To sign up for eDelivery, please visit www.hennessyfunds.com/account. You may change your delivery preference at any time by visiting our website or calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124.
 

 
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 PROXY VOTING — BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

Board Approval of Investment Advisory
Agreements
 
At its meeting on March 12, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board,” and the members thereof, the “Trustees”) unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement of the Fund with Hennessy Advisors, Inc. (the “Advisor”) and the sub-advisory agreement for the equity allocation of the Fund between the Advisor and The London Company, LLC, and the sub-advisory agreement for the fixed income allocation of the Fund between the Advisor and Financial Counselors, Inc. (with The London Company, LLC and Financial Counselors, Inc., each herein referred to individually as a “Sub-Advisor” and together as the “Sub-Advisors”). As part of the process of approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements, the Trustees reviewed their fiduciary duties and the relevant factors for them to consider with respect to approving the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. In addition, the Trustees who are not deemed “interested persons” (as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Fund (the “Independent Trustees”) met in executive session to discuss the approval of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
 
In advance of the meeting, the Advisor sent detailed information to the Trustees to assist them in their evaluation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. This information included, but was not limited to, the following:
 
 
(1)
A memorandum from outside legal counsel that described the fiduciary duties of the Board with respect to approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and the relevant factors for consideration;
     
 
(2)
A memorandum from the Advisor that listed the factors relevant to the Board’s approval of the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and also referenced the documents that had been provided to help the Board assess each such factor;
     
 
(3)
An inventory of the services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisors and the distinction between the Advisor-provided services and the Sub-Advisor-provided services;
     
 
(4)
A written discussion of economies of scale;
     
 
(5)
Summaries of the key terms of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements;
     
 
(6)
A recent Fund fact sheet, which included performance information over various periods;
     
 
(7)
A peer expense comparison of the net expense ratio and investment advisory fee of the Fund;
     
 
(8)
The Advisor’s financial statements from its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q;
     
 
(9)
A completed questionnaire from each Sub-Advisor;
     
 
(10)
Summaries of each Sub-Advisor’s questionnaire and relevant information from such Sub-Advisor’s Form ADV Parts I and II;
     
 
(11)
Each Sub-Advisor’s Code of Ethics; and
     
 
(12)
Financial information for the holding company of each Sub-Advisor.

 
 

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All of the factors discussed were considered as a whole by the Trustees and by the Independent Trustees meeting in executive session. The factors were viewed in their totality by the Trustees, with no single factor being the principal or determinative factor in the Trustees’ determination of whether to approve the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. The Trustees recognized that the management and fee arrangements for the Fund are the result of years of review and discussion between the Independent Trustees and the Advisor, that certain aspects of such arrangements may receive greater scrutiny in some years than in others, and that the Trustees’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of these same arrangements and information received during the course of the year and in prior years.
 
Prior to approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees in executive session, considered, among other items:
 
 
(1)
The nature and quality of the advisory services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisors;
     
 
(2)
A comparison of the fees and expenses of the Fund to other similar funds;
     
 
(3)
Whether economies of scale are recognized by the Fund;
     
 
(4)
The costs and profitability of the Fund to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisors;
     
 
(5)
The performance of the Fund; and
     
 
(6)
Any benefits to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisors from serving as an investment advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory and sub-advisory fees).

The material considerations and determinations of the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, were as follows:
 
 
(1)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Advisor. Based on this review, the Trustees concluded that the Advisor provides high-quality services to the Fund and noted that their overall confidence in the Advisor was high. The Trustees also concluded that they were satisfied with the nature, extent, and quality of the advisory services provided to the Fund by the Advisor and that the nature and extent of the services provided by the Advisor were appropriate to assure that the Fund’s operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

   
(a)
The Advisor oversees the Sub-Advisors for the Fund, and the Sub-Advisors act as the portfolio managers for the Fund.
       
   
(b)
The Advisor performs a daily reconciliation of portfolio positions and cash for the Fund.
       
   
(c)
The Advisor monitors the liquidity of each Fund.
       
   
(d)
The Advisor monitors the Fund’s compliance with its investment objectives and restrictions.
       
   
(e)
The Advisor monitors compliance with federal securities laws, maintains a compliance program (including a code of ethics), conducts ongoing reviews of the compliance programs of the Sub-Advisors and the Fund’s other service providers, as feasible, conducts on-site visits to the Sub-Advisors and the Fund’s other service providers, monitors incidents of abusive trading practices, reviews Fund expense accruals, payments, and fixed expense ratios, evaluates insurance providers for fidelity bond, D&O/E&O


 
 
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 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

     
insurance, and cybersecurity insurance coverage, manages regulatory examination compliance and responses, conducts employee compliance training, reviews reports provided by service providers, and maintains books and records.
       
   
(f)
The Advisor oversees the selection and continued employment of each Sub-Advisor, reviews the Fund’s investment performance, and monitors each Sub-Advisor’s adherence to the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions.
       
   
(g)
The Advisor oversees service providers that provide accounting, administration, distribution, transfer agency, custodial, sales, marketing, public relations, audit, information technology, and legal services to the Fund.
       
   
(h)
The Advisor maintains in-house marketing and distribution departments on behalf of the Fund.
       
   
(i)
The Advisor is actively involved with preparing regulatory filings for the Fund, including writing and annually updating the Fund’s prospectus and related documents.
       
   
(j)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Advisor reviews the written summaries prepared by the Sub-Advisors of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(k)
The Advisor oversees distribution of the Fund through third-party broker/dealers and independent financial institutions such as Charles Schwab, Inc., Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and Pershing. The Advisor participates in “no transaction fee” (“NTF”) programs with these companies on behalf of the Fund, which allow customers to purchase the Fund through third-party distribution channels without paying a transaction fee. The Advisor compensates, in part, a number of these third-party providers of NTF programs out of its own revenues.
       
   
(l)
The Advisor pays the incentive compensation of the Fund’s compliance officers and employs other staff, such as legal, marketing, national accounts, distribution, sales, administrative, and trading oversight personnel, as well as management executives.
       
   
(m)
The Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board.
       
   
(n)
The Advisor prepares or reviews all Board materials, frequently presents to the Board and leads Board discussions, prepares or reviews all meeting minutes, and arranges for Board training and education.

 
(2)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by each Sub-Advisor:

   
(a)
Each Sub-Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund. In this capacity, each Sub-Advisor does the following:

     
(i)
manages the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, including the purchase, retention, and disposition of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions;
         
     
(ii)
seeks best execution for the Fund’s portfolio;
         
     
(iii)
manages the use of soft dollars for the Fund; and
         
     
(iv)
manages proxy voting for the Fund.

 

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(b)
Each Sub-Advisor ensures that its compliance program includes policies and procedures relevant to the Fund and the Sub-Advisor’s duties as a portfolio manager to the Fund.
       
   
(c)
For each annual report of the Fund, each Sub-Advisor prepares a written summary of the Fund’s performance (with respect to the equity allocation or the fixed income allocation, as applicable) during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(d)
Each Sub-Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board regarding trading and allocation practices, supervisory matters, the Sub-Advisor’s compliance program (including its code of ethics), compliance with the Fund’s policies, and general firm updates.

 
(3)
The Trustees considered the distinction between the services performed by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisors. The Trustees noted that the management of the Fund, including the oversight of the Sub-Advisors, involves more comprehensive and substantive duties than the duties of the Sub-Advisors. Specifically, the Trustees considered the lists of services identified above and concluded that the services performed by the Advisor for the Fund require a higher level of service and oversight than the services performed by the Sub-Advisors. Based on this determination, the Trustees concluded that the differential in advisory fees between the Advisor and the Sub-Advisors is reasonable.
     
 
(4)
The Trustees compared the performance of the Fund to benchmark indices over various periods and also noted that the Trustees review and discuss reports comparing the investment performance of the Fund to various indices at each quarterly Board meeting. Based on such information, the Trustees determined that the Advisor and the Sub-Advisors manage the Fund in a manner materially consistent with its stated investment objective and style. The Trustees concluded that the performance of the Fund over various periods warranted continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
     
 
(5)
The Trustees reviewed the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of the Fund compared to other funds similar in asset size and investment objective to the Fund using data from Morningstar. As part of the discussion with management, the Trustees ensured that they understood and were comfortable with the criteria used to determine the mutual funds included in the Morningstar categories for purposes of the materials considered at the meeting. The Trustees determined that the advisory fee and overall expense ratio of the Fund falls within the range of the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of other comparable funds and concluded that they are reasonable and warranted continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
     
 
(6)
The Trustees also considered whether the Advisor was realizing economies of scale that it should share with the Fund’s shareholders. The Trustees noted that the assets of the Fund had declined over the prior year. In addition, the Trustees noted that many of the expenses incurred to manage the Fund are asset-based fees, so the Advisor does not realize material economies of scale relating to those expenses as the assets of the Fund increase. For example, mutual fund platform fees increase as the Fund’s assets grow. The Trustees also considered the Advisor’s efforts to contain expenses through actions such as renegotiating service contracts, the Advisor’s significant marketing efforts to promote the


 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
38

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

   
Funds, the Advisor’s investments in personnel to manage the Funds, and the Advisor’s agreement to waive fees or lower its management fees in certain circumstances. The Trustees noted that it did not appear that the Advisor was realizing economies of scale at current asset levels and concluded that it would continue to monitor economies of scale in the future as circumstances changed.
     
 
(7)
The Trustees considered the profitability of the Advisor and the Sub-Advisors, including the impact of mutual fund platform fees on the Advisor’s profitability, and also considered the resources and revenues that the Advisor has put into managing and distributing the Fund. The Trustees then concluded that the profits of the Advisor and the Sub-Advisors are reasonable and not excessive when compared to profitability guidelines set forth in relevant court cases.
     
 
(8)
The Trustees considered the high level of professionalism and knowledge of the Advisor’s employees, along with a very low level of turnover, and concluded that this was beneficial to the Fund and its shareholders.
     
 
(9)
The Trustees considered any benefits to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisors from serving as an advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory and sub-advisory fees). The Trustees noted that the Advisor and the Sub-Advisors may derive ancillary benefits from, by way of example, their association with the Fund in the form of proprietary and third-party research products and services received from broker-dealers that execute portfolio trades for the Fund. The Trustees determined that any such products and services have been used for legitimate purposes relating to the Fund by providing assistance in the investment decision-making process. The Trustees concluded that any additional benefits realized by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisors from their relationship with the Fund were reasonable, which was based on, among other things, the Trustees’ findings that (i) the research, analytical, statistical, and other information and services provided by brokers are merely supplemental to the Advisor’s and the Sub-Advisors’ own efforts in the performance of their duties under the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and (ii) although the Sub-Advisors could derive benefits from the conversion of Fund shareholders into separate account clients, the Fund also could benefit from potential institutional shareholders who might choose to invest in the Fund.

After reviewing the materials and information provided at the meeting, as well as other information regularly provided at the Board’s quarterly meetings throughout the year regarding the quality of services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisors, the performance of the Fund, expense information, brokerage commissions information, the adequacy and efficacy of the Advisor’s and the Sub-Advisors’ written policies and procedures, other regulatory compliance issues, trading information and related matters, and other factors that the Trustees deemed relevant, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
 




HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
39








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For information, questions, or assistance, please call
The Hennessy Funds
1-800-966-4354 or 1-415-899-1555


INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
7250 Redwood Boulevard, Suite 200
Novato, California 94945

ADMINISTRATOR,
TRANSFER AGENT,
DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, &
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0701

CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

TRUSTEES
Neil J. Hennessy
Robert T. Doyle
J. Dennis DeSousa
Gerald P. Richardson

COUNSEL
Foley & Lardner LLP
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-5306

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
Two Liberty Place
50 South 16th Street, Suite 2900
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-2529

DISTRIBUTOR
Quasar Distributors, LLC
111 East Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 2200
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202




www.hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354

This report has been prepared for shareholders and may be distributed to
others only if preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.




SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

APRIL 30, 2020





HENNESSY BALANCED FUND
 
Investor Class  HBFBX



IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
 
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the annual and semi-annual reports will no longer be sent by mail unless you specifically request paper copies from the Hennessy Funds 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 have already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Hennessy Funds electronically by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com/account or by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950. If you own shares in a Fund through a financial intermediary, please contact your financial intermediary to make this election.
 
You may elect to receive paper copies of all future reports free of charge by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or, if you own your shares through a financial intermediary, by contacting your financial intermediary. Your election to receive paper copies of reports will apply to all Funds in the Hennessy Funds family.
 


hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354









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Contents
 

 
Letter to Shareholders
2
Performance Overview
4
Financial Statements
 
Schedule of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
8
Statement of Operations
9
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
11
Financial Highlights
12
Notes to the Financial Statements
14
Expense Example
20
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
21
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
21
Federal Tax Distribution Information
21
Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents
21
Electronic Delivery
21
Board Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement
22










HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 


June 2020
 
Dear Hennessy Funds Shareholder:

 
First and foremost, I hope this communication finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. In many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down in recent months, and we at Hennessy have joined the rest of the world in witnessing and experiencing its profound effect on public health, the global economy, and the everyday lives of people around the world.  In response to the crisis, we invoked our business continuity plan in mid-March to ensure a smooth transition to remote work for all of our employees, who have been working safely and productively from home. We want to assure our Hennessy Funds shareholders that our operations are uninterrupted and functioning normally.
 
The past six months have been marked by extremes. During the first half of the period from November 2019 through January 2020, the bull market, supported by strong corporate fundamentals, continued to move higher, and investors appeared focused on record-low unemployment and strong economic growth. In mid-February, the major U.S. market indices hit all-time highs, but then, within just a matter of weeks, lost over one-third of their values as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded. Shelter-in-place and business closure orders rippled through the nation, causing initial unemployment claims to skyrocket to their highest number in history. The market then rallied back and posted double-digit positive returns in April.
 
For the six months ended April 30, 2020, on a total return basis, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 8.9% and the S&P 500® Index was down 3.2%. Small-cap and mid-cap stocks generally fared worse than large-cap stocks during the period, and the Financial sector was particularly hard hit as the Federal Reserve aggressively cut the federal funds rate in an effort to stabilize the economy. The Energy sector was crushed by both the sudden loss of demand due to COVID-19 and the oversupply caused by the surprise market-share battle between Russia and Saudi Arabia, and the S&P 500® Energy Sector Index ended the six-month period down over 30%.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented event, and the duration and full extent of the economic impact is unknown. In the moment, there is always the concern that ‘this time is different.’ But, when you are able to look at past financial, political, and health crises with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, history has demonstrated that our economy and financial markets have always rebounded and recovered eventually. If you look back to the last market downturn in 2008, economic fundamentals were weak compared to the market in 2020, where the overall underpinnings were – and are still – quite strong.  Publicly listed companies today have plenty of cash, with over $5 trillion on balance sheets of the S&P 500® companies alone, and I believe that most will survive and that many may emerge from the current crisis even stronger.
 


 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
2

 LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

We understand that this market volatility and economic uncertainty is jarring to many investors, and we continue to monitor events and the markets. We remain focused on managing our high-conviction portfolios for the long-term benefit of our shareholders, and we are confident in the time-tested strategies and rigorous research that led to their formation. We encourage shareholders to maintain a long-term investment horizon and to remain focused on long-term goals. As always, but especially in these trying times, we are here to support our shareholders, and we thank you for your continued investment and trust. Should you have any questions or would like to speak with us directly, please don’t hesitate to call (800) 966-4354 or email us at fundsinfo@hennessyfunds.com.
 
Best regards,
 

Neil J. Hennessy
President and Chief Investment Officer
 
 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500® Index are commonly used to measure the performance of U.S. stocks. The S&P 500® Energy Sector Index is an index that comprises those companies included in the S&P 500 that are classified as members of the GICS energy sector. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 







HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
3

Performance Overview (Unaudited)
 
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR PERIODS ENDED APRIL 30, 2020
 
 
Six
One
Five
Ten
 
Months(1)
Year
Years
Years
Hennessy Balanced Fund (HBFBX)
-6.03%
-5.39%
3.31%
  4.89%
50/50 Blended DJIA/Treasury Index
-3.03%
-0.68%
5.56%
  6.13%
Dow Jones Industrial Average
-8.87%
-6.16%
9.06%
11.01%

Expense ratio:  1.89%
 
(1)
Periods of less than one year are not annualized.

 


 

 

 

 
_______________
 
Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance table does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com.
 
The 50/50 Blended DJIA/Treasury Index consists of 50% common stocks represented by the Dow Jones Industrial Average and 50% short-duration Treasury securities represented by the ICE BofAML 1-Year U.S. Treasury Note Index, which comprises U.S. Treasury securities maturing in approximately one year. The Dow Jones Industrial Average is a price-weighted average of 30 significant stocks traded on the NYSE or The NASDAQ Stock Market. One cannot invest directly in an index. These indices are used herein for comparative purposes in accordance with SEC regulations.
 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average is the property of the Dow Jones & Company, Inc. Dow Jones & Company, Inc. is not affiliated with the Fund or its investment advisor. Dow Jones & Company, Inc. has not participated in any way in the creation of the Fund or in the selection of stocks included in the Fund and has not approved any information included in this report.
 
The expense ratio presented is from the most recent prospectus. The expense ratio for the current reporting period is available in the Financial Highlights section of this report.
 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
4

 PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Financial Statements
 
 Schedule of Investments as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

HENNESSY BALANCED FUND
(% of Net Assets)

 

 
TOP TEN HOLDINGS (EXCLUDING MONEY MARKET FUNDS)
% NET ASSETS
U.S. Treasury Bill, 0.165%, 01/28/2021
21.63%
U.S. Treasury Bill, 1.525%, 12/03/2020
  8.65%
U.S. Treasury Bill, 0.130%, 11/05/2020
  6.06%
U.S. Treasury Bill, 0.095%, 05/21/2020
  6.05%
U.S. Treasury Bill, 0.115%, 06/18/2020
  6.05%
Verizon Communications, Inc.
  5.22%
Pfizer, Inc.
  5.21%
International Business Machines Corp.
  4.67%
3M Co.
  4.47%
The Coca-Cola Co.
  4.41%

 
Note: For presentation purposes, the Fund has grouped some of the industry categories. For purposes of categorizing securities for compliance with Section 8(b)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Fund uses more specific industry classifications.
 
The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) was developed by and is the exclusive property and a service mark of MSCI, Inc. and Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC. It has been licensed for use by the Hennessy Funds.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
5


COMMON STOCKS – 44.37%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Communication Services – 5.22%
                 
Verizon Communications, Inc.
   
10,500
   
$
603,225
     
5.22
%
                         
Consumer Staples – 8.66%
                       
The Coca-Cola Co.
   
11,100
     
509,379
     
4.41
%
Walgreens Boots Alliance, Inc.
   
11,350
     
491,341
     
4.25
%
 
           
1,000,720
     
8.66
%
                         
Energy – 7.44%
                       
Chevron Corp.
   
5,150
     
473,800
     
4.10
%
Exxon Mobil Corp.
   
8,300
     
385,701
     
3.34
%
 
           
859,501
     
7.44
%
                         
Financials – 0.58%
                       
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
   
700
     
67,032
     
0.58
%
                         
Health Care – 5.90%
                       
Merck & Co., Inc.
   
1,000
     
79,340
     
0.69
%
Pfizer, Inc.
   
15,700
     
602,252
     
5.21
%
 
           
681,592
     
5.90
%
                         
Industrials – 7.50%
                       
3M Co.
   
3,400
     
516,528
     
4.47
%
Caterpillar, Inc.
   
3,000
     
349,140
     
3.03
%
 
           
865,668
     
7.50
%
                         
Information Technology – 5.83%
                       
Cisco Systems, Inc.
   
3,150
     
133,497
     
1.16
%
International Business Machines Corp.
   
4,300
     
539,908
     
4.67
%
 
           
673,405
     
5.83
%
                         
Materials – 3.24%
                       
Dow, Inc.
   
9,350
     
343,052
     
2.97
%
DuPont de Nemours, Inc.
   
650
     
30,563
     
0.27
%
 
           
373,615
     
3.24
%
Total Common Stocks
                       
  (Cost $5,568,859)
           
5,124,758
     
44.37
%


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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
6

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 55.83%
 
Number of Shares/
         
% of
 
 
 
Par Amount
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Money Market Funds – 3.93%
                 
First American Government Obligations
                 
  Fund, Institutional Class, 0.25% (a)
   
453,516
   
$
453,516
     
3.93
%
                         
U.S. Treasury Bills – 51.90%
                       
0.095%, 05/21/2020 (b)
   
700,000
     
699,125
     
6.05
%
0.115%, 06/18/2020 (b)
   
700,000
     
698,278
     
6.05
%
0.280%, 07/16/2020 (b)
   
400,000
     
399,927
     
3.46
%
0.130%, 11/05/2020 (b)
   
700,000
     
699,607
     
6.06
%
1.525%, 12/03/2020 (b)
   
1,000,000
     
999,378
     
8.65
%
0.165%, 01/28/2021 (b)
   
2,500,000
     
2,497,403
     
21.63
%
 
           
5,993,718
     
51.90
%
Total Short-Term Investments
                       
  (Cost $6,407,510)
           
6,447,234
     
55.83
%
 
                       
Total Investments
                       
  (Cost $11,976,369) – 100.20%
           
11,571,992
     
100.20
%
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets – (0.20)%
           
(22,870
)
   
(0.20
)%
 
                       
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
         
$
11,549,122
     
100.00
%

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

(a)
The rate listed is the fund’s seven-day yield as of April 30, 2020.
(b)
The rate listed is the discount rate at issue.


Summary of Fair Value Exposure as of April 30, 2020
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s net assets as of April 30, 2020 (see Note 3 in the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements):
 
Common Stocks
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Communication Services
 
$
603,225
   
$
   
$
   
$
603,225
 
Consumer Staples
   
1,000,720
     
     
     
1,000,720
 
Energy
   
859,501
     
     
     
859,501
 
Financials
   
67,032
     
     
     
67,032
 
Health Care
   
681,592
     
     
     
681,592
 
Industrials
   
865,668
     
     
     
865,668
 
Information Technology
   
673,405
     
     
     
673,405
 
Materials
   
373,615
     
     
     
373,615
 
Total Common Stocks
 
$
5,124,758
   
$
   
$
   
$
5,124,758
 
Short-Term Investments
                               
Money Market Funds
 
$
453,516
   
$
   
$
   
$
453,516
 
U.S. Treasury Bills
   
     
5,993,718
     
     
5,993,718
 
Total Short-Term Investments
 
$
453,516
   
$
5,993,718
   
$
   
$
6,447,234
 
Total Investments
 
$
5,578,274
   
$
5,993,718
   
$
   
$
11,571,992
 


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
7

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments in securities, at value (cost $11,976,369)
 
$
11,571,992
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
9,659
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
15,054
 
Total assets
   
11,596,705
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable for fund shares redeemed
   
3,554
 
Payable to advisor
   
5,583
 
Payable to administrator
   
4,244
 
Payable to auditor
   
11,459
 
Accrued distribution fees
   
11,714
 
Accrued service fees
   
931
 
Accrued trustees fees
   
6,741
 
Accrued expenses and other payables
   
3,357
 
Total liabilities
   
47,583
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
11,549,122
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSISTS OF:
       
Capital stock
 
$
11,730,265
 
Accumulated deficit
   
(181,143
)
Total net assets
 
$
11,549,122
 
         
NET ASSETS:
       
Investor Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
11,549,122
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
1,039,406
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
11.11
 



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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
8

 STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES/STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Operations for the six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Dividend income
 
$
117,898
 
Interest income
   
59,279
 
Total investment income
   
177,177
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (See Note 5)
   
35,872
 
Compliance expense (See Note 5)
   
13,462
 
Administration, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees (See Note 5)
   
11,642
 
Audit fees
   
11,463
 
Federal and state registration fees
   
10,725
 
Distribution fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
8,968
 
Trustees’ fees and expenses
   
8,197
 
Service fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
5,979
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
3,851
 
Reports to shareholders
   
3,003
 
Other expenses
   
1,913
 
Total expenses
   
115,075
 
NET INVESTMENT INCOME
 
$
62,102
 
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
       
Net realized gain on investments
 
$
231,547
 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(1,026,260
)
Net loss on investments
   
(794,713
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(732,611
)




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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
9








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HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
10

 STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

Financial Statements
 
 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
April 30, 2020
   
Year Ended
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
October 31, 2019
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment income
 
$
62,102
   
$
130,489
 
Net realized gain on investments
   
231,547
     
507,439
 
Net change in unrealized
               
  appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(1,026,260
)
   
107,778
 
Net increase (decrease) in net assets
               
  resulting from operations
   
(732,611
)
   
745,706
 
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
Distributable earnings – Investor Class
   
(559,075
)
   
(681,988
)
Total distributions
   
(559,075
)
   
(681,988
)
                 
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
               
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Investor Class
   
587,634
     
2,194,903
 
Dividends reinvested – Investor Class
   
550,366
     
673,592
 
Cost of shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(600,726
)
   
(2,249,250
)
Net increase in net assets derived
               
  from capital share transactions
   
537,274
     
619,245
 
TOTAL INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS
   
(754,412
)
   
682,963
 
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
12,303,534
     
11,620,571
 
End of period
 
$
11,549,122
   
$
12,303,534
 
                 
CHANGES IN SHARES OUTSTANDING:
               
Shares sold – Investor Class
   
50,929
     
179,722
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Investor Class
   
45,906
     
56,316
 
Shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(51,505
)
   
(183,674
)
Net increase in shares outstanding
   
45,330
     
52,364
 



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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
11

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Investor Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
12.38
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income
   
0.06
(1) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(0.77
)
Total from investment operations
   
(0.71
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.06
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(0.50
)
Total distributions
   
(0.56
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
11.11
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-6.03
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
11.55
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.92
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets
   
1.04
%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate
   
13
%(2)









(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
12


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INVESTOR CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
12.34
   
$
12.88
   
$
12.68
   
$
12.37
   
$
12.98
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.13
(1) 
   
0.09
     
0.06
     
0.04
     
0.03
 
 
0.59
     
0.33
     
1.09
     
0.58
     
(0.01
)
 
0.72
     
0.42
     
1.15
     
0.62
     
0.02
 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.13
)
   
(0.08
)
   
(0.05
)
   
(0.04
)
   
(0.03
)
 
(0.55
)
   
(0.88
)
   
(0.90
)
   
(0.27
)
   
(0.60
)
 
(0.68
)
   
(0.96
)
   
(0.95
)
   
(0.31
)
   
(0.63
)
$
12.38
   
$
12.34
   
$
12.88
   
$
12.68
   
$
12.37
 
                                     
 
6.05
%
   
3.46
%
   
9.56
%
   
5.20
%
   
0.11
%
                                     
                                     
$
12.30
   
$
11.62
   
$
12.24
   
$
12.08
   
$
11.63
 
 
1.88
%
   
1.84
%
   
1.82
%
   
1.68
%
   
1.68
%
 
1.04
%
   
0.70
%
   
0.45
%
   
0.33
%
   
0.20
%
 
52
%
   
21
%
   
31
%
   
51
%
   
34
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
13

Financial Statements
 
 Notes to the Financial Statements April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

1).  ORGANIZATION
 
The Hennessy Balanced Fund (the “Fund”) is a series of Hennessy Funds Trust (the “Trust”), which was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 17, 1992. The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The investment objective of the Fund is a combination of capital appreciation and current income. The Fund is a non-diversified fund and offers Investor Class shares.
 
As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies.”
 
2).  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of the financial statements. These policies conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
 
a).
Securities Valuation – All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value, as described in Note 3.
   
b).
Federal Income Taxes – No provision for federal income taxes or excise taxes has been made because the Fund has elected to be taxed as a regulated investment company and intends to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders and otherwise comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies. Net investment income/loss and realized gains/losses for federal income tax purposes may differ from those reported in the financial statements because of temporary book and tax basis differences. Temporary differences are primarily the result of the treatment of wash sales for tax reporting purposes. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax benefits, if any, in the Statement of Operations as an income tax expense. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income to shareholders for tax purposes. The Fund may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes.
   
c).
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – The Fund has accounting policies regarding recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The tax returns of the Fund for the prior three fiscal years are open for examination. The Fund has reviewed all open tax years in major jurisdictions and concluded that there is no impact on the Fund’s net assets and no tax liability resulting from unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain income tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The Fund’s major tax jurisdictions are U.S. federal and Delaware.
   
d).
Income and Expenses – Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date or as soon as information is available to the Fund. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recognized on an accrual basis.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
14

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received. The Fund is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to its portfolio, such as advisory, administration, and certain shareholder service fees.
   
e).
Distributions to Shareholders – Dividends from net investment income for the Fund, if any, are declared and paid at the end of each calendar quarter. Distributions of net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December.
   
f).
Security Transactions – Investment and shareholder transactions are recorded on the trade date. The Fund determines the realized gain/loss from an investment transaction by comparing the original cost of the security lot sold with the net sale proceeds. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted or amortized, respectively, over the life of each such security.
   
g).
Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported change in net assets during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
h).
Share Valuation – The net asset value (“NAV”) per share of the Fund is calculated by dividing (i) the total value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by (ii) the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest $0.01. The Fund’s shares will not be priced on days the New York Stock Exchange is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for the Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.
 
3).  SECURITIES VALUATION
 
The Fund follows fair value accounting standards that establish an authoritative definition of fair value and set out a hierarchy for measuring fair value. These standards require additional disclosures about the various inputs and valuation techniques used to develop the measurements of fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs during the period. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
 
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments that the Fund has the ability to access at the date of measurement.
     
 
Level 2 –
Other significant observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar instruments, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets, such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk curves, default rates, and similar data).
     
 
Level 3 –
Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability based on the best available information) when observable inputs are unavailable.

The following is a description of the valuation techniques applied to the Fund’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
Equity Securities – Equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, exchange-traded funds, closed-end mutual funds, partnerships, rights, and real estate investment trusts, that are traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is readily available will generally be valued at the last sales price as


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
15

 
reported by the primary exchange on which the securities are listed. Securities listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) will generally be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may differ from the last sales price reported. Securities traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is not readily available will generally be valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Registered Investment Companies – Investments in open-end registered investment companies, commonly referred to as mutual funds, generally are priced at the ending NAV provided by the applicable mutual fund’s service agent and will be classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Debt Securities – Debt securities, including corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and U.S. government agency issues, are generally valued at market on the basis of valuations furnished by an independent pricing service that utilizes both dealer-supplied valuations and formula-based techniques. The pricing service may consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, and fundamental data relating to the issuer. In addition, the model may incorporate observable market data, such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued primarily using dealer quotations. These securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Short-Term Securities – Short-term equity investments, including money market funds, are valued in the manner specified above. Short-term debt investments with an original term to maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value. If the original term to maturity of a short-term debt investment exceeded 60 days, then the values as of the 61st day prior to maturity are amortized. Amortized cost is not used if its use would be inappropriate due to credit or other impairments of the issuer, in which case the security’s fair value would be determined, as described below. Short-term securities are generally classified in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the inputs used and market activity levels for specific securities.

The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board”) has adopted fair value pricing procedures that are followed when a price for a security is not readily available or if a significant event has occurred that indicates the closing price of a security no longer represents the true value of that security. Fair value pricing determinations are made in good faith in accordance with these procedures. There are numerous criteria that will be given consideration in determining a fair value of a security, such as the trading volume of a security and markets, the values of other similar securities, and news events with direct bearing on a security or markets. Fair value pricing results in an estimated price for a security that reflects the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive in a current sale. Depending on the relative significance of the valuation inputs, these securities may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
The Board has delegated day-to-day valuation matters to the Valuation and Liquidity Committee comprising representatives from Hennessy Advisors, Inc., the Fund’s investment advisor (the “Advisor”). The function of the Valuation and Liquidity Committee is to value securities where current and reliable market quotations are not readily available. All actions taken by the Valuation and Liquidity Committee are reviewed by the Board.
 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
16

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Fund has performed an analysis of all existing investments to determine the significance and character of all inputs to their fair value determinations. Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Fund’s investments. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. Details related to the fair value hierarchy of the Fund’s securities as of April 30, 2020, are included in the Schedule of Investments.
 
4).  INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding government and short-term investments) for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $737,581 and $855,727, respectively.
 
There were no purchases or sales/maturities of long-term U.S. government securities for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Fund is permitted to purchase or sell securities from or to another fund in the Hennessy Funds family of funds (collectively, the “Hennessy Funds”) under specified conditions outlined in procedures adopted by the Board. The procedures have been designed to ensure that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Hennessy Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not engage in purchases or sales of securities pursuant to Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
 
5).  INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
The Advisor provides the Fund with investment advisory services under an Investment Advisory Agreement. The Advisor furnishes all investment advice, office space, and facilities and most of the personnel needed by the Fund. As compensation for its services, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee from the Fund. The fee is based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate of 0.60%. The net investment advisory fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Board has approved a Shareholder Servicing Agreement for the Fund, which was instituted to compensate the Advisor for the non-investment advisory services it provides to the Fund. The Shareholder Servicing Agreement provides for a monthly fee paid to the Advisor at an annual rate of 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund. The shareholder service fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has adopted a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that authorizes payments in connection with the distribution of the Fund’s shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets. Even though the authorized rate is up to 0.25%, the Fund is currently only using up to 0.15% of its average daily net assets for such purpose. Amounts paid under the plan may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares, including, but not limited to, advertising, shareholder account servicing, printing and mailing of prospectuses to other than current shareholders, printing and mailing of sales literature, and compensation for sales and marketing activities or to financial institutions and others, such as dealers and distributors. The distribution fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into agreements with various brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries in connection with the sale of shares of the Fund. The agreements provide for periodic payments of sub-transfer agent expenses by the Fund to the brokers, dealers,
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
17


and financial intermediaries for providing certain shareholder maintenance services. These shareholder services include the pre-processing and quality control of new accounts, shareholder correspondence, answering customer inquiries regarding account status, and facilitating shareholder telephone transactions. The sub-transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (“Fund Services”) provides the Fund with administrative, accounting, and transfer agent services. As administrator, Fund Services is responsible for activities such as (i) preparing various federal and state regulatory filings, reports, and returns for the Fund, (ii) preparing reports and materials to be supplied to the Board, (iii) monitoring the activities of the Fund’s custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, and (iv) coordinating the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviewing the Fund’s expense accruals. U.S. Bank N.A., an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Fund’s custodian. The servicing agreements between the Trust and Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. contain a fee schedule that is inclusive of administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. The administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
Quasar Distributors, LLC (“Quasar”) acts as the Fund’s principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Fund’s shares. Quasar was an affiliate of Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. through March 30, 2020. Effective March 31, 2020, Foreside Financial Group, LLC (“Foreside”) acquired Quasar from Fund Services. As a result of the acquisition, Quasar became a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of Foreside and is no longer affiliated with Fund Services or U.S. Bank N.A. The Board approved a new Distribution Agreement to enable Quasar to continue serving as the Fund’s distributor.
 
The officers of the Fund are affiliated with the Advisor. With the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer and the Senior Compliance Officer, such officers receive no compensation from the Fund for serving in their respective roles. The Fund, along with the other Hennessy Funds, makes reimbursement payments on an equal basis to the Advisor for a portion of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Chief Compliance Officer and for all of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Senior Compliance Officer. The compliance fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
6).  GUARANTEES AND INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Hennessy Funds’ organizational documents, their officers and trustees are indemnified by the Hennessy Funds against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Hennessy Funds. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Hennessy Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Fund expects the risk of loss to be remote.
 
7).  LINE OF CREDIT
 
The Fund has an uncommitted line of credit with the other Hennessy Funds in the amount of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 or (ii) 33.33% of each Hennessy Fund’s net assets, or 30% for the Hennessy Gas Utility Fund and 10% for the Fund, intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The credit facility is with the Hennessy Funds’ custodian bank, U.S. Bank N.A. Borrowings under this arrangement bear interest at the bank’s prime
 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
18

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

rate and are secured by all of the Fund’s assets (as to its own borrowings only). During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not have any borrowings outstanding under the line of credit.
 
8).  FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund’s most recent fiscal year end, the components of accumulated earnings (losses) for income tax purposes were as follows:
 
     
Investments
 
 
Cost of investments for tax purposes
 
$
11,736,170
 
 
Gross tax unrealized appreciation
 
$
755,819
 
 
Gross tax unrealized depreciation
   
(143,056
)
 
Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)
 
$
612,763
 
 
Undistributed ordinary income
 
$
28,357
 
 
Undistributed long-term capital gains
   
469,423
 
 
Total distributable earnings
 
$
497,780
 
 
Other accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
 
 
Total accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
1,110,543
 

The difference between book-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation (as shown above) is attributable primarily to wash sales.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund had no tax basis capital losses to offset future capital gains.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund did not defer, on a tax basis, any late-year ordinary losses. Late-year ordinary losses are net ordinary losses incurred after December 31, 2018, but within the taxable year, that are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year.
 
During fiscal year 2020 (year to date) and fiscal year 2019, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund was as follows:
 
     
Six Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
     
April 30, 2020
   
October 31, 2019
 
 
Ordinary income(1)
 
$
89,643
   
$
133,769
 
 
Long-term capital gain
   
469,432
     
548,219
 
     
$
559,075
   
$
681,988
 

 (1)  Ordinary income includes short-term capital gain.
 
9).  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO PERIOD END
 
Management has evaluated the Fund’s related events and transactions that occurred subsequent to April 30, 2020, through the date of issuance of the Fund’s financial statements. Management has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.
 


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
19

Expense Example (Unaudited)
April 30, 2020


As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur ongoing costs, including management fees, service fees, and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from November 1, 2019, through April 30, 2020.
 
Actual Expenses
The first line of the table below provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. Although the Fund charges no sales loads or transaction fees, you will be assessed fees for outgoing wire transfers, returned checks and stop payment orders at prevailing rates charged by U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, the Fund’s transfer agent. If you request that a redemption be made by wire transfer, currently a $15 fee is charged by the Fund’s transfer agent. IRA accounts will be charged a $15 annual maintenance fee. The example below includes, but is not limited to, management fees, shareholder servicing fees, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. However, the example below does not include portfolio trading commissions and related expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line of the table under the heading entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line of the table below provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratio and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only. Therefore, the second line of the table is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
 
 
Beginning
Ending
 
 
Account Value
Account Value
Expenses Paid
 
November 1, 2019
April 30, 2020
During Period(1)
Investor Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   939.70
$9.26
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,015.32
$9.62

(1)
Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio of 1.92%, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 days (to reflect the half-year period).



 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
20

 EXPENSE EXAMPLE — ELECTRONIC DELIVERY

How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
 
A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge (1) by calling 1-800-966-4354, (2) on the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-policy, or (3) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record is available without charge on both the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-record and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov no later than August 31 for the prior 12 months ending June 30.
 
 
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
 
The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on request by calling 1-800-966-4354.
 
 
Federal Tax Distribution Information
(Unaudited)
 
For fiscal year 2019, certain dividends paid by the Fund may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 23.8%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was 100.00%.
 
For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions that qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction for fiscal year 2019 was 100.00%.
 
The percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that were designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Section 871(k)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, for the Fund was 0.00%.
 
 
Important Notice Regarding Delivery
of Shareholder Documents
 
To help keep the Fund’s costs as low as possible, we generally deliver a single copy of shareholder reports, proxy statements, and prospectuses to shareholders who share an address and have the same last name. This process does not apply to account statements. You may request an individual copy of a shareholder document at any time. If you would like to receive separate mailings of shareholder documents, please call U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124, and individual delivery will begin within 30 days of your request. If your account is held through a financial institution or other intermediary, please contact such intermediary directly to request individual delivery.
 
 
Electronic Delivery
 
The Funds offer shareholders the option to receive account statements, prospectuses, tax forms, and shareholder reports online. To sign up for eDelivery, please visit www.hennessyfunds.com/account. You may change your delivery preference at any time by visiting our website or calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124.
 


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
21

Board Approval of Investment Advisory
Agreement
 
At its meeting on March 12, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board,” and the members thereof, the “Trustees”) unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement of the Fund with Hennessy Advisors, Inc. (the “Advisor”). As part of the process of approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees reviewed their fiduciary duties and the relevant factors for them to consider with respect to approving the advisory agreement. In addition, the Trustees who are not deemed “interested persons” (as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Fund (the “Independent Trustees”) met in executive session to discuss the approval of the advisory agreement.
 
In advance of the meeting, the Advisor sent detailed information to the Trustees to assist them in their evaluation of the advisory agreement. This information included, but was not limited to, the following:
 
 
(1)
A memorandum from outside legal counsel that described the fiduciary duties of the Board with respect to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement and the relevant factors for consideration;
     
 
(2)
A memorandum from the Advisor that listed the factors relevant to the Board’s approval of the continuation of the advisory agreement and also referenced the documents that had been provided to help the Board assess each such factor;
     
 
(3)
An inventory of the services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(4)
A written discussion of economies of scale;
     
 
(5)
A summary of the key terms of the advisory agreement;
     
 
(6)
A recent Fund fact sheet, which included performance information over various periods;
     
 
(7)
A peer expense comparison of the net expense ratio and investment advisory fee of the Fund; and
     
 
(8)
The Advisor’s financial statements from its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q.

All of the factors discussed were considered as a whole by the Trustees and by the Independent Trustees meeting in executive session. The factors were viewed in their totality by the Trustees, with no single factor being the principal or determinative factor in the Trustees’ determination of whether to approve the continuation of the advisory agreement. The Trustees recognized that the management and fee arrangements for the Fund are the result of years of review and discussion between the Independent Trustees and the Advisor, that certain aspects of such arrangements may receive greater scrutiny in some years than in others, and that the Trustees’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of these same arrangements and information received during the course of the year and in prior years.
 

 

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
22

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

Prior to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees in executive session, considered, among other items:
 
 
(1)
The nature and quality of the advisory services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(2)
A comparison of the fees and expenses of the Fund to other similar funds;
     
 
(3)
Whether economies of scale are recognized by the Fund;
     
 
(4)
The costs and profitability of the Fund to the Advisor;
     
 
(5)
The performance of the Fund; and
     
 
(6)
Any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an investment advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee).

The material considerations and determinations of the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, were as follows:
 
 
(1)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Advisor. Based on this review, the Trustees concluded that the Advisor provides high-quality services to the Fund and noted that their overall confidence in the Advisor was high. The Trustees also concluded that they were satisfied with the nature, extent, and quality of the advisory services provided to the Fund by the Advisor and that the nature and extent of the services provided by the Advisor were appropriate to assure that the Fund’s operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

   
(a)
The Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund. In this capacity, the Advisor does the following:

     
(i)
manages the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, including the purchase, retention, and disposition of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions;
         
     
(ii)
seeks best execution for the Fund’s portfolio;
         
     
(iii)
manages the use of soft dollars for the Fund; and
         
     
(iv)
manages proxy voting for the Fund.

   
(b)
The Advisor performs a daily reconciliation of portfolio positions and cash for the Fund.
       
   
(c)
The Advisor monitors the liquidity of each Fund.
       
   
(d)
The Advisor monitors the Fund’s compliance with its investment objectives and restrictions.
       
   
(e)
The Advisor monitors compliance with federal securities laws, maintains a compliance program (including a code of ethics), conducts ongoing reviews of the compliance programs of the Fund’s service providers, as feasible, conducts on-site visits to the Fund’s service providers, monitors incidents of abusive trading practices, reviews Fund expense accruals, payments, and fixed expense ratios, evaluates insurance providers for fidelity bond, D&O/E&O insurance, and cybersecurity insurance coverage, manages regulatory examination compliance and responses, conducts employee compliance training, reviews reports provided by service providers, and maintains books and records.
       
   
(f)
The Advisor oversees service providers that provide accounting, administration, distribution, transfer agency, custodial, sales, marketing, public relations, audit, information technology, and legal services to the Fund.

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
23

   
(g)
The Advisor maintains in-house marketing and distribution departments on behalf of the Fund.
       
   
(h)
The Advisor is actively involved with preparing regulatory filings for the Fund, including writing and annually updating the Fund’s prospectus and related documents.
       
   
(i)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Advisor prepares a written summary of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(j)
The Advisor oversees distribution of the Fund through third-party broker/dealers and independent financial institutions such as Charles Schwab, Inc., Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and Pershing. The Advisor participates in “no transaction fee” (“NTF”) programs with these companies on behalf of the Fund, which allow customers to purchase the Fund through third-party distribution channels without paying a transaction fee. The Advisor compensates, in part, a number of these third-party providers of NTF programs out of its own revenues.
       
   
(k)
The Advisor pays the incentive compensation of the Fund’s compliance officers and employs other staff, such as legal, marketing, national accounts, distribution, sales, administrative, and trading oversight personnel, as well as management executives.
       
   
(l)
The Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board.
       
   
(m)
The Advisor prepares or reviews all Board materials, frequently presents to the Board and leads Board discussions, prepares or reviews all meeting minutes, and arranges for Board training and education.

 
(2)
The Trustees compared the performance of the Fund to benchmark indices over various periods and also noted that the Trustees review and discuss reports comparing the investment performance of the Fund to various indices at each quarterly Board meeting. Based on such information, the Trustees determined that the Advisor manages the Fund in a manner materially consistent with its stated investment objective and style. The Trustees concluded that the performance of the Fund over various periods warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(3)
The Trustees reviewed the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of the Fund compared to other funds similar in asset size and investment objective to the Fund using data from Morningstar. As part of the discussion with management, the Trustees ensured that they understood and were comfortable with the criteria used to determine the mutual funds included in the Morningstar categories for purposes of the materials considered at the meeting. The Trustees determined that the advisory fee and overall expense ratio of the Fund falls within the range of the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of other comparable funds and concluded that they are reasonable and warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(4)
The Trustees also considered whether the Advisor was realizing economies of scale that it should share with the Fund’s shareholders. The Trustees noted that the assets of the Fund had declined over the prior year. In addition, the Trustees noted that many of the expenses incurred to manage the Fund are asset-based fees, so the Advisor does not realize material economies of scale relating to those expenses as the assets of the Fund increase. For example, mutual fund platform

 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
24

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

   
fees increase as the Fund’s assets grow. The Trustees also considered the Advisor’s efforts to contain expenses through actions such as renegotiating service contracts, the Advisor’s significant marketing efforts to promote the Funds, the Advisor’s investments in personnel to manage the Funds, and the Advisor’s agreement to waive fees or lower its management fees in certain circumstances. The Trustees noted that it did not appear that the Advisor was realizing economies of scale at current asset levels and concluded that it would continue to monitor economies of scale in the future as circumstances changed.
     
 
(5)
The Trustees considered the profitability of the Advisor, including the impact of mutual fund platform fees on the Advisor’s profitability, and also considered the resources and revenues that the Advisor has put into managing and distributing the Fund. The Trustees then concluded that the profits of the Advisor are reasonable and not excessive when compared to profitability guidelines set forth in relevant court cases.
     
 
(6)
The Trustees considered the high level of professionalism and knowledge of the Advisor’s employees, along with a very low level of turnover, and concluded that this was beneficial to the Fund and its shareholders.
     
 
(7)
The Trustees considered any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee). The Trustees noted that the Advisor may derive ancillary benefits from, by way of example, its association with the Fund in the form of proprietary and third-party research products and services received from broker-dealers that execute portfolio trades for the Fund. The Trustees determined that any such products and services have been used for legitimate purposes relating to the Fund by providing assistance in the investment decision-making process. The Trustees concluded that any additional benefits realized by the Advisor from its relationship with the Fund were reasonable, which was based on, among other things, the Trustees’ finding that the research, analytical, statistical, and other information and services provided by brokers are merely supplemental to the Advisor’s own efforts in the performance of its duties under the advisory agreement.

After reviewing the materials and information provided at the meeting, as well as other information regularly provided at the Board’s quarterly meetings throughout the year regarding the quality of services provided by the Advisor, the performance of the Fund, expense information, brokerage commissions information, the adequacy and efficacy of the Advisor’s written policies and procedures, other regulatory compliance issues, trading information and related matters, and other factors that the Trustees deemed relevant, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the advisory agreement.
 



HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
25


For information, questions, or assistance, please call
The Hennessy Funds
1-800-966-4354 or 1-415-899-1555


INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
7250 Redwood Boulevard, Suite 200
Novato, California 94945

ADMINISTRATOR,
TRANSFER AGENT,
DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, &
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0701

CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

TRUSTEES
Neil J. Hennessy
Robert T. Doyle
J. Dennis DeSousa
Gerald P. Richardson

COUNSEL
Foley & Lardner LLP
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-5306

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
Two Liberty Place
50 South 16th Street, Suite 2900
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-2529

DISTRIBUTOR
Quasar Distributors, LLC
111 East Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 2200
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202




www.hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354

This report has been prepared for shareholders and may be distributed to
others only if preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.




SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

APRIL 30, 2020




HENNESSY BP ENERGY FUND
 
Investor Class  HNRGX
Institutional Class  HNRIX



IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
 
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the annual and semi-annual reports will no longer be sent by mail unless you specifically request paper copies from the Hennessy Funds 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 have already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Hennessy Funds electronically by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com/account or by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950. If you own shares in a Fund through a financial intermediary, please contact your financial intermediary to make this election.
 
You may elect to receive paper copies of all future reports free of charge by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or, if you own your shares through a financial intermediary, by contacting your financial intermediary. Your election to receive paper copies of reports will apply to all Funds in the Hennessy Funds family.
 


hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354









(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 










Contents
 

 
Letter to Shareholders
2
Performance Overview
4
Financial Statements
 
Schedule of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
9
Statement of Operations
10
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
11
Financial Highlights
12
Notes to the Financial Statements
16
Expense Example
24
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
26
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
26
Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents
26
Electronic Delivery
26
Board Approval of Investment Advisory Agreements
27










HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 


June 2020
 
Dear Hennessy Funds Shareholder:

 
First and foremost, I hope this communication finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. In many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down in recent months, and we at Hennessy have joined the rest of the world in witnessing and experiencing its profound effect on public health, the global economy, and the everyday lives of people around the world.  In response to the crisis, we invoked our business continuity plan in mid-March to ensure a smooth transition to remote work for all of our employees, who have been working safely and productively from home. We want to assure our Hennessy Funds shareholders that our operations are uninterrupted and functioning normally.
 
The past six months have been marked by extremes. During the first half of the period from November 2019 through January 2020, the bull market, supported by strong corporate fundamentals, continued to move higher, and investors appeared focused on record-low unemployment and strong economic growth. In mid-February, the major U.S. market indices hit all-time highs, but then, within just a matter of weeks, lost over one-third of their values as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded. Shelter-in-place and business closure orders rippled through the nation, causing initial unemployment claims to skyrocket to their highest number in history. The market then rallied back and posted double-digit positive returns in April.
 
For the six months ended April 30, 2020, on a total return basis, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 8.9% and the S&P 500® Index was down 3.2%. Small-cap and mid-cap stocks generally fared worse than large-cap stocks during the period, and the Financial sector was particularly hard hit as the Federal Reserve aggressively cut the federal funds rate in an effort to stabilize the economy. The Energy sector was crushed by both the sudden loss of demand due to COVID-19 and the oversupply caused by the surprise market-share battle between Russia and Saudi Arabia, and the S&P 500® Energy Sector Index ended the six-month period down over 30%.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented event, and the duration and full extent of the economic impact is unknown. In the moment, there is always the concern that ‘this time is different.’ But, when you are able to look at past financial, political, and health crises with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, history has demonstrated that our economy and financial markets have always rebounded and recovered eventually. If you look back to the last market downturn in 2008, economic fundamentals were weak compared to the market in 2020, where the overall underpinnings were – and are still – quite strong.  Publicly listed companies today have plenty of cash, with over $5 trillion on balance sheets of the S&P 500® companies alone, and I believe that most will survive and that many may emerge from the current crisis even stronger.
 

 

 

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
2

 LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

We understand that this market volatility and economic uncertainty is jarring to many investors, and we continue to monitor events and the markets. We remain focused on managing our high-conviction portfolios for the long-term benefit of our shareholders, and we are confident in the time-tested strategies and rigorous research that led to their formation. We encourage shareholders to maintain a long-term investment horizon and to remain focused on long-term goals. As always, but especially in these trying times, we are here to support our shareholders, and we thank you for your continued investment and trust. Should you have any questions or would like to speak with us directly, please don’t hesitate to call (800) 966-4354 or email us at fundsinfo@hennessyfunds.com.
 
Best regards,
 
 
Neil J. Hennessy
President and Chief Investment Officer
 
 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500® Index are commonly used to measure the performance of U.S. stocks. The S&P 500® Energy Sector Index is an index that comprises those companies included in the S&P 500 that are classified as members of the GICS energy sector. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 








HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
3

Performance Overview (Unaudited)
 
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR PERIODS ENDED APRIL 30, 2020
 
 
Six
One
Five
Since Inception
 
Months(1)
Year
Years
(12/31/13)
Hennessy BP Energy Fund –
       
  Investor Class (HNRGX)
-36.72%
-48.44%
-16.61%
-11.62%
Hennessy BP Energy Fund –
       
  Institutional Class (HNRIX)
-36.68%
-48.31%
-16.37%
-11.41%
S&P 500® Energy Index
-30.58%
-38.29%
-10.78%
  -9.28%
S&P 500® Index
  -3.16%
   0.86%
   9.12%
   9.66%

Expense ratios:  1.98% (Investor Class); 1.67% (Institutional Class)
 
(1)
Periods of less than one year are not annualized.

 


 

 

 

 

_______________
 
Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance table does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com. Performance for periods on or prior to October 26, 2018, is that of the BP Capital TwinLine Energy Fund.
 
The S&P 500® Energy Index comprises those companies included in the S&P 500® that are classified in the Energy sector. The S&P 500® Index is a capitalization-weighted index that is designed to represent the broad domestic economy through changes in the aggregate market value of 500 stocks across all major industries. One cannot invest directly in an index. These indices are used herein for comparative purposes in accordance with SEC regulations.
 
Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC is the source and owner of the S&P® and S&P 500® trademarks.
 
The expense ratios presented are from the most recent prospectus. The expense ratios for the current reporting period are available in the Financial Highlights section of this report.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
4

 PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Financial Statements
 
 Schedule of Investments as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

HENNESSY BP ENERGY FUND
(% of Total Assets)

 

 
TOP TEN HOLDINGS (EXCLUDING MONEY MARKET FUNDS)
% TOTAL ASSETS
Cabot Oil & Gas Corp.
7.14%
Pioneer Natural Resources Co.
6.93%
EOG Resources, Inc.
6.88%
Marathon Petroleum Corp.
6.19%
Energy Transfer LP
6.05%
PDC Energy, Inc.
5.95%
Concho Resources, Inc.
5.56%
WPX Energy, Inc.
5.27%
Enterprise Products Partners LP
5.12%
MPLX LP
4.76%

 
 
Note: The Fund concentrates its investments in the Energy industry. For presentation purposes, the Fund uses custom categories.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
5


COMMON STOCKS – 77.10%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Downstream – 10.57%
                 
Marathon Petroleum Corp.
   
29,500
   
$
946,360
     
6.32
%
Valero Energy Corp.
   
10,050
     
636,668
     
4.25
%
 
           
1,583,028
     
10.57
%
                         
Exploration & Production – 44.93%
                       
Cabot Oil & Gas Corp.
   
50,500
     
1,091,810
     
7.29
%
Concho Resources, Inc.
   
14,980
     
849,666
     
5.67
%
Diamondback Energy, Inc.
   
14,030
     
610,866
     
4.08
%
EOG Resources, Inc.
   
22,160
     
1,052,822
     
7.03
%
Parsley Energy, Inc., – Class A
   
37,030
     
349,933
     
2.34
%
PDC Energy, Inc. (a)
   
70,000
     
909,300
     
6.07
%
Pioneer Natural Resources Co.
   
11,860
     
1,059,217
     
7.07
%
WPX Energy, Inc. (a)
   
131,450
     
805,788
     
5.38
%
 
           
6,729,402
     
44.93
%
                         
Midstream – 9.98%
                       
Cheniere Energy, Inc. (a)
   
12,350
     
576,621
     
3.85
%
ONEOK, Inc.
   
15,430
     
461,820
     
3.08
%
The Williams Companies, Inc.
   
23,540
     
455,970
     
3.05
%
 
           
1,494,411
     
9.98
%
                         
Oil Services – 3.47%
                       
Schlumberger Ltd. (b)
   
30,860
     
519,065
     
3.47
%
                         
Renewable – 5.60%
                       
First Solar, Inc. (a)
   
9,880
     
434,819
     
2.90
%
TPI Composites, Inc. (a)
   
23,050
     
404,066
     
2.70
%
 
           
838,885
     
5.60
%
                         
Utility – 2.55%
                       
NextEra Energy, Inc.
   
1,650
     
381,348
     
2.55
%
 
                       
Total Common Stocks
                       
  (Cost $17,265,028)
           
11,546,139
     
77.10
%



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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
6

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

PARTNERSHIPS & TRUSTS – 21.02%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Midstream – 21.02%
                 
Energy Transfer LP
   
110,136
   
$
925,142
     
6.18
%
Enterprise Products Partners LP
   
44,629
     
783,685
     
5.23
%
MPLX LP
   
40,194
     
727,511
     
4.86
%
Plains All American Pipeline LP
   
80,620
     
711,875
     
4.75
%
 
           
3,148,213
     
21.02
%
Total Partnerships & Trusts
                       
  (Cost $5,535,041)
           
3,148,213
     
21.02
%
 
                       
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 0.01%
                       
                         
Money Market Funds – 0.01%
                       
First American Government Obligations Fund,
                       
  Institutional Class, 0.25% (c)
   
969
     
969
     
0.01
%
 
                       
Total Short-Term Investments
                       
  (Cost $969)
           
969
     
0.01
%
 
                       
Total Investments
                       
  (Cost $22,801,038) – 98.13%
           
14,695,321
     
98.13
%
Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities – 1.87%
           
280,786
     
1.87
%
 
                       
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
         
$
14,976,107
     
100.00
%

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

(a)
Non-income-producing security.
(b)
U.S.-traded security of a foreign corporation.
(c)
The rate listed is the fund’s seven-day yield as of April 30, 2020.



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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
7

Summary of Fair Value Exposure as of April 30, 2020
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s net assets as of April 30, 2020 (see Note 3 in the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements):
 
Common Stocks
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Downstream
 
$
1,583,028
   
$
   
$
   
$
1,583,028
 
Exploration & Production
   
6,729,402
     
     
     
6,729,402
 
Midstream
   
1,494,411
     
     
     
1,494,411
 
Oil Services
   
519,065
     
     
     
519,065
 
Renewable
   
838,885
     
     
     
838,885
 
Utility
   
381,348
     
     
     
381,348
 
Total Common Stocks
 
$
11,546,139
   
$
   
$
   
$
11,546,139
 
Partnerships & Trusts
                               
Midstream
 
$
3,148,213
   
$
   
$
   
$
3,148,213
 
Total Partnerships & Trusts
 
$
3,148,213
   
$
   
$
   
$
3,148,213
 
Short-Term Investments
                               
Money Market Funds
 
$
969
   
$
   
$
   
$
969
 
Total Short-Term Investments
 
$
969
   
$
   
$
   
$
969
 
Total Investments
 
$
14,695,321
   
$
   
$
   
$
14,695,321
 






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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
8

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS/STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments in securities, at value (cost $22,801,038)
 
$
14,695,321
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
6,061
 
Receivable for fund shares sold
   
529,000
 
Return of capital receivable
   
42,739
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
19,710
 
Total assets
   
15,292,831
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable for fund shares redeemed
   
207,823
 
Payable to advisor
   
5,022
 
Payable to administrator
   
4,122
 
Payable to auditor
   
11,373
 
Accrued distribution fees
   
1,521
 
Accrued service fees
   
243
 
Loans payable
   
75,000
 
Accrued trustees fees
   
6,452
 
Accrued expenses and other payables
   
5,168
 
Total liabilities
   
316,724
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
14,976,107
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSISTS OF:
       
Capital stock
 
$
60,031,017
 
Accumulated deficit
   
(45,054,910
)
Total net assets
 
$
14,976,107
 
         
NET ASSETS:
       
Investor Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
4,104,220
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
460,679
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
8.91
 
         
Institutional Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
10,871,887
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
1,207,625
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
9.00
 



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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
9

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Operations for the six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Distributions received from master limited partnerships
 
$
294,873
 
Return of capital on distributions received
   
(294,873
)
Dividend income from common stock(1)
   
548,704
 
Interest income
   
6,053
 
Total investment income
   
554,757
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (See Note 5)
   
213,331
 
Administration, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees (See Note 5)
   
23,534
 
Federal and state registration fees
   
16,827
 
Compliance expense (See Note 5)
   
13,462
 
Audit fees
   
11,375
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
3,031
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
7,759
 
Trustees’ fees and expenses
   
8,469
 
Reports to shareholders
   
5,647
 
Distribution fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
3,978
 
Interest expense (See Note 7)
   
3,118
 
Service fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
2,652
 
Legal fees
   
904
 
Other expenses
   
3,535
 
Total expenses before reimbursement by advisor
   
317,622
 
Expense reimbursement by advisor – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
(3,874
)
Expense reimbursement by advisor – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
(5,336
)
Net expenses
   
308,412
 
NET INVESTMENT INCOME
 
$
246,345
 
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
       
Net realized loss on investments
 
$
(14,462,499
)
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(1,614,081
)
Net loss on investments
   
(16,076,580
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(15,830,235
)









 
(1)
Net of foreign taxes withheld and issuance fees of $4,578.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
10

 STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS/STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

Financial Statements
 
 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
April 30, 2020
   
Year Ended
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
October 31, 2019
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment income (loss)
 
$
246,345
   
$
(122,873
)
Net realized loss on investments
   
(14,462,499
)
   
(21,032,537
)
Net change in unrealized
               
  appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(1,614,081
)
   
1,070,019
 
Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations
   
(15,830,235
)
   
(20,085,391
)
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
Distributable earnings – Institutional Class
   
(79,003
)
   
 
Total distributions
   
(79,003
)
   
 
                 
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
               
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Investor Class
   
1,226,789
     
1,329,654
 
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Institutional Class
   
1,683,142
     
21,431,696
 
Dividends reinvested – Institutional Class
   
77,299
     
 
Cost of shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(1,750,609
)
   
(9,317,247
)
Cost of shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(21,551,990
)
   
(39,120,012
)
Net decrease in net assets derived
               
  from capital share transactions
   
(20,315,369
)
   
(25,675,909
)
TOTAL DECREASE IN NET ASSETS
   
(36,224,607
)
   
(45,761,300
)
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
51,200,714
     
96,962,014
 
End of period
 
$
14,976,107
   
$
51,200,714
 
                 
CHANGES IN SHARES OUTSTANDING:
               
Shares sold – Investor Class
   
143,860
     
83,075
 
Shares sold – Institutional Class
   
174,370
     
1,375,469
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Institutional Class
   
5,019
     
 
Shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(168,111
)
   
(588,930
)
Shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(2,083,457
)
   
(2,524,419
)
Net decrease in shares outstanding
   
(1,928,319
)
   
(1,654,805
)



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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
11

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Investor Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
14.08
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income (loss)(3)
   
0.09
 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(5.26
)
Total from investment operations
   
(5.17
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net realized gains
   
 
Total distributions
   
 
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
8.91
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-36.72
%(4)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
4.10
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:
       
Before expense reimbursement
   
2.18
%(5)
After expense reimbursement
   
2.03
%(5)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets:
       
Before expense reimbursement
   
1.34
%(5)
After expense reimbursement
   
1.49
%(5)
Portfolio turnover rate(6)
   
41
%(4)







 
(1)
The period ended October 31, 2018, consists of 11 months due to the Fund’s fiscal year end change from November 30 to October 31, effective October 26, 2018.
(2)
Fund commenced operations on December 31, 2013.
(3)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(4)
Not annualized.
(5)
Annualized.
(6)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
12


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INVESTOR CLASS


 
 


Year Ended
   
Period Ended
       
Period Ended
 
October 31,
   
October 31,
   
Year Ended November 30,
   
November 30,
 
2019
   
2018(1)
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014(2)
 
                                 
$
18.32
   
$
19.47
   
$
20.54
   
$
16.41
   
$
20.45
   
$
20.00
 
                                             
                                             
 
(0.07
)
   
(0.20
)
   
(0.23
)
   
(0.15
)
   
(0.10
)
   
(0.11
)
 
(4.17
)
   
(0.95
)
   
(0.84
)
   
4.28
     
(3.46
)
   
0.56
 
 
(4.24
)
   
(1.15
)
   
(1.07
)
   
4.13
     
(3.56
)
   
0.45
 
                                             
                                             
 
     
     
     
     
(0.48
)
   
 
 
     
     
     
     
(0.48
)
   
 
$
14.08
   
$
18.32
   
$
19.47
   
$
20.54
   
$
16.41
   
$
20.45
 
                                             
 
-23.14
%
   
-5.91
%(4)
   
-5.21
%
   
25.17
%
   
-17.57
%
   
2.25
%(4)
                                             
                                             
$
6.83
   
$
18.16
   
$
22.66
   
$
19.64
   
$
18.72
   
$
15.14
 
                                             
 
1.97
%
   
1.82
%(5)
   
1.87
%
   
1.89
%
   
1.87
%
   
1.98
%(5)
 
1.97
%
   
1.82
%(5)
   
1.87
%
   
1.89
%
   
1.87
%
   
1.98
%(5)
                                             
 
(0.46
)%
   
(1.05
)%(5)
   
(1.21
)%
   
(0.92
)%
   
(0.51
)%
   
(0.53
)%(5)
 
(0.46
)%
   
(1.05
)%(5)
   
(1.21
)%
   
(0.92
)%
   
(0.51
)%
   
(0.53
)%(5)
 
87
%
   
72
%(4)
   
84
%
   
83
%
   
79
%
   
72
%(4)








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
13

Financial Statements

 Financial Highlights
 
For an Institutional Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
14.26
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income (loss)(3)
   
0.09
 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(5.32
)
Total from investment operations
   
(5.23
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.03
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
 
Total distributions
   
(0.03
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
9.00
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-36.68
%(4)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
10.87
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:
       
Before expense reimbursement
   
1.80
%(5)
After expense reimbursement
   
1.77
%(5)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets:
       
Before expense reimbursement
   
1.40
%(5)
After expense reimbursement
   
1.43
%(5)
Portfolio turnover rate(6)
   
41
%(4)






 
(1)
The period ended October 31, 2018, consists of 11 months due to the Fund’s fiscal year end change from November 30 to October 31, effective October 26, 2018.
(2)
Fund commenced operations on December 31, 2013.
(3)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(4)
Not annualized.
(5)
Annualized.
(6)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
14


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INSTITUTIONAL CLASS



 
 


Year Ended
   
Period Ended
       
Period Ended
 
October 31,
   
October 31,
   
Year Ended November 30,
   
November 30,
 
2019
   
2018(1)
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014(2)
 
                                 
$
18.50
   
$
19.61
   
$
20.64
   
$
16.46
   
$
20.45
   
$
20.00
 
                                             
                                             
 
(0.02
)
   
(0.15
)
   
(0.19
)
   
(0.11
)
   
(0.04
)
   
(0.06
)
 
(4.22
)
   
(0.96
)
   
(0.84
)
   
4.32
     
(3.47
)
   
0.51
 
 
(4.24
)
   
(1.11
)
   
(1.03
)
   
4.21
     
(3.51
)
   
0.45
 
                                             
                                             
 
     
     
     
(0.03
)
   
     
 
 
     
     
     
     
(0.48
)
   
 
 
     
     
     
(0.03
)
   
(0.48
)
   
 
$
14.26
   
$
18.50
   
$
19.61
   
$
20.64
   
$
16.46
   
$
20.45
 
                                             
 
-22.92
%
   
-5.66
%(4)
   
-4.99
%
   
25.61
%
   
-17.32
%
   
2.25
%(4)
                                             
                                             
$
44.37
   
$
78.81
   
$
122.45
   
$
126.92
   
$
100.05
   
$
68.31
 
                                             
 
1.66
%
   
1.57
%(5)
   
1.62
%
   
1.60
%
   
1.54
%
   
1.73
%(5)
 
1.66
%
   
1.57
%(5)
   
1.62
%
   
1.60
%
   
1.54
%
   
1.73
%(5)
                                             
 
(0.12
)%
   
(0.79
)%(5)
   
(0.98
)%
   
(0.65
)%
   
(0.20
)%
   
(0.28
)%(5)
 
(0.12
)%
   
(0.79
)%(5)
   
(0.98
)%
   
(0.65
)%
   
(0.20
)%
   
(0.28
)%(5)
 
87
%
   
72
%(4)
   
84
%
   
83
%
   
79
%
   
72
%(4)








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
15

Financial Statements

 Notes to the Financial Statements April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

1).  ORGANIZATION
 
The Hennessy BP Energy Fund (the “Fund”) is a series of Hennessy Funds Trust (the “Trust”), which was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 17, 1992. The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The investment objective of the Fund is to seek total return. The Fund is a diversified fund.
 
The Fund offers Investor Class and Institutional Class shares. Each class of shares differs principally in its respective 12b-1 distribution and service, shareholder servicing, and sub-transfer agent expenses. There are no sales charges. Each class has identical rights to earnings, assets, and voting privileges, except for class-specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only one class.
 
As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies.”
 
2).  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of the financial statements. These policies conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
 
a).
Securities Valuation – All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value, as described in Note 3.
   
b).
Federal Income Taxes – No provision for federal income taxes or excise taxes has been made because the Fund has elected to be taxed as a regulated investment company and intends to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders and otherwise comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies. Net investment income/loss and realized gains/losses for federal income tax purposes may differ from those reported in the financial statements because of temporary book and tax basis differences. Temporary differences are primarily the result of the treatment of wash sales for tax reporting purposes and investments in companies organized as partnerships for tax purposes. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax benefits, if any, in the Statement of Operations as an income tax expense. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income to shareholders for tax purposes. The Fund may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes.
   
c).
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – The Fund has accounting policies regarding recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The tax returns of the Fund for the prior three fiscal years are open for examination. The Fund has reviewed all open tax years in major jurisdictions and concluded that there is no impact on the Fund’s net assets and no

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
16

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
tax liability resulting from unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain income tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The Fund’s major tax jurisdictions are U.S. federal and Delaware.
   
d).
Income and Expenses – Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date or as soon as information is available to the Fund. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recognized on an accrual basis. Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received. The Fund is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to its portfolio, such as advisory, administration, and certain shareholder service fees. Income, expenses (other than expenses attributable to a specific class), and realized and unrealized gains/losses on investments are allocated to each class of shares based on such class’s net assets. Distributions received from the Fund’s investments in master limited partnerships (“MLPs”) generally consist of ordinary income, capital gains, and return of capital. The Fund records investment income on the ex-date of the distributions. For financial statement purposes, the Fund uses return of capital and income estimates to allocate the dividend income received. Such estimates are based on historical information available from the MLPs and other industry sources. These estimates may subsequently be revised based on information received from the MLPs after their tax reporting periods are concluded, as the actual character of these distributions is not known until after the fiscal year end of the Fund.
   
e).
Distributions to Shareholders – Dividends from net investment income for the Fund, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December. Distributions of net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December.
   
f).
Security Transactions – Investment and shareholder transactions are recorded on the trade date. The Fund determines the realized gain/loss from an investment transaction by comparing the original cost of the security lot sold with the net sale proceeds. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted or amortized, respectively, over the life of each such security.
   
g).
Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported change in net assets during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
h).
Share Valuation – The net asset value (“NAV”) per share of the Fund is calculated by dividing (i) the total value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by (ii) the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest $0.01. The Fund’s shares will not be priced on days the New York Stock Exchange is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for the Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.
   
i).
Partnership Accounting Policy – To the extent the Fund receives distributions from underlying partnerships in which it invests, the Fund records its pro rata share of income/loss and capital gains/losses and accordingly adjusts the cost basis of the underlying partnerships for return of capital.
 
3).  SECURITIES VALUATION
 
The Fund follows fair value accounting standards that establish an authoritative definition of fair value and set out a hierarchy for measuring fair value. These standards require additional disclosures about the various inputs and valuation techniques used to develop
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
17


the measurements of fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs during the period. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
 
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments that the Fund has the ability to access at the date of measurement.
     
 
Level 2 –
Other significant observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar instruments, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets, such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk curves, default rates, and similar data).
     
 
Level 3 –
Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability based on the best available information) when observable inputs are unavailable.

The following is a description of the valuation techniques applied to the Fund’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
Equity Securities – Equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, foreign-issued common stocks, exchange-traded funds, closed-end mutual funds, partnerships, rights, MLPs, and real estate investment trusts, that are traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is readily available will generally be valued at the last sales price as reported by the primary exchange on which the securities are listed. Securities listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) will generally be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may differ from the last sales price reported. Securities traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is not readily available will generally be valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Securities traded on foreign exchanges generally are not valued at the same time the Fund calculates its NAV because most foreign markets close well before such time. The earlier close of most foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim. In certain circumstances, it may be determined that a foreign security needs to be fair valued because it appears that the value of the security might have been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the market in which the security is principally traded, but before the time the Fund calculates its NAV, such as by a development that affects an entire market or region (e.g., a weather-related event) or a potentially global development (e.g., a terrorist attack that may be expected to have an effect on investor expectations worldwide).
   
 
Registered Investment Companies – Investments in open-end registered investment companies, commonly referred to as mutual funds, generally are priced at the ending NAV provided by the applicable mutual fund’s service agent and will be classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Debt Securities – Debt securities, including corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and U.S. government agency issues, are generally valued at market on the basis of valuations furnished by an independent pricing service that utilizes both dealer-supplied valuations and formula-based techniques. The pricing service may consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, and fundamental data relating to the issuer. In

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
18

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
addition, the model may incorporate observable market data, such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued primarily using dealer quotations. These securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Short-Term Securities – Short-term equity investments, including money market funds, are valued in the manner specified above. Short-term debt investments with an original term to maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value. If the original term to maturity of a short-term debt investment exceeded 60 days, then the values as of the 61st day prior to maturity are amortized. Amortized cost is not used if its use would be inappropriate due to credit or other impairments of the issuer, in which case the security’s fair value would be determined, as described below. Short-term securities are generally classified in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the inputs used and market activity levels for specific securities.

The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board”) has adopted fair value pricing procedures that are followed when a price for a security is not readily available or if a significant event has occurred that indicates the closing price of a security no longer represents the true value of that security. Fair value pricing determinations are made in good faith in accordance with these procedures. There are numerous criteria that will be given consideration in determining a fair value of a security, such as the trading volume of a security and markets, the values of other similar securities, and news events with direct bearing on a security or markets. Fair value pricing results in an estimated price for a security that reflects the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive in a current sale. Depending on the relative significance of the valuation inputs, these securities may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
The fair value of foreign securities may be determined with the assistance of a pricing service using correlations between the movement of prices of such securities and indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators, such as closing market prices of relevant American Depositary Receipts or futures contracts. Using fair value pricing means that the Fund’s NAV reflects the affected portfolio securities’ values as determined by the Board or its designee, pursuant to the fair value pricing procedures adopted by the Board, instead of being determined by the market. Using a fair value pricing methodology to price a foreign security may result in a value that is different from such foreign security’s most recent closing price and from the value used by other investment companies to calculate their NAVs. Such securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Because the Fund may invest in foreign securities, the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities may change on days when you will not be able to purchase or redeem your shares.
 
The Board has delegated day-to-day valuation matters to the Valuation and Liquidity Committee comprising representatives from Hennessy Advisors, Inc., the Fund’s investment advisor (the “Advisor”). The function of the Valuation and Liquidity Committee is to value securities where current and reliable market quotations are not readily available. All actions taken by the Valuation and Liquidity Committee are reviewed by the Board.
 
The Fund has performed an analysis of all existing investments to determine the significance and character of all inputs to their fair value determinations. Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Fund’s investments. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. Details related to the fair value hierarchy of the Fund’s securities as of April 30, 2020, are included in the Schedule of Investments.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
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4).  INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding government and short-term investments) for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $13,472,070 and $30,885,551, respectively.
 
There were no purchases or sales/maturities of long-term U.S. government securities for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Fund is permitted to purchase or sell securities from or to another fund in the Hennessy Funds family of funds (collectively, the “Hennessy Funds”) under specified conditions outlined in procedures adopted by the Board. The procedures have been designed to ensure that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Hennessy Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not engage in purchases or sales of securities pursuant to Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
 
5).  INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
The Advisor provides the Fund with investment advisory services under an Investment Advisory Agreement. The Advisor oversees the provision of investment advice and furnishes office space, facilities, and most of the personnel needed by the Fund. As compensation for its services, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee from the Fund. The fee is based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate of 1.25 %. The net investment advisory fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Advisor has delegated the day-to-day management of the Fund to a sub-advisor, BP Capital Fund Advisors, LLC. The Advisor pays the sub-advisory fees from its own assets, and these fees are not an additional expense of the Fund. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Advisor (not the Fund) paid a sub-advisory fee at the rate of 0.40% of the daily net assets of the Fund.
 
The Advisor has contractually agreed to limit total annual operating expenses to 2.00% of the Fund’s net assets for Investor Class shares and 1.75% of the Fund’s net assets for Institutional Class shares (in each case, excluding all federal, state, and local taxes, interest, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on short sales, extraordinary items, and acquired fund fees and expenses and other costs incurred in connection with the purchase and sale of securities) through October 25, 2020.
 
For three years following the date on which expenses were waived or incurred, the Advisor may recoup waived or reimbursed expenses from the Fund if total operating expenses, including such recoupment, does not exceed the expense limitation in effect (i) at the time the Advisor waived or reimbursed such expenses and (ii) at the time the Advisor recoups such expenses. As of April 30, 2020, expenses subject to potential recovery were $3,874 for Investor Class shares and $5,336 for Institutional Class shares, which will expire in fiscal year 2023. The Advisor did not recoup expenses from the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Board has approved a Shareholder Servicing Agreement for Investor Class shares of the Fund, which was instituted to compensate the Advisor for the non-investment advisory services it provides to the Fund. The Shareholder Servicing Agreement provides for a monthly fee paid to the Advisor at an annual rate of 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund attributable to Investor Class shares. The shareholder service fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
 
 
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 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Fund has adopted a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that authorizes payments in connection with the distribution of the Fund’s shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares. Even though the authorized rate is up to 0.25%, the Fund is currently only using up to 0.15% of its average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares for such purpose. Amounts paid under the plan may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares, including, but not limited to, advertising, shareholder account servicing, printing and mailing of prospectuses to other than current shareholders, printing and mailing of sales literature, and compensation for sales and marketing activities or to financial institutions and others, such as dealers and distributors. The distribution fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into agreements with various brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries in connection with the sale of shares of the Fund. The agreements provide for periodic payments of sub-transfer agent expenses by the Fund to the brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries for providing certain shareholder maintenance services. These shareholder services include the pre-processing and quality control of new accounts, shareholder correspondence, answering customer inquiries regarding account status, and facilitating shareholder telephone transactions. The sub-transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (“Fund Services”) provides the Fund with administrative, accounting, and transfer agent services. As administrator, Fund Services is responsible for activities such as (i) preparing various federal and state regulatory filings, reports, and returns for the Fund, (ii) preparing reports and materials to be supplied to the Board, (iii) monitoring the activities of the Fund’s custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, and (iv) coordinating the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviewing the Fund’s expense accruals. U.S. Bank N.A., an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Fund’s custodian. The servicing agreements between the Trust and Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. contain a fee schedule that is inclusive of administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. The administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
Quasar Distributors, LLC (“Quasar”) acts as the Fund’s principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Fund’s shares. Quasar was an affiliate of Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. through March 30, 2020. Effective March 31, 2020, Foreside Financial Group, LLC (“Foreside”) acquired Quasar from Fund Services. As a result of the acquisition, Quasar became a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of Foreside and is no longer affiliated with Fund Services or U.S. Bank N.A. The Board approved a new Distribution Agreement to enable Quasar to continue serving as the Fund’s distributor.
 
The officers of the Fund are affiliated with the Advisor. With the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer and the Senior Compliance Officer, such officers receive no compensation from the Fund for serving in their respective roles. The Fund, along with the other Hennessy Funds, makes reimbursement payments on an equal basis to the Advisor for a portion of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Chief Compliance Officer and for all of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Senior Compliance Officer. The compliance fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
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6).  GUARANTEES AND INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Hennessy Funds’ organizational documents, their officers and trustees are indemnified by the Hennessy Funds against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Hennessy Funds. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Hennessy Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Fund expects the risk of loss to be remote.
 
7).  LINE OF CREDIT
 
The Fund has an uncommitted line of credit with the other Hennessy Funds in the amount of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 or (ii) 33.33% of each Hennessy Fund’s net assets, or 30% for the Hennessy Gas Utility Fund and 10% for the Hennessy Balanced Fund, intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The credit facility is with the Hennessy Funds’ custodian bank, U.S. Bank N.A. Borrowings under this arrangement bear interest at the bank’s prime rate and are secured by all of the Fund’s assets (as to its own borrowings only). During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund had an outstanding average daily balance and a weighted average interest rate of $159,632 and 3.86%, respectively. The interest expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, is included in the Statement of Operations. The maximum amount outstanding for the Fund during the period was $2,754,000. As of April 30, 2020, the Fund had a loan payable of $75,000.
 
8).  FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund’s most recent fiscal year end, the components of accumulated earnings (losses) for income tax purposes were as follows:
 
     
Investments
 
 
Cost of investments for tax purposes
 
$
58,501,243
 
 
Gross tax unrealized appreciation
 
$
1,872,760
 
 
Gross tax unrealized depreciation
   
(9,141,728
)
 
Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)
 
$
(7,268,968
)
 
Undistributed ordinary income
 
$
79,002
 
 
Undistributed long-term capital gains
   
 
 
Total distributable earnings
 
$
79,002
 
 
Other accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
(21,955,706
)
 
Total accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
(29,145,672
)

The difference between book-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation (as shown above) is attributable primarily to wash sales and partnership adjustments.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund had capital loss carryforwards as follows:
 
 
$  9,883,167
Unlimited Long-Term
 
  12,072,539
Unlimited Short-Term

As of October 31, 2019, the Fund did not defer, on a tax basis, any late-year ordinary losses. Late-year ordinary losses are net ordinary losses incurred after December 31, 2018, but within the taxable year, that are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year.
 

 
 
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 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

During fiscal year 2020 (year to date) and fiscal year 2019, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund was as follows:
 
     
Six Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
     
April 30, 2020
   
October 31, 2019
 
 
Ordinary income(1)
 
$
79,003
   
$
 
 
Long-term capital gain
   
     
 
     
$
79,003
   
$
 

 
(1)  Ordinary income includes short-term capital gain.
 
9).  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO PERIOD END
 
Management has evaluated the Fund’s related events and transactions that occurred subsequent to April 30, 2020, through the date of issuance of the Fund’s financial statements. Management has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.
 









HENNESSY FUNDS
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Expense Example (Unaudited)
April 30, 2020


As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur ongoing costs, including management fees, service fees, and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from November 1, 2019, through April 30, 2020.
 
Actual Expenses
The first line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. Although the Fund charges no sales loads or transaction fees, you will be assessed fees for outgoing wire transfers, returned checks and stop payment orders at prevailing rates charged by U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, the Fund’s transfer agent. If you request that a redemption be made by wire transfer, currently a $15 fee is charged by the Fund’s transfer agent. IRA accounts will be charged a $15 annual maintenance fee. The example below includes, but is not limited to, management fees, shareholder servicing fees, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. However, the example below does not include portfolio trading commissions and related expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line of the table under the “Investor Class” or “Institutional Class” headings in the column entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only. Therefore, the second line of the table under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
 

 

 

 
 
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 EXPENSE EXAMPLE

 
Beginning
Ending
 
 
Account Value
Account Value
Expenses Paid
 
November 1, 2019
April 30, 2020
During Period(1)
Investor Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   632.80
$  8.24
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,014.77
$10.17
       
Institutional Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   633.20
$  7.19
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,016.06
$  8.87

(1)
Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio of 2.03% for Investor Class shares or 1.77% for Institutional Class shares, as applicable, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 days (to reflect the half-year period).











HENNESSY FUNDS
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How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s Proxy
Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
 
A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge (1) by calling 1-800-966-4354, (2) on the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-policy, or (3) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record is available without charge on both the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-record and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov no later than August 31 for the prior 12 months ending June 30.
 
 
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
 
The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on request by calling 1-800-966-4354.
 
 
Important Notice Regarding Delivery
of Shareholder Documents
 
To help keep the Fund’s costs as low as possible, we generally deliver a single copy of shareholder reports, proxy statements, and prospectuses to shareholders who share an address and have the same last name. This process does not apply to account statements. You may request an individual copy of a shareholder document at any time. If you would like to receive separate mailings of shareholder documents, please call U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124, and individual delivery will begin within 30 days of your request. If your account is held through a financial institution or other intermediary, please contact such intermediary directly to request individual delivery.
 
 
Electronic Delivery
 
The Funds offer shareholders the option to receive account statements, prospectuses, tax forms, and shareholder reports online. To sign up for eDelivery, please visit www.hennessyfunds.com/account. You may change your delivery preference at any time by visiting our website or calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124.
 



 
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 PROXY VOTING — BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

Board Approval of Investment Advisory
Agreements
 
At its meeting on March 12, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board,” and the members thereof, the “Trustees”) unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement of the Fund with Hennessy Advisors, Inc. (the “Advisor”) and the sub-advisory agreement for the Fund between the Advisor and BP Capital Fund Advisors, LLC (the “Sub-Advisor”). As part of the process of approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements, the Trustees reviewed their fiduciary duties and the relevant factors for them to consider with respect to approving the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. In addition, the Trustees who are not deemed “interested persons” (as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Fund (the “Independent Trustees”) met in executive session to discuss the approval of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
 
In advance of the meeting, the Advisor sent detailed information to the Trustees to assist them in their evaluation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. This information included, but was not limited to, the following:
 
 
(1)
A memorandum from outside legal counsel that described the fiduciary duties of the Board with respect to approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and the relevant factors for consideration;
     
 
(2)
A memorandum from the Advisor that listed the factors relevant to the Board’s approval of the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and also referenced the documents that had been provided to help the Board assess each such factor;
     
 
(3)
An inventory of the services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor and the distinction between the Advisor-provided services and the Sub-Advisor-provided services;
     
 
(4)
A written discussion of economies of scale;
     
 
(5)
Summaries of the key terms of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements;
     
 
(6)
A recent Fund fact sheet, which included performance information over various periods;
     
 
(7)
A peer expense comparison of the net expense ratio and investment advisory fee of the Fund;
     
 
(8)
The Advisor’s financial statements from its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q;
     
 
(9)
A completed questionnaire from the Sub-Advisor;
     
 
(10)
A summary of the Sub-Advisor’s questionnaire and relevant information from the Sub-Advisor’s Form ADV Parts I and II;
     
 
(11)
The Sub-Advisor’s Code of Ethics; and
     
 
(12)
Financial information of the Sub-Advisor.

All of the factors discussed were considered as a whole by the Trustees and by the Independent Trustees meeting in executive session. The factors were viewed in their totality by the Trustees, with no single factor being the principal or determinative factor in the Trustees’ determination of whether to approve the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. The Trustees recognized that the management and fee
 
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
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arrangements for the Fund are the result of years of review and discussion between the Independent Trustees and the Advisor, that certain aspects of such arrangements may receive greater scrutiny in some years than in others, and that the Trustees’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of these same arrangements and information received during the course of the year and in prior years.
 
Prior to approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees in executive session, considered, among other items:
 
 
(1)
The nature and quality of the advisory services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor;
     
 
(2)
A comparison of the fees and expenses of the Fund to other similar funds;
     
 
(3)
Whether economies of scale are recognized by the Fund;
     
 
(4)
The costs and profitability of the Fund to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor;
     
 
(5)
The performance of the Fund; and
     
 
(6)
Any benefits to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor from serving as an investment advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory and sub-advisory fees).

The material considerations and determinations of the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, were as follows:
 
 
(1)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Advisor. Based on this review, the Trustees concluded that the Advisor provides high-quality services to the Fund and noted that their overall confidence in the Advisor was high. The Trustees also concluded that they were satisfied with the nature, extent, and quality of the advisory services provided to the Fund by the Advisor and that the nature and extent of the services provided by the Advisor were appropriate to assure that the Fund’s operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

   
(a)
The Advisor oversees the Sub-Advisor for the Fund, and the Sub-Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund.
       
   
(b)
The Advisor performs a daily reconciliation of portfolio positions and cash for the Fund.
       
   
(c)
The Advisor monitors the liquidity of each Fund.
       
   
(d)
The Advisor monitors the Fund’s compliance with its investment objectives and restrictions.
       
   
(e)
The Advisor monitors compliance with federal securities laws, maintains a compliance program (including a code of ethics), conducts ongoing reviews of the compliance programs of the Sub-Advisor and the Fund’s other service providers, as feasible, conducts on-site visits to the Sub-Advisor and the Fund’s other service providers, monitors incidents of abusive trading practices, reviews Fund expense accruals, payments, and fixed expense ratios, evaluates insurance providers for fidelity bond, D&O/E&O insurance, and cybersecurity insurance coverage, manages regulatory examination compliance and responses, conducts employee compliance training, reviews reports provided by service providers, and maintains books and records.


 
 
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 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

   
(f)
The Advisor oversees the selection and continued employment of the Sub-Advisor, reviews the Fund’s investment performance, and monitors the Sub-Advisor’s adherence to the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions.
       
   
(g)
The Advisor oversees service providers that provide accounting, administration, distribution, transfer agency, custodial, sales, marketing, public relations, audit, information technology, and legal services to the Fund.
       
   
(h)
The Advisor maintains in-house marketing and distribution departments on behalf of the Fund.
       
   
(i)
The Advisor is actively involved with preparing regulatory filings for the Fund, including writing and annually updating the Fund’s prospectus and related documents.
       
   
(j)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Advisor reviews the written summary prepared by the Sub-Advisor of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(k)
The Advisor oversees distribution of the Fund through third-party broker/dealers and independent financial institutions such as Charles Schwab, Inc., Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and Pershing. The Advisor participates in “no transaction fee” (“NTF”) programs with these companies on behalf of the Fund, which allow customers to purchase the Fund through third-party distribution channels without paying a transaction fee. The Advisor compensates, in part, a number of these third-party providers of NTF programs out of its own revenues.
       
   
(l)
The Advisor pays the incentive compensation of the Fund’s compliance officers and employs other staff, such as legal, marketing, national accounts, distribution, sales, administrative, and trading oversight personnel, as well as management executives.
       
   
(m)
The Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board.
       
   
(n)
The Advisor prepares or reviews all Board materials, frequently presents to the Board and leads Board discussions, prepares or reviews all meeting minutes, and arranges for Board training and education.

 
(2)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Sub-Advisor:

   
(a)
The Sub-Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund. In this capacity, the Sub-Advisor does the following:

     
(i)
manages the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, including the purchase, retention, and disposition of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions;
         
     
(ii)
seeks best execution for the Fund’s portfolio;
         
     
(iii)
manages the use of soft dollars for the Fund; and
         
     
(iv)
manages proxy voting for the Fund.

   
(b)
The Sub-Advisor ensures that its compliance program includes policies and procedures relevant to the Fund and the Sub-Advisor’s duties as a portfolio manager to the Fund.
       
   
(c)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Sub-Advisor prepares a written summary of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
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(d)
The Sub-Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board regarding trading and allocation practices, supervisory matters, the Sub-Advisor’s compliance program (including its code of ethics), compliance with the Fund’s policies, and general firm updates.

 
(3)
The Trustees considered the distinction between the services performed by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor. The Trustees noted that the management of the Fund, including the oversight of the Sub-Advisor, involves more comprehensive and substantive duties than the duties of the Sub-Advisor. Specifically, the Trustees considered the lists of services identified above and concluded that the services performed by the Advisor for the Fund require a higher level of service and oversight than the services performed by the Sub-Advisor. Based on this determination, the Trustees concluded that the differential in advisory fees between the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor is reasonable.
     
 
(4)
The Trustees compared the performance of the Fund to benchmark indices over various periods and also noted that the Trustees review and discuss reports comparing the investment performance of the Fund to various indices at each quarterly Board meeting. Based on such information, the Trustees determined that the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor manage the Fund in a manner materially consistent with its stated investment objective and style. The Trustees concluded that the performance of the Fund over various periods warranted continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
     
 
(5)
The Trustees reviewed the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of the Fund compared to other funds similar in asset size and investment objective to the Fund using data from Morningstar. As part of the discussion with management, the Trustees ensured that they understood and were comfortable with the criteria used to determine the mutual funds included in the Morningstar categories for purposes of the materials considered at the meeting. The Trustees determined that the advisory fee and overall expense ratio of the Fund falls within the range of the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of other comparable funds and concluded that they are reasonable and warranted continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
     
 
(6)
The Trustees also considered whether the Advisor was realizing economies of scale that it should share with the Fund’s shareholders. The Trustees noted that the assets of the Fund had declined over the prior year. In addition, the Trustees noted that many of the expenses incurred to manage the Fund are asset-based fees, so the Advisor does not realize material economies of scale relating to those expenses as the assets of the Fund increase. For example, mutual fund platform fees increase as the Fund’s assets grow. The Trustees also considered the Advisor’s efforts to contain expenses through actions such as renegotiating service contracts, the Advisor’s significant marketing efforts to promote the Funds, the Advisor’s investments in personnel to manage the Funds, and the Advisor’s agreement to waive fees or lower its management fees in certain circumstances. The Trustees noted that it did not appear that the Advisor was realizing economies of scale at current asset levels and concluded that it would continue to monitor economies of scale in the future as circumstances changed.
     
 
(7)
The Trustees considered the profitability of the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor, including the impact of mutual fund platform fees on the Advisor’s profitability, and also considered the resources and revenues that the Advisor has put into

 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
30

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

   
managing and distributing the Fund. The Trustees then concluded that the profits of the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor are reasonable and not excessive when compared to profitability guidelines set forth in relevant court cases.
     
 
(8)
The Trustees considered the high level of professionalism and knowledge of the Advisor’s employees, along with a very low level of turnover, and concluded that this was beneficial to the Fund and its shareholders.
     
 
(9)
The Trustees considered any benefits to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor from serving as an advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory and sub-advisory fees). The Trustees noted that the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor may derive ancillary benefits from, by way of example, their association with the Fund in the form of proprietary and third-party research products and services received from broker-dealers that execute portfolio trades for the Fund. The Trustees determined that any such products and services have been used for legitimate purposes relating to the Fund by providing assistance in the investment decision-making process. The Trustees concluded that any additional benefits realized by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor from their relationship with the Fund were reasonable, which was based on, among other things, the Trustees’ findings that (i) the research, analytical, statistical, and other information and services provided by brokers are merely supplemental to the Advisor’s and the Sub-Advisor’s own efforts in the performance of their duties under the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and (ii) although the Sub-Advisor could derive benefits from the conversion of Fund shareholders into separate account clients, the Fund also could benefit from potential institutional shareholders who might choose to invest in the Fund.

After reviewing the materials and information provided at the meeting, as well as other information regularly provided at the Board’s quarterly meetings throughout the year regarding the quality of services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor, the performance of the Fund, expense information, brokerage commissions information, the adequacy and efficacy of the Advisor’s and the Sub-Advisor’s written policies and procedures, other regulatory compliance issues, trading information and related matters, and other factors that the Trustees deemed relevant, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
 








HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
31








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For information, questions, or assistance, please call
The Hennessy Funds
1-800-966-4354 or 1-415-899-1555



INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
7250 Redwood Boulevard, Suite 200
Novato, California 94945

ADMINISTRATOR,
TRANSFER AGENT,
DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, &
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0701

CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

TRUSTEES
Neil J. Hennessy
Robert T. Doyle
J. Dennis DeSousa
Gerald P. Richardson

COUNSEL
Foley & Lardner LLP
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-5306

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
Two Liberty Place
50 South 16th Street, Suite 2900
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-2529

DISTRIBUTOR
Quasar Distributors, LLC
111 East Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 2200
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202





www.hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354

This report has been prepared for shareholders and may be distributed to
others only if preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.




SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

APRIL 30, 2020




HENNESSY BP MIDSTREAM FUND
 
Investor Class  HMSFX
Institutional Class  HMSIX



IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
 
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the annual and semi-annual reports will no longer be sent by mail unless you specifically request paper copies from the Hennessy Funds 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 have already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Hennessy Funds electronically by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com/account or by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950. If you own shares in a Fund through a financial intermediary, please contact your financial intermediary to make this election.
 
You may elect to receive paper copies of all future reports free of charge by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or, if you own your shares through a financial intermediary, by contacting your financial intermediary. Your election to receive paper copies of reports will apply to all Funds in the Hennessy Funds family.
 


hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354









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Contents
 

 
Letter to Shareholders
2
Performance Overview
4
Financial Statements
 
Schedule of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
8
Statement of Operations
9
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
11
Financial Highlights
12
Notes to the Financial Statements
16
Expense Example
26
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
28
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
28
Federal Tax Distribution Information
28
Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents
28
Electronic Delivery
28
Board Approval of Investment Advisory Agreements
29











HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 


June 2020
 
Dear Hennessy Funds Shareholder:

 
First and foremost, I hope this communication finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. In many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down in recent months, and we at Hennessy have joined the rest of the world in witnessing and experiencing its profound effect on public health, the global economy, and the everyday lives of people around the world.  In response to the crisis, we invoked our business continuity plan in mid-March to ensure a smooth transition to remote work for all of our employees, who have been working safely and productively from home. We want to assure our Hennessy Funds shareholders that our operations are uninterrupted and functioning normally.
 
The past six months have been marked by extremes. During the first half of the period from November 2019 through January 2020, the bull market, supported by strong corporate fundamentals, continued to move higher, and investors appeared focused on record-low unemployment and strong economic growth. In mid-February, the major U.S. market indices hit all-time highs, but then, within just a matter of weeks, lost over one-third of their values as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded. Shelter-in-place and business closure orders rippled through the nation, causing initial unemployment claims to skyrocket to their highest number in history. The market then rallied back and posted double-digit positive returns in April.
 
For the six months ended April 30, 2020, on a total return basis, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 8.9% and the S&P 500® Index was down 3.2%. Small-cap and mid-cap stocks generally fared worse than large-cap stocks during the period, and the Financial sector was particularly hard hit as the Federal Reserve aggressively cut the federal funds rate in an effort to stabilize the economy. The Energy sector was crushed by both the sudden loss of demand due to COVID-19 and the oversupply caused by the surprise market-share battle between Russia and Saudi Arabia, and the S&P 500® Energy Sector Index ended the six-month period down over 30%.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented event, and the duration and full extent of the economic impact is unknown. In the moment, there is always the concern that ‘this time is different.’ But, when you are able to look at past financial, political, and health crises with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, history has demonstrated that our economy and financial markets have always rebounded and recovered eventually. If you look back to the last market downturn in 2008, economic fundamentals were weak compared to the market in 2020, where the overall underpinnings were – and are still – quite strong.  Publicly listed companies today have plenty of cash, with over $5 trillion on balance sheets of the S&P 500® companies alone, and I believe that most will survive and that many may emerge from the current crisis even stronger.
 

 

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
2

 LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

We understand that this market volatility and economic uncertainty is jarring to many investors, and we continue to monitor events and the markets. We remain focused on managing our high-conviction portfolios for the long-term benefit of our shareholders, and we are confident in the time-tested strategies and rigorous research that led to their formation. We encourage shareholders to maintain a long-term investment horizon and to remain focused on long-term goals. As always, but especially in these trying times, we are here to support our shareholders, and we thank you for your continued investment and trust. Should you have any questions or would like to speak with us directly, please don’t hesitate to call (800) 966-4354 or email us at fundsinfo@hennessyfunds.com.
 
Best regards,
 
 
Neil J. Hennessy
President and Chief Investment Officer
 
 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500® Index are commonly used to measure the performance of U.S. stocks. The S&P 500® Energy Sector Index is an index that comprises those companies included in the S&P 500 that are classified as members of the GICS energy sector. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 







HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
3

Performance Overview (Unaudited)
 
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR PERIODS ENDED APRIL 30, 2020
 
 
Six
One
Five
Since Inception
 
Months(1)
Year
Years
(12/31/13)
Hennessy BP Midstream Fund –
       
  Investor Class (HMSFX)
-31.87%
-38.37%
-14.32%
  -9.52%
Hennessy BP Midstream Fund –
       
  Institutional Class (HMSIX)
-31.77%
-38.23%
-14.10%
  -9.29%
Alerian MLP Index
-34.48%
-40.79%
-15.03%
-11.33%
S&P 500® Index
  -3.16%
   0.86%
   9.12%
   9.66%

Expense ratios:
Gross 1.89%, Net 1.76%(2) (Investor Class);
 
Gross 1.56%, Net 1.51%(2) (Institutional Class)
 
(1)
Periods of less than one year are not annualized.
(2)
The Fund’s investment advisor has contractually agreed to limit expenses until February 28, 2021.


 

 

 

_______________
 
Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance table does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com. Performance for periods on or prior to October 26, 2018, is that of the BP Capital TwinLine MLP Fund.
 
The Alerian MLP Index comprises companies that earn a majority of their cash flow from midstream activities involving energy commodities. The S&P 500® Index is a capitalization-weighted index that is designed to represent the broad domestic economy through changes in the aggregate market value of 500 stocks across all major industries. One cannot invest directly in an index. These indices are used herein for comparative purposes in accordance with SEC regulations.
 
Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC is the source and owner of the S&P® and S&P 500® trademarks.
 
The expense ratios presented are from the most recent prospectus. The expense ratios for the current reporting period are available in the Financial Highlights section of this report.
 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
4

 PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Financial Statements
 
 Schedule of Investments as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

HENNESSY BP MIDSTREAM FUND
(% of Total Assets)

 


 
TOP TEN HOLDINGS (EXCLUDING MONEY MARKET FUNDS)
% TOTAL ASSETS
Energy Transfer LP
15.22%
The Williams Companies, Inc.
12.41%
Enterprise Products Partners LP
12.13%
MPLX LP
11.16%
Phillips 66 Partners LP
  7.96%
Kinder Morgan, Inc.
  7.70%
Magellan Midstream Partners LP
  7.19%
Shell Midstream Partners LP
  7.16%
Plains All American Pipeline LP
  5.46%
ONEOK, Inc.
  4.61%

 

 
Note: The Fund concentrates its investments in the Energy industry. For presentation purposes, the Fund uses custom categories.

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
5


COMMON STOCKS – 27.36%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Gathering & Processing – 2.58%
                 
Targa Resources Corp.
   
60,100
   
$
778,896
     
2.58
%
                         
Natural Gas/NGL Transportation – 24.78%
                       
Kinder Morgan, Inc.
   
153,090
     
2,331,561
     
7.72
%
ONEOK, Inc.
   
46,626
     
1,395,516
     
4.62
%
The Williams Companies, Inc.
   
193,952
     
3,756,850
     
12.44
%
 
           
7,483,927
     
24.78
%
Total Common Stocks
                       
  (Cost $10,746,986)
           
8,262,823
     
27.36
%
 
                       
PARTNERSHIPS & TRUSTS – 71.73%
                       
                         
Crude Oil & Refined Products – 40.94%
                       
Magellan Midstream Partners LP
   
52,900
     
2,175,777
     
7.20
%
MPLX LP
   
186,749
     
3,380,157
     
11.19
%
Phillips 66 Partners LP
   
56,619
     
2,409,138
     
7.98
%
Plains All American Pipeline LP
   
187,326
     
1,654,089
     
5.48
%
Shell Midstream Partners LP
   
147,564
     
2,167,715
     
7.18
%
TC PipeLines LP
   
17,200
     
576,200
     
1.91
%
 
           
12,363,076
     
40.94
%
                         
Gathering & Processing – 1.07%
                       
Crestwood Equity Partners LP
   
29,400
     
321,636
     
1.07
%
                         
Natural Gas/NGL Transportation – 29.72%
                       
Cheniere Energy Partners LP
   
20,600
     
694,838
     
2.30
%
Energy Transfer LP
   
548,700
     
4,609,080
     
15.26
%
Enterprise Products Partners LP
   
209,100
     
3,671,796
     
12.16
%
 
           
8,975,714
     
29.72
%
Total Partnerships & Trusts
                       
  (Cost $26,528,861)
           
21,660,426
     
71.73
%


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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
6


 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 0.31%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Money Market Funds – 0.31%
                 
First American Government Obligations Fund,
                 
  Institutional Class, 0.25% (a)
   
94,786
   
$
94,786
     
0.31
%
 
                       
Total Short-Term Investments
                       
  (Cost $94,786)
           
94,786
     
0.31
%
 
                       
Total Investments
                       
  (Cost $37,370,633) – 99.40%
           
30,018,035
     
99.40
%
Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities – 0.60%
           
182,110
     
0.60
%
 
                       
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
         
$
30,200,145
     
100.00
%

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

(a)
The rate listed is the fund’s seven-day yield as of April 30, 2020.


Summary of Fair Value Exposure as of April 30, 2020
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s net assets as of April 30, 2020 (see Note 3 in the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements):
 
Common Stocks
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Gathering & Processing
 
$
778,896
   
$
   
$
   
$
778,896
 
Natural Gas/NGL Transportation
   
7,483,927
     
     
     
7,483,927
 
Total Common Stocks
 
$
8,262,823
   
$
   
$
   
$
8,262,823
 
Partnerships & Trusts
                               
Crude Oil & Refined Products
 
$
12,363,076
   
$
   
$
   
$
12,363,076
 
Gathering & Processing
   
321,636
     
     
     
321,636
 
Natural Gas/NGL Transportation
   
8,975,714
     
     
     
8,975,714
 
Total Partnerships & Trusts
 
$
21,660,426
   
$
   
$
   
$
21,660,426
 
Short-Term Investments
                               
Money Market Funds
 
$
94,786
   
$
   
$
   
$
94,786
 
Total Short-Term Investments
 
$
94,786
   
$
   
$
   
$
94,786
 
Total Investments
 
$
30,018,035
   
$
   
$
   
$
30,018,035
 



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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
7

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments in securities, at value (cost $37,370,633)
 
$
30,018,035
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
24,361
 
Receivable for fund shares sold
   
4,163
 
Return of capital receivable
   
212,775
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
19,659
 
Total assets
   
30,278,993
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable for fund shares redeemed
   
9,226
 
Payable to advisor
   
12,188
 
Payable to administrator
   
7,558
 
Payable to auditor
   
20,385
 
Accrued distribution fees
   
1,644
 
Accrued service fees
   
440
 
Accrued trustees fees
   
6,482
 
Accrued expenses and other payables
   
20,925
 
Total liabilities
   
78,848
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
30,200,145
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSISTS OF:
       
Capital stock
 
$
58,232,910
 
Accumulated deficit
   
(28,032,765
)
Total net assets
 
$
30,200,145
 
         
NET ASSETS:
       
Investor Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
6,434,828
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
912,721
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
7.05
 
         
Institutional Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
23,765,317
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
3,306,513
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
7.19
 



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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
8

 STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES/STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Operations for the six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Distributions received from master limited partnerships
 
$
1,183,453
 
Return of capital on distributions received
   
(1,171,451
)
Dividend income
   
178,340
 
Interest income
   
1,036
 
Total investment income
   
191,378
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (See Note 5)
   
185,484
 
Administration, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees (See Note 5)
   
22,957
 
Audit fees
   
20,384
 
Federal and state registration fees
   
18,183
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
5,237
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
12,488
 
Compliance expense (See Note 5)
   
13,461
 
Trustees’ fees and expenses
   
8,379
 
Distribution fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
5,768
 
Reports to shareholders
   
4,372
 
Service fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
3,846
 
Interest expense (See Note 7)
   
2,103
 
Legal fees
   
810
 
Other expenses
   
3,169
 
Total expenses before reimbursement by advisor
   
306,641
 
Expense reimbursement by advisor – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
(10,825
)
Expense reimbursement by advisor – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
(31,901
)
Net expenses
   
263,915
 
NET INVESTMENT LOSS
 
$
(72,537
)
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
       
Net realized loss on investments
 
$
(2,911,545
)
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(6,518,796
)
Net loss on investments
   
(9,430,341
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(9,502,878
)



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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
9








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HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
10

 STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

Financial Statements
 
 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
April 30, 2020
   
Year Ended
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
October 31, 2019
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment loss
 
$
(72,537
)
 
$
(416,883
)
Net realized loss on investments
   
(2,911,545
)
   
(7,333,710
)
Net change in unrealized
               
  appreciation/deprecation on investments
   
(6,518,796
)
   
4,667,798
 
Net decrease in net assets resulting from operations
   
(9,502,878
)
   
(3,082,795
)
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS FROM:
               
Return of capital – Investor Class
   
(419,969
)
   
(1,434,045
)
Return of capital – Institutional Class
   
(1,341,299
)
   
(3,424,486
)
Total distributions
   
(1,761,268
)
   
(4,858,531
)
                 
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
               
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Investor Class
   
921,441
     
4,058,933
 
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Institutional Class
   
7,965,785
     
12,131,475
 
Dividends reinvested – Investor Class
   
409,410
     
1,406,032
 
Dividends reinvested – Institutional Class
   
1,305,052
     
3,358,312
 
Cost of shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(1,129,753
)
   
(14,125,321
)
Cost of shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(8,984,281
)
   
(39,908,798
)
Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived
               
  from capital share transactions
   
487,654
     
(33,079,367
)
TOTAL DECREASE IN NET ASSETS
   
(10,776,492
)
   
(41,020,693
)
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
40,976,637
     
81,997,330
 
End of period
 
$
30,200,145
   
$
40,976,637
 
                 
CHANGES IN SHARES OUTSTANDING:
               
Shares sold – Investor Class
   
153,528
     
324,948
 
Shares sold – Institutional Class
   
1,335,251
     
1,014,731
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Investor Class
   
41,838
     
116,121
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Institutional Class
   
130,871
     
273,922
 
Shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(126,119
)
   
(1,182,757
)
Shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(1,025,998
)
   
(3,247,364
)
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding
   
509,371
     
(2,700,399
)



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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
11

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Investor Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
10.90
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment loss(3)(4)
   
(0.03
)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(3.31
)
Total from investment operations
   
(3.34
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from return of capital
   
(0.51
)
Total distributions
   
(0.51
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
7.05
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-31.87
%(5)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
6.43
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:
       
Before expense reimbursement
   
2.04
%(6)
After expense reimbursement
   
1.76
%(6)
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets:
       
Before expense reimbursement(4)
   
(0.88
)%(6)
After expense reimbursement(4)
   
(0.60
)%(6)
Portfolio turnover rate(8)
   
22
%(5)




 
(1)
The period ended October 31, 2018, consists of 11 months due to the Fund’s fiscal year end change from November 30 to October 31, effective October 26, 2018.
(2)
Fund commenced operations on December 31, 2013.
(3)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(4)
Includes current and deferred tax benefit/expense from net investment income/loss only.
(5)
Not annualized.
(6)
Annualized.
(7)
Includes an estimated deferred tax expense/benefit of -1.32% for fiscal year 2015 or 3.98% for the period ended November 30, 2014.  See Note 2.b in the Notes to the Financial Statements.
(8)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
12


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INVESTOR CLASS


 
 


Year Ended
   
Period Ended
       
Period Ended
 
October 31,
   
October 31,
   
Year Ended November 30,
   
November 30,
 
2019
   
2018(1)
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014(2)
 
                                 
$
12.66
   
$
14.51
   
$
16.54
   
$
15.45
   
$
22.25
   
$
20.00
 
                                             
                                             
 
(0.10
)
   
(0.16
)
   
(0.22
)
   
(0.17
)
   
(0.20
)
   
(0.20
)
 
(0.63
)
   
(0.66
)
   
(0.78
)
   
2.29
     
(5.60
)
   
2.87
 
 
(0.73
)
   
(0.82
)
   
(1.00
)
   
2.12
     
(5.80
)
   
2.67
 
                                             
                                             
 
(1.03
)
   
(1.03
)
   
(1.03
)
   
(1.03
)
   
(1.00
)
   
(0.42
)
 
(1.03
)
   
(1.03
)
   
(1.03
)
   
(1.03
)
   
(1.00
)
   
(0.42
)
$
10.90
   
$
12.66
   
$
14.51
   
$
16.54
   
$
15.45
   
$
22.25
 
                                             
 
-6.28
%
   
-6.15
%(5)
   
-6.49
%
   
14.78
%
   
-27.17
%
   
13.37
%(5)
                                             
                                             
$
9.20
   
$
20.07
   
$
16.86
   
$
13.43
   
$
8.76
   
$
7.17
 
                                             
 
1.89
%
   
1.86
%(6)
   
1.91
%
   
2.21
%
   
1.38
%(7)
   
8.02
%(6)(7)
 
1.76
%
   
1.78
%(6)
   
1.77
%
   
1.74
%
   
0.42
%(7)
   
5.73
%(6)(7)
                                             
 
(0.92
)%
   
(1.34
)%(6)
   
(1.50
)%
   
(1.60
)%
   
(1.97
)%
   
(3.28
)%(6)
 
(0.79
)%
   
(1.26
)%(6)
   
(1.36
)%
   
(1.13
)%
   
(1.01
)%
   
(0.99
)%(6)
 
41
%
   
64
%(5)
   
63
%
   
139
%
   
96
%
   
70
%(5)








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
13

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Institutional Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
11.09
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment loss(3)(4)
   
(0.02
)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(3.37
)
Total from investment operations
   
(3.39
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from return of capital
   
(0.51
)
Total distributions
   
(0.51
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
7.19
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-31.77
%(5)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
23.77
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:
       
Before expense reimbursement
   
1.76
%(6)
After expense reimbursement
   
1.51
%(6)
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets:
       
Before expense reimbursement(4)
   
(0.63
)%(6)
After expense reimbursement(4)
   
(0.38
)%(6)
Portfolio turnover rate(8)
   
22
%(5)




 
(1)
The period ended October 31, 2018, consists of 11 months due to the Fund’s fiscal year end change from November 30 to October 31, effective October 26, 2018.
(2)
Fund commenced operations on December 31, 2013.
(3)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(4)
Includes current and deferred tax benefit/expense from net investment income/loss only.
(5)
Not annualized.
(6)
Annualized.
(7)
Includes an estimated deferred tax expense/benefit of -1.32% for fiscal year 2015 or 3.98% for the period ended November 30, 2014.  See Note 2.b in the Notes to the Financial Statements.
(8)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
14


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INSTITUTIONAL CLASS


 
 


Year Ended
   
Period Ended
       
Period Ended
 
October 31,
   
October 31,
   
Year Ended November 30,
   
November 30,
 
2019
   
2018(1)
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
   
2014(2)
 
                                 
$
12.83
   
$
14.66
   
$
16.66
   
$
15.53
   
$
22.28
   
$
20.00
 
                                             
                                             
 
(0.09
)
   
(0.14
)
   
(0.18
)
   
(0.12
)
   
(0.14
)
   
(0.15
)
 
(0.62
)
   
(0.66
)
   
(0.79
)
   
2.28
     
(5.61
)
   
2.87
 
 
(0.71
)
   
(0.80
)
   
(0.97
)
   
2.16
     
(5.75
)
   
2.72
 
                                             
                                             
 
(1.03
)
   
(1.03
)
   
(1.03
)
   
(1.03
)
   
(1.00
)
   
(0.44
)
 
(1.03
)
   
(1.03
)
   
(1.03
)
   
(1.03
)
   
(1.00
)
   
(0.44
)
$
11.09
   
$
12.83
   
$
14.66
   
$
16.66
   
$
15.53
   
$
22.28
 
                                             
 
-6.10
%
   
-5.94
%(5)
   
-6.25
%
   
14.97
%
   
-26.90
%
   
13.60
%(5)
                                             
                                             
$
31.78
   
$
61.92
   
$
82.59
   
$
33.22
   
$
15.72
   
$
7.79
 
                                             
 
1.56
%
   
1.58
%(6)
   
1.66
%
   
1.95
%
   
1.10
%(7)
   
7.77
%(6)(7)
 
1.51
%
   
1.52
%(6)
   
1.52
%
   
1.48
%
   
0.18
%(7)
   
5.48
%(6)(7)
                                             
 
(0.76
)%
   
(1.15
)%(6)
   
(1.28
)%
   
(1.28
)%
   
(1.63
)%
   
(3.03
)%(6)
 
(0.71
)%
   
(1.09
)%(6)
   
(1.14
)%
   
(0.81
)%
   
(0.71
)%
   
(0.74
)%(6)
 
41
%
   
64
%(5)
   
63
%
   
139
%
   
96
%
   
70
%(5)








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
15

Financial Statements
 
 Notes to the Financial Statements April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

1).  ORGANIZATION
 
The Hennessy BP Midstream Fund (the “Fund”) is a series of Hennessy Funds Trust (the “Trust”), which was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 17, 1992. The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The investment objective of the Fund is to seek capital appreciation through distribution growth along with current income. The Fund is treated as a regular corporation, or “C” corporation, for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Because the Fund is treated as a “C” corporation, it will not be taxed as a regulated investment company under Subchapter M of the Code and is not required to comply with the diversification requirements applicable to regulated investment companies. The Fund is a non-diversified fund.
 
The Fund offers Investor Class and Institutional Class shares. Each class of shares differs principally in its respective 12b-1 distribution and service, shareholder servicing, and sub-transfer agent expenses. There are no sales charges. Each class has identical rights to earnings, assets, and voting privileges, except for class-specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only one class.
 
As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies.”
 
2).  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of the financial statements. These policies conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
 
a).
Securities Valuation – All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value, as described in Note 3.
   
b).
Federal Income Taxes – The Fund is taxed as a corporation and is obligated to pay U.S. federal and state income tax on its taxable income. Currently, the maximum marginal regular federal income tax rate for a corporation is 21%. The Fund invests a substantial portion of its assets in master limited partnerships (“MLPs”), which are treated as partnerships for federal income tax purposes. As a limited partner in MLPs, the Fund reports its allocable share of each MLP’s taxable income in computing its own taxable income.

 
In calculating the Fund’s daily net asset value, the Fund will account for its deferred tax asset and liability balances. In accordance with GAAP, the Fund will accrue a deferred income tax liability balance for its future tax liability associated with the capital appreciation of its investments and the distributions received by the Fund on equity securities of MLPs considered to be return of capital and for any net operating gains. This accrual will be based on the current effective federal income tax rate plus an estimated state income tax rate.
   
 
Deferred income taxes reflect the net tax effect of temporary differences between the carrying amount of assets and liabilities for financial reporting and tax purposes. A valuation allowance is recognized if, based on the weight of available evidence, it is more likely than not that at least some portion of a deferred income tax asset will not be

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
16

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
realized. From time to time as new information becomes available, the Fund will modify its estimates or assumption regarding the deferred tax liabilities or assets. As of April 30, 2020, the Fund has placed a full valuation allowance on its deferred tax assets.

c).
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – The Fund has accounting policies regarding recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The tax returns of the Fund for the prior three fiscal years are open for examination. The Fund has reviewed all open tax years in major jurisdictions and concluded that there is no impact on the Fund’s net assets and no tax liability resulting from unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain income tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The Fund files U.S. federal income tax returns and income tax returns in various states.
   
d).
Income and Expenses – Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date or as soon as information is available to the Fund. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recognized on an accrual basis. Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received. The Fund is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to its portfolio, such as advisory, administration, and certain shareholder service fees. Income, expenses (other than expenses attributable to a specific class), and realized and unrealized gains/losses on investments are allocated to each class of shares based on such class’s net assets. Distributions received from the Fund’s investments in MLPs generally consist of ordinary income, capital gains, and return of capital. The Fund records investment income on the ex-date of the distributions. For financial statement purposes, the Fund uses return of capital and income estimates to allocate the dividend income received. Such estimates are based on historical information available from the MLPs and other industry sources. These estimates may subsequently be revised based on information received from the MLPs after their tax reporting periods are concluded, as the actual character of these distributions is not known until after the fiscal year end of the Fund.
   
e).
Distributions to Shareholders – The Fund typically makes cash distributions to its shareholders quarterly at the end of the months of February, May, August, and November. Due to the tax treatment of the Fund’s allocations and distributions from MLPs, a significant portion of the Fund’s distributions to shareholders typically is treated as return of capital to shareholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes (i.e., as distributions in excess of the Fund’s current and accumulated earnings and profits as described below). However, no assurance can be given in this regard; just as the Fund’s corporate income tax liability can fluctuate materially from year to year, the extent to which the Fund is able to make return-of-capital distributions also can vary materially from year to year depending on a number of different factors, including the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, the level of allocations of net income and other tax items for the Fund from its underlying MLP investments during a particular taxable year, the length of time the Fund has owned the MLP equity securities in its portfolio, and the extent to which the Fund disposes of MLP equity securities during a particular year, including, if necessary, to meet Fund shareholder redemption requests.

 
In general, a distribution will constitute a return of capital to a shareholder rather than a dividend to the extent such distribution exceeds the Fund’s current and accumulated earnings and profits. The portion of any distribution treated as a return of capital will constitute a tax-free return of capital to the extent of the shareholder’s basis in its Fund shares and thereafter generally will be taxable to the shareholder as a capital gain. Any such distribution, in turn, will result in a reduction in a shareholder’s basis in the Fund’s shares (but not below zero) to the extent of the


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
17

 
return of capital and in the shareholder’s recognizing more gain or less loss (that is, increase of a shareholder’s tax liability) when the shareholder later sells shares of the Fund. To maintain a more stable distribution rate, the Fund may distribute less or more than the entire amount of cash it receives from its investments in a particular period. Any undistributed cash would be available to supplement future distributions, and until distributed would add to the Fund’s net asset value. Correspondingly, such amounts, once distributed, will be deducted from the Fund’s net asset value. In addition, the Fund may opt not to make distributions in quarters in which the Fund believes that a distribution could cause adverse tax consequences to shareholders, including when the Fund believes that a distribution may not constitute a tax-free return of capital as described above.
   
f).
Security Transactions – Investment and shareholder transactions are recorded on the trade date. The Fund determines the realized gain/loss from an investment transaction by comparing the original cost of the security lot sold with the net sale proceeds. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted or amortized, respectively, over the life of each such security.
   
g).
Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported change in net assets during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
h).
Share Valuation – The net asset value (“NAV”) per share of the Fund is calculated by dividing (i) the total value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by (ii) the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest $0.01. The Fund’s shares will not be priced on days the New York Stock Exchange is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for the Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.
   
i).
Partnership Accounting Policy – To the extent the Fund receives distributions from underlying partnerships in which it invests, the Fund records its pro rata share of income/loss and capital gains/losses and accordingly adjusts the cost basis of the underlying partnerships for return of capital.
 
3).  SECURITIES VALUATION
 
The Fund follows fair value accounting standards that establish an authoritative definition of fair value and set out a hierarchy for measuring fair value. These standards require additional disclosures about the various inputs and valuation techniques used to develop the measurements of fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs during the period. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
 
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments that the Fund has the ability to access at the date of measurement.
     
 
Level 2 –
Other significant observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar instruments, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets, such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk curves, default rates, and similar data).
     
 
Level 3 –
Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability based on the best available information) when observable inputs are unavailable.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
18

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The following is a description of the valuation techniques applied to the Fund’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
Equity Securities – Equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, foreign-issued common stocks, exchange-traded funds, closed-end mutual funds, partnerships, rights, MLPs, and real estate investment trusts, that are traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is readily available will generally be valued at the last sales price as reported by the primary exchange on which the securities are listed. Securities listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) will generally be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may differ from the last sales price reported. Securities traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is not readily available will generally be valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Securities traded on foreign exchanges generally are not valued at the same time the Fund calculates its NAV because most foreign markets close well before such time. The earlier close of most foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim. In certain circumstances, it may be determined that a foreign security needs to be fair valued because it appears that the value of the security might have been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the market in which the security is principally traded, but before the time the Fund calculates its NAV, such as by a development that affects an entire market or region (e.g., a weather-related event) or a potentially global development (e.g., a terrorist attack that may be expected to have an effect on investor expectations worldwide).
   
 
Registered Investment Companies – Investments in open-end registered investment companies, commonly referred to as mutual funds, generally are priced at the ending NAV provided by the applicable mutual fund’s service agent and will be classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Debt Securities – Debt securities, including corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and U.S. government agency issues, are generally valued at market on the basis of valuations furnished by an independent pricing service that utilizes both dealer-supplied valuations and formula-based techniques. The pricing service may consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, and fundamental data relating to the issuer. In addition, the model may incorporate observable market data, such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued primarily using dealer quotations. These securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Short-Term Securities – Short-term equity investments, including money market funds, are valued in the manner specified above. Short-term debt investments with an original term to maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value. If the original term to maturity of a short-term debt investment exceeded 60 days, then the values as of the 61st day prior to maturity are amortized. Amortized cost is not used if its use would be inappropriate due to credit or other impairments of the issuer, in which case the security’s fair value would be determined, as described below. Short-term securities are generally classified in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the inputs used and market activity levels for specific securities.


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
19

The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board”) has adopted fair value pricing procedures that are followed when a price for a security is not readily available or if a significant event has occurred that indicates the closing price of a security no longer represents the true value of that security. Fair value pricing determinations are made in good faith in accordance with these procedures. There are numerous criteria that will be given consideration in determining a fair value of a security, such as the trading volume of a security and markets, the values of other similar securities, and news events with direct bearing on a security or markets. Fair value pricing results in an estimated price for a security that reflects the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive in a current sale. Depending on the relative significance of the valuation inputs, these securities may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
The fair value of foreign securities may be determined with the assistance of a pricing service using correlations between the movement of prices of such securities and indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators, such as closing market prices of relevant American Depositary Receipts or futures contracts. Using fair value pricing means that the Fund’s NAV reflects the affected portfolio securities’ values as determined by the Board or its designee, pursuant to the fair value pricing procedures adopted by the Board, instead of being determined by the market. Using a fair value pricing methodology to price a foreign security may result in a value that is different from such foreign security’s most recent closing price and from the value used by other investment companies to calculate their NAVs. Such securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Because the Fund may invest in foreign securities, the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities may change on days when you will not be able to purchase or redeem your shares.
 
The Board has delegated day-to-day valuation matters to the Valuation and Liquidity Committee comprising representatives from Hennessy Advisors, Inc., the Fund’s investment advisor (the “Advisor”). The function of the Valuation and Liquidity Committee is to value securities where current and reliable market quotations are not readily available. All actions taken by the Valuation and Liquidity Committee are reviewed by the Board.
 
The Fund has performed an analysis of all existing investments to determine the significance and character of all inputs to their fair value determinations. Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Fund’s investments. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. Details related to the fair value hierarchy of the Fund’s securities as of April 30, 2020, are included in the Schedule of Investments.
 
4).  INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding government and short-term investments) for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $7,477,945 and $7,475,266, respectively.
 
There were no purchases or sales/maturities of long-term U.S. government securities for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Fund is permitted to purchase or sell securities from or to another fund in the Hennessy Funds family of funds (collectively, the “Hennessy Funds”) under specified conditions outlined in procedures adopted by the Board. The procedures have been designed to ensure that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Hennessy Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not engage in purchases or sales of securities pursuant to Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
20

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

5).  INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
The Advisor provides the Fund with investment advisory services under an Investment Advisory Agreement. The Advisor oversees the provision of investment advice and furnishes office space, facilities, and most of the personnel needed by the Fund. As compensation for its services, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee from the Fund. The fee is based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate of 1.10%. The net investment advisory fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Advisor has delegated the day-to-day management of the Fund to a sub-advisor, BP Capital Fund Advisors, LLC. The Advisor pays the sub-advisory fees from its own assets, and these fees are not an additional expense of the Fund. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Advisor (not the Fund) paid a sub-advisory fee at the rate of 0.40% of the daily net assets of the Fund.
 
The Advisor has contractually agreed to limit total annual operating expenses to 1.75% of the Fund’s net assets for Investor Class shares and 1.50% of the Fund’s net assets for Institutional Class shares (in each case, excluding all federal, state, and local taxes, interest, brokerage commissions, dividend and interest expenses on short sales, extraordinary items, and acquired fund fees and expenses and other costs incurred in connection with the purchase and sale of securities) through February 28, 2021.
 
For three years following the date on which expenses were waived or incurred, the Advisor may recoup waived or reimbursed expenses from the Fund if total operating expenses, including such recoupment, does not exceed the expense limitation in effect (i) at the time the Advisor waived or reimbursed such expenses and (ii) at the time the Advisor recoups such expenses. As of April 30, 2020, expenses subject to potential recovery for Investor Class and Institutional Class shares and the fiscal years in which they expire were as follows:
 
   
Fiscal Year
Fiscal Year
   
   
2022
2023
Total
 
 
Investor Class
$22,275
$10,825
$33,100
 
 
Institutional Class
$22,981
$31,901
$54,882
 

The Advisor did not recoup expenses from the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Board has approved a Shareholder Servicing Agreement for Investor Class shares of the Fund, which was instituted to compensate the Advisor for the non-investment advisory services it provides to the Fund. The Shareholder Servicing Agreement provides for a monthly fee paid to the Advisor at an annual rate of 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund attributable to Investor Class shares. The shareholder service fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has adopted a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that authorizes payments in connection with the distribution of the Fund’s shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares. Even though the authorized rate is up to 0.25%, the Fund is currently only using up to 0.15% of its average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares for such purpose. Amounts paid under the plan may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares, including, but not limited to, advertising, shareholder account servicing, printing and mailing of prospectuses to other than current shareholders, printing and mailing of sales
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
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literature, and compensation for sales and marketing activities or to financial institutions and others, such as dealers and distributors. The distribution fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into agreements with various brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries in connection with the sale of shares of the Fund. The agreements provide for periodic payments of sub-transfer agent expenses by the Fund to the brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries for providing certain shareholder maintenance services. These shareholder services include the pre-processing and quality control of new accounts, shareholder correspondence, answering customer inquiries regarding account status, and facilitating shareholder telephone transactions. The sub-transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (“Fund Services”) provides the Fund with administrative, accounting, and transfer agent services. As administrator, Fund Services is responsible for activities such as (i) preparing various federal and state regulatory filings, reports, and returns for the Fund, (ii) preparing reports and materials to be supplied to the Board, (iii) monitoring the activities of the Fund’s custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, and (iv) coordinating the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviewing the Fund’s expense accruals. U.S. Bank N.A., an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Fund’s custodian. The servicing agreements between the Trust and Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. contain a fee schedule that is inclusive of administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. The administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
Quasar Distributors, LLC (“Quasar”) acts as the Fund’s principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Fund’s shares. Quasar was an affiliate of Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. through March 30, 2020. Effective March 31, 2020, Foreside Financial Group, LLC (“Foreside”) acquired Quasar from Fund Services. As a result of the acquisition, Quasar became a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of Foreside and is no longer affiliated with Fund Services or U.S. Bank N.A. The Board approved a new Distribution Agreement to enable Quasar to continue serving as the Fund’s distributor.
 
The officers of the Fund are affiliated with the Advisor. With the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer and the Senior Compliance Officer, such officers receive no compensation from the Fund for serving in their respective roles. The Fund, along with the other Hennessy Funds, makes reimbursement payments on an equal basis to the Advisor for a portion of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Chief Compliance Officer and for all of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Senior Compliance Officer. The compliance fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
6).  GUARANTEES AND INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Hennessy Funds’ organizational documents, their officers and trustees are indemnified by the Hennessy Funds against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Hennessy Funds. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Hennessy Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Fund expects the risk of loss to be remote.
 
 
 
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 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

7).  LINE OF CREDIT
 
The Fund has an uncommitted line of credit with the other Hennessy Funds in the amount of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 or (ii) 33.33% of each Hennessy Fund’s net assets, or 30% for the Hennessy Gas Utility Fund and 10% for the Hennessy Balanced Fund, intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The credit facility is with the Hennessy Funds’ custodian bank, U.S. Bank N.A. Borrowings under this arrangement bear interest at the bank’s prime rate and are secured by all of the Fund’s assets (as to its own borrowings only). During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund had an outstanding average daily balance and a weighted average interest rate of $95,297 and 4.36%, respectively. The interest expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, is included in the Statement of Operations. The maximum amount outstanding for the Fund during the period was $1,116,000. As of April 30, 2020, the Fund did not have any borrowings outstanding under the line of credit.
 
8).  FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
 
As of April 30, 2020, the Fund’s most recent fiscal period end, the components of accumulated earnings (losses) for income tax purposes were as follows:
 
     
Investments
 
 
Cost of investments for tax purposes
 
$
32,325,904
 
 
Gross tax unrealized appreciation
 
$
1,815,318
 
 
Gross tax unrealized depreciation
   
(4,123,187
)
 
Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)
 
$
(2,307,869
)

As of April 30, 2020, deferred tax assets consisted of the following:
 
 
Deferred tax assets (liabilities):
     
 
  Net operating losses
 
$
555,357
 
 
  Capital loss
   
5,558,759
 
 
  Unrealized (gain) loss on investments
   
537,837
 
 
Total deferred tax assets, net
   
6,651,953
 
 
Valuation allowance
   
(6,651,953
)
 
Net
 
$
 

For the six months ended April, 30, 2020, the Fund had an effective tax rate of 0% and a federal statutory rate of 21%, with the difference resulting from a change in the valuation allowance of the deferred tax assets.
 
Deferred income tax assets and liabilities are recorded for differences between the financial statement and tax basis of the assets and liabilities that will result in taxable or deductible amounts in the future based on enacted laws and rates applicable to the periods in which the differences are expected to affect taxable income. Valuation allowances are established when necessary to reduce deferred tax assets to the amount expected to be realized. The Fund has evaluated the available evidence supporting the realization of its gross deferred tax assets, including the amount and timing of future taxable income, and has determined that, based on net losses to date, it may not utilize all of its deferred tax assets in the future. As of April 30, 2020, the Fund established a valuation allowance in the amount of $6,651,953 against its deferred tax assets.
 
To the extent the Fund has a net capital loss in any tax year, the net capital loss may be carried forward five years to offset any future realized capital gains. To the extent the Fund had a net operating loss that arose in a tax year ending prior to January 1, 2018, the effective date of the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, the net operating loss may be carried forward
 

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20 years to offset any future ordinary income.  Any net operating loss arising in a tax year ending after December 31, 2017, may be carried forward indefinitely. As of April 30, 2020, the Fund had capital loss carryforwards of $24,084,752 that expire as follows:
 
 
Amount
 
Expiration
 
 
$
1,511,860
 
11/30/2020
 
   
2,137,300
 
11/30/2021
 
   
6,130,957
 
10/31/2023
 
   
10,009,278
 
10/31/2024
 
   
4,295,357
 
10/31/2025
 

As of April 30, 2020, the Fund had net operating loss carryforwards of $2,097,178 that expire as follows:
 
 
Amount
 
Expiration
 
 
$
233,560
 
11/30/2037
 
   
1,863,618
 
Indefinite
 

Total income taxes have been computed by applying the federal statutory income tax rate of 21% plus a blended state income tax rate. The Fund applied this effective rate to net investment income and realized and unrealized gains on investments before taxes in computing its total income taxes.
 
 
Tax expense (benefit) at statutory rates
 
$
(1,995,605
)
 
State income tax expense, net of federal benefit
   
(188,912
)
 
Tax expense (benefit) on permanent items(1)
   
(7,933
)
 
Tax expense (benefit) due to change in effective state rates
   
 
 
Total current tax expense (benefit)
   
 
 
Change in valuation allowance
   
2,192,450
 
 
Total tax expense
 
$
 

 
(1) Permanent items consist of dividends-received deductions.

The Fund recognizes the tax benefits of uncertain tax positions only where the position is “more likely than not” to be sustained assuming examination by tax authorities. Management has analyzed the Fund’s tax positions and has concluded that no liability for unrecognized tax benefits should be recorded related to uncertain tax positions taken on U.S. federal tax returns and state tax returns filed or expected to be filed since inception of the Fund. No income tax returns are currently under examination. Generally, tax authorities can examine all tax returns filed for the last three years. Due to the nature of the Fund’s investments, the Fund may be required to file income tax returns in several states. The Fund is not aware of any tax positions for which it is reasonably possible that the total amounts of unrecognized tax benefits will change materially.
 
During fiscal year 2020 (year to date) and fiscal year 2019, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund was as follows:
 
     
Six Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
     
April 30, 2020
   
October 31, 2019
 
 
Ordinary income(1)
 
$
   
$
 
 
Long-term capital gain
   
     
 
 
Return of capital
   
1,761,268
     
4,858,531
 
     
$
1,761,268
   
$
4,858,531
 

 
(1)  Ordinary income includes short-term capital gain.

 
 
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24

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

9).  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO PERIOD END
 
Management has evaluated the Fund’s related events and transactions that occurred subsequent to April 30, 2020, through the date of issuance of the Fund’s financial statements. Management has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.
 










HENNESSY FUNDS
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Expense Example (Unaudited)
April 30, 2020


As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur ongoing costs, including management fees, service fees, and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from November 1, 2019, through April 30, 2020.
 
Actual Expenses
The first line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. Although the Fund charges no sales loads or transaction fees, you will be assessed fees for outgoing wire transfers, returned checks and stop payment orders at prevailing rates charged by U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, the Fund’s transfer agent. If you request that a redemption be made by wire transfer, currently a $15 fee is charged by the Fund’s transfer agent. IRA accounts will be charged a $15 annual maintenance fee. The example below includes, but is not limited to, management fees, shareholder servicing fees, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. However, the example below does not include portfolio trading commissions and related expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line of the table under the “Investor Class” or “Institutional Class” headings in the column entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only. Therefore, the second line of the table under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
 

 

 
 
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 EXPENSE EXAMPLE

 
Beginning
Ending
 
 
Account Value
Account Value
Expenses Paid
 
November 1, 2019
April 30, 2020
During Period(1)
Investor Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   681.30
$7.36
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,016.11
$8.82
       
Institutional Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   682.30
$6.32
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,017.35
$7.57

(1)
Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio of 1.76% for Investor Class shares or 1.51% for Institutional Class shares, as applicable, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 days (to reflect the half-year period).











HENNESSY FUNDS
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How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s Proxy
Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
 
A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge (1) by calling 1-800-966-4354, (2) on the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-policy, or (3) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record is available without charge on both the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-record and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov no later than August 31 for the prior 12 months ending June 30.
 
 
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
 
The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on request by calling 1-800-966-4354.
 
 
Federal Tax Distribution Information (Unaudited)
 
For fiscal year 2019, certain dividends paid by the Fund may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 23.8%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was 0.00%.
 
For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions that qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction for fiscal year 2019 was 0.00%.
 
The percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that were designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Section 871(k)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, for the Fund was 0.00%.

 
Important Notice Regarding Delivery
of Shareholder Documents
 
To help keep the Fund’s costs as low as possible, we generally deliver a single copy of shareholder reports, proxy statements, and prospectuses to shareholders who share an address and have the same last name. This process does not apply to account statements. You may request an individual copy of a shareholder document at any time. If you would like to receive separate mailings of shareholder documents, please call U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124, and individual delivery will begin within 30 days of your request. If your account is held through a financial institution or other intermediary, please contact such intermediary directly to request individual delivery.
 
 
Electronic Delivery
 
The Funds offer shareholders the option to receive account statements, prospectuses, tax forms, and shareholder reports online. To sign up for eDelivery, please visit www.hennessyfunds.com/account. You may change your delivery preference at any time by visiting our website or calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124.
 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
28

 PROXY VOTING — BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

Board Approval of Investment Advisory
Agreements
 
At its meeting on March 12, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board,” and the members thereof, the “Trustees”) unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement of the Fund with Hennessy Advisors, Inc. (the “Advisor”) and the sub-advisory agreement for the Fund between the Advisor and BP Capital Fund Advisors, LLC (the “Sub-Advisor”). As part of the process of approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements, the Trustees reviewed their fiduciary duties and the relevant factors for them to consider with respect to approving the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. In addition, the Trustees who are not deemed “interested persons” (as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Fund (the “Independent Trustees”) met in executive session to discuss the approval of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
 
In advance of the meeting, the Advisor sent detailed information to the Trustees to assist them in their evaluation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. This information included, but was not limited to, the following:
 
 
(1)
A memorandum from outside legal counsel that described the fiduciary duties of the Board with respect to approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and the relevant factors for consideration;
     
 
(2)
A memorandum from the Advisor that listed the factors relevant to the Board’s approval of the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and also referenced the documents that had been provided to help the Board assess each such factor;
     
 
(3)
An inventory of the services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor and the distinction between the Advisor-provided services and the Sub-Advisor-provided services;
     
 
(4)
A written discussion of economies of scale;
     
 
(5)
Summaries of the key terms of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements;
     
 
(6)
A recent Fund fact sheet, which included performance information over various periods;
     
 
(7)
A peer expense comparison of the net expense ratio and investment advisory fee of the Fund;
     
 
(8)
The Advisor’s financial statements from its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q;
     
 
(9)
A completed questionnaire from the Sub-Advisor;
     
 
(10)
A summary of the Sub-Advisor’s questionnaire and relevant information from the Sub-Advisor’s Form ADV Parts I and II;
     
 
(11)
The Sub-Advisor’s Code of Ethics; and
     
 
(12)
Financial information of the Sub-Advisor.

All of the factors discussed were considered as a whole by the Trustees and by the Independent Trustees meeting in executive session. The factors were viewed in their totality by the Trustees, with no single factor being the principal or determinative factor in the Trustees’ determination of whether to approve the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. The Trustees recognized that the management and fee
 
 

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arrangements for the Fund are the result of years of review and discussion between the Independent Trustees and the Advisor, that certain aspects of such arrangements may receive greater scrutiny in some years than in others, and that the Trustees’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of these same arrangements and information received during the course of the year and in prior years.
 
Prior to approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees in executive session, considered, among other items:
 
 
(1)
The nature and quality of the advisory services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor;
     
 
(2)
A comparison of the fees and expenses of the Fund to other similar funds;
     
 
(3)
Whether economies of scale are recognized by the Fund;
     
 
(4)
The costs and profitability of the Fund to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor;
     
 
(5)
The performance of the Fund; and
     
 
(6)
Any benefits to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor from serving as an investment advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory and sub-advisory fees).

The material considerations and determinations of the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, were as follows:
 
 
(1)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Advisor. Based on this review, the Trustees concluded that the Advisor provides high-quality services to the Fund and noted that their overall confidence in the Advisor was high. The Trustees also concluded that they were satisfied with the nature, extent, and quality of the advisory services provided to the Fund by the Advisor and that the nature and extent of the services provided by the Advisor were appropriate to assure that the Fund’s operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

   
(a)
The Advisor oversees the Sub-Advisor for the Fund, and the Sub-Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund.
       
   
(b)
The Advisor performs a daily reconciliation of portfolio positions and cash for the Fund.
       
   
(c)
The Advisor monitors the liquidity of each Fund.
       
   
(d)
The Advisor monitors the Fund’s compliance with its investment objectives and restrictions.
       
   
(e)
The Advisor monitors compliance with federal securities laws, maintains a compliance program (including a code of ethics), conducts ongoing reviews of the compliance programs of the Sub-Advisor and the Fund’s other service providers, as feasible, conducts on-site visits to the Sub-Advisor and the Fund’s other service providers, monitors incidents of abusive trading practices, reviews Fund expense accruals, payments, and fixed expense ratios, evaluates insurance providers for fidelity bond, D&O/E&O insurance, and cybersecurity insurance coverage, manages regulatory examination compliance and responses, conducts employee compliance training, reviews reports provided by service providers, and maintains books and records.


 
 
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30

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

   
(f)
The Advisor oversees the selection and continued employment of the Sub-Advisor, reviews the Fund’s investment performance, and monitors the Sub-Advisor’s adherence to the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions.
       
   
(g)
The Advisor oversees service providers that provide accounting, administration, distribution, transfer agency, custodial, sales, marketing, public relations, audit, information technology, and legal services to the Fund.
       
   
(h)
The Advisor maintains in-house marketing and distribution departments on behalf of the Fund.
       
   
(i)
The Advisor is actively involved with preparing regulatory filings for the Fund, including writing and annually updating the Fund’s prospectus and related documents.
       
   
(j)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Advisor reviews the written summary prepared by the Sub-Advisor of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(k)
The Advisor oversees distribution of the Fund through third-party broker/dealers and independent financial institutions such as Charles Schwab, Inc., Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and Pershing. The Advisor participates in “no transaction fee” (“NTF”) programs with these companies on behalf of the Fund, which allow customers to purchase the Fund through third-party distribution channels without paying a transaction fee. The Advisor compensates, in part, a number of these third-party providers of NTF programs out of its own revenues.
       
   
(l)
The Advisor pays the incentive compensation of the Fund’s compliance officers and employs other staff, such as legal, marketing, national accounts, distribution, sales, administrative, and trading oversight personnel, as well as management executives.
       
   
(m)
The Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board.
       
   
(n)
The Advisor prepares or reviews all Board materials, frequently presents to the Board and leads Board discussions, prepares or reviews all meeting minutes, and arranges for Board training and education.

 
(2)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Sub-Advisor:

   
(a)
The Sub-Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund. In this capacity, the Sub-Advisor does the following:

     
(i)
manages the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, including the purchase, retention, and disposition of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions;
         
     
(ii)
seeks best execution for the Fund’s portfolio;
         
     
(iii)
manages the use of soft dollars for the Fund; and
         
     
(iv)
manages proxy voting for the Fund.

   
(b)
The Sub-Advisor ensures that its compliance program includes policies and procedures relevant to the Fund and the Sub-Advisor’s duties as a portfolio manager to the Fund.
       
   
(c)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Sub-Advisor prepares a written summary of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
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(d)
The Sub-Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board regarding trading and allocation practices, supervisory matters, the Sub-Advisor’s compliance program (including its code of ethics), compliance with the Fund’s policies, and general firm updates.

 
(3)
The Trustees considered the distinction between the services performed by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor. The Trustees noted that the management of the Fund, including the oversight of the Sub-Advisor, involves more comprehensive and substantive duties than the duties of the Sub-Advisor. Specifically, the Trustees considered the lists of services identified above and concluded that the services performed by the Advisor for the Fund require a higher level of service and oversight than the services performed by the Sub-Advisor. Based on this determination, the Trustees concluded that the differential in advisory fees between the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor is reasonable.
     
 
(4)
The Trustees compared the performance of the Fund to benchmark indices over various periods and also noted that the Trustees review and discuss reports comparing the investment performance of the Fund to various indices at each quarterly Board meeting. Based on such information, the Trustees determined that the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor manage the Fund in a manner materially consistent with its stated investment objective and style. The Trustees concluded that the performance of the Fund over various periods warranted continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
     
 
(5)
The Trustees reviewed the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of the Fund compared to other funds similar in asset size and investment objective to the Fund using data from Morningstar. As part of the discussion with management, the Trustees ensured that they understood and were comfortable with the criteria used to determine the mutual funds included in the Morningstar categories for purposes of the materials considered at the meeting. The Trustees determined that the advisory fee and overall expense ratio of the Fund falls within the range of the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of other comparable funds and concluded that they are reasonable and warranted continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
     
 
(6)
The Trustees also considered whether the Advisor was realizing economies of scale that it should share with the Fund’s shareholders. The Trustees noted that the assets of the Fund had declined over the prior year. In addition, the Trustees noted that many of the expenses incurred to manage the Fund are asset-based fees, so the Advisor does not realize material economies of scale relating to those expenses as the assets of the Fund increase. For example, mutual fund platform fees increase as the Fund’s assets grow. The Trustees also considered the Advisor’s efforts to contain expenses through actions such as renegotiating service contracts, the Advisor’s significant marketing efforts to promote the Funds, the Advisor’s investments in personnel to manage the Funds, and the Advisor’s agreement to waive fees or lower its management fees in certain circumstances. The Trustees noted that it did not appear that the Advisor was realizing economies of scale at current asset levels and concluded that it would continue to monitor economies of scale in the future as circumstances changed.
     
 
(7)
The Trustees considered the profitability of the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor, including the impact of mutual fund platform fees on the Advisor’s profitability, and also considered the resources and revenues that the Advisor has put into

 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
32

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

   
managing and distributing the Fund. The Trustees then concluded that the profits of the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor are reasonable and not excessive when compared to profitability guidelines set forth in relevant court cases.
     
 
(8)
The Trustees considered the high level of professionalism and knowledge of the Advisor’s employees, along with a very low level of turnover, and concluded that this was beneficial to the Fund and its shareholders.
     
 
(9)
The Trustees considered any benefits to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor from serving as an advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory and sub-advisory fees). The Trustees noted that the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor may derive ancillary benefits from, by way of example, their association with the Fund in the form of proprietary and third-party research products and services received from broker-dealers that execute portfolio trades for the Fund. The Trustees determined that any such products and services have been used for legitimate purposes relating to the Fund by providing assistance in the investment decision-making process. The Trustees concluded that any additional benefits realized by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor from their relationship with the Fund were reasonable, which was based on, among other things, the Trustees’ findings that (i) the research, analytical, statistical, and other information and services provided by brokers are merely supplemental to the Advisor’s and the Sub-Advisor’s own efforts in the performance of their duties under the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and (ii) although the Sub-Advisor could derive benefits from the conversion of Fund shareholders into separate account clients, the Fund also could benefit from potential institutional shareholders who might choose to invest in the Fund.

After reviewing the materials and information provided at the meeting, as well as other information regularly provided at the Board’s quarterly meetings throughout the year regarding the quality of services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor, the performance of the Fund, expense information, brokerage commissions information, the adequacy and efficacy of the Advisor’s and the Sub-Advisor’s written policies and procedures, other regulatory compliance issues, trading information and related matters, and other factors that the Trustees deemed relevant, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
 








HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
33


For information, questions, or assistance, please call
The Hennessy Funds
1-800-966-4354 or 1-415-899-1555



INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
7250 Redwood Boulevard, Suite 200
Novato, California 94945

ADMINISTRATOR,
TRANSFER AGENT,
DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, &
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0701

CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

TRUSTEES
Neil J. Hennessy
Robert T. Doyle
J. Dennis DeSousa
Gerald P. Richardson

COUNSEL
Foley & Lardner LLP
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-5306

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
Two Liberty Place
50 South 16th Street, Suite 2900
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-2529

DISTRIBUTOR
Quasar Distributors, LLC
111 East Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 2200
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202




www.hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354

This report has been prepared for shareholders and may be distributed to
others only if preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.




SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

APRIL 30, 2020





HENNESSY GAS UTILITY FUND
 
Investor Class  GASFX
Institutional Class  HGASX



IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
 
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the annual and semi-annual reports will no longer be sent by mail unless you specifically request paper copies from the Hennessy Funds 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 have already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Hennessy Funds electronically by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com/account or by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950. If you own shares in a Fund through a financial intermediary, please contact your financial intermediary to make this election.
 
You may elect to receive paper copies of all future reports free of charge by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or, if you own your shares through a financial intermediary, by contacting your financial intermediary. Your election to receive paper copies of reports will apply to all Funds in the Hennessy Funds family.
 


hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354









(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 










Contents
 

 
Letter to Shareholders
2
Performance Overview
4
Financial Statements
 
Schedule of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
9
Statement of Operations
10
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
11
Financial Highlights
12
Notes to the Financial Statements
16
Expense Example
23
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
25
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
25
Federal Tax Distribution Information
25
Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents
25
Electronic Delivery
25
Board Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement
26









HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 


June 2020
 
Dear Hennessy Funds Shareholder:

 
First and foremost, I hope this communication finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. In many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down in recent months, and we at Hennessy have joined the rest of the world in witnessing and experiencing its profound effect on public health, the global economy, and the everyday lives of people around the world.  In response to the crisis, we invoked our business continuity plan in mid-March to ensure a smooth transition to remote work for all of our employees, who have been working safely and productively from home. We want to assure our Hennessy Funds shareholders that our operations are uninterrupted and functioning normally.
 
The past six months have been marked by extremes. During the first half of the period from November 2019 through January 2020, the bull market, supported by strong corporate fundamentals, continued to move higher, and investors appeared focused on record-low unemployment and strong economic growth. In mid-February, the major U.S. market indices hit all-time highs, but then, within just a matter of weeks, lost over one-third of their values as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded. Shelter-in-place and business closure orders rippled through the nation, causing initial unemployment claims to skyrocket to their highest number in history. The market then rallied back and posted double-digit positive returns in April.
 
For the six months ended April 30, 2020, on a total return basis, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 8.9% and the S&P 500® Index was down 3.2%. Small-cap and mid-cap stocks generally fared worse than large-cap stocks during the period, and the Financial sector was particularly hard hit as the Federal Reserve aggressively cut the federal funds rate in an effort to stabilize the economy. The Energy sector was crushed by both the sudden loss of demand due to COVID-19 and the oversupply caused by the surprise market-share battle between Russia and Saudi Arabia, and the S&P 500® Energy Sector Index ended the six-month period down over 30%.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented event, and the duration and full extent of the economic impact is unknown. In the moment, there is always the concern that ‘this time is different.’ But, when you are able to look at past financial, political, and health crises with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, history has demonstrated that our economy and financial markets have always rebounded and recovered eventually. If you look back to the last market downturn in 2008, economic fundamentals were weak compared to the market in 2020, where the overall underpinnings were – and are still – quite strong.  Publicly listed companies today have plenty of cash, with over $5 trillion on balance sheets of the S&P 500® companies alone, and I believe that most will survive and that many may emerge from the current crisis even stronger.
 

 

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
2

 LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

We understand that this market volatility and economic uncertainty is jarring to many investors, and we continue to monitor events and the markets. We remain focused on managing our high-conviction portfolios for the long-term benefit of our shareholders, and we are confident in the time-tested strategies and rigorous research that led to their formation. We encourage shareholders to maintain a long-term investment horizon and to remain focused on long-term goals. As always, but especially in these trying times, we are here to support our shareholders, and we thank you for your continued investment and trust. Should you have any questions or would like to speak with us directly, please don’t hesitate to call (800) 966-4354 or email us at fundsinfo@hennessyfunds.com.
 
Best regards,

 

Neil J. Hennessy
President and Chief Investment Officer
 

 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500® Index are commonly used to measure the performance of U.S. stocks. The S&P 500® Energy Sector Index is an index that comprises those companies included in the S&P 500 that are classified as members of the GICS energy sector. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 







HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
3

Performance Overview (Unaudited)
 
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR PERIODS ENDED APRIL 30, 2020
 
 
Six
One
Five
Ten
 
Months(1)
Year
Years
Years
Hennessy Gas Utility Fund –
       
  Investor Class (GASFX)
-12.56%
-9.47%
1.80%
  9.13%
Hennessy Gas Utility Fund –
       
  Institutional Class (HGASX)(2)
-12.42%
-9.22%
2.01%
  9.24%
AGA Stock Index
-12.27%
-8.44%
3.06%
10.05%
S&P 500® Index
  -3.16%
 0.86%
9.12%
11.69%

Expense ratios:  1.00% (Investor Class); 0.69% (Institutional Class)
 
(1)
Periods of less than one year are not annualized.
(2)
The inception date of Institutional Class shares is March 1, 2017. Performance shown prior to the inception of Institutional Class shares reflects the performance of Investor Class shares and includes expenses that are not applicable to, and are higher than, those of Institutional Class shares.

 


 

 

 
_______________
 
Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance table does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com. Performance for periods on or prior to October 26, 2012, is that of the FBR Gas Utility Index Fund.
 
The AGA Stock Index is a capitalization-weighted index consisting of publicly traded members of the American Gas Association whose securities are traded on a U.S. stock exchange. The S&P 500® Index is a capitalization-weighted index that is designed to represent the broad domestic economy through changes in the aggregate market value of 500 stocks across all major industries. One cannot invest directly in an index. These indices are used herein for comparative purposes in accordance with SEC regulations.
 
Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC is the source and owner of the S&P® and S&P 500® trademarks.
 
The expense ratios presented are from the most recent prospectus. The expense ratios for the current reporting period are available in the Financial Highlights section of this report.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
4


 PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Financial Statements
 
 Schedule of Investments as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

HENNESSY GAS UTILITY FUND
(% of Net Assets)

 

 
TOP TEN HOLDINGS (EXCLUDING MONEY MARKET FUNDS)
% NET ASSETS
Cheniere Energy, Inc.
5.48%
Enbridge, Inc.
5.24%
Kinder Morgan, Inc.
5.16%
National Grid PLC – ADR
5.14%
Atmos Energy Corp.
4.93%
Dominion Energy, Inc.
4.91%
Sempra Energy
4.83%
TC Energy Corp.
4.81%
The Southern Co.
4.81%
WEC Energy Group, Inc.
4.81%

 
Note: For presentation purposes, the Fund has grouped some of the industry categories. For purposes of categorizing securities for compliance with Section 8(b)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Fund uses more specific industry classifications.
 
The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) was developed by and is the exclusive property and a service mark of MSCI, Inc. and Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC. It has been licensed for use by the Hennessy Funds.

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
5


COMMON STOCKS – 98.73%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Energy – 20.85%
                 
Cheniere Energy, Inc. (a)
   
751,917
   
$
35,107,005
     
5.48
%
Enbridge, Inc. (b)
   
1,094,765
     
33,587,390
     
5.24
%
Kinder Morgan, Inc.
   
2,174,101
     
33,111,558
     
5.16
%
TC Energy Corp. (b)
   
665,353
     
30,845,765
     
4.81
%
Tellurian, Inc. (a)
   
717,690
     
1,019,120
     
0.16
%
 
           
133,670,838
     
20.85
%
                         
Financials – 2.68%
                       
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class A (a)
   
61
     
17,183,700
     
2.68
%
                         
Utilities – 75.20%
                       
Algonquin Power & Utilities Corp. (b)
   
215,664
     
2,986,946
     
0.47
%
ALLETE, Inc.
   
775
     
44,609
     
0.01
%
Ameren Corp.
   
85,440
     
6,215,760
     
0.97
%
Atmos Energy Corp.
   
310,086
     
31,619,469
     
4.93
%
Avangrid, Inc.
   
150,900
     
6,488,700
     
1.01
%
Avista Corp.
   
47,772
     
2,056,107
     
0.32
%
Black Hills Corp.
   
120,147
     
7,441,905
     
1.16
%
Centerpoint Energy, Inc.
   
474,828
     
8,086,321
     
1.26
%
Chesapeake Utilities Corp.
   
45,858
     
4,030,001
     
0.63
%
CMS Energy Corp.
   
332,998
     
19,010,856
     
2.97
%
Consolidated Edison, Inc.
   
240,836
     
18,977,877
     
2.96
%
Corning Natural Gas Holding Corp.
   
11,099
     
193,622
     
0.03
%
Dominion Energy, Inc.
   
407,877
     
31,459,553
     
4.91
%
DTE Energy Co.
   
163,904
     
17,003,401
     
2.65
%
Duke Energy Corp.
   
226,687
     
19,191,321
     
2.99
%
Entergy Corp.
   
6,360
     
607,444
     
0.10
%
Eversource Energy
   
85,175
     
6,873,623
     
1.07
%
Exelon Corp.
   
196,831
     
7,298,494
     
1.14
%
Fortis, Inc. (b)
   
269,276
     
10,434,445
     
1.63
%
MDU Resources Group, Inc.
   
315,807
     
7,093,025
     
1.11
%
MGE Energy, Inc.
   
25,929
     
1,676,569
     
0.26
%
National Fuel Gas Co.
   
196,924
     
8,073,884
     
1.26
%
National Grid PLC – ADR (b)
   
562,444
     
32,936,721
     
5.14
%
New Jersey Resources Corp.
   
226,034
     
7,635,429
     
1.19
%
NiSource, Inc.
   
873,181
     
21,925,575
     
3.42
%
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
6

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
 
COMMON STOCKS
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Utilities (Continued)
                 
Northwest Natural Holding Co.
   
109,503
   
$
7,128,645
     
1.11
%
NorthWestern Corp.
   
36,998
     
2,134,415
     
0.33
%
ONE Gas, Inc.
   
191,875
     
15,294,356
     
2.39
%
PG&E Corp. (a)
   
512,449
     
5,452,457
     
0.85
%
PPL Corp.
   
248,319
     
6,312,269
     
0.98
%
Public Service Enterprise Group, Inc.
   
373,690
     
18,949,820
     
2.96
%
RGC Resources, Inc.
   
34,254
     
851,897
     
0.13
%
Sempra Energy
   
250,240
     
30,992,224
     
4.83
%
South Jersey Industries, Inc.
   
296,671
     
8,481,824
     
1.32
%
Southwest Gas Holdings, Inc.
   
160,817
     
12,189,929
     
1.90
%
Spire, Inc.
   
151,491
     
11,052,783
     
1.72
%
The Southern Co.
   
544,200
     
30,872,466
     
4.81
%
UGI Corp.
   
208,352
     
6,288,063
     
0.98
%
Unitil Corp.
   
32,098
     
1,614,850
     
0.25
%
WEC Energy Group, Inc.
   
340,940
     
30,872,117
     
4.81
%
Xcel Energy, Inc.
   
225,699
     
14,345,428
     
2.24
%
 
           
482,195,200
     
75.20
%
Total Common Stocks
                       
  (Cost $360,328,687)
           
633,049,738
     
98.73
%
 
                       
PARTNERSHIPS – 0.54%
                       
                         
Energy – 0.54%
                       
Plains GP Holdings LP, Class A
   
379,055
     
3,483,516
     
0.54
%
 
                       
Total Partnerships
                       
  (Cost $7,457,592)
           
3,483,516
     
0.54
%



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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
7


SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 0.76%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Money Market Funds – 0.76%
                 
First American Government Obligations Fund,
                 
  Institutional Class, 0.25% (c)
   
4,863,321
   
$
4,863,321
     
0.76
%
 
                       
Total Short-Term Investments
                       
  (Cost $4,863,321)
           
4,863,321
     
0.76
%
 
                       
Total Investments
                       
  (Cost $372,649,600) – 100.03%
           
641,396,575
     
100.03
%
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets – (0.03)%
           
(168,412
)
   
(0.03
)%
 
                       
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
         
$
641,228,163
     
100.00
%

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

PLC – Public Limited Company
ADR – American Depositary Receipt
(a)
Non-income-producing security.
(b)
U.S.-traded security of a foreign corporation.
(c)
The rate listed is the fund’s seven-day yield as of April 30, 2020.


Summary of Fair Value Exposure as of April 30, 2020
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s net assets as of April 30, 2020 (see Note 3 in the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements):
 
Common Stocks
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Energy
 
$
133,670,838
   
$
   
$
   
$
133,670,838
 
Financials
   
17,183,700
     
     
     
17,183,700
 
Utilities
   
482,001,578
     
193,622
     
     
482,195,200
 
Total Common Stocks
 
$
632,856,116
   
$
193,622
   
$
   
$
633,049,738
 
Partnerships
                               
Energy
 
$
3,483,516
   
$
   
$
   
$
3,483,516
 
Total Partnerships
 
$
3,483,516
   
$
   
$
   
$
3,483,516
 
Short-Term Investments
                               
Money Market Funds
 
$
4,863,321
   
$
   
$
   
$
4,863,321
 
Total Short-Term Investments
 
$
4,863,321
   
$
   
$
   
$
4,863,321
 
Total Investments
 
$
641,202,953
   
$
193,622
   
$
   
$
641,396,575
 



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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
8

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS/STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments in securities, at value (cost $372,649,600)
 
$
641,396,575
 
Cash
   
375,834
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
242,468
 
Receivable for fund shares sold
   
114,001
 
Return of capital receivable
   
68,230
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
36,161
 
Total assets
   
642,233,269
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable for fund shares redeemed
   
338,932
 
Payable to advisor
   
209,645
 
Payable to sub-transfer agents
   
161,173
 
Payable to administrator
   
107,712
 
Payable to auditor
   
11,378
 
Accrued distribution fees
   
94,662
 
Accrued service fees
   
45,707
 
Accrued expenses and other payables
   
35,897
 
Total liabilities
   
1,005,106
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
641,228,163
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSISTS OF:
       
Capital stock
 
$
404,152,347
 
Total distributable earnings
   
237,075,816
 
Total net assets
 
$
641,228,163
 
         
NET ASSETS:
       
Investor Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
559,153,218
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
22,957,819
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
24.36
 
         
Institutional Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
82,074,945
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
3,378,660
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
24.29
 



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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
9

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Operations for the  six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Dividend income(1)
 
$
12,226,890
 
Interest income
   
24,850
 
Total investment income
   
12,251,740
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (See Note 5)
   
1,551,797
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
671,732
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
53,585
 
Distribution fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
508,280
 
Administration, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees (See Note 5)
   
395,679
 
Service fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
338,854
 
Reports to shareholders
   
34,406
 
Federal and state registration fees
   
23,828
 
Compliance expense (See Note 5)
   
13,462
 
Trustees’ fees and expenses
   
12,811
 
Audit fees
   
11,375
 
Interest expense (See Note 7)
   
7,184
 
Legal fees
   
4,299
 
Other expenses
   
191,581
 
Total expenses
   
3,818,873
 
NET INVESTMENT INCOME
 
$
8,432,867
 
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
       
Net realized gain on investments
 
$
25,308,279
 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(135,548,373
)
Net loss on investments
   
(110,240,094
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(101,807,227
)








 
(1)
Net of foreign taxes withheld and issuance fees of $372,054.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
10

 STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS/STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

Financial Statements
 
 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
April 30, 2020
   
Year Ended
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
October 31, 2019
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment income
 
$
8,432,867
   
$
18,043,168
 
Net realized gain on investments
   
25,308,279
     
63,413,446
 
Net change in unrealized
               
  appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(135,548,373
)
   
46,797,092
 
Net increase (decrease) in net assets
               
  resulting from operations
   
(101,807,227
)
   
128,253,706
 
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
Distributable earnings – Investor Class
   
(42,983,904
)
   
(87,242,469
)
Distributable earnings – Institutional Class
   
(6,343,991
)
   
(10,746,642
)
Total distributions
   
(49,327,895
)
   
(97,989,111
)
                 
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
               
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Investor Class
   
9,680,042
     
27,141,120
 
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Institutional Class
   
10,794,545
     
29,423,854
 
Dividends reinvested – Investor Class
   
40,982,164
     
83,615,102
 
Dividends reinvested – Institutional Class
   
5,640,190
     
9,491,172
 
Cost of shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(123,629,129
)
   
(198,693,830
)
Cost of shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(22,394,216
)
   
(42,887,435
)
Net decrease in net assets derived
               
  from capital share transactions
   
(78,926,404
)
   
(91,910,017
)
TOTAL DECREASE IN NET ASSETS
   
(230,061,526
)
   
(61,645,422
)
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
871,289,689
     
932,935,111
 
End of period
 
$
641,228,163
   
$
871,289,689
 
                 
CHANGES IN SHARES OUTSTANDING:
               
Shares sold – Investor Class
   
364,553
     
951,713
 
Shares sold – Institutional Class
   
401,576
     
1,020,364
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Investor Class
   
1,515,277
     
3,050,796
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Institutional Class
   
209,392
     
346,698
 
Shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(4,701,423
)
   
(6,995,506
)
Shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(857,916
)
   
(1,502,291
)
Net decrease in shares outstanding
   
(3,068,541
)
   
(3,128,226
)



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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
11

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Investor Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
29.64
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income
   
0.29
(1) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(3.86
)
Total from investment operations
   
(3.57
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.27
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(1.44
)
Total distributions
   
(1.71
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
24.36
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-12.56
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
559.15
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.03
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets
   
2.13
%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(4)
   
7
%(2)









 
(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
12


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INVESTOR CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
28.68
   
$
30.35
   
$
28.57
   
$
27.69
   
$
31.30
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.56
(1) 
   
0.65
     
0.70
     
0.62
     
0.69
 
 
3.50
     
(1.52
)
   
2.20
     
1.58
     
(2.69
)
 
4.06
     
(0.87
)
   
2.90
     
2.20
     
(2.00
)
                                     
                                     
 
(0.62
)
   
(0.64
)
   
(0.72
)
   
(0.69
)
   
(0.70
)
 
(2.48
)
   
(0.16
)
   
(0.40
)
   
(0.63
)
   
(0.91
)
 
(3.10
)
   
(0.80
)
   
(1.12
)
   
(1.32
)
   
(1.61
)
$
29.64
   
$
28.68
   
$
30.35
   
$
28.57
   
$
27.69
 
                                     
 
15.28
%
   
-2.86
%
   
10.39
%
   
8.52
%
   
-6.59
%
                                     
                                     
$
764.10
   
$
825.18
   
$
1,306.70
   
$
1,454.93
   
$
1,649.21
 
 
1.00
%
   
1.01
%
   
1.01
%
   
1.01
%
   
0.93
%
 
1.98
%
   
2.18
%
   
2.34
%
   
2.25
%
   
2.33
%
 
12
%
   
14
%
   
18
%
   
38
%
   
37
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
13

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Institutional Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
29.56
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income
   
0.34
(2) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(3.86
)
Total from investment operations
   
(3.52
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.31
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(1.44
)
Total distributions
   
(1.75
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
24.29
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-12.42
%(3)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
82.07
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
0.69
%(5)
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets
   
2.47
%(5)
Portfolio turnover rate(6)
   
7
%(3)






 
(1)
Institutional Class shares commenced operations on March 1, 2017.
(2)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(3)
Not annualized.
(4)
Actual return from inception date of March 1, 2017, to the year end of October 31, 2017.
(5)
Annualized.
(6)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
14


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INSTITUTIONAL CLASS


 
 


   
Period Ended
             
Year Ended October 31,
   
October 31,
             
2019
   
2018
   
2017(1)
             
                           
$
28.65
   
$
30.32
   
$
29.68
       

     

                                     
                                     
 
0.64
(2) 
   
0.71
     
0.62
                 
 
3.50
     
(1.47
)
   
0.72
                 
 
4.14
     
(0.76
)
   
1.34
                 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.73
)
   
(0.75
)
   
(0.70
)
               
 
(2.50
)
   
(0.16
)
   
                 
 
(3.23
)
   
(0.91
)
   
(0.70
)
               
$
29.56
   
$
28.65
   
$
30.32
                 
                                     
 
15.63
%
   
-2.51
%
   
4.56
%(3)(4)
               
                                     
                                     
$
107.18
   
$
107.75
   
$
84.62
                 
 
0.69
%
   
0.65
%
   
0.64
%(5)
               
 
2.25
%
   
2.47
%
   
1.23
%(5)
               
 
12
%
   
14
%
   
18
%(3)
               








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
15

Financial Statements
 
 Notes to the Financial Statements April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

1).  ORGANIZATION
 
The Hennessy Gas Utility Fund (the “Fund”) is a series of Hennessy Funds Trust (the “Trust”), which was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 17, 1992. The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The investment objective of the Fund is income and capital appreciation. The Fund is a diversified fund.
 
The Fund offers Investor Class and Institutional Class shares. Each class of shares differs principally in its respective 12b-1 distribution and service, shareholder servicing, and sub-transfer agent expenses. There are no sales charges. Each class has identical rights to earnings, assets, and voting privileges, except for class-specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only one class.
 
As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies.”
 
2).  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of the financial statements. These policies conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
 
a).
Securities Valuation – All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value, as described in Note 3.
   
b).
Federal Income Taxes – No provision for federal income taxes or excise taxes has been made because the Fund has elected to be taxed as a regulated investment company and intends to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders and otherwise comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies. Net investment income/loss and realized gains/losses for federal income tax purposes may differ from those reported in the financial statements because of temporary book and tax basis differences. Temporary differences are primarily the result of the treatment of wash sales for tax reporting purposes. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax benefits, if any, in the Statement of Operations as an income tax expense. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income to shareholders for tax purposes. The Fund may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes.
   
c).
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – The Fund has accounting policies regarding recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The tax returns of the Fund for the prior three fiscal years are open for examination. The Fund has reviewed all open tax years in major jurisdictions and concluded that there is no impact on the Fund’s net assets and no tax liability resulting from unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain income tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The Fund’s major tax jurisdictions are U.S. federal and Delaware.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
16

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

d).
Income and Expenses – Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date or as soon as information is available to the Fund. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recognized on an accrual basis. Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received. The Fund is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to its portfolio, such as advisory, administration, and certain shareholder service fees. Income, expenses (other than expenses attributable to a specific class), and realized and unrealized gains/losses on investments are allocated to each class of shares based on such class’s net assets.
   
e).
Distributions to Shareholders – Dividends from net investment income for the Fund, if any, are declared and paid at the end of each calendar quarter. Distributions of net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December.
   
f).
Security Transactions – Investment and shareholder transactions are recorded on the trade date. The Fund determines the realized gain/loss from an investment transaction by comparing the original cost of the security lot sold with the net sale proceeds. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted or amortized, respectively, over the life of each such security.
   
g).
Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported change in net assets during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
h).
Share Valuation – The net asset value (“NAV”) per share of the Fund is calculated by dividing (i) the total value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by (ii) the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest $0.01. The Fund’s shares will not be priced on days the New York Stock Exchange is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for the Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.
 
3).  SECURITIES VALUATION
 
The Fund follows fair value accounting standards that establish an authoritative definition of fair value and set out a hierarchy for measuring fair value. These standards require additional disclosures about the various inputs and valuation techniques used to develop the measurements of fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs during the period. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
 
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments that the Fund has the ability to access at the date of measurement.
     
 
Level 2 –
Other significant observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar instruments, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets, such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk curves, default rates, and similar data).
     
 
Level 3 –
Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability based on the best available information) when observable inputs are unavailable.


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
17


The following is a description of the valuation techniques applied to the Fund’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
Equity Securities – Equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, foreign-issued common stocks, exchange-traded funds, closed-end mutual funds, partnerships, rights, and real estate investment trusts, that are traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is readily available will generally be valued at the last sales price as reported by the primary exchange on which the securities are listed. Securities listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) will generally be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may differ from the last sales price reported. Securities traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is not readily available will generally be valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Securities traded on foreign exchanges generally are not valued at the same time the Fund calculates its NAV because most foreign markets close well before such time. The earlier close of most foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim. In certain circumstances, it may be determined that a foreign security needs to be fair valued because it appears that the value of the security might have been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the market in which the security is principally traded, but before the time the Fund calculates its NAV, such as by a development that affects an entire market or region (e.g., a weather-related event) or a potentially global development (e.g., a terrorist attack that may be expected to have an effect on investor expectations worldwide).
   
 
Registered Investment Companies – Investments in open-end registered investment companies, commonly referred to as mutual funds, generally are priced at the ending NAV provided by the applicable mutual fund’s service agent and will be classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Debt Securities – Debt securities, including corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and U.S. government agency issues, are generally valued at market on the basis of valuations furnished by an independent pricing service that utilizes both dealer-supplied valuations and formula-based techniques. The pricing service may consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, and fundamental data relating to the issuer. In addition, the model may incorporate observable market data, such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued primarily using dealer quotations. These securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Short-Term Securities – Short-term equity investments, including money market funds, are valued in the manner specified above. Short-term debt investments with an original term to maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value. If the original term to maturity of a short-term debt investment exceeded 60 days, then the values as of the 61st day prior to maturity are amortized. Amortized cost is not used if its use would be inappropriate due to credit or other impairments of the issuer, in which case the security’s fair value would be determined, as described below. Short-term securities are generally classified in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the inputs used and market activity levels for specific securities.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
18

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board”) has adopted fair value pricing procedures that are followed when a price for a security is not readily available or if a significant event has occurred that indicates the closing price of a security no longer represents the true value of that security. Fair value pricing determinations are made in good faith in accordance with these procedures. There are numerous criteria that will be given consideration in determining a fair value of a security, such as the trading volume of a security and markets, the values of other similar securities, and news events with direct bearing on a security or markets. Fair value pricing results in an estimated price for a security that reflects the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive in a current sale. Depending on the relative significance of the valuation inputs, these securities may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
The fair value of foreign securities may be determined with the assistance of a pricing service using correlations between the movement of prices of such securities and indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators, such as closing market prices of relevant American Depositary Receipts or futures contracts. Using fair value pricing means that the Fund’s NAV reflects the affected portfolio securities’ values as determined by the Board or its designee, pursuant to the fair value pricing procedures adopted by the Board, instead of being determined by the market. Using a fair value pricing methodology to price a foreign security may result in a value that is different from such foreign security’s most recent closing price and from the value used by other investment companies to calculate their NAVs. Such securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Because the Fund may invest in foreign securities, the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities may change on days when you will not be able to purchase or redeem your shares.
 
The Board has delegated day-to-day valuation matters to the Valuation and Liquidity Committee comprising representatives from Hennessy Advisors, Inc., the Fund’s investment advisor (the “Advisor”). The function of the Valuation and Liquidity Committee is to value securities where current and reliable market quotations are not readily available. All actions taken by the Valuation and Liquidity Committee are reviewed by the Board.
 
The Fund has performed an analysis of all existing investments to determine the significance and character of all inputs to their fair value determinations. Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Fund’s investments. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. Details related to the fair value hierarchy of the Fund’s securities as of April 30, 2020, are included in the Schedule of Investments.
 
4). INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding government and short-term investments) for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $51,051,293 and $167,092,866, respectively.
 
There were no purchases or sales/maturities of long-term U.S. government securities for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Fund is permitted to purchase or sell securities from or to another fund in the Hennessy Funds family of funds (collectively, the “Hennessy Funds”) under specified conditions outlined in procedures adopted by the Board. The procedures have been designed to ensure that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Hennessy Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not engage in purchases or sales of securities pursuant to Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
19

5).  INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
The Advisor provides the Fund with investment advisory services under an Investment Advisory Agreement. The Advisor furnishes all investment advice, office space, and facilities and most of the personnel needed by the Fund. As compensation for its services, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee from the Fund. The fee is based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate of 0.40%. The net investment advisory fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Board has approved a Shareholder Servicing Agreement for Investor Class shares of the Fund, which was instituted to compensate the Advisor for the non-investment advisory services it provides to the Fund. The Shareholder Servicing Agreement provides for a monthly fee paid to the Advisor at an annual rate of 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund attributable to Investor Class shares. The shareholder service fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has adopted a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that authorizes payments in connection with the distribution of the Fund’s shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares. Even though the authorized rate is up to 0.25%, the Fund is currently only using up to 0.15% of its average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares for such purpose. Amounts paid under the plan may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares, including, but not limited to, advertising, shareholder account servicing, printing and mailing of prospectuses to other than current shareholders, printing and mailing of sales literature, and compensation for sales and marketing activities or to financial institutions and others, such as dealers and distributors. The distribution fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into agreements with various brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries in connection with the sale of shares of the Fund. The agreements provide for periodic payments of sub-transfer agent expenses by the Fund to the brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries for providing certain shareholder maintenance services. These shareholder services include the pre-processing and quality control of new accounts, shareholder correspondence, answering customer inquiries regarding account status, and facilitating shareholder telephone transactions. The sub-transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into an Administrative Services Agreement among the Fund, the Advisor, and the American Gas Association (“AGA”), pursuant to which the AGA provides administrative services to the Fund, including overseeing the calculation of the AGA Stock Index. ScottMadden, Inc. performs the actual computations required to produce the AGA Stock Index and receives a fee for such calculations pursuant to a contractual arrangement with AGA. AGA does not furnish other securities advice to the Fund or the Advisor or make recommendations regarding the purchase or sale of securities by the Fund. Under the terms of the Administrative Services Agreement, which has been approved by the Board, AGA provides the Fund with current information regarding the common stock composition of the AGA Stock Index at least monthly. In addition, on request, AGA provides the Fund and the Advisor with information on the natural gas industry. The Fund pays AGA a fee at an annual rate of 0.04% of the average daily net assets of the Fund.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
20

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (“Fund Services”) provides the Fund with administrative, accounting, and transfer agent services. As administrator, Fund Services is responsible for activities such as (i) preparing various federal and state regulatory filings, reports, and returns for the Fund, (ii) preparing reports and materials to be supplied to the Board, (iii) monitoring the activities of the Fund’s custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, and (iv) coordinating the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviewing the Fund’s expense accruals. U.S. Bank N.A., an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Fund’s custodian. The servicing agreements between the Trust and Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. contain a fee schedule that is inclusive of administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. The administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
Quasar Distributors, LLC (“Quasar”) acts as the Fund’s principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Fund’s shares. Quasar was an affiliate of Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. through March 30, 2020. Effective March 31, 2020, Foreside Financial Group, LLC (“Foreside”) acquired Quasar from Fund Services. As a result of the acquisition, Quasar became a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of Foreside and is no longer affiliated with Fund Services or U.S. Bank N.A. The Board approved a new Distribution Agreement to enable Quasar to continue serving as the Fund’s distributor.
 
The officers of the Fund are affiliated with the Advisor. With the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer and the Senior Compliance Officer, such officers receive no compensation from the Fund for serving in their respective roles. The Fund, along with the other Hennessy Funds, makes reimbursement payments on an equal basis to the Advisor for a portion of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Chief Compliance Officer and for all of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Senior Compliance Officer. The compliance fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
6).  GUARANTEES AND INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Hennessy Funds’ organizational documents, their officers and trustees are indemnified by the Hennessy Funds against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Hennessy Funds. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Hennessy Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Fund expects the risk of loss to be remote.
 
7).  LINE OF CREDIT
 
The Fund has an uncommitted line of credit with the other Hennessy Funds in the amount of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 or (ii) 33.33% of each Hennessy Fund’s net assets, or 30% for the Fund and 10% for the Hennessy Balanced Fund, intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The credit facility is with the Hennessy Funds’ custodian bank, U.S. Bank N.A. Borrowings under this arrangement bear interest at the bank’s prime rate and are secured by all of the Fund’s assets (as to its own borrowings only). During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund had an outstanding average daily balance and a weighted average interest rate of $314,313 and 4.52%, respectively. The interest expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, is included in the Statement of Operations. The maximum amount outstanding for the Fund during the period was $8,078,000. As of April 30, 2020, the Fund did not have any borrowings outstanding under the line of credit.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
21

8).  FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund’s most recent fiscal year end, the components of accumulated earnings (losses) for income tax purposes were as follows:
 
     
Investments
 
 
Cost of investments for tax purposes
 
$
524,740,694
 
 
Gross tax unrealized appreciation
 
$
421,155,305
 
 
Gross tax unrealized depreciation
   
(74,581,422
)
 
Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)
 
$
346,573,883
 
 
Undistributed ordinary income
 
$
 
 
Undistributed long-term capital gains
   
41,637,055
 
 
Total distributable earnings
 
$
41,637,055
 
 
Other accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
 
 
Total accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
388,210,938
 

The difference between book-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation (as shown above) is attributable primarily to wash sales.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund had no tax basis capital losses to offset future capital gains.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund did not defer, on a tax basis, any late-year ordinary losses. Late-year ordinary losses are net ordinary losses incurred after December 31, 2018, but within the taxable year, that are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year.
 
During fiscal year 2020 (year to date) and fiscal year 2019, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund was as follows:
 
     
Six Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
     
April 30, 2020
   
October 31, 2019
 
 
Ordinary income(1)
 
$
7,690,808
   
$
18,139,310
 
 
Long-term capital gain
   
41,637,087
     
79,849,801
 
     
$
49,327,895
   
$
97,989,111
 

 
(1)  Ordinary income includes short-term capital gain.
 
9).  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO PERIOD END
 
Management has evaluated the Fund’s related events and transactions that occurred subsequent to April 30, 2020, through the date of issuance of the Fund’s financial statements. Management has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.
 





 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
22

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS/EXPENSE EXAMPLE

Expense Example (Unaudited)
April 30, 2020


As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur ongoing costs, including management fees, service fees, and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from November 1, 2019, through April 30, 2020.
 
Actual Expenses
The first line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. Although the Fund charges no sales loads or transaction fees, you will be assessed fees for outgoing wire transfers, returned checks and stop payment orders at prevailing rates charged by U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, the Fund’s transfer agent. If you request that a redemption be made by wire transfer, currently a $15 fee is charged by the Fund’s transfer agent. IRA accounts will be charged a $15 annual maintenance fee. The example below includes, but is not limited to, management fees, shareholder servicing fees, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. However, the example below does not include portfolio trading commissions and related expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line of the table under the “Investor Class” or “Institutional Class” headings in the column entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only. Therefore, the second line of the table under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
 

 

 

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
23


 
Beginning
Ending
 
 
Account Value
Account Value
Expenses Paid
 
November 1, 2019
April 30, 2020
During Period(1)
Investor Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   874.40
$4.80
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,019.74
$5.17
       
Institutional Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   875.80
$3.22
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,021.43
$3.47

(1)
Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio of 1.03% for Investor Class shares or 0.69% for Institutional Class shares, as applicable, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 days (to reflect the half-year period).








 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
24

 EXPENSE EXAMPLE — ELECTRONIC DELIVERY

How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s Proxy
Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
 
A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge (1) by calling 1-800-966-4354, (2) on the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-policy, or (3) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record is available without charge on both the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-record and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov no later than August 31 for the prior 12 months ending June 30.
 
 
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
 
The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on request by calling 1-800-966-4354.
 
 
Federal Tax Distribution Information (Unaudited)
 
For fiscal year 2019, certain dividends paid by the Fund may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 23.8%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was 100.00%.
 
For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions that qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction for fiscal year 2019 was 100.00%.
 
The percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that were designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Section 871(k)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, for the Fund was 0.00%.
 
 
Important Notice Regarding Delivery
of Shareholder Documents
 
To help keep the Fund’s costs as low as possible, we generally deliver a single copy of shareholder reports, proxy statements, and prospectuses to shareholders who share an address and have the same last name. This process does not apply to account statements. You may request an individual copy of a shareholder document at any time. If you would like to receive separate mailings of shareholder documents, please call U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124, and individual delivery will begin within 30 days of your request. If your account is held through a financial institution or other intermediary, please contact such intermediary directly to request individual delivery.
 
 
Electronic Delivery
 
The Funds offer shareholders the option to receive account statements, prospectuses, tax forms, and shareholder reports online. To sign up for eDelivery, please visit www.hennessyfunds.com/account. You may change your delivery preference at any time by visiting our website or calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
25

Board Approval of Investment Advisory
Agreement
 
At its meeting on March 12, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board,” and the members thereof, the “Trustees”) unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement of the Fund with Hennessy Advisors, Inc. (the “Advisor”). As part of the process of approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees reviewed their fiduciary duties and the relevant factors for them to consider with respect to approving the advisory agreement. In addition, the Trustees who are not deemed “interested persons” (as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Fund (the “Independent Trustees”) met in executive session to discuss the approval of the advisory agreement.
 
In advance of the meeting, the Advisor sent detailed information to the Trustees to assist them in their evaluation of the advisory agreement. This information included, but was not limited to, the following:
 
 
(1)
A memorandum from outside legal counsel that described the fiduciary duties of the Board with respect to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement and the relevant factors for consideration;
     
 
(2)
A memorandum from the Advisor that listed the factors relevant to the Board’s approval of the continuation of the advisory agreement and also referenced the documents that had been provided to help the Board assess each such factor;
     
 
(3)
An inventory of the services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(4)
A written discussion of economies of scale;
     
 
(5)
A summary of the key terms of the advisory agreement;
     
 
(6)
A recent Fund fact sheet, which included performance information over various periods;
     
 
(7)
A peer expense comparison of the net expense ratio and investment advisory fee of the Fund; and
     
 
(8)
The Advisor’s financial statements from its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q.

All of the factors discussed were considered as a whole by the Trustees and by the Independent Trustees meeting in executive session. The factors were viewed in their totality by the Trustees, with no single factor being the principal or determinative factor in the Trustees’ determination of whether to approve the continuation of the advisory agreement. The Trustees recognized that the management and fee arrangements for the Fund are the result of years of review and discussion between the Independent Trustees and the Advisor, that certain aspects of such arrangements may receive greater scrutiny in some years than in others, and that the Trustees’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of these same arrangements and information received during the course of the year and in prior years.
 
Prior to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees in executive session, considered, among other items:
 
 
(1)
The nature and quality of the advisory services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(2)
A comparison of the fees and expenses of the Fund to other similar funds;
     
 
(3)
Whether economies of scale are recognized by the Fund;

 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
26

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

 
(4)
The costs and profitability of the Fund to the Advisor;
     
 
(5)
The performance of the Fund; and
     
 
(6)
Any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an investment advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee).

The material considerations and determinations of the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, were as follows:
 
 
(1)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Advisor. Based on this review, the Trustees concluded that the Advisor provides high-quality services to the Fund and noted that their overall confidence in the Advisor was high. The Trustees also concluded that they were satisfied with the nature, extent, and quality of the advisory services provided to the Fund by the Advisor and that the nature and extent of the services provided by the Advisor were appropriate to assure that the Fund’s operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

   
(a)
The Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund. In this capacity, the Advisor does the following:

     
(i)
manages the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, including the purchase, retention, and disposition of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions;
         
     
(ii)
seeks best execution for the Fund’s portfolio;
         
     
(iii)
manages the use of soft dollars for the Fund; and
         
     
(iv)
manages proxy voting for the Fund.

   
(b)
The Advisor performs a daily reconciliation of portfolio positions and cash for the Fund.
       
   
(c)
The Advisor monitors the liquidity of each Fund.
       
   
(d)
The Advisor monitors the Fund’s compliance with its investment objectives and restrictions.
       
   
(e)
The Advisor monitors compliance with federal securities laws, maintains a compliance program (including a code of ethics), conducts ongoing reviews of the compliance programs of the Fund’s service providers, as feasible, conducts on-site visits to the Fund’s service providers, monitors incidents of abusive trading practices, reviews Fund expense accruals, payments, and fixed expense ratios, evaluates insurance providers for fidelity bond, D&O/E&O insurance, and cybersecurity insurance coverage, manages regulatory examination compliance and responses, conducts employee compliance training, reviews reports provided by service providers, and maintains books and records.
       
   
(f)
The Advisor oversees service providers that provide accounting, administration, distribution, transfer agency, custodial, sales, marketing, public relations, audit, information technology, and legal services to the Fund.
       
   
(g)
The Advisor maintains in-house marketing and distribution departments on behalf of the Fund.
       
   
(h)
The Advisor is actively involved with preparing regulatory filings for the Fund, including writing and annually updating the Fund’s prospectus and related documents.

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
27

   
(i)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Advisor prepares a written summary of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(j)
The Advisor oversees distribution of the Fund through third-party broker/dealers and independent financial institutions such as Charles Schwab, Inc., Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and Pershing. The Advisor participates in “no transaction fee” (“NTF”) programs with these companies on behalf of the Fund, which allow customers to purchase the Fund through third-party distribution channels without paying a transaction fee. The Advisor compensates, in part, a number of these third-party providers of NTF programs out of its own revenues.
       
   
(k)
The Advisor pays the incentive compensation of the Fund’s compliance officers and employs other staff, such as legal, marketing, national accounts, distribution, sales, administrative, and trading oversight personnel, as well as management executives.
       
   
(l)
The Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board.
       
   
(m)
The Advisor prepares or reviews all Board materials, frequently presents to the Board and leads Board discussions, prepares or reviews all meeting minutes, and arranges for Board training and education.

 
(2)
The Trustees compared the performance of the Fund to benchmark indices over various periods and also noted that the Trustees review and discuss reports comparing the investment performance of the Fund to various indices at each quarterly Board meeting. Based on such information, the Trustees determined that the Advisor manages the Fund in a manner materially consistent with its stated investment objective and style. The Trustees concluded that the performance of the Fund over various periods warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(3)
The Trustees reviewed the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of the Fund compared to other funds similar in asset size and investment objective to the Fund using data from Morningstar. As part of the discussion with management, the Trustees ensured that they understood and were comfortable with the criteria used to determine the mutual funds included in the Morningstar categories for purposes of the materials considered at the meeting. The Trustees determined that the advisory fee and overall expense ratio of the Fund falls within the range of the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of other comparable funds and concluded that they are reasonable and warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(4)
The Trustees also considered whether the Advisor was realizing economies of scale that it should share with the Fund’s shareholders. The Trustees noted that the assets of the Fund had declined over the prior year. In addition, the Trustees noted that many of the expenses incurred to manage the Fund are asset-based fees, so the Advisor does not realize material economies of scale relating to those expenses as the assets of the Fund increase. For example, mutual fund platform fees increase as the Fund’s assets grow. The Trustees also considered the Advisor’s efforts to contain expenses through actions such as renegotiating service contracts, the Advisor’s significant marketing efforts to promote the Funds, the Advisor’s investments in personnel to manage the Funds, and the Advisor’s agreement to waive fees or lower its management fees in certain

 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
28

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

   
circumstances. The Trustees noted that it did not appear that the Advisor was realizing economies of scale at current asset levels and concluded that it would continue to monitor economies of scale in the future as circumstances changed.
     
 
(5)
The Trustees considered the profitability of the Advisor, including the impact of mutual fund platform fees on the Advisor’s profitability, and also considered the resources and revenues that the Advisor has put into managing and distributing the Fund. The Trustees then concluded that the profits of the Advisor are reasonable and not excessive when compared to profitability guidelines set forth in relevant court cases.
     
 
(6)
The Trustees considered the high level of professionalism and knowledge of the Advisor’s employees, along with a very low level of turnover, and concluded that this was beneficial to the Fund and its shareholders.
     
 
(7)
The Trustees considered any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee). The Trustees noted that the Advisor may derive ancillary benefits from, by way of example, its association with the Fund in the form of proprietary and third-party research products and services received from broker-dealers that execute portfolio trades for the Fund. The Trustees determined that any such products and services have been used for legitimate purposes relating to the Fund by providing assistance in the investment decision-making process. The Trustees concluded that any additional benefits realized by the Advisor from its relationship with the Fund were reasonable, which was based on, among other things, the Trustees’ finding that the research, analytical, statistical, and other information and services provided by brokers are merely supplemental to the Advisor’s own efforts in the performance of its duties under the advisory agreement.

After reviewing the materials and information provided at the meeting, as well as other information regularly provided at the Board’s quarterly meetings throughout the year regarding the quality of services provided by the Advisor, the performance of the Fund, expense information, brokerage commissions information, the adequacy and efficacy of the Advisor’s written policies and procedures, other regulatory compliance issues, trading information and related matters, and other factors that the Trustees deemed relevant, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the advisory agreement.
 



HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
29


For information, questions, or assistance, please call
The Hennessy Funds
1-800-966-4354 or 1-415-899-1555


INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
7250 Redwood Boulevard, Suite 200
Novato, California 94945

ADMINISTRATOR,
TRANSFER AGENT,
DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, &
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0701

CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

TRUSTEES
Neil J. Hennessy
Robert T. Doyle
J. Dennis DeSousa
Gerald P. Richardson

COUNSEL
Foley & Lardner LLP
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-5306

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
Two Liberty Place
50 South 16th Street, Suite 2900
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-2529

DISTRIBUTOR
Quasar Distributors, LLC
111 East Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 2200
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202




www.hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354

This report has been prepared for shareholders and may be distributed to
others only if preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.




SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

APRIL 30, 2020




HENNESSY JAPAN FUND
 
Investor Class  HJPNX
Institutional Class  HJPIX



IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
 
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the annual and semi-annual reports will no longer be sent by mail unless you specifically request paper copies from the Hennessy Funds 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 have already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Hennessy Funds electronically by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com/account or by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950. If you own shares in a Fund through a financial intermediary, please contact your financial intermediary to make this election.
 
You may elect to receive paper copies of all future reports free of charge by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or, if you own your shares through a financial intermediary, by contacting your financial intermediary. Your election to receive paper copies of reports will apply to all Funds in the Hennessy Funds family.
 


hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354









(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 










Contents
 

 
Letter to Shareholders
2
Performance Overview
4
Financial Statements
 
Schedule of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
8
Statement of Operations
9
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
11
Financial Highlights
12
Notes to the Financial Statements
16
Expense Example
24
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
26
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
26
Federal Tax Distribution Information
26
Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents
26
Electronic Delivery
27
Board Approval of Investment Advisory Agreements
28











HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 


May 2020
 
Dear Hennessy Funds Shareholder:
 

Over the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Japanese stock market lost 9.96% in U.S. dollar terms as measured by the Tokyo Stock Price Index (TOPIX). A variety of geopolitical developments continued to affect Japanese stocks from November 2019 to January 2020, including the trade dispute between the United States and China, a series of protests in Hong Kong, and the standoff between the United States and Iran. By the end of January, growing concerns about the global spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and the expectation of a severe negative impact on the economy caused the Japanese stock market to begin to fall sharply. The spread of COVID-19, not only in China and Japan but also Europe and the United States, accelerated the decline in stock prices worldwide. While monetary easing and fiscal policy changes in various countries led to initial expectations of an early economic recovery, this rebound proved temporary because there was no sign that the virus, and its negative effects on the world economy, were subsiding at the time of this writing.
 
The ultimate economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic remains uncertain. To date in Japan, the number of confirmed infections and the mortality rate remain fairly low relative to other developed countries on a population-adjusted basis, perhaps thanks to Japan’s “mask-wearing” culture. Japan declared a state of emergency on April 7, 2020, later than many other affected countries, and did not implement stringent lockdowns. As in other parts of the world, Japan is experiencing severe contraction in economic activity, and it is too early to assess the overall long-term impact of COVID-19 in Japan.
 
Japan swiftly put together an approximately $1 trillion economic stimulus package, which is approximately 20% of Japan’s GDP and is double the scale of the stimulus package launched amid the 2008 financial crisis. As a percent of GDP, Japan’s COVID-19 stimulus package is larger than the United States’ stimulus package (11% of GDP) and Germany’s stimulus package (5% of GDP). On the monetary policy side, the Bank of Japan (BOJ) has pledged to boost purchases of assets including government bonds, commercial paper, corporate bonds, and ETFs. For example, the BOJ said it would aggressively buy ETFs at an annual rate of JPY 12 trillion (equivalent to approximately $112 billion), two times the amount it previously had pledged to buy. While prior to the COVID-19 pandemic we had argued that the BOJ’s quantitative easing had largely done its part, with around $5 trillion worth of monetary base already in the financial system, and that the government should take the lead by pushing through structural reforms going forward, we believe that economic rescue plans should be prioritized above all else in times of stress like today.
 
Japan has a reform-minded, pro-growth government led by Prime Minister Abe and a pro-business, pro-inflation central bank led by the BOJ Governor Kuroda. We are confident that this favorable combination will provide a strong basis for Japan’s economic recovery. Assuming full recovery of earnings over the next 12 to 24 months, we believe current valuations of Japanese stocks are very attractive. Moreover, we believe that the stock market has already priced in the impact of the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Therefore, we believe that the sharp recent decline in the market should provide an attractive entry point for investors keen to gain long-term exposure to Japan.
 

 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
2

 LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

We remain optimistic about the long-term prospects for Japan and its stock market. Thank you for your continued confidence and investment in the Hennessy Japan Funds.
 
Sincerely,

Tadahiro Fujimura
Masakazu Takeda
Portfolio Manager,
Portfolio Manager,
Hennessy Japan Small Cap Fund;
Hennessy Japan Fund;
Chief Investment Officer
Fund Manager
SPARX Asset Management Co., Ltd.
SPARX Asset Management Co., Ltd.

SPARX Asset Management Co., Ltd., located in Tokyo, Japan, is the sub-advisor to the Hennessy Japan Fund and the Hennessy Japan Small Cap Fund.
 
 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
 
Opinions expressed are those of Tadahiro Fujimura and Masakazu Takeda and are subject to change, are not guaranteed, and should not be considered investment advice.
 
The Tokyo Stock Price Index (TOPIX) is a capitalization-weighted index of all the companies listed on the First Section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 







HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
3

Performance Overview (Unaudited)
 
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR PERIODS ENDED APRIL 30, 2020
 
 
Six
One
Five
Ten
 
Months(1)
Year
Years
Years
Hennessy Japan Fund –
       
  Investor Class (HJPNX)
-7.98%
-4.99%
7.77%
10.92%
Hennessy Japan Fund –
       
  Institutional Class (HJPIX)
-7.80%
-4.64%
8.18%
11.27%
Russell/Nomura
       
  Total MarketTM Index
-9.13%
-2.54%
2.95%
  5.10%
Tokyo Price Index (TOPIX)
-9.96%
-3.11%
2.87%
  4.96%

Expense ratios:  1.44% (Investor Class); 1.04% (Institutional Class)
 
(1)
Periods of less than one year are not annualized.

 

 


 

 
_______________
 
Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance table does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com.
 
The Russell/Nomura Total Market Index contains the top 98% of all stocks listed on Japan’s stock exchanges and registered on Japan’s over-the-counter market based on market capitalization. The Tokyo Price Index (TOPIX) is a market capitalization-weighted index of all the companies listed on the First Section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange. One cannot invest directly in an index. These indices are used herein for comparative purposes in accordance with SEC regulations.
 
Frank Russell Company (“Russell”) is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks, and copyrights related to the Russell Indexes. Russell® is a trademark of Russell. Neither Russell nor its licensors accept any liability for any errors or omissions in the Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data and no party may rely on any Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data contained in this communication. No further distribution of Russell data is permitted without Russell’s express written consent. Russell does not promote, sponsor, or endorse the content of this communication.
 
The expense ratios presented are from the most recent prospectus. The expense ratios for the current reporting period are available in the Financial Highlights section of this report.

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
4

 PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Financial Statements
 
 Schedule of Investments as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

HENNESSY JAPAN FUND
(% of Net Assets)

 

 
TOP TEN HOLDINGS (EXCLUDING MONEY MARKET FUNDS)
% NET ASSETS
Keyence Corp.
6.32%
Unicharm Corp.
5.85%
Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
5.84%
Daikin Industries, Ltd.
5.81%
Sony Corp.
5.77%
Terumo Corp.
5.69%
Kao Corp.
5.56%
Shimano, Inc.
5.50%
Recruit Holdings Co., Ltd.
5.45%
SoftBank Group Co.
5.40%

 
 
Note: For presentation purposes, the Fund has grouped some of the industry categories. For purposes of categorizing securities for compliance with Section 8(b)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Fund uses more specific industry classifications.
 
The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) was developed by and is the exclusive property and a service mark of MSCI, Inc. and Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC. It has been licensed for use by the Hennessy Funds.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
5


COMMON STOCKS – 98.67%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Communication Services – 5.40%
                 
SoftBank Group Co.
   
748,200
   
$
32,069,827
     
5.40
%
                         
Consumer Discretionary – 22.27%
                       
Asics Corp.
   
891,700
     
8,455,425
     
1.42
%
Fast Retailing Co., Ltd.
   
55,200
     
26,178,435
     
4.41
%
Nitori Holdings Co., Ltd.
   
178,300
     
27,329,064
     
4.60
%
Ryohin Keikaku Co., Ltd.
   
284,100
     
3,381,217
     
0.57
%
Shimano, Inc.
   
221,700
     
32,668,760
     
5.50
%
Sony Corp.
   
532,000
     
34,236,388
     
5.77
%
 
           
132,249,289
     
22.27
%
                         
Consumer Staples – 19.21%
                       
Ariake Japan Co., Ltd.
   
202,200
     
11,660,696
     
1.96
%
Kao Corp.
   
427,900
     
32,998,084
     
5.56
%
Rohto Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
   
1,191,100
     
34,655,759
     
5.84
%
Unicharm Corp.
   
943,400
     
34,767,625
     
5.85
%
 
           
114,082,164
     
19.21
%
                         
Financials – 2.96%
                       
Anicom Holdings, Inc.
   
475,200
     
17,543,053
     
2.96
%
                         
Health Care – 10.78%
                       
Takeda Pharmaceutical Co., Ltd.
   
839,000
     
30,255,559
     
5.09
%
Terumo Corp.
   
1,017,600
     
33,766,631
     
5.69
%
 
           
64,022,190
     
10.78
%
                         
Industrials – 29.44%
                       
Daikin Industries, Ltd.
   
268,900
     
34,508,201
     
5.81
%
Kubota Corp.
   
1,883,000
     
23,384,407
     
3.94
%
Misumi Group, Inc.
   
1,288,600
     
30,608,589
     
5.16
%
Mitsubishi Corp.
   
1,136,700
     
24,107,123
     
4.06
%
Nidec Corp.
   
512,400
     
29,828,899
     
5.02
%
Recruit Holdings Co., Ltd.
   
1,108,600
     
32,339,189
     
5.45
%
 
           
174,776,408
     
29.44
%
                         
Information Technology – 6.32%
                       
Keyence Corp.
   
105,100
     
37,521,976
     
6.32
%
                         
Materials – 0.58%
                       
Fuji Seal International, Inc.
   
197,300
     
3,424,921
     
0.58
%
 

The accompanying notes are an integral part of these financial statements.
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
6

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
 
COMMON STOCKS
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Real Estate – 1.71%
                 
Relo Group, Inc.
   
469,100
   
$
10,161,822
     
1.71
%
 
                       
Total Common Stocks
                       
  (Cost $486,135,416)
           
585,851,650
     
98.67
%
 
                       
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 0.83%
                       
                         
Money Market Funds – 0.83%
                       
First American Government Obligations Fund,
                       
  Institutional Class, 0.25% (a)
   
4,949,578
     
4,949,578
     
0.83
%
 
                       
Total Short-Term Investments
                       
  (Cost $4,949,578)
           
4,949,578
     
0.83
%
 
                       
Total Investments
                       
  (Cost $491,084,994) – 99.50%
           
590,801,228
     
99.50
%
Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities – 0.50%
           
2,951,022
     
0.50
%
 
                       
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
         
$
593,752,250
     
100.00
%

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

(a)
The rate listed is the fund’s seven-day yield as of April 30, 2020.


Summary of Fair Value Exposure as of April 30, 2020
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s net assets as of April 30, 2020 (see Note 3 in the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements):
 
Common Stocks
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Communication Services
 
$
   
$
32,069,827
   
$
   
$
32,069,827
 
Consumer Discretionary
   
     
132,249,289
     
     
132,249,289
 
Consumer Staples
   
     
114,082,164
     
     
114,082,164
 
Financials
   
     
17,543,053
     
     
17,543,053
 
Health Care
   
     
64,022,190
     
     
64,022,190
 
Industrials
   
     
174,776,408
     
     
174,776,408
 
Information Technology
   
     
37,521,976
     
     
37,521,976
 
Materials
   
     
3,424,921
     
     
3,424,921
 
Real Estate
   
     
10,161,822
     
     
10,161,822
 
Total Common Stocks
 
$
   
$
585,851,650
   
$
   
$
585,851,650
 
Short-Term Investments
                               
Money Market Funds
 
$
4,949,578
   
$
   
$
   
$
4,949,578
 
Total Short-Term Investments
 
$
4,949,578
   
$
   
$
   
$
4,949,578
 
Total Investments
 
$
4,949,578
   
$
585,851,650
   
$
   
$
590,801,228
 



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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
7

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments in securities, at value (cost $491,084,994)
 
$
590,801,228
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
2,982,515
 
Receivable for fund shares sold
   
2,003,317
 
Receivable for securities sold
   
2,235,796
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
27,371
 
Total assets
   
598,050,227
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable for fund shares redeemed
   
3,669,594
 
Payable to advisor
   
380,948
 
Payable to administrator
   
99,689
 
Payable to auditor
   
10,902
 
Accrued distribution fees
   
9,230
 
Accrued service fees
   
5,482
 
Accrued trustees fees
   
709
 
Accrued expenses and other payables
   
121,423
 
Total liabilities
   
4,297,977
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
593,752,250
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSISTS OF:
       
Capital stock
 
$
521,005,003
 
Total distributable earnings
   
72,747,247
 
Total net assets
 
$
593,752,250
 
         
NET ASSETS:
       
Investor Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
67,900,849
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
1,987,455
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
34.16
 
         
Institutional Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
525,851,401
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
14,932,137
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
35.22
 



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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
8

 STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES/STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Financial Statements

 Statement of Operations for the six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Dividend income(1)
 
$
4,427,275
 
Interest income
   
96,037
 
Total investment income
   
4,523,312
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (See Note 5)
   
2,688,638
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
91,253
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
293,410
 
Administration, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees (See Note 5)
   
342,312
 
Distribution fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
60,556
 
Service fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
40,371
 
Federal and state registration fees
   
39,967
 
Reports to shareholders
   
23,107
 
Compliance expense (See Note 5)
   
13,462
 
Trustees’ fees and expenses
   
11,722
 
Audit fees
   
10,905
 
Interest expense (See Note 7)
   
3,993
 
Legal fees
   
3,113
 
Other expenses
   
28,372
 
Total expenses
   
3,651,181
 
NET INVESTMENT INCOME
 
$
872,131
 
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
       
Net realized loss on investments
 
$
(27,645,838
)
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(34,481,264
)
Net loss on investments
   
(62,127,102
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(61,254,971
)









 
(1)
Net of foreign taxes withheld of $491,919.

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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
9








(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 







 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
10

 STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

Financial Statements

 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
April 30, 2020
   
Year Ended
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
October 31, 2019
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment income
 
$
872,131
   
$
3,262,016
 
Net realized gain (loss) on investments
   
(27,645,838
)
   
941,773
 
Net change in unrealized
               
  appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(34,481,264
)
   
64,311,703
 
Net increase (decrease) in net assets
               
  resulting from operations
   
(61,254,971
)
   
68,515,492
 
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
Distributable earnings – Investor Class
   
(117,482
)
   
(35,216
)
Distributable earnings – Institutional Class
   
(3,035,474
)
   
(1,309,459
)
Total distributions
   
(3,152,956
)
   
(1,344,675
)
                 
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
               
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Investor Class
   
12,177,276
     
35,974,622
 
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Institutional Class
   
116,260,913
     
382,329,976
 
Dividends reinvested – Investor Class
   
113,374
     
34,287
 
Dividends reinvested – Institutional Class
   
2,957,410
     
1,275,785
 
Cost of shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(24,668,042
)
   
(60,746,390
)
Cost of shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(147,315,933
)
   
(230,489,467
)
Net increase (decrease) in net assets derived
               
  from capital share transactions
   
(40,475,002
)
   
128,378,813
 
TOTAL INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS
   
(104,882,929
)
   
195,549,630
 
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
698,635,179
     
503,085,549
 
End of period
 
$
593,752,250
   
$
698,635,179
 
                 
CHANGES IN SHARES OUTSTANDING:
               
Shares sold – Investor Class
   
345,812
     
1,043,125
 
Shares sold – Institutional Class
   
3,246,679
     
10,907,846
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Investor Class
   
2,962
     
1,053
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Institutional Class
   
75,037
     
38,071
 
Shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(708,034
)
   
(1,770,416
)
Shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(4,323,602
)
   
(6,541,834
)
Net increase (decrease) in shares outstanding
   
(1,361,146
)
   
3,677,845
 



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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
11

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Investor Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
37.17
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income (loss)
   
(0.02
)(1)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(2.94
)
Total from investment operations
   
(2.96
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.02
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(0.03
)
Total distributions
   
(0.05
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
34.16
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-7.98
%(3)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
67.90
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.42
%(4)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets
   
(0.09
)%(4)
Portfolio turnover rate(5)
   
8
%(3)









(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Amount is between $(0.005) and $0.005.
(3)
Not annualized.
(4)
Annualized.
(5)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
12

 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INVESTOR CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
33.63
   
$
32.75
   
$
27.81
   
$
24.07
   
$
21.77
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.05
(1) 
   
(0.00
)(2)
   
(0.03
)
   
(0.11
)
   
(0.10
)
 
3.50
     
0.89
     
4.97
     
3.85
     
2.40
 
 
3.55
     
0.89
     
4.94
     
3.74
     
2.30
 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.01
)
   
(0.01
)
   
     
     
 
 
     
     
     
     
 
 
(0.01
)
   
(0.01
)
   
     
     
 
$
37.17
   
$
33.63
   
$
32.75
   
$
27.81
   
$
24.07
 
                                     
 
10.60
%
   
2.70
%
   
17.76
%
   
15.54
%
   
10.56
%
                                     
                                     
$
87.22
   
$
103.33
   
$
84.44
   
$
61.85
   
$
61.56
 
 
1.43
%
   
1.43
%
   
1.46
%
   
1.50
%
   
1.53
%
 
0.14
%
   
(0.02
)%
   
(0.15
)%
   
(0.38
)%
   
(0.44
)%
 
9
%
   
1
%
   
0
%
   
5
%
   
21
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
13

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Institutional Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
38.37
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income (loss)
   
0.06
(1) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(3.02
)
Total from investment operations
   
(2.96
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.16
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(0.03
)
Total distributions
   
(0.19
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
35.22
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-7.80
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
525.85
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.04
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets
   
0.31
%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(4)
   
8
%(2)










(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
14

 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INSTITUTIONAL CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
34.67
   
$
33.64
   
$
28.45
   
$
24.55
   
$
22.15
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.21
(1) 
   
0.15
     
0.03
     
(0.01
)
   
(0.02
)
 
3.60
     
0.91
     
5.16
     
3.91
     
2.42
 
 
3.81
     
1.06
     
5.19
     
3.90
     
2.40
 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.11
)
   
(0.03
)
   
     
     
 
 
     
     
     
     
 
 
(0.11
)
   
(0.03
)
   
     
     
 
$
38.37
   
$
34.67
   
$
33.64
   
$
28.45
   
$
24.55
 
                                     
 
11.02
%
   
3.14
%
   
18.24
%
   
15.89
%
   
10.84
%
                                     
                                     
$
611.41
   
$
399.76
   
$
177.42
   
$
67.78
   
$
54.13
 
 
1.03
%
   
1.01
%
   
1.05
%
   
1.17
%
   
1.27
%
 
0.59
%
   
0.49
%
   
0.30
%
   
(0.03
)%
   
(0.08
)%
 
9
%
   
1
%
   
0
%
   
5
%
   
21
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
15

Financial Statements
 
 Notes to the Financial Statements April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

1).  ORGANIZATION
 
The Hennessy Japan Fund (the “Fund”) is a series of Hennessy Funds Trust (the “Trust”), which was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 17, 1992. The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The investment objective of the Fund is long-term capital appreciation. The Fund is a diversified fund, but employs a relatively concentrated investment strategy and may hold securities of fewer issuers than other diversified funds.
 
The Fund offers Investor Class and Institutional Class shares. Each class of shares differs principally in its respective 12b-1 distribution and service, shareholder servicing, and sub-transfer agent expenses. There are no sales charges. Each class has identical rights to earnings, assets, and voting privileges, except for class-specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only one class.
 
As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies.”
 
2).  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of the financial statements. These policies conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
 
a).
Securities Valuation – All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value, as described in Note 3.
   
b).
Federal Income Taxes – No provision for federal income taxes or excise taxes has been made because the Fund has elected to be taxed as a regulated investment company and intends to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders and otherwise comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies. Net investment income/loss and realized gains/losses for federal income tax purposes may differ from those reported in the financial statements because of temporary book and tax basis differences. Temporary differences are primarily the result of the treatment of wash sales for tax reporting purposes. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax benefits, if any, in the Statement of Operations as an income tax expense. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income to shareholders for tax purposes. The Fund may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes.
   
c).
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – The Fund has accounting policies regarding recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The tax returns of the Fund for the prior three fiscal years are open for examination. The Fund has reviewed all open tax years in major jurisdictions and concluded that there is no impact on the Fund’s net assets and no tax liability resulting from unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain income tax

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
16

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The Fund’s major tax jurisdictions are U.S. federal and Delaware.
   
d).
Income and Expenses – Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date or as soon as information is available to the Fund. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recognized on an accrual basis. Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received. The Fund is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to its portfolio, such as advisory, administration, and certain shareholder service fees. Income, expenses (other than expenses attributable to a specific class), and realized and unrealized gains/losses on investments are allocated to each class of shares based on such class’s net assets.
   
e).
Distributions to Shareholders – Dividends from net investment income for the Fund, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December. Distributions of net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December.
   
f).
Security Transactions – Investment and shareholder transactions are recorded on the trade date. The Fund determines the realized gain/loss from an investment transaction by comparing the original cost of the security lot sold with the net sale proceeds. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted or amortized, respectively, over the life of each such security.
   
g).
Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported change in net assets during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
h).
Share Valuation – The net asset value (“NAV”) per share of the Fund is calculated by dividing (i) the total value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by (ii) the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest $0.01. The Fund’s shares will not be priced on days the New York Stock Exchange is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for the Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.
   
i).
Foreign Currency – Values of investments denominated in foreign currencies are converted into U.S. dollars using the spot market rate of exchange at the time of valuation. Purchases and sales of investments and income are translated into U.S. dollars using the spot market rate of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. The Fund does not isolate the portion of the results of operations resulting from fluctuations in foreign exchange rates on investments from fluctuations resulting from changes in the market prices of securities held. Such fluctuations are included with the net realized and unrealized gain/loss on investments. Foreign investments present additional risks due to currency fluctuations, economic and political factors, lower liquidity, government regulations, differences in accounting standards, and other factors.
   
j).
REIT Equity Securities – The Fund may invest in the equity securities of real estate investment trusts (“REITs”). Distributions received from REITs may be classified as dividends, capital gains, or return of capital. Investments in REITs may require the Fund to accrue and distribute income not yet received. To generate sufficient cash to make the requisite distributions, the Fund may be required to sell securities in its portfolio (including when it is not advantageous to do so) that it otherwise would have continued to hold. At other times, investments in a REIT may result in the


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
17


 
Fund’s receipt of cash in excess of the REIT’s earnings. If the Fund distributes these amounts, these distributions could constitute a return of capital to Fund shareholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Dividends received by the Fund from a REIT generally will not constitute qualified dividend income and will not qualify for the dividends-received deduction.
 
3).  SECURITIES VALUATION
 
The Fund follows fair value accounting standards that establish an authoritative definition of fair value and set out a hierarchy for measuring fair value. These standards require additional disclosures about the various inputs and valuation techniques used to develop the measurements of fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs during the period. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
 
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments that the Fund has the ability to access at the date of measurement.
     
 
Level 2 –
Other significant observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar instruments, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets, such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk curves, default rates, and similar data).
     
 
Level 3 –
Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability based on the best available information) when observable inputs are unavailable.

The following is a description of the valuation techniques applied to the Fund’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
Equity Securities – Equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, foreign-issued common stocks, exchange-traded funds, closed-end mutual funds, partnerships, rights, and real estate investment trusts, that are traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is readily available will generally be valued at the last sales price as reported by the primary exchange on which the securities are listed. Securities listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) will generally be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may differ from the last sales price reported. Securities traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is not readily available will generally be valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Securities traded on foreign exchanges generally are not valued at the same time the Fund calculates its NAV because most foreign markets close well before such time. The earlier close of most foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim. In certain circumstances, it may be determined that a foreign security needs to be fair valued because it appears that the value of the security might have been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the market in which the security is principally traded, but before the time the Fund calculates its NAV, such as by a development that affects an entire market or region (e.g., a weather-related event) or a potentially global development (e.g., a terrorist attack that may be expected to have an effect on investor expectations worldwide).

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
18

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
Registered Investment Companies – Investments in open-end registered investment companies, commonly referred to as mutual funds, generally are priced at the ending NAV provided by the applicable mutual fund’s service agent and will be classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Debt Securities – Debt securities, including corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and U.S. government agency issues, are generally valued at market on the basis of valuations furnished by an independent pricing service that utilizes both dealer-supplied valuations and formula-based techniques. The pricing service may consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, and fundamental data relating to the issuer. In addition, the model may incorporate observable market data, such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued primarily using dealer quotations. These securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Short-Term Securities – Short-term equity investments, including money market funds, are valued in the manner specified above. Short-term debt investments with an original term to maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value. If the original term to maturity of a short-term debt investment exceeded 60 days, then the values as of the 61st day prior to maturity are amortized. Amortized cost is not used if its use would be inappropriate due to credit or other impairments of the issuer, in which case the security’s fair value would be determined, as described below. Short-term securities are generally classified in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the inputs used and market activity levels for specific securities.

The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board”) has adopted fair value pricing procedures that are followed when a price for a security is not readily available or if a significant event has occurred that indicates the closing price of a security no longer represents the true value of that security. Fair value pricing determinations are made in good faith in accordance with these procedures. There are numerous criteria that will be given consideration in determining a fair value of a security, such as the trading volume of a security and markets, the values of other similar securities, and news events with direct bearing on a security or markets. Fair value pricing results in an estimated price for a security that reflects the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive in a current sale. Depending on the relative significance of the valuation inputs, these securities may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
The fair value of foreign securities may be determined with the assistance of a pricing service using correlations between the movement of prices of such securities and indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators, such as closing market prices of relevant American Depositary Receipts or futures contracts. Using fair value pricing means that the Fund’s NAV reflects the affected portfolio securities’ values as determined by the Board or its designee, pursuant to the fair value pricing procedures adopted by the Board, instead of being determined by the market. Using a fair value pricing methodology to price a foreign security may result in a value that is different from such foreign security’s most recent closing price and from the value used by other investment companies to calculate their NAVs. Such securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Because the Fund invests in foreign securities, the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities may change on days when you will not be able to purchase or redeem your shares.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
19

The Board has delegated day-to-day valuation matters to the Valuation and Liquidity Committee comprising representatives from Hennessy Advisors, Inc., the Fund’s investment advisor (the “Advisor”). The function of the Valuation and Liquidity Committee is to value securities where current and reliable market quotations are not readily available. All actions taken by the Valuation and Liquidity Committee are reviewed by the Board.
 
The Fund has performed an analysis of all existing investments to determine the significance and character of all inputs to their fair value determinations. Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Fund’s investments. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. Details related to the fair value hierarchy of the Fund’s securities as of April 30, 2020, are included in the Schedule of Investments.
 
4).  INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding government and short-term investments) for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $55,277,672 and $82,305,464, respectively.
 
There were no purchases or sales/maturities of long-term U.S. government securities for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Fund is permitted to purchase or sell securities from or to another fund in the Hennessy Funds family of funds (collectively, the “Hennessy Funds”) under specified conditions outlined in procedures adopted by the Board. The procedures have been designed to ensure that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Hennessy Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not engage in purchases or sales of securities pursuant to Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
 
5).  INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
The Advisor provides the Fund with investment advisory services under an Investment Advisory Agreement. The Advisor oversees the provision of investment advice and furnishes office space, facilities, and most of the personnel needed by the Fund. As compensation for its services, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee from the Fund. The fee is based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate of 0.80%. The net investment advisory fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Advisor has delegated the day-to-day management of the Fund to a sub-advisor, SPARX Asset Management Co., Ltd. The Advisor pays the sub-advisory fees from its own assets, and these fees are not an additional expense of the Fund. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Advisor (not the Fund) paid a sub-advisory fee at the average rate of 0.36% of the daily net assets of the Fund. Pursuant to the sub-advisory agreement, the Advisor pays sub-advisory fees at the rate of 0.35% of the first $500 million of daily net assets, 0.40% of daily net assets between $500 million and $1 billion, and 0.42% of daily net assets over $1 billion.
 
The Board has approved a Shareholder Servicing Agreement for Investor Class shares of the Fund, which was instituted to compensate the Advisor for the non-investment advisory services it provides to the Fund. The Shareholder Servicing Agreement provides for a monthly fee paid to the Advisor at an annual rate of 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund attributable to Investor Class shares. The shareholder service fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
20

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Fund has adopted a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that authorizes payments in connection with the distribution of the Fund’s shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares. Even though the authorized rate is up to 0.25%, the Fund is currently only using up to 0.15% of its average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares for such purpose. Amounts paid under the plan may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares, including, but not limited to, advertising, shareholder account servicing, printing and mailing of prospectuses to other than current shareholders, printing and mailing of sales literature, and compensation for sales and marketing activities or to financial institutions and others, such as dealers and distributors. The distribution fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into agreements with various brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries in connection with the sale of shares of the Fund. The agreements provide for periodic payments of sub-transfer agent expenses by the Fund to the brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries for providing certain shareholder maintenance services. These shareholder services include the pre-processing and quality control of new accounts, shareholder correspondence, answering customer inquiries regarding account status, and facilitating shareholder telephone transactions. The sub-transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (“Fund Services”) provides the Fund with administrative, accounting, and transfer agent services. As administrator, Fund Services is responsible for activities such as (i) preparing various federal and state regulatory filings, reports, and returns for the Fund, (ii) preparing reports and materials to be supplied to the Board, (iii) monitoring the activities of the Fund’s custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, and (iv) coordinating the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviewing the Fund’s expense accruals. U.S. Bank N.A., an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Fund’s custodian. The servicing agreements between the Trust and Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. contain a fee schedule that is inclusive of administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. The administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
Quasar Distributors, LLC (“Quasar”) acts as the Fund’s principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Fund’s shares. Quasar was an affiliate of Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. through March 30, 2020. Effective March 31, 2020, Foreside Financial Group, LLC (“Foreside”) acquired Quasar from Fund Services. As a result of the acquisition, Quasar became a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of Foreside and is no longer affiliated with Fund Services or U.S. Bank N.A. The Board approved a new Distribution Agreement to enable Quasar to continue serving as the Fund’s distributor.
 
The officers of the Fund are affiliated with the Advisor. With the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer and the Senior Compliance Officer, such officers receive no compensation from the Fund for serving in their respective roles. The Fund, along with the other Hennessy Funds, makes reimbursement payments on an equal basis to the Advisor for a portion of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Chief Compliance Officer and for all of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Senior Compliance Officer. The compliance fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
21

6).  GUARANTEES AND INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Hennessy Funds’ organizational documents, their officers and trustees are indemnified by the Hennessy Funds against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Hennessy Funds. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Hennessy Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Fund expects the risk of loss to be remote.
 
7).  LINE OF CREDIT
 
The Fund has an uncommitted line of credit with the other Hennessy Funds in the amount of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 or (ii) 33.33% of each Hennessy Fund’s net assets, or 30% for the Hennessy Gas Utility Fund and 10% for the Hennessy Balanced Fund, intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The credit facility is with the Hennessy Funds’ custodian bank, U.S. Bank N.A. Borrowings under this arrangement bear interest at the bank’s prime rate and are secured by all of the Fund’s assets (as to its own borrowings only). During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund had an outstanding average daily balance and a weighted average interest rate of $220,099 and 3.59%, respectively. The interest expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, is included in the Statement of Operations. The maximum amount outstanding for the Fund during the period was $10,211,000. As of April 30, 2020, the Fund did not have any borrowings outstanding under the line of credit.
 
8).  FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund’s most recent fiscal year end, the components of accumulated earnings (losses) for income tax purposes were as follows:
 
     
Investments
 
 
Cost of investments for tax purposes
 
$
561,371,434
 
 
Gross tax unrealized appreciation
 
$
154,957,601
 
 
Gross tax unrealized depreciation
   
(20,873,572
)
 
Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)
 
$
134,084,029
 
 
Undistributed ordinary income
 
$
2,548,524
 
 
Undistributed long-term capital gains
   
522,621
 
 
Total distributable earnings
 
$
3,071,145
 
 
Other accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
 
 
Total accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
137,155,174
 

The difference between book-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation (as shown above) is attributable primarily to wash sales.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund had no tax basis capital losses to offset future capital gains.
 
During fiscal year 2019, the capital losses utilized by the Fund were $279,907.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund did not defer, on a tax basis, any late-year ordinary losses. Late-year ordinary losses are net ordinary losses incurred after December 31, 2018, but within the taxable year, that are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year.
 

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
22

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

During fiscal year 2020 (year to date) and fiscal year 2019, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund was as follows:
 
     
Six Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
     
April 30, 2020
   
October 31, 2019
 
 
Ordinary income(1)
 
$
2,630,234
   
$
1,344,675
 
 
Long-term capital gain
   
522,722
     
 
     
$
3,152,956
   
$
1,344,675
 

 
(1)  Ordinary income includes short-term capital gain.
 
9).  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO PERIOD END
 
Management has evaluated the Fund’s related events and transactions that occurred subsequent to April 30, 2020, through the date of issuance of the Fund’s financial statements. Management has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.
 









HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
23

Expense Example (Unaudited)
April 30, 2020


As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur ongoing costs, including management fees, service fees, and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from November 1, 2019, through April 30, 2020.
 
Actual Expenses
The first line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. Although the Fund charges no sales loads or transaction fees, you will be assessed fees for outgoing wire transfers, returned checks and stop payment orders at prevailing rates charged by U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, the Fund’s transfer agent. If you request that a redemption be made by wire transfer, currently a $15 fee is charged by the Fund’s transfer agent. IRA accounts will be charged a $15 annual maintenance fee. The example below includes, but is not limited to, management fees, shareholder servicing fees, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. However, the example below does not include portfolio trading commissions and related expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line of the table under the “Investor Class” or “Institutional Class” headings in the column entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only. Therefore, the second line of the table under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
 

 

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
24

 EXPENSE EXAMPLE

 
Beginning
Ending
 
 
Account Value
Account Value
Expenses Paid
 
November 1, 2019
April 30, 2020
During Period(1)
Investor Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   920.20
$6.78
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,017.80
$7.12
       
Institutional Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   922.00
$4.97
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,019.69
$5.22

(1)
Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio of 1.42% for Investor Class shares or 1.04% for Institutional Class shares, as applicable, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 days (to reflect the half-year period).









HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
25

How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s Proxy
Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
 
A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge (1) by calling 1-800-966-4354, (2) on the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-policy, or (3) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record is available without charge on both the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-record and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov no later than August 31 for the prior 12 months ending June 30.
 
 
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
 
The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on request by calling 1-800-966-4354.
 
 
Federal Tax Distribution Information (Unaudited)
 
For fiscal year 2019, certain dividends paid by the Fund may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 23.8%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was 100.00%.
 
For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions that qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction for fiscal year 2019 was 0.00%.
 
The percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that were designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Section 871(k)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, for the Fund was 0.00%.
 
For the year ended October 31, 2019, the Fund earned foreign-source income and paid foreign taxes as noted below, which it intends to pass through to its shareholders pursuant to Section 853 of the Internal Revenue Code.
 
   
Gross Foreign Income
Foreign Tax Paid
 
 
Japan
$10,290,290
$1,029,031
 
 

Important Notice Regarding Delivery
of Shareholder Documents
 
To help keep the Fund’s costs as low as possible, we generally deliver a single copy of shareholder reports, proxy statements, and prospectuses to shareholders who share an address and have the same last name. This process does not apply to account statements. You may request an individual copy of a shareholder document at any time. If you would like to receive separate mailings of shareholder documents, please call U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124, and individual delivery will begin within 30 days of your request. If your account is held through a financial institution or other intermediary, please contact such intermediary directly to request individual delivery.
 

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
26

 PROXY VOTING — ELECTRONIC DELIVERY

Electronic Delivery
 
The Funds offer shareholders the option to receive account statements, prospectuses, tax forms, and shareholder reports online. To sign up for eDelivery, please visit www.hennessyfunds.com/account. You may change your delivery preference at any time by visiting our website or calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124.













HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
27

Board Approval of Investment Advisory
Agreements
 
At its meeting on March 12, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board,” and the members thereof, the “Trustees”) unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement of the Fund with Hennessy Advisors, Inc. (the “Advisor”) and the sub-advisory agreement for the Fund between the Advisor and SPARX Asset Management Co., Ltd. (the “Sub-Advisor”). As part of the process of approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements, the Trustees reviewed their fiduciary duties and the relevant factors for them to consider with respect to approving the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. In addition, the Trustees who are not deemed “interested persons” (as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Fund (the “Independent Trustees”) met in executive session to discuss the approval of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
 
In advance of the meeting, the Advisor sent detailed information to the Trustees to assist them in their evaluation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. This information included, but was not limited to, the following:
 
 
(1)
A memorandum from outside legal counsel that described the fiduciary duties of the Board with respect to approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and the relevant factors for consideration;
     
 
(2)
A memorandum from the Advisor that listed the factors relevant to the Board’s approval of the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and also referenced the documents that had been provided to help the Board assess each such factor;
     
 
(3)
An inventory of the services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor and the distinction between the Advisor-provided services and the Sub-Advisor-provided services;
     
 
(4)
A written discussion of economies of scale;
     
 
(5)
Summaries of the key terms of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements;
     
 
(6)
A recent Fund fact sheet, which included performance information over various periods;
     
 
(7)
A peer expense comparison of the net expense ratio and investment advisory fee of the Fund;
     
 
(8)
The Advisor’s financial statements from its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q;
     
 
(9)
A completed questionnaire from the Sub-Advisor;
     
 
(10)
A summary of the Sub-Advisor’s questionnaire and relevant information from the Sub-Advisor’s Form ADV Parts I and II;
     
 
(11)
The Sub-Advisor’s Code of Ethics; and
     
 
(12)
Financial information of the Sub-Advisor’s parent company.

All of the factors discussed were considered as a whole by the Trustees and by the Independent Trustees meeting in executive session. The factors were viewed in their totality by the Trustees, with no single factor being the principal or determinative factor in the Trustees’ determination of whether to approve the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. The Trustees recognized that the management and fee
 

 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
28

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

arrangements for the Fund are the result of years of review and discussion between the Independent Trustees and the Advisor, that certain aspects of such arrangements may receive greater scrutiny in some years than in others, and that the Trustees’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of these same arrangements and information received during the course of the year and in prior years.
 
Prior to approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees in executive session, considered, among other items:
 
 
(1)
The nature and quality of the advisory services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor;
     
 
(2)
A comparison of the fees and expenses of the Fund to other similar funds;
     
 
(3)
Whether economies of scale are recognized by the Fund;
     
 
(4)
The costs and profitability of the Fund to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor;
     
 
(5)
The performance of the Fund; and
     
 
(6)
Any benefits to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor from serving as an investment advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory and sub-advisory fees).

The material considerations and determinations of the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, were as follows:
 
 
(1)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Advisor. Based on this review, the Trustees concluded that the Advisor provides high-quality services to the Fund and noted that their overall confidence in the Advisor was high. The Trustees also concluded that they were satisfied with the nature, extent, and quality of the advisory services provided to the Fund by the Advisor and that the nature and extent of the services provided by the Advisor were appropriate to assure that the Fund’s operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

   
(a)
The Advisor oversees the Sub-Advisor for the Fund, and the Sub-Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund.
       
   
(b)
The Advisor performs a daily reconciliation of portfolio positions and cash for the Fund.
       
   
(c)
The Advisor monitors the liquidity of each Fund.
       
   
(d)
The Advisor monitors the Fund’s compliance with its investment objectives and restrictions.
       
   
(e)
The Advisor monitors compliance with federal securities laws, maintains a compliance program (including a code of ethics), conducts ongoing reviews of the compliance programs of the Sub-Advisor and the Fund’s other service providers, as feasible, conducts on-site visits to the Sub-Advisor and the Fund’s other service providers, monitors incidents of abusive trading practices, reviews Fund expense accruals, payments, and fixed expense ratios, evaluates insurance providers for fidelity bond, D&O/E&O insurance, and cybersecurity insurance coverage, manages regulatory examination compliance and responses, conducts employee compliance training, reviews reports provided by service providers, and maintains books and records.

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
29

   
(f)
The Advisor oversees the selection and continued employment of the Sub-Advisor, reviews the Fund’s investment performance, and monitors the Sub-Advisor’s adherence to the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions.
       
   
(g)
The Advisor oversees service providers that provide accounting, administration, distribution, transfer agency, custodial, sales, marketing, public relations, audit, information technology, and legal services to the Fund.
       
   
(h)
The Advisor maintains in-house marketing and distribution departments on behalf of the Fund.
       
   
(i)
The Advisor is actively involved with preparing regulatory filings for the Fund, including writing and annually updating the Fund’s prospectus and related documents.
       
   
(j)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Advisor reviews the written summary prepared by the Sub-Advisor of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(k)
The Advisor oversees distribution of the Fund through third-party broker/dealers and independent financial institutions such as Charles Schwab, Inc., Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and Pershing. The Advisor participates in “no transaction fee” (“NTF”) programs with these companies on behalf of the Fund, which allow customers to purchase the Fund through third-party distribution channels without paying a transaction fee. The Advisor compensates, in part, a number of these third-party providers of NTF programs out of its own revenues.
       
   
(l)
The Advisor pays the incentive compensation of the Fund’s compliance officers and employs other staff, such as legal, marketing, national accounts, distribution, sales, administrative, and trading oversight personnel, as well as management executives.
       
   
(m)
The Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board.
       
   
(n)
The Advisor prepares or reviews all Board materials, frequently presents to the Board and leads Board discussions, prepares or reviews all meeting minutes, and arranges for Board training and education.

 
(2)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Sub-Advisor:

   
(a)
The Sub-Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund. In this capacity, the Sub-Advisor does the following:

     
(i)
manages the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, including the purchase, retention, and disposition of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions;
         
     
(ii)
seeks best execution for the Fund’s portfolio; and
         
     
(iii)
manages proxy voting for the Fund.

   
(b)
The Sub-Advisor ensures that its compliance program includes policies and procedures relevant to the Fund and the Sub-Advisor’s duties as a portfolio manager to the Fund.
       
   
(c)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Sub-Advisor prepares a written summary of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.


 
 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
30

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

   
(d)
The Sub-Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board regarding trading and allocation practices, supervisory matters, the Sub-Advisor’s compliance program (including its code of ethics), compliance with the Fund’s policies, and general firm updates.

 
(3)
The Trustees considered the distinction between the services performed by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor. The Trustees noted that the management of the Fund, including the oversight of the Sub-Advisor, involves more comprehensive and substantive duties than the duties of the Sub-Advisor. Specifically, the Trustees considered the lists of services identified above and concluded that the services performed by the Advisor for the Fund require a higher level of service and oversight than the services performed by the Sub-Advisor. Based on this determination, the Trustees concluded that the differential in advisory fees between the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor is reasonable.
     
 
(4)
The Trustees compared the performance of the Fund to benchmark indices over various periods and also noted that the Trustees review and discuss reports comparing the investment performance of the Fund to various indices at each quarterly Board meeting. Based on such information, the Trustees determined that the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor manage the Fund in a manner materially consistent with its stated investment objective and style. The Trustees concluded that the performance of the Fund over various periods warranted continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
     
 
(5)
The Trustees reviewed the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of the Fund compared to other funds similar in asset size and investment objective to the Fund using data from Morningstar. As part of the discussion with management, the Trustees ensured that they understood and were comfortable with the criteria used to determine the mutual funds included in the Morningstar categories for purposes of the materials considered at the meeting. The Trustees determined that the advisory fee and overall expense ratio of the Fund falls within the range of the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of other comparable funds and concluded that they are reasonable and warranted continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
     
 
(6)
The Trustees also considered whether the Advisor was realizing economies of scale that it should share with the Fund’s shareholders. The Trustees noted that the assets of the Fund had remained relatively flat over the prior year. In addition, the Trustees noted that many of the expenses incurred to manage the Fund are asset-based fees, so the Advisor does not realize material economies of scale relating to those expenses as the assets of the Fund increase. For example, mutual fund platform fees increase as the Fund’s assets grow. The Trustees also considered the Advisor’s efforts to contain expenses through actions such as renegotiating service contracts, the Advisor’s significant marketing efforts to promote the Funds, the Advisor’s investments in personnel to manage the Funds, and the Advisor’s agreement to waive fees or lower its management fees in certain circumstances. The Trustees noted that it did not appear that the Advisor was realizing economies of scale at current asset levels and concluded that it would continue to monitor economies of scale in the future as circumstances changed.

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
31

 
(7)
The Trustees considered the profitability of the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor, including the impact of mutual fund platform fees on the Advisor’s profitability, and also considered the resources and revenues that the Advisor has put into managing and distributing the Fund. The Trustees then concluded that the profits of the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor are reasonable and not excessive when compared to profitability guidelines set forth in relevant court cases.
     
 
(8)
The Trustees considered the high level of professionalism and knowledge of the Advisor’s employees, along with a very low level of turnover, and concluded that this was beneficial to the Fund and its shareholders.
     
 
(9)
The Trustees considered any benefits to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor from serving as an advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory and sub-advisory fees). The Trustees noted that the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor may derive ancillary benefits from, by way of example, their association with the Fund in the form of proprietary and third-party research products and services received from broker-dealers that execute portfolio trades for the Fund. The Trustees determined that any such products and services have been used for legitimate purposes relating to the Fund by providing assistance in the investment decision-making process. The Trustees concluded that any additional benefits realized by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor from their relationship with the Fund were reasonable, which was based on, among other things, the Trustees’ findings that (i) the research, analytical, statistical, and other information and services provided by brokers are merely supplemental to the Advisor’s and the Sub-Advisor’s own efforts in the performance of their duties under the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and (ii) although the Sub-Advisor could derive benefits from the conversion of Fund shareholders into separate account clients, the Fund also could benefit from potential institutional shareholders who might choose to invest in the Fund.

After reviewing the materials and information provided at the meeting, as well as other information regularly provided at the Board’s quarterly meetings throughout the year regarding the quality of services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor, the performance of the Fund, expense information, brokerage commissions information, the adequacy and efficacy of the Advisor’s and the Sub-Advisor’s written policies and procedures, other regulatory compliance issues, trading information and related matters, and other factors that the Trustees deemed relevant, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
 




 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
32

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS








(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 










For information, questions, or assistance, please call
The Hennessy Funds
1-800-966-4354 or 1-415-899-1555



INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
7250 Redwood Boulevard, Suite 200
Novato, California 94945

ADMINISTRATOR,
TRANSFER AGENT,
DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, &
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0701

CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

TRUSTEES
Neil J. Hennessy
Robert T. Doyle
J. Dennis DeSousa
Gerald P. Richardson

COUNSEL
Foley & Lardner LLP
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-5306

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
Two Liberty Place
50 South 16th Street, Suite 2900
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-2529

DISTRIBUTOR
Quasar Distributors, LLC
111 East Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 2200
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202




www.hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354

This report has been prepared for shareholders and may be distributed to
others only if preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.




SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

APRIL 30, 2020




HENNESSY JAPAN SMALL CAP FUND
 
Investor Class  HJPSX
Institutional Class  HJSIX



IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
 
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the annual and semi-annual reports will no longer be sent by mail unless you specifically request paper copies from the Hennessy Funds 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 have already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Hennessy Funds electronically by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com/account or by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950. If you own shares in a Fund through a financial intermediary, please contact your financial intermediary to make this election.
 
You may elect to receive paper copies of all future reports free of charge by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or, if you own your shares through a financial intermediary, by contacting your financial intermediary. Your election to receive paper copies of reports will apply to all Funds in the Hennessy Funds family.
 


hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354









(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 










Contents
 

 
Letter to Shareholders
2
Performance Overview
4
Financial Statements
 
Schedule of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
10
Statement of Operations
11
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
13
Financial Highlights
14
Notes to the Financial Statements
18
Expense Example
25
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
27
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
27
Federal Tax Distribution Information
27
Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents
27
Electronic Delivery
28
Board Approval of Investment Advisory Agreements
29










HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 


May 2020
 
Dear Hennessy Funds Shareholder:
 

Over the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Japanese stock market lost 9.96% in U.S. dollar terms as measured by the Tokyo Stock Price Index (TOPIX). A variety of geopolitical developments continued to affect Japanese stocks from November 2019 to January 2020, including the trade dispute between the United States and China, a series of protests in Hong Kong, and the standoff between the United States and Iran. By the end of January, growing concerns about the global spread of the novel coronavirus (COVID-19) and the expectation of a severe negative impact on the economy caused the Japanese stock market to begin to fall sharply. The spread of COVID-19, not only in China and Japan but also Europe and the United States, accelerated the decline in stock prices worldwide. While monetary easing and fiscal policy changes in various countries led to initial expectations of an early economic recovery, this rebound proved temporary because there was no sign that the virus, and its negative effects on the world economy, were subsiding at the time of this writing.
 
The ultimate economic impact of the COVID-19 pandemic remains uncertain. To date in Japan, the number of confirmed infections and the mortality rate remain fairly low relative to other developed countries on a population-adjusted basis, perhaps thanks to Japan’s “mask-wearing” culture. Japan declared a state of emergency on April 7, 2020, later than many other affected countries, and did not implement stringent lockdowns. As in other parts of the world, Japan is experiencing severe contraction in economic activity, and it is too early to assess the overall long-term impact of COVID-19 in Japan.
 
Japan swiftly put together an approximately $1 trillion economic stimulus package, which is approximately 20% of Japan’s GDP and is double the scale of the stimulus package launched amid the 2008 financial crisis. As a percent of GDP, Japan’s COVID-19 stimulus package is larger than the United States’ stimulus package (11% of GDP) and Germany’s stimulus package (5% of GDP). On the monetary policy side, the Bank of Japan (BOJ) has pledged to boost purchases of assets including government bonds, commercial paper, corporate bonds, and ETFs. For example, the BOJ said it would aggressively buy ETFs at an annual rate of JPY 12 trillion (equivalent to approximately $112 billion), two times the amount it previously had pledged to buy. While prior to the COVID-19 pandemic we had argued that the BOJ’s quantitative easing had largely done its part, with around $5 trillion worth of monetary base already in the financial system, and that the government should take the lead by pushing through structural reforms going forward, we believe that economic rescue plans should be prioritized above all else in times of stress like today.
 
Japan has a reform-minded, pro-growth government led by Prime Minister Abe and a pro-business, pro-inflation central bank led by the BOJ Governor Kuroda. We are confident that this favorable combination will provide a strong basis for Japan’s economic recovery. Assuming full recovery of earnings over the next 12 to 24 months, we believe current valuations of Japanese stocks are very attractive. Moreover, we believe that the stock market has already priced in the impact of the postponement of the 2020 Tokyo Olympics. Therefore, we believe that the sharp recent decline in the market should provide an attractive entry point for investors keen to gain long-term exposure to Japan.
 
 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
2

 LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

We remain optimistic about the long-term prospects for Japan and its stock market. Thank you for your continued confidence and investment in the Hennessy Japan Funds.
 
Sincerely,
 
Tadahiro Fujimura
Masakazu Takeda
Portfolio Manager,
Portfolio Manager,
Hennessy Japan Small Cap Fund;
Hennessy Japan Fund;
Chief Investment Officer
Fund Manager
SPARX Asset Management Co., Ltd.
SPARX Asset Management Co., Ltd.

SPARX Asset Management Co., Ltd., located in Tokyo, Japan, is the sub-advisor to the Hennessy Japan Fund and the Hennessy Japan Small Cap Fund.
 
 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
 
Opinions expressed are those of Tadahiro Fujimura and Masakazu Takeda and are subject to change, are not guaranteed, and should not be considered investment advice.
 
The Tokyo Stock Price Index (TOPIX) is a capitalization-weighted index of all the companies listed on the First Section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 






HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
3

Performance Overview (Unaudited)
 
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR PERIODS ENDED APRIL 30, 2020
 
 
Six
One
Five
Ten
 
Months(1)
Year
Years
Years
Hennessy Japan Small Cap Fund –
       
  Investor Class (HJPSX)
-13.34%
-7.78%
7.80%
10.21%
Hennessy Japan Small Cap Fund –
       
  Institutional Class (HJSIX)(2)
-13.15%
-7.46%
8.17%
10.40%
Russell/Nomura
       
  Small CapTM Index
-12.14%
-6.67%
4.43%
  6.55%
Tokyo Price Index (TOPIX)
  -9.96%
-3.11%
2.87%
  4.96%

Expense ratios:  1.52% (Investor Class); 1.12% (Institutional Class)
 
(1)
Periods of less than one year are not annualized.
(2)
The inception date of Institutional Class shares is June 15, 2015. Performance shown prior to the inception of Institutional Class shares reflects the performance of Investor Class shares and includes expenses that are not applicable to, and are higher than, those of Institutional Class shares.

 
 

 

 
_______________
 
Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance table does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com.
 
The Russell/Nomura Small Cap Index contains the bottom 15% of the Russell/Nomura Total Market Index based on market capitalization. The Russell/Nomura Total Market Index contains the top 98% of all stocks listed on Japan’s stock exchanges and registered on Japan’s over-the-counter market based on market capitalization. The Tokyo Price Index (TOPIX) is a market capitalization-weighted index of all the companies listed on the First Section of the Tokyo Stock Exchange. One cannot invest directly in an index. These indices are used herein for comparative purposes in accordance with SEC regulations.
 
Frank Russell Company (“Russell”) is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks, and copyrights related to the Russell Indexes. Russell® is a trademark of Russell. Neither Russell nor its licensors accept any liability for any errors or omissions in the Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data and no party may rely on any Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data contained in this communication. No further distribution of Russell data is permitted without Russell’s express written consent. Russell does not promote, sponsor, or endorse the content of this communication.
 
The expense ratios presented are from the most recent prospectus. The expense ratios for the current reporting period are available in the Financial Highlights section of this report.
 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
4

 PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Financial Statements
 
 Schedule of Investments as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

HENNESSY JAPAN SMALL CAP FUND
(% of Net Assets)

 

 
TOP TEN HOLDINGS (EXCLUDING MONEY MARKET FUNDS)
% NET ASSETS
Cosmos Pharmaceutical Corp.
2.45%
Kobe Bussan Co., Ltd.
2.45%
Nihon Unisys Ltd.
2.37%
Tocalo Co., Ltd.
2.28%
Lifenet Insurance Co.
2.25%
Benefit One, Inc.
2.24%
Elecom Co., Ltd.
2.24%
Nippon Koei Co., Ltd.
2.22%
Nihon Flush Co., Ltd.
2.15%
Towa Corp.
2.15%

 
Note: For presentation purposes, the Fund has grouped some of the industry categories. For purposes of categorizing securities for compliance with Section 8(b)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Fund uses more specific industry classifications.
 
The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) was developed by and is the exclusive property and a service mark of MSCI, Inc. and Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC. It has been licensed for use by the Hennessy Funds.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
5

COMMON STOCKS – 97.60%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Communication Services – 2.97%
                 
CyberAgent, Inc.
   
30,000
   
$
1,259,580
     
1.52
%
Kakaku.com, Inc.
   
59,200
     
1,207,996
     
1.45
%
 
           
2,467,576
     
2.97
%
                         
Consumer Discretionary – 10.33%
                       
Kushikatsu Tanaka Holdings Co.
   
33,800
     
424,608
     
0.51
%
Matsuoka Corp.
   
84,600
     
1,453,827
     
1.75
%
Musashi Seimitsu Industry Co., Ltd.
   
115,800
     
937,577
     
1.13
%
Nojima Corp.
   
74,700
     
1,294,776
     
1.56
%
Pacific Industrial Co., Ltd.
   
183,300
     
1,553,302
     
1.87
%
Saizeriya Co., Ltd.
   
83,700
     
1,659,182
     
2.00
%
Seiren Co., Ltd.
   
106,400
     
1,259,774
     
1.51
%
 
           
8,583,046
     
10.33
%
                         
Consumer Staples – 7.81%
                       
Cosmos Pharmaceutical Corp.
   
7,600
     
2,034,441
     
2.45
%
Kobe Bussan Co., Ltd.
   
42,200
     
2,038,639
     
2.45
%
Nishimoto Co., Ltd.
   
69,000
     
1,159,264
     
1.39
%
Starzen Co., Ltd.
   
30,900
     
1,261,441
     
1.52
%
 
           
6,493,785
     
7.81
%
                         
Energy – 1.57%
                       
Iwatani Corp.
   
38,100
     
1,301,580
     
1.57
%
                         
Financials – 3.12%
                       
AEON Financial Service Co., Ltd.
   
70,000
     
727,948
     
0.87
%
Lifenet Insurance Co. (a)
   
285,300
     
1,867,263
     
2.25
%
 
           
2,595,211
     
3.12
%
                         
Health Care – 2.69%
                       
CYBERDYNE, Inc. (a)
   
138,100
     
548,206
     
0.66
%
Ship Healthcare Holdings, Inc.
   
37,300
     
1,686,961
     
2.03
%
 
           
2,235,167
     
2.69
%
                         
Industrials – 38.87%
                       
Bell System24 Holdings, Inc.
   
137,000
     
1,621,367
     
1.95
%
Benefit One, Inc.
   
105,800
     
1,857,419
     
2.24
%
Daihen Corp.
   
60,900
     
1,733,936
     
2.09
%
Fugi Corp.
   
83,600
     
1,399,740
     
1.68
%
Hanwa Co., Ltd.
   
96,900
     
1,539,360
     
1.85
%
 

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
6

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
 
COMMON STOCKS
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Industrials (Continued)
                 
Hito Communications Holdings, Inc.
   
143,100
   
$
1,291,035
     
1.55
%
Juki Corp.
   
125,800
     
689,737
     
0.83
%
Kawada Technologies, Inc.
   
33,900
     
1,582,101
     
1.90
%
Kito Corp.
   
168,300
     
1,704,046
     
2.05
%
METAWATER Co., Ltd.
   
43,000
     
1,710,039
     
2.06
%
MIRAIT Holdings Corp.
   
137,100
     
1,771,028
     
2.13
%
Mitsubishi Logisnext Co., Ltd.
   
135,600
     
1,261,469
     
1.52
%
Morita Holdings Corp.
   
38,900
     
597,776
     
0.72
%
Nihon Flush Co., Ltd.
   
159,600
     
1,789,370
     
2.15
%
Nippon Koei Co., Ltd.
   
64,500
     
1,846,309
     
2.22
%
Okamura Corp.
   
163,600
     
1,182,352
     
1.42
%
Sato Holdings Corp.
   
83,100
     
1,708,851
     
2.06
%
SBS Holdings, Inc.
   
103,800
     
1,755,245
     
2.11
%
Senko Group Holdings Co., Ltd.
   
218,100
     
1,777,483
     
2.14
%
Takeei Corp.
   
214,500
     
1,599,405
     
1.92
%
Tocalo Co., Ltd.
   
192,700
     
1,897,154
     
2.28
%
 
           
32,315,222
     
38.87
%
                         
Information Technology – 17.78%
                       
Digital Garage, Inc.
   
49,600
     
1,777,117
     
2.14
%
Elecom Co., Ltd.
   
47,300
     
1,865,333
     
2.24
%
Macnica Fuji Electronics Holdings, Inc.
   
119,800
     
1,630,765
     
1.96
%
Mimaki Engineering Co., Ltd.
   
209,200
     
789,030
     
0.95
%
Nihon Unisys Ltd.
   
68,200
     
1,972,405
     
2.37
%
Nippon Signal Company, Ltd.
   
162,400
     
1,509,775
     
1.82
%
Rorze Corp.
   
12,700
     
522,531
     
0.63
%
Sun Corp.
   
82,000
     
1,194,732
     
1.44
%
Towa Corp.
   
207,200
     
1,789,949
     
2.15
%
Transcosmos, Inc.
   
86,800
     
1,731,975
     
2.08
%
 
           
14,783,612
     
17.78
%
                         
Materials – 7.79%
                       
Asia Pile Holdings Co.
   
424,600
     
1,647,421
     
1.98
%
Kanto Denka Kogyo Co., Ltd.
   
55,700
     
442,803
     
0.53
%
Kuriyama Holdings Corp.
   
159,800
     
715,169
     
0.86
%
Sanyo Chemical Industries Ltd.
   
32,600
     
1,284,274
     
1.55
%
 

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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
7

COMMON STOCKS
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Materials (Continued)
                 
Stella Chemifa Corp.
   
57,600
   
$
1,256,120
     
1.51
%
Tokyo Ohka Kogyo Co., Ltd.
   
26,200
     
1,126,834
     
1.36
%
 
           
6,472,621
     
7.79
%
                         
Real Estate – 3.06%
                       
Star Mica Holdings Co., Ltd.
   
115,400
     
1,574,526
     
1.89
%
Tosei Corp.
   
100,300
     
973,399
     
1.17
%
 
           
2,547,925
     
3.06
%
                         
Utilities – 1.61%
                       
EF-ON, Inc.
   
292,800
     
1,341,170
     
1.61
%
 
                       
Total Common Stocks
                       
  (Cost $85,234,828)
           
81,136,915
     
97.60
%
 
                       
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 0.99%
                       
                         
Money Market Funds – 0.99%
                       
First American Government Obligations Fund,
                       
  Institutional Class, 0.25% (b)
   
822,126
     
822,126
     
0.99
%
 
                       
Total Short-Term Investments
                       
  (Cost $822,126)
           
822,126
     
0.99
%
 
                       
Total Investments
                       
  (Cost $86,056,954) – 98.59%
           
81,959,041
     
98.59
%
Other Assets in Excess of Liabilities – 1.41%
           
1,168,080
     
1.41
%
 
                       
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
         
$
83,127,121
     
100.00
%

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

(a)
Non-income-producing security.
(b)
The rate listed is the fund’s seven-day yield as of April 30, 2020.



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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
8

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Summary of Fair Value Exposure as of April 30, 2020
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s net assets as of April 30, 2020 (see Note 3 in the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements):
 
Common Stocks
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Communication Services
 
$
   
$
2,467,576
   
$
   
$
2,467,576
 
Consumer Discretionary
   
     
8,583,046
     
     
8,583,046
 
Consumer Staples
   
     
6,493,785
     
     
6,493,785
 
Energy
   
     
1,301,580
     
     
1,301,580
 
Financials
   
     
2,595,211
     
     
2,595,211
 
Health Care
   
     
2,235,167
     
     
2,235,167
 
Industrials
   
     
32,315,222
     
     
32,315,222
 
Information Technology
   
     
14,783,612
     
     
14,783,612
 
Materials
   
     
6,472,621
     
     
6,472,621
 
Real Estate
   
     
2,547,925
     
     
2,547,925
 
Utilities
   
     
1,341,170
     
     
1,341,170
 
Total Common Stocks
 
$
   
$
81,136,915
   
$
   
$
81,136,915
 
Short-Term Investments
                               
Money Market Funds
 
$
822,126
   
$
   
$
   
$
822,126
 
Total Short-Term Investments
 
$
822,126
   
$
   
$
   
$
822,126
 
Total Investments
 
$
822,126
   
$
81,136,915
   
$
   
$
81,959,041
 








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
9

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments in securities, at value (cost $86,056,954)
 
$
81,959,041
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
886,738
 
Receivable for fund shares sold
   
233,049
 
Receivable for securities sold
   
367,628
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
20,003
 
Total assets
   
83,466,459
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable for fund shares redeemed
   
218,302
 
Payable to advisor
   
52,932
 
Payable to administrator
   
14,157
 
Payable to auditor
   
11,376
 
Accrued distribution fees
   
7,052
 
Accrued service fees
   
3,637
 
Accrued trustees fees
   
5,741
 
Accrued expenses and other payables
   
26,141
 
Total liabilities
   
339,338
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
83,127,121
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSISTS OF:
       
Capital stock
 
$
91,598,530
 
Accumulated deficit
   
(8,471,409
)
Total net assets
 
$
83,127,121
 
         
NET ASSETS:
       
Investor Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
46,633,407
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
3,533,092
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
13.20
 
         
Institutional Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
36,493,714
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
2,797,027
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
13.05
 


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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
10

 STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES/STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Operations for the six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Dividend income(1)
 
$
1,091,157
 
Interest income
   
22,666
 
Total investment income
   
1,113,823
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (See Note 5)
   
448,150
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
65,319
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
19,607
 
Administration, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees (See Note 5)
   
62,729
 
Distribution fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
43,554
 
Service fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
29,036
 
Federal and state registration fees
   
22,486
 
Compliance expense (See Note 5)
   
13,462
 
Audit fees
   
11,375
 
Reports to shareholders
   
10,100
 
Trustees’ fees and expenses
   
8,832
 
Interest expense (See Note 7)
   
3,076
 
Legal fees
   
730
 
Other expenses
   
8,205
 
Total expenses
   
746,661
 
NET INVESTMENT INCOME
 
$
367,162
 
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
       
Net realized gain on investments
 
$
524,902
 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(17,097,644
)
Net loss on investments
   
(16,572,742
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(16,205,580
)

 

 


 

 

 

 
(1)
Net of foreign taxes withheld of $121,240.

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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
11








(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 








 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
12

 STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

Financial Statements
 
 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
April 30, 2020
   
Year Ended
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
October 31, 2019
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment income
 
$
367,162
   
$
628,672
 
Net realized gain (loss) on investments
   
524,902
     
(3,898,603
)
Net change in unrealized
               
  appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(17,097,644
)
   
9,297,065
 
Net increase (decrease) in net assets
               
  resulting from operations
   
(16,205,580
)
   
6,027,134
 
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
Distributable earnings – Investor Class
   
(876,351
)
   
(3,091,719
)
Distributable earnings – Institutional Class
   
(1,083,137
)
   
(3,196,949
)
Total distributions
   
(1,959,488
)
   
(6,288,668
)
                 
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
               
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Investor Class
   
6,533,731
     
16,258,683
 
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Institutional Class
   
11,172,800
     
30,397,388
 
Dividends reinvested – Investor Class
   
843,742
     
3,007,874
 
Dividends reinvested – Institutional Class
   
990,567
     
2,892,147
 
Cost of shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(17,839,944
)
   
(54,044,581
)
Cost of shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(30,495,233
)
   
(67,515,691
)
Net decrease in net assets derived
               
  from capital share transactions
   
(28,794,337
)
   
(69,004,180
)
TOTAL DECREASE IN NET ASSETS
   
(46,959,405
)
   
(69,265,714
)
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
130,086,526
     
199,352,240
 
End of period
 
$
83,127,121
   
$
130,086,526
 
                 
CHANGES IN SHARES OUTSTANDING:
               
Shares sold – Investor Class
   
448,491
     
1,129,349
 
Shares sold – Institutional Class
   
830,081
     
2,150,721
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Investor Class
   
52,999
     
211,079
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Institutional Class
   
63,013
     
206,255
 
Shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(1,264,731
)
   
(3,779,544
)
Shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(2,269,019
)
   
(4,821,215
)
Net decrease in shares outstanding
   
(2,139,166
)
   
(4,903,355
)


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
13

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Investor Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
15.43
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income (loss)
   
0.04
(1) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(2.06
)
Total from investment operations
   
(2.02
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.21
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
 
Total distributions
   
(0.21
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
13.20
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-13.34
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
46.63
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.53
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets
   
0.55
%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(4)
   
9
%(2)










(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
14

 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INVESTOR CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
14.99
   
$
14.92
   
$
11.29
   
$
10.29
   
$
10.51
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.03
(1) 
   
0.05
     
0.08
     
0.03
     
(0.02
)
 
0.88
     
0.35
     
3.77
     
1.31
     
0.71
 
 
0.91
     
0.40
     
3.85
     
1.34
     
0.69
 
                                     
                                     
 
     
(0.05
)
   
(0.12
)
   
     
 
 
(0.47
)
   
(0.28
)
   
(0.10
)
   
(0.34
)
   
(0.91
)
 
(0.47
)
   
(0.33
)
   
(0.22
)
   
(0.34
)
   
(0.91
)
$
15.43
   
$
14.99
   
$
14.92
   
$
11.29
   
$
10.29
 
                                     
 
6.30
%
   
2.64
%
   
34.82
%
   
13.44
%
   
7.37
%
                                     
                                     
$
66.30
   
$
100.93
   
$
69.86
   
$
26.23
   
$
22.68
 
 
1.52
%
   
1.46
%
   
1.60
%
   
1.91
%
   
2.12
%
 
0.23
%
   
0.21
%
   
0.26
%
   
0.25
%
   
(0.38
)%
 
21
%
   
35
%
   
41
%
   
22
%
   
75
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
15

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Institutional Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
15.28
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income (loss)
   
0.06
(2) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(2.02
)
Total from investment operations
   
(1.96
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.27
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
 
Total distributions
   
(0.27
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
13.05
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-13.15
%(3)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
36.49
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.12
%(4)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets
   
0.77
%(4)
Portfolio turnover rate(5)
   
9
%(3)










(1)
Institutional Class shares commenced operations on June 15, 2015.
(2)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(3)
Not annualized.
(4)
Annualized.
(5)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
16


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INSTITUTIONAL CLASS


 
 


   
Period Ended
 
Year Ended October 31,
   
October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015(1)
 
                           
$
14.83
   
$
14.72
   
$
11.33
   
$
10.30
   
$
10.89
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.09
(2) 
   
0.11
     
0.05
     
0.06
     
(0.01
)
 
0.86
     
0.36
     
3.78
     
1.31
     
(0.58
)
 
0.95
     
0.47
     
3.83
     
1.37
     
(0.59
)
                                     
                                     
 
(0.04
)
   
(0.08
)
   
(0.10
)
   
     
 
 
(0.46
)
   
(0.28
)
   
(0.34
)
   
(0.34
)
   
 
 
(0.50
)
   
(0.36
)
   
(0.44
)
   
(0.34
)
   
 
$
15.28
   
$
14.83
   
$
14.72
   
$
11.33
   
$
10.30
 
                                     
 
6.73
%
   
3.12
%
   
35.17
%
   
13.73
%
   
-5.42
%(3)
                                     
                                     
$
63.78
   
$
98.42
   
$
28.71
   
$
3.42
   
$
2.65
 
 
1.12
%
   
1.04
%
   
1.19
%
   
1.63
%
   
1.86
%(4)
 
0.61
%
   
0.77
%
   
0.80
%
   
0.63
%
   
(1.04
)%(4)
 
21
%
   
35
%
   
41
%
   
22
%
   
75
%(3)








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
17

Financial Statements
 
 Notes to the Financial Statements April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

1).  ORGANIZATION
 
The Hennessy Japan Small Cap Fund (the “Fund”) is a series of Hennessy Funds Trust (the “Trust”), which was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 17, 1992. The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The investment objective of the Fund is long-term capital appreciation. The Fund is a diversified fund.
 
The Fund offers Investor Class and Institutional Class shares. Each class of shares differs principally in its respective 12b-1 distribution and service, shareholder servicing, and sub-transfer agent expenses. There are no sales charges. Each class has identical rights to earnings, assets, and voting privileges, except for class-specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only one class.
 
As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies.”
 
2).  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of the financial statements. These policies conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
 
a).
Securities Valuation – All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value, as described in Note 3.
   
b).
Federal Income Taxes – No provision for federal income taxes or excise taxes has been made because the Fund has elected to be taxed as a regulated investment company and intends to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders and otherwise comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies. Net investment income/loss and realized gains/losses for federal income tax purposes may differ from those reported in the financial statements because of temporary book and tax basis differences. Temporary differences are primarily the result of the treatment of wash sales for tax reporting purposes. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax benefits, if any, in the Statement of Operations as an income tax expense. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income to shareholders for tax purposes. The Fund may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes.
   
c).
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – The Fund has accounting policies regarding recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The tax returns of the Fund for the prior three fiscal years are open for examination. The Fund has reviewed all open tax years in major jurisdictions and concluded that there is no impact on the Fund’s net assets and no tax liability resulting from unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain income tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The Fund’s major tax jurisdictions are U.S. federal and Delaware.


 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
18

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

d).
Income and Expenses – Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date or as soon as information is available to the Fund. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recognized on an accrual basis. Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received. The Fund is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to its portfolio, such as advisory, administration, and certain shareholder service fees. Income, expenses (other than expenses attributable to a specific class), and realized and unrealized gains/losses on investments are allocated to each class of shares based on such class’s net assets.
   
e).
Distributions to Shareholders – Dividends from net investment income for the Fund, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December. Distributions of net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December.
   
f).
Security Transactions – Investment and shareholder transactions are recorded on the trade date. The Fund determines the realized gain/loss from an investment transaction by comparing the original cost of the security lot sold with the net sale proceeds. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted or amortized, respectively, over the life of each such security.
   
g).
Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported change in net assets during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
h).
Share Valuation – The net asset value (“NAV”) per share of the Fund is calculated by dividing (i) the total value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by (ii) the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest $0.01. The Fund’s shares will not be priced on days the New York Stock Exchange is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for the Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.
   
i).
Foreign Currency – Values of investments denominated in foreign currencies are converted into U.S. dollars using the spot market rate of exchange at the time of valuation. Purchases and sales of investments and income are translated into U.S. dollars using the spot market rate of exchange prevailing on the respective dates of such transactions. The Fund does not isolate the portion of the results of operations resulting from fluctuations in foreign exchange rates on investments from fluctuations resulting from changes in the market prices of securities held. Such fluctuations are included with the net realized and unrealized gain/loss on investments. Foreign investments present additional risks due to currency fluctuations, economic and political factors, lower liquidity, government regulations, differences in accounting standards, and other factors.
   
j).
REIT Equity Securities – The Fund may invest in the equity securities of real estate investment trusts (“REITs”). Distributions received from REITs may be classified as dividends, capital gains, or return of capital. Investments in REITs may require the Fund to accrue and distribute income not yet received. To generate sufficient cash to make the requisite distributions, the Fund may be required to sell securities in its portfolio (including when it is not advantageous to do so) that it otherwise would have continued to hold. At other times, investments in a REIT may result in the Fund’s receipt of cash in excess of the REIT’s earnings. If the Fund distributes these amounts, these distributions could constitute a return of capital to Fund


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
19

 
shareholders for U.S. federal income tax purposes. Dividends received by the Fund from a REIT generally will not constitute qualified dividend income and will not qualify for the dividends-received deduction.
 
3).  SECURITIES VALUATION
 
The Fund follows fair value accounting standards that establish an authoritative definition of fair value and set out a hierarchy for measuring fair value. These standards require additional disclosures about the various inputs and valuation techniques used to develop the measurements of fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs during the period. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
 
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments that the Fund has the ability to access at the date of measurement.
     
 
Level 2 –
Other significant observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar instruments, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets, such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk curves, default rates, and similar data).
     
 
Level 3 –
Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability based on the best available information) when observable inputs are unavailable.

The following is a description of the valuation techniques applied to the Fund’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
Equity Securities – Equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, foreign-issued common stocks, exchange-traded funds, closed-end mutual funds, partnerships, rights, and real estate investment trusts, that are traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is readily available will generally be valued at the last sales price as reported by the primary exchange on which the securities are listed. Securities listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) will generally be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may differ from the last sales price reported. Securities traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is not readily available will generally be valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Securities traded on foreign exchanges generally are not valued at the same time the Fund calculates its NAV because most foreign markets close well before such time. The earlier close of most foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim. In certain circumstances, it may be determined that a foreign security needs to be fair valued because it appears that the value of the security might have been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the market in which the security is principally traded, but before the time the Fund calculates its NAV, such as by a development that affects an entire market or region (e.g., a weather-related event) or a potentially global development (e.g., a terrorist attack that may be expected to have an effect on investor expectations worldwide).
   
 
Registered Investment Companies – Investments in open-end registered investment companies, commonly referred to as mutual funds, generally are priced at the ending NAV provided by the applicable mutual fund’s service agent and will be classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.


 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
20

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

 
Debt Securities – Debt securities, including corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and U.S. government agency issues, are generally valued at market on the basis of valuations furnished by an independent pricing service that utilizes both dealer-supplied valuations and formula-based techniques. The pricing service may consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, and fundamental data relating to the issuer. In addition, the model may incorporate observable market data, such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued primarily using dealer quotations. These securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Short-Term Securities – Short-term equity investments, including money market funds, are valued in the manner specified above. Short-term debt investments with an original term to maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value. If the original term to maturity of a short-term debt investment exceeded 60 days, then the values as of the 61st day prior to maturity are amortized. Amortized cost is not used if its use would be inappropriate due to credit or other impairments of the issuer, in which case the security’s fair value would be determined, as described below. Short-term securities are generally classified in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the inputs used and market activity levels for specific securities.

The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board”) has adopted fair value pricing procedures that are followed when a price for a security is not readily available or if a significant event has occurred that indicates the closing price of a security no longer represents the true value of that security. Fair value pricing determinations are made in good faith in accordance with these procedures. There are numerous criteria that will be given consideration in determining a fair value of a security, such as the trading volume of a security and markets, the values of other similar securities, and news events with direct bearing on a security or markets. Fair value pricing results in an estimated price for a security that reflects the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive in a current sale. Depending on the relative significance of the valuation inputs, these securities may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
The fair value of foreign securities may be determined with the assistance of a pricing service using correlations between the movement of prices of such securities and indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators, such as closing market prices of relevant American Depositary Receipts or futures contracts. Using fair value pricing means that the Fund’s NAV reflects the affected portfolio securities’ values as determined by the Board or its designee, pursuant to the fair value pricing procedures adopted by the Board, instead of being determined by the market. Using a fair value pricing methodology to price a foreign security may result in a value that is different from such foreign security’s most recent closing price and from the value used by other investment companies to calculate their NAVs. Such securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Because the Fund invests in foreign securities, the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities may change on days when you will not be able to purchase or redeem your shares.
 
The Board has delegated day-to-day valuation matters to the Valuation and Liquidity Committee comprising representatives from Hennessy Advisors, Inc., the Fund’s investment advisor (the “Advisor”). The function of the Valuation and Liquidity Committee is to value securities where current and reliable market quotations are not readily available. All actions taken by the Valuation and Liquidity Committee are reviewed by the Board.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
21

The Fund has performed an analysis of all existing investments to determine the significance and character of all inputs to their fair value determinations. Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Fund’s investments. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. Details related to the fair value hierarchy of the Fund’s securities as of April 30, 2020, are included in the Schedule of Investments.
 
4).  INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding government and short-term investments) for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $9,245,593 and $36,981,473, respectively.
 
There were no purchases or sales/maturities of long-term U.S. government securities for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Fund is permitted to purchase or sell securities from or to another fund in the Hennessy Funds family of funds (collectively, the “Hennessy Funds”) under specified conditions outlined in procedures adopted by the Board. The procedures have been designed to ensure that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Hennessy Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not engage in purchases or sales of securities pursuant to Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
 
5).  INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
The Advisor provides the Fund with investment advisory services under an Investment Advisory Agreement. The Advisor oversees the provision of investment advice and furnishes office space, facilities, and most of the personnel needed by the Fund. As compensation for its services, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee from the Fund. The fee is based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate of 0.80%. The net investment advisory fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Advisor has delegated the day-to-day management of the Fund to a sub-advisor, SPARX Asset Management Co., Ltd. The Advisor pays the sub-advisory fees from its own assets, and these fees are not an additional expense of the Fund. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Advisor (not the Fund) paid a sub-advisory fee at the average rate of 0.35% of the daily net assets of the Fund. Pursuant to the sub-advisory agreement, the Advisor pays sub-advisory fees at the rate of 0.35% of the first $500 million of daily net assets, 0.40% of daily net assets between $500 million and $1 billion, and 0.42% of daily net assets over $1 billion.
 
The Board has approved a Shareholder Servicing Agreement for Investor Class shares of the Fund, which was instituted to compensate the Advisor for the non-investment advisory services it provides to the Fund. The Shareholder Servicing Agreement provides for a monthly fee paid to the Advisor at an annual rate of 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund attributable to Investor Class shares. The shareholder service fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has adopted a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that authorizes payments in connection with the distribution of the Fund’s shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares. Even though the authorized rate is up to 0.25%, the Fund is currently only using up to 0.15% of its average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares for such purpose. Amounts paid under the plan may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares,
 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
22

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

including, but not limited to, advertising, shareholder account servicing, printing and mailing of prospectuses to other than current shareholders, printing and mailing of sales literature, and compensation for sales and marketing activities or to financial institutions and others, such as dealers and distributors. The distribution fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into agreements with various brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries in connection with the sale of shares of the Fund. The agreements provide for periodic payments of sub-transfer agent expenses by the Fund to the brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries for providing certain shareholder maintenance services. These shareholder services include the pre-processing and quality control of new accounts, shareholder correspondence, answering customer inquiries regarding account status, and facilitating shareholder telephone transactions. The sub-transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (“Fund Services”) provides the Fund with administrative, accounting, and transfer agent services. As administrator, Fund Services is responsible for activities such as (i) preparing various federal and state regulatory filings, reports, and returns for the Fund, (ii) preparing reports and materials to be supplied to the Board, (iii) monitoring the activities of the Fund’s custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, and (iv) coordinating the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviewing the Fund’s expense accruals. U.S. Bank N.A., an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Fund’s custodian. The servicing agreements between the Trust and Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. contain a fee schedule that is inclusive of administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. The administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
Quasar Distributors, LLC (“Quasar”) acts as the Fund’s principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Fund’s shares. Quasar was an affiliate of Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. through March 30, 2020. Effective March 31, 2020, Foreside Financial Group, LLC (“Foreside”) acquired Quasar from Fund Services. As a result of the acquisition, Quasar became a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of Foreside and is no longer affiliated with Fund Services or U.S. Bank N.A. The Board approved a new Distribution Agreement to enable Quasar to continue serving as the Fund’s distributor.
 
The officers of the Fund are affiliated with the Advisor. With the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer and the Senior Compliance Officer, such officers receive no compensation from the Fund for serving in their respective roles. The Fund, along with the other Hennessy Funds, makes reimbursement payments on an equal basis to the Advisor for a portion of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Chief Compliance Officer and for all of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Senior Compliance Officer. The compliance fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
6).  GUARANTEES AND INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Hennessy Funds’ organizational documents, their officers and trustees are indemnified by the Hennessy Funds against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Hennessy Funds. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Hennessy Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Fund expects the risk of loss to be remote.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
23

7).  LINE OF CREDIT
 
The Fund has an uncommitted line of credit with the other Hennessy Funds in the amount of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 or (ii) 33.33% of each Hennessy Fund’s net assets, or 30% for the Hennessy Gas Utility Fund and 10% for the Hennessy Balanced Fund, intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The credit facility is with the Hennessy Funds’ custodian bank, U.S. Bank N.A. Borrowings under this arrangement bear interest at the bank’s prime rate and are secured by all of the Fund’s assets (as to its own borrowings only). During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund had an outstanding average daily balance and a weighted average interest rate of $131,275 and 4.63%, respectively. The interest expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, is included in the Statement of Operations. The maximum amount outstanding for the Fund during the period was $9,020,000. As of April 30, 2020, the Fund did not have any borrowings outstanding under the line of credit.
 
8).  FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund’s most recent fiscal year end, the components of accumulated earnings (losses) for income tax purposes were as follows:
 
     
Investments
 
 
Cost of investments for tax purposes
 
$
117,570,374
 
 
Gross tax unrealized appreciation
 
$
22,229,518
 
 
Gross tax unrealized depreciation
   
(11,332,904
)
 
Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)
 
$
11,896,614
 
 
Undistributed ordinary income
 
$
1,959,489
 
 
Undistributed long-term capital gains
   
 
 
Total distributable earnings
 
$
1,959,489
 
 
Other accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
(4,162,444
)
 
Total accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
9,693,659
 

The difference between book-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation (as shown above) is attributable primarily to wash sales and investments in passive foreign investment companies.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund had capital loss carryforwards as follows:
 
 
$4,162,444
Unlimited Short-Term

As of October 31, 2019, the Fund did not defer, on a tax basis, any late-year ordinary losses. Late-year ordinary losses are net ordinary losses incurred after December 31, 2018, but within the taxable year, that are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year.
 
During fiscal year 2020 (year to date) and fiscal year 2019, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund was as follows:
 
     
Six Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
     
April 30, 2020
   
October 31, 2019
 
 
Ordinary income(1)
 
$
1,959,488
   
$
275,405
 
 
Long-term capital gain
   
     
6,013,263
 
     
$
1,959,488
   
$
6,288,668
 

 
(1)  Ordinary income includes short-term capital gain.
 
9).  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO PERIOD END
 
Management has evaluated the Fund’s related events and transactions that occurred subsequent to April 30, 2020, through the date of issuance of the Fund’s financial statements. Management has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.
 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
24

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS/EXPENSE EXAMPLE

Expense Example (Unaudited)
April 30, 2020


As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur ongoing costs, including management fees, service fees, and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from November 1, 2019, through April 30, 2020.
 
Actual Expenses
The first line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. Although the Fund charges no sales loads or transaction fees, you will be assessed fees for outgoing wire transfers, returned checks and stop payment orders at prevailing rates charged by U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, the Fund’s transfer agent. If you request that a redemption be made by wire transfer, currently a $15 fee is charged by the Fund’s transfer agent. IRA accounts will be charged a $15 annual maintenance fee. The example below includes, but is not limited to, management fees, shareholder servicing fees, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. However, the example below does not include portfolio trading commissions and related expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line of the table under the “Investor Class” or “Institutional Class” headings in the column entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only. Therefore, the second line of the table under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
 

 

 

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
25

 
Beginning
Ending
 
 
Account Value
Account Value
Expenses Paid
 
November 1, 2019
April 30, 2020
During Period(1)
Investor Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   866.60
$7.10
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,017.26
$7.67
       
Institutional Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   868.50
$5.20
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,019.29
$5.62

(1)
Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio of 1.53% for Investor Class shares or 1.12% for Institutional Class shares, as applicable, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 days (to reflect the half-year period).









 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
26

 EXPENSE EXAMPLE — IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER DOCUMENTS

How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s Proxy
Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
 
A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge (1) by calling 1-800-966-4354, (2) on the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-policy, or (3) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record is available without charge on both the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-record and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov no later than August 31 for the prior 12 months ending June 30.
 
 
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
 
The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on request by calling 1-800-966-4354.
 
 
Federal Tax Distribution Information (Unaudited)
 
For fiscal year 2019, certain dividends paid by the Fund may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 23.8%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was 100.00%.
 
For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions that qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction for fiscal year 2019 was 0.00%.
 
The percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that were designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Section 871(k)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, for the Fund was 0.94%.
 
For the year ended October 31, 2019, the Fund earned foreign-source income and paid foreign taxes as noted below, which it intends to pass through to its shareholders pursuant to Section 853 of the Internal Revenue Code.
 
   
Gross Foreign Income
Foreign Tax Paid
 
 
Japan
$2,851,789
$285,661
 
 
Important Notice Regarding Delivery
of Shareholder Documents
 
To help keep the Fund’s costs as low as possible, we generally deliver a single copy of shareholder reports, proxy statements, and prospectuses to shareholders who share an address and have the same last name. This process does not apply to account statements. You may request an individual copy of a shareholder document at any time. If you would like to receive separate mailings of shareholder documents, please call U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124, and individual delivery will begin within 30 days of your request. If your account is held through a financial institution or other intermediary, please contact such intermediary directly to request individual delivery.
 


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
27

Electronic Delivery
 
The Funds offer shareholders the option to receive account statements, prospectuses, tax forms, and shareholder reports online. To sign up for eDelivery, please visit www.hennessyfunds.com/account. You may change your delivery preference at any time by visiting our website or calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124.










 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
28

 ELECTRONIC DELIVERY/BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

Board Approval of Investment Advisory
Agreements
 
At its meeting on March 12, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board,” and the members thereof, the “Trustees”) unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement of the Fund with Hennessy Advisors, Inc. (the “Advisor”) and the sub-advisory agreement for the Fund between the Advisor and SPARX Asset Management Co., Ltd. (the “Sub-Advisor”). As part of the process of approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements, the Trustees reviewed their fiduciary duties and the relevant factors for them to consider with respect to approving the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. In addition, the Trustees who are not deemed “interested persons” (as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Fund (the “Independent Trustees”) met in executive session to discuss the approval of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
 
In advance of the meeting, the Advisor sent detailed information to the Trustees to assist them in their evaluation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. This information included, but was not limited to, the following:
 
 
(1)
A memorandum from outside legal counsel that described the fiduciary duties of the Board with respect to approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and the relevant factors for consideration;
     
 
(2)
A memorandum from the Advisor that listed the factors relevant to the Board’s approval of the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and also referenced the documents that had been provided to help the Board assess each such factor;
     
 
(3)
An inventory of the services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor and the distinction between the Advisor-provided services and the Sub-Advisor-provided services;
     
 
(4)
A written discussion of economies of scale;
     
 
(5)
Summaries of the key terms of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements;
     
 
(6)
A recent Fund fact sheet, which included performance information over various periods;
     
 
(7)
A peer expense comparison of the net expense ratio and investment advisory fee of the Fund;
     
 
(8)
The Advisor’s financial statements from its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q;
     
 
(9)
A completed questionnaire from the Sub-Advisor;
     
 
(10)
A summary of the Sub-Advisor’s questionnaire and relevant information from the Sub-Advisor’s Form ADV Parts I and II;
     
 
(11)
The Sub-Advisor’s Code of Ethics; and
     
 
(12)
Financial information of the Sub-Advisor’s parent company.

All of the factors discussed were considered as a whole by the Trustees and by the Independent Trustees meeting in executive session. The factors were viewed in their totality by the Trustees, with no single factor being the principal or determinative factor in the Trustees’ determination of whether to approve the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements. The Trustees recognized that the management and fee
 
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
29

arrangements for the Fund are the result of years of review and discussion between the Independent Trustees and the Advisor, that certain aspects of such arrangements may receive greater scrutiny in some years than in others, and that the Trustees’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of these same arrangements and information received during the course of the year and in prior years.
 
Prior to approving the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees in executive session, considered, among other items:
 
 
(1)
The nature and quality of the advisory services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor;
     
 
(2)
A comparison of the fees and expenses of the Fund to other similar funds;
     
 
(3)
Whether economies of scale are recognized by the Fund;
     
 
(4)
The costs and profitability of the Fund to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor;
     
 
(5)
The performance of the Fund; and
     
 
(6)
Any benefits to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor from serving as an investment advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory and sub-advisory fees).

The material considerations and determinations of the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, were as follows:
 
 
(1)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Advisor. Based on this review, the Trustees concluded that the Advisor provides high-quality services to the Fund and noted that their overall confidence in the Advisor was high. The Trustees also concluded that they were satisfied with the nature, extent, and quality of the advisory services provided to the Fund by the Advisor and that the nature and extent of the services provided by the Advisor were appropriate to assure that the Fund’s operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

   
(a)
The Advisor oversees the Sub-Advisor for the Fund, and the Sub-Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund.
       
   
(b)
The Advisor performs a daily reconciliation of portfolio positions and cash for the Fund.
       
   
(c)
The Advisor monitors the liquidity of each Fund.
       
   
(d)
The Advisor monitors the Fund’s compliance with its investment objectives and restrictions.
       
   
(e)
The Advisor monitors compliance with federal securities laws, maintains a compliance program (including a code of ethics), conducts ongoing reviews of the compliance programs of the Sub-Advisor and the Fund’s other service providers, as feasible, conducts on-site visits to the Sub-Advisor and the Fund’s other service providers, monitors incidents of abusive trading practices, reviews Fund expense accruals, payments, and fixed expense ratios, evaluates insurance providers for fidelity bond, D&O/E&O insurance, and cybersecurity insurance coverage, manages regulatory examination compliance and responses, conducts employee compliance training, reviews reports provided by service providers, and maintains books and records.

 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
30

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

   
(f)
The Advisor oversees the selection and continued employment of the Sub-Advisor, reviews the Fund’s investment performance, and monitors the Sub-Advisor’s adherence to the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions.
       
   
(g)
The Advisor oversees service providers that provide accounting, administration, distribution, transfer agency, custodial, sales, marketing, public relations, audit, information technology, and legal services to the Fund.
       
   
(h)
The Advisor maintains in-house marketing and distribution departments on behalf of the Fund.
       
   
(i)
The Advisor is actively involved with preparing regulatory filings for the Fund, including writing and annually updating the Fund’s prospectus and related documents.
       
   
(j)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Advisor reviews the written summary prepared by the Sub-Advisor of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(k)
The Advisor oversees distribution of the Fund through third-party broker/dealers and independent financial institutions such as Charles Schwab, Inc., Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and Pershing. The Advisor participates in “no transaction fee” (“NTF”) programs with these companies on behalf of the Fund, which allow customers to purchase the Fund through third-party distribution channels without paying a transaction fee. The Advisor compensates, in part, a number of these third-party providers of NTF programs out of its own revenues.
       
   
(l)
The Advisor pays the incentive compensation of the Fund’s compliance officers and employs other staff, such as legal, marketing, national accounts, distribution, sales, administrative, and trading oversight personnel, as well as management executives.
       
   
(m)
The Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board.
       
   
(n)
The Advisor prepares or reviews all Board materials, frequently presents to the Board and leads Board discussions, prepares or reviews all meeting minutes, and arranges for Board training and education.

 
(2)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Sub-Advisor:

   
(a)
The Sub-Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund. In this capacity, the Sub-Advisor does the following:

     
(i)
manages the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, including the purchase, retention, and disposition of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions;
         
     
(ii)
seeks best execution for the Fund’s portfolio; and
         
     
(iii)
manages proxy voting for the Fund.

   
(b)
The Sub-Advisor ensures that its compliance program includes policies and procedures relevant to the Fund and the Sub-Advisor’s duties as a portfolio manager to the Fund.
       
   
(c)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Sub-Advisor prepares a written summary of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
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31

   
(d)
The Sub-Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board regarding trading and allocation practices, supervisory matters, the Sub-Advisor’s compliance program (including its code of ethics), compliance with the Fund’s policies, and general firm updates.
 
 
(3)
The Trustees considered the distinction between the services performed by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor. The Trustees noted that the management of the Fund, including the oversight of the Sub-Advisor, involves more comprehensive and substantive duties than the duties of the Sub-Advisor. Specifically, the Trustees considered the lists of services identified above and concluded that the services performed by the Advisor for the Fund require a higher level of service and oversight than the services performed by the Sub-Advisor. Based on this determination, the Trustees concluded that the differential in advisory fees between the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor is reasonable.
     
 
(4)
The Trustees compared the performance of the Fund to benchmark indices over various periods and also noted that the Trustees review and discuss reports comparing the investment performance of the Fund to various indices at each quarterly Board meeting. Based on such information, the Trustees determined that the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor manage the Fund in a manner materially consistent with its stated investment objective and style. The Trustees concluded that the performance of the Fund over various periods warranted continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
     
 
(5)
The Trustees reviewed the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of the Fund compared to other funds similar in asset size and investment objective to the Fund using data from Morningstar. As part of the discussion with management, the Trustees ensured that they understood and were comfortable with the criteria used to determine the mutual funds included in the Morningstar categories for purposes of the materials considered at the meeting. The Trustees determined that the advisory fee and overall expense ratio of the Fund falls within the range of the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of other comparable funds and concluded that they are reasonable and warranted continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
     
 
(6)
The Trustees also considered whether the Advisor was realizing economies of scale that it should share with the Fund’s shareholders. The Trustees noted that the assets of the Fund had declined over the prior year. In addition, the Trustees noted that many of the expenses incurred to manage the Fund are asset-based fees, so the Advisor does not realize material economies of scale relating to those expenses as the assets of the Fund increase. For example, mutual fund platform fees increase as the Fund’s assets grow. The Trustees also considered the Advisor’s efforts to contain expenses through actions such as renegotiating service contracts, the Advisor’s significant marketing efforts to promote the Funds, the Advisor’s investments in personnel to manage the Funds, and the Advisor’s agreement to waive fees or lower its management fees in certain circumstances. The Trustees noted that it did not appear that the Advisor was realizing economies of scale at current asset levels and concluded that it would continue to monitor economies of scale in the future as circumstances changed.
     
 
(7)
The Trustees considered the profitability of the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor, including the impact of mutual fund platform fees on the Advisor’s profitability, and also considered the resources and revenues that the Advisor has put into

 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
32

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENTS

   
managing and distributing the Fund. The Trustees then concluded that the profits of the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor are reasonable and not excessive when compared to profitability guidelines set forth in relevant court cases.
     
 
(8)
The Trustees considered the high level of professionalism and knowledge of the Advisor’s employees, along with a very low level of turnover, and concluded that this was beneficial to the Fund and its shareholders.
     
 
(9)
The Trustees considered any benefits to the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor from serving as an advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory and sub-advisory fees). The Trustees noted that the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor may derive ancillary benefits from, by way of example, their association with the Fund in the form of proprietary and third-party research products and services received from broker-dealers that execute portfolio trades for the Fund. The Trustees determined that any such products and services have been used for legitimate purposes relating to the Fund by providing assistance in the investment decision-making process. The Trustees concluded that any additional benefits realized by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor from their relationship with the Fund were reasonable, which was based on, among other things, the Trustees’ findings that (i) the research, analytical, statistical, and other information and services provided by brokers are merely supplemental to the Advisor’s and the Sub-Advisor’s own efforts in the performance of their duties under the advisory and sub-advisory agreements and (ii) although the Sub-Advisor could derive benefits from the conversion of Fund shareholders into separate account clients, the Fund also could benefit from potential institutional shareholders who might choose to invest in the Fund.

After reviewing the materials and information provided at the meeting, as well as other information regularly provided at the Board’s quarterly meetings throughout the year regarding the quality of services provided by the Advisor and the Sub-Advisor, the performance of the Fund, expense information, brokerage commissions information, the adequacy and efficacy of the Advisor’s and the Sub-Advisor’s written policies and procedures, other regulatory compliance issues, trading information and related matters, and other factors that the Trustees deemed relevant, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the advisory and sub-advisory agreements.
 



HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
33


For information, questions, or assistance, please call
The Hennessy Funds
1-800-966-4354 or 1-415-899-1555



INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
7250 Redwood Boulevard, Suite 200
Novato, California 94945

ADMINISTRATOR,
TRANSFER AGENT,
DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, &
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0701

CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

TRUSTEES
Neil J. Hennessy
Robert T. Doyle
J. Dennis DeSousa
Gerald P. Richardson

COUNSEL
Foley & Lardner LLP
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-5306

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
Two Liberty Place
50 South 16th Street, Suite 2900
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-2529

DISTRIBUTOR
Quasar Distributors, LLC
111 East Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 2200
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202




www.hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354

This report has been prepared for shareholders and may be distributed to
others only if preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.




SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

APRIL 30, 2020




HENNESSY LARGE CAP FINANCIAL FUND
 
Investor Class  HLFNX
Institutional Class  HILFX



IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
 
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the annual and semi-annual reports will no longer be sent by mail unless you specifically request paper copies from the Hennessy Funds 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 have already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Hennessy Funds electronically by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com/account or by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950. If you own shares in a Fund through a financial intermediary, please contact your financial intermediary to make this election.
 
You may elect to receive paper copies of all future reports free of charge by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or, if you own your shares through a financial intermediary, by contacting your financial intermediary. Your election to receive paper copies of reports will apply to all Funds in the Hennessy Funds family.
 


hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354








(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 










Contents
 

 
Letter to Shareholders
2
Performance Overview
4
Financial Statements
 
Schedule of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
8
Statement of Operations
9
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
11
Financial Highlights
12
Notes to the Financial Statements
16
Expense Example
23
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
25
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
25
Federal Tax Distribution Information
25
Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents
25
Electronic Delivery
25
Board Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement
26








HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 


June 2020
 
Dear Hennessy Funds Shareholder:

 
First and foremost, I hope this communication finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. In many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down in recent months, and we at Hennessy have joined the rest of the world in witnessing and experiencing its profound effect on public health, the global economy, and the everyday lives of people around the world.  In response to the crisis, we invoked our business continuity plan in mid-March to ensure a smooth transition to remote work for all of our employees, who have been working safely and productively from home. We want to assure our Hennessy Funds shareholders that our operations are uninterrupted and functioning normally.
 
The past six months have been marked by extremes. During the first half of the period from November 2019 through January 2020, the bull market, supported by strong corporate fundamentals, continued to move higher, and investors appeared focused on record-low unemployment and strong economic growth. In mid-February, the major U.S. market indices hit all-time highs, but then, within just a matter of weeks, lost over one-third of their values as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded. Shelter-in-place and business closure orders rippled through the nation, causing initial unemployment claims to skyrocket to their highest number in history. The market then rallied back and posted double-digit positive returns in April.
 
For the six months ended April 30, 2020, on a total return basis, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 8.9% and the S&P 500® Index was down 3.2%. Small-cap and mid-cap stocks generally fared worse than large-cap stocks during the period, and the Financial sector was particularly hard hit as the Federal Reserve aggressively cut the federal funds rate in an effort to stabilize the economy. The Energy sector was crushed by both the sudden loss of demand due to COVID-19 and the oversupply caused by the surprise market-share battle between Russia and Saudi Arabia, and the S&P 500® Energy Sector Index ended the six-month period down over 30%.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented event, and the duration and full extent of the economic impact is unknown. In the moment, there is always the concern that ‘this time is different.’ But, when you are able to look at past financial, political, and health crises with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, history has demonstrated that our economy and financial markets have always rebounded and recovered eventually. If you look back to the last market downturn in 2008, economic fundamentals were weak compared to the market in 2020, where the overall underpinnings were – and are still – quite strong.  Publicly listed companies today have plenty of cash, with over $5 trillion on balance sheets of the S&P 500® companies alone, and I believe that most will survive and that many may emerge from the current crisis even stronger.
 

 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
2

 LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

We understand that this market volatility and economic uncertainty is jarring to many investors, and we continue to monitor events and the markets. We remain focused on managing our high-conviction portfolios for the long-term benefit of our shareholders, and we are confident in the time-tested strategies and rigorous research that led to their formation. We encourage shareholders to maintain a long-term investment horizon and to remain focused on long-term goals. As always, but especially in these trying times, we are here to support our shareholders, and we thank you for your continued investment and trust. Should you have any questions or would like to speak with us directly, please don’t hesitate to call (800) 966-4354 or email us at fundsinfo@hennessyfunds.com.
 
Best regards,
 
 
Neil J. Hennessy
President and Chief Investment Officer
 
 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500® Index are commonly used to measure the performance of U.S. stocks. The S&P 500® Energy Sector Index is an index that comprises those companies included in the S&P 500 that are classified as members of the GICS energy sector. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 








HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
3

Performance Overview (Unaudited)
 
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR PERIODS ENDED APRIL 30, 2020
 
 
Six
One
Five
Ten
 
Months(1)
Year
Years
Years
Hennessy Large Cap Financial Fund –
       
  Investor Class (HLFNX)
  -9.77%
-10.08%
5.15%
  6.42%
Hennessy Large Cap Financial Fund –
       
  Institutional Class (HILFX)(2)
  -9.66%
  -9.78%
5.54%
  6.62%
Russell 1000® Financial
       
  Services Index
-15.76%
-11.28%
7.01%
  8.97%
Russell 1000® Index
  -3.56%
   0.09%
8.74%
11.57%

Expense ratios:  1.83% (Investor Class); 1.44% (Institutional Class)
 
(1)
Periods of less than one year are not annualized.
(2)
The inception date of Institutional Class shares is June 15, 2015. Performance shown prior to the inception of Institutional Class shares reflects the performance of Investor Class shares and includes expenses that are not applicable to, and are higher than, those of Institutional Class shares.

 

 

 

 

 

 
_______________
 
Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance table does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com. Performance for periods on or prior to October 26, 2012, is that of the FBR Large Cap Financial Fund.
 
The Russell 1000® Financial Services Index is a subset of the Russell 1000® Index that measures the performance of the securities classified in the financial services sector of the large-capitalization U.S. equity market. The Russell 1000® Index comprises the 1,000 largest companies in the Russell 3000® Index based on market capitalization. One cannot invest directly in an index. These indices are used herein for comparative purposes in accordance with SEC regulations.
 
Frank Russell Company (“Russell”) is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks, and copyrights related to the Russell Indexes. Russell® is a trademark of Russell. Neither Russell nor its licensors accept any liability for any errors or omissions in the Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data and no party may rely on any Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data contained in this communication. No further distribution of Russell data is permitted without Russell’s express written consent. Russell does not promote, sponsor, or endorse the content of this communication.
 
The expense ratios presented are from the most recent prospectus. The expense ratios for the current reporting period are available in the Financial Highlights section of this report.
 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
4

 PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Financial Statements

 Schedule of Investments as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

HENNESSY LARGE CAP FINANCIAL FUND
(% of Net Assets)

 

 
TOP TEN HOLDINGS (EXCLUDING MONEY MARKET FUNDS)
% NET ASSETS
PayPal Holdings, Inc.
5.33%
Citigroup, Inc.
5.08%
Moody’s Corp.
4.98%
Square, Inc., Class A
4.98%
Bank of America Corp.
4.97%
The Blackstone Group, Inc.
4.93%
Mastercard, Inc., Class A
4.91%
Apple, Inc.
4.87%
Visa, Inc., Class A
4.79%
Fiserv, Inc.
4.73%

 
 
Note: For presentation purposes, the Fund has grouped some of the industry categories. For purposes of categorizing securities for compliance with Section 8(b)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Fund uses more specific industry classifications.
 
The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) was developed by and is the exclusive property and a service mark of MSCI, Inc. and Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC. It has been licensed for use by the Hennessy Funds.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
5


COMMON STOCKS – 96.75%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Financials – 62.43%
                 
American Express Co.
   
6,000
   
$
547,500
     
1.40
%
Bank of America Corp.
   
81,000
     
1,948,050
     
4.97
%
Berkshire Hathaway, Inc., Class B (a)
   
9,500
     
1,779,920
     
4.54
%
Capital One Financial Corp.
   
28,000
     
1,813,280
     
4.62
%
Citigroup, Inc.
   
41,000
     
1,990,960
     
5.08
%
Citizens Financial Group, Inc.
   
67,000
     
1,500,130
     
3.83
%
Comerica, Inc.
   
32,000
     
1,115,520
     
2.84
%
Fifth Third Bancorp
   
60,000
     
1,121,400
     
2.86
%
JPMorgan Chase & Co.
   
19,000
     
1,819,440
     
4.64
%
Moody’s Corp.
   
8,000
     
1,951,200
     
4.98
%
The Blackstone Group, Inc.
   
37,000
     
1,932,880
     
4.93
%
The Charles Schwab Corp.
   
42,000
     
1,584,240
     
4.04
%
The Goldman Sachs Group, Inc.
   
10,000
     
1,834,200
     
4.68
%
The PNC Financial Services Group, Inc.
   
16,000
     
1,706,720
     
4.35
%
Wells Fargo & Co.
   
63,000
     
1,830,150
     
4.67
%
 
           
24,475,590
     
62.43
%
                         
Information Technology – 34.32%
                       
Apple, Inc.
   
6,500
     
1,909,700
     
4.87
%
Fidelity National Information Services, Inc.
   
14,000
     
1,846,460
     
4.71
%
Fiserv, Inc. (a)
   
18,000
     
1,855,080
     
4.73
%
Mastercard, Inc., Class A
   
7,000
     
1,924,790
     
4.91
%
PayPal Holdings, Inc. (a)
   
17,000
     
2,091,000
     
5.33
%
Square, Inc., Class A (a)
   
30,000
     
1,954,200
     
4.98
%
Visa, Inc., Class A
   
10,500
     
1,876,560
     
4.79
%
 
           
13,457,790
     
34.32
%
Total Common Stocks
                       
  (Cost $31,323,453)
           
37,933,380
     
96.75
%


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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
6

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 3.85%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Money Market Funds – 3.85%
                 
First American Government Obligations Fund,
                 
  Institutional Class, 0.25% (b)
   
1,508,965
   
$
1,508,965
     
3.85
%
 
                       
Total Short-Term Investments
                       
  (Cost $1,508,965)
           
1,508,965
     
3.85
%
 
                       
Total Investments
                       
  (Cost $32,832,418) – 100.60%
           
39,442,345
     
100.60
%
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets – (0.60)%
           
(235,486
)
   
(0.60
)%
 
                       
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
         
$
39,206,859
     
100.00
%

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

(a)
Non-income-producing security.
(b)
The rate listed is the fund’s seven-day yield as of April 30, 2020.

The Fund invested in an affiliated security during the six months ended April 30, 2020. Quasar Distributors, LLC, which serves as the Fund’s distributor, was a subsidiary of U.S. Bancorp Fund Services LLC, through March 30, 2020. Details of transactions with this affiliated company for the period ended November 1, 2019, through March 30, 2020, are as follows:

 
 
Common Stocks
 
 
 
U.S. Bancorp
 
Beginning Cost – November 1, 2019
 
$
489,030
 
Purchase Cost
 
$
 
Sales Cost
 
$
(489,030
)
Ending Cost – March 30, 2020
 
$
 
Dividend Income
 
$
2,100
 
Net Change in Unrealized Appreciation/Depreciation
 
$
(24,150
)
Realized Gain/Loss
 
$
31,875
 
Shares
   
 
Market Value – March 30, 2020
 
$
 

 
Summary of Fair Value Exposure as of April 30, 2020
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s net assets as of April 30, 2020 (see Note 3 in the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements):
 
Common Stocks
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Financials
 
$
24,475,590
   
$
   
$
   
$
24,475,590
 
Information Technology
   
13,457,790
     
     
     
13,457,790
 
Total Common Stocks
 
$
37,933,380
   
$
   
$
   
$
37,933,380
 
Short-Term Investments
                               
Money Market Funds
 
$
1,508,965
   
$
   
$
   
$
1,508,965
 
Total Short-Term Investments
 
$
1,508,965
   
$
   
$
   
$
1,508,965
 
Total Investments
 
$
39,442,345
   
$
   
$
   
$
39,442,345
 


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
7

Financial Statements

 Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments in securities, at value (cost $32,832,418)
 
$
39,442,345
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
53,778
 
Receivable for fund shares sold
   
149,253
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
20,392
 
Total assets
   
39,665,768
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable for securities purchased
   
377,296
 
Payable for fund shares redeemed
   
12,250
 
Payable to advisor
   
27,768
 
Payable to administrator
   
9,038
 
Payable to auditor
   
11,373
 
Accrued distribution fees
   
3,376
 
Accrued service fees
   
1,665
 
Accrued trustees fees
   
6,427
 
Accrued expenses and other payables
   
9,716
 
Total liabilities
   
458,909
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
39,206,859
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSISTS OF:
       
Capital stock
 
$
36,675,020
 
Total distributable earnings
   
2,531,839
 
Total net assets
 
$
39,206,859
 
         
NET ASSETS:
       
Investor Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
21,869,493
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
1,071,110
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
20.42
 
         
Institutional Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
17,337,366
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
845,989
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
20.49
 


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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
8

 STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES/STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Operations for the six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Dividend income from unaffiliated securities
 
$
348,785
 
Dividend income from affiliated securities
   
2,100
 
Interest income
   
6,983
 
Total investment income
   
357,868
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (See Note 5)
   
202,502
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
22,467
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
11,859
 
Administration, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees (See Note 5)
   
28,083
 
Federal and state registration fees
   
19,843
 
Distribution fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
17,426
 
Compliance expense (See Note 5)
   
13,462
 
Service fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
11,617
 
Audit fees
   
11,375
 
Trustees’ fees and expenses
   
8,377
 
Reports to shareholders
   
4,285
 
Interest expense (See Note 7)
   
410
 
Legal fees
   
184
 
Other expenses
   
4,105
 
Total expenses
   
355,995
 
NET INVESTMENT INCOME
 
$
1,873
 
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
       
Net realized gain (loss) on investments:
       
  Unaffiliated investments
 
$
(1,167,325
)
  Affiliated investments
   
31,875
 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/deprecation on investments:
       
  Unaffiliated investments
   
(2,552,865
)
  Affiliated investments
   
(24,150
)
Net loss on investments
   
(3,712,465
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(3,710,592
)


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
9








(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 








 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
10

 STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

Financial Statements
 
 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
April 30, 2020
   
Year Ended
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
October 31, 2019
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment income (loss)
 
$
1,873
   
$
(54,782
)
Net realized loss on investments
   
(1,135,450
)
   
(2,153,768
)
Net change in unrealized
               
  appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(2,577,015
)
   
3,586,065
 
Net increase (decrease) in net assets
               
  resulting from operations
   
(3,710,592
)
   
1,377,515
 
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
Distributable earnings – Investor Class
   
     
(982,872
)
Distributable earnings – Institutional Class
   
     
(250,041
)
Total distributions
   
     
(1,232,913
)
                 
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
               
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Investor Class
   
3,331,723
     
2,668,470
 
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Institutional Class
   
5,367,903
     
19,568,396
 
Dividends reinvested – Investor Class
   
     
961,534
 
Dividends reinvested – Institutional Class
   
     
249,016
 
Cost of shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(3,213,421
)
   
(21,047,821
)
Cost of shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(8,167,479
)
   
(6,788,374
)
Net decrease in net assets derived
               
  from capital share transactions
   
(2,681,274
)
   
(4,388,779
)
TOTAL DECREASE IN NET ASSETS
   
(6,391,866
)
   
(4,244,177
)
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
45,598,725
     
49,842,902
 
End of period
 
$
39,206,859
   
$
45,598,725
 
                 
CHANGES IN SHARES OUTSTANDING:
               
Shares sold – Investor Class
   
173,995
     
122,976
 
Shares sold – Institutional Class
   
289,653
     
863,528
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Investor Class
   
     
48,710
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Institutional Class
   
     
12,634
 
Shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(146,859
)
   
(1,040,638
)
Shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(412,403
)
   
(321,223
)
Net decrease in shares outstanding
   
(95,614
)
   
(314,013
)


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
11

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Investor Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
22.63
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income (loss)
   
(0.02
)(1)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(2.19
)
Total from investment operations
   
(2.21
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
 
Dividends from net realized gains
   
 
Total distributions
   
 
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
20.42
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-9.77
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
21.87
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.75
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets
   
(0.15
)%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(4)
   
54
%(2)









(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
12

 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INVESTOR CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
21.43
   
$
22.02
   
$
16.23
   
$
18.36
   
$
20.87
 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.05
)(1)
   
(0.07
)
   
(0.08
)
   
0.07
     
0.01
 
 
1.84
     
0.48
     
5.97
     
(0.49
)
   
(0.40
)
 
1.79
     
0.41
     
5.89
     
(0.42
)
   
(0.39
)
                                     
                                     
 
     
     
(0.10
)
   
(0.02
)
   
 
 
(0.59
)
   
(1.00
)
   
     
(1.69
)
   
(2.12
)
 
(0.59
)
   
(1.00
)
   
(0.10
)
   
(1.71
)
   
(2.12
)
$
22.63
   
$
21.43
   
$
22.02
   
$
16.23
   
$
18.36
 
                                     
 
8.75
%
   
1.82
%
   
36.41
%
   
-2.57
%
   
-2.57
%
                                     
                                     
$
23.63
   
$
40.99
   
$
26.33
   
$
26.67
   
$
100.73
 
 
1.82
%
   
1.69
%
   
1.81
%
   
1.66
%
   
1.57
%
 
(0.23
)%
   
(0.44
)%
   
(0.41
)%
   
0.16
%
   
0.03
%
 
83
%
   
64
%
   
76
%
   
141
%
   
74
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
13

Financial Statements

 Financial Highlights
 
For an Institutional Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
22.68
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income
   
0.02
(2) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(2.21
)
Total from investment operations
   
(2.19
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
 
Dividends from net realized gains
   
 
Total distributions
   
 
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
20.49
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-9.66
%(3)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
17.34
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.41
%(4)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets
   
0.18
%(4)
Portfolio turnover rate(5)
   
54
%(3)










(1)
Institutional Class shares commenced operations on June 15, 2015.
(2)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(3)
Not annualized.
(4)
Annualized.
(5)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
14


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INSTITUTIONAL CLASS


 
 


   
Period Ended
 
Year Ended October 31,
   
October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015(1)
 
                           
$
21.39
   
$
21.91
   
$
16.26
   
$
18.39
   
$
19.72
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.01
(2) 
   
0.03
     
0.18
     
0.02
     
0.01
 
 
1.87
     
0.45
     
5.78
     
(0.36
)
   
(1.34
)
 
1.88
     
0.48
     
5.96
     
(0.34
)
   
(1.33
)
                                     
                                     
 
     
     
(0.31
)
   
(0.09
)
   
 
 
(0.59
)
   
(1.00
)
   
     
(1.70
)
   
 
 
(0.59
)
   
(1.00
)
   
(0.31
)
   
(1.79
)
   
 
$
22.68
   
$
21.39
   
$
21.91
   
$
16.26
   
$
18.39
 
                                     
 
9.16
%
   
2.16
%
   
36.92
%
   
-2.14
%
   
-6.74
%(3)
                                     
                                     
$
21.97
   
$
8.85
   
$
5.83
   
$
0.35
   
$
0.29
 
 
1.43
%
   
1.34
%
   
1.50
%
   
1.24
%
   
1.19
%(4)
 
0.05
%
   
(0.07
)%
   
(0.17
)%
   
0.52
%
   
0.25
%(4)
 
83
%
   
64
%
   
76
%
   
141
%
   
74
%(3)








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
15

Financial Statements
 
 Notes to the Financial Statements April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

1).  ORGANIZATION
 
The Hennessy Large Cap Financial Fund (the “Fund”) is a series of Hennessy Funds Trust (the “Trust”), which was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 17, 1992. The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The investment objective of the Fund is capital appreciation. The Fund is a non-diversified fund.
 
The Fund offers Investor Class and Institutional Class shares. Each class of shares differs principally in its respective 12b-1 distribution and service, shareholder servicing, and sub-transfer agent expenses. There are no sales charges. Each class has identical rights to earnings, assets, and voting privileges, except for class-specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only one class.
 
As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies.”
 
2).  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of the financial statements. These policies conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
 
a).
Securities Valuation – All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value, as described in Note 3.
   
b).
Federal Income Taxes – No provision for federal income taxes or excise taxes has been made because the Fund has elected to be taxed as a regulated investment company and intends to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders and otherwise comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies. Net investment income/loss and realized gains/losses for federal income tax purposes may differ from those reported in the financial statements because of temporary book and tax basis differences. Temporary differences are primarily the result of the treatment of wash sales for tax reporting purposes. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax benefits, if any, in the Statement of Operations as an income tax expense. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income to shareholders for tax purposes. The Fund may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes.
   
c).
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – The Fund has accounting policies regarding recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The tax returns of the Fund for the prior three fiscal years are open for examination. The Fund has reviewed all open tax years in major jurisdictions and concluded that there is no impact on the Fund’s net assets and no tax liability resulting from unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain income tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The Fund’s major tax jurisdictions are U.S. federal and Delaware.
 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
16

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

d).
Income and Expenses – Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date or as soon as information is available to the Fund. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recognized on an accrual basis. Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received. The Fund is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to its portfolio, such as advisory, administration, and certain shareholder service fees. Income, expenses (other than expenses attributable to a specific class), and realized and unrealized gains/losses on investments are allocated to each class of shares based on such class’s net assets.
   
e).
Distributions to Shareholders – Dividends from net investment income for the Fund, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December. Distributions of net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December.
   
f).
Security Transactions – Investment and shareholder transactions are recorded on the trade date. The Fund determines the realized gain/loss from an investment transaction by comparing the original cost of the security lot sold with the net sale proceeds. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted or amortized, respectively, over the life of each such security.
   
g).
Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported change in net assets during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
h).
Share Valuation – The net asset value (“NAV”) per share of the Fund is calculated by dividing (i) the total value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by (ii) the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest $0.01. The Fund’s shares will not be priced on days the New York Stock Exchange is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for the Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.
 
3).  SECURITIES VALUATION
 
The Fund follows fair value accounting standards that establish an authoritative definition of fair value and set out a hierarchy for measuring fair value. These standards require additional disclosures about the various inputs and valuation techniques used to develop the measurements of fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs during the period. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
 
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments that the Fund has the ability to access at the date of measurement.
     
 
Level 2 –
Other significant observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar instruments, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets, such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk curves, default rates, and similar data).
     
 
Level 3 –
Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability based on the best available information) when observable inputs are unavailable.


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
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The following is a description of the valuation techniques applied to the Fund’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
Equity Securities – Equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, foreign-issued common stocks, exchange-traded funds, closed-end mutual funds, partnerships, rights, and real estate investment trusts, that are traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is readily available will generally be valued at the last sales price as reported by the primary exchange on which the securities are listed. Securities listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) will generally be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may differ from the last sales price reported. Securities traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is not readily available will generally be valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Securities traded on foreign exchanges generally are not valued at the same time the Fund calculates its NAV because most foreign markets close well before such time. The earlier close of most foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim. In certain circumstances, it may be determined that a foreign security needs to be fair valued because it appears that the value of the security might have been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the market in which the security is principally traded, but before the time the Fund calculates its NAV, such as by a development that affects an entire market or region (e.g., a weather-related event) or a potentially global development (e.g., a terrorist attack that may be expected to have an effect on investor expectations worldwide).
   
 
Registered Investment Companies – Investments in open-end registered investment companies, commonly referred to as mutual funds, generally are priced at the ending NAV provided by the applicable mutual fund’s service agent and will be classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Debt Securities – Debt securities, including corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and U.S. government agency issues, are generally valued at market on the basis of valuations furnished by an independent pricing service that utilizes both dealer-supplied valuations and formula-based techniques. The pricing service may consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, and fundamental data relating to the issuer. In addition, the model may incorporate observable market data, such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued primarily using dealer quotations. These securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Short-Term Securities – Short-term equity investments, including money market funds, are valued in the manner specified above. Short-term debt investments with an original term to maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value. If the original term to maturity of a short-term debt investment exceeded 60 days, then the values as of the 61st day prior to maturity are amortized. Amortized cost is not used if its use would be inappropriate due to credit or other impairments of the issuer, in which case the security’s fair value would be determined, as described below. Short-term securities are generally classified in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the inputs used and market activity levels for specific securities.


 
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 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board”) has adopted fair value pricing procedures that are followed when a price for a security is not readily available or if a significant event has occurred that indicates the closing price of a security no longer represents the true value of that security. Fair value pricing determinations are made in good faith in accordance with these procedures. There are numerous criteria that will be given consideration in determining a fair value of a security, such as the trading volume of a security and markets, the values of other similar securities, and news events with direct bearing on a security or markets. Fair value pricing results in an estimated price for a security that reflects the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive in a current sale. Depending on the relative significance of the valuation inputs, these securities may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
The fair value of foreign securities may be determined with the assistance of a pricing service using correlations between the movement of prices of such securities and indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators, such as closing market prices of relevant American Depositary Receipts or futures contracts. Using fair value pricing means that the Fund’s NAV reflects the affected portfolio securities’ values as determined by the Board or its designee, pursuant to the fair value pricing procedures adopted by the Board, instead of being determined by the market. Using a fair value pricing methodology to price a foreign security may result in a value that is different from such foreign security’s most recent closing price and from the value used by other investment companies to calculate their NAVs. Such securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Because the Fund may invest in foreign securities, the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities may change on days when you will not be able to purchase or redeem your shares.
 
The Board has delegated day-to-day valuation matters to the Valuation and Liquidity Committee comprising representatives from Hennessy Advisors, Inc., the Fund’s investment advisor (the “Advisor”). The function of the Valuation and Liquidity Committee is to value securities where current and reliable market quotations are not readily available. All actions taken by the Valuation and Liquidity Committee are reviewed by the Board.
 
The Fund has performed an analysis of all existing investments to determine the significance and character of all inputs to their fair value determinations. Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Fund’s investments. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. Details related to the fair value hierarchy of the Fund’s securities as of April 30, 2020, are included in the Schedule of Investments.
 
4).  INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding government and short-term investments) for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $23,539,378 and $26,252,689, respectively.
 
There were no purchases or sales/maturities of long-term U.S. government securities for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Fund is permitted to purchase or sell securities from or to another fund in the Hennessy Funds family of funds (collectively, the “Hennessy Funds”) under specified conditions outlined in procedures adopted by the Board. The procedures have been designed to ensure that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Hennessy Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not engage in purchases or sales of securities pursuant to Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
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5).  INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
The Advisor provides the Fund with investment advisory services under an Investment Advisory Agreement. The Advisor furnishes all investment advice, office space, and facilities and most of the personnel needed by the Fund. As compensation for its services, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee from the Fund. The fee is based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate of 0.90%. The net investment advisory fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Board has approved a Shareholder Servicing Agreement for Investor Class shares of the Fund, which was instituted to compensate the Advisor for the non-investment advisory services it provides to the Fund. The Shareholder Servicing Agreement provides for a monthly fee paid to the Advisor at an annual rate of 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund attributable to Investor Class shares. The shareholder service fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has adopted a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that authorizes payments in connection with the distribution of the Fund’s shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares. Even though the authorized rate is up to 0.25%, the Fund is currently only using up to 0.15% of its average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares for such purpose. Amounts paid under the plan may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares, including, but not limited to, advertising, shareholder account servicing, printing and mailing of prospectuses to other than current shareholders, printing and mailing of sales literature, and compensation for sales and marketing activities or to financial institutions and others, such as dealers and distributors. The distribution fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into agreements with various brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries in connection with the sale of shares of the Fund. The agreements provide for periodic payments of sub-transfer agent expenses by the Fund to the brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries for providing certain shareholder maintenance services. These shareholder services include the pre-processing and quality control of new accounts, shareholder correspondence, answering customer inquiries regarding account status, and facilitating shareholder telephone transactions. The sub-transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (“Fund Services”) provides the Fund with administrative, accounting, and transfer agent services. As administrator, Fund Services is responsible for activities such as (i) preparing various federal and state regulatory filings, reports, and returns for the Fund, (ii) preparing reports and materials to be supplied to the Board, (iii) monitoring the activities of the Fund’s custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, and (iv) coordinating the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviewing the Fund’s expense accruals. U.S. Bank N.A., an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Fund’s custodian. The servicing agreements between the Trust and Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. contain a fee schedule that is inclusive of administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. The administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
Quasar Distributors, LLC (“Quasar”) acts as the Fund’s principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Fund’s shares. Quasar was an affiliate of Fund Services
 

 
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 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

and U.S. Bank N.A. through March 30, 2020. Effective March 31, 2020, Foreside Financial Group, LLC (“Foreside”) acquired Quasar from Fund Services. As a result of the acquisition, Quasar became a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of Foreside and is no longer affiliated with Fund Services or U.S. Bank N.A. The Board approved a new Distribution Agreement to enable Quasar to continue serving as the Fund’s distributor.
 
The officers of the Fund are affiliated with the Advisor. With the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer and the Senior Compliance Officer, such officers receive no compensation from the Fund for serving in their respective roles. The Fund, along with the other Hennessy Funds, makes reimbursement payments on an equal basis to the Advisor for a portion of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Chief Compliance Officer and for all of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Senior Compliance Officer. The compliance fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
6).  GUARANTEES AND INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Hennessy Funds’ organizational documents, their officers and trustees are indemnified by the Hennessy Funds against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Hennessy Funds. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Hennessy Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Fund expects the risk of loss to be remote.
 
7).  LINE OF CREDIT
 
The Fund has an uncommitted line of credit with the other Hennessy Funds in the amount of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 or (ii) 33.33% of each Hennessy Fund’s net assets, or 30% for the Hennessy Gas Utility Fund and 10% for the Hennessy Balanced Fund, intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The credit facility is with the Hennessy Funds’ custodian bank, U.S. Bank N.A. Borrowings under this arrangement bear interest at the bank’s prime rate and are secured by all of the Fund’s assets (as to its own borrowings only). During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund had an outstanding average daily balance and a weighted average interest rate of $24,989 and 3.25%, respectively. The interest expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, is included in the Statement of Operations. The maximum amount outstanding for the Fund during the period was $2,375,000. As of April 30, 2020, the Fund did not have any borrowings outstanding under the line of credit.
 
8).  FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund’s most recent fiscal year end, the components of accumulated earnings (losses) for income tax purposes were as follows:
 
     
Investments
 
 
Cost of investments for tax purposes
 
$
36,407,512
 
 
Gross tax unrealized appreciation
 
$
9,841,735
 
 
Gross tax unrealized depreciation
   
(1,047,941
)
 
Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)
 
$
8,793,794
 
 
Undistributed ordinary income
 
$
 
 
Undistributed long-term capital gains
   
 
 
Total distributable earnings
 
$
 
 
Other accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
(2,551,363
)
 
Total accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
6,242,431
 


HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
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The difference between book-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation (as shown above) is attributable primarily to wash sales and late-year ordinary losses.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund had capital loss carryforwards as follows:
 
$2,487,109                    Unlimited Short-Term
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund deferred, on a tax basis, a late-year ordinary loss of $64,254. Late-year ordinary losses are net ordinary losses incurred after December 31, 2018, but within the taxable year, that are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year.
 
During fiscal year 2020 (year to date) and fiscal year 2019, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund was as follows:
 
     
Six Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
     
April 30, 2020
   
October 31, 2019
 
 
Ordinary income(1)
 
$
   
$
 
 
Long-term capital gain
   
     
1,232,913
 
     
$
   
$
1,232,913
 

 
(1)  Ordinary income includes short-term capital gain.
 
9).  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO PERIOD END
 
Management has evaluated the Fund’s related events and transactions that occurred subsequent to April 30, 2020, through the date of issuance of the Fund’s financial statements. Management has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.
 






 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
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 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS/EXPENSE EXAMPLE

Expense Example (Unaudited)
April 30, 2020


As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur ongoing costs, including management fees, service fees, and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from November 1, 2019, through April 30, 2020.
 
Actual Expenses
The first line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. Although the Fund charges no sales loads or transaction fees, you will be assessed fees for outgoing wire transfers, returned checks and stop payment orders at prevailing rates charged by U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, the Fund’s transfer agent. If you request that a redemption be made by wire transfer, currently a $15 fee is charged by the Fund’s transfer agent. IRA accounts will be charged a $15 annual maintenance fee. The example below includes, but is not limited to, management fees, shareholder servicing fees, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. However, the example below does not include portfolio trading commissions and related expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line of the table under the “Investor Class” or “Institutional Class” headings in the column entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only. Therefore, the second line of the table under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
 

 

 

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
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Beginning
Ending
 
 
Account Value
Account Value
Expenses Paid
 
November 1, 2019
April 30, 2020
During Period(1)
Investor Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   902.30
$8.28
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,016.16
$8.77
       
Institutional Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   903.40
$6.67
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,017.85
$7.07

(1)
Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio of 1.75% for Investor Class shares or 1.41% for Institutional Class shares, as applicable, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 days (to reflect the half-year period).








 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
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 EXPENSE EXAMPLE — ELECTRONIC DELIVERY

How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s Proxy
Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
 
A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge (1) by calling 1-800-966-4354, (2) on the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-policy, or (3) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record is available without charge on both the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-record and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov no later than August 31 for the prior 12 months ending June 30.
 
 
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
 
The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on request by calling 1-800-966-4354.
 
 
Federal Tax Distribution Information (Unaudited)
 
For fiscal year 2019, certain dividends paid by the Fund may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 23.8%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was 0.00%.
 
For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions that qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction for fiscal year 2019 was 0.00%.
 
The percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that were designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Section 871(k)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, for the Fund was 0.00%.
 
 
Important Notice Regarding Delivery
of Shareholder Documents
 
To help keep the Fund’s costs as low as possible, we generally deliver a single copy of shareholder reports, proxy statements, and prospectuses to shareholders who share an address and have the same last name. This process does not apply to account statements. You may request an individual copy of a shareholder document at any time. If you would like to receive separate mailings of shareholder documents, please call U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124, and individual delivery will begin within 30 days of your request. If your account is held through a financial institution or other intermediary, please contact such intermediary directly to request individual delivery.
 
 
Electronic Delivery
 
The Funds offer shareholders the option to receive account statements, prospectuses, tax forms, and shareholder reports online. To sign up for eDelivery, please visit www.hennessyfunds.com/account. You may change your delivery preference at any time by visiting our website or calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
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Board Approval of Investment Advisory
Agreement
 
At its meeting on March 12, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board,” and the members thereof, the “Trustees”) unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement of the Fund with Hennessy Advisors, Inc. (the “Advisor”). As part of the process of approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees reviewed their fiduciary duties and the relevant factors for them to consider with respect to approving the advisory agreement. In addition, the Trustees who are not deemed “interested persons” (as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Fund (the “Independent Trustees”) met in executive session to discuss the approval of the advisory agreement.
 
In advance of the meeting, the Advisor sent detailed information to the Trustees to assist them in their evaluation of the advisory agreement. This information included, but was not limited to, the following:
 
 
(1)
A memorandum from outside legal counsel that described the fiduciary duties of the Board with respect to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement and the relevant factors for consideration;
     
 
(2)
A memorandum from the Advisor that listed the factors relevant to the Board’s approval of the continuation of the advisory agreement and also referenced the documents that had been provided to help the Board assess each such factor;
     
 
(3)
An inventory of the services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(4)
A written discussion of economies of scale;
     
 
(5)
A summary of the key terms of the advisory agreement;
     
 
(6)
A recent Fund fact sheet, which included performance information over various periods;
     
 
(7)
A peer expense comparison of the net expense ratio and investment advisory fee of the Fund; and
     
 
(8)
The Advisor’s financial statements from its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q.

All of the factors discussed were considered as a whole by the Trustees and by the Independent Trustees meeting in executive session. The factors were viewed in their totality by the Trustees, with no single factor being the principal or determinative factor in the Trustees’ determination of whether to approve the continuation of the advisory agreement. The Trustees recognized that the management and fee arrangements for the Fund are the result of years of review and discussion between the Independent Trustees and the Advisor, that certain aspects of such arrangements may receive greater scrutiny in some years than in others, and that the Trustees’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of these same arrangements and information received during the course of the year and in prior years.
 
Prior to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees in executive session, considered, among other items:
 
 
(1)
The nature and quality of the advisory services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(2)
A comparison of the fees and expenses of the Fund to other similar funds;
     
 
(3)
Whether economies of scale are recognized by the Fund;

 

 
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 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

 
(4)
The costs and profitability of the Fund to the Advisor;
     
 
(5)
The performance of the Fund; and
     
 
(6)
Any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an investment advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee).

The material considerations and determinations of the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, were as follows:
 
 
(1)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Advisor. Based on this review, the Trustees concluded that the Advisor provides high-quality services to the Fund and noted that their overall confidence in the Advisor was high. The Trustees also concluded that they were satisfied with the nature, extent, and quality of the advisory services provided to the Fund by the Advisor and that the nature and extent of the services provided by the Advisor were appropriate to assure that the Fund’s operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

   
(a)
The Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund. In this capacity, the Advisor does the following:

     
(i)
manages the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, including the purchase, retention, and disposition of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions;
         
     
(ii)
seeks best execution for the Fund’s portfolio;
         
     
(iii)
manages the use of soft dollars for the Fund; and
         
     
(iv)
manages proxy voting for the Fund.

   
(b)
The Advisor performs a daily reconciliation of portfolio positions and cash for the Fund.
       
   
(c)
The Advisor monitors the liquidity of each Fund.
       
   
(d)
The Advisor monitors the Fund’s compliance with its investment objectives and restrictions.
       
   
(e)
The Advisor monitors compliance with federal securities laws, maintains a compliance program (including a code of ethics), conducts ongoing reviews of the compliance programs of the Fund’s service providers, as feasible, conducts on-site visits to the Fund’s service providers, monitors incidents of abusive trading practices, reviews Fund expense accruals, payments, and fixed expense ratios, evaluates insurance providers for fidelity bond, D&O/E&O insurance, and cybersecurity insurance coverage, manages regulatory examination compliance and responses, conducts employee compliance training, reviews reports provided by service providers, and maintains books and records.
       
   
(f)
The Advisor oversees service providers that provide accounting, administration, distribution, transfer agency, custodial, sales, marketing, public relations, audit, information technology, and legal services to the Fund.
       
   
(g)
The Advisor maintains in-house marketing and distribution departments on behalf of the Fund.
       
   
(h)
The Advisor is actively involved with preparing regulatory filings for the Fund, including writing and annually updating the Fund’s prospectus and related documents.

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
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(i)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Advisor prepares a written summary of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(j)
The Advisor oversees distribution of the Fund through third-party broker/dealers and independent financial institutions such as Charles Schwab, Inc., Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and Pershing. The Advisor participates in “no transaction fee” (“NTF”) programs with these companies on behalf of the Fund, which allow customers to purchase the Fund through third-party distribution channels without paying a transaction fee. The Advisor compensates, in part, a number of these third-party providers of NTF programs out of its own revenues.
       
   
(k)
The Advisor pays the incentive compensation of the Fund’s compliance officers and employs other staff, such as legal, marketing, national accounts, distribution, sales, administrative, and trading oversight personnel, as well as management executives.
       
   
(l)
The Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board.
       
   
(m)
The Advisor prepares or reviews all Board materials, frequently presents to the Board and leads Board discussions, prepares or reviews all meeting minutes, and arranges for Board training and education.

 
(2)
The Trustees compared the performance of the Fund to benchmark indices over various periods and also noted that the Trustees review and discuss reports comparing the investment performance of the Fund to various indices at each quarterly Board meeting. Based on such information, the Trustees determined that the Advisor manages the Fund in a manner materially consistent with its stated investment objective and style. The Trustees concluded that the performance of the Fund over various periods warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(3)
The Trustees reviewed the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of the Fund compared to other funds similar in asset size and investment objective to the Fund using data from Morningstar. As part of the discussion with management, the Trustees ensured that they understood and were comfortable with the criteria used to determine the mutual funds included in the Morningstar categories for purposes of the materials considered at the meeting. The Trustees determined that the advisory fee and overall expense ratio of the Fund falls within the range of the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of other comparable funds and concluded that they are reasonable and warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(4)
The Trustees also considered whether the Advisor was realizing economies of scale that it should share with the Fund’s shareholders. In addition, the Trustees noted that many of the expenses incurred to manage the Fund are asset-based fees, so the Advisor does not realize material economies of scale relating to those expenses as the assets of the Fund increase. For example, mutual fund platform fees increase as the Fund’s assets grow. The Trustees also considered the Advisor’s efforts to contain expenses through actions such as renegotiating service contracts, the Advisor’s significant marketing efforts to promote the Funds, the Advisor’s investments in personnel to manage the Funds, and the Advisor’s agreement to waive fees or lower its management fees in certain circumstances. The Trustees noted that it did not appear that the Advisor was

 

 
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 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

   
realizing economies of scale at current asset levels and concluded that it would continue to monitor economies of scale in the future as circumstances changed.
     
 
(5)
The Trustees considered the profitability of the Advisor, including the impact of mutual fund platform fees on the Advisor’s profitability, and also considered the resources and revenues that the Advisor has put into managing and distributing the Fund. The Trustees then concluded that the profits of the Advisor are reasonable and not excessive when compared to profitability guidelines set forth in relevant court cases.
     
 
(6)
The Trustees considered the high level of professionalism and knowledge of the Advisor’s employees, along with a very low level of turnover, and concluded that this was beneficial to the Fund and its shareholders.
     
 
(7)
The Trustees considered any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee). The Trustees noted that the Advisor may derive ancillary benefits from, by way of example, its association with the Fund in the form of proprietary and third-party research products and services received from broker-dealers that execute portfolio trades for the Fund. The Trustees determined that any such products and services have been used for legitimate purposes relating to the Fund by providing assistance in the investment decision-making process. The Trustees concluded that any additional benefits realized by the Advisor from its relationship with the Fund were reasonable, which was based on, among other things, the Trustees’ finding that the research, analytical, statistical, and other information and services provided by brokers are merely supplemental to the Advisor’s own efforts in the performance of its duties under the advisory agreement.

After reviewing the materials and information provided at the meeting, as well as other information regularly provided at the Board’s quarterly meetings throughout the year regarding the quality of services provided by the Advisor, the performance of the Fund, expense information, brokerage commissions information, the adequacy and efficacy of the Advisor’s written policies and procedures, other regulatory compliance issues, trading information and related matters, and other factors that the Trustees deemed relevant, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the advisory agreement.
 





HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
29


For information, questions, or assistance, please call
The Hennessy Funds
1-800-966-4354 or 1-415-899-1555



INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
7250 Redwood Boulevard, Suite 200
Novato, California 94945

ADMINISTRATOR,
TRANSFER AGENT,
DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, &
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0701

CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

TRUSTEES
Neil J. Hennessy
Robert T. Doyle
J. Dennis DeSousa
Gerald P. Richardson

COUNSEL
Foley & Lardner LLP
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-5306

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
Two Liberty Place
50 South 16th Street, Suite 2900
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-2529

DISTRIBUTOR
Quasar Distributors, LLC
111 East Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 2200
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202





www.hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354

This report has been prepared for shareholders and may be distributed to
others only if preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.




SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

APRIL 30, 2020





HENNESSY SMALL CAP FINANCIAL FUND
 
Investor Class  HSFNX
Institutional Class  HISFX


IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
 
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the annual and semi-annual reports will no longer be sent by mail unless you specifically request paper copies from the Hennessy Funds 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 have already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Hennessy Funds electronically by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com/account or by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950. If you own shares in a Fund through a financial intermediary, please contact your financial intermediary to make this election.
 
You may elect to receive paper copies of all future reports free of charge by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or, if you own your shares through a financial intermediary, by contacting your financial intermediary. Your election to receive paper copies of reports will apply to all Funds in the Hennessy Funds family.
 


hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354









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Contents
 

 
Letter to Shareholders
2
Performance Overview
4
Financial Statements
 
Schedule of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
8
Statement of Operations
9
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
11
Financial Highlights
12
Notes to the Financial Statements
16
Expense Example
23
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
25
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
25
Federal Tax Distribution Information
25
Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents
25
Electronic Delivery
25
Board Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement
26








HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 


June 2020
 
Dear Hennessy Funds Shareholder:

 
First and foremost, I hope this communication finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. In many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down in recent months, and we at Hennessy have joined the rest of the world in witnessing and experiencing its profound effect on public health, the global economy, and the everyday lives of people around the world.  In response to the crisis, we invoked our business continuity plan in mid-March to ensure a smooth transition to remote work for all of our employees, who have been working safely and productively from home. We want to assure our Hennessy Funds shareholders that our operations are uninterrupted and functioning normally.
 
The past six months have been marked by extremes. During the first half of the period from November 2019 through January 2020, the bull market, supported by strong corporate fundamentals, continued to move higher, and investors appeared focused on record-low unemployment and strong economic growth. In mid-February, the major U.S. market indices hit all-time highs, but then, within just a matter of weeks, lost over one-third of their values as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded. Shelter-in-place and business closure orders rippled through the nation, causing initial unemployment claims to skyrocket to their highest number in history. The market then rallied back and posted double-digit positive returns in April.
 
For the six months ended April 30, 2020, on a total return basis, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 8.9% and the S&P 500® Index was down 3.2%. Small-cap and mid-cap stocks generally fared worse than large-cap stocks during the period, and the Financial sector was particularly hard hit as the Federal Reserve aggressively cut the federal funds rate in an effort to stabilize the economy. The Energy sector was crushed by both the sudden loss of demand due to COVID-19 and the oversupply caused by the surprise market-share battle between Russia and Saudi Arabia, and the S&P 500® Energy Sector Index ended the six-month period down over 30%.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented event, and the duration and full extent of the economic impact is unknown. In the moment, there is always the concern that ‘this time is different.’ But, when you are able to look at past financial, political, and health crises with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, history has demonstrated that our economy and financial markets have always rebounded and recovered eventually. If you look back to the last market downturn in 2008, economic fundamentals were weak compared to the market in 2020, where the overall underpinnings were – and are still – quite strong.  Publicly listed companies today have plenty of cash, with over $5 trillion on balance sheets of the S&P 500® companies alone, and I believe that most will survive and that many may emerge from the current crisis even stronger.
 

 

 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
2

 LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

We understand that this market volatility and economic uncertainty is jarring to many investors, and we continue to monitor events and the markets. We remain focused on managing our high-conviction portfolios for the long-term benefit of our shareholders, and we are confident in the time-tested strategies and rigorous research that led to their formation. We encourage shareholders to maintain a long-term investment horizon and to remain focused on long-term goals. As always, but especially in these trying times, we are here to support our shareholders, and we thank you for your continued investment and trust. Should you have any questions or would like to speak with us directly, please don’t hesitate to call (800) 966-4354 or email us at fundsinfo@hennessyfunds.com.
 
Best regards,
 
 
Neil J. Hennessy
President and Chief Investment Officer
 

 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500® Index are commonly used to measure the performance of U.S. stocks. The S&P 500® Energy Sector Index is an index that comprises those companies included in the S&P 500 that are classified as members of the GICS energy sector. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 








HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
3

Performance Overview (Unaudited)
 
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR PERIODS ENDED APRIL 30, 2020
 
 
Six
One
Five
Ten
 
Months(1)
Year
Years
Years
Hennessy Small Cap Financial Fund –
       
  Investor Class (HSFNX)
-27.19%
-26.55%
0.31%
2.68%
Hennessy Small Cap Financial Fund –
       
  Institutional Class (HISFX)
-27.06%
-26.38%
0.68%
2.99%
Russell 2000® Financial
       
  Services Index
-26.36%
-24.18%
1.96%
6.64%
Russell 2000® Index
-15.47%
-16.39%
2.88%
7.69%

Expense ratios:  1.59% (Investor Class); 1.24% (Institutional Class)
 
(1)
Periods of less than one year are not annualized.

 

 




_______________
 
Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance table does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com. Performance for periods on or prior to October 26, 2012, is that of the FBR Small Cap Financial Fund.
 
The Russell 2000® Financial Services Index is a subset of the Russell 2000® Index that measures the performance of the securities classified in the financial services sector of the small-capitalization U.S. equity market. The Russell 2000® Index comprises the smallest 2,000 companies in the Russell 3000® Index based on market capitalization, representing approximately 8% of the Russell 3000® Index in terms of total market capitalization. One cannot invest directly in an index. These indices are used herein for comparative purposes in accordance with SEC regulations.
 
Frank Russell Company (“Russell”) is the source and owner of the trademarks, service marks, and copyrights related to the Russell Indexes. Russell® is a trademark of Russell. Neither Russell nor its licensors accept any liability for any errors or omissions in the Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data and no party may rely on any Russell Indexes or Russell ratings or underlying data contained in this communication. No further distribution of Russell data is permitted without Russell’s express written consent. Russell does not promote, sponsor, or endorse the content of this communication.
 
The expense ratios presented are from the most recent prospectus. The expense ratios for the current reporting period are available in the Financial Highlights section of this report.
 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
4

 PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Financial Statements
 
 Schedule of Investments as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

HENNESSY SMALL CAP FINANCIAL FUND
(% of Net Assets)

 

 
TOP TEN HOLDINGS (EXCLUDING MONEY MARKET FUNDS)
% NET ASSETS
PennyMac Financial Services, Inc.
5.25%
First Midwest Bancorp, Inc.
5.15%
Meridian Bancorp, Inc.
5.13%
Hingham Institution for Savings
4.84%
First BanCorp.
4.71%
Opus Bank
4.71%
Wintrust Financial Corp.
4.64%
Webster Financial Corp.
4.47%
Synovus Financial Corp.
4.16%
Lakeland Bancorp, Inc.
4.07%


 
Note: For presentation purposes, the Fund has grouped some of the industry categories. For purposes of categorizing securities for compliance with Section 8(b)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Fund uses more specific industry classifications.
 
The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) was developed by and is the exclusive property and a service mark of MSCI, Inc. and Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC. It has been licensed for use by the Hennessy Funds.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
5


COMMON STOCKS – 99.39%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Financials – 96.62%
                 
Associated Banc-Corp.
   
145,000
   
$
2,050,300
     
3.24
%
Atlantic Union Bankshares Corp.
   
65,000
     
1,551,550
     
2.46
%
Banc of California, Inc.
   
185,000
     
1,927,700
     
3.05
%
Berkshire Hills Bancorp, Inc.
   
105,000
     
1,789,200
     
2.83
%
Brookline Bancorp, Inc.
   
90,000
     
918,900
     
1.45
%
Cadence BanCorp
   
255,000
     
1,688,100
     
2.67
%
CIT Group, Inc.
   
50,000
     
949,000
     
1.50
%
Columbia Financial, Inc. (a)
   
55,000
     
778,525
     
1.23
%
ConnectOne Bancorp, Inc.
   
160,000
     
2,390,400
     
3.78
%
First BanCorp. (b)
   
510,000
     
2,973,300
     
4.71
%
First Midwest Bancorp, Inc.
   
220,000
     
3,251,600
     
5.15
%
Green Dot Corp., Class A (a)
   
20,000
     
610,000
     
0.97
%
HarborOne Bancorp, Inc. (a)
   
125,000
     
1,002,500
     
1.59
%
Hingham Institution for Savings
   
20,000
     
3,060,400
     
4.84
%
HomeTrust Bancshares, Inc.
   
120,000
     
1,844,400
     
2.92
%
Independent Bank Corp.
   
22,500
     
1,640,025
     
2.60
%
Kearny Financial Corp. of Maryland
   
80,000
     
744,000
     
1.18
%
Lakeland Bancorp, Inc.
   
230,000
     
2,573,700
     
4.07
%
Meridian Bancorp, Inc.
   
275,000
     
3,239,500
     
5.13
%
Nicolet Bankshares, Inc. (a)
   
35,000
     
1,925,700
     
3.05
%
OceanFirst Financial Corp.
   
45,000
     
758,250
     
1.20
%
Opus Bank
   
155,000
     
2,979,100
     
4.71
%
PennyMac Financial Services, Inc.
   
110,000
     
3,318,700
     
5.25
%
People’s United Financial, Inc.
   
150,000
     
1,903,500
     
3.01
%
Sterling Bancorp
   
135,000
     
1,664,550
     
2.63
%
Synovus Financial Corp.
   
125,000
     
2,626,250
     
4.16
%
Texas Capital Bancshares, Inc. (a)
   
72,500
     
2,014,050
     
3.19
%
Umpqua Holdings Corp.
   
165,000
     
2,066,625
     
3.27
%
United Community Banks, Inc.
   
50,000
     
1,057,250
     
1.67
%
Webster Financial Corp.
   
100,000
     
2,825,000
     
4.47
%
Wintrust Financial Corp.
   
70,000
     
2,933,000
     
4.64
%
 
           
61,055,075
     
96.62
%


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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
6

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

COMMON STOCKS
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Information Technology – 2.77%
                 
Alliance Data Systems Corp.
   
35,000
   
$
1,752,450
     
2.77
%
 
                       
Total Common Stocks
                       
  (Cost $68,763,156)
           
62,807,525
     
99.39
%
 
                       
SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 0.73%
                       
                         
Money Market Funds – 0.73%
                       
First American Government Obligations Fund,
                       
  Institutional Class, 0.25% (c)
   
460,107
     
460,107
     
0.73
%
 
                       
Total Short-Term Investments
                       
  (Cost $460,107)
           
460,107
     
0.73
%
 
                       
Total Investments
                       
  (Cost $69,223,263) – 100.12%
           
63,267,632
     
100.12
%
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets – (0.12)%
           
(73,966
)
   
(0.12
)%
 
                       
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
         
$
63,193,666
     
100.00
%

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

(a)
Non-income-producing security.
(b)
U.S.-traded security of a foreign corporation.
(c)
The rate listed is the fund’s seven-day yield as of April 30, 2020.


Summary of Fair Value Exposure as of April 30, 2020
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s net assets as of April 30, 2020 (see Note 3 in the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements):
 
Common Stocks
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Financials
 
$
61,055,075
   
$
   
$
   
$
61,055,075
 
Information Technology
   
1,752,450
     
     
     
1,752,450
 
Total Common Stocks
 
$
62,807,525
   
$
   
$
   
$
62,807,525
 
Short-Term Investments
                               
Money Market Funds
 
$
460,107
   
$
   
$
   
$
460,107
 
Total Short-Term Investments
 
$
460,107
   
$
   
$
   
$
460,107
 
Total Investments
 
$
63,267,632
   
$
   
$
   
$
63,267,632
 



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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
7

Financial Statements

 Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments in securities, at value (cost $69,223,263)
 
$
63,267,632
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
42,445
 
Receivable for fund shares sold
   
17,958
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
18,662
 
Total assets
   
63,346,697
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable for fund shares redeemed
   
46,785
 
Payable to advisor
   
42,560
 
Payable to administrator
   
11,192
 
Payable to auditor
   
11,459
 
Accrued distribution fees
   
7,260
 
Accrued service fees
   
4,080
 
Accrued trustees fees
   
5,916
 
Accrued expenses and other payables
   
23,779
 
Total liabilities
   
153,031
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
63,193,666
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSISTS OF:
       
Capital stock
 
$
75,941,941
 
Accumulated deficit
   
(12,748,275
)
Total net assets
 
$
63,193,666
 
         
NET ASSETS:
       
Investor Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
54,583,397
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
3,590,628
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
15.20
 
         
Institutional Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
8,610,269
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
955,224
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
9.01
 


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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
8

 STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES/STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Operations for the six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Dividend income(1)
 
$
961,129
 
Interest income
   
27,603
 
Total investment income
   
988,732
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (See Note 5)
   
411,827
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
74,268
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
6,762
 
Distribution fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
56,099
 
Administration, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees (See Note 5)
   
52,227
 
Service fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
37,399
 
Federal and state registration fees
   
24,826
 
Compliance expense (See Note 5)
   
13,462
 
Audit fees
   
11,463
 
Trustees’ fees and expenses
   
8,742
 
Reports to shareholders
   
8,647
 
Legal fees
   
640
 
Other expenses
   
8,382
 
Total expenses
   
714,744
 
NET INVESTMENT INCOME
 
$
273,988
 
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
       
Net realized loss on investments
 
$
(5,998,474
)
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(19,807,124
)
Net loss on investments
   
(25,805,598
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(25,531,610
)







 
(1)
Net of foreign taxes withheld of $5,250.

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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
9









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HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
10

 STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

Financial Statements
 
 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
April 30, 2020
   
Year Ended
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
October 31, 2019
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment income
 
$
273,988
   
$
711,118
 
Net realized gain (loss) on investments
   
(5,998,474
)
   
4,257,379
 
Net change in unrealized
               
  appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(19,807,124
)
   
849,952
 
Net increase (decrease) in net assets
               
  resulting from operations
   
(25,531,610
)
   
5,818,449
 
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
Distributable earnings – Investor Class
   
(3,014,018
)
   
(7,622,114
)
Distributable earnings – Institutional Class
   
(963,721
)
   
(2,386,465
)
Total distributions
   
(3,977,739
)
   
(10,008,579
)
                 
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
               
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Investor Class
   
755,467
     
7,715,297
 
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Institutional Class
   
1,310,729
     
5,904,217
 
Dividends reinvested – Investor Class
   
2,952,871
     
7,476,720
 
Dividends reinvested – Institutional Class
   
935,074
     
2,340,222
 
Cost of shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(14,032,670
)
   
(45,169,956
)
Cost of shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(9,318,453
)
   
(21,638,108
)
Net decrease in net assets derived
               
  from capital share transactions
   
(17,396,982
)
   
(43,371,608
)
TOTAL DECREASE IN NET ASSETS
   
(46,906,331
)
   
(47,561,738
)
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
110,099,997
     
157,661,735
 
End of period
 
$
63,193,666
   
$
110,099,997
 
                 
CHANGES IN SHARES OUTSTANDING:
               
Shares sold – Investor Class
   
46,241
     
400,923
 
Shares sold – Institutional Class
   
110,240
     
477,781
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Investor Class
   
136,924
     
373,487
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Institutional Class
   
72,426
     
195,642
 
Shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(729,057
)
   
(2,193,955
)
Shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(832,075
)
   
(1,754,857
)
Net decrease in shares outstanding
   
(1,195,301
)
   
(2,500,979
)


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
11

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Investor Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
21.60
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income (loss)
   
0.05
(1) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(5.70
)
Total from investment operations
   
(5.65
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.09
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(0.66
)
Total distributions
   
(0.75
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
15.20
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-27.19
%(3)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
54.58
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.63
%(4)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets
   
0.53
%(4)
Portfolio turnover rate(5)
   
42
%(3)









(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Amount is between $(0.005) and $0.005.
(3)
Not annualized.
(4)
Annualized.
(5)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
12

 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INVESTOR CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
21.96
   
$
26.02
   
$
23.48
   
$
23.81
   
$
24.13
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.10
(1) 
   
0.03
     
(0.04
)
   
0.10
     
0.03
(1) 
 
0.93
     
(2.12
)
   
5.83
     
1.20
     
2.99
 
 
1.03
     
(2.09
)
   
5.79
     
1.30
     
3.02
 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.07
)
   
0.00
(2) 
   
(0.06
)
   
(0.03
)
   
 
 
(1.32
)
   
(1.97
)
   
(3.19
)
   
(1.60
)
   
(3.34
)
 
(1.39
)
   
(1.97
)
   
(3.25
)
   
(1.63
)
   
(3.34
)
$
21.60
   
$
21.96
   
$
26.02
   
$
23.48
   
$
23.81
 
                                     
 
5.27
%
   
-8.79
%
   
25.03
%
   
5.80
%
   
14.51
%
                                     
                                     
$
89.36
   
$
122.00
   
$
174.01
   
$
132.09
   
$
218.50
 
 
1.58
%
   
1.54
%
   
1.52
%
   
1.54
%
   
1.50
%
 
0.47
%
   
0.11
%
   
(0.06
)%
   
0.38
%
   
0.17
%
 
46
%
   
28
%
   
46
%
   
46
%
   
49
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
13

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Institutional Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
12.92
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income
   
0.05
(1) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(3.38
)
Total from investment operations
   
(3.33
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net investment income
   
(0.19
)
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(0.39
)
Total distributions
   
(0.58
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
9.01
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-27.06
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
8.61
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets
   
1.25
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income to average net assets
   
0.93
%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(4)
   
42
%(2)








 
(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
14

 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INSTITUTIONAL CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
13.28
   
$
15.69
   
$
14.23
   
$
14.39
   
$
14.53
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.10
(1) 
   
0.07
     
0.02
     
0.09
     
0.06
(1) 
 
0.54
     
(1.27
)
   
3.56
     
0.75
     
1.81
 
 
0.64
     
(1.20
)
   
3.58
     
0.84
     
1.87
 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.18
)
   
(0.02
)
   
(0.17
)
   
(0.04
)
   
 
 
(0.82
)
   
(1.19
)
   
(1.95
)
   
(0.96
)
   
(2.01
)
 
(1.00
)
   
(1.21
)
   
(2.12
)
   
(1.00
)
   
(2.01
)
$
12.92
   
$
13.28
   
$
15.69
   
$
14.23
   
$
14.39
 
                                     
 
5.57
%
   
-8.42
%
   
25.56
%
   
6.22
%
   
14.91
%
                                     
                                     
$
20.74
   
$
35.66
   
$
37.92
   
$
21.27
   
$
25.94
 
 
1.23
%
   
1.15
%
   
1.15
%
   
1.17
%
   
1.17
%
 
0.84
%
   
0.51
%
   
0.30
%
   
0.72
%
   
0.48
%
 
46
%
   
28
%
   
46
%
   
46
%
   
49
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
15

Financial Statements

 Notes to the Financial Statements April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

1).  ORGANIZATION
 
The Hennessy Small Cap Financial Fund (the “Fund”) is a series of Hennessy Funds Trust (the “Trust”), which was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 17, 1992. The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The investment objective of the Fund is capital appreciation. The Fund is a non-diversified fund.
 
The Fund offers Investor Class and Institutional Class shares. Each class of shares differs principally in its respective 12b-1 distribution and service, shareholder servicing, and sub-transfer agent expenses. There are no sales charges. Each class has identical rights to earnings, assets, and voting privileges, except for class-specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only one class.
 
As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies.”
 
2).  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of the financial statements. These policies conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
 
a).
Securities Valuation – All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value, as described in Note 3.
   
b).
Federal Income Taxes – No provision for federal income taxes or excise taxes has been made because the Fund has elected to be taxed as a regulated investment company and intends to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders and otherwise comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies. Net investment income/loss and realized gains/losses for federal income tax purposes may differ from those reported in the financial statements because of temporary book and tax basis differences. Temporary differences are primarily the result of the treatment of wash sales for tax reporting purposes. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax benefits, if any, in the Statement of Operations as an income tax expense. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income to shareholders for tax purposes. The Fund may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes.
   
c).
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – The Fund has accounting policies regarding recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The tax returns of the Fund for the prior three fiscal years are open for examination. The Fund has reviewed all open tax years in major jurisdictions and concluded that there is no impact on the Fund’s net assets and no tax liability resulting from unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain income tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The Fund’s major tax jurisdictions are U.S. federal and Delaware.


 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
16

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

d).
Income and Expenses – Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date or as soon as information is available to the Fund. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recognized on an accrual basis. Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received. The Fund is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to its portfolio, such as advisory, administration, and certain shareholder service fees. Income, expenses (other than expenses attributable to a specific class), and realized and unrealized gains/losses on investments are allocated to each class of shares based on such class’s net assets.
   
e).
Distributions to Shareholders – Dividends from net investment income for the Fund, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December. Distributions of net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December.
   
f).
Security Transactions – Investment and shareholder transactions are recorded on the trade date. The Fund determines the realized gain/loss from an investment transaction by comparing the original cost of the security lot sold with the net sale proceeds. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted or amortized, respectively, over the life of each such security.
   
g).
Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported change in net assets during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
h).
Share Valuation – The net asset value (“NAV”) per share of the Fund is calculated by dividing (i) the total value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by (ii) the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest $0.01. The Fund’s shares will not be priced on days the New York Stock Exchange is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for the Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.
 
3).  SECURITIES VALUATION
 
The Fund follows fair value accounting standards that establish an authoritative definition of fair value and set out a hierarchy for measuring fair value. These standards require additional disclosures about the various inputs and valuation techniques used to develop the measurements of fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs during the period. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
 
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments that the Fund has the ability to access at the date of measurement.
     
 
Level 2 –
Other significant observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar instruments, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets, such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk curves, default rates, and similar data).
     
 
Level 3 –
Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability based on the best available information) when observable inputs are unavailable.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
17

The following is a description of the valuation techniques applied to the Fund’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
Equity Securities – Equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, foreign-issued common stocks, exchange-traded funds, closed-end mutual funds, partnerships, rights, and real estate investment trusts, that are traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is readily available will generally be valued at the last sales price as reported by the primary exchange on which the securities are listed. Securities listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) will generally be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may differ from the last sales price reported. Securities traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is not readily available will generally be valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Securities traded on foreign exchanges generally are not valued at the same time the Fund calculates its NAV because most foreign markets close well before such time. The earlier close of most foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim. In certain circumstances, it may be determined that a foreign security needs to be fair valued because it appears that the value of the security might have been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the market in which the security is principally traded, but before the time the Fund calculates its NAV, such as by a development that affects an entire market or region (e.g., a weather-related event) or a potentially global development (e.g., a terrorist attack that may be expected to have an effect on investor expectations worldwide).
   
 
Registered Investment Companies – Investments in open-end registered investment companies, commonly referred to as mutual funds, generally are priced at the ending NAV provided by the applicable mutual fund’s service agent and will be classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Debt Securities – Debt securities, including corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and U.S. government agency issues, are generally valued at market on the basis of valuations furnished by an independent pricing service that utilizes both dealer-supplied valuations and formula-based techniques. The pricing service may consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, and fundamental data relating to the issuer. In addition, the model may incorporate observable market data, such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued primarily using dealer quotations. These securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Short-Term Securities – Short-term equity investments, including money market funds, are valued in the manner specified above. Short-term debt investments with an original term to maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value. If the original term to maturity of a short-term debt investment exceeded 60 days, then the values as of the 61st day prior to maturity are amortized. Amortized cost is not used if its use would be inappropriate due to credit or other impairments of the issuer, in which case the security’s fair value would be determined, as described below. Short-term securities are generally classified in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the inputs used and market activity levels for specific securities.
 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
18

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board”) has adopted fair value pricing procedures that are followed when a price for a security is not readily available or if a significant event has occurred that indicates the closing price of a security no longer represents the true value of that security. Fair value pricing determinations are made in good faith in accordance with these procedures. There are numerous criteria that will be given consideration in determining a fair value of a security, such as the trading volume of a security and markets, the values of other similar securities, and news events with direct bearing on a security or markets. Fair value pricing results in an estimated price for a security that reflects the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive in a current sale. Depending on the relative significance of the valuation inputs, these securities may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
The fair value of foreign securities may be determined with the assistance of a pricing service using correlations between the movement of prices of such securities and indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators, such as closing market prices of relevant American Depositary Receipts or futures contracts. Using fair value pricing means that the Fund’s NAV reflects the affected portfolio securities’ values as determined by the Board or its designee, pursuant to the fair value pricing procedures adopted by the Board, instead of being determined by the market. Using a fair value pricing methodology to price a foreign security may result in a value that is different from such foreign security’s most recent closing price and from the value used by other investment companies to calculate their NAVs. Such securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Because the Fund may invest in foreign securities, the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities may change on days when you will not be able to purchase or redeem your shares.
 
The Board has delegated day-to-day valuation matters to the Valuation and Liquidity Committee comprising representatives from Hennessy Advisors, Inc., the Fund’s investment advisor (the “Advisor”). The function of the Valuation and Liquidity Committee is to value securities where current and reliable market quotations are not readily available. All actions taken by the Valuation and Liquidity Committee are reviewed by the Board.
 
The Fund has performed an analysis of all existing investments to determine the significance and character of all inputs to their fair value determinations. Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Fund’s investments. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. Details related to the fair value hierarchy of the Fund’s securities as of April 30, 2020, are included in the Schedule of Investments.
 
4).  INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding government and short-term investments) for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $36,249,168 and $47,507,541, respectively.
 
There were no purchases or sales/maturities of long-term U.S. government securities for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Fund is permitted to purchase or sell securities from or to another fund in the Hennessy Funds family of funds (collectively, the “Hennessy Funds”) under specified conditions outlined in procedures adopted by the Board. The procedures have been designed to ensure that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Hennessy Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not engage in purchases or sales of securities pursuant to Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
19

5).  INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
The Advisor provides the Fund with investment advisory services under an Investment Advisory Agreement. The Advisor furnishes all investment advice, office space, and facilities and most of the personnel needed by the Fund. As compensation for its services, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee from the Fund. The fee is based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate of 0.90%. The net investment advisory fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Board has approved a Shareholder Servicing Agreement for Investor Class shares of the Fund, which was instituted to compensate the Advisor for the non-investment advisory services it provides to the Fund. The Shareholder Servicing Agreement provides for a monthly fee paid to the Advisor at an annual rate of 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund attributable to Investor Class shares. The shareholder service fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has adopted a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that authorizes payments in connection with the distribution of the Fund’s shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares. Even though the authorized rate is up to 0.25%, the Fund is currently only using up to 0.15% of its average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares for such purpose. Amounts paid under the plan may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares, including, but not limited to, advertising, shareholder account servicing, printing and mailing of prospectuses to other than current shareholders, printing and mailing of sales literature, and compensation for sales and marketing activities or to financial institutions and others, such as dealers and distributors. The distribution fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into agreements with various brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries in connection with the sale of shares of the Fund. The agreements provide for periodic payments of sub-transfer agent expenses by the Fund to the brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries for providing certain shareholder maintenance services. These shareholder services include the pre-processing and quality control of new accounts, shareholder correspondence, answering customer inquiries regarding account status, and facilitating shareholder telephone transactions. The sub-transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (“Fund Services”) provides the Fund with administrative, accounting, and transfer agent services. As administrator, Fund Services is responsible for activities such as (i) preparing various federal and state regulatory filings, reports, and returns for the Fund, (ii) preparing reports and materials to be supplied to the Board, (iii) monitoring the activities of the Fund’s custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, and (iv) coordinating the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviewing the Fund’s expense accruals. U.S. Bank N.A., an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Fund’s custodian. The servicing agreements between the Trust and Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. contain a fee schedule that is inclusive of administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. The administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
20

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

Quasar Distributors, LLC (“Quasar”) acts as the Fund’s principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Fund’s shares. Quasar was an affiliate of Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. through March 30, 2020. Effective March 31, 2020, Foreside Financial Group, LLC (“Foreside”) acquired Quasar from Fund Services. As a result of the acquisition, Quasar became a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of Foreside and is no longer affiliated with Fund Services or U.S. Bank N.A. The Board approved a new Distribution Agreement to enable Quasar to continue serving as the Fund’s distributor.
 
The officers of the Fund are affiliated with the Advisor. With the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer and the Senior Compliance Officer, such officers receive no compensation from the Fund for serving in their respective roles. The Fund, along with the other Hennessy Funds, makes reimbursement payments on an equal basis to the Advisor for a portion of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Chief Compliance Officer and for all of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Senior Compliance Officer. The compliance fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
6).  GUARANTEES AND INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Hennessy Funds’ organizational documents, their officers and trustees are indemnified by the Hennessy Funds against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Hennessy Funds. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Hennessy Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Fund expects the risk of loss to be remote.
 
7).  LINE OF CREDIT
 
The Fund has an uncommitted line of credit with the other Hennessy Funds in the amount of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 or (ii) 33.33% of each Hennessy Fund’s net assets, or 30% for the Hennessy Gas Utility Fund and 10% for the Hennessy Balanced Fund, intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The credit facility is with the Hennessy Funds’ custodian bank, U.S. Bank N.A. Borrowings under this arrangement bear interest at the bank’s prime rate and are secured by all of the Fund’s assets (as to its own borrowings only). During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not have any borrowings outstanding under the line of credit.
 
8).  FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund’s most recent fiscal year end, the components of accumulated earnings (losses) for income tax purposes were as follows:
 
     
Investments
 
 
Cost of investments for tax purposes
 
$
94,969,593
 
 
Gross tax unrealized appreciation
 
$
17,543,168
 
 
Gross tax unrealized depreciation
   
(4,227,881
)
 
Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)
 
$
13,315,287
 
 
Undistributed ordinary income
 
$
166,556
 
 
Undistributed long-term capital gains
   
3,279,231
 
 
Total distributable earnings
 
$
3,445,787
 
 
Other accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
 
 
Total accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
16,761,074
 
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
21

The difference between book-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation (as shown above) is attributable primarily to wash sales.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund had no tax basis capital losses to offset future capital gains.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund did not defer, on a tax basis, any late-year ordinary losses. Late-year ordinary losses are net ordinary losses incurred after December 31, 2018, but within the taxable year, that are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year.
 
During fiscal year 2020 (year to date) and fiscal year 2019, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund was as follows:
 
     
Six Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
     
April 30, 2020
   
October 31, 2019
 
 
Ordinary income(1)
 
$
698,496
   
$
848,924
 
 
Long-term capital gain
   
3,279,243
     
9,159,655
 
     
$
3,977,739
   
$
10,008,579
 

 
(1)  Ordinary income includes short-term capital gain.
 
9).  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO PERIOD END
 
Management has evaluated the Fund’s related events and transactions that occurred subsequent to April 30, 2020, through the date of issuance of the Fund’s financial statements. Management has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.
 






 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
22

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS/EXPENSE EXAMPLE

Expense Example (Unaudited)
April 30, 2020


As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur ongoing costs, including management fees, service fees, and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from November 1, 2019, through April 30, 2020.
 
Actual Expenses
The first line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. Although the Fund charges no sales loads or transaction fees, you will be assessed fees for outgoing wire transfers, returned checks and stop payment orders at prevailing rates charged by U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, the Fund’s transfer agent. If you request that a redemption be made by wire transfer, currently a $15 fee is charged by the Fund’s transfer agent. IRA accounts will be charged a $15 annual maintenance fee. The example below includes, but is not limited to, management fees, shareholder servicing fees, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. However, the example below does not include portfolio trading commissions and related expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line of the table under the “Investor Class” or “Institutional Class” headings in the column entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only. Therefore, the second line of the table under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
 

 

 

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
23

 
Beginning
Ending
 
 
Account Value
Account Value
Expenses Paid
 
November 1, 2019
April 30, 2020
During Period(1)
Investor Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   728.10
$7.00
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,016.76
$8.17
       
Institutional Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   729.40
$5.37
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,018.65
$6.27

(1)
Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio of 1.63% for Investor Class shares or 1.25% for Institutional Class shares, as applicable, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 days (to reflect the half-year period).













 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
24

 EXPENSE EXAMPLE — ELECTRONIC DELIVERY

How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s Proxy
Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
 
A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge (1) by calling 1-800-966-4354, (2) on the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-policy, or (3) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record is available without charge on both the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-record and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov no later than August 31 for the prior 12 months ending June 30.
 
 
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
 
The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on request by calling 1-800-966-4354.
 
 
Federal Tax Distribution Information (Unaudited)
 
For fiscal year 2019, certain dividends paid by the Fund may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 23.8%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was 100.00%.
 
For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions that qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction for fiscal year 2019 was 100.00%.
 
The percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that were designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Section 871(k)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, for the Fund was 0.00%.
 
 
Important Notice Regarding Delivery
of Shareholder Documents
 
To help keep the Fund’s costs as low as possible, we generally deliver a single copy of shareholder reports, proxy statements, and prospectuses to shareholders who share an address and have the same last name. This process does not apply to account statements. You may request an individual copy of a shareholder document at any time. If you would like to receive separate mailings of shareholder documents, please call U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124, and individual delivery will begin within 30 days of your request. If your account is held through a financial institution or other intermediary, please contact such intermediary directly to request individual delivery.
 
 
Electronic Delivery
 
The Funds offer shareholders the option to receive account statements, prospectuses, tax forms, and shareholder reports online. To sign up for eDelivery, please visit www.hennessyfunds.com/account. You may change your delivery preference at any time by visiting our website or calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
25

Board Approval of Investment Advisory
Agreement
 
At its meeting on March 12, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board,” and the members thereof, the “Trustees”) unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement of the Fund with Hennessy Advisors, Inc. (the “Advisor”). As part of the process of approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees reviewed their fiduciary duties and the relevant factors for them to consider with respect to approving the advisory agreement. In addition, the Trustees who are not deemed “interested persons” (as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Fund (the “Independent Trustees”) met in executive session to discuss the approval of the advisory agreement.
 
In advance of the meeting, the Advisor sent detailed information to the Trustees to assist them in their evaluation of the advisory agreement. This information included, but was not limited to, the following:
 
 
(1)
A memorandum from outside legal counsel that described the fiduciary duties of the Board with respect to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement and the relevant factors for consideration;
     
 
(2)
A memorandum from the Advisor that listed the factors relevant to the Board’s approval of the continuation of the advisory agreement and also referenced the documents that had been provided to help the Board assess each such factor;
     
 
(3)
An inventory of the services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(4)
A written discussion of economies of scale;
     
 
(5)
A summary of the key terms of the advisory agreement;
     
 
(6)
A recent Fund fact sheet, which included performance information over various periods;
     
 
(7)
A peer expense comparison of the net expense ratio and investment advisory fee of the Fund; and
     
 
(8)
The Advisor’s financial statements from its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q.

All of the factors discussed were considered as a whole by the Trustees and by the Independent Trustees meeting in executive session. The factors were viewed in their totality by the Trustees, with no single factor being the principal or determinative factor in the Trustees’ determination of whether to approve the continuation of the advisory agreement. The Trustees recognized that the management and fee arrangements for the Fund are the result of years of review and discussion between the Independent Trustees and the Advisor, that certain aspects of such arrangements may receive greater scrutiny in some years than in others, and that the Trustees’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of these same arrangements and information received during the course of the year and in prior years.
 
Prior to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees in executive session, considered, among other items:
 
 
(1)
The nature and quality of the advisory services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(2)
A comparison of the fees and expenses of the Fund to other similar funds;
     
 
(3)
Whether economies of scale are recognized by the Fund;

 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
26

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

 
(4)
The costs and profitability of the Fund to the Advisor;
     
 
(5)
The performance of the Fund; and
     
 
(6)
Any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an investment advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee).

The material considerations and determinations of the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, were as follows:
 
 
(1)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Advisor. Based on this review, the Trustees concluded that the Advisor provides high-quality services to the Fund and noted that their overall confidence in the Advisor was high. The Trustees also concluded that they were satisfied with the nature, extent, and quality of the advisory services provided to the Fund by the Advisor and that the nature and extent of the services provided by the Advisor were appropriate to assure that the Fund’s operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

   
(a)
The Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund. In this capacity, the Advisor does the following:

     
(i)
manages the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, including the purchase, retention, and disposition of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions;
         
     
(ii)
seeks best execution for the Fund’s portfolio;
         
     
(iii)
manages the use of soft dollars for the Fund; and
         
     
(iv)
manages proxy voting for the Fund.

   
(b)
The Advisor performs a daily reconciliation of portfolio positions and cash for the Fund.
       
   
(c)
The Advisor monitors the liquidity of each Fund.
       
   
(d)
The Advisor monitors the Fund’s compliance with its investment objectives and restrictions.
       
   
(e)
The Advisor monitors compliance with federal securities laws, maintains a compliance program (including a code of ethics), conducts ongoing reviews of the compliance programs of the Fund’s service providers, as feasible, conducts on-site visits to the Fund’s service providers, monitors incidents of abusive trading practices, reviews Fund expense accruals, payments, and fixed expense ratios, evaluates insurance providers for fidelity bond, D&O/E&O insurance, and cybersecurity insurance coverage, manages regulatory examination compliance and responses, conducts employee compliance training, reviews reports provided by service providers, and maintains books and records.
       
   
(f)
The Advisor oversees service providers that provide accounting, administration, distribution, transfer agency, custodial, sales, marketing, public relations, audit, information technology, and legal services to the Fund.
       
   
(g)
The Advisor maintains in-house marketing and distribution departments on behalf of the Fund.
       
   
(h)
The Advisor is actively involved with preparing regulatory filings for the Fund, including writing and annually updating the Fund’s prospectus and related documents.

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
27

   
(i)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Advisor prepares a written summary of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(j)
The Advisor oversees distribution of the Fund through third-party broker/dealers and independent financial institutions such as Charles Schwab, Inc., Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and Pershing. The Advisor participates in “no transaction fee” (“NTF”) programs with these companies on behalf of the Fund, which allow customers to purchase the Fund through third-party distribution channels without paying a transaction fee. The Advisor compensates, in part, a number of these third-party providers of NTF programs out of its own revenues.
       
   
(k)
The Advisor pays the incentive compensation of the Fund’s compliance officers and employs other staff, such as legal, marketing, national accounts, distribution, sales, administrative, and trading oversight personnel, as well as management executives.
       
   
(l)
The Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board.
       
   
(m)
The Advisor prepares or reviews all Board materials, frequently presents to the Board and leads Board discussions, prepares or reviews all meeting minutes, and arranges for Board training and education.

 
(2)
The Trustees compared the performance of the Fund to benchmark indices over various periods and also noted that the Trustees review and discuss reports comparing the investment performance of the Fund to various indices at each quarterly Board meeting. Based on such information, the Trustees determined that the Advisor manages the Fund in a manner materially consistent with its stated investment objective and style. The Trustees concluded that the performance of the Fund over various periods warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(3)
The Trustees reviewed the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of the Fund compared to other funds similar in asset size and investment objective to the Fund using data from Morningstar. As part of the discussion with management, the Trustees ensured that they understood and were comfortable with the criteria used to determine the mutual funds included in the Morningstar categories for purposes of the materials considered at the meeting. The Trustees determined that the advisory fee and overall expense ratio of the Fund falls within the range of the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of other comparable funds and concluded that they are reasonable and warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(4)
The Trustees also considered whether the Advisor was realizing economies of scale that it should share with the Fund’s shareholders. The Trustees noted that the assets of the Fund had declined over the prior year. In addition, the Trustees noted that many of the expenses incurred to manage the Fund are asset-based fees, so the Advisor does not realize material economies of scale relating to those expenses as the assets of the Fund increase. For example, mutual fund platform fees increase as the Fund’s assets grow. The Trustees also considered the Advisor’s efforts to contain expenses through actions such as renegotiating service contracts, the Advisor’s significant marketing efforts to promote the Funds, the Advisor’s investments in personnel to manage the Funds, and the Advisor’s agreement to waive fees or lower its management fees in certain

 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
28

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

   
circumstances. The Trustees noted that it did not appear that the Advisor was realizing economies of scale at current asset levels and concluded that it would continue to monitor economies of scale in the future as circumstances changed.
     
 
(5)
The Trustees considered the profitability of the Advisor, including the impact of mutual fund platform fees on the Advisor’s profitability, and also considered the resources and revenues that the Advisor has put into managing and distributing the Fund. The Trustees then concluded that the profits of the Advisor are reasonable and not excessive when compared to profitability guidelines set forth in relevant court cases.
     
 
(6)
The Trustees considered the high level of professionalism and knowledge of the Advisor’s employees, along with a very low level of turnover, and concluded that this was beneficial to the Fund and its shareholders.
     
 
(7)
The Trustees considered any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee). The Trustees noted that the Advisor may derive ancillary benefits from, by way of example, its association with the Fund in the form of proprietary and third-party research products and services received from broker-dealers that execute portfolio trades for the Fund. The Trustees determined that any such products and services have been used for legitimate purposes relating to the Fund by providing assistance in the investment decision-making process. The Trustees concluded that any additional benefits realized by the Advisor from its relationship with the Fund were reasonable, which was based on, among other things, the Trustees’ finding that the research, analytical, statistical, and other information and services provided by brokers are merely supplemental to the Advisor’s own efforts in the performance of its duties under the advisory agreement.

After reviewing the materials and information provided at the meeting, as well as other information regularly provided at the Board’s quarterly meetings throughout the year regarding the quality of services provided by the Advisor, the performance of the Fund, expense information, brokerage commissions information, the adequacy and efficacy of the Advisor’s written policies and procedures, other regulatory compliance issues, trading information and related matters, and other factors that the Trustees deemed relevant, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the advisory agreement.
 





HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
29


For information, questions, or assistance, please call
The Hennessy Funds
1-800-966-4354 or 1-415-899-1555



INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
7250 Redwood Boulevard, Suite 200
Novato, California 94945

ADMINISTRATOR,
TRANSFER AGENT,
DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, &
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0701

CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

TRUSTEES
Neil J. Hennessy
Robert T. Doyle
J. Dennis DeSousa
Gerald P. Richardson

COUNSEL
Foley & Lardner LLP
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-5306

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
Two Liberty Place
50 South 16th Street, Suite 2900
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-2529

DISTRIBUTOR
Quasar Distributors, LLC
111 East Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 2200
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202




www.hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354

This report has been prepared for shareholders and may be distributed to
others only if preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.




SEMI-ANNUAL REPORT

APRIL 30, 2020




HENNESSY TECHNOLOGY FUND
 
Investor Class  HTECX
Institutional Class  HTCIX



IMPORTANT NOTICE REGARDING ELECTRONIC DELIVERY OF SHAREHOLDER REPORTS
 
Beginning on January 1, 2021, as permitted by regulations adopted by the Securities and Exchange Commission, paper copies of the annual and semi-annual reports will no longer be sent by mail unless you specifically request paper copies from the Hennessy Funds 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 have already elected to receive shareholder reports electronically, you will not be affected by this change and you need not take any action. You may elect to receive shareholder reports and other communications from the Hennessy Funds electronically by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com/account or by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950. If you own shares in a Fund through a financial intermediary, please contact your financial intermediary to make this election.
 
You may elect to receive paper copies of all future reports free of charge by calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or, if you own your shares through a financial intermediary, by contacting your financial intermediary. Your election to receive paper copies of reports will apply to all Funds in the Hennessy Funds family.
 


hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354









(This Page Intentionally Left Blank.)
 










Contents
 

 
Letter to Shareholders
2
Performance Overview
4
Financial Statements
 
Schedule of Investments
5
Statement of Assets and Liabilities
9
Statement of Operations
10
Statements of Changes in Net Assets
11
Financial Highlights
12
Notes to the Financial Statements
16
Expense Example
23
Proxy Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
25
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
25
Federal Tax Distribution Information
25
Important Notice Regarding Delivery of Shareholder Documents
25
Electronic Delivery
25
Board Approval of Investment Advisory Agreement
26











HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 


June 2020
 
Dear Hennessy Funds Shareholder:

 
First and foremost, I hope this communication finds you and your loved ones safe and healthy. In many ways, the COVID-19 pandemic has turned the world upside down in recent months, and we at Hennessy have joined the rest of the world in witnessing and experiencing its profound effect on public health, the global economy, and the everyday lives of people around the world.  In response to the crisis, we invoked our business continuity plan in mid-March to ensure a smooth transition to remote work for all of our employees, who have been working safely and productively from home. We want to assure our Hennessy Funds shareholders that our operations are uninterrupted and functioning normally.
 
The past six months have been marked by extremes. During the first half of the period from November 2019 through January 2020, the bull market, supported by strong corporate fundamentals, continued to move higher, and investors appeared focused on record-low unemployment and strong economic growth. In mid-February, the major U.S. market indices hit all-time highs, but then, within just a matter of weeks, lost over one-third of their values as the COVID-19 pandemic unfolded. Shelter-in-place and business closure orders rippled through the nation, causing initial unemployment claims to skyrocket to their highest number in history. The market then rallied back and posted double-digit positive returns in April.
 
For the six months ended April 30, 2020, on a total return basis, the Dow Jones Industrial Average was down 8.9% and the S&P 500® Index was down 3.2%. Small-cap and mid-cap stocks generally fared worse than large-cap stocks during the period, and the Financial sector was particularly hard hit as the Federal Reserve aggressively cut the federal funds rate in an effort to stabilize the economy. The Energy sector was crushed by both the sudden loss of demand due to COVID-19 and the oversupply caused by the surprise market-share battle between Russia and Saudi Arabia, and the S&P 500® Energy Sector Index ended the six-month period down over 30%.
 
The COVID-19 pandemic is an unprecedented event, and the duration and full extent of the economic impact is unknown. In the moment, there is always the concern that ‘this time is different.’ But, when you are able to look at past financial, political, and health crises with the benefit of 20/20 hindsight, history has demonstrated that our economy and financial markets have always rebounded and recovered eventually. If you look back to the last market downturn in 2008, economic fundamentals were weak compared to the market in 2020, where the overall underpinnings were – and are still – quite strong.  Publicly listed companies today have plenty of cash, with over $5 trillion on balance sheets of the S&P 500® companies alone, and I believe that most will survive and that many may emerge from the current crisis even stronger.
 

 
 

 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
2

 LETTER TO SHAREHOLDERS

We understand that this market volatility and economic uncertainty is jarring to many investors, and we continue to monitor events and the markets. We remain focused on managing our high-conviction portfolios for the long-term benefit of our shareholders, and we are confident in the time-tested strategies and rigorous research that led to their formation. We encourage shareholders to maintain a long-term investment horizon and to remain focused on long-term goals. As always, but especially in these trying times, we are here to support our shareholders, and we thank you for your continued investment and trust. Should you have any questions or would like to speak with us directly, please don’t hesitate to call (800) 966-4354 or email us at fundsinfo@hennessyfunds.com.
 
Best regards,
 
 
Neil J. Hennessy
President and Chief Investment Officer
 

 
Past performance does not guarantee future results.
 
Mutual fund investing involves risk. Principal loss is possible.
 
The Dow Jones Industrial Average and S&P 500® Index are commonly used to measure the performance of U.S. stocks. The S&P 500® Energy Sector Index is an index that comprises those companies included in the S&P 500 that are classified as members of the GICS energy sector. One cannot invest directly in an index.
 








HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
3

Performance Overview (Unaudited)
 
AVERAGE ANNUAL TOTAL RETURN FOR PERIODS ENDED APRIL 30, 2020
 
 
Six
One
Five
Ten
 
Months(1)
Year
Years
Years
Hennessy Technology Fund –
       
  Investor Class (HTECX)
-5.16%
 -4.50%
  8.16%
  7.84%
Hennessy Technology Fund –
       
  Institutional Class (HTCIX)
-5.07%
 -4.23%
  8.48%
  8.13%
NASDAQ Composite Index
 7.76%
10.99%
13.74%
15.05%
S&P 500® Index
-3.16%
  0.86%
  9.12%
11.69%

Expense ratios:
Gross 3.85%, Net 1.24%(2) (Investor Class);
 
Gross 3.48%, Net 0.99%(2) (Institutional Class)

(1)
Periods of less than one year are not annualized.
(2)
The Fund’s investment advisor has contractually agreed to limit expenses until February 28, 2021.


 

 

 

 

 
_______________
 
Performance data quoted represents past performance; past performance does not guarantee future results. The investment return and principal value of an investment will fluctuate so that an investor’s shares, when redeemed, may be worth more or less than their original cost. The performance table does not reflect the deduction of taxes that a shareholder would pay on Fund distributions or the redemption of Fund shares. Current performance of the Fund may be lower or higher than the performance quoted. Performance data current to the most recent month end may be obtained by visiting www.hennessyfunds.com. Performance for periods on or prior to October 26, 2012, is that of the FBR Technology Fund.
 
The NASDAQ Composite Index comprises all common stocks listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market. The S&P 500® Index is a capitalization-weighted index that is designed to represent the broad domestic economy through changes in the aggregate market value of 500 stocks across all major industries. One cannot invest directly in an index. These indices are used herein for comparative purposes in accordance with SEC regulations.
 
Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC is the source and owner of the S&P® and S&P 500® trademarks.
 
The expense ratios presented are from the most recent prospectus. The expense ratios for the current reporting period are available in the Financial Highlights section of this report.
 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
4

 PERFORMANCE OVERVIEW/SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS

Financial Statements
 
 Schedule of Investments as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

HENNESSY TECHNOLOGY FUND
(% of Net Assets)

 

 
TOP TEN HOLDINGS (EXCLUDING MONEY MARKET FUNDS)
% NET ASSETS
Paylocity Holding Corp.
1.98%
ServiceNow, Inc.
1.96%
Expedia Group, Inc.
1.95%
Qurate Retail Group, Inc.
1.85%
Dropbox, Inc.
1.82%
Amazon.com, Inc.
1.78%
DXC Technology Co.
1.78%
Sabre Corp.
1.75%
F5 Networks, Inc.
1.74%
SolarEdge Technologies, Inc.
1.73%

 
 
Note: For presentation purposes, the Fund has grouped some of the industry categories. For purposes of categorizing securities for compliance with Section 8(b)(1) of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, the Fund uses more specific industry classifications.
 
The Global Industry Classification Standard (GICS®) was developed by and is the exclusive property and a service mark of MSCI, Inc. and Standard & Poor’s Financial Services LLC. It has been licensed for use by the Hennessy Funds.

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
5


COMMON STOCKS – 96.39%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Communication Services – 3.33%
                 
Match Group, Inc. (a)
   
1,052
   
$
80,962
     
1.61
%
SciPlay Corp. (a)
   
8,151
     
85,993
     
1.72
%
 
           
166,955
     
3.33
%
                         
Consumer Discretionary – 8.43%
                       
Amazon.com, Inc. (a)
   
36
     
89,064
     
1.78
%
Booking Holdings, Inc. (a)
   
49
     
72,548
     
1.45
%
Despegar.com Corp. (a)(b)
   
10,208
     
70,435
     
1.40
%
Expedia Group, Inc.
   
1,378
     
97,810
     
1.95
%
Qurate Retail Group, Inc. (a)
   
11,499
     
92,625
     
1.85
%
 
           
422,482
     
8.43
%
                         
Information Technology – 84.63%
                       
Accenture PLC, Class A (b)
   
443
     
82,039
     
1.64
%
Adobe Systems, Inc. (a)
   
237
     
83,813
     
1.67
%
Apple, Inc.
   
291
     
85,496
     
1.71
%
Applied Materials, Inc.
   
1,577
     
78,345
     
1.56
%
Atlassian Corp. PLC (a)(b)
   
535
     
83,187
     
1.66
%
Automatic Data Processing, Inc.
   
526
     
77,159
     
1.54
%
Avnet, Inc.
   
2,575
     
77,301
     
1.54
%
Booz Allen Hamilton Holding Corp., Class A
   
977
     
71,751
     
1.43
%
Cardtronics PLC (a)(b)
   
3,420
     
78,318
     
1.56
%
CDW Corp.
   
713
     
79,000
     
1.58
%
Citrix Systems, Inc.
   
501
     
72,650
     
1.45
%
Dropbox, Inc. (a)
   
4,347
     
91,374
     
1.82
%
DXC Technology Co.
   
4,918
     
89,163
     
1.78
%
eGain Corp. (a)
   
10,267
     
85,216
     
1.70
%
Euronet Worldwide, Inc. (a)
   
828
     
75,977
     
1.52
%
EVERTEC, Inc. (b)
   
3,108
     
78,757
     
1.57
%
F5 Networks, Inc. (a)
   
625
     
87,037
     
1.74
%
Fair Isaac Corp. (a)
   
239
     
84,353
     
1.68
%
Fortinet, Inc. (a)
   
684
     
73,694
     
1.47
%
Hewlett Packard Enterprise Co.
   
7,136
     
71,788
     
1.43
%
Intel Corp.
   
1,230
     
73,775
     
1.47
%
International Business Machines Corp.
   
613
     
76,968
     
1.54
%
Intuit, Inc.
   
297
     
80,134
     
1.60
%
 

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
6

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS
 
COMMON STOCKS
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Information Technology (Continued)
                 
Jabil, Inc.
   
2,843
   
$
80,855
     
1.61
%
Kimball Electronics, Inc. (a)
   
6,076
     
82,148
     
1.64
%
KLA-Tencor Corp.
   
486
     
79,748
     
1.59
%
Lam Research Corp.
   
288
     
73,521
     
1.47
%
Mastercard, Inc., Class A
   
282
     
77,542
     
1.55
%
Maxim Integrated Products, Inc.
   
1,364
     
74,993
     
1.50
%
Methode Electronics, Inc.
   
2,747
     
82,465
     
1.65
%
Microsoft Corp.
   
440
     
78,852
     
1.57
%
NCR Corp. (a)
   
3,542
     
72,682
     
1.45
%
NetApp, Inc.
   
1,790
     
78,348
     
1.56
%
Oracle Corp.
   
1,409
     
74,635
     
1.49
%
Palo Alto Networks, Inc. (a)
   
414
     
81,355
     
1.62
%
Paychex, Inc.
   
1,084
     
74,276
     
1.48
%
Paylocity Holding Corp. (a)
   
867
     
99,297
     
1.98
%
QIWI PLC – ADR (b)
   
6,258
     
76,473
     
1.53
%
Qualcomm, Inc.
   
1,029
     
80,951
     
1.61
%
Sabre Corp.
   
12,071
     
87,756
     
1.75
%
Sanmina Corp. (a)
   
2,738
     
75,925
     
1.51
%
Seagate Technology PLC (b)
   
1,461
     
72,977
     
1.46
%
ServiceNow, Inc. (a)
   
280
     
98,431
     
1.96
%
ShotSpotter, Inc. (a)
   
2,496
     
85,788
     
1.71
%
SolarEdge Technologies, Inc. (a)
   
777
     
86,705
     
1.73
%
Synnex Corp.
   
938
     
82,131
     
1.64
%
Take-Two Interactive Software, Inc. (a)
   
614
     
74,325
     
1.48
%
Texas Instruments, Inc.
   
668
     
77,535
     
1.55
%
Ubiquiti Networks, Inc.
   
468
     
75,830
     
1.51
%
Visa, Inc., Class A
   
421
     
75,241
     
1.50
%
Vishay Intertechnology, Inc.
   
5,013
     
83,166
     
1.66
%
VMware, Inc., Class A (a)
   
580
     
76,282
     
1.52
%
Zebra Technologies Corp. (a)
   
368
     
84,515
     
1.69
%
 
           
4,242,043
     
84.63
%
Total Common Stocks
                       
  (Cost $4,433,227)
           
4,831,480
     
96.39
%


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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
7


SHORT-TERM INVESTMENTS – 3.61%
 
Number
         
% of
 
 
 
of Shares
   
Value
   
Net Assets
 
Money Market Funds – 3.61%
                 
First American Government Obligations Fund,
                 
  Institutional Class, 0.25% (c)
   
180,935
   
$
180,935
     
3.61
%
 
                       
Total Short-Term Investments
                       
  (Cost $180,935)
           
180,935
     
3.61
%
 
                       
Total Investments
                       
  (Cost $4,614,162) – 100.00%
           
5,012,415
     
100.00
%
Liabilities in Excess of Other Assets – 0.00%
           
(121
)
   
0.00
%
 
                       
TOTAL NET ASSETS – 100.00%
         
$
5,012,294
     
100.00
%

Percentages are stated as a percent of net assets.

PLC – Public Limited Company
(a)
Non-income-producing security.
(b)
U.S.-traded security of a foreign corporation.
(c)
The rate listed is the fund’s seven-day yield as of April 30, 2020.


Summary of Fair Value Exposure as of April 30, 2020
 
The following is a summary of the inputs used to value the Fund’s net assets as of April 30, 2020 (see Note 3 in the accompanying Notes to the Financial Statements):
 
Common Stocks
 
Level 1
   
Level 2
   
Level 3
   
Total
 
Communication Services
 
$
166,955
   
$
   
$
   
$
166,955
 
Consumer Discretionary
   
422,482
     
     
     
422,482
 
Information Technology
   
4,242,043
     
     
     
4,242,043
 
Total Common Stocks
 
$
4,831,480
   
$
   
$
   
$
4,831,480
 
Short-Term Investments
                               
Money Market Funds
 
$
180,935
   
$
   
$
   
$
180,935
 
Total Short-Term Investments
 
$
180,935
   
$
   
$
   
$
180,935
 
Total Investments
 
$
5,012,415
   
$
   
$
   
$
5,012,415
 




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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
8

 SCHEDULE OF INVESTMENTS/STATEMENT OF ASSETS AND LIABILITIES

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Assets and Liabilities as of April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
ASSETS:
     
Investments in securities, at value (cost $4,614,162)
 
$
5,012,415
 
Dividends and interest receivable
   
1,270
 
Receivable for fund shares sold
   
322
 
Prepaid expenses and other assets
   
16,776
 
Due from advisor
   
7,509
 
Total assets
   
5,038,292
 
         
LIABILITIES:
       
Payable to administrator
   
3,116
 
Payable to auditor
   
11,459
 
Accrued distribution fees
   
993
 
Accrued service fees
   
282
 
Accrued trustees fees
   
6,843
 
Accrued expenses and other payables
   
3,305
 
Total liabilities
   
25,998
 
NET ASSETS
 
$
5,012,294
 
         
NET ASSETS CONSISTS OF:
       
Capital stock
 
$
4,556,060
 
Total distributable earnings
   
456,234
 
Total net assets
 
$
5,012,294
 
         
NET ASSETS:
       
Investor Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
3,755,669
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
215,195
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
17.45
 
         
Institutional Class
       
Shares authorized (no par value)
 
Unlimited
 
Net assets applicable to outstanding shares
 
$
1,256,625
 
Shares issued and outstanding
   
70,114
 
Net asset value, offering price, and redemption price per share
 
$
17.92
 



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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
9

Financial Statements
 
 Statement of Operations for the six months ended April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)
 
INVESTMENT INCOME:
     
Dividend income
 
$
26,937
 
Interest income
   
986
 
Total investment income
   
27,923
 
         
EXPENSES:
       
Investment advisory fees (See Note 5)
   
19,326
 
Federal and state registration fees
   
17,636
 
Compliance expense (See Note 5)
   
13,462
 
Audit fees
   
11,463
 
Administration, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees (See Note 5)
   
8,255
 
Trustees’ fees and expenses
   
8,197
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
3,452
 
Sub-transfer agent expenses – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
358
 
Reports to shareholders
   
3,095
 
Distribution fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
2,925
 
Service fees – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
1,950
 
Other expenses
   
2,097
 
Total expenses before reimbursement by advisor
   
92,216
 
Expense reimbursement by advisor – Investor Class (See Note 5)
   
(46,725
)
Expense reimbursement by advisor – Institutional Class (See Note 5)
   
(15,022
)
Net expenses
   
30,469
 
NET INVESTMENT LOSS
 
$
(2,546
)
         
REALIZED AND UNREALIZED GAINS (LOSSES):
       
Net realized gain on investments
 
$
88,996
 
Net change in unrealized appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(378,872
)
Net loss on investments
   
(289,876
)
NET DECREASE IN NET ASSETS RESULTING FROM OPERATIONS
 
$
(292,422
)



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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
10

 STATEMENT OF OPERATIONS/STATEMENTS OF CHANGES IN NET ASSETS

Financial Statements
 
 Statements of Changes in Net Assets
 
   
Six Months Ended
       
   
April 30, 2020
   
Year Ended
 
   
(Unaudited)
   
October 31, 2019
 
OPERATIONS:
           
Net investment loss
 
$
(2,546
)
 
$
(5,958
)
Net realized gain on investments
   
88,996
     
156,775
 
Net change in unrealized
               
  appreciation/depreciation on investments
   
(378,872
)
   
729,890
 
Net increase (decrease) in net assets
               
  resulting from operations
   
(292,422
)
   
880,707
 
                 
DISTRIBUTIONS TO SHAREHOLDERS:
               
Distributable earnings – Investor Class
   
(108,418
)
   
(408,753
)
Distributable earnings – Institutional Class
   
(37,554
)
   
(138,693
)
Total distributions
   
(145,972
)
   
(547,446
)
                 
CAPITAL SHARE TRANSACTIONS:
               
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Investor Class
   
297,318
     
371,583
 
Proceeds from shares subscribed – Institutional Class
   
42,505
     
149,605
 
Dividends reinvested – Investor Class
   
106,748
     
401,355
 
Dividends reinvested – Institutional Class
   
37,105
     
137,038
 
Cost of shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(203,641
)
   
(435,464
)
Cost of shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(60,553
)
   
(124,774
)
Net increase in net assets derived
               
   from capital share transactions
   
219,482
     
499,343
 
TOTAL INCREASE (DECREASE) IN NET ASSETS
   
(218,912
)
   
832,604
 
                 
NET ASSETS:
               
Beginning of period
   
5,231,206
     
4,398,602
 
End of period
 
$
5,012,294
   
$
5,231,206
 
                 
CHANGES IN SHARES OUTSTANDING:
               
Shares sold – Investor Class
   
16,229
     
21,608
 
Shares sold – Institutional Class
   
2,149
     
8,241
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Investor Class
   
5,574
     
26,633
 
Shares issued to holders as reinvestment
               
  of dividends – Institutional Class
   
1,887
     
8,882
 
Shares redeemed – Investor Class
   
(12,499
)
   
(25,732
)
Shares redeemed – Institutional Class
   
(2,939
)
   
(7,113
)
Net increase in shares outstanding
   
10,401
     
32,519
 



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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
11

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Investor Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
18.90
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment loss
   
(0.01
)(1)
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(0.92
)
Total from investment operations
   
(0.93
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(0.52
)
Total distributions
   
(0.52
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
17.45
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-5.16
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
3.76
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:
       
Before expense reimbursement
   
3.63
%(3)
After expense reimbursement
   
1.23
%(3)
Ratio of net investment loss to average net assets:
       
Before expense reimbursement
   
(2.56
)%(3)
After expense reimbursement
   
(0.16
)%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(5)
   
84
%(2)







 
(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
The Fund’s current expense limitation agreement, which became effective on February 28, 2017, was in effect for eight months of the year ended October 31, 2017.  The Fund previously had an expense limitation agreement in effect from October 26, 2012, to February 28, 2015.
(5)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
12


 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INVESTOR CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
18.04
   
$
18.46
   
$
15.82
   
$
15.36
   
$
14.86
 
                                     
                                     
 
(0.03
)(1)
   
(0.05
)
   
(0.23
)
   
(0.68
)
   
(0.38
)
 
3.15
     
1.26
     
2.87
     
1.14
     
0.88
 
 
3.12
     
1.21
     
2.64
     
0.46
     
0.50
 
                                     
                                     
 
(2.26
)
   
(1.63
)
   
     
     
 
 
(2.26
)
   
(1.63
)
   
     
     
 
$
18.90
   
$
18.04
   
$
18.46
   
$
15.82
   
$
15.36
 
                                     
 
20.47
%
   
7.25
%
   
16.69
%
   
2.99
%
   
3.36
%
                                     
                                     
$
3.89
   
$
3.31
   
$
3.20
   
$
2.91
   
$
4.04
 
                                     
 
3.84
%
   
3.70
%
   
4.16
%
   
3.61
%
   
3.13
%
 
1.23
%
   
1.23
%
   
2.15
%(4)
   
3.61
%
   
2.75
%
                                     
 
(2.80
)%
   
(2.83
)%
   
(3.16
)%
   
(2.92
)%
   
(2.30
)%
 
(0.19
)%
   
(0.36
)%
   
(1.15
)%(4)
   
(2.92
)%
   
(1.92
)%
 
185
%
   
225
%
   
267
%
   
80
%
   
163
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
13

Financial Statements
 
 Financial Highlights
 
For an Institutional Class share outstanding throughout each period

   
Six Months Ended
 
   
April 30, 2020
 
   
(Unaudited)
 
PER SHARE DATA:
     
Net asset value, beginning of period
 
$
19.40
 
         
Income from investment operations:
       
Net investment income (loss)
   
0.01
(1) 
Net realized and unrealized gains (losses) on investments
   
(0.95
)
Total from investment operations
   
(0.94
)
         
Less distributions:
       
Dividends from net realized gains
   
(0.54
)
Total distributions
   
(0.54
)
Net asset value, end of period
 
$
17.92
 
         
TOTAL RETURN
   
-5.07
%(2)
         
SUPPLEMENTAL DATA AND RATIOS:
       
Net assets, end of period (millions)
 
$
1.26
 
Ratio of expenses to average net assets:
       
Before expense reimbursement
   
3.25
%(3)
After expense reimbursement
   
0.98
%(3)
Ratio of net investment income (loss) to average net assets:
       
Before expense reimbursement
   
(2.18
)%(3)
After expense reimbursement
   
0.09
%(3)
Portfolio turnover rate(5)
   
84
%(2)







 
(1)
Calculated using the average shares outstanding method.
(2)
Not annualized.
(3)
Annualized.
(4)
The Fund’s current expense limitation agreement, which became effective on February 28, 2017, was in effect for eight months of the year ended October 31, 2017.  The Fund previously had an expense limitation agreement in effect from October 26, 2012, to February 28, 2015.
(5)
Calculated on the basis of the Fund as a whole.

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

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
14

 FINANCIAL HIGHLIGHTS — INSTITUTIONAL CLASS


 
 



Year Ended October 31,
 
2019
   
2018
   
2017
   
2016
   
2015
 
                           
$
18.47
   
$
18.85
   
$
16.11
   
$
15.58
   
$
15.02
 
                                     
                                     
 
0.01
(1) 
   
0.01
     
(0.12
)
   
(0.43
)
   
(0.25
)
 
3.23
     
1.28
     
2.86
     
0.96
     
0.81
 
 
3.24
     
1.29
     
2.74
     
0.53
     
0.56
 
                                     
                                     
 
(2.31
)
   
(1.67
)
   
     
     
 
 
(2.31
)
   
(1.67
)
   
     
     
 
$
19.40
   
$
18.47
   
$
18.85
   
$
16.11
   
$
15.58
 
                                     
 
20.77
%
   
7.54
%
   
17.01
%
   
3.40
%
   
3.73
%
                                     
                                     
$
1.34
   
$
1.09
   
$
1.22
   
$
0.90
   
$
0.95
 
                                     
 
3.47
%
   
3.27
%
   
3.74
%
   
3.28
%
   
2.76
%
 
0.98
%
   
0.98
%
   
1.77
%(4)
   
3.28
%
   
2.44
%
                                     
 
(2.43
)%
   
(2.41
)%
   
(2.74
)%
   
(2.59
)%
   
(1.92
)%
 
0.06
%
   
(0.12
)%
   
(0.77
)%(4)
   
(2.59
)%
   
(1.60
)%
 
185
%
   
225
%
   
267
%
   
80
%
   
163
%








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

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
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Financial Statements
 
 Notes to the Financial Statements April 30, 2020 (Unaudited)

1).  ORGANIZATION
 
The Hennessy Technology Fund (the “Fund”) is a series of Hennessy Funds Trust (the “Trust”), which was organized as a Delaware statutory trust on September 17, 1992. The Fund is an open-end management investment company registered under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. The investment objective of the Fund is long-term capital appreciation. The Fund is a diversified fund.
 
The Fund offers Investor Class and Institutional Class shares. Each class of shares differs principally in its respective 12b-1 distribution and service, shareholder servicing, and sub-transfer agent expenses. There are no sales charges. Each class has identical rights to earnings, assets, and voting privileges, except for class-specific expenses and exclusive rights to vote on matters affecting only one class.
 
As an investment company, the Fund follows the investment company accounting and reporting guidance of the Financial Accounting Standards Board (“FASB”) Accounting Standard Codification Topic 946 “Financial Services—Investment Companies.”
 
2).  SIGNIFICANT ACCOUNTING POLICIES
 
The following is a summary of significant accounting policies consistently followed by the Fund in the preparation of the financial statements. These policies conform to U.S. generally accepted accounting principles (“GAAP”).
 
a).
Securities Valuation – All investments in securities are recorded at their estimated fair value, as described in Note 3.
   
b).
Federal Income Taxes – No provision for federal income taxes or excise taxes has been made because the Fund has elected to be taxed as a regulated investment company and intends to distribute substantially all of its taxable income to its shareholders and otherwise comply with the provisions of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, applicable to regulated investment companies. Net investment income/loss and realized gains/losses for federal income tax purposes may differ from those reported in the financial statements because of temporary book and tax basis differences. Temporary differences are primarily the result of the treatment of wash sales for tax reporting purposes. The Fund recognizes interest and penalties related to income tax benefits, if any, in the Statement of Operations as an income tax expense. Distributions from net realized gains for book purposes may include short-term capital gains, which are included as ordinary income to shareholders for tax purposes. The Fund may utilize equalization accounting for tax purposes and designate earnings and profits, including net realized gains distributed to shareholders on redemption of shares, as part of the dividends paid deduction for income tax purposes.
   
c).
Accounting for Uncertainty in Income Taxes – The Fund has accounting policies regarding recognition and measurement of tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The tax returns of the Fund for the prior three fiscal years are open for examination. The Fund has reviewed all open tax years in major jurisdictions and concluded that there is no impact on the Fund’s net assets and no tax liability resulting from unrecognized tax benefits relating to uncertain income tax positions taken or expected to be taken on a tax return. The Fund’s major tax jurisdictions are U.S. federal and Delaware.

 

 
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 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

d).
Income and Expenses – Dividend income is recognized on the ex-dividend date or as soon as information is available to the Fund. Interest income, which includes the amortization of premium and accretion of discount, is recognized on an accrual basis. Other non-cash dividends are recognized as investment income at the fair value of the property received. The Fund is charged for those expenses that are directly attributable to its portfolio, such as advisory, administration, and certain shareholder service fees. Income, expenses (other than expenses attributable to a specific class), and realized and unrealized gains/losses on investments are allocated to each class of shares based on such class’s net assets.
   
e).
Distributions to Shareholders – Dividends from net investment income for the Fund, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December. Distributions of net realized capital gains, if any, are declared and paid annually, usually in December.
   
f).
Security Transactions – Investment and shareholder transactions are recorded on the trade date. The Fund determines the realized gain/loss from an investment transaction by comparing the original cost of the security lot sold with the net sale proceeds. Discounts and premiums on securities purchased are accreted or amortized, respectively, over the life of each such security.
   
g).
Use of Estimates – The preparation of financial statements in conformity with GAAP requires management to make estimates and assumptions that affect the reported amounts of assets and liabilities and disclosure of contingent assets and liabilities at the date of the financial statements and the reported change in net assets during the reporting period. Actual results could differ from those estimates.
   
h).
Share Valuation – The net asset value (“NAV”) per share of the Fund is calculated by dividing (i) the total value of the securities held by the Fund, plus cash and other assets, minus all liabilities (including estimated accrued expenses) by (ii) the total number of shares outstanding for the Fund, rounded to the nearest $0.01. The Fund’s shares will not be priced on days the New York Stock Exchange is closed for trading. The offering and redemption price per share for the Fund is equal to the Fund’s NAV per share.
 
3).  SECURITIES VALUATION
 
The Fund follows fair value accounting standards that establish an authoritative definition of fair value and set out a hierarchy for measuring fair value. These standards require additional disclosures about the various inputs and valuation techniques used to develop the measurements of fair value and a discussion of changes in valuation techniques and related inputs during the period. These inputs are summarized in the three broad levels listed below:
 
 
Level 1 –
Unadjusted, quoted prices in active markets for identical instruments that the Fund has the ability to access at the date of measurement.
     
 
Level 2 –
Other significant observable inputs (including, but not limited to, quoted prices in active markets for similar instruments, quoted prices in markets that are not active for identical or similar instruments, and model-derived valuations in which all significant inputs and significant value drivers are observable in active markets, such as interest rates, prepayment speeds, credit risk curves, default rates, and similar data).
     
 
Level 3 –
Significant unobservable inputs (including the Fund’s own assumptions about what market participants would use to price the asset or liability based on the best available information) when observable inputs are unavailable.

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
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The following is a description of the valuation techniques applied to the Fund’s major categories of assets and liabilities measured at fair value on a recurring basis:
 
 
Equity Securities – Equity securities, including common stocks, preferred stocks, foreign-issued common stocks, exchange-traded funds, closed-end mutual funds, partnerships, rights, and real estate investment trusts, that are traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is readily available will generally be valued at the last sales price as reported by the primary exchange on which the securities are listed. Securities listed on The NASDAQ Stock Market (“NASDAQ”) will generally be valued at the NASDAQ Official Closing Price, which may differ from the last sales price reported. Securities traded on a securities exchange for which a last-quoted sales price is not readily available will generally be valued at the mean between the bid and ask prices. To the extent these securities are actively traded and valuation adjustments are not applied, they are classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy. Securities traded on foreign exchanges generally are not valued at the same time the Fund calculates its NAV because most foreign markets close well before such time. The earlier close of most foreign markets gives rise to the possibility that significant events, including broad market moves, may have occurred in the interim. In certain circumstances, it may be determined that a foreign security needs to be fair valued because it appears that the value of the security might have been materially affected by events occurring after the close of the market in which the security is principally traded, but before the time the Fund calculates its NAV, such as by a development that affects an entire market or region (e.g., a weather-related event) or a potentially global development (e.g., a terrorist attack that may be expected to have an effect on investor expectations worldwide).
   
 
Registered Investment Companies – Investments in open-end registered investment companies, commonly referred to as mutual funds, generally are priced at the ending NAV provided by the applicable mutual fund’s service agent and will be classified in Level 1 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Debt Securities – Debt securities, including corporate bonds, asset-backed securities, mortgage-backed securities, municipal bonds, U.S. Treasuries, and U.S. government agency issues, are generally valued at market on the basis of valuations furnished by an independent pricing service that utilizes both dealer-supplied valuations and formula-based techniques. The pricing service may consider recently executed transactions in securities of the issuer or comparable issuers, market price quotations (where observable), bond spreads, and fundamental data relating to the issuer. In addition, the model may incorporate observable market data, such as reported sales of similar securities, broker quotes, yields, bids, offers, and reference data. Certain securities are valued primarily using dealer quotations. These securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy.
   
 
Short-Term Securities – Short-term equity investments, including money market funds, are valued in the manner specified above. Short-term debt investments with an original term to maturity of 60 days or less are valued at amortized cost, which approximates fair market value. If the original term to maturity of a short-term debt investment exceeded 60 days, then the values as of the 61st day prior to maturity are amortized. Amortized cost is not used if its use would be inappropriate due to credit or other impairments of the issuer, in which case the security’s fair value would be determined, as described below. Short-term securities are generally classified in Level 1 or Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy depending on the inputs used and market activity levels for specific securities.

 

 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
18

 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

The Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board”) has adopted fair value pricing procedures that are followed when a price for a security is not readily available or if a significant event has occurred that indicates the closing price of a security no longer represents the true value of that security. Fair value pricing determinations are made in good faith in accordance with these procedures. There are numerous criteria that will be given consideration in determining a fair value of a security, such as the trading volume of a security and markets, the values of other similar securities, and news events with direct bearing on a security or markets. Fair value pricing results in an estimated price for a security that reflects the amount the Fund might reasonably expect to receive in a current sale. Depending on the relative significance of the valuation inputs, these securities may be classified in either Level 2 or Level 3 of the fair value hierarchy.
 
The fair value of foreign securities may be determined with the assistance of a pricing service using correlations between the movement of prices of such securities and indices of domestic securities and other appropriate indicators, such as closing market prices of relevant American Depositary Receipts or futures contracts. Using fair value pricing means that the Fund’s NAV reflects the affected portfolio securities’ values as determined by the Board or its designee, pursuant to the fair value pricing procedures adopted by the Board, instead of being determined by the market. Using a fair value pricing methodology to price a foreign security may result in a value that is different from such foreign security’s most recent closing price and from the value used by other investment companies to calculate their NAVs. Such securities are generally classified in Level 2 of the fair value hierarchy. Because the Fund may invest in foreign securities, the value of the Fund’s portfolio securities may change on days when you will not be able to purchase or redeem your shares.
 
The Board has delegated day-to-day valuation matters to the Valuation and Liquidity Committee comprising representatives from Hennessy Advisors, Inc., the Fund’s investment advisor (the “Advisor”). The function of the Valuation and Liquidity Committee is to value securities where current and reliable market quotations are not readily available. All actions taken by the Valuation and Liquidity Committee are reviewed by the Board.
 
The Fund has performed an analysis of all existing investments to determine the significance and character of all inputs to their fair value determinations. Various inputs are used to determine the value of the Fund’s investments. The inputs or methodology used for valuing securities are not necessarily an indication of the risk associated with investing in those securities. Details related to the fair value hierarchy of the Fund’s securities as of April 30, 2020, are included in the Schedule of Investments.
 
4).  INVESTMENT TRANSACTIONS
 
Purchases and sales of investment securities (excluding government and short-term investments) for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, were $4,308,132 and $4,260,539, respectively.
 
There were no purchases or sales/maturities of long-term U.S. government securities for the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Fund is permitted to purchase or sell securities from or to another fund in the Hennessy Funds family of funds (collectively, the “Hennessy Funds”) under specified conditions outlined in procedures adopted by the Board. The procedures have been designed to ensure that any purchase or sale of securities by the Fund from or to another Hennessy Fund complies with Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended. During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not engage in purchases or sales of securities pursuant to Rule 17a-7 of the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended.
 
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
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5).  INVESTMENT ADVISORY FEE AND OTHER TRANSACTIONS WITH AFFILIATES
 
The Advisor provides the Fund with investment advisory services under an Investment Advisory Agreement. The Advisor furnishes all investment advice, office space, and facilities and most of the personnel needed by the Fund. As compensation for its services, the Advisor is entitled to a monthly fee from the Fund. The fee is based on the average daily net assets of the Fund at an annual rate of 0.74%. The net investment advisory fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Advisor has contractually agreed to limit total annual operating expenses to 0.98% of the Fund’s net assets for both Investor Class shares and Institutional Class shares (excluding all federal, state and local taxes, interest, brokerage commissions, 12b-1 fees, shareholder servicing fees payable to the Advisor, extraordinary items, and acquired fund fees and expenses and other costs incurred in connection with the purchase and sale of securities) through February 28, 2021.
 
For three years following the date on which expenses were waived or incurred, the Advisor may recoup waived or reimbursed expenses from the Fund if total operating expenses, including such recoupment, does not exceed the expense limitation in effect (i) at the time the Advisor waived or reimbursed such expenses and (ii) at the time the Advisor recoups such expenses. As of April 30, 2020, expenses subject to potential recovery for Investor Class and Institutional Class shares and the fiscal years in which they expire were as follows:
 
   
Fiscal Year
Fiscal Year
Fiscal Year
Fiscal Year
 
   
2020
2021
2022
2023
Total
 
Investor Class
$44,032
$83,351
$92,255
$46,725
$266,363
 
Institutional Class
$15,692
$26,820
$29,447
$15,022
$  86,981

The Advisor did not recoup expenses from the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020.
 
The Board has approved a Shareholder Servicing Agreement for Investor Class shares of the Fund, which was instituted to compensate the Advisor for the non-investment advisory services it provides to the Fund. The Shareholder Servicing Agreement provides for a monthly fee paid to the Advisor at an annual rate of 0.10% of the average daily net assets of the Fund attributable to Investor Class shares. The shareholder service fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has adopted a plan pursuant to Rule 12b-1 under the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended, that authorizes payments in connection with the distribution of the Fund’s shares at an annual rate of up to 0.25% of the Fund’s average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares. Even though the authorized rate is up to 0.25%, the Fund is currently only using up to 0.15% of its average daily net assets attributable to Investor Class shares for such purpose. Amounts paid under the plan may be spent on any activities or expenses primarily intended to result in the sale of shares, including, but not limited to, advertising, shareholder account servicing, printing and mailing of prospectuses to other than current shareholders, printing and mailing of sales literature, and compensation for sales and marketing activities or to financial institutions and others, such as dealers and distributors. The distribution fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
The Fund has entered into agreements with various brokers, dealers, and financial intermediaries in connection with the sale of shares of the Fund. The agreements provide for periodic payments of sub-transfer agent expenses by the Fund to the brokers, dealers,
 


 
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 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS

and financial intermediaries for providing certain shareholder maintenance services. These shareholder services include the pre-processing and quality control of new accounts, shareholder correspondence, answering customer inquiries regarding account status, and facilitating shareholder telephone transactions. The sub-transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC, d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services (“Fund Services”) provides the Fund with administrative, accounting, and transfer agent services. As administrator, Fund Services is responsible for activities such as (i) preparing various federal and state regulatory filings, reports, and returns for the Fund, (ii) preparing reports and materials to be supplied to the Board, (iii) monitoring the activities of the Fund’s custodian, transfer agent, and accountants, and (iv) coordinating the preparation and payment of the Fund’s expenses and reviewing the Fund’s expense accruals. U.S. Bank N.A., an affiliate of Fund Services, serves as the Fund’s custodian. The servicing agreements between the Trust and Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. contain a fee schedule that is inclusive of administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. The administrative, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
Quasar Distributors, LLC (“Quasar”) acts as the Fund’s principal underwriter in a continuous public offering of the Fund’s shares. Quasar was an affiliate of Fund Services and U.S. Bank N.A. through March 30, 2020. Effective March 31, 2020, Foreside Financial Group, LLC (“Foreside”) acquired Quasar from Fund Services. As a result of the acquisition, Quasar became a wholly owned broker-dealer subsidiary of Foreside and is no longer affiliated with Fund Services or U.S. Bank N.A. The Board approved a new Distribution Agreement to enable Quasar to continue serving as the Fund’s distributor.
 
The officers of the Fund are affiliated with the Advisor. With the exception of the Chief Compliance Officer and the Senior Compliance Officer, such officers receive no compensation from the Fund for serving in their respective roles. The Fund, along with the other Hennessy Funds, makes reimbursement payments on an equal basis to the Advisor for a portion of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Chief Compliance Officer and for all of the salary and benefits associated with the office of the Senior Compliance Officer. The compliance fees expensed by the Fund during the six months ended April 30, 2020, are included in the Statement of Operations.
 
6).  GUARANTEES AND INDEMNIFICATIONS
 
Under the Hennessy Funds’ organizational documents, their officers and trustees are indemnified by the Hennessy Funds against certain liabilities arising out of the performance of their duties to the Hennessy Funds. Additionally, in the normal course of business, the Hennessy Funds enter into contracts with service providers that contain general indemnification clauses. The Fund’s maximum exposure under these arrangements is unknown as this would involve future claims that may be made against the Fund that have not yet occurred. Currently, the Fund expects the risk of loss to be remote.
 
7).  LINE OF CREDIT
 
The Fund has an uncommitted line of credit with the other Hennessy Funds in the amount of the lesser of (i) $100,000,000 or (ii) 33.33% of each Hennessy Fund’s net assets, or 30% for the Hennessy Gas Utility Fund and 10% for the Hennessy Balanced Fund, intended to provide short-term financing, if necessary, subject to certain restrictions, in connection with shareholder redemptions. The credit facility is with the Hennessy Funds’ custodian bank, U.S. Bank N.A. Borrowings under this arrangement bear
 
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
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interest at the bank’s prime rate and are secured by all of the Fund’s assets (as to its own borrowings only). During the six months ended April 30, 2020, the Fund did not have any borrowings outstanding under the line of credit.
 
8).  FEDERAL TAX INFORMATION
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund’s most recent fiscal year end, the components of accumulated earnings (losses) for income tax purposes were as follows:
 
     
Investments
 
 
Cost of investments for tax purposes
 
$
4,492,391
 
 
Gross tax unrealized appreciation
 
$
881,203
 
 
Gross tax unrealized depreciation
   
(132,544
)
 
Net tax unrealized appreciation/(depreciation)
 
$
748,659
 
 
Undistributed ordinary income
 
$
61,674
 
 
Undistributed long-term capital gains
   
84,295
 
 
Total distributable earnings
 
$
145,969
 
 
Other accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
 
 
Total accumulated gain/(loss)
 
$
894,628
 

The difference between book-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation and tax-basis unrealized appreciation/depreciation (as shown above) is attributable primarily to wash sales.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund had no tax basis capital losses to offset future capital gains.
 
As of October 31, 2019, the Fund did not defer, on a tax basis, any late-year ordinary losses. Late-year ordinary losses are net ordinary losses incurred after December 31, 2018, but within the taxable year, that are deemed to arise on the first day of the Fund’s next taxable year.
 
During fiscal year 2020 (year to date) and fiscal year 2019, the tax character of distributions paid by the Fund was as follows:
 
     
Six Months Ended
   
Year Ended
 
     
April 30, 2020
   
October 31, 2019
 
 
Ordinary income(1)
 
$
61,675
   
$
381,139
 
 
Long-term capital gain
   
84,297
     
166,307
 
     
$
145,972
   
$
547,446
 

 
(1)  Ordinary income includes short-term capital gain.
 
9).  EVENTS SUBSEQUENT TO PERIOD END
 
Management has evaluated the Fund’s related events and transactions that occurred subsequent to April 30, 2020, through the date of issuance of the Fund’s financial statements. Management has determined that there were no subsequent events requiring recognition or disclosure in the financial statements.
 


 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
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 NOTES TO THE FINANCIAL STATEMENTS/EXPENSE EXAMPLE

Expense Example (Unaudited)
April 30, 2020


As a shareholder of the Fund, you incur ongoing costs, including management fees, service fees, and other Fund expenses. This Example is intended to help you understand your ongoing costs (in dollars) of investing in the Fund and to compare these costs with the ongoing costs of investing in other mutual funds. The Example is based on an investment of $1,000 invested at the beginning of the period and held for the entire period from November 1, 2019, through April 30, 2020.
 
Actual Expenses
The first line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about actual account values and actual expenses. Although the Fund charges no sales loads or transaction fees, you will be assessed fees for outgoing wire transfers, returned checks and stop payment orders at prevailing rates charged by U.S. Bank Global Fund Services, the Fund’s transfer agent. If you request that a redemption be made by wire transfer, currently a $15 fee is charged by the Fund’s transfer agent. IRA accounts will be charged a $15 annual maintenance fee. The example below includes, but is not limited to, management fees, shareholder servicing fees, accounting, custody, and transfer agent fees. However, the example below does not include portfolio trading commissions and related expenses. You may use the information in this line, together with the amount you invested, to estimate the expenses that you paid over the period. Simply divide your account value by $1,000 (for example, an $8,600 account value divided by $1,000 = 8.6), then multiply the result by the number in the first line of the table under the “Investor Class” or “Institutional Class” headings in the column entitled “Expenses Paid During Period” to estimate the expenses you paid on your account during this period.
 
Hypothetical Example for Comparison Purposes
The second line of the table below under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings provides information about hypothetical account values and hypothetical expenses based on the Fund’s actual expense ratios and an assumed rate of return of 5% per year before expenses, which is not the Fund’s actual return. The hypothetical account values and expenses may not be used to estimate the actual ending account balance or expenses you paid for the period. You may use this information to compare the ongoing costs of investing in the Fund and other funds. To do so, compare this 5% hypothetical example with the 5% hypothetical examples that appear in the shareholder reports of the other funds. Please note that the expenses shown in the table are meant to highlight your ongoing costs only. Therefore, the second line of the table under the “Investor Class” and “Institutional Class” headings is useful in comparing ongoing costs only and will not help you determine the relative total costs of owning different funds.
 

 

 

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
23

 
Beginning
Ending
 
 
Account Value
Account Value
Expenses Paid
 
November 1, 2019
April 30, 2020
During Period(1)
Investor Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   948.40
$5.96
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,018.75
$6.17
       
Institutional Class
     
Actual
$1,000.00
$   949.30
$4.75
Hypothetical (5% return before expenses)
$1,000.00
$1,019.99
$4.92

(1)
Expenses are equal to the Fund’s annualized expense ratio of 1.23% for Investor Class shares or 0.98% for Institutional Class shares, as applicable, multiplied by the average account value over the period, multiplied by 182/366 days (to reflect the half-year period).









 
HENNESSYFUNDS.COM
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 EXPENSE EXAMPLE — ELECTRONIC DELIVERY

How to Obtain a Copy of the Fund’s Proxy
Voting Policy and Proxy Voting Records
 
A description of the policies and procedures the Fund uses to determine how to vote proxies relating to portfolio securities is available without charge (1) by calling 1-800-966-4354, (2) on the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-policy, or (3) on the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission’s (the “SEC”) website at www.sec.gov. The Fund’s proxy voting record is available without charge on both the Hennessy Funds’ website at www.hennessyfunds.com/proxy-voting/voting-record and the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov no later than August 31 for the prior 12 months ending June 30.
 
 
Availability of Quarterly Portfolio Schedule
 
The Fund files a complete schedule of portfolio holdings with the SEC for the first and third quarters of each fiscal year as an exhibit to its reports on Form N-PORT. The Fund’s Forms N-PORT are available on the SEC’s website at www.sec.gov or on request by calling 1-800-966-4354.
 
 
Federal Tax Distribution Information (Unaudited)
 
For fiscal year 2019, certain dividends paid by the Fund may be subject to a maximum tax rate of 23.8%, as provided for by the Jobs and Growth Tax Relief Reconciliation Act of 2003. The percentage of dividends declared from ordinary income designated as qualified dividend income was 8.73%.
 
For corporate shareholders, the percent of ordinary income distributions that qualified for the corporate dividends received deduction for fiscal year 2019 was 0.00%.
 
The percentage of taxable ordinary income distributions that were designated as short-term capital gain distributions under Section 871(k)(2)(C) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended, for the Fund was 100.00%.
 
 
Important Notice Regarding Delivery
of Shareholder Documents
 
To help keep the Fund’s costs as low as possible, we generally deliver a single copy of shareholder reports, proxy statements, and prospectuses to shareholders who share an address and have the same last name. This process does not apply to account statements. You may request an individual copy of a shareholder document at any time. If you would like to receive separate mailings of shareholder documents, please call U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124, and individual delivery will begin within 30 days of your request. If your account is held through a financial institution or other intermediary, please contact such intermediary directly to request individual delivery.
 
 
Electronic Delivery
 
The Funds offer shareholders the option to receive account statements, prospectuses, tax forms, and shareholder reports online. To sign up for eDelivery, please visit www.hennessyfunds.com/account. You may change your delivery preference at any time by visiting our website or calling U.S. Bank Global Fund Services at 1-800-261-6950 or 1-414-765-4124.
 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
25

Board Approval of Investment Advisory
Agreement
 
At its meeting on March 12, 2020, the Board of Trustees of the Fund (the “Board,” and the members thereof, the “Trustees”) unanimously approved the continuation of the investment advisory agreement of the Fund with Hennessy Advisors, Inc. (the “Advisor”). As part of the process of approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees reviewed their fiduciary duties and the relevant factors for them to consider with respect to approving the advisory agreement. In addition, the Trustees who are not deemed “interested persons” (as defined by the Investment Company Act of 1940, as amended) of the Fund (the “Independent Trustees”) met in executive session to discuss the approval of the advisory agreement.
 
In advance of the meeting, the Advisor sent detailed information to the Trustees to assist them in their evaluation of the advisory agreement. This information included, but was not limited to, the following:
 
 
(1)
A memorandum from outside legal counsel that described the fiduciary duties of the Board with respect to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement and the relevant factors for consideration;
     
 
(2)
A memorandum from the Advisor that listed the factors relevant to the Board’s approval of the continuation of the advisory agreement and also referenced the documents that had been provided to help the Board assess each such factor;
     
 
(3)
An inventory of the services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(4)
A written discussion of economies of scale;
     
 
(5)
A summary of the key terms of the advisory agreement;
     
 
(6)
A recent Fund fact sheet, which included performance information over various periods;
     
 
(7)
A peer expense comparison of the net expense ratio and investment advisory fee of the Fund; and
     
 
(8)
The Advisor’s financial statements from its most recent Form 10-K and Form 10-Q.

All of the factors discussed were considered as a whole by the Trustees and by the Independent Trustees meeting in executive session. The factors were viewed in their totality by the Trustees, with no single factor being the principal or determinative factor in the Trustees’ determination of whether to approve the continuation of the advisory agreement. The Trustees recognized that the management and fee arrangements for the Fund are the result of years of review and discussion between the Independent Trustees and the Advisor, that certain aspects of such arrangements may receive greater scrutiny in some years than in others, and that the Trustees’ conclusions may be based, in part, on their consideration of these same arrangements and information received during the course of the year and in prior years.
 
Prior to approving the continuation of the advisory agreement, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees in executive session, considered, among other items:
 
 
(1)
The nature and quality of the advisory services provided by the Advisor;
     
 
(2)
A comparison of the fees and expenses of the Fund to other similar funds;
     
 
(3)
Whether economies of scale are recognized by the Fund;

 

 
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 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

 
(4)
The costs and profitability of the Fund to the Advisor;
     
 
(5)
The performance of the Fund; and
     
 
(6)
Any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an investment advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee).

The material considerations and determinations of the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, were as follows:
 
 
(1)
The Trustees considered the services identified below that are provided by the Advisor. Based on this review, the Trustees concluded that the Advisor provides high-quality services to the Fund and noted that their overall confidence in the Advisor was high. The Trustees also concluded that they were satisfied with the nature, extent, and quality of the advisory services provided to the Fund by the Advisor and that the nature and extent of the services provided by the Advisor were appropriate to assure that the Fund’s operations are conducted in compliance with applicable laws, rules, and regulations.

   
(a)
The Advisor acts as the portfolio manager for the Fund. In this capacity, the Advisor does the following:

     
(i)
manages the composition of the Fund’s portfolio, including the purchase, retention, and disposition of portfolio securities in accordance with the Fund’s investment objectives, policies, and restrictions;
         
     
(ii)
seeks best execution for the Fund’s portfolio;
         
     
(iii)
manages the use of soft dollars for the Fund; and
         
     
(iv)
manages proxy voting for the Fund.

   
(b)
The Advisor performs a daily reconciliation of portfolio positions and cash for the Fund.
       
   
(c)
The Advisor monitors the liquidity of each Fund.
       
   
(d)
The Advisor monitors the Fund’s compliance with its investment objectives and restrictions.
       
   
(e)
The Advisor monitors compliance with federal securities laws, maintains a compliance program (including a code of ethics), conducts ongoing reviews of the compliance programs of the Fund’s service providers, as feasible, conducts on-site visits to the Fund’s service providers, monitors incidents of abusive trading practices, reviews Fund expense accruals, payments, and fixed expense ratios, evaluates insurance providers for fidelity bond, D&O/E&O insurance, and cybersecurity insurance coverage, manages regulatory examination compliance and responses, conducts employee compliance training, reviews reports provided by service providers, and maintains books and records.
       
   
(f)
The Advisor oversees service providers that provide accounting, administration, distribution, transfer agency, custodial, sales, marketing, public relations, audit, information technology, and legal services to the Fund.
       
   
(g)
The Advisor maintains in-house marketing and distribution departments on behalf of the Fund.
       
   
(h)
The Advisor is actively involved with preparing regulatory filings for the Fund, including writing and annually updating the Fund’s prospectus and related documents.

 

HENNESSY FUNDS
1-800-966-4354
 
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(i)
For each annual report of the Fund, the Advisor prepares a written summary of the Fund’s performance during the most recent 12-month period.
       
   
(j)
The Advisor oversees distribution of the Fund through third-party broker/dealers and independent financial institutions such as Charles Schwab, Inc., Fidelity, TD Ameritrade, and Pershing. The Advisor participates in “no transaction fee” (“NTF”) programs with these companies on behalf of the Fund, which allow customers to purchase the Fund through third-party distribution channels without paying a transaction fee. The Advisor compensates, in part, a number of these third-party providers of NTF programs out of its own revenues.
       
   
(k)
The Advisor pays the incentive compensation of the Fund’s compliance officers and employs other staff, such as legal, marketing, national accounts, distribution, sales, administrative, and trading oversight personnel, as well as management executives.
       
   
(l)
The Advisor provides a quarterly compliance certification to the Board.
       
   
(m)
The Advisor prepares or reviews all Board materials, frequently presents to the Board and leads Board discussions, prepares or reviews all meeting minutes, and arranges for Board training and education.

 
(2)
The Trustees compared the performance of the Fund to benchmark indices over various periods and also noted that the Trustees review and discuss reports comparing the investment performance of the Fund to various indices at each quarterly Board meeting. Based on such information, the Trustees determined that the Advisor manages the Fund in a manner materially consistent with its stated investment objective and style. The Trustees concluded that the performance of the Fund over various periods warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(3)
The Trustees reviewed the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of the Fund compared to other funds similar in asset size and investment objective to the Fund using data from Morningstar. As part of the discussion with management, the Trustees ensured that they understood and were comfortable with the criteria used to determine the mutual funds included in the Morningstar categories for purposes of the materials considered at the meeting. The Trustees determined that the advisory fee and overall expense ratio of the Fund falls within the range of the advisory fees and overall expense ratios of other comparable funds and concluded that they are reasonable and warranted continuation of the advisory agreement.
     
 
(4)
The Trustees also considered whether the Advisor was realizing economies of scale that it should share with the Fund’s shareholders. The Trustees noted that the assets of the Fund had remained relatively flat over the prior year. In addition, the Trustees noted that many of the expenses incurred to manage the Fund are asset-based fees, so the Advisor does not realize material economies of scale relating to those expenses as the assets of the Fund increase. For example, mutual fund platform fees increase as the Fund’s assets grow. The Trustees also considered the Advisor’s efforts to contain expenses through actions such as renegotiating service contracts, the Advisor’s significant marketing efforts to promote the Funds, the Advisor’s investments in personnel to manage the Funds, and the Advisor’s agreement to waive fees or lower its management fees

 

 
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28

 BOARD APPROVAL OF INVESTMENT ADVISORY AGREEMENT

   
in certain circumstances. The Trustees noted that it did not appear that the Advisor was realizing economies of scale at current asset levels and concluded that it would continue to monitor economies of scale in the future as circumstances changed.
     
 
(5)
The Trustees considered the profitability of the Advisor, including the impact of mutual fund platform fees on the Advisor’s profitability, and also considered the resources and revenues that the Advisor has put into managing and distributing the Fund. The Trustees then concluded that the profits of the Advisor are reasonable and not excessive when compared to profitability guidelines set forth in relevant court cases.
     
 
(6)
The Trustees considered the high level of professionalism and knowledge of the Advisor’s employees, along with a very low level of turnover, and concluded that this was beneficial to the Fund and its shareholders.
     
 
(7)
The Trustees considered any benefits to the Advisor from serving as an advisor to the Fund (other than the advisory fee). The Trustees noted that the Advisor may derive ancillary benefits from, by way of example, its association with the Fund in the form of proprietary and third-party research products and services received from broker-dealers that execute portfolio trades for the Fund. The Trustees determined that any such products and services have been used for legitimate purposes relating to the Fund by providing assistance in the investment decision-making process. The Trustees concluded that any additional benefits realized by the Advisor from its relationship with the Fund were reasonable, which was based on, among other things, the Trustees’ finding that the research, analytical, statistical, and other information and services provided by brokers are merely supplemental to the Advisor’s own efforts in the performance of its duties under the advisory agreement.

After reviewing the materials and information provided at the meeting, as well as other information regularly provided at the Board’s quarterly meetings throughout the year regarding the quality of services provided by the Advisor, the performance of the Fund, expense information, brokerage commissions information, the adequacy and efficacy of the Advisor’s written policies and procedures, other regulatory compliance issues, trading information and related matters, and other factors that the Trustees deemed relevant, the Trustees, including the Independent Trustees, approved the continuation of the advisory agreement.
 






HENNESSY FUNDS
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For information, questions, or assistance, please call
The Hennessy Funds
1-800-966-4354 or 1-415-899-1555



INVESTMENT ADVISOR
Hennessy Advisors, Inc.
7250 Redwood Boulevard, Suite 200
Novato, California 94945

ADMINISTRATOR,
TRANSFER AGENT,
DIVIDEND PAYING AGENT, &
SHAREHOLDER SERVICING AGENT
U.S. Bancorp Fund Services, LLC
d/b/a U.S. Bank Global Fund Services
P.O. Box 701
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53201-0701

CUSTODIAN
U.S. Bank N.A.
Custody Operations
1555 North River Center Drive, Suite 302
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53212

TRUSTEES
Neil J. Hennessy
Robert T. Doyle
J. Dennis DeSousa
Gerald P. Richardson

COUNSEL
Foley & Lardner LLP
777 East Wisconsin Avenue
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202-5306

INDEPENDENT REGISTERED
PUBLIC ACCOUNTING FIRM
Tait, Weller & Baker LLP
Two Liberty Place
50 South 16th Street, Suite 2900
Philadelphia, Pennsylvania 19102-2529

DISTRIBUTOR
Quasar Distributors, LLC
111 East Kilbourn Avenue, Suite 2200
Milwaukee, Wisconsin 53202




www.hennessyfunds.com  |  1-800-966-4354

This report has been prepared for shareholders and may be distributed to
others only if preceded or accompanied by a current prospectus.


Item 2. Code of Ethics.

Not applicable for semi-annual reports.

Item 3. Audit Committee Financial Expert.

Not applicable for semi-annual reports.

Item 4. Principal Accountant Fees and Services.

Not applicable for semi-annual reports.

Item 5. Audit Committee of Listed Registrants.

Not applicable to registrants who are not listed issuers (as defined in Rule 10A-3 under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934).

Item 6. Investments.

The Schedules of Investments are included as part of the reports to shareholders filed under Item 1 of this Form.
 
Item 7. Disclosure of Proxy Voting Policies and Procedures for Closed-End Management Investment Companies.

Not applicable to open-end investment companies.

Item 8. Portfolio Managers of Closed-End Management Investment Companies.

Not applicable to open-end investment companies.

Item 9. Purchases of Equity Securities by Closed‑End Management Investment Company and Affiliated Purchasers.

Not applicable to open-end investment companies.

Item 10. Submission of Matters to a Vote of Security Holders.

Not applicable.

Item 11. Controls and Procedures.

(a)
The Registrant’s President and Treasurer have reviewed the Registrant's disclosure controls and procedures (as defined in Rule 30a-3(c) under the Investment Company Act of 1940 (the “Act”)) as of a date within 90 days of the filing of this report, as required by Rule 30a‑3(b) under the Act and Rules 13a-15(b) or 15d‑15(b) under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. Based on their review, such officers have concluded that the disclosure controls and procedures are effective in ensuring that information required to be disclosed in this report is appropriately recorded, processed, summarized and reported and made known to them by others within the Registrant and by the Registrant’s service providers.

(b)
There were no changes in the Registrant's internal control over financial reporting (as defined in Rule 30a-3(d) under the Act) that occurred during the period covered by this report that has materially affected, or is reasonably likely to materially affect, the Registrant's internal control over financial reporting.

Item 12. Disclosure of Securities Lending Activities for Closed-End Management Investment Companies.

Not applicable to open-end investment companies.

Item 13. Exhibits.

(a)
(1) Code of ethics, or amendments thereto, that is the subject of the disclosure required by Item 2, to the extent that the registrant intends to satisfy Item 2 requirements through filing of an exhibit. Not applicable.


(3) Any written solicitation to purchase securities under Rule 23c‑1 under the Act sent or given during the period covered by the report by or on behalf of the registrant to 10 or more persons. Not applicable to open-end investment companies.

(4) Change in the registrant’s independent public accountant. Provide the information called for by Item 4 of Form 8-K under the Exchange Act (17 CFR 249.308). Unless otherwise specified by Item 4, or related to and necessary for a complete understanding of information not previously disclosed, the information should relate to events occurring during the reporting period. There was no change in the registrant’s independent public accountant for the period covered by this report.



SIGNATURES

Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, the registrant has duly caused this report to be signed on its behalf by the undersigned, thereunto duly authorized.

HENNESSY FUNDS TRUST
(Registrant)


By:      /s/Neil J. Hennessy
Neil J. Hennessy
President

Date:   July 9, 2020


Pursuant to the requirements of the Securities Exchange Act of 1934 and the Investment Company Act of 1940, this report has been signed below by the following persons on behalf of the registrant and in the capacities and on the dates indicated.

By:         /s/Neil J. Hennessy
              Neil J. Hennessy, President
 
Date:     July 9, 2020


By:         /s/Teresa M. Nilsen
              Teresa M. Nilsen, Treasurer
 
Date:     July 9, 2020